bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tensões e contradições nos discursos políticos sobre o combate à homofobia no contexto da escola brasileira
Authors: De Oliveira Cleide Ester , Pereira Alberto Maria de Fatima , Borges Bittencourt Nadir de Fátima
Published: September 2016

(analítico): Este trabalho tem como objetivo a análise dos discursos materializados nas práticas discursivas de líderes políticos pertencentes à bancada evangélica e/ou ultraconservadores frente às políticas educacionais de combate à homofobia. Procurou-se compreender os vários discursos produzidos por esses líderes em função de iniciativas de reconhecimento da diversidade sexual e de políticas públicas de combate à homofobia no contexto da escola. Para analisar tais objetivos, ancoramo-nos na análise do discurso apresentada por Michel Foucault (1969/2008). Utilizamos como corpus os vídeos localizados no site youTube contendo o pronunciamento, a pregação, o debate ou a preleção de três líderes políticos e religiosos contrários às políticas públicas educacionais de combate à homofobia. Os resultados indicam que os sujeitos são atravessados por discursos de cunho moral, pseudocientífico, cultural e religioso que sustentam a heteronormatividade.
Female choosiness and mating opportunities in the blood-sucking bug Rhodnius prolixus
Authors: Pompilio Lorena , González Franco Martín , Chisari Lucía B. , Manrique Gabriel
Published: September 2016

We investigated the relationship between female choosiness and mating opportunities in the blood sucking bug Rhodnius prolixus. Rhodnius prolixus females exhibit active discrimination behaviour to male mating attempts which delays or prevents copulation. Female rejection behaviours can be beneficial if mating opportunities are readily available and the pool of males varies in their quality. Thus, the benefits of finding a better quality male may override the cost of rejecting a mating opportunity. Since the availability of mating opportunities is affected by the ratio of sexually active males to females, we randomly assigned focal pairs to arenas with a sex ratio biased toward males, females or without other individuals. More females exhibited rejection behaviour when conspecifics were present, however, no differences were found when the sex ratio was biased toward either males or females. We discuss possible explanations for these results and hypothesize about the adaptive function of female rejection behaviour.
On the identity of Aporcelinus granuliferus (Cobb, 1893) Andrássy, 2009 and its taxonomic consequences
Authors: Peña-Santiago Reyes , Abolafia Joaquín
Published: September 2016

The intricate taxonomical history of Aporcelinus granuliferus, the most often recorded species of its genus, is reviewed and discussed. A new concept, based on its original description, is proposed for it as type material is apparently lost although available data provide enough information to complete and update its diagnosis: 1.20-1.70 mm long body, lip region 15-16 μm broad, odontostyle 17-21 μm long, neck 309-403 μm long, pharyngeal expansion 155-214 μm long, dorsal cell mass present at pharyngo-intestinal junction, uterus simple and up to one body diam. long, V = 47-55, female tail conical with acute tip and occasionally somewhat recurved dorsad (46-55 μm; c = 24-37; c′ = 1.4-1.9), and male absent. The population studied by Thorne & Swanger (1936) is certainly not conspecific with Cobb’s original one due to significant differences in lip region breadth and odontostyle length, and belongs to a non-described species, herein characterised and named as A. brasiliensis sp. n.: 1.5-1.6 mm long body, lip region offset by constriction and 24-27 μm wide, odontostyle 25-28 μm long, neck 345-370 μm long, V = 48, tail conical (46-55 μm; c = 29-32; c′ = 1.3-1.4) with very finely rounded or acute tip and barely recurved dorsad, spicules 54-72 μm long and nine irregularly spaced ventromedian supplements with no hiatus. The three females deposited with USDANC are not identical either to those studied by Cobb or by Thorne & Swanger, and also belong to a non-described species, herein characterised as named as A. neogranuliferus sp. n.: 1.25-1.31 mm long body, lip region offset by constriction and 17.5-18.0 μm broad, odontostyle 18 μm at its ventral side, neck 312-337 μm long, pharyngeal expansion 136-168 μm long, dorsal cell mass present at level of pharyngo-intestinal junction, uterus simple and 41-48 μm long or 0.6 times corresponding body diam., V = 49-53, female tail conical (28-35 μm; c = 36-46; c′ = 0.8-1.0) with finely rounded terminus and no hyaline region. Both Dorylaimus reynecki and D. yucatanensis, hitherto considered to be identical to A. granuliferus, are valid species, being transferred to Aporcelinus as A. reynecki comb. n. and A. yucatanensis comb. n. The available information on D. micrurus and D. menzeli lacks sufficient relevant detail to characterise these species, which are therefore regarded as species inquirendae within Aporcelinus and are transferred as A. micrurus comb. n. and A. menzeli comb. n. The true identity of other records of A. granuliferus is analysed and discussed in the light of the new concept of the taxon.
Three novel species of Bacillariophyta (Diatoms) belonging to Aulacoseira and Lindavia from the Pliocene Hadar Formation, Afar Depression of Ethiopia
Authors: MOHAN JOSEPH , STONE JEFFERY R. , CAMPISANO CHRISTOPHER J
Published: September 2016

