bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the performance of elevator group control algorithms using a three-element new paradigm
Authors: Al-Sharif Lutfi , Jaber Zaid , Hamdan Jamal , Riyal Anas
Published: June 2016

This paper presents a new paradigm for assessing the effectiveness of up-peak elevator group control algorithms. The new paradigm can be very effective in providing a mechanism for objectively assessing and comparing elevator group control algorithms. It is built around three essential components: idealised optimal benchmarks; random scenario testing; and progressive introduction of reality. An idealised optimal benchmark is the starting point for calculating an analytical upper bound for the performance of any algorithm. It provides a reference for comparing the performance of all algorithms. Random scenario testing is used to subject the elevator group controller to a randomly generated scenario (usually of passenger origin-destination pairs). The response of the group controller to a randomly generated scenario is recorded, and more scenarios are generated and added. The overall response (e.g., average of all responses) of the group control algorithm to the large number of scenarios represents an objective measure of its efficacy. The random scenario testing is first carried out under idealised or partially idealised conditions. Under the third component of the new paradigm, the conditions are gradually made more realistic and better reflective of reality. This third element is called the progressive introduction of reality.

Practical application: This paper presents to the designer of the elevator group controller a new paradigm for assessing the benchmark against which he/she is working. The designer can be confident that whatever up-peak group control algorithm he/she develops, it cannot exceed this upper benchmark. This has important practical applications in benchmarking the performance of up-peak group controllers. It can also be used by consultants and clients to mediate elevator group controller performance claims presented by elevator manufacturers.
Mythinformation in the high-tech era
Authors: Winner Langdon
Published: June 2016

The romanticization of the personal computer as a social panacea threatens to blind society to the fact that without guiding wisdom even the best tool can be misused
A New Ecological Ethos
Authors: Gardels Nathan
Published: June 2016

As the Cold War winds down and the atmosphere heats up, the environment is rising to the top of the global agenda. The number of refrigerators, not missiles, are what count now; the most urgent mission of the U2 spyplane is no longer detecting ICBMs on the ground in Russia, but ozonedepleting CFCs above the Arctic. Already, terms like “industrial disarmament” and “ecological security” are seeping into the mainstream political discourse.
Cross-Modal Correspondence Among Vision, Audition, and Touch in Natural Objects: An Investigation of the Perceptual Properties of Wood
Authors: Kanaya Shoko , Kariya Kenji , Fujisaki Waka
Published: June 2016

Certain systematic relationships are often assumed between information conveyed from multiple sensory modalities; for instance, a small figure and a high pitch may be perceived as more harmonious. This phenomenon, termed cross-modal correspondence, may result from correlations between multi-sensory signals learned in daily experience of the natural environment. If so, we would observe cross-modal correspondences not only in the perception of artificial stimuli but also in perception of natural objects. To test this hypothesis, we reanalyzed data collected previously in our laboratory examining perceptions of the material properties of wood using vision, audition, and touch. We compared participant evaluations of three perceptual properties (surface brightness, sharpness of sound, and smoothness) of the wood blocks obtained separately via vision, audition, and touch. Significant positive correlations were identified for all properties in the audition–touch comparison, and for two of the three properties regarding in the vision–touch comparison. By contrast, no properties exhibited significant positive correlations in the vision–audition comparison. These results suggest that we learn correlations between multi-sensory signals through experience; however, the strength of this statistical learning is apparently dependent on the particular combination of sensory modalities involved.
Supplemental Parenteral Nutrition Is the Key to Prevent Energy Deficits in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Oshima Taku , Heidegger Claudia‐Paula , Pichard Claude
Published: June 2016

This review emphasizes the role of a timely supplemental parenteral nutrition (PN) for critically ill patients. It contradicts the recommendations of current guidelines to avoid the use of PN, as it is associated with risk. Critical illness results in severe metabolic stress. During the early phase, inflammatory cytokines and mediators induce catabolism to meet the increased body energy demands by endogenous sources. This response is not suppressed by exogenous energy administration, and the early use of PN to reach the energy target leads to overfeeding. On the other hand, early and progressive enteral nutrition (EN) is less likely to cause overfeeding because of variable gastrointestinal tolerance, a factor frequently associated with significant energy deficit. Recent studies demonstrate that adequate feeding is beneficial during and after the intensive care unit (ICU) stay. Supplemental PN allows for timely adequate feeding, if sufficient precautions are taken to avoid overfeeding. Indirect calorimetry can precisely define the adequate energy prescription. Our pragmatic approach is to start early EN to progressively test the gut tolerance and add supplemental PN on day 3 or 4 after ICU admission, only if EN does not meet the measured energy target. We believe that supplemental PN plays a pivotal role in the achievement of adequate feeding in critically ill patients with intolerance to EN and does not cause harm if overfeeding is avoided by careful prescription, ideally based on energy expenditure measured by indirect calorimetry.
Neoliberal Education Reform and the Perpetuation of Inequality
Authors: Brathwaite Jessica
Published: June 2016

