bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vibration control of wind turbine tower-nacelle model with magnetorheological tuned vibration absorber
Authors: Martynowicz Paweł
Published: June 2015

Wind turbine tower dynamic load is related to the fatigue and reliability of the structure. This paper deals with the problem of tower vibration control using specially designed and built numerical and laboratory model. The regarded wind turbine tower-nacelle model consists of vertically arranged stiff rod (representing the tower), and a stiff body fixed at its top representing nacelle assembly that is equipped with horizontally aligned tuned vibration absorber (TVA) with magnetorheological (MR) damper. To model tower-nacelle dynamics, Comsol Multiphysics finite element method environment was used. For time and frequency domain numerical analyses (including first and second bending modes of vibration) of system with TVA and MR damper models, MATLAB/Simulink environment was used with Comsol Multiphysics tower-nacelle model embedded. Force excitation sources applied horizontally to the nacelle, and to the tower itself were both considered. The MR damper real-time control algorithms, including ground hook control and its modification, sliding mode control, linear and nonlinear (cubic and square root) damping, and adaptive solutions are compared to the open-loop case with various constant MR damper input current values and system without MRTVA (i.e. MRTVA in ‘locked’ state). Comprehensive numerical analyses results are presented along with Vensys 82 full-scale tower-nacelle model validation. Finally, preliminary results of laboratory tests are included.
Implementing Role-Changing Versus Time-Changing Innovations in Health Care
Authors: Nembhard Ingrid M. , Morrow Christopher T. , Bradley Elizabeth H.
Published: June 2015

Health care organizations often fail in their effort to implement care-improving innovations. This article differentiates role-changing innovations, altering what workers do, from time-changing innovations, altering when tasks are performed or for how long. We examine our hypothesis that the degree to which access to groups that can alter organizational learning—staff, management, and external network—facilitates implementation depends on innovation type. Our longitudinal study using ordinal logistic regression and survey data on 517 hospitals’ implementation of evidence-based practices for treating heart attack confirmed our thesis for factors granting access to each group: improvement team’s representativeness (of affected staff), senior management engagement, and network membership. Although team representativeness and network membership were positively associated with implementing role-changing practices, senior management engagement was not. In contrast, senior management engagement was positively associated with implementing time-changing practices, whereas team representativeness was not, and network membership was not unless there was limited management engagement. These findings advance implementation science by explaining mixed results across past studies: Nature of change for workers alters potential facilitators’ effects on implementation.
Diagnostic value of Light’s criteria and albumin gradient in classifying the pathophysiology of pleural effusion formation in cats
Authors: Zoia Andrea , Drigo Michele
Published: June 2015

The primary aim of this study was to assess whether human Light’s criteria with the cut-off values previously published for cats are useful and superior to the traditional veterinary classification in diagnosing pathophysiology of fluid formation in cats with pleural effusion. The secondary aim was to assess if the albumin gradient (ALBg) is a reliable criterion for differentiating exudates from transudates in patients with pleural effusion thought to be transudative by clinical criteria but identified as exudative by Light’s criteria. Nineteen client-owned cats with pleural effusion were studied. The aetiology of the pleural effusion was used to establish the pathophysiology of its formation. Parameters measured or calculated undergoing statistical analysis included Light’s criteria, total protein and total nucleated cell count in the pleural effusions, and the ALBg. Based on the pathophysiology of fluid formation there were seven transudates caused by increased hydrostatic pressure and 12 exudates. There was a significant difference in the accuracy of the Light’s criteria in correctly classifying origin of the pleural fluid formation compared with the traditional veterinary classification (84% vs 53%). ALBg values were significantly different between transudates and exudates. One of the three transudates misclassified as exudates by Light’s criteria was correctly identified as a transudate by the ALBg. In conclusion, pleural effusion should be classified as either a transudate or an exudate using Light’s criteria. In cats with pleural effusion thought to be transudative by clinical criteria, but identified as exudative by Light’s criteria, the ALBg may further help in correctly differentiating exudates from transudates.
The effects of telemedicine on racial and ethnic disparities in access to acute stroke care
Authors: Lyerly Michael J , Wu Tzu-Ching , Mullen Michael T , Albright Karen C , Wolff Catherine , Boehme Amelia K , Branas Charles C , Grotta James C , Savitz Sean I , Carr Brendan G
Published: June 2015

Racial and ethnic disparities have been previously reported in acute stroke care. We sought to determine the effect of telemedicine (TM) on access to acute stroke care for racial and ethnic minorities in the state of Texas. Data were collected from the US Census Bureau, The Joint Commission and the American Hospital Association. Access for racial and ethnic minorities was determined by summing the population that could reach a primary stroke centre (PSC) or telemedicine spoke within specified time intervals using validated models. TM extended access to stroke expertise by 1.5 million residents. The odds of providing 60-minute access via TM were similar in Blacks and Whites (prevalence odds ratios (POR) 1.000, 95% CI 1.000–1.000), even after adjustment for urbanization (POR 1.000, 95% CI 1.000–1.001). The odds of providing access via TM were also similar for Hispanics and non-Hispanics (POR 1.000, 95% CI 1.000–1.000), even after adjustment for urbanization (POR 1.000, 95% CI 1.000–1.000). We found that telemedicine increased access to acute stroke care for 1.5 million Texans. While racial and ethnic disparities exist in other components of stroke care, we did not find evidence of disparities in access to the acute stroke expertise afforded by telemedicine.
A Swedish version of the SCREEN II for malnutrition assessment among community-dwelling elderly
Authors: Westergren Albert , Khalaf Atika , Hagell Peter
Published: June 2015

