bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mission and spirituality: Ecumenical convergence and creative tensions in a new millennium
Authors: Chevalier Laura A.
Published: July 2017

This article examines the discourse surrounding the concepts of “mission” and “spirituality” in the interdisciplinary fields of missiology and Christian spirituality studies at the turn of the new millennium. Borrowing the concepts of ecumenical “convergence” and “creative tension” from David J. Bosch, I argue that scholars from a variety of traditions and disciplines are converging around the idea that mission and spirituality are vitally linked, but they do not always agree on how these concepts are defined and interact in real life. After an introduction that highlights events that led to the production of much of the literature and reviews the scope of the study, I analyze works within missiology and Christian spirituality studies related to this theme. Drawing on an early framework laid out by Michael Collins Reilly in a 1980 article in Missiology entitled “Developing a Missionary Spirituality,” first I focus on the missiological literature: the convergences and creative tensions in how scholars treat the concept of spirituality, four converging ecumenical trends, and various disciplinary approaches. I counterbalance this by looking at how spirituality studies scholars use the concept of mission. Through this survey, it becomes clear that there is mounting evidence that these two interdisciplinary fields are interacting, but that there is space for further research and more collaboration.
Spiritual exceptionalism? An ethnographic survey of transnational pentecostal communities in Boston’s inner core
Authors: Mayfield Alex R.
Published: July 2017

Though some headway has been made in research into the transnational nature of immigrant Pentecostal communities, most of this research has taken place within a European and African context. A synthesis of this research produces four ‘tensions’ that are typical in approaching these transnational communities: global versus local identities; reverse-mission rhetoric versus asylum reality; ascetic versus prosperity ethics; and integrative aims versus marginal locations. This ethnographic study of five immigrant Pentecostal communities in the inner core of Boston identifies that these four tensions are useful for understanding these communities in the context of the United States, albeit with some modification. Additionally, the article concludes by offering an additional tension that should be considered in the study of transnational Pentecostal communities.
Does Ap Economics Improve Student Achievement?
Authors: Clark Christopher , Scafidi Benjamin , Swinton John R.
Published: July 2017

We employ an empirical approach designed to control for selection issues to estimate the effect of taking Advanced Placement (AP) Economics in high school on student performance on a high-stakes, statewide End-of-Course Test (EOCT). Using data on all Georgia students who took economics from 2006 to 2008, we use propensity score matching to control for the selection of students into AP Economics. Our most conservative estimate makes an adjustment for teacher effects and suggests that students who take high school economics in an AP class score 0.283 standard deviations higher on the economics EOCT than “matched” students who are in high schools that do not offer AP Economics. We find large differences in “AP effects” across subpopulations—in particular, students from low income backgrounds, African Americans, and students who performed poorly in prior mathematics courses benefit the most from AP Economics. All estimates of AP effects are substantially below OLS estimates, suggesting positive selection into AP Economics. The results are robust to different matching techniques for the full sample and all large and medium sized subpopulations. After controlling for teacher effects, the choice of schools as to whether or not to offer AP Economics does not appear to impact estimates of AP effects.
From Cholera Outbreaks to Pandemics: The Role of Poverty and Inequality
Authors: Anbarci Nejat , Escaleras Monica , Register Charles A.
Published: July 2017

Cholera and other diarrheal diseases are the second leading cause of death among the poor globally. The tragedy of this statistic is that it need not be the case. Unlike many afflictions, the impact of cholera can be greatly reduced, if not eliminated, through the provision of clean water services. This begs the question of why such provision is absent in much of the world. It is our contention that the provision of clean water services is an increasing function of both a country's level of income and income equality. We test these hypotheses by analyzing 1,032 annual observations arising from 55 relatively poor countries between the years 1980 and 2002. In the primary part of the analysis, we find that providing clean water is, as predicted, an increasing function of income and equality. Following this, and consistent with the existing epidemiological research on cholera, we find that both the numbers of cases and deaths resulting from a given cholera outbreak are strongly and negatively related to the provision of clean water.
Jolting Joe and Charlie Hustle: The Immediate Economic Impact of an Extended Hitting Streak
Authors: Horowitz Ira , Lackritz Jim
Published: July 2017

We show that Joe DiMaggio's 56-game hitting streak and Pete Rose's 44-game hitting streak had an economic payoff to not just their teams but the other teams they played while they were in the midst of streaking, by directly drawing fans into the ballpark. Once the streaks ended, however, attendance declined.
The Long-Run Impact of Age Demographics on the U.S. Divorce Rate
Authors: Nunley John M. , Zietz Joachim
Published: July 2017

We investigate, for the time period 1932 to 2006, the extent to which fluctuations in the fraction of the population in the 20–29 year-old age group can predict movements in the aggregate U.S. divorce rate. We find that fluctuations in our age-composition variable are a very robust predictor of the divorce rate in the long run, with estimated elasticities ranging from 1 to 1.3 depending on the modeling approach. We check the sensitivity of the age-divorce relationship to the inclusion of a number of other explanatory variables advanced in the literature as potential determinants of the divorce rate, including the participation rate of females in higher education as a proxy for female economic independence and macroeconomic variables.
An Essay on the Art and Science of Teaching
Authors: Weisman Dennis L.
Published: July 2017

