bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiparameter and multiobjective optimization design of centrifugal pump based on orthogonal method
Authors: Xu Yun , Tan Lei , Cao Shuliang , Qu Wanshi
Published: March 2016

Optimization design of centrifugal pumps involving multiple parameters and objectives is a complicated research topic. The orthogonal method is introduced in the present study to find a high efficiency and low cost way in the optimization process of a centrifugal pump. A orthogonal table designation L16(45) is established, in which 16 individuals of impellers are generated with five design parameters: blade wrap angle, blade angles at impeller inlet and outlet, blade leading edge position, and blade trailing edge lean varying at four levels for each parameter. To realize the multiobjective optimization of both pump efficiency and cavitation performance, an integrated factor considering the weight of two objectives is introduced. On the basis of validated computational fluid dynamics (CFD) technique, the range analysis gives the influence order of five parameters and also determines the value of each parameter. Finally, the optimal centrifugal pump is obtained with remarkable superiority on the efficiency of 3.09% rise and cavitation performance of 1.45 m promotion in comparison with the original pump.
Adoption Pattern and Welfare Impact of Agricultural Technology
Authors: Ghimire Raju , Huang Wen-Chi
Published: March 2016

This article examines the adoption of new-generation modern rice varieties (MRVs) and their impact on family welfare among rural farm households in central Nepal. Using cross-sectional data from 416 farm households and the Heckman’s sample selection model, this article finds a positive and significant impact of MRVs on farm income; distance to market and off-farm work exert a negative effect on farm income. The likelihood of adoption is mainly explained by age and education of the household head, access to extension services, seed access and acceptability of the rice grain to consumers. The results further reveal that farm size and land type have significant and positive influences on the adoption of MRVs. Designing mechanisms to help promote MRVs’ adoption among poorer households by developing new varieties suited for rain-fed areas may be a reasonable policy instrument to increase farm incomes. The results of this study suggest that because of the difficulties and costs of transportation and travel to distant markets, availability of seed in local retail outlets will benefit the farmers. To reduce transaction costs, farmers need to be linked to markets by a wide seed distribution network. Integrating farmers with potential buyers may increase profitability in agriculture and its subsequent impacts on rural farmers’ food security and general livelihood.
The effect of repeated attempts and test-retest reliability in children’s singing accuracy
Authors: Nichols Bryan E. , Wang Sijia
Published: March 2016

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of repeated attempts at singing accuracy tasks. Test-retest reliability of singing accuracy was examined in a second administration of the test. A secondary purpose was to analyze individual variability in children’s singing accuracy. Test stimuli were designed using five attempts each at a single pitch, interval, and four-note pattern, and song singing. Children aged 6–11 were given the one-on-one singing accuracy test, and an identical form of the test was administered again within 1–6 weeks. Pitch matching items were scored by measuring the deviation in Hertz from the stimuli. The song singing item was scored by singing teachers using an 8-point scale with acceptable inter-rater reliability ( r = .86). Participants’ individual best attempt out of five was equally distributed, with overall performance increasing across subsequent attempts measured in signed cent deviation. A repeated-measures ANOVA with the task type (single, interval, and pattern) and attempt (1, 2, 3, 4, and 5) as the within-subjects variables indicated no main effect for task type ( p = .129), but a significant main effect for attempt ( p < .001, [Formula: see text] = .087). Test-retest reliability was considered high ( r = .69).
Microgames for Situated Learning
Authors: Lukosch Heide , Kurapati Shalini , Groen Daan , Verbraeck Alexander
Published: March 2016

Background. Complex, dynamic systems require flexible workforces with skills and attitudes responding to the dynamic work environment. Traditional, formal classroom-oriented learning approaches often do not sufficiently support the development of such skills and attitudes and do not provide situated learning activities.

Aim and Method. We propose the concept of Microgames as an active, situated learning approach. A Microgame is a simulation game that can be played in a short time period and that starts from a specific problem in the organization defined by a problem owner. To illustrate the concept, we introduce a case study with a Microgame called Yard Crane Scheduler.

Results. The study’s results indicate that the Microgame used in our study represented an engaging experiential experience. It was able to foster the awareness of the players for interdependent planning tasks. Due to its shortness, the game’s reality is somewhat limited. To compensate for this limitation, a structured debriefing phase enables players to exchange information on successful planning strategies, enhancing the learning experience by a social learning activity.

Conclusions. Microgames are a novel approach towards situated, experiential learning. Its limitations, mainly caused by the constrained time for game play, have to be taken into account when defining learning goals. Despite this limitation, the Yard Crane Scheduler Microgame has been evaluated as an engaging and valid tool. Further research will investigate distinct design decisions and learning effects associated with the concept of Microgames.
A simplified multiscale damage model for the transversely isotropic shale rocks under tensile loading
Authors: Nezhad Mohaddeseh M , Zhu Hehua , Woody Ju J , Chen Qing
Published: March 2016

