bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Internet Vigilantism: Attitudes and Experiences of University Students Toward Cyber Crowdsourcing in Hong Kong
Authors: Chang Lennon Y. C. , Poon Ryan
Published: March 2016

With the development of the Internet, Internet vigilantism (netilantism) has emerged as a new phenomenon in recent years. Although there are several qualitative studies explaining netilantism, there is little empirical research on public perceptions of netilantism. This article aims to outline Hong Kong university students’ general perception of netilantism and investigate the differences between different roles in netilantism. By using empowerment theory as the theoretical framework, we will investigate whether Internet vigilantes (netilantes) (a) perceive the criminal justice system as effective, (b) possess high levels of self-efficacy in the cyber world, and (c) tend to believe netilantism can achieve social justice. Findings support the proposition that human flesh search engine is an empowerment tool for the netilante enabling him or her to achieve his goal of social justice. Different roles in netilantism (i.e., bystander, netilante, victim, and none of the above roles) have different perceptions of netilantism and the criminal justice system. The results will be explained by studying two representative cases of netilantism—the “Government Official Molestation” case and the “Cat Abuse in Shun Tin Village” case from China and Hong Kong, respectively.
Calcitonin gene-related peptide induced migraine attacks in patients with and without familial aggregation of migraine
Authors: Guo Song , Christensen Anne Francke , Liu Marie Louise , Janjooa Benjamin Naveed , Olesen Jes , Ashina Messoud
Published: March 2016

Background

Calcitonin gene-related peptide provokes migraine attacks in 65% of patients with migraine without aura. Whether aggregation of migraine in first-degree relatives (family load) or a high number of risk-conferring single nucleotide polymorphisms contributes to migraine susceptibility to calcitonin gene-related peptide infusion in migraine patients is unknown. We hypothesized that genetic enrichment plays a role in triggering of migraine and, therefore, migraine without aura patients with high family load would report more migraine attacks after calcitonin gene-related peptide infusion than patients with low family load.

Methods

We allocated 40 previously genotyped migraine without aura patients to receive intravenous infusion of 1.5 µg/min calcitonin gene-related peptide and recorded migraine attacks including headache characteristics and associated symptoms. Information of familial aggregation was obtained by telephone interview of first-degree relatives using a validated semi-structured questionnaire.

Results

Calcitonin gene-related peptide infusion induced a migraine-like attack in 75% (12 out of 16) of patients with high family load compared to 52% (12 out of 23) with low family load ( P = 0.150). In addition, we found that the migraine response after calcitonin gene-related peptide was not associated with specific or a high number of risk-conferring single nucleotide polymorphisms of migraine without aura.

Conclusion

We found no statistical association between familial aggregation of migraine and hypersensitivity to calcitonin gene-related peptide infusion in migraine without aura patients. We also demonstrated that the currently known single nucleotide polymorphisms conferring risk of migraine without aura have no additive effect on calcitonin gene-related peptide induced migraine-like attacks.
Part I: Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide-38 induced migraine-like attacks in patients with and without familial aggregation of migraine
Authors: Guo Song , Vollesen Anne Luise Haulund , Hansen Rikke Dyhr , Esserlind Ann-Louise , Amin Faisal Mohammed , Christensen Anne Francke , Olesen Jes , Ashina Messoud
Published: March 2016

Background

Intravenous infusion of adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide-38 (PACAP38) provokes migraine-like attacks in 65–70% of migraine sufferers. Whether aggregation of migraine in first-degree relatives contributes to this discrepancy in PACAP38-induced response is unknown. We hypothesized that genetic enrichment plays a role in triggering of migraine and that migraine without aura patients with a high family load ( ≥ 2 first-degree relatives with migraine) would report more migraine-like attacks after intravenous infusion of human PACAP38.

Methods

In this study, we allocated 32 previously genotyped migraine without aura patients to receive intravenous infusion of 10 pmol/kg/min PACAP38 and recorded migraine-like attacks including headache characteristics and associated symptoms. Information of familial aggregation was obtained by telephone interview of first-degree relatives using a validated semi-structured questionnaire.

Results

PACAP38 infusion induced a migraine-like attack in 75% (nine out of 12) of patients with high family load compared to 70% (14 out of 20) with low family load ( P = 0.761). In an explorative investigation, we found that the migraine response after PACAP38 was not associated with the risk allele of rs2274316 ( MEF2D), which confers increased risk of migraine without aura and may regulate PACAP38 expression.

