bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling Riders’ Behavioral Responses to Real-Time Information at Light Rail Transit Stations
Authors: Bai Yuan , Kattan Lina
Published: August 2014

An advanced passenger information system (APIS) can play a significant role in improving the satisfaction of transit riders in the short term and increasing ridership in the long term. This research focuses on investigating riders’ behavioral responses to en route real-time information on light rail transit (LRT). A survey was designed and conducted to collect LRT riders’ behavioral responses by presenting hypothetical scenarios in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Two scenarios were examined: an estimated arrival time of 10 min for the next LRT and an LRT service interruption attributable to an incident or weather with no information on expected recovery time. The survey collected 505 responses. Four multinomial logit models were developed and calibrated to explore the factors affecting trip decision making for the described scenarios for commuter and noncommuter trips. The results led to the conclusion that various socioeconomic attributes (e.g., age, gender, and number of autos per household), experience with an APIS (familiarity with APIS and perceived accuracy of APIS), and experience with transit and the LRT system (use of transit as the primary mode of transportation, frequency of LRT use, and familiarity with LRT) had strong influences on travelers’ behavioral responses in the context of real-time LRT information. Analysis of the data also determined that travelers’ actions varied by trip purposes, travel time, and weather conditions.
Incremental Accessibility Benefits and Choice of Subscriptions for High-Occupancy Toll Lanes
Authors: Owen Andrew , Janson Michael , Levinson David M.
Published: August 2014

This paper presents the results of an investigation into the factors contributing to toll lane subscription choice by using data from the MnPASS high-occupancy toll lane system operated by the Minnesota Department of Transportation. The paper estimates a binomial logit model that predicts, on the basis of aggregate characteristics of the surrounding area, the likelihood of a household having a subscription to MnPASS systems. Variables in this model include demographic factors as well as an estimate of the incremental accessibility benefit provided by the MnPASS system. This benefit is estimated with the use of detailed accessibility calculations and represents the degree to which a location's accessibility to jobs is improved if HOT lanes are available. The model achieves a ρ2 value of .634, and analysis of the results suggests that incremental accessibility benefits play a statistically and practically significant role in determining how likely households are to hold a toll lane subscription.
Online Education Improves Canadian Dietitians’ Attitudes and Knowledge Regarding Recommending and Ordering Multivitamin/Mineral Supplements
Authors: da Silva Liz , Brody Rebecca , Byham-Gray Laura , Parrott J. Scott
Published: August 2014

Purpose: To determine the attitudes and knowledge of Fraser Health registered dietitians (RDs) regarding recommending and ordering multivitamin/mineral supplements prior to and following an online education module.

Methods: The educational intervention consisted of narrated slides with electronic resources. After undergoing external review for face and content validity, 6 attitude questions and a 15-item knowledge test were administered pre- and postintervention. The attitude questionnaire utilized a 5-point Likert scale and had a maximum summative score of 30 points. The knowledge test was worth a maximum of 15 points.

Results: Of the eligible RDs (n = 123), 57 (46.3%) completed the study and 55 participants were included in the final analyses. Summative attitude scores were higher on the post-intervention questionnaire compared with the preintervention questionnaire (t = 92.5, P < 0.001). The proportion of correctly answered knowledge questions pre- (78.0% ± 10.0%) to postintervention (mean = 87.4% ± 6.0%) increased significantly (t = 7.16, P < 0.001).

Conclusions: Postintervention, RD attitudes and knowledge improved confirming that the education strategy was effective. Future work should focus on optimizing the module and knowledge questions.
Healthy Weights Interventions in Aboriginal Children and Youth: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Towns Claire , Cooke Martin , Rysdale Lee , Wilk Piotr
Published: August 2014

There is evidence that Aboriginal children and youth in Canada and elsewhere are at higher risk of obesity and overweight than other children. However, there has been no review of healthy weights interventions specifically aimed at Aboriginal children. A structured search for peer-reviewed articles presenting and evaluating healthy weights interventions for Aboriginal children and youth was conducted. Seventeen articles, representing seven interventions, were reviewed to identify their main characteristics, evaluation design, and evaluation outcomes. Interventions included several large community-based programs as well as several more focused programs that all targeted First Nations or American Indians, rather than Métis or Inuit. Only 1 program served an urban Aboriginal population. None of the published evaluations reported significant reductions in obesity or overweight or sustained increases in physical activity, although some evaluations presented evidence of positive effects on children's diets or on nutrition knowledge or intentions. We conclude that broader structural factors affecting the health of Aboriginal children may limit the effectiveness of these interventions, and that more evidence is required regarding interventions for Aboriginal children in various geographic and cultural contexts in Canada including Inuit and Métis communities.
Reflections on Perceived Preparedness of Dietetic Internship Graduates Following Entry into Practice
Authors: Brissette Christy , Leung Eman , Darling Pauline B. , Keith Mary
Published: August 2014

Purpose: To report on the perceived level of preparedness of dietetic internship (DI) graduates for entrance into practice as dietitians.

Methods: Graduates of an Ontario based, nonintegrated DI program from 2007–2011 who were at least 1 year postgraduation were surveyed to determine their level of perceived preparedness for practice using an electronic, content validated, self-administered questionnaire.