New York has some of the most segregated high schools in the country, and schools serving low-income and minority students have the lowest graduation rates. This paper discusses changes in inequality between New York City high schools during a period of neoliberal education reform. Neoliberal education reforms are intended to improve schooling through choice and accountability policies. I find that segregation has increased in the best performing schools during this era of reform, and that race and class maintain a negative impact on graduation rates despite the implementation of neoliberal policies. I argue that these policies not only fail to reduce inequality, but exacerbate and reproduce existing class and race inequalities in schooling.
Synthesis and characterization of low-CTE polyimide films containing trifluoromethyl groups with water-repellant characteristics
Authors: Chen Wei , Liu Fulin , Ji Mian , Yang Shiyong
Published: June 2016

A novel fluorinated ester-bridged aromatic diamine, bis(2-trifluoromethyl-4-aminophenyl)terephthalate (CF3-BPTP) was synthesized, which was employed to prepare a series of fluorinated ester-bridged polyimide (PFEI) films with controlled ester-bridged segments and fluorine contents in the polymer backbone. The PFEI films were prepared by copolymerization of biphenyl tetracarboxylic dianhydride as aromatic dianhydride monomer and the aromatic diamine monomer mixture consisting of p-phenylenediamine and different amounts of CF3-BPTP. Experimental results indicated that the films’ water uptakes (Wus) reduced with increasing of the CF3 groups loadings in the ester-bridged polyimide backbones while keeping the films with low enough coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE). By controlling CF3 group loadings, polyimide films with desirable combination of thermal, mechanical, and dielectric properties for application in high density and thinner flexible printed circuits (FPCs) have been obtained. Thus, polyimide films with CTE of ≤20 × 10−6 1/K (ppm/K) at 50–200°C, glass transition temperature of ≥310°C, Young’s modulus of ≥6.0 GPa, Wu of as low as 0.7 wt%, dielectric constant ( ε) of 3.3 have been obtained. The two-layer flexible copper clad laminate prepared by coating the polyimide precursor resin poly(amid acid) solution on the surface of copper foil followed by thermal imidization at elevated temperature did not show apparent curling due to its closed CTE value.
Data-driven design paradigm in engineering problems
Authors: Liu Changqing , Chen Xiaoqian
Published: June 2016

Engineering design problems can, in general, be discussed under the framework of decision making, namely engineering design decisions. Inherently, accounting for uncertainty factors is an indispensable part in these decision processes. In a sense, the goal of design decisions is to control or reduce the variational effect in decision consequences induced by many uncertainty factors, by optimizing an expected utility objective or other preference functions. In this paper, the value of data in facilitating making engineering design decisions is highlighted, and a data-driven design paradigm for practical engineering problems is proposed. The definition of data in this paradigm is elaborated first. Then the data involvement in a whole stage-based design process is investigated. An overall decision strategy for design problems under the data-driven paradigm is proposed. By a concrete satellite design example, the key ideas of the proposed data-driven design paradigm are demonstrated. Future work is also advised.
Cryptococcal meningitis in a tertiary hospital in Pretoria, mortality and risk factors – A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Hiesgen J , Schutte C , Olorunju S , Retief J
Published: June 2016

Aim

This retrospective cohort study analyzes the impact of possible risk factors on the survival chance of patients with cryptococcal meningitis. These factors include the patient’s socio-economic background, age, gender, presenting symptoms, comorbidities, laboratory findings and, in particular, non-adherence versus adherence to therapy.

Methods

Data were collected from all adult patients admitted to Kalafong Hospital with laboratory confirmed cryptococcal meningitis over a period of 24 months. We analyzed the data by the presentation of descriptive summary statistics, logistic regression was used to assess factors which showed association between outcome of measure and factor. Furthermore, multivariable logistic regression analysis using all the factors that showed significant association in the cross tabulation was applied to determine which factors had an impact on the patients’ mortality risk.

Results

A total of 87 patients were identified. All except one were HIV-positive, of which 55.2% were antiretroviral therapy naïve. A history of previous tuberculosis was given by 25 patients (28.7%) and 49 (56.3%) were on tuberculosis treatment at admission or started during their hospital stay. In-hospital mortality was 31%. Statistical analysis showed that antiretroviral therapy naïve patients had 9.9 (CI 95% 1.2–81.2, p < 0.0032) times greater odds of dying compared to those on antiretroviral therapy, with 17 from 48 patients (35.4%) dying compared with 1 out of 21 patients (4.8%) on treatment. Defaulters had 14.7 (CI 95% 1.6–131.6, p < 0.016) times greater odds of dying, with 9 from 18 patients dying (50%), compared to the non-defaulters. In addition, patients who presented with nausea and vomiting had a 6.3 (95% CI 1.7–23.1, p < 0.005) times greater odds of dying (18/47, 38.3%); this remained significant when adjusted for antiretroviral therapy naïve patients and defaulters.

