bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Embedding Secure Coding Instruction Into the IDE: Complementing Early and Intermediate CS Courses With ESIDE
Authors: Whitney Michael , Lipford Heather Richter , Chu Bill , Thomas Tyler
Published: May 2017

Many of the software security vulnerabilities that people face today can be remediated through secure coding practices. A critical step toward the practice of secure coding is ensuring that our computing students are educated on these practices. We argue that secure coding education needs to be included across a computing curriculum. We are examining an approach that complements traditional classroom instruction by turning the student’s integrated development environment into an educational resource for secure coding instruction. In this article, we report on two formative and one summative study using our tool Educational Security in the Integrated Development Environment (ESIDE) in early and intermediate computer science programming courses. Our results support the viability of this approach to increase secure programming knowledge and awareness of students and also to identify several challenges for maximizing the learning opportunities within programming courses.
Neuroimmunological Effects of Exposure to Methylmercury Forms in the Sprague-Dawley Rats. Activation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis and Lymphocyte Responsiveness
Authors: Ortega Hector G. , Lopez Manuel , Takaki Atsushi , Huang Qin-Heng , Arimura Akira , Salvaggio John E.
Published: May 2017

The effects of different methylmercury (MeHg) forms on the immune system and the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis were assessed. The lymphocyte response to Concanavalin A (Con A) stimulation, blood levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), adrenocorticotrophin hormone (ACTH), and corticosterone in the presence of different MeHg compounds was measured. Rats were exposed to methylmercury sulfide [(MeHg)2S] and methylmercury chloride (MeHgCl) at concentrations of 5 and 500 μg per liter in the drinking water for 8 or 16 weeks. Short-term exposure (8 weeks) at both, low- and high-doses of (MeHg)2S significantly enhanced lymphocyte responsiveness. MeHgCl only induced increased lymphocyte responsiveness at the low-dose exposure. Circulating levels of IL-6 after short-term exposure were increased in the MeHgCl-exposed group. The HPA axis activation was demonstrated by increased levels of ACTH and corticosterone levels. This response was predominant in low-dose exposed animals. Long-term (16 weeks) exposure resulted in a reduction in lymphocyte proliferation after both low- and high-dose MeHgCl exposures. The (MeHg)2S exposure resulted in a 3-fold increase in the proliferative response. Levels of ACTH were elevated 3-fold in the (MeHg)2S-exposed group, and no increase of corticosterone was observed in the high-dose exposed group at 8 weeks, no effect of(MeHg)2S was observed at 16 weeks. The MeHgCl exposed group showed an increase in ACTH and corticosterone levels at 8 weeks; this response was not observed at 16 weeks. These data indicate that exposure to MeHg compounds enhances T-cell proliferation in most of the cases, in a dose- and time-dependent fashion. Release of IL-6 also depends on the length of exposure. Early increases in circulating ACTH at 8 weeks also suggest activation of the HPA axis. This may contribute to the production of IL-6 and surveillance of regulatory homeostatic responses against environmental agents that mimic stress-like responses.
A Case-Control Study to Determine Risk Factors for Elevated Blood Lead Levels in Children, Idaho
Authors: Maisonet Mildred , Bove Frank J. , Kaye Wendy E.
Published: May 2017

Objective: A pair-matched, case-control study was conducted to identify if risk factors or behaviors suspected to affect childhood blood lead levels, were more prevalent among children with elevated blood lead levels living in the vicinity of a defunct mining and smelting facility. Methods: Study individuals were recruited from the 1992 Silver Valley blood lead screening participants. The cases were children with a blood lead level >10 micrograms per deciliter (μg/dL). The controls were children with a blood lead level <10 μg/dL, who were matched to cases by age and sex. Data on risk factors were obtained through personal interviews. Results: Of the variables examined, yard soil remediation showed the strongest association with changes in blood lead levels. This variable was found to be a protective factor for elevated blood lead levels in children (odds ratio, 0.28; confidence interval, 0.08–0.92). Conclusion: The results suggest that removal of lead contaminated soil from residential yards was effective in reducing blood lead levels in children.
Telephone-Guided Placement and Removal of Nicotine Monitors for the Assessment of Passive Exposure to Environmental Tobacco Smoke
Authors: Hudmon Karen Suchanek , Mullen Patricia Dolan , Nicol Laurel , Hammond S. Katharine , Sockrider Marianna M. , Sajak Tammy , Thompson June
Published: May 2017

The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of telephone-guided placement of nicotine air sampling monitors in homes of women with infants. A monitor was mailed to homes in which the mother, her partner, or both were smokers, and a research assistant telephoned the woman and guided her through proper placement of the monitor according to a standard protocol. To assess the success of the guided placement, research assistants visited the homes of 50 women at the end of the two-week air-sampling period. The placement was determined to be correct if the monitor was positioned at least 1 ft from windows, more than 1 ft from the nearest corner of the room, and more than 2 ft from ashtrays. We had a 94% success rate for monitor placement in our study population, and our cost assessment showed that guided placement and removal cost approximately one-tenth the amount of methods requiring research assistants to conduct placements onsite. These results suggest that telephone-guided placement of monitors is an acceptable, inexpensive alternative to onsite placement by research assistants.
Effect of several modifiers on the mechanical and tribological properties of phenol formaldehyde resin
Authors: Li Duxin , Hu Xi , Huang Zihua , Chen Yue , Han Hao , Xiao Chunguang
Published: May 2017