Background: The Seniors in the Community: Risk Evaluation for Eating and Nutrition II (SCREEN II) Questionnaire assesses nutritional risk among elderly people living at home. Our aim was to produce a Swedish language version of the SCREEN II and to examine response patterns, data completeness and the relationship between malnutrition and general health. Methods: The SCREEN II was translated into Swedish using dual panel methodology, and then followed up with field test interviews of 24 seniors (median age, 83 years). We used the survey data ( n = 565) to assess item and score distribution, missing responses, and the relationship to the subject’s general and nutritional health. Results: The Swedish SCREEN II was considered easy to understand, respond to, and relevant ( n = 21; 88% of subjects found it so in all three respects) and its median completion time was 5 minutes. The level of survey item data completeness was 94–99%, and 82% of surveys had computable total scores. Of those subjects with completed forms, 35% had no nutritional risk; 35% had moderate risk; and 30% were at high risk. The malnutrition risk increased with poorer perceived health. Conclusions: Our study results are similar to those using previous SCREEN II versions, indicating that the scale adaptation was successful and providing initial support for use of the Swedish SCREEN II Questionnaire.
Institutional Characteristics and State Policy Priorities: The Impact of Legislatures and Governors
Authors: Lewis Daniel C. , Schneider Saundra K. , Jacoby William G.
Published: June 2015

This article examines how the institutional characteristics of state legislatures and governors affect state policy priorities. We argue that differences in the nature of their respective constituencies lead legislators to press for particularized benefits while governors favor collective goods. Empirical analysis of state-level data from 1982 through 2011 confirms that this is the case. The organizational arrangements of the two branches of government have an impact that is usually greater than that of state public opinion but generally less than that of state interest groups. The results from this analysis are important because they show that institutional structure has systematic effects that are independent of ideology, partisanship, and the other factors that are known to shape state policy making.
State Policy Mood: The Importance of Over-time Dynamics
Authors: Enns Peter K. , Koch Julianna
Published: June 2015

Recently, we introduced and validated annual state-level estimates of the public's policy mood and party identification from 1956 to 2010 and self-identified political ideology from 1976 to 2010. In this issue, Berry, Ringquist, Fording, and Hanson (BRFH) compare our measure of policy mood with a measure they created, and they conclude that their measure is “the best available indicator of state policy mood for researchers doing pooled cross-sectional time-series analysis.” In this article, we show that BRFH's skepticism of our measure and confidence in their measure result from a failure to fully consider over-time dynamics. When we consider over-time variation, the Enns and Koch measure of policy mood continues to perform well. By contrast, some concerning patterns emerge with the BRFH measure. In addition to further validating the Enns and Koch measure, this article speaks to similarities in opinion change across states and offers initial evidence of an over-time relationship between state policy mood and state spending priorities.
Teaching Students With Intellectual Disability to Use a Self-Questioning Strategy to Comprehend Social Studies Text for an Inclusive Setting
Authors: Wood Leah , Browder Diane M. , Flynn Lindsay
Published: June 2015

Using a modified system of least prompts, two classroom teachers taught three participants with moderate intellectual disability to generate questions about United States history. After reading brief portions of the text aloud to the participants, the teachers taught participants to identify if the answer to the question was in the book or not in the book. Finally, participants were taught to answer the literal questions that could be answered from the book. Participants had a graphic organizer with WH question words, the text section heading, and a self-monitoring sheet. All participants improved the number of questions generated and answered from baseline to intervention. Additionally, probes collected in a general education setting indicated students improved their question generation and comprehension skills during lessons taught in a fifth grade classroom.
Vertebral artery dissecting aneurysm treated by internal trapping via the contralateral vertebral artery: A case report
Authors: Kojima Atsuhiro
Published: June 2015

A 42-year-old man with a history of sudden onset of severe headache followed by consciousness disturbance was brought to our hospital. Radiological examinations revealed subarachnoid hemorrhage, associated with rupture of a left vertebral artery dissecting aneurysm. Initially, internal trapping was attempted via the ipsilateral vertebral artery. However, the microcatheter could not be navigated through the true lumen to the distal side of the vertebral artery. Subsequently, therefore, the guiding catheter was placed in the right vertebral artery, and the microcatheter was retrogradely navigated successfully through the lesion to the proximal side of the left vertebral artery. Finally, the lesion was completely embolized with electrodetachable coils without complications. However, the patient died after the operation because of deterioration of the general condition. The postmortem examination revealed how an intimal flap had interfered with the antegrade navigation of the microcatheter in the lesion. The present case showed that endovascular treatment for a vertebral artery dissecting aneurysm via the contralateral vertebral artery may be a useful option in cases where antegrade navigation of the microcatheter via the ipsilateral vertebral artery is found to be difficult.
Resolution of brainstem edema after treatment of a dural tentorial arteriovenous fistula
Authors: Alvarez Hortensia , Sasaki-Adams Deanna , Castillo Mauricio
Published: June 2015

