bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Critical Review About Aquaponics
Authors: Belianina Olga , Ushakova Elina
Published: December 2017

This chapter is a conceptual platform for the work of a network of regional experimental sites that work out various aspects of the implementation of design and research activities in the study of aquaponics. The chapter contains a description of the experience of creating a new component of the regional education system “Aquaponics in Education”, the construction of the content of education in the educational organization, taking into account the new component; Designing a unified network of interaction between educational organizations of various types for the implementation of the author's experimental program “The Academy of non – boring Sciences. Aquaponics “. Methodical recommendations on the inclusion of innovative equipment Fish Plant Family Unit and Fish Plant Production in the educational system, the direction of design and research activities of students in the field of aquaponics are proposed.
Psycho-Aspects and Self-Determination on a Uniform Commonwealth Pedagogical Platform as a Scientific Category of Research Competence
Authors: Marandzhyan Ashik , Lana Tyulikova
Published: December 2017

The most important national problem of each country (or a separate ethnos) is the problem of quality management of the people of the country (members of the ethnos). The success of solving this problem is realized through the creation of appropriate training programs that are implemented in the system of education and upbringing of the country. The tasks of vocational education systems include both the professional training of members of society and the enhancement of their culture of life, including spiritual and moral education. For the success of this most important problem of society, it is first and foremost necessary to create a Uniform Commonwealth Pedagogical Platform (UCPP) for creating vocational training programs in conjunction with the tasks of spiritual and moral upbringing.
Questions of Formation of Innovative of Students at University
Authors: Valyavskiy Andrey Yurievich , Lukyanenko Elena Vladimirovna , Uchevatkina Nadezda Vladimirovna
Published: December 2017

In this chapter, the domestic and foreign approaches to the competences formation of students' innovation activities are examined, the absence of such an important component as scientific and innovative in most standards is revealed. It is shown that one of the fundamental conditions for the formation of innovative competencies among learners is the environment of the educational institution, its orientation towards the maintenance and development of innovative solutions. Various innovative competences for bachelors and masters are described. Recommendations are given on the inclusion in the standards of competencies for the formation of skills in the innovation field.
Formation of Students' Research Competence in the Framework of Innovative Educational Clusters
Authors: Gamidullaeva Leyla Ayvarovna , Vasin Sergey Mikhailovich
Published: December 2017

In this chapter, authors determine the necessity of reforming the higher education system, which should be aimed at training graduates who can independently coordinate their professional activity. The authors point out that this is not possible without the formation of research competence of students during their education at university. One of the main tasks of high school at the present stage of its development is not just to present students with ready-made knowledge but the ability to shape their own ability to get information, to be able to search for innovative solutions. The educational cluster as the organizational form of association of stakeholders enhances the effectiveness of the efforts of the regional system of vocational education.
Students' Research Competence Formation of the Quality of Open and Distance Learning
Authors: Egorkina Ekaterina , Ivanov Mikhail , Valyavskiy Andrey Yurievich
Published: December 2017

This chapter is about theoretical aspects, practical instruments and methods for providing the quality of educational services in the system of open and distance learning according to ENQA approaches. The quality management principles, based on the concept of Total Quality Management (TQM) and standards ISO, and approaches to quality policy in universities in the implementation of open and distance learning systems are offered in it. The main problems in the implementation of quality management systems are analyzed. Approaches to the of the result effectiveness evaluation in terms of the educational process quality management are discussed. Models quality assessments and the basic directions in the formation of the knowledge system quality criteria, adopted in accordance with the requirements of the digital economy, are considered.
Development of Students' Research Competency in the Frames of Continuing Education
Authors: Egorkina Ekaterina , Ivanov Mikhail , Ivanova Natalia , Uchevatkina Nadezda Vladimirovna
Published: December 2017

In this chapter, we will pay the special attention to the use of information technologies in the two-level educational process (bachelor-magister), which contributes to the effective formation of scientific-research competences with the direct interconnection of science and production. The main features of forming scientific-research competences are described. The experience in students learning to develop these competences on each grade of education is shown. There are recommendations how to provide the properly quality of scientific-research competences, including using the information-communication technologies.
Research Competence of Training for Students With Locomotors Apparatus Diseases in the System of Russian General Education
Authors: Shurygina Julia , Aleshina Ekaterina Yuryevna , Prokhorova Natalia
Published: December 2017

This chapter describes problems of the organization of training process for children with locomotors apparatus diseases in inclusive educational institutions. The idea of psycho-pedagogical support of the personal development of children with locomotors apparatus diseases is at the heart of the suggested training system considering basic requirements (physiological, need for safety, need for belonging, need for recognition, respect and approval, need for self-expression) and special requirements while using adaptation methods and training methods. In total the realization of the above requirements provides the adaptation of a child with special needs to the educational environment of the institution and personal development. Investigation of psychological and pedagogical literature on the researched problem with a purpose of identifying the experience of the organization of training process for children with locomotors apparatus diseases, analysis, synthesis, generalization are used as methods of research.
Sustainable Communication as a Component of Corporate Reputation
Authors: Genel Zeynep
Published: December 2017

