bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Southeast and East Asian American Medical Students’ Perceptions of Careers in Academic Medicine
Authors: Zhang Lindy , Lee Edward S. , Kenworthy Charles A. , Chiang Serena , Holaday Louisa , Spencer Dennis J. , Poll-Hunter Norma Iris , Sánchez John Paul
Published: December 2017

The Asian race represents one of the fastest growing racial groups in the United States that have unique health-care issues and barriers to services. Despite being the second largest racial group among medical students, Asians represent a markedly smaller proportion of leadership. Greater inclusion may facilitate Asian-related curriculum content development, community-engaged research, and increased services for Asian communities. This article explores Southeast and East Asian American (AA) medical students’ perceptions of and challenges toward pursuing academic medicine careers. We collected quantitative and qualitative data among 138 participants. Factors that increased trainees’ interests include collaboration with others, teaching and research opportunities, and influential role models/mentors. Interventions identified to overcome perceived challenges include exposure to senior-level race-concordant role models and mentors, enhancement of communication skills, and informed career discussions between parents and trainees. Such interventions may engage more AA trainees into academia and facilitate their growth as leaders.
Preparation and characterization of novel soluble polyarylates derived from 9,9-bis[4-(4-chloroformylphenoxy)phenyl]xanthene with various bisphenols
Authors: Zhou Yu-Ting , Sheng Shou-Ri , Tang Chuan-Chao , Song Cheng , Huang Zhen-Zhong , Liu Xiao-Ling
Published: December 2017

A series of new polyarylates bearing cardo xanthene groups were synthesized by phase-transfer-catalyzed interfacial polycondensation of 9,9-bis[4-(4-chloroformylphenoxy)phenyl]xanthene with various bisphenols containing the isopropylidene, hexafluoroisopropylidene, 1-phenylethylidene, diphenylmethane, cyclohexane, and xanthene structures. High-molecular-weight polyarylates with number-average molecular weight and polydispersity index in the range of 30,100–35,300 and 1.82–2.17, respectively, exhibited high glass transition temperatures ranged from 226°C to 261°C, and their 10% weight loss temperatures were in the range of 421–452°C with char yields above 45% at 700°C in nitrogen. All the polyarylates were amorphous and readily soluble in organic solvents such as dichloromethane, chloroform, tetrahydrofuran, meta-cresol, pyridine, N,N-dimethylformamide, N,N-dimethylacetamide, and 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone at room temperature and could be cast into tough, transparent, and flexible films with tensile strengths of 85.6–108.3 MPa, elongations at break of 2–3%, and tensile moduli of 7–9 GPa.
Kierkegaard and the modern search for self
Authors: Nielsen Klaus
Published: December 2017

In this article, I argue that Kierkegaard’s analysis of the self and the concept of despair introduces another approach to the self that is different from the one found in humanistic psychology. Rather than seeing the self as something organic, something universally and privately given to the individual to develop, Kierkegaard presented a dialectical and a relational understanding of the self, wherein the notion of “the other” is central. Central in Kierkegaard’s analysis in Sickness Unto Death are two modalities when it comes to despair: the despair of not willing to be oneself and the despair of willing to be oneself. Kierkegaard’s analysis of the despair of willing to be oneself can be read as a strong critique of the notion of self being constituted by itself, as argued by humanistic psychology.
The emergence of environmental stewardship as a primary institution of global international society
Authors: Falkner Robert , Buzan Barry
Published: December 2017

This article develops an English School framework for analysing the emergence of new primary institutions in global international society, and applies this to the case of environmental stewardship. The article traces the impact that global environmentalism has had on the normative order of global international society, examines the creation of secondary institutions around this norm and identifies the ways in which these developments have become embedded in the constitution and behaviour of states. It assesses the ways in which environmental stewardship has interacted with the other primary institutions that compose global international society, changing some of the understandings and practices associated with them. The conclusions argue that environmental stewardship is likely to be a durable institution of global international society, and that it might be a harbinger of a more functional turn in its priorities.
Spolia revisited and extended: The potential for contemporary architecture
Authors: Kalakoski Iida , Huuhka Satu
Published: December 2017

In the fields of archaeology, art history and history, spolia have traditionally been studied as phenomena of the past. Today, the reuse of salvaged construction components and materials is primarily justified by its economic and ecological benefits, while its architectural and experiential qualities are much less discussed, if at all. Therefore, this article has two focuses, one more conceptual, and the other, more practical. Firstly, the article suggests extending the concept of spolia to contemporary architecture and discusses the usefulness of the concept in evaluating experiential values in contemporary constructions that make use of reclaimed parts. Secondly, it evaluates the potential of spoliation as a modern design tool in search of a more complex and historicity-based architectural expression. This potential is examined by defining the requirements for the extended concept and through analyzing examples of contemporary design. Although the main focus of this article is on contemporary architecture based on old building components, the topic also has obvious implications for heritage management.
Study on the shear wall structure with combined form of replaceable devices
Authors: Chen Cong , Xiao Renjie , Lu Xilin , Chen Yun
Published: December 2017