Conclusion

Cryptococcal meningitis is still a common opportunistic infection in people living with HIV/AIDS resulting in hospitalization and a high mortality. Defaulting antiretroviral therapy and presentation with nausea and vomiting were associated with a significantly increased mortality risk.
Reconstructing crop yield variability in Finland: Long-term perspective of the cultivation history on the agricultural periphery since ad 760
Authors: Huhtamaa Heli , Helama Samuli
Published: June 2016

Lack of documentation on past harvest fluctuations limits the exploration of long-term trends in crop production and agricultural adaptation strategies. A long-term perspective is needed, however, to understand the wide spectrum of potential human responses to environment and climate change. Therefore, we used tree-ring density series as proxy data to reconstruct climate-mediated yield ratio (harvested grain in relation to sown) in central and northern Finland over the period ad 760–2000. The reconstruction explains 50% of the variance in recorded yield ratio variability over the calibration period (ad 1866–1921). The reconstruction illustrated several intervals of increased and reduced yield ratio over the past 13 centuries. The long-term development of the agricultural prerequisites is characterized by distinct intervals defined statistically as ad 760–1106 (highest yield ratios), 1107–1451, 1452–1694, 1695–1911 (lowest yield ratios) and 1912 onwards. The results provide insight into the establishment and development of crop cultivation in the agricultural margin. The reconstruction suggests that continuous crop cultivation was established in the study region during a favourable period of climatic conditions supporting high yields. Thereafter, the climate-mediated yield ratio declined in the long run until the turn of the 20th century. Periods of agricultural transformations, those previously demonstrated in pollen data and historical documents, followed the onsets of the low yield ratio phases indicated by our reconstruction. Thus, we suggest that ever since the establishment of crop cultivation, climate can be considered as an important factor contributing to the development of the agricultural history in the north.
Shock response of filled corrugated sandwich structures under extreme temperatures
Authors: Fahr Payam , Yazici Murat , Shukla Arun
Published: June 2016

Shock tube experiments were performed to investigate the blast response of corrugated steel cellular core sandwich panels filled with a silicone based syntactic foam at room and high temperatures. The syntactic foam filler was prepared by mixing a two-part silicone mixture with glass microspheres; its microstructure, and mechanical properties were also characterized. The syntactic foam-filled sandwich panels were loaded via air shock pressure by using the shock tube with a fixture capable of testing materials at temperatures up to 900℃. High-speed photo-optical methods, digital image correlation techniques, were used in tandem with optical band-pass filters and high intensity light sources for providing sufficient contrast at elevated temperatures. Back-face deformation images were captured using two synchronized high-speed cameras while a third camera captured the side view deformation images. The shock pressure profiles and digital image correlation analysis were used to obtain the impulse imparted to the specimen, transient deflection, in-plane strain and out-of-plane velocity of the back-face sheet. It was observed that using the syntactic foam as a filler material decreased the front face and back face deflections by 42% and 27%, respectively, as compared to the empty sandwich panel. At high temperatures, the silicone-based syntactic foam decomposes into silica, a stable and non-hazardous byproduct. The highest impulse was imparted to the specimen at room temperature and subsequently lower impulses with increasing temperatures were observed. Due to the increased ductility of steel at high temperatures, the specimens demonstrated an increase in back face deflection, in-plane strain and out-of-plane velocity with increased temperatures, with weld failure being the primary form of core damage.
Sociocultural trail within the dialogical self: I-positions, institutions, and cultural armory
Authors: Gube Jan
Published: June 2016

This paper discusses the interface of dialogical self-theory and institutional context with reference to the schooling of ethnic minorities. It proposes a more nuanced approach to identifying cultural resources within institutions that contribute to dialogical movements and positioning, thereby advancing the application of dialogical self-theory within institutionalized spaces. Drawing on sociocultural concepts of identity construction, the discussion outlines how I-positions are tethered to social practices, relationships, power, and relations within institutions. These cultural resources are highlighted because they foreground how dialogical tensions occur and transcend opposing voices within an institution itself. In providing a textual analysis of Edward Said’s encounter with a school rule that tended to suppress his Arab identity, the integrated dialogical self-theory and sociocultural approach can highlight the contours of dialogical frictions as a result of negotiation with power across an institution to arrive at a desired I-position.
Inferential statistics in Language Teaching Research: A review and ways forward
Authors: Lindstromberg Seth
Published: June 2016

This article reviews all (quasi)experimental studies appearing in the first 19 volumes (1997–2015) of Language Teaching Research ( LTR). Specifically, it provides an overview of how statistical analyses were conducted in these studies and of how the analyses were reported. The overall conclusion is that there has been a tight adherence to traditional methods and practices, some of which are suboptimal. Accordingly, a number of improvements are recommended. Topics covered include the implications of small average sample sizes, the unsuitability of p values as indicators of replicability, statistical power and implications of low power, the non-robustness of the most commonly used significance tests, the benefits of reporting standardized effect sizes such as Cohen’s d, options regarding control of the familywise Type I error rate, analytic options in pretest–posttest designs, ‘meta-analytic thinking’ and its benefits, and the mistaken use of a significance test to show that treatment groups are equivalent at pretest. An online companion article elaborates on some of these topics plus a few additional ones and offers guidelines, recommendations, and additional background discussion for researchers intending to submit to LTR an article reporting a (quasi)experimental study.
Pleasure is paramount: Adults with intellectual disabilities discuss sensuality and intimacy
Authors: Turner George W , Crane Betsy
Published: June 2016

