bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication and finite element analysis of vibrating parallel film actuator made with cellulose acetate for potential haptic application
Authors: Mohiuddin Md , Akther Asma , Jo Eun Byul , Kim Hyun Chan , Kim Jaehwan
Published: July 2015

The present study investigates a film actuator made with dielectric cellulose acetate films separated by narrow spacers as a means of electrostatic actuation for potential haptic application. Fabrication process for the actuator is explained along with experiments conducted over a wide frequency range of actuation frequency. A valid finite element simulation of the actuator is made on the quarter section of the actuator by using full 3D finite elements. Vibration characteristics such as fundamental natural frequency, mode shape and output velocity in the frequency range for haptic feeling generation are obtained from the finite element analysis and compared with the experimental results. Experimental results demonstrate that the finite element model is practical and effective enough in predicting the vibration characteristics of the actuator for haptic application. The film actuator shows many promising properties like high transparency, wide range of actuation frequency and high vibration velocity for instance.
Iron overload induced by ferric ammonium citrate triggers reactive oxygen species-mediated apoptosis via both extrinsic and intrinsic pathways in human hepatic cells
Authors: Li S-W , Liu C-M , Guo J , Marcondes AM , Deeg J , Li X , Guan F
Published: July 2015

Background:

Hepatic iron overload is common in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) and may predispose to peri- and post-HCT toxicity. To better understand the mechanisms of iron overload-induced liver injury, we examined the effects of iron overload induced by ferric ammonium citrate (FAC) on oxidative stress and apoptosis signaling pathway in human hepatic cell line HH4.

Methods and Results:

Hepatic HH4 cells were exposed to FAC to force iron uptake, and cellular responses were determined. Incubation with 5 mM FAC resulted in increased intracellular iron content in a time-dependent manner. High concentration of FAC impaired cell viability and increased level of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and addition of antioxidant reagent such as glutathione or N-acetylcysteine dramatically reduced FAC-induced intracellular ROS generation. FAC overload significantly increased the phosphorylation of inhibitor of κB-α, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and nuclear factor κ light chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) p65 and promoted the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65. Knockdown of Fas and Bid expression by small interfering RNA in iron-treated HH4 cells resulted in restoration of cell viability.

Conclusions:

We reported that FAC treatment is capable of inducing both extrinsic death receptor and intrinsic mitochondrial signaling pathway-mediated HH4 cells apoptosis through ROS-activated p38 MAPK and NF-κB pathways.
Beneficial effects of carnosine and carnosine plus vitamin E treatments on doxorubicin-induced oxidative stress and cardiac, hepatic, and renal toxicity in rats
Authors: Kumral A , Giriş M , Soluk-Tekkeşin M , Olgaç V , Doğru-Abbasoğlu S , Türkoğlu Ü , Uysal M
Published: July 2015

Objective:

Oxidative stress plays an important role in doxorubicin (DOX)-induced toxicity. Carnosine (CAR) is a dipeptide with antioxidant properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the decreasing or preventive effect of CAR alone or combination with vitamin E (CAR + Vit E) on DOX-induced toxicity in heart, liver, and brain of rats.

Methods:

Rats were treated with CAR (250 mg kg−1 day−1; intraperitoneally (i.p.)) or CAR + Vit E (equals 200 mg kg−1 α-tocopherol; once every 3 days; intramuscularly) for 12 consecutive days. On the 8th day of treatment, rats were injected with a single dose of DOX (30 mg kg−1, i.p.). Serum cardiac troponin I (cTnI), urea, and creatinine levels; alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities; and oxidative stress parameters in tissues were measured. We also determined thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, diene conjugate, protein carbonyl (PC), and glutathione levels and antioxidant enzyme activities.

Results:

DOX resulted in increased serum cTnI, ALT, AST, urea, and creatinine levels and increased lipid peroxide and PC levels in tissues. CAR or CAR + Vit E treatments led to decreases in serum cTnI levels and ALT and AST activities. These treatments reduced prooxidant status and ameloriated histopathologic findings in the examined tissues.

Conclusion:

Our results may indicate that CAR alone, especially in combination with Vit E, protect against DOX-induced toxicity in heart, liver, and kidney tissues of rats. This was evidenced by improved cardiac, hepatic, and renal markers and restoration of the prooxidant state and amelioration of histopathologic changes.
Safety Assessment of Ethanolamides as Used in Cosmetics
Authors: Fiume Monice M. , Heldreth Bart A. , Bergfeld Wilma F. , Belsito Donald V. , Hill Ronald A. , Klaassen Curtis D. , Liebler Daniel C. , Marks James G. , Shank Ronald C. , Slaga Thomas J. , Snyder Paul W. , Andersen F. Alan
Published: July 2015