Conclusion

Migraine response to PACAP38 infusion in migraine without aura patients is not associated with high family load or the risk allele of rs2274316 ( MEF2D).
Regional Comparison of Enteral Nutrition–Related Admission Policies in Skilled Nursing Facilities
Authors: Burgermaster Marissa , Slattery Eoin , Islam Nafeesa , Ippolito Paul R. , Seres David S.
Published: March 2016

Background: Nursing home admission policies are one driver of increased and earlier gastrostomy placement, a procedure that is not always medically or ethically indicated among patients needing short‐term nutrition support. This important clinical decision should be based upon patient prognosis, goals, and needs. We compared nursing home enteral nutrition–related admission policies in New York City and other regions of the United States. We also explored motivations for these policies. Methods: We conducted a telephone survey with skilled nursing facility administrators in New York City and a random sample of facilities throughout the United States about enteral nutrition–related admission policies. Survey data were matched with publically available data about facility characteristics from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The relationship between facility location and admission policies was described with regression models. Reasons for these policies were thematically analyzed. Results: New York City nursing homes were significantly less likely to admit patients with nasogastric feeding tubes than were nursing homes nationwide, after we controlled for facility characteristics (odds ratio = 0.111; 95% CI, 0.032–0.344). Reasons for refusing nasogastric tubes fell into 5 categories: safety, capacity, policy, perception of appropriate level of care, and patient quality of life. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that enteral nutrition–related admission policies vary greatly between nursing homes in New York City and nationwide. Many administrators cited safety and policy as factors guiding their institutional policies and practices, despite a lack of evidence. This gap in research, practice, and policy has implications for quality and cost of care, length of hospital stay, and patient morbidity and mortality.
Engaging Effectively in the Policy-Making Process
Authors: McLaughlin Virginia L. , West Jane E. , Anderson Jeffrey A.
Published: March 2016

Current political polarization and competing priorities complicate development of sound education policy. Particularly troubling is the disconnect between research and policy, as decision makers rely more on the work of think tanks and advocacy groups than the knowledge base of the profession. The mismatch between higher education and policy cultures is examined in terms of pace, career cycles, communication styles, information sources, and other factors. Implications for the scholarly community are discussed within a policy process framework with specific examples of effective advocacy. Recommendations include partnerships with strategic allies to gain resources and credibility, use of new communication styles and media, and preparation of leadership personnel for policy engagement.
Research on angles-only/SINS/CNS relative position and attitude determination algorithm for a tumbling spacecraft
Authors: Zhang Lijun , Qian Shan , Zhang Shifeng , Cai Hong
Published: March 2016

In this paper, the relative navigation technique of final approach phase for a tumbling target spacecraft is studied and exploited. It is assumed that the tumbling target is in failure or out of control and there is no good a priori rotation rate information. The Euler’s rotational dynamics is used to propagate the target angular velocity, and the unknown inertia parameter circumstance is also considered. The chaser spacecraft is equipped with three strapdown gyros and accelerometers and a star sensor that determine the absolute motion parameters, and an optical camera that measures relative azimuth and elevation angles to the target spacecraft. On the basis of the rotational and translational motions of both spacecrafts, an angles-only/ strapdown inertial navigation system/celestial navigation system navigation filter is designed. Simulation results indicate that the proposed algorithm can accurately estimate the relative position, velocity, and attitude between two spacecrafts and compensate the biases of the gyros and accelerometers.
Restricted rights: obstacles in enforcing the labour rights of mobile EU workers in the German and Dutch construction sector
Authors: Wagner Ines , Berntsen Lisa
Published: March 2016

There is considerable evidence that employers are violating the labour rights of mobile EU workers. However there is disagreement as to whether the lack of enforcement of these rights is caused by poor EU-level or weak national-level potential to oversee and sanction infringing companies and to enforce the rules. This poses the following three questions. Which enforcement gaps exist in relation to EU labour mobility? Which circumstances lead to these particular enforcement gaps? And what is being done to close those gaps? To answer these questions we examine the behaviour of institutions key to these processes, interviewing the respective labour enforcement agencies and trade unions in the German and Dutch construction sector as well as mobile EU workers themselves. We discuss three distinct difficulties encountered in enforcing labour standards: 1) disparities between enforcement institutions in different EU Member States; 2) enforcement challenges faced within the national context; and 3) representation gaps between host country collective representation channels and mobile EU workers.
State Variation in School-Based Disability Services Financed by Medicaid
Authors: Baller Julia B. , Barry Colleen L.
Published: March 2016

To understand the role of Medicaid in financing health services delivered through special education, program characteristics and covered services were compared from all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Data were collected from school-based fee schedules and policy manuals available through state Medicaid or education agencies. Except Wyoming, all states bill Medicaid for school-based health services, but there is substantive variation across states in services covered. The service categories most often covered by states’ Medicaid special education programs are speech–language/audiology, occupational/physical therapy, and behavioral health. Almost all states use a fee-for-service payment methodology to reimburse for services. Implications for the delivery of care to and health outcomes of students with disabilities are discussed.
The Utilization of Antithrombotic Therapy in Older Australians With Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Frain Bridget Elise , Castelino Ronald , Bereznicki Luke
Published: March 2016

What is known and Objective:

Oral anticoagulants are essential drugs for the prevention of thromboembolic events in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Anticoagulants are, however, commonly withheld due to a perceived risk of severe adverse events. The underutilization of anticoagulants in patients with AF has been demonstrated internationally, but to date, there are limited data available in the Australian context. The aim of this study was to determine the utilization patterns of anticoagulants (including novel oral anticoagulants) with respect to stroke and bleeding risk among patients with AF within the community.

