bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discordance Between Intraoperative Consultation by Frozen Section and Final Diagnosis
Authors: Sams Sharon B. , Wisell Joshua A.
Published: August 2016

Discrepancies between intraoperative consultations with frozen section diagnosis and the final pathology report have the potential to alter treatment decisions and affect patient care. Monitoring these correlations is a key component of laboratory quality assurance, however identifying specific areas for improvement can be difficult to attain. Our goal is to develop a standardized method utilizing root cause analysis and a modified Eindhoven classification schematic to identify the source of discrepancies and deferrals and subsequently to guide performance improvement initiatives. A retrospective review of intraoperative consultations performed at a tertiary level hospital and cancer center over a 6-month period identified deferrals and discrepancies between the intraoperative consult report and the final pathology report. We developed and applied a classification tool to identify the process errors and cognitive errors leading to discrepant results. A total of 48 (4.6%) discrepancies and 24 (2.3%) deferrals were identified from the 1042 frozen sections. Within the entire data set of frozen sections, the process errors (n = 26, 54.2%) were due to gross sampling (n = 16, 33.3%), histologic sampling (n = 8, 16.7%), and surgical sampling (n = 2, 4.2%). Interpretation errors (n = 22, 45.8%) included undercalls/false negatives (n=8, 16.7%), overcalls/false positives (n = 10, 20.8%), and misclassification errors (n = 4, 8.3%). Application of our classification tool demonstrated that the root cause of discrepancies and deferrals varied both between organ systems and by specific organs and that classification models may be utilized as a standardized method to identify focused areas for improvement.
An Activity Recognition-Assistance Algorithm Based on Hybrid Semantic Model in Smart Home
Authors: Guo Kun , Li Yonghua , Lu Yueming , Sun Xiang , Wang Siye , Cao Ruohan
Published: August 2016

Wireless smart home system is to facilitate people's lives and it trends to adopt a more intelligent way to provide services. It is beneficial to design an intelligent smart home (SH) to precisely recognize users' behaviors and automatically responsd with the corresponding activities to satisfy users' actual demands. However, activity models in the existing approaches are usually constructed separately through statistic probability. These models cannot recognize the user's dynamical intentions accurately. To address the problem, we propose a new SH architecture with smart device enabled sensor networks and develop the prototype system. Moreover, we propose the hybrid semantic model based on the statistic probability model and the semantic association model, and an assistance algorithm is presented. In our prototype system, the smart devices are described by semantic models. When the user needs assistance, smart gateway can provide appropriate services according to the inference results of the algorithm. The algorithm has been implemented and the results show that the accuracy of the algorithm based on the hybrid model is higher than the statistic probability model.
Judgment Analysis in a Dynamic Multitask Environment: Capturing Nonlinear Policies Using Decision Trees
Authors: Lafond Daniel , Roberge-Vallières Benoît , Vachon François , Tremblay Sébastien
Published: August 2016

Policy capturing is a judgment analysis method that typically uses linear statistical modeling to estimate expert judgments. A variant to this technique is to capture decision policies using data-mining algorithms designed to handle nonlinear decision rules, missing attributes, and noisy data. In the current study, we tested the effectiveness of a decision-tree induction algorithm and an instance-based classification method for policy capturing in comparison to the standard linear approach. Decision trees are relevant in naturalistic decision-making contexts since they can be used to represent “fast-and-frugal” judgment heuristics, which are well suited to describe human cognition under time pressure. We examined human classification behavior using a simulated naval air defense task in order to empirically compare the C4.5 decision-tree algorithm, the k-nearest neighbors algorithm, and linear regression on their ability to capture individual decision policies. Results show that C4.5 outperformed the other methods in terms of goodness of fit and cross-validation accuracy. Decision-tree models of individuals’ judgment policies actually classified contacts more accurately than their human counterparts, resulting in a threefold reduction in error rates. We conclude that a decision-tree induction algorithm can yield useful models for training and decision support applications, and we discuss the application of judgmental bootstrapping in real time in dynamic environments.
The curriculum in school external evaluation frameworks in Portugal and England
Authors: Figueiredo Carla , Leite Carlinda , Fernandes Preciosa
Published: August 2016

The curriculum has been target of social and political demands due to its central role in school education and to the changes that occurred in education over the 20th century. The changes include more autonomy assigned to schools and teachers and the establishment of educational standards. These raised concerns that led European bodies to recommend the implementation of quality assurance systems. As a response, many countries created school external evaluation (SEE) processes in an attempt to improve school education and the curricula. Portugal and England are two countries that followed this tendency. This paper analyses SEE frameworks used in both countries to answer the following question: (1) How is the curriculum being addressed in the SEE in Portugal’s and England’s frameworks? The main conclusions drawn are as follows: (1) the curriculum is conceived as an open project; (2) the SEE frameworks from both countries address the curriculum by focusing on teachers’ role as curriculum developers and their curriculum development processes; and (3) the frameworks from Portugal and England reveal a concern with assessing the actual classroom environment and functioning.
Healthcare staff attitudes towards the use of electronic cigarettes (‘e-cigarettes’) compared with a local trust policy
Authors: Pippard Benjamin J , Shipley Mark D
Published: August 2016

Background:

E-cigarette use has risen dramatically in recent years, despite uncertainty over long-term health effects and concerns regarding efficacy as a smoking cessation device. Currently, there is no legislation prohibiting use in public, though many trusts have extended the NHS Smokefree policy to include e-cigarettes. The successful implementation of such policy is, however, unclear.

