bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preselection Methods Prior to the Internal Assessment Center for Personnel Selection in German Companies
Authors: Benit Nils , Mojzisch Andreas , Soellner Renate
Published: August 2014

Companies frequently use preselection methods in order to identify eligible candidates before conducting assessment centers (ACs). The present study was the first to investigate current practices of preselection in German companies that use ACs for internal selection. Results of a survey among 109 German companies show that companies typically apply general qualification criteria (e.g., work experience), appraisals, or unstructured interviews for preselection, but rely less on trait‐oriented methods (e.g., intelligence tests) and structured interviews. In their subjective evaluations, however, companies rate structured interviews and trait‐oriented methods as particularly valid methods. The results also show that the number of preselection methods used is positively correlated with company size, diagnostic skills of the responsible persons in the preselection, and DIN (Deutsches Institut für Normierung [German Institute for Standardization]) 33430 certification status. The implications of these findings for practice and research are discussed.
The Role of Personality and Job Stressors in Predicting Counterproductive Work Behavior: A three‐way interaction
Authors: Zhou Zhiqing E. , Meier Laurenz L. , Spector Paul E.
Published: August 2014

The current study examined interactive effects among personality and job stressors in predicting employees' engagement in counterproductive work behavior (CWB) defined as behavior that harms organizations or people in organizations. Survey data were collected from 932 employees and results showed significant negative relationships of agreeableness, conscientiousness, and emotional stability with CWB directed at organizations (CWB‐O) and people (CWB‐P), and significant positive relationships of interpersonal conflict and organizational constraints with CWB‐O and CWB‐P. Further, it was found that the positive relationships of interpersonal conflict with CWB‐O and CWB‐P were strongest for people of low emotional stability–low agreeableness among all emotional stability–agreeableness combinations, and that the positive relationships of organizational constraints with CWB‐O and CWB‐P were strongest for people of high emotional stability–low conscientiousness among all emotional stability–conscientiousness combinations.
Generating Race, Gender, and Other Subgroup Data in Personnel Selection Simulations: A pervasive issue with a simple solution
Authors: Oswald Frederick L. , Converse Patrick D. , Putka Dan J.
Published: August 2014

In the past 25 years, organizational researchers and practitioners have relied heavily on computer simulation research to understand how group mean differences and correlations affect overall validity and adverse impact in protected groups (e.g., racial/ethnic groups and gender) as they relate to personnel selection practices. We point out a multilevel issue affecting nearly all past simulations: The total correlations that these simulations intended to specify are somewhat distorted after group mean differences were introduced into the data. Although this distorting effect is minimal in most cases, it matters in some cases, and after all, the main virtue of statistical simulations is precision, both in the population parameters and sample data and statistics those parameters are supposed to generate. We demonstrate this distorting effect through one specific example, based on multiple predictors and meta‐analytic data, followed by a broader simulation for single predictors across a wide variety of selection conditions. Rather than merely point out this problem, we also provide a straightforward solution: multilevel formulas that incorporate both between‐ and within‐group correlations that always correct for this biasing problem, yielding more accurate simulation results. We conclude by discussing applications and promising extensions of this work.
Dissociated Pulmonary Vein Activity After Pulmonary Vein Isolation for Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation: A Predictor for Recurrence?
Authors: BUIATTI ALESSANDRA , AMMAR SONIA , REENTS TILKO , SEMMLER VERENA , KATHAN SUSANNE , HOFMANN MONIKA , BOURIER FELIX , TELISHEVSKA MARTHA , KOCH‐BÜTTNER KATHARINA , KAESS BERNHARD , LENNERZ CARSTEN , KOLB CHRISTOF , HESSLING GABRIELE , DEISENHOFER ISABEL
Published: August 2014

Dissociated Pulmonary Vein Activity for Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation

Background

The role of dissociated pulmonary vein (DPV) activity after pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is still poorly defined. We evaluated electrophysiological features and clinical impact on long‐term outcome of DPV activity.

Methods

A total of 243 patients (mean age 63 ± 11 years; 63% males) undergoing PVI for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) were included. DPV activity was defined as a residual low frequency irregular PV rhythm. Patients were divided into Group 1 (presence of DPV activity; n = 65) or Group 2 (absence of DPV activity; n = 178).

Results

Of 936 isolated PVs, 112 PVs (12%) showed DPV activity. DPV activity was observed more frequently in PVs identified as AF triggers (P = 0.026). During follow‐up (mean 12 ± 7 months), 15 of 65 patients of Group 1 (23%) and 57 of 178 patients of Group 2 (32%) had an arrhythmia recurrence (P = 0.23). At linear regression analysis, no independent predictor for clinical recurrence was identified.

During the repeat ablation, 62 of 72 patients (86%) showed a recovered PV conduction without difference between the 2 groups. Clinically, all patients of Group 1 with PV reconnection (n = 13/15) had a recurrence of paroxysmal AF. In Group 2, 5 of 52 patients with reconnected PV developed non‐PV related arrhythmias.