A simplified multiscale damage model is proposed for the transversely isotropic shale rocks under tensile loading. In this framework, the multiscale representations for the shale rocks are presented by introducing the microcrack-weakened equivalent solid with hierarchical microstructures, whose transversely isotropic properties are obtained by performing multilevel homogenization procedures. To simplify the calculation process for the damage-induced properties, the equivalent isotropic medium is attained by applying the Voigt–Reuss–Hill averaging process to the transversely isotropic solid. Subsequently, the microcrack-induced inelastic compliances are approximately derived in terms of microcrack opening displacements in the equivalent isotropic medium of the shale rock under tensile loading. The sizes and orientations of microcracks are taken as random variables. Both stationary and evolutionary damage models are considered. Microcrack kinetic equations are characterized through the use of a fracture mechanics-based stability criterion and microcrack geometry within a representative volume element. Numerical examples including experimental validations and comparisons with existing micromechanical models are presented to verify the proposed multiscale damage model. Finally, the influences of the silt inclusions and porosity on the material intrinsic and damage-induced properties are discussed.
Assessing the Impact of School-Based Health Centers on Academic Achievement and College Preparation Efforts
Authors: Bersamin Melina , Garbers Samantha , Gaarde Jenna , Santelli John
Published: March 2016

This study examines the association between school-based health center (SBHC) presence and school-wide measures of academic achievement and college preparation efforts. Publicly available educational and demographic data from 810 California public high schools were linked to a list of schools with an SBHC. Propensity score matching, a method to reduce bias inherent in nonrandomized control studies, was used to select comparison schools. Regression analyses, controlling for proportion of English-language learners, were conducted for each outcome including proportion of students participating in three College Board exams, graduation rates, and meeting university graduation requirements. Findings suggest that SBHC presence is positively associated with college preparation outcomes but not with academic achievement outcomes (graduation rates or meeting state graduation requirements). Future research must examine underlying mechanisms supporting this association, such as school connectedness. Additional research should explore the role that SBHC staff could have in supporting college preparation efforts.
Types and Influence of Social Support on School Engagement of Young Survivors of Leukemia
Authors: Tougas Anne-Marie , Jutras Sylvie , Bigras Marc
Published: March 2016

The present study aimed to describe and explore the influence of social support on the school engagement of young survivors of pediatric leukemia. Fifty-three young Quebecers, previously diagnosed and treated for leukemia, completed a questionnaire measuring their school engagement and participated in an interview focusing on the support offered by four groups of relations with regard to school: parents, siblings, friends, and other nonprofessional relations. The interview responses revealed that parents were perceived to be the primary source of informational and emotional support, with support also provided to a lesser extent by friends, siblings, and members of the extended family. Inferential analyses indicated that young survivors report a higher school engagement score when they perceive themselves as receiving support from a greater number of groups of relations, especially from friends or siblings.
Potassium-Binding Agents to Facilitate Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System Inhibitor Therapy
Authors: Schaefer Jared A. , Gales Mark A.
Published: March 2016

Objective: To evaluate safety and efficacy data for potassium-binding resins in renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS)-associated hyperkalemia. Data Sources: A search of MEDLINE (EBSCOhost; 1946 to February 2016) was conducted using the terms hyperkalemia, rennin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, angiotensin receptor blocker, aldosterone antagonists, resin, and binder. Results were limited to human trials in English language journals. References of identified articles were reviewed to identify other relevant articles. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Concurrent potassium-binding agents and RAAS inhibitor use literature were reviewed. Inclusion criteria a 2-week minimum therapy duration with hyperkalemia or high-risk patients receiving concurrent RAAS-inhibiting agents. Seven articles met inclusion criteria: 1 retrospective case series for sodium polystyrene sulfonate (SPS), 1 noncontrolled study using patiromer, and 5 randomized, placebo-controlled trials using 3 different agents—2 patiromer, 2 sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (SZC), and 1 cross-linked polyelectrolyte (CLP). Data Synthesis: SPS efficacy data are limited to a mean potassium reduction of 1.8 mEq/L in a 14-patient uncontrolled case series. CLP did not reduce hyperkalemia incidence compared with placebo. Patiromer effectively maintained potassium at 0.45 to 0.72 mmol/L lower than placebo while allowing spironolactone dose titration in more patients (91% vs 74%, P = 0.019). SZC also safely and effectively normalized and maintained potassium levels in patients receiving RAAS inhibitors (71%-85% vs 48% for placebo, P < 0.01). Conclusions: Currently, the literature does not support SPS and CLP for preventing RAAS inhibitor–associated hyperkalemia. Patiromer and SZC safely and effectively lower serum potassium and prevent hyperkalemia redevelopment in patients receiving RAAS inhibitors for up to 4 and 8 weeks,0 respectively.
Evaluation of Risk Factors for ADHD and Co-Morbid Psychiatric Disorders Among the Parents of Children With ADHD
Authors: Okan Ibiloglu Aslihan , Atli Abdullah , Bulut Mahmut , Gunes Mehmet , Demir Suleyman , Kaya Mehmet Cemal , Yuksel Tugba , Sir Aytekin
Published: March 2016

Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate the presence of ADHD and other psychiatric disorders among parents with at least one child with ADHD relative to parents with children who do not have ADHD. Method: Eighty five parents of children with ADHD with 68 control parents who had healthy children without ADHD were interviewed for participation in present study. Each parent was evaluated for co-existing psychiatric disorders using the Structured Clinical Interview for the DSM IV Axis I Disorders (SCID I). Results: We found that ADHD and co-morbid psychiatric symptoms were increased in the parents of children with ADHD in comparison with the healthy control group. Conclusion: Psychiatric co-morbidity was more common among the parents of patients with inattentive and combined presentations. Adult ADHD is associated with psychiatric co-morbidities including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and somatoform disorders as well as substantial role impairment.
Bias and accuracy in judging sexism in mixed-gender social interactions
Authors: Goh Jin X. , Rad Aria , Hall Judith A.
Published: March 2016

This research examined bias and accuracy in judging hostile and benevolent sexism during mixed-gender interactions. Bias is defined as underestimation or overestimation of a partner’s sexism. Accuracy is defined as covariation in two different ways, as (a) the strength of the association between a dyad member’s judgment and their partner’s sexism, across dyads, and (b) the ability to differentiate sexism between multiple targets. In Studies 1 and 2, members of mixed-gender dyads rated their own and their partners’ benevolent and hostile sexism. Overall, there was no covariation, across dyads, between perceptions and the partner’s self-reported sexism. However, women overestimated men’s hostile sexism; there was no evidence of biases for women judging men’s benevolent sexism. Men underestimated women’s hostile sexism and overestimated benevolent sexism. In Study 3, participants watched brief videos of male or female students (targets) from Study 1 and completed benevolent or hostile sexism items for each target as they thought the target would fill them out. Accuracy for detecting sexism across multiple targets (using sensitivity correlations) was significantly above chance for both forms of sexism. Male and female participants were more accurate at detecting hostile sexism in male targets than female targets. Participants were more accurate at detecting benevolent sexism of same-gender targets than opposite-gender targets. When judging targets of opposite gender, women’s judgments were significantly above chance for both forms of sexism, but men were not accurate for either forms of sexism. These studies suggest that there is bias and accuracy in first impression judgments of sexism.
Spelling out consequences: Conditional constructions as a means to resist proposals in organisational planning process
Authors: Nissi Riikka
Published: March 2016

Organisational planning processes often materialise as a series of meetings, where the future of the organisation is jointly discussed and negotiated as a part of local decision-making sequences. Using conversation and discourse analytical approaches, this article investigates how proposals concerning the future can also be resisted by employing a specific device, a conditional construction ( if X, then Y). The data for the study originate from a city organisation, whose customer services are being developed. The results show how the conditional constructions work in two interrelated ways. First, by introducing a problematic hypothetical situation, they outline the undesirable consequences of the proposed idea in real work life. Second, by highlighting the experience of the customer, they present the organisation as benefitting from the potential rejection of the idea. The article discusses the implications of the results for the study of proposal and decision-making sequences in longitudinal, multisemiotic discursive processes.
A modified counterpart of cyclic extrusion-compression: Experimental study and dislocation density-based finite element modeling
Authors: Esmaeili F , Mehri Sofiani F , Broomand R
Published: March 2016

In this study, strip cyclic extrusion-compression was introduced as a modified counterpart of cyclic extrusion-compression process for producing ultrafine grained strips. The strip cyclic extrusion-compression method was applied to the pure aluminum and mechanical properties of the processed strips were investigated. The ultrafine grained strips were successfully processed by applying two cycles of strip cyclic extrusion-compression. The transmission electron microscopy observations revealed that the initial microstructure was refined to 1 µm and 650 nm after the first and second cycles, respectively. The yield strength was increased 3 times and the ultimate strength was enhanced 1.5 times after the application of two cycles. The microhardness of the processed strips was increased to 46 Hv and 58 Hv after the first and second cycles, respectively. Furthermore, the fatigue tests revealed that the fatigue strength was higher in the strip cyclic extrusion-compression processed material than the un-processed one. The microstructure evolution during strip cyclic extrusion-compression was also modeled by means of a dislocation density-based finite element method. The finite element method model predicted that the microstructure was refined to 950 nm and 690 nm after the first and second cycles, respectively.
Therapeutic effect of renin angiotensin system inhibitors on liver fibrosis
Authors: Zhu Qianqian , Li Na , Li Fang , Zhou Zhihua , Han Qunying , Lv Yi , Sang Jiao , Liu Zhengwen
Published: March 2016

Background and objective:

Currently, there is no effective therapy available for liver fibrosis. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of renin angiotensin system inhibitors on liver fibrosis.

Method:

Full-text randomized controlled trials in patients with liver fibrosis were identified and included in the meta-analysis. The primary outcome measure was the histological fibrosis score of the liver. Secondary outcome measures included fibrosis area of the liver, serological levels of fibrosis markers, adverse events, and withdrawals.

Results:

From 6973 non-duplicated entries by systematic search, four randomized controlled trials with 210 patients were identified. The renin angiotensin system inhibitors therapy resulted in a marginally significant reduction in liver fibrosis score (MD = -0.30; 95% CI: -0.62–0.02, p = 0.05) and a significant reduction in liver fibrosis area (MD = -2.36%; 95% CI: -4.22%–-0.50%, p = 0.01) as compared with control. The therapy was well tolerated and there was no significant difference in withdrawals between treatment and control groups (RD = 0.00; 95% CI: -0.06–0.06, p = 0.97).