Aim:

This study examined staff attitudes towards the use of e-cigarettes in a hospital environment with respect to enforcement of a local trust smoking policy.

Methods:

A total of 79 healthcare professionals working at South Tyneside District Hospital, South Shields, completed a written questionnaire regarding use of e-cigarettes, particularly views on use in public and on hospital premises. Factors influencing the likelihood of individuals to challenge the use of e-cigarettes were assessed.

Results:

In all, 45% of respondents thought that e-cigarettes should be allowed in public places, though a majority (62%) favoured use on hospital grounds compared to within hospital buildings (18%). Over 50% of respondents were unaware of trust policy relating to e-cigarettes and only 25% had ever challenged someone using a device. Roughly, one-third reported that they would still not challenge someone in future, despite being informed of trust policy. Fear of abuse was the most cited reason for not challenging. Expressed concerns of e-cigarette use related to fire risk, ‘normalising’ smoking behaviour and uncertainty of long-term effects.

Conclusion:

Most staff do not enforce trust policy regarding e-cigarette use. This reflects variation in opinion over use, poor awareness of the policy itself and perceived barriers to implementation, including fear of abuse. Addressing these issues through staff education sessions may help successful future implementation.
A case of iloperidone overdose in a 27-year-old man with cocaine abuse
Authors: Amon Jin , Stephen Elsa , El-Mallakh Rif S
Published: August 2016

Introduction:

Iloperidone is a recently introduced antipsychotic medication. It is approved for the treatment of schizophrenia. There are no published reports of iloperidone overdosage, but there are eight cases that have been reported to the US Food and Drug Administration.

Case report:

A case of a 27-year-old man who took 84 mg of iloperidone while also smoking cocaine is described. He developed a prolonged QTc (527 ms) without arrhythmias and respiratory failure with mandated respiratory support. He ultimately recovered without sequelae.

Discussion:

The information regarding previous cases of toxicity on the US Food and Drug Administration website is incomplete. However, there were no fatalities due to iloperidone over-ingestion. Prolongation of the QTc may be a common feature.
Picturing the Party: Instagram and Party Campaigning in the 2014 Swedish Elections
Authors: Filimonov Kirill , Russmann Uta , Svensson Jakob
Published: August 2016

This article explores Swedish parties’ activities on Instagram during the 2014 elections. Understanding party campaign communication as highly strategic, that is, communication to persuade and mobilize voters in order to win the elections, we ask whether Instagram was used to (1) broadcast campaign messages, (2) mobilize supporters, (3) manage the party’s image, and (4) amplify and complement other campaign material (i.e., hybrid campaign use). With this study, we follow previous studies on the use of digital communication platforms in the hands of campaigning political actors, but we direct our attention to a new platform. We conducted a content analysis of 220 party postings on Instagram, collected during the hot phase of the campaign. The result shows that the platform was mainly used for broadcasting rather than for mobilization. The image the parties were presenting leaned toward personalization with a strong presence of top candidates in their postings. Top candidates were primarily displayed in a political/professional context. Finally, half of the analyzed postings showed signs of hybridized campaign practices. The presented findings give a first glimpse on how political parties use and perform on Instagram.
Motives for Online Friending and Following: The Dark Side of Social Network Site Connections
Authors: Ouwerkerk Jaap W. , Johnson Benjamin K.
Published: August 2016

Motives for “friending,” following, or connecting with others on social network sites are often positive, but darker motives may also play an important role. A survey with a novel Following Motives Scale (FMS) demonstrates accordingly that positive, sociable motives (i.e., others providing a valued source for humor and information, others sharing a common background, as well as relationship maintenance) and inspirational motives (i.e., others providing a target for upward social comparison) can be distinguished from darker motives related to insecurity (i.e., others providing reassurance, preference for online interaction, mediated voyeurism, as well as social obligation), and even darker antisocial motives related to self-enhancement (i.e., others providing a target for downward social comparison, competition, schadenfreude, gossip, as well as “hate-following”). Results show that lower self-esteem and higher levels of need for popularity, narcissism, and dispositional schadenfreude characterize users with stronger dark side motives, whereas users with more sociable motives report more satisfaction with life, thereby providing construct validity for the novel scale. Convergent validity is demonstrated by positive relations between following motives and both time spent and following counts on different social network sites. Moreover, an embedded experiment shows that antisocial motives predicted acceptance of a Facebook friendship request from a male or female high school acquaintance who suffered a setback in the domain of appearance or status (i.e., a convenient source for self-enhancement), thereby providing additional convergent validity for the Antisocial Motives subscale.
Perception of Teachers’ Professional Development Needs, Impacts, and Barriers
Authors: Badri Masood , Alnuaimi Ali , Mohaidat Jihad , Yang Guang , Al Rashedi Asma
Published: August 2016

