bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uncovering Multivariate Structure in Classroom Observations in the Presence of Rater Errors
Authors: McCaffrey Daniel F. , Yuan Kun , Savitsky Terrance D. , Lockwood J. R. , Edelen Maria O.
Published: December 2014

We examine the factor structure of scores from the CLASS‐S protocol obtained from observations of middle school classroom teaching. Factor analysis has been used to support both interpretations of scores from classroom observation protocols, like CLASS‐S, and the theories about teaching that underlie them. However, classroom observations contain multiple sources of error, most predominantly rater errors. We demonstrate that errors in scores made by two raters on the same lesson have a factor structure that is distinct from the factor structure at the teacher level. Consequently, the “standard” approach of analyzing on teacher‐level average dimension scores can yield incorrect inferences about the factor structure at the teacher level and possibly misleading evidence about the validity of scores and theories of teaching. We consider alternative hierarchical estimation approaches designed to prevent the contamination of estimated teacher‐level factors. These alternative approaches find a teacher‐level factor structure for CLASS‐S that consists of strongly correlated support and classroom management factors. Our results have implications for future studies using factor analysis on classroom observation data to develop validity evidence and test theories of teaching and for practitioners who rely on the results of such studies to support their use and interpretation of the classroom observation scores.
Media Endorsements of New Product Announcements: A New Marketing Strategy
Authors: Doukas Angelos J. , Guo Jie (Michael) , Lam Herbert Y. T. , Xiao Sarah (Hong)
Published: December 2014

This paper examines whether investors' decisions are influenced by the word content of newspaper reports of new product announcements. Using textual analysis we find that announcements of new products covered by financial newspapers with positive word content earn significant abnormal returns. These returns are 270 basis points higher than new products without positive word coverage, and such announcements bring negative impact to their rival firms' value. Our results suggest that the market reacts to the linguistic content of the new product announcement rather than to the announcement itself.
The linear‐elastic Theory of Critical Distances to estimate high‐cycle fatigue strength of notched metallic materials at elevated temperatures
Authors: Louks R. , Susmel L.
Published: December 2014

This paper investigates the accuracy of the linear‐elastic Theory of Critical Distances (TCD) in estimating high‐cycle fatigue strength of notched metallic materials experiencing elevated temperatures during in‐service operations. The TCD postulates that the fatigue damage extent can be estimated by directly post‐processing the entire linear‐elastic stress field acting on the material in the vicinity of the crack initiation locations. The key feature of this theory is that the high‐cycle fatigue assessment is based on a scale length parameter that is assumed to be a material property. The accuracy of this design method was checked against a number of experimental results generated, under axial loading, by testing, at 250 °C, notched specimens of carbon steel C45. To further investigate the reliability of the TCD, its accuracy was also checked via several data taken from the literature, these experimental results being generated by testing notched samples of Inconel 718 at 500 °C as well as notched specimens of directionally solidified superalloy DZ125 at 850 °C. This validation exercise allowed us to prove that the linear‐elastic TCD is successful in estimating high‐cycle fatigue strength of notched metallic materials exposed to elevated temperature, resulting in estimates falling within an error interval of ±20%. Such a high level of accuracy suggests that, in situations of practical interest, reliable high‐cycle fatigue assessment can be performed without the need for taking into account those non‐linearities characterising the mechanical behaviour of metallic materials at high temperature, the used critical distance being still a material property whose value does not depend on the sharpness of the notch being designed.
Long‐term changes in structure and function of a tropical headwater stream following a disease‐driven amphibian decline
Authors: Rantala Heidi M. , Nelson Amanda M. , Fulgoni Jessica N. , Whiles Matt R. , Hall Robert O. , Dodds Walter K. , Verburg Piet , Huryn Alex D. , Pringle Catherine M. , Kilham Susan S. , Lips Karen R. , Colon‐Gaud Checo , Rugenski Amanda T. , Peterson Scot D. , Fritz Kelley , McLeran Kerry E. , Connelly Scott
Published: December 2014

Taxonomic and functional diversity in freshwater habitats is rapidly declining, but we know little about how such declines will ultimately affect ecosystems. Neotropical streams are currently experiencing massive losses of amphibians, with many losses linked to the chytrid fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd).

We examined the ecological consequences of the disease‐driven loss of amphibians from a Panamanian stream. We quantified basal resources, macroinvertebrates, N uptake and fluxes through food‐web components and ecosystem metabolism in 2012 and 2014 and compared them to pre‐decline (2006) and 2 year post‐decline (2008) values from a prior study.

Epilithon biomass accrued after the decline, more than doubling between 2006 and 2012, but then decreased fivefold from 2012 to 2014. In contrast, suspended particulate organic matter (SPOM) concentrations declined continuously after the amphibian decline through 2014.