The N-polyamide 6 (N-PA6) was used as a toughening agent to improve the mechanical properties of a thermosetting phenol formaldehyde (PF) resin. Then, molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) and graphite (Gr) were added as friction modifiers to improve the tribological properties of PF resin–N-PA6 composite. In this article, it was found that PF resin with 2 wt% N-PA6 has the best performance in tensile strength (41.9 MPa) and notched Izod impact strength (3.7 kJ/m2). When MoS2 or Gr was added, tensile strength was reduced, while notched Izod impact strength increased at first and then decreased. Wear testing showed that PF resin filled by 2 wt% N-PA6 possessed both low friction coefficient (0.3794) and wear rate (7.88×10−5 mm3/Nm). MoS2 or Gr could be added to further reduce the wear rate and make the friction coefficient more stable. Scanning electron microscope test showed that N-PA6 provides a smoother friction surface.
Bathing without water, and other stories of everyday hygiene practices and risk perception in urban low-income areas: the case of Lilongwe, Malawi
Authors: Rusca Maria , Alda-Vidal Cecilia , Hordijk Michaela , Kral Nienke
Published: May 2017

Hygiene plays a key role in tipping the balance towards reduction of diarrhoeal and other infectious diseases. Yet it has often been overlooked, positioned as a “supporting rider” of water supply and sanitation services, or narrowly understood as handwashing. By focusing on handwashing infrastructure as proposed for the monitoring of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, development actors might miss the opportunity of capturing hygiene practices that are socially embedded and can act as a catalyst for change and risk reduction. We develop this argument by presenting an in-depth examination of hygiene practices in a low-income neighbourhood of Lilongwe, Malawi. Despite the high poverty levels and the constant water shortages in the area, a number of water-intensive hygiene practices are consistently carried out, proving that hygiene is central to residents’ everyday lives. Development projects should start by identifying these practices and by reflecting on the extent that these already work or can be made to work for reducing health-related risks.
Model reference adaptive control of a series–parallel hybrid electric vehicle during mode shift
Authors: Huang Kun , Xiang Changle , Langari Reza
Published: May 2017

Mode shift, as an essential transient state of series–parallel hybrid electric vehicle, might generate torque variation and intensive vehicle jerk due to the discontinuity and nonlinearity of dynamics of the powertrain topology, which results in an unpleasant driving comfort. Therefore, it is necessary to propose a proper control strategy and ensure a smooth transition process for the series–parallel hybrid electric vehicle during mode shift. This article presents a model reference adaptive controller to manage clutch engagement so as to decrease vehicle jerk and clutch frictional loss in a series–parallel hybrid electric vehicle. To design a clutch-coupled transmission system in this article, dynamic equations of a series–parallel hybrid electric vehicle are derived. To avoid the friction-induced discontinuity of clutch frictional torque during mode shift, a model reference adaptive controller based on hyper-stability theory is proposed that coordinately manages the clutch frictional torque. The simulation and the experimental results demonstrate that the proposed model reference adaptive controller in this article can effectively decrease the vehicle jerk and clutch frictional loss when compared with the conventional control method.
Tracking prediction to avoid obstacle path of agricultural unmanned aerial vehicle based on particle filter
Authors: Zhang Xihai , Fan Chengguo , Fang Junlong , Xu Suijia , Du Jiali
Published: May 2017

In this article, aiming at the track prediction to avoid obstacles of the plant-protecting unmanned aerial vehicle, first the track points of the curvature variation of non-uniform distribution according to the characters of the track curvature to avoid obstacles were calculated, and the wind model at the low altitude was built. Then, a tracking prediction method of unmanned aerial vehicle was proposed based on the algorithm of particle filter under the situation of uncertain disturbances. Finally, the track to avoid obstacles was divided into curved track and linear track using the bricks mechanism and the tracking prediction was done. The simulated result shows that proposed method can achieve the tracking prediction better with less smaller and better robustness when there are uncertain Gaussian noise, wind speed below 2 m/s as well as error and random noise of the sensor existing.
Rapid thermokarst evolution during the mid-Holocene in Central Yakutia, Russia
Authors: Ulrich Mathias , Wetterich Sebastian , Rudaya Natalia , Frolova Larisa , Schmidt Johannes , Siegert Christine , Fedorov Alexander N , Zielhofer Christoph
Published: May 2017

The reconstruction of Holocene thermokarst landform evolution is important to understand the potential impact of current global climate change on permafrost regions. A multi-proxy approach was applied to analyse the sedimentological and biogeochemical characteristics as well as pollen and lacustrine microfossils of a core profile drilled in a small pingo within a large Central Yakutian thermokarst basin (alas). Age–depth modelling with macrofossil 14C ages reveals high thermokarst deposit sedimentation rates and a complete thermokarst sequence spanning about 900 years during the mid-Holocene between ~6750 and 5870 cal. yr BP. In total, three stages of thermokarst landscape evolution have been identified. Thermokarst processes were initiated at ⩽6750 to 6500 cal. yr BP. Terrestrial conditions changed quickly to lacustrine conditions, and a thermokarst lake rapidly emerged and grew to an estimated size of 120–600 m diameter and 7.5–15 m depth during only ~150 years between ~6500 and 6350 cal. yr BP. The decline of thermokarst processes and lake decrease may have been affected by local hydrological conditions between ~6350 and 5870 cal. yr BP but ceased completely after 5870 cal. yr BP, likely due to climatic changes. Clear evidence for long-lasting and stable lacustrine conditions was not obtained. The study emphasises that short-term warming led to very active permafrost degradation and rapid but locally variable modification of alas and thermokarst evolution.
Beyond demarcation: Care ethics as an interdisciplinary field of inquiry
Authors: Leget Carlo , van Nistelrooij Inge , Visse Merel
Published: May 2017

