bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitivity and specificity of real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, histopathology, and immunohistochemical labeling for the detection of Rift Valley fever virus in naturally infected cattle and sheep
Authors: Odendaal Lieza , Fosgate Geoffrey T. , Romito Marco , Coetzer Jacobus A. W. , Clift Sarah J.
Published: January 2014

Real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (real-time RT-PCR), histopathology, and immunohistochemical labeling (IHC) were performed on liver specimens from 380 naturally infected cattle and sheep necropsied during the 2010 Rift Valley fever (RVF) epidemic in South Africa. Sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) of real-time RT-PCR, histopathology, and IHC were estimated in a latent-class model using a Bayesian framework. The Se and Sp of real-time RT-PCR were estimated as 97.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 95.2–98.8%) and 71.7% (95% CI = 65–77.9%) respectively. The Se and Sp of histopathology were estimated as 94.6% (95% CI = 91–97.2%) and 92.3% (95% CI = 87.6–95.8%), respectively. The Se and Sp of IHC were estimated as 97.6% (95% CI = 93.9–99.8%) and 99.4% (95% CI = 96.9–100%), respectively. Decreased Sp of real-time RT-PCR was ascribed to cross-contamination of samples. Stratified analysis of the data suggested variations in test accuracy with fetuses and severely autolyzed specimens. The Sp of histopathology in fetuses (83%) was 9.3% lower than the sample population (92.3%). The Se of IHC decreased from 97.6% to 81.5% in the presence of severe autolysis. The diagnostic Se and Sp of histopathology was higher than expected, confirming the value of routine postmortem examinations and histopathology of liver specimens. Aborted fetuses, however, should be screened using a variety of tests in areas endemic for RVF, and results from severely autolyzed specimens should be interpreted with caution. The most feasible testing option for countries lacking suitably equipped laboratories seems to be routine histology in combination with IHC.
Group Mental Health Interventions in Civilian Populations in War-Conflict Areas
Authors: Farhood Laila F. , Richa Hala , Massalkhi Hanadi
Published: January 2014

Purpose: Cognitive behavioral (CB) group therapy is an effective therapeutic intervention to treat war-related trauma. The aim of this pilot study was to describe the effects of conducting CB group therapy in a civilian population exposed to war in southern Lebanon. Method: Participants presenting with psychiatric symptoms attended an 8-week CB group therapy intervention adapted to the Lebanese culture. Observations from therapists’ field notes were reviewed and grouped into commonalities. Findings: A majority of the total participants ( N = 10) reported satisfaction with the CB therapy and a decrease in symptoms. Field notes revealed positive group interactions (i.e., sharing information, cohesiveness), therapeutic benefits (i.e., symptom identification, destigmatizing mental illness, learning coping strategies), and barriers to attendance (i.e., stigma, personal constraints). Conclusion and Implications: CB group therapy is a promising intervention for civilian survivors of war trauma. Challenges to conducting such interventions in a war-conflict area are discussed. Future research and intervention planning should address challenges faced during this study to better meet mental health needs.
A Transactional Approach to “Sing” by Raposo and Lichtenheld
Authors: Berger Cardany Audrey
Published: January 2014

Tom Lichtenheld shares a new story of the power of music by illustrating Joe Raposo’s classic Sesame Street song “Sing.” In addition to lesson suggestions for general music classes, a discussion of and application to the theory of transactional reading are included.
Terms Used for People Living With HIV in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Mupenda Bavon , Duvall Sandra , Maman Suzanne , Pettifor Audrey , Holub Christina , Taylor Eboni , Rennie Stuart , Kashosi Mujalambo , Lema Mamie , Behets Frieda
Published: January 2014

For this study we conducted in-depth interviews with 29 youth living with HIV (YLWH) and key informant interviews with 8 HIV care/support providers. We describe terms used to portray people living with HIV (PLWH) in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo. Labels commonly used, mostly derogatory, described PLWH as walking corpses, dangers to others, or people deserving to die before others get infected. Blame and other accusations were directed at PLWH through anchoring or objectification. Being labeled sometimes made these youth suffer in silence, afraid to disclose their status, or avoid performing actions in public, preferring to let others do them. YLWH need psychosocial support to mitigate the harmful effects of these labels and strengthen their coping skills, whereas community, institutional, and national efforts are needed for stigma reduction.
Cultural and Ethical Considerations for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in Chinese Patients With Cancer at the End of Life
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Chen Meng-Lei , Gu Xiao-Li , Liu Ming-Hui , Cheng Wen-Wu
Published: January 2014

End-of-life (EOL) decision making is based on the values and wishes of terminally ill patients. However, little is known on the extent to which cultural factors affect personal attitudes toward life-sustaining treatments (LSTs) such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in China. This study evaluated the cultural and ethical considerations during EOL decisions and assessed the factors that affect pursuing LSTs in China. We used a case–control study design and compared their baseline characteristics with the provided EOL care and treatments. The CPR treatment among patients with cancer at EOL was affected by Chinese family traditions and Western influences. Our results reflect the need to improve EOL care and treatment in China.
Adventure Therapy With Youth
Authors: Norton Christine Lynn , Tucker Anita , Russell Keith C. , Bettmann Joanna E. , Gass Michael A. , Gillis H.L. “Lee” , Behrens Ellen
Published: January 2014

