bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparison of Regression Tree Approaches to Modelling the Efficacy of Water Hyacinth Biocontrol Using Multitemporal Spectral Datasets
Authors: Agjee Na’eem Hoosen , Mutanga Onisimo , Gebreselasie Michael , Ismail Riyad
Published: May 2018

Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) is an exotic plant species that is effectively controlled byNeochetinaspp. weevils. This study is aimed at determining if spectroscopic data may be utilized to predict insect-induced stress on water hyacinth plants. Single target regression trees (STRTs), multitarget regression trees (MTRTs), and random forest multitarget regression trees (RF-MTRTs) have been used to predict feeding scar damage (FSD) and relative leaf chlorophyll content (RLCC) from hyperspectral canopy reflectance data. Results from this study show that the correlation coefficient of STRTs (training accuracy: 76%–97%; validation accuracy: 47%–86%) performs better than MTRTs (training accuracy: 74%–90%; validation accuracy: 45%–77%) for all infestation levels but are difficult to interpret simultaneously. In contrast, MTRTs (size: 23–35 nodes) are much smaller and more interpretable than STRTs (size: 11–47 nodes) because they predict FSD and RLCC simultaneously. Importantly, RF-MTRTs (training accuracy: 95%–98%; validation accuracy: 55%–88%) yield better predictive performance than STRTs and MTRTs for all infestation levels. It is concluded that MTRTs can be utilized for model interpretation as they are more interpretable; however, RF-MTRTs offer an improved predictive performance.
Reliable Recognition of Partially Occluded Objects with Correlation Filters
Authors: Ruchay Alexey , Kober Vitaly , Gonzalez-Fraga Jose A.
Published: May 2018

Design of conventional correlation filters requires explicit knowledge of the appearance and shape of a target object, so the performance of correlation filters is significantly affected by changes in the appearance of the object in the input scene. In particular, the performance of correlation filters worsens when objects to be recognized are partially occluded by other objects, and the input scene contains a cluttered background and noise. In this paper, we propose a new algorithm for the design of a system consisting of a set of adaptive correlation filters for recognition of partially occluded objects in noisy scenes. Since the input scene may contain different fragments of the target, false objects, and background to be rejected, the system is designed in such a manner to guarantee equally high correlation peaks corresponding to parts of the target in the scenes. The key points of the system are as follows: (i) it consists of a bank of composite optimum filters, which yield the best performance for different parts of the target; (ii) it includes a fragmentation of the target into a given number of parts in the training stage to provide equal intensity responses of the system for each part of the target. With the help of computer simulation, the performance of the proposed algorithm for recognition partially occluded objects is compared with that of common algorithms in terms of objective metrics.
Analysis of Al2O3 Nanostructure Using Scanning Microscopy
Authors: Kubica Marek , Skoneczny Władysław , Bara Marek
Published: May 2018

It has been reported that the size and shape of the pores depend on the structure of the base metal, the type of electrolyte, and the conditions of the anodizing process. The paper presents thin Al2O3 oxide layer formed under hard anodizing conditions on a plate made of EN AW-5251 aluminum alloy. The oxidation of the ceramic layer was carried out for 40–80 minutes in a three-component SAS electrolyte (aqueous solution of acids: sulphuric 33 ml/l, adipic 67 g/l, and oxalic 30 g/l) at a temperature of 293–313 K, and the current density was 200–400 A/m2. Presented images were taken by a scanning microscope. A computer analysis of the binary images of layers showed different shapes of pores. The structure of ceramic Al2O3 layers is one of the main factors determining mechanical properties. The resistance to wear of specimen-oxide coating layer depends on porosity, morphology, and roughness of the ceramic layer surface. A 3D oxide coating model, based on the computer analysis of images from a scanning electron microscope (Philips XL 30 ESEM/EDAX), was proposed.
The Maximal Length of 2-Path in Random Critical Graphs
Authors: Rasendrahasina Vonjy , Ravelomanana Vlady , Aly Raonenantsoamihaja Liva
Published: May 2018

Given a graph, its 2-core is the maximal subgraph of G without vertices of degree 1. A 2-path in a connected graph is a simple path in its 2-core such that all vertices in the path have degree 2, except the endpoints which have degree ⩾3. Consider the Erdős-Rényi random graph G(n,M) built with n vertices and M edges uniformly randomly chosen from the set of n2 edges. Let ξn,M be the maximum 2-path length of G(n,M). In this paper, we determine that there exists a constant c(λ) such that Eξn,n/21+λn-1/3~c(λ)n1/3,  for  any  real  λ. This parameter is studied through the use of generating functions and complex analysis.
An Adaptive Gradient Projection Algorithm for Piecewise Convex Optimization and Its Application in Compressed Spectrum Sensing
Authors: Wang Tianjing , Shen Hang , Zhu Xiaomei , Liu Guoqing , Jiang Hua
Published: May 2018

