bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
α1-A680T Variant in GUCY1A3 as a Candidate Conferring Protection From Pulmonary Hypertension Among Kyrgyz Highlanders
Authors: Wilkins Martin R. , Aldashev Almaz A. , Wharton John , Rhodes Christopher J. , Vandrovcova Jana , Kasperaviciute Dalia , Bhosle Shriram G. , Mueller Michael , Geschka Sandra , Rison Stuart , Kojonazarov Baktybek , Morrell Nicholas W. , Neidhardt Inga , Surmeli Nur Basak , Aitman Tim J. , Stasch Johannes-Peter , Behrends Soenke , Marletta Michael A.
Published: November 2014

Background—

Human variation in susceptibility to hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension is well recognized. High-altitude residents who do not develop pulmonary hypertension may host protective gene mutations.

Methods and Results—

Exome sequencing was conducted on 24 unrelated Kyrgyz highlanders living 2400 to 3800 m above sea level, 12 (10 men; mean age, 54 years) with an elevated mean pulmonary artery pressure (mean±SD, 38.7±2.7 mm Hg) and 12 (11 men; mean age, 52 years) with a normal mean pulmonary artery pressure (19.2±0.6 mm Hg) to identify candidate genes that may influence the pulmonary vascular response to hypoxia. A total of 140 789 exomic variants were identified and 26 116 (18.5%) were classified as novel or rare. Thirty-three novel or rare potential pathogenic variants (frameshift, essential splice-site, and nonsynonymous) were found exclusively in either ≥3 subjects with high-altitude pulmonary hypertension or ≥3 highlanders with a normal mean pulmonary artery pressure. A novel missense mutation in
GUCY1A3
in 3 subjects with a normal mean pulmonary artery pressure encodes an α
1
-A680T soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) variant. Expression of the α
1
-A680T sGC variant in reporter cells resulted in higher cyclic guanosine monophosphate production compared with the wild-type enzyme and the purified α
1
-A680T sGC exhibited enhanced sensitivity to nitric oxide in vitro.

Conclusions—

The α
1
-A680T sGC variant may contribute to protection against high-altitude pulmonary hypertension and supports sGC as a pharmacological target for reducing pulmonary artery pressure in humans at altitude.
In Vivo Imaging of the Mouse Neurovascular Unit Under Chronic Cerebral Hypoperfusion
Authors: Yata Kenichiro , Nishimura Yuhei , Unekawa Miyuki , Tomita Yutaka , Suzuki Norihiro , Tanaka Toshio , Mizoguchi Akira , Tomimoto Hidekazu
Published: November 2014

Background and Purpose—

Proper brain function is maintained by an integrated system called the neurovascular unit (NVU) comprised cellular and acellular elements. Although the individual features of specific neurovascular components are understood, it is unknown how they respond to ischemic stress as a functional unit. Therefore, we established an in vivo imaging method and clarified the NVU response to chronic cerebral hypoperfusion.

Methods—

Green mice (b-act-EGFP) with SR101 plasma labeling were used in this experiment. A closed cranial window was made over the left somatosensory cortex. To mimic chronic cerebral hypoperfusion, mice were subjected to bilateral common carotid artery stenosis operations using microcoils. In vivo real-time imaging was performed using 2-photon laser-scanning microscopy during the preoperative period, and after 1 day and 1 and 2 weeks of bilateral common carotid artery stenosis or sham operations.

Results—

Our method allowed 3-dimensional observation of most of the components of the NVU, as well as dynamic capillary microcirculation. Under chronic cerebral hypoperfusion, we did not detect any structural changes of each cellular component in the NVU; however, impairment of microcirculation was detected over a prolonged period. In the pial small arteries and veins, rolling and adhesion of leukocyte were detected, more prominently in the latter. In the deep cortical capillaries, flow stagnation because of leukocyte plugging was frequently observed.

Conclusions—

We established an in vivo imaging method for real-time visualization of the NVU. It seems that under chronic cerebral hypoperfusion, leukocyte activation has a critical role in microcirculation disturbance.
Quantitative Measurement of Physical Activity in Acute Ischemic Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack
Authors: Strømmen Anna Maria , Christensen Thomas , Jensen Kai
Published: November 2014

Background and Purpose—

The purpose of this study was to quantitatively measure and describe the amount and pattern of physical activity in patients within the first week after acute ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack using accelerometers.

Methods—

A total of 100 patients with acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack admitted to our acute stroke unit wore Actical accelerometers attached to both wrists and ankles and the hip for ≤7 days. Patients were included within 72 hours of symptom onset. Accelerometer output was measured in activity counts (AC). Patients were tested daily with Scandinavian Stroke Scale.

Results—

Physical activity peaked in the morning and declined during the rest of the day. In patients with stroke, total AC were 71% lower than in patients with transient ischemic attack. AC were 80% lower in the paretic compared with those in the nonparetic arm in patients with ischemic stroke. For the legs AC were 44% lower on the paretic side and an overall increase in AC with time was found. There was a significant increase in AC with increasing Scandinavian Stroke Scale and a decrease in AC with increasing age.