The primary purpose of this essay is to identify instructional practices that can serve to enhance teaching effectiveness. There is both an art and a science dimension to effective teaching. The science dimension entails a comprehensive knowledge of the discipline, both historical foundations and research on the frontiers. The art dimension, which is likely to be the more elusive of the two, involves presenting complex material to students in terms that are readily understandable. Organized around twelve principles, this essay delineates various techniques that may be employed to enhance overall teaching effectiveness, even among those individuals who may not be “natural teachers.” Selected lessons from Charles Franklin Kettering, one of America's most prolific inventors, are integrated throughout the essay to bring these teaching principles to life. A secondary purpose of this essay is to offer a critical, albeit constructive, assessment of the teaching profession at the university level.
The Simon-Ehrlich Bet: Teaching Relative Vs. Absolute Scarcity
Authors: Wagner John E. , Newman David H.
Published: July 2017

Absolute resource scarcity is all too real for many students, especially those from noneconomic disciplines. They have a Malthusian economic worldview. We describe a pedagogical model using “The Bet” between Paul Ehrlich and Julian Simon as its focus. The model includes a “Bet” – the students taking the Ehrlich position; a directed discussion providing students with an approach to determine who wins the Bet; and a written assignment, oral presentations, and reflection. The learning outcomes are: 1) students examine their Malthusian beliefs through developing hypotheses, analyzing and testing them, and writing and presenting their conclusions orally; 2) that market's incorporate changes in substitutes, technology, recycling, and discovery; 3) that market prices rise and fall in the short term but it is the long term that illustrates how markets respond to changes in information; and 4) students reflect critically on their initial absolute scarcity assertion.
The Determinants of Electronic Textbook Use Among College Students
Authors: Miller Jon R. , Nutting Andrew W. , Baker-Eveleth Lori
Published: July 2017

Electronic books are a fast-growing component of the publishing industry. Sales of electronic textbooks (e-textbooks) are growing, but at a slower rate. In this research, we use data from an undergraduate college student survey to estimate the determinants of e-textbook use. Students who are younger, lower-income, and graduated from larger high schools are more likely to use e-textbooks. Furthermore, e-textbooks are more likely to be used by students in technically-oriented fields, especially in business, where electronic materials are often required. An environment of continued growth in student technical competence with information technology, continued increases in college cost and a reduction in professor resistance to e-textbooks would bode well for growth in their use.
It's The Students, Stupid: How Perceptions of Student Reporting Impact Cheating
Authors: Burrus Robert T. , Jones Adam T. , Sackley Bill , Walker Mike
Published: July 2017

While universities nationwide continue to revamp policies, increase penalties, and work harder to detect cheating, large numbers of students continue to admit to cheating. This paper examines student cheating in relation to students' perceptions of severity of punishment and certainty of punishment. Results indicate that increased perception of fellow students reporting cheating reduces cheating at both the extensive margin (decision to cheat) and the intensive margin (decision about how much to cheat). These results indicate that it is up to the students to police themselves.
Not Enough Time?
Authors: Hamermesh Daniel S.
Published: July 2017

This study summarizes evidence on various unique aspects of work time in the American labor market. Compared to workers in other rich countries, Americans: Work longer hours per week; take fewer paid vacations; are more likely to work on weekends or at nights; enjoy fewer daily hours of leisure; are more likely to feel pressured for time. Except for night/weekend work, these phenomena are concentrated among higher earners. Their workaholism spills over onto other workers and non-worker family members. The study indicates policy remedies for what appears to be an inferior labor-market equilibrium of excessive market work in the U.S.
A Note on Monitoring Costs and Voter Fraud
Authors: Graves Philip E. , Sexton Robert L. , Galles Gary
Published: July 2017

Election fraud can threaten democracy if many ineligible people are allowed to vote. The usual policy prescription is to increase monitoring cost. However, this is very costly. This paper proposes a more cost effective strategy: substitute tougher and consistent statutes across states against voter fraud.
Wave Riding or Owning The Issue: How Do Candidates Determine Campaign Agendas?
Authors: Burdina Mariya
Published: July 2017

This paper addresses the question of how the agendas for political campaigns are determined and whether or not candidates discuss similar issues. Two candidates compete by choosing how to allocate their time across two different issues. The amount of time spent discussing an issue affects the level of uncertainty regarding a candidate. Results suggest voter distribution determines which candidate has an advantage in the election, and issue importance determines the amount of time a candidate has to devote to issues. In most cases, I find that candidates will discuss the most important issue and that dialogue between candidates is possible. When issues are equally important each candidate discusses the issue upon which he agrees with the decisive group of voters.
Economic Expansion and The Balance of Trade: The Role of Aggregate Demand Elasticity
Authors: Kyer Ben L. , Maggs Gary E.
Published: July 2017