Paleolake Hadar was an expansive lake in the lower Awash Valley of Ethiopia’s Afar Depression that existed periodically through the Late Pliocene. The sedimentary deposits from this ancient lake (Hadar Formation) have broad importance because a significant number of hominin fossils have been recovered from the formation. Samples of the Hadar Formation lacustrine sequence were collected from sediment cores extracted as part of the Hominin Sites and Paleolakes Drilling Project (HSPDP). A paleoecological study of the HSPDP Northern Awash (Hadar Formation) material has unearthed three novel species of Bacillariophyta (diatoms) from diatomites that appear periodically in the cores. The Hadar Formation assemblage represents a newly revealed excerpt from the evolutionary history of freshwater diatoms in East Africa during the Piacenᴢian age (2.59–3.60 Ma). The HSPDP Northern Awash diatom species are compared to previously reported diatoms from Pliocene outcrops, modern and fossil core material from Lake Malawi, and extant species. Here we describe two new species of Aulacoseira and one of Lindavia. Taxonomic treatment of two diatom varieties reported by previous researchers as Melosira are transferred into Aulacoseira herein.
Epidendra Nova Talamancana
Authors: DÍAZ-MORALES MELISSA , KARREMANS ADAM P.
Published: September 2016

Two new species of Epidendrum from the Costa Rican montane rainforest, E. hartmanniorum and E. vallis-silentii, are described, illustrated and compared with similar species. Epidendrum stolidium and E. unicallosum are reported as new records of this genus for the country.
Petroplacus gen. nov. (Bacillariophyta): a new genus of diatom from Lake Baikal
Authors: POMAZKINA GALINA , RODIONOVA YELENA , SHERBAKOVA TATYANA , WILLIAMS DAVID.M.
Published: September 2016

The valve morphology of two raphid diatom taxa from the littoral zone of Lake Baikal has been studied by means of light and electron microscopy. Their characters show obvious affinities to the genera Placoneis and Petroneis. Due to distinctive characters of the internal and external valve structure, however, the two taxa cannot be placed in either of these two genera or any other existing genus. Thus we have described the new genus Petroplacus to accommodate them. Its distinctive characters are: linear-elliptic or broadly-linear valves with protracted rostrate apices, fine radial striation including semi-regular short intercalary striae, the external straight central fissures deep in the T-shaped grooves, direct internal raphe endings and small round poroids internally covered by simple volae. Two species are included: Petroplacus lizae, the generitype, and P. tectum. To date, these species have been found only on the sandy substrate of the western shore of Lake Baikal.
Puccinia marrubii (Pucciniaceae), a new rust species on Marrubium globosum subsp. globosum from Niğde and Malatya in Turkey
Authors: KABAKTEPE ŞANLI , MUTLU BİROL , KARAKUŞ ŞÜKRÜ , AKATA ILGAZ
Published: September 2016

A new species of rust fungus, Puccinia marrubii sp. nov. is described from Turkey. The new species is the first Puccinia species to be identified on genus Marrubium (Lamiaceae). In order to determine the phylogenetic relationships of the new species, ITS region was amplified by PCR, sequenced, and analyzed. In addition to the ITS region of seven Puccinia species, P. annularis, P. jasmini, P. malvacearum, P. nigrescens, P. phlomidis, P. salviae, and P. serpylli were sequenced for the first time. Phylogenetic analyses performed by using distance, Bayesian methods confirmed that the new rust was closely related to P. serpylli, P. malvacearum, P. salviae, and P. annularis. The diagnostic morphological characteristics of the new species were discussed with the phylogenetically related species.
Exposure to Atmospheric Science in Courses at Minority-Serving Institutions
Authors: MacPhee David
Published: September 2016

One remedy proposed for the shortage of underrepresented minorities (URMs) in atmospheric science is greater collaboration between graduate programs in atmospheric science and minority-serving institutions (MSIs). However, if URMs have few opportunities to take relevant coursework at MSIs, then they are unlikely to pursue graduate study in atmospheric science and other science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. An earlier perusal of MSIs indicated that such opportunities were limited, but in the present study, a content analysis of courses offered at 180 MSIs found that 91% offered at least one course including content on atmospheric science, and that 4-yr institutions typically offered nearly four such courses. URMs who gravitate to atmospheric science careers also are influenced by courses that are inquiry based, relevant to their experiences, and emphasize discussion of implications for climate change and public policy. Half of the MSI courses related to atmospheric science at 4-yr universities incorporated some content on human–environment relationships and 11.4% focused on policy implications. Thus, most MSIs do provide opportunities for underrepresented minority students to delve into atmospheric science as well as the human dimensions of geosciences more broadly.
Religion and Culture
Authors: Cohen Adam B. , Wu Michael Shengtao , Miller Jacob
Published: September 2016

Religion is an important topic to understand in cross-cultural psychology. More theorizing and empirical work has gone into Western religions than Eastern religions. We briefly review work on cultural differences among Western religious groups, using the framework of individualism and collectivism. Such work raises questions on how religions and cultures affect each other, how diverse cultural groups are, and how confounded country and religious identities are. We then ask some of the same questions about Eastern religions and propose new questions for a cross-cultural psychology of religion, such as what counts as a religion, and whether there are nonreligious parallels of religious constructs that serve similar functions (e.g., belief in a just world [BJW], or social axiom of reward for human application). In all, we propose that a greater attention to both Western and Eastern religions in cross-cultural psychology can be illuminating regarding religion and culture.
Examining the Professional Status of Full-time Sociology Faculty in Community Colleges
Authors: Kapitulik Brian P. , Rowell Katherine R. , Smith Michelle A. , Amaya Nicole V.
Published: September 2016