Results: Of 38 eligible graduates, 23 (61%) responded. Seventy-five percent of respondents were working as clinical dietitians, and 30% were working as community dietitians. Eighty-five percent of graduates reported feeling well or very well prepared for practice. Clinical and professional practice tasks were scored highest in terms of preparedness (ratings above 4.5/5) and research-related tasks such as using the research literature (4.1/5), making evidence-based decisions (4.2/5), and engaging in practice-based research (4.1/5) scored lower. Training gaps identified by 32% of respondents included community nutrition and management skill training.

Conclusions: Overall, results indicate that this DI program provides a positive training experience that prepares its graduates for entrance into practice as dietitians. Qualitative comments identifying gaps and improvements have guided changes to the curriculum including strengthening community-based placements. Post-graduate surveys represent an important tool in assuring that training programs evolve to meet the needs of students entering the workforce.
Epilepsy surgery failure in children: a quantitative and qualitative analysis
Authors: Englot Dario J. , Han Seunggu J. , Rolston John D. , Ivan Michael E. , Kuperman Rachel A. , Chang Edward F. , Gupta Nalin , Sullivan Joseph E. , Auguste Kurtis I.
Published: August 2014

Object

Resection is a safe and effective treatment option for children with pharmacoresistant focal epilepsy, but some patients continue experience seizures after surgery. While most studies of pediatric epilepsy surgery focus on predictors of postoperative seizure outcome, these factors are often not modifiable, and the reasons for surgical failure may remain unclear.

Methods

The authors performed a retrospective cohort study of children and adolescents who received focal resective surgery for pharmacoresistant epilepsy. Both quantitative and qualitative analyses of factors associated with persistent postoperative seizures were conducted.

Results

Records were reviewed from 110 patients, ranging in age from 6 months to 19 years at the time of surgery, who underwent a total of 115 resections. At a mean 3.1-year follow-up, 76% of patients were free of disabling seizures (Engel Class I outcome). Seizure freedom was predicted by temporal lobe surgery compared with extratemporal resection, tumor or mesial temporal sclerosis compared with cortical dysplasia or other pathologies, and by a lower preoperative seizure frequency. Factors associated with persistent seizures (Engel Class II–IV outcome) included residual epileptogenic tissue adjacent to the resection cavity (40%), an additional epileptogenic zone distant from the resection cavity (32%), and the presence of a hemispheric epilepsy syndrome (28%).

Conclusions

While seizure outcomes in pediatric epilepsy surgery may be improved by the use of high-resolution neuroimaging and invasive electrographic studies, a more aggressive resection should be considered in certain patients, including hemispherectomy if a hemispheric epilepsy syndrome is suspected. Family counseling regarding treatment expectations is critical, and reoperation may be warranted in select cases.
Exploring Bikeability in a Suburban Metropolitan Area Using the Active Commuting Route Environment Scale (ACRES)
Authors: Wahlgren Lina , Schantz Peter
Published: August 2014

Background and Aim: Commuting by bicycle could contribute to public health, and route environments may influence this behaviour. Therefore, the aim of this study is to assess the potential associations between appraisals of the overall route environment as hindering or stimulating for bicycle commuting, with both perceptions of commuting route environmental factors in a suburban area and background factors. Methods: The Active Commuting Route Environment Scale (ACRES) was used for the assessment of bicycle commuters’ perceptions and appraisals of their route environments in the suburban parts of Greater Stockholm, Sweden. A simultaneous multiple regression analysis was used to assess the relationship between the outcome variable whether the overall route environment hinders or stimulates bicycle commuting and environmental factors (e.g., exhaust fumes, speeds of motor vehicles, greenery), as well as background factors (sex, age, education, income) as predictor variables. Results and Conclusions: The results indicate that in suburban areas, the factors aesthetics, greenery and bicycle paths seem to be, independently of each other, stimulating factors for bicycle commuting. On the other hand, flows of motor vehicles, noise, and low “directness” of the route seem to be hindering factors. A comparison of these results with those obtained from an inner urban area points to the importance of studying different types of built-up areas separately.
Measuring the Safety of Excreta Disposal Behavior in India with the New Safe San Index: Reliability, Validity and Utility
Authors: Jenkins Marion , Freeman Matthew , Routray Parimita
Published: August 2014

Methods to assess household excreta disposal practices are critical for informing public health outcomes of efforts to improve sanitation in developing countries. We present a new metric, the Safe San Index (SSI), to quantify the hygienic safety of a household’s defecation and human feces disposal practices in India, where behavioral outcomes from on-going public expenditures to construct household sanitation facilities and eliminate open defecation are poorly measured. We define hygienic safety of feces disposal as capture in a hygienic sanitation facility. The SSI consists of 15 self-report items and two sub-scales, Latrine Use Frequency and Seven-Day Open Defecation Rate. Households are scored on a standardized scale from 0 (no defecation safely captured) to 100 (all defecation safely captured). We present results of a pilot study in Odisha, India to apply the Index to assess excreta disposal behaviors among rural households and evaluate the reliability and validity of the Index for estimating the rate of correct and consistent sanitation facility usage of household with an improved latrine.
Cyclodepsipeptides: A Rich Source of Biologically Active Compounds for Drug Research
Authors: Sivanathan Sivatharushan , Scherkenbeck Jürgen
Published: August 2014