This paper investigates the role of aggregate demand elasticity for the balance of trade when economic expansion occurs. We have two conclusions. First, when an economic expansion results from an increase of aggregate demand, the balance of trade deficit is larger the less elastic is aggregate demand with respect to the general price level. Second, when an economic expansion happens from an increase of short-run aggregate supply, the price level elasticity of aggregate demand determines both the direction of change of the balance of trade and the size of the resulting deficit or surplus. We show here that a relatively elastic aggregate demand can result in a balance of trade deficit, while a relatively inelastic aggregate demand can yield a balance of trade surplus.
Effect of Coating and Interfacial Reaction Zone on the Residual Stresses in Fiber-Reinforced Metal-Matrix Composite
Authors: Kim Y. R. , Kang B. S.-J. , Lyons D. W. , Upadhyay P. C.
Published: July 2017

During processing of some coated fiber-reinforced metal-matrix composites, a reaction zone develops between the matrix and the coating. Since this reaction zone is usually very thin compared to coating thickness, its presence is not accounted for while evaluating the residual stresses generated due to mismatch between the thermal expansion coefficients of the constituent phases, during cool down of the composites. Residual stress analyses of composites have been reported using at the most a four-phase model ignoring the effect of reaction zone layer. This paper presents a comparison of residual stresses predicted from a four-phase model (without considering reaction zone) and five-phase model (including reaction zone as a separate phase). As the magnitudes of the stresses obtained from the two models are observed to be significantly different, the results are quite suggestive of the need to use five-phase model for the residual stress analysis, incorporating the reaction zone as a distinct phase with its appropriate properties.

A sensitivity study of the residual stresses with respect to coating thickness, coating modulus and reaction zone modulus is also included, based on the regression analysis using least square fit. Results of the sensitivity analysis are consistent with the observations made on the basis of residual stress plots, and convey the need of including the reaction zone as a separate phase. The relative influence of reaction zone modulus, compared to the coating thickness and coating modulus, is observed to be very significant on all the stress components in the coating as well as in the matrix.
Contact Laws of Carbon/Epoxy Laminated Composite Plates
Authors: Liou W. J.
Published: July 2017

A systematic investigation of the contact force and indentation between the carbon/epoxy symmetric cross-ply laminated composite plate and the rigid steel cylinder with spherical head was conducted by performing the static indentation test. The relations of the contact forces and indentations were processed by the method of least squares to establish the contact law between the laminated composite plate and the steel cylinder. The effects of the laminate thickness, ply orientations and the diameter of the indenters on the contact behavior were also investigated. The contact law can be mathematically modeled and incorporated into a finite element program to predict the impact response of the laminated composite plate.
Young's Modulus and Poisson's Ratio of an n-Phase Composite Body Reinforced with Inclined Inclusions
Authors: Sharma Rajesh , Parihar K. S.
Published: July 2017

An analysis for the distribution of stresses and strains in an n-phase composite body reinforced with different, discontinuous and inclined inclusions is presented. From this analysis the expressions for the Young's modulus and Poisson's ratio for a composite reinforced with inclined inclusions are obtained. The mixture is assumed to be homogeneous on a macroscopic scale but not necessarily isotropic. However, the phases themselves are assumed to be isotropic and homogeneous. The expressions for Young's modulus and Poisson's ratio derived here include as special cases the corresponding expressions for the problem in which the inclusions are in longitudinal direction studied earlier in the literature.
Progressive Fracture of Fiber Composite Build-Up Structures
Authors: Gotsis Pascal K. , Chamis C. C. , Minnetyan Levon
Published: July 2017

Damage progression and fracture of built-up composite structures is evaluated by using computational simulation. The objective is to examine the behavior and response of a stiffened composite (0/ ± 45/90)S6 laminate panel by simulating the damage initiation, growth, accumulation, progression and propagation to structural collapse. An integrated computer code (CODSTRAN was augmented for the simulation of the progressive damage and fracture of built-up composite structures under mechanical loading. Results show that damage initiation and progression to have significant effect on the structural response. Influence of the type of loading is investigated on the damage initiation, propagation and final fracture of the build-up composite panel.
Resinification of Alkali-Catalyzed Liquefied Phenolated Wood and its Characterization as the Novolak-Type Phenolic Resins
Authors: Maldas D. , Shiraishi N.
Published: July 2017

The reaction of wood meal with phenol resulted large amounts of non-reacted phenol, which further allowed reaction with formaldehyde. The effects of various reaction parameters for the preparation of wood-based phenolic resins on their properties have been discussed. The optimum conditions (i.e., 80% consumption of phenol) of wood-based phenolic resin preparation were found to be a formaldehyde:phenol mole ratio of 1.6:1, a pH of 2.51, a temperature of 130°C, and time 1 h. Both melt-flow behavior and molecular weight of the wood-based phenolic resins changed with the change in reaction parameters. For most cases, the melt-flow properties of the wood-based phenolic resins were close to those of commercial novolak resins. The flexural mechanical properties of wood flour-filled molded materials of wood-based phenolic resins, which were prepared at the formaldehyde:phenol mole ratios of 0.85:1 and 1.16:1, were comparable to those of commercial novolak resins. Moreover, molded wood-based phenolic resins, prepared at same mole ratios of formaldehyde:phenol, showed better resistance to immersion in water and burial in active composting soil in comparison with those prepared under other conditions. Generally, wood-based phenolic resins with higher reacted phenol had properties close to those of commercial novolak types.
Impact Fatigue of Short Glass Fiber Reinforced Polycarbonate
Authors: Ho Kye-Chyn , Hwang Jiun-Ren , Doong Ji-Liang
Published: July 2017

