bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can Incivility Inhibit Intrapreneurship?
Authors: Yariv Itzkovich , Galit Klein
Published: February 2017

While intrapreneurship is widely researched from the viewpoint of managers, it is scantly investigated from the standpoint of employees. Specifically, thus far, researchers overlooked employees’ perceptions concerning the quality of support they receive from their organisation and its impact on their intrapreneurial behaviour. In the framework of social exchange theory (SET), our study addresses these deficiencies by assessing the relationships between incivility, which represents lack of organisational support, organisational support and intrapreneurship. In line with SET, we hypothesised that incivility decreases employees’ resourcefulness to generate new ideas. Additionally, it was hypothesised that organisational support would enhance intrapreneurship. Moreover, it was hypothesised that organisational support would mediate the relationships between incivility and intrapreneurship. Findings indicated that organisational support is positively correlated with intrapreneurship and that organisational support fully mediates the relationships between incivility and intrapreneurship. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Career Decision-Making Within the College Social Microcosm
Authors: Pesch Kathryn M. , Larson Lisa M. , Seipel Matthew T.
Published: February 2017

The present investigation sought to examine whether the college social environment influences students’ career decision-making (CDM) processes. It was comprised of three overarching hypotheses: (1) uncertainty about one’s academic major would be devalued in the college social microcosm, (2) social exclusion would negatively impact four basic psychological needs (belonging, sense of control, social state self-esteem, and meaning in life), and in turn, (3) social exclusion along with the four needs would negatively impact career decision self-efficacy and vocational outcome expectations. Study 1 ( N = 433) presented participants with two fictional student vignettes (certain about major vs. uncertain) which they were asked to rate using a series of positive personality traits. Results revealed that the vignette portraying a student certain about his or her academic major was judged significantly more positively compared to an uncertain student ( d = .71). Study 2 ( N = 148) experimentally manipulated social exclusion to examine its effects on the four needs and on the two CDM variables. Two types of exclusion were used (career-based and personal); both led to significantly lower levels of the four needs when compared to the career-based inclusion condition. Moreover, belonging, sense of control, and meaning in life made significant contributions to both vocational variables. Conclusions and implications are discussed.
Hyperbaric Oxygen as an Intervention for Managing Wound Hypoxia: Its Role and Usefulness in Diabetic Foot Wounds
Authors: Strauss Michael B.
Published: February 2017

Few topics in diabetic wound management generate as much “heated” discussion as hyperbaric oxygen (HBO). Hyperbaric oxygen is an intermittent inhalation therapy in which the patient breathes oxygen at greater than 1 atm of pressure. This requires placement of the patient into a sealed vessel (chamber) which is capable of withstanding pressurization. This article discusses the role of HBO as an adjunct to the management of diabetic problem foot wounds from evidenced-based, approved (by Medicare) indications and cost-effectiveness perspectives.
Long-Term Testosterone Therapy Improves Cardiometabolic Function and Reduces Risk of Cardiovascular Disease in Men with Hypogonadism
Authors: Traish Abdulmaged M. , Haider Ahmad , Haider Karim Sultan , Doros Gheorghe , Saad Farid
Published: February 2017

Objectives:

In the absence of large, prospective, placebo-controlled studies of longer duration, substantial evidence regarding the safety and risk of testosterone (T) therapy (TTh) with regard to cardiovascular (CV) outcomes can only be gleaned from observational studies. To date, there are limited studies comparing the effects of long-term TTh in men with hypogonadism who were treated or remained untreated with T, for obvious reasons. We have established a registry to assess the long-term effectiveness and safety of T in men in a urological setting. Here, we sought to compare the effects of T on a host of parameters considered to contribute to CV risk in treated and untreated men with hypogonadism (control group).

Patients and Methods:

Observational, prospective, cumulative registry study in 656 men (age: 60.7 ± 7.2 years) with total T levels ≤12.1 nmol/L and symptoms of hypogonadism. In the treatment group, men (n = 360) received parenteral T undecanoate (TU) 1000 mg/12 weeks following an initial 6-week interval for up to 10 years. Men (n = 296) who had opted against TTh served as controls. Median follow-up in both groups was 7 years. Measurements were taken at least twice a year, and 8-year data were analyzed. Mean changes over time between the 2 groups were compared by means of a mixed-effects model for repeated measures, with a random effect for intercept and fixed effects for time, group, and their interaction. To account for baseline differences between the 2 groups, changes were adjusted for age, weight, waist circumference, fasting glucose, blood pressure, and lipids.

Results:

There were 2 deaths in the T-treated group, none was related to CV events. There were 21 deaths in the untreated (control) group, 19 of which were related to CV events. The incidence of death in 10 patient-years was 0.1145 in the control group (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.0746-0.1756; P < .000) and 0.0092 in the T-treated group (95% CI: 0.0023-0.0368; P < .000); the estimated difference between groups was 0.0804 (95% CI: 0.0189-0.3431; P < .001). The estimated reduction in mortality for the T-group was between 66% and 92%. There were also 30 nonfatal strokes and 26 nonfatal myocardial infarctions in the control group and none in the T-treated group.