Background:

For many years the body of literature known as ‘care ethics’ or ‘ethics of care’ has been discussed as regards its status and nature. There is much confusion and little structured discussion. The paper of Klaver et al. (2014) was written as a discussion article to which we respond.

Objectives:

We aim to contribute to the ongoing discussion about the status and nature of care ethics.

Research design:

Responding to ‘Demarcation of the ethics of care as a discipline’ by Klaver et al. (2014) and ‘Three versions of an ethics of care’ by Edwards (2009), we identified shared concerns and formulated criticisms of both texts in order to develop an alternative view.

Participants and research context:

This paper has been written from the academic context of a master in care ethics an policy.

Ethical considerations:

We have tried to be fair and respectful to the authors discussed.

Findings:

Both Klaver et al. (2014) and Edwards (2009) raise important concerns about the question if care ethics can be considered an academic discipline, and to what extend it can be seen as a moral theory. Despite shared concerns, their arguments fail to convince us in all respects.

Discussion and conclusion:

We propose to conceive care ethics as an interdisciplinary field of inquiry, incorporating a dialectical relation between empirical research and theoretical reflection. Departing from the notion of caring as a practice of contributing to a life-sustaining web, we argue that care ethics can only profit from a loosely organized academic profile that allows for flexibility and critical attitude that brings us close to the good emerging in specific practices. This asks for ways of searching for a common focus and interest that is inherently democratic and dialogical and thus beyond demarcation.
Virus detection by PCR following vaccination of naive calves with intranasal or injectable multivalent modified-live viral vaccines
Authors: Walz Paul H. , Newcomer Benjamin W. , Riddell Kay P. , Scruggs Daniel W. , Cortese Victor S.
Published: May 2017

We evaluated duration of PCR-positive results following administration of modified-live viral (MLV) vaccines to beef calves. Twenty beef calves were randomly assigned to either group 1 and vaccinated intranasally with a MLV vaccine containing bovine alphaherpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1), bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV), and bovine parainfluenza virus 3 (BPIV-3), or to group 2 and vaccinated subcutaneously with a MLV vaccine containing bovine viral diarrhea virus 1 and 2 (BVDV-1, -2), BoHV-1, BRSV, and BPIV-3. Deep nasopharyngeal swabs (NPS) and transtracheal washes (TTW) were collected from all calves, and whole blood was collected from group 2 calves and tested by PCR. In group 1, the proportions of calves that tested PCR-positive to BVDV, BoHV-1, BRSV, and BPIV-3 on any sample at any time were 0%, 100%, 100%, and 10%, respectively. In group 1 calves, 100% of calves became PCR-positive for BoHV-1 by day 3 post-vaccination and 100% of calves became PCR-positive for BRSV by day 7 post-vaccination. In group 2, the proportions of calves that tested positive to BVDV, BoHV-1, BRSV, and BPIV-3 on any sample at any time were 50%, 40%, 10%, and 0%, respectively. All threshold cycle (Ct) values were >30 in group 2 calves, irrespective of virus; however, Ct values <25 were observed in group 1 calves from PCR-positive results for BoHV-1 and BRSV. All calves were PCR-negative for all viruses after day 28. Following intranasal MLV viral vaccination, PCR results and Ct values for BRSV and BoHV-1 suggest that attempts to differentiate vaccine virus from natural infection is unreliable.
Systemic necrotizing polyarteritis in three weaned lambs from one flock
Authors: Wessels Mark , Strugnell Ben , Woodger Nick , Peat Martin , La Rocca Severina Anna , Dastjerdi Akbar
Published: May 2017

Systemic necrotizing polyarteritis was diagnosed in three 7–11-mo-old lambs from the same flock. Aneurysmal dilation and rupture of the gastroduodenal artery in 1 lamb resulted in fatal hemorrhage. All lambs had severe necrotizing vasculitis involving the small intestine, abomasum, mesentery, kidney, and heart with concurrent lymphocytic enteritis. Immunohistochemistry for T- and B-lymphocytes and macrophages found a T-cell– and macrophage-dominant transmural vascular infiltrate and T-cell–associated enteritis. PCR analysis for pestivirus failed to identify infection in 1 lamb, and more extensive viral microarray techniques applied to the second and third lamb failed to detect viral nucleic acid. The identification of 3 cases within 1 flock raises the possibility of a common etiology; however, no cause was established. A genetic etiology was not considered likely as not all of the lambs were related. The presence of concurrent T-lymphocyte–associated enteritis raises the possibility of an immune-mediated disease process linking the vasculitis and enteric lesions.
Membranous ventricular septal aneurysm in a black-tailed prairie dog (Cynomys ludovicianus)
Authors: Cooper Timothy K.
Published: May 2017