Sustainability is central to both business and academics. The cooperation of business with its close stakeholders is possible only through communication. Intangible assets and facilities are important values of corporations. This chapter gives a new perspective to reputation management strategies in the aspect of sustainable communication. It shows the effectiveness of sustainable communication in terms of corporate reputation.
Strategical Reputation Management in PR
Authors: Kara Ayşe , Ant Hülya
Published: December 2017

Corporate reputation, being one of the most important assets that affect the profitability of companies, creates a difference in helping companies to recover from economic crises, gain price advantage against their competitors, diversify their products in the face of fierce competition, and thus, raise their brand value. Non-predictable and sudden global or regional events may cause companies and organizations to make unplanned changes and these changes can inflict difficulties on business operations. This chapter addresses the sudden crises experienced by companies and illustrates their success or failure in managing these crises and the extent of reputation being affected in return. Examples are given to show how crises can be turned into opportunities when managed well and how they can lead to disaster when managed inappropriately.
Corporate Reputation Management in Times of Crisis
Authors: Kökalan Özgür
Published: December 2017

It has become more difficult for companies to be successful and to sustain their success in today's competitive global world. It is necessary that the crises organizations are faced with must be managed well to prevent the loss of the reputation of the organization. Corporate reputation is one of the most important elements that differentiate organizations from each other. How the products and services of the companies are perceived by the target audience is closely related to the corporate reputation management of companies. Managing reputation becomes twice as important during crises management processes. One of the most important tasks belongs to public relations departments of companies. Conveying corporate reputation to the target audience in an efficient way requires public relations works. This also requires sustainability of the relevant activities and measures to enable the company to survive.
The Power of Brand Loyalty in Creating Enterprise Value
Authors: Gökalp Ayşenur
Published: December 2017

In their communication with the external target market, companies strive to draw the target market's attention in terms of how the companies, their activities, and the quality of their product services are viewed from outside. Therefore, anything that serves to improve company reputation will contribute positively to the company image. This, in turn, will lead to the provision of brand loyalty. This is why companies are organizing activities to reinforce and strengthen their institutional reputation. That the company has a strong reputation creates a positive image in the internal and external target groups. It increases the trust felt for the brand. One of the focus areas of public relations, reputation management, contributes to the recognition of company and brand, and this, in turn, brings institutional reputation in the long run. This chapter deals with public relations, institutional reputation, brands, and brand loyalty and aims to show the importance of institutional reputation management in building brand loyalty.
Reputation Management
Authors: Unutur Aslıhan Mihrimah
Published: December 2017

The scope of this chapter is to provide insight into how reputation can be managed through brand management, corporate communication practices, and new media strategies. Corporate communication practices carried out through public relations applications has become an increasingly important function in business organizations. Yet, little has been published on the role and function of communication executives. This chapter reveals the impact of corporate communications upon the formulation of corporate strategy.
The Power of Associations in Creating, Building, and Sustaining Brand Value
Authors: Kara Ayşe , Arslan Gamze
Published: December 2017

Establishing connection with consumers or making existing communications more powerful is curcial to attain sustainability in today's branding world. Day by day competition is getting more fierce, and the variety of products in the market even for one simple need is extraordinary in range of span. Consequently, brand managers go through rough times lately, constantly looking for alternative ways to differentiate themselves from brands of competition such as focusing on different aspects such as strengthening their images, placing associations in consumer minds, and designing better positioning to differentiate themselves apart from their competitors. Since literature is scarce with respect to pinpointing the role of brand associations in attaining brand reputation, this chapter attempted provide an overview to pinpoint the relationship between brand associations and purchasing behavior and the effects of brand associations on consumer perception to emphasize the role of associations in acquiring brand reputation.
Task-Based Language Learning and Learner Autonomy in 3D Virtual Worlds
Authors: Kozlova Iryna
Published: December 2017

This chapter investigates whether a problem-solving task with an environment exploration component mediates learner autonomy in a 3D virtual world (VW). Two groups of English as a foreign language (EFL) learners were to collect information by exploring the 3D VW and eliciting information from player avatars to complete the task. An analysis of student interaction reveals that only one of the groups acted as autonomous learners by generating new topics based on their observations in the environment; eliciting information and controlling the topics when interacting with the player avatars; and initiating repair leading to input modification, negotiation of meaning, and modification of output. Results suggest that learner autonomy could be promoted in 3D VWs by improving the clarity of task instructions and by designing learning tasks in such a way that students would be able to complete the tasks only if they share their observations with peers and player avatars.
Integrating Virtual Spaces
Authors: Hartwick Peggy , Nowlan Nuket Savaskan
Published: December 2017