Conclusion:

Long-term TU was well tolerated with excellent adherence suggesting a high level of patient satisfaction. Mortality related to CV disease was significantly reduced in the T-group.
A dual-process view on medication adherence: The role of affect
Authors: Kleppe Mieke , Lacroix Joyca , Ham Jaap , Midden Cees
Published: February 2017

Medication non-adherence has been recognised as one of the major problems in health care that leads to preventable costs and hospitalisations. This study aimed to assess the role of affect in medication adherence. We propose a dual-process framework of medication adherence based on the reflective–impulsive model, which includes both cognitive and affective processes. We tested this framework in a cross-sectional study ( N = 525). The results supported this framework by illustrating the clear role of both cognitive and affective processes.
The impacts of e-atmospherics on emotions and on the booking intentions of hotel rooms
Authors: Essawy Mohamed
Published: February 2017

This research is designed to investigate the effects of e-atmospheric cues of hotel websites on emotions and on the behavioral responses of customers. Frequent hotel customers (each conducted at least five online bookings yearly) participated in an online survey. The survey measured the impact of two atmospheric cues (graphics design and information design) on emotions (pleasure, arousal, and dominance), the relationship between emotions and booking intentions, and the impact of atmospheric cues on booking intentions. The results showed significant effects of information design on emotions and on booking intentions. The results also revealed the significant relationships between emotions and booking intentions. The present findings of the specific impact of information design on emotions and on booking intentions contribute to extending the knowledge in pleasing hotel customers and forming their booking intentions. Future research could consider other e-atmospherics such as the use of music and color.
Markets, desert, and reciprocity
Authors: Lister Andrew
Published: February 2017

This article traces John Rawls’s debt to Frank Knight’s critique of the ‘just deserts’ rationale for laissez-faire in order to defend justice as fairness against some prominent contemporary criticisms, but also to argue that desert can find a place within a Rawlsian theory of justice when desert is grounded in reciprocity. The first lesson Rawls took from Knight was that inheritance of talent and wealth are on a moral par. Knight highlighted the inconsistency of objecting to the inheritance of wealth while taking for granted the legitimacy of unequal reward based on differential productive capacity. Rawls agreed that there was an inconsistency, but claimed that it should be resolved by rejecting both kinds of inequality, except to the extent they benefitted the worst off. The second lesson Rawls learned from Knight was that the size of one’s marginal product depends on supply and demand, which depend on institutional decisions that cannot themselves be made on the basis of the principle of rewarding marginal productivity. The article claims that this argument about background justice overstates its conclusion, because the dependence of contribution on institutional setup is not total. Proposals for an unconditional basic income may therefore have a strike against them, as far as a reciprocity-based conception of desert is concerned. If we follow Knight’s analysis of the competitive system, however, so too does the alternative of leaving determination of income up to the market.
Moisture-management properties of bi-layer knitted fabrics for sportswear
Authors: Suganthi T , Senthilkumar P
Published: February 2017

The comfort of the fabric is attained through transmission of sensible and insensible perspiration. This can be achieved by enhancing the moisture management properties of knitted fabrics. In this article, the moisture management properties of seven bi-layer knitted fabrics were analyzed for active sportswear. Liquid transfer property is the key factor in comfort to be considered in clothing design of sportswear. In support of this aim, bi-layer knitted fabrics with different yarn combinations in the inner layer and outer layer were used. The selected yarn combinations were viscose-polypropylene, modal-polypropylene, viscose-micro fibre polyester, modal-micro fibre polyester, viscose-polyester, modal-polyester and bamboo-polyester for outer and inner layers. The objective fabric test was carried out to find out the moisture management properties of bi-layer knitted fabrics. The results indicate that the micro-fibre polyester (inner layer) and modal (outer layer) bi-layer knitted fabric have better moisture management property because of better wetting time, high wetting radius, good absorption rate and good spreading speed of sweat, and hence provide high level of comfort and can be preferred for active sportswear.
Differential diagnosis and management of placental polyp and uterine arteriovenous malformation: Case reports and review of the literature
Authors: Ishihara Tomoko , Kanasaki Haruhiko , Oride Aki , Hara Tomomi , Kyo Satoru
Published: February 2017

Postpartum uterine bleeding is not uncommon and is caused by a variety of obstetrical and gynecological disorders, such as retained placenta, dysfunctional bleeding, and endometrial polyps. Placental polyps and uterine arteriovenous malformation are disorders often encountered in cases of abnormal uterine bleeding in the late puerperal period. These patients may experience life-threatening bleeding and require prompt intervention based on the correct differential diagnosis. The optimal treatments for both diseases differ as follows: intrauterine curettage or transcervical resection are chosen for placental polyps, while total abdominal hysterectomy or uterine artery embolization is preferred for uterine arteriovenous malformation since intrauterine curettage or transcervical resection has the risk of massive bleeding. However, since placental polyp and uterine arteriovenous malformation have similar clinical characteristics, it is important to accurately identify and differentiate between them to ensure optimal therapy. We report here cases that were suggestive of placental polyp or uterine arteriovenous malformation. We discuss the differential diagnoses and treatments for both diseases based on a literature review and propose a novel algorithm for managing such patients.
Acoustic signature measurement of small multi-rotor unmanned aircraft systems
Authors: Kloet N , Watkins S , Clothier R
Published: February 2017