Conclusion

DPV activity occurred in 12% of PVs after PVI and was observed more frequently in PVs identified as AF triggers. DPV activity was not predictive for AF recurrence during follow‐up. PV‐left atrium reconnection involving PVs with DPV activity leads to AF.
Retreatment in patients with psoriasis achieving response with etanercept after relapse due to treatment interruption: results from the CRYSTEL study
Authors: Griffiths C.E.M. , Luger T.A. , Brault Y. , Germain J.M. , Mallbris L.
Published: August 2014

Background

In clinical practice, patients with psoriasis may require intermittent therapy as part of their long‐term treatment programme. Those achieving Physician's Global Assessment (PGA) of ≤ 1 (almost clear/clear) are more likely to be selected as candidates for intermittent therapy than those with a higher PGA (≥ 2; mild or worse), who may relapse sooner or have a delayed response. The objective of this analysis was to determine if patients achieving PGA ≤ 1 using intermittent etanercept (ETN) therapy could regain response (defined as PGA ≤ 2) after relapse.

Methods

In the CRYSTEL study (clinicaltrials.gov NCT00195507), patients with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis were treated with ETN 50 mg twice weekly (BIW) for ≤ 12 weeks (or for an extra 12 weeks with ETN 25 mg BIW until PGA ≤ 2 was achieved). Patients who reached PGA ≤ 1 during this time were selected for this post hoc analysis (Cycle 1). Treatment was paused, and patients who relapsed (PGA > 2) were retreated with ETN 25 mg BIW until recovery (PGA ≤ 2, Cycle 2). Treatment cycles were continued for up to 54 weeks. The proportion of PGA responders and the time to attain response were calculated, and patient satisfaction was evaluated using the Patient Satisfaction Survey.

Results

During Cycle 1, 131 patients achieved PGA ≤ 1 within a median of 9 weeks and subsequently relapsed after treatment cessation. In Cycle 2, 119 (91%) patients attained PGA ≤ 2 within a median time of 7 weeks. The majority of patients were either ‘very satisfied’, ‘satisfied’ or ‘somewhat satisfied’ during both Cycle 1 (100% in total) and Cycle 2 (97% in total).

Conclusion

Patients achieving the stringent criteria of PGA ≤ 1 with ETN therapy before ceasing treatment, and subsequently relapsing, were able to quickly regain response during retreatment. The majority of patients considered their therapy to be satisfactory.
Plantar keloids: diagnostic and therapeutic issues in six patients
Authors: Vanhaecke C. , Hickman G. , Cavelier‐Balloy B. , Masson V. , Duron J.‐B. , Gorj M. , May P. , Schneider P. , Vilmer C. , Bagot M. , Battistella M. , Petit A.
Published: August 2014

Background

Keloids are benign fibro‐proliferative skin lesions that very rarely occur on the soles. Because of their rarity, the diagnosis of plantar keloids can be difficult. We describe the clinical and histopathological characteristics of eight plantar keloids.

Methods

All patients presenting with plantar keloids between 2005 and 2012 in our Dermatology unit were retrospectively included. Diagnosis was definitely established by re‐reading of pathological slides in all cases. Clinical characteristics, histopathological features, treatments given and their results were collected.

Results

Six patients were included. Five patients had a single plantar keloid and one had three lesions. They all were of African descent. Only one patient remembered of a previous injury at the site of the keloid. Three patients presented with associated extra‐plantar keloids. In four patients, the diagnosis of keloid was not initially suspected clinically or histologically. Re‐reading of the clinical photographs showed that the eight plantar keloids shared common morphological features, leading to a distinctive clinical picture, defined by a hardened lesion of rounded or polycyclic shape, with a pink surface crossed by keratotic furrows and the presence of a hyperkeratotic rim. Concerning pathological features, typical hyalinized collagen can be missing and deep fibrosis should not rule out the diagnosis of keloid. Intralesional injection of triamcinolone acetonide and orthopaedic shoes were useful. All patients who had surgical excision presented recurrence.

Conclusion

The knowledge of the clinical features of plantar keloids is helpful to the diagnosis. There is no well‐established treatment, but supportive measures are important.
HYPONYCHIUM ABNORMALITIES Congenital Aberrant Hyponychium vs. Acquired Pterygium Inversum Unguis vs. Acquired Reversible Extended Hyponychium: a proposed classification based on origin, pathology and outcome
Authors: Zaias N. , Escovar S.X. , Zaiac M.N. , Del Rio E. , Dou N. , Ricotti C. , Karai L. , Florez‐White M.
Published: August 2014

Background

Pterygium Inversum Unguis (PIU) is a wing‐like extended hyponychium associated with the absence of the distal groove. Although a rare condition, it has been described with different names, confusing both the investigator and the reader.

Objective

We propose a new nomenclature based on tissue origin and pathology, to account for these conditions. 1) Congenital Aberrant Hyponychium 2) Acquired Pterygium Inversum Unguis 3) Acquired Reversible Extended Hyponychium.

Main Observations

We report a case of a 19‐year‐old male, with epidermal pigmentation abnormalities, who had painful fingertips of both index fingers and thumbs since he was 13. He therefore let his finger nails grow very long, minimizing painful contact with the hyponychium. Removal of the aberrant hyponychium revealed glomus bodies aggregates with increased nerve fibers. Subsequently after excision of the hyponychium, his pain was resolved.