Faced with the need to find new drugs for all kinds of diseases, science sees that Nature offers numerous classes of compounds showing an impressively high biological potential. Among those are the cyclodepsipeptides, hybrid structures composed of amino and hydroxy acids. In the past decades numerous cyclodepsipeptides have been isolated and their potential as drugs has been studied extensively. For several cyclodepsipeptides total syntheses both in solution and on solid-phase have been established, allowing the production of combinatorial libraries. In addition, the biosynthesis of specific cyclodepsipeptides has been elucidated and used for the chemoenzymatic preparation of nonnatural analogues. This review summarizes the recent literature on cyclic tetra- to decadepsipeptides, composed exclusively of α-amino- and α-hydroxy acids.
Sub-Compartment Variation in Tree Height, Stem Diameter and Stocking in a Pinus radiata D. Don Plantation Examined Using Airborne LiDAR Data
Authors: Saremi Hanieh , Kumar Lalit , Stone Christine , Melville Gavin , Turner Russell
Published: August 2014

Better information regarding the spatial variability of height, Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) and stocking could improve inventory estimates at the operational Planning Unit since these parameters are used extensively in allometric equations, including stem volume, biomass and carbon calculations. In this study, the influence of stand stocking on height and DBH of two even aged radiata pine (Pinus radiata D. Don) stands were investigated using airborne Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) data at a study site in New South Wales, Australia. Both stands were characterized by irregular stocking due to patchy establishment and self-thinning in the absence of any silvicultural thinning events. For the purpose of this study, a total of 34 plots from a 34 year old site and 43 plots from a nine year old site were established, from which a total of 447 trees were sampled. Within these plots, DBH and height measurements were measured and their relationships with stocking were evaluated. LiDAR was used for height estimation as well as stem counts in fixed plots (stocking). The results showed a significant relationship between stem DBH and stocking. At both locations, trees with larger diameters were found on lower stocking sites. Height values were also significantly correlated with stocking, with taller trees associated with high stocking. These results were further verified of additional tree samples, with independent field surveys for DBH and LiDAR-derived metrics for height analysis. This study confirmed the relationship between P. radiata tree heights and stem diameter with stocking and demonstrated the capacity of LiDAR to capture sub-compartment variation in these tree-level attributes.
Increased Extracellular ATP: An Omen of Bacterial RTX Toxin-Induced Hemolysis?
Authors: Wang Yifei , Wang Shijun
Published: August 2014

Bacterial infection is a major threat to human health. Although pathogenic bacteria vary in their virulence, it has been recognized that many pathogenic bacteria share common mechanisms when attacking host cells and tissues. Some pathogenic bacteria synthesize and secrete polysaccharides to form an extracellular capsule. Capsules serve as virulence determinants by multiple mechanisms including facilitation of bacterial adherence, evasion of the immune response, and antibiotic resistance [1]. Moreover, to the exterior of bacterial plasma membranes are certain toxic components (e.g., lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in Gram-negative bacteria, and peptidoglycan fragments and teichoic acids in Gram-positive bacteria) that play key roles in causing bacterial septic shock or multiple organ dysfunction [2]. Significantly, bacteria may secrete proteinaceous or non-proteinaceous molecules, namely exotoxins, capable of directly destroying host cells. The Repeat-in-Toxin (RTX) family is a group of virulence-associated exotoxins that are generated by Gram-negative bacteria and are noted for their ability to form pores on the membrane of host cells including leukocytes [3]. Despite the intense effort that has been input into investigating the interaction between RTX toxins and host cells during bacterial infection, our understanding of how RTX toxins insert into host cell membranes, and in turn, how host cells respond to the challenge of these toxins remains very limited. [...]
Determining past leaf‐out times of New England's deciduous forests from herbarium specimens
Authors: Everill Peter H. , Primack Richard B. , Ellwood Elizabeth R. , Melaas Eli K.
Published: August 2014

• Premise of the study: There is great interest in studying leaf‐out times of temperate forests because of the importance of leaf‐out in controlling ecosystem processes, especially in the face of a changing climate. Remote sensing and modeling, combined with weather records and field observations, are increasing our knowledge of factors affecting variation in leaf‐out times. Herbarium specimens represent a potential new source of information to determine whether the variation in leaf‐out times observed in recent decades is comparable to longer time frames over past centuries.

• Methods: Here we introduce the use of herbarium specimens as a method for studying long‐term changes in leaf‐out times of deciduous trees. We collected historical leaf‐out data for the years 1834–2008 from common deciduous trees in New England using 1599 dated herbarium specimens with young leaves.

• Key results: We found that leaf‐out dates are strongly affected by spring temperature, with trees leafing out 2.70 d earlier for each degree C increase in mean April temperature. For each degree C increase in local temperature, trees leafed out 2.06 d earlier. Additionally, the mean response of leaf‐out dates across all species and sites over time was 0.4 d earlier per decade. Our results are of comparable magnitude to results from studies using remote sensing and direct field observations.