This state of knowledge article provides an overview of Adventure Therapy (AT) as it is practiced with adolescents in North America, presenting (a) current findings in AT research with adolescents, (b) critical issues in AT, (c) the need for training and professional development in AT, and (d) professionalization in AT. Implications of current findings in AT research for practitioners, researchers, and consumers of AT services are also discussed.
Finite element analyses of four-step 3D braided composite bending damage using repeating unit cell model
Authors: Wu Liwei , Gu Bohong , Sun Baozhong
Published: January 2014

This paper reports bending deformation and damage of four-step 3D braided composite materials from experimental and finite element analyses approaches. In experimental, the three-point bending deformation and damage of the braided composite materials were observed and the load–deflection curves were obtained for analyzing the bending behaviors. In finite element analyses, three types of repeating unit cell geometrical models were established to characterize the microstructures of 3D braided composite materials. The critical damage area failure criteria were employed in the finite element analyses. The repeating unit cell geometrical models and the finite element analyses were verified with the experimental results. The influences of structure parameters in the repeating unit cells on the bending behaviors were analyzed. It was found that the volume fraction of surface and corner repeating unit cells were around 30%, and their elastic modulus along axis Z was about 5 times that of inner repeating unit cell. The surface and corner repeating unit cells play the important role for the entire structure under bending and cannot be neglected.
Strategic Voting and Coordination Problems in Proportional Systems
Authors: Blais André , Erisen Cengiz , Rheault Ludovic
Published: January 2014

We investigate strategic voting in proportional representation (PR) systems where parties are organized in pre-electoral coalitions and subject to a vote threshold. We show that such political systems are likely to generate coordination problems among the supporters of a coalition, and we examine voter behavior in this setting using a laboratory experiment with repeated rounds of elections. Our findings suggest that in absence of electoral history, voters cannot coordinate their efforts successfully and are more likely to vote sincerely. However, as history becomes available, the vote threshold induces strategic coordination on parties that performed best in previous elections.
Voltage-Gated Proton Channel HV1 in Microglia
Authors: Wu Long-Jun
Published: January 2014

Microglia are brain resident immune cells and their functions are implicated in both the normal and diseased brain. Microglia express a plethora of ion channels, including K+ channels, Na+ channels, TRP channels, Cl− channels, and proton channels. These ion channels play critical roles in microglial proliferation, migration, and production/release of cytokines, chemokines, and neurotoxic or neurotrophic substances. Among microglial ion channels, the voltage-gated proton channel HV1 is a recently cloned ion channel that rapidly removes protons from depolarized cytoplasm and is highly expressed in the immune system. However, the function of microglial HV1 in the brain is poorly understood. Recent studies showed that HV1 is selectively expressed in microglia but not neurons in the brain. At the cellular level, microglial HV1 regulates intracellular pH and aids in NADPH oxidase-dependent generation of reactive oxygen species. In a mouse model of middle cerebral artery occlusion, microglial HV1 contributes to neuronal cell death and ischemic brain damage. This review discusses the discovery, properties, regulation, and pathophysiology of microglial HV1 proton channel in the brain.
Thrombosis and Thromboembolic Complications in Fontan Patients
Authors: Firdouse Mohammed , Agarwal Arnav , Chan Anthony K. , Mondal Tapas
Published: January 2014

Hemodynamic fluctuations and thromboembolic complications are significant areas of concern during the postoperative management of patients with univentricular hearts. The objective of this study is to review the incidence and risk factors associated with thrombosis and thromboembolic complications following total cavopulmonary anastomosis, the third stage of the palliative surgical procedure. A literature search of published evidence was conducted on OvidSP MEDLINE(R) and Embase followed by paired title, abstract, and full-text screening based on specific inclusion criteria. High risks of thromboembolic outcomes were identified across studies, with variable incidences between 3% and 20%, high mortality rates up to 38%, and an inverse relationship with prophylaxis treatment administration. Several risk factors for thrombotic complications, including chronic systemic venous hypertension, protein-losing enteropathy, passive blood flow, atrial arrhythmias, conduit stenosis, prosthetic material use, coagulation factor abnormalities, and several patient characteristics were identified. Based on these findings, a prophylactic anticoagulation algorithm has been proposed.
Is There a Correlation Between Coronary Artery Ectasia and Neutrophil–Lymphocyte Ratio?
Authors: Yalcin Ahmet Arif , Topuz Mustafa , Akturk Ibrahim Faruk , Celik Omer , Erturk Mehmet , Uzun Fatih , Duran Mustafa , Karadeniz Muhammed , Sarikamis Cetin , Oner Ender
Published: January 2014