Congenital, transient or permanent changes in the hyponychium should be named and classified according to tissue origin to avoid nomenclature confusion.
Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis: an electron microscopy study
Authors: Kakepis M. , Havaki S. , Katoulis A. , Katsambas A. , Stavrianeas N. , Troupis T.G.
Published: August 2014

Background

Few published data, concerning the electron microscopy findings of idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis have been published so far.

Objectives

To reveal the electron microscopic findings of idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis and their aetiopathogenetic associations.

Methods

Punch biopsy specimens from four patients with idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis, after being properly processed, were observed under the electron microscope.

Results

In the epidermis, melanocytes and melanosomes were normal in structure. In some areas, there was a reduced uptake of melanosomes by the keratinocytes. In the dermis, fibroblasts were structurally normal. Also, most elastic and collagen fibres were normal, but there were focal elastotic changes.

Conclusions

No significant structural abnormality of the melanocytes was observed, but rather a functional defect in the transfer of melanosomes from the melanocytes to the keratinocytes.
Clinically atypical spitzoid lesions: semi‐quantitative histologic index correlation with dermoscopic scores (ABCD rule, 7‐point checklist and pattern analysis)
Authors: Saravia M. , Pellicer Z. , Martin J.M. , Monteagudo C.
Published: August 2014

Background

The distinction of Spitz and Reed nevi with atypical features from melanoma may be a difficult task. In these cases, the dermoscopic scores could bring variable results and not always correlate with the histologic diagnosis.

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare the histopathologic and dermoscopic findings in a cohort of clinically atypical Spitz and Reed nevi.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 19 cases of atypical Spitz and Reed nevi from our files. We constructed a new semi‐quantitative histologic index (HI) based on the reproducible microscopic features, and correlated it with two dermoscopic scores: ABCD and 7‐point checklist, as well as with the predominant dermoscopic pattern.

Results

The HI values differs significantly when the multicomponent dermoscopic pattern was compared with the rest of patterns (U = 22.5, Z = 2.23, P = 0.01). The ABCD and the 7‐point checklist scores did not show statistically significant correlation with the HI.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first report in which a semi‐quantitative histologic score is compared to different dermoscopic scores in clinically atypical spitzoid lesions. This score can be used to correlate in an objective way the entire histologic picture with the standardized dermoscopic scores. In our series we found a higher HI for those spitzoid lesions with multicomponent pattern.
Modeling of Microbial Spoilage and Color Degradation Occurring in Convective Drying of Vegetables: A Route to Process Optimization
Authors: Curcio Stefano , Aversa Maria , Calabrò Vincenza , Iorio Gabriele
Published: August 2014

The present paper was aimed at developing a rigorous methodology to optimize the performance of vegetables hot convective drying. The proposed optimization method was formulated combining a multiphase transport phenomena model, which predicted the time evolutions of temperature and water activity distributions in the food, a product decontamination model, which described the microbial inactivation kinetics of Listeria monocytogenes and a model estimating the color changes, expressed in terms of the Hunter parameters. The effects of operating conditions both on color degradation, chosen as a reference quality parameter, and on microbial population decay, chosen as a measure of food safety, were ascertained. The formulated optimization model allowed analyzing different scenarios and calculating the set of operating conditions, which were to be exploited to attain specific control objectives, represented by a trade‐off between quality and safety of dried foods. By the proposed methodology, it would be possible to minimize expensive and time‐consuming pilot test runs and obtain precise indications about optimization of vegetables convective drying.

Practical Applications

The proposed transport model allows calculating the effects of operating conditions on both microbial inactivation and color changes occurring during vegetables drying. Such a model can be exploited to develop computational tools aimed at optimizing the performance of real convective driers.
Validation and modification of a proposed substaging system for patients with intermediate hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Jing‐Houng , Kee Kwong‐Ming , Lin Chih‐Yun , Hung Chao‐Hung , Chen Chien‐Hung , Lee Chuan‐Mo , Lu Sheng‐Nan
Published: August 2014

Background and Aim

Based on up‐to‐seven criteria and Child‐Pugh score, four substages of Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) intermediate hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) were proposed. The purpose of this study was to validate and modify this proposal.

Methods

Between January 2002 and February 2011, newly diagnosed intermediate HCC patients underwent transarterial embolization (TAE) were enrolled. Patients were stratified into four (B1–B4) substages and followed up until death or end of 2012. Patients' survivals and discriminatory ability of substaging systems were compared.

Results

Five‐hundred and eighty patients were enrolled. There were 56.6%, 33.8%, 7.4%, and 2.2% in substage B1, B2, B3, and B4. The 5‐year survival rate was 21.4%, 13.9%, 7.4%, and 7.7% with median survival time of 2.4, 1.3, 0.5, and 0.8 years (P < 0.001). In addition to substage B1–B4, α‐fetoprotein (AFP) level was an independent factor associated with survival in multivariate analysis. According to AFP < or > 200 ng/mL, B1 was classified into B1a and B1b, and B2 into B2a and B2b. There were no differences in survivals between B1b and B2a (P = 0.174), and B2b and B3 (P = 0.785). Patients were re‐classified into modified (m)B1 (B1a), mB2 (B1b + B2a), mB3 (B2b + B3). The modified substages (mB1–mB3) showed a more desirable substaging system.

