bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ℒ1 adaptive control of an aeroelastic system with unsteady aerodynamics and gust load
Authors: Lee Keum W , Singh Sahjendra N
Published: April 2016

This paper presents the design of an ℒ1 adaptive control system for the stabilization of a two-dimensional aeroelastic system with structural nonlinearities and unsteady aerodynamics, using a single trailing-edge control surface. This model describes the plunge and pitch motion of a prototypical wing. It is assumed that its parameters are unknown and external disturbances are present. The unsteady aerodynamics are modeled with an approximation to Theodorsen's theory. The system exhibits limit cycle oscillations beyond a critical speed. Based on the ℒ1 adaptive control theory, a control law is developed for the trajectory control of the integral of the pitch angle. The control system includes a state predictor, a projection algorithm-based adaptation law designed based on the Lyapunov method, and a stabilizing control law. For the synthesis of the control law only the pitch angle and its derivative are measured. Simulation results show that in the closed-loop system, the aeroelastic vibrations are suppressed, despite parametric uncertainties and gust loads. Furthermore the performance limits of this ℒ1 adaptive law with respect to the freestream velocity and strength of gust load are examined.
Applying Organization Theory to Understanding the Adoption and Implementation of Accountable Care Organizations
Authors: Shortell Stephen M.
Published: April 2016

This commentary highights the key arguments and contributions of institutional thoery, transaction cost economics (TCE) theory, high reliability theory, and organizational learning theory to understanding the development and evolution of Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs). Institutional theory and TCE theory primarily emphasize the external influences shaping ACOs while high reliability theory and organizational learning theory underscore the internal fctors influencing ACO perfromance. A framework based on Implementation Science is proposed to conside the multiple perspectives on ACOs and, in particular, their abiity to innovate to achieve desired cost, quality, and population health goals.
Aerostatic thrust bearing performances analysis considering the fluid-structure coupling effect
Authors: Lu Lihua , Chen Wanqun , Yu Nan , Wang Zhiguo , Chen Guoda
Published: April 2016

This article presents a novel calculation method for the bearing performance of the aerostatic thrust bearing. This method is provided while taking the fluid-structure coupling effect into account. High pressure air film leads to the structure deformation, thus the bearing clearance after deformation is utilized to estimate the real bearing performance. Furthermore, the influencing factors on the bearing performance, the thrust plate’s thickness, and the orifices’ location, are investigated on the basis of the fluid-structure coupling effect. The calculation method of the best gas film thickness is deduced and presented. Experimental results for validation highlight the reliability of this method.
A genealogy of hacking
Authors: Jordan Tim
Published: April 2016

Hacking is now a widely discussed and known phenomenon, but remains difficult to define and empirically identify because it has come to refer to many different, sometimes incompatible, material practices. This article proposes genealogy as a framework for understanding hacking by briefly revisiting Foucault’s concept of genealogy and interpreting its perspectival stance through the feminist materialist concept of the situated observer. Using genealogy as a theoretical frame, a history of hacking will be proposed in four phases. The first phase is the ‘prehistory’ of hacking in which four core practices were developed. The second phase is the ‘golden age of cracking’ in which hacking becomes a self-conscious identity and community and is for many identified with breaking into computers, even while non-cracking practices such as free software mature. The third phase sees hacking divide into a number of new practices even while old practices continue, including the rise of serious cybercrime, hacktivism, the division of Open Source and Free Software and hacking as an ethic of business and work. The final phase sees broad consciousness of state-sponsored hacking, the re-rise of hardware hacking in maker labs and hack spaces and the diffusion of hacking into a broad ‘clever’ practice. In conclusion, it will be argued that hacking consists across all the practices surveyed of an interrogation of the rationality of information technocultures enacted by each hacker practice situating itself within a particular technoculture and then using that technoculture to change itself, both in changing potential actions that can be taken and changing the nature of the technoculture itself.
Media, visibility and sexual identity among gay men with a migration background
Authors: Dhoest Alexander
Published: April 2016

While media are generally acknowledged to play an important role in processes of sexual identity formation among sexual minorities, little is known about migrant audiences. This article explores the roles of mass and online media for a group of men with a migration background living in Belgium. Based on in-depth interviews, their sexual self-identification is discussed, as is their use and assessment of media as a source of representations, information and connections. The participants in this project turn out to primarily identify as gay, and they predominantly rely on western representations and information in their quest for identity models.
What is war good for? Background ideas and assumptions about the legitimacy, utility, and costs of offensive war
Authors: Crawford Neta C
Published: April 2016

Explores the concept of ‘background’ taken-for-granted ideas in politics, linking this notion to Habermas’ ‘lifeworld’ and Focault’s ‘episteme’ Explicates decision-makers’ background ideas about the utility and effectiveness of war Suggests that offensive war is not as effective as decision-makers tend to assume and that decision-makers tend to discount the costs of war Shows that beliefs about the effectiveness of war—specifically the articulation of military necessity and proportionality—tend to weaken the just war and international law limitations on war