• Conclusions: Across New England, mean leaf‐out dates varied geographically in close correspondence with those observed in studies using satellite data. This study demonstrates that herbarium specimens can be a valuable source of data on past leaf‐out times of deciduous trees.
Individual variation in size and fecundity is correlated with differences in global DNA cytosine methylation in the perennial herb Helleborus foetidus (Ranunculaceae)
Authors: Alonso Conchita , Pérez Ricardo , Bazaga Pilar , Medrano Mónica , Herrera Carlos M.
Published: August 2014

• Premise of the study: Few studies have examined how epigenetic modifications of DNA may influence individual plant phenotypes and ecological processes in wild plant populations. We investigated natural variation in global DNA cytosine methylation and its phenotypic correlates in the perennial herb Helleborus foetidus.

• Methods: We focused specifically on individual differences in size‐ and fecundity‐related traits and used HPLC to quantify percentage of total cytosines in the genome of young full‐grown leaves that were methylated.

• Key results: About one third of all cytosines in H. foetidus genome were methylated. Methylation level differed significantly among individual plants (range = 26.4–36.6%; n = 60 plants), and this variation was significantly related to most size‐ and fecundity‐related traits considered. Relatively hypomethylated plants bore more vegetative, reproductive, and total ramets, produced more flowers, larger inflorescences and more seed‐bearing follicles, and their ramets remained vegetative for fewer years before reproducing sexually, than relatively hypermethylated ones. Taken together, results revealed that individual differences in size and reproductive output were inversely related to global cytosine methylation.

• Conclusions: These results confirm, in a natural scenario, the association between DNA methylation and size‐ and fecundity‐related traits that was previously found by experimental studies. Variations in global cytosine methylation were predictably related to individual differences in sexual reproduction through significant effects on flower and fruit production, which might ultimately influence patterns of selection and population dynamics in this species. This study provides novel insights on the potential ecological significance of epigenetic heterogeneity in wild plant populations.
Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty for Symptomatic Pulmonary Stenosis in Takayasu Arteritis
Authors: Dong Hui , Jiang Xiongjing , Peng Meng , Zou Yubao , Guan Ting , Zhang Huimin , Song Lei , Wu Haiying , Yang Yuejin , Gao Runlin
Published: August 2014

Objective.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) for symptomatic pulmonary stenosis in Takayasu arteritis (TA).

Methods.

From January 2009 to December 2012, clinical data of 14 patients [mean age 33.9 ± 9.3 yrs; 11 patients female (78.6%)] with symptomatic pulmonary stenosis in TA underwent PTA and were analyzed prospectively.

Results.

PTA was successfully performed in 22 lesions of 14 patients. Among those lesions, 18 were treated by PTA alone while the others were treated with stent implantation. Three patients (21.4%) had reperfusion pulmonary injury; 2 patients recovered completely while the other died of respiratory failure 3 days after the procedure. Mean pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP) decreased from 53.4 ± 15.8 mmHg to 38.4 ± 12.7 mmHg immediately after intervention (p < 0.001). After an average of 29 months of followup, the New York Heart Association functional class and 6-min walking distances improved while mean PAP measured by echocardiography decreased significantly (compared with baseline, all p < 0.01). One patient died of severe pulmonary infection and cardiac shock at 28 months after the procedure.

Conclusion.

The study showed that PTA improved subjective symptoms and objective variables of the patients with symptomatic pulmonary stenosis in TA, with an acceptable mortality. PTA may be a promising therapeutic strategy for symptomatic pulmonary stenosis in TA.
Mortality, Recurrence, and Hospital Course of Patients with Systemic Sclerosis-related Acute Intestinal Pseudo-obstruction
Authors: Mecoli Christopher , Purohit Shivani , Sandorfi Nora , Derk Chris T.
Published: August 2014

Objective.

Acute intestinal pseudo-obstruction is a rare gastrointestinal manifestation of systemic sclerosis (SSc) with few data existing as to its demographics, clinical course, outcomes, and mortality.

Methods.

We undertook a case-control study to describe 64 cases in 37 unique patients, of whom 70% had spontaneous resolution with conservative measures of intravenous hydration and bowel rest, 9% underwent surgical resection, and 25% required prolonged total parenteral nutrition (TPN).

Results.

Hospital course was for a mean of 12 ± 12.5 days and there was a 16% patient mortality in our population. In a subgroup analysis, patients who had recurrent episodes of pseudo-obstruction were less likely to have esophageal involvement from SSc, and more likely to need prolonged TPN. Mortality tended to be higher in male patients and patients who did not have SSc-related esophageal involvement, and also in patients who had low hemoglobin and serum albumin at presentation. The need for a nasogastric tube for decompression and a surgical intervention correlated with a more prolonged hospital stay.

Conclusion.