Conclusions—

This study demonstrates the feasibility of using accelerometers to quantitatively and continuously measure physical activity simultaneously from all 4 extremities and the hip in patients with acute ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack. Our study provides quantitative evidence of physical inactivity in patients with acute ischemic stroke. The method offers a low cost and noninvasive tool for future clinical interventional physiotherapeutic and early mobilization studies.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01560520.
Frequency and Predictors of Stroke After Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Hachet Olivier , Guenancia Charles , Stamboul Karim , Daubail Benoit , Richard Carole , Béjot Yannick , Yameogo Valentin , Gudjoncik Aurélie , Cottin Yves , Giroud Maurice , Lorgis Luc
Published: November 2014

Background and Purpose—

Stroke is a serious complication after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and is closely associated with decreased survival. This study aimed to investigate the frequency, characteristics, and factors associated with in-hospital and postdischarge stroke in patients with AMI.

Methods—

Eight thousand four hundred eighty-five consecutive patients admitted to a cardiology intensive care unit for AMI, between January 2001 and July 2010. Stroke/transient ischemic attack were collected during 1-year follow-up.

Results—

One hundred twenty-three in-hospital strokes were recorded: 65 (52.8%) occurred on the first day after admission for AMI, and 108 (87%) within the first 5 days. One hundred six patients (86.2%-incidence rate 1.25%) experienced in-hospital ischemic stroke, and 14 patients (11.4%-incidence rate 0.16%) were diagnosed with an in-hospital hemorrhagic stroke. In-hospital ischemic stroke subtypes according to the Trial of Org 10 172 in Acute Stroke Treatment (TOAST) classification showed that only 2 types of stroke were identified more frequently. As expected, the leading subtype of in-hospital ischemic stroke was cardioembolic stroke (n=64, 60%), the second was stroke of undetermined pathogenesis (n=38, 36%). After multivariable backward regression analysis, female sex, previous transient ischemic attack (TIA)/stroke, new-onset atrial fibrillation, left ventricular ejection fraction (odds ratio per point of left ventricular ejection fraction), and C-reactive protein were independently associated with in-hospital ischemic stroke. When antiplatelet and anticoagulation therapy within the first 48 hours was introduced into the multivariable model, we found that implementing these treatments (≥1) was an independent protective factor of in-hospital stroke. In-hospital hemorrhagic stroke was dramatically increased (5-fold) when thrombolysis was prescribed as the reperfusion treatment. However, the different parenteral anticoagulants were not predictors of risk in univariable analysis. Finally, only 45 postdischarge strokes were recorded. Postdischarge stroke subtypes showed a more heterogeneous distribution of mechanisms. The annual rate of stroke post-AMI remained stable throughout the 10-year study period.

Conclusions—

The present study describes specific predictors of in-hospital and postdischarge stroke in patients with AMI. It showed a marked increase in the risk of death, both during hospitalization and in the year after AMI. After hospital discharge, stroke remains a rare event and is mostly associated with high cardiovascular risk.
White Matter Edema at the Early Stage of Cerebral Autosomal-Dominant Arteriopathy With Subcortical Infarcts and Leukoencephalopathy
Authors: De Guio François , Mangin Jean-François , Duering Marco , Ropele Stefan , Chabriat Hugues , Jouvent Eric
Published: November 2014

Background and Purpose—

Recently, in a mouse model of cerebral autosomal-dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy, a monogenic cerebral small vessel disease, intramyelinic edema was detected in the white matter (WM) early during the course of the disease. We hypothesized that if this mechanism holds true in patients, it would translate in larger WM volume. We aimed to measure WM volume in patients with cerebral autosomal-dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy in comparison with age- and sex-matched controls, along with the ratio of cortical surface area to the volume of brain hemispheres as an indirect measure that should be reduced in patients.

Methods—

Twenty patients at the early stage of the disease (Mini Mental State Examination >24 and modified Rankin scale ≤1) and 27 age- and sex-matched controls had high-quality 3-Tesla 3DT1 MRI acquisitions. Volumes of brain hemispheres and of WM were determined. The ratio of cortical surface area to the volume of brain hemispheres was evaluated as a proxy of underlying WM volume.

Results—

Patients had larger volumes of WM than controls (patients: 479.4±71.7; controls: 463.9±44.2;
P
=0.03). They presented a lower cortical surface area and cortical volume leading to a lower ratio of cortical surface area to the volume of brain hemispheres (patients: 15.7±0.7; controls: 16.1±0.5;
P
=0.004). Volume of WM tended to be associated with that of WM hyperintensities (
P
=0.06).

