bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel BeiDou weak signal acquisition scheme based on modified differential correlation
Authors: Han Zhifeng , Liu Jianye , Wang Yi , Li Rongbing , Xu Rui
Published: September 2017

BeiDou signals are modulated with a secondary code of NH (Neumann–Hoffman) code to obtain a better positioning performance. The data bit rate increases to 1 kbps and bit transitions can occur in every 1 millisecond (ms) random sampling signal. As a result, the frequent bit transitions lead to an acquisition-sensitivity attenuation of classic integration algorithms. In order to improve acquisition sensitivity for BeiDou weak signals and resolve the problem that frequent bit transitions limit integration time, a novel BeiDou weak signal acquisition scheme based on modified differential correlation (M-DC) is proposed. First, conventional differential combination method is modified. The differential operation is moved from the post-correlator stage to the IF (intermediate frequency) samples to weaken the influence of data bit reversions. Second, an acquisition scheme implemented via fast Fourier transform is provided. Code phase and carrier frequency are estimated by one-dimensional search using fast Fourier transform. Third, power consumption and computation complexity of the proposed method are analyzed. Finally, Monte Carlo simulations and real data tests are conducted to analyze the performance of the proposed acquisition scheme. The results show that the proposed acquisition scheme can weaken the influence of data bit transitions to extend the integration time and enhance signal-to-noise ratio in weak signal environment. With the increase of accumulation time, the detection probability and acquisition sensitivity increase as well. The detection probability is 0.97 at CN0 (carrier-to-noise ratio) of 25 dB-Hz with an accumulation of 20 ms. This method is applicable to all kinds of BeiDou satellites and is also applicable to GPS, Galileo and other satellites navigation systems with or without secondary codes.
Impact of spinal rod stiffness on porcine lumbar biomechanics: Finite element model validation and parametric study
Authors: Brummund Martin , Brailovski Vladimir , Petit Yvan , Facchinello Yann , Mac-Thiong Jean-Marc
Published: September 2017

A three-dimensional finite element model of the porcine lumbar spine (L1–L6) was used to assess the effect of spinal rod stiffness on lumbar biomechanics. The model was validated through a comparison with in vitro measurements performed on six porcine spine specimens. The validation metrics employed included intervertebral rotations and the nucleus pressure in the first instrumented intervertebral disc. The numerical results obtained suggest that rod stiffness values as low as 0.1 GPa are required to reduce the mobility gradient between the adjacent and instrumented segments and the nucleus pressures across the porcine lumbar spine significantly. Stiffness variations above this threshold value have no significant effect on spine biomechanics. For such low-stiffness rods, intervertebral rotations in the instrumented zone must be monitored closely in order to guarantee solid fusion. Looking ahead, the proposed model will serve to examine the transverse process hooks and variable stiffness rods in order to further smooth the transition between the adjacent and instrumented segments, while preserving the stability of the instrumented zone, which is needed for fusion.
Perceived need of, and interest in, HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis amongst men who have sex with men attending three sexual health clinics in London, UK
Authors: Bull Lauren , Dimitrijevic Pavle , Beverley Sophie , Scarborough Alex , Mandalia Sundhiya , Dosekun Olamide , Barber Tristan , Reeves Iain , McCormack Sheena , Rayment Michael
Published: September 2017

HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has proven efficacy in reducing the risk of HIV infection in men who have sex with men (MSM), but has not yet been commissioned in the UK. The aim of this study was to investigate perceived need and benefit (or experience of) PrEP among HIV-negative MSM attending sexual health clinics. HIV-negative MSM attending three sexual health centres in London, UK were opportunistically invited to complete a questionnaire. Data collected comprised demographic data and sexual and drug use behaviours as well as questions regarding perceptions of risk and need for PrEP. Logistic regression analysis was undertaken to identify variables predicting acceptability of, and intention to use, PrEP. In addition, data were gathered in respondents already taking PrEP. Eight hundred and thirty-nine questionnaires were analysed. The median age of respondents was 35 years (IQR 28–41, range 18–78), 650 (77%) were of white ethnicity and 649 (77%) had a university education. Four hundred and fifty-six (54%) reported at least one episode of condomless anal sex in the preceding three months, 437 (52%) reported recreational drug use in the preceding three months and 311 (37%) had been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection within the preceding six months. Four hundred and sixty-three (64%) of 726 strongly agreed with the statement ‘I think I would benefit from PrEP’. Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that having receptive anal intercourse (RAI) without condoms, having an awareness of the risk of unprotected RAI and having belief in the effectiveness of PrEP were independent predictors for someone thinking they would benefit from taking PrEP. Eight percent of respondents (59/724) had already taken or were currently taking PrEP. The results suggest that individuals at risk are likely to perceive themselves as benefiting from PrEP. The majority perceived their risk of acquiring HIV and benefit from PrEP accurately. Overall they appeared to have little concern over the use of PrEP and generally positive attitudes. Further investigation is warranted to understand why those at risk do not perceive benefit from PrEP.
The Blur of Pleasure: Appetitively Appealing Stimuli Decrease Subjective Temporal Perceptual Acuity
Authors: Roberts Kevin H. , Truong Grace , Kingstone Alan , Todd Rebecca M.
Published: September 2017