The present study analyzes the impact properties of polycarbonate reinforced with 0, 20 and 30 wt% short glass fiber. The specimens were prepared under various injection molding conditions, such as filling time, melting temperature and mold temperature. Impact tests were performed with a Dynatup drop weight impact tester at different impact energies (1.2, 0.16, 0.12 and 0.095 J). The fracture mechanism was examined with a scanning electron microscopy. The results indicated that the specimen reinforced with 30 wt% short glass fiber showed the highest impact energy absorbed, together with the highest impact load in single impact. The absorbed energy of 30 wt% reinforced is approximately 15% higher than that of 20 wt% reinforced and about 10 times higher than that of unreinforced polycarbonate. The polycarbonate with 30 wt% short glass fiber reinforced has the highest impact number and accumulation energy in repeated impacts. The accumulation energy is approximately 15% higher than that of 20 wt% reinforced polycarbonate. The thicker the skin layer, the stronger the interfacial adhesion. The ranking of impact number and accumulation energy is in good agreement with the distributions of the skin layer thickness in repeated impacts. The splits and tearing mechanisms dominate the single impact fracture in unreinforced polycarbonate, while the fiber pull-out and fiber breakage are the major fracture mechanisms in repeated impacts for polycarbonate composites.
Tensile Properties of Plain Weft Knitted Glass Fiber Fabric Reinforced Epoxy Composites
Authors: Ramakrishna S. , Cuong N. K. , Hamada H.
Published: July 2017

This paper describes the tensile properties and failure mechanisms of plain weft knitted glass fiber fabric reinforced epoxy composites. The composite was made by reinforcing epoxy resin with a single ply of plain weft knitted glass fiber fabric. Tensile properties were investigated in the wale and course directions of the knitted fabric. Tensile failure mechanisms were identified experimentally by in-situ recording of damage processes using a video camera and by studying fracture surfaces using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Elastic modulus was predicted using a modified rule of mixtures law incorporating reinforcement efficiency of curved fiber bundles. Tensile strength was predicted by estimating the failure strength of the fiber bundles bridging the fracture plane. Also, attempts have been made to predict tensile failure mechanisms and tensile properties using a three dimensional finite element model. The results of analytical and finite element model were compared with the experimental results.
Velocity Profiles in the NIP Region of a Co-Rotating Twin-Screw Extruder: Transitions between Forward and Reverse Elements
Authors: Chandrasekaran Murali , Karwe Mukund V.
Published: July 2017

Laser Doppler Anemometry (LDA) was used to map velocity distributions in the nip region of a co-rotating twin-screw extruder. Axial and normal components of velocity were measured at 90 rpm for heavy corn syrup in a section having a reverse element between forward conveying elements. Flow towards the hopper was seen only in the nip region of the reversing section. The flow was seen to adjust to the change in direction of pitch within 4-5 mm, axially.
A Simple Comparison of Macroscopic Failure Criteria for Advanced Fiber Reinforced Composites
Authors: Yeh Hsien Yang , Kilfoy Leo T.
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this study is to compare the theoretical failure predictions of fourteen failure criteria to experimental test data based on Thornel T300/5208 graphite epoxy. This comparison was performed for nine layups, five different loads and material properties at three temperature levels. Thornel T300/5208 material system was chosen because it is well characterized and has a failure envelope typical of many other high strength carbon epoxies. This study considered only macroscopic failure criteria loaded in a quasi-static conditions; effects such as fatigue, creep, microscopic damage, through the thickness loading, compression after impact and hygrothermal effects were not considered. Only ultimate failure of the coupon specimens was compared to test data; however, the ply-by-ply failure and ply failure mode were tracked. Theoretical failure prediction and percentage difference are reported for each failure criterion at specific loadings, temperature and layups.
Compressive Strength of Composite Lattice Structures
Authors: Hou An , Gramoll Kurt
Published: July 2017

This research investigates the strength of composite lattice cylindrical and conical shells under axial compressive loads. The lattice structures are composed of circumferential and helical members, whose cross-sections are rectangular. The failure modes of both cylindrical and conical composite lattice shells are examined. New design constraints to achieve weight efficient structures with high failure loads is presented. Two main failure modes, general buckling as a shell and excessive shear stress in the members, are considered. The main emphasis is placed on the effects of geometrical configuration of the structure and the manufacturing process. Filament winding was used as the method of construction to automate the fabrication process and to minimize manufacturing costs. Numerical results are obtained by finite element analysis which are compared with experimental solutions. The motivation of the present work was to find the optimal winding pattern to which filament winding can be easily applied and still provide the highest strength to weight ratio. The final result of this research includes the numerical and experimental analysis of composite lattice cylindrical and conical shells via filament-winding. This work provides an understanding of composite lattice structures that will be useful in preliminary design of such structures.
Application of the Advanced Thermal Analysis System (ATHAS) to Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Temperature-Modulated DSC of Polymers
Authors: Wunderlich B. , Pyda M.
Published: July 2017