This chapter explores perspectives from general learning theories in relation to affordances of 3D virtual learning environments (3DVLEs) in order to substantiate a theoretically informed pedagogical design process. Following this review, the authors describe 3DVLE space and task design used as part of an English for Academic Purpose (EAP) course at a Canadian university. The design process is then contextualized according to a Phillips, McNaught, and Kennedy's (2010, 2012) learning framework called Learning Environment, Learning Processes, and Learning Outcomes (LEPO). The authors share sample tasks and screen shots of the 3DVLE, as well as teacher and designer recommendations for future designs. In conclusion, the authors stress the importance of drawing on multiple learning theories to illuminate the affordances of the space. Further, they call for empirical research that makes use of telemetric data in the assessment of learner interaction in relation to achieving learning outcomes and predicting learner success.
Factors Affecting Primary School Students' Learning Experiences When Using MUVEs
Authors: Fokides Emmanuel , Atsikpasi Pinelopi
Published: December 2017

3D multi-user virtual environments (MUVEs) are considered a technological advancement that, in the coming years, will have a significant impact on how students learn. On the other hand, the factors that shape the learning experience in such applications are not well studied. This chapter is an attempt to fill that gap. It reports the development and validation of a scale to measure the factors that come into play when primary school students use MUVEs in formal educational settings. Perceived learning effectiveness, perceived ease of use, presence, motivation, perceived application realism, interactions, enjoyment, as well as collaboration were used to develop a questionnaire that initially included 34 items. A total of 352 sixth-grade primary school students used a MUVE in formal educational settings and the aforementioned questionnaire was administered to them. The exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis revealed the existence of 7 factors and 24 items that were retained in the final version of the scale. The factor structure of the questionnaire is also discussed.
An Innovation-Based and Sustainable Knowledge Society
Authors: Piaggesi Danilo
Published: December 2017

Innovation is a key source of new products, benefit and fresh growth in revenues. In developed economies, the private sector is the engine of innovation and growth, accounting for between half and two-thirds of total spending on research and development in some countries. On the other hand, increasing access to technology will be a critical driver of economic growth in emerging economies, but it will require private sector leaders and the public sector to work together to make their respective programs more impactful. At the same time, the rapid advances and pervasive diffusion of information and communication technology (ICT), combined with the growth of the Internet have led to deep transformations in economic, social and institutional structures. ICT applications affect the performance of businesses and the efficiency of markets, foster the empowerment of citizens and communities as well as their access to knowledge, and contribute to strengthening and redefining governance processes at all institutional levels.
An Analysis of Student Performance in a Digital Electronics Design Course
Authors: Vargas-Vera Maria
Published: December 2017

The main purpose of this research was to find relations between activities in Dees (Digital Electronics Education and Design Suite) and student performance in an undergraduate course of Digital Electronics. In our case of study, we used a dataset which contains examples of students using Dees toolkit. Firstly, we performed an analysis of the attributes of the dataset, to find correlations between student performance and activities developed during six sessions of the course. Secondly, we performed clustering using the algorithm k-means. Then, we concluded that, there is a relation between Dees activities performed by a student and student performance. This result opens the possibility of further analysis and perhaps the use of similar software toolkit in different courses of the Engineering curricula.
Knowledge Innovation Through Update Propagation in Collaborative Data Sharing Systems
Authors: Masud Mehedi
Published: December 2017

Innovative knowledge discovery comes through collaboration of knowledge in educational systems. In a collaborative educational system the heterogeneity of data in different learning management systems presents many difficulties for data sharing; some of these difficulties are how to integrate data, produce results for user queries, and find the correct data from heterogeneous learning management systems. In the past few years, various educational system architectures have been proposed; however, issues related to sharing data from different systems have been given less attention. Considering the lack of collaboration of knowledge this chapter investigates a problem of sharing of innovative knowledge among collaborative educational institutes. The knowledge is shared by propagation of updates. Updating innovative knowledge is done by propagating update from the originating source to other collaborative partners. The author examines update propagation in both cyclic and acyclic networks. Moreover, the authors considers cases where a source is temporarily unavailable or offline.
Current Challenges and Future Perspectives in the Field of Thermal Barrier Coatings
Authors: Di Girolamo Giovanni
Published: December 2017

This chapter describes how ceramic thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) are usually applied on metal components of aircraft engines and land-based gas turbines, with the purpose to extend their lifetime as well as to increase performance and durability, by increasing the operating temperature. The TBCs have to satisfy basic requirements in terms of low thermal conductivity, high stress compliance, high sintering resistance as well as high resistance to the environmental attack promoted by oxygen, molten salts and CMAS (calcium-magnesium-alumino-silicate) deposits. This chapter is aimed at analyzing the state-of-the-art, the recent developments and the future perspectives in the field of TBCs, focusing the attention on advanced materials and new architectures as well as explaining the mechanisms affecting the failure of TBC systems.
Microstructural and Tribological Characteristics of Air Plasma Sprayed Alumina-Titania Coatings
Authors: Bolleddu Venkateshwarlu , Racherla Vikranth , Bandyopadhyay Partha Pratim
Published: December 2017