We aimed to investigate the association between the neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and coronary artery ectasia (CAE). The study included 198 patients who had undergone coronary angiography for suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). The patients were divided into the following 4 groups: group 1, 44 patients with normal coronary arteries; group 2, 61 patients with CAD; group 3, 40 patients with isolated CAE; and group 4, 53 patients with CAE coexisting with CAD. Neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio was significantly lower in group 1 than the other groups and significantly higher in group 4. Patients in group 1 had significantly lower neutrophil counts and significantly higher lymphocyte counts than the patients in group 4. The isolated CAE and CAD groups were similar in terms of NLR, neutrophil count, and lymphocyte count. In addition, we found significant positive correlations between presence of ectasia, number of ectatic vessels, and NLR. Our findings provide additional evidence for the role of NLR in CAE.
Nonlinear stability and bifurcations of an axially moving beam in thermal environment
Authors: Ghayesh Mergen H , Amabili Marco
Published: January 2014

The thermo-mechanical nonlinear dynamics of an axially moving beam with coupled longitudinal and transverse displacements subjected to a distributed harmonic external force is numerically investigated. This includes a case where the system is tuned to a three-to-one internal resonance between the first two transverse modes and a case where it is not is considered. Two coupled nonlinear partial differential equations for the longitudinal and transverse motions are obtained using Hamilton’s principle and constitutive relations, as well as taking into account the thermal effects. The Galerkin method is then used to discretize these equations into a set of coupled nonlinear ordinary differential equations. Two different techniques are employed to solve the resulting equations; the pseudo-arclength continuation method and direct time integration to investigate the periodic vibrations and the global dynamics of the system, respectively. The effect of different parameters on the dynamics of the system is investigated through the frequency-response curves of the system and the bifurcation diagrams of Poincaré maps. Furthermore, time histories, phase-plane portraits, and fast Fourier transforms are presented for a few different system parameter sets. It is illustrated that the system shows a broad variety of rich dynamics, depending on system parameters and the temperature rise.
A roll-motion control system for a mobile-wheeled platform: a preliminary test platform for roll-motion control of ships
Authors: Su Kuo-Ho
Published: January 2014

Ship stabilization against roll motion caused by uncertainties, such as external waves or wind impact, nonlinear roll damping and parametric variation etc., is an important problem. Among announced approaches, the active fin stabilizer is a very effective and widely adopted procedure; however an accurate model of a whole nonlinear dynamic system is difficult to obtain. On the other hand, the mobile-wheeled platform also has highly nonlinear dynamic characteristics and it is difficult to evaluate the appropriate control effort to steer and balance on a bumpy road. To deal with these two systems, there existing some restricted resemblance between them, an intelligent roll-motion controller is developed in this paper. Firstly, to confront the uncertainties, a hetero-associative neural observer is added into a novel translated fuzzy sliding-mode controller (FSMC) to predict uncertainties. The neural observer can speed up the response and increase the self-tuning capability of the FSMC. In the proposed roll-motion controller, a compact gyroscope and accelerometer are used to detect the rolling conditions; the gathered data are sent to a microcontroller to calculate the command. Finally, to verify the effectiveness of the proposed controller, some preliminary simulations for ship stabilization are provided under the assumption that the sea surface is modeled as a one-dimensional linear free surface. Then, some experimental results are provided for a mobile-wheeled platform steered on a bumpy road. The performance is also compared with a conventional PD controller and a pure FSMC under the same conditions.
Bifurcation control of a Duffing oscillator using pole placement
Authors: Ghandchi-Tehrani Maryam , Wilmshurst Lawrence I , Elliott Stephen J
Published: January 2014

This paper presents a numerical study on the control of frequency-domain bifurcation in forced Duffing oscillators, through the use of pole placement techniques. First, the bifurcation frequency range of the Duffing oscillator is identified using the system and forcing parameters. A linear state feedback controller is then applied to the system, in order to assign the peak resonance frequency to a prescribed value, such that bifurcation is minimized or eliminated in the closed-loop system. Additional constraints are applied to the pole placement in order to minimize the control effort, such as assigning the closed-loop poles within an elliptical region in the complex domain. Finally, a constraint is placed on the maximum forcing level, such that bifurcation will not occur at relatively small forcing amplitudes. These techniques are demonstrated using several numerical examples.
Active control of dynamic frequency responses for shell structures
Authors: Zhang Xingwu , Chen Xuefeng , You Shangqin , He Zhengjia
Published: January 2014

The active control method is a popular way to control mechanical vibration. However, for some industrial needs and military requirements, it does not only need to control vibration, but also has to change the online constant working frequency responses, for example to improve the dynamic performance of mechanical devices and the stealth of military equipment. Because the present active control methods mainly focus on vibration control, the dynamic frequency responses active control method (DFRACM) is constructed to deal with this problem. The constructed DFRACM can not only accomplish vibration control but can also arbitrarily change the dynamic frequency responses of mechanical equipment. Besides, in order to satisfy engineering requirements, the multi-objective DFRACM, which can control the dynamic frequency responses of the controlled object to reach separate specific objectives at different places in one time, is also studied in this paper. The effectiveness of the constructed method is verified through experiments of the open cylindrical shell structure.
Analytical and experimental investigation of overhead transmission line vibration
Authors: Barry O , Zu JW , Oguamanam DCD
Published: January 2014