This work describes the testing involved in generating an acoustic signature profile of a small multi-rotor unmanned aircraft system. A typical multi-rotor unmanned aircraft system, with a weight of approximately 2.1 kg, was used for sound pressure level measurements. This study established a relationship between distance, altitude and sound pressure level, finding that the sound decays approximately in line with 6 dB(A) reduction for a doubling of distance. The effect of the orientation of the multi-rotor unmanned aircraft system was also investigated. It was determined that the sound profile does not vary significantly around the periphery of the multi-rotor unmanned aircraft system in the propeller-plane. However, when measured with the observer underneath the multi-rotor unmanned aircraft system, the sound pressure level was found to vary by as much as 10 dB(A), with the greatest sound pressure level at approximately 45° from horizontal. Finally, an acoustic array was used to measure key frequencies for the main sound sources: motors and propellers. It was found that extraneous noise from the multi-rotor unmanned aircraft system frame vibration and mounting methods was also common. Despite relatively low levels of sound being measured (especially when compared with conventional aircraft and rotorcraft), the increasing numbers of unmanned aircraft systems in urban environments, close to humans and dwellings, suggests that increasing complaints are likely. Thus, further research was suggested, including expanding the range of multi-rotor unmanned aircraft system to be tested, introducing DGPS, improving the mounting for indoor testing, and psychoacoustic analysis of the sound.
Foreign direct investment and growth: Can different regional identities shape the returns to foreign capital investments?
Authors: Casi Laura , Resmini Laura
Published: February 2017

In this paper we argue that informal institutions, or more generally, what is called social capital, can act as one of the mediating factors determining the size and the direction of foreign direct investment-induced spillovers on growth and productivity at regional level. The idea is that when a foreign firm sets up a new production plant in a location, the nature and the quality of its relationships with local workers and firms are affected by the endowment of social capital of that location. A ‘wrong’ social capital may make these relationships difficult, thus limiting the capacity of the host economy to convert foreign direct investment-induced spillovers into local competencies conducive to growth. We operationalized informal institutions in terms of generalized trust, associational activity, and cultural closeness and we found that spillover effects do not arise: (1) when generalized trust is too ‘self-referential’, (2) the level of associational activities is low, and (3) cultural closeness towards foreigners and external culture dominate the society. We also found that foreign presence is not universally beneficial, since positive spillovers are associated with EU-originating foreign firms and foreign direct investment in services only. These results have policy implications for the EU regions. In order to maximize the returns from foreign direct investment, the issue of the origin of foreign investors as well as the sectoral composition of foreign direct investment inflows should be carefully considered. Furthermore, investments in education may help regions to benefit more from the foreign presence because human capital and social capital are likely to be complementary.
SCL/TAL1: a multifaceted regulator from blood development to disease
Authors: Porcher Catherine , Chagraoui Hedia , Kristiansen Maiken S.
Published: February 2017

SCL/TAL1 (stem cell leukemia/T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia [T-ALL] 1) is an essential transcription factor in normal and malignant hematopoiesis. It is required for specification of the blood program during development, adult hematopoietic stem cell survival and quiescence, and terminal maturation of select blood lineages. Following ectopic expression, SCL contributes to oncogenesis in T-ALL. Remarkably, SCL’s activities are all mediated through nucleation of a core quaternary protein complex (SCL:E-protein:LMO1/2 [LIM domain only 1 or 2]:LDB1 [LIM domain-binding protein 1]) and dynamic recruitment of conserved combinatorial associations of additional regulators in a lineage- and stage-specific context. The finely tuned control of SCL’s regulatory functions (lineage priming, activation, and repression of gene expression programs) provides insight into fundamental developmental and transcriptional mechanisms, and highlights mechanistic parallels between normal and oncogenic processes. Importantly, recent discoveries are paving the way to the development of innovative therapeutic opportunities in SCL+ T-ALL.
T-helper cell type 2 (Th2) and non-Th2 molecular phenotypes of asthma using sputum transcriptomics in U-BIOPRED
Authors: Kuo Chih-Hsi Scott , Pavlidis Stelios , Loza Matthew , Baribaud Fred , Rowe Anthony , Pandis Iaonnis , Sousa Ana , Corfield Julie , Djukanovic Ratko , Lutter Rene , Sterk Peter J. , Auffray Charles , Guo Yike , Adcock Ian M. , Chung Kian Fan
Published: February 2017

Asthma is characterised by heterogeneous clinical phenotypes. Our objective was to determine molecular phenotypes of asthma by analysing sputum cell transcriptomics from 104 moderate-to-severe asthmatic subjects and 16 nonasthmatic subjects.