Thermally sprayed coatings from nanostructured agglomerated ceramic powders have received considerable attention in recent past due to their improved performance over corresponding coatings from conventional powders. When complete melting of a fraction of agglomerated particles is prevented, unmelted and partially melted (PM) particles appear as inclusions within the fully melted matrix resulting in a bi-modal coating microstructure. In addition to uniform mixing of constituents, the enhanced performance of nanostructured coatings has also been attributed to above described bi-modal nature of the microstructure. Interestingly, even though nitrogen is cheaper and more widely available than argon, essentially all earlier works on plasma spraying of nanostructured coatings use argon as the primary plasma gas. In this chapter, the effect of critical plasma spray parameter (CPSP), which controls the specific power input to the plasma gas, on microstructural and wear characteristics of conventional and nanostructured alumina-titania (Al2O3-13wt%TiO2) coatings is studied systematically.
Oxidation-Protective Coatings for Carbon-Carbon Composites
Authors: Ashrafiyan Omid , Saremi Mohsen , Pakseresht Amirhossein , Ghasali Ehsan
Published: December 2017

Carbon-carbon composites have attractive properties for high-temperature applications but unfortunately, oxidized at a temperature over 500 °C in the air. Various methods used for protection of C-C composites oxidation such as surface treatment, adding inhibitors in the matrix, and outer coating. High-temperature outer coatings are the most effective method to the protection of C-C composites oxidation. Protective coatings should have low oxygen permeability, compatibility with C-C composites, and adherent to the substrate. SiC is a suitable coating but limited in temperature over 1700 °C and below 1100 °C due to evaporation of silica layer and high viscosity of silica layer respectively and so, multilayer coating system used to solve these problems. SiC coating usually is as a bond layer in coating systems.
Detecting Restriction Class Correspondences in Linked Data
Authors: Walshe Brian , Brennan Rob , O'Sullivan Declan
Published: December 2017

Linked Data consists of many structured data knowledge bases that have been interlinked, often using equivalence statements. These equivalences usually take the form of owl:sameAs statements linking individuals, links between classes are far less common Often, the lack of class links is because their relationships cannot be described as one to one equivalences. Instead, complex correspondences referencing logical combinations of multiple entities are often needed to describe how the classes in an ontology are related to classes in a second ontology. This chapter introduces a novel Bayesian Restriction Class Correspondence Estimation (Bayes-ReCCE) algorithm, an extensional approach to detecting complex correspondences between classes. Bayes-ReCCE operates by analysing features of matched individuals in the knowledge bases, and uses Bayesian inference to search for complex correspondences between the classes these individuals belong to. Bayes-ReCCE is designed to be capable of providing meaningful results even when only small numbers of matched instances are available.
Mini-ME Matchmaker and Reasoner for the Semantic Web of Things
Authors: Scioscia Floriano , Ruta Michele , Loseto Giuseppe , Gramegna Filippo , Ieva Saverio , Pinto Agnese , Di Sciascio Eugenio
Published: December 2017

The Semantic Web of Things (SWoT) aims to support smart semantics-enabled applications and services in pervasive contexts. Due to architectural and performance issues, most Semantic Web reasoners are often impractical to be ported: they are resource consuming and are basically designed for standard inference tasks on large ontologies. On the contrary, SWoT use cases generally require quick decision support through semantic matchmaking in resource-constrained environments. This paper describes Mini-ME (the Mini Matchmaking Engine), a mobile inference engine designed from the ground up for the SWoT. It supports Semantic Web technologies and implements both standard (subsumption, satisfiability, classification) and non-standard (abduction, contraction, covering, bonus, difference) inference services for moderately expressive knowledge bases. In addition to an architectural and functional description, usage scenarios and experimental performance evaluation are presented on PC (against other popular Semantic Web reasoners), smartphone and embedded single-board computer testbeds.
Cutting Edge: Low-Affinity TCRs Support Regulatory T Cell Function in Autoimmunity
Authors: Sprouse Maran L. , Shevchenko Ivan , Scavuzzo Marissa A. , Joseph Faith , Lee Thomas , Blum Samuel , Borowiak Malgorzata , Bettini Matthew L. , Bettini Maria
Published: December 2017

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) use a distinct TCR repertoire and are more self-reactive compared with conventional T cells. However, the extent to which TCR affinity regulates the function of self-reactive Tregs is largely unknown. In this study, we used a two-TCR model to assess the role of TCR affinity in Treg function during autoimmunity. We observed that high- and low-affinity Tregs were recruited to the pancreas and contributed to protection from autoimmune diabetes. Interestingly, high-affinity cells preferentially upregulated the TCR-dependent Treg functional mediators IL-10, TIGIT, GITR, and CTLA4, whereas low-affinity cells displayed increased transcripts for Areg and Ebi3, suggesting distinct functional profiles. The results of this study suggest mechanistically distinct and potentially nonredundant roles for high- and low-affinity Tregs in controlling autoimmunity.
Inhibition of the Deubiquitinase Usp14 Diminishes Direct MHC Class I Antigen Presentation
Authors: Palmer Amy L. , de Jong Annemieke , Leestemaker Yves , Geurink Paul P. , Wijdeven Ruud H. , Ovaa Huib , Dolan Brian P.
Published: December 2017