Biomass of filter‐feeding, grazing and shredding macroinvertebrates decreased from 2006 to 2014, while collector–gatherers increased during the same time period. Macroinvertebrate taxa richness decreased from 2006 (52 taxa) to 2012 (30 taxa), with a subsequent increase to 51 taxa in 2014.

Community respiration, which initially decreased after the amphibian decline, remained lower than pre‐decline in 2012 but was greater than pre‐decline values in 2014. Gross primary production remained low and similar among years, while uptake length in both 2012 and 2014 was longer than pre‐decline. Nitrogen flux to epilithon increased after the decline and continued to do so through 2014, but N fluxes to fine particulate organic matter and SPOM decreased and remained low.

Our findings underscore the importance of studying the ecological consequences of declining biodiversity in natural systems over relatively long time periods. There was no evidence of functional redundancy or compensation by other taxa after the loss of amphibians, even after 8 years.
Homogenization of fish assemblages in different lake depth strata at local and regional scales
Authors: Menezes Rosemberg F. , Borchsenius Finn , Svenning Jens‐Christian , Davidson Thomas A. , Søndergaard Martin , Lauridsen Torben L. , Landkildehus Frank , Jeppesen Erik
Published: December 2014

Eutrophication alters the trophic dynamics in lakes and may result in homogenisation of biotic communities. How nutrient enrichment drives patterns of homogenisation of fish species composition at within‐lake (local) and among‐lake (regional) scales is, however, not well studied.

To test for homogenisation in fish communities, we analysed number, biomass and individual mean body mass of the different fish species present in 53 Danish lakes with contrasting depths, surface area and eutrophication.

A combination of uni‐ and multivariate techniques revealed that eutrophication homogenises fish community composition in the littoral zone of both shallow and deep lakes at within‐ and among‐lake scales, a notable contrast being that community composition was not homogenised in the offshore in deep lakes.

In addition, fish species richness and diversity converged with progressive eutrophication and mean lake depth in all lake zones. For deep lakes, surface area was positively related to increasing differences in fish species richness and diversity.

Increased homogeneity of this key assemblage may have profound implications for ecosystems and their stability (such as decreased resilience to disturbance, reduced biological complexity and increased vulnerability to large‐scale and stochastic environmental events).

Thus, to fully understand the impacts of eutrophication on aquatic communities at both local and regional scales, the effects of nutrient enrichment on compositional heterogeneity should be considered.
The hydrochemical response of small and shallow floodplain water bodies to temporary surface water connections with the main river
Authors: Weigelhofer Gabriele , Preiner Stefan , Funk Andrea , Bondar‐Kunze Elisabeth , Hein Thomas
Published: December 2014

We investigated the effects of temporary surface water connections with the main river on the water chemistry of large and small waterbodies in a Danube floodplain by comparing hydrochemical data before, during and after water exchange with the Danube during two large floods in 2009 and 2013. In addition, we studied the effects of an increased frequency of flood pulses on the water chemistry of the floodplain via long‐term monitoring data.

We used conservative (i.e. biologically non‐reactive) parameters (alkalinity, Ca, Cl, K, Mg, Na, SO4, conductivity) to identify hydrochemical changes due to the mixing with river water. Changes in non‐conservative parameters (PO4‐P, NO3‐N, NO2‐N, NH4‐N, total phosphorus, dissolved organic carbon, dissolved oxygen, chlorophyll‐a), which deviated from pure mixing effects, were ascribed to alterations of biogeochemical processes induced by the imported river water.

In large floodplain waterbodies, both conservative and non‐conservative parameters changed towards Danube water concentrations during the connection with the main river and returned to pre‐connection levels after the water exchange ended. Only chlorophyll‐a concentrations were almost twice as high in the post‐connection phase than before the connection.

In small floodplain waterbodies, conservative and non‐conservative parameters showed similar changes during the connection with the main river. However, the concentrations of PO4‐P, total phosphorus and chlorophyll‐a did not return to pre‐connection levels, but increased further in the post‐connection phase, exceeding even Danube water concentrations. We attribute these changes to phosphorus releases from the sediments and enhanced primary and bacterial production induced by the river water.

In years with an increased flooding frequency, both conservative and non‐conservative parameters approached Danube water concentrations in large floodplain waterbodies due to the increased surface water exchange. In small floodplain waterbodies, conservative parameters remained unaffected by the increased connection with the river, while nitrate, ammonium, phosphate, total phosphorus and chlorophyll‐a concentrations were considerably higher in wet years than in dry years.