After filtering on the differentially expressed genes between eosinophil- and noneosinophil-associated sputum inflammation, we used unbiased hierarchical clustering on 508 differentially expressed genes and gene set variation analysis of specific gene sets.

We defined three transcriptome-associated clusters (TACs): TAC1 (characterised by immune receptorsIL33R,CCR3andTSLPR), TAC2 (characterised by interferon-, tumour necrosis factor-α- and inflammasome-associated genes) and TAC3 (characterised by genes of metabolic pathways, ubiquitination and mitochondrial function). TAC1 showed the highest enrichment of gene signatures for interleukin-13/T-helper cell type 2 (Th2) and innate lymphoid cell type 2. TAC1 had the highest sputum eosinophilia and exhaled nitric oxide fraction, and was restricted to severe asthma with oral corticosteroid dependency, frequent exacerbations and severe airflow obstruction. TAC2 showed the highest sputum neutrophilia, serum C-reactive protein levels and prevalence of eczema. TAC3 had normal to moderately high sputum eosinophils and better preserved forced expiratory volume in 1 s. Gene–protein coexpression networks from TAC1 and TAC2 extended this molecular classification.

We defined one Th2-high eosinophilic phenotype TAC1, and two non-Th2 phenotypes TAC2 and TAC3, characterised by inflammasome-associated and metabolic/mitochondrial pathways, respectively.
Early tyrosine phosphorylation events following adenosine A2A receptor in human neutrophils: identification of regulated pathways
Authors: Giambelluca Miriam S , Pouliot Marc
Published: February 2017

Activation of the adenosine 2A receptor (A2AR) elevates intracellular levels of cAMP and acts as a physiologic inhibitor of inflammatory neutrophil functions. In this study, we looked into the impact of A2AR engagement on early phosphorylation events. Neutrophils were stimulated with well-characterized proinflammatory agonists in the absence or presence of an A2AR agonist {3-[4-[2-[[6-amino-9-[(2R,3R,4S,5S)-5-(ethylcarbamoyl)-3,4-dihydroxy-oxolan-2-yl]purin-2-yl]amino] ethyl] phenyl] propanoic acid (CGS 21680)}, PGE2, or a mixture of the compounds RO 20-1724 and forskolin. As assessed by immunoblotting, several proteins were tyrosine phosphorylated; CGS 21680 markedly decreased tyrosine phosphorylation levels of 4 regions (37–45, 50–55, 60, and 70 kDa). Key signaling protein kinases—p38 MAPK, Erk-1/2, PI3K/Akt, Hck, and Syk—showed decreased phosphorylation, whereas Lyn, SHIP-1, or phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) was spared. PGE2 or the intracellular cAMP-elevating combination of RO 20-1724 and forskolin mostly mimicked the effect of CGS 21680. Together, results unveil intracellular signaling pathways targeted by the A2AR, some of which might be key in modulating neutrophil functions.
Serotonin receptors in depression: from A to B
Authors: Nautiyal Katherine M. , Hen René
Published: February 2017

The role of serotonin in major depressive disorder (MDD) is the focus of accumulating clinical and preclinical research. The results of these studies reflect the complexity of serotonin signaling through many receptors, in a large number of brain regions, and throughout the lifespan. The role of the serotonin transporter in MDD has been highlighted in gene by environment association studies as well as its role as a critical player in the mechanism of the most effective antidepressant treatments – selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. While the majority of the 15 known receptors for serotonin have been implicated in depression or depressive-like behavior, the serotonin 1A (5-HT1A) and 1B (5-HT1B) receptors are among the most studied. Human brain imaging and genetic studies point to the involvement of 5-HT1Aand 5-HT1Breceptors in MDD and the response to antidepressant treatment. In rodents, the availability of tissue-specific and inducible knockout mouse lines has made possible the identification of the involvement of 5-HT1Aand 5-HT1Breceptors throughout development and in a cell-type specific manner. This, and other preclinical pharmacology work, shows that autoreceptor and heteroreceptor populations of these receptors have divergent roles in modulating depression-related behavior as well as responses to antidepressants and also have different functions during early postnatal development compared to during adulthood.
Prevention of postsurgical wound dehiscence after abdominal surgery with NPWT: a multicentre randomised controlled trial protocol
Authors: Sandy-Hodgetts K. , Leslie G.D. , Parsons R. , Zeps N. , Carville K.
Published: February 2017

Objective:

The effectiveness of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) in the prevention of postoperative surgical wound dehiscence (SWD) is the subject of much debate and remains to be determined. This study will identify individuals at risk of postoperative SWD and trial the use of NPWT as a prophylactic measure against the occurrence of SWD, compared with a non-NPWT standard surgical dressing (SSD).

Method:

A prospective multicentre randomised controlled trial comparing NPWT dressing against standard surgical dressings (SSD) will be conducted. An intention-to-treat (ITT) approach will be used for the trial.