The Advanced THermal Analysis System (ATHAS) involves the establishment of the link between heat capacity at low temperatures and molecular, vibrational motion. This description is then used to extrapolate the vibrational heat capacities to high temperatures. Next, the measured data can be analyzed in terms of conformational mobility, of importance to assess sample properties. Broad melting and glass transitions can thus be analyzed. Modem differential scanning calorimetry, DSC, and temperature-modulated DSC, TMDSC, are used to separate reversible and irreversible processes. An effort will be made to suggest when it is possible to apply quick DSC, and when it is necessary to use the slower, but more precise and informative TMDSC.
Extensional Viscosity Modelling for Injection Molding Simulation
Authors: Brincat Paul , Talwar Kapil , Friedl Chris
Published: July 2017

Within the injection molding process the molten polymer is forced to extend as it flows through the nozzle and gates. Binding's analytical method was used to quantify an amorphous and semi-crystalline material's resistance to the extensional deformation at the high rate typically experienced in these regions. Conducting these experiments over various temperatures we are able to provide a temperature dependent extensional viscosity for the materials. Using the extensional model developed we are able to provide an improved simulation of the injection molding process.
A Rheological Model for the Prediction of Polyethylene Blown Film Properties
Authors: Kuijk E. W. , Tas P. P. , Neuteboom P.
Published: July 2017

In this paper, a model is presented that enables us to get a better understanding of the relationship between polymer type, machine parameters and blown film properties for PE. For the mechanical properties it appears that the key parameter is the stress at the freeze line. Validation of the model on different blown film lines has proven its reliability for LDPE. Furthermore, the model has been extended to binary LDPE/LLDPE blends, demonstrating its versatility for PE in general.
The Effect of Several Kinds of Oils on the Oil Resistance Behavior of Polystyrene Thermoplastic Vulcanizate
Authors: Tasaka Michihisa , Tamura Akihiro , Mori Rikizou
Published: July 2017

The oil resistance behavior of polystyrene thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs) such as polypropylene (PP)/polystyrene block copolymer (SBC) systems were investigated using a dynamic mechanical spectrometer (DMS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Testing oils used were paraffinic oil, ASTM oil #3, an automobile grease and petrol, into which all specimens were immersed at 1 000C for 72 hrs. Dynamic mechanical spectra showed that non-crosslinking segments of SBC were subjected to damage by testing oil properties. Particularly their segments seemed to be more soluble and swelled by paraffinic oil or ASTM oil #3. TEM photomicrographs of immersed specimens showed similar results.
Impact Test with Flat-Ended Impactor for Mouthguard Materials Specimen Size Effect
Authors: Kim Ho Sung , Stojcevski Sase
Published: July 2017

The effect of specimen diameter on impact force and stress is studied using a common mouthguard material, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer. A semi-empirical model to relate specimen diameter with impact force at different impact energy levels is developed. Impact tests were conducted to verify the model. It was found that experimental results are in good agreement with predictions for specimens involving small deformation, but are in less favourable agreement with those involving large and plastic deformation.
Measurement of Thermal Conductivity using TMDSC: Solution to the Heat Flow Problem
Authors: Simon Sindee L. , McKenna Gregory B.
Published: July 2017

The dependence of the apparent heat capacity obtained from quasi-isothermal temperature-modulated differential scanning calorimetry (TMDSC) experiments and the thermal conductivity is determined for several cases. The relationships are based on the solution of the heat conduction equation which gives the temperature profile in the TMDSC sample. The temperature profile is then used to calculate the sinusoidal heat flow to the sample. We compare our results with those of other researchers. We also show the effect of thermal contact resistance on the results.
Complex health conditions and mental health training
Authors: Gibson Amanda , Kuluski Kerry , Lyons Renée
Published: July 2017

How prepared are frontline service providers for dealing with mental illness in patients with multiple, complex health conditions? The aims of this study were two-fold, to gain insight into the kinds of training and education desired by frontline service providers in a healthcare setting and to compile a list of key questions for health service managers and education leaders to address based on our findings. Over 100 care providers responded to a survey. Over half of the respondents indicated no mental health training, and the majority desired increased training and support. Suggested approaches ranged from regular workshops (eg, case presentations) to systems-level strategies (eg, partnering with mental health organizations). This study provides a critical first look into what frontline service providers identify as being essential to their skill set in working with a complex population and raises important questions for healthcare managers and educators to consider in addressing this gap.
Mentoring in healthcare
Authors: Stuart Michelle , Wilson Carol
Published: July 2017

With enterprise-wide interest by physicians, management, staff, and volunteers in developing future leaders across their organization, this article describes efforts to design, implement, and evaluate an inaugural, 1-year formal mentoring program for the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital, Alberta Health Services. Evaluation surveys were analyzed highlighting critical success factors incorporating a broad, diverse mentee/mentor applicant process, well-defined mentee/mentor selection/matching criteria, and use of a formal program to support knowledge acquisition through projects, learning sessions, and presentations.
Impact of nurse practitioners in primary healthcare fee-for-service practice settings
Authors: Sun Lihong , Jackson Rachel A. , Dunne Heather , Power Victoria A.
Published: July 2017