Conclusions

For BCLC intermediate HCC patients, substages B1–B4 were useful in predicting survival after TAE. However, modified substaging system provided better prognostic prediction.
Duodenal–jejunal bypass improves diabetes and liver steatosis via enhanced glucagon‐like peptide‐1 elicited by bile acids
Authors: Kashihara Hideya , Shimada Mitsuo , Kurita Nobuhiro , Sato Hirohiko , Yoshikawa Kozo , Higashijima Jun , Chikakiyo Motoya , Nishi Masaaki , Takasu Chie
Published: August 2014

Background and Aim

Bariatric surgery not only elicits weight loss but also rapidly resolves diabetes. However, the mechanisms remain unclear. The present study investigates how diabetes and liver steatosis are improved after duodenal–jejunal bypass (DJB) compared with a glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) analog and correlations between bile acids and GLP‐1 secretion.

Methods

We initially determined the effects of bile acids on GLP‐1 in vitro and then assigned 12 male 16‐week‐old Otsuka Long‐Evans Tokushima Fatty rats to groups that underwent DJB, a sham operation, or were treated with the GLP‐1 receptor agonist, liraglutide (n = 4 each). Blood glucose, insulin, GLP‐1, serum bile acids, liver steatosis, and the number of GLP‐1 positive cells (L cells) in the small intestine and colon were investigated in the three groups at eight weeks postoperatively.

Results

Levels of GLP‐1mRNA were upregulated and GLP‐1 secretion increased in cells incubated with bile acids in vitro. Weight gain was suppressed more in the DJB than in the sham group in vivo. Diabetes was more improved and GLP‐1 levels were significantly higher in the DJB than in the sham group. Serum bile acids were significantly increased, the number of L cells in the ileum was upregulated compared with the sham group, and liver steatosis was significantly improved in the DJB compared with the other two groups.

Conclusions

Duodenal–jejunal bypass might improve diabetes and liver steatosis by enhancing GLP‐1 secretion through increasing serum bile acids and the proliferation of L cells in the ileum, compared with liraglutide.
Epithelial cell adhesion molecule‐positive human hepatic neoplastic cells: development of combined hepatocellular‐cholangiocarcinoma in mice
Authors: Ogasawara Sachiko , Akiba Jun , Nakayama Masamichi , Nakashima Osamu , Torimura Takuji , Yano Hirohisa
Published: August 2014

Background and Aim

Human combined hepatocellular‐cholangiocarcinoma (CHC) expresses several hepatic stem/progenitor cell (HSPC) markers, suggesting this neoplasm originates from HSPCs. We examined the significance of HSPC marker in CHC using a human CHC cell line.

Methods

We used a human CHC cell line (KMCH‐1) previously established in our laboratory. The original tumor was classified as CHC, showing areas of typical hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocarcinoma (ChC). We examined the expression of HSPC markers and hepatocyte markers in KMCH‐1 by flow cytometry (FCM) and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. EpCAM(+) and EpCAM(−) KMCH‐1 cells were isolated. Subsequently, their morphological features, HSPC marker expression, and biological characteristics were examined in vitro and in vivo.

Results

FCM showed expression of EpCAM, K7, K19, and ABCG2 in KMCH‐1, with various degrees. EpCAM(+) cells expressed K19 mRNA, but did not express α‐fetoprotein (AFP). In contrast, EpCAM(−) cells expressed AFP mRNA, but did not express K19. EpCAM(+) cells produced both EpCAM(+) and EpCAM(−) cells, but EpCAM(−) cells produced only EpCAM(−) cells in vitro. EpCAM(+) cells showed higher tumorigenicity and formed larger tumors than EpCAM(−) cells. Inoculation of EpCAM(+) and EpCAM(−) cells produced both ChC and HCC‐like component and HCC‐like component only, respectively.

Conclusion

It is speculated that some CHCs may originate from EpCAM(+) neoplastic cells, and that these cells may affect malignant behavior and progression in such CHCs.
Testosterone in men with advanced liver disease: Abnormalities and implications
Authors: Sinclair Marie , Grossmann Mathis , Gow Paul J , Angus Peter W
Published: August 2014

Serum testosterone is reduced in up to 90% of men with cirrhosis, with levels falling as liver disease advances. Testosterone is an important anabolic hormone, with effects on muscle, bone, and hematopoiesis. Many of the features of advanced liver disease are similar to those seen in hypogonadal men, including sarcopenia, osteoporosis, gynecomastia, and low libido. However, the relative contribution of testosterone deficiency to the symptomatology of advanced liver disease has not been well established. More recently, it has been demonstrated that low testosterone in men with cirrhosis is associated with increased mortality, independent of the classically recognized prognostic factors, such as the Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score. Only several small clinical trials have examined the role of testosterone therapy in men with cirrhosis, none of which have resolved the issue of whether or not testosterone is beneficial. However, in men with organic hypogonadism due to structural hypothalamic–pituitary–testicular axis disease, testosterone therapy has been shown to improve muscle mass and bone mineral density, increase hemoglobin, and reduce insulin resistance. Despite initial concerns linking testosterone with hepatocellular carcinoma, more recent data suggest that this risk has been overstated. There is, therefore, now a strong rationale to assess the efficacy and safety of testosterone therapy in cirrhosis in well‐designed randomized controlled trials.
Risk for esophageal neoplasia in Barrett's esophagus patients with mucosal changes indefinite for dysplasia
Authors: Horvath Bela , Singh Prabhdeep , Xie Hao , Thota Prashanthi N , Allende Daniela S , Pai Rish K , Patil Deepa T , Plesec Thomas P , Goldblum John R , Liu Xiuli
Published: August 2014

Background and Aim

Patients with Barrett's esophagus (BE) are at increased risk for esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) and therefore require surveillance. Biopsies are classified as indefinite for dysplasia (IND) when the significance of epithelial abnormalities is uncertain due to inflammation or sampling. Our aim was to characterize the neoplastic risk of IND in BE patients and to identify predictors of neoplastic risk.