Methods:

We performed a nonexperimental, retrospective analysis designed to evaluate antithrombotic usage for AF in Australia. The utilization of antithrombotic therapy and the appropriateness of therapy were determined based on CHADS2, CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED risk stratification schemes. The presence of documented contraindications was used to determine the appropriateness of antithrombotic therapy.

What is new and Conclusion:

Anticoagulants were overutilized in patients at low risk of stroke and underutilized in patients at higher risk of stroke. As the HAS-BLED score increased, the likelihood of patients receiving an anticoagulant decreased regardless of CHADS2 or CHA2DS2-VASc scores.
Up, Periscope
Authors: Stewart Daxton R. “Chip” , Littau Jeremy
Published: March 2016

Mobile streaming video technologies (MSVTs) such as Meerkat and Periscope, which allow users an easily accessible way to stream live video to followers, have the potential to reshape the way people think about any right to privacy they may have in public places, as well as the rights of people to record video in public places. Using legal research methodology, this article examines the privacy law and policy implications of MSVTs, finding that the intrusion and public disclosure torts are unequipped to provide remedies for potential privacy harms and that the First Amendment likely protects live streaming activities of users.
A Qualitative Analysis of the Effects of Victimization History and Sexual Attitudes on Women’s Hypothetical Sexual Assault Scripts
Authors: Leiting Kari A. , Yeater Elizabeth A.
Published: March 2016

This study examined qualitatively the effects of a sexual victimization history and sexual attitudes on 247 undergraduate women’s written accounts of a hypothetical sexual assault. More severe victimization history was associated with script characteristics of greater alcohol use, knowing the man longer, and the context of a party. Greater endorsement of positive attitudes toward casual sex was related to script characteristics of greater alcohol use, acquiescing to the man, and not knowing the man as long. Finally, a more recent sexual assault was associated with script characteristics of having just met the man, the context of a party or date, and acquiescing to the man.
Cardiac stunning as first manifestation of multiple sclerosis: A case report reminding us not to overlook cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Hilz Max J
Published: March 2016

Autonomic dysfunction is common but frequently overlooked in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. The case of a Tako-Tsubo cardiomyopathy on which this commentary is based shows that centrally triggered autonomic dysfunction may be the first life-threatening manifestation of MS.
Effect of longitudinal rebar corrosion on the compressive strength reduction of concrete in reinforced concrete structure
Authors: Shayanfar Mohsen Ali , Barkhordari Mohammad Ali , Ghanooni-Bagha Mohammad
Published: March 2016

Compressive strength reduction of concretes due to corrosion of reinforcement is one of the main reasons of failure in reinforced concrete structure which has not been taken into account by researchers yet. Therefore, in this article, for the sake of examination of concrete’s compressive strength reduction due to rebar corrosion, reinforced concrete cubic specimens are constructed, and then, accelerated corrosion is applied to them. With fixing all effective parameters in compressive strength except water-to-cement ratio, specimens with different water-to-cement ratios (0.4, 0.45, and 0.5) are constructed with various reinforcements. Finally, compressive strength tests are performed for corroded and non-corroded specimens and reduction in compressive strength is measured under different degrees of corrosions.
Social networks and feelings of social loneliness after migration: The case of European migrants with a native partner in Belgium
Authors: Koelet Suzana , de Valk Helga AG
Published: March 2016

This paper studies the social networks and feelings of social loneliness of a group of migrants that, because of their European origins and their mixed relations with a native partner, might be easily integrating socially. The data are a sample of 237 (first-generation) European migrants with a native partner living in Belgium, drawn from the EUMARR study on binational couples. First, their social networks and feelings of loneliness are compared to those of natives in a uninational partnership. Second, structural equation modelling is performed to study the effect of various characteristics of local and transnational networks of family and friends (such as size, composition and intensity of contact) on feelings of social loneliness, as well as the link with migration history. Results reveal that European migrants with a native partner experience more feelings of social loneliness than do the native population. A larger local network, with more own relatives and more (own, not met through the partner) friends, as well as more frequent contact with local friends contribute to lower levels of social loneliness. Transnational contact and the share of natives in the local network have no impact. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the social life of European migrants and show how, even with a native partner, they are still affected by the migration move in relation to feelings of social loneliness.
The skins we live in
Authors: Bradshaw Alan , Chatzidakis Andreas
Published: March 2016

This article explores the skin-ego, a theory associated with Didier Anzieu, which holds that we experience life as encapsulated by an outer shell. This insight is used to push understandings within consumer research of how we might regard the body, not as a finite entity bound in absolute time and space or as a canvas to be decorated, but as a porous and sprawling entity that bears unconscious and historically formed relationalities open to transformation. This vein of insight allows us to consider anew how music and noise is consumed in terms of containment, holding and individuation.
Reflexive research: Investigating the process of growth in recognition of self-awareness and affect
Authors: Herland Mari Dalen
Published: March 2016