Conclusions—

Patients with cerebral autosomal-dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy have larger WM volume than age- and sex-matched controls, a finding compatible with the hypothesis of intramyelinic edema as observed recently in mice.
Morphometrics Show Sam Francis’s Painted Forms Are Statistically Similar to Cells in Biological Tissues
Authors: Lakhani Fayha , Dang Hanh , Selz Peter , Elul Tamira
Published: November 2014

The paintings of the abstract expressionist artist Sam Francis contain vivid biomorphic forms. One influence for Francis may have been microscopic images of biological tissues he observed in premedical courses prior to becoming an artist. Using two morphometric measurements common in cell biology, the authors show that forms in Francis’s paintings are statistically similar to cells in biological tissues that resemble his paintings. This study highlights specific similarities between forms in Francis’s paintings and biology. It also presents a novel application of biological morphometrics that could help clarify the creative process and psychological appeal of Francis and other “organic” artists.
Des despotes et des opprimés dans les romans de Ǧamāl al-Ġīṭānī1
Authors: Al Saadi Tania
Published: November 2014

L’article porte sur les trois romans suivants de Ǧamāl al-Ġīṭānī: al-Zaynī Barakāt (1971), Waqāʾiʿ ḥārat al-Zaʿfarānī (1976) et Ḥikāyat al-muʾassasa (1997) dans le but d’analyser la lecture que l’auteur fait du despotisme et de la révolte du peuple contre ce pouvoir. Les histoires racontées dans ces trois romans se déroulent dans des contextes différents, respectivement politique, religieux et économique. La première partie de l’article aborde les aspects formels de ces récits, à savoir leur structure et les stratégies énonciatives mises en oeuvre, ces aspects permettant de comprendre comment les différentes thématiques sont présentées. La deuxième partie analyse les portraits des despotes et leur mode d’action, la manière dont la relation entre oppresseur et opprimés est construite et les moyens utilisés par le despote pour contrôler la population. La troisième et dernière partie est, elle, consacrée à l’analyse de la représentation des opprimés, à celle de leur révolte contre le pouvoir ainsi qu’à celle des résultats auxquels cette révolte aboutit. La conclusion, enfin, précise la place occupée par al-Ġīṭānī dans la tradition romanesque égyptienne et rend compte du contexte historique dans lequel son traitement du despotisme s’inscrit.
Affrication in Baghdadi Arabic: Synchrony and Diachrony
Authors: Youssef Islam
Published: November 2014

This paper examines phonological affrication in Baghdadi Arabic, which is classified as a historical shift. The discussion of the chronological development of this process stretches across the stages by which sound changes take place, namely the outset (phonetic) stage, the active (phonological) stage, and the post-active (phonemic) stage. In addition, the paper explores the featural composition of the segmental classes involved in affrication—its triggers, targets, and outputs—and proposes a straightforward phonological analysis of their interactions.
Foreign Direct Liability Claims in Sweden: Learning from Arica Victims KB v. Boliden Mineral AB?
Authors: Larsen Rasmus Kløcker
Published: November 2014

On 12 September 2013 what may be the first foreign direct liability claim in Sweden was filed in the County Court of Skellefteå, a court action reflective of a growing wave of civil liability suits in European jurisdictions to hold transnational corporations accountable for human rights violations and environmental damages. This article examines the feasibility of foreign direct liability claims in Sweden, focusing on enabling conditions with regards to jurisdiction, collision rules and applicable law, substantial legal basis, procedural and practical circumstances, and the theories by which parent companies can be held liable for negligence in supervising acts of subsidiaries and contractors. It is demonstrated that foreign direct liability claims on environmental damage are indeed possible in Sweden, albeit with considerable constraints, primarily of a procedural and financial character. The conclusion provides some cautious remarks on the merits of the claim against Boliden and the reform options available to a Swedish government committed to improving the access to justice for victims of violations perpetuated by Swedish companies, their subsidiaries and contractors.
The Magic Jar and Other Devices from 9th Century Persia
Authors: Yassi Yousef
Published: November 2014

After the advent of Islam the interest of scientists was drawn towards “ingenious devices.” Ahmad ibn Müsä ibn Shäkir Khuräsäni was one of the greatest Iranian scientists of the 9th century AD. He worked on many mechanical, hydraulic and pneumatic devices and presented his inventions in a book entitled Kitäb Al-Hiyal. A combined historical and experimental research project was undertaken by the Iranian Research Organization for Science and Technology (IROST). One part of the project consisted of designing and reproducing the mechanisms for separating liquids described in Al-Hiyal. This paper provides details of the design of four of these devices, which function on the basis of the relative viscosities or densities of the liquids being separated. They were recreated and tested in accordance with the indications provided in ibn Shäkir Khuräsäni’s text. This paper provides the historical background and a technical analysis of these remarkable inventions.
Colouring the Human Landscapes
Authors: Jülich Solveig
Published: November 2014

This article explores the relationship between Swedish photographer Lennart Nilsson’s scanning electron micrographs and commercial culture from the late 1960s to the mid-1980s. By retracing how Nilsson’s micrographs of the internal structures of the human body were made, circulated, and received, its aim is to investigate three aspects of this relationship. First, it highlights how the complex and sometimes conflicting interplay between the photographer and various actors in science, industry and the media shaped the pictures and their trajectories. Second, it analyses the processes used to colour Nilsson’s original black-and-white micrographs in relation to tendencies in the media and the advertising industry during this period. Third, it examines what motivated Nilsson and his collaborators in their use of colour and also the critical debates concerning the spectacular and commercial qualities of his pictures. In the concluding section, the implications of this analysis for the history of the objectivity of scientific images is discussed.
Simulium ledangense, a new species of the Simulium feuerborni species-group of the subgenus Nevermannia (Diptera: Simuliidae) from Mount Ledang, Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: YA’COB ZUBAIDAH , TAKAOKA HIROYUKI , SOFIAN-AZIRUN MOHD
Published: November 2014