The article reports on findings from the TALIS (Teaching and Learning International Survey) 2013 study for Abu Dhabi which gathered teachers’ views on teaching and learning with a focus on professional development. The aim of this study is to better understand teachers’ perceptions of professional development needs and impacts as well as the barriers faced by teachers from secondary schools in Abu Dhabi. The study provides some insights into the variations of those perceptions relative to other independent variables such as teachers’ age and gender, and type of schools. With regard to the perceived need for professional development activities, the most significant variation is observed with regard to public or private schools. With regard to the impact of those activities, male teachers almost consistently assign higher perceived impact scores than female teachers. Public schools also assign higher perceived impact scores for all activities that they participated in. However, female teachers assign significantly higher perceived barrier scores to five of the seven listed barriers to participating in professional development activities. The research has implications for professional development providers to ensure the effectiveness of professional development opportunities for educators in Abu Dhabi.
Creating Virtual Integration and Improved Oncology Care Quality Through a Co-Management Services Agreement
Authors: Hartung Nicole L.W. , Henschel Rhonda M. , Smith Katie B. , Gesme Dean H.
Published: August 2016

Purpose:

Implementation of a co-management services agreement (Co-MSA) creates agreed-upon cancer care delivery quality metrics, a forum for discussion of service line oversight, and virtually integrated care without institutional employment of oncologists. The goal of this project was to demonstrate that a Co-MSA improved predefined quality metrics and provided enhanced communications between a health system’s oncology service line and a group of independent oncologists.

Methods:

Iterative planning discussions were scheduled biweekly over an 18-month period. Contractual, quality, and clinical data with benchmarking were considered in the creation of the Co-MSA. Review of the first year’s implementation occurred through examination of the metric achievements and qualitative themes that arose through committee meetings, clinical implementation processes, and cross-organizational discussions.

Results:

Metrics designed for the Co-MSA included improved adherence to the breast cancer, colon cancer, and non–small-cell lung cancer level I pathways; improvement of the medical oncology physician communication component of the hospital system’s Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems survey scores; and increased delivery of survivorship care plans to appropriate patients. Nonquantifiable themes from the first year of implementation included the need for technology to collect data, both organizations needing a wider understanding of quality improvement techniques, and a need for greater executive leadership involvement.

Conclusion:

In its first year, the Co-MSA resulted in improvement of the delivery of survivorship care plans and adherence to value pathways powered by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. Improvement of Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems scores did not occur.
Impact of an Analgesia-Based Sedation Protocol on Mechanically Ventilated Patients in a Medical Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Faust Andrew C. , Rajan Pearl , Sheperd Lyndsay A. , Alvarez Carlos A. , McCorstin Phyllis , Doebele Rebecca L.
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND:

Recent attention to adverse effects of intensive care unit (ICU) sedation has led to the use of strategies that target a “lighter” depth of sedation. Among these strategies are “analgosedation” protocols, which prioritize pain management and preferentially use IV opioids before administration of continuously infused sedatives such as propofol or midazolam. We hypothesized that using an analgosedation protocol would result in a shorter duration of mechanical ventilation than a protocol with greater emphasis on IV sedatives

METHODS:

We conducted a retrospective study comparing the duration of mechanical ventilation before and after implementation of an analgosedation protocol in a 24-bed medical ICU. Patients were aged 18 years or older and required mechanical ventilation where a light level of sedation was clinically appropriate. Exclusion criteria included a clinical need for deeper levels of sedation or tracheal intubation confined to the perioperative period.

RESULTS:

Seventy-nine patients were included in the postimplementation group and 65 in the preimplementation group. After adjustment for baseline covariates, introduction of the 2013 analgosedation protocol was associated with a decreased duration of mechanical ventilation (−26.62 hours; 95% confidence interval, − 44.98 to −8.26, P = 0.005). Patients managed with the analgosedation protocol experienced a lighter level of sedation (median Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale, −2.57 vs −1.25, P = 0.001) and improved pain management (median Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool score, 2.0 vs 1.5, P = 0.03). The use of continuously infused sedatives was reduced by 54.3% (92.3% vs 38.0%, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS:

Our findings suggest that implementation of an analgosedation protocol was associated with an overall lighter level of sedation, shorter mean ventilator duration, and a reduced use of continuous infusion sedatives. Further studies are needed to assess the impact of such protocols on ICU delirium.
Seeing is believing: multi-scale spatio-temporal imaging towards in vivo cell biology
Authors: Follain Gautier , Mercier Luc , Osmani Naël , Harlepp Sébastien , Goetz Jacky G.
Published: August 2016