This article examines shifting thoughts and feelings throughout the interview process. More specifically, it draws on subjective, affective responses that occurred in relation to interviews with men about their fathering experiences. All of the fathers had records of criminal behaviour and severe adjustment problems in their adolescence. The discussion revolves around the reflexive process that took place from a researcher’s viewpoint, investigating shifting feelings throughout the analytical progression in (i) looking forward to the interviews, (ii) meeting and interacting with the interviewees, and (iii) reflecting upon the interviews. To examine these affective responses, the article relies on psychosocial theories that view the use of feelings as essential to interview analysis. The article draws on reflections on different interview meetings with a sample of 15 men. The discussion suggests that feelings are valuable ‘research tools’ in exploring methodological possibilities which can potentially make the research process transparent, thereby validating the findings.
(-)-Epicatechin-induced recovery of mitochondria from simulated diabetes: Potential role of endothelial nitric oxide synthase
Authors: Ramírez-Sánchez Israel , Rodríguez Alonso , Moreno-Ulloa Aldo , Ceballos Guillermo , Villarreal Francisco
Published: March 2016

(-)-Epicatechin increases indicators associated with mitochondrial biogenesis in endothelial cells and myocardium. We investigated endothelial nitric oxide synthase involvement on (-)-epicatechin-induced increases in indicators associated with mitochondrial biogenesis in human coronary artery endothelial cells cultured in normal-glucose and high-glucose media, as well as to restore indicators of cardiac mitochondria from the effects of simulated diabetes. Here, we demonstrate the role of endothelial nitric oxide synthase on (-)-epicatechin-induced increases in mitochondrial proteins, transcription factors and sirtuin 1 under normal-glucose conditions. In simulated diabetes endothelial nitric oxide synthase function, mitochondrial function–associated and biogenesis-associated indicators were adversely impacted by high glucose, effects that were reverted by (-)-epicatechin. As an animal model of type 2 diabetes, 2-month old C57BL/6 mice were fed a high-fat diet for 16 weeks. Fasting and fed blood glucose levels were increased and NO plasma levels decreased. High-fat-diet-fed mice myocardium revealed endothelial nitric oxide synthase dysfunction, reduced mitochondrial activity and markers of mitochondrial biogenesis. The administration of 1 mg/kg (-)-epicatechin for 15 days by oral gavage shifted these endpoints towards control mice values. Results suggest that endothelial nitric oxide synthase mediates (-)-epicatechin-induced increases of indicators associated with mitochondrial biogenesis in endothelial cells. (-)-Epicatechin also counteracts the negative effects that high glucose or simulated type 2 diabetes has on endothelial nitric oxide synthase function.
Partisanship and Non-Partisanship Among American Indians
Authors: Koch Jeffrey W.
Published: March 2016

This research examines the partisan inclinations of American Indians, a minority population with a complicated history with the U.S. government and American society. The empirical analyses identify Native Americans as preferring the Democratic Party over the Republican Party. The impact of being Native American on identification with the Democratic Party is sizable, equivalent to the effect for being Hispanic, Asian, or female. In addition, American Indians demonstrate a pronounced tendency to not affiliate with a major American political party. The higher incidence of non-identification among Native Americans likely results from the importance of their claims for sovereignty and, relatedly, living separate from much of American society. Unlike other broad-based social groups in American politics, Native Americans disseminate cues that reduce the tendency of their members to affiliate with a major political party.
Black Representations of Settlement on Film
Authors: Jafri Beenash
Published: March 2016

This article develops a method for analyzing Indigenous erasure in popular film that focuses not on the representations (or lack thereof) of Indigenous peoples but on representations of settlement. Whereas much of the scholarship on Native representations in film has been concerned with Hollywood’s promulgation of the “mythical Indian,” I argue that a focus on settlement—rather than on bodies—is significant in the context of the ongoing, unfinished processes of colonialism, which continue to structure life in white settler states. Cultural representations that reconfigure colonial-occupied life as settled life naturalize settler colonialism while erasing and displacing Indigenous claims to land. I illuminate this method by analyzing how the 1974 “blaxploitation Western” Thomasine and Bushrod imagines settlement. The film features a pair of lovers who are on the run from the law in America’s Southwest from 1911 to 1915. Because it is a film that speaks back to historical constructions of Blackness and Indigeneity, Thomasine and Bushrod productively illuminates how representations of Indigenous erasure work in often ambiguous and contradictory ways.
Distal Embolization During Percutaneous Subclavian Artery Intervention
Authors: Alkhouli Mohamad , Porter John , Waits Bryan , Ling Frederick S. , Narins Craig R.
Published: March 2016