Simulium (Nevermannia) ledangense sp. nov. is described from females, males, pupae and mature larvae from Peninsular Malaysia. This new species is assigned to the Simulium feuerborni species-group of the subgenus Nevermannia, and is characterized by the pupa having a very long stalk of the ventral paired gill filaments, which is almost five times longer than the interspiracular trunk and female tergites of segments 2 and 5 to 7 shiny. Taxonomic notes are given to distinguish this new species from three known species of the S. feuerborni species-group from Malaysia.
Extreme Rainfall of the South American Monsoon System: A Dataset Comparison Using Complex Networks
Authors: Boers Niklas , Bookhagen Bodo , Marengo José , Marwan Norbert , von Storch Jin-Song , Kurths Jürgen
Published: November 2014

In this study, the authors compare six different rainfall datasets for South America with a focus on their representation of extreme rainfall during the monsoon season (December–February): the gauge-calibrated TRMM 3B42 V7 satellite product; the near-real-time TRMM 3B42 V7 RT, the GPCP 1° daily (1DD) V1.2 satellite–gauge combination product, the Interim ECMWF Re-Analysis (ERA-Interim) product; output of a high-spatial-resolution run of the ECHAM6 global circulation model; and output of the regional climate model Eta. For the latter three, this study can be understood as a model evaluation. In addition to statistical values of local rainfall distributions, the authors focus on the spatial characteristics of extreme rainfall covariability. Since traditional approaches based on principal component analysis are not applicable in the context of extreme events, they apply and further develop methods based on complex network theory. This way, the authors uncover substantial differences in extreme rainfall patterns between the different datasets: (i) The three model-derived datasets yield very different results than the satellite–gauge combinations regarding the main climatological propagation pathways of extreme events as well as the main convergence zones of the monsoon system. (ii) Large discrepancies are found for the development of mesoscale convective systems in southeastern South America. (iii) Both TRMM datasets and ECHAM6 indicate a linkage of extreme rainfall events between the central Amazon basin and the eastern slopes of the central Andes, but this pattern is not reproduced by the remaining datasets. The authors’ study suggests that none of the three model-derived datasets adequately captures extreme rainfall patterns in South America.
Parameter Estimation Using Ensemble-Based Data Assimilation in the Presence of Model Error
Authors: Ruiz Juan , Pulido Manuel
Published: November 2014

This work explores the potential of online parameter estimation as a technique for model error treatment under an imperfect model scenario, in an ensemble-based data assimilation system, using a simple atmospheric general circulation model, and an observing system simulation experiment (OSSE) approach. Model error is introduced in the imperfect model scenario by changing the value of the parameters associated with different schemes. The parameters of the moist convection scheme are the only ones to be estimated in the data assimilation system. In this work, parameter estimation is compared and combined with techniques that account for the lack of ensemble spread and for the systematic model error. The OSSEs show that when parameter estimation is combined with model error treatment techniques, multiplicative and additive inflation or a bias correction technique, parameter estimation produces a further improvement of analysis quality and medium-range forecast skill with respect to the OSSEs with model error treatment techniques without parameter estimation. The improvement produced by parameter estimation is mainly a consequence of the optimization of the parameter values. The estimated parameters do not converge to the value used to generate the observations in the imperfect model scenario; however, the analysis error is reduced and the forecast skill is improved.
The Diurnal Cycle of Precipitation in Regional Spectral Model Simulations over West Africa: Sensitivities to Resolution and Cumulus Schemes
Authors: He Xiaogang , Kim Hyungjun , Kirstetter Pierre-Emmanuel , Yoshimura Kei , Chang Eun-Chul , Ferguson Craig R. , Erlingis Jessica M. , Hong Yang , Oki Taikan
Published: November 2014

As a basic form of climate patterns, the diurnal cycle of precipitation (DCP) can provide a key test bed for model reliability and development. In this study, the DCP over West Africa was simulated by the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) Regional Spectral Model (RSM) during the monsoon season (April–September) of 2005. Three convective parameterization schemes (CPSs), single-layer simplified Arakawa–Schubert (SAS), multilayer relaxed Arakawa–Schubert (RAS), and new Kain–Fritsch (KF2), were evaluated at two horizontal resolutions (20 and 10 km). The Benin mesoscale site was singled out for additional investigation of resolution effects. Harmonic analysis was used to characterize the phase and amplitude of the DCP. Compared to satellite observations, the overall spatial distributions of amplitude were well captured at regional scales. The RSM properly reproduced the observed late afternoon peak over land and the early morning peak over ocean. Nevertheless, the peak time was early. Sensitivity experiments of CPSs showed similar spatial patterns of rainfall totals among the schemes; CPSs mainly affected the amplitude of the diurnal cycle, while the phase was not significantly shifted. There is no clear optimal pairing of resolution and CPS. However, it is found that the sensitivity of DCP to CPSs and resolution varies with the partitioning between convective and stratiform, which implies that appropriate partitioning needs to be considered for future development of CPSs in global or regional climate models.
Differential Response Profiles in Children and Adolescents With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Wietecha Linda A. , Wang Shufang , Saylor Keith E. , Day Kathleen A. , Wu Sheng Hu , Kelsey Doug
Published: November 2014