We conclude that the temporary input of oxygen‐ and nutrient‐rich river water to small, mainly isolated backwaters can induce changes in benthic biogeochemical processes, which may provoke an internal eutrophication of these waterbodies.
Metacommunity organisation, spatial extent and dispersal in aquatic systems: patterns, processes and prospects
Authors: Heino Jani , Melo Adriano S. , Siqueira Tadeu , Soininen Janne , Valanko Sebastian , Bini Luis Mauricio
Published: December 2014

Metacommunity ecology addresses the situation where sets of local communities are connected by the dispersal of a number of potentially interacting species. Aquatic systems (e.g. lentic versus lotic versus marine) differ from each other in connectivity and environmental heterogeneity, suggesting that metacommunity organisation also differs between major aquatic systems. Here, we review findings from observational field studies on metacommunity organisation in aquatic systems.

Species sorting (i.e. species are ‘filtered’ by environmental factors and occur only at environmentally suitable sites) prevails in aquatic systems, particularly in streams and lakes, but the degree to which dispersal limitation interacts with such environmental control varies among different systems and spatial scales. For example, mainstem rivers and marine coastal systems may be strongly affected by ‘mass effects’ (i.e. where high dispersal rates homogenise communities to some degree at neighbouring localities, irrespective of their abiotic and biotic environmental conditions), whereas isolated lakes and ponds may be structured by dispersal limitation (i.e. some species do not occur at otherwise‐suitable localities simply because sites with potential colonists are too far away). Flow directionality in running waters also differs from water movements in other systems, and this difference may also have effects on the role of dispersal in different aquatic systems.

Dispersal limitation typically increases with increasing spatial distance between sites, mass effects potentially increase in importance with decreasing distance between sites, and the dispersal ability of organisms may determine the spatial extents at which species sorting and dispersal processes are most important.

A better understanding of the relative roles of species sorting, mass effects and dispersal limitation in affecting aquatic metacommunities requires the following: (i) characterising dispersal rates more directly or adopting better proxies than have been used previously; (ii) considering the nature of aquatic networks; (iii) combining correlative and experimental approaches; (iv) exploring temporal aspects of metacommunity organisation and (v) applying past approaches and statistical methods innovatively for increasing our understanding of metacommunity organisation.
USPIO‐related T1 and T2 mapping MRI of cartilage in a rabbit model of blood‐induced arthritis: a pilot study
Authors: Amirabadi A. , Vidarsson L. , Miller E. , Sussman M. S. , Patil K. , Gahunia H. , Peel S. A. F. , Zhong A. , Weiss R. , Detzler G. , Cheng H. L. M. , Moineddin R. , Doria A. S.
Published: December 2014

Ultrasmall paramagnetic iron oxide (USPIO)‐enhanced MRI is promising for evaluating inflammation. The aims of this study were to investigate the effect of USPIO on cartilage T1 and T2 mapping, and to evaluate a proposed rapid vs. conventional T2 map method for imaging cartilage in a blood‐induced arthritis model. Knees of nine arthritic (induction by intra‐articular autologous blood injection) and six control rabbits were imaged over time (baseline, weeks 1, 5, 10) by 1.5T MRI. All rabbits had USPIO (35–75 μmol Fe/kg)‐enhanced MRI at each time point. T1 and T2 (conventional and rapid) maps and signal‐to‐noise ratios (SNR) were obtained pre‐ and post‐USPIO administration. Cartilage biochemistry and histology were compared with MRI. Excellent correlations were noted between T1 map values and histologic scores at week 10 pre‐USPIO (medial, r = 0.93, P = 0.0007; lateral, r = 0.87, P = 0.005) in the arthritic group, but not between T2 map and histology. Marginally and significant differences were observed between pre‐ and post‐USPIO T2 values at weeks 5 (P = 0.06) and 10 (P = 0.02), but only with the administration of high USPIO doses in the arthritic group using the conventional method. No significant differences were noted between pre‐ and post‐USPIO T1 values at any imaging time points. Cartilage T2 maps with short‐TR and conventional protocols provided similar T2 values [(decreased trend)] (P > 0.05). Concomitant use of USPIO to T1 and T2 mapping of cartilage would not impair the identification of interval changes of T1 and T2 maps. Rapid T2 map provides similar results compared to conventional method, but its validation warrants further investigation.
Comprehensive evaluation of haemostatic function in von Willebrand disease patients using a microchip‐based flow chamber system
Authors: Ogiwara K. , Nogami K. , Hosokawa K. , Ohnishi T. , Matsumoto T. , Shima M.
Published: December 2014