Methods

Our pathology database from 1992 to 2007 was searched for BE and IND. Progression rates were calculated and univariate analysis was performed to identify predictors for neoplasia progression in BE‐IND patients.

Results

Among 85 patients who had a follow‐up (FU) biopsy within 1 year, 11 (12.9%) patients had prevalent neoplasia (seven low‐grade dysplasia [LGD], two high‐grade dysplasia [HGD], and two EAC). Among 82 patients who did not have prevalent neoplasia but had ≥ 1 year FU, 17 progressed to dysplasia (14 LGD, 3 HGD) and 2 developed EAC during a mean FU period of 59 months. The incidence of neoplasia (LGD, HGD, or EAC) and advanced neoplasia (HGD + EAC) was 4.5 and 1.2 cases per 100 patient‐years, respectively. Longer length of BE and multi‐focal IND on index biopsy were associated with progression to neoplasia.

Conclusion

Patients with BE‐IND carry a significant risk of harboring prevalent dysplasia, but the risk of incident dysplasia is similar to the general BE population. The length of BE and the multifocal IND might tentatively help to identify a patient subpopulation at higher risk of neoplastic progression before more definitive data becomes available.
Influence of segmentation on micro‐CT images of trabecular bone
Authors: TASSANI S. , KORFIATIS V. , MATSOPOULOS G. K.
Published: August 2014

Segmentation of biomedical images is of great importance in various studies aiming to both the identification of regions of interests within the image and the performance of quantified measurements. Nevertheless, the segmentation of the biomedical images represents a wide range of medical cases and there is not a unique technique applicable to all kinds of medical images.

In this study, three popular techniques for segmenting micro‐CT images of bone microstructures are evaluated. Fixed threshold, Otsu's algorithm and a modified version of the Chan–Vese segmentation technique have been applied on micro‐CT images and have been compared to higher resolution golden standard, that is histological images. The modification of the Chan–Vese technique is based on the novel implementation of a new initialization process called the Branch Point Initialization. Stereological measurements were performed on all the segmented images and statistically compared to the golden standard. Fixed threshold and the modified Chan–Vese technique have shown comparable results, with a maximum significant error of about 10%. However, Chan–Vese showed an easier, faster and more reliable segmentation procedure for optimal settings identification. The Otsu's method showed a maximum error larger than 20%. Given the limits and advantages of the known segmentation techniques, the proposed modified Chan–Vese active contour technique shows high potential for use in the segmentation of micro‐CT images as well as in other high‐resolution X‐ray images. This potential is augmented by the recent introduction of high‐resolution clinical technologies for which standard techniques have already shown to be insufficient.
Agrarian Change and Ethnic Politics: Restructuring of Hmong and Shan Labour and Agricultural Production inNorthernThailand
Authors: Latt Sai , Roth Robin
Published: August 2014

Ethnic politics are an important, but under‐examined, dynamic in the restructuring of agrarian labour. This paper examines how the discursive construction of ethnic identity has facilitated the particular form of agrarian intensification and labour restructuring under way in the uplands ofThailand. Agricultural intensification, followed by the promotion of ‘safe’ and then ‘organic’ production, has relied upon the construction ofHmong farmers as environmentally destructive and in need of development, whileShan labour arriving from Burma are simultaneously constructed as ‘illegal migrants’ (as opposed to refugees), a social nuisance and hard workers, helping to make them into an available, willing and preferred labour force. We argue that the construction of ethnic identity in these instances enables the agricultural changes under way and, thus, the particularities of agricultural change cannot be understood without careful attention to ethnic politics.
Text2Floss: the feasibility and acceptability of a text messaging intervention to improve oral health behavior and knowledge
Authors: Hashemian Tony S. , Kritz‐Silverstein Donna , Baker Ryan
Published: August 2014

Objective

Text messaging is useful for promoting numerous health‐related behaviors. The Text2Floss Study examines the feasibility and utility of a 7‐day text messaging intervention to improve oral health knowledge and behavior in mothers of young children.

Methods

Mothers were recruited from a private practice and a community clinic. Of 156 mothers enrolled, 129 randomized into text (n = 60) and control groups (n = 69) completed the trial. Participants in the text group received text messages for 7 days, asking about flossing and presenting oral health information. Oral health behaviors and knowledge were surveyed pre‐ and post‐intervention.

Results

At baseline, there were no differences between text and control group mothers in knowledge and behaviors (P > 0.10). Post‐intervention, text group mothers flossed more (P = 0.01), had higher total (P = 0.0006) and specific (P < 0.05) knowledge, and tried to improve their child's oral health behaviors (P = 0.03) and decrease their soda and sugary snacks (P = 0.05) more than control mothers. Text messages were accepted and perceived as useful.