Aims:

The primary outcome is the prevention of postoperative SWD up to and including day 30 postoperative. Secondary outcomes are: prevention of surgical site infection (SSI) and economic analysis of treatment groups.

Conclusion:

This study will determine the effectiveness of NPWT in the prevention of postoperative abdominal SWD in a predefined level of risk population. This level 1 study will provide further data for abdominal SWD risk classification, which is anticipated to inform preventive postoperative management. The study design uses a prospective real-world scenario in order to identify clinically significant differences between the intervention and control groups.

Trial registration:

This trial was prospectively registered on 10 December 2012 with Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Network (ANZCTR): 12612001275853.
Prevalence of skin tears in the extremities among elderly residents at a nursing home in Denmark
Authors: Skiveren J. , Wahlers B. , Bermark S.
Published: February 2017

Objective:

The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of skin tears in the extremities and explore factors in relation to skin tears in elderly residents at a Danish nursing home.

Method:

The study was designed as a point prevalence survey and conducted at a nursing home with 140 residents >65 years of age. The residents were assessed for presence, number and location of skin tears. Data were collected using a data collection sheet developed for this study. The survey team consisted of four expert nurses from a university hospital (two dermatology and two wound care nurses). Data were collected over a period of 10 hours spread over two days.

Results:

Of the 128 participating residents six had skin tears, yielding a prevalence of 4.6 %. In total, 10 skin tears were observed in the 6 residents. The frequency of previous skin tears was 19.5 %. This frequency was significantly higher in residents with skin tears than in those without skin tears (83.3 % versus 16.4 %, p<0.001). Analysis of the relation between skin tears or previous skin tears versus without skin tears or previous skin tears showed significant differences related to the presence of ecchymosis (76.9 %versus 14.7 %, p<0.0001). There were no other significant factors observed.

Conclusion:

The low prevalence found in this study may reflect the focus on prevention of skin tears that the nursing home has maintained over the past year. Nevertheless, the appropriate prevention and management of residents with skin tears is an ongoing challenge for health professionals.
The reality of routine practice: a pooled data analysis on chronic wounds treated with TLC-NOSF wound dressings
Authors: Münter K.C. , Meaume S. , Augustin M. , Senet P. , Kérihuel J.C.
Published: February 2017

Objective:

A number of randomised controlled trials (RCT) have compared control groups with TLC-NOSF dressings (UrgoStart) on chronic wounds. Our aim was to determine whether the clinical trials' results translate into routine management of such wounds, by pooling the data from real-life observational studies.

Method:

Observational studies, conducted in France and Germany, evaluating current practices in patients suffering from non-selected chronic wounds treated with a TLC-NOSF dressing were identified. Demographic data, baseline description of wounds and description of their evolution during treatment were extracted and combined. We used two main indicators of clinical outcomes to measure the impact of the TLC-NOSF dressing on this population: time to wound closure and time to 50% reduction of the Pressure Ulcer Scale for Healing (PUSH) score.

Results:

In total, data from 10,220 patients were included, with 7903 leg ulcers (LUs), 1306 diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) and 1011 pressure ulcers (PUs). The overall closure rate was 30.8 % [95 % confidence interval (CI): 29.9–31.7 %]. While the country, patient age, and number of wounds were identified as independent prognosis factors of healing, the most significant were wound duration and baseline area. The delay in initiating TLC-NOSF dressings treatment was also found to be significant. Overall the average time to complete closure was 112.5 days [95%CI: 105.8–119.3] for LUs, 98.1 days [95 %CI: 88.8–107.5] for DFUs and 119.5 days [95%CI: 94.6–144.3] for PUs. Based on a subgroup analysis of the French cohort, time to closure is substantially shorter for wounds treated with the TLC-NOSF dressing as a first-line intervention compared with those where it has been prescribed as a second-line intervention.

Conclusion:

Compared with available data on time to complete closure of chronic wounds managed by ‘standard’ care, the data from this pooled data analysis showed healing time is reduced, which is consistent with the results of RCTs on TLC-NOSF. That these data are in agreement with those from the RCTs is testimony to their generalisability and important for routine practice. This indicates that using TLC-NOSF dressings in routine wound management can reduce the healing time of LUs, DFUs and PUs. These data also suggest that the earlier the decision to use this dressing, the shorter the time to closure, whatever the severity and the nature of these chronic wounds.
UDL and Intellectual Disability: What Do We Know and Where Do We Go?
Authors: Rao Kavita , Smith Sean J. , Lowrey K. Alisa
Published: February 2017