Ventricular septal defects are one of the most common congenital cardiac malformations in animals, and most often affect the membranous portion of the septum. These defects may rarely close spontaneously. An adult male black-tailed prairie dog ( Cynomys ludovicianus) had a smooth shiny botryoid red mass arising from the area of the septal cusp of the right atrioventricular (tricuspid) valve and membranous interventricular septum, and bulging into the right ventricular lumen. Histology and special staining demonstrated a membranous ventricular septal defect closed by the adherence of the septal cusp of the tricuspid valve to the muscular septum (so-called membranous ventricular septal aneurysm or aneurysm of the [peri]membranous ventricular septum). This is a rare finding in animals, and the histologic appearance has not been documented previously, to our knowledge.
Exploring and Listening to Chinese Classical Ensembles in General Music
Authors: Zhang Wenzhuo
Published: May 2017

Music diversity is valued in theory, but the extent to which it is efficiently presented in music class remains limited. Within this article, I aim to bridge this gap by introducing four genres of Chinese classical ensembles—Qin and Xiao duets, Jiang Nan bamboo and silk ensembles, Cantonese ensembles, and contemporary Chinese orchestras—into the general music classroom. The explanations of original cultural contexts, representative repertoire, and cultural elements embedded in each ensemble can be incorporated in a classroom as part of an exploration of classical music from China. No Chinese instruments are required in the class, since it would focus on listening and related music activities. Drawing on attentive and engaged listening, sample lessons demonstrate the use of these Chinese classic ensembles at all levels to relate the National Core Arts Standards to encourage students to perform, create, respond to, and connect with the music.
Service Design as an Approach to Implement the Value Cocreation Perspective in New Service Development
Authors: Yu Eun , Sangiorgi Daniela
Published: May 2017

Although new service development (NSD) studies have contributed to developing systematic approaches to service innovation, their product-oriented and provider-centric perspectives are limited in embracing a value cocreation concept. We investigate how Service Design, as a human-centered and creative approach to service innovation, can reframe NSD processes to implement value cocreation. Multiple case studies on Service Design projects indicate that design-centric approaches can contribute to the whole NSD process in a way that connects organizations’ managerial practices to value cocreation, in that (1) contextual and holistic understandings of user experiences can inform value propositions that better fit users’ value-in-use, (2) codesign with creative supporting tools can facilitate value cocreation by helping users better apply their own resources, (3) prototyping can optimize firms’ resource and process configuration to facilitate users’ engagement with the service, (4) aligning system actors to the user experience can organize and mobilize them to better support users’ value creation, and (5) user-centered approaches and methods can help organizational staff build long-term capability for supporting users’ value creation. Based on the link between Service Design, NSD, and value cocreation, we propose a conceptual NSD model, geared toward value cocreation.
Conductor feedback and the amateur singer: The role of criticism and praise in building choral confidence
Authors: Bonshor Michael
Published: May 2017

This article is based on the findings of a qualitative exploration of factors influencing confidence levels among adult amateur choral singers. Three focus group interviews, involving 18 singers in total, and 16 individual interviews were carried out. These provided over 40 hours of recorded verbal data, which then underwent a process of interpretative phenomenological analysis. The research aims were: to explore the lived experience of choral singers; to identify some of the main influences on their perceptions of their voices and performance ability; to highlight some of the factors affecting their confidence as singers; and to extrapolate strategies designed to manage confidence issues among amateur choral singers. The superordinate emergent themes included the impact of verbal feedback on the reported confidence levels of adult amateur choral singers. The findings indicate that some of their needs and preferences, in relation to criticism and praise from conductors, differ from those of music students in educational settings.
Political branding: A consumer perspective on Australian political parties
Authors: Grimmer Martin , Grube Dennis C
Published: May 2017

Why are voters in advanced democracies turning away from established mass parties to take their electoral chances elsewhere? This article draws on concepts from marketing scholarship, specifically branding and brand equity, to apply a ‘consumer’ lens that assesses the major parties in Australia as failing ‘brands’ being left behind by disillusioned voters. An initial sample of 200 voters were asked what words or phrases came to mind when they thought of each of four Australian federal political parties. The strength of associations for each party, elicited from this sample, was then validated on a broader sample of 1015 voters, in addition to whether the association was considered positive, neutral or negative. Data revealed distinct brand associations for each party and the extent of penetration and brand equity across subgroups of voters. We find that Australian mass parties are caught in a downward spiral of negative brand associations and low brand penetration, leading to voter dissatisfaction.
Systematic review of clinical guidance documents for autism spectrum disorder diagnostic assessment in select regions
Authors: Penner Melanie , Anagnostou Evdokia , Andoni Lana Y , Ungar Wendy J
Published: May 2017