The purpose of this qualitative case study research was to explore how adults with mild intellectual disabilities (ID) live out their social-sexual lives. Findings revealed the importance of both physical and emotional pleasure to five adults with ID. Research and educational efforts with this population have focused largely on reproduction and abuse prevention, emphasizing safety over the possibilities of human connectedness. Data sources included observations and a series of interviews. Findings in five areas – sensuality, intimacy, sexual experience, sexual attitudes, and sexual self-identity – demonstrate the richness of data that can be obtained with this population using qualitative research. Participants’ own words about their social-sexual lives are poignant, mirroring core social work pillars: self-determination and strengths perspective. Discussion includes recommendations for ways that social workers, as well as, sexuality and disability professionals can support individuals’ quality of life by addressing sexual pleasure as a key component of sexual health services.
School improvement through government agencies: Loose or tight coupling?
Authors: Bush Tony
Published: June 2016

In seeking to improve student outcomes, governments may choose to exercise direct control over schools, as in many centralised systems, or to provide frameworks for intermediate bodies to engage in improvement activities. One such body is the National College for School Leadership (NCSL), now the National College for Teaching and Leadership (NCTL) in England. The Department of Education of the South African province of Gauteng (GDE) has also chosen to implement its school improvement programmes partly through two specialist units, the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre, which focuses on maths, science and technology (MST), and the Matthew Goniwe School of Leadership and Governance (MGSLG), which specialises in school leadership, management, governance and teacher development. The purpose of this article is to report on an evaluation of the work of these two bodies, commissioned by the GDE as part of its 20th anniversary commemorations, through an analysis of relevant documents and interviews with 11 key actors in the operation of these specialist bodies. The article adopts loose coupling as its theoretical framework.
Experimental study on web crippling strength of hollow flange channels under end-one-flange and interior-one-flange load cases
Authors: Keerthan Poologanathan , Mahendran Mahen
Published: June 2016

LiteSteel beam is a hollow flange channel made from cold-formed steel using a patented manufacturing process involving simultaneous cold-forming and dual electric resistance welding. LiteSteel beams are currently used as floor joists and bearers in buildings. However, there are no appropriate design standards available due to their unique hollow flange geometry, residual stress characteristics and initial geometric imperfections arising from manufacturing processes. Recent research studies have focused on investigating the structural behaviour of LiteSteel beams under pure bending, predominant shear and combined actions. However, web crippling behaviour and strengths of LiteSteel beams still need to be examined. Therefore, an experimental study was undertaken to investigate the web crippling behaviour and strengths of LiteSteel beams under end-one-flange and interior-one-flange load cases. A total of 23 web crippling tests were performed and the results were compared with the current AS/NZS 4600 and AISI S100 design standards, which showed that the cold-formed steel design rules predicted the web crippling capacity of LiteSteel beam sections very conservatively under end-one-flange and interior-one-flange load cases. Therefore, suitably improved design equations were proposed to determine the web crippling capacity of LiteSteel beams based on experimental results. In addition, new design equations were also developed under the direct strength method format. This article presents the details of this experimental study on the web crippling behaviour and strengths of LiteSteel beams under end-one-flange and interior-one-flange load cases and the results.
Gallstone Disease and the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies
Authors: Upala S. , Sanguankeo A. , Jaruvongvanich V.
Published: June 2016

Objectives:

Gallstone disease shares certain risk factors with cardiovascular disease, particularly metabolic risk factors. Patients with gallstone disease may be at increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Several recent studies exploring the effect of gallstone disease on cardiovascular disease outcomes demonstrated inconsistent results.

Design:

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort, case–control, and cross-sectional studies that compared the risk of developing cardiovascular disease events in patients with gallstone disease versus non-gallstone disease controls. Data from each study were combined using the random-effects, generic inverse variance method of DerSimonian and Laird to calculate the pooled hazard ratio, odd ratio, and 95% confidence interval.

Results:

Data were extracted from six studies involving 176,734 cases and 803,714 controls. The pooled hazard ratio of cardiovascular events in patients with gallstone disease was 1.28 (95% confidence interval: 1.23–1.33, I2 = 42%). The pooled odd ratio of cardiovascular events in patients with gallstone disease was 1.82 (95% confidence interval: 1.47–2.24, I2 = 68%).

Conclusions:

Our study demonstrated a statistically significant increase in the risk of cardiovascular disease among patients with gallstone disease.
Research activity among UK social work academics
Authors: Teater Barbra , Lefevre Michelle , McLaughlin Hugh
Published: June 2016

The research activity of social work academics in the UK has been of interest and concern amongst academics and research funders. Multiple initiatives have been implemented to develop social work research activity, yet research by social work academics remains limited, hindered by lack of time, support infrastructures, funding and training. Through the use of a mixed-methods cross-sectional survey ( N = 200) and follow-up individual interviews ( N = 11), this study reports on the factors that were found to contribute to or impede the amount of time that social work academics reported spending on research.

Findings

The results from the survey indicated that 73% of respondents were research active. Bivariate analysis revealed that academics spent less time on research and teaching, and more time on administration than expected by their employing universities. Multivariate analysis found that less time spent on administration and teaching, more university supports, and being from a pre-1992 university predicted more time spent on research.