The diagnosis of von Willebrand disease (VWD) is difficult due to the wide spectrum of clinical phenotypes associated with this disorder. We have analysed and characterized haemostatic function in VWD patients using a microchip‐based flow chamber system. Microchips coated with either collagen [platelet (PL)‐chip] or collagen/thromboplastin [atherome (AR)‐chip] were used to evaluate platelet thrombus formation at 1000 s−1 and fibrin‐rich platelet thrombus formation at 240 s−1 respectively. Blood samples from an asymptomatic patient with VWD type 1 [von Willebrand factor (VWF): RCo 3.2%; bleeding score (BS 2] displayed normal thrombus formation in both PL‐ and AR‐chips, whereas blood from a symptomatic type 1 patient (VWF: RCo 14%, BS 9) had significantly delayed capillary occlusion. Nearly complete suppression of the flow pressure increase was observed in symptomatic patients with VWD type 2A (BS 13) and 2N (BS 27), whereas no flow pressure was found for the type 3 patient (BS 6). Fibrin‐rich platelet thrombus formation was only weakly increased by the in vitro addition of factor VIII (FVIII) to blood samples from the type 3 patient, but was normalized by the addition of VWF/FVIII. The in vivo effects of treatment with desmopressin or VWF/FVIII for the symptomatic patients were analysed using two types of microchips. The PL‐chip was highly sensitive for patients’ VWF‐mediated platelet functions, whereas the AR‐chip allowed assessment of overall haemostatic ability, including sensitivity to both VWF and FVIII. The combined analysis with PL‐ and AR‐chips may be potentially useful for the diagnosis of VWD based on clinical phenotypes, and for monitoring drug effects.
Kinetic Oscillation Stimulation as Treatment of Acute Migraine: A Randomized, Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: Juto Jan‐Erik , Hallin Rolf G.
Published: December 2014

Objective

To assess the relief of migraine pain, especially in the acute phase, by comparing active treatment, ie, kinetic oscillation stimulation (KOS) in the nasal cavity, with placebo.

Background

Exploratory trials testing the efficacy of KOS on migraine patients indicated that this treatment could be a fast‐acting remedy for acute migraine pain.

Method

Thirty‐six patients were randomized 1:1 using a placebo module to active or placebo treatment in this double‐blinded parallel design study. Treatment was administered with a minimally invasive inflatable tip oscillating catheter. Symptom scores (0–10 visual analog scale) were obtained before treatment, every 5 minutes during treatment, at 15 minutes, 2, and 24 hours post‐treatment, as well as daily (0–3 migraine pain scale) from 30 days pretreatment until Day 60 post. Thirty‐five patients were evaluated (active n = 18, placebo n = 17). The primary end‐point was the change in average pain score from before treatment to 15 minutes after treatment.

Results

Patients who received active treatment reported reduced pain, eg, average visual analog scale pain scores fell from 5.5 before treatment to 1.2 15 minutes after, while the corresponding scores for recipients of placebo fell from 4.9 to 3.9. The changes in pain scores differed between the 2 treatments by 3.3 points (95% confidence interval: 2.3, 4.4), P < .001. Already 5 minutes into the treatment, the difference (1.9 points) was significant (P = .007). The difference was likewise significant at 2 hours post‐treatment (3.7 points, P < .001). One patient experienced an adverse event (a vasovagal reaction with full spontaneous recovery) during placebo treatment.

Conclusion

KOS is an effective and safe treatment for acute migraine pain.
Pain Beliefs and Perceptions Inventory: A Cross‐Sectional Study in Chronic and Episodic Migraine
Authors: Condello Cecilia , Piano Virginie , Dadam Daria , Pinessi Lorenzo , Lantéri‐Minet Michel
Published: December 2014

Objective/Background

This study aims to compare differences in pain beliefs according to headache type, chronic vs episodic migraine, in a large cohort of patients, using thePainBeliefs andPerceptionsInventory (PBPI), and to identify possible predictive factors of the same pain beliefs.

Methods

All patients referring for the first time at our center in 2011 were screened usingPBPIand theHamiltonAnxiety andDepressionScale (a total of 1032 patients).PBPIis a 4‐subscale questionnaire that explores a patient's personal beliefs on their subjective experience of pain. Headache patients also completed theHeadacheImpactTest (HIT‐6) and a 30‐day headache diary. For all participants, age, gender, duration of pain were collected. The sample was narrowed down to 899 as we experienced a nonresponse rate of 12.8%. For the purpose of this study, 2 groups were identified: chronic and episodic migraine, consisting of 116 and 126 patients, respectively, which were compared usingStudent'st‐test; correlation analyses were conducted to investigate the relationship between variables before running a model selection based onAkaike's InformationCriterion to identify possible predictive factors of different pain beliefs. Patients below 18 years of age and those diagnosed with other painful conditions were excluded from the analysis.

Results

Beliefs from chronic and episodic migraine patients were very similar, with only a difference in beliefs related to constancy of pain (Mean value ± SD0.5 ± 1.1 vs −0.6 ± 1.1,P < .001). Predictive factors were depression andHIT‐6 scores for allPBPIsubscales apart from Self‐Blame, which showed a stronger relation to anxiety scores. Number of days with headache per month was correlated to higher constancy values. Diagnosis was a predictive factor for any particular belief.