Signal sparse representation has attracted much attention in a wide range of application fields. A central aim of signal sparse representation is to find a sparse solution with the fewest nonzero entries from an underdetermined linear system, which leads to various optimization problems. In this paper, we propose an Adaptive Gradient Projection (AGP) algorithm to solve the piecewise convex optimization in signal sparse representation. To find a sparser solution, AGP provides an adaptive stepsize to move the iteration solution out of the attraction basin of a suboptimal sparse solution and enter the attraction basin of a sparser solution. Theoretical analyses are used to show its fast convergence property. The experimental results of real-world applications in compressed spectrum sensing show that AGP outperforms the traditional detection algorithms in low signal-to-noise-ratio environments.
The Design and Evaluation of an Ergonomic Contactless Gesture Control System for Industrial Robots
Authors: Tang Gilbert , Webb Phil
Published: May 2018

In industrial human-robot collaboration, variability commonly exists in the operation environment and the components, which induces uncertainty and error that require frequent manual intervention for rectification. Conventional teach pendants can be physically demanding to use and require user training prior to operation. Thus, a more effective control interface is required. In this paper, the design and evaluation of a contactless gesture control system using Leap Motion is described. The design process involves the use of RULA human factor analysis tool. Separately, an exploratory usability test was conducted to compare three usability aspects between the developed gesture control system and an off-the-shelf conventional touchscreen teach pendant. This paper focuses on the user-centred design methodology of the gesture control system. The novelties of this research are the use of human factor analysis tools in the human-centred development process, as well as the gesture control design that enable users to control industrial robot’s motion by its joints and tool centre point position. The system has potential to use as an input device for industrial robot control in a human-robot collaboration scene. The developed gesture control system was targeting applications in system recovery and error correction in flexible manufacturing environment shared between humans and robots. The system allows operators to control an industrial robot without the requirement of significant training.
Dual HDAC and PI3K Inhibition Abrogates NFκB- and FOXM1-Mediated DNA Damage Response to Radiosensitize Pediatric High-Grade Gliomas
Authors: Pal Sharmistha , Kozono David , Yang Xiaodong , Fendler Wojciech , Fitts Whitney , Ni Jing , Alberta John A. , Zhao Jean , Liu Kevin X. , Bian Jie , Truffaux Nathalene , Weiss William A. , Resnick Adam C. , Bandopadhayay Pratiti , Ligon Keith L. , DuBois Steven G. , Mueller Sabine , Chowdhury Dipanjan , Haas-Kogan Daphne A.
Published: May 2018

Aberrant chromatin remodeling and activation of the PI3K pathway have been identified as important mediators of pediatric high-grade glioma (pHGG) and diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) pathogenesis. As inhibition of these pathways are promising therapeutic avenues and radiation is the only modality to prolong survival of patients with DIPG, we sought to explore radiosensitizing functions of such inhibition and to explore mechanisms of action of such agents. Here, we demonstrate that combined treatment with radiotherapy and CUDC-907, a novel first-in-class dual inhibitor of histone deacetylases (HDAC) and PI3K, evokes a potent cytotoxic response in pHGG and DIPG models. CUDC-907 modulated DNA damage response by inhibiting radiation-induced DNA repair pathways including homologous recombination and nonhomologous end joining. The radiosensitizing effects of CUDC-907 were mediated by decreased NFκB/Forkhead box M1 (FOXM1) recruitment to promoters of genes involved in the DNA damage response; exogenous expression of NFκB/FOXM1 protected from CUDC-907–induced cytotoxicity. Together, these findings reveal CUDC-907 as a novel radiosensitizer with potent antitumor activity in pHGG and DIPG and provide a preclinical rationale for the combination of CUDC-907 with radiotherapy as a novel therapeutic strategy against pHGG and DIPG. More globally, we have identified NFκB and FOXM1 and their downstream transcriptional elements as critical targets for new treatments for pHGG and DIPG.

Significance: These findings describe the radiosensitizing effect of a novel agent in pediatric high-grade gliomas, addressing a critical unmet need of increasing the radiation sensitivity of these highly aggressive tumors. Cancer Res; 78(14); 4007–21. ©2018 AACR.
Passive Hydrotherapy WATSU® for Rehabilitation of an Accident Survivor: A Prospective Case Report
Authors: Schitter Agnes M. , Fleckenstein Johannes
Published: May 2018

Background: WaterShiatsu (WATSU) is a passive form of hydrotherapy in warm water (35 °C) that aims at relaxation, pain relief, and a sense of security. This case report focuses on a patient's experience of integrating WATSU into her rehabilitative care. Case Report: A 52-year-old woman survived a severe motorcycle accident in which she sustained several fractures on the right side of her body, including ribs, the pelvis, and the femur. After discharge from stationary care, she independently scheduled 8 weekly WATSU sessions with an experienced WATSU therapist also trained in physiotherapy and psychosomatics. Quantitative and qualitative data obtained from the patient's diary and the therapist's notes is presented. Results: The patient associated WATSU with physical and emotional release, reconciliation with her body, and trunk mobilization (followed by ameliorated breath). She ascribed WATSU lasting effects on her body image and reported continuous improvement by the Patient-Specific Functional Scale. The therapist employed WATSU to equalize awareness throughout the body and for careful mobilization. Due to complications (elevated inflammation markers), only 6 of 8 scheduled sessions were administered. Conclusions: WATSU was experienced as helpful in approaching a condition that the patient felt insufficiently covered by conventional physiotherapy alone. In early rehabilitation, additional medical/physiotherapeutic skills of contributing complementary therapists are advocated.
A Phenomenological Approach to Psychopathology of Imagination: Development of a Descriptive Instrument – Examination of Anomalous Fantasy and Imagination
Authors: Rasmussen Andreas Rosén , Stephensen Helene , Nordgaard Julie , Parnas Josef
Published: May 2018