To the best of our knowledge, ours is the largest study looking at this rare manifestation of SSc.
Resource Requirements for a Quality Doctor of Nursing Practice Program
Authors: Frantz Rita A.
Published: August 2014

Fundamental to planning, implementing, and sustaining a quality Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is access to the resources needed to foster a learning environment that prepares nurses for advanced practice and leadership in the future redesigned health care system. This creates formidable challenges for schools and colleges of nursing as they endeavor to address the nation’s need for an increased supply of advanced practice nurses to provide access to high-quality, cost-effective care for an aging population. This article describes the essential resources needed to support the delivery of a DNP program and the proposed strategies needed to address the resource challenges. [
J Nurs Educ.
2013;52(8):449–452.]
The Doctor of Nursing Practice: Defining the Next Steps
Authors: Grey Margaret
Published: August 2014

The purpose of this article is to summarize the previous articles in this special issue of the
Journal of Nursing Education
that are based on the Committee on Institutional Cooperation’s Dean’s Conference on the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and to identify areas of consensus, as well as areas of controversy. Areas of consensus include the high level of interest in DNP programs and the intent to expand the role of the advanced practice nurse to population health, policy, and leadership. Areas of controversy include the nature of the DNP product, the definition of clinical experiences, the nature of the capstone project, the outcomes of these new practitioners, and the impact on schools. Suggestions for achieving higher levels of consensus, including the need for respective, inclusive dialogue, are provided. [
J Nurs Educ.
2013;52(8):462–465.]
Doctor of Nursing Practice Programs: Opportunities for Faculty Development
Authors: Sebastian Juliann G. , White Delaney Connie
Published: August 2014

This article examines development opportunities for faculty teaching in Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs. Although faculty development for DNP programs is similar to that of other academic programs, faculty may need different strategies for teaching, scholarship, and service because DNP programs focus on translation of science into practice, systems-level changes, clinical scholarship, and the highest levels of advanced nursing practice. Faculty and student collaboration across DNP and PhD programs provide new approaches for translating research into practice and generating practice questions in need of further scientific development. Specific faculty development strategies for facilitating this collaboration are essential. Capstone projects pose special opportunities for faculty development due to the integration of these projects within diverse practice environments, with differing expectations, regulations, and pacing compared with research. Linking new care delivery models with health informatics is expected to facilitate rapid translation of research and development of improvements in practice. [
J Nurs Educ.
2013;52(8):453–461.]
Confocal Microscopy Evaluation of the Corneal Response Following AcuFocus KAMRA Inlay Implantation
Authors: Abbouda Alessandro , Javaloy Jaime , Alió Jorge L.
Published: August 2014

PURPOSE:

To describe the corneal appearance on confocal microscopy after AcuFocus KAMRA Inlay (AcuFocus, Inc., Irvine, CA) implantation and evaluate the visual acuity compared to the confocal microscopy data.

METHODS:

Twelve eyes of 12 patients implanted with one of three models of the AcuFocus KAMRA Inlay (ACI 7000, 7000T, and 7000PDT) were prospectively evaluated by confocal microscopy 6 months after implantation. Additionally, 4 eyes of 4 patients explanted during the follow-up period were evaluated.

RESULTS:

Among the eyes implanted, mean epithelial thickness was 54.6 ± 22
μ
m. The subbasal nerve plexus was detected in 10 patients. The corneal nerves per unit area were 2.73 ± 2.1 sprouts/mm
2
. The branch pattern was found in 8 patients. The mean keratocyte density value was 540 ± 210 cells/mm
2
. A low grade of keratocyte activation was found in all patients. Among the eyes explanted, the mean wound healing opacity was 1,092.75 ± 1,877.35
μ
m/pixel.

CONCLUSIONS:

The corneal tolerance to the KAMRA Inlay appeared to be good. The inlay modified the normal structure of the corneal layer, but it was not associated with severe complications of the eye. Keratocyte activation was the finding most associated with a negative visual outcome. Confocal microscopy can be useful to evaluate the long-term evolution of the corneal layer changes following KAMRA Inlay implantation.

[
J Refract Surg.
2014;30(3):172–178.]
Business Firms' Responses to the Crises of 2009
Authors: Murphy Sean M. , Friesner Daniel L. , Rosenman Robert
Published: August 2014

In 2009 firms faced both economic uncertainty and influenza outbreaks. Both crises posed large costs for firms; however, the manner in which they were perceived by management to affect the organization potentially differed. Using generalized maximum entropy (GME) the authors analyzed a business outlook survey of Seattle, Washington area businesses. Overall, firms were more proactive in responding to the economic crisis than to the influenza pandemic, even though the potential costs associated with both were quite large. Among the authors' conclusions is that business managers responded to the economic crisis more because it was more familiar and something over which they thought they had more control.
Microblogging in Higher Education
Authors: Paliktzoglou Vasileios , Suhonen Jarkko
Published: August 2014

Microblogging, with applications in many domains, including education, is one of the social media technologies with the greatest potential. The features of a microblogging platform vary from sending and receiving messages via the web, SMS, instant messaging clients, and by third party applications. Even though social media networking sites are commonly used in Higher Education, very little empirical evidence is available concerning the impact of social media use on student learning and engagement, albeit some studies on the use of Twitter as a microblogging tool in educational settings Fei Gao, Tian Luo and Ke Zhang (2012). In this study, the authors analyse the level of familiarity, engagement and frequency of use of social media technologies among university-level computer science students in Finland. Additionally, the authors analyse the experience of using a specific microblogging social media, Edmodo, as a learning aid to support group work. The specific focus of the study is to examine the reception of the students towards the Edmodo platform. The data was collected through a social media familiarity questionnaire, Edmodo experience questionnaire and interviews. The main findings are that the cohort was not very familiar with social media at the beginning of the course. However, the use of the Edmodo as a microblogging social media networking sites, as a learning tool had a positive impact on the students. This study provides experimental evidence that microblogging social networking sites and more specifically Edmodo can be used as an educational tool to help engage students more in the use of more social media networking sites.
Imagining the beauty and hope of a colourful phoenix rising from the ashes of Marikana and service delivery protests: A postfoundational practical theological calling
Authors: Meylahn Johann-Albrecht
Published: August 2014