‘Background ideas’ are the essential foundation for decision-making, action, and institutionalized practices. These ideas are sometimes explicitly articulated—when defended or asserted in new contexts—but more often simply assumed and unstated. Decision-makers often believe that war works—that it is effective—and moreover that war can achieve objectives at comparatively low cost. Jus ad bellum and jus in bello considerations in the just war tradition—including last resort, necessity, probability of success, and proportionality, and the idea of double effect—are also explicitly concerned with utility—whether and when war works. Utility is also an essential element in the discourse about military necessity. Does war work? What is it good for? Why does it tend to extremes of violence? What are its costs? How do decision-makers hold onto beliefs about the utility of war in the face of disconfirming evidence?
Discourse analysis of statements of purpose: Connecting academic and professional genres
Authors: López-Ferrero Carmen , Bach Carme
Published: April 2016

As a discourse genre, statements of purpose are characterized by their occluded status in the academy and by their hybrid nature. Statements of purpose are required in applications for a place in a postgraduate course (Master’s degree or doctorate), and they are requested to obtain information about the academic and professional background and skills of each applicant. A study of the genre’s linguistic and textual features is needed in Spanish to discover and understand writers’ and readers’ perception of this genre. A corpus of 50 motivation letters in Spanish is analyzed here. We study the distinguishing macro- and microtextual features of this particular genre and co-occurrences between both kinds of features. At the macrotextual level, statements of purpose display prototypical rhetorical moves, which can be classified as writers’ moves and readers’ moves. On the microtextual level, modalization resources and discourse markers are discussed. This multiple perspectives analysis of the corpus shows evidence of significant co-occurrences among modalization, discourse markers, and rhetorical moves. Writers’ ideal representations of this discourse genre, which spans the academic and professional fields, can also be deduced.
Application of Box-Behnken design and response surface methodology for multi-optimization of laser cutting of AA5052/ZrO2 metal−matrix composites
Authors: Sharma Vikas , Kumar Vinod
Published: April 2016

A laser source is most popular in industrial world for its high cutting efficiency and productivity. In the present research work, laser cutting of aluminium metal−matrix composite has been studied. The investigations have been done to analyse the influence of various parameters on surface and quality characteristics of aluminium alloy 5052 reinforced with ZrO2 particles. The effect of laser parameters was analysed on striation angle, heat affected zone and kerf deviation. Response surface methodology has been applied using Box-Behnken design for the statistics analysis. Heat affected zone and striation formation of laser cut surface were examined using scanning electron microscope and optical microscope. The effect of arc radius, cutting speed and percentage of reinforced particles was found to be significant on all output characteristics. The predicted response surface methodology (RSM) model was validated with experimental data for determination of accuracy level.
Care to talk? A framework for appreciative conversations about dementia: Innovative practice
Authors: Page Sean , Rowett Roger , Davies-Abbott Ian
Published: April 2016

When people with dementia are admitted to hospital, both they and their carers and families have crucial roles to play. They should be positioned as the only true experts in the unique individuality of the person and brought into the nursing process as an equal partner in care. ‘Care to Talk’ is a conversational model developed through Appreciative Inquiry to facilitate this way of working. The model, its development and outcomes are discussed.
Live Action Role Play and the Development of Teacher Competences: Evaluation of “Everyday Life in the Classroom”
Authors: Imhof Margarete , Starker Ulrike , Spaude Elena
Published: April 2016

Building on Dörner’s (1996) theory of complex problem-solving, a learning scenario for teacher students was created and tested. Classroom management is interpreted as a complex problem, which requires the integration of competing interests and tackling multiple, simultaneous tasks under time pressure and with limited information. In addition, rising emotions are likely to impede thinking and the quality of decision-making. To prepare student teachers to understand and reflect the complex problem-solving challenges inherent in classroom management, we developed the live action role play “Everyday Life in the Classroom” which was embedded in a seminar structure to guide the development of analytical competences and emotion regulation of prospective teachers. In two pilot studies, we found that Everyday Life in the Classroom was perceived to be authentic and helpful for learning. Preliminary findings suggest that the intended learning processes have been stimulated. We propose developing Everyday Life in the Classroom further and investigating the scope and sustainability of learning psychology through live action role play.
The influence of the LED light spectrum on the growth and nutrient uptake of hydroponically grown lettuce
Authors: Pinho P , Jokinen K , Halonen L
Published: April 2016

Along with the high energy-efficiency potential, light-emitting diode (LED) lighting provides the possibility for spectrum control. Our study presents the original data on the influence of LED light spectrum quality on the growth and macro- and micro-nutrient uptake of lettuce ( Lactuca sativa L. cv. Frillice) plants cultivated in indoor conditions and without daylight. Four LED light spectral combinations were investigated using conventional high-pressure sodium (HPS) lighting as a control. In general, the LED light spectra were more favourable than the HPS light spectrum for promoting the growth and nutrient uptake of plants. In particular, the light spectrum provided by the combination of the far-red, deep-red and blue LEDs had the highest growth and nutrient uptake indices. This spectral combination particularly enhanced the uptake of potassium, calcium and magnesium in comparison to control plants grown under conventional HPS lamps. The uptake of iron and zinc were significantly influenced by the spectral changes of the red and blue light.
Assessing glare. Part 2: Modifying Unified Glare Rating for uniform and non-uniform LED luminaires
Authors: Yang Y , Luo M Ronnier , Ma SN
Published: April 2016