In this article, we utilize national survey data to assess the professional status of full-time sociology faculty in community colleges. Traditionally, sociologists have argued that for a particular type of work to be conceptualized as a profession, it must meet certain criteria, such as: esoteric knowledge and skills, high levels of workplace autonomy, considerable authority, and a sense of altruism. More current approaches to professionalization place greater emphasis on how the social structural location and organizational features of a particular group affect their claims to professional status. We apply both the “traits” and “process models” of professions. We argue that in spite of significant structural barriers, community college sociologists do function as a professional group. This has significant implications for faculty, their students, and the discipline of sociology.
Classification Performance of Answer-Copying Indices Under Different Types of IRT Models
Authors: Zopluoglu Cengiz
Published: September 2016

Test fraud has recently received increased attention in the field of educational testing, and the use of comprehensive integrity analysis after test administration is recommended for investigating different types of potential test frauds. One type of test fraud involves answer copying between two examinees, and numerous statistical methods have been proposed in the literature to screen and identify unusual response similarity or irregular response patterns on multiple-choice tests. The current study examined the classification performance of answer-copying indices measured by the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve under different item response theory (IRT) models (one- [1PL], two- [2PL], three-parameter [3PL] models, nominal response model [NRM]) using both simulated and real response vectors. The results indicated that although there is a slight increase in the performance for low amount of copying conditions (20%), when nominal response outcomes were used, these indices performed in a similar manner for 40% and 60% copying conditions when dichotomous response outcomes were utilized. The results also indicated that the performance with simulated response vectors was almost identically reproducible with real response vectors.
Hospital Nurses’ Work Environment Characteristics and Patient Safety Outcomes: A Literature Review
Authors: Lee Seung Eun , Scott Linda D.
Published: September 2016

This integrative literature review assesses the relationship between hospital nurses’ work environment characteristics and patient safety outcomes and recommends directions for future research based on examination of the literature. Using an electronic search of five databases, 18 studies published in English between 1999 and 2016 were identified for review. All but one study used a cross-sectional design, and only four used a conceptual/theoretical framework to guide the research. No definition of work environment was provided in most studies. Differing variables and instruments were used to measure patient outcomes, and findings regarding the effects of work environment on patient outcomes were inconsistent. To clarify the relationship between nurses’ work environment characteristics and patient safety outcomes, researchers should consider using a longitudinal study design, using a theoretical foundation, and providing clear operational definitions of concepts. Moreover, given the inconsistent findings of previous studies, they should choose their measurement methodologies with care.
Assessing Nursing Students’ Clinical Competencies Using a Problem-Focused Objective Structured Clinical Examination
Authors: Zhu Xuemei , Yang Li , Lin Ping , Lu Guizhi , Xiao Ningning , Yang Shufen , Sui Shujie
Published: September 2016

The objectives of this study were to develop, implement, and evaluate an innovative modified Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) model, and to compare students’ performance of different clinical skills as assessed by standardized patients and OSCE examiners. Data were obtained from final year undergraduate students undergoing the modified OSCE as a graduation examination. Seventy-seven students rotated through four stations (nine substations). Standardized patients scored students higher than examiners in history taking (9.14 ± 0.92 vs. 8.42 ± 0.85), response to emergency event (8.88 ± 1.12 vs. 7.62 ± 1.54), executive medical orders (8.77 ± 0.96 vs. 8.25 ± 1.43), technical operation (18.21 ± 1.26 vs. 16.91 ± 1.35), nursing evaluation (4.53 ± 0.28 vs. 4.29 ± 0.52), and health education stations (13.79 ± 1.31 vs. 11.93 ± 2.25; p < .01). In addition, the results indicated that the difference between standardized patient and examiner scores for physical examination skills was nonsignificant (8.70 ± 1.18 vs. 8.80 ± 1.27; p > .05). The modified, problem-focused, and nursing process–driven OSCE model effectively assessed nursing students’ clinical competencies, and clinical and critical thinking.
Gender and age implications of extended working life policies in the US and Ireland
Authors: Ní léime Áine , Street Debra
Published: September 2016

Policies designed to extend working life and reduce pension costs have been the dominant policy response to population ageing. Such policies include increasing state pension age, flexible working and privatisation of pensions. Despite men’s and women’s typically different work-life trajectories, policymakers have paid little attention to either the differential effects of such policies on the economic well-being of older women and men, or to the implications for diverse groups of women. This article on policy, employment and pension outcomes in the US and Ireland analyses these issues, using a feminist political economy of ageing framework to assess the likely gender implications of these policy trends. It finds that existing and proposed reforms are likely to take what are already poor pension and employment outcomes for many contemporary older women and make them even worse in future. It concludes with suggested policy modifications and future avenues for research.
Limbo life in Canada’s waiting room: Asylum-seeker as queer subject
Authors: Seitz David K
Published: September 2016