Anecdotal reports that time “flies by” or “slows down” during emotional events are supported by evidence that the motivational relevance of stimuli influences subsequent duration judgments. Yet it is unknown whether the subjective quality of events as they unfold is altered by motivational relevance. In a novel paradigm, we measured the subjective experience of moment-to-moment visual perception. Participants judged the temporal smoothness of high-approach positive images (desserts), negative images (e.g., of bodily mutilation), and neutral images (commonplace scenes) as they faded to black. Results revealed approach-motivated blurring, such that positive stimuli were judged as smoother and negative stimuli as choppier relative to neutral stimuli. Participants’ ratings of approach motivation predicted perceived fade smoothness after we controlled for low-level stimulus features. Electrophysiological data indicated that approach-motivated blurring modulated relatively rapid perceptual activation. These results indicate that stimulus value influences subjective temporal perceptual acuity; approach-motivating stimuli elicit perception of a “blurred” frame rate characteristic of speeded motion.
Pseudo 3D modeling of suction and injection effects on fully developed laminar flow and heat transfer in rectangular fuel cell channels
Authors: Doosti Abukheyli A , Hassanzadeh H , Mirbozorgi SA
Published: September 2017

In this paper, the flow in the rectangular fuel cell channel with different aspect ratios has been numerically simulated. The bottom wall of the rectangular channel is porous and subjected to a uniform mass injection or suction, while the other three walls are nonporous or impermeable. Assuming the hydro-dynamically and thermally fully developed flow, the mass, momentum, and energy equations have been solved with a two-dimensional code. The present numerical results are in good agreement with the numerical results in the literature. The wall friction coefficients and Nusselt numbers were obtained for different aspect ratios, different wall Reynolds numbers (for suction and injection), and different thermal boundary conditions. The results show that for each aspect ratio, friction coefficient ( fRe) is larger for injection than for suction. Also at unit expect ratio, a/ b = 1, the fRe have minimum value for each wall Reynolds number ( Rem) and with increasing and decreasing aspect ratio, fRe increases. The changes of Nusselt ( Nu) number with Rem and aspect ratio is dependent on the thermal boundary conditions and definition of Nu number (for combined boundary condition).
Worse renal outcome of subclass IV-G lupus nephritis patients over IV-S
Authors: Duque de Sá Carneiro Filho E J , Jorge L B , Testagrossa L , Bitencourt C , Yu L , Woronik V
Published: September 2017

Background

International Society of Nephrology/ Renal Pathology Society (ISN/RPS) consensus on the classification of lupus nephritis (LN) subdivided class IV into diffuse segmental (IV-S) and diffuse global (IV-G). Nephrologists and nephropathologists believe that this subclassification would be clinically relevant based on hypothetical distinct immunopathogenesis of those subclasses guiding therapy as well as judging prognosis.

Methods

All adult patients with a renal biopsy-confirmed diagnosis of LN class IV undergoing regular follow-up in the Nephrology Division between January 2004 and December 2014 were enrolled excluding those with diabetes, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV as well as those with insufficient clinical and hystopathological data. Biopsies were reviewed and reclassified according to ISN/RPS 2003 classification by two experienced pathologists and were examined by light microscopy and direct immunofluorescence.

Results

On baseline subclass IV-G compared to IV-S showed higher frequency of males and histologically higher activity (7.5 ± 2.8 vs 5.1 ± 2.3, p = 0.004) and chronicity index (3.4 ± 1.6 vs 2.4 ± 1.8, p = 0.016) as well as a higher percentage of epithelial crescents (12.9 vs 5.1, p = 0.0001) and vessel abnormalities (72% vs 42%, p = 0.017). Although renal function on baseline was not different between subclasses, IV-G showed lower levels, although not significant, of estimated glomerular filtration based on CKD-EPI formula (91.0 ± 34.8 vs 64.4 ± 44.5, p = 0.059) at the end of follow-up. In addition, we observed a higher rate of patients reaching CKD-EPI under 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 in subclass IV-G over IV-S on last follow-up.

Conclusion

Subclasses IV-S and IV-G patients show some clinical and pathological differences that might represent distinct stages of the same disease and they should thus be treated the same.
False-positive screens and lung cancer risk in the National Lung Screening Trial: Implications for shared decision-making
Authors: Pinsky Paul F , Bellinger Christina R , Miller David P
Published: September 2017

Objectives

Low-dose computed tomography lung cancer screening has been shown to reduce lung cancer mortality but has a high false-positive rate. The precision medicine approach to low-dose computed tomography screening assesses subjects’ benefits versus harms based on their personal lung cancer risk, where harms include false-positive screens and resultant invasive procedures. We assess the relationship between lung cancer risk and the rate of false-positive LDCT screens.