Clinical guidance documents play an important role in ensuring access to high-quality autism spectrum disorder diagnostic assessment practices. The objective was to perform a systematic review of professional association and government clinical guidance documents for autism spectrum disorder diagnostic assessment, analyzing their quality and content. The government search was limited to English-speaking, single-payer, publicly funded health systems. A quality appraisal was conducted by two appraisers using the Appraisal of Guidelines Research and Evaluation, second edition tool. A content analysis was conducted for recommended clinical personnel and psychometric tools. The 11 documents demonstrated higher quality in Scope and Purpose (mean: 90.1, standard deviation: 7.4) and Clarity of Presentation (mean: 82.8, standard deviation: 9.4) and lower quality in Applicability (mean: 43.3, standard deviation: 23.8) and Rigor of Development (mean: 52, standard deviation: 21.9). All documents either recommended multidisciplinary team assessment or stated it was ideal. The documents varied substantially in their recommended tools and personnel for diagnostic assessment. There was little supporting evidence for team and personnel recommendations. Multiple guidance documents exist for autism spectrum disorder diagnostic assessments, with varying quality and recommendations. The substantial variation likely stems from insufficient evidence supporting assessment practices. Research is required to close the evidence gaps and inform high-quality clinical guidelines.
Management of Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm Complications via Retrograde Catheterization Through the Distal Stent-Graft Landing Zone
Authors: Zhang Xicheng , Sun Yuan , Chen Zhaolei , Jing Yuanhu , Xu Miao
Published: May 2017

Objective:

A retrograde technique through the gap between the distal stent landing zone and the iliac artery wall has been applied to treat type II endoleak after endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR). In this study, we tried to investigate its efficacy in the management of type III endoleak and intraoperative accidental events.

Methods:

We reported 2 complications of EVAR that were difficult to treat with conventional methods. One patient had a sustained type III endoleak after EVAR, and the right renal artery was accidentally sealed by a graft stent in the other patient during the operation.

Results:

Both complications were managed by the retrograde technique from the distal stent landing zone. In the first case, the endoleak was easily embolized by the retrograde catheterization technique, and in the second case, a stent was implanted in the right renal artery using the retrograde technique to restore blood flow.

Conclusion:

In some EVAR cases, the technique of retrograde catheterization through the distal stent-graft landing zone is feasible, safe, and easy to perform.
Dialogic Memory-Work as a Method to Explore the “Afterlife” of our Self-Study Doctoral Research
Authors: Pithouse-Morgan Kathleen , van Laren Linda
Published: May 2017

We are teacher educators and researchers in South Africa. In our doctoral studies we used self-study methodologies to improve our professional practice in relation to the challenges of teaching and learning in the South African HIV and AIDS context. This article demonstrates how we, as teacher educator-researchers, explored the “afterlife” of our doctoral research. We used self-selected exemplars from our own doctoral theses as research artefacts to investigate the relationship between our doctoral research and our professional development and practice. We combined memory-work and reflexive dialogue, using questions posed by a fictitious critical friend to examine our exemplars that consisted of short pieces of writing from our doctoral theses. We concluded that our dialogic memory-work method allowed for collaborative exploration of the afterlife of our doctoral research and this, in turn, facilitated our professional practice growth as teacher educator-researchers in the South African context of HIV and AIDS.
Methodological Diversity in Language Assessment Research: The Role of Mixed Methods in Classroom-Based Language Assessment Studies
Authors: Tsushima Rika
Published: May 2017

Although an epistemic change often is labeled as a shift, some researchers representing the social sciences consider this paradigm shift as a paradigm expansion (e.g., Pollack, 2007) because epistemological and methodological diversity allows researchers to address a wider range of questions. The third paradigm, mixed methods (MM) research, is claimed to provide a more holistic picture of a research problem by combining two different data sources—quantitative and qualitative—in a single study (Creswell & Plano Clark, 2007; Greene, 2007; Teddlie & Tashakkori, 2009). This article discusses how mixed methods research approaches have been used to enrich the results and to enhance the rigor of classroom-based language assessment investigations, drawing on both the language testing and assessment (hereafter, language assessment) and classroom assessment literature in second language education. The article opens with a brief overview of the methodological evolution in language assessment research. Then, focusing on MM research studies that investigated various facets of classroom-based language assessment (CBLA) practices, the main part of this article outlines a proposal of MM methodology as an appropriate methodology for research on CBLA, particularly in a context where a new form of assessment is implemented. The article closes with a discussion of challenges that MM researchers might face, and a proposal of MM research methodology as an appropriate research approach for CBLA scholars, especially in settings where both the validation of assessment and the explanation of the phenomenon are required.
Qualitative Spaces: Integrating Spatial Analysis for a Mixed Methods Approach
Authors: Rucks-Ahidiana Zawadi , Bierbaum Ariel H.
Published: May 2017

Spatial context matters for qualitative social science inquiry. Yet, the explicit and consistent integration of these analyses has largely been segregated to the spatial sciences, geography and urban planning. In this article, we present a theoretical argument for integrating spatial data in qualitative inquiry and strategies for how to triangulate spatial and qualitative data. We argue that including spatial analyses in inquiries of social phenomena enhances depth and rigor to qualitative work across the social sciences.
Kinetic simulation method of C-reactive protein in beagle dogs during acute inflammation
Authors: Kuribayashi Takashi
Published: May 2017