Atomoxetine has been shown to be safe and effective in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The purpose of this post hoc analysis was to examine response trajectories of pediatric patients treated with atomoxetine. Data were pooled from 7 atomoxetine double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials conducted in pediatric patients between November 1998 and June 2004. Growth mixture modeling was applied to the investigator-rated ADHD rating scale (ADHDRS-Inv) and Clinical Global Impressions-ADHD-Severity (CGI-ADHD-S) scores in the randomized acute phase (6-9 weeks) to explore whether there were groups of patients who differed in their response to atomoxetine. Classification and regression tree analyses were performed to identify predictors that can help categorize subjects to different response profiles. Patients (N = 925) were mostly male (73%) and of the combined subtype (74%). Most patients had a response pattern characterized by gradual, modest improvement, while a smaller group experienced early, robust improvement.
Conceptualizing Cooperation
Authors: Ornston Darius , Schulze-Cleven Tobias
Published: November 2014

Despite recognizing that institutionalized cooperation is central to both business and politics in many advanced, industrialized economies, scholars remain divided over the origins, character, and future of “non-liberal” capitalism. This article seeks to clarify these debates by arguing that different processes of cooperation are governed by distinct logics of collective action and associated with different dynamics of collaboration. For example, coordination, or cooperation in production, is harder to create but more likely to facilitate companies’ upmarket movement. By contrast, concertation, or cooperation in policy making, is more amenable to state intervention but less durable. The analysis is based on detailed case studies of Germany and Ireland, which vary in their relative reliance on concertation and coordination. Selected references to shadow cases—displaying neither or both forms of cooperation—complement the analysis.
Theodore Beza
Authors: Maag Karin
Published: November 2014

This article provides an overview of the life and work of the French Reformer Theodore Beza (1519-1605), best known as John Calvin’s successor in Geneva. It examines Beza’s significant contribution to the development and consolidation of Reformed communities across early modern Europe and evaluates his theological legacy, assessing his impact in the context of ongoing debates over his faithfulness to, or divergence from, Calvin’s teachings.
Preacher as Balanced Extremist: Biblical Dialectics and Sermonic Certainty
Authors: Edwards Aaron
Published: November 2014

Preachers are called to take seriously the theological tensions within Scripture alongside the contingent sense of ‘certainty’ that ought to accompany the preaching moment. Addressing this paradox often invokes a call to ‘balance’, which sometimes proves to be as equally unbiblical as outright extremism. Drawing upon Barth’s notion of dialectical ‘one-sidedness’ and Chesterton’s expression of the ‘furious opposites’ of theological paradox, this article sketches the possibility of dialectically dogmatic preaching. This concept will be partially illustrated via an unexpected source, the influential British preacher Martyn Lloyd-Jones, who exemplified a dialectical awareness which chaperoned his famously ‘dogmatic’ emphases. Such an approach highlights the vital importance of retaining the particularity of a theological truth in its radical fullness without ignoring its dialectical opposite, nor swamping the pulpit in perpetual ambiguity.
Influence of nanoclay reinforced polyurethane foam toward composite sandwich structure behavior under high velocity impact
Authors: Nasirzadeh Rasoul , Sabet Ali Reza
Published: November 2014

This study investigates high velocity impact performance of nanoclay reinforced polyurethane foam core composite sandwich panels. The sandwich structure consists of composite facings made from glass fiber woven roving reinforced unsaturated polyester resin and rigid polyurethane foam core with density of 49 kg/m3. High velocity impact tests in the range of 100–140 m/s were conducted with 10.7 g semispherical tip steel projectile. The amounts of nanoclay incorporated in the foam core were 0.25, 0.5, 1, and 3 wt%. Small angle x-ray scattering showed the sample containing 0.5 wt% nanoclay has better clay dispersion. Results showed specimen containing 0.5 wt% nanoclay has the highest impact performance and energy absorption as well as lowest projectile residual velocity for the plates that experienced full perforation. The specimen containing 3 wt% nanoclay showed lowest ballistic performance. The presence of nanoclay in the foam structure resulted in an increase in the number of cells per unit volume and reduced cell size.
Aging by moisture and/or temperature of epoxy/SiC composites: Thermal and mechanical properties
Authors: Abenojar Juana , Pantoja Mariola , Martínez Miguel Angel , del Real Juan Carlos
Published: November 2014

The present work focuses on investigating the effects of moisture absorption on the mechanical and thermal properties of epoxy reinforced with percentage (by wt.) silicon carbide (nano and micro-metric) composites. In order to quantify the effect of moisture and temperature on aging, the specimens were exposed to three aging conditions for 30 days. Variations of Tg (glass transition temperature), water absorption, and mechanical properties were determined as a function of exposure time.