We report a patient with a petrosal arterio-venous dural fistula draining into the ponto-mesencephalic and medullary venous systems presenting with edema of the brain stem and complete reversal of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) abnormalities after combined endovascular and surgical treatments. The venous anatomy of the posterior fossa and the significance of the venous involvement as the cause of clinical symptoms and imaging abnormalities in cerebro-medullary vascular lesions are discussed.
Design of asymmetric flexible micro-gripper mechanism based on flexure hinges
Authors: Qingsong Xing
Published: June 2015

Symmetric micro-gripper mechanism is very easy way to destroy the micro-components or parts for nonuniform force in the processing of micro-assembly. Aiming at the requirements of micro-assembly for the microtubule (diameter of 0–200 μm) components, a new type of asymmetric flexible micro-gripper mechanism based on flexure hinges was designed and studied. The asymmetric micro-gripper mechanism was driven by piezoelectric actuator, whose output displacement was amplified and transmitted by flexure hinges, and the flexible parallel four-bar mechanism was used to ensure that the micro-clamp moves and is held parallel. The displacement amplification ratio of the asymmetric flexible micro-gripper mechanism was deduced theoretically, and the finite element analysis and the experiment were also carried out to study the displacement amplification ratio in detail. The experiment results show that the displacement amplification ratio of the asymmetric flexible micro-gripper mechanism is 4.16, compared with the finite element analysis result and the theoretical calculation result; the error between them is 1.89% and 5.67%, respectively. The experiment results also show that the step-wise resolution of the micro-gripper is 7.50 μm, and the output force of the right micro-clamp was measured at 0.28 N. The asymmetric flexible micro-gripper mechanism is able to perform the micro-assembly tasks for the microtubule parts, and it is helpful to design this type of micro-gripper mechanism.
Design and control of hybrid actuation lower limb exoskeleton
Authors: Aguilar-Sierra Hipolito , Yu Wen , Salazar Sergio , Lopez Ricardo
Published: June 2015

In this article, two types of actuators are applied for a lower limb exoskeleton. They are DC motors with the harmonic drive and the pneumatic artificial muscles. This combination takes advantages of both the harmonic drive and the pneumatic artificial muscle. It provides both high accuracy position control and high ratio of strength and weight. The shortcomings of the two actuators are overcome by the hybrid actuation, for example, low control accuracy and modeling difficult of pneumatic artificial muscle, compactness, and structural flexibility of DC motors. The design and modeling processes are discussed to show the proposed exoskeleton can increase the strength of human lower limbs. Experiments and analysis of the exoskeleton are given to evaluate the effectiveness of the design and modeling.
Influence of geometrical characteristics of sidewall-type multiple aneurysms on hemodynamic factors
Authors: Hua Yufeng , Kim Yong Bae , Oh Je Hoon
Published: June 2015

Multiple aneurysms occur rarely and have not been well investigated. The purpose of this study is to verify whether high rupture risk of multiple aneurysms is due to the interaction between multiple aneurysms’ geometrical characteristics. The following geometrical characteristics were varied in an idealized sidewall-type model: aneurysm a1’s dome-neck length ( S), size ratio, inflow angle ( α), distance between two aneurysms ( D), and the parent vessel’s angle ( θ). We varied the parent blood vessel and aneurysm sac a1’s geometrical characteristics to analyze their hemodynamic influence on aneurysm a2. By comparing the influence on aneurysm a2, we found that parent blood vessel geometrical characteristics such as the distance between aneurysms ( D) and the parent vessel’s angle ( θ) were the most hemodynamically influential characteristics examined. The impact of varying the aneurysm’s geometrical characteristics such as dome-neck length ( S), size ratio, and inflow angle ( α) was not obvious. The reason for the higher rupture rate of multiple aneurysms is not due to interactions between the aneurysm sacs but due to factors of each individual aneurysm.
Extension of the resistance, inductance, capacitance electrical circuit to fractional derivative without singular kernel
Authors: Atangana Abdon , Alkahtani Badr Saad T
Published: June 2015

We presented the model of resistance, inductance, capacitance circuit using a novel derivative with fractional order that was recently proposed by Caputo and Fabrizio. The derivative possesses more important characteristics that are very useful in modelling. In this article, we proposed a novel translation from ordinary equation to fractional differential equation. Using this novel translation, we modified the resistance, inductance, capacitance electricity model. We solved analytically the modified equation using the Laplace transform method. We presented numerical results for different values of the fractional order. We observed that this solution depends on the fractional order.
Measurements of surgeons’ exposure to ionizing radiation dose: comparison of conventional and mini C-arm fluoroscopy
Authors: Sung K. H. , Min E. , Chung C. Y. , Jo B. C. , Park M. S. , Lee K.
Published: June 2015