Applications

The findings indicate that the administrative burdens associated with teaching and assessment in social work education result in academics struggling to fit research into their busy lives, despite initiatives to raise the profile and productivity of social work research. Research support infrastructures and strategies should be reviewed in light of such findings.
Factors That Contribute to the Likeliness of Academic Recovery
Authors: Hamman Karen J.
Published: June 2016

Institutions of higher education invest a lot of resources into supporting and retaining students, and most colleges and universities offer systems of support for students who struggle academically in the form of support programs for students on academic probation. This study aimed to determine the demographic factors that potentially contribute to an individual’s likeliness to academically recover from academic probation, as well as the likeliness that they will be retained to the semester following being placed on academic probation. The students sample included in this analysis were freshman students on academic probation at five institutions within a state system of higher education. The study reviewed three years’ worth of archival data on probation students’ academic performance at these five participating institutions.
A Policy Analysis of Smoke-Free Legislation in Kentucky
Authors: Kehler Stephanie , Hahn Ellen J.
Published: June 2016

This article presents a policy analysis of proposed smoke-free legislation in Kentucky during the 2015 General Assembly. Kingdon's three streams model of agenda setting is used to analyze the failure to pass HB145. Secondhand smoke exposure and related deaths are a significant public health problem in Kentucky, a state with one of the highest smoking rates in the U.S. HB145, a comprehensive smoke-free bill, was designed to protect workers and the general public from secondhand smoke and e-cigarette aerosol in enclosed workplaces and public places, with few exemptions. The bill faced intense criticism from opponents who were concerned about violation of personal and business rights and the belief that the decision should be addressed on a local level. HB145 passed the House with amendments but failed to receive a hearing in the Senate. Failure of the smoke-free legislation was due to partisanship, fragmentation of advocacy groups, lack of political bargaining, and conflict of values. As in past years, the policy window did not open for state smoke-free legislation in 2015.
English language: A ‘tool’ for social connectedness: A study of native teens in Botswana
Authors: Mibenge Catherine
Published: June 2016

The main aim of this exploratory study was to establish how Batswana teens (natives of Botswana), who predominantly spoke English in social interactions, negotiated communication transactions with non-speakers of English. The author presents her reflections in the manner of a think piece, However, she interviewed some young Batswana to help understand how they navigated communication with locals who did not speak English. The data was then analysed for themes, recurring patterns and variations. The findings of the study revealed that participants experienced satisfactory levels of social connectedness, due to the fact that they interacted primarily with ‘their own’ – that is, others who also spoke English at home and in their immediate social settings. However, they did experience unsatisfactory levels of social connectedness with non-speakers of English. In the analysis, the experiences were found to have elicited minimal negative effects, as they were viewed as transient and often sporadic. Beyond her conclusions, the author advances the implications of Botswana being at risk of losing its ‘cultural capital’, even as these young Batswana attain and enjoy linguistic capital. At risk is a loss of language identity. New ‘slang’ references, often derogatory in nature, have also emerged, with these young people being called ‘coconuts’ or ‘Oreos’.
Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child—Calling School Nurses to Action
Authors: Galemore Cynthia A. , Bowlen Brandy , Combe Laurie G. , Ondeck Lynnette , Porter Jessica
Published: June 2016

The Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child model released in 2015 as a collaboration between associations focuses renewed attention on the importance of improved physical, emotional, and social health to student learning. The model replaces and expands upon the Coordinated School Health Model that has been widely implemented in schools since the late 1980s. NASN celebrates this new model and calls school nurses to action in advocating for the implementation of this model in their communities. This article not only introduces this new model to school nurses but shares examples of school nurse advocacy initiatives.
State-dependent Preferences in Prediction Markets and Prices as Aggregate Statistic
Authors: Khan Urmee
Published: June 2016

If traders in prediction markets have state-dependent preferences so that marginal utility of money varies across states, prices in a rational expectation equilibrium are quantile statistics of distributions that derive from both distribution of realized signals and the distribution of state-dependence parameters. As a result, even with a common prior and regardless of whether prices reveal realized signals fully or not, the interpretation of prices as posterior probabilities remains problematic.
I Communicate, Therefore I Belong
Authors: Dailey Stephanie L. , Treem Jeffrey W. , Ford Jacob S.
Published: June 2016

Although research has explored employees’ organizational identification, few scholars have investigated liminal workers’ identification. This gap is problematic because nonmembers represent organizations and their attachments may influence their work. To understand this poorly understood phenomenon, we conducted interviews with agency social media writers who were not employed by organizations they represented online. Contrary to practitioners avowing that only internal employees can communicate via social media, we found agency writers adopt multiple identification lenses, which lead to different work practices. These results contribute to organizational, stakeholder, and consumer-company identification research and help social media writers better communicate on behalf of organizations.
Violent Peers and Street Efficacy in Legally Cynical Neighborhoods
Authors: Soller Brian , Jackson Aubrey L. , Coleman Erin R.
Published: June 2016