Conclusions

Mothers receiving text messages improved their own oral health behaviors and knowledge as well as their behaviors regarding their children's oral health. Text messaging represents a viable method to improve oral health behaviors and knowledge. Its high acceptance may make it useful for preventing oral disease.
1,8-Cineole ameliorates oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation-induced ischaemic injury by reducing oxidative stress in rat cortical neuron/glia
Authors: Ryu Sangwoo , Park Hyeon , Seol Geun Hee , Choi In-Young
Published: August 2014

Objectives

1,8-Cineole, the main monoterpene in many essential oils, has been used as an ingredient in flavourings and medicine. 1,8-Cineole has been shown to possess pharmacological properties, including anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive actions. However, to date, no studies have examined the potential of 1,8-cineole to protect against cerebral ischaemic injury.

Methods

In this study, we investigated the neuroprotective effects of 1,8-cineole against cortical neuronal/glial cell injury caused by oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) in an in-vitro model of ischaemia.

Key findings

1,8-Cineole significantly attenuated OGD/R-induced cortical cell injury, as well as reduced n-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA)-induced cell injury. However, it did not inhibit NMDA-induced cytosolic calcium overload. Nevertheless, 1,8-cineole significantly reduced the OGD/R- and NMDA-induced overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS). These results indicate that 1,8-cineole exerts neuroprotection through its anti-oxidative rather than its anti-excitotoxic, properties. The decrease in OGD/R-induced intracellular superoxide in 1,8-cineole-treated cortical cells was associated with the upregulation of superoxide dismutase activity. Moreover, 1,8-cineole showed direct ROS scavenging activity in an assay of oxygen radical absorbance capacity.

Conclusion

Collectively, these results suggest 1,8-cineole as a potentially effective neuroprotective and anti-oxidative candidate for the treatment of patients with ischaemic stroke.
Frequency, Reasons for, and Perceptions of Lubricant Use among a Nationally Representative Sample of Self-Identified Gay and Bisexual Men in the United States
Authors: Dodge Brian , Schick Vanessa , Herbenick Debby , Reece Michael , Sanders Stephanie A. , Fortenberry J. Dennis
Published: August 2014

Introduction

Few previous studies have examined lubricant use among gay and bisexual men outside the context of human immunodeficiency virus risk reduction associated with condom use during penile–anal intercourse and the potential use of lubricants to deliver rectal microbicides. The vast majority of studies examining lubricant use among gay and bisexual men have employed convenience sampling strategies for participant recruitment. Additionally, most studies have collapsed gay men and bisexual men into one category of “gay and bisexual men.”

Aims

This study aimed to provide overall rates of lubricant use and related factors among a nationally representative sample of self-identified gay and bisexual men. Frequencies of lubricant use, reasons for using lubricant, and perceptions of lubricant use were examined separately for subsamples of both gay and bisexual men.

Methods

Data were from the 2012 National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior, which involved the administration of an online questionnaire to a nationally representative probability sample of women and men in the United States aged 18 and older, and we oversampled self-identified gay and bisexual men and women; the results from male participants are included in this article.

Main Outcome Measures

Measure included demographic characteristics, recent and lifetime commercial lubricant use, lubricant use during specific sexual behaviors, frequency of lubricant use, and reasons for lubricant use during sexual activity.

Results

Over 90% of both gay and bisexual male participants reported lifetime lubricant use. Use was most common during partnered sexual activities, particularly among men aged 25–29 years old. The most commonly reported reasons for lubricant use included to increase comfort during anal intercourse, curiosity, and to make sex more comfortable.

Conclusions

Most gay and bisexual men in the United States have used lubricant to enhance a wide range of sexual activities, including but not limited to anal intercourse. Findings from this study will be of utility to clinicians and other health practitioners who seek to understand and promote sexual health among gay and bisexual men and other traditionally underserved public health populations.
On units of Analysis and Creativity Theory: Towards a “Molecular” Perspective
Authors: Glăveanu Vlad Petre
Published: August 2014

This article addresses the issue of units of analysis and atomistic models in psychology taking creativity research as a case study. A classic typology in this area, initially proposed byRhodes (1961), distinguishes between the fourP's of creativity: person, process, product, and press (environment). Continuing an effort to rewrite this basic language of the discipline from a cultural psychological perspective in the form of five A's (actor, audience, action, artefact, affordances), the discussion here focuses on bringing relationships to the fore within this framework and problematising strict distinctions between each of the five elements. A closer look at the five A's of creativity, drawing on theoretical considerations and illustrated by interviews with creators working in different domains, reveals the permeable borders surrounding these units and challenges clear divisions between actors and audiences, action and artefacts, actors and artefacts. In the end, it is argued that creative phenomena cannot be properly understood and studied outside of their integrated and dynamic totality defined as a creativity complex. Implications of adopting this “molecular” perspective for theory and methodology are discussed.
Understanding factors, outcomes and reasons for loss to follow‐up among women in Option B+ PMTCT programme in Lilongwe, Malawi
Authors: Tweya Hannock , Gugsa Salem , Hosseinipour Mina , Speight Colin , Ng'ambi Wingston , Bokosi Mphatso , Chikonda Janet , Chauma Annie , Khomani Patricia , Phoso Malocho , Mtande Tiwonge , Phiri Sam
Published: August 2014

Objective

To assess factors, outcomes and reasons for loss to follow‐up (LTFU) among pregnant and breastfeeding women initiated on a lifelong antiretroviral therapy (ART) for PMTCT in a large antenatal clinic in Malawi.