This study was performed to measure the equivalent scattered radiation dose delivered to susceptible organs while simulating orthopaedic surgery using conventional and mini C-arm fluoroscopy. In addition, shielding effects on the thyroid, thymus, and gonad, and the direct exposure delivered to the patient’s hands were also compared. A conventional and mini C-arms were installed in an operating room, and a hand and an operator phantom were used to simulate a patient’s hand and a surgeon. Photoluminescence dosimeters were used to measure the equivalent dose by scattered radiation arriving at the thyroid, thymus, and gonad on a whole-body phantom in the position of the surgeon. Equivalent scattered radiation doses were measured in four groups: (1) unshielded conventional C-arm group; (2) unshielded mini C-arm group; (3) lead-shielded conventional C-arm group; and (4) lead-shielded mini C-arm group. Equivalent scattered radiation doses to the unshielded group were significantly lower in the mini C-arm group than those in the conventional C-arm group for all organs. The gonad in the lead-shielded conventional C-arm group showed the highest equivalent dose among operator-susceptible organs, and radiation dose was reduced by approximately 96% compared with that in the unshielded group. Scattered radiation was not detected in any susceptible organ in the lead-shielded mini C-arm group. The direct radiation dose to the hand phantom measured from the mini C-arm was significantly lower than that measured from the conventional C-arm. The results show that the equivalent scattered radiation dose to the surgeon’s susceptible organs and the direct radiation dose to a patient’s hand can be decreased significantly by using a mini C-arm rather than a conventional C-arm. However, protective lead garments, such as a thyroid shield and apron, should be applied to minimize radiation exposure to susceptible organs, even during use of mini C-arm fluoroscopy.
The role of proprioception and neuromuscular stability in carpal instabilities
Authors: Hagert E. , Lluch A. , Rein S.
Published: June 2015

Carpal stability has traditionally been defined as dependent on the articular congruity of joint surfaces, the static stability maintained by intact ligaments, and the dynamic stability caused by muscle contractions resulting in a compression of joint surfaces. In the past decade, a fourth factor in carpal stability has been proposed, involving the neuromuscular and proprioceptive control of joints. The proprioception of the wrist originates from afferent signals elicited by sensory end organs (mechanoreceptors) in ligaments and joint capsules that elicit spinal reflexes for immediate joint stability, as well as higher order neuromuscular influx to the cerebellum and sensorimotor cortices for planning and executing joint control. The aim of this review is to provide an understanding of the role of proprioception and neuromuscular control in carpal instabilities by delineating the sensory innervation and the neuromuscular control of the carpus, as well as descriptions of clinical applications of proprioception in carpal instabilities.
Treating patients with ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer: latest evidence and management strategy
Authors: Liao Bin-Chi , Lin Chia-Chi , Shih Jin-Yuan , Yang James Chih-Hsin
Published: June 2015

Rearrangements in anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene and echinoderm microtubule-associated protein-like 4 (EML4) gene were first described in a small portion of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in 2007. Fluorescence in situ hybridization is used as the diagnostic test for detecting an EML4–ALK rearrangement. Crizotinib, an ALK inhibitor, is effective in treating advanced ALK-positive NSCLC, and the US Food and Drug Administration approved it for treating ALK-positive NSCLC in 2011. Several mechanisms of acquired resistance to crizotinib have recently been reported. Second-generation ALK inhibitors were designed to overcome these resistance mechanisms. Two of them, ceritinib and alectinib, were approved in 2014 for advanced ALK-positive NSCLC in the US and Japan, respectively. Heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) inhibitors also showed activity against ALK-positive NSCLC. Here we review the recent development of crizotinib, ceritinib, alectinib and other second-generation ALK inhibitors as well as Hsp90 inhibitors. We also discuss management strategies for advanced ALK-positive NSCLC.
Prevention of Lower Extremity Injuries in Basketball
Authors: Taylor Jeffrey B. , Ford Kevin R. , Nguyen Anh-Dung , Terry Lauren N. , Hegedus Eric J.
Published: June 2015

Context:

Lower extremity injuries are common in basketball, yet it is unclear how prophylactic interventions affect lower extremity injury incidence rates.

Objective:

To analyze the effectiveness of current lower extremity injury prevention programs in basketball athletes, focusing on injury rates of (1) general lower extremity injuries, (2) ankle sprains, and (3) anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears.

Data Sources:

PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, and the Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials were searched in January 2015.

Study Selection:

Studies were included if they were randomized controlled or prospective cohort trials, contained a population of competitive basketball athletes, and reported lower extremity injury incidence rates specific to basketball players. In total, 426 individual studies were identified. Of these, 9 met the inclusion criteria. One other study was found during a hand search of the literature, resulting in 10 total studies included in this meta-analysis.

Study Design:

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Level of Evidence:

Level 2.

Data Extraction:

Details of the intervention (eg, neuromuscular vs external support), size of control and intervention groups, and number of injuries in each group were extracted from each study. Injury data were classified into 3 groups based on the anatomic diagnosis reported (general lower extremity injury, ankle sprain, ACL rupture).

Results:

Meta-analyses were performed independently for each injury classification. Results indicate that prophylactic programs significantly reduced the incidence of general lower extremity injuries (odds ratio [OR], 0.69; 95% CI, 0.57-0.85; P < 0.001) and ankle sprains (OR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.29-0.69; P < 0.001), yet not ACL ruptures (OR, 1.09; 95% CI, 0.36-3.29; P = 0.87) in basketball athletes.