Distal embolization due to atherothrombotic debris during subclavian artery interventions is extremely rare and can usually be managed conservatively. Herein, we describe a case of acute hand ischemia due to massive distal embolization during balloon angioplasty and stenting of a left subclavian artery chronic total occlusion. This limb-threatening complication was effectively treated with rescue surgical thrombectomy.
Siblings and Adolescent Weapon Carrying
Authors: Wallace Lacey N.
Published: March 2016

Many past studies have observed evidence of sibling similarity and influence for delinquency and substance use. However, studies of sibling similarity for adolescent weapon carrying, particularly for weapons beyond firearms, are largely absent from the literature. The present study assesses sibling similarity in weapon carrying as well as the relative contributions of genetics, shared environment, and nonshared environment. Data are obtained from the first two waves of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health and analyzed using biometrical genetic models for twins and actor–partner interdependence models for nontwins. Results indicate little, if any, contribution stemming from genetics. There is also no evidence of a significant shared environment effect. Instead, all or nearly all of the variation and similarity in weapon carrying among siblings are related to the nonshared environment, particularly gang affiliation. Implications and possible extensions of these findings are discussed.
Beliefs Regarding Prostate Cancer Screening Among Black Males Aged 18 to 40 Years
Authors: Ogunsanya Motolani E. , Brown Carolyn M. , Odedina Folakemi T. , Barner Jamie C. , Corbell Brittany , Adedipe Taiwo B.
Published: March 2016

This study was conducted to identify the salient behavioral beliefs of young Black men toward prostate cancer screening, and to identify the issues surrounding their comfortability with prostate examinations. A total of 20 Black men, aged between 18 and 40 years, participated in three focus group sessions between June 2013 and July 2013 in Austin, Texas. Participants were asked open-ended questions about: (a) the advantages and disadvantages of screening to identify salient behavioral beliefs about screening and (b) issues that would make prostate examinations comfortable or uncomfortable to identify comfortability factors. Focus group discussions were tape-recorded, transcribed, and content analyzed to identify emerging themes of salient beliefs and comfortability. Also, nine salient behavioral beliefs toward prostate cancer screening were identified, and eight factors were linked to comfortability with prostate examinations. Given the increase of prostate cancer disparity as a public health issue, understanding the beliefs of Black men of prescreening age (18-40 years) may be crucial to the effectiveness of future interventions to improve screening when recommended at later ages.
Free vibration analysis of open circular cylindrical shells by the method of reverberation-ray matrix
Authors: Tang Dong , Sun Longquan , Yao Xiongliang , Yue Xuefeng
Published: March 2016

This article is concerned with free vibration analysis of open circular cylindrical shells with either the two straight edges or the two curved edges simply supported and the remaining two edges supported by arbitrary classical boundary conditions. An analytical solution of the traveling wave form along the simply supported edges and the standing wave form along the remaining two edges is obtained based on the Flügge thin shell theory. With such a unidirectional traveling wave form solution, the method of reverberation-ray matrix is introduced to derive the equation of natural frequencies of the open circular cylindrical shell with various boundary conditions. Then, the golden section search algorithm is employed to obtain the natural frequencies of the open circular cylindrical shell. The calculation results are compared with those obtained by the finite element method and the method in available literature. Finally, the natural frequencies of the open circular cylindrical shell with various boundary conditions are calculated and the effects of boundary conditions on the natural frequencies are examined. The calculation results can be used as benchmark values for researchers to check their numerical methods and for engineers to design thin structures with shell components.
The association between socioeconomic status and the symptoms at diagnosis of celiac disease: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Roy Abhik , Mehra Shilpa , Kelly Ciarán P. , Tariq Sohaib , Pallav Kumar , Dennis Melinda , Peer Ann , Lebwohl Benjamin , Green Peter H. R. , Leffler Daniel A.
Published: March 2016

Background:

There are little data on patient factors that impact diagnosis rates of celiac disease. This study aims to evaluate the association between patient socioeconomic status and the symptoms at diagnosis of celiac disease.

Methods:

A total of 872 patients with biopsy-proven celiac disease were categorized based on the presence or absence of (1) diarrhea and (2) any gastrointestinal symptoms at diagnosis. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to assess the association between socioeconomic status and symptoms.

Results:

Patients without diarrhea at presentation had a higher mean per capita income (US$34,469 versus US$32,237, p = 0.02), and patients without any gastrointestinal symptoms had a higher mean per capita income (US$36,738 versus US$31,758, p < 0.01) compared with patients having such symptoms. On multivariable analysis adjusting for sex, age, autoimmune or psychiatric comorbidities, and income, per capita income remained a significant predictor of diagnosis without gastrointestinal symptoms (odds ratio: 1.71, 95% confidence interval: 1.17–2.50, p < 0.01), and it showed a trend towards significance in diagnosis without diarrhea (odds ratio: 1.40, 95% confidence interval: 0.98–2.02, p = 0.06).