The last few years the young democratic South Africa’s history has been characterised byservice delivery protests and industrial action which is becoming increasingly violentas epitomised by Marikana. Is the violence that accompanies industrial action and servicedelivery protests emblematic of a powerless frustration and a violent revulsion at the thoughtthat there will be no change? For 18 years, hope was placed in the idea of liberation which would open the doors to a brighter future for the majority, yet all that remains of that noble dream lies in the ashes of current events that populate the newspaper headlines of the major South African newspapers. What role can Practical Theology play in this context? What is thecalling of Practical Theology, and specifically post foundational narrative theology? These arethe questions this article will seek to answer, by proposing that a narrative approach can listento the untold stories and thus the colourful phoenix can rise from the ashes.
Traces of the crustal units and the upper-mantle structure in the southwestern part of the East European Craton
Authors: Janutyte I. , Kozlovskaya E. , Majdanski M. , Voss P. H. , Budraitis M. ,   PASSEQWorking Group
Published: August 2014

Abstract. The presented study is a part of the passive seismic experiment PASSEQ 2006–2008, which took place around the Trans-European Suture Zone (TESZ) from May 2006 to June 2008. The data set of 4195 manually picked arrivals of teleseismic P waves of 101 earthquakes (EQs) recorded in the seismic stations deployed to the east of the TESZ was inverted using the non-linear teleseismic tomography algorithm TELINV. Two 3-D crustal models were used to estimate the crustal travel time (TT) corrections. As a result, we obtain a model of P-wave velocity variations in the upper mantle beneath the TESZ and the East European Craton (EEC). In the study area beneath the craton, we observe up to 3% higher and beneath the TESZ about 2–3% lower seismic velocities compared to the IASP91 velocity model. We find the seismic lithosphere–asthenosphere boundary (LAB) beneath the TESZ at a depth of about 180 km, while we observe no seismic LAB beneath the EEC. The inversion results obtained with the real and the synthetic data sets indicate a ramp shape of the LAB in the northern TESZ, where we observe values of seismic velocities close to those of the craton down to about 150 km. The lithosphere thickness in the EEC increases going from the TESZ to the NE from about 180 km beneath Poland to 300 km or more beneath Lithuania. Moreover, in western Lithuania we find an indication of an upper-mantle dome. In our results, the crustal units are not well resolved. There are no clear indications of the features in the upper mantle which could be related to the crustal units in the study area. On the other hand, at a depth of 120–150 km we indicate a trace of a boundary of proposed palaeosubduction zone between the East Lithuanian Domain (EL) and the West Lithuanian Granulite Domain (WLG). Also, in our results, we may have identified two anorogenic granitoid plutons.
Os direitos sociais dos servidores públicos à luz da redefinição da supremacia do interesse público no Estado Democrático de Direito
Authors: Carvalho Juliana Brina Corrêa Lima de
Published: August 2014

O presente artigo pretende repensar a natureza dos direitos sociais do servidor público, no modelo participativo-consensual instaurado pelo Estado Democrático de Direito, tendo em vista a tutela da situação jurídica do agente. Na análise de tal objeto, o trabalho obedeceu à técnica de pesquisa teórica e ao processo de estudo interdisciplinar. Inicialmente, estudaremos os direitos sociais conferidos pela Constituição de 1988 aos servidores públicos. Em seguida, analisaremos a evolução do consensualismo no Direito Administrativo, especialmente a partir da transição do Estado Liberal para o Estado Social e Democrático de Direito. A seguir, buscaremos redefinir a noção de interesse público, tendo em vista o vetor da dignidade da pessoa humana. Por fim, a partir de tal noção, tentaremos repensar a concepção acerca dos direitos sociais do servidor público.
PALAVRAS-CHAVE: direitos sociais; Estado Democrático de Direito; servidores públicos; interesse público.
Um novo modelo de defensoria pública: o caso de São Paulo
Authors: Soares Thais Aparecida
Published: August 2014

O presente artigo explicita o modelo de defensoria pública implantado em São Paulo cuja concepção, estrutura e forma de atuação configuram características democráticas e de participação social, inovadoras na prática judiciária. Ao longo de três anos de existência a atuação da defensoria paulista ofereceu inspiração a outras defensorias estaduais bem como, à Lei Complementar nº132 aprovada em 07/10/2009
Presencia del pensamiento de Bolívar, Martí y Mariátegui en la Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela
Authors: Valdés Díaz José René
Published: August 2014

Cualquier análisis acerca del proceso de transición que está viviendo la Venezuela de nuestros tiempos, tiene que remontarse inevitablemente al pensamiento de Simón Bolívar, del Libertador, como se le conoce en la Historia, toda vez que la propia Revolución encabezada por Hugo Chávez incluso se autodenomina bolivariana, para destacar el propósito de hacer resurgir el ideario del prócer que iniciara las luchas independentistas de Nuestra América. Quiere construirse en Venezuela una sociedad nueva, que implique nuevos derroteros, abrazando las ideas del socialismo, pero sin calcos ni copias, como afirmara José Carlos Mariátegui que debía ser el que se edificara en nuestra región, atendiendo a nuestras condiciones actuales y a nuestro devenir histórico.
Mito e encantamento: os direitos humanos no contexto latinoamericano
Authors: Souza Grossi Naiara
Published: August 2014

