bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Logarithmic corrected polynomial f(R) inflation mimicking a cosmological constant
Authors: Sadeghi J. , Pourhassan B. , Kubeka A. S. , Rostami M.
Published: May 2016

In this paper, we consider an inflationary model of [Formula: see text] gravity with polynomial form plus logarithmic term. We calculate some cosmological parameters and compare our results with the Planck 2015 data. We find that presence of both logarithmic and polynomial corrections is necessary to yield slow-roll condition. Also, we study critical points and stability of the model to find that it is a viable model.
SPECTROSCOPIC CHARACTERIZATION OF NIAGARA BLUE DYE IN THE RESTRICTED GEOMETRY OF LAYER-BY-LAYER SELF-ASSEMBLED FILMS
Authors: GHOSH INDRA , DAS BANDANA , NATH RANENDU KUMAR , GANGULY BANTI , MISHRA BIJAY KUMAR , PAL AJITESH
Published: May 2016

Multilayer films can be precisely engineered on solid substrate via layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assemble technique using negatively charged organic dye and positively charged polyelectrolytes or surfactants. This communication first time reports the successful incorporation of an anionic dye Niagara blue (NB) in Polyallylamine hydrochloride (PAH) by electrostatic sequential alternative LbL adsorption. The photo-physical characteristics of LbL films are investigated by varying different parameters such as number of deposited layer, dipping time in dye solution, pH of PAH solution, concentration of the dye, etc. In addition, the interaction of NB with double tail surfactant Didodecyl dimethyl ammonium bromide (DDAB) at different concentrations is also studied in the light of UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy. Spectroscopic analysis reveals that NB has been successfully anchored to PAH or DDAB through electrostatic self-assembled technique and forms molecular aggregates. The formation of aggregates is further confirmed by atomic force microscopic (AFM) study.
MODELING NANOPARTICLE GEOMETRY EFFECTS ON PERISTALTIC PUMPING OF MEDICAL MAGNETOHYDRODYNAMIC NANOFLUIDS WITH HEAT TRANSFER
Authors: AKBAR NOREEN SHER , TRIPATHI DHARMENDRA , BÉG O. ANWAR
Published: May 2016

Magnetic nanofluid technologies are emerging in numerous areas including medicine, lubrication (smart tribology), pharmacology, etc. In this paper, we examine heat diffusion in hydromagnetic nanofluids in a peristaltic system, motivated by applications in medical drug delivery systems and gastric magnetographic monitoring. The mathematical formulation encompasses momentum and heat conservation equations with appropriate boundary conditions for compliant walls. Sophisticated correlations are employed for thermal conductivity of the nanoparticles. The nonlinear boundary value problem is normalized with appropriate variables and closed-form solutions are derived for stream function, pressure gradient and temperature profile. Analytical solutions are evaluated numerically with MATHEMATICA symbolic software. Validation of computations is performed for the nonlinear moving boundary value problem via a Chebyschev spectral collocation method (CSM). A detailed study is performed for the influence of various nanoparticle geometries (bricks, cylinders and platelets). With greater magnetic field, flow velocity is enhanced for platelet nanoparticles whereas it is depressed for brick particles. Temperature is dramatically modified with nanoparticle geometry and greater thermal conductivity is achieved with brick-shaped nanoparticles in the fluid, with implications for optimized medical device systems.
Relation between Darboux and type-2 Bishop frames in Euclidean space
Authors: Yilmaz Amine , Özyilmaz Emin
Published: May 2016

In this work, we investigate relationships between Darboux and type-2 Bishop frames in Euclidean space. Then, we obtain the geodesic curvature of the spherical image curve of the Darboux vector of the type-2 Bishop frame. Also, we give transition matrix between the Darboux and type-2 Bishop frames of the type-2 Bishop frames of the spherical images of the edges [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. Finally, we express some interesting relations and illustrate of the examples by the aid Maple programe.
Tractable Parameterizations for the Minimum Linear Arrangement Problem
Authors: Fellows Michael R. , Hermelin Danny , Rosamond Frances , Shachnai Hadas
Published: May 2016

The M
inimum
L
inear
A
rrangement
(MLA) problem involves embedding a given graph on the integer line so that the sum of the edge lengths of the embedded graph is minimized. Most layout problems are either intractable or not known to be tractable, parameterized by the
treewidth
of the input graph. We investigate MLA with respect to three parameters that provide more structure than treewidth. In particular, we give a factor (1 + ε)-approximation algorithm for MLA parameterized by (ε,
k
), where
k
is the
vertex cover number
of the input graph. By a similar approach, we obtain two FPT algorithms that exactly solve MLA parameterized by, respectively, the
max leaf
and
edge clique cover
numbers of the input graph.
Transcriptomic and CRISPR/Cas9 technologies reveal FOXA2 as a tumor suppressor gene in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Vorvis Christina , Hatziapostolou Maria , Mahurkar-Joshi Swapna , Koutsioumpa Marina , Williams Jennifer , Donahue Timothy R. , Poultsides George A. , Eibl Guido , Iliopoulos Dimitrios
Published: May 2016