Conclusions:

Renin angiotensin system inhibitor therapy results in a reduction in liver fibrosis score and liver fibrosis area in patients with hepatic fibrosis with good safety profile. However, randomized controlled trials of high-quality will clarify the effectiveness of renin angiotensin system inhibitors on liver fibrosis.
Evaluation of subacute change in RAAS activity (as indicated by urinary aldosterone:creatinine, after pharmacologic provocation) and the response to ACE inhibition
Authors: Ames Marisa K , Atkins Clarke E , Lantis Andrea C , zum Brunnen James
Published: March 2016

Objective:

The objective of this study was to evaluate subacute changes in renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) activity during angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) therapy in dogs with experimental RAAS activation.

Methods:

Analysis of data (urine aldosterone:creatinine ratio (UAldo:C) and serum angiotensin-converting enzyme activity), in 31 healthy dogs with furosemide or amlodipine-activated RAAS that received an ACEI. When furosemide or amlodipine activation of RAAS preceded ACEI administration, incomplete RAAS blockade (IRB) was defined as a UAldo:C greater than (a) the dog’s ‘activated’ baseline value or (b) a population-derived cut-off value (mean + 2 SD (>1.0 μg/g) of pretreatment UAldo:C from our population of research dogs). In studies where RAAS activation occurred concurrently with ACEIs, IRB was defined as (a) a UAldo:C greater than either twofold the dog’s prestimulation baseline value or (b) 1.0 µg/g. Dogs were followed for 7–17 days.

Results:

Serum angiotensin-converting enzyme activity was measured in 19 dogs and was significantly reduced ( P<0.0001) after ACEI administration. The overall incidence of IRB, when RAAS activation preceded ACEI administration, was 33% and 8% for definitions (a) and (b), respectively. The overall incidence of IRB, when ACEIs were concurrent with RAAS activation, was 65% and 61% for definitions (a) and (b), respectively.

Conclusion:

Increases in UAldo:C, despite ACEI administration, is evidence of IRB in this subacute model of experimental RAAS activation and suppression.
Visuals in Turkish pop: the subversive role of cultural hybrids
Authors: Way Lyndon CS
Published: March 2016

Globalisation brings with it fears of cultural imperialism and a global mass culture from the West. This article contends that global imagery in the promotion of Turkish popular music actually enhances difference within Turkey. Global images are employed alongside Turkish ones to create an array of cross-cultural hybrids which Turkish viewers may read as expressions of cultural, political and social difference. A social semiotic approach is used on a sample of visuals from three genres of popular music. Analysis is complemented with an historical and social contextualisation in order to enhance understanding of how images blend the global with the ‘local’ in different ways to enable a medium of protest. Here is a case where global images are an integral part of hybrids which express dissent to national social and political issues.
Constructing the object of research in the manner of Piet Mondrian
Authors: Pomiès Anissa , Tissier-Desbordes Elisabeth
Published: March 2016

Drawing from the way the artist Piet Mondrian constructs objects in his paintings, we offer an epistemology for consumer research based on a five-step process for constructing the object of research. We show how the five steps fit with both existential phenomenology and the context of context approach. We also contribute to the current epistemological debate in consumer research showing commonalities between these two paradigms, often considered antagonistic due to their different unit of analysis. Finally, we encourage the shift towards art in consumer research, by studying artists to rethink the relationship between researchers and their objects of research.
Classifying skies from images: A multidimensional approach to detecting high dynamic range imaging attributes
Authors: Souza DF , Scarazzato PS , Pedrini H
Published: March 2016

Although the development of high dynamic range images allowed broadening sky vault analysis for lighting research purposes, the sky classification is still performed using subjective methods. There is no established metric for comparison, only isolated approaches that do not address the characteristics of the images. This paper presents a proposed multidimensional method for analysing light from sky vault high dynamic range images. A Matlab routine was applied. It uses a classification system to check the relevance of each image attribute, choosing the most suitable sky model from the ISO 15469:2004 (CIE S 011/E:2003) standard. The results, that can be plotted or exported, indicate that the routine is able to choose the most relevant model for the photographed sky, thus allowing the creation of a sky classification database.
Intervention Engagement Moderates the Dose–Response Relationships in a Dietary Intervention
Authors: Lippke Sonia , Corbet Jana M. , Lange Daniela , Parschau Linda , Schwarzer Ralf
Published: March 2016

Behavioral interventions could lead to changes in behavior through changes in a mediator. This dose–response relationship might only hold true for those participants who are actively engaged in interventions. This Internet study investigated the role of engagement in a planning intervention to promote fruit and vegetable consumption in addition to testing the intervention effect on planning and behavior. A sample of 701 adults (mean = 38.71 years, 81% women) were randomly assigned either to a planning intervention (experimental group) or to one of 2 control conditions (untreated waiting list control group or placebo active control group). Moderated mediation analyses were carried out. Significant changes over time and time × group effects revealed the effectiveness of the intervention. The effect of the intervention (time 1) on changes in behavior (time 3; 1 month after the personal deadline study participants set for themselves to start implementing their plans) was mediated by changes in planning (time 2; 1 week the personal deadline). Effects of planning on behavior were documented only at a moderate level of intervention engagement. This indicates an inverse U-shaped dose–response effect. Thus, examining participants’ intervention engagement allows for a more careful evaluation of why some interventions work and others do not.
Prophylactic heparin in acute intracerebral hemorrhage: a propensity score-matched analysis of the INTERACT2 study
Authors: Muñoz-Venturelli Paula , Wang Xia , Lavados Pablo M , Stapf Christian , Robinson Thompson , Lindley Richard , Heeley Emma , Delcourt Candice , Chalmers John , Anderson Craig S ,   on behalf of the INTERACT2 Investigators
Published: March 2016

Background

Indication and timing of pharmacological venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in intracerebral hemorrhage patients is controversial.