Neighborhood scholars increasingly focus on legal cynicism—a frame through which the law and its enforcement agents are viewed as illegitimate and ineffective. We investigate how legal cynicism within the residential neighborhood and violent peers jointly inform youths’ perceived ability to safely navigate their neighborhoods—that is, their street efficacy. We propose that youth in neighborhoods with pervasive legal cynicism exhibit diminished street efficacy because they lack confidence that legal social control will benefit them. But youth in legally cynical neighborhoods who rely on an alternative social control—peer violence—may exhibit relatively more street efficacy despite lacking legal recourse. Results from multilevel analyses of data from the Project on Human Development in Chicago Neighborhoods (PHDCN) indicate that in neighborhoods with high levels of legal cynicism, youth who associate with more violent peers exhibit greater street efficacy. But in neighborhoods with low levels of legal cynicism—that is, where legal recourse is a viable social control option and violence likely entails unnecessary risks—youth with more violent peers exhibit less street efficacy. The results suggest that the consequences of peer violence are complex and depend on the extent of legal cynicism within youths’ neighborhoods. The theoretical, empirical, and policy implications of these findings are discussed.
Young Women with Eating Disorders or Disordered Eating Behaviors
Authors: Tabler Jennifer , Geist Claudia
Published: June 2016

Despite the well-documented link between eating disorders (EDs) and female infertility, it is unknown how EDs or disordered eating behaviors (DEBs) influence overall parity in early adulthood. Using longitudinal data, we examine whether EDs or DEBs during adolescence are linked to the number of children born to young women in early adulthood. We find that EDs or DEBs are associated with increased odds of having three or more children compared to no children in adulthood, even when we account for delinquency and sexual behaviors.
GATA2 regulates dendritic cell differentiation
Authors: Onodera Koichi , Fujiwara Tohru , Onishi Yasushi , Itoh-Nakadai Ari , Okitsu Yoko , Fukuhara Noriko , Ishizawa Kenichi , Shimizu Ritsuko , Yamamoto Masayuki , Harigae Hideo
Published: June 2016

Key Points

Conditional Gata2-deficient mice have profoundly reduced DC populations. Gata2 deficiency in DC progenitors reduced the expression of myeloid-related genes and increased that of T-lymphocyte–related genes.
Genome-wide analysis of pediatric-type follicular lymphoma reveals low genetic complexity and recurrent alterations of TNFRSF14 gene
Authors: Schmidt Janine , Gong Shunyou , Marafioti Teresa , Mankel Barbara , Gonzalez-Farre Blanca , Balagué Olga , Mozos Ana , Cabeçadas José , van der Walt Jon , Hoehn Daniela , Rosenwald Andreas , Ott German , Dojcinov Stefan , Egan Caoimhe , Nadeu Ferran , Ramis-Zaldívar Joan Enric , Clot Guillem , Bárcena Carmen , Pérez-Alonso Vanesa , Endris Volker , Penzel Roland , Lome-Maldonado Carmen , Bonzheim Irina , Fend Falko , Campo Elias , Jaffe Elaine S. , Salaverria Itziar , Quintanilla-Martinez Leticia
Published: June 2016

Key Points

PTFL is a monoclonal B-cell neoplasia with low genomic complexity and recurrent TNFRSF14 mutations/deletions. The genetic profiles of conventional t(14;18)− and t(14;18)+ FL are similar but distinct from PTFL.
Self-fill oxygen technology: benefits for patients, healthcare providers and the environment
Authors: Murphie Phyllis , Hex Nick , Setters Jo , Little Stuart
Published: June 2016

“Non-delivery” home oxygen technologies that allow self-filling of ambulatory oxygen cylinders are emerging. They can offer a relatively unlimited supply of ambulatory oxygen in suitably assessed people who require long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT), providing they can use these systems safely and effectively. This allows users to be self-sufficient and facilitates longer periods of time away from home. The evolution and evidence base of this technology is reported with the experience of a national service review in Scotland (UK). Given that domiciliary oxygen services represent a significant cost to healthcare providers globally, these systems offer potential cost savings, are appealing to remote and rural regions due to the avoidance of cylinder delivery and have additional lower environmental impact due to reduced fossil fuel consumption and subsequently reduced carbon emissions. Evidence is emerging that self-fill/non-delivery oxygen systems can meet the ambulatory oxygen needs of many patients using LTOT and can have a positive impact on quality of life, increase time spent away from home and offer significant financial savings to healthcare providers.

Educational aims

Provide update for oxygen prescribers on options for home oxygen provision.

Provide update on the evidence base for available self-fill oxygen technologies.

Provide and update for healthcare commissioners on the potential cost-effective and environmental benefits of increased utilisation of self-fill oxygen systems.
Best proximity point theorems for cyclic generalized proximal contractions
Authors: Abkar Ali , Moezzifar Narges , Azizi Azizollah , Shahzad Naseer
Published: June 2016

In this paper we introduce the notion of a cyclic generalized proximal contraction, and then prove some best proximity point theorems in metric spaces. We will provide examples to illustrate our results.
Complete genome sequence of Streptococcus agalactiae strain GBS85147 serotype of type Ia isolated from human oropharynx
Authors: de Aguiar Edgar Lacerda , Mariano Diego César Batista , Viana Marcus Vinícius Canário , Benevides Leandro de Jesus , de Souza Rocha Flávia , de Castro Oliveira Letícia , Pereira Felipe Luiz , Dorella Fernanda Alves , Leal Carlos Augusto Gomes , de Carvalho Alex Fiorini , Santos Gabriela Silva , Mattos-Guaraldi Ana Luiza , Nagao Prescilla Emy , de Castro Soares Siomar , Hassan Syed Shah , Pinto Anne Cybele , Figueiredo Henrique César Pereira , Azevedo Vasco
Published: June 2016