Life is driven by a set of biological events that are naturally dynamic and tightly orchestrated from the single molecule to entire organisms. Although biochemistry and molecular biology have been essential in deciphering signaling at a cellular and organismal level, biological imaging has been instrumental for unraveling life processes across multiple scales. Imaging methods have considerably improved over the past decades and now allow to grasp the inner workings of proteins, organelles, cells, organs and whole organisms. Not only do they allow us to visualize these events in their most-relevant context but also to accurately quantify underlying biomechanical features and, so, provide essential information for their understanding. In this Commentary, we review a palette of imaging (and biophysical) methods that are available to the scientific community for elucidating a wide array of biological events. We cover the most-recent developments in intravital imaging, light-sheet microscopy, super-resolution imaging, and correlative light and electron microscopy. In addition, we illustrate how these technologies have led to important insights in cell biology, from the molecular to the whole-organism resolution. Altogether, this review offers a snapshot of the current and state-of-the-art imaging methods that will contribute to the understanding of life and disease.
Visualizing red blood cell sickling and the effects of inhibition of sphingosine kinase 1 using soft X-ray tomography
Authors: Darrow Michele C. , Zhang Yujin , Cinquin Bertrand P. , Smith Elizabeth A. , Boudreau Rosanne , Rochat Ryan H. , Schmid Michael F. , Xia Yang , Larabell Carolyn A. , Chiu Wah
Published: August 2016

Sickle cell disease is a destructive genetic disorder characterized by the formation of fibrils of deoxygenated hemoglobin, leading to the red blood cell (RBC) morphology changes that underlie the clinical manifestations of this disease. Using cryogenic soft X-ray tomography (SXT), we characterized the morphology of sickled RBCs in terms of volume and the number of protrusions per cell. We were able to identify statistically a relationship between the number of protrusions and the volume of the cell, which is known to correlate to the severity of sickling. This structural polymorphism allows for the classification of the stages of the sickling process. Recent studies have shown that elevated sphingosine kinase 1 (Sphk1)-mediated sphingosine 1-phosphate production contributes to sickling. Here, we further demonstrate that compound 5C, an inhibitor of Sphk1, has anti-sickling properties. Additionally, the variation in cellular morphology upon treatment suggests that this drug acts to delay the sickling process. SXT is an effective tool that can be used to identify the morphology of the sickling process and assess the effectiveness of potential therapeutics.
Isomeric Differentiation of Chloroanilines by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry in Combination with Tosylation
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Zhu Guohua , Chen Mengmeng , Liu Jinsong , Jiang Kezhi
Published: August 2016

p-Chloroaniline is one of the banned aromatic amines in azo dyes, but it is very difficult to distinguish it from its isomers due to their identical retention time in chromatography and similar mass spectra. In this work, derivatization of the isomeric chloroanilines was carried out to yield the corresponding N-tosyl chloroanilines, which were completely separated by gas chromatography and also possessed clearly different electron ionization mass spectra. Thus, the three isomers could be differentiated and determined at the same time. Density functional theory calculation results indicated that the effect of the substituent pattern in electron ionization mass spectrometry is mainly due to the difference in the stability of the product ion (P2) at m/ z 126, originating from the loss of tosyl radical from the precursor ion.
Unit testing, model validation, and biological simulation
Authors: Sarma Gopal P. , Jacobs Travis W. , Watts Mark D. , Ghayoomie S. Vahid , Larson Stephen D. , Gerkin Richard C.
Published: August 2016

The growth of the software industry has gone hand in hand with the development of tools and cultural practices for ensuring the reliability of complex pieces of software. These tools and practices are now acknowledged to be essential to the management of modern software. As computational models and methods have become increasingly common in the biological sciences, it is important to examine how these practices can accelerate biological software development and improve research quality. In this article, we give a focused case study of our experience with the practices of unit testing and test-driven development in OpenWorm, an open-science project aimed at modeling Caenorhabditis elegans. We identify and discuss the challenges of incorporating test-driven development into a heterogeneous, data-driven project, as well as the role of model validation tests, a category of tests unique to software which expresses scientific models.
HCAs undertaking special observation of patients with neurological conditions
Authors: Flynn Sarah , Prescott Trish , Jinks Annette
Published: August 2016

This paper reports on a study carried out at an acute neurosciences hospital trust. The aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of a training programme for healthcare assistants undertaking special observation of patients. Some patients being cared for at the hospital have neurological complaints that are accompanied by confusion and agitation and require close observation in order to preserve their own and other's safety. The literature review revealed an abundance of literature related to special observation in mental health care. However, there is very little research related to the care of patients with neurological conditions.

Some 20 experienced, female healthcare assistants (HCAs) took part in a training programme on special observation of patients. Attitudes to undertaking special observation at the start of the study were negative. The training programme included topics such as communication, management of extreme agitation, de-escalation strategies and diversional activities. Participants' confidence levels concerning assessment for suitable activities, using distraction techniques, de-escalation and restraint methods, increased on completion of the programme.