Aims

To determine whether use of subcutaneous heparin during the first 7 days after spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage increases risks of death and disability.

Methods

Data are from the Intensive Blood Pressure Reduction in Acute Cerebral Hemorrhage Trial (INTERACT2) study. Patients with acute intracerebral hemorrhage (<6 hours) and elevated systolic blood pressure were included; patients received subcutaneous heparin following local best practice standards of care. Multivariable logistic regression and propensity score matched analysis were used to determine associations of heparin use on death and disability (modified Rankin scale) at 90 days.

Results

In 2525 patients with available data, there were 465 (22.5%) who received subcutaneous heparin. They had higher death or major disability at 90 days in crude (odds ratio 2.29, 95% confidence interval 1.85–2.84; p < 0.001), adjusted (odds ratio 1.62, 95% confidence interval 1.26–2.09; p < 0.001) and propensity score matched (odds ratio 2.06, 95% confidence interval 1.53–2.77; p < 0.001) analyses. In propensity score matched analysis, heparin-treated patients had significant lower mortality (odds ratio 0.55, 95% CI 0.35–0.87; p = 0.01) but greater major disability (odds ratio 1.68, 95% confidence interval 1.25–2.28; p < 0.001) at 90 days. However, no mortality difference was found in analysis restricted to 48-hour survivors.

Conclusions

Use of subcutaneous heparin is associated with poor outcome in acute intracerebral hemorrhage, driven by increased residual disability. Despite the limitations of this study, and no clear relation of heparin with bleeding risk, we recommend careful consideration of the need for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis with heparin in intracerebral hemorrhage patients.

Trial registration

http://www.clinicaltrials.gov NCT00716079.
Family Caregivers’ Social Representations of Death in a Palliative Care Context
Authors: Lessard Sabrina , Leclerc Bernard-Simon , Mongeau Suzanne
Published: March 2016

The objective of this study was to consider the social representations of death of family caregivers in a palliative care context. The authors focused on the analysis of 23 interviews with family caregivers who cared for a terminally ill person at home and/or in a specialized palliative care unit, in Québec, Canada. The finding showed that family caregivers had different images that specifically represented death: (a) losses as different kinds of “deaths,” (b) palliative care as a place to negotiate with death, and (c) last times as confirmation of the end. These images highlight the meaning attributed to the body and the position of the dying person in our Western society. Representations of palliative care reveal a kind of paradox, a place of respect and of “gentle death,” and a place where death is almost too omnipresent. They also show the strong beliefs surrounding the use of painkillers at the end of life. Finally, these images refer to end-of-life personal rituals viewed as support for the passage into a new state of being. This study provides a better understanding of the common sense of death for family caregivers in a palliative care context and of the meanings of this emotional subject.
A Stakeholder Approach to Community Participation in a Rural Development Project
Authors: Usadolo Sam Erevbenagie , Caldwel Marc
Published: March 2016

The present study investigates a rural community project (Nguni Cattle Project) that uses Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) as a tool for its operational focus. The main objective of the study is to identify how the stakeholders are reflecting the PRA goal of the project. The method used to categorize the stakeholders is reported. The participatory patterns of the stakeholders are then analyzed, with emphasis on the points of intersections where the stakeholders meet to make sure the beneficiaries are sufficiently informed about the project. The data used to discuss the stakeholder participatory method were collected through interviews, information gleaned from organizational documents, and observations of meetings. The analysis of the data revealed the promotion of mutual understanding through sustained collaborative relationships among the stakeholders. The study presents a perspective that is new to the literature and to rural development practice due to its focus on the type of stakeholder participation in rural development projects.
The Cost of War
Authors: Asthappan Jibey
Published: March 2016

Spending almost US$700 billion to combat insurgents in Afghanistan, the U.S. population should be hopeful that they “bought” something of value as the Afghan War concludes. This exploratory study focuses on evaluating operations within Afghanistan by accounting for enemy and civilian losses. Integration of civilian losses offers an opportunity to evaluate operations that represent societal losses to the Afghan people. Regression estimates using zero-inflated negative-binomial models indicate that military operations resulted in more civilian casualties than enemy losses.
Psychological Factors Associated With Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Recovery
Authors: Christino Melissa A. , Fleming Braden C. , Machan Jason T. , Shalvoy Robert M.
Published: March 2016

Background:

Psychological factors may have underappreciated effects on surgical outcomes after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction; however, few studies have investigated the relationship between specific psychological factors, objective clinical data, and patient-oriented outcomes.