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel (Panel) rereviewed the safety of 28 ethanolamides and found them safe in the present practices of use and concentration when they are formulated to be nonirritating, and that these ingredients should not be used in cosmetic products in which N-nitroso compounds may be formed. Most of the ethanolamides are reported to function in cosmetics as hair-conditioning agents, skin-conditioning agents, and surfactant—foam boosters. The Panel reviewed available animal and clinical data, as well as information from previous CIR reports.
Safety Assessment of Talc as Used in Cosmetics
Authors: Fiume Monice M. , Boyer Ivan , Bergfeld Wilma F. , Belsito Donald V. , Hill Ronald A. , Klaassen Curtis D. , Liebler Daniel C. , Marks James G. , Shank Ronald C. , Slaga Thomas J. , Snyder Paul W. , Andersen F. Alan
Published: July 2015

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel (Panel) assessed the safety of talc for use in cosmetics. The safety of talc has been the subject of much debate through the years, partly because the relationship between talc and asbestos is commonly misunderstood. Industry specifications state that cosmetic-grade talc must contain no detectable fibrous, asbestos minerals. Therefore, the large amount of available animal and clinical data the Panel relied on in assessing the safety of talc only included those studies on talc that did not contain asbestos. The Panel concluded that talc is safe for use in cosmetics in the present practices of use and concentration (some cosmetic products are entirely composed of talc). Talc should not be applied to the skin when the epidermal barrier is missing or significantly disrupted.
‘You’re born to be brave’: Lady Gaga’s use of social media to inspire fans’ political awareness
Authors: Click Melissa A. , Lee Hyunji , Holladay Holly Willson
Published: July 2015

Through interviews with 45 self-described Little Monsters, we explore fan identification with Lady Gaga’s interest in and messages about politics and philanthropy, Gaga’s influence on fans’ attitudes toward activism, and the role activism plays in the Little Monster community. Our findings suggest both that fans can be deeply impacted by celebrities’ political values and actions, particularly when expressed through social media, and that the online, networked fan communities that develop around celebrities are socially supportive and politically engaged. We assert that fans’ identification with celebrities’ political values and actions, and the engagement of networked fan communities, demonstrate that the enforced distinctions between ‘audiences’ and ‘publics’ are outdated.
Policing on demand
Authors: Conover Theresa Ervin , Liederbach John
Published: July 2015

Police scholars generally accept that officers behave differently across communities and that those differences are influenced by specific community-level measures. This consensus is based on surprisingly scant empirical support, however. Studies designed to identify and explain community variation in police behavior have thus far largely ignored the issue of mobilization, or the various ways in which communities demand police services. This study provides information on how communities influence police using data collected through the systematic social observation of police officers. The study includes measures designed to capture the specific manner in which the police were mobilized, including instances where the police were dispatched through calls-for-service as well as non-dispatched activities. Findings demonstrate that communities vary in regard to both the types of problems handled by the police and the manner in which the police are mobilized. These differences are correlated with specific community-level measures.
Continental and Analytic lenses in relation to the communicative action paradigm: Reconstructive thoughts
Authors: White Stephen K.
Published: July 2015

This essay develops the idea that Analytic and Continental orientations to political theory are best comprehended not as mortal enemies, but rather as alternative lenses that, together, allow us to better perceive a broader range of significant aspects of political life than is possible by adhering to only one of these approaches. This claim is fleshed out by an analysis of the communicative action paradigm developed by Jürgen Habermas. If this paradigm is revised somewhat in order to make it less dominated by the ideal of consensuality, it can then be taken to be quite attractive in the way it perceptively deploys these two lenses.
Change, continuity and path-dependency in Hungarian public education
Authors: Szolár Éva
Published: July 2015

In this descriptive study the aim is to analyze the Hungarian educational policy history and event-chain of the comprehensive and post-comprehensive project. As a structuring framework this paper used the historical landmarks and the different institutional arrangement models (governance types and power distribution models). Accordingly, three landmarks and policy cycles have been identified, which are connected to political and social turns in Hungary. The first is the period of massive centralization and egalitarianism from the mid-1940s to the mid-1980s. The second period has to be counted from the acceleration of educational transformations, the political turn and transition times from the mid-1980s till 2010, whilst the third cycle is formed by recent policy developments. This paper’s overarching aim is to give an overview on the political, social and economic contexts of educational policies, and the key actors of comprehensive common school and policy impact. The term ‘comprehensive school’ is addressed in terms of its structural–curricular, political and cultural meanings. Accordingly, an analytical framework was developed, which is a combination of political (interest-groups/actor-centrism), cultural (ideological/interpretive framework) and structural-functionalist (social demand, ecology of the schools) explanations.
Rise and fall of the comprehensive school idea in the Netherlands. Political and educational debates on the Middle School project (1969–1993)
Authors: Greveling Linda , Amsing Hilda TA , Dekker Jeroen JH
Published: July 2015

Dutch comprehensive education eventually failed on a political level, despite support from many politicians, labour unions and branches in the educational practice. In the early 1970s denominational political parties strove for a Middle School to provide equal opportunities of all children by postponing school choice. From 1973 onwards, however, the Middle School was given a socialist appeal, which led to strong critique from both the right-wing Liberal Party and teachers in higher secondary education united in The Dutch Association of Teachers. By resisting, the right-wing Liberals struck a chord with the denominational parties over their fear of indoctrination and the threatening of the constitutional freedom of education. The many proponents, including those from the field of education, tried to influence the political debate by publishing their ideas on the Middle School, but their efforts were to no avail. The outcome, therefore, was that in 1993 there were to be no Middle Schools, only the realisation of a common curriculum for the first phase of secondary education.
Lessons Learned From Google Glass
Authors: Yu Jonathan , Ferniany William , Guthrie Barton , Parekh Selene G. , Ponce Brent
Published: July 2015