Methods

We identified all pregnant and breastfeeding women who were initiated on ART between September 2011 and September 2013 and had missed their clinic appointment by at least 3 weeks at Bwaila Hospital, the largest antenatal clinic in Malawi. These women were traced by phone or home visits. Their true status and reasons for ART discontinuation were documented during tracing.

Results

A total of 2930 women started ART for PMTCT; 2458 (84%) pregnant and 472 (16%) breastfeeding, of which, 577 (20%) missed a scheduled clinic appointment. LTFU was associated with younger age, being pregnant, and earlier year of ART initiation. We successfully traced 229 (40%), of whom, 10 (4%) had died. Of the 219 women found alive, 118 (54%) had stopped taking ARV drugs, 67 (30%) had self‐transferred to another ART clinic, 13 (6%) had collected drugs from other sources, 9 (4%) had treatment interruptions and 12 (5%) had other outcomes. Reasons cited for stopping ART were travel (38%), lack of transport money (16%), not understanding the initial ARV education session (10%), being too weak/sick (10%), ARV side effects (10%) and other reasons.

Conclusion

Approximately half of the women who were traced were taking ARVs. The study emphasises the need for enhanced post‐test counselling strategies, ongoing psychosocial support, provision of incentives and further decentralisation efforts of PMTCT services.
Technology, Production, and Socio-Economic Indicators at the Macro Level: A Statistical Analysis of the Chinese Regions
Authors: Jiang Yanqing , Wan Chunyang
Published: August 2014

This study contains a statistical analysis exploring the interrelationships between technology, production and various socio-economic variables in the context of China’s regional macroeconomy. We focus on empirically examining how technology at the macro level is interrelated to production, output, and various macro-level socio-economic indicators. Our statistical analysis shows that a higher level of technology is always associated with socio-economically desirable outcomes on the various chosen macro-level indicators. However, the causality may run bi-directionally. Our empirical results also show that even after the partial effects of all the other macro-level variables are netted out, that is, even when the indirect effects of technology are not considered, the remaining direct effect of technology is still shown to play a very crucial role in determining labor productivity in the production process at the macro level.
Feasibility of Using More Geothermal Energy to Generate Electricity
Authors: Wong Kaufui Vincent , Tan Nathanael
Published: August 2014

Human population is ever-increasing and, thus, demand for energy is escalating. Consequently, seeking clean methods of producing electricity is a most crucial endeavor at this time. The shrinking reserves of oil have added urgency to the matter as well. One other recognized source of renewable energy besides wind, water, and solar (WWS) is geothermal energy, which has been proven to be useful in baseload power generation, a significant advantage over WWS. As compared to fossil fuels, geothermal energy is not subjected to the supply and cost fluctuations of which fuel is at risk. To date, there have been a number of innovative procedures explored to use geothermal energy to produce electricity. A relatively innovative yet not uncommon method has been to use hot solid rocks to heat water and pump the superheated water to use in power plants. These rocks are generally underground and at higher temperatures due to their proximity to volcanoes or natural geothermal vents. The water goes deeper down into the earth's crust to become superheated by the rocks, and then is pumped out to power turbines, and subsequently returned into the ground to repeat the process. In Krafla, Iceland, during their Icelandic Deep Drilling Project (IDDP) in 2009, a borehole was accidentally dug into the magma at 2100 m. The temperature of this magma was about 900–1000 °C. A steel casing with perforations on the flat side was cemented into the well bottom. This design was to slow the heat flow, and superheated steam was made for the following two years till July 2012. The steam reached temperatures of 450 °C and was at high pressures. Krafla was the world's first magma-enhanced geothermal system (EGS) to generate electricity. This paper will explore the feasibility of using geothermal power plant methods as a sustainable source of clean energy. Geothermal energy has tremendous potential if the right methods can be found to tap that potential, as well as if the cost may be brought down by innovation and demand. In addition, an innovative method, which already exists in some form, is proposed in the current review to harness more geothermal energy for use.
Topology Configuration of Actuator Failure Mode of a Novel Quadruped Robot
Authors: Wang Jing , Gao Feng , Zhang Yong
Published: August 2014

Fault tolerance is an important characteristic of quadruped robots. Actuator failure mode is the basis for research of fault tolerance and motion planning of quadruped robots. In this paper, the combination of actuator failures and the remained end-effector characteristics are investigated based on “GF sets” theory. With intersection operation property in “GF sets,” the remained motion ability can be easily judged. The combination of one and two actuator failures is analyzed in detail and some examples are used to illustrate the method of motion ability analysis. Experiments are carried out on the prototype of a novel quadruped robot and the results show that this method is effective for analysis of fault tolerance of quadruped robots.
SOFC Lifetime Assessment in Gas Turbine Hybrid Power Systems
Authors: Tucker David , Abreu-Sepulveda Maria , Harun Nor Farida
Published: August 2014