Purpose:

Psychological factors are significantly associated with patient perceptions and functional outcomes after ACL reconstruction. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate relationships between self-esteem, health locus of control, and psychological distress with objective clinical outcomes, patient-oriented outcomes, and return to sport.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Twenty-seven patients who were 6 to 24 months post–computer-assisted ACL reconstruction by a single surgeon consented to participate in the study (52% response rate). Participants had a 1-time visit with a physician consisting of: a physical examination, a single-leg hop test, KT-1000 arthrometer measurements, and survey completion. Psychological measures included the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and Brief Profile of Mood States. Outcome measures included the Tegner activity scale, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Subjective Knee Score, Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score–Quality of Life subscale (KOOS-QOL), and Short Form–36 (SF-36). Patient charts were also reviewed for pertinent operative details.

Results:

The mean age of patients (±SD) was 25.7 ± 8.4 years, and the mean duration of time since surgery was 16.5 ± 5.9 months. The majority (89%) of the patients identified themselves as athletes, and of these, 65% reported returning to sports at a competitive level. Sport returners were found to have higher levels of self-esteem ( P = .002) and higher reported KOOS-QOL scores ( P = .02). Self-esteem was significantly associated with IKDC scores ( r = 0.46, P < .05), KOOS-QOL scores ( r = 0.45, P < .05), and SF-36 subscales of general health ( r = 0.45, P < .05) and physical functioning ( r = 0.42, P < .05). Internal locus of control was significantly correlated with performance on single-leg hop test ( r = 0.4, P < .05). Objective knee stability measurements did not correlate with subjective outcomes.

Conclusion:

Self-esteem levels and locus of control had significant relationships with functional test performance and validated outcome measures after ACL reconstruction. Sport returners had significantly higher self-esteem levels than those who did not return to sports, without observable differences in knee stability or time since surgery.
Heavy Metal Conflict Management
Authors: Quijada Maria Alejandra
Published: March 2016

Conflict management skills are invaluable not only in the workplace but for life in general. I have identified a series of movie clips that connect with the students and aid in bringing the theory to practice. The documentary Metallica: Some Kind of Monster shows the metal band Metallica producing an album and the many conflicts that ensued during the 2-year process. The somewhat unorthodox setting helps capture the attention of the students. This article describes a lecture and discussion guide that I use in an undergraduate management class. It can be easily used in an organizational behavior, leadership, or team class and also in a master’s-level class.
Microstructure and mechanical properties of Cr–Ni–N coatings deposited by HiPIMS
Authors: Kim D. H. , Zhang T. F. , Shin J. H. , Kang M. C. , Kim K. H.
Published: March 2016

Cr–Ni–N coatings, the Ni content of which was altered from 0 to 6·3 at-%, were deposited by a hybrid coating system consisting of high power impulse magnetron sputtering and radio frequency magnetron sputtering. The effects of Ni addition to Cr-N coatings on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the coatings were investigated in this study. The instrumental analysis revealed that the Ni element was incorporated into Cr-N crystals as solid solutions, while excess Ni was precipitated as nanocrystalline phases at the Cr-N grain boundaries. The toughness of the Cr–Ni–N coatings was significantly improved with Ni content increased. In addition, the hardness of the coatings slightly increased from 30·4 to 32·6 GPa due to the grain refinement effect and solid solution hardening. From the tribological tests, the highest wear resistance was obtained from the sample having a Ni content of 2·7 at-%.
Decitabine enhances anti-CD33 monoclonal antibody BI 836858–mediated natural killer ADCC against AML blasts
Authors: Vasu Sumithira , He Shun , Cheney Carolyn , Gopalakrishnan Bhavani , Mani Rajeswaran , Lozanski Gerard , Mo Xiaokui , Groh Veronica , Whitman Susan P. , Konopitzky Renate , Kössl Christian , Bucci Donna , Lucas David M. , Yu Jianhua , Caligiuri Michael A. , Blum William , Adam Paul J. , Borges Eric , Rueter Bjoern , Heider Karl-Heinz , Marcucci Guido , Muthusamy Natarajan
Published: March 2016

Key Points

BI 836858, an Fc-engineered anti-CD33 antibody, mediates autologous and allogeneic NK cell–mediated ADCC. Decitabine increases ligands for activating NK receptors potentiating BI 836858 activity, providing a rationale for combination therapy.
Lung exposure to lipopolysaccharide causes atherosclerotic plaque destabilisation
Authors: Jaw Jen Erh , Tsuruta Masashi , Oh Yeni , Schipilow John , Hirano Yuki , Ngan David A. , Suda Koichi , Li Yuexin , Oh Jin Young , Moritani Konosuke , Tam Sheena , Ford Nancy , van Eeden Stephan , Wright Joanne L. , Man S.F. Paul , Sin Don D.
Published: March 2016

Epidemiological studies have implicated lung inflammation as a risk factor for acute cardiovascular events, but the underlying mechanisms linking lung injury with cardiovascular events are largely unknown.

Our objective was to develop a novel murine model of acute atheromatous plaque rupture related to lung inflammation and to investigate the role of neutrophils in this process.

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 3 mg·kg−1) or saline (control) was instilled directly into the lungs of male apolipoprotein E-null C57BL/6J mice following 8 weeks of a Western-type diet. 24 h later, atheromas in the right brachiocephalic trunk were assessed for stabilityex vivousing high-resolution optical projection tomography and histology. 68% of LPS-exposed mice developed vulnerable plaques, characterised by intraplaque haemorrhage and thrombus,versus12% of saline-exposed mice (p=0.0004). Plaque instability was detectable as early as 8 h post-intratracheal LPS instillation, but not with intraperitoneal instillation. Depletion of circulating neutrophils attenuated plaque rupture.