Conclusion:

In basketball players, prophylactic programs may be effective in reducing the risk of general lower extremity injuries and ankle sprains, yet not ACL injuries.
Esophageal stricture caused by rib osteoma in a cat: case report
Authors: Cunha Simone CS , Corgozinho Katia B , Martins Mauro C , Ferreira Ana MR
Published: June 2015

Case summary

A 6-year-old male domestic shorthair cat presented with frequent food regurgitation and dysphagia. Plain thoracic radiographs revealed a calcified mass overlying the topography of the mediastinum, as well as dilation of the cervical portion of the esophagus due to an accumulation of food. Endoscopic examination showed a severe extraluminal esophageal stricture at the mediastinum entrance. Surgery and a gastric tube were declined by the cat’s owner, with palliative support preferred. However, 1 year later, the cat presented with severe cachexia, dysphagia, salivation, dehydration and inspiratory dyspnea. Thoracic computed tomography was performed to evaluate the possibility of surgical resection. A mass of bone density originating in the second left rib was observed. The mass did not appear to have invaded adjacent structures but marked compression of the mediastinal structures was observed. Surgical resection was performed and a prosthetic mesh was used to reconstruct the thoracic wall. Transient Horner’s syndrome developed in the left eye postoperatively, and was resolved within 4 weeks. Histopathology revealed a benign osteoma. Thirty-two months after surgery, the cat was well and free of disease.

Relevance and novel information

Rib tumors should be included in a differential diagnosis in cats with extraluminal esophageal stricture. CT should be performed for treatment planning. Surgical treatment was curative in this case.
Neuroendocrine pituitary macroadenoma of a cat presenting with primary adipsia and hypernatraemia
Authors: Miller Rachel L , Bell Rory , Matiasek Kaspar , Rosati Marco , Housley Daniel , Palus Viktor
Published: June 2015

Case summary

A male neutered Ragdoll cat aged 11 years and 9 months presented with a 6 month history of weight loss and a 1 month history of lethargy and adipsia. A thorough clinical investigation confirmed a diagnosis of primary adipsia and hypernatraemia secondary to a non-secretory neuroendocrine pituitary macroadenoma.

Relevance and novel information

Primary adipsia is a very rare clinical entity. This report is the first to describe primary adipsia secondary to a non-secretory pituitary macroadenoma in the cat. The veterinary literature available in this field is very limited and this report adds a new differential diagnosis for cats presenting with primary hypodipsia.
Rasch Measurement Analysis of a 25-Item Version of the Mueller/McCloskey Nurse Job Satisfaction Scale in a Sample of Nurses in Lebanon and Qatar
Authors: Clinton Michael , Dumit Nuhad Yazbik , El-Jardali Fadi
Published: June 2015

The Mueller/McCloskey Nurse Job Satisfaction Scale (MMSS) is widely used, but its psychometric characteristics have not been sufficiently validated for use in Middle Eastern countries. The objective of our methodological study was to determine the psychometric suitability of a 25-item version of the MMSS (MMSS-25) for use in middle-income and high-income Middle Eastern countries. A total of 1,322 registered nurses, 859 in Lebanon and 463 in Qatar, completed the MMSS-25 as part of a cross-sectional multinational investigation of nursing shortages in the region. We used the Rasch rating scale model to investigate the psychometric performance of the MMSS-25. We identified possible item bias among MMSS-25 items. We conducted confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) to compare the fit to our data of five factor structures reported in the literature. We concluded that irrespective of administration in English or Arabic, the MMSS-25 is not sufficiently productive of measurement for use in the region. A core set of 13 items (MMSS-13, Cronbach’s α = .82) loading on five dimensions eliminates redundant MMSS items and is suitable for initial screening of nurses’ satisfaction. Of the five factor structures we examined, the MMSS-13 was the only close fit to our data (comparative fit index = 0.951; Tucker–Lewis index = 0.931; root mean square error of approximation = 0.051; p value = .401). The MMSS-13 has psychometric characteristics superior to MMSS-25, but additional items are required to meet the research-specific objectives of future studies of nurses’ job satisfaction in Middle Eastern countries.
Advance Care Planning for Older Australians Living in the Community
Authors: Crowe Liz , Quinn Val , Chenoweth Lesley , Kularatna Sanjeewa , Boddy Jenny , Wheeler Amanda J.
Published: June 2015

To evaluate the impact of advance care planning (ACP) education with people aged ≥60 years living in the community. The interactive workshop explored all aspects of ACP—legal, emotional, physical, spiritual, role of significant others—and allowed reflection time, questions, and group discussion. Evaluation of knowledge and attitudes toward ACP were completed pre- and post-training. Readiness-to-change and feedback about the workshop quality were collected post-training. Eleven workshops were delivered in Queensland (132 matched pre- and post-questionnaires compared for analysis). Participant’s ACP knowledge and confidence increased significantly (12/13 statements, p<0.05) alongside some shift in attitudes (4/12 statements, p<0.05) after training. Participants were engaged and rated the workshop positively. Single ACP workshops are an effective intervention for healthy older people in the community. Training should focus on demystifying legislation and documentation, the importance of planning and communicating wishes while still healthy, and the need to regularly review and update plans. Follow-up is required to assess translation of education into ACP action.
Safety and activity of BTK inhibitor ibrutinib combined with ofatumumab in chronic lymphocytic leukemia: a phase 1b/2 study
Authors: Jaglowski Samantha M. , Jones Jeffrey A. , Nagar Veena , Flynn Joseph M. , Andritsos Leslie A. , Maddocks Kami J. , Woyach Jennifer A. , Blum Kristie A. , Grever Michael R. , Smucker Kelly , Ruppert Amy S. , Heerema Nyla A. , Lozanski Gerard , Stefanos Mona , Munneke Brian , West Jamie-Sue , Neuenburg Jutta K. , James Danelle F. , Hall Nathan , Johnson Amy J. , Byrd John C.
Published: June 2015