Structure with replaceable devices is a type of earthquake resilient structure developed to restore the structure immediately after strong earthquakes. Current researches focus on one type of the replaceable device located in the structural part that is most likely to be damaged; however, plastic deformation would not be limited in a specific part but expand to other parts. To concentrate possible damage in shear wall structures, combined form of replaceable devices was introduced in this article. Based on previous studies, combined form of replaceable coupling beam and replaceable wall foot was used in a coupled shear wall. Influences of the dimension and location of the replaceable devices to the strength and stiffness of the shear wall were investigated through numerical modeling, which was verified by experimental data. Performance comparison between the shear walls with one type and combined form of replaceable devices and the conventional coupled shear wall was performed. In general, the shear wall with combined form of replaceable devices is shown to be better energy dissipated, and proper dimensions and locations of the replaceable devices should be determined.
Care and concern in the research process: meeting ethical and epistemological challenges through multiple engagements and dialogue with research subjects
Authors: Sörensson Erika , Kalman Hildur
Published: December 2017

By addressing a case of data collection strategies applied in research on Thai migration to the Swedish wild-berry industry, this article argues for how a feminist approach based on care and concern for research subjects both safeguards ethical concerns and promotes good knowing. The data collection procedures were designed in a step-by-step manner, including the research subjects as much as possible at different times and in different ways in an attempt to create preconditions for a more inclusive production of knowledge. In-depth interviews, participant observation, photo documentation and group interviews were used, which facilitated the possibility to understand the content and meanings of wild-berry picking from the workers’ points of view. Through prolonged contact, including repeated encounters and dialogue with research subjects, in-depth knowledge was produced concerning Thai migrations to Sweden, as migration was set in relation to the migrants’ life courses and living conditions.
Local loss coefficients inside air cavity of ventilated pitched roofs
Authors: Gullbrekken Lars , Uvsløkk Sivert , Geving Stig , Kvande Tore
Published: December 2017

Pitched roofs with a ventilated air cavity to avoid snow melt and ensure dry conditions beneath the roofing are a widely used construction in northern parts of Europe and America. The purpose of this study has been to determine pressure losses at the inlet (eaves) and inside the air cavity consisting of friction losses and passing of tile battens. These results are necessary to increase the accuracy of ventilation calculations of pitched roofs. Laboratory measurements, numerical analysis as well as calculations by use of empirical expressions have been used in the study. A large difference in the local loss coefficients depending on the edge design and height of the tile batten was found. The local loss coefficients of the round-edged tile battens were approximately 40% lower than the local loss coefficients of the sharp-edged tile battens. Furthermore, the local loss factor increased by increasing height of the tile batten. The numerical analysis was found to reliably reproduce the results from the measurements.
Graphene-engineered cementitious composites
Authors: Zheng Qiaofeng , Han Baoguo , Cui Xia , Yu Xun , Ou Jinping
Published: December 2017

Graphene, a two-dimensional monoatomic thick building block of a carbon allotrope, has emerged as nano-inclusions in cementitious materials due to its distinguished mechanical, electrical, thermal, and transport properties. Graphene nanoplatelet and its oxidized derivative graphene oxide were found to be able to reinforce and modify the cementitious materials from atomic scale to macroscale, and thereby endow them with excellent mechanical properties, durability, and multifunctionality. This article reviews the progress of fabrication, properties, mechanisms, and applications of graphene-based cementitious composites.
What Do Students Have to Do With Educational Leadership? Making a Case for Centering Student Voice
Authors: Lac Van T. , Cumings Mansfield Katherine
Published: December 2017

The purpose of this article is to illustrate the value of educational leaders intentionally including students in shaping the policies and practices that affect young people’s schooling experiences. First, we share the literature on student voice and introduce Principal Orientations for Critical Youth Educational Leadership as a conceptual model, advocating ways leaders can engage young people in school governance. Second, we share an empirical example from our research that holds promise to build caring, equitable, and responsive classrooms and schools by centering students’ voices. Finally, we consider what our findings mean for educational leadership preparation programs.
Duvelisib, a novel oral dual inhibitor of PI3K-δ,γ, is clinically active in advanced hematologic malignancies
Authors: Flinn Ian W. , O’Brien Susan , Kahl Brad , Patel Manish , Oki Yasuhiro , Foss Francine F. , Porcu Pierluigi , Jones Jeffrey , Burger Jan A. , Jain Nitin , Kelly Virginia M. , Allen Kerstin , Douglas Mark , Sweeney Jennifer , Kelly Patrick , Horwitz Steven
Published: December 2017

Key Points

Duvelisib, an oral dual inhibitor of PI3K-δ and γ, is clinically and pharmacodynamically active across a range of hematologic malignancies. 75 mg twice daily was determined to be the MTD, with 25 mg twice daily selected for further evaluation in phase 2 and 3 studies.
Metabolic re-patterning in COPD airway smooth muscle cells
Authors: Michaeloudes Charalambos , Kuo Chih-Hsi , Haji Gulam , Finch Donna K. , Halayko Andrew J. , Kirkham Paul , Chung Kian Fan , Adcock Ian M.
Published: December 2017

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) airways are characterised by thickening of airway smooth muscle, partly due to airway smooth muscle cell (ASMC) hyperplasia. Metabolic reprogramming involving increased glycolysis and glutamine catabolism supports the biosynthetic and redox balance required for cellular growth. We examined whether COPD ASMCs show a distinct metabolic phenotype that may contribute to increased growth.