This paper puts queer theory’s “subjectless critique” of identity to work in challenging the state’s biopolitical use of essential, authentic identities in asylum law and practice. It not only builds upon, but also departs from existing scholarship that calls on state actors to recognize a wider range of forms of gender and sexual diversity that make people vulnerable to persecution. By contrast, I investigate how the practices of “destination” countries produce asylums-seekers as dispossessed, deportable, precarious queers, regardless of sexual identity or practice. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork with asylum-seekers and their supporters in Toronto, Canada, I highlight the waiting room as one type of material and metaphorical space that produces asylum-seekers as liminal queer subjects. I argue that approaching queerness as precarity, rather than lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender identity or even sexual and gender diversity, provides alternative and expansive ethical horizons for queer and migration politics.
Psychometric evaluation of the Client-Centered Rehabilitation Questionnaire (CCRQ) in a large sample of German rehabilitation patients
Authors: Körner Mirjam , Dangel Hanna , Plewnia Anne , Haller Julia , Wirtz Markus A
Published: September 2016

Objective:

Structural analysis of the German translation of the “Client-Centered Rehabilitation Questionnaire” (CCRQ).

Design:

Cross-sectional multicenter study.

Setting:

Ten inpatient rehabilitation centers in Germany.

Subjects:

The CCRQ was completed by patients in the ten rehabilitation centers.

Main measures:

The psychometric analysis of the CCRQ was conducted using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis.

Results:

The CCRQ was completed by 496 patients (average age: 59 years; 59.7% women). The CCRQ’s 7-factor structure could not be confirmed. Factor analysis showed that the three latent constructs “decision-making/communication”, “self-management/empowerment”, and “psychosocial well-being” (60.73% variance explained) adequately represent patient-centeredness in medical rehabilitation assessed by the CCRQ. The scales possess good reliability (Cronbach’s α = .83 to .87) and convergent criterion validity (r = 0.48 to 0.68). The three-factorial model exhibited good local and global data fit (RMSEA: 0.063, CFI 0.962, TLI 0.954) and proved to have a better data fit than concurring models (e.g. a model assuming an underlying factor).

Conclusions:

A validated short form of the Client-Centered Rehabilitation Questionnaire, CCRQ-15, could be identified. Three scales based on 15 items allow assessing the key aspects of patient-centeredness in German medical rehabilitation.
A Prospective Clinical and Radiological Evaluation at 5 Years After Arthroscopic Matrix-Induced Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation
Authors: Ebert Jay R. , Fallon Michael , Wood David J. , Janes Gregory C.
Published: September 2016

Background:

While midterm outcomes after matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) are encouraging, the procedure permits an arthroscopic approach that may reduce the morbidity of arthrotomy and permit accelerated rehabilitation.

Hypothesis:

A significant improvement in clinical and radiological outcomes after arthroscopic MACI will exist through to 5 years after surgery.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

We prospectively evaluated the first 31 patients (15 male, 16 female) who underwent MACI via arthroscopic surgery to address symptomatic tibiofemoral chondral lesions. MACI was followed by a structured rehabilitation program in all patients. Clinical scores were administered preoperatively and at 3 and 6 months as well as 1, 2, and 5 years after surgery. These included the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), Lysholm knee scale (LKS), Tegner activity scale (TAS), visual analog scale for pain, Short Form–36 Health Survey (SF-36), active knee motion, and 6-minute walk test. Isokinetic dynamometry was used to assess peak knee extension and flexion strength and limb symmetry indices (LSIs) between the operated and nonoperated limbs. High-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed at 3 months and at 1, 2, and 5 years postoperatively to evaluate graft repair as well as calculate the MRI composite score.

Results:

There was a significant improvement ( P < .05) in all KOOS subscale scores, LKS and TAS scores, the SF-36 physical component score, pain frequency and severity, active knee flexion and extension, and 6-minute walk distance. Isokinetic knee extension strength significantly improved, and all knee extension and flexion LSIs were above 90% (apart from peak knee extension strength at 1 year). At 5 years, 93% of patients were satisfied with MACI to relieve their pain, 90% were satisfied with improving their ability to undertake daily activities, and 80% were satisfied with the improvement in participating in sport. Graft infill ( P = .033) and the MRI composite score ( P = .028) significantly improved over time, with 90% of patients demonstrating good to excellent tissue infill at 5 years. There were 2 graft failures at 5 years after surgery.

Conclusion:

The arthroscopically performed MACI technique demonstrated good clinical and radiological outcomes up to 5 years, with high levels of patient satisfaction.
High-performance epoxy-based adhesives reinforced with alumina and silica for carbon fiber composite/steel bonded joints
Authors: Jouyandeh Maryam , Moini Jazani Omid , Navarchian Amir H , Saeb Mohammad Reza
Published: September 2016