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive cancer with low survival rates and limited therapeutic options. Thus elucidation of signaling pathways involved in PDAC pathogenesis is essential for identifying novel potential therapeutic gene targets. Here, we used a systems approach to elucidate those pathways by integrating gene and microRNA profiling analyses together with CRISPR/Cas9 technology to identify novel transcription factors involved in PDAC pathogenesis. FOXA2 transcription factor was found to be significantly downregulated in PDAC relative to control pancreatic tissues. Functional experiments revealed that FOXA2 has a tumor suppressor function through inhibition of pancreatic cancer cell growth, migration, invasion, and colony formation. In situ hybridization analysis revealed miR-199a to be significantly upregulated in pancreatic cancer. Bioinformatics and luciferase analyses showed that miR-199a negatively but directly regulates FOXA2 expression through binding in its 3′-untranslated region (UTR). Evaluation of the functional importance of miR-199a on pancreatic cancer revealed that miR-199a acts as an inhibitor of FOXA2 expression, inducing an increase in pancreatic cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Additionally, gene ontology and network analyses in PANC-1 cells treated with a small interfering RNA (siRNA) against FOXA2 revealed an enrichment for cell invasion mechanisms through PLAUR and ERK activation. FOXA2 deletion (FOXA2Δ) by using two CRISPR/Cas9 vectors in PANC-1 cells induced tumor growth in vivo resulting in upregulation of PLAUR and ERK pathways in FOXA2Δ xenograft tumors. We have identified FOXA2 as a novel tumor suppressor in pancreatic cancer and it is regulated directly by miR-199a, thereby enhancing our understanding of how microRNAs interplay with the transcription factors to affect pancreatic oncogenesis.
МОРФОМЕТРИЧНА ОЦІНКА ОСОБЛИВОСТЕЙ РЕМОДЕЛЮВАННЯ КАМЕР ЛЕГЕНЕВОГО СЕРЦЯ З РІЗНИМИ ТИПАМИ КРОВОПОСТАЧАННЯ
Authors: Hnatiuk M. S. , Slabyi O. B.
Published: May 2016

РЕЗЮМЕ. Морфометричними методами вивчені особливості ремоделювання камер серця з різними
типами кровопостачання в умовах пострезекційної артеріальної легеневої гіпертензії. Встановлено, що легенева
гіпертензія призводить до розвитку легеневого серця та вираженої структурної перебудови камер серця, яка
характеризується незбалансованим, диспропорційним збільшенням їх маси та розширенням з переважаючою
гіпертрофією і дилатацією правого шлуночка. Встановлена структурна перебудова камер серця залежить від типу
кровопостачання серцевого м'яза, найвираженішою вона виявилася у легеневому серці з правовінцевим типом
кровопостачання.

КЛЮЧОВІ СЛОВА: ремоделювання, камери серця, легенева гіпертензія.
МУЛЬТИРЕЗИСТЕНТНИЙ ТУБЕРКУЛЬОЗ ЗА ДАНИМИ ОБЛАСНОГО ПРОТИТУБЕРКУЛЬОЗНОГО ДИСПАНСЕРУ
Authors: Kornaha S. I. , Pyatnochka I. T. , Thoryk N. V.
Published: May 2016

РЕЗЮМЕ. У статті представлений аналіз медичних карт стаціонарних хворих на мультирезистентний
туберкульоз, які перебували на стаціонарному лікуванні в обласному протитуберкульозному диспансері у 2005–
2014 роках, а також наведені причини значного почастішання цієї небезпечної форми захворювання.

КЛЮЧОВІ СЛОВА: мультирезистентний туберкульоз, санпросвітня робота, летальність.
ВИЗНАЧЕННЯ РІВНЯ ІНТОКСИКАЦІЇ ТА ДИСБІОЗУ КИШЕЧНИКА У ХВОРИХ НА РАК ШЛУНКА
Authors: Rusyn A. V. , Maliar-Hazda N. M. , Bedey N. V. , Odoshevska O. M.
Published: May 2016

РЕЗЮМЕ. У роботі представлені результати зміни показників ендогенної інтоксикації залежно від ступеня
дисбіозу товстої кишки в різних стадіях пухлинного процесу. У хворих на рак шлунка комплексна оцінка
гематологічних індексів більш інформативна, ніж вивчення простої гемограми, адже дозволяє оцінити розвиток,
тяжкість та перебіг ендогенної інтоксикації в залежності від стадії пухлинного процесу у цих хворих. Виявлено
прямий зв'язок між стадією раку шлунка та дисбіозом товстої кишки, при збільшенні стадії раку шлунка
збільшувалась вираженість дисбіозу товстої кишки.

КЛЮЧОВІ СЛОВА: рак шлунка, інтоксикаційний синдром, дисбіоз товстої кишки.
ОЦІНКА МОЖЛИВОСТЕЙ НЕФРОПРОТЕКТОРНОЇ ДІЇ КАНЕФРОНУ® Н У ХВОРИХ НА ПОДАГРИЧНУ НЕФРОПАТІЮ
Authors: Smiyan S. I. , Franchuk M. V. , Slaba U. S. , Komorovskyi R. R. , Hrymaliuk N. V.
Published: May 2016

РЕЗЮМЕ. Зі стійким підвищенням сечової кислоти в крові ризик розвитку хронічної ниркової недостатності
зростає у 3–10 разів. Відомо, що білкові фракції тісно корелюють із рівнем сечової кислоти, і саме тому
мікроальбумінурію та мікроглобулінурію вважають ранньою ознакою ураження нирок. Обстежено 50 хворих
чоловічої статі на подагру, серед яких шляхом визначення мікропротеїнурії у 60 % констатовано подагричну
нефропатію. Для нефропротекторного лікування обрано комбінований фітопрепарат – Канефрон Н (Біонорика,
Ноймаркт, Німеччина), який також позитивно зарекомендував себе у пацієнтів з порушенням ліпідного обміну.
Серед пацієнтів, які брали участь у дослідженні, всі були чоловіками з надлишковою масою тіла. Встановлено,
що включення Канефрону Н у комплексне лікування разом зі стандартною гіпоурикемічною терапією сприяє
достовірному зменшенню рівня сечової кислоти в крові та збільшенню її виведення із сечею, а також чинить
нефропротекторну дію, яка проявляється достовірним зниженням мікроальбумінурії та мікроглобулінурії.