Importance. Wearable devices such as Google Glass could potentially be used in the health care setting to expand access and improve quality of care. Objective. This study aims to assess the demographics of Google Glass users in health care and determine the obstacles to using Google Glass by surveying those who are known to use the device. Design. A 48-question survey was designed to assess demographics of users, technological limitations of Google Glass, and obstacles to implementation of the device. Setting. The physicians surveyed worked in various fields of health care, with 50% of the respondents being surgeons. Participants. Potential participants were found using an Internet search for physicians using Google Glass in their practice. Main Outcome Measures. Outcome measures were divided into demographic information of users, technological limitations of the device, and administrative obstacles. Results. A 43.6% response rate was observed. The majority of users were male, assistant professors, in academic hospitals, and in the United States. Numerous technological limitations were observed by the majority, including device ergonomics, display location, video quality, and audio quality. Patient confidentiality and data security were the major concerns among administrative obstacles. Conclusions and Relevance. Despite the potential of Google Glass, numerous obstacles exist that limit its use in health care. While Google Glass has been discontinued, the results of this study may be used to guide future designs of wearable devices.
Indexing state–corporate propaganda? Evaluating the indexing, propaganda and media dependence models on CNN and CNN en Español’s coverage of Fallujah, Iraq
Authors: Kennis Andrew
Published: July 2015

This study applies and evaluates the effectiveness of several critically inclined media performance models that have been termed by Robert Entman as the ‘hegemonic’ models: the propaganda and indexing models. The study proposes a synthesis of both these models, which serves as one of the main foundational theoretical components of the resulting media dependence model, an original and critical model of news analysis. An English-language news source and a Spanish-language news source belonging to the same company (Cable News Network (CNN) and CNN en Español) were analyzed in a sophisticated content analysis of coverage of major events in Fallujah, Iraq, in 2003 and 2004. The study concludes with the finding that ownership remains a powerful variable in news content, even when differing audiences and distinct public opinion leanings are in question.
Emotional Reactions to Facial Expressions in Social Anxiety: A Meta-Analysis of Self-Reports
Authors: Kivity Yogev , Huppert Jonathan D.
Published: July 2015

The current meta-analysis reviews 24 studies on self-reported emotional reactions to facial expressions (social rejection, social acceptance, and neutral) in socially anxious versus nonanxious individuals. We hypothesized that socially anxious individuals would perceive all face types as less approachable, more negative, and more arousing. After correcting for biases, results showed that socially anxious individuals, compared to controls, reported lower approachability to all types of expressions and higher arousal in response to neutral expressions. Variances among effects usually could not be explained by the proposed moderators. This suggests that current conceptualizations of social anxiety should take into account the willingness to approach social stimuli rather than global measures of emotion or arousal.
Improving the Quality of Outpatient Diabetes Care Using an Information Management System
Authors: Weissmann Joerg , Mueller Angelika , Messinger Diethelm , Parkin Christopher G. , Amann-Zalan Ildiko
Published: July 2015

Background:

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of information management system (IMS) use with individuals with type 1 and type 2 diabetes who were treated in outpatient settings.

Methods:

In this 7-month, prospective, observational study, 965 adults with diabetes, mean (SD) baseline HbA1c 8.61(1.2)% (70.6[13.1] mmol/mol), were recruited from 132 outpatient care centers in Germany and Denmark. HbA1c was measured at baseline, month 4, and month 7. IMS reports were generated from uploaded self-monitored blood glucose data and therapy adjustments were documented at months 1 and 4. Hypoglycemic events were documented.

Results:

Mean (SD) HbA1c decreased from baseline in type 1 and type 2 diabetes patients at month 4 (–0.61[1.03]% (–6.7[11.3] mmol/mol), n = 213; –0.88[1.22]% (–9.6[13.3] mmol/mol), n = 589, respectively) and month 7 (–0.64[1.02]% (–7.0[11.1] mmol/mol), n = 219; –0.93[1.27]% (–10.2[13.9] mmol/mol), n = 594, respectively), all P < .0001, with no increase in hypoglycemic events. Therapy was adjusted in 106(42.7)% type 1 and 349(52.4)% type 2 diabetes patients at months 1 and 105(42.3)% type 1 and 282(42.3)% type 2 diabetes patients at month 4. Physicians used IMS reports to make therapy adjustments in 90% of patients at month 1 and 86% of patients at month 4.