The vibration of a single-conductor transmission line with a Stockbridge damper is examined by modeling the system as a double-beam concept. The equations of motion are derived using Hamilton’s principle, and expressions are presented for the frequency equation, mode shapes, and orthogonality conditions. The analytical results are validated experimentally. The effect of the damper characteristics and location on the system natural frequencies is investigated via a parametric study. The role of the latter with respect to frequency is inconclusive. The present approach enables transmission lines designers to determine the exact natural frequencies and mode shapes that are required in the study of the vibrational response of a single conductor with a Stockbridge damper.
Investigation on the stability and bifurcation of a rod-fastening rotor bearing system
Authors: Liu Yi , Liu Heng , Yi Jun , Jing Minqing
Published: January 2014

The stability and bifurcation of a flexible rod-fastening rotor bearing system (RBS) is investigated in this paper. The rod-fastening rotor has two kinds of special structural features – rods and interfaces. The circumferentially distributed rods are modeled as a constant stiffness matrix and an add-on moment vector, which is caused by the unbalanced pre-tightening forces. The stiffness matrix of interface is composed of normal and tangential contact stiffness, which are determined by the pre-tightening forces. After the shaft is discretized by Timoshenko elements, the system is reduced by a component mode synthesis. Periodic motions and stability margins are obtained by using the shooting method and path-following technique, and the local stability of system is obtained by using the Floquet theory. Comparisons indicate that the rod-fastening and complete RBS have a general resemblance in the bifurcation characteristics when mass eccentricity and rotating speed are changed. The unbalanced over-tightening of rods brings initial bending to the rotor, which leads to obvious influence on the nonlinear responses of the system. Moreover, the pre-tightening forces should be sufficiently applied because the small pre-tightening forces make the system more flexible and unstable through the effect of contact interfaces. Generally, this paper presents a method for analyzing the stability and bifurcation of the rod-fastening RBS.
Natural frequency detection of smart composite structure by small diameter fiber Bragg grating
Authors: Liu Rong-mei , Liang Da-kai
Published: January 2014

Structural health monitoring (SHM) in-service is very important and definitely demanded for the safe working of high performance composite structures in situ. Fiber Bragg grating-based sensors were usually embedded inside a composite to compose a smart structure for a real time monitor. However, the mechanical performance of the materials would be unfavorably influenced. To lower the influence, a smaller diameter optical fiber is preferred. In this paper, a new non-destructive evaluation sensor system based on small diameter fiber Bragg grating (SDFBG) was proposed. The impact results show that the SDFBG sensor could be used in dynamic strain measurement and detect the natural frequency of the structure. Furthermore, the sensor would be applied in SHM.
Vibration suppression of a pneumatic drive flexible manipulator using adaptive phase adjusting controller
Authors: Qiu Zhi-cheng , Zhao Zhi-li
Published: January 2014

Generally, a low damping system has a small phase margin. One should deal with the problems of long time delay and unmodeled dynamics for active vibration control of a low damping system sometimes. For a pneumatic drive flexible manipulator system, time delay or phase lag and unmodeled nonlinear dynamics problems have raised the level of concern. It is vital but difficult to regulate the phase of vibration controller, to compensate for the time-varying phase lag or time delay due to the gas compression and parametric uncertainty of the pneumatic control system. The objective of this investigation is to formulate an active vibration control law with practical approach of phase adjusting for a pneumatic drive flexible manipulator system. A control strategy named adaptive phase adjusting control is designed and applied. The adaptive phase adjusting controller is implemented by using the phase angles as explicit parameters. These parameters are tuned online, depending on the corresponding control performance index. To evaluate the control performance of the designed adaptive phase adjusting technique, experiments are conducted on a pneumatic drive flexible manipulator experimental setup. The experimental results demonstrate the adaptive phase adjusting controller has the ability to optimize the phase angle accordingly. Vibration suppression is accomplished by using the designed adaptive phase adjusting controller, even with time delay and unmodeled dynamics in the system.
A Slice of Diversity
Authors: Taiwo Akin
Published: January 2014

Among the uses of poetry in qualitative inquiry is its ability to help us reflect on, play against, or perform a topic of interest (Prendergast, 2006). This writer attended a conference on the “Pedagogy of Privilege” and immersed himself in the discussion of multidimensional diversities, hence the production of this poem. Written from an etic perspective, this ethnographic poem is not a representation of ethnographic reality (Denzin, 1997; Maynard & Cahnmann-Taylor, 2010), but an abstraction of composite identities. This poem interrogates categories of sexual and gender identities, acknowledges multiple emotions, embodied experiences, and space; with an invitation for others to integrate their own voices and experiences. This poem is a form of writer’s reflexivity. Pedagogically, this poem could help students of social work and other helping professions to grapple with the complexity and fluidity of gender and sexual identities and the definition of family.
Blue-Collar Qualitative Research
Authors: Saldaña Johnny
Published: January 2014

This here’s a kick-ass article ’bout a pissed off qualitative researcher who feels that some of you higher ed profs out there got a lotta attitude and need to be brought down a notch. I speak my mind in this piece ’bout a lotta stuff, like me, positionality, voice, labels, method, theory, ethics, and other crap like that. I write like a redneck ’cause that’s what’s in my blue-collar soul. I keep it real. Take it or leave it.
Negotiating a Life Lived in the Middle
Authors: Broderick Michael
Published: January 2014