Key Points

Ibrutinib combined with ofatumumab in relapsed CLL had had an ORR of 83% with median time to response of <3 months in all groups. All 3 sequences of administration were acceptably tolerated and active; responses were durable, and median PFS was not yet reached.
AKR1C3 is a biomarker of sensitivity to PR-104 in preclinical models of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Moradi Manesh Donya , El-Hoss Jad , Evans Kathryn , Richmond Jennifer , Toscan Cara E. , Bracken Lauryn S. , Hedrick Ashlee , Sutton Rosemary , Marshall Glenn M. , Wilson William R. , Kurmasheva Raushan T. , Billups Catherine , Houghton Peter J. , Smith Malcolm A. , Carol Hernan , Lock Richard B.
Published: June 2015

Key Points

PR-104 represents a potential novel treatment for relapsed/refractory T-ALL. AKR1C3 expression could be used as a biomarker to select patients who may respond to PR-104 in prospective clinical trials.
The guanine exchange factor Gartenzwerg and the small GTPase Arl1 function in the same pathway with Arfaptin during synapse growth
Authors: Chang Leo , Kreko-Pierce Tabita , Eaton Benjamin A.
Published: June 2015

The generation of neuronal morphology requires transport vesicles originating from the Golgi apparatus (GA) to deliver specialized components to the axon and dendrites. Drosophila Arfaptin is a membrane-binding protein localized to the GA that is required for the growth of the presynaptic nerve terminal. Here we provide biochemical, cellular and genetic evidence that the small GTPase Arl1 and the guanine-nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) Gartenzwerg are required for Arfaptin function at the Golgi during synapse growth. Our data define a new signaling pathway composed of Arfaptin, Arl1, and Garz, required for the generation of normal synapse morphology.
The homeodomain transcription factor Phox2 in the stellate ganglion of the squidLoligo pealei
Authors: Burbach J. Peter H. , Hellemons Anita J. C. G. M. , Grant Philip , Pant Harish C.
Published: June 2015

Homeodomain transcription factors regulate development of embryos and cellular physiology in adult systems. Paired-type homeodomain genes constitute a subclass that has been particularly implicated in establishment of neuronal identity in the mammalian nervous system. We isolated fragments of eight homeodomain genes of this subclass expressed in the stellate ganglion of the North Atlantic long finned squid Loligo pealei (lp) [Note: Loligo pealei has been officially renamed Doryteuthis pealei. For reasons of uniformity and clarity Loligo pealei (lp) is used here]. Of the most abundant ones, we cloned a full length cDNA which encoded the squid ortholog of the paired-type homeodomain proteins Phox2a/b. The homology of lpPhox2 to invertebrate and mammalian Phox2 was limited to the homeodomain. In contrast to mouse Phox2b, lpPhox2 was unable to transactivate the dopamine beta-hydroxylase (DBH) promoter in a heterologous mammalian transfection system. In vivo, lpPhox2 was expressed in the developing stellate ganglion of stage 27 squid embryos and continued to be expressed in the adult stellate neurons where expression was confined to the giant fiber lobe containing the neurons that form the giant axons. The expression of lpPhox was similarly timed and distributed as the Fmrf gene. Furthermore, the Fmrf upstream region contained putative Phox2a/b binding sites. These results suggest a role of lpPhox2 in the developmental specification of neuronal identity and regulation of neurons of the squid giant axon.
The role of mechanical stimuli in the vascular differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Dan Pan , Velot Émilie , Decot Véronique , Menu Patrick
Published: June 2015

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are among the most promising and suitable stem cell types for vascular tissue engineering. Substantial effort has been made to differentiate MSCs towards vascular cell phenotypes, including endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells (SMCs). The microenvironment of vascular cells not only contains biochemical factors that influence differentiation, but also exerts hemodynamic forces, such as shear stress and cyclic strain. Recent evidence has shown that these forces can influence the differentiation of MSCs into endothelial cells or SMCs. In this Commentary, we present the main findings in the area with the aim of summarizing the mechanisms by which shear stress and cyclic strain induce MSC differentiation. We will also discuss the interactions between these mechanical cues and other components of the microenvironment, and highlight how these insights could be used to maintain differentiation.
Endothelial MMP14 is required for endothelial dependent growth support of human airway basal cells
Authors: Ding Bi-Sen , Gomi Kazunori , Rafii Shahin , Crystal Ronald G. , Walters Matthew S.
Published: June 2015

Human airway basal cells (BC) are the stem/progenitor population of the airway epithelium, and play a central role in anchoring the epithelium to the basement membrane. The anatomic position of BC allows for potential paracrine signaling between BC and the underlying non-epithelial stromal cells. In support of this, we previously demonstrated endothelial cells (EC) support growth of BC during co-culture via vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA)-mediated signaling. Building on these findings, RNA sequencing analysis demonstrated that BC express multiple fibroblast growth factor (FGF) ligands (FGF2, 5, 11 and 13) with only FGF2 and FGF5 capable of functioning in a paracrine manner to activate classical FGF receptor (FGFR) signaling. Antibody mediated blocking of FGFR1 during BC-EC co-culture significantly reduced EC dependent BC growth. Stimulation of EC via BC-derived growth factors resulted in EC expression of matrix metallopeptidase 14 (MMP14) and shRNA mediated knockdown of EC MMP14 significantly reduced EC dependent growth of BC. Overall, these data characterize a novel growth factor mediated reciprocal “cross-talk” between human airway BC and EC that regulates proliferation of BC.
A local VE-cadherin/Trio-based signaling complex stabilizes endothelial junctions through Rac1
Authors: Timmerman Ilse , Heemskerk Niels , Kroon Jeffrey , Schaefer Antje , van Rijssel Jos , Hoogenboezem Mark , van Unen Jakobus , Goedhart Joachim , Gadella Theodorus W. J. , Yin Taofei , Wu Yi , Huveneers Stephan , van Buul Jaap D.
Published: June 2015