Methods

The National Lung Screening Trial randomized high-risk subjects to three annual screens with low-dose computed tomography or chest radiographs. Following the completion of National Lung Screening Trial, the Lung CT Screening Reporting and Data System (Lung-RADS) classification system was developed and retrospectively applied to National Lung Screening Trial low-dose computed tomography findings. The rate of false-positive screens (by Lung-RADS) and the resultant invasive procedures were examined as a function of lung cancer risk estimated by a model.

Results

Of 26,722 subjects randomized to the low-dose computed tomography arm, 26,309 received a baseline screen and were included in the analysis. The proportion with any false positive over three screening rounds increased from 12.9% to 25.9% from lowest to highest risk decile, and the proportion with an invasive procedure following a false positive also significantly increased from 0.7% to 2.0% from lowest to highest risk decile.

Conclusion

These findings indicate a need for personalized low-dose computed tomography lung cancer screening decision aids to accurately convey the benefits to harm trade-off.
The development of the Professional Values Model in Nursing
Authors: Kaya Ayla , Boz İlkay
Published: September 2017

One of the most important criteria for professionalism is accumulation of knowledge that is usable in professional practice. Nursing models and theories are important elements of accumulating nursing knowledge and have a chance to guarantee the ethical professional practice. In recent years, there has been an increase in the use of models in nursing research and newly created terminology has started to be used in nursing. In this study, a new model, termed as the Professional Values Model, developed by the authors was described. Concepts comprising the conceptual framework of the model and relations between the concepts were explained. It is assumed that awareness about concepts of the model will increase not only the patients’ satisfaction with nursing care, but also the nurses’ job satisfaction and quality of nursing care. Contemporary literature has been reviewed and synthesized to develop this theoretical paper on the Professional Values Model in nursing. Having high values in nursing increases job satisfaction, which results in the improvement of patient care and satisfaction. Also, individual characteristics are effective in the determination of individual needs, priorities, and values. This relation, proved through research about the Professional Values Model, has been explained. With development of these concepts, individuals’ satisfaction with care and nurses’ job satisfaction will be enhanced, which will increase the quality of nursing care. Most importantly, nurses can take proper decisions about ethical dilemmas and take ethical action when they take these values into consideration when giving care. The Professional Values Model seems suitable for nurse managers and it is expected that testing will improve it. Implementation of the Professional Values Model by nurse managers may increase motivation of nurses they work with. It is suggested that guidance by the Professional Values Model may help in enhancement of motivation efforts of the nurse managers and therefore should be taken into account.
Psychology at the Crossroads
Authors: Jaipal Rashmi
Published: September 2017

The author argues that if psychologists are to contribute meaningfully to the United Nations’ agenda for sustainable development (SD) 2030, they will need to shift from a model that is biologically based individual model to a holistic, contextual and cultural model. Global media and consumer culture have created unhealthy, social and cultural environments, which are seen as having an adverse effect on psychological health. The article focuses on the culture change coming about due to advancement of technology, changes in values of society and acculturation as the reasons for decrement in mental health (MH) and well-being (WB). Integration of mainstream psychology with indigenous psychology can guide building of environments that sustain physical health and MH as well as societal sustainability.
The Solution for the Behavioural Constellation of Deprivation
Authors: Vilchez Jose L.
Published: September 2017

Learned helplessness occurs when one is unable to escape from a painful or aversive experience is unable to be escaped from (Hiroto & Seligman, 1975). The organism learns that it is helpless in and accepts its loss of control in those situations. This point is taken into account to explain the behavioural constellation of deprivation (BCD), in which one finds it difficult to escape from poverty. A new philosophy of economy is gradually emerging in the form of the so-called Economía Popular y Solidaria (popular and solidarity economy [PSE]). In this economical perspective, all members of companies are equally stockholders and investors so that these initiatives carry the implication that the democratisation process now moves from the political dimension to the economic arena. The democracy practiced in those businesses enables individuals to develop high levels of self-esteem and fosters a sense of belonging to the group.
Filipino Parenting in the USA
Authors: Garcia Aileen S. , de Guzman Maria Rosario T.
Published: September 2017

Migration entails complex transformations in family functioning and dynamics, especially when traditional parenting beliefs and practices are not consistent with mainstream norms in the host country. Whereas some culturally embedded parenting beliefs might persist even after migration, others may acculturate or shift to align with child-rearing norms in the host community. Using a qualitative research design with elements of indigenous Filipino psychology ( Sikolohiyang Pilipino), this study explored parenting experiences and beliefs of Filipino immigrant parents in the USA, with a specific lens towards examining continuity and change in traditional parenting practices. Results suggest that participants strongly maintain many aspects of traditional Filipino parenting, including teaching Filipino culture and values, employing Filipino parenting practices, observing Filipino traditions, establishing the child’s identity and maintaining a Filipino household. Findings were situated in the context of the research site, the complexities of the acculturation process and the potential challenges of negotiating cultural differences in parenting beliefs and practices.
(De)constructing the #FeesMustFall Campaign in South African Higher Education
Authors: CMoloi Kholeka , Makgoba Malegapuru W. , Ogutu Miruka Collins
Published: September 2017