The half-life ( t1/2) of C-reactive protein (CRP) and its ability to stimulate weak inflammatory responses were investigated in beagle dogs. Four beagle dogs were administered 20 mg/kg indomethacin and blood was collected from the cephalic vein pre-dosing and at 24, 48, 72, 96, 144, 192, 240, 312, and 360 h post-administration. The serum concentrations of CRP were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The serum t1/2was calculated using the equation 0.693/elimination rate constant. The serum concentration of CRP beyond 192 h post-administration declined to levels in the normal range. The t1/2was 148.3 h, which is considered to be the essential t1/2of CRP. The simulation of CRP serum concentrations at arbitrary times using the elimination rate constant obtained in this study became possible.
Precursors of language development in ASC: A longitudinal single-subject study of gestures in relation to phonetic prosody
Authors: Nordgren Pia M
Published: May 2017

We longitudinally investigated the development of deictic and general accompanying gestures in one 5-year-old boy with autism spectrum condition (ASC) and intellectual disability. The investigation was performed during an intervention focusing on phonological segments. The purpose was to see whether gestures developed in conjunction with language. We found that deictic and general accompanying gestures increased during the study, despite not being trained. There was also a positive temporal correlation between deictic gestures and speech. Contrary to the expectations in this case, declarative gestures were frequent and increased, while imperative decreased during the period of intervention. Furthermore, we detected a specific kind of general accompanying non-context-sensitive gestures that may be involved in the retrieval of phonemes and syllables. Speech prosody was also analysed in relation to these gestures.
MMX® technology and its applications in gastrointestinal diseases
Authors: Nardelli Silvia , Pisani Laura Francesca , Tontini Gian Eugenio , Vecchi Maurizio , Pastorelli Luca
Published: May 2017

The Multimatrix® (MMX®) preparation MMX® is a recently obtained drug formulation developed to facilitate release of high concentrations of active drugs into the colon, with a homogeneous distribution along all colonic segments, particularly the most distal ones; the distal colonic tracts, indeed, are the most difficult to reach in significant amounts when a drug is given orally. The MMX® formulation is characterized by a lipophilic matrix dispersed in a hydrophilic structure. Indeed, in the last few years, MMX® technology has been widely used in the development of various drugs for the treatment of inflammatory and infectious gastrointestinal diseases localized in the colon. In particular, MMX® mesalamine, budesonide and parnaparin formulations have been investigated in patients with ulcerative colitis, and the first two have reached worldwide registration for the treatment of this disease. Moreover, MMX®-rifamycin is being positively tested in the treatment of colonic bacterial infections, including traveler’s diarrhea. MMX® technology is, thus, proving to be a very effective formulation for the treatment of various colonic diseases.

This effectiveness has been related not only to specific colonic delivery, but also to its ability to act in a once-daily dosage, thus favouring patients’ adherence to prescribed schedules of treatment. The effective delivery of the active molecule to the site of need in the colon is also associated with very low systemic absorption and very low rates of adverse events (AEs). In this paper, we have reviewed all clinical trials performed with an MMX®-bound drug and all possible real-life reports, in order to give an overall evaluation of MMX®.
Who Constructs the Path We Take? A Case Study of Nakatsuka Metal and Foil Company
Authors: Nishikawa Kohei
Published: May 2017

With a firm determination, the CEO of a small family owned company, operating in a stagnating market, starts to work to bring in change. Finding the situation to be tough to manage, CEO suggests appointing a consultant to support his initiatives. Rigidity of the systems and procedures followed in the past hinders his change initiatives. In every murky situation, the team always huddled together to reflect on their efforts. After all, it makes the unnoticeable problems noticeable and builds trust worthy relationships among all.
Contribution of HR Systems in Development of Ethical Climate at Workplace: A Case Study
Authors: Jha Jatinder Kumar , Varkkey Biju , Agrawal Praveen , Singh Narendra
Published: May 2017

This article elucidates the relationship between HR systems and ethical climate at workplace with primary focus on the procedure adopted for development of ethical climate, using case study of an Indian power distribution company (Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited [TPDDL]). The study categorizes TPDDL’s endeavours undertaken into two categories, explicit and implicit initiatives. Explicit ways of promoting ethics include ethics trainings, seminars on ethics, rewards and punishment policy, and mechanism of reporting ethical concerns/issues (ethics portal, whistle blower policy, IVRS, etc.). Implicit ways of creating ethical climate include HR practices, namely selective selection, training for developing interpersonal and technical skills, fair performance appraisal system and various engagement initiatives. The support and guidance of the senior management and line managers ensured successful execution of both initiatives. Results from the study suggest, over the period of time, the untiring efforts of various actors that saw the development of an ethical climate.
Ferri-obertiite from the Rothenberg quarry, Eifel volcanic complex, Germany: mineral data and crystal chemistry of a new amphibole end-member
Authors: Oberti Roberta , Boiocchi Massimo , Hawthorne Frank C. , Ball Neil A. , Blass Günter
Published: May 2017