In composite materials, aging depends on the exposure conditions, such as amount of absorbed water, temperature, and oxygen concentration. All these factors affect the thermal and mechanical properties. At room temperature and 95% relative humidity, plasticizing and swelling occur, with mechanical properties loss. At 60℃ and 5% relative humidity, polymeric chains crosslink resulting in mechanical properties improvement; Tg and thermal conductivity increase. At 60℃ and 95% relative humidity, the time required to reach saturation decreases when compared to room temperature evaluated condition, as the exposure temperature increases.
Perceived Factors Impacting School Music Programs
Authors: Abril Carlos R. , Bannerman Julie K.
Published: November 2014

The purpose of this study was to examine elementary music teachers’ perceptions of factors impacting their music programs and teaching positions as well as the actions these teachers take in response to those factors. The following research questions guided the study: (1) What factors are perceived to impact music programs and teaching positions? (2) What is the nature of these factors? (3) How and within what socioecological levels do teachers act on behalf of their programs or positions? (4) To what degree are specific actions, people, and/or groups thought effective in impacting music programs? U.S. music teachers ( N = 432) responded to a survey designed to answer these questions. A socioecological framework was used in the design of the survey and analysis of the data. Results suggest that teachers perceive micro-level factors (school) to have a substantial impact on their programs. Teachers’ actions were mostly focused on the micro level although many teachers considered meso-level (school district) engagement to be vital for maintaining or improving music programs in a given school district. Besides music-specific policies, macro-level issues (state and national) were not viewed as impacting programs in substantive ways. The further removed a factor from the micro level, the less impact was felt and the fewer actions were taken.
Phantom Effects in Multilevel Compositional Analysis
Authors: Pokropek Artur
Published: November 2014

This article combines statistical and applied research perspective showing problems that might arise when measurement error in multilevel compositional effects analysis is ignored. This article focuses on data where independent variables are constructed measures. Simulation studies are conducted evaluating methods that could overcome the measurement error problems. These methods are a multilevel regression model with reliability correction, a multilevel model with plausible values, and a multilevel latent regression model (doubly latent model). While the latter one performs best, all models have their advantages and disadvantages. Examples using data from the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study are shown to present the behavior of the tested models in real-data situations and indicate the consequences of ignoring the problem of reliability.
Biomechanical Analysis of Subpectoral Biceps Tenodesis
Authors: Euler Simon A. , Smith Sean D. , Williams Brady T. , Dornan Grant J. , Millett Peter J. , Wijdicks Coen A.
Published: November 2014

Background:

Humeral fracture after subpectoral tenodesis of the long head of biceps tendon (LHB) is a rare but devastating complication.

Purpose:

To determine whether malpositioned (laterally eccentric) tenodesis screw placement has an influence on humerus strength reduction compared with central placement.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Two groups, each consisting of 10 matched pairs of human humeri, were used for this study. Biceps tendons were fixed subpectorally with 8-mm screws in unicortical 8-mm sockets. In the first group, the socket was placed concentrically in the bicipital groove and the tendon was fixed with an interference screw. In the second group, the socket was malpositioned 30% eccentrically to the lateral (tension) side of the humerus. Contralateral humeri remained intact as positive controls. Specimens were aligned in 40° of abduction, and a uniaxial compressive force was applied to the humeral head until failure. Strength reduction was reported as percentage reduction in ultimate failure load between paired humeri. Relative defect size was calculated as a percentage of the total humeral width at the height of the tenodesis.

Results:

Laterally eccentric malpositioned biceps tenodeses significantly decreased humeral strength compared with intact (mean change, −25%; SD, 23%; P = .017), while concentrically placed biceps tenodeses did not (mean change, −10%; SD, 15%; P = .059). A linear regression between relative defect size and strength reduction in the malpositioned group showed a significant negative linear correlation (beta = −2.577; R2 = 0.423; P = .042).

Conclusion:

Humeral fracture after subpectoral tenodesis of the LHB is a complication that may be minimized with careful surgical technique. Laterally eccentric malpositioned biceps tenodesis caused significant reduction (25%) in humeral strength, which might be clinically relevant and contribute to postsurgical humeral shaft fracture. Strength reduction was also significantly correlated with relative defect size. Surgeons using this technique should ensure central and orthogonal placement of the socket, especially in smaller individuals. This study lends biomechanical evidence to support the clinical procedure of a correctly, concentrically placed tenodesis screw.

Clinical Relevance:

These biomechanical results indicate that in a clinical setting, special attention should be drawn to patient selection for LHB tenodesis. This study reveals that central screw positioning is critical, particularly in high-impact and overhead athletes, as well as for patients with small humeral widths or osteoporotic bone quality. Alternative surgical options such as smaller screws or other fixation methods might be considered to diminish the postoperative risk of humeral fracture.
Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Levels and Stress Fractures in Military Personnel
Authors: Dao Dyda , Sodhi Sukhmani , Tabasinejad Rasam , Peterson Devin , Ayeni Olufemi R. , Bhandari Mohit , Farrokhyar Forough
Published: November 2014

Background:

Low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels have been associated with stress fractures in various physically active populations such as the military.