Through a series of asynchronous vignettes, I explore the experiences surrounding my wife’s and my decision to have a home birth. I sought to disrupt the heavy hand of narrative temporality and synchronous ordering through story. The disjointed vignettes speak to the narrative difficultly of trying to parse out an isolated event (a birth) that is fully wedded into a much larger sociobiological fabric. In addition, I anchored each vignette around Martin Buber’s concept of a “life in the middle” through the representation of a symbolic fulcrum. This idea of a fulcrum is predicated on the notion that our lives are difficult to narrate as they unfold and are inherently bound by a multitude of contexts. I suggest that our lives unfold in a sensuous pragmatic aesthetic of presence that is not neatly divided between beauty (birth) and depravity (death) but ripe with potential and meaning that denies duality of experience.
Optimisation of oat milk formulation to obtain fermented derivatives by using probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri microorganisms
Authors: Bernat N , Cháfer M , González-Martínez C , Rodríguez-García J , Chiralt A
Published: January 2014

Functional advantages of probiotics combined with interesting composition of oat were considered as an alternative to dairy products. In this study, fermentation of oat milk with Lactobacillus reuteri and Streptococcus thermophilus was analysed to develop a new probiotic product. Central composite design with response surface methodology was used to analyse the effect of different factors (glucose, fructose, inulin and starters) on the probiotic population in the product. Optimised formulation was characterised throughout storage time at 4 ℃ in terms of pH, acidity, β-glucan and oligosaccharides contents, colour and rheological behaviour. All formulations studied were adequate to produce fermented foods and minimum dose of each factor was considered as optimum. The selected formulation allowed starters survival above 107/cfu ml to be considered as a functional food and was maintained during the 28 days controlled. β-glucans remained in the final product with a positive effect on viscosity. Therefore, a new probiotic non-dairy milk was successfully developed in which high probiotic survivals were assured throughout the typical yoghurt-like shelf life.
Marcellus Shale Development and the Susquehanna River
Authors: Heuer Mark A. , Lee Zui Chih
Published: January 2014

In this exploratory analysis, we survey Susquehanna River basin stakeholders regarding the environmental, social, and economic impacts of natural gas hydraulic fracturing in the Marcellus Region. Our survey involved collecting data based on four categories: economic opportunity, protection of health and safety, preserving communities, and achieving energy security. We separated responses on a cross-sector basis in order to differentiate between the nonprofit, government, and private sectors. Overall, responses by the three sectors are relatively similar. Of the 21 questions measured by a 5-point Likert-type scale (with 5 being the highest priority), 17 questions measure above 3 for all three sectors. With hydraulic fracturing in the Marcellus Region in the early stages of a typical energy “boom-bust” cycle, the results of this survey provide baseline data to compare with stakeholder attitudes at later stages of the cycle.
Psychiatric Comorbidity at the Time of Diagnosis in Adults With ADHD
Authors: Piñeiro-Dieguez Benjamín , Balanzá-Martínez Vicent , García-García Pilar , Soler-López Begoña ,   the CAT Study Group
Published: January 2014

Objective: The CAT ( Comorbilidad en Adultos con TDAH) study aimed to quantify and characterize the psychiatric comorbidity at the time of diagnosis of ADHD in adult outpatients. Method: Cross-sectional, multicenter, observational register of adults with ADHD diagnosed for the first time. Results: In this large sample of adult ADHD ( n = 367), psychiatric comorbidities were present in 66.2% of the sample, and were more prevalent in males and in the hyperactive-impulsive and combined subtypes. The most common comorbidities were substance use disorders (39.2%), anxiety disorders (23%), and mood disorders (18.1%). In all, 88.8% patients were prescribed pharmacological treatment for ADHD (in 93.4% of cases, modified release methylphenidate capsules 50:50). Conclusion: A high proportion of psychiatric comorbidity was observed when adult outpatients received a first-time diagnosis of ADHD. The systematic registering of patients and comorbidities in clinical practice may help to better understand and manage the prognostic determinants in adult ADHD.
Treatment With Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate Improves Self- and Informant-Rated Executive Function Behaviors and Clinician- and Informant-Rated ADHD Symptoms in Adults: Data From a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Weisler Richard , Ginsberg Lawrence , Dirks Bryan , Deas Patrick , Adeyi Ben , Adler Lenard A.
Published: January 2014

Objective: To examine the level of agreement between self- and observer-reported ratings of ADHD symptoms and executive function (EF) behaviors in adults with moderate to severe ADHD and EF deficits. Method: During a 10-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, the effect of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (LDX) on EF was assessed by self-report and informant report (Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function–Adult Version), and ADHD symptoms were assessed by clinician- and informant-rated scales (ADHD Rating Scale IV with adult prompts and Conners’ Adult ADHD Rating Scales–Observer Report: Short Version, respectively). Post hoc analysis used Pearson correlations to assess relationships between self- and informant-rated EF and clinician- and informant-rated ADHD symptoms. Results: Correlations between self-ratings versus informant ratings and clinician versus informant ratings were greater at Week 10/early termination (EF: placebo [0.5231–0.6085], LDX [0.3543–0.5167]; ADHD symptoms: placebo [0.4169], LDX [0.4004]) versus baseline (EF: placebo [0.3208–0.5023], LDX [0.2852–0.3439]; ADHD symptoms: placebo [0.1511], LDX [–0.0408]). Conclusion: LDX improved EF and ADHD symptoms, based on participant, informant, and clinician ratings. Increased rater agreement over time may reflect improved symptom awareness.
What’s in a Bang? Fireworks and the Politics of Sound in Malta
Authors: Falzon Mark-Anthony , Cassar Christine M.
Published: January 2014