Pink-orange crystals of a composition within the ferri-obertiite compositional space were found in vesicles in a pale beige silicate vein found from a basalt quarry at Mount Rothenberg, Eifel district, Germany. Associated minerals are potassic feldspar, alpha quartz paramorphic afterbeta quartz, eifelite (the second occurrence after the Caspar quarry at Bellerberg volcano, Eifel region), tridymite, rutile, roedderite and other amphiboles. The ideal formula of ferri-obertiite is ANaBNa2C(Mg3Fe3+Ti)TSi8O22WO2; the empirical formula derived for the holotype specimen from Mount Rothenberg from the results of electron-microprobe analysis and single-crystal structure refinement is A(Na0.76K0.22)∑0.98B(Na1.61Ca0.35Mn0.042+)∑2.00C(Mg3.58Mn0.112+Fe0.623+Ti0.664+Cr0.013+Zn0.01Ni0.01)∑5.00T(Si7.82Ti0.124+Al0.06)∑8.00O22W[O1.26F0.55(OH)0.19]∑2.00. The unit-cell dimensions are a = 9.7901(7), b = 17.9354(13), c = 5.2892(4)Å, β= 104.142(2)°, V = 900.58 (11) Å3. The space group is C2/m, Z = 2. Ferri-obertiite is biaxial (+), with α = 1.664, β = 1.680, γ = 1.722, all ±0.002 and 2V (meas.) = 66.4(3)o, 2V (calc.) = 64.7o.The strongest eight reflections in the powder X-ray pattern [d values (in Å), I, (hkl)] are: 2.704, 100, (151); 3.116, 76, (310); 3.388, 72, (131); 8.931, 72, (110); 2.529, 67, (202); 2.583, 39, (061); 2.160, 38, (261); 3.260, 37, (240). Both the mineral and thename have been approved by the Commission on New Minerals, Nomenclature and Classification of the International Mineralogical Association (IMA 2015-079); the rock specimen has been deposited at the Museo di Mineralogia, Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e dell'Ambiente, Universitàdegli Studi di Pavia, under the code 2015-02.
Human and murine splenic neutrophils are potent phagocytes of IgG-opsonized red blood cells
Authors: Meinderts Sanne M. , Oldenborg Per-Arne , Beuger Boukje M. , Klei Thomas R. L. , Johansson Johanna , Kuijpers Taco W. , Matozaki Takashi , Huisman Elise J. , de Haas Masja , van den Berg Timo K. , van Bruggen Robin
Published: May 2017

Key Points

In steady state, where no IgGs against RBCs are present, macrophages are the primary phagocytes of RBCs. In conditions where RBCs are IgG-opsonized, neutrophils can have a major effect on RBC clearance.
Home-based maintenance tele-rehabilitation reduces the risk for acute exacerbations of COPD, hospitalisations and emergency department visits
Authors: Vasilopoulou Maroula , Papaioannou Andriana I. , Kaltsakas Georgios , Louvaris Zafeiris , Chynkiamis Nikolaos , Spetsioti Stavroula , Kortianou Eleni , Genimata Sofia Antiopi , Palamidas Anastasios , Kostikas Konstantinos , Koulouris Nikolaos G. , Vogiatzis Ioannis
Published: May 2017

Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) remains grossly underutilised by suitable patients worldwide. We investigated whether home-based maintenance tele-rehabilitation will be as effective as hospital-based maintenance rehabilitation and superior to usual care in reducing the risk for acute chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations, hospitalisations and emergency department (ED) visits.

Following completion of an initial 2-month PR programme this prospective, randomised controlled trial (between December 2013 and July 2015) compared 12 months of home-based maintenance tele-rehabilitation (n=47) with 12 months of hospital-based, outpatient, maintenance rehabilitation (n=50) and also to 12 months of usual care treatment (n=50) without initial PR.

In a multivariate analysis during the 12-month follow-up, both home-based tele-rehabilitation and hospital-based PR remained independent predictors of a lower risk for 1) acute COPD exacerbation (incidence rate ratio (IRR) 0.517, 95% CI 0.389–0.687, and IRR 0.635, 95% CI 0.473–0.853), respectively, and 2) hospitalisations for acute COPD exacerbation (IRR 0.189, 95% CI 0.100–0.358, and IRR 0.375, 95% CI 0.207–0.681), respectively. However, only home-based maintenance tele-rehabilitation and not hospital-based, outpatient, maintenance PR was an independent predictor of ED visits (IRR 0.116, 95% CI 0.072–0.185).

Home-based maintenance tele-rehabilitation is equally effective as hospital-based, outpatient, maintenance PR in reducing the risk for acute COPD exacerbation and hospitalisations. In addition, it encounters a lower risk for ED visits, thereby constituting a potentially effective alternative strategy to hospital-based, outpatient, maintenance PR.
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells—a new therapeutic target to overcome resistance to cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Chesney Jason A , Mitchell Robert A , Yaddanapudi Kavitha
Published: May 2017

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are a heterogeneous population of immature myeloid cells that accumulate during pathologic conditions, such as cancer. Patients diagnosed with advanced metastatic cancers have an average survival of 12–24 mo, a survival time that hasn't changed significantly in the past 30 yr. Despite some encouraging improvements in response rates and overall survival in patients receiving immunotherapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, most patients will ultimately progress. MDSCs contribute to immunotherapeutic resistance by actively inhibiting antitumor T cell proliferation and cytotoxic activity as well as by promoting expansion of protumorigenic T regulatory cells, thereby, dampening the host immune responses against the tumor. In addition, MDSCs promote angiogenesis, tumor invasion, and metastasis. Thus, MDSCs are potential therapeutic targets in cases of multiple cancers. This review focuses on the phenotypic and functional characteristics of MDSCs and provides an overview of the mono- and combinatorial–therapeutic strategies that target MDSCs with an objective of enhancing the efficacy of cancer immunotherapies.
Depth migration as a valuable tool for prospect derisking in the Colombian Foothills
Authors: Poveda Sergio Ibanez , Patino Mario , Mathewson John
Published: May 2017