КЛЮЧОВІ СЛОВА: подагра, ураження нирок, гіперурикемія, Канефрон Н, мікроальбумінурія, мікроглобулінурія.
Crise Hídrica em São Paulo em 2014: Seca e Desmatamento
Authors: Marengo Jose Antonio , Alves Lincoln M
Published: May 2016

O presente estudo apresenta uma análise hidrometeorológica da estação chuvosa 2013/2014 na Região Sudeste do Brasil, com o objetivo de diagnosticar a seca e seu impacto na disponibilidade hídrica do Estado de São Paulo. Foram analisados os totais acumulados da precipitação, os principais sistemas meteorológicos atuantes durante o período chuvoso (dezembro-fevereiro) e o papel da floresta Amazônica como uma das fontes de umidade para o Brasil Central e regiões sul-sudeste. As análises revelaram que os totais acumulados foram significativamente abaixo dos valores médios, com desvios negativos em torno de 62%, temperaturas 2.5 oC acima da média e um aumento no consumo de água, esses fatores conjuntamente geraram uma crise hídrica sem precedente desde 1960.
A espacialização dos sistemas atmosféricos e a análise rítmica para o centro-sul do Brasil
Authors: Borsato Victor Da Assunção , Mendonça Francisco De Assis
Published: May 2016

O objetivo do estudo foi quantificar e qualificar a espacialização temporal e a evolução dos sistemas atmosféricos para o Centro Sul do Brasil, por meio da Análise Rítmica, a partir de quatro localidades: Campo Mourão PR, Cáceres MT, Brasília DF e Caparaó MG. Escolheu-se o mês de julho de 2005. Julho é um mês característico da estação do inverno, e 2005, ano neutro, considerando o El Niño e a La Niña. A dinâmica atmosférica para essa região, na estação do inverno, é comandada pelas massas de ar Polar atlântica, Tropical atlântica, Tropical continental e sistema frontal, basicamente. A massa Tropical continental atua limitadamente a partir do oeste da região. Os principais episódios de chuva foram frontais, e a altura decresce do sul para o norte. Como essa região não é centro de origem de qualquer sistema atmosférico, ela se caracteriza como uma região terminal ou dissipatória, ou seja, onde as massas de ar se modificam. Por essa razão, todos os sistemas que atuam, modificam-se à medida que avançam, assim como diminui a participação cronológica no estado do tempo
O conceito fundamental de mundo na construção de uma ontologia da geografia
Authors: Gallo Priscila Marchiori Dal , Marandola Junior Eduardo
Published: May 2016

Buscamos neste texto uma compreensão ontológica do mundo a partir do pensamento de Heidegger e sua compreensão sobre a verdade e o poético na obra de arte. Para o autor, a obra de arte é, em última análise, a fundação do mundo, revelando o ser no espaço aberto pela obra enquanto obra. Neste sentido, a geograficidade, enquanto espaço primitivo essencial, ligado ao mundo prepredicativo, o mundo da vida husserliano, é revelada na mesma abertura, criada pelo espaço primitivo que se abre para o mundo e, a partir do lugar, outorga o espaço para a manifestação e a existência do ser geográfico. Arte e geograficidade, portanto, são compreendidos como potências vivificantes do ser, que permitem que o ser se manifeste e, ao mesmo tempo, o delineia em sua facticidade mundana, vivida existencialmente.
Acute-Phase Blood Pressure Levels Correlate With a High Risk of Recurrent Strokes in Young-Onset Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Mustanoja Satu , Putaala Jukka , Gordin Daniel , Tulkki Lauri , Aarnio Karoliina , Pirinen Jani , Surakka Ida , Sinisalo Juha , Lehto Mika , Tatlisumak Turgut
Published: May 2016

Background and Purpose—

High blood pressure (BP) in acute stroke has been associated with a poor outcome; however, this has not been evaluated in young adults.

Methods—

The relationship between BP and long-term outcome was assessed in 1004 consecutive young, first-ever ischemic stroke patients aged 15 to 49 years enrolled in the Helsinki Young Stroke Registry. BP parameters included systolic (SBP) and diastolic BP, pulse pressure, and mean arterial pressure at admission and 24 hours. The primary outcome measure was recurrent stroke in the long-term follow-up. Adjusted for demographics and preexisting comorbidities, Cox regression models were used to assess independent BP parameters associated with outcome.