This paper proposes a new glare model for assessing discomfort glare caused by LED luminaires having different luminance uniformities. It has been derived from the glare rating data for different groups of LED luminaires representing different degrees of luminance uniformity. In total, 5040 glare ratings were collected. Unified Glare Rating was tested using these data. It was found that Unified Glare Rating under-estimates the glare perception produced by non-uniform luminance glare sources. Furthermore, two modified Unified Glare Rating models proposed by Tashiro et al. and by the present authors were tested. They both performed well when predicting the results for LED luminaires having different luminance uniformities.
Women Leaders in a Predominantly Male-Dominated Society
Authors: Moreno Patricia , McLean Gary N.
Published: April 2016

The Problem

This qualitative (phenomenological) study focused on gaining a deep understanding of the experiences of women leaders in Mexico, a predominantly male-dominated culture. Seven women leaders were interviewed to share their personal experiences, reflections, feelings, ideas, and actions related to their leadership positions in different arenas, such as corporate, political, academic, and non-profit organizations.

The Solution

We conducted a thematic analysis of the transcribed interviews to discover commonalities among the experiences of the participants. The analysis revealed six themes: academic preparation is necessary, there are innate characteristics, decisions are made under principles and ethical values, the job itself is very important, the goal is to find a balance between personal and professional time, and the leadership position gives benefits.

The Stakeholders

This research has implications for human resource development (HRD) practitioners, academics, and executives. HRD practitioners can design more effective interventions, deliver more effective training and leadership programs, and provide opportunities focused on women interested in reaching top executive positions. This research suggests the importance of future research, both qualitative and quantitative in Mexico, focusing on research of women, Mexican women, and Mexican women leaders.
A Scoping Review on Studies of Cyberbullying Prevalence Among Adolescents
Authors: Brochado Sandra , Soares Sara , Fraga Sílvia
Published: April 2016

This descriptive scoping aims to understand how the prevalence of cyberbullying has been estimated across studies. A systematic scoping review of cyberbullying empirical studies was conducted by using three bibliographic databases to search for papers published between January 2004 and August 2014. A protocol was defined to identify the relevant papers. Papers selected were included in a data sheet developed by the authors to record specific findings. In total, 159 studies were included in the scoping review. Most of the prevalence studies were conducted in the last 4 years, mainly in North America ( n = 77) and in Europe ( n = 65). High methodological heterogeneity was found among the studies, which may contribute to explain variability in prevalence estimates. Cyberbullying experiences were assessed through several different perspectives: focused only on victims, focused only on perpetrators, or focused on both victims and perpetrators (without differentiating between if they are victims or perpetrators). Most of the studies tend to assess cybervictimization experiences. However, even considering the same perspective, the same country, and the same recall period, a high variability in the estimates was observed. As a main conclusion, the way in which the prevalence of cyberbullying is estimated is influenced by methodological research options.
Digitization and Changing Windowing Strategies in the Television Industry
Authors: Doyle Gillian
Published: April 2016

Windowing—the process of managing the release sequence for content so as to maximize the returns from intellectual property rights (IPRs)—is changing because of transformations in the way that television is distributed and consumed. Drawing on original research into the experience of leading international television producers and distributors, this article breaks new ground by examining how rights owners are adjusting strategies for exploitation of the economic value in their content. Findings show how the rise of digital platforms and outlets whose footprints are diffuse and boundaries are porous is disrupting traditional windowing models. This has necessitated new thinking about how best to organize the sequential roll out of content so as to build audience demand, avoid overlaps, and maximize returns. This article argues that changes in the dynamics of television distribution have altered not just processes for exploiting the value in IPRs but also content and content production, with implications for audiences as well as industry.
Improved nonlinear sliding mode control based on load disturbance observer for permanent magnet synchronous motor servo system
Authors: Qian Rongrong , Luo Minzhou , Sun Peng
Published: April 2016

This article presented an improved nonlinear sliding mode control based on disturbance observer for the permanent magnet synchronous motor servo system. The position transient response performances, such as fast response and non-overshoot, are enhanced by the introduction of novel nonlinear sliding surface in the design of sliding mode control law. In order to abolish the analysis necessity of changeable uncertainties and alleviate the system chattering, the nonlinear sliding mode control algorithm is improved by adaptive parameter estimation and saturation function. Since the improved nonlinear sliding mode control algorithm is sensitive to mismatched uncertainties which are mainly due to the load disturbance, a disturbance observer is put forward to estimate the mismatched uncertainties and is integrated into control law design to improve the positioning accuracy. The stability of improved nonlinear sliding mode control based on disturbance observer is proved based on the Lyapunov approach. The simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed improved nonlinear sliding mode control based on disturbance observer for permanent magnet synchronous motor servo system with stationary and dynamic trajectory tracking.
A literature review of the impact of pharmacy students in immunization initiatives
Authors: Church Dana , Johnson Sarah , Raman-Wilms Lalitha , Schneider Eric , Waite Nancy , Pearson Sharpe Jane
Published: April 2016

Background:

Pharmacy students can help protect the public from vaccine-preventable diseases by participating in immunization initiatives, which currently exist in some Canadian and American jurisdictions. The objective of this article is to critically review evidence of student impact on public health through their participation in vaccination efforts.