Discussion

This is the first study, to our knowledge, that addresses differences and predictive factors in pain beliefs according to headache diagnosis. A deeper knowledge of beliefs pattern in patients could lead to better‐tailored psychological management.
Islamic Architecture and Institutions in the Late Medieval City
Authors: Wolper Ethel Sara
Published: December 2014

There are a number of competing and complementary analytic keys to understanding the architecture and institutions of the late medieval Islamic city. My discussion of the socioeconomic place of Islamic architecture within the late medieval city is built around three arguments. The first point is that by the late medieval period, there were a number of crucial institutions, many with recognizable building types, which could be found in most cities in the lands of Islam. Some of these buildings, such as the madrasa, were distinctively Muslim in that they answered to specific needs within Muslim society, in general, and the late medieval period in particular. Others, such as the mausoleum, though found in many societies, formed crucial parts of the late medieval cities of the Islamic world. My second theme is that the study of Islamic architecture and urbanism of the past two decades tells us as much about changes in historiographic focus as it does the special role of architecture within society. Part of this is due to the fact that the field of Islamic urban studies is a relatively new one that has been enriched as well as caught in the search for its own identity. Searches for Iranian, Turkish, and Arab elements not to mention Mediterranean or Asian ones have pushed the field in a number of sometimes conflicting directions that make the study of Islamic architecture and institutions difficult, but as my third point argues, not impossible. My third point is reflected in new and exciting scholarship that focuses on the great urban historians of the medieval period who have left us detailed descriptions of the cities and buildings of the Muslim world.
What do mouse models of muscular dystrophy tell us about the DAPC and its components?
Authors: Whitmore Charlotte , Morgan Jennifer
Published: December 2014

There are over 30 mouse models with mutations or inactivations in the dystrophin‐associated protein complex. This complex is thought to play a crucial role in the functioning of muscle, as both a shock absorber and signalling centre, although its role in the pathogenesis of muscular dystrophy is not fully understood. The first mouse model of muscular dystrophy to be identified with a mutation in a component of the dystrophin‐associated complex (dystrophin) was the mdx mouse in 1984. Here, we evaluate the key characteristics of the mdx in comparison with other mouse mutants with inactivations in DAPC components, along with key modifiers of the disease phenotype. By discussing the differences between the individual phenotypes, we show that the functioning of the DAPC and consequently its role in the pathogenesis is more complicated than perhaps currently appreciated.
Audit Committee Characteristics and Audit Report Lag
Authors: Sultana Nigar , Singh Harjinder , Van der Zahn J‐L. W. Mitchell
Published: December 2014

This study seeks to determine whether audit committee compositional features are associated with the timeliness of financial reporting by Australian firms. Timeliness of financial reporting by firms, of which the length of an audit is a fundamental component, adds information content and impacts firm value, making an examination of audit report lag determinants important. Results indicate that audit committee members with financial expertise, prior audit committee experience and those who are independent are associated with shorter audit report lag. Results suggest that legislation mandating audit committee financial expertise and independence are effective also in improving the timeliness of financial reporting. More importantly, our results suggest that there may be benefits in constituting audit committees with other compositional features such as prior committee experience in overall efforts to improve the timeliness, and therefore quality, of financial reporting by firms.
Wheelchair users as consumers: accessibility of supermarkets in Gaborone, Botswana
Authors: Mafatlane Gertrude R. , Fidzani Lily C. , Gobotswang Kesitegile S.M.
Published: December 2014

Even though some accessibility standards have been set in Botswana to create accessible public buildings including supermarkets by wheelchair users, architectural barriers are still found in these places. The purpose of the study was to assess the interior and exterior accessibility of supermarkets by wheelchair users including determining their shopping experiences. The research used a mixed model study design in which data were collected using an observation checklist to assess 30 supermarkets alongside in‐depth interviews with six wheelchair users. The quantitative data were analysed using the computer software Statistical Packages for Social Sciences 19.0 and qualitative data were grouped into emerging themes. The findings indicated that in the exterior, all supermarkets did not have directional arrows to the disabled parking. However, all the supermarkets had an accessible wide entrance and suitable non‐slippery flooring. The interior revealed that all supermarkets did not have appropriate devises to assist wheelchair users to pick items from higher shelves and in some supermarkets, till counters were high for wheelchair users. From the interviews, the emerging themes were loss of freedom to shop, poor maintenance for disability facilities and disregard for disability parking spaces. In conclusion, while supermarkets had made some provision for wheelchair users from the parking lot to the entrance, there was less accessibility inside the supermarkets. There is need for an Act in Botswana that will ensure accessibility of public spaces.
The effect of latanoprost on vitiligo: a preliminary comparative study
Authors: Anbar Tag S. , El‐Ammawi Tarek S. , Abdel‐Rahman Amal T. , Hanna Michel R.
Published: December 2014