Infected or transformed cells must present peptides derived from endogenous proteins on MHC class I molecules to be recognized and targeted for elimination by Ag-specific cytotoxic T cells. In the first step of peptide generation, proteins are degraded by the proteasome. In this study, we investigated the role of the ubiquitin-specific protease 14 (Usp14), a proteasome-associated deubiquitinase, in direct Ag presentation using a ligand-stabilized model protein expressed as a self-antigen. Chemical inhibition of Usp14 diminished direct presentation of the model antigenic peptide, and the effect was especially pronounced when presentation was restricted to the defective ribosomal product (DRiP) form of the protein. Additionally, presentation specifically from DRiP Ags was diminished by expression of a catalytically inactive form of Usp14. Usp14 inhibition did not appreciably alter protein synthesis and only partially delayed protein degradation as measured by a slight increase in the half-life of the model protein when its degradation was induced. Taken together, these data indicate that functional Usp14 enhances direct Ag presentation, preferentially of DRiP-derived peptides, suggesting that the processing of DRiPs is in some ways different from other forms of Ag.
B Cell–Intrinsic MyD88 Signaling Promotes Initial Cell Proliferation and Differentiation To Enhance the Germinal Center Response to a Virus-like Particle
Authors: Tian Meijie , Hua Zhaolin , Hong Sheng , Zhang Zhimin , Liu Can , Lin Lin , Chen Jiaorong , Zhang Wei , Zhou Xuyu , Zhang Fuping , DeFranco Anthony L. , Hou Baidong
Published: December 2017

Although TLR signaling in B cells has been implicated in the germinal center (GC) responses during viral infections and autoimmune diseases, the underlying mechanism is unclear. Bacterial phage Qβ-derived virus-like particle (Qβ-VLP) contains TLR ligands, which can enhance Qβ-VLP-induced Ab response, including GC response, through TLR/MyD88 signaling in B cells. In this study, by examining Ag-specific B cell response to Qβ-VLP, we found that lack of B cell MyD88 from the beginning of the immune response led to a more severe defect in the GC scale than abolishing MyD88 at later time points of the immune response. Consistently, B cell–intrinsic MyD88 signaling significantly enhanced the initial proliferation of Ag-specific B cells, which was accompanied with a dramatic increase of plasma cell generation and induction of Bcl-6+ GC B cell precursors. In addition, B cell–intrinsic MyD88 signaling promoted strong T-bet expression independent of IFN-γ and led to the preferential isotype switching to IgG2a/c. Thus, by promoting the initial Ag-specific B cell proliferation and differentiation, B cell–intrinsic MyD88 signaling enhanced both T-independent and T-dependent Ab responses elicited by Qβ-VLP. This finding will provide additional insight into the role of TLR signaling in antiviral immunity, autoimmune diseases, and vaccine design.
Identification of a Multipotent Progenitor Population in the Spleen That Is Regulated by NR4A1
Authors: Mumau Melanie D. , Vanderbeck Ashley N. , Lynch Elizabeth D. , Golec Sophia B. , Emerson Stephen G. , Punt Jennifer A.
Published: December 2017

The developmental fate of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells is influenced by their physiological context. Although most hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells are found in the bone marrow of the adult, some are found in other tissues, including the spleen. The extent to which the fate of stem cells is determined by the tissue in which they reside is not clear. In this study, we identify a new progenitor population, which is enriched in the mouse spleen, defined by cKit+CD71lowCD24high expression. This previously uncharacterized population generates exclusively myeloid lineage cells, including erythrocytes, platelets, monocytes, and neutrophils. These multipotent progenitors of the spleen (MPPS) develop from MPP2, a myeloid-biased subset of hematopoietic progenitors. We find that NR4A1, a transcription factor expressed by myeloid-biased long term-hematopoietic stem cells, guides the lineage specification of MPPS. In vitro, NR4A1 expression regulates the potential of MPPS to differentiate into erythroid cells. MPPS that express NR4A1 differentiate into a variety of myeloid lineages, whereas those that do not express NR4A1 primarily develop into erythroid cells. Similarly, in vivo, after adoptive transfer, Nr4a1-deficient MPPS contribute more to erythrocyte and platelet populations than do wild-type MPPS. Finally, unmanipulated Nr4a1−/− mice harbor significantly higher numbers of erythroid progenitors in the spleen compared with wild-type mice. Together, our data show that NR4A1 expression by MPPS limits erythropoiesis and megakaryopoeisis, permitting development to other myeloid lineages. This effect is specific to the spleen, revealing a unique molecular pathway that regulates myeloid bias in an extramedullary niche.
Antibody-Mediated Neutralization of uPA Proteolytic Function Reduces Disease Progression in Mouse Arthritis Models
Authors: Almholt Kasper , Hebsgaard Josephine B. , Nansen Anneline , Andersson Christina , Pass Jesper , Rønø Birgitte , Thygesen Peter , Pelzer Hermann , Loftager Mette , Lund Ida K. , Høyer-Hansen Gunilla , Frisch Thomas , Jensen Claus H. , Otte Kristian S. , Søe Niels H. , Bartels Else M. , Andersen Martin , Bliddal Henning , Usher Pernille A.
Published: December 2017