This paper serves as an introduction to the Examination of Anomalous Fantasy and Imagination (EAFI) – a novel instrument for a semistructured, phenomenological exploration of psychopathology of imagination. We present an account of the phenomenology of imagination and proceed to a presentation of the disorders of imagination that are addressed in the EAFI. Furthermore, the interrater reliability of the EAFI was examined in a diagnostically heterogeneous sample of 20 in-patients. The interrater agreement ranged from 0.6 to 1.0, with an average κ of 0.84. The internal consistency of the EAFI as measured by Cronbach’s α was above 0.88. We suggest that the anomalies of imagination explored by the EAFI reflect an alteration of the structure of consciousness and belong to a fundamental, generative layer of psychopathology. These disorders may have relevance for differential diagnostic purposes, especially in first-contact, young patients.
EAFI: Examination of Anomalous Fantasy and Imagination
Authors: Rasmussen Andreas Rosén , Stephensen Helene , Parnas Josef
Published: May 2018

The Examination of Anomalous Fantasy and Imagination (EAFI) is an instrument for a semistructured, phenomenological exploration of psychopathology of imagination. The EAFI provides a conceptual-descriptive framework to address such experiences. It consists of 16 main items, sometimes divided into subtypes. We suggest that the anomalies of imagination explored by the EAFI reflect an alteration in the structure of consciousness and belong to a fundamental, generative layer of psychopathology with relevance to differential diagnostic purposes.
Prospective Randomized Trial Comparing Embryo Transfers of Cases with and without Catheter Rotation during Its Withdrawal
Authors: Yayla Abide Cigdem  , Ozkaya Enis , Sanverdi Ilhan , Bostancı Ergen Evrim , Kurek Eken Meryem  , Devranoglu Belgin , Bilgiç Bulent Emre , Kilicci Cetin , Kayatas Eser Semra
Published: May 2018

Objective: To compare embryo transfer (ET) technique based on catheter rotation during its withdrawal in cases with unexplained infertility in a prospective, randomized trial (NCT03097042). Methods: Two hundred intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) patients undergoing ET with cleaving or blastocyst-stage fresh embryos were randomized into 2 groups: cases with (n = 100), and without (n = 100) catheter rotation during its withdrawal. Groups were matched for age and some clinical parameters. A soft catheter was used to transfer a single embryo with catheter rotation during its withdrawal in the study group and without rotation in the control. The use of a stiff catheter or tenaculum was not needed in any case. Groups were compared in terms of cycle characteristics and clinical pregnancy rates. Results: Pregnancy rate was significantly higher in the study group (41 vs. 26%, p = 0.04). Clinical pregnancy rate was also significantly higher in the study group (39 vs. 25%, OR 1.9 [1.1–3.5], p = 0.05). On the other hand, the ongoing pregnancy rate was similar between the 2 groups (33 vs. 23%, p = 0.2). Conclusion: Catheter rotation during its withdrawal may be associated with increased pregnancy and clinical pregnancy rates; however, the difference in ongoing pregnancy rates did not reach statistical significance.
Psychosocial Distress in Bladder Cancer Stratified by Gender, Age, Treatment, and Tumour Stage
Authors: Draeger Désirée Louise , Sievert Karl-Dietrich , Hakenberg Oliver W.
Published: May 2018

Objectives: Cancer patients have to cope with anxieties ­concerning their prognosis, potential recurrence/progression, and treatment-associated sequelae. Stress-related psychosocial factors influence survival and disease-related mortality in cancer patients. Despite improvements in diagnosis and treatment, bladder cancer (BC) remains characterized by high rates of recurrence and progression. We screened ­pre-therapeutically the stress level of BC patients stratified by gender, disease state, treatment, and other factors by ­self-administered validated questionnaires to integrate them into psychosocial support as needed. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of distress and need of psychosocial care was done in 301 patients undergoing treatment for BC by 2 questionnaires (Distress Thermometer [DT] and Hornheider Screening Instrument). Results: Of the 301 patients, 230 patients underwent transurethral resection for a first ­diagnosis, 63 for recurrent disease, 37 had progressive disease, and 25 had advanced metastatic disease and eventually died of BC. The mean stress level in all patients was 4.6. Twenty-eight percent of the patients expressed a need for psychosocial support. In patients with progressive disease, significantly higher stress scores were seen as well as a higher need of psychosocial care (5.4 and 41%). Conclusions: The median DT-level of 4.6 indicates moderate psychosocial stress in BC patients. From a stress level of 5, the recommendations of a psycho-oncological supervision are pronounced, so that our study showed that early systematic evaluation of psychosocial needs in BC patients is important.
H. S. Nyberg’s Encounter with Egypt and the Mu‘tazilī School of Thought
Authors: Larsson Göran
Published: May 2018