The Nurse Practitioner (NP) role possesses a high value to Fee-For-Service (FFS) practices in the primary healthcare system. A case study evaluation of the NP roles in three FFS clinics showed positive impacts on patient satisfaction and physician experience. Physicians’ FFS expenditures increased 12% after the NP implementation. Although NP services could provide cost savings to the acute care system, financial sustainability of the NP role in FFS practice remains a challenge.
Hospital stay on acute care units for non-acute reasons
Authors: Afilalo Marc , Soucy Nathalie , Xue Xiaoqing , Colacone Antoinette , Jourdenais Emmanuelle , Boivin Jean-François
Published: July 2017

This study identifies patient risk factors present prior to an acute hospitalization that are associated with occupying acute care beds for non-acute reasons on the 30th day of a hospitalization. Data from 952 adult patients were obtained, among which 333 (35%) were evaluated as non-acute on their 30th day. Inability to move in and out of the bed, cognitive impairment, receiving home or community healthcare services prior to hospitalization, unavailable family resources, a secondary diagnosis within the mental and behavioural category, and age ≥75 years were found to increase the risk of occupying acute care beds for non-acute reasons, while patients with a feeding tube were less likely to be non-acute at day 30.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Poly(Ethylene Glycol)-Polylysine Block Copolymers as Carriers for Gene Delivery
Authors: Vanderkerken S. , Vanheede T. , Toncheva V. , Schacht E. , Wolfert M. A. , Seymour L. , Urtti A.
Published: July 2017

Different types of poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(l-lysine) PEG-PLL block copolymers were examined for their ability to form polyelectrolyte complexes with DNA, their toxicity toward red blood cells and their in vitro transfection efficiency. The complexation of the polymers with DNA was studied using the ethidium bromide fluorescence technique. All polymers complexed DNA to form particles with sizes ranging from 80 nm to 150 nm. In most cases, smaller particles were also observed, and sometimes populations of even larger particles could be detected. In vitro toxicity toward red blood cells was low. Agglutination of red blood cells with some of the noncomplexed block copolymers was observed, but the aggregates were less dense than with polylysine. Transfection efficiency of 293 cells in vitro in the presence of chloroquine was dependent upon the charge ratio of polymer/DNA. Efficient transfection was achieved for the PEG-PLL block copolymers with linear PLL blocks. On the other hand, very low transfection efficiency was obtained from the PEG-PLL with a dendritic PLL block.
Conjugation of HS-Oligopeptides with Polymeric Branched Chain Polypeptides Containing Multiple Amino Groups
Authors: Nagy Ildikó B. , Dancs Andrea , Kóczán György , Mezö Gábor , Hudecz Ferenc
Published: July 2017

For the preparation of bioconjugates containing polymeric polypeptides with well-defined structure and composition, we systematically studied 3-(2-pyridyldithio)propionic acid N-hydroxy-succinimide ester (SPDP). SPDP as amino- and thiol-reactive heterobifunctional coupling agent is mainly used for protein-based conjugates, and very little data are available on its application for the modification of polymers. In this communication, we describe the effect of polymer/oligopeptide structure and of the reaction condition on the incorporation of oligopeptides with free thiol group (CAVKDEL, CTGRGDSP) into polymeric polypeptides possessing multiple amino groups. For these studies, linear poly[l-lysine] with free ε-amino groups and its XAK-type branched polypeptide derivatives {poly[Lys(Xi-dl-Ala m)]( i < 1, m∼ 3, XAK)} either with polycationic character {X = φ (AK), X = Ser (SAK)} or with amphoteric nature {X = Glu (EAK)} were utilized. First, the polymers were modified with SPDP under various conditions, and the degree of substitution was determined. We found that the efficacy of the nucleophilic substitution of NH2 groups with SPDP depended not only on the pH and the concentration of the coupling reagent but also on the polymer composition, mainly on the p K a of the branch-terminal amino group of the polymers. SPDP-modified polymeric polypeptides were reacted with the HS-oligopeptides, and the effects of polymer/oligopeptide structure as well as the reaction conditions (pH, peptide/(SSP)polymer molar ratio) on the composition of the product were evaluated. The results suggest that acidic pH is more favorable for the thiol-disulphide exchange, and the side chain composition of the polymers had a pronounced effect while the chemical structure of oligopeptides had only moderate influence on the average degree of substitution.
Chitosan Membrane-Immobilized Urease. Kinetic Behavior in Phosphate Buffer in the pH Range 5.76-8.19
Authors: Krajewska Barbara
Published: July 2017