Methods:

PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Database, EMBASE, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, Scopus and Web of Science electronic databases were searched for peer-reviewed literature on pharmacy student involvement in vaccination programs and their impact on public health. Papers were included up to November 17, 2015. Two reviewers independently screened titles and abstracts and extracted data from eligible full-text articles.

Results:

Eighteen titles met all inclusion criteria. All studies were published between 2000 and 2015, with the majority conducted in the United States ( n = 12). The number of vaccine doses administered by students in community-based clinics ranged from 109 to 15,000. Increases in vaccination rates in inpatient facilities ranged from 18.5% to 68%. Across studies, student-led educational interventions improved patient knowledge of vaccines and vaccine-preventable diseases. Patient satisfaction with student immunization services was consistently very high.

Discussion:

Methodology varied considerably across studies. The literature suggests that pharmacy students can improve public health by 1) increasing the number of vaccine doses administered, 2) increasing vaccination rates, 3) increasing capacity of existing vaccination efforts, 4) providing education about vaccines and vaccine-preventable diseases and 5) providing positive immunization experiences.

Conclusion:

Opportunities exist across Canada to increase pharmacy student involvement in immunization efforts and to assess the impact of their participation. Greater student involvement in immunization initiatives could boost immunization rates and help protect Canadians from vaccine-preventable diseases.
Salivary agglutinin is the major component in human saliva that modulates the lectin pathway of the complement system
Authors: Gunput Sabrina TG , Wouters Diana , Nazmi Kamran , Cukkemane Nivedita , Brouwer Mieke , Veerman Enno CI , Ligtenberg Antoon JM
Published: April 2016

Saliva interacts with blood after mucosal damage or leakage of gingival crevicular fluid. Surface-adsorbed salivary agglutinin (SAG) activates the lectin pathway (LP) of the complement system via mannose-binding lectin, while SAG in solution inhibits complement activation. In the present study we investigated if, next to SAG, whole and glandular saliva itself and other salivary glycoproteins activate or inhibit the LP. Complement activation was measured by detecting C4 deposition on microtiter plates coated with saliva or purified proteins. Complement inhibition was measured after incubating serum with saliva or proteins in microtiter plates coated with mannan, an LP activator. Adsorbed whole, sublingual and submandibular saliva showed LP-dependent complement activation. Blood group secretors, but not non-secretors, activated the LP. Saliva of both secretors and non-secretors inhibited C4 deposition on mannan. After depletion of SAG, saliva no longer inhibited the LP. Other salivary proteins, including amylase, MUC5B and histatin 2, did not activate or inhibit the LP. Surface-adsorbed whole saliva and glandular saliva samples activate the LP of complement, depending on the presence of SAG and the secretor status of the donor. In solution, saliva inhibits the LP, depending on the presence of SAG, but independent of the secretor status.
The Itemized NIHSS Scores Are Associated With Discharge Disposition in Patients With Minor Stroke
Authors: Yaghi Shadi , Willey Joshua Z. , Andrews Howard , Boehme Amelia K. , Marshall Randolph S. , Boden-Albala Bernadette
Published: April 2016

Background and purpose:

The ability of the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score to predict functional outcome in minor stroke is controversial. In this study, we examined the association of itemized NIHSS score with discharge outcome.

Methods:

We included all patients with final diagnosis of stroke with an NIHSS score of 0 to 5 untreated with thrombolysis enrolled in the “Stroke Warning Information and Faster Treatment” trial. Individual components of the NIHSS score were the primary predictors. Poor outcome was defined as not being discharged home. Logistic regression was used to identify predictors of outcome.

Results:

A total of 861 patients met the inclusion criteria; 162 (19%) were not discharged home. In multivariable regression, predictors of discharge other than home were age (odds ratio [OR] = 1.02 per year increase, P < .001) and total NIHSS score (OR per unit increase in the NIHSS = 1.51, P < .001). Motor (OR = 2.32, P < .001), level of consciousness (LOC; OR = 6.62, P = .004), and ataxia (OR = 3.10, P < .001) were also associated with not being discharged home. Motor (area under the curve [AUC] 0.623) appeared to be more predictive of poor outcome than ataxia (AUC 0.569) and LOC (AUC 0.517). The total NIHSS had a fair correlation with discharge outcome (AUC 0.683).