South Africans live in one of the most unequal societies in the world where squalor and abject poverty live side by side with abundant wealth. The challenge of inequality is captured eloquently in the National Development Plan (NDP), the government’s roadmap of South African economic future. It has become obvious that the new generation of student leadership in South Africa has unleashed a unique opportunity to overhaul and transform the higher education system fundamentally. They are tired of the current system that hangs on the pillars of racism and white supremacy and continues to reproduce inequality in the society. In some ways, the South African higher education system continues to humiliate and take away students’ dignity. Thus, there is still work to be done to ensure the higher education system fully conforms with the objectives of the NDP.
SDG’s Indicators Framework and Disability in India
Authors: Deb Surajit
Published: September 2017

The post-2015 development framework endorsed disability as an issue of social rights that is in accordance with the guidelines of United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The United Nations Statistical Commission has worked through the Inter-agency and Expert Group and the High-level Group in the formation of the indicators framework to measure the progress made by the disabled persons in the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The main objective of this article is to assess the disability prevalence in India and subsequently examine its preparedness towards developing the disability indicators. We consider the Census 2011 data to provide an account of disability situations along with information on state-wise composition, types, age distribution, literacy and employment aspects. We then explain as to how the indicators framework would result in data and information demands on India’s part, which are essential for monitoring the progress of disability inclusion in the country.
College Campus Sexual Assault: The Contribution of Peers’ Proabuse Informational Support and Attachments to Abusive Peers
Authors: DeKeseredy Walter S. , Hall-Sanchez Amanda , Nolan James
Published: September 2017

Since the mid-1980s, researchers across the United States have uncovered high rates of sexual assault among female college students. However, to advance a better understanding of this gendered type of victimization, and to both prevent and control this problem, the research community needs to identify its major correlates. One that is consistently uncovered in North American campus survey work is negative peer support, especially that provided by male peers. Yet, some earlier studies have found that mixed-sex negative peer support, too, contributes to campus sexual assault. Using recent data from the Campus Quality of Life Survey conducted at a large residential school in the South Atlantic region of the United States, the main objectives of this article are to examine the role of mixed-sex negative peer support in campus sexual assault and to identify the groups of women most at risk of having friends who offer such support.
Stainless steel and polyethylene surfaces functionalized with silver nanoparticles
Authors: Fialho José FQ , Naves Emiliane AA , Bernardes Patrícia C , Ferreira Deusmaque C , dos Anjos Letícia D , Gelamo Rogério V , de Sá João PN , de Andrade Nélio J
Published: September 2017

The antimicrobial effects of a stainless steel surface and a polyethylene surface functionalized with silver nanoparticles on the adhesion of different bacteria and the changes in physical and chemical characteristics of these surfaces that influence biofilm formation were evaluated. The functionalized surfaces of polyethylene and stainless steel were more hydrophobic than the control ones. The bacterial surfaces were hydrophilic. The adhesion of all bacteria was thermodynamically favorable (ΔGadhesion<0) on all surfaces functionalized and control. The numbers of adhered cells of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas fluorescens were not significantly different (p > 0.05) between the control and functionalized surfaces, reaching values compatible with biofilm formation. Analysis of atomic absorption spectrometry using water and reconstituted skim milk as simulants showed no release of Ag from the functionalized surfaces. In conclusion, the surfaces that were functionalized with silver nanoparticles were modified in hydrophobicity, roughness, and did not avoid bacterial adhesion. Additional studies of surfaces functionalized with silver nanoparticles should be conducted addressing the adsorption technique of silver nanoparticles on the stainless steel surface as well as in the preparation of the polyethylene surface to allow the contact of microorganism with the antimicrobial agent.
Culturally Appropriate Assessment of Functioning in Diverse Children: Development and Preliminary Validation of the FX-II Scale in Mexico
Authors: Haack Lauren M. , Araujo Eva A.
Published: September 2017