Epoxy-based adhesives reinforced with silica and alumina fillers (20, 40, and 60 phr) were prepared and successfully applied for lap-joint bonding of carbon fiber composite with steel. The mechanical properties of adhesives were assessed as different cure temperatures to find optimum cure temperature. Morphology of the reinforced epoxy adhesives was observed by optical microscopy to disclose the interplay between composite properties and distribution fashion of the silica and alumina fillers within the epoxy matrix. Thermal stability and interfacial interaction situation were explored by thermogravimetric and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analyses, respectively. Rheological behavior of the composite samples was also studied. Lap shear test was an indication for a considerable improvement of about 12% and 20%, compared to unfilled epoxy/hardener systems, for composites containing 60 phr of alumina and silica, respectively. However, the presence and population of voids in case of samples cured at elevated temperature deteriorated lap shear strength. Of note, the storage and loss modulus of the latter adhesive have been increased by 797% and 472%, respectively. Thermal stability on the basis of initial degradation temperature and char yield (> 500℃) of the assigned adhesive under N2 and air have also been enhanced. Higher performance of silica-based adhesives was mechanistically and morphologically discussed on the bedrock of formation of a 3D inter-connected network of filler particles.
Impact of Question Wording on the Measurement of Activity Limitation
Authors: Cambois Emmanuelle , Grobon Sébastien , Van Oyen Herman , Robine Jean-Marie
Published: September 2016

Objective: The Global Activity Limitation Indicator (GALI), a single question measuring disability, had been introduced in various European surveys since 2004. The complexity of its wording has been questioned. Our study compares alternative variants aiming to simplify the wording. Method: We used the Health-Related Opinion Survey run in 2014 in France ( N = 3,009). Its split sample design allows testing four variants of the questions. We analyzed the prevalence of activity limitation (AL) resulting from the four different constructs of the GALI using multinomial logistic regressions, adjusted for background variables and functional limitations (FLs). Results: The alternative GALI variants result in significantly different prevalences compared with the original question, in particular for people with FL. The current variant is more inclusive than the routed variants. Discussion: Our study suggests limited benefits of changing the GALI construct which do not outweigh the costs of breaking the established chronological series of the current variant.
Variation in the Gender Gap in Inactive and Active Life Expectancy by the Definition of Inactivity Among Older Adults
Authors: Malhotra Rahul , Chan Angelique , Ajay Shweta , Ma Stefan , Saito Yasuhiko
Published: September 2016

Objective: To assess variation in gender gap (female–male) in inactive life expectancy (IALE) and active life expectancy (ALE) by definition of inactivity. Method: Inactivity, among older Singaporeans, was defined as follows: Scenario 1—health-related difficulty in activities of daily living (ADLs); Scenario 2—health-related difficulty in ADLs/instrumental ADLs (IADLs); Scenario 3—health-related difficulty in ADLs/IADLs or non-health-related non-performance of IADLs. Multistate life tables computed IALE and ALE at age 60, testing three hypotheses: In all scenarios, life expectancy, absolute and relative IALE, and absolute ALE are higher for females (Hypothesis 1 [H1]); gender gap in absolute and relative IALE expands, and in absolute ALE, it contracts in Scenario 2 versus 1 (Hypothesis 2 [H2]); gender gap in absolute and relative IALE decreases, and in absolute ALE, it increases in Scenario 3 versus 2 (Hypothesis 3 [H3]). Results: H1 was supported in Scenarios 1 and 3 but not Scenario 2. Both H2 and H3 were supported. Discussion: Definition of inactivity influences gender gap in IALE and ALE.
Co-administration of elvitegravir/cobicistat/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine and atazanavir in treatment-experienced HIV patients
Authors: Biagi M , Badowski ME , Chiampas T , Young J , Patel M , Vaughn P
Published: September 2016

We report the use of elvitegravir 150 mg/cobicistat 150 mg/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg/emtricitabine 200 mg (EVG/COBI/TDF/FTC) once daily, in addition to once-daily atazanavir (ATV) 300 mg, in treatment-experienced patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Due to limited data available on the co-administration of these agents, our objective was to evaluate and monitor safety and efficacy of this regimen in patients who developed resistance or intolerance to conventional antiretroviral therapy (ART). This short report included offenders incarcerated in the Illinois Department of Corrections who were ≥18 years, HIV-infected, had documented antiretroviral resistance, and received EVG/COBI/TDF/FTC + ATV once daily. Based on previous ART, resistance patterns and current medications, seven patients were initiated on once-daily therapy consisting of EVG/COBI/TDF/FTC and ATV. Due to extensive resistance, two of the seven patients were also started on abacavir (ABC) 600 mg daily in addition to EVG/COBI/TDF/FTC and ATV. Of the seven patients, one had ART changed due to concerns of resistance based on a genotype, one experienced a decline in renal function that warranted a change in therapy, and one is currently virologically suppressed on a combination of EVG/COBI/TDF/FTC, ATV, and ABC. The remaining four patients remain virologically suppressed on EVG/COBI/TDF/FTC + ATV. Therapy consisting of EVG/COBI/TDF/FTC and ATV may be a viable option for some treatment-experienced HIV-infected patients. Further studies evaluating the safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics of this therapy are warranted, given the lack of information currently available.
Taxing sulphur dioxide emissions: A policy evaluation from public health perspective in China
Authors: Ling-Yun HE , Jia-Jia OU
Published: September 2016