Results—

Of our patients (63% male), 393 patients (39%) had prestroke hypertension and 358 (36%) used antihypertensive treatment. The median follow-up period was 8.9 years (interquartile range 5.7–13.2). Patients with a recurrent stroke (n=142, 14%) had significantly higher admission SBP, diastolic BP, pulse pressure, and mean arterial pressure (
P
<0.001) and 24-h SBP, diastolic BP, and mean arterial pressure compared with patients without the recurrent stroke. Patients with SBP ≥160 mm Hg compared with those with SBP <160 mm Hg had significantly more recurrent strokes (hazard ratio 3.3 [95% confidence interval, 2.05–4.55];
P
<0.001) occurring earlier (13.9 years [13.0–14.6] versus 16.2 [15.8–16.6];
P
<0.001) within the follow-up period. In multivariable analyses, higher admission SBP, diastolic BP, pulse pressure, and mean arterial pressure were independently associated with the risk of recurrent stroke, while the 24-hour BP levels were not.

Conclusions—

In young ischemic stroke patients, high acute phase BP levels are independently associated with a high risk of recurrent strokes.
The Super Greenhouse Effect in a Changing Climate
Authors: Stephens Graeme L. , Kahn Brian H. , Richardson Mark
Published: May 2016

In all outputs of the 1% yr−1 increase in CO2 climate model experiments archived under the World Climate Research Programme’s (WCRP) phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5), regions exist in the low latitudes where both the clear-sky and all-sky OLR decrease with surface warming. These are identified as regions of positive longwave feedback and are regions of a super greenhouse effect (SGE). These SGE regions are identified from feedback analysis of the 4 × CO2 abrupt experiments of CMIP5, and despite their existence, there is little agreement across models as to the magnitude of the effect. The general effects of clouds on the SGE are to amplify the clear-sky SGE, but there is also poor agreement on the magnitude of the amplification that varies by an order of magnitude across models. Sensitivity analyses indicate that localized SGE regions are spatially aligned with a large moistening of the upper troposphere. The reduction in clear-sky OLR arises from a reduction in emission in the far IR with nonnegligible contributions from mid-IR emission from the midtroposphere. When viewed in the broader context of meridional heat transport, it is found that of the 1.03-PW rate of heat gained globally, 0.8 PW is absorbed in the tropics and is contributed almost equally by reductions in clear-sky longwave emission (i.e., the clear-sky SGE) and increased absorbed clear-sky solar radiation associated with increased water vapor. The processes that define the clear-sky SGE are shown to be fundamental to the way models accumulate heat and then transport it poleward.
Calving Signature in Ocean Waves at Helheim Glacier and Sermilik Fjord, East Greenland
Authors: Vaňková Irena , Holland David M.
Published: May 2016

When glaciers calve icebergs, a fraction of the released potential energy is radiated away via gravity waves. The characteristics of such waves, caused by iceberg calving on Helheim Glacier in east Greenland, are investigated. Observations were collected from an array of five high-frequency bottom pressure meters placed along Sermilik Fjord. Calving-generated tsunami waves were identified and used to construct a calving event catalog. Calving events are observed to cluster around high and low semidiurnal tides and around high and prior-to-low semimonthly tides. In the postcalving ocean state, discrete spectral peaks associated with calving events are observed, and they are consistent among all the events. A numerical model is used to compute the resonant modes of the fjord and to simulate calving-generated ocean waves. Damped oscillator boundary forcing with 5- to 10-min periods is found to reproduce well the observed properties of calving waves. These observations and modeling are relevant for better understanding of wave dynamics in glacier fjords.
Synoptic Pattern Analysis and Climatology of Ice and Snowstorms in the Southern Great Plains, 1993–2011
Authors: Mullens Esther D. , Leslie Lance M. , Lamb Peter J.
Published: May 2016

Winter storms in the southern United States can significantly impact infrastructure and the economy. In this study, National Centers for Environmental Information Storm Event Database and local climate summaries, are used to develop a spatial climatology of freezing precipitation (freezing rain and ice pellets) and snow over the southern Great Plains, 1993–2011. Principal component analysis is performed on the 500-hPa height field, at the approximate onset time of precipitation, for 33 freezing precipitation and 42 snow case studies, to differentiate common synoptic flow fields associated with precipitation type. The five leading patterns for each precipitation type are retained. Composites of temperature, moisture, pressure, and wind fields are constructed and extended 24 h before and after precipitation initiation to track the storm system evolution. Many 500-hPa flow fields are similar for both precipitation types. However, snow-dominant events have stronger and/or more frequent surface cyclone development. Freezing precipitation is associated with the southward propagation of an Arctic anticyclone well ahead of precipitation, weak or absent surface cyclone formation, and a more western trough axis. High-impact ice storms in the region often have slow-moving upper-level flow, persistent isentropic ascent over a surface quasi-stationary front with strongly positive moisture anomalies, and warm layer airmass trajectories originating over the Gulf of Mexico. The results here are based on a relatively small sample size. However, this work is intended to be useful for forecasters, in particular as a pattern recognition aid in predicting the evolution of precipitation within southern Great Plains winter storms.
Educational Pathways and Change in Crime Between Adolescence and Early Adulthood
Authors: Swisher Raymond R. , Dennison Christopher R.
Published: May 2016

Objectives:

This article examines the relationship between intergenerational educational pathways and change in crime. Moreover, it examines the potential mediating roles of family and employment transitions, economic stressors, and social psychological factors.