O presente trabalho tem por escopo problematizar a temática dos direitos humanos no contexto latinoamericano. A positivação dos direitos humanos, fruto de diversas idissiocrasias e afrontas acometidas nos horrores da Segunda Guerra Mundial; demonstram uma preocupação latente de tutelar direitos inerentes ao homem dada a sua condição humana. Ocorre todavia, que a normatização especificamente no contexto latinoamericano, é realizada apartada de um resgate histórico, social, cultural como se todos os sujeitos que se destinam esses direitos ocupassem posição horizontalmente permissível de usufruir dos direitos humanos. Essa constatação, resulta na existência dos direitos humanos nas cartas mas não a sua efetividade, provocando um fenômeno mitológico ou encantador dos referidos direitos. Logramos criticar este cenário, buscando identificar os paradigmas que ainda sustentam essas amarras e apontando para uma concepção sinestésica dos direitos humanos.
Magistratura no império: justiça e eficácia das decisões judiciais ante a aquisição de direitos dos escravos (1871-1888)
Authors: Lima Denise Maria
Published: August 2014

O artigo tem como objetivo geral analisar a ação dos magistrados em face dos movimentos de libertação dos negros escravizados, examinando o pensamento jurídico entre 1871 a 1888, anos que antecederam a Lei Áurea. Para tanto, adota-se a pesquisa documental tendo como principal fonte de consulta a Revista O Direito – Legislação, Doutrina e Jurisprudência, do volume I ao XLVII. No período em exame, fase de efervescência sócio-política, operaram-se várias mudanças relevantes na sociedade brasileira, algumas efetivamente justas; outras de eficácia questionável. Nesta análise, conclui-se que decisões judiciais mais eficientes, nem sempre foram eficazes, ao passo que contribuíram para incorporar os escravizados à sociedade, a prática comedida dos juízes favorecia a ordem tradicional.
Da Análise Econômica do Direito para a Análise Jurídica da Economia: a concretização da sustentabilidade
Authors: Parreira Liziane , Benacchio Marcelo
Published: August 2014

Considerando a relação entre Direito e Economia, no presente trabalho será examinado se o movimento da Analise Econômica do Direito é o mais adequado para pensar os complexos dilemas da sociedade pós-moderna. Serão expostas as premissas e os princípios elementares da Análise Econômica do Direito com o intuito de observar os problemas que a visão única desse pensamento pode acarretar. Também serão abordadas questões importantes, como a mercantilização humana e a ausência de liberdade de escolha. Partindo do desenvolvimento humano como o único caminho possível para a concretização da sustentabilidade, será apresentada a Análise Jurídica da Economia como uma possível solução para as dificuldades ocasionadas pelo modelo capitalista e pela livre intervenção do mercado.
Influence of microphysics on the scaling of precipitation extremes with temperature
Authors: Singh Martin S. , O'Gorman Paul A.
Published: August 2014

Simulations of radiative‐convective equilibrium with a cloud‐system resolving model are used to investigate the scaling of high percentiles of the precipitation distribution (precipitation extremes) over a wide range of surface temperatures. At surface temperatures above roughly 295 K, precipitation extremes increase with warming in proportion to the increase in surface moisture, following what is termed Clausius‐Clapeyron (CC) scaling. At lower temperatures, the rate of increase of precipitation extremes depends on the choice of cloud and precipitation microphysics scheme and the accumulation period, and it differs markedly from CC scaling in some cases. Precipitation extremes are found to be sensitive to the fall speeds of hydrometeors, and this partly explains the different scaling results obtained with different microphysics schemes. The results suggest that microphysics play an important role in determining the response of convective precipitation extremes to warming, particularly when ice‐ and mixed‐phase processes are important.
Hierarchically Porous Li4Ti5O12 Anode Materials for Li‐ and Na‐Ion Batteries: Effects of Nanoarchitectural Design and Temperature Dependence of the Rate Capability
Authors: Hasegawa George , Kanamori Kazuyoshi , Kiyomura Tsutomu , Kurata Hiroki , Nakanishi Kazuki , Abe Takeshi
Published: August 2014

Integrated design of both porous structure and crystalline morphology is expected to open up the way to a new class of materials. This report demonstrates new nanostructured Li4Ti5O12 materials with hierarchically porous structures and flower‐like morphologies. Electrochemical studies of the electrodes of Li‐ion and Na‐ion batteries clearly reveal the advantage of nanoarchitectural design of active materials. In addition, the temperature dependence of Na+‐insertion/extraction capacity in relation to Li4Ti5O12 electrodes is for the first time evaluated and it is found that elevation of the cell operating temperature effectively improves the rate capability of the Na‐ion batteries. Based on the new findings, it is suggested that specially designed Li4Ti5O12 materials allow for high‐performance Na‐ion batteries that are available as large‐scale storage devices for applications such as automotive and stationary energy storage.
Designing Active and Stable Silicon Photocathodes for Solar Hydrogen Production Using Molybdenum Sulfide Nanomaterials
Authors: Benck Jesse D. , Lee Sang Chul , Fong Kara D. , Kibsgaard Jakob , Sinclair Robert , Jaramillo Thomas F.
Published: August 2014