Conclusion:

Total and itemized NIHSS components have a fair correlation with outcome in minor stroke highlighting the importance of other measures of stroke severity for clinical trials.
The Upside of Bias
Authors: Hessler Christine , Kauffman Carol A. , Chow Felicia C.
Published: April 2016

Chronic meningitis of unknown etiology is a vexing illness for patients and clinicians. Identification of the correct pathogen can be challenging and time consuming, leading to delays in appropriate treatment. Although Sporothrix schenckii is a recognized and treatable cause of chronic meningitis, neurologists and infectious diseases physicians may not regularly evaluate for Sporothrix infection. We describe an immunocompetent patient with chronic meningitis who partially responded to empiric fluconazole. Prompted by a recent culture-confirmed case of meningeal sporotrichosis, we tested for S schenckii antibodies from the cerebrospinal fluid, which were positive. His clinical and functional status improved, and the S schenckii antibody titer decreased with itraconazole therapy. Clinicians should consider S schenckii in the differential diagnosis for chronic meningitis, even in immunocompetent patients, particularly when the clinical picture does not respond to standard empiric therapy.
Investigation of an Outbreak of Acute Gastroenteritis in Kollam, Kerala, India
Authors: Rakesh P. S. , Narayanan Vishnu , Pillai Swapna S. , Retheesh Rahul , Dev Soumya
Published: April 2016

An outbreak investigation was initiated following a report of unusual occurrence of acute gastroenteritis in Ashramam area, Kollam district, Kerala, India. House to house survey was conducted to identify cases. Person, place, and time analysis was done. Hypothesis was generated based on findings from cross sectional study, anecdotal evidences, laboratory investigation, and environmental observations. Univariate analysis was done generating odds ratios and confidence intervals to identify factors associated with the disease. A total of 57 cases were reported. Attack rate was highest among children younger than 14 years (22%). Among them, 91.2% (52/57) of the cases and 45.8% (169/369) of the people who had not developed the disease were dependent on pipe water (OR 12.31; 95% CI 4.81-31.52) for drinking purpose. The time frame of the disease occurrence, environmental observations, anecdotal evidences, and the results of analytical study indicated the possibility of the acute gastroenteritis outbreak as a result of pipeline contamination. The study warrants establishment of a good water quality surveillance system.
The Neighborhood Context of Latino Threat
Authors: Hall Matthew , Krysan Maria
Published: April 2016

In recent years, the size of the Latino immigrant population has swelled in communities throughout the United States. For decades, social scientists have studied how social context, particularly a minority group’s relative size, affects the sentiments of the dominant group. Using a random sample survey of five communities in suburban Chicago, the authors examine the impact of Latino population concentration on native-born white residents’ subjective perceptions of threat from Latino immigrants at two micro-level geographies: the immediate block and the surrounding blocks. After controlling for Latino population size in surrounding blocks, percentage Latino in the immediate block does not influence perceptions of threat from Latino immigrants. The effect of surrounding blocks’ population size is consistent with group threat theories for white residents: the larger the Latino population, the greater the perceived threat.
Association Between Medicare Summary Star Ratings for Patient Experience and Clinical Outcomes in US Hospitals
Authors: Trzeciak Stephen , Gaughan John P , Bosire Joshua , Mazzarelli Anthony J
Published: April 2016

Objective:

In 2015, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released new summary star ratings for US hospitals based on patient experience. We aimed to test the association between CMS patient experience star ratings and clinical outcomes.

Methods:

We analyzed risk-adjusted data for more than 3000 US hospitals from CMS Hospital Compare using linear regression.

Results:

We found that better patient experience was associated with favorable clinical outcomes. Specifically, a higher number of stars for patient experience had a statistically significant association with lower rates of many in-hospital complications. A higher patient experience star rating also had a statistically significant association with lower rates of unplanned readmissions to the hospital within 30 days.

Conclusion:

Better patient experience according to the CMS star ratings is associated with favorable clinical outcomes. These results support the inclusion of patient experience data in the framework of how hospitals are paid for services.
Elemental partitioning, lattice misfit and creep behaviour of Cr containing γ′ strengthened Co base superalloys
Authors: Povstugar I. , Zenk C. H. , Li R. , Choi P.-P. , Neumeier S. , Dolotko O. , Hoelzel M. , Göken M. , Raabe D.
Published: April 2016

Novel Cr containing Co-Al-W base superalloys were studied by atom probe tomography and neutron diffraction. Cr is found to predominantly partition to the γ matrix and decrease partitioning of W to γ′. Furthermore, Cr significantly enhances the γ′ volume fraction, decreases the γ/ γ′ lattice misfit and deteriorates the creep resistance. Addition of Ni to the Cr containing alloys affects partitioning of W and Al, further decreases the lattice misfit and results in the formation of irregularly shaped precipitates. Al, W and Cr tend to occupy the ‘B'sublattice in the γ′-A3B phase (L12 type), while Co and Ni reside in the ‘A’ sublattice.
How I vaccinate blood and marrow transplant recipients
Authors: Carpenter Paul A. , Englund Janet A.
Published: April 2016