Interpreting land seismic data in the Colombian Foothills poses many challenges. Very often, the data have a low signal-to-noise ratio and the subsurface prospective structures are significantly complex. The level of uncertainty can be so high that even experienced interpreters struggle to reconcile the seismic image with their geologic models. Based on previous knowledge and “fast-track” interpretation of old 2D prestack time migration data (no 3D seismic in the area), we identified two interesting plays for further analysis: a triangular zone (play 1) and subthrust anticlines beneath the frontal fault (play 2). Derisking the different prospects associated with plays 1 and 2 required the application of prestack depth migration (PSDM), which reduce uncertainty regarding the position of the structures, their depth, and even their existence. The seismic image in play 1 structures was improved significantly with better definition of the flanks of the anticlines and the frontal closure of the structures, more coherent events, and sharper definition in fault cut-offs. Some apparent play 2 prospects, that were actually “velocity pull-up” anticlines, were corrected by the depth-migration workflow, whereas other structures experience important modifications in their geometry. In both types of plays, depth migration dramatically changed the initial assessment of prospectivity. Based on the better agreement between seismic and borehole data, significant reduction in residual moveout on final PSDM gathers and more coherent seismic images, we believe that the use of depth migration has allowed us to obtain a more accurate representation of the subsurface, and consequently a more rigorous reserves estimation. The use of PSDM was essential to understand the complexities in the prospects evaluated and the risk associated with their exploration. We consider the lessons learned in this study applicable to similar geologic environments worldwide.
“From a very early age, I had this idea about Puerto Ricanness.”
Authors: Power Margaret
Published: May 2017

José E. López discusses his childhood as an impoverished peasant in Puerto Rico and his youth as a marginalized Puerto Rican in Chicago. He then explores how key political events and movements of the 1960s, such as the Algerian revolution, the development of liberation theology, national liberation struggles, and the idea of a black nation, which he read about in Mohammad Speaks, fostered his activism in support of Puerto Rican independence. The final part of the interview explores his involvement in the independence movement, the impact the FALN had on the independence movement, and why the Puerto Rican Cultural Center developed a pro-LGBT politics.
Intra-generational protein malnutrition impairs temporal astrogenesis in rat brain
Authors: Naik Aijaz Ahmad , Patro Nisha , Seth Pankaj , Patro Ishan K.
Published: May 2017

The scanty information on astrogenesis following stressor effect, albeit imperative roles of astroglia in normal physiology and pathophysiology, incited us to assess temporal astrogenesis and astrocyte density in an intra-generational protein malnutrition (PMN) rat model. Standard immunohistochemical procedures for glial lineage markers and their intensity measurements and qRT-PCR studies were performed to reveal the spatio-temporal origin and density of astrocytes. Reduced A2B5+ glia restricted precursor population in ventricles and poor dissemination to cortex at embryonic days (E)11-14, low BLBP+ secondary radial glia in SVZ of E16 LP brains reflect compromised progenitor pooling. Contrary to large sized BLBP+ gliospheres in HP at E16, small gliospheres and discrete BLBP+ cells in LP brains evidence loss of colonization and low proliferative potential. Delayed emergence of GFAP expression, precocious astrocyte maturation and significantly reduced astrocyte number speculate impaired temporal and compromised astrogenesis within LP-F1 brains. Our findings of protein deprivation induced impairments in temporal astrogenesis, compromised density and astrocytic dysfunction, strengthen the hypothesis “astrocytes as possible drivers of neurodevelopmental disorders” and may increase our understanding of stressor associated brain development, opening up windows for effective therapeutic interventions against debilitating neurodevelopmental disorders.
Taking over the rational: fear and anxiety in children
Authors: Brown Paula
Published: May 2017

Phobias can affect even the youngest children and many of those experienced in adulthood find their roots in childhood. In this article, we look at ways of alleviating anxiety in the early years settings.
Manifesto promises must deliver
Authors: Lawson Deborah
Published: May 2017

The surprise call of a snap General Election presents an ideal opportunity to get early years policy right, but will politicians fill manifestos with unworkable promises or have they learnt their lesson?
Stories to make you think about difficult concepts
Authors: Leeper Marion
Published: May 2017

This series of articles explores modern picture books to see how they get children thinking and talking about text, and to see how they convey their ‘deep reading secrets’ to the reader – this month, thought.
Learn to look after others
Authors: Hammond Paula
Published: May 2017

We continue our series focusing on Personal, social, and emotional development with activities designed to get children into the habit of self-analysis – this month, developing emphatic and caring approaches.
Augusto Boal’s Theatre of the oppressed: democratising art for social transformation
Authors: Kina Victoria Jupp , Fernandes Kelly Cristina
Published: May 2017

Augusto Boal (1931–2009) was a Brazilian director, playwright and theorist who created Theatre of the oppressed, a methodology for social change that is now practised across the world. This article aims to provide a brief introduction to the key principles underpinning Boal’s work and an initial exploration of the potential ways in which Theatre of the oppressed can contribute to critical and radical social work practice.