Latanoprost (LT), a prostaglandin F 2alpha (PGF2a) analogue used in the treatment of glaucoma, was found to induce skin pigmentation in guinea pigs in addition to its known periocular and iridal pigmentation side effects. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of topical LT in the induction of skin repigmentation in patients with vitiligo and to compare its potency with narrow band ultraviolet (UV) B (NB‐UVB). The result of their combination was also assessed. This study involved 22 patients with bilateral and symmetrical vitiligo lesions, stable for the last three months, divided into three groups: group I, to evaluate LT vs. placebo; group II, to evaluate LT vs. NB‐UVB; and group III, to evaluate the effect of their combination. The response to treatment was evaluated by taking photographic records of the treated lesions with follow‐up photography every two weeks. After three months, assessment of the degree and extent of repigmentation was performed. Follow‐up assessment was done six months after termination of the trial for the persistence of pigmentation, recurrence, or development of any side effects. LT was found to be better than placebo and comparable with the NB‐UVB in inducing skin repigmentation. This effect was enhanced by the addition of NB‐UVB. LT could be a promising treatment for vitiligo, especially the periocular variant. Its effect on skin repigmentation could be enhanced by NB‐UVB exposure.
Feasibility and cost of a medical student proxy‐based mobile teledermatology consult service with Kisoro, Uganda, and Lake Atitlán, Guatemala
Authors: Greisman Laura , Nguyen Tan M. , Mann Ranon E. , Baganizi Michael , Jacobson Mark , Paccione Gerald A. , Friedman Adam J. , Lipoff Jules B.
Published: December 2014

Background

The expansion of mobile technology and coverage has unveiled new means for delivering medical care to isolated and resource‐poor communities. Teledermatology, or dermatology consultation from a distance using technology, is gaining greater acceptance among physicians and patients.

Objectives

To evaluate feasibility and cost of a smartphone‐based teledermatology consult service utilizing a designated medical student proxy to facilitate all consults on site, and to evaluate the service's effect upon diagnosis and management.

Methods

An IRB‐approved smartphone‐based teledermatology consult service was established to serve two rural communities in the developing world: Kisoro, Uganda, and Lake Atitlán, Guatemala. Fourth‐year medical students were recruited as proxies for each site, responding to consults by local doctors and transmitting photographs and clinical information via a smartphone application to a dermatology resident and attending in the USA over an encrypted website. At the Ugandan site, when indicated, the medical student performed skin biopsies under supervision, and rotating Montefiore residents transported specimens back to the USA.

Results

From October 2011 to August 2012, 93 cases were evaluated by the consult service (57 from Uganda and 36 from Guatemala). Initial diagnoses changed completely in 55.9% (52 of 93) of cases, and management changes were recommended in 89.2% (83 of 93) of cases. The estimated total cost of supplies and technology was 42.01 USD per consult and 64.24 USD per biopsy (including processing). Given fixed upfront costs, the cost per consult decreased with each additional case.

Conclusion

Smartphone‐based systems for teledermatology consultation using a medical student proxy are feasible for delivery of care in the developing world at relatively little cost. Optimization and sustainability of this system requires and deserves further investigation in larger studies.
What Do We Know about Base Erosion and Profit Shifting? A Review of the Empirical Literature
Authors: Dharmapala Dhammika
Published: December 2014

The issue of tax‐motivated income shifting within multinational firms – or ‘base erosion and profit shifting’ (BEPS) – has attracted increasing global attention in recent years. This paper provides a survey of the empirical literature on this topic. Its emphasis is on reviewing and elucidating what is known about the magnitude of BEPS. The paper discusses different empirical approaches to identifying income shifting, describes existing data sources, and summarises the findings of the empirical literature. A major theme that emerges from this survey is that in the more recent empirical literature, which uses new and richer sources of data, the estimated magnitude of BEPS is typically much smaller than that found in earlier studies. The paper seeks to provide a framework within which to conceptualise this magnitude and its implications for policy. It concludes by highlighting the importance of existing legal and economic frictions as constraints on BEPS and by discussing possible ways in which future research might model these frictions more precisely.
Why Are Banks Paying So Little UK Corporation Tax?
Authors: Meeks Geoff , Meeks J. Gay
Published: December 2014