Festa is what people in Malta call the annual celebration of town and village Catholic patron saints. Fireworks, including loud petards, are one of its ingredients. Anthropologists working in Malta have tended to think of them as a sort of aural backdrop to festa. The point of the article is to foreground the sound of fireworks as an anthropological object in its own right. It is correct to say that there is no festa without fireworks. They constitute part of its multisensory Gesamstkunstwerk: their penetrative power means that they purvey festa to individual bodies; their sound structures its temporality; there is much sonic rivalry between different festa groups; and they spatialize festa in a way that renders their location ambiguous. Fireworks are “sound” to some and “noise” to others. For the latter, they go against the (largely middle-class) expectations of a “proper” soundscape. The contest is played out in the form of discourses on gender as well as the notion of “moderation,” itself seen as a corollary of a European modernity.
Slow Art in the Creative City
Authors: Lindner Christoph , Meissner Miriam
Published: January 2014

Global cities have been studied predominantly in terms of speed and movement, acceleration and circulation. This article examines the relationship between globalization and cities in terms that run counter to such emphases, focusing instead on slowness as a condition in contemporary urban life. Drawing on Jamie Peck’s critique of the creativity syndrome in urban policy, we analyze a series of street photography projects in the city of Amsterdam in order to examine the role of “slow art” in neoliberal urbanization and city profiling. In its capacity to interrupt movement and redirect visual attention, slow art resists both the acceleration of everyday life and the rapid transformation of social space in the global city. Yet, exploited by urban creativity policies, slow art can simultaneously contribute to the gentrification and commodification of cities. We argue that slowness and creativity are deeply implicated in contemporary reshapings of urban social space and that their interrelations merit closer study.
Power and the (il)legitimacy of political parties
Authors: Ignazi Piero
Published: January 2014

This article presents an interpretation of the present malaise that afflicts the political party in established democracies. Today, parties are not only seen as inefficient or unscrupulous instruments, they are increasingly being labelled as illegitimate. The basic reason for this bad reputation lies in their detachment from society and their encroachment on the state. Parties tried to counteract the difficulties they faced in extracting resources from society (members, party identifiers, militants, money) by turning toward the state, which offered financial support, paid personnel, physical structures and patronage benefits. This shift reinvigorated the parties, which are now richer and more powerful, but it has further diminished citizens’ confidence in the parties themselves. In order to recover their dwindling legitimacy, parties have recently introduced changes, giving members more say in the decision-making process and in the selection of candidates and leaders. However, these innovations have not succeeded in revitalizing them, nor improved their image. Thus, parties continue to be unbalanced: powerful and yet distrusted. In this sense, they resemble a sort of mighty but unsteady Leviathan.
Improving transportability of a cognitive-behavioral treatment intervention for anxiety in youth with autism spectrum disorders: Results from a US–Canada collaboration
Authors: Reaven Judy , Blakeley-Smith Audrey , Beattie Tricia L , Sullivan April , Moody Eric J , Stern Jessica A , Hepburn Susan L , Smith Isabel M
Published: January 2014

Anxiety disorders frequently co-occur in youth with autism spectrum disorders. In addition to developing efficacious treatments for anxiety in children with autism spectrum disorders, it is important to examine the transportability of these treatments to real-world settings. Study aims were to (a) train clinicians to deliver Facing Your Fears: Group Therapy for Managing Anxiety in Children with High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorders to fidelity and (b) examine feasibility of the program for novel settings. A secondary aim was to examine preliminary youth treatment outcome. Results indicated that clinicians obtained excellent fidelity following a workshop and ongoing consultation. Acceptability ratings indicated that Facing Your Fears Therapy was viewed favorably, and critiques were incorporated into program revisions. Meaningful reductions in anxiety were reported posttreatment for 53% of children. Results support the initial effectiveness and transportability of Facing Your Fears Therapy in new clinical settings.
IgA nephropathy with early kidney disease is associated with increased arterial stiffness and renin–angiotensin system activity
Authors: Abdi-Ali A , Mann MC , Hemmelgarn BR , MacRae JM , Turin TC , Benediktsson H , Sola DY , Ahmed SB
Published: January 2014

Background:

IgA nephropathy is associated with increased cardiovascular risk, though whether this is due to loss of kidney function or proteinuria is unclear.