We performed an exploratory intracellular metabolic profile analysis of ASMCs from healthy nonsmokers, healthy smokers and COPD patients, under unstimulated or growth conditions of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β and fetal bovine serum (FBS).

COPD ASMCs showed impaired energy balance and accumulation of the glycolytic product lactate, glutamine, fatty acids and amino acids compared to controls in unstimulated and growth conditions. Fatty acid oxidation capacity was reduced under unstimulated conditions. TGF-β/FBS-stimulated COPD ASMCs showed restoration of fatty acid oxidation capacity, upregulation of the pentose phosphate pathway product ribose-5-phosphate and of nucleotide biosynthesis intermediates, and increased levels of the glutamine catabolite glutamate. In addition, TGF-β/FBS-stimulated COPD ASMCs showed a higher reduced-to-oxidised glutathione ratio and lower mitochondrial oxidant levels. Inhibition of glycolysis and glutamine depletion attenuated TGF-β/FBS-stimulated growth of COPD ASMCs.

Changes in glycolysis, glutamine and fatty acid metabolism may lead to increased biosynthesis and redox balance, supporting COPD ASMC growth.
Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016
Authors: Lynch Gerard , Taggart Catherine , Campbell Philip
Published: December 2017

Mental health legislation in Northern Ireland has always been separate from legislation in the rest of the UK; the Mental Health (Northern Ireland) Order (MHO) had been in place since 1986. In common with other jurisdictions, this legislation utilises the presence of mental disorder and risk as criteria for detention and involuntary treatment. The MHO has been replaced by the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 (MCA), an example of ‘fusion’ legislation in which impairment of decision-making capacity and best interests are the only criteria to be used when making decisions across health and social care. In this paper, we outline the development of the MCA to date, and discuss its potential to improve mental healthcare by placing the treatment of mental illness within the same legislative framework as physical illnesses.
Distinct roles for plasma membrane PtdIns(4)P and PtdIns(4,5)P2 during receptor-mediated endocytosis in yeast
Authors: Yamamoto Wataru , Wada Suguru , Nagano Makoto , Aoshima Kaito , Siekhaus Daria Elisabeth , Toshima Junko Y. , Toshima Jiro
Published: December 2017

Clathrin-mediated endocytosis requires the coordinated assembly of various endocytic proteins and lipids at the plasma membrane. Accumulating evidence demonstrates a crucial role for phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate [PtdIns(4,5)P2] in endocytosis but specific roles for phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate [PtdIns(4)P], other than as the biosynthetic precursor of PtdIns(4,5)P2, have not been clarified. In this study we investigated the roles of PtdIns(4)P and PtdIns(4,5)P2 in receptor-mediated endocytosis through the construction of temperature-sensitive (ts) mutants for the phosphatidylinositol 4-kinases (PI4-kinases) Stt4p and Pik1p and the 1-phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate 5-kinase [PtdIns(4) 5-kinase] Mss4p. Quantitative analyses of endocytosis revealed that both the stt4ts pik1ts and mss4ts mutants have a severe defect in endocytic internalization. Live-cell imaging of endocytic protein dynamics in stt4ts pik1ts and mss4ts mutants revealed that PtdIns(4)P is required for the recruitment of the α-factor receptor Ste2p to clathrin-coated pits, whereas PtdIns(4,5)P2 is required for membrane internalization. We also found that the localization to endocytic sites of the ENTH/ANTH domain-bearing clathrin adaptors, Ent1p, Ent2p, Yap1801p and Yap1802p, is significantly impaired in the stt4ts pik1ts mutant but not in the mss4ts mutant. These results suggest distinct roles in successive steps for PtdIns(4)P and PtdIns(4,5)P2 during receptor-mediated endocytosis.
Case Report: Dual nebulised antibiotics among adults with cystic fibrosis and chronic Pseudomonas infection
Authors: Mann Nina , Murray Shirley , Hoo Zhe Hui , Curley Rachael , Wildman Martin J.
Published: December 2017