This paper explores the dramatic fall in receipts of UK corporation tax (UKCT) from banks, and the widening gap between the global corporation tax recorded as payable in banks' financial statements and the UKCT receipts recorded by the tax authorities. It reviews possible explanations, including changes in tax rates, in operating profits, in deductions which reduce taxable profits, and in the share of profit originating in, or recorded in, overseas jurisdictions. It assigns significant roles to tax‐deductible asset impairments and to the allocation of profits among different jurisdictions. It suggests reasons why the recovery in banks' global operating profits may not be accompanied by an early sharp recovery in UKCT receipts.
Taxable Corporate Profits
Authors: Griffith Rachel , Miller Helen
Published: December 2014

Revenues from corporate income taxes have remained relatively stable as a share of national income over the last three decades despite reductions in corporate tax rates and increased opportunities for multinational tax avoidance. This is largely explained by an increase in the share of corporate profits in national income. In this paper, we discuss the sources of corporate profits, and specifically corporate taxable profits; these include a normal return to capital investment, returns to labour or entrepreneurial effort that are realised as dividends or capital gains, and returns to market power. We relate these components of profits to the ways that corporate taxes can change incentives to invest or exert effort, and we discuss some implications for policy.
Shifting the Status Quo: Constitutional Reforms in Chile
Authors: Fuentes Claudio
Published: December 2014

This article outlines the factors that explain changes in the rules of the game in Chile after the restoration of democracy in 1990. It looks particularly at the reasons why the right-wing parties—strong defenders of the constitution imposed by General Augusto Pinochet in 1980—accepted reforms that eliminated many of what the literature has termed authoritarian enclaves. The article explains this shift by observing significant changes in the political context that, in turn, affected the priorities of veto players. In this context, short-term strategic calculations by the right-wing parties, aiming to achieve a new balance of power less detrimental to their interests, opened a window of opportunity that led to congressional approval of important reforms. Particular institutional features of the Chilean political system—party discipline and a balance of power in favor of the executive—also helped the political actors to reach agreement.
A cross‐sectional survey of factors related to inpatient assault of staff in a forensic psychiatric hospital
Authors: Kelly Erin L. , Subica Andrew M. , Fulginiti Anthony , Brekke John S. , Novaco Raymond W.
Published: December 2014

Aim

To understand staff factors associated with patient aggression towards the staff of an inpatient forensic psychiatric hospital.

Background

Violence by patients is a serious concern in psychiatric hospitals and staff are the most frequent targets of physical and verbal assault. Assault and its consequences can severely disrupt the hospital environment and impair the functioning of staff members and patients. This study examined the interplay of staff dispositional and interpersonal factors associated with patient violence.

Design

This cross‐sectional study surveyed the staff of a large public forensic hospital.

Methods

A sample of 348 psychiatric staff participated in an online survey about their workplace experiences, psychosocial characteristics and well‐being. Data were collected from November – December 2011.

Findings

Nearly all staff reported verbal conflict with patients (99%) and 70% reported being assaulted during the previous 12 months. Verbal conflict with other staff (92%) was also high. Multiple regression analyses indicated that in addition to static risk factors (i.e. staff position, years of experience and gender), the risk of assault was associated with the frequency of conflicts with staff and patients, which in turn was moderated by personal stress reactivity.

Conclusion

Physical violence by patients was a pervasive threat for a high proportion of staff. Frequent conflict interactions with volatile patients contributed the most risk, but reactivity to conflict was a dynamic risk factor. The strain associated with assault risk and stress reactivity could be prospectively mitigated by resilience enhancement programming for staff.
Plasmacytoid dendritic cells in alopecia areata: missing link?
Authors: Abou Rahal J. , Kurban M. , Kibbi A.‐G. , Abbas O.
Published: December 2014

Background

Type I interferon (IFN) signature has been implicated in alopecia areata (AA). However, type I IFN source has never been documented. Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (PDCs) are generally known to be the main source and most potent producers of local type I IFNs. Their role in AA pathogenesis has never been investigated.

Objective

Investigate PDC role in AA.

Methods

Nineteen AA cases were retrieved from our database and were immunohistochemically tested for PDC occurrence and activity using anti‐BDCA‐2 and anti‐MxA antibodies respectively. Comparison to 10 trichotillomania and 7 androgenetic alopecia (AGA) cases was also done.

Results

Plasmacytoid dendritic cells were present in all AA cases in a peri‐bulbar location and, as indirectly assessed by MxA expression, were in an active state producing type I IFNs. All trichotillomania cases showed the presence of PDCs, though significantly less abundant and in a different distribution (mainly superficial perivascular) than that in AA. PDC presence and MxA expression were absent in AGA.