The effect of phosphate buffer on the kinetic behavior of jack bean urease covalently immobilized on chitosan membrane was studied in the pH range 5.76-8.19, and compared with that of the free enzyme in an attempt to elucidate the effects of heterogeneity of the system on its kinetics. The chemical inhibition by the buffer, occurring between pH 5.76 and 7.50, was found to consist of two antagonistic effects: a decrease in the intrinsic enzyme activity and a reduction in the degree of environment-related inhibition. The apparent kinetic constants of the immobilized urease: v xmax., K x M and K i,buffer exhibited both pH- and buffer concentration-dependence, anomalous as compared to the free enzyme: the optimum pH and the pK i,buffer values were displaced toward more acidic pH values, and the p K x M values were leveled off. The anomalies were gradually suppressed by increasing the buffer concentration. The anomalous behavior of chitosan membrane-immobilized urease was accounted for by a combined effect of: a) the increase in local pH on the membrane produced by both the enzymatic reaction and the electric charge of the support, and b) diffusional limitations imposed on substrate and product in the external solution.
Artificia Therio-Responsive Membrane Able to Control On-Off Switching Drug Release through Nude Mice Skin without Interference from Skin-Penetrating Enhancers
Authors: Lin Shan-Yang , Chen Ko-Shao , Lin Yih-Yih
Published: July 2017

The influence of skin-penetrating enhancers such as Azone, ethanol and propylene glycol (PG) on the on-off switching penetration behavior of salbutamol sulfate through the thermo-responsive cholesteryl oleoyl carbonate (COC)-embedded membrane with or without application to the excised nude mice skin was examined. Without the nude mice skin, gel formulations without any enhancer and with Azone showed higher drug penetration across the COC-embedded membrane than those with ethanol and propylene glycol (PG). Moreover, the on-off switching function of COC-embedded membrane still existed. These results indicate that Azone did not alter the thermo-responsive property of COC-embedded membrane. A lower penetration behavior associated with ethanol or PG was probably due to the increased solubility of salbutamol sulfate in each gel formulation and improved drug-carbopol gel interaction. The application of COC-embedded membrane to excised nude mice skin resulted in a similar on-off switching penetration behavior to the gel, but the penetration was significantly weakened compared to the gel formulation that only penetrated through the COC-embedded membrane. However, passage of salbutamol sulfate across the COC-embedded membrane applied to the excised nude mice skin was severely restricted when an enhancer was absent from the gel. Obviously, the excised skin was the predominant barrier to drug penetration. The present study suggests that skin-penetrating enhancer does not alter the structure of the COC embedded in membrane to change the thermo-responsive on-off switching penetration behavior of salbutamol sulfate from gel formulas through COC-embedded membrane.
Enzymatic Degradation of Pullulan and Pullulan Derivatives
Authors: Bruneel D. , Schacht E.
Published: July 2017

Pullulan was modified using three different methods: a) chloroformate activation and subsequent reaction with 2-hydroxypropylamine, b) succinoylation and c) partial periodate oxidation and subsequent reduction of the aldehyde groups. Degradation of pullulan and pullulan derivatives by α-amylase, β-amylase and lysosomal enzymes was investigated. It was observed that the rate of degradation decreased with increasing degree of chemical modification of the parent polysaccharide. The stability of pullulan and dextran was tested in serum and liver homogenate.
Diphenolic Monomers Derived from the Natural Amino Acid α-L-Tyrosine: An Evaluation of Peptide Coupling Techniques
Authors: Hooper Kimberly A. , Kohn Joachim
Published: July 2017

Tlyrosine-derived polycarbonates and polyarylates have recently been recognized as promising biomaterials. In these novel polymers, non-toxic desaminotyrosyl-tyrosine alkyl esters are being used as monomers in place of industrial diphenols such as Bisphenol A. The high cost and limited availability of desaminotyrosyl-tyrosine alkyl esters have prevented the large-scale preparation of these polymers. To address this problem, the following four peptide coupling techniques were explored: dicyclohexylcarbodiimide with 1-hydroxybenzotriazole hydrate (DCC/HOBt), ethyl-3-(3-dimethylamino)propyl carbodiimide hydrochloride salt (EDCI-HCl), N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) active ester, and p-nitrophenol (pNP) active ester. Desaminotyrosyl-tyrosine hexyl ester (DTH) was used as a model compound. DCC/HOBt led to a crude product that required column chromatography for purification. The water soluble coupling agent EDCI-HCl made it possible to replace column chromatography by precipitation/extraction in aqueous media. This alleviated possible environmental concerns about the use of organic solvents. Furthermore, EDCI-HC1 did not require the addition of an auxiliary nucleophile such as HOBt in the reaction mixture, The use of the NHS active ester of Dat also produced DTH of sufficient purity, but was less cost effective than EDCI-HCI. The pNP active ester produced YIH which could not be easily purified. Based on these results, the effectiveness of EDCI-HCI was verified by the 100 g synthesis of the ethyl, butyl, hexyl and octyl esters of desaminotrosyl-tyrosine. All of these monomers could be polymerized to high polymers. Overall, the EDCI-HCl mediated coupling of Dat and tyrosine alkyl esters was identified as the best method for the large-scale synthesis of the desaminotyrosyl-tyrosine alkyl esters in a cost efficient and environmentally acceptable manner.
Conjugation of Succinylated Gelatin to Soybean Trypsin Inhibitor
Authors: Shin Young-Hee , Kojima Yuichiro , Maeda Hiroshi , Otagiri Masaki
Published: July 2017