Pulmonary exacerbations in adults with cystic fibrosis (CF) and chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Psae) infection are usually treated with dual intravenous antibiotics for 14 days, despite the lack of evidence for best practice. Intravenous antibiotics are commonly associated with various systemic adverse effects, including renal failure and ototoxicity. Inhaled antibiotics are less likely to cause systematic adverse effects, yet can achieve airway concentrations well above conventional minimum inhibitory concentrations. Typically one inhaled antibiotic is used at a time, but dual inhaled antibiotics (i.e. concomitant use of two different inhaled antibiotics) may have synergistic effect and achieve better results in the treatment of exacerbations. We presented anecdotal evidence for the use of dual inhaled antibiotics as an acute treatment for exacerbations, in the form of a case report. A female in her early thirties with CF and chronic Psae infection improved her FEV1 by 5% and 2% with two courses of dual inhaled antibiotics to treat exacerbations in 2016. In contrast, her FEV1 changed by 2%, –2%, 0% and 2%, respectively, with four courses of dual intravenous antibiotics in 2016. Baseline FEV1 was similar prior to all six courses of treatments. The greater FEV1 improvements with dual inhaled antibiotics compared to dual intravenous antibiotics suggest the potential role of using dual inhaled antibiotics to treat exacerbations among adults with CF and chronic Psae infection, especially since a greater choice of inhaled anti-pseudomonal antibiotics is now available. A previous study in 1985 has looked at the concomitant administration of inhaled tobramycin and carbenicillin, by reconstituting antibiotics designed for parenteral administration. To our knowledge, this is the first literature to describe the concomitant use of two different antibiotics specifically developed for delivery via the inhaled route.
The peculiarities of territorial consolidation of European states and the USA
Authors: Матвиенко Анатолий , Matvienko Anatoliy
Published: December 2017

According to S. Rokkan theory, the decisive impact on formation European states has the east-west axis (ensures identification with national political organization) and centre-periphery relations with dominant position of the centre. Asynchrony of the process of state formation and nation building gives grounds for definition three types of states: early (the state formation preceded the appearance of nation - France), late (the national identity was the base of state - Germany, Italy) and consociative (absence of the strong state and the united nation - the Netherlands, Switzerland). As the rule, on the European continent the state formation preceded the rise of nations and nationalism. The main differences between formation of the USA and European states are: the absence the competition between religious and secular power, territorial and economic barriers; the single language for communication. From the European point of view, the USA is the nation formed without state support. The success of the American state on the early stages of its development depended on rules of behavior, which implementation were provided by courts and political parties. In reference to democratization, in Europe it promoted the transition to political stage of state formation, in the USA - the search of compromise solution between confederation and federation.
Leveraging Social Capital of Persons With Intellectual Disabilities Through Facebook Participation: The Perspectives of Family Members and Direct Support Staff
Authors: Shpigelman Carmit-Noa
Published: December 2017

This study aimed to understand and describe the views of family members and direct support staff regarding the use of Facebook by persons with intellectual disability (ID) within the context of social capital. In-depth, semistructured interviews conducted with 16 family members and direct support staff of persons with ID who use Facebook revealed that most participants favored Facebook use by persons with ID for bonding and bridging social capital and for normalization. Most participants noted the empowering effect of online activity on persons with ID, yet some reported risks and usage difficulties. Although Facebook use enhances the well-being of persons with ID, findings highlighted the participants' need for formal guidelines regarding social media best-practices for people with ID.
Roman window glass: an approach to its study through iconography
Authors: Velo-Gala Almudena , Garriguet Mata José Antonio
Published: December 2017

Despite the fact that iconographic studies are recognized as an important tool for understanding antiquity, there are few references of Roman window glass among scholars in this field. This paper, which analyses images in reliefs, mosaics and wall paintings, shows how representations of window glass are more common than hitherto argued. The data from these analyses provides important information about the chronology, use and availability of this type of material, adding to the small body of knowledge regarding an object little understood in scholarly circles, even though windows are believed to be one of the most widespread applications of glass in the Roman era.
El diseño urbano de la regio IV de Complutum (Alcalá de Henares). Estudios a partir de la prospección geofísica
Authors: Carreras Cèsar , Olmos Pau , Rascón Marqués Sebastián , Sánchez Montes Ana Lucía , De Soto Pau
Published: December 2017

Se presenta la investigación realizada sobre la traza urbana de la regio IV de la ciudad romana de Complutum. Se realiza una prospección eléctrica acompañada por el estudio de algunos restos excavados recientemente y de la documentación procedente de excavaciones del siglo XIX. Como resultado, ha sido posible generar una nueva propuesta de diseño urbano para la regio IV, basada en una trama ortogonal de insulae de 30x30 m, e identificar diversas estructuras entre las que destaca un edificio singular que con todas las precauciones debidas podría tratarse de un santuario urbano de importantes dimensiones.
Reflexões sobre a importância do estímulo a prática da leitura
Authors: Freire Maria Caroline Dos Santos
Published: December 2017

Este trabalho foi realizado a partir de reflexões iniciadas na época do estágio supervisionado com o objetivo principal de analisar a importância da leitura na formação de alunos leitores garantindo ao indivíduo uma interação com a informação sistemática contribuindo para a construção de um cidadão crítico dos seus conhecimentos.  Nesse sentido, buscou-se ressaltar a importância da leitura como ponto de processo abrangente, cuja linha de evolução permite a identificação de características especiais que definem momentos de crescimento da criança, desde o inicio da escolaridade, á integração ao ambiente familiar a escola. São muitos os cuidados que precisamos ter no trabalho que desenvolvemos com nossos alunos, utilizando as estratégias que valorizem cada oportunidade de crescimento, de fortalecimento das habilidades do futuro leitor. O mesmo foi realizado a partir de bibliografia de caráter qualitativo onde promovemos uma leitura reflexiva com os autores citados neste trabalho procurando estimular aos profissionais da educação um incentivo a praticas pedagógicas voltadas para a descoberta e imaginação da leitura da criança.
The Effect of a Data Breach Announcement on Customer Behavior: Evidence from a Multichannel Retailer
Authors: Janakiraman Ramkumar , Lim Joon Ho , Rishika Rishika
Published: December 2017