In 1923, the Swedish Orientalist H. S. Nyberg (1889-1974) was awarded a scholarship that would enable him to travel to Cairo. The primary aim of the trip was to improve his skills in the spoken Arabic language and to study Istanbul and early Islamic sects. Besides studying the Arabic language, Nyberg also found an unpublished text of the Mu’tazili theologian Abū al-Ḥusayn B. ‘Uthmān al-Khayyāṭ and his refutation of Ibn ar-Rāwandī’s critique against the Mu‘tazilites. By examining Nyberg’s unpublished letters that were sent from Egypt to his friends, colleagues and family in Sweden, this article casts light on how the editing process and the discovery of al-Khayyāt’s manuscript was communicated, discussed, and reported back to Sweden. The letters also contain more general information about Nyberg’s perceptions of Egypt, Islam and the Muslim reformists and politicians that were active in Egypt.
Three new species of Freziera (Pentaphylacaceae, Freziereae) from Bolivia and Peru
Authors: SANTAMARÍA-AGUILAR DANIEL , FUENTES ALFREDO F. , LAGOMARSINO LAURA P.
Published: May 2018

We describe and illustrate three new species of Freziera collected from the “ceja de monte yungueña” cloud forests in Bolivia and Peru. Freziera apolobambensis and F. erickitae, both endemic to Bolivia, have small leaves and pink-magenta flowers, whereas F. magnibracteolata, found in Peru and Bolivia, is characterized by its adaxially pubescent leaves with whitish beige trichomes and inflorescences with large bracts and bracteoles. An extinction risk assessment based on the IUCN Red List categories and criteria indicates that F. apolobambensis should be considered Critically Endangered (CR), whereas F. erickitae and F. magnibracteolata should be considered Endangered (EN). The distribution, phenology, and habitat of the new taxa are provided, and affinities with their presumed closest relatives are discussed.
Begonia qingchengshanensis (sect. Reichenheimia, Begoniaceae), a new species from Sichuan, China
Authors: LI HONG-ZHE , GUAN KAI-YUN , LIN CHE-WEI , PENG CHING-I
Published: May 2018

Begonia qingchengshanensis H.Z. Li, C.-I Peng & C.W. Lin, a new species of sect. Reichenheimia from Qingchengshan, an important centre of Daoist religion in Sichuan Province, China and a World Heritage Site, is here described and fully illustrated. Begonia qingchengshanensis resembles B. wilsonii Gagnep., also a member of sect. Reichenheimia occurring in Sichuan, in the widely ovate leaves and 3-locular ovary, each locule with unilamellate placenta. The new species differs from B. wilsonii in having an erect stem (vs. stemless with basal leaves) and ovary trigonous-ellipsoid with 3 wings (vs. clavate and without wings).
Rediscovery of Croton hadrianii (Euphorbiaceae), a well distributed but long-forgotten species in Brazilian Amazon
Authors: SODRÉ RODOLFO CARNEIRO , DA SILVA MARCOS JOSÉ
Published: May 2018

During a taxonomic study on Croton sect. Geiseleria from Brazil, 40 specimens were found from the southern portion of the Brazilian Amazon that correspond to C. hadrianii, a species hitherto known only from its original description and with the type locality within Brazil unknown. We present an amended description of C. hadrianii providing the first information on fully developed fruits and seeds, which previously undocumented, morphological characterization, as well as comments on its geographical range, including a distribution map, conservation status, and period of flowering and fruiting. The species is also illustrated and photographs in its habitat for the first time. Typification is also presented and the species systematic position within Croton sect. Geiseleria is discussed. Additionally, we provide a key to the 16 species of Croton sect. Geiseleria occurring in the Brazilian Amazon, as well as field images for most of them.
Catalyst to Connection: When Technical Difficulties Lead to Social Support for Older Adults
Authors: Francis Jessica , Kadylak Travis , Makki Taj. W. , Rikard R. V. , Cotten Shelia R.
Published: May 2018

Information and communication technology (ICT) use can mitigate the negative impact of various age-related threats, such as isolation and loneliness, by facilitating connection with social ties and access to social support. Although research regarding various uses and benefits of ICTs among older adults has increased, there is limited research regarding the impact of technical difficulties on older adults’ well-being. Our study explores technical difficulties encountered, how older adults cope with ICT failure, and the various forms of social support that may result as a consequence of accessing technical support. We use data from nine semistructured focus groups conducted with older adults in the Midwest region of the United States. Results show that older adults may adapt new strategies for coping with the technical difficulties that arise from regular ICT use. Furthermore, as older adults incorporate ICTs into their daily lives and seek assistance from social ties and experts, they may also be indirectly combating the threat of isolation and loneliness.
Ethical and Methodological Issues in Large Qualitative Participatory Studies
Authors: Hossain Naomi , Scott-Villiers Patta
Published: May 2018