Conclusions:

Patients with nonclassical symptoms of celiac disease are less likely to be diagnosed if they are of lower socioeconomic status. Celiac disease may be under-recognized in this population due to socioeconomic factors that possibly include lower rates of health-seeking behavior and access to healthcare.
The Acquisition of English Articles by Second Language Learners
Authors: Sun Ganzhao
Published: March 2016

Despite the numerous studies on English article acquisition, the acquisition sequence, differences, and difficulties by English-as-a-second language learners (ELLs) remain to be further explored. With a detailed literature review, this study investigated the acquisition sequence, differences, and difficulties of English articles by ELLs with diverse first language backgrounds. Eighteen college ELLs participated in the study. Data were collected through cloze exercises. The results, through the analysis of its database of 6,178 article used, indicated that “zero article” was the last to be acquired while article “a” is the first to be acquired; positive correspondence existed between the growth of the acquisition of article “a/an,” “the,” and “zero” between “+Art” (with article system) group and “−Art” (without article system) group. The results also revealed that (a) the most difficult article for participants in both groups to acquire was “zero article,” (b) “the” was the most difficult article for participants in “+Art” group, and (c) “a” was the easiest one acquired by both groups. These findings, in fact, challenge the commonsense belief that “+Art” ELLs acquired English articles faster than “−Art” ELLs and that when two languages were similar, positive transfer would occur.
Preclinical models of acute and chronic graft-versus-host disease: how predictive are they for a successful clinical translation?
Authors: Zeiser Robert , Blazar Bruce R.
Published: March 2016

Despite major advances in recent years, graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) remains a major life-threatening complication of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT). To improve our therapeutic armory against GVHD, preclinical evidence is most frequently generated in mouse and large animal models of GVHD. However, because every model has shortcomings, it is important to understand how predictive the different models are and why certain findings in these models could not be translated into the clinic. Weaknesses of the animal GVHD models include the irradiation only-based conditioning regimen, the homogenous donor/recipient genetics in mice, canine or non-human primates (NHP), anatomic site of T cells used for transfer in mice, the homogenous microbial environment in mice housed under specific pathogen-free conditions, and the lack of pharmacologic GVHD prevention in control groups. Despite these major differences toward clinical allo-HCT, findings generated in animal models of GVHD have led to the current gold standards for GVHD prophylaxis and therapy. The homogenous nature of the preclinical models allows for reproducibility, which is key for the characterization of the role of a new cytokine, chemokine, transcription factor, microRNA, kinase, or immune cell population in the context of GVHD. Therefore, when carefully balancing reasons to apply small and large animal models, it becomes evident that they are valuable tools to generate preclinical hypotheses, which then have to be rigorously evaluated in the clinical setting. In this study, we discuss several clinical approaches that were motivated by preclinical evidence, novel NHP models and their advantages, and highlight the recent advances in understanding the pathophysiology of GVHD.
Center of mass velocity based predictions in balance recovery following pelvis perturbations during human walking
Authors: Vlutters M. , Van Asseldonk E.H.F. , Van der Kooij H.
Published: March 2016

In many simple walking models foot placement dictates the center of pressure location and ground reaction force components, whereas humans can modulate these aspects after foot contact. Because of the differences, it is unclear to what extend predictions made by models are valid for human walking. Yet, both model simulations and human experimental data have previously indicated that the center of mass (COM) velocity plays an important role in regulating stable walking.

Here, perturbed human walking was studied for the relation of the horizontal COM velocity at heel strike and toe-off with the foot placement location relative to the COM, the forthcoming center of pressure location relative to the COM, and the ground reaction forces. Ten healthy subjects received various magnitude mediolateral and anteroposterior pelvis perturbations at toe-off, during 0.63 and 1.25 m s−1 treadmill walking.

At heel strike after the perturbation, recovery from mediolateral perturbations involved mediolateral foot placement adjustments proportional to the mediolateral COM velocity. In contrast, for anteroposterior perturbations no significant anteroposterior foot placement adjustment occurred at this heel strike. However, in both directions the COM velocity at heel strike related linearly to the center of pressure location at the subsequent toe-off. This relation was affected by the walking speed and was, for the slow speed, in line with a COM velocity based control strategy previously applied by others in a linear inverted pendulum model. Finally, changes in gait phase durations suggest that the timing of actions could play an important role during the perturbation recovery.
Breakers, benders, and obeyers: Inquiring into teacher educators’ mediation of edTPA
Authors: Ratner Andrew R. , Kolman Joni S.
Published: March 2016

This article reflects a qualitative exploratory inquiry into the lived experiences of faculty members working within a system of urban schools of education as they supported diverse teacher candidates in completing the Educative Teacher Performance Assessment (edTPA) during its first semesters of high-stakes implementation. Drawing upon questionnaire responses and semi-structured interviews, our findings demonstrate the disparity and variation in the level and kind of support offered to teacher candidates. We discuss the ways that the policy, stance, and the ethical, pedagogical, and logistical dilemmas teacher educators faced as they supported candidates intersected to shape the supports provided. Implications focus on utilization of such test scores for evaluating teacher preparation institutions, faculty relations, and the diversification of the teacher workforce.
IDENTIFICATION OF UTERIN MILK PROTEIN (UTMT) GENE IN BALI CATTLE USING DIRECT SEQUENCING
Authors: Jakaria J. , Saputra F. , Paramitasari K. A. , Agung P. P. , Maskur M.
Published: March 2016