We have established a novel plaque rupture model related to lung injury induced by intratracheal exposure to LPS. In this model, neutrophils play an important role in both lung inflammation and plaque rupture. This model could be useful for screening therapeutic targets to prevent acute vascular events related to lung inflammation.
Vascular effects of sildenafil in patients with pulmonary fibrosis and pulmonary hypertension: anex vivo/in vitrostudy
Authors: Milara Javier , Escrivá Juan , Ortiz José Luis , Juan Gustavo , Artigues Enrique , Morcillo Esteban , Cortijo Julio
Published: March 2016

Sildenafil improves the 6-min walking distance in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and right-sided ventricular systolic dysfunction.

We analysed the previously unexplored role of sildenafil on vasoconstriction and remodelling of pulmonary arteries from patients with IPF and pulmonary hypertension (PH)ex vivo. Pulmonary arteries from 18 donors without lung disease, nine IPF, eight PH+IPF and four PH patients were isolated to measure vasodilator and anti-contractile effects of sildenafil in isometric organ bath. Ventilation/perfusion was explored in an animal model of bleomycin lung fibrosis.

Sildenafil relaxed serotonin (5-HT) pre-contracted pulmonary arteries in healthy donors and IPF patients and, to a lesser extent, in PH+IPF and PH. Sildenafil inhibited 5-HT dose-response contraction curve mainly in PH+IPF and PH, but not in healthy donors. Sildenafil did not impair the ventilation/perfusion mismatching induced by bleomycin. Pulmonary arteries from PH+IPF patients showed a marked expression of phosphodiesterse-5 and extracellular matrix components. Sildenafil inhibited pulmonary artery endothelial and smooth muscle cell to mesenchymal transition by inhibition of extracellular regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) and SMAD3 phosphorylation.

These results suggest an absence of direct relaxant effect and a prominent anti-contractile and anti-remodelling role of sildenafil in PH+IPF pulmonary arteries that could explain the beneficial effects of sildenafil in IPF with PH phenotype.
C. elegans flavin-containing monooxygenase-4 is essential for osmoregulation in hypotonic stress
Authors: Hirani Nisha , Westenberg Marcel , Seed Paul T. , Petalcorin Mark I. R. , Dolphin Colin T.
Published: March 2016

Studies in Caenorhabditiselegans have revealed osmoregulatory systems engaged when worms experience hypertonic conditions, but less is known about measures employed when faced with hypotonic stress. Inactivation of fmo-4, which encodes flavin-containing monooxygenase-4, results in dramatic hypoosmotic hypersensitivity; worms are unable to prevent overwhelming water influx and swell rapidly, finally rupturing due to high internal hydrostatic pressure. fmo-4 is expressed prominently in hypodermis, duct and pore cells but is excluded from the excretory cell. Thus, FMO-4 plays a crucial osmoregulatory role by promoting clearance of excess water that enters during hypotonicity, perhaps by synthesizing an osmolyte that acts to establish an osmotic gradient from excretory cell to duct and pore cells. C. elegans FMO-4 contains a C-terminal extension conserved in all nematode FMO-4s. The coincidently numbered human FMO4 also contains an extended C-terminus with features similar to those of FMO-4. Although these shared sequence characteristics suggest potential orthology, human FMO4 was unable to rescue the fmo-4 osmoregulatory defect. Intriguingly, however, mammalian FMO4 is expressed predominantly in the kidney – an appropriate site if it too is, or once was, involved in osmoregulation.
Στάσεις απέναντι στους ψυχικά ασθενείς στην Ελλάδα
Authors: Κουτρελάκος Δημήτρης
Published: March 2016

Το ερωτηματολόγιο, Απόψεις για την ψυχική ασθένεια, χρησιμοποιήθηκε για να ερευνηθούν οι στάσεις των ψυχολόγων, κοινωνικών λειτουργών, σπουδαστών κοινωνικής εργασίας και ατόμων από τον ευρύτερο πληθυσμό στην Ελλάδα. Τρεις από τις διαστάσεις στάσεων που παρατηρήθηκαν στην Ελλάδα αναγνωρίστηκαν ως ταυτόσημες με παράγοντες που εντοπίστηκαν στις ΗΠΑ, ενώ δύο διαστάσεις εμφανίζονται σαν απόλυτα χαρακτηριστικές των ελληνικών δειγμάτων. Οι ειδικοί σε θέματα ψυχικής υγείας ήταν λιγότερο αρνητικοί απέναντι σε ψυχασθενείς απ’ όσο ο κοινός άνθρωπος· δεν διέφεραν όμως ως προς άλλες απόψεις. Συγκρίσεις μεταξύ εθνικών ομάδων βασισμένες σε αντίστοιχα δείγματα και κοινούς παράγοντες έδειξαν ότι οι στάσεις των ειδικών επηρεάζονται περισσότερο από τον πολιτισμό τους παρά από την επιστημονική τους εκπαίδευση. Στα ελληνικά δείγματα η βαθμολογία ήταν και στους δύο κοινούς παράγοντες υψηλότερη από ό,τι στα δείγματα των ΗΠΑ. Οι κοινοί παράγοντες κρίθηκε ότι εκφράζουν τις παραδοσιακές αξίες που χαρακτηρίζουν περισσότερο την ελληνική κοινωνία παρά τις ΗΠΑ. Με στόχο τη διερεύνηση της επιρροής των πολιτιστικών αλλαγών στις στάσεις των Ελλήνων και των Αμερικανών αναλύθηκαν και στην Ελλάδα και στις ΗΠΑ δείγματα που εξετάστηκαν το 1969 και το 1979. Ο εκσυγχρονισμός και οι βελτιωμένες οικονομικές συν θήκες φάνηκε ότι άμβλυναν τις διαφορές μεταξύ των δύο χωρών. Το 1979 οι Έλληνες ήταν περισσότερο δεκτικοί στις επιστημονικές ερμηνείες της ψυχικής ασθένειας και λιγότερο απορριπτικοί απέναντι στους ψυχασθενείς.
APPROACHING TWITTER SOCIOLOGICALLY: A CASE STUDY OF THE PUBLIC HUMILIATION OF HIV-POSITIVE WOMEN
Authors: SIOULA-GEORGOULEA ISMINI
Published: March 2016