Vaccination guidelines for recipients of blood and marrow transplantation (BMT) have been published by 3 major societies: American Blood and Marrow Transplantation, European Group of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, and Infectious Disease Society of America. Despite these extensive review articles, clinicians caring for BMT recipients continue to field frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding the “who, when, and how” of feasible and effective posttransplant vaccination, frequently in the absence of adequate data. This may reflect discomfort with a “one size fits all” policy that makes no adjustments for different posttransplant clinical scenarios. Existing guidelines also lack practical dose clarifications when administering vaccines to patients who differ by age, underlying diagnosis, or amount of immunosuppressive therapy. Frequently, little or conflicting guidance is given regarding age-related schedules for certain vaccines (eg, meningococcal; tetanus toxoid, reduced diphtheria toxoid, and reduced acellular pertussis; and human papillomavirus vaccines) in addition to time posttransplant or other factors. FAQs and their answers form the body of this article and are shared with readers as a concise practical review, with the intent to facilitate good clinical practice.
Hydroxyurea down‐regulates BCL11A, KLF‐1 and MYB through miRNA‐mediated actions to induce γ‐globin expression: implications for new therapeutic approaches of sickle cell disease
Authors: Pule Gift Dineo , Mowla Shaheen , Novitzky Nicolas , Wonkam Ambroise
Published: April 2016

Background

The major therapeutic benefit of hydroxyurea, the only FDA‐approved pharmacologic treatment for sickle cell disease (SCD), is directly related to fetal hemoglobin (HbF) production that leads to significant reduction of morbidity and mortality. However, potential adverse effects such as infertility, susceptibility to infections, or teratogenic effect have been subject of concerns. Therefore, understanding HU molecular mechanisms of action, could lead to alternative therapeutic agents to increase HbF with less toxicity. This paper investigated whether HU‐induced HbF could operate through post‐transcriptional miRNAs regulation of BCL11A, KLF‐1 and MYB, potent negative regulators of HbF. Both ex vivo differentiated primary erythroid cells from seven unrelated individuals, and K562 cells were treated with hydroxyurea (100 μM) and changes in BCL11A, KLF‐1, GATA‐1, MYB, β‐ and γ‐globin gene expression were investigated. To explore potential mechanisms of post‐transcriptional regulation, changes in expression of seven targeted miRNAs, previously associated with basal γ‐globin expression were examined using miScript primer assays. In addition, K562 cells were transfected with miScript miRNA inhibitors/anti‐miRNAs followed by Western Blot analysis to assess the effect on HbF protein levels. Direct interaction between miRNAs and the MYB 3′‐untranslated region (UTR) was also investigated by a dual‐luciferase reporter assays.

Results

Down‐regulation of BCL11A and MYB was associated with a sevenfold increase in γ‐globin expression in both primary and K562 cells (p < 0.003). Similarly, KLF‐1 was down‐regulated in both cell models, corresponding to the repressed expression of BCL11A and β‐globin gene (p < 0.04). HU induced differential expression of all miRNAs in both cell models, particularly miR‐15a, miR‐16, miR‐26b and miR‐151‐3p. An HU‐induced miRNAs‐mediated mechanism of HbF regulation was illustrated with the inhibition of miR‐26b and ‐151‐3p resulting in reduced HbF protein levels. There was direct interaction between miR‐26b with the MYB 3′‐untranslated region (UTR).

Conclusions

These experiments have shown the association between critical regulators of γ‐globin expression (MYB, BCL11A and KLF‐1) and specific miRNAs; in response to HU, and demonstrated a mechanism of HbF production through HU‐induced miRNAs inhibition of MYB. The role of miRNAs‐mediated post‐transcriptional regulation of HbF provides potential targets for new treatments of SCD that may minimize alterations to the cellular transcriptome.
Hormonal stimulation of starfish oocytes induces partial degradation of the 3′ termini of cyclin B mRNAs with oligo(U) tails, followed by poly(A) elongation
Authors: Ochi Hiroe , Chiba Kazuyoshi
Published: April 2016

In yeast, plant, and mammalian somatic cells, short poly(A) tails on mRNAs are subject to uridylation, which mediates mRNA decay. Although mRNA uridylation has never been reported in animal oocytes, maternal mRNAs with short poly(A) tails are believed to be translationally repressed. In this study, we found that 96% of cyclin B mRNAs with short poly(A) tails were uridylated in starfish oocytes. Hormonal stimulation induced poly(A) elongation of cyclin B mRNA, and 62% of long adenine repeats did not contain uridine residues. To determine whether uridylated short poly(A) tails destabilize cyclin B mRNA, we developed a method for producing RNAs with the strict 3′ terminal sequences of cyclin B, with or without oligo(U) tails. When we injected these synthetic RNAs into starfish oocytes prior to hormonal stimulation, we found that uridylated RNAs were as stable as nonuridylated RNAs. Following hormonal stimulation, the 3′ termini of short poly(A) tails of synthesized RNAs containing oligo(U) tails were trimmed, and their poly(A) tails were subsequently elongated. These results indicate that uridylation of short poly(A) tails in cyclin B mRNA of starfish oocytes does not mediate mRNA decay; instead, hormonal stimulation induces partial degradation of uridylated short poly(A) tails in the 3′–5′ direction, followed by poly(A) elongation. Oligo(U) tails may be involved in translational inactivation of mRNAs.
North-south asymmetry of geomagnetic activity and solar wind electric field
Authors: Макаров Георгий , Makarov Georgy
Published: April 2016