As an instructional design framework that can be used to design curriculum for students with and without disabilities, Universal Design for Learning (UDL) has the potential to support meaningful inclusion of students with intellectual disability (ID) in general educational settings. This article presents an overview of the existing set of research studies on UDL application for students with ID in PreK-12 settings. The current body of research illustrates that UDL is being applied to instructional activities for students with ID to examine a variety of interventions (e.g., adapted stories for individual students, inclusive general education curriculum) and outcomes (e.g., interaction, perceptions, knowledge gains) in self-contained and general educational settings. It also identifies important questions for consideration in future research as the field seeks to determine how UDL guidelines can be applied to curriculum, used with evidence-based and effective practices, and used to support schoolwide initiatives inclusive of students with ID.
Prognostic Role of Molecular Forms of B-Type Natriuretic Peptide in Acute Heart Failure
Authors: Suzuki Toru , Israr M Zubair , Heaney Liam M , Takaoka Minoru , Squire Iain B , Ng Leong L
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) molecular forms 5-32, 4-32, and 3-32 are known to be present in the circulation of heart failure (HF) patients. This study investigated the prognostic role of circulating BNP molecular forms on risk prediction for patients with acute HF.

METHODS

BNP molecular forms were measured in plasma using an immunocapture MALDI-TOF–mass spectrometry (MS) method. Associations of molecular BNP forms with adverse outcome of all-cause mortality (death) and a composite of all-cause mortality and rehospitalization due to HF (death/HF) at 6 months and 1 year were investigated.

RESULTS

BNP molecular forms 5-32, 4-32, and 3-32 were detected in 838 out of 904 patient samples. BNP molecular forms were all able to independently predict death and death/HF at 6 months and 1 year. BNP 5-32 was the superior form with strongest predictive qualities for death at 6 months [adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 1.31, P = 0.005] and 1 year (adjusted HR 1.29, P = 0.002) and death/HF at 1 year (adjusted HR 1.18, P = 0.011). BNP 5-32, 4-32, and 3-32 showed decreased survival rates across increasing tertiles of circulating concentrations (P ≤ 0.004). BNP molecular forms showed prognostic ability comparable with conventional BNP measurements across all end points (P = 0.002–0.032 vs P = 0.014–0.039, respectively) and reduced associations with renal dysfunction (blood urea; Spearman correlation rs = 0.187–0.246 vs rs = 0.369, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

BNP molecular forms, notably BNP 5-32, showed association with poor prognosis at 6 months and 1 year in patients with acute HF. This is the first study reporting the prognostic ability of molecular BNP forms in HF patients and demonstrated comparable qualities to conventional BNP measurements.
Inflation, dark energy, and dark matter
Authors: Kalita Ranku
Published: February 2017

Inflation leads to omega=1  for the big bang universe, and which is indeed observed. However, two mysterious constituents – dark energy and dark matter – have to be present in the big bang universe for omega = 1. This paper utilizes propositions about the nature of dark energy and dark matter to trace their origins to the contents of the inflationary universe.
A LITERATURA COMO ATIVIDADE INVESTIGATIVA PARA A SUPERAÇÃO DO COTIDIANO
Authors: Oliveira Rosangela Miola Galvão de , Franco Sandra Aparecida Pires
Published: February 2017

A pesquisa é um recorte da dissertação do Mestrado em Educação, no qual a autora investiga as contribuições da Literatura e o uso dos gêneros textuais para a leitura crítica dos estudantes do Ensino Fundamental fase II. A base teórica que fundamenta o trabalho é o Materialismo Histórico e Dialético. Os participantes são alunos do 8º e 9º anos de três instituições públicas de ensino da região norte do Paraná. Após o trabalho em sala de aula com projetos de intervenção em leitura, elaborados pelos integrantes do projeto OBEDUC/UEL Educação, os alunos foram convidados a ler um poema e identificar os diferentes determinantes presentes no discurso do texto e justificar criticamente suas escolhas. Percebe-se na análise dos testes de leitura crítica que os alunos possuem uma leitura ingênua do poema, apesar da identificação dos principais determinantes no texto.
O TRABALHO PEDAGÓGICO COM ESTUDANTES COM DEFICIÊNCIA INTELECTUAL: POTENCIALIDADE DE TRÊS OBJETOS DE APRENDIZAGEM
Authors: Omodei Juliana Dalbem , Rinaldi Renata Portela , Schlünzen Elisa Tomoe Moriya
Published: February 2017

Este estudo objetivou analisar os Objetos de Aprendizagem para o trabalho pedagógico de apoio aos estudantes com deficiência intelectual. A pesquisa baseou-se na abordagem qualitativa do tipo intervenção e orientada pela abordagem Construcionista, Contextualizada e Significativa. Participaram do estudo sete estudantes com deficiência intelectual. Os procedimentos de coleta de dados pautaram-se na pesquisa documental, catalogação de Objetos de Aprendizagem e planejamento, desenvolvimento e avaliação de um programa de intervenção. A análise dos dados foi orientada pela análise de conteúdo. Os resultados evidenciaram que os Objetos de Aprendizagem podem se constituir como uma importante ferramenta pedagógica capaz de estimular diversas habilidades cognitivas, devido à oportunidade de utilização dos sentidos sensoriais de forma simultânea, proporcionando o desenvolvimento de habilidades e aptidões, estimulação da criatividade e interatividade, coordenação motora e raciocínio lógico.
Response of a physiological controller for ventricular assist devices during acute patho-physiological events: an in vitro study
Authors: Petrou Anastasios , Pergantis Panagiotis , Ochsner Gregor , Amacher Raffael , Krabatsch Thomas , Falk Volkmar , Meboldt Mirko , Daners Marianne Schmid
Published: February 2017