In this study, the authors assess the effects of a data breach announcement (DBA) by a multichannel retailer on customer behavior. They exploit a natural experiment and use individual customer transaction data from the retailer to conduct a detailed and systematic empirical examination of the effects of a DBA on customer spending and channel migration behavior. To identify the effects, the authors compare the change in customer behavior before and after the DBA between a treatment group (customers whose information is breached) and a control group (customers whose information is not breached) using the difference-in-differences modeling framework. They find that although the data breach results in a significant decrease in customer spending, customers of the firm migrate from the breached to the unbreached channels of the retailer. The findings further reflect that customers with a higher retailer patronage are more forgiving because the negative effects of the DBA are lower for customers with a higher level of patronage. The authors propose and empirically test for the role of customer data vulnerability as the behavioral mechanism that drives customer behavior subsequent to a DBA. The authors offer prescriptions for managers on how to engage with customers following DBAs.
Commutability of control materials for external quality assessment of serum apolipoprotein A-I measurement
Authors: Zeng Jie , Qi Tianqi , Wang Shu , Zhang Tianjiao , Zhou Weiyan , Zhao Haijian , Ma Rong , Zhang Jiangtao , Yan Ying , Dong Jun , Zhang Chuanbao , Chen Wenxiang
Published: December 2017

Background:

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the commutability of commercial control materials and human serum pools and to investigate the suitability of the materials for the external quality assessment (EQA) of serum apolipoprotein A-I (apo A-I) measurement.

Methods:

The Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) EP14-A3 protocol was used for the commutability study. Apo A-I concentrations in two levels of commercial control materials used in EQA program, two fresh-frozen human serum pools (FSPs) and two frozen human serum pools prepared from residual clinical specimens (RSPs) were measured along with 50 individual samples using nine commercial assays. Measurement results of the 50 individual samples obtained with different assays were pairwise analyzed by Deming regression, and 95% prediction intervals (PIs) were calculated. The commutability of the processed materials was evaluated by comparing the measurement results of the materials with the limits of the PIs.

Results:

The FSP-1 was commutable for all the 36 assay pairs, and FSP-2 was commutable for 30 pairs; RSP-1 and RSP-2 showed commutability for 27/36 and 22/36 assay pairs, respectively, whereas the two EQA materials were commutable only for 4/36 and 5/36 assay pairs, respectively.

Conclusions:

Non-commutability of the tested EQA materials has been observed among current apo A-I assays. EQA programs need either to take into account the commutability-related biases in the interpretation of the EQA results or to use more commutable materials. Frozen human serum pools were commutable for most of the assays.
Investigation of Performance Affecting Parameters on Hybrid Passive Optical Networks
Authors: Kumar Anil , Randhawa Rajneesh
Published: December 2017

In the evolvement of current passive optical networks (PONs), there is ever increasing bandwidth demand due to dynamic service requirements. This introduces challenge for the choice of multiplexing technique and physical layer bounds like fiber length, data rate, and number of users are critical over a suitable architecture. In this article, hybrid wave division multiplexing-time division multiplexing PON is analyzed using variable length of fiber with data rates up to 40 Gbps over a maximum of 128 end users. Comparative study using different frequency spacing’s has shown that it has negligible effect on the Q-factor performance parameter. Further in the work, variable data rates required for different services is successfully transmitted up to 30 km to 128 number of users for an acceptable level of bit error rate.
Application of Nonlinear Ultrasonic Technique to Characterize the Damage Evolution in Structural Steel after Tensile Deformation
Authors: Wang Xiao , Wang Xue , Hu Lei , Du Cheng-chao , Li Yong
Published: December 2017

A nonlinear ultrasonic technique has been used to characterize damage evolution in structural steel subjected to tensile loading. The results show that the nonlinear parameter β′ increases monotonously with increasing tensile strain within its tensile strength. Compared with the original specimen, the nonlinear parameter rose by nearly 3.37 times when stretched to its tensile strength. This result indicates that the nonlinear ultrasonic technique is able to characterize the material damage at the early stages, which can become an effective means for improving the integrity and safety of the structural component.
Restoring Serotonergic Homeostasis in the Lateral Hypothalamus Rescues Sleep Disturbances Induced by Early-Life Obesity
Authors: Gazea Mary , Patchev Alexandre V. , Anderzhanova Elmira , Leidmaa Este , Pissioti Anna , Flachskamm Cornelia , Almeida Osborne F.X. , Kimura Mayumi
Published: December 2017