It is concluded that caring for confused patients in acute hospital settings may sometimes be a passive, non-therapeutic type activity. Increasing the range of patient activities available and encouraging meaningful interactions with carers and patients will improve the caring experience for all concerned.
Delayed Anaphylaxis with Methimazole; Nicolau Syndrome after Oxytocin Intramuscular Administration; Anastrazole-Induced Autoimmune Hepatitis; Amoxicillin- and Cephalexin-Induced Eosinophilic Colitis; Docetaxel-Induced Supravenous Erythematous Eruption
Authors: Mancano Michael A.
Published: August 2016

The purpose of this feature is to heighten awareness of specific adverse drug reactions (ADRs), discuss methods of prevention, and promote reporting of ADRs to the US Food and Drug Administration's (FDA's) MEDWATCH program (800-FDA-1088). If you have reported an interesting, preventable ADR to MEDWATCH, please consider sharing the account with our readers.
Alectinib, Ceritinib, Elotuzumab, and Venetoclax
Authors: Waddell J. Aubrey , Solimando Dominic A.
Published: August 2016

The complexity of cancer chemotherapy requires pharmacists be familiar with the complicated regimens and highly toxic agents used. This column reviews various issues related to preparation, dispensing, and administration of antineoplastic therapy, and the agents, both commercially available and investigational, used to treat malignant diseases.
Minocycline: Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Mcevoy Theresa
Published: August 2016

This Hospital Pharmacy feature is extracted from Off-Label Drug Facts, a publication available from Wolters Kluwer Health. Off-Label Drug Facts is a practitioner-oriented resource for information about specific drug uses that are unapproved by the US Food and Drug Administration. This new guide to the literature enables the health care professional or clinician to quickly identify published studies on off-label uses and determine if a specific use is rational in a patient care scenario. References direct the reader to the full literature for more comprehensive information before patient care decisions are made. Direct questions or comments regarding Off-Label Drug Uses to jgeneral@ku.edu .
Enzyme Replacement or Substrate Reduction? A Review of Gaucher Disease Treatment Options
Authors: Van Rossum Alison , Holsopple Megan
Published: August 2016

Background

Gaucher disease is a rare lysosomal storage disease resulting from a deficiency or reduced activity in the acid β-glucocosidase enzyme. Only 1 treatment option was available for 15 years, but several new treatment options have come to market since 2003.

Objective

The article will detail the pathophysiology and review current therapies in the literature for all 3 major clinical types of Gaucher disease, with a focus on considerations for selecting therapy in type 1 disease.

Methods

Extracted and summarized applicable studies and reviews from Cochrane Review, ClinicalTrials.gov , CINAHL, IPA, and PubMed.

Results

Enzyme replacement therapy is preferred for the management of Gaucher disease. Current literature does not favor any enzyme replacement product over another. However, velaglucerase alfa and taliglucerase alfa theoretically have a lower risk of immunogenicity reactions compared with imiglucerase. Alternative treatments for type 1 disease include substrate reduction therapy; however, these treatments require evaluation of patient-specific variables (eg, genotype evaluation, renal function) and consideration of adverse effect and dosing profiles. Evaluation of current literature found no substrate reduction therapy is preferred over another. There are no approved therapies for type 2 and type 3 disease, but enzyme replacement therapy may be used with limited efficacy for symptom management.

Conclusion

Enzyme replacement therapy is preferred for treating type 1 Gaucher disease and substrate replacement therapy may be considered in patients who do not tolerate or cannot receive enzyme replacement therapy.
Sugammadex
Authors: Cada Dennis J. , Levien Terri L. , Baker Danial E.
Published: August 2016

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service receive 5 to 6 well-documented monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late phase 3 trials. The monographs are targeted to Pharmacy & Therapeutics Committees. Subscribers also receive monthly 1-page summary monographs on agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing in-services. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation/medication use evaluation (DUE/MUE) is also provided each month. With a subscription, the monographs are available online to subscribers. Monographs can be customized to meet the needs of a facility. Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. For more information about The Formulary Monograph Service, contact Wolters Kluwer customer service at 866-397-3433. The July 2016 monograph topics are pimavanserin, venetoclax, defibrotide, liftegrast ophthalmic solution 5%, and atezolizumab. The Safety MUE is on pimavanserin.
‘One country, three systems’: The recruitment of administrative elites in Portugal, 1999–2009
Authors: Nunes Filipe Abreu
Published: August 2016

What is the position of the Portuguese administrative elites in terms of professional autonomy and politicization recruitment patterns? In Portugal there prevails a pattern of professional autonomy at central government; however, this pattern has certain clientelist traits at the local administrative level. The Portuguese case also reveals a new kind of politicization in public administration agencies – in line with what happens in other Western democracies. Portugal has a hybrid administrative elite recruitment pattern, containing elements of professional autonomy at the central government, elements of political control at the agencies level and even clientelist elements at the state local branches.
Justice administration in early modern Portugal: Kingdom and empire in a bureaucratic continuum
Authors: Camarinhas Nuno
Published: August 2016