Genetic absence of the urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) reduces arthritis progression in the collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mouse model to an extent just shy of disease abrogation, but this remarkable observation has not been translated into therapeutic intervention. Our aim was to test the potential in mice of an Ab that blocks the proteolytic capacity of uPA in the CIA model and the delayed-type hypersensitivity arthritis model. A second aim was to determine the cellular origins of uPA and the uPA receptor (uPAR) in joint tissue from patients with rheumatoid arthritis. A mAb that neutralizes mouse uPA significantly reduced arthritis progression in the CIA and delayed-type hypersensitivity arthritis models. In the CIA model, the impact of anti-uPA treatment was on par with the effect of blocking TNF-α by etanercept. A pharmacokinetics evaluation of the therapeutic Ab revealed target-mediated drug disposition consistent with a high turnover of endogenous uPA. The cellular expression patterns of uPA and uPAR were characterized by double immunofluorescence in the inflamed synovium from patients with rheumatoid arthritis and compared with synovium from healthy donors. The arthritic synovium showed expression of uPA and uPAR in neutrophils, macrophages, and a fraction of endothelial cells, whereas there was little or no expression in synovium from healthy donors. The data from animal models and human material provide preclinical proof-of-principle that validates uPA as a novel therapeutic target in rheumatic diseases.
Frequency of Leadership Behaviors Among Athletic Trainers in University Settings
Authors: Kutz Matthew R. , Doherty-Restrepo Jennifer
Published: December 2017

Context:

Leadership has been reported to be an important factor in the practice of athletic training. However, no research has identified the frequency in which leadership is practiced by athletic trainers.

Objective:

To explore and compare the frequency with which athletic trainers practice leadership in their athletic training and non–athletic training roles.

Setting:

Survey design using athletic trainers in clinical and academic roles.

Patients or Other Participants:

One hundred one athletic trainers in university settings (69% program directors; 31% university-based clinicians), yielding a 12% response rate and a satisfactory effect size (d = 0.73); mean age of respondents was 41 ± 9.5 years, mean experience was 18 ± 9.0 years, and 98% of respondents had at least a master's degree.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

Frequency of leadership behavior by athletic trainers was assessed using the Frequency of Leadership in Athletic Training Scale (FLATS). Data on frequency of use were organized by different demographic variables and between athletic training roles and non–athletic training roles.

Results:

The FLATS psychometric analysis yielded satisfactory internal consistency and validity (α = 0.91 to 0.96; correlations ranged from r = 0.39 to r = 0.87, P ≤ .05; concurrent validity was supported by differences between scale items and selected demographic characteristics). Paired-samples t tests indicated significant differences between practice frequencies of leadership behaviors in athletic training roles when compared with out of athletic training roles (mean = 2.24 ± 0.33 versus 1.98 ± .38, P = .000). Furthermore, mean scores for 44 (of 47) FLATS items were significantly higher for in versus out of athletic training roles (P ≤ .05). Independent t tests showed significant differences between specific item frequencies among different variables (ranges: t43–99 = −3.290 to 3.339, P = .001 to .05).

Conclusions:

A majority (85%) of leadership behaviors are practiced frequently (often or always) by athletic trainers. Frequency of leadership behavior by athletic trainers decreases when they are not functioning in an athletic training context.
Comparative evaluation of six parametric Robinson and three parametric Howell's modification of Scarf-BloomRichardson grading method on breast aspirates with histopathology: A prospective study
Authors: Walke Vaishali A , Gunjkar Gajanan
Published: December 2017

Background:

Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is a quick method to assess the tumor grade before its removal which will help clinicians to decide on the appropriate neo adjuvant therapy. This is essentially true in developing countries where core needle biopsy still is not used as a standard practice to sample breast carcinoma. Assessment of biological aggressiveness by cytological grading (CG) without removing the would be of immense value. The National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, sponsored conference had recommended that tumor grading on FNA material should be incorporated in cytology reports for prognostication.

Aim:

The present study was carried out to evaluate which among the two, five parametric Robinson or three parametric Scarf–BloomRichardson (SBR) cytology grading method corresponds better with the histological grading (HG) in breast carcinoma.

Materials and Methods:

FNAC of 150 cases of ductal carcinoma breast with subsequent histological confirmation was studied to assess the tumor grade on cytology by two distinct methods Robinson and Howell's modification of SBRmethod and then correlated with histologic grade.