With the rapid development of the Chinese economy, air pollution has increased in severity. Especially, sulphur dioxide (SO2) has become of major concern because it can cause serious health problems like cardiovascular diseases and acidification of some soils and water bodies. To abate SO2, tax policies may be adopted. However, to make such policies feasible, it is important for policy-makers to know the contributions of SO2 emissions by individual industries. This paper first attempts to quantify the contributions to the total amount of SO2 emitted. Secondly, we estimate, from the public health perspective, the socio-economic costs of SO2 emissions related to these industries, and then compare the impacts of different tax policies from the public health perspective on reducing SO2 emissions. Finally, multiple policy implications are outlined for the Chinese government. The results show that indirect emission tax outperform direct tax for improvements in public health, and ultimately of people's welfare. Our findings are essential for relevant policy-making in China, as well as other emerging economies.
Serum interleukin-17 in Egyptian children with systemic lupus erythematosus: is it related to pulmonary affection?
Authors: Hammad A , Osman E , Mosaad Y , Wahba M
Published: September 2016

Objective

Pulmonary involvement in paediatric systemic lupus erythematosus (pSLE) is not an uncommon finding; however, subclinical affection occurs more frequently. Many studies have reported that cytokine dysregulation as interleukin-17 (IL-17) over-expression plays a key role in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We aim to assess serum levels of IL-17 A and their association with pulmonary involvement in children with SLE.

Methods

Serum IL-17A levels – determined by solid phase sandwich ELISA – were assessed in forty-two pSLE patients and compared to 45 age-matched healthy controls. All patients were subjected to pulmonary function tests to detect subclinical pulmonary affection. High-resolution CT (HRCT) chest scan was carried out in patients with abnormal pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and those with chronic respiratory symptoms.

Results

Abnormal PFTs were found in 73% of patients; of them, only 25% had abnormal findings in HRCT chest. Serum levels of IL-17 A were significantly elevated in pSLE patients as compared to healthy controls ( p < 0.001). The serum levels of IL-17 A had a highly significant positive correlation with SLEDAI ( r = 0.811 and p < 0.001) Strong negative correlation was found between serum levels of IL-17A with both FEV1 and FVC ( p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Serum IL-17A is elevated in pSLE patients, which correlates with disease activity. IL-17 seems to have a possible role in the pathogenesis of subclinical lung affection. Abnormal PFTS may be found in pSLE patients even with normal radiology.
Parametric and penalized generalized survival models
Authors: Liu Xing-Rong , Pawitan Yudi , Clements Mark
Published: September 2016

We describe generalized survival models, where g( S( t| z)), for link function g, survival S, time t, and covariates z, is modeled by a linear predictor in terms of covariate effects and smooth time effects. These models include proportional hazards and proportional odds models, and extend the parametric Royston–Parmar models. Estimation is described for both fully parametric linear predictors and combinations of penalized smoothers and parametric effects. The penalized smoothing parameters can be selected automatically using several information criteria. The link function may be selected based on prior assumptions or using an information criterion. We have implemented the models in R. All of the penalized smoothers from the mgcv package are available for smooth time effects and smooth covariate effects. The generalized survival models perform well in a simulation study, compared with some existing models. The estimation of smooth covariate effects and smooth time-dependent hazard or odds ratios is simplified, compared with many non-parametric models. Applying these models to three cancer survival datasets, we find that the proportional odds model is better than the proportional hazards model for two of the datasets.
Effects of a Teacher Versus iPad-Facilitated Intervention on the Vocabulary of At-Risk Preschool Children
Authors: Dennis Lindsay R. , Whalon Kelly , Kraut Lisa , Herron Deborah
Published: September 2016

This study examined the effects of an adapted alternating treatments design (AATD) consisting of teacher-facilitated and iPad-facilitated instruction on at-risk preschool children’s vocabulary. Instruction was provided on 42 verbs, divided equally between treatments, across five participants over the course of 7 weeks. Dependent variables included expressive (i.e., providing a definition) and receptive (i.e., identifying the target verb from a picture menu, and yes/no questions including correct and incorrect definitions of the verb) probes of instructional targets. All five participants demonstrated increases from pretest to posttest in their expressive and receptive understanding of the verbs. Implications for research and practice are provided.
Development of an Ambulatory Clinical Pharmacy Prioritization Prediction Model for Patients With Diabetes
Authors: Lam Simon W. , Russo-Alvarez Giavanna , Cristiani Cari , Rothberg Michael B.
Published: September 2016

Background: Health care reform and the projected shortage of primary care physicians necessitate more efficient use of multidisciplinary collaboration. No studies, to date, have evaluated factors associated with treatment success among patients referred to a clinical pharmacist. Objective: To develop a prediction model using patient factors to assist in selecting patients with diabetes most likely to benefit from pharmacy interventions. Methods: A retrospective, nested case-control study was performed. A prediction model using multivariable logistic regression was developed, with model calibration and internal validation. Adult patients with diabetes who had a baseline hemoglobin A1C (A1C) ≥9%, who were consulted for collaborative pharmacy care between July 2009 and July 2014 were included. Success (cases) was defined as a decrease in A1C by 2% or a value of A1C <8% 1 year after the initial visit. Failures were those who did not achieve the A1C goal or were lost to follow-up. Results: A total of 544 unique patients were included, with 243 (44.7%) classified as clinical successes and 301 as clinical failures. Independent factors associated with success included past medical history of cerebrovascular accident and higher baseline A1C, whereas use of short-acting insulin and higher number of classes of diabetic medications at baseline corresponded with failure. A prediction model for success using these factors had an optimism-adjusted C-statistics of 0.629, with good calibration. Conclusion: Referred patients with diabetes have baseline characteristics that are predictive of clinical success. A predictive model based on those factors performed well and might be utilized to improve pharmacist efficiency in the face of constrained resources.
Siblinghood, Gender, and Families
Authors: Doron Hadas , Sharabi-Nov Adi
Published: September 2016