OBJECTIVE. We sought to develop and provide preliminary validation for a questionnaire evaluating functioning related to ADHD (i.e., the FX-II) with a particularly underserved group (i.e., Mexican youth). METHOD. 191 Mexican raters completed the FX-II alongside measures of ADHD symptoms, impairment, cultural values, and demographics: 127 raters were caregivers of treatment-naïve youth (i.e., community sample); 32 raters were caregivers and 32 raters were teachers of youth participating in a school-based program for attention/behavior concerns (i.e., clinical sample). RESULTS. We created the 52-item FX-II Scale by adapting a culturally appropriate and psychometrically sound measure of impairment (i.e., the ADHD-FX) to assess functioning most relevant to Spanish-speaking families of children with ADHD (i.e., academic, social/emotional, and familial functioning). The FX-II demonstrated strong reliability, convergent and divergent construct validity, and predictive validity. CONCLUSION. The FX-II appears to be a beneficial tool for evaluating functioning related to ADHD in Mexican children and future validation efforts in broader populations are warranted.
The Promise of Qualitative Research to Inform Theory to Address Health Equity
Authors: Shelton Rachel C. , Griffith Derek M. , Kegler Michelle C.
Published: September 2017

Most public health researchers and practitioners agree that we need to accelerate our efforts to eliminate health disparities and promote health equity. The past two decades of research have provided a wealth of descriptive studies, both qualitative and quantitative, that describe the size, scale, and scope of health disparities, as well as the key determinants that affect disparities. We need, however, to shift more aggressively to action informed by this research and develop deeper understandings of how to shape multilevel interventions, influenced by theories across multiple levels of the social-ecologic framework. In this article, we discuss the promising opportunities for qualitative and health equity scholars to advance research and practice through the refinement, expansion, and application of rigorous, theoretically informed qualitative research. In particular, to advance work in the area of theory to inform health equity, we encourage researchers (a) to move toward thinking about mechanisms and theory-building and refining; (b) to explicitly incorporate theories at the social, organizational, community, and policy levels and consider how factors at these levels interact synergistically with factors at the individual and interpersonal levels; (c) consider how the social dimensions that have implications for health equity intersect and interact; and (d) develop and apply more community-engaged, assets-based, and action-oriented theories and frameworks.
Unexpected Effects of a System-Distributed Mobile Application in Maternity Care: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ledford Christy J. W. , Womack Jasmyne J. , Rider Heather A. , Seehusen Angela B. , Conner Stephen J. , Lauters Rebecca A. , Hodge Joshua A.
Published: September 2017

Background. As pregnant mothers increasingly engage in shared decision making regarding prenatal decisions, such as induction of labor, the patient’s level of activation may influence pregnancy outcomes. One potential tool to increase patient activation in the clinical setting is mobile applications. However, research is limited in comparing mobile apps with other modalities of patient education and engagement tools. Aim. This study was designed to test the effectiveness of a mobile app as a replacement for a spiral notebook guide as a patient education and engagement tool in the prenatal clinical setting. Method. This randomized controlled trial was conducted in the Women’s Health Clinic and Family Health Clinic of three hospitals. Repeated-measures analysis of covariance was used to test intervention effects in the study sample of 205 patients. Results. Mothers used a mobile app interface to more frequently record information about their pregnancy; however, across time, mothers using a mobile app reported a significant decrease in patient activation. Discussion. The unexpected negative effects in the group of patients randomized to the mobile app prompt these authors to recommend that health systems pause before distributing their own version of mobile apps that may decrease patient activation. Conclusion. Mobile apps can be inherently empowering and engaging, but how a system encourages their use may ultimately determine their adoption and success.
Retinoid Expression in Onchocercal Skin Disease: Pilot Study
Authors: Mawson Anthony R , Makunde Williams H , Penman Alan D , Hernandez Morales Veronica de Los Angeles , Kalinga Akili K , Francis Filbert , Rubinchik Semyon , Kibweja Addow
Published: September 2017

Based on the observation that the parasite Onchocerca volvulus selectively absorbs vitamin A from the host, and the known toxicity of vitamin A in higher concentration, it was hypothesized that dying microfilariae (mf) release their stores of vitamin A (retinoids) into the host circulation in toxic concentrations, inducing the signs and symptoms of onchocerciasis. We conducted a pilot study to test the hypothesis in Songea communities in Southern Tanzania, where mass drug administration with ivermectin had not been implemented by the time of the survey. The specific aim was to evaluate the correlation between the diagnosis of onchocerciasis and increased levels of retinoic acid at infection sites. The analysis was performed by determining copy numbers of a genome of O volvulus present in skin snip samples of persons with onchocerciacis, and correlating these numbers with expression levels of retinoic acid receptor-α (RAR-α), which is inducible by retinoic acid. Total DNA and RNA were extracted from each of 25 mf-positive and 25 mf-negative skin samples and evaluated using quantitative polymerase chain reaction with appropriate negative controls. Analysis of the samples, adjusted with glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase gene levels, revealed that most samples with detectable RAR-α transcripts had higher levels of RAR-α expression than the assay control. However, the quality and number of samples were insufficient for statistical analysis. Fold data on the expression levels of both O volvulus DNA and RAR RNA suggested a possible trend toward higher relative RAR-α expression in samples with higher levels of O volvulus DNA ( r2 = 0.25, P = .079). Evidence of a contribution of vitamin A to the pathology of onchocerciasis thus remains elusive. Future studies on the role of retinoids in onchocerciasis will require larger groups of participants as well as careful monitoring of the cold chain and tissue storage procedures in view of the sensitivity of vitamin A to heat and light.
Spleen Tyrosine Kinase Inhibition Modulates p53 Activity
Authors: Althubiti Mohammad
Published: September 2017

Spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK) is a cytoplasmic enzyme that promotes survival and proliferation of B cells. SYK inhibition has shown promising results in the treatment of arthritis and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). However, in other context, it has been shown that SYK overexpression in epithelial cancer cells induced senescence in p53-dependent mechanism, which underscored its antineoplastic activity in vitro. Here, we show that SYK was induced in response of DNA damage in parallel with p53 levels. In addition, using chemical inhibitors of SYK reduced p53 levels in HCT116 and HT1080 cell lines, which underlines the role of SYK inhibition on p53 activity. Furthermore, SYK inhibition modulated the cell growth, which resulted in a decreasing in cell death. Interestingly, SYK expression showed a positive prognosis in patients with solid tumors in correlations with their survival rates, as expected negative correlation was seen between SYK expression and survival rate of patients with CLL. In conclusion, these findings demonstrate that SYK inhibition modulates p53 expression and activity in HCT116 and HT1080 cells. Reconsidering using of SYK inhibitors in clinical setting in the future should be evaluated carefully in accordance with these findings to prevent the formation of secondary malignancies.
A Proposed Study on how Far Anger Contributes to Initiating Essential Hypertension in Canadian Caucasian Adults with a Family History of Hypertension
Authors: Shehata Marlene F.
Published: September 2017

The goal of the present correlational study is to test the hypothesis that anger initiates essential hypertension in Canadian Caucasian adults with a family history of hypertension. The study population will include a cohort of 100 men and women aged 25 to 45 years at enrollment recruited from the University of Ottawa General and Civic Hospitals. Participants who are normotensives will be included in the study given that they have a family history of hypertension. The Spielberger State Trait Anger Expression inventory (STAXI) scales will assess the three main dimensions of anger: State, Trait and Anger Expression. Using a semiautomated blood pressure machine, blood pressure measurements will be conducted by the attending nurse. It is hypothesized that during the three year study, participants with higher STAXI scores will more likely develop hypertension. Results obtained from the present study are expected to highlight the significant contribution of anger as a modifiable behavioral risk factor in the pathogenesis of hypertension.
Behaviour of pultruded glass fibre reinforced composites guardrail system
Authors: Manalo Allan , Jackson Mark
Published: September 2017

Fibre composite guardrails are increasingly being used due to its high strength, high corrosion resistance and low maintenance, although there is very limited information on their structural behaviour. In this study, full-scale pultruded glass fibre reinforced polymer guardrail is experimentally investigated to have a better understanding on the behaviour of fibre composites guardrail system. Glass fibre reinforced polymer guardrail systems mounted on top and side of a steel beam with different joint connectors are loaded horizontally to top of the guardrail post and to the middle of the guardrail member. The results showed that the guardrail system with joints connected with either polypin or rivets combined with epoxy exhibited 20% higher failure load and almost double the stiffness than those connected using polypin or rivets alone. The side-mounted guardrail failed due to failure of the base connector, while the guardrail mounted on top of the beam failed due to failure of the joint connector. Finally, the results of the study indicated that the structural behaviour of glass fibre reinforced polymer guardrail system is affected mainly by the type of joints connecting the different members.
Investigation of physiological differences between immersive virtual environment and indoor environment in a building
Authors: Yeom Dongwoo , Choi Joon-Ho , Zhu Yimin
Published: September 2017

In the domain of building science and architectural design, the immersive virtual environment is being commonly adopted due to its convenience and cost-effectiveness, especially for research relevant to occupant behaviour in a building indoor environmental control. The goal of this study is to investigate whether such an immersive virtual environment condition could affect an occupant's thermal sensation and physiological response to ambient conditions differently, as compared to a real indoor environment, even though those two thermal conditions are the same or very similar. A series of human subject experiments using 18 participants was conducted in an environmental chamber. While thermal conditions were controlled at 20℃ to 30℃ in each environment, respectively, participants were asked to periodically report their thermal sensations on their body. Their heart rates were also continuously measured. The result of our experiments revealed that overall thermal sensations on the whole and local body areas showed some significant differences between the indoor environment and immersive virtual environment conditions during the same thermal conditions. Also, the heart rate difference between two environmental conditions was statistically significant at every thermal sensation level. These findings support the idea that significant physiological response differences could be affected by the immersive virtual environment condition.
Occupants' perception of air movements and air quality in a simulated classroom with an intermittent air supply system
Authors: Kabanshi Alan , Yang Bin , Sörqvist Patrik , Sandberg Mats
Published: September 2017