Purpose:

To examine the association between serum 25(OH)D levels and stress fractures in the military.

Study Design:

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods:

Relevant studies were identified through searching multiple databases and manually screening reference lists. Two reviewers independently selected the included studies by applying the eligibility criteria to the title, abstract, and/or full text of the articles yielded in the search. Two reviewers also independently conducted the methodological quality assessment and data extraction. A random-effects model was used to calculate the mean difference (MD) with 95% CI in serum 25(OH)D levels between stress fracture cases and controls.

Results:

Nine observational studies on lower extremity stress fractures were eligible, and 1 was excluded due to inadequate data. A total of 2634 military personnel (age, 18-30 years; 44% male) with 761 cases (16% male) and 1873 controls (61% male) from 8 studies were included in the analysis. Three of the 8 studies measured serum 25(OH)D levels at the time of stress fracture diagnosis, and the 5 remaining studies measured serum 25(OH)D levels at the time of entry into basic training. The mean serum 25(OH)D level was lower in stress fracture cases than in controls at the time of entry into basic training (MD, −2.63 ng/mL; 95% CI, –5.80 to 0.54; P = .10; I2 = 65%) and at the time of stress fracture diagnosis (MD, −2.26 ng/mL; 95% CI, −3.89 to −0.63; P = .007; I2 = 42%).

Conclusion:

Despite the inherent limitations of the included studies, the study results suggest some association between low serum 25(OH)D levels and lower extremity stress fractures in military personnel. Given the rigorous training of military personnel, implementing strategies to ensure sufficient 25(OH)D levels may be beneficial for reducing the risk of stress fractures.
Work/Life Fit
Authors: Tower Leslie E. , Faul Anna , Hamilton-Mason Johnnie , Collins Wanda Lott , Gibson Priscilla
Published: November 2014

A successful academic trajectory tends to be characterized by a singular Standard, that is, doctoral degree, tenure-track position, tenure, and promotion to full professor, administration, or both. Significant numbers of social work faculty struggle with the intersection of the traditional career life cycle and the developmental life cycle. This article discusses barriers that emerge from the intersection of these life cycles. Strategies to support career success and family satisfaction are also discussed, including, current law, work/life policies, self-care, and mentoring.
Social Capital, Socioeconomic Status, and Health-Related Quality of Life Among Older Adults in Bogotá (Colombia)
Authors: Lucumí Diego I. , Gomez Luis F. , Brownson Ross C. , Parra Diana C.
Published: November 2014

Objective: The main goal of this study was to evaluate the relationship between levels of cognitive social capital and health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Methods: A multilevel, cross-sectional study was conducted in 2007 in Bogotá Colombia. A total of 1,907 older adults completed the Spanish version of the Short Form of Health Survey (SF-8) to assess HRQOL. Cognitive dimension of social capital was assessed. Hierarchical linear regressions were conducted to determine the associations between social capital variables and HRQOL. Results: Only 20% to 25% of the population reported trust in others and shared values. A total of 93% percent reported that people in their neighborhood would try to take advantage of them if given a chance. Higher social capital indicators were positively associated with the mental and physical dimensions of HRQOL. Discussion: Results from this study support evidence on the disintegration of the Colombian society, which may be influenced by high levels of social inequality.
Depression and Its Associated Factors in Older Indians
Authors: Kulkarni Ruhi S. , Shinde Ramkrishna L.
Published: November 2014

Objective: To estimate the prevalence of depression and determine the factors associated with it in older Indians aged 50 years and above. Method: This study was based on a nationally representative sample of 7,150 older Indians from WHO’s Study of Global Aging and Adult Health, SAGE-2007. Mild, moderate, and severe depression was assessed through International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision, Diagnostic Criteria for Research (ICD-10-DCR). Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the impact of socio-demographic, health, and diet-related characteristics on depression. Results: Estimated prevalence of mild, moderate, and severe depression in the past 12 months was 13.6%, 12.4%, and 8.2% respectively, in older Indians. Functional disability, cognitive impairment, low quality of life, low wealth status, and chronic conditions such as angina, asthma, or chronic lung disease were the significant [Formula: see text] risk factors for depression. Discussion: Protective and risk factors identified can be helpful in formulation of different policies for older Indians.
‘I quite detest the man’: Degree adverbs, female language and Jane Austen
Authors: González-Díaz Victorina
Published: November 2014

Burrows’ (1987) stylometric analysis of Austen’s novels associates quite with ‘the speech of the vulgarians, especially the women who predominate among them’. Through a corpus-based analysis, this article takes further Burrows’ (1987) claims by scrutinizing the socio-stylistic mappings between characters and functions of quite in Austen. The results indicate that gender (rather than vulgarity) is the main factor determining the socio-stylistic variation of quite in Austen’s novels. More generally, the study contributes to a better understanding of Jane Austen’s practices of linguistic gendering. Recent literary criticism has commented on Austen’s stylistic manipulations aimed at challenging 18th-century stereotypes of women’s language (Michaelson, 2002: 62–63). The corpus-based study provided in this article can be taken as a concrete example of how such manipulations work at the linguistic level. It suggests that Austen may have drawn on 18th-century stereotypes of ‘female’ language for the stylistic stratification of quite in her novels, although introducing functional and grammatical variations that allow for subtle differentiations across ‘female’ idiolects.
Nehru’s Vision of Asian Identity
Authors: Bhalla Madhu
Published: November 2014