Early-life obesity predisposes to obesity in adulthood, a condition with broad medical implications including sleep disorders, which can exacerbate metabolic disturbances and disrupt cognitive and affective behaviors. In this study, we examined the long-term impact of transient peripubertal diet-induced obesity (ppDIO, induced between 4 and 10 weeks of age) on sleep–wake behavior in male mice. EEG and EMG recordings revealed that ppDIO increases sleep during the active phase but reduces resting-phase sleep quality. This impaired sleep phenotype persisted for up to 1 year, although animals were returned to a non-obesiogenic diet from postnatal week 11 onwards. To better understand the mechanisms responsible for the ppDIO-induced alterations in sleep, we focused on the lateral hypothalamus (LH). Mice exposed to ppDIO did not show altered mRNA expression levels of orexin and melanin-concentrating hormone, two peptides that are important for sleep–wake behavior and food intake. Conversely, the LH of ppDIO-exposed mice had reduced contents of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT), a neurotransmitter involved in both sleep–wake and satiety regulation. Interestingly, an acute peripheral injection of the satiety-signaling peptide YY 3–36 increased 5-HT turnover in the LH and ameliorated the ppDIO-induced sleep disturbances, suggesting the therapeutic potential of this peptide. These findings provide new insights into how sleep–wake behavior is programmed during early life and how peripheral and central signals are integrated to coordinate sleep.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTAdult physiology and behavior are strongly influenced by dynamic reorganization of the brain during puberty. The present work shows that obesity during puberty leads to persistently dysregulated patterns of sleep and wakefulness by blunting serotonergic signaling in the lateral hypothalamus. It also shows that pharmacological mimicry of satiety with peptide YY3–36can reverse this neurochemical imbalance and acutely restore sleep composition. These findings add insight into how innate behaviors such as feeding and sleep are integrated and suggest a novel mechanism through which diet-induced obesity during puberty imposes its long-lasting effects on sleep–wake behavior.
MANAGEMENT OF ENDOCRINE DISEASE: Fertility, pregnancy and lactation in women with adrenal insufficiency
Authors: Anand Gurpreet , Beuschlein Felix
Published: December 2017

With the introduction of hormonal substitution therapy in the 1950s, adrenal insufficiency (AI) has been turned into a manageable disease in pregnant women. In fact, in the light of glucocorticoid replacement therapy and improved obstetric care, it is realistic to expect good maternal and fetal outcomes in patients with AI. However, there are still a number of challenges such as establishing the diagnosis of AI in pregnant women and optimizing the treatment of AI and related comorbidities prior to as well as during pregnancy. Clinical and biochemical diagnoses of a new-onset AI may be challenging because of overlapping symptoms of normal pregnancy as well as pregnancy-induced changes in cortisol values. Physiological changes occurring during pregnancy should be taken into account while adjusting the substitution therapy. The high proportion of reported adrenal crisis in pregnant women with AI highlights persistent problems in this particular clinical situation. Due to the rarity of the disease, there is no prospective data-guiding management of pregnancy in patients with known AI. The aim of this review is to summarize the maternal and fetal outcomes based on recently published case reports in patients with AI and to suggest a practical approach to diagnose and manage AI in pregnancy.
Using Simulation to Develop Care Models for Rapid Response and Code Teams at a Satellite Facility
Authors: Rule Amy R.L. , Snider Julie , Marshall Cheryl , Kramer Kathleen , Geis Gary L. , Tegtmeyer Ken , Gosdin Craig H.
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND:

Our institution recently completed an expansion of an acute care inpatient unit within a satellite hospital that does not include an on-site ICU or PICU. Because of expected increases in volume and acuity, new care models for Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) and Code Blue Teams were necessary.

OBJECTIVES:

Using simulation-based training, our objectives were to define the optimal roles and responsibilities for team members (including ICU physicians via telemedicine), refine the staffing of RRTs and code Teams, and identify latent safety threats (LSTs) before opening the expanded inpatient unit.

METHODS:

The laboratory-based intervention consisted of 8 scenarios anticipated to occur at the new campus, with each simulation followed by an iterative debriefing process and a 30-minute safety talk delivered within 4-hour interprofessional sessions. In situ sessions were delivered after construction and before patients were admitted.

RESULTS:

A total of 175 clinicians completed a 4-hour course in 17 sessions. Over 60 clinicians participated during 2 in situ sessions before the opening of the unit. Eleven team-level knowledge deficits, 19 LSTs, and 25 system-level issues were identified, which directly informed changes and refinements in care models at the bedside and via telemedicine consultation.