The study reported herein builds on occupant response to an intermittent air jet strategy (IAJS), which creates periodic airflow and non-isothermal conditions in the occupied zone. Previous research has highlighted benefits of IAJS for the thermal climate and energy saving potential in view of human thermal perception of the indoor environment. The study herein explores the occupant acceptability of air movements and perceived indoor air quality. Thirty-six participants were exposed to three room air temperatures (nominal: 22.5℃, 25.5℃ and 28.5℃) with each having four air speed conditions (nominal: < 0.15 m/s under mixing ventilation (MV) and 0.4, 0.6 and 0.8 m/s under IAJS) measured at the breathing height (1.1 m). The results show that participants preferred low air movements at lower temperatures and high air movements at higher temperatures. A model to predict percentage satisfied with intermittent air movements was developed. The model predicts that 87% of occupants, in compliance with ASHRAE 55-2013 standard, will find intermittent air movements acceptable between 23.7℃ and 29.1℃ within an air speed range of 0.4 to 0.8 m/s. IAJS also improved participants' perception of air quality in conditions deemed poor under MV. The findings support the potential of IAJS as a primary ventilation system in high occupant spaces such as classrooms.
Impact of traffic Enforcement on Traffic Safety
Authors: Rezapour Mashhadi Mohammad Mahdi , Saha Promothes , Ksaibati Khaled
Published: September 2017

Motor vehicle crashes (MVCs) have a huge cost to society in terms of death, injury and property damage. The cost of fatal MVCs alone is estimated at US $44 billion per year. Among many confounding factors, traffic citations as an element that may reduce MVC frequency are not well understood, and most research carried out to date has evaluated the effects of the total number of citations on the number of MVCs. However, certain types of citations may be more likely to reduce the number of MVCs, whereas other types are not very effective. This research was set out to examine the impact of different types of traffic citations on MVCs on two hazardous main US highways in Wyoming US-30 and US-26. A negative binomial modeling technique was implemented by exploiting 4 years of crash and citations data to identify the causal impacts of traffic citations on crash frequency by incorporating traffic and geometric features. The modeling results showed that higher numbers of speeding and seat belt citations reduce the number of crashes significantly. These findings are the results of law enforcement efforts along the highways. Traffic count and the number of horizontal curves were found to significantly increase the number of MVCs.
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in Depression and Psychosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Yokoi Yuma , Narita Zui , Sumiyoshi Tomiki
Published: September 2017

Transcranial direct current stimulation, one of the neuromodulation paradigms, is attracting interest as a novel method to treat various central nervous system disorders. It is safe, portable, and cost-effective, and has been applied experimentally for patients with various neuropsychiatric conditions. For the clinical importance and preliminary positive results, growing number of randomized controlled trials to patients with depression or schizophrenia are reported, followed by systematic reviews and meta-analyses. However, former research specifically focuses on depression or psychosis in psychiatric disorders. Therefore, we provide a systematic review of studies reporting the effectiveness of transcranial direct current stimulation in ameliorating these symptoms not limited to psychiatric patients or objective scales by examining double-blind sham-controlled trials.
Towards Systematicity: Comparing from the Perspective of Philosophy of Science
Authors: Pietraß Manuela
Published: September 2017

As in many other social sciences, in international and comparative education there is an epistemological schism between two main approaches, one of which is traditional whose methodology and methods are historical-hermeneutical, while the other is empirical and oriented towards the natural sciences. In international and comparative education, these two orientations are represented by one scientific community which is devoted to historical approaches – the idiographic orientation, and another community which represents the nomothetic orientation. The epistemological differences between both run too deep to be overcome by normative appeals for mutual understanding and for using all methods available and not only those which are prefered by the respective scientific community. A further problem is that studies on methodology and methods usually look for differences. Instead of causing new dichotomies by looking at differences, in this paper possible common characteristics between both positions will be sought. This will be reached by using a tertium comparationis. It is based on the ‘systematicity’ of the leading epistemological positions. Systematicity is a philosophical concept developed by Paul Hoyningen-Huene which describes ‘what makes scientific knowledge special’. It will be demonstrated that the main epistemological positions are all systematic. On this basis, a new approach for a joint systematicity is developed, grounded in the generalizability of the research question. This approach may help both of the scientific communities and their respective research to contribute collectively to social problems with their findings, without giving up their specific epistemology.
Long-term predictors of stroke in healthy middle-aged men
Authors: Prestgaard Erik , Hodnesdal Christian , Engeseth Kristian , Erikssen Jan , Bodegård Johan , Liestøl Knut , Gjesdal Knut , Kjeldsen Sverre E. , Grundvold Irene , Berge Eivind
Published: September 2017

Background

There are few data on risk factors for stroke during long-term follow-up of healthy individuals.

Aims

We aimed to investigate the long-term predictive impact on stroke risk of baseline variables including hemodynamic variables measured at rest and during exercise in middle-aged, healthy men.