The objective of this research was to identify diversity of exon 5 UTMP gene fragment in Bali cattle using direct sequencing. The total 60 blood samples of Bali Cattle derived from BPTU Bali in Bali siland (20 heads), BPTU Serading in Sumbawa island (20 heads) and Village Breeding Center in Barru District South Sulawesi (20 heads) were used to evaluate their genetic diversity at exon 5 UTMP gene. The forward and reverse data sequences were analyzed using Bioedit program and alignment analysis was carried out using MEGA5 program. Meanwhile haplotype analysis was performed by DnaSPv5 program. The result showed that partial sequences in exon 5 UTMP gene had 16 haplotypes with the highest number of haplotypes ware found in VBC Barru district South Sulawesi (8 haplotypes). Moreover, the highest average of haplotype (h) and nucleotide (p) diversity were found in VBC Barru district South Sulawesi were 0.7949 and 0.0016, respectively. In addition, minisatellite insersion was found in exon 5 UTMP gene fragment on Bali cattle which are consist of 5'-CCA GTC ATG AAG AAG GCA GAG GTC GTC GTG CCG GCG AAA-3'. According to our results, haplotype and minisatellite variation in exon 5 UTMP gene fragment can be used as a candidate genetic marker specific for reproductive trait in the Bali cattle and for its strategy breeding program in the future.
Quality assurance in the analysis of growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor I in disorders of the somatotropic axis
Authors: Bidlingmaier Martin , Hauffa Berthold P. , Trainer Peter J. , Etzrodt-Walter Gwendolin , Sauer Joachim , Kratzsch Jürgen , Petersenn Stephan , Ranke Michael B. , Wallaschofski Henri , Strasburger Christian J.
Published: March 2016

Background: Reliable laboratory analysis is fundamental to diagnostics, therapy, and follow-up of growth disturbance and secretory dysfunction of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I). Currently available commercial assays have their limitations, as they show large variations in hormone concentrations measured.

Methods: The recommendations of an expert workshop with practicing endocrinologists from the fields of pediatrics and internal medicine and with laboratory physicians, with reference to the outcome of the interdisciplinary consensus conference in Keswick (Virginia, USA) in 2009, were used.

Results: Among the quality criteria stipulated by the workshop participants are the use of uniform reference standards, documentation of analytical conditions (such as calibrators, binding epitopes, cross-reactivity, and methods for removal from the binding protein), batch-to-batch consistency, and low inter-assay variability. The participants recommended developing assay-specific thresholds and reference intervals based on large and well-defined reference populations. It is furthermore recommended to delineate the assay quality, particularly with reference to clinically important cutoffs.

Conclusions: The manufacturers of diagnostic assays should be obliged to regularly monitor and report the implementation of quality criteria. Only assays that are evaluated according to uniform quality standards and that are employed clinically permit informed diagnostic and therapy of patients with GH secretory dysfunction, preventing avoidable burden on both patients and paying authorities.
Proposta de um modelo de avaliação da atenção pública à saúde bucal da criança
Authors: Martins Luiz Gustavo Teixeira , Lacerda Josimari Telino de , Nickel Daniela Alba , Traebert Jefferson
Published: March 2016

O objetivo deste estudo foi propor um modelo para a avaliação da qualidade da atenção à saúde bucal da criança. O marco conceitual para a elaboração da matriz avaliativa foi composto por estudos de avaliação de serviços de atenção à saúde bucal no Brasil e em outros países, e levantamento e revisão das políticas públicas vigentes relacionadas à saúde da criança no Brasil. A qualidade da gestão municipal na atenção básica da saúde bucal infantil foi avaliada sob duas dimensões: Gestão e Provimento. Na primeira, foram dispostas duas subdimensões: articulação e recursos, e na segunda, mais duas subdimensões: promoção e prevenção, e diagnóstico e tratamento. A matriz de avaliação ficou composta por nove indicadores na dimensão de Gestão e nove na dimensão de Provimento. Os indicadores foram elaborados em oficinas com especialistas. O modelo tem condições de ser aplicado em municípios com diferentes portes populacionais, e permite identificar os pontos nos quais os gestores devem aperfeiçoar suas ações.
Iniquidades no acesso aos benefícios alimentação e refeição no Brasil: uma análise da Pesquisa de Orçamentos Familiares 2008-2009
Authors: Canella Daniela Silva , Martins Ana Paula Bortoletto , Bandoni Daniel Henrique
Published: March 2016