Participatory research studies utilizing qualitative data drawn from large, diverse samples appear increasingly common in the social sciences, particularly in international development. This reflects demand for participatory approaches to researching human well-being at scale, comparative research on globalization and development, and breadth and scale in evidence-based policy making. “Big Qual” studies in international development increasingly combine qualitative with participatory methods and incorporate action research, oral histories, case studies, and visual methods. Apart from their scale (more sites and research participants than conventional “face-to-face” research) and diversity of contexts, these studies broadly share a focus on application, and an epistemological and ideological commitment to hearing and amplifying the voices of research participants and contributing to positive change in their lives. Some ethical challenges of Big Qual research—for example, reuse, storage, and sharing of third party data—have been thoroughly debated. Less is known of how complexities across time, space, and culture may shape researcher relations in large-scale participatory research, biasing results against context-specificity and meaningful local political analysis. Drawing on almost a decade’s experience with large participatory research, this article explores why and how scale, encompassing a complex network of institutions, relationships, contexts, and cultures, affects the ethics of these studies. We propose that Bradbury and Reason’s (2001) five criteria for judging the value and contribution of social inquiry are helpful: (a) the quality of relationships built, (b) the usefulness of the research, (c) its trustworthiness, (d) its relevance to vital issues of human society, and (e) its enduring consequence. Drawn from an action research tradition, these criteria constitute a comprehensive ethical framework particularly applicable to Big Qual participatory work in development studies. Through an empirical application of these criteria, the article highlights emerging ethical challenges facing applied social research in increasingly complex, multiscalar, and globalized contexts.
Dynamic Aggregation of Poly-N-Isopropylacrylamide Characterized Using Second-Order Scattering
Authors: Fulton Luke A. , Zhang Pei , Seitz W. Rudolf , Tsavalas John G. , Planalp Roy P.
Published: May 2018

A second-order scattering (SOS) method is presented for the characterization of aqueous particle suspensions undergoing aggregation. Scattering intensities are measured at 90° by a standard fluorimeter and referenced against dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurements to determine particle size increase in a metal-promoted aggregation process for 0.05 mg/mL aqueous poly-N-isopropylacrylamide (PNIPAm), MW ∼10 k g/mol. Particle size increases monotonically from 30 nm to 210 nm at temperature 308 K. A further validation of the SOS method was performed using monodisperse polystyrene reference particles sized at 52 nm, 101 nm, 151 nm, and 206 nm, which demonstrated the technique’s accuracy to within 6% and its versatility with respect to sample composition. The technique is ideal for monitoring colloidal stability and macromolecular assembly and it can be performed at lower concentrations than are typically used in DLS.
The effects of personality on job satisfaction and life satisfaction: A meta-analytic investigation accounting for bandwidth–fidelity and commensurability
Authors: Steel Piers , Schmidt Joseph , Bosco Frank , Uggerslev Krista
Published: May 2018

To what extent do employees’ personality traits shape their perceptions of job and life satisfaction? To answer this question, we conducted the largest meta-analysis on the topic to date, summarizing a total of 12,682 correlations among combinations of personality, job satisfaction and life satisfaction. We also sought to refine previous meta-analytic estimates by comparing the effects of personality facets to broad trait domains, while controlling for commensurability of personality measures. The results showed that the Big Five personality traits accounted for about 10% of the variance in job satisfaction, which in turn accounted for 13% of the variance in life satisfaction. Compared with the broad trait domains, personality facets typically accounted for twice as much variance in life satisfaction, with only a minor increase for job satisfaction, which contradicts the typical bandwidth–fidelity heuristic. The results also provided support for a trickle-down or top-down effect, where dispositions affect perceptions of life satisfaction, which then influenced the more specific subdomain of job satisfaction. The results have important implications for researchers and practitioners, suggesting that information is lost when personality facets are overlooked, and that educational and workplace interventions could enhance perceptions of satisfaction for those prone to lower levels of subjective well-being.
School District Reform in Newark: Within- and Between-School Changes in Achievement Growth
Authors: Chin Mark , Kane Thomas J. , Kozakowski Whitney , Schueler Beth E. , Staiger Douglas O.
Published: May 2018

In the 2011–12 school year, the Newark Public School district (NPS) launched a set of educational reforms supported by a gift from Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan. Using data from 2008–09 through 2015–16, the authors evaluate the change in Newark students’ achievement growth relative to similar students and schools elsewhere in New Jersey. They measure achievement growth using a “value-added” model, controlling for prior achievement, demographics, and peer characteristics. By the fifth year of reform, Newark saw statistically significant gains in English language arts (ELA) achievement growth and no significant change in math achievement growth. Perhaps because of the disruptive nature of the reforms, growth declined initially before rebounding in later years. Much of the improvement was attributed to shifting enrollment from lower- to higher-growth district and charter schools.
Open data work: understanding open data usage from a practice lens
Authors: Ruijer Erna , Grimmelikhuijsen Stephan , van den Berg Jochem , Meijer Albert
Published: May 2018

During recent years, the amount of data released on platforms by public administrations around the world have exploded. Open government data platforms are aimed at enhancing transparency and participation. Even though the promises of these platforms are high, their full potential has not yet been reached. Scholars have identified technical and quality barriers of open data usage. Although useful, these issues fail to acknowledge that the meaning of open data also depends on the context and people involved. In this study we analyze open data usage from a practice lens – as a social construction that emerges over time in interaction with governments and users in a specific context – to enhance our understanding of the role of context and agency in the development of open data platforms. This study is based on innovative action-based research in which civil servants’ and citizens’ initiatives collaborate to find solutions for public problems using an open data platform. It provides an insider perspective of Open Data Work. The findings show that an absence of a shared cognitive framework for understanding open data and a lack of high-quality datasets can prevent processes of collaborative learning. Our contextual approach stresses the need for open data practices that work on the basis of rich interactions with users rather than government-centric implementations.
Relationships Between Novice Teachers’ Social Resources and Workload Manageability
Authors: Bettini Elizabeth A. , Jones Nathan D. , Brownell Mary T. , Conroy Maureen A. , Leite Walter L.
Published: May 2018