Methods

We performed a prospective cohort study of 2014 healthy Norwegian men aged 40–59 years, recruited during the period 1972–1975 and followed until 2007. Participants underwent a comprehensive clinical assessment at baseline, including a bicycle exercise test. Data on stroke, transient ischemic attack, and death were collected on all participants from follow-up visits, medical records, and the National Cause of Death Registry. We used Cox regression for analysis and estimated hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals, adjusting for traditional risk factors and hemodynamic variables measured at rest and during exercise.

Results

During 35 years’ follow-up, 316 participants (16%) had stroke, of which 287 (91%) were ischemic and 29 (9%) were hemorrhagic. Age (hazard ratio 2.70 per increase in one standard deviation, 95% confidence interval 2.13–3.43), resting systolic blood pressure (hazard ratio 1.24, 95% confidence interval 1.11–1.39), body mass index (hazard ratio 1.14, 95% confidence interval 1.02–1.29), and atrioventricular conduction time (hazard ratio 1.11, 95% confidence interval 1.03–1.19) were significantly associated with long-term risk of stroke, as were maximal systolic blood pressure and heart rate during exercise (hazard ratio 1.28, 95% confidence interval 1.13–1.46, and hazard ratio 0.86, 95% confidence interval 0.74–0.99, respectively).

Conclusions

Hemodynamic variables at rest and during exercise testing add to the predictive value of clinical variables in healthy, middle-aged men, and should be included in the assessment of long-term risk of stroke, when available.
The need for the Netherlands and Belgium to further integrate police cooperation
Authors: Nimwegen Stephan van
Published: September 2017

The primary purpose of this study is to investigate the possibilities for improvement of bilateral police cooperation between Belgium and the Netherlands within the existing Benelux Police Treaty. Practical examples show there is a great deal of need in day-to-day police practice to further integrate police cooperation. Although a great deal is already possible on the grounds of the 2004 Senningen Treaty and the subsequent Prüm Convention, there is still a lack of broader authorizations, primarily in the area of cross-border criminal investigation. Since the Benelux Police Treaty will be revised in 2017, the sphere of operation can be expanded. This study shows that it is the intention of the Belgian as well as the Dutch authorities to achieve significant progress. Recommendations in the context of the treaty revision include scrapping small-scale police assistance in minor offences and mutual access to police registers and judicial documentation. In the future, Belgium and the Netherlands can draw up joint objectives on the basis of each side’s crime problems. Examples are joint analyses in areas such as border zone drug criminals, terrorism, mobile banditry or cocaine smuggling. The treaty revision referred to appears to be the perfect opportunity for both countries to find the limits and to take a truly innovative step in cross border police cooperation in Europe.
Mind the gaps: Controversies about algorithms, learning and trendy knowledge
Authors: Argenton Gerald
Published: September 2017

This article critically explores the ways by which the Web could become a more learning-oriented medium in the age of, but also in spite of, the newly bred algorithmic cultures. The social dimension of algorithms is reported in literature as being a socio-technological entanglement that has a powerful influence on users’ practices and their lived world. They do not only govern what is visible (and inherently, what is obscured), what is valued and noteworthy, but also have the power to enable and assign meaningfulness in managing how information is perceived by users. This incurs a certain knowledge logic which is pervasive in algorithmic culture. This article posits that inquiry about the relation between algorithms and learning needs definitions as well as the stance of not extensively relying on them. When asking what an algorithm is, or how to define the process of learning and knowledge acquisition, one must also keep in mind that a definition is mostly blind to the ambiguity and slipperiness of contexts, hiding the gaps that hinder the objective circumscription of a concept. This article proposes to mind these ‘gaps’ through discussing controversies that may (or rather actually do) happen regarding contextual or theoretical differences in the interpretation of key concepts such as learning, knowledge and culture. To extend the discussion, I will expose alternative material which allows a wider consideration of the concept of learning and emphasises a dimension of learning seldom taken into account: contextual dependence. The chief characteristic of data processed by algorithms being their decontextualisation, I will discuss the agonistic relationship that is emerging from learning in the age of algorithmic cultures, to explore the possibilities of bridging the gaps and exploit the valuable resources the Web has to provide to enrich another dimension of learning in our lived world: its contextual relatedness.
Forgetting souls: Lyotard, Adorno, and the Trope of the Jew
Authors: Chalfant Eric
Published: September 2017

In this article, I engage in a criticism of Jean François Lyotard’s tropological approach to Judaism, arguing that his articulation of the “the jew” as figural projection serves to establish and rigidify a number of freighted binaries such as those between reason and myth, philosophy and theology, and modern and postmodern. In comparison, I posit Theodor Adorno’s approach to tropes of Judaism as one which encompasses Lyotard’s productive emphases on the role of forgetting in subject formation while loosening these same binaries.