This article uses the magistracy in early modern Portugal to show a distinctive character in the Portuguese imperial experience that resided in an intense circulation of agents between the kingdom and the colonies. By stressing its early bureaucratic nature, which comes from the notion of royal service, it starts by sketching the institutional framework established during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, both in the kingdom and in the colonial domains. It draws a profile of the magistrates that served the crown in this system, emphasizing their heterogeneous character. Finally, using methodologies borrowed from social network analysis, it tries to map the bureaucratic network created throughout the period in an effort to identify recurrences in the movement of agents as well as the absence of movement between given places. The result is a map of judicial bureaucracy in the Portuguese empire.
Utilization of the horizontal ground heat exchanger in the heating and cooling system of a residential building
Authors: Hanuszkiewicz-Drapała Małgorzata , Bury Tomasz
Published: August 2016

This paper presents the results of thermodynamic analyses of a system using a horizontal ground heat exchanger to cool a residential building in summer and heat it in the autumn-winter period. The main heating device is a vapour compression heat pump with the ground as the lower heat source. The aim of the analyses is to examine the impact of heat supply to the ground in the summer period, when the building is cooled, on the operation of the heating system equipped with a heat pump in the next heating season, including electricity consumption. The processes occurring in cooling and heating systems have an unsteady nature. The main results of the calculations are among others the time-dependent values of heat fluxes extracted from or transferred to the ground heat exchanger, the fluxes of heat generated by the heat pump and supplied to the heated building by an additional heat source, the parameters in characteristic points of the systems, the temperature distributions in the ground and the driving electricity consumption in the period under analysis. The paper presents results of analysis of cumulative primary energy consumption of the analyzed systems and cumulative emissions of harmful substances.
Theoretical Comparison of Energy Harvesting Methods for Electret-free Variable-Capacitance Devices
Authors: Stein Aaron L. F. , Sarin Akshay , Hofmann Heath F.
Published: August 2016

Electret-free variable-capacitance energy harvesters are micro-electromechanical systems (MEMs) that generate electrical power from mechanical vibrations. In order to effectively harvest energy from these devices, the power electronic circuitry is extremely important, and can be the difference between generating or losing energy during a harvesting cycle. Four methods of harvesting energy from these devices are known: the Constant Voltage Method, the Constant Charge Method, the Charge Pump Method, and the Constant Charge With Parallel Capacitance Method. All four methods have been reported; however, the literature is lacking a formal comparison of these methods. This paper evaluates these four methods and the new Voltage and Charge Constrained Method while considering power electronic circuit efficiency as a key parameter. By including efficiency as a parameter, new fundamental properties of these devices are derived: a threshold efficiency necessary for energy harvesting, analytical solutions for optimal harvesting conditions, and a realistic comparison of the four methods. A case study demonstrates the advantage of using the Charge Pump method for MEMs applications, and illustrates the use of the new fundamental properties in the design of a circuit topology that is practical for MEMs vibration energy harvesting applications.
Cruise visitors in Agios Nikolaos, Greece. Characteristics, preferences, satisfaction, and overall experience
Authors: Simantiraki Evangelia , Skivalou Maria , Trihas Nikolaos
Published: August 2016

The cruise industry is exhibiting a steady significant growth during the recent years worldwide, and it is assessed to have remarkable economic implications for the local economies. The quality of cruise visitors’ experiences at a destination is crucial for the inclusion of that destination on the cruise itineraries. The aim of this paper is to investigate the cruise ship visitors’ off-board experiences in a Mediterranean port of call – Agios Nikolaos on the island of Crete, Greece, providing a better understanding of the main features of cruise customers’ behaviour and expectations from a port of call. Primary research was conducted at the port of Agios Nikolaos during the 2014 cruise season. The 306 filled questionnaires provided useful information related to the visitors’ demographic characteristics, travel motivation, destination perception, satisfaction, and intention to revisit and recommend the town to others. The findings and discussion of this study are useful to the tourism authorities of Agios Nikolaos and other Mediterranean ports of call with similar characteristics, which wish to maximise the benefits of cruise tourism, to industry practitioners, and academic researchers interested in cruise tourism.
Cardiorespiratory and gastrointestinal parasites of dogs in north-west Italy
Authors: Guardone L. , Magi M. , Prati M. C. , Macchioni F.
Published: August 2016

The present study was conducted to evaluate the prevalence of gastrointestinal and cardio-respiratory parasites in dogs in Liguria (northwest Italy) which is a region that has scarcely been studied. A total of 450 dogs (260 males and 190 females) were enrolled in the study from 2009 and 2013. All dogs lived in a rural or semi-rural environment in the provinces of Imperia (n = 352) or Savona (n = 98), Liguria. Coprological examinations showed that 197 dogs (43.8 %, CI 38.7-48.9 %) were infected by parasites. Specifically, 3.3 % of the dogs presented only cardio-respiratory species, 32.4 % only intestinal species, and 8.0 % presented a mixed infection.