Considerando que o recebimento de benefícios alimentação e refeição pode ser um determinante da escolha alimentar de trabalhadores, o objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a abrangência do recebimento destes benefícios no Brasil e sua distribuição segundo características sociodemográficas e regionais dos beneficiários. Utilizaram-se dados da Pesquisa de Orçamentos Familiares 2008-2009. Foram elegíveis os indivíduos que referiram ter ocupação e declararam possuir emprego privado, público, doméstico ou temporário na área rural. Apenas 3,2% dos elegíveis referiram receber os benefícios, com maior concentração no Sudeste, área urbana, sexo masculino, empregados no setor privado e recebendo mais de 5 salários mínimos. O valor médio mensal dos benefícios recebidos no Brasil foi R$ 177,20. Após ajuste para as demais variáveis, o valor foi maior entre homens, com salários mais altos, no Nordeste e Centro-oeste e do setor público. Trata-se da primeira análise de abrangência nacional sobre benefícios alimentação e refeição, apontando uma importante parcela de trabalhadores sem acesso ao benefício e iniquidades no acesso.
Smoking control at the School of Public Health, Universidade de São Paulo
Authors: Mirra Antonio Pedro , Pereira Isabel Maria Teixeira Bicudo , Stewien Glacilda Telles de Menezes , Marcondes Ruth Sandoval
Published: March 2016

SUMMARY Introduction: schools of Public Health, by their nature, have increased responsibility in the development of health promotion programs, focusing on tobacco control. The participation of groups of health professionals in educational actions helps to convey information about smoking to the population. Objective: to evaluate the prevalence of smoking and the effectiveness of control programs among the teaching and non-teaching staff of the School of Public Health of the Universidade de São Paulo (FSP-USP). They were monitored by surveys conducted from 1980 to 2013. Methods: application of a questionnaire, containing the variables: identity, gender, smoking habit (are you a smoker, former smoker or non-smoker), which was answered in a private interview. Data analysis was done using absolute and relative frequencies. Results: the prevalence of smokers had a reduction from 50.3%, in 1980, to 13.4%, in 2013; among males, prevalence fell from 56.9% to 12.8%, and among females from 45.9% to 13.7%. As for the teaching staff, there was a fall from 10.2% (2006) to 5.9% (2013); the decrease among non-teaching employees was from 21.6% to 16.3%. Conclusion: knowledge by health professionals of the harms caused by tobacco smoking contributed to their participation in anti-smoking programs, and led to a decline in the number of smokers at FSP-USP. The creation of 100% tobacco-free environments and programs to treat smokers who want to cease their addiction should be encouraged.
The aging process and health: what middle-aged people think of the issue
Authors: Mari Fernanda Rigoto , Alves Gehysa Guimarães , Aerts Denise Rangel Ganso de Castro , Camara Sheila
Published: March 2016

Objective To understand the perception of middle-aged adults regarding health and the aging process. Method A qualitative study involving 30 adults aged 45 to 59 years old, 15 of whom were female and 15 of whom were male, who answered open questions about their perception of health and aging. Data was analyzed using the thematic content analysis technique. Results Almost half of the respondents had not finished elementary school and only three had a university degree. A total of 27 were married, five were retired and 25 worked in the service provider sector, 26 were Caucasian, and 27 belonged to social-economic class B. The perception of health was described as being related to taking care of oneself (physical, mental and spiritual welfare), to being active and having the will to live. Regarding aging, the middle-aged persons had already begun to perceive signs of this process such as slowness to perform daily tasks, fatigue, muscle pain, rheumatic pain, a slowing of weight loss, gray hair, impaired vision and hearing, difficulty performing some movements, marks on skin and forgetfulness. Regarding protective actions, the practicing of physical activity, a healthy diet, social and family life and having some sort of occupation were mentioned. The greatest desire was to reach an older age with good health, independence and good living conditions. Conclusion Although the data of the present study cannot be generalized, it is an important starting point for future research, since the results reveal concerns that can be reduced to support programs of healthy aging.
Advanced Activities of Daily Living (AADLs) and cognitive performance in community-dwelling elderly persons: Data from the FIBRA Study - UNICAMP
Authors: Sposito Giovana , Neri Anita Liberalesso , Yassuda Mônica Sanches
Published: March 2016

Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between participation in advanced activities of daily living (AADLs) and cognitive performance in community-dwelling elderly persons. Method The data presented is drawn from the population-based study entitled Frailty Profile of Elderly Brazilians (FIBRA-Unicamp). The sample comprised 2,549 older adults without cognitive impairments suggestive of dementia. Data was collected relating to socio-demographic characteristics (sex, age, years of education and family income), health status (number of diseases and depressive symptoms), cognitive performance (Mini-Mental State Examination - MMSE) and self-reported social, physical and intellectual AADLs. Results Mean MMSE scores were significantly higher among men, younger individuals and those with more years of education, higher income, fewer diseases and fewer depressive symptoms. Multivariate linear regression analysis and hierarchical regression analysis showed that years of education, family income and participation in intellectual AADLs were positively associated with cognitive performance. Conclusion The findings suggest that these factors may have a protective role in cognitive aging and that participation in intellectual AADLs can represent a feasible strategy for the promotion of mental health among older adults.