Endothelial cell-cell junctions maintain a restrictive barrier that is tightly regulated to allow dynamic responses to permeability-inducing angiogenic factors as well as inflammatory agents and adherent leukocytes. The ability of these stimuli to transiently remodel adherens junctions (AJs) depends on Rho-GTPase-controlled cytoskeletal rearrangements. How activity of Rho-GTPases is spatio-temporally controlled at endothelial AJs by guanine-nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) is incompletely understood. Here, we identify a crucial role for the Rho-GEF Trio in stabilizing VE-cadherin-based junctions. Trio interacts with VE-cadherin and locally activates Rac1 at AJs during nascent contact formation, assessed using a novel FRET-based Rac1 biosensor and biochemical assays. The Rac-GEF domain of Trio is responsible for remodeling of junctional actin from radial to cortical actin bundles, a critical step for junction stabilization. This promotes the formation of linear AJs and increases endothelial monolayer resistance. Collectively, our data show the importance of spatio-temporal regulation of the actin cytoskeleton through Trio and Rac1 at VE-cadherin-based cell-cell junctions to maintain the endothelial barrier.
Epigenetic modifiers reduce inflammation and modulate macrophage phenotype during endotoxemia-induced acute lung injury
Authors: Thangavel Jayakumar , Samanta Saheli , Rajasingh Sheeja , Barani Bahar , Xuan Yu-Ting , Dawn Buddhadeb , Rajasingh Johnson
Published: June 2015

Acute lung injury (ALI) during sepsis is characterized by bilateral alveolar infiltrates, lung edema, and respiratory failure. Here, we examined the efficacy of DNA methyl transferase (DNMT) inhibitor Aza (5-Aza 2-deoxycytidine), histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor TSA (Trichostatin A), and combination therapy (Aza+TSA) in protection of ALI. In LPS-induced mouse ALI, post-treatment with a single dose of Aza+TSA showed a substantial attenuation of adverse lung histopathological changes, and inflammations. Importantly, these protective effects were due to significant macrophage phenotypic changes observed in LPS-stimulated macrophages treated with Aza+TSA as compared with untreated LPS-induced macrophages or LPS-stimulated macrophages treated with either drug alone. Further, we observed significantly lower levels of pro-inflammatory molecules and higher levels of anti-inflammatory molecules in LPS-induced macrophages treated with Aza+TSA than in LPS-induced macrophages treated with either drug alone. The protection was ascribed to dual effects by an inhibition of MAPK-HuR-TNF and activation of STAT3-Bcl2 pathways. Combinatorial treatment with Aza+TSA reduces inflammation and promotes an anti-inflammatory M2 macrophage phenotype in ALI. This finding gives further evidence that the epigenetic treatment has a therapeutic potential for patients with sepsis.
Positivismo e complexidade como epistemologias em estudos organizacionais
Authors: Gouveia Tania Almeida , Conti Claudio Ramos
Published: June 2015

Teorias de estudos organizacionais explicam o funcionamento das organizações de formas diversas, refletindo o posicionamento epistemológico e a visão dos pesquisadores sobre a natureza das organizações. Realizamos um estudo bibliográfico relacionando as epistemologias positivista e da complexidade com duas das principais teorias de estudos organizacionais: Teoria dos Custos das Transações (TCT) e Teoria de Imersão de Redes (TIR). Concluimos que a epistemologia positivista serve de base para a TCT pelo seu princípio determinista, sua separação entre os indivíduos e o meio que os cerca, sua racionalidade instrumental e sua unidimensionalidade nas decisões e ações, orientadas unicamente a resultados financeiros. Concluimos também que a epistemologia da complexidade fundamenta a TIR pelo seu princípio humanista, seu alinhamento entre os indivíduos e o meio que os cerca, sua racionalidade substantiva e sua multidimensionalidade nas decisões e ações, que consideram aspectos sócio-ambientais
A discriminação certificada: o discurso da Revista Você S.A. sobre a obrigatoriedade da pós-graduação para inserção no mercado de trabalho
Authors: Silva Marcelo Almeida de Carvalho , Costa Alessandra De Sá Mello , Lemos Ana Heloisa Da Costa
Published: June 2015

A premência do diploma de pós-graduação parece constituir um dos principais discursos sobre as características necessárias para alcançar o sucesso no mercado de trabalho. Diante desta questão este estudo se propôs a investigar como ocorre a construção deste discurso, analisando a participação de uma revista de negócios na sua constituição. Para isso, reportagens da Você S.A. foram coletadas e submetidas à análise crítica do discurso, mais especificamente ao modelo tridimensional de Fairclough (2001). Concluiu-se que, por meio de estratagemas linguísticos, o discurso analisado procura reforçar a importância da pós-graduação como critério de diferenciação e, consequentemente, de discriminação entre os trabalhadores.
Masculinidade, autoimagem e preconceito em representações sociais de homossexuais
Authors: Eccel Claudia Sirangelo , Saraiva Luiz Alex Silva , Carrieri Alexandre De Pádua
Published: June 2015