The present study examines the online discussion on Twitter regarding the stigmatization of HIV-positive women in Athens in May 2012. The method of critical discourse analysis is applied on the anti-sovereign discourses that were articulated on Twitter, while the incident was taking place. The virtual countersphere is analyzed with regards to its political implications, such as the reproduction of the unfree sovereign discourse and the mobilization towards political action.
SOCIAL MEDIA AND POLITICS: CONTESTATION, MEDIATION AND CIVIL SOCIETY
Authors: AFOUXENIDIS ALEX
Published: March 2016

In this special issue we consider various perspectives and ideas underlying the current ever-changing political and digital environments. There have been a substantial number of theories, coupled by empirical research over the past few years, on the nature of political behavior with respect to the increased use of the Internet. The main aim of this edition is to explore a few aspects of ‘digital politics’ and what they may mean for contemporary democratic culture. This paper synthesizes and reflects upon concepts presented in the following articles and discusses some recent developments and debates related to the dynamics of the online world.
The Inherent Drawbacks of the Pressure to Publish in Health Sciences: Good or Bad Science
Authors: Dinis-Oliveira Ricardo Jorge , Magalhães Teresa
Published: March 2016

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of scientific publications– it is the era of “hunting the article”. This commentary discusses the drawbacks of the pressure to publish that certainly contribute to the ‘dark side’ of science. In fact, health science career progression greatly relies on the number of scientific publications a researcher has, and in many cases these may be more valorized than the health services provided. Of course, scientific publications help to develop the skills of health care professionals, but as Einstein highlighted “not everything that counts can be counted, and not everything that can be counted counts”.
A protocol to examine vision and gait in Parkinson’s disease: impact of cognition and response to visual cues
Authors: Stuart Samuel , Galna Brook , Lord Sue , Rochester Lynn
Published: March 2016

Background

Cognitive and visual impairments are common in Parkinson’s disease (PD) and contribute to gait deficit and falls. To date, cognition and vision in gait in PD have been assessed separately. Impact of both functions (which we term ‘visuo-cognition’) on gait however is likely interactive and can be tested using visual sampling (specifically saccadic eye movements) to provide an online behavioural measure of performance. Although experiments using static paradigms show saccadic impairment in PD, few studies have quantified visual sampling during dynamic motor tasks such as gait.

This article describes a protocol developed for testing visuo-cognition during gait in order to examine the: 1) independent roles of cognition and vision in gait in PD, 2) interaction between both functions, and 3) role of visuo-cognition in gait in PD.

Methods

Two groups of older adults (≥50 years old) were recruited; non-demented people with PD (n=60) and age-matched controls (n=40). Participants attended one session and a sub-group (n=25) attended two further sessions in order to establish mobile eye-tracker reliability. Participants walked in a gait laboratory under different attentional (single and dual task), environmental (walk straight, through a door and turning), and cueing (no visual cues and visual cues) conditions. Visual sampling was recorded using synchronised mobile eye-tracker and electrooculography systems, and gait was measured using 3D motion analysis.

Discussion

This exploratory study examined visuo-cognitive processes and their impact on gait in PD. Improved understanding of the influence of cognitive and visual functions on visual sampling during gait and gait in PD will assist in development of interventions to improve gait and reduce falls risk. This study will also help establish robust mobile eye-tracking methods in older adults and people with PD.
Extremophiles and biotechnology: current uses and prospects
Authors: Coker James A.
Published: March 2016

Biotechnology has almost unlimited potential to change our lives in very exciting ways. Many of the chemical reactions that produce these products can be fully optimized by performing them at extremes of temperature, pressure, salinity, and pH for efficient and cost-effective outcomes. Fortunately, there are many organisms (extremophiles) that thrive in extreme environments found in nature and offer an excellent source of replacement enzymes in lieu of mesophilic ones currently used in these processes. In this review, I discuss the current uses and some potential new applications of extremophiles and their products, including enzymes, in biotechnology.