The adoption of solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) technology in power generation has been limited, in no small part, by material degradation issues affecting the stack lifetime, and hence, the economic viability. A numeric study was conducted to determine if the life of an SOFC could be extended when integrated with a recuperated gas turbine system. Dynamic modeling tools developed at the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) for real-time applications were applied to evaluate life to failure for both a standalone SOFC and a hybrid SOFC gas turbine. These models were modified using empirical relations to experimental degradation data to incorporate degradation as a function of current density and fuel utilization. For the control strategy of shifting power to the turbine as fuel cell voltage degrades, the SOFC life could be extended dramatically, significantly impacting the economic potential of the technology.
Review of Residual Stress Modification Techniques for Extending the
Fatigue Life of Metallic Aircraft Components
Authors: Sticchi M. , Schnubel D. , Kashaev N. , Huber N.
Published: August 2014

A major challenge for the aircraft industry in the future will be the development of effective strategies for maintaining and extending the service life of aging aircraft fleet. In this context, residual-stress-based approaches for extending the fatigue life of aircraft components are believed to have great potential for providing cost-effective solutions. This paper reviews residual-stress-based life extension techniques and published work on the use of these techniques in aerospace applications. The techniques reviewed include cold expansion, shot peening, laser shock peening, deep rolling, and heating. Comparisons of the various techniques with regard to current applications and limitations are given.
Comparison of Prognostic Health Management Algorithms for Assessment of Electronic Interconnect Reliability Under Vibration
Authors: Lall Pradeep , Lowe Ryan
Published: August 2014

This paper compares three prognostic algorithms applied to the same data recorded during the failure of a solder joint in ball grid array component attached to a printed circuit board. The objective is to expand on the relative strengths and weaknesses of each proposed algorithm. Emphasis will be placed on highlighting differences in underlying assumptions required for each algorithm, details of remaining useful life calculations, and methods of uncertainty quantification. Metrics tailored specifically for prognostic health monitoring (PHM) are presented to characterize the performance of predictions. The relative merits of PHM algorithms based on a Kalman filter, extended Kalman filter, and a particle filter all demonstrated on the same data set will be discussed. The paper concludes by discussing which algorithm performs best given the information available about the system being monitored.
Strong solutions for the stochastic 3D LANS-α model driven by non-Gaussian Lévy noise
Authors: Deugoué Gabriel , Sango Mamadou
Published: August 2014

We establish the existence, uniqueness and approximation of the strong solutions for the stochastic 3D LANS-α model driven by a non-Gaussian Lévy noise. Moreover, we also study the stability of solutions. In particular, we prove that under some conditions on the forcing terms, the strong solution converges exponentially in the mean square and almost surely exponentially to the stationary solution.
Structural properties and surviving rate of planar graphs
Authors: Kong Jiangxu , Zhang Lianzhu , Wang Weifan
Published: August 2014

Let G be a connected graph. Suppose that a fire breaks out at some vertex. A firefighter starts to protect vertices. At each time interval, the firefighter protects k vertices not yet on fire. At the end of each time interval, the fire spreads to all the unprotected vertices that have a neighbor on fire. The k-surviving rate ρk(G) of G is the average proportion of saved vertices, if the starting vertex of the fire is chosen uniformly at random. A graph G is called k-good if there is a constant c > 0 such that ρk(G) ≥ c. We study structural properties of planar graphs and show that planar graphs are 3-good.
Stable Isotope Analyses and the Evolution of Human Diets
Authors: Schoeninger Margaret J.
Published: August 2014

Stable isotope analysis of carbon and nitrogen has revolutionized anthropology's approach and understanding of the evolution of human diet. A baseline comparison across extant nonhuman primates reveals that they all depend on C3plants in forests, forest patches, and woodlands except during rare seasonal intake, in marginal regions, or where maize fields exist. Even large-bodied hominoids that could theoretically rely on hard-to-digest C4plants do not do so. Some Plio-Pleistocene hominins, however, apparently relied heavily on C4and/or CAM plants, which suggests that they relied extensively on cecal-colon microbial fermentation. Neanderthals seem less carnivorous than is often assumed when we compare their δ15Nbone collagenvalues with those of recent human populations, including recent human foragers who also fall at or near the top of their local trophic system. Finally, the introduction of maize into North America is shown to have been more sporadic and temporally variable than previously assumed.
Advances in Dialectometry
Authors: Wieling Martijn , Nerbonne John
Published: August 2014

Dialectometry applies computational and statistical analyses within dialectology, making work more easily replicable and understandable. This survey article first reviews the field briefly in order to focus on developments in the past five years. Dialectometry no longer focuses exclusively on aggregate analyses, but rather deploys various techniques to identify representative and distinctive features with respect to areal classifications. Analyses proceeding explicitly from geostatistical techniques have just begun. The exclusive focus on geography as explanation for variation has given way to analyses combining geographical, linguistic, and social factors underlying language variation. Dialectometry has likewise ventured into diachronic studies and has also contributed theoretically to comparative dialectology and the study of dialect diffusion. Although the bulk of research involves lexis and phonology, morphosyntax is receiving increasing attention. Finally, new data sources and new (online) analytical software are expanding dialectometry’s remit and its accessibility.