Research on siblinghood is relatively new and has expanded during the past decade. It deals mostly with mixed-gender siblings and does not relate to gender at all. The present study is unique in that it focuses on identical gender siblinghood, both female and male, and its relationship to aspects of siblinghood and family relations in adulthood. Eighty-nine women and 67 men from Israel participated in the study. Participants answered four self-report questionnaires: a demographic questionnaire; an Emotional Intelligence Trait Scale used to measure self-efficacy; Furman and Buhrmester’s Sibling Relationship Questionnaire; and Olson, Portner, and Lavee’s Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scale. Measures of conflict were higher in the female than in the male cohort, and cohesion was higher in the male than in the female cohort. Other findings reveal that among firstborn siblings, the level of perception of conflict is higher than among middle siblings.
Compressive Force With 2-Screw and 3-Screw Subtalar Joint Arthrodesis With Headless Compression Screws
Authors: Matsumoto Takumi , Glisson Richard R. , Reidl Markus , Easley Mark E.
Published: September 2016

Background:

Joint compression is an essential element of successful arthrodesis. Although subtalar joint compression generated by conventional screws has been quantified in the laboratory, compression obtainable with headless screws that rely on variable thread pitch to achieve bony contact has not been assessed. This study measured subtalar joint compression achieved by 2 posteriorly placed contemporary headless, variable-pitch screws, and quantified additional compression gained by placing a third screw anteriorly.

Methods:

Ten, unpaired fresh-frozen cadaveric subtalar joints were fixed sequentially using 2 diverging posterior screws (one directed into the talar dome, the other into the talar neck), 2 parallel posterior screws (both ending in the talar dome), and 2 parallel screws with an additional anterior screw inserted from the plantar calcaneus into the talar neck. Joint compression was quantified directly during screw insertion using a novel custom-built measuring device.

Results:

The mean compression generated by 2 diverging posterior screws was 246 N. Two parallel posterior screws produced 294 N of compression, and augmentation of that construct with a third, anterior screw increased compression to 345 N ( P < .05). Compression subsequent to 2-screw fixation was slightly less than that reported previously for subtalar joint fixation with 2 conventional lag screws, but was comparable when a third screw was added.

Conclusions:

Under controlled testing conditions, 2 tapered, variable-pitch screws generated somewhat less compression than previously reported for 2-screw fixation with conventional headed screws. A third screw placed anteriorly increased compression significantly.

Clinical relevance:

Because headless screws are advantageous where prominent screw heads are problematic, such as the load-bearing surface of the foot, their effectiveness compared to other screws should be established to provide an objective basis for screw selection. Augmenting fixation with an anterior screw may be desirable when conditions for fusion are suboptimal.
Development and Validation of a Brief Measure of Violent Thoughts: The Violent Ideations Scale (VIS)
Authors: Murray Aja Louise , Eisner Manuel , Ribeaud Denis
Published: September 2016

Violent ideations (VIs) have potential significance across clinical, forensic, and research contexts. They feature in dominant theories of violence, are a candidate risk factor in violence prediction, and are a potential target for therapeutic intervention. Given this, there is a need for multi-item psychometrically supported measures of VIs. We report on the development and validation of the “Violent Ideations Scale” (VIS): a brief measure of VIs. In a normative sample of N = 1,276 older adolescents, we evaluated the dimensionality, sex invariance, concurrent validity, and discriminative power of the VIS. The VIS showed unidimensionality, minor measurement differences across males and females, correlated well with a preexisting measure of VIs and showed a strong relation to criminal violence. These features support the use of the VIS as a research tool and as a possible source of information regarding violence risk in clinical and forensic settings.
Finite-time observer-based backstepping control of a flexible launch vehicle
Authors: Duraffourg Elodie , Burlion Laurent , Ahmed-Ali Tarek
Published: September 2016

In this paper, a longitudinal model of a space launch vehicle was developed using the Lagrange mechanism and a free–free Euler–Bernoulli beam model. The aim was to propose a model including one flexible mode plus a nonlinear aerodynamic coefficient for nonlinear control design. We then studied the output feedback problem raised by using such a nonlinear model. The main achievement is to propose a new finite-time state observer when the measured outputs are corrupted by an unidentified flexible mode. This effect may destabilize a classical backstepping control law applied to the rigid model. To achieve this, a backstepping control law was redesigned to damp out the flexible mode, once measured and characterized. Hence a new adaptive finite time observer was developed. Closed-loop simulations show the effectiveness of the observer in combination with a redesigned backstepping control law when sensors and the launcher nozzle are collocated.
The performance of embedded fiber Bragg grating sensors for monitoring failure modes of foam cored sandwich structures under flexural loads
Authors: Kocaman ES , Yilmaz C , Deniz A , Yildiz M
Published: September 2016