Method:

Data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health ( N = 14,742) and negative binomial models are used to assess associations between educational pathways (i.e., upward, downward, and stable) and change in crime between adolescence and early adulthood. Selection effects are assessed with lagged dependent variables and controls for self-control, grades, and the Add Health Picture Vocabulary Test.

Results:

Intergenerational educational pathways are significantly associated with changes in crime. Downward educational pathways were predictive of increases in crime, whereas upward pathways were associated with decreases in crime. These associations were partly mediated by family transitions, and more strongly by economic stressors. These results were robust to controls for selection related variables.

Conclusions:

This study is among the first to examine the relationship between intergenerational educational pathways and crime in the United States. Both upward and downward changes in educational attainments were found to be significant for crime. These findings are notable given the continuing expansion of higher education as well as concerns regarding increasing stratification and downward mobility in the United States.
The houseboat in pre-modern China: Technology and culture in mobility history
Authors: Kim Nanny
Published: May 2016

This exploration of the history of the houseboat in China joins three investigative approaches: the context of transport systems, the technological perspective and transformations in cultural preferences. In a long-durational survey, it follows the boat as a means of transport but rarely as a means of travel from antiquity to about the third century. In the following centuries, boats became increasingly common, but they held little prestige compared to the riding horse or the carriage. In the tenth century, houseboats appear as lavish and fashionable means of elite travel, and until the eve of industrialisation remained the preferred mode for all who could afford them. The analysis traces gradual processes in seemingly sudden events and finds that stability may result from upholding traditions across historical ruptures.
Predicting Reading, Spelling, and Mathematical Skills
Authors: Pinto Giuliana , Bigozzi Lucia , Tarchi Christian , Vezzani Claudio , Accorti Gamannossi Beatrice
Published: May 2016

This two-year longitudinal study contributes to the debate between the school readiness and emergent literacy approaches, individuating early markers for reading, spelling, and mathematical skills. Two hundred and two Italian children participated in this study ( M age = 5.6years, SD = 0.3). In kindergarten, a wide range of children’s domain-general and domain-specific skills were assessed through standardized tests. In primary school, children’s reading, spelling, and mathematical competences were assessed through standardized tests. Results showed that domain-specific predictors contribute to the explanation of reading, spelling, and mathematical performances more than domain-general predictors do. Each primary school skill is mainly predicted by their respective domain-specific kindergarten skill, although some cross-domain relations exist, for example, phonological awareness contributing to both reading and mathematical performances.
Adult Attachment, Social Adjustment, and Well-Being in Drug-Addicted Inpatients
Authors: Delvecchio Elisa , Di Riso Daniela , Lis Adriana , Salcuni Silvia
Published: May 2016

In recent years, attachment studies have gathered overwhelming evidence for a relation between insecure attachment and drug addiction. The existing literature predominantly addresses attachment styles and little attention is given to attachment-pattern–oriented studies. The current study explored how attachment, social adjustment, and well-being interact in 40 (28 men, 12 women; ages 20–52 years, M = 32.3, SD = 9.4) inpatients with drug addiction. The Adult Attachment Projective Picture System (AAP), the Social Adjustment Scale–Self-report (SAS-SR), and the General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) were administered. Descriptive statistics were computed as well as differences between patterns of attachment in all variables were measured. None of the inpatients showed a secure attachment pattern: 7 scored as dismissing (18%), 5 preoccupied (12%) and 28 unresolved (70%). AAP stories were mainly connected with themes of danger, lack of protection, and helplessness. Inpatients classified as unresolved reported significantly higher maladjustment on the SAS-SR and GHQ-28 than those with resolved attachment patterns. Implications for clinicians and researchers are presented.
Quieting Speech: Establishing a Buffer Zone Around Reproductive Freedom
Authors: Reines Victoria
Published: May 2016

The First Amendment and reproductive freedom have recently been pitted against each other on more than one occasion. In June 2014, the Supreme Court held that a Massachusetts law creating a buffer zone in front of abortion-providing centers was a violation of the First Amendment. In Maryland, the city of Baltimore and Montgomery County have passed ordinances to regulate crisis pregnancy centers (“CPCs”), which would effectively require the facilities to advertise that they are not medically licensed and do not provide abortion care. The president of a group of CPCs describes CPCs as “organizations out to offer ‘pro-life counseling;’” pro-choice proponents, however, “argue that the centers are deceptive, presenting themselves as medical facilities and even abortion clinics in order to lure pregnant women in, and then bombard them with guilt trips, emotional abuse, and even lies in an effort to keep them from having abortions.” In two cases, CPCs in Maryland have sued to enjoin these ordinances.
Uncertainty and disturbance estimator-assisted control of a two-axis active magnetic bearing
Authors: Kuperman Alon
Published: May 2016

In this paper, a robust nonlinear control strategy is developed for a class of second-order nonlinear uncertain systems with uncertainties and disturbances and is applied to two-axis active magnetic bearing position stabilization. The approach is based on a feedback linearization method, robustified by the uncertainty and disturbance estimator, which calculates and robustly cancels system uncertainties and disturbances via appropriate filtering. The controller uses the information regarding the known part of plant dynamics while the terms containing unknown dynamics are treated as additional system uncertainties and disturbances. The algorithm provides excellent performance in stabilizing the active magnetic bearing position and rejecting disturbances both at standstill and under movement. Simulations are given to show the effectiveness of the strategy via an application to an experimentally derived active magnetic bearing model.
The Relations of Preschool Children’s Emotion Knowledge and Socially Appropriate Behaviors to Peer Likability
Authors: Sette Stefania , Spinrad Tracy L. , Baumgartner Emma
Published: May 2016