Conclusions

Plasmacytoid dendritic cells constitute a central component of the peribulbar infiltrate in AA suggesting a significant role in AA pathogenesis. Additionally, PDC distribution could help in microscopically differentiating AA from trichotillomania or AGA.
DNA barcoding of Bradysia (Diptera: Sciaridae) for detection of the immature stages on agricultural crops
Authors: Shin S. , Jung S. , Heller K. , Menzel F. , Hong T. K. , Shin J. S. , Lee S. H. , Lee H. , Lee S.
Published: December 2014

We investigated the usefulness of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase (COI) DNA barcoding of the genus Bradysia for the detection of immature stages and cryptic species complex. Although the larvae of some species in this genus are agricultural pests, immature stages are rarely identified due to the lack of key morphological characteristics. We constructed partial sequences of the COI gene for 25 species of Bradysia as a first step towards a DNA barcode. Using these data, Bradysia impatiens, B. procera and B. peraffinis were identified from larval specimens collected, respectively, from paprika, ginseng and oak sawdust beds used for cultivating shiitake. Our findings reveal a complex of three species within the B. tilicola group. These species were all identified as important pest B. ocellaris based on the morphology of male genital structures; however, the interspecific genetic divergence of the COI region was significantly greater (16.1–19.4%) than the intraspecific variation in each species. Therefore, B. ocellaris may consist of at least three species. The results demonstrate that COI DNA barcodes are useful for Bradysia species identification.
Characteristic Process Variables during the Osmotic Dehydration of Stone Fruits: Experimental Values and Correlations between Components Content
Authors: Rodriguez Anabel , Rodriguez Maria Marcela , Mascheroni Rodolfo Horacio
Published: December 2014

Stone fruits (plums, peaches, nectarines, cherries and apricots) are widely consumed fresh or processed. Osmotic dehydration – immersion of food pieces in hypertonic solutions – is often used as a pretreatment to further conservation procedures for these fruits. Usually, it is characterized determining the variation with time of water loss and solution solids gain. Both variables depend on food size, shape, structure and process conditions, and there are no general correlations for their variation.

As an alternative, it is important to develop relations between water and soluble solids content independent of product characteristics and process conditions.

In this work, we developed experimental values of relevant variables for stone fruits dehydrated in glucose or sorbitol and included them in linear correlations between water content and soluble solids for different stone fruits dehydrated in sugar or polyalcohol solutions and in a general linear correlation that allows to characterize both properties with only one rapid determination (of any of both).

Practical Applications

Linear correlations for the variation of soluble solids content as a function of water content during osmotic dehydration were generalized to a unique linear regression equation independent of type of fruit and/or solute and valid for any process condition, which allows to characterize both properties with only one rapid determination (of any of both). This correlation can be easily used under process conditions to monitor the advance of osmotic dehydration of fruits.
Pulsed‐CO2 Laser Beam Photothermal Technology Combined with Conjugated Gold Nanoparticles for the Selective Elimination of Surface Escherichia Coli K12 from Fresh Fruits
Authors: Chee Grace , Shafel Timothy , Park Sung Hee , Jun Soojin
Published: December 2014

Abstracts

Postharvest methods for microbial decontamination of fresh produce are limited, and chemical treatment is less popular with growing concerns over toxic residues. A photothermal guiding system was developed with a pulsed‐CO2 laser and adjustable two‐ZnSe lens beam expander. The system was optimized to ensure uniform radiation of the sample with respect to pulse width (PW) and repetition time (RT) without damaging the food samples. Conjugated gold nanoparticles (GNPs) added to fruit surfaces tested the selective photothermal nanotherapy under laser radiation for enhancing treatment.

Apple peel samples (1 cm2) contaminated with Escherichia coli K12 were treated at varying PW and RT for 60, 120 and 180 s. Inactivation of E. coli K12 significantly (P < 0.05) increased as the PW increased at constant RT. Also, the inactivation increased as both RT decreased and PW increased, and with the addition of the GNP. Scanning electron microscopy analysis showed structural damage of E. coli and GNP with minimal damage to fruit surfaces.

Practical Applications

This unique laser system could provide rapid, energy‐efficient and selective inactivation of food surface contaminants through the use of conjugated gold nanoparticles. The system's likely application is to ensure food safety in numerous segments of the U.S. food industry; it would be especially useful for producers of fresh food products. Photothermal nanotherapy provides selective heating to a localized area around the targeted bacteria without damaging the food, which makes it particularly applicable for heat‐sensitive foods, such as fruits and leafy green vegetables, and could be a desirable alternative to chemical treatments. It also has the potential to be successfully applied to liquid food samples such as water, fruit juices and other transparent liquids.
Investigation on the Applicability of the Effervescent Atomizer in Spray Drying of Foods: Influence of Liquid Viscosity on Nozzle Internal Two‐Phase Flow and Spray Characteristics
Authors: Stähle Philipp , Gaukel Volker , Schuchmann Heike P.
Published: December 