Results:

Comparative analysis revealed concordance of 76% by Robinson and 68% by SBR with Kappa value of 0.6683 and 0.4505 and diagnostic accuracy of 86.7% and 78.7%, respectively.

Conclusions:

We conclude that Robinson method showed a better correlation and higher kappa value of agreement in comparison with SBR method. Robinson method of CG is simpler, objective, and easily reproducible for grading breast carcinomas.
Assessing Knowledge, Attitudes, and Preventive Practices Related to Kala-azar: A Study of Rural Madhepura, Bihar, India
Authors: Govil Dipti , Sahoo Harihar , Pedgaonkar Sarang P. , Chandra Das Kailash , Lhungdim Hemkhothang
Published: December 2017

To assess the knowledge, attitude, and preventive practices related to kala-azar in Madhepura district of Bihar, a community-based cross-sectional study was carried out in November 2014. A total of 353 households were interviewed from 24 villages of four blocks of Madhepura district. Data were collected using structured interview schedule. For knowledge, attitude, and preventive practice indexes, scores were assigned to individual questions based on the accuracy of responses. Univariate and binary logistic regressions were applied for the analysis. Eighty-four percent households had heard of kala-azar disease, but only 15.9% could recognize that sand flies were responsible for transmitting the disease. Overall, only 43.9% had fair knowledge on kala-azar disease (e.g., mode of transmission, signs and symptoms, and the outcome if left untreated) and the vector (breeding place, season, and biting time). Almost 48.6% had a favorable attitude toward treatability and management of kala-azar and 37.7% practiced proper mechanism to prevent and control kala-azar. Occupation emerged as a significant predictor for all three indexes. Other important predictors for the attitude index were literacy, household type, households ever had a kala-azar case, and knowledge index. Despite 61.8% of the households ever reported to have a member diagnosed with kala-azar, the overall knowledge of the disease and vector, attitude, and practices about prevention and control of kala-azar was found to be lagging. Therefore, our investigation suggests that further strengthening of comprehensive knowledge about kala-azar and preventive practices is needed.
Characterization of Invasive Salmonella Serogroup C1 Infections in Mali
Authors: Fuche Fabien J. , Sen Sunil , Jones Jennifer A. , Nkeze Joseph , Permala-Booth Jasnehta , Tapia Milagritos D. , Sow Samba O. , Tamboura Boubou , Touré Aliou , Onwuchekwa Uma , Sylla Mamadou , Kotloff Karen L. , Tennant Sharon M.
Published: December 2017

Nontyphoidal Salmonella (NTS) are the leading cause of foodborne infections worldwide and a major cause of bloodstream infections in infants and HIV-infected adults in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Salmonella Typhimurium (serogroup B) and Salmonella Enteritidis (serogroup D) are the most common serovars in this region. However, data describing rarer invasive NTS serovars, particularly those belonging to serogroups C1 and C2, circulating in SSA are lacking. We previously conducted systematic blood culture surveillance on pediatric patients in Bamako, Mali, from 2002 to 2014, and the results showed that serovars Typhimurium and Enteritidis accounted for 32% and 36% of isolates, respectively. Here, we present data on 27 Salmonella serogroup C1 strains that were isolated during this previous study. The strains were typed by serum agglutination and multilocus sequence typing (MLST). Sixteen strains were Salmonella Paratyphi C, four were Salmonella Colindale, and two were Salmonella Virchow. Interestingly, five strains were identified as the very rare Salmonella Brazzaville using a combination of serum agglutination and flagellin gene typing. Phenotypic characterization showed that Salmonella Brazzaville produced biofilm and exhibited catalase activity, which were not statistically different from the gastroenteritis-associated Salmonella Typhimurium sequence type (ST) 19. All tested Salmonella Paratyphi C strains were poor biofilm producers and showed significantly less catalase activity than Salmonella Typhimurium ST19. Overall, our study provides insight into the Salmonella serogroup C1 serovars that cause invasive disease in infants in Mali. In addition, we show that MLST and flagellin gene sequencing, in association with traditional serum agglutination, are invaluable tools to help identify rare Salmonella serovars.
Technique to stabilize Wax Occlusion Rims following Maxillomandibular Relationship Records
Authors: Shaikh Sameera , Nimbalkar Smita , Patil Pravinkumar
Published: December 2017

Maxillomandibular relationship (MMR) recorded with the help of wax occlusion rims, with or without an interocclusal recording medium, tends to distort during the mounting procedure under higher room temperature. When the records were required to be transported to the distant laboratories for mounting, maintaining the sealed occlusion rims undistorted is always a concern to the prosthodontist. A simplified technique for stabilizing the MMR records made with wax occlusion rims is described. This technique is easy to perform and no special instruments or materials are required. The records stabilized with this technique remain undistorted till mounting even under high room temperature and can safely be transported to the distant laboratories for mounting.