The current paper analyzes the performance of a physiological controller for turbodynamic ventricular assist devices (tVADs) during acute patho-physiological events. The numerical model of the human blood circulation implemented on our hybrid mock circulation was extended in order to simulate the Valsalva maneuver (VM) and premature ventricular contractions (PVCs). The performance of an end-diastolic volume (EDV)-based physiological controller for VADs, named preload responsive speed (PRS) controller was evaluated under VM and PVCs. A slow and a fast response of the PRS controller were implemented by using a 3 s moving window, and a beat-to-beat method, respectively, to extract the EDV index. The hemodynamics of a pathological circulation, assisted by a tVAD controlled by the PRS controller were analyzed and compared with a constant speed support case. The results show that the PRS controller prevented suction during the VM with both methods, while with constant speed, this was not the case. On the other hand, the pump flow reduction with the PRS controller led to low aortic pressure, while it remained physiological with the constant speed control. Pump backflow was increased when the moving window was used but it avoided sudden undesirable speed changes, which occurred during PVCs with the beat-to-beat method. In a possible clinical implementation of any physiological controller, the desired performance during frequent clinical acute scenarios should be considered.
Second-harmonic generation in a sphere
Authors: Dhayal Suman
Published: February 2017

We consider nonlinear muti-wave mixing in a sphere. We compare the efficiency of wave mixing in a sphere with the efficiency in a bulk or in the slab where, as well-known, the phase-matching plays an important role. We have found the optimal conditions for nonlinear generation in a sphere. The obtained results can be applied to coherent Raman microscopy and allow us to maximize the signal for arbitrary shpae of nanoparticles.
Numerical Modeling of Fluid Flow, Heat Transfer and Arc–Melt Interaction in Tungsten Inert Gas Welding
Authors: Li Linmin , Li Baokuan , Liu Lichao , Motoyama Yuichi
Published: February 2017

The present work develops a multi-region dynamic coupling model for fluid flow, heat transfer and arc–melt interaction in tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding using the dynamic mesh technique. The arc–weld pool unified model is developed on basis of magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) equations and the interface is tracked using the dynamic mesh method. The numerical model for arc is firstly validated by comparing the calculated temperature profiles and essential results with the former experimental data. For weld pool convection solution, the drag, Marangoni, buoyancy and electromagnetic forces are separately validated, and then taken into account. Moreover, the model considering interface deformation is adopted in a stationary TIG welding process with SUS304 stainless steel and the effect of interface deformation is investigated. The depression of weld pool center and the lifting of pool periphery are both predicted. The results show that the weld pool shape calculated with considering the interface deformation is more accurate.
Dual System of Constitutional Interpretation A Hong Kong Experience
Authors: Li Lawrence
Published: February 2017

After the People's Republic of China resumed her sovereign control over Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region was established pursuant to the Basic Law of Hong Kong, which is the constitutional document for Hong Kong. The Basic Law of Hong Kong defines the scope of autonomy enjoyed by Hong Kong as a region within a unitary state under the policy of 'one country, two systems.' However, the policy has never been clear, and it leads to controversy surrounding the application of the ‘dual system’ of constitutional interpretation in Hong Kong, as the highest appellate court in Hong Kong, the Court of Final Appeal, may be required to refer to the Chinese Government for interpretation of the Basic Law. In this article, the referral mechanism in the Basic Law and the scope of constitutional jurisdiction enjoyed by the Hong Kong Court of Final Appeal after the two landmark cases, Ng Ka Ling v Director of Immigration and Democratic Republic of the Congo v FG Hemisphere Associates LLC, will be discussed with reference to the similar mechanism under Article 177 of the Treaty Establishing the European Economic Community (now Article 267 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union), to ascertain who will interpret the ‘mini-constitution’ of Hong Kong.
Some Major Themes in the Study of Constitutionalism and Democracy in Africa
Authors: Hessebon Gedion T
Published: February 2017

We have now been through two decades since the onset of what has been deemed the ‘second liberation’ of Africa. In these two decades, interest in the study of constitutionalism has been gaining momentum and an increasing body of scholarly literature is being produced on constitutionalism and multi-party democracy in African states. Though an exhaustive treatment of this literature in a single paper is impossible, in this paper an attempt will be made to identify and highlight some of the major themes in the comparative constitutional law and democratization scholarship focused on Africa. Specifi­cally, four themes will be identified and discussed. These are: i) autochthony and cultural contextualization of constitutionalism, ii) executive hegemony and imperial presidencies, iii) economic critiques and discontents with the liberal democratic model and iv) the effects and accommodation of ethnicity.
Torture in US Jails and Prisons: An Analysis of Solitary Confinement Under International Law
Authors: Conley Anna
Published: February 2017