Methods:

For this study 10 normotensive IgA nephropathy subjects with early kidney disease (41±5 yrs, glomerular filtration rate (GFR) 87±9 ml/min, proteinuria 720±300 mg/d) and 10 gender- and blood pressure-matched healthy controls (36±1 yrs, estimated GFR 102±5 ml/min, proteinuria 70±6 mg/d) were studied in high-salt balance. Blood pressure and arterial stiffness, expressed as pulse wave velocity and aortic augmentation index, were measured at baseline and in response to 60 min of angiotensin II (AngII) infusion.

Results:

At baseline, IgA nephropathy subjects demonstrated similar pulse wave velocity (8.6±0.7 vs. 8.0±0.4 m/s, p=0.5) but increased aortic augmentation index (12.6±3.1 vs. 1.8±4%, p=0.04) and a trend towards increased circulating renin–angiotensin system (RAS) components (plasma renin activity, 0.55±0.18 vs. 0.21±0.05 ng/l/s, p=0.08; angiotensin II, 25±5 vs. 16±1 ng/l, p=0.08) compared with controls. However, despite similar baseline blood pressure values ( p=0.8), IgA nephropathy was associated with reduced arterial sensitivity to AngII challenge (Δmean arterial pressure: 19±4 vs. 29±1 mm Hg, p=0.05; Δpulse wave velocity: -0.06±0.6 vs. 1.5±0.3 m/s, p=0.07) compared with controls, even after multivariate analysis.

Conclusion:

Even in the setting of early kidney disease, IgA nephropathy is associated with increased arterial stiffness and decreased angiotensin II responsiveness, a marker of increased RAS activity.
The use of sky luminance and illuminance to classify the CIE Standard General Skies
Authors: Alshaibani K
Published: January 2014

Optimum use of natural light in buildings requires knowledge of the luminance distribution of the sky. Since the introduction of the CIE Standard General Skies, several methods have been proposed to find the frequency distribution of sky types. This paper presents a method whereby the ratio of the luminances of two sky elements and the ratio of the luminance of one sky element to the horizontal illuminance can be used in the determination of sky type.
John White on philosophy of education and philosophy
Authors: Siegel Harvey
Published: January 2014

John White offers a provocative characterization of philosophy of education. In this brief reaction, I evaluate the characterization and urge the maintenance of a strong connection between philosophy of education and philosophy.
Resveratrol ameliorates diabetic vascular inflammation and macrophage infiltration in db/db mice by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway
Authors: Guo Rong , Liu Baoxin , Wang Ke , Zhou Shunping , Li Weiming , Xu Yawei
Published: January 2014

In this study, resveratrol (RSV) – a potent sirtuin 1 activator – was found to have beneficial effects on glucolipid metabolism and improve inflammatory mediators and markers of oxidative stress. Diabetic ( db/db) mice and non-diabetic C57BL/6J mice were used in the study. The db/db mice were treated with or without 0.3% RSV mixed with chow for 8 weeks. Dietary RSV significantly lowered blood glucose, plasma lipid and free fatty acid levels in db/db mice. RSV markedly inhibited the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), endothelial vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) in the aorta and the blood plasma of db/db mice ( p < 0.05). Levels of mac-3–positive macrophages (measure of the infiltration of activated macrophages) were lower in RSV-treated diabetic mice than in their untreated counterparts ( p < 0.05). RSV treatment reduced the activity of the transcriptional regulator nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) in aortic tissues ( p < 0.05). Thus, RSV treatment reduced ICAM-1, VCAM-1 and MCP-1 expression in the aorta and ICAM-1, VCAM-1 and MCP-1 levels in the plasma of diabetic mice. Since dietary supplementation with RSV also reduced NF-κB activities in the aorta, the therapeutic effects of RSV might be associated with the downregulation of NF-κB.
Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Research
Authors: Hamby Sherry
Published: January 2014

The purpose of this review is to evaluate the current status of scientific knowledge on intimate partner violence (IPV) and sexual violence, with a particular focus on the measurement of gender patterns. A multimethod analysis of estimates for the incidence and prevalence of intimate and sexual aggression reveals consistencies across some methodologies and inconsistencies across others. In particular, self-report using behavioral checklists such as the Revised Conflict Tactics Scales yields results that are very discrepant from other research findings. Contrary to some assertions, self-report studies using simple checklists do not represent “most data” on intimate violence; there are large criminological and public health databases that warrant attention. When these sources are considered and placed in the context of other data on violence and aggression, a clear pattern of gender asymmetry emerges, with males perpetrating more physical and sexual violence than females for virtually every form of violence ever studied. Violence research has been hampered by the conservative forces that affect most social science research, including peer review, grant review, and tenure review processes that discourage methodological innovation and reward incremental research studies. We need to focus resources on scientific and technological innovation to better understand violent phenomena and better serve all those involved in violence. Two examples of self-report methods that do not produce gender symmetry are described.
Managerial Decision Making Under Uncertainty
Authors: Sacheti Abhinav , Gregory-Smith Ian , Paton David
Published: January 2014

We consider managerial decision making by examining the impact of decisions taken by cricket captains on Twenty20 International (T20I) match outcomes. In particular, we examine whether pressure from external commentators is associated with suboptimal decision making by captains. Using data from over 300 T20I matches, we find little evidence that either winning the toss or choosing to bat first improves the likelihood of winning. Despite this, we find that captains in T20I cricket are significantly more likely to choose to bat rather than bowl after winning the toss, a finding that is consistent with social pressure constraining captains’ decision making.
Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio Predicts Perioperative Mortality Following Open Elective Repair of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Appleton N. D. , Bailey D. M. , Morris-Stiff G. , Lewis M. H.
Published: January 2014

Objectives:

This study assesses the predictive value of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in relation to 30-day and overall mortality following open abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repairs. In addition, it assess assesses any correlation between NLR and age, size of the AAA and gender.