CONCLUSIONS:

Simulation-based training can assist in developing staffing models, refining the RRT and code processes, and identify LSTs in a new pediatric acute care unit. This training model could be used as a template for other facilities looking to expand pediatric acute care at outlying smaller, more resource-limited facilities to evaluate new teams and environments before patient exposure.
Students' Preparedness and Training for CALL
Authors: Barrette Catherine
Published: December 2017

Planning for the integration of computers in language classrooms is complex, requiring information from many sources, yet some basic information has been underrepresented in the professional literature. The state of students' computer literacy (CL) and their accompanying training needs, for example, are two aspects that are infrequently investigated. Some studies do discuss these issues, but few report the time allocated to training for computerized tasks or the gains made in CL. While research on the effectiveness of computers for language learning is growing, little of it indicates the practicality of this tool for teachers who need to train their students in CL before the computer can become a tool for them. However, it is exactly this type of practical information that complements effectiveness research for teachers who need to prepare appropriate tasks and determine whether they have the instructional time to offer training to students. The present study provides data on the CL of university-level Spanish students with respect to word processing, CD-ROMs, e-mail, and the World Wide Web. The training method used integrated technical training into activities focused on learning language and culture and resulted in gains in students' CL for a small investment of class time.
SEAsite
Authors: Henry George , Zerwekh Robert
Published: December 2017

SEAsite is a web-based interactive learning resource site for Southeast Asian Languages (Indonesian, Tagalog, Thai, Khmer, Lao, Burmese, and Vietnamese). Its language learning materials feature second language (L2) script support, streaming audio, pictures, and interactive exercise types that allow learners to test their understanding. Many SEAsite resources about culture, politics, music, art, religion, and other subjects related to Southeast Asia are written in English. A nonstandard, but workable, system for rendering Southeast Asian orthographies in web pages and interactive exercises is described. Computer code to support display of L2 characters in Java applets is available to interested parties.
Effect of Online Quizzes on Learning Japanese
Authors: Itoh Reiko , Hannon Charles
Published: December 2017

An assistant professor of Japanese and an instructional technologist teamed up to create online review quizzes for students of intermediate Japanese at Gettysburg College. Because of the convenience of online delivery, these quizzes were well suited to the needs of today's liberal arts students who often participate in many extracurricular activities. Student use of these quizzes increased over the course of the semester, and the benefits to them were measurable, especially in those students who had performed poorly in the class prior to the adoption of the online quizzes.
Learning French Pronunciation
Authors: Weinberg Alysse , Knoerr Helene
Published: December 2017

Phonetics, intonation, and pronunciation are integral parts of language learning. However, they are not often an actual part of the content of language classes. One reason may be that teachers are not necessarily trained in phonetics and therefore are reluctant to make this component a part of their teaching. Another reason may be that the proper tools are not being used or that the proper tools are not being used appropriately in order to assist teachers and students in integrating phonetics into the curriculum. This article describes a two phase experiment that was conducted at the University of Ottawa using audiocassettes and multimedia while teaching French, specifically French phonetics, intonation, and pronunciation, to a group of low-intermediate level language students. The present study addresses three questions: (a) Are the receptive and productive skills of intermediate-level learners of French as a second language influenced by the explicit teaching of phonetic and prosodic elements? (b) if so, which delivery mode is the most effective to teach these elements: audio cassettes or multimedia? and (c) what are the students' preferences with regards to these two delivery modes?
Measuring Student Learning in an Online French Course
Authors: Chenoweth N. , Murday Kimmaree
Published: December 2017

This paper reports the results of the assessment of Elementary French I Online, the first course to be offered under the Language Online project at Carnegie Mellon University. The purpose of the assessment was to determine if there were significant differences in achievement, satisfaction, and time spent on the course between the students in the online course and those in a conventional (offline) course. Multiple measures were taken of student background, including language and technology experience, and individual differences in learning styles. Students were compared on measures of grammatical knowledge, written production, oral production, listening comprehension, and reading comprehension; in addition, measures of satisfaction and time spent learning French were determined through course evaluations and interviews. The only statistically significant difference on the learning measures occurred in the written production task in which the online students outperformed the offline students; however, results should be carefully interpreted due to the sample size and use of intact classes. Student satisfaction was generally positive, but students in the online course voiced some frustrations. Students in the online course also reported spending less time studying French than did their counterparts in the conventional course.
Briefing: Life-cycle carbon assessment of prefabricated buildings: challenges and solutions
Authors: Pan Wei , Li Kaijian , Teng Yue
Published: December 2017

Buildings contribute to significant carbon dioxide emissions over their life cycle. The prefabrication approach has been promoted and increasingly integrated into building engineering and construction, which has attracted increasing research into the life-cycle carbon assessment (LCCA) of prefabricated buildings. However, there exist challenges. This paper examines the challenges and, through rethinking their theoretical fundamentals, proposes solutions with the aim to enhance the reliability and validity of research into the LCCA of prefabricated buildings. The challenges are found to be implicit system boundaries of prefabrication and LCCA: inconsistent methods, models and units of analysis of estimating buildings’ life-cycle carbon dioxide emissions and LCCA being a labour-intensive process with limited accountability. The proposed solutions are a regression model of relating buildings’ LCCA to 12 system boundaries, expressed by the system boundaries’ inconsistency ratio (I R), which shows the level of difference between any two system boundaries; a five-level framework of units of analysis consisting of material, component, assembly, flat and building; and a smart-technology-integrated approach for automatic LCCA. The solutions are important and timely to help reduce buildings’ life-cycle carbon dioxide emissions effectively for achieving long-term sustainability of society.
Seepage column hydraulic conductivity tests in the geotechnical centrifuge
Authors: van Tonder W , Jacobsz S
Published: December 2017