Novice special education teachers (SETs) consistently report feeling overwhelmed by their workloads, and their perceptions of their workloads predict outcomes of concern, such as burnout and plans to quit teaching. Yet, to date, research provides few insights into feasible strategies school leaders could use to help novices better manage workloads. Therefore, we examined how school social resources contribute to novice SETs’ and general education teachers’ (GETs) perceptions of workload manageability. We found that novice SETs’ perceptions of workload manageability were predicted by instructional interactions with colleagues and schools’ cultures of collective responsibility for students with disabilities, but not by instructional interactions with mentors. The pattern of relationships differed for GETs, suggesting different populations of novices may benefit from different supports.
How Populists Wage Opposition: Parliamentary Opposition Behaviour and Populism in Netherlands
Authors: Louwerse Tom , Otjes Simon
Published: May 2018

This article analyses how populist parties wage opposition in parliament. We conceptualise opposition behaviour in terms of two independent dimensions: scrutiny (monitoring and criticising government actions) and policy-making (participating in or directly influencing legislative production). In line with the conceptualisation of populism as an opposition to the ruling elite in name of ‘the people’, our hypothesis is that populist opposition parties are more likely to use scrutiny and less likely to use policy-making tools than non-populist opposition parties. We study the Netherlands between 1998 and 2017 as a typical example of a consensus democracy, where populist parties have a greater opportunity to win representation and use parliamentary tools (compared to majoritarian democracies). Our findings indicate that populist opposition parties are particularly less likely to engage in policy-making behaviour and somewhat more likely to engage in scrutiny behaviour.
“Doing Everything on My Own”: Examining African American, Latina/o, and Biracial Students’ Experiences With School Counselors in Promoting Academic and College Readiness
Authors: Cook Amy L. , Hayden Laura A. , Tyrrell Rachel , McCann Arthur G.
Published: May 2018

We examined the high school experiences of 133 African American, Latina/o, and biracial college students through employing a mixed methods concurrent nested design, including survey analysis and qualitative content analysis, to identify themes and the extent school counselors provided assistance with promoting academic and college readiness. The American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model and Multicultural and Social Justice Counseling Competencies (MSJCC) were used as a conceptual framework to guide the study. Findings included the need for greater support from school counselors, to strengthen collaborative efforts across school community members and access to academic resources. Implications for counseling practice in urban schools are provided.
Participation and the Person in Pauline Theology: A Response to Susan Eastman’s Paul and the Person
Authors: Linebaugh Jonathan A.
Published: May 2018

Paul and the Person by Susan Eastman both models a form of boundary-crossing Pauline scholarship and proposes a ‘contemporary expression’ of Paul’s language of participation in Christ. In conversation with ancient and contemporary theories of the self, Eastman argues that, for Paul, the person is constituted in relationship, whether to sin or to Christ. This thesis is both significant and suggestive, but it does raise questions about the continuity of the person in Pauline theology.
Returning to the stoicheia tou kosmou: Enslavement to the Physical Elements in Galatians 4.3 and 9?
Authors: Martin Neil
Published: May 2018

Does Paul’s use of the phrase στοιχεῖα τοῦ κόσμου in Gal. 4 necessarily refer to the physical elements of the ancient world? Challenging the current consensus attributed to Blinzler (1963: 429-43), Schweizer (1988: 455-68) and Rusam (1992: 119-25), this study analyses not only the limited corpus of texts on which their conclusions were based, but also a new corpus comprising every occurrence of στοιχεῖον in the ﬁrst centuries bce and ce. It concludes that the meaning of στοιχεῖον is highly dependent on the literary context in which it is situated and that, in Galatians, στοιχεῖα τοῦ κόσμου refers to the fundamental components of pre-Christian living.
Well-Being Correlates of Perceived Positivity Resonance: Evidence From Trait and Episode-Level Assessments
Authors: Major Brett C. , Le Nguyen Khoa D. , Lundberg Kristjen B. , Fredrickson Barbara L.
Published: May 2018

Positivity resonance is a type of interpersonal connection characterized by shared positivity, mutual care and concern, and behavioral and biological synchrony. Perceived positivity resonance is hypothesized to be associated with well-being. In three studies ( N = 175, N = 120, N = 173), perceived positivity resonance was assessed at the trait level (Study 1) or the episode level, using the Day Reconstruction Method (Studies 2 and 3). Primary analyses reveal that perceived positivity resonance is associated with flourishing mental health, depressive symptoms, loneliness, and illness symptoms. These associations largely remain statistically significant when controlling for daily pleasant emotions or social interaction more generally. Ancillary analyses in Studies 2 and 3 support the construct validity of the episode-level assessment of perceived positivity resonance. The overall pattern of results is consistent with Positivity Resonance Theory. Discussion centers on avenues for future research and the need for behavioral interventions.
Children’s clapping games on the virtual playground
Authors: Veblen Kari K. , Kruse Nathan B. , Messenger Stephen J. , Letain Meredith
Published: May 2018