How to cite this article

Patil P, Nimbalkar S, Shaikh S. Technique to stabilize Wax Occlusion Rims following Maxillomandibular Relationship Records. Int J Prosthodont Restor Dent 2017;7(4):114-116.
Effect of Relief at the Median Palatal Plate on Denture-supporting Ability
Authors: Tanaka Satomi , Sato Yuji , Kitagawa Noboru , Shimodaira Osamu , Isobe Akio , Takamatsu Naoya , Omori Tomoka
Published: December 2017

Aim

A new maxillary palatal plate-form device that simultaneously measures clenching force and subsidence of the palatal mucosa at the onset of jaw clenching pain was developed to ascertain the effect of median palatal plate relief on denture-bearing ability.

Materials and methods

In 15 dentulous subjects, pseudo-palatal plates were affixed to the palatal mucosa; anterior splints were affixed as maxillary references for measuring subsidence upon transmission of the clenching force through a pressurizing splint affixed to the mandible. The relief at the median palatal plate was categorized as: No-relief, 0.23 mm relief, and 0.46 mm relief. Subjects clenched their jaws until they experienced pain. The clenching force and subsidence of the palatal mucosa were simultaneously measured and compared across relief categories, and their relationship to the extent of relief at the onset of pain was evaluated.

Results

At the onset of pain, both clenching force and subsidence of the palatal mucosa in the relief conditions were significantly greater than those in the no-relief condition (p < 0.05). In some patients, both clenching force and subsidence of the palatal mucosa decreased with increase in relief.

Conclusion

Relief at the median palatal plate effectively increases the bearing ability of the palatal part. However, the range and extent of relief might vary, depending on oral conditions.

Clinical significance

Using this approach, the relief area of maxillary full dentures suitable for individual patients was determined in an objective and convenient manner and the accuracy of denture treatments was improved. This could improve the quality of life of patients wearing dentures.

How to cite this article

Tanaka S, Sato Y, Kitagawa N, Shimodaira O, Isobe A, Takamatsu N, Omori T. Effect of Relief at the Median Palatal Plate on Denture-supporting Ability. Int J Prosthodont Restor Dent 2017;7(4):117-123.
Immigrant and Refugee Women’s Resourcefulness in English Language Classrooms: Emerging possibilities through plurilingualism
Authors: Choi Julie , Najar Ulrike
Published: December 2017

Reports on refugee and migrant women in Australia show these women have low literacy in their first language, limited English language abilities, and minimal formal schooling. With major funding cuts to the adult migrant education sector and persistent public ‘deficit views’ of immigrant and refugee’s levels of literacy, approaches to teaching and learning in this sector require flexible views of language that embrace plurilingualism as a valuable resource within and outside of the socially-orientated ESL classroom. In this article, we present and discuss our findings from a study in which we co-taught English to immigrant and refugee women in a housing estate in Melbourne, Australia, and investigated the effects of a plurilingual view on the women’s English language learning experience and communication skills. Drawing on recorded classroom dialogues, observation notes, and worksheets produced by the women, we demonstrate the extraordinary plurilingual resourcefulness immigrant and refugee women bring to the challenge of learning to communicate in English. Our aim is not to promote a particular teaching approach, but to suggest the value of ongoing critical reflection on the underpinning ideas of plurilingualism for immigrant and refugee learner groups such as those we experienced in our own classroom interactions.
Relación altura-diámetro en tres especies cultivadas en una plantación forestal comercial en el Este tropical de México
Authors: Castillo-Gallegos Epigmenio , Jarillo-Rodríguez Jesús , Escobar-Hernández Ramiro
Published: December 2017

Introducción: El diámetro a la altura de pecho y la altura son las principales variables medidas en los inventarios forestales, ya que ayudan en el proceso de toma de decisiones para el manejo de plantaciones forestales y en investigaciones sobre modelos de crecimiento. Objetivo: Encontrar la función matemática que mejor relacione el diámetro a la altura del pecho (DAP, aproximadamente 1.3 m) y la altura (h) de tres especies forestales cultivadas en el mismo terreno: aguacate silvestre (Cinnamomum sp.), pino blanco chiapaneco (Pinus chiapensis [Martínez] Andresen) y cedro blanco o piocho (Melia azedarach L.). Materiales y métodos: Se compararon 22 modelos no lineales: 13 con dos parámetros y nueve con tres parámetros, usando la diferencia del criterio de información de Akaike corregido (AICc). Resultados y discusión: Los mejores modelos fueron: la hipérbola de dos parámetros para aguacate silvestre (h = (17.58*DAP)/(12.33 + DAP), R2 = 0.79, EEE = 0.80, n = 647); la función de Richards de tres parámetros para pino blanco chiapaneco (h = 10.14*(1 – e-0.206*DAP)1.689,  R2 = 0.35, EEE = 1.28, n = 664); y la función sigmoidea de Korf para piocho (H = 18.25*(e-2.46*(DAP-0.556)),  R2 = 0.49, EEE = 0.96, n = 692). Conclusión: El mejor modelo fue distinto para cada especie. Los datos presentaron una dispersión alta a lo largo de la curva predicha, particularmente en pino blanco chiapaneco.