The purpose of the present study was to examine the relations of children’s emotion knowledge (and its components) and socially appropriate behavior to peer likability in a sample of Italian preschool children at two time-points. At both Time 1 (T1; n = 46 boys, 42 girls) and a year later at Time 2 (T2; n = 26 boys, 22 girls), children’s emotion knowledge (i.e., emotion recognition, situation knowledge) was assessed, teachers evaluated children’s socially appropriate behavior, and peer likability was measured using a sociometric procedure. A two-wave autoregressive cross-lagged model indicated that children’s T1 emotion recognition was associated with higher T2 socially appropriate behavior, and children’s T1 socially appropriate behavior was related to higher T2 peer likability, even after controlling for stability in the constructs. Socially appropriate behavior mediated the relation between preschool children’s emotion recognition and peer likability. No bidirectional associations were found. The results support the notion that teacher training should focus on promoting children’s emotion knowledge to create a classroom atmosphere characterized by positive social behaviors and harmonious peer relationships across the preschool years.
Understanding domestic violence in rural spaces
Authors: Little Jo
Published: May 2016

This paper responds to calls for geographers to engage critically with the claim that ‘violence sits in places’ in the analysis of domestic violence in rural areas. It argues the need to develop conceptual understandings of the spatialized and embodied experience of domestic violence in the countryside. Drawing on debates about what counts as violence and on feminist work on domestic violence as intimate terrorism, the paper explores ways in which experiences of violence (and associated fear) are shaped by particular constructions and performances of rural masculinity and by the social and cultural relations that continue to characterize rural communities.
Baseline Psychological Treatment Reduces the Effect of Coaching in a Randomised Trial of a Depression Self-Care Intervention
Authors: McCusker Jane , Cole Martin , Lambert Sylvie , Yaffe Mark , Ciampi Antonio , Belzile Eric
Published: May 2016

Objective:

To explore the effects of baseline psychological and antidepressant medication treatment in a trial of lay telephone coaching in a low-intensity, supported depression self-care intervention.

Method:

A single blind, individually randomised, pragmatic trial was conducted among primary care adults with chronic physical conditions and comorbid depressive symptoms. Eligible subjects were randomised to receive a depression self-care toolkit with (intervention group) or without (control group) telephone coaching provided by trained lay coaches. For this brief communication, a secondary analysis of the trial data focused on the effects of baseline psychological and antidepressant treatments on mental health outcomes (Patient Health Questionnaire 9 [PHQ-9], SF-12 Mental Component Summary [MCS], Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7 [GAD-7]) and satisfaction with the intervention.

Results:

In total, 223 patients were randomised, and 165 (74.0%) completed both 3- and 6-month follow-ups. There were 2 significant interactions of baseline treatment and study group for 6-month mental health outcomes. A significant benefit of coaching on 6-month PHQ-9 was seen only among participants who were not receiving baseline psychological treatment. A smaller interaction was found for baseline antidepressant medications and 6-month mental health. There was a significant main effect for baseline psychological treatment and lower 6-month satisfaction.

Conclusions:

Depressed patients receiving baseline psychological treatment may not benefit from lay coaching offered as part of a low-intensity depression self-care intervention.
Identifying Barriers and Enablers in the Dietary Management of Type 2 Diabetes in M’Bour, Senegal
Authors: Foley Evan , BeLue Rhonda
Published: May 2016

The purpose of this study was to identify cultural enablers and barriers to dietary management of type 2 diabetes in M’Bour, Senegal. This qualitative study used the PEN-3 cultural model to explore diabetes dietary management within a cultural framework. Content analysis identified emergent themes based on the PEN-3 model. Forty-one individuals completed interviews. Themes reflecting ways that culture affects adherence to the diabetic diet included (a) having a different diet or eating separately from the communal family plate creates feelings of social isolation; (b) forgoing the diabetic diet sometimes occurs so that family members have enough food; (c) reducing servings of traditional foods feels like abandoning culture; and (d) women being responsible for preparing food, while men typically manage money for purchasing food yet do not provide input on what food is purchased. Results suggest that educating family units on the dietary management of diabetes may be more effective than individual education.
Engaging GPs in commissioning: realist evaluation of the early experiences of Clinical Commissioning Groups in the English NHS
Authors: McDermott Imelda , Checkland Kath , Coleman Anna , Osipovič Dorota , Petsoulas Christina , Perkins Neil
Published: May 2016

Objectives

To explore the ‘added value’ that general practitioners (GPs) bring to commissioning in the English NHS. We describe the experience of Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) in the context of previous clinically led commissioning policy initiatives.

Methods

Realist evaluation. We identified the programme theories underlying the claims made about GP ‘added value’ in commissioning from interviews with key informants. We tested these theories against observational data from four case study sites to explore whether and how these claims were borne out in practice.

Results

The complexity of CCG structures means CCGs are quite different from one another with different distributions of responsibilities between the various committees. This makes it difficult to compare CCGs with one another. Greater GP involvement was important but it was not clear where and how GPs could add most value. We identified some of the mechanisms and conditions which enable CCGs to maximize the ‘added value’ that GPs bring to commissioning.