Geomagnetic activity asymmetry in the northern and southern hemispheres is studied. It is shown, that the higher is the level of magnetic activity the greater is asymmetry. It is found, that the asymmetry of hemispheres shows itself in the 06–18-hourly component of magnetic activity daily variation, while the asymmetry in the 00–12-hourly component is completely absent. The cause of geomagnetic north-south asymmetry is supposed to be Pedersen meridional current between high and low latitudes in the ionosphere. The qualitative model of formation of asymmetry connected with the solar wind electric field is proposed.
On the possibility for laboratory simulation of generation of Alfven disturbances in magnetic tubes in the solar atmosphere
Authors: Прокопов Павел , Prokopov Pavel , Захаров Юрий , Zakharov Yuriy , Тищенко Владимир , Tishchenko Vladimir , Бояринцев Эдуард , Boyarintsev Eduard , Мелехов Александр , Melekhov Aleksandr , Пономаренко Арнольд , Ponomarenko Arnold , Посух Виталий , Posukh Vitaliy , Шайхисламов Илдар , Shaikhislamov Ildar
Published: April 2016

The paper deals with generation of Alfven plasma disturbances in magnetic flux tubes through exploding laser plasma in magnetized background plasma. Processes with similar effect of excitation of torsion-type waves seem to provide energy transfer from the solar photosphere to corona. The studies were carried out at experimental stand KI-1 represented a high-vacuum chamber of 1.2 m diameter, 5 m long, external magnetic field up to 500 Gs along the chamber axis, and up to 2·10–6 Torr pressure in operating mode. Laser plasma was produced when focusing the CO2 laser pulse on a flat polyethylene target, and then the laser plasma propagated in θ-pinch background hydrogen (or helium) plasma. As a result, the magnetic flux tube of 15–20 cm radius was experimentally simulated along the chamber axis and the external magnetic field direction. Also, the plasma density distribution in the tube was measured. Alfven wave propagation along the magnetic field was registered from disturbance of the magnetic field transverse component Bφ and field-aligned current Jz. The disturbances propagate at near-Alfven velocity of 70–90 km/s and they are of left-hand circular polarization of the transverse component of magnetic field. Presumably, Alfven wave is generated by the magnetic laminar mechanism of collisionless interaction between laser plasma cloud and background. The right-hand polarized high-frequency whistler predictor was registered which have been propagating before Alfven wave at 300 km/s velocity. The polarization direction changed with Alfven wave coming. Features of a slow magnetosonic wave as a sudden change in background plasma concentration along with simultaneous displacement of the external magnetic field were found. The disturbance propagates at ~20–30 km/s velocity, which is close to that of ion sound at low plasma beta value. From preliminary estimates, the disturbance transfers about 10 % of the original energy of laser plasma.
ANALYSIS OF KEY INDICATORS OF THE STAFF IN MUNICIPAL SERVICE
Authors: Узилевский  , Uzilevskiy Gennadiy , Патрушев  , Patrushev Vladimir , Зима  , Zima Violetta
Published: April 2016

According to the statistical materials of the Federal State Statistics Service of the Russian Federation, the article presents the analysis of the number of municipal employees, their sex and age, the profile of education and qualification level performance during the period of 2009 to 2014. Based on the valuation technique of research, the article defines the current trends in the development of the staff of the municipal service in Russia.
DIAGNOSIS OF REGIONAL STAFF POTENTIAL OF CIVIL SERVANTS
Authors: Козачок  , Kozachok Vasiliy , Игнатова  , Ignatova Tatyana , Пашин  , Pashin Leonid
Published: April 2016

The article discusses the concept, the basic components and the types of staff potential. Current diagnostic results of the regional composition of the staff potential of civil servants according to qualitative and quantitative characteristic are provided. Regional experience with staff is studied and the basic directions of development of staff potential of civil servants in the Orel region are presented.
PUBLIC CONTROL AS THE DIRECTION OF IMPROVEMENT OF GOVERNMENT ACTIVITIES IN THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION
Authors: Ильин  , Ilin Viktor , Матвеева  , Matveeva Ekaterina
Published: April 2016

In the article the problems of public control as a factor of correction of activity of public authorities are analyzed. The theoretical approaches characterizing openness of the power as the direction of modernization of public administration are presented. An attempt of the analysis of pluralism of approaches to understanding of essence of public control in scientific literature is made. A number of judgments about improvement directions of public control are expressed.
YOUTH AS AN OBJECT OF STATE POLICY: SPECIFICS OF FORMATION OF POLITICAL POTENTIAL
Authors: Комарова  , Komarova Marina
Published: April 2016

In the article the problems of formation and realization of political potential of new generation of the Russian youth are revealed. The author analyzes specifics of political and social resources of youth as special social and demographic group which, nevertheless, doesn´t possess integrity. Differentiation of the valuable representations of youth causing extent of its integration into activity of the Russian society is given.