Streptococcus agalactiae, also referred to as Group B Streptococcus, is a frequent resident of the rectovaginal tract in humans, and a major cause of neonatal infection. The pathogen can also infect adults with underlying disease, particularly the elderly and immunocompromised ones. In addition, S. agalactiae is a known fish pathogen, which compromises food safety and represents a zoonotic hazard. This study provides valuable structural, functional and evolutionary genomic information of a human S. agalactiae serotype Ia (ST-103) GBS85147 strain isolated from the oropharynx of an adult patient from Rio de Janeiro, thereby representing the first human isolate in Brazil. We used the Ion Torrent PGM platform with the 200 bp fragment library sequencing kit. The sequencing generated 578,082,183 bp, distributed among 2,973,022 reads, resulting in an approximately 246-fold mean coverage depth and was assembled using the Mira Assembler v3.9.18. The S. agalactiae strain GBS85147 comprises of a circular chromosome with a final genome length of 1,996,151 bp containing 1,915 protein-coding genes, 18 rRNA, 63 tRNA, 2 pseudogenes and a G + C content of 35.48 %.
Comparing polysaccharide decomposition between the type strains Gramella echinicola KMM 6050T (DSM 19838T) and Gramella portivictoriae UST040801-001T (DSM 23547T), and emended description of Gramella echinicola Nedashkovskaya et al. 2005 emend. Shahina et al. 2014 and Gramella portivictoriae Lau et al. 2005
Authors: Panschin Irina , Huang Sixing , Meier-Kolthoff Jan P. , Tindall Brian J. , Rohde Manfred , Verbarg Susanne , Lapidus Alla , Han James , Trong Stephan , Haynes Matthew , Reddy T. B. K. , Huntemann Marcel , Pati Amrita , Ivanova Natalia N. , Mavromatis Konstantinos , Markowitz Victor , Woyke Tanja , Göker Markus , Klenk Hans-Peter , Kyrpides Nikos C. , Hahnke Richard L.
Published: June 2016

Strains of the genus Gramella (family Flavobacteriacae, phylum Bacteroidetes) were isolated from marine habitats such as tidal flat sediments, coastal surface seawater and sea urchins. Flavobacteriaceae have been shown to be involved in the decomposition of plant and algal polysaccharides. However, the potential to decompose polysaccharides may differ tremendously even between species of the same genus. Gramella echinicola KMM 6050T (DSM 19838T) and Gramella portivictoriae UST040801-001T (DSM 23547T) have genomes of similar lengths, similar numbers of protein coding genes and RNA genes. Both genomes encode for a greater number of peptidases compared to ’G. forsetii’. In contrast to the genome of ’G. forsetii’, both genomes comprised a smaller set of CAZymes. Seven polysaccharide utilization loci were identified in the genomes of DSM 19838T and DSM 23547T. Both Gramella strains hydrolyzed starch, galactomannan, arabinoxylan and hydroxyethyl-cellulose, but not pectin, chitosan and cellulose (Avicel). Galactan and xylan were hydrolyzed by strain DSM 19838T, whereas strain DSM 23547T hydrolyzed pachyman and carboxy-methyl cellulose. Conclusively, both Gramella type strains exhibit characteristic physiological, morphological and genomic differences that might be linked to their habitat. Furthermore, the identified enzymes mediating polysaccharide decomposition, are of biotechnological interest.
Anti-JAM-C therapy eliminates tumor engraftment in a xenograft model of mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Doñate Carmen , Vijaya Kumar Archana , Imhof Beat A , Matthes Thomas
Published: June 2016

Junctional adhesion molecule (JAM)-C is a member of the JAM family, expressed by a variety of different cell types, including human B lymphocytes and some B-cell lymphoma subtypes—in particular, mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). Treatment with anti-JAM-C pAbs reduces homing of human B cells to lymphoid organs in a NOD/SCID mouse model. In the present study, the role of JAM-C in the engraftment of human lymphoma B cells in mice was investigated. Administration of novel anti-JAM-C mAbs reduced tumor growth of JAM-C+ MCL cells in bone marrow, spleen, liver, and lymph nodes of mice. Treatment with anti-JAM-C antibodies significantly reduced the proliferation of JAM-C-expressing lymphoma B cells. Moreover, the binding of anti-JAM-C antibodies inhibited the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, without affecting other signaling pathways. The results identify for the first time the intracellular MAPK cascade as the JAM-C-driven signaling pathway in JAM-C+ B cells. Targeting JAM-C could constitute a new therapeutic strategy reducing lymphoma B-cell proliferation and their capacity to reach supportive lymphoid microenvironments.
Depletion of CD4+ CD25+ regulatory T cells confers susceptibility to experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in GM-CSF-deficient Csf2−/− mice
Authors: Ghosh Debjani , Curtis Alan D , Wilkinson Daniel S , Mannie Mark D
Published: June 2016