Conclusions:

Integration of the IMS into outpatient care facilitates significant improvements in glycemic control.
The Translation of Πίστις and Its Cognates in the Pauline Epistles
Authors: Chiraparamban Varghese P.
Published: July 2015

The standard translation of πίστις is faith. This article examines whether and how far the contemporary understanding of “faith/believe” does justice to the Pauline uses of the πιστ- words. I argue that (generally) in the Pauline letters πίστις is relational, not an idea that one holds as true. In the LXX passages with πιστ- words that Paul discusses in his letters, the sense of trust is most noticeable. Paul does not make a significant shift in the meaning of πίστις; rather, he gives it a central place which becomes decisive in the human relationship to God. I suggest that πίστις and its cognates are best translated as “trust.” The Bible’s relational understanding of πίστις as trust in God gives us a more reliable guide than faith.
Novel Links Between Troubled Marriages and Appetite Regulation
Authors: Jaremka Lisa M. , Belury Martha A. , Andridge Rebecca R. , Lindgren Monica E. , Habash Diane , Malarkey William B. , Kiecolt-Glaser Janice K.
Published: July 2015

Distressed marriages enhance risk for health problems; appetite dysregulation is one potential mechanistic pathway. Research suggests that ghrelin and leptin, appetite-relevant hormones connected to shorter and longer-term energy balance, may differentially affect people with a higher versus lower body mass index (BMI). During this double-blind randomized crossover study, both members of a couple ( N = 86 participants) ate a standardized meal at the beginning of two visits. Observational recordings of a marital conflict assessed marital distress. Ghrelin and leptin were sampled premeal and postmeal at 2, 4, and 7 hr. Diet quality was measured using the USDA 24-Hour Multiple-Pass Approach. People in more distressed marriages had higher postmeal ghrelin (but not leptin) and a poorer quality diet than those in less distressed marriages, but only among participants with a lower BMI. These effects were consistent for both spouses. Ghrelin and diet quality may link marital distress to its corresponding negative health effects.
Economic Burden of HIV Antiretroviral Therapy Adverse Events in the United States
Authors: Dekoven Mitch , Makin Charles , Slaff Samantha , Marcus Michael , Maiese Eric M.
Published: July 2015

Objective:

To estimate health care costs associated with medical events identified as antiretroviral therapy (ART)-attributable adverse events (AEs).

Methods:

During September 2006 to June 2012, adults with ≥1 HIV International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification diagnosis code (042/V08), ≥1 claim for ART prescription (March 2007-June 2011; index date), and continuous health plan enrollment for ≥6 months pre- and ≥12 months postindex were included (IMS’ PharMetrics Plus Health Plan Claims Database). Patients with events of interest/ART claim during preindex period or with pregnancy/hepatitis C virus diagnosis/hepatitis B virus/cancer/tuberculosis during the study period were excluded. Postindex medical events were defined as first diagnosis code of event with ART claim ≤60 days prior to start of the event.

Results:

Differences in median total all-cause health care costs observed for diabetes/insulin resistance management (US$14 547 median all-cause health care costs during time periods identified as diabetes/insulin resistance medical events versus US$11 237 without diabetes/insulin resistance events; P = .0021), lipid disorders (US$12 825 versus US$10 033; P = .0004), and renal disorders (US$1389 versus US$0; P < .0001).

Discussion/Conclusion:

Health care costs of ART AEs should be key consideration for payers/providers in HIV management.
Importance of Early Detection of Cesarean Scar Ectopic Pregnancy
Authors: Jungkman Olesya , Anderson Julie
Published: July 2015

Although still rare, the incidence of cesarean scar ectopic pregnancies has increased in the past few years due to the number of cesarean section deliveries being performed. If left untreated, this can have devastating complications for patients, including hemorrhage, uterine rupture, and maternal death. Occurrence of cesarean scar ectopic is about 1 in 2000 pregnancies. Most of these pregnancies have a normal rising beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG), and patients may present asymptomatic, with light spotting during early first trimester and with or without cramping. Due to rarity, there is very minimal awareness among sonographers of the likelihood of cesarean scar ectopic, which can be misdiagnosed as cervical pregnancy or spontaneous abortion in progress. Ultrasound is the primary imaging modality and plays a very important role in recognizing and providing proper early diagnosis.
Energy-based hydraulic fracture numerical simulation: Parameter selection and model validation using microseismicity
Authors: Boroumand Neda , Eaton David W.
Published: July 2015

We have investigated the use of an energy-based numerical algorithm and its ability to simulate growth of a single planar hydraulic fracture by matching modeled dimensions to those inferred from a microseismic map. The energy-based microseismic fracture model accounts for the various physical processes expressed as a balance between the work expended (input/injected energy) and work done (output/lost energy) during growth of a vertical, 3D, laterally symmetric, planar, ellipsoidal, and tensile (mode I) fracture. These canonical fracture models provide a simple but useful proxy for more complex fracture networks that occur in reality. The tensile fracture is positioned in a three-layer geologic medium defined by elastic, material, and stress properties. Fracture half-length, half-width, half-height, and effective crack-opening pressure were computed using a time-stepping algorithm that solved energy balance equations using a Lagrangian formulation. Two parameters are adjusted to calibrate the fracture model to microseismic data; observed upward growth is fit by adjusting stress-barrier contrasts, and fracture length is fit by altering an empirical parameter, fracture toughness. In the case of a symmetric model with equivalent stress and material properties above and below the fracture, an increase in fracture toughness results in a corresponding increase in modeled net pressure and fracture width profile. In the case of a model with different stress states in the layers above and below the injection level, fracture height growth is enhanced in the layer with lower in situ stress. In both cases, net work is minimized in response to trade-offs between creation of new fracture surface area and fracture volume. Our primary objective was to incorporate microseismic observations into a geomechanical simulation of hydraulic fracture growth. Our approach is novel; it explains hydraulic-fracture behavior from an energy-balance perspective using the spatial-temporal evolution of microseismicity to constrain and validate the model.
Automatic simultaneous multiple well ties
Authors: Muñoz Andrew , Hale Dave
Published: July 2015