This article argues that Jawaharlal Nehru’s vision of Asian identity was central to his view of India’s foreign policy. His vision enthused many in the last phases of World War II but the seemingly contradictory elements inherent in this vision ensured that it also had its critics within India, Asia and the world. However, by century’s end, the ideational framework that Nehru had so assiduously constructed since 1920 gained meaning in different contexts after Nehru’s demise. The vision of Asian identity that he put together began to inform Asian regional and subregional institutions and organisations. The analytical framework that he evolved, through non-alignment and the Panchsheel principles, presented an alternative to Cold War binaries. As a result, his view of Asian identity had positive implications for issues of conflict management, economic interdependence and community, the maintainence of peace by abjuring military alliances, guarding against the surrender of sovereign rights and, more recently, for a definition of security as human security. At home the task remains to reinvent his vision for a new phase in India’s foreign policy.
Nehru’s Model of Economic Growth and Globalisation of the Indian Economy
Authors: Singh Kuldip
Published: November 2014

After almost three decades of economic reforms, the tasks Nehru outlined on the eve of India’s independence should be invoked for examining how far these reforms constitute a departure from the Nehruvian model. Putting an end to poverty, ignorance, disease and inequality of opportunities were the key goals Nehru outlined on the eve of India’s independence. Nehru valued these objectives not merely for their instrumental value to economic growth, but for their own sake. However, at the height of India’s drive for liberalisation, the welfare state came to be perceived as a hindrance to the country’s global march. With higher economic growth becoming the ultimate end, the Nehruvian logic of looking at economic development as essential for human welfare was largely abandoned. Economic reforms therefore constituted a departure from the Nehruvian model of economic development. The role of the state for regulating economies is now widely recognised at the global level. This necessitates a re-look at Nehru’s model of economic development.
Relevance of Nehru’s Ideology in a Globalised World
Authors: Narang Surjit Singh
Published: November 2014

This article attempts to revisit Nehru’s ideology and to re-contextualise it in an era of globalisation. India has remained the reference point to assess Nehru’s ideology. His idea of nation and nationalism are discussed in the light of the recent attempts to redefine Indian nation and nationalism. Notwithstanding his commitment to secularism, Nehru also attempted to absorb Hindu communalist sentiments in the mainstream of Indian politics but at the same time he treated communalism as a grave threat to India’s integrity. Nehru’s vision to develop modern India not only with the help of science and technology but also by developing a scientific temperament and promoting democratic culture amongst people is the subject of debate. His views regarding the radical transformation of rural society through land reforms and community development programmes are discussed here. Nehru desired to reconcile the modern goals of economic development with traditional community values of small-scale agrarian societies. His contribution to consolidate democracy by gradually attaching the people to parliamentary institutions forms a significant component of this article.
Review of J&K Language Policy in the Perspective of the Nehruvian Language Policy
Authors: Tajuddin Muhammad , Sharma Vandana
Published: November 2014

Political community is the basis of modern polity. In federation, two polities and their respective political communities are related according to the constitutional structure. Political community is constructed through mass education and its medium. Common mass education though a common language inculcates common values among peoples differing in their habitations, mother tongues and strata. Nehru’s visionary language policy defused centrifugal forces and strengthened centripetal forces in the process of Indian political community formation. Political community formation in Jammu and Kashmir began in the reign of Pratap Singh with the adoption of Urdu as the official language and the medium of mass education. The process was communalised in 1920s when the Urdu–Hindi controversy began. The communalised political communities were further broken into contesting ethnic communities after independence due to faulty language policies of successive governments. One polity with multiple political communities has become the biggest hurdle for integration of J&K with India.
Reflective Redo From the Point of Error
Authors: Scoresby Jon , Shelton Brett E.
Published: November 2014

Background. Training simulations provide opportunity for users to repeat actions in order to master a task. Once a mistake has been identified, however, difficulties may arise in replicating the exact sequence of previous actions, particularly in complex, open-ended environments.

Technology. Alongside the advent of virtual 3D environments for learning, technology can more easily support a focus on the error in ways that were previously arduous.

Purpose. This research represents an investigation of student learning, reflection, and metacognition when using a 3D simulation with built-in functionality that allows students to redo their actions by focusing on the point of error instead of restarting from the beginning.

Methods. Interviews and observations were used to gather qualitative data, illustrating that starting at the point of failure within a complex, multiplayer simulation holds advantages and presents obstacles for student learning.

Findings. Two key findings were identified: (a) the first relating to the influence of reflection on learning in that participants used reflection with varying degrees of complexity as a scaffolding mechanism; and (b) the second was that the students’ abilities to orient themselves in the problem space contributed to the amount of contextual information they needed to be successful—in this case, either starting from the beginning or from the point of error.