This study considers children’s informal musicking and online music teaching, learning, playing, and invention through an analysis of children’s clapping games on YouTube. We examined a body of 184 games from 103 separate YouTube postings drawn from North America, Central and South America, Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. Selected videos were analyzed according to video characteristics, participant attributes, purpose, and teaching and learning aspects. The results of this investigation indicated that pairs of little girls aged 3 to 12 constituted a majority of the participants in these videos, with other participant subcategories including mixed gender, teen, adult, and intergenerational examples. Seventy-one percent of the videos depicted playing episodes, and 40% were intended for pedagogical purposes; however, several categories overlapped. As of June 1, 2016, nearly 50 million individuals had viewed these YouTube postings.
Constructing state, territory, and sovereignty in the Syrian conflict
Authors: Menshawy Mustafa
Published: May 2018

The article argues that sovereignty claims and counterclaims are still very much at work in international and civil conflicts involving state actors. Focusing on the case of the Syrian conflict, the article engages in methodological triangulation using Critical Discourse Analysis and international relations theories. It finds that the sovereignty-first narrative adopted by Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, and its external allies such as Russia, has built an ‘effective’ discourse that has been adopted in a coherent, consistent, and resonant manner, as well as a ‘credible’ discourse which combined words with actions (i.e. performatives and constatives of sovereignty). The effectiveness and credibility of the sovereignty-first narrative is also judged by the absence of effective and credible contending narratives demonstrated by the tepid application of concepts like the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) by the United States and its European allies. In making these comparisons, the Syrian conflict can be contextualised by relating it to the Arab Spring and geopolitical shifts in international affairs. It is within this contextualisation that the article demonstrates broader claims about the endurance of the ‘territorial state’ in the Middle East.
Removal of naphthenic acids using activated charcoal: Kinetic and equilibrium studies
Authors: Campos Natália F , Barbosa Celmy MBM , Rodríguez-Díaz Joan M , Duarte Marta MMB
Published: May 2018

This study proposes the use of activated charcoal made from Umbaúba wood as an adsorbent for the removal of naphthenic acid in an aviation kerosene model mixture. The activated charcoal was characterised as mesoporous with a carbon graphite profile and presented pHpzcequal to 10.5. The best working conditions were obtained for activated charcoal levels of <0.09 mm and 300 r min−1. The system reached the equilibrium after 360 min, without significant statistical difference for the pseudo-first- and pseudo-second-order kinetic models. The Weber–Morris and Boyd models corroborated the conclusion that adsorption is not controlled only by the intraparticle diffusion step. For the equilibrium study, the adsorptive capacity obtained was of 1.1 g g−1, with the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller model better correlating with the experimental data. Given the results obtained, the activated charcoal demonstrated to have a remarkable potential for removing naphthenic acid in an aviation kerosene model mixture.
The effects of respiratory muscle training on peak cough flow in patients with Parkinson’s disease: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Reyes Alvaro , Castillo Adrián , Castillo Javiera , Cornejo Isabel
Published: May 2018

Objective:

To compare the effects of an inspiratory versus and expiratory muscle-training program on voluntary and reflex peak cough flow in patients with Parkinson disease.

Design:

A randomized controlled study.

Setting:

Home-based training program.

Participants:

In all, 40 participants with diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease were initially recruited in the study and randomly allocated to three study groups. Of them, 31 participants completed the study protocol (control group, n = 10; inspiratory training group, n = 11; and expiratory training group, n = 10)

Intervention:

The inspiratory and expiratory group performed a home-based inspiratory and expiratory muscle-training program, respectively (five sets of five repetitions). Both groups trained six times a week for two months using a progressively increased resistance. The control group performed expiratory muscle training using the same protocol and a fixed resistance.

Main measures:

Spirometric indices, maximum inspiratory pressure, maximum expiratory pressure, and peak cough flow during voluntary and reflex cough were assessed before and at two months after training.

Results:

The magnitude of increase in maximum expiratory pressure ( d = 1.40) and voluntary peak cough flow ( d = 0.89) was greater for the expiratory muscle-training group in comparison to the control group. Reflex peak cough flow had a moderate effect ( d = 0.27) in the expiratory group in comparison to the control group. Slow vital capacity ( d = 0.13) and forced vital capacity ( d = 0.02) had trivial effects in the expiratory versus the control group.

Conclusions:

Two months of expiratory muscle-training program was more beneficial than inspiratory muscle-training program for improving maximum expiratory pressure and voluntary peak cough flow in patients with Parkinson’s disease.
A Snapshot of FOIA Administration: Examining Recent Trends to Inform Future Research
Authors: AbouAssi Khaldoun , Nabatchi Tina
Published: May 2018

This article provides a snapshot of the administration of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) in the U.S. federal government. Specifically, using data from all federal government agencies from 2008 to 2016, the article examines indicators of FOIA caseloads, including requests, exemptions, denials, appeals, and backlogs, and FOIA management capacity, including staff, financial issues, and processing times. The snapshot not only highlights recent trends in the administration of FOIA but also informs future research by identifying areas that deserve additional attention, revealing potential sampling or case identification strategies for empirical work, and shedding light on variables that may have implications for theory building.
Effects of polaprezinc on gastric mucosal damage and neurotransmitters in a rat model of chemotherapy-induced vomiting
Authors: Liu Zhao Yang , Xie Wen Bo , Ru Li Ming , Teng Nan , Liang Xiao , Zhang Zi Qiang
Published: May 2018

Objective

To investigate the effects of polaprezinc (PZ) on cyclophosphamide (CTX)- or cisplatin (DDP)-induced gastric mucosal injury and on a rat model of neurotransmitter-mediated vomiting.