Well logs, measured in depth, must be tied to seismograms, processed in time, using a time-depth function. Well ties are commonly computed using manual techniques, and are therefore prone to human error. Manually tying multiple wells compounds errors in single well ties, and maintaining lateral consistency between multiple well ties is difficult. We introduce an automatic approach to tying multiple wells that improves consistency among well ties. We first model synthetic seismograms for each well. We then create a synthetic image by interpolating the synthetic seismograms between the wells and along seismic image structure. We use smooth dynamic image warping to align the synthetic image to the seismic image and compute updated time-depth functions for each well. We then interpolate the updated time-depth functions between the wells, and map the time-migrated seismic image to depth.
Sleep problems and self-harm in adolescence
Authors: Hysing Mari , Sivertsen Børge , Stormark Kjell Morten , O'Connor Rory C.
Published: July 2015

Background

Although self-harm and sleep problems are major public health problems in
adolescence, detailed epidemiological assessment is essential to
understand the nature of this relationship.

Aims

To conduct a detailed assessment of the relationship between sleep and
self-harm in adolescence.

Method

A large population-based study in Norway surveyed 10 220 adolescents aged
16–19 years on mental health, including a comprehensive assessment of
sleep and self-harm.

Results

Adolescents with sleep problems were significantly more likely to report
self-harm than those without sleep problems. Insomnia, short sleep
duration, long sleep onset latency, wake after sleep on set as well as
large differences between weekdays versus weekends, yielded higher odds
of self-harm consistent with a dose–response relationship. Depressive
symptoms accounted for some, but not all, of this association.

Conclusions

The findings highlight a strong relationship between sleep problems and
self-harm. Interventions to reduce adolescent self-harm ought to
incorporate sleep problems as a treatment target.
Loci with genome-wide associations with schizophrenia in the Han Chinese population
Authors: Li Zhiqiang , Xiang Yuqian , Chen Jianhua , Li Qiaoli , Shen Jiawei , Liu Yun , Li Wenjin , Xing Qinghe , Wang Qingzhong , Wang Lei , Feng Guoyin , He Lin , Zhao Xinzhi , Shi Yongyong
Published: July 2015

Background

A large schizophrenia genome-wide association study (GWAS) and a subsequent extensive replication study of individuals of European ancestry identified eight new loci with genome-wide significance and suggested that theMIR137-mediated pathway plays a role in the predisposition for schizophrenia.

Aims

To validate the above findings in a Han Chinese population.

Method

We analysed the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the newly identified schizophrenia candidate loci and predictedMIR137target genes based on our published Han Chinese populations (BIOX) GWAS data. We then analysed 18 SNPs from the candidate regions in an independent cohort that consisted of 3585 patients with schizophrenia and 5496 controls of Han Chinese ancestry.

Results

We replicated the associations of five markers (P<0.05), including three that were located in the predictedMIR137target genes. Two loci (ITIH3/4: rs2239547,P=1.17×10–10andCALN1: rs2944829,P=9.97×10–9) exhibited genome-wide significance in the Han Chinese population.

Conclusions

TheITIH3/4locus has been reported to be of genome-wide significance in the European population. The successful replication of this finding in a different ethnic group provides stronger evidence for the association between schizophrenia andITIH3/4. We detected the first genome-wide significant association of schizophrenia withCALN1, which is a predicted target ofMIR137, and thus provide new evidence for the associations betweenMIR137targets and schizophrenia.
Lung necrosis and neutrophils reflect common pathways of susceptibility toMycobacterium tuberculosisin genetically diverse, immune competent mice
Authors: Niazi M. K. K. , Dhulekar N. , Schmidt D. , Major S. , Cooper R. , Abeijon C. , Gatti D. , Kramnik I. , Yener B. , Gurcan M. , Beamer G.
Published: July 2015

Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis in susceptible humans. Here, we infected Diversity Outbred (DO) mice with ∼100 bacilli by aerosol to model responses in a highly heterogeneous population. Following infection, Supersusceptible, Susceptible, and Resistant phenotypes emerged. TB disease (reduced survival, weight loss, high bacterial load) correlated strongly with neutrophils, neutrophil chemokines, Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) and cell death. In contrast, immune cytokines were weak correlates of disease. We next applied statistical and machine learning approaches to our dataset of cytokines and chemokines from lungs and blood. Six lung molecules: TNF, CXCL1, CXCL2, CXCL5, Interferon-γ (IFN-γ), Interleukin (IL)-12; and two blood molecules IL-2 and TNF, were identified as important by both statistical and machine learning methods. Using molecular features to generate tree classifiers, CXCL1, CXCL2, and CXCL5 discriminated four classes (Supersusceptible, Susceptible, Resistant, and Non-infected) from each other with approximately 77% accuracy using completely independent experimental data. In contrast, models based on other molecules were less accurate. Low to no IFN-γ, IL-12, IL-2, and IL-10 successfully discriminated Non-infected mice from infected mice, but failed to discriminate disease status amongst Supersusceptible, Susceptible, and Resistant M. tuberculosis infected DO mice. Additional analyses identified CXCL1 as a promising peripheral biomarker of disease and of CXCL1 production in the lungs. From these results, we conclude that: 1) DO mice respond variably to M. tuberculosis infection and will be useful to identify pathways involving necrosis and neutrophils; 2) Data from DO mice is suited for machine learning methods to build, validate, and test models with independent data based solely on molecular biomarkers; 3) Low immunological cytokines best indicate no exposure to M. tuberculosis but cannot distinguish infection from disease.
Developmental changes in hypoxic exposure and responses to anoxia in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Callier Viviane , Hand Steven C. , Campbell Jacob B. , Biddulph Taylor , Harrison Jon F.
Published: July 2015

Holometabolous insects undergo dramatic morphological and physiological changes during ontogeny. In particular, the larvae of many holometabolous insects are specialized to feed in soil, water or dung, inside plant structures, or inside other organisms as parasites where they may commonly experience hypoxia or anoxia. In contrast, holometabolous adults usually are winged and live with access to air. Here we show that larval Drosophila experience severe hypoxia in their normal laboratory environments; third instar larvae feed by tunneling into a medium without usable oxygen. Larvae move strongly in anoxia for many minutes, while adults (like most other adult insects) are quickly paralyzed. Adults survive anoxia nearly an order of magnitude longer than larvae (LT50: 8.3 vs. 1 h). Plausibly, the paralysis of adults is a programmed response to reduce ATP need and enhance survival. In support of that hypothesis, larvae produce lactate at 3x greater rates than adults in anoxia. However, when immobile in anoxia, larvae and adults were similarly able to decrease their metabolic rate in anoxia, to about 3% of normoxic conditions. These data suggest that Drosophila larvae and adults have been differentially selected for behavioral and metabolic responses to anoxia, with larvae exhibiting vigorous escape behavior likely enabling release from viscous anoxic media to predictably normoxic air, while the paralysis behavior of adults maximizes chances of survival of flooding events of unpredictable duration. Developmental remodeling of behavioral and metabolic strategies to hypoxia/anoxia is a previously unrecognized major attribute of holometabolism.
Global vulnerability and social policy: an Agenda for discussion
Authors: Roberts Bryan , Rojas Javier
Published: July 2015

As changes in the global economy and in family structure place the lives and opportunities of many individuals at risk, social policy plays a major role in addressing the degree of vulnerability individuals will face in a society. In this paper, we present some of the most important issues scholars and policy-makers need to consider about the role social policy plays in a globalized world. First, we argue that the major aim of social policy is the furtherance of social citizenship. We understand social citizenship as the enhancement of individual and community capabilities to lead a decent life and to make informed choices in face of a changing global economic environment. Second, we suggest that the furtherance of social citizenship should be the benchmark against which to evaluate the degree of success or failure of any social policy. Then, after discussing some of the major social, ideological, and economic forces shaping social policy, we propose that a new type of welfare regime is emerging in the developing world. This regime is part liberal and part parternalistic, and some of its major components are the de-centralization of public administration to local authorities, a preference for targeted social policies instead of universal ones, and local community participation. Third, we argue that some of the main challenges of contemporary social policy are the product of internal and international migration, labor market instability, rising costs of subsistence in cities, and increasing spatial segregation. Finally, we suggest some of the theoretical frameworks, data, and methods scholars may want use to advance research on social policy.
Learning from innovation: educational policies seen through the Public Management and Citizenship Program
Authors: Spink Peter
Published: July 2015

The Public Management and Citizenship Program was set up in 1996 to identify and disseminate innovative practices in Brazilian sub-national governments that improve service provision and generate positive impacts on the construction of citizenship. Amongst the different policy areas, education has accounted for the largest single group of submissions. In this paper we examine some of these and ask whether they suggest an orthodox policy implementation cycle moving from Federal or states downwards, or whether alternative processes are in course. In doing so we also point to the contributions that studying innovations brings for policy research.
Fundo de desenvolvimento agropecuário de Tupandi - FUNDAT
Authors: Prado Otávio , Teixeira Marco Antonio
Published: July 2015

Este trabalho apresenta a experiência do Fundo de Desenvolvimento Agropecuário de Tupandi, FUNDAT. Criado em 1993, no pequeno município de Tupandi, pertencente à região metropolitana de Porto Alegre (RS), seu objetivo inicial era romper com a estagnação econômica por que passava o município, promovendo o financiamento de atividades agropecuárias. Como resultado de uma gestão eficiente e inovadora, o FUNDAT conseguiu não só reverter a situação em que se encontrava o município, mas também promover uma melhora nas condições gerais, levando Tupandi a ter hoje uma das melhores qualidade de vida entre os municípios brasileiros, mostrando que soluções simples podem ser muito eficientes quando bem gerenciadas.
Sobral: a definição das políticas públicas a partir da participação popular
Authors: Simielli Lara Elena Ramos
Published: July 2015