The most frequent intestinal parasites were Toxocara canis (20 %), Trichuris vulpis (17.8 %), Ancylostomatidae (12 %), Coccidia (2.7 %), Aonchotheca putorii (1.8 %) and Toxascaris leonina (1.8 %). The cardio-respiratory species found were Eucoleus aerophilus (9.6 %), Eucoleus boehmi (1.6 %), Angiostrongylus vasorum (0.7 %), and Crenosoma vulpis (0.2 %). A total of 116 dogs (25.8 %) were parasitized by a single species, multiple infections were observed in 81 dogs (18.0 %) up to a six-order infection.

This preliminary study highlighted that the prevalence of intestinal parasites in investigated area is high. Cardio respiratory parasites were detected in an area that has not been investigated before. The creation of a more extensive sampling programme of the area, on a provincial basis in order to build a more detailed map of prevalences for different species of dog parasites throughout Liguria, a more extensive sampling programme of the area needs to be created - ideally for each province.
Ant Colony Optimization Applied to the Problem of Choosing the Best Combination among M Combinations of Shortest Paths in Transparent Optical Networks
Authors: Brasileiro Ítalo , Santos Iallen , Soares André , Rabêlo Ricardo , Mazullo Felipe
Published: August 2016

This paper presents an attempt to solve the problem of choosing the best combination among the M combinations of shortest paths in optical translucent networks. Fixed routing algorithms demands a single route to each pair of nodes. The existence of multiple shortest paths to some pairs of nodes originates the problem of choose the shortest path which fits better the network requests. The algorithm proposed in this paper is an adaptation of Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) metaheuristic and attempt to define the set of routes that fits in an optimized way the network conditions, resulting in reduced number of blocked requests and better adjusted justice in route distribution. A performance evaluation is conducted in real topologies by simulations, and the proposed algorithm shows better performance between the compared algorithms.
Autonomous Viewpoint Selection of Robot Based on Aesthetic Evaluation of a Scene
Authors: Lan Kai , Sekiyama Kosuke
Published: August 2016

In this paper, we propose an optimal viewpoint selection system for monitoring robots to search for the optimal viewpoint of a scene with the highest aesthetic property. Using the information of the targets, we propose a novel method for predicting human aesthetic sense for a scene. We construct evaluation functions based on certain known composition rules using three factors, namely, target size, visual balance, and composition fitting value. Then a score, which is a reflection of human evaluation, will be obtained using these functions. The optimal viewpoint will be selected from a number of candidates around the target group, by evaluating the aesthetic properties of scenes for each candidate viewpoint. Finally, once the optimal viewpoint is confirmed, path planning and path following controls are implemented for the robots during the moving process.
The Case for Repairing Broken Channels without the Use of Unconventional Monetary Policy
Authors: Mardini Patrick
Published: August 2016

The paper shows that the literature on broken channels (1) fails to provide an explanation of the root causes of the crisis, (2) mistakes a subjective human behavior for a mechanical failure and (3) confuses market adjustment mechanisms. From this perspective, the policy aiming to deploy unconventional monetary policies to overcome the broken channels is misguided. The paper fits broken channels into the framework of a more comprehensive theory of the business cycle and suggests a different policy recommendation.
Understanding Financial Instability: Minsky Versus the Austrians
Authors: Van Den Hauwe Ludwig
Published: August 2016

Although Minsky’s interpretation of Keynes’s macroeconomics and essential message clashes with authoritative alternative interpretations, it has become increasingly influential during the years following the Global Financial Crisis, even in mainstream circles. This paper offers a critical evaluation of Minsky’s Financial Instability Hypothesis from the perspective of the alternative Austro-Wicksellian paradigm. Although some of the similarities and/or analogies between Minsky’s approach and that of the Austrian School suggest a more than merely superficial affinity between the two theoretical frameworks and although some scope for cross-fertilization between both approaches can be found, both theoretically and empirically, at a fundamental conceptual level both theories remain incompatible and difficult if not impossible to reconcile, in particular in terms of fundamental causality and in terms of policy conclusions and prescriptions. Despite the fact that Minsky’s policy conclusions are multifaceted and somewhat eclectic, they manifest a lack of familiarity with the conclusions of the Austrian analysis of the problems of central planning by Big Players such as Big Bank and Big Government. Both approaches also offer contrasting interpretations of the historical experience of the Global Financial Crisis.
Prenatally diagnosed fetal tumors of the head and neck: a systematic review with antenatal and postnatal outcomes over the past 20 years
Authors: Tonni Gabriele , Granese Roberta , Martins Santana Eduardo Félix , Parise Filho José Pedro , Bottura Isabela , Borges Peixoto Alberto , Giacobbe Annamaria , Azzerboni Andrea , Araujo Júnior Edward
Published: August 2016

Aim:

The aim of this study was to review prenatally diagnosed tumors of the head and neck in the fetus and to report antenatal and postnatal outcomes.