Provided that inter-particle flow remains laminar, hydraulic conductivity tests can be carried out in a centrifuge to accelerate flow, allowing the hydraulic conductivity of relatively impervious materials to be measured within a reasonable time. It is well documented that the inter-particle flow velocity in the centrifuge increases linearly with acceleration, and a debate in the literature deals with whether hydraulic conductivity also scales with acceleration or not. A number of hydraulic conductivity tests were carried out using seepage columns in the geotechnical centrifuge in which pore pressures were recorded within the samples during testing. When hydraulic conductivity is calculated from the hydrostatic potentials measured during testing, the hydraulic conductivity is found to be independent of the imposed acceleration. It is therefore advocated that the hydrostatic potential is scaled in the centrifuge rather than the hydraulic conductivity. It must therefore be recognised that the hydraulic gradient used in the conductivity calculation does not remain constant, but changes with the imposed acceleration.
THROMBOELASTOMETRY PROFILE IN CRITICALLY ILL PATIENTS v1
Authors: Crochemore Tomaz , Domingos Corrêa Thiago , D. Lancé Marcus , Solomon Cristina , Serpa Neto Ary , Carlos de Campos Guerra João , Scolmeister Lellis Priscila , Muller Bernz Livia , Nunes Natalia , Massashi Mancio Cassio , Paula Hitomi Yokoyama Ana , Silva Eliézer
Published: December 2017

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Transfusion therapy is associated with increased morbidity, mortality and costs. Conventional coagulation tests are weak bleeding predictors, poorly reflecting coagulation in vivo. Thromboelastometry (ROTEM) provides early identification of coagulation disorders and can guide transfusion therapy by goals, reducing blood components transfusion. Objective: The aim of this study is to describe coagulation profile of critically ill patients using ROTEM and evaluate the association between CCT and thromboelastometry. METHODS: This is a retrospective, observational study conducted in medical-surgical intensive care unit (ICU). Adult patients (≥18 years) admitted to ICU between November 2012 and December 2014, in whom ROTEM analyses were performed for diagnosis of coagulopathy, were included in this study. The first ROTEM and CCT after ICU admission were recorded simultaneously. Additionally, we collected data on blood components transfusion and hemostatic agents immediately after laboratory tests results. RESULTS: The study included 531 patients. Most ROTEM tests showed normocoagulability profile [INTEM (54.8%), EXTEM (54.1%) and FIBTEM (53.3%)] with divergent results in relation to CCT: low platelet count (51.8% in INTEM and 55.9% in EXTEM); prolonged aPTT (69.9% in INTEM and 63.7% in EXTEM) and higher INR (23.8% in INTEM and 27.4% in EXTEM). Approximately 16,7% of patients with normocoagulability in ROTEM received platelet concentrates and 10% fresh frozen plasma . CONCLUSION: The predominant ROTEM profile observed in this sample of critically ill patients was normocoagulability in contrast to CCT, suggesting coagulopathy and leading to a possibly unnecessary allogenic blood component transfusion. ROTEM test may avoid inappropriate allogeneic blood products transfusion in these patients.
Light microscopy protocol for the study of morphology of secretory spines v1
Authors: A. Sandoval-Molina Mario , A. Zavaleta-Mancera Hilda , Morales-Rodríguez Simón , Krzysztof Janczur Mariusz
Published: December 2017

The presence and structure of EFNs in Opuntia robusta had not been investigated. We used light, scanning-electron, and transmission-electron microscopy to examine morphology, anatomy, and ultrastructure of the secretory spines in areoles in female and hermaphrodite individuals of O. robusta. Young cladodes develop areoles with modified and secretory spines as EFNs only active during the early growth phase of female and hermaphrodite individuals. EFNs are non-vascularized structures, with no stomata, that consist of three distinct tissues: a basal meristematic tissue; a middle elongation region; and an apical secretory cone (asc) formed by large globular epidermal cells, of sac shape, containing nectar and medullar elongated cells. TEM observations indicated the presence of Golgi apparatus, vesicles and plastids in the medullar and sup-epidermal cells of the asc, transporting nectar to the epidermal secretory cells. The nectar is transported through plasmodesmata, and then stored on the asc cells, to be secreted by breaking through the globular cells and pores.
Social activity of the personality as a determinant of positive adaptation and full-fledged life at retirement age
Authors: Suslova T.F.
Published: December 2017

Reference of national and foreign scientists to the social activity of elderly people is the result of the process of global ageing of population. They mention many reasons for population ageing: the crisis of the family and marriage, which resulted in reduced fertility rates; increased quality of life of people, contributing to an increase in life expectancy, etc. In this regard, it is important for scholars and practitioners in the field of social psychology of old age and ageing to carry out research and practical design in the field of adaptive behavior of the elderly people and their involvement in the social life of the society. This article analyzes the foreign studies and experiences in the formation of adaptive behavior of the elderlypeople to conditions of retirement through involvement of people of late age in various kinds of social activity.