Conclusion

To maximize the value of clinical input, CCGs need to invest time and effort in preparing those involved, ensuring that they systematically gather evidence about service gaps and problems from their members, and engaging members in debate about the future shape of services.
Axial compressive behavior of square reinforced concrete columns confined using two layers of stirrups
Authors: Wu Dong-Yan , Sun Lin-Zhu , Yang Fang , Zhao Jun-Liang , Li Wei
Published: May 2016

Reinforced concrete column confined using two layers of stirrups is a new kind of column form recently proposed by the authors. The concrete of the column is under three different levels of confinement, namely unconfined concrete cover, singly confined, and doubly confined concrete core. This column form provides a simple but effective solution for reinforced concrete columns located in seismic hazard zones and/or reinforced concrete columns with large axial load ratio, where large amount of transverse reinforcement is necessary to achieve a ductile response. This study aims to investigate the axial compressive behavior of square reinforced concrete columns confined using two layers of stirrups. In total, 15 columns were prepared and tested under axial compression. Two different stirrup configurations were investigated. The axial responses and the failure modes of the columns were examined in detail, and the average stress–strain curve of the singly confined and doubly confined concrete core was derived. A stress–strain model with satisfactory accuracy was proposed based on the interpretation of test results.
Laboratory evaluation of polychlorinated biphenyls encapsulation methods
Authors: Liu Xiaoyu , Guo Zhishi , Krebs Kenneth A. , Roache Nancy F. , Stinson Rayford A. , Nardin Joshua A. , Pope Robert H. , Mocka Corey A. , Logan Russell D.
Published: May 2016

Effectiveness and limitations of encapsulation methods for reducing polychlorinated biphenyls concentration in indoor air and abating contaminated surface have been evaluated. Ten coating materials such as epoxy and polyurethane coatings, latex paint and petroleum-based paint were tested in small environmental chambers to rank encapsulants by their resistance to polychlorinated biphenyl sorption (sink chamber tests) and to determine key parameters for consideration by a barrier model. Wipe samples were collected from polychlorinated biphenyl contaminated surfaces encapsulated with coating materials to rank encapsulants by their resistance to polychlorinated biphenyl migration from the source. A barrier model was used to calculate the polychlorinated biphenyl concentration gradient in the source and encapsulant layers on exposed surfaces of encapsulants and in room air at different times. The performance of encapsulants was ranked by those concentrations and polychlorinated biphenyl percentage reductions. Overall, the three epoxy coatings performed better than other coatings. Both experimental results and mathematical modelling showed that selecting proper encapsulants can effectively reduce polychlorinated biphenyl concentrations on exposed surfaces. The encapsulation method could be an effective short-term abatement technique for containing emission of low levels of polychlorinated biphenyls from contaminated surfaces. Barrier models are useful tools for ranking the relative performances of encapsulants once their material/material K1,2, material/air partition coefficients ( Kma) and solid-phase diffusion coefficients ( Dm) are obtained.
Fatigue damage diagnostics and prognostics of composites utilizing structural health monitoring data and stochastic processes
Authors: Eleftheroglou Nick , Loutas Theodoros
Published: May 2016

The procedure of damage accumulation in composites, especially during fatigue loading, is a complex phenomenon of stochastic nature which depends on a number of parameters such as type and frequency of loading, stacking sequence, material properties, and so on. Toward condition-based health monitoring and decision making, the need for not only diagnostic but also prognostic tools rises and draws increasing attention in the last few years. To this direction, we model the damage evolution in composites as a doubly stochastic hidden Markov process that manifests itself via structural health monitoring observations, that is, acoustic emission data. The damage process is modeled via an extension of the classic hidden Markov models to account for nonhomogeneity, that is, age dependence in state transitions. The observations come from acoustic emission data recorded throughout fatigue testing of open-hole carbon–epoxy coupons. A procedure that utilizes multiple observation sequences from a training dataset and estimates in a maximum likelihood sense the optimal model parameters is presented and applied in unseen data via a cross-validation rationale. Diagnostics of the most likely health state determination, average degradation level, and prognostics of the remaining useful life are among the capabilities of the presented stochastic model.
A Systematic Review of Spiritually Based Interventions and Psychoneuroimmunological Outcomes in Breast Cancer Survivorship
Authors: Hulett Jennifer M. , Armer Jane M.
Published: May 2016

Objective. This is a review of spiritually based interventions (eg, mindfulness-based stress reduction) that utilized psychoneuroimmunological (PNI) outcome measures in breast cancer survivors. Specifically, this review sought to examine the evidence regarding relationships between spiritually based interventions, psychosocial-spiritual outcomes, and biomarker outcomes in breast cancer survivors. Methods. A systematic search of 9 online databases was conducted for articles of original research, peer-reviewed, randomized and nonrandomized control trials from 2005-2015. Data were extracted in order to answer selected questions regarding relationships between psychosocial-spiritual and physiological measures utilized in spiritually based interventions. Implications for future spiritually based interventions in breast cancer survivorship are discussed. Results. Twenty-two articles were reviewed. Cortisol was the most common PNI biomarker outcome studied. Compared with control groups, intervention groups demonstrated positive mental health outcomes and improved or stable neuroendocrine-immune profiles, although limitations exist. Design methods have improved with regard to increased use of comparison groups compared with previous reviews. There are few spiritually based interventions that specifically measure religious or spiritual constructs. Similarly, there are few existing studies that utilize standardized religious or spiritual measures with PNI outcome measures. Findings suggest that a body of knowledge now exists in support of interventions with mindfulness-breathing-stretching components; furthermore, these interventions appear to offer potential improvement or stabilization of neuroendocrine-immune activity in breast cancer survivors compared to control groups. Conclusion. From a PNI perspective, future spiritually based interventions should include standardized measures of religiousness and spirituality in order to understand relationships between and among religiousness, spirituality, and neuroendocrine-immune outcomes. Future research should now focus on determining the minimum dose and duration needed to improve or stabilize neuroendocrine-immune function, as well as diverse setting needs, including home-based practice for survivors who are too ill to travel to group sessions or lack economic resources.
Results of Operative Intervention for Finger Stiffness After Fractures of the Hand
Authors: Lutsky Kevin F. , Matzon Jonas L. , Dwyer Joseph , Kim Nayoung , Beredjiklian Pedro K.
Published: May 2016