In this study, failure modes of foam core sandwich composites are investigated by using embedded Fiber Bragg Grating sensors. Sandwich specimens with Fiber Bragg Grating sensors, embedded inside the face sheet, are manufactured using vacuum infusion process and then subjected to a static and a cyclic loading under the three-point bending mode. Different failure modes are monitored utilizing the wavelength shift and the spectrum of Fiber Bragg Grating sensors. It is shown that the responses of the Fiber Bragg Grating sensor differ depending on damage modes thereby making structural health monitoring of sandwich structures possible.
Progressive wear prediction of C/C composite finger seal based on ALE adaptive meshing strategy
Authors: Lu Fei , Chen Guoding , Su Hua , Wang Li’na , Zhang Yanchao
Published: September 2016

Leakage clearance between the finger seal and the rotor is influenced by the seal wear, and a large leakage clearance may cause sealing failure. The aim of this study is to develop a predictive method to simulate the progressive wear of C/C composite finger seal. A finite element model is presented for the finger seal dynamic motion. A wear model is built by calculating the local wear rate for the nodes on finger foot bottom and by introducing an Arbitrary Lagrangian Eulerian adaptive meshing strategy. Progressive wear analysis is implemented by integrating the finger dynamic motion and the wear model. The results show that the contact pressure of finger seal is decreased and the leakage clearance is increased with operating time due to progressive wear. Compared to the case that the non-woven cloth is parallel to rotor surface (O1) and the case that the non-woven cloth is perpendicular to rotor surface but the laminated direction is perpendicular to sliding direction (O2), low leakage and low wear are obtained when the non-woven cloth is perpendicular to rotor surface and the laminated direction is the same as sliding direction (O3). In addition, the wear depth of finger foot and the leakage clearance between the finger seal and rotor are both increased with pressure differential and rotor speed.
MD1003 (high-dose biotin) for the treatment of progressive multiple sclerosis: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
Authors: Tourbah Ayman , Lebrun-Frenay Christine , Edan Gilles , Clanet Michel , Papeix Caroline , Vukusic Sandra , De Sèze Jerome , Debouverie Marc , Gout Olivier , Clavelou Pierre , Defer Gilles , Laplaud David-Axel , Moreau Thibault , Labauge Pierre , Brochet Bruno , Sedel Frédéric , Pelletier Jean ,   on behalf of the MS-SPI study group
Published: September 2016

Background:

Treatment with MD1003 (high-dose biotin) showed promising results in progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) in a pilot open-label study.

Objective:

To confirm the efficacy and safety of MD1003 in progressive MS in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study.

Methods:

Patients ( n = 154) with a baseline Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score of 4.5–7 and evidence of disease worsening within the previous 2 years were randomised to 12-month MD1003 (100 mg biotin) or placebo thrice daily, followed by 12-month MD1003 for all patients. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients with disability reversal at month 9, confirmed at month 12, defined as an EDSS decrease of ⩾1 point (⩾0.5 for EDSS 6–7) or a ⩾20% decrease in timed 25-foot walk time compared with the best baseline among screening or randomisation visits.

Results:

A total of 13 (12.6%) MD1003-treated patients achieved the primary endpoint versus none of the placebo-treated patients ( p = 0.005). MD1003 treatment also reduced EDSS progression and improved clinical impression of change compared with placebo. Efficacy was maintained over follow-up, and the safety profile of MD1003 was similar to that of placebo.

Conclusion:

MD1003 achieves sustained reversal of MS-related disability in a subset of patients with progressive MS and is well tolerated.
The Pyrrhic Victory of Game Studies
Authors: Deterding Sebastian
Published: September 2016

Although game studies are widely viewed as an interdisciplinary field, it is unclear how interdisciplinary they actually are. In response, this article reads scientometric data and game studies editorials, handbooks, and introductions through the lens of interdisciplinarity studies to assess game studies’ status as an interdiscipline. It argues that game studies show drivers and hurdles typical for interdisciplines. Yet instead of establishing themselves as the broad umbrella interdiscipline of digital game research, they are becoming one narrow cultural studies multidiscipline within the growing and diversifying field of game research and education. Researchers from fields like human–computer interaction or communication are abandoning game studies venues in favor of disciplinary ones—ironically thanks to game studies legitimizing game research. This article suggests that a design orientation and cross-disciplinary boundary objects such as middle range theories could help to broaden, deepen, and secure future interdisciplinary game research.
Gastrointestinal stromal tumour of the stomach in an 8-year-old boy
Authors: Coates James DC
Published: September 2016

We report a case of an 8-year-old boy who underwent an ultrasound for investigation of a left upper quadrant mass and who was subsequently diagnosed with gastrointestinal stromal tumour of his stomach. Abdominal ultrasound showed a large cystic mass in the left upper abdomen which was further characterised by magnetic resonance imaging. At laparotomy, a large cystic lesion was excised from his stomach, which was confirmed at histology to be a gastrointestinal stromal tumour. We briefly discuss the presentation and imaging findings of paediatric gastrointestinal stromal tumour and how it differs from the adult form of the disease and treatments.