In the article prospects of development of initiatives of youth as a subject of carrying out the state youth policy are proved. The priorities of the state youth policy aimed at realization of political potential of young citizens through activity of bodies of youth representation are reasoned.
STATE DUMAS OF RUSSIA: LEGISLATIVE AND REPRESENTATIVE EXPERIENCE IN HISTORICAL AND LEGAL CONTEXT OF COMPARATIVISTICS
Authors: Борисов  , Borisov Aleksandr , Холодов  , Holodov Vladimir
Published: April 2016

Modern level of parliamentary activity in Russia is in many respects predetermined by historical and legal traditions and modern political and legal realities. In this regard the article considers and compares legislative process of the pre-revolutionary and modern State Duma, finding in it common and special features. Materials of he article are aimed at expansion of the legislative process which is saved up by jurisprudence factual and methodological material on studying in Russia. Besides, the article contains the valuable statistical material allowing to analyse merits and demerits of legislative process of the pre-revolutionary and modern State Duma.
LEGAL ASPECTS OF FREEDOM OF CONSCIENCE AS THE RIGHT OF CHOICE BY THE SUBJECT OF LEGAL RELATIONS
Authors: Воробьев  , Vorobev Sergey
Published: April 2016

In the article the author discusses some approaches to the definition of freedom of conscience as a legal category. Freedom of conscience as legal basis for individual freedom in modern society is analyzed. Some aspects of the relationship of meaningful and essential components of freedom of conscience and individual freedom in legal state are presented. General theoretical argument of formation characteristics of freedom of conscience as a subjective right is given.

The possibility and the need for inclusion of the category of freedom of conscience in the category of law; its definition is clarified with such a position. Conclusions are made about the diversity of freedom of conscience, multidimensional research and opportunities of formation of architectonic freedom of conscience as a legal category of law to choose the subject of legal relations.
RUSSIA IN THE MARKET OF INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION: WORLD RANKING
Authors: Полянин  , Polyanin Andrey , Рудакова  , Rudakova Olga , Марченкова  , Marchenkova Liliya
Published: April 2016

Education today is understood as national potential and capital, as a condition for ensuring the competitiveness of state and society. In this regard, the determination of the effectiveness of the national education system has special significance. Competitiveness of the national educational systems today reflects in the world ranking.
ON THE METHODOLOGY OF ANALYSIS OF MECHANISMS OF HOLDING SELF-ADAPTATION TO ENVIRONMENT CHANGES
Authors: Брянцев  , Bryantsev Ivan
Published: April 2016

The author analyzes the peculiarities of the formation of a holding type of integration as a social and economic system. Methodological principles of identification and implementation of mechanisms of self-adaptation are justified for the purpose of their active use in the creation of models of governance the holding and the formation of their development strategy, capable of increasing the efficient use of existing resources (spatial and temporal), and of minimizing the unfavorable external factors and harmonization of the interaction with the environment.
MARKETING ASPECTS OF CREATION AND FUNCTIONING OF INDUSTRIAL PARKS IN THE REGIONS
Authors: Самостроенко  , Samostroenko Georgiy , Шатохина  , Shatokhina Olga
Published: April 2016

The article examines the issues associated with the use of marketing in the creation and functioning of industrial parks. Particular attention is paid to the formation of marketing data to allow evaluation of the effectiveness of the industrial parks.

The authors prove that the geo information system of industrial parks must be one of the key tools to ensure marketing data for potential investors and residents: and it should be the basis for the formation of programs and measures of state support of development of modern industrial infrastructure of the country.
PARTICIPATION OF THE GPU-OGPU AUTHORITIES IN THE FORMATION OF THE NEW SOVIET INTELLIGENTSIA IN 1920S (ON THE BASIS OF THE OMSK PROVINCE)
Authors: Гуларян  , Gularyan Artem
Published: April 2016

The official policy of the Bolshevist leadership in the country of «cultural revolution» and transformation of the old «bourgeois» intelligentsia into the Soviet intelligentsia would be impossible without secret-service work of agents of OGPU in higher education institutions.

On the example of Omsk the formation of state control over the intelligentsia in the 1920s can be traced. In future the availability of such a mechanism and its work in scales of the state allowed to create the Soviet intelligentsia with the political consciousness wished for communists, manageable by government, and departments of OGPU were the part of it.
FROM METATHEORETICAL DICHOTOMY TO THE THEORY OF UNDERSTANDING OF SOCIAL ACTION
Authors: Коротков  , Korotkov Maksim
Published: April 2016

The article deals with the analysis of philosophical reflections of the theory of understanding of social action. According to the author, the rejection of the classical position of methodological logocentrism («objective – subjective»), as the main research facility, helps to clarify the place and role of the social scientist as well as opens an opportunity for the construction of "meaning saving” theories of understanding of action.