Methods:

Patients undergoing elective or urgent open repair of their AAA by a single surgeon during a 10-year period were included. A pre-operative NLR of >5 was regarded as abnormal.

Results:

350 consecutive patients underwent AAA repair. 52 had an NLR>5. 30-day mortality rate was 12/52 (23%) in the NLR>5 group and 20/298 (6.7%) in the NLR<5 group (p = 0.0007). All deaths in the NLR>5 group were due to myocardial infarction. The median NLR was higher in those that died within 30 days at 4.2 [IQR: 2.6-7.5] versus 2.8 [IQR: 2.1-3.8] (p = 0.0001). Overall mortality at 10 years, in the NLR>5 group - 26/52 (50%) was significantly greater than that of the NLR<5 group - 102/298 (34.2%) (p = 0.043). Median NLR of those dying during follow-up was significantly higher in those with a baseline NLR>5 at 3.2 (IQR 2.5-4.6) versus 2.6 (IQR: 2.0-3.6) in those surviving (p = 0.00004). No difference was found between NLR and age, aneurysm size or gender.

Conclusion:

Pre-operative NLR>5 appears to be a significant predictor of both 30-day mortality and long-term outcome in elective and urgent open AAA surgery. It is plausible the NLR is identifying a group with sub-clinical cardiovascular disease at risk of peri-operative myocardial infarction.
Functional Recovery After Ischemic Stroke Is Associated With Reduced GABAergic Inhibition in the Cerebral Cortex
Authors: Kim Yu Kyeong , Yang Eun Joo , Cho Kyehee , Lim Jong Youb , Paik Nam-Jong
Published: January 2014

Background: γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) plasticity plays an important role in stroke motor recovery in a mouse model. However, little is known about changes over time in neuronal excitability mediated by GABA receptors in human stroke patients. Objectives: To establish the mechanism of neuroplasticity during the recovery phase following ischemic stroke by assessing the changes in cerebral GABA activity using [18F]flumazenil ([18F]FMZ) positron emission tomography (PET). Methods: A total of 10 patients with unilateral ischemic stroke were studied at 1 month (T0) and 3 months (T1) postonset using [18F]FMZ PET. Changes in regional GABAergic activity were assessed longitudinally, and values were also compared with those in 15 age-matched controls. Upper-extremity motor function was evaluated using the Fugl-Meyer score (FMS). Results: During the follow-up period, statistical parametric mapping analysis demonstrated a decrease in GABAA receptor availability throughout the cerebral cortex and cerebellum, especially the contralateral hemisphere. GABAA availability in the bilateral primary motor cortex, contralateral supplemental motor cortex, and globus pallidus at T0 was positively correlated with the FMS score at T1. Conclusions: This is the first prospective, controlled longitudinal study showing that the change in GABA receptor availability over time is significantly related to motor recovery after stroke in humans. This work supports the rationale for a novel strategy to promote motor recovery after stroke.
Simulating sequential multiple assignment randomized trials to generate optimal personalized warfarin dosing strategies
Authors: Rich Benjamin , Moodie Erica EM , Stephens David A
Published: January 2014

Background

Due to the cost and complexity of conducting a sequential multiple assignment randomized trial (SMART), it is desirable to pre-define a small number of personalized regimes to study.

Purpose

We proposed a simulation-based approach to studying personalized dosing strategies in contexts for which a therapeutic agent’s pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics properties are well understood. We take dosing of warfarin as a case study, as its properties are well understood. We consider a SMART in which there are five intervention points in which dosing may be modified, following a loading phase of treatment.

Methods

Realistic SMARTs are simulated, and two methods of analysis, G-estimation and Q-learning, are used to assess potential personalized dosing strategies.

Results

In settings where outcome modelling may be complex due to the highly non-linear nature of the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics mechanisms of the therapeutic agent, G-estimation provides for which the more promising method of estimating an optimal dosing strategy. Used in combination with the simulated SMARTs, we were able to improve simulated patient outcomes and suggest which patient characteristics were needed to best individually tailor dosing. In particular, our simulations suggest that current dosing should be determined by an individual’s current coagulation time as measured by the international normalized ratio (INR), their last measured INR, and their last dose. Tailoring treatment only based on current INR and last warfarin dose provided inferior control of INR over the course of the trial.

Limitations

The ability of the simulated SMARTs to suggest optimal personalized dosing strategies relies on the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic models used to generate the hypothetical patient profiles. This approach is best suited to therapeutic agents whose effects are well studied.

Conclusion

Prior to investing in a complex randomized trial that involves sequential treatment allocations, simulations should be used where possible in order to guide which dosing strategies to evaluate.