Background: Posttraumatic finger stiffness can occur as a result of hand fractures. The purpose was to assess and quantify the improvement in range of motion (ROM) after surgical management of the stiff finger in patients who developed loss of motion following treatment for a metacarpal or phalangeal fracture. In addition, an aim was to identify possible risk factors for suboptimal improvement in ROM postoperatively. Methods: A retrospective review was performed on 18 patients who underwent surgery to improve finger stiffness following metacarpal or phalangeal fracture. Demographic data including age, initial diagnosis and treatment, health history, and worker’s compensation status were collected. We determined the number of specific procedures performed at the time of surgery, the number of days between surgical release and initiation of therapy, and the total active motion (TAM) prior to surgical release and at the patient’s last follow-up. Results: Mean TAM improved from 150° preoperatively (range 60°-241°) to 191° postoperatively (range 61°-271°). Most patients required multiple anatomic structures released concomitantly, with an average of 3.1. Patients who started physical therapy within 7 days of the release improved by 59°, whereas those who started physical therapy after 7 days (average 11.5 days) lost 19° of motion. Patients who had filed a worker’s compensation claim improved an average of 9°, whereas nonworker’s compensation patients improved an average of 58°. Degree of TAM improvement had a weak correlation with patient age or preoperative TAM. Conclusions: Surgical release for stiff fingers following hand fractures can offer modest improvements in ROM in some patients. Although the overall increase in motion as a result of these operations is generally limited, functional improvement can be obtained. Delay in initiating physical therapy is a risk factor for persistent or worsened stiffness. Patients involved in worker’s compensation claims demonstrated significantly lower TAM improvement after surgical intervention.
Pleomorphic Hyalinizing Angiectatic Tumor Arising in the Hand
Authors: Kane Patrick M. , Gaspar Michael P. , Whiting Benjamin B. , Culp Randall W.
Published: May 2016

Background: Background: Pleomorphic hyalinizing angiectatic tumors (PHATs) are extremely rare, non-metastasizing tumors of uncertain origin that are typically seen in the lower extremities. To date, it is estimated that less than 100 cases have been reported worldwide since first described in 1996. Methods: The case of a 35-year-old male with a several-year history of a dorsal hand mass is presented. Although the patient was initially asymptomatic, in the months prior to presentation, the patient complained of pain with power grasp and direct pressure over the mass. The patient underwent uncomplicated surgical excision, during which the mass was noted to be adherent to the underlying extensor tendons. Results: Immunopathology confirmed the mass to be PHAT. We believe this is the first documented case of this rare tumor occurring in the hand. Conclusions: History and epidemiology of PHAT are reviewed. Then, in the context of the presented case, pre-operative evaluation, surgical management, pathologic findings and post-operative follow-up are all discussed.
A Cross-Sectional Study of Musculoskeletal Health Literacy in Patients With Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Rosenbaum Andrew J. , Dunkman Andrew , Goldberg Daniel , Uhl Richard L. , Mulligan Michael
Published: May 2016

Background: Approximately 33% of Americans have inadequate health literacy, which is associated with infrequent use of preventative services, increased hospitalization and use of emergency care, and worse control of chronic diseases. In this study, the Literacy in Musculoskeletal Problems (LiMP) questionnaire was used to evaluate the prevalence of limited musculoskeletal literacy in patients undergoing carpal tunnel release (CTR), as these individuals may be at increased risk of inferior outcomes. Methods: This cross-sectional study included individuals older than or equal to 18 years of age who were scheduled for elective CTR. Participants completed a demographic survey and the LiMP questionnaire during their preoperative office visit. The prevalence of limited health literacy was determined, with chi-square analysis used to determine the influence of demographic parameters. Results: The mean LiMP score was 6 ± 1.40. Limited musculoskeletal literacy was seen in 34% of participants (22/65). Analysis identified race (Caucasian), gender (female), higher education levels (≥college), current or prior employment in a health care field, and a prior physician visit for a non–carpal tunnel musculoskeletal complaint as being associated with higher literacy rates. Conclusions: Approximately one-third of patients scheduled for elective CTR have limited musculoskeletal literacy and may lack the necessary skills required for making informed decisions regarding their care. This is concerning, as CTR is performed in the United States on roughly 500 000 individuals annually, at an estimated cost of 2 billion dollars. The identification of those most at risk is thus crucial, and will facilitate the development of education campaigns and interventions geared toward those who are most vulnerable.