Silicon is a promising photocathode for tandem photoelectrochemical water splitting devices, but efficient catalysis and long term stability remain key challenges. Here, it is demonstrated that with appropriately engineered interfaces, molybdenum sulfide nanomaterials can provide both corrosion protection and catalytic activity in silicon photocathodes. Using a thin MoS2 surface protecting layer, MoS2‐n+p Si electrodes that show no loss in performance after 100 h of operation are created. Transmission electron microscopy measurements show the atomic structure of the device surface and reveal the characteristics of the MoS2 layer that provide both catalytic activity and excellent stability. In spite of a low concentration of exposed catalytically active sites, these electrodes possess the best performance of any precious metal‐free silicon photocathodes with demonstrated long term stability to date. To further improve efficiency, a second molybdenum sulfide nanomaterial, highly catalytically active [Mo3S13]2− clusters, is incorporated. These photocathodes offer a promising pathway towards sustainable hydrogen production.
Cytogenetic studies and their prognostic contribution in 565 Chinese patients with primary myelofibrosis
Authors: Li Bing , Xu Junqing , Li Chengwen , Gale Robert Peter , Xu Zefeng , Qin Tiejun , Zhang Yue , Huang Gang , Fang Liwei , Zhang Hongli , Pan Lijuan , Hu Naibo , Qu Shiqiang , Xiao Zhijian
Published: August 2014

To study the feature and prognostic contribution of cytogenetic information in Chinese patients with primary myelofibrosis (PMF), we analyzed cytogenetic data from 565 patients with PMF. One hundred and sixty‐two subjects (29%) had abnormal karyotypes, including trisomy 8 (45; 28%), deletion of 20q (25; 15%), deletion of 13q (13; 8%), deletion of 11q (12; 7%), and abnormal chromosome 1 (21; 13%); balanced translocations (14; 9%); a complex karyotype (CK; 30; 19%), and a monosomal karyotype (MK; 19; 12%). Using these data, we showed that the Dynamic International Prognostic Scoring System (DIPSS)‐plus, which includes cytogenetic information, is a better survival predictor than the DIPSS. We next used our data to construct the following two cytogenetic‐based cohorts: (1) favorable karyotype—subjects with a normal karyotype, a CK that is not a MK, +8 only or a balanced translocation only and (2) unfavorable karyotype—all others. The median survival times were not reached and were 52 month (95% CI, 32–72 months; P = 0.01) in patients with favorable and unfavorable karyotypes, respectively. These data provided the detailed cytogenetic information in Chinese patients with PMF and confirmed the impact of cytogenetic abnormalities on survival in Chinese patients. Am. J. Hematol. 89:1043–1046, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Potentially fatal coagulopathy secondary to yamakagashi (Rhabdophis tigrinus) bites that completely recovered with antivenom treatment
Authors: Hifumi Toru , Murakawa Masahiro , Sakai Atsushi , Ginnaga Akihiko , Yamamoto Akihiko , Ato Manabu , Kato Hiroshi , Koido Yuichi , Kawakita Kenya , Hagiike Masanobu , Kuroda Yasuhiro
Published: August 2014

Case

A healthy 40‐year‐old man was admitted with severe coagulopathy that developed after Rhabdophis tigrinus bites. On admission, he showed significantly elevated levels of thrombin–antithrombin III complex (60 ng/mL), plasmin–alpha 2‐plasmin inhibitor complex (22.3 μg/mL), and fibrinogen degradation products (592 μg/mL). He subsequently developed severe hypofibrinogenemia (50 mg/dL).

Outcome

Antivenom was given 28 h after the patient was bitten, following which his hemorrhagic symptoms resolved. By day 3 of admission, scabs had formed over the bite wounds. Furthermore, his fibrinogen levels increased to >100 mg/dL, while his thrombin–antithrombin III complex, plasmin–alpha 2‐plasmin inhibitor complex, and fibrinogen degradation product levels normalized. He was discharged on day 6 of admission.

Conclusion

Rhabdophis tigrinus bites induced disseminated intravascular coagulation with a fibrinolytic phenotype, which completely recovered with antivenom treatment.
Dynamical back‐action effects in low loss optomechanical oscillators
Authors: Pontin Antonio , Bonaldi Michele , Borrielli Antonio , Marino Francesco , Marconi Lorenzo , Bagolini Alvise , Pandraud Gregory , Serra Enrico , Prodi Giovanni A. , Marin Francesco
Published: August 2014

The problem of the stability of a cavity optomechanical system based on an oscillator having at the same time low optical and mechanical losses is addressed. As it is the aim to extend the use of optical squeezing as a tool for improving quantum limited displacement sensing at low frequency, a family of opto‐mechanical devices designed to work at frequencies of about 100 kHz was developed . The devices actually meet the initial design goals, but new requirements have emerged from the analysis of their behavior in optical cavities, due to the interaction between the cavity locking system and the low order normal modes of the devices.