Sobral, caracterizada até meados da década de 1990 por indicadores sociais alarmantes, conseguiu reverter esta situação valendo-se de uma estrutura baseada em comitês participativos e na intersetorialidade entre os atores governamentais e não-governamentais. O Programa Sobral Criança e o Projeto Trevo de Quatro Folhas, exemplos desta estrutura, demonstram a importância da participação popular na definição das políticas públicas e os impactos que estes e outros programas tiveram na melhoria dos indicadores sociais e econômicos do município, evidenciando o impacto de uma gestão conjunta entre o Estado e a sociedade.
Captação de recursos não reembolsáveis: dificuldades e limitações das entidades assistenciais de Criciúma-SC
Authors: Frank Eliane Mandelli , Serafim Mauricio C.
Published: July 2015

O objetivo do artigo é diagnosticar e analisar as principais dificuldades, os entraves e impedimentos na captação de recursos não reembolsáveis pelas entidades assistenciais do município de Criciúma-SC. Além da discussão teórica, foram levantadas as dificuldades enfrentadas pelas instituições sociais, os principais serviços prestados, e os principais impedimentos na captação de recursos não reembolsáveis. A abordagem de pesquisa utilizada foi a qualitativa, por meio de questionário e entrevistas a 29 entidades, de um universo de 58. Os resultados da pesquisa de campo mostram que as principais dificuldades em relação à captação de recursos é a falta de uma equipe técnica para elaboração dos projetos e a não utilização de ferramentas básicas de gestão, como os de marketing. O artigo é finalizado com algumas sugestões para as entidades.
Poder Judiciário e políticas públicas de saúde: participação democrática e equidade
Authors: Wang Daniel Wei Liang
Published: July 2015

Este artigo insere-se na discussão sobre a judicialização da saúde, especialmente sobre seus efeitos distributivos. A literatura existente aponta para os efeitos regressivos causados pela interferência judicial em políticas públicas de saúde, que beneficiaria apenas os já socialmente favorecidos. No diálogo com essa literatura, este trabalho tenta mostrar que o Judiciário pode ser uma via institucional onde os menos favorecidos podem se manifestar e transformar suas demandas em direitos judicialmente tutelados, o que é uma forma de manifestação democrática e de accountability das políticas públicas de saúde. O Judiciário pode ser complementar a outras formas de participação, mas isso só acontecerá se houver instituições que promovam o acesso à Justiça entre os menos favorecidos, como é o caso do Ministério Público e da Defensoria Pública. Um dos focos deste trabalho é analisar empiricamente como têm atuado essas instituições em matéria de proteção ao direito à saúde.
Analyzing the infl uence of economics on management education and practice: a criticism through the concept of development
Authors: Oliveira José Antonio Puppim de
Published: July 2015

This article is a criticism of the neoclassical economics infl uence on theories of management using the experience and lessons from the evolution of the debates in development studies. I argue that this infl uence has introduced values that are incompatible with the values of what could be a socially responsible society in a modern view of what is development. The article fi rstly examines the evolution of the debates of the concept of development, as they moved from being forums dominated exclusively by economists – who saw development as synonym of economic growth – to a multi and interdisciplinary debate over several dimensions of development, including social, environmental and democracy issues. Secondly, it criticizes management theories based on neoclassical economics through the experience of the development debate. I argue that management theories based on economics see the management solutions as a one-way alternative (market- based solutions), infl uence the thinking of both the means and the ends of organizations, and have propagated a series of values that are not compatible with a socially developed society.
Mensuração de desempenho no setor público: os termos do debate
Authors: Pacheco Regina Silvia
Published: July 2015

A mensuração de resultados constitui um dos pilares das reformas em curso em diversos países nas últimas duas ou três décadas, sendo a base para outras inovações como agencifi cação, contratualização de resultados, remuneração variável por desempenho, parcerias, Estado-rede e outras. As polêmicas em torno da aplicação desta ferramenta de gestão no setor público são intensas – tanto entre adeptos como entre críticos e defensores. Este texto busca sistematizar os termos do debate sobre mensuração de desempenho no setor público, a partir da literatura internacional e das visões presentes no debate brasileiro. O objetivo é contribuir para o avanço do debate.
Fundações comunitárias no Brasil: perspectivas de liderança em processos de desenvolvimento socioterritorial
Authors: Silva Anderson Giovani da , Schommer Paula Chies
Published: July 2015