Kunitz-type soybean trypsin inhibitor (SBTI) and succinylated gelatin fragment (Suc-gel) were conjugated by using water-soluble carbodiimide, and physicochemical and biopharmaceutical properties of the conjugate (Suc-gel-SBTI) were characterized. The conjugate contains about 2.5 mol of Suc-gel with a mean molecular weight of 32,000 per mole of SBTI, based on the content of hydroxyproline. After iv injection of the radiolabeled conjugate or native SBTI into mice, it was found that native SBTI showed rapid elimination from plasma ( t½α = 2 min), whereas Suc-gel-SBTI was slowly ( t½α = 2 min) eliminated. Organ distribution of the two agents at 30 min after iv injection was different: Suc-gel-SBTI accumulated to a large extent in both the liver and the spleen, about 23.4 and 6.9%, respectively which was more than the native SBTI. Native SBTI was taken up more rapidly by the kidney (~ 45%) and excreted into the urine (~34%) before it accumulated in other organs and tissues. In addition, we evaluated the pharmacological effects of these agents in an animal model. Suc-gel-SBTI was more effective than native SBTI against trypsin-induced lethal shock in mice. This polymer-conjugated SBTI seems to exhibit better pharmacological and therapeutic properties than its native counterpart.
Enhanced Growth of Cultured Fibroblasts by a Synthetic Polyanionic Polymer
Authors: Sawa Tomohiro , Okumura Yukihisa , Sunamoro Junzo , Ding Jian L. , Ottenbrite Raphael M.
Published: July 2017

A synthetic polyanionic polymer, poly(maleic acid-alt-7,12-dioxaspiro[5,6]dodec-9-ene), exhibits mitogen-like behavior for cultured fibro-blasts. Cultures of L929 and STO fibroblasts in the presence of this polymer resulted in enhanced growth by both fibroblast cell lines. After three days, at optimum polymer concentrations, the cell numbers increased 3.7-fold for the STO cells and 1.9-fold for the L929 cells compared to the cells cultured in the same environment without the polymer. The polymer promoted this growth without any other external growth factors. This result suggests that the polymer has a direct effect on the growth of both of these fibroblast cells.
Partition of Poly(Oxyethylene)s with 5-Chloro-8-Quinolinoxyl End-Groups between 1-Octanol and Water
Authors: Angelova N. , Manolova N. , Rashkov I. , Borisova M.
Published: July 2017

Apparent partition coefficients for a series of poly(oxyethylene)s with 5-chloro-8-quinolinoxyl end-groups and different polyether chain lengths; POE*400, POE*1000, POE*1000 and POE*3000 (the subscripts show the molecular weight of the polyether chain) were determined for the system 1-octanol/water at different pHs at 37°. The partition coefficient was found to decrease with increasing polyether chain length. The substituent constants were calculated and the effect of the substituents on the partition behavior of the compounds was estimated. The antibacterial effect of POE* on gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria was found to be lower than that of CHQ. The activity of POE* slightly increased in the presence of Fe3+ ions.
Synthesis of Highly Substituted Butyryl Chitin in the Presence of Perchloric Acid
Authors: Szosland Lidla
Published: July 2017

Perchloric acid was used as a catalyst for butyrylation of krill chitin. Esterification was carried out under heterogeneous conditions using a large excess of butyric anhydride at 20°C and 40°C. The effect of catalyst concentration and duration of the reaction on molecular weight and yield of butyryl chitin was investigated. Butyryl chitin with a degree of substitution of 2 in 90% yield were obtained. These butyryl chitins were soluble in various organic solvents and formed strong transparent films and fibers. The butyryl chitin also shows good resistance to gamma irradiation.
Exo-Vivo Cytokine Inducing Activity of Hydrophobized Poly(Maleic Acid-Alt-7, 12-Dioxaspiro-[5,6]-Dodec-9-Ene) [Poly(MA-CDA)]
Authors: Suda Yasuo , Hashimoto Masahito , Yasuoka Jun-Ichi , Kusumoto Shoichi , Oku Naoto , Ding Jian L. , Ottenbrite Raphael M.
Published: July 2017

In order to confirm the immuno-stimulating activity of fractionated and hydrophobized poly(maleic acid-alt-7,12-dioxaspiro-[5,61-dodec-9-ene) [poly(MA-CDA)], we evaluated exo-vivo cytokine inducing activity of the polymers using peripheral whole blood cells. The highest inducing activity of interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α) was found with the polymer with a molecular weight of ~5,000 and containing 10 mol% aniline moiety.
Controlled Release of 17β-Estradiol from d,l-Lactide/ε-Caprolactone Copolymers
Authors: Buntner Barbara , Nowak Mariusz , Bero Maciej , Dobrzyiiski Piotr , Kasperczyk Janusz
Published: July 2017

A study of the release of β-estradiol from d,l-lactide/ε-caprolactone copolymers was performed. The copolymers were used in the form of films (in vitro) and microspheres (in vivo). The dl-lactide content was varied from 50 to 94% in the copolymers studied. It was found that an almost constant rate of β-estradiol release for about 70 days can be achieved by the application of appropriately selected material.