Methods

Sprague–Dawley rats were divided at random into Control, CTX, DDP, PZ+CTX, and PZ+DDP groups. After 20 days, brain tissues and sera were analyzed for the levels of dopamine (DA), 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). Hematoxylin and eosin-stained sections of stomach, intestine, and brain tissues were examined using light microscopy.

Results

The levels of DA, 5-HT, and NF-κB in brain and serum samples of rats treated with CTX or DDP were significantly increased compared with those of rats in the Control group. There was a significant decrease in these values in the PZ group. Moreover, PZ reduced damage to brain tissue caused by CTX or DDP.

Conclusions

PZ decreased the levels of DA, 5-HT, and NF-κB in blood and brain tissues caused by CTX or DDP and reduced the chemotherapy-induced damage to the small intestine, stomach, and brain. These findings can be translated to the clinic to enhance the efficacy and safety of chemotherapy.
The GlideScope with modified Magill forceps facilitates nasogastric tube insertion in anesthetized patients: A randomized clinical study
Authors: Kim Han Joon , Park Su In , Cho Sang Yun , Cho Min Jae
Published: May 2018

Objective

Insertion of a nasogastric tube (NGT) in patients who have been intubated with an endotracheal tube while under general anesthesia can cause difficulties and lead to complications, including hemorrhage. A visualization-aided modality was recently used to facilitate NGT insertion. Some studies have focused on the role of modified Magill forceps, which have angles similar to those of the GlideScope blade (Verathon, Bothell, WA, USA).

Methods

Seventy patients were divided into a control group (Group C) and an experimental group (GlideScope and modified Magill forceps, Group M).

Results

The total NGT insertion time was significantly shorter in Group M than C (71.3 ± 22.6 vs. 96.7 ± 57.5 s; mean difference, –25.3 s; 95% confidence interval [CI], 20.8–71.5). There were also significantly fewer mean insertion attempts in Group M than C (1.0 ± 0.0 vs. 2.11 ± 0.93). The success rate for the first attempt in Group C was 37.1%, while that in Group M was 100% (relative risk, 2.7; 95% CI, 1.7–4.1).

Conclusion

The use of the GlideScope with modified Magill forceps for insertion of an NGT in patients who are already intubated and under general anesthesia will shorten the insertion time and improve the success rate.
Tuberculous peritonitis and pleurisy accompanied by pulmonary cryptococcosis: A case report
Authors: Chen Jian-Kun , Cai Shu-Bin , Cai Qian , Qi Hang , Li Ji-Qiang
Published: May 2018

Although the infectious diseases tuberculosis (TB) and cryptococcosis both cause formation of single or multiple nodules in immunodeficient hosts, cases of co-infection of these diseases are rarely seen. We report a patient who was co-infected with TB and cryptococcosis. A male patient with no clinical evidence of immunodeficiency presented with a 3-week history of abdominal distension accompanied by oedema of recurring lower extremities. The patient was diagnosed with tuberculous peritonitis and tuberculous pleurisy by an abdominal puncture biopsy. Several months after being treated for TB, the patient was diagnosed with Cryptococcus infection and received antifungal treatment. Computed tomographic and magnetic resonance imaging findings suggested that treatment was effective. This case illustrates the challenges encountered during assessment of neoplasms associated with TB and cryptococcosis. Differential diagnosis requires an abdominal puncture biopsy. Diagnosis of Cryptococcus infection also requires a positive cryptococcal culture and positive India ink staining analysis. Notably, our patient also showed no obvious symptoms of cryptococcosis after receiving anti-TB treatment. Accordingly, in this report, we discuss the possible pathogenic mechanisms that underlie the coincidence of both types of inflammatory lesions. We emphasize the need for a greater awareness of atypical presentations of TB accompanied by Cryptococcus infection.
Immunological recovery in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis after intensive phase treatment
Authors: Luo Xuejiao , Wu Furong , Ma Jun , Xiao Heping , Cui Haiyan
Published: May 2018

Objectives

This study aimed to examine the change and significance of immune parameters in patients with sputum smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) after 2 months of intensive phase anti-TB treatment.

Methods

The immune parameters of 232 cases of sputum smear-positive pulmonary TB were detected before and after 2 months of intensive phase anti-TB treatment and compared with 50 cases from healthy volunteers (controls). The T lymphocyte cell population in peripheral blood was detected using flow cytometry. Serum levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, soluble interleukin-2 receptor, IL-6, and tumour necrosis factor-α were measured by ELISA.

Results

After 2 months of intensive phase anti-TB treatment, a reduction in the percentage of CD4+ T cells showed a significant restoration similar to that of controls. Moreover, after intensive anti-TB treatment, serum levels of IL-1β, soluble interleukin-2 receptor, IL-6, and tumour necrosis factor-α were significantly decreased compared with before treatment. Additionally, serum levels of IL-1β and IL-6 showed a diminished recovery compared with controls.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest immunological recovery in patients with pulmonary TB after intensive phase treatment. Therefore, serum cytokine levels are considered potential host biomarkers for monitoring the response of treatment for pulmonary TB.