Previous studies established that GM-CSF-deficient (Csf2-deficient) mice exhibit profound resistance to experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. This study addressed whether the resistance of Csf2-deficient mice was a result of a requirement for GM-CSF in controlling the functional balance between effector and regulatory T cell subsets during experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. The main observation was that treatment with the anti-CD25 mAb PC61 rendered Csf2-deficient mice fully susceptible to severe, chronic experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, with disease incidences and severities equivalent to that of C57BL/6 mice. When both donors and recipients were treated with PC61 in a passive model of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, adoptive transfer of myelin-specific Csf2-deficient T cells into Csf2-deficient recipients resulted in a nonresolving chronic course of severe paralytic experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. The peripheral Csf2-deficient T cell repertoire was marked by elevated CD3+ T cell frequencies that reflected substantial accumulations of naïve CD44null-low CD4+ and CD8+ T cells but essentially normal frequencies of CD4+ CD25+ forkhead box P3+ T cells among the CD3+ T cell pool. These findings suggested that Csf2-deficient mice had secondary deficiencies in peripheral T cell sensitization to environmental antigens. In accordance, myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein 35–55/CFA-sensitized Csf2-deficient mice exhibited deficient peripheral sensitization to myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein, whereas pretreatment of Csf2-deficient mice with PC61 enabled the robust induction of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein-specific T cell responses in the draining lymphatics. In conclusion, the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis resistance of Csf2-deficient mice, at least in part, reflects a deficient induction of effector T cell function that cannot surmount normal regulatory T cell barriers. Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis effector responses, however, are unleashed upon depletion of regulatory CD25+ T cells.
Functional role of mucosal-associated invariant T cells in HIV infection
Authors: Saeidi Alireza , Ellegård Rada , Yong Yean K , Tan Hong Y , Velu Vijayakumar , Ussher James E , Larsson Marie , Shankar Esaki M
Published: June 2016

MAIT cells represent an evolutionarily conserved, MR1-restricted, innate-like cell subset that express high levels of CD161; have a canonical semi-invariant TCR iVα7.2; and may have an important role in mucosal immunity against various bacterial and fungal pathogens. Mature MAIT cells are CD161hiPLZFhiIL-18Rα+iVα7.2+γδ-CD3+CD8+ T cells and occur in the peripheral blood, liver, and mucosa of humans. MAIT cells are activated by a metabolic precursor of riboflavin synthesis presented by MR1 and, therefore, respond to many bacteria and some fungi. Despite their broad antibacterial properties, their functional role in persistent viral infections is poorly understood. Although there is an increasing line of evidence portraying the depletion of MAIT cells in HIV disease, the magnitude and the potential mechanisms underlying such depletion remain unclear. Recent studies suggest that MAIT cells are vulnerable to immune exhaustion as a consequence of HIV and hepatitis C virus infections and HIV/tuberculosis coinfections. HIV infection also appears to cause functional depletion of MAIT cells resulting from abnormal expression of T-bet and EOMES, and effective ART is unable to completely salvage functional MAIT cell loss. Depletion and exhaustion of peripheral MAIT cells may affect mucosal immunity and could increase susceptibility to opportunistic infections during HIV infection. Here, we review some of the important mechanisms associated with depletion and functional loss of MAIT cells and also suggest potential immunotherapeutic strategies to restore MAIT cell functions, including the use of IL-7 to restore effector functions in HIV disease.
mTOR inhibition potentiates cytotoxicity of Vγ4 γδ T cells via up-regulating NKG2D and TNF-α
Authors: Cao Guangchao , Wang Qian , Li Guangqiang , Meng Ziyu , Liu Hui , Tong Jiyu , Huang Wanjun , Liu Zonghua , Jia Yanqiong , Wei Jun , Chi Hongbo , Yang Hengwen , Zhao Liqing , Wu Zhenzhou , Hao Jianlei , Yin Zhinan
Published: June 2016

γδ T cells play a critical role in early anti-tumor immunity and perform cytotoxicity via NKG2D for recognition and multiple cytotoxic factors for tumor killing. Recent studies have demonstrated pivotal roles of mTOR-mediated metabolism in the maturation, differentiation, and effector function of diverse immune cells, including DCs, NK cells, CD4+ T cell subsets, and CD8+ T cells, but the role of mTOR signaling in γδ T cells is barely known. Here, we showed that suppressing mTOR signaling in in vitro-expanded Vγ4 γδ T cells via the mechanistic inhibitor rapamycin enhanced their cytotoxicity against multiple tumor cell lines, and these cells performed better tumor-suppressing effects upon adoptive therapy. Further investigation revealed that elevated cytotoxicity was a result of up-regulation of NKG2D and TNF-α. Moreover, rapamycin treatment significantly decreased the expression of CISH and increased pSTAT5. The inhibition of STAT5 pathways via siRNA interference or a specific inhibitor eliminated the up-regulation of NKG2D and TNF-α in rapamycin-treated Vγ4 γδ T cells. These results uncovered an important role of mTOR signaling in the cytotoxic effector function of γδ T cells and provided a potential strategy to improve γδ T cell-based cancer immunotherapy.