Methods:

PubMed/Medline, EMBASE/SCOPUS, Cochrane database and Google Scholar were reviewed over the last 20 years. No language or article type restriction was used.

Results:

A total of 1940 record were retrieved. Of the 713 records screened, 566 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility. After 445 articles were excluded for specified reasons, 111 studies met the research criteria and were included for qualitative analysis. Overall, 306 cases of fetal tumors of the head and neck were reviewed. Maternal age was an independent factor. The mean maternal age was 28.2 years and gestational age at prenatal diagnosis was 27.1 weeks. Conventional 2D ultrasound was the standard diagnostic procedure in 27.9% of cases and was implemented in 27.3% of cases by 3D ultrasound and fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Diagnostic evaluation of intracranial spreading and high-airway obstructions was greatly enhanced by fetal MRI. The more common type of fetal tumor was hemangioma/lymphangioms (42.1%), followed by teratomas (29.7%), tumors of the gingiva (10.1%) and lymphatic venous malformations (9.1%), respectively. Fetal karyotyping was performed only in 9.8% of cases; within fetuses undergoing karyotype, chromosomal abnormalities accounted for 20% of cases. The most common pregnancy complication was polyhydramnios (26.3%). Ex utero intrapartum treatment (EXIT) procedure was performed in 30.1% of cases while surgical excision was used in 22.9% during postnatal life. The survival rate was 35.35%.

Conclusion:

Fetal tumors of the head and neck are rare congenital malformations. Two-dimensional ultrasound is diagnostic in almost all cases; however, MRI may be an important diagnostic adjunct in targeted cases and help patient selection for immediate intubation at the time of delivery. EXIT procedure and surgical removal of the tumor was associated with good prognosis.
The Impact of Leader-member Exchange (LMX) and Empowerment on Employee Voice Behavior
Authors: Chan Simon C. H. , Yeung Davey
Published: August 2016

This study examines the impact of leader-member exchange (LMX) and the moderating role of empowerment on employee voice behavior. A sample of 314 supervisor-subordinate dyadic exchanges was collected from a manufacturing firm in Mainland China. The results provided support the view that LMX and empowerment were both significantly associated with employee voice behavior. The positive relationship between LMX and employee voice behavior was stronger when employees received higher levels of empowerment. Theoretical and managerial implications of the research are discussed.
Cognitive and emotional determinants for destructive coping strategies by junior high school students in a social conflict situation
Authors: Borecka-Biernat Danuta
Published: August 2016

My research purpose was to evaluate the contribution of self-evaluation, the locus of control and emotions in generating destructive coping strategies by junior high school students in a social conflict situation. I used the proprietary questionnaire to test adolescents’ coping strategies (KSMK), Self-evaluation Scale (SES) by M. Rosenberg, the Locus of Control Questionnaire (KBPK) by G. Krasowicz and A. Kurzyp-Wojnarska, and the Three-Factor Inventory of Personality States and Traits (TISCO) by C. Spielberger and K. Wrześniewski. Empirical studies were carried out in junior high schools in Wroclaw and the surrounding area. They involved 893 adolescents (468 girls and 425 boys) aged 13‒15. I stated in my research that low self-evaluation of a young man’s abilities, a strong conviction about the impact others have on positive or negative consequences of events and reacting with fear and anger co-exists with destructive adolescent coping strategies.
Ernährung und Gesundheit – geschlechtsspezifische Handlungskonsequenzen
Authors: Kerschke-Risch Pamela
Published: August 2016

Ausgehend von der Annahme, dass Frauen sich generell gesünder als Männer ernähren, werden verschiedene geschlechtsspezifische Einstellungen sowie der Einfluss von Netzwerken und Wissen zum Thema Ernährung untersucht. Obwohl die überwiegende Mehrheit der Befragten geschlechtsunabhängig der Ansicht ist, dass Ernährung einen ganz entscheidenden Einfluss auf die eigene Gesundheit hat, zeigen sich bei der Essenswahl unterschiedliche Präferenzen, die diese unterschiedlichen Entscheidungen erklären können.
The Position of Sub-Saharan Countries in the World Economy
Authors: Baumgartner Boris
Published: August 2016

Most of the countries of sub-Saharan Africa belong to the most underdeveloped and poorest countries in the world economy. This region consists of forty-nine countries but at world GDP, world export, world import and inflow of foreign direct investment share only by small percent. There are some positive facts in the recent history of sub- Saharan Africa. Sub-Saharan Africa has grown faster than the world economy in the past ten years. The predictions are also positive. There is an expectation of another growth till the 2020. If the sub-Saharan countries want to keep the growth in the future they have to invest to infrastructure, in educational system, in research and science to make their economies more competitive.