One of the most serious human rights violations today is occurring throughout the US. In US jails and prisons, individuals are held in solitary confinement for weeks, months and even years. Solitary confinement can cause significant psychological damage, including cognitive delays, increased suspicion and paranoia, increased anxiety, fear, ag­gression and hostility, heightened feelings of helplessness and depression, and increased thoughts and attempts at self-mutilation and suicide. Many prisoners held in this severe form of isolation are juveniles or individuals with serious mental illness, to whom it is par­ticularly damaging. Although solitary confinement is common in the rest of the world, no­where is it more prevalent as a long-term prisoner management tool than in the United States. US courts have found that solitary confinement is a violation of the Eighth Amend­ment to the US Constitution in certain situations, yet the practice persists.

As a global movement against solitary confinement grows, the United Nations and re­gional human rights tribunals have spoken out against the practice. A robust body of inter­national case law has defined the contours of when solitary confinement is cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment, and the instances in which it is torture. International bodies pro­hibit solitary confinement for juveniles, prisoners with mental illness, and prisoners on death row or with life sentences. International tribunals generally find solitary confinement for all prisoners contrary to applicable law where it constitutes incommunicado detention, where it is unnecessarily prolonged without justification, and where the totality of condi­tions of confinement cross a threshold into unacceptable cruelty.

As international law prohibiting solitary confinement crystallizes, the practice in the United States may be curtailed through reliance on international law by US judges. Further, the US executive may take an increased interest in curbing solitary confinement to avoid repu­tational damage among the global community.
Legisprudence Limitations on Constitutional Amendments? Reflections on The Czech Constitutional Court’s Declaration of Unconstitutional Constitutional Act
Authors: Roznai Yaniv
Published: February 2017

Can a constitutional norm be unconstitutional? This idea seems, at first sight as a self-contradiction. Unconstitutionality is commonly referred to those ordinary laws, inferior to the constitution, which violate it. Constitutional norms, in contrast, carry an equal normative status as the constitution itself and other constitutional provisions. The question of unconstitutional constitutional norms recently arose in the Czech Republic. On 10 September 2009, the Czech Constitutional Court declared Constitutional Act no 195/2009 Coll, on Shortening the Fifth Term of Office of the Chamber of Deputies to be unconstitutional. The Czech Constitutional Court held that the constitutional act was an individual, specific decision and retroactive, thus violating the unamendability provision (Art 9(2)) in the Constitution, which prohibits amendments to the essential requirement for a democratic state governed by the rule of law. This article analyses the Czech Constitutional Court’s decision in a broader comparative and theoretical perspective and focuses, mainly, on four issues: first, the Czech Constitutional Court’s authority to substantively review constitutional norms; second, the appropriate standard of review when exercising judicial review of constitutional norms; third, the ‘individual, specific’ character of the constitutional act; and fourth, its alleged retroactive application. The article claims that while the Czech Constitutional Court was generally correct in claiming an authority to substantively review even constitutional norms, this was not the appropriate case in which to annul a constitutional act.
Judges and Policy Making Authority in the United States and the European Union
Authors: Kouroutakis Antonios E.
Published: February 2017

Institutions such as the US Supreme Court and the European Court of Justice in due time have developed a status of supremacy through judicial activism. The main target of the article is to identify the judicial activism exercised by these Courts and to reason its need in the legal order. In the first part the US Supreme Court and the European Court of Justice are placed in the overall polity that they belong to and the development of their status and their characteristics are analyzed. The major concern of the first part is to examine how those declared their supremacy and focus on major cases and their reason­ing.

In the second part the extent of the judicial supremacy in each legal order is discussed and its effects in the decision making process are examined. The assumption that judicial activ­ism is acceptable only if it expresses consensus in the legal order is tested and it is argued that up to an extent, Judicial Activism does not distort the political agenda when it ex­presses the consensus of the legal system. Finally, it is argued that when such activism exceeds the boundaries of the consensus, the other actors in the legal system would even­tually react and would limit such activism.
According to the Spirit and not to the Letter: Proportionality and the Singapore Constitution
Authors: Lee Jack Tsen-Ta
Published: February 2017

When interpreting the fundamental liberties in the Singapore Constitution, courts presently do not engage in a proportionality analysis - that is, a consideration of whether limitations on rights imposed by executive or legislative action bear a rational relation with the object of the action, and, if so, whether the limitations restrict rights as minimally as possible. The main reason for this appears to be the expansive manner in which exceptions to the fundamental liberties are phrased, and the courts’ deferential attitude towards the political branches of government. This paper considers how the rejection of proportionality has affected the rights to freedom of expression and assembly, and freedom of religion, and argues that although proportionality was originally a European legal doctrine, its use in Singapore is not only desirable but necessary if the Constitution is to be regarded as guaranteeing fundamental liberties instead of merely setting out privileges that may be abridged at will by the Government.