Neste artigo o objetivo é investigar como gays representam a si próprios, sua própria masculinidade, e os outros homossexuais nas suas relações sociais cotidianas, o que se estende ao meio organizacional. Pressupomos que ocorre a reprodução de representações de masculinidades hegemônicas e subordinadas em tais relações. A metodologia adotada é qualitativa, sendo este estudo exploratório de características descritivas. Foram entrevistados individualmente 13 homossexuais masculinos, buscando apreender suas histórias de vida. Os resultados sugerem que a masculinidade é ambígua, pois os entrevistados se representam como “mais homens” do que outros gays efeminados, ratificando uma espécie de reprodução social da discriminação. As conclusões sugerem que as representações sociais são úteis não apenas por mapear como se sentem os gays, mas também como eles reagem a todo um aparato social de discriminação.
Reflexão e imbricação das atividades da firma com seus valores de uso e de troca
Authors: Hayashi Jr Paulo , Ito Nobuiuki Costa , Gimenez Fernando Antonio Prado
Published: June 2015

A firma existe com o propósito de criar valor de uso suficientemente adequado a ponto de ter valor comercial. O valor de troca deve não apenas pagar as atividades da firma como também gerar certos benefícios, financeiros ou não. Tanto o valor de uso quanto o valor de troca dependem das atividades da firma que são: procurar, manter, transformar e distribuir. Por sua vez, a estratégia deve envolver tanto o lado da criação quanto a proteção e a expansão do valor. Todavia, parece haver indícios de que a cocriação de valor por meio de uma participação mais ativa e colaborativa do consumidor tem permitido a algumas empresas obterem certa vantagem competitiva em relação a outras no mercado. Espera-se, neste trabalho, contribuir com o desenvolvimento do assunto por meio da análise dos valores, bem como dos níveis de produtos.
Avaliação da qualidade em serviço de um hotel pelo método SERVPERF
Authors: De Aquino Joás Tomaz , Jerônimo Taciana De Barros , De Melo Fagner José Coutinho
Published: June 2015

Os hotéis tentam oferecer qualidade em seus serviços como uma maneira de se diferenciarem uns dos outros competitivamente. Mas, a diferenciação só pode ser verificada através da avaliação do serviço prestado. Uma ferramenta para esta avaliação é o método SERVPERF, que retrata as variações de qualidade em relação às cinco dimensões: confiabilidade, tangibilidade, sensibilidade, segurança e empatia. Desta forma, este trabalho tem como objetivo analisar a percepção dos consumidores quanto aos serviços oferecidos por um hotel. Para a coleta dos dados foi aplicado o questionário SERVPERF com 45 hóspedes do hotel estudo de caso. Entre os resultados foi observada a necessidade da realização de treinamento para o melhor atendimento e para melhorar o empenho dos funcionários em atender os clientes com agilidade e presteza. A maior contribuição deste artigo é oferecer aos gestores hoteleiros um guia metodológico para avaliação do serviço hoteleiro.
Unlock great potential
Authors: Husband Sue
Published: June 2015

Sue Husband, director of the National Apprenticeship Service, discusses how nurseries and childcare providers can build a pool of high quality recruits through involvement in the traineeship programme.
Narrow the gap together
Authors: Kiely Teresa
Published: June 2015

This article describes what happened in a number of schools when they worked together to improve outcomes for young children. It identifies the components of a successful school-based project work.
Focusing on the details
Authors: Norman Amanda
Published: June 2015

Observation is such a vital part of the early learning process that it might seem that we know all there is to know about the subject; one small project assessed a different method, the use of mini-camcorders.
Shout it out or keep it in
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: June 2015

This is the first of three articles that will explore introversion and extroversion, personality aspects that are often misunderstood but that can help us to improve the daily provision we offer children.
Our message must be clear
Authors: Leitchis Neil
Published: June 2015

Campaigning against government policy is not as easy as it might sound because those in power are very good at ignoring you, however, hard evidence is something that gets noticed and brings rewards.
What we can learn from… Minibeasts!
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: June 2015

This month, we focus on the curious and fascinating world of creepy crawlies and winged wonders that we collectively refer to as minibeasts, a perennial favourite of almost all young children.
Yochien versus nursery
Authors: Weaver Thomas
Published: June 2015

With an ever-increasing emphasis on the role of the early years in preparing young children for formal school, Thomas Weaver, takes a brief look at the models and approaches used in Japan.
Breaking down barriers to support those with incontinence
Authors: Green Danielle
Published: June 2015

Many people experience incontinence at some point in their lives. It is particularly prevalent in the older population. Danielle Green describes the various types of incontinence and advises what care staff can do to maintain a person's dignity
Ensuring dignity at the end of life: a personal perspective
Authors: Hurtley Rosemary
Published: June 2015

Many older people now die in a care home. With this in mind, it is imperative to ensure their wishes are met and that they are granted a dignified, personalised death. Rosemary Hurtley gives her own personal account of her mother Edith's journey