As fundações comunitárias surgiram nos EUA, em 1914, como alternativa para a administração de doações feitas em benefício de comunidades defi nidas territorialmente. Desde então, seu conceito e suas práticas vêm avançando, constituindo uma alternativa aos indivíduos e às instituições dispostos a investir recursos para o desenvolvimento de suas comunidades. No Brasil, as organizações inspiradas nesse conceito surgiram nos anos 2000, em condições peculiares, como a cultura ainda predominante de investimento social paternalista e esporádico. Um dos papéis atribuídos às fundações comunitárias é o de liderança em processos de desenvolvimento socioterritorial, o que representa um desafi o particular para tais organizações no Brasil, por serem recentes e frágeis. Neste artigo, baseado em pesquisa bibliográfi ca e documental, entrevistas, eventos, visitas e participação no cotidiano de fundações comunitárias, busca-se apresentar elementos do histórico, do conceito e das características de fundações comunitárias; analisar o contexto de seu surgimento no Brasil; discutir seu potencial para exercer liderança no desenvolvimento socioterritorial e sugerir tópicos a integrar agenda de pesquisa sobre o tema no país, visando à construção do conceito e das práticas em curso.
Políticas Públicas e Sociais para a Equidade: Um Estudo Sobre o Programa Universidade Para Todos
Authors: Anhaia Bruna Cruz de
Published: July 2015

Este ensaio buscou analisar o contexto de surgimento, implantação e o impacto do Programa Universidade para Todos (ProUni) como política pública e social de acesso ao ensino superior no Brasil. Pela perspectiva da policy analysis, realizou-se: o estudo contextual de discussões que impulsionaram a elaboração de políticas equitativas voltadas a esse nível de ensino; a análise do funcionamento do ProUni e suas implicações no campo educacional; e o estudo dos processos de redução de pobreza, de empowerment e de estigmatização desses alunos. Para tanto, foram consultadas diferentes bases de dados e realizadas 18 entrevistas. Políticas como o ProUni implicam a redistribuição de recursos, a redução de privilégios de acesso ao ensino superior, e suscitam resistências que podem ser verificadas no interior das instituições.PALAVRAS-CHAVE: ProUni, equidade, campo educacional, estigma, empowerment.ABSTRACTThis paper searched to analyze the creation context, implantation and impact of the Program University for All (ProUni) as one public and social politics to access higher education in Brazil. Through the perspective of policy analysis was realized: the contextual study of discussions that had stimulated the elaboration of equity politics directed to this level of education; the functioning analysis of the ProUni and its implications in the educational field; and the poverty reduction processes studies, of empowerment and stigmatization of these students. Different databases had been consulted and had been made 18 interviews with scholarships holders. Politics like ProUni resulted in resources redistribution, in privileges reduction in access to the higher education and resistances can be perceived in the higher education institutions.KEYWORDS: ProUni, equity, educational field, stigma, empowerment.
Tocando o Intangível: Explorando Efeitos de Programas Sociais nas Dimensões Menos Tangíveis da Pobreza
Authors: Bronzo Carla , Prates Ian
Published: July 2015

Este artigo apresenta alguns resultados de uma pesquisa que buscou identificar os efeitos de programas de proteção social - mais especificamente, de transferência de renda e serviços socioassistenciais - sobre dimensões menos tangíveis da pobreza. A pesquisa, realizada em Belo Horizonte/MG, tem natureza quantitativa e qualitativa, constituindo-se do desenvolvimento de um survey com 608 questionários aplicados junto a um grupo de famílias, além da formação de grupos focais com técnicos dos Centros de Referência de Assistência Social (CRAS) e famílias usuárias dos serviços do CRAS.Partindo de uma literatura que foca as diversas dimensões que compõem o fenômeno da pobreza, foram consideradas as mudanças que se processam nas famílias beneficiárias do Programa Bolsa Família, que, além do benefício, são atendidas pelos serviços socioassistenciais desenvolvidos nos CRAS. Os resultados, tanto da etapa quantitativa quanto da qualitativa, dão conta de que os efeitos das intervenções são distintos para os diferentes estratos de famílias: aquelas expostas de forma mais sistemática aos serviços socioassistenciais desenvolvidos nos CRAS apresentam respostas diferenciadas quanto a algumas dimensões psicossociais, comparando-se com o grupo que apenas recebe a transferência de renda. Por fim, são problematizadas algumas questões referentes às formas de intervenção social e às possibilidades de enfrentamento da pobreza por meio de políticas de assistência social.PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Pobreza, política de assistência social, efeitos psicossociais, programas de transferência condicionada de renda, serviços socioassistenciais.ABSTRACTThis paper presents some results of a survey that intended to identify effects of social protection programs - more specifically cash transfer and social assistance services - on less tangible dimensions of poverty. The survey, conducted in Belo Horizonte city/MG, has a quantitative and qualitative approach. In this way, was developed a survey applied in 608 families, and focus groups with staff of the Reference Centers of Social Assistance (CRAS), and families assisted by these services. Based on a literature that focuses on the various dimensions that make up the poverty phenomenon, we considered the changes that occur in families receiving Bolsa Família that, besides the benefit, are in touch with social care services developed in CRAS. The results of both quantitative and qualitative stages realize that the effects of the interventions are different for the different strata of families: those exposed to more systematically social care services have different answers, regarding the psycho social effects, compared with the group that receives only income transfer. Finally, some issues are problematized concerning social intervention ways and the chances of fighting poverty through social welfare policies.KEYWORDS: Poverty, social assistance policy, psycho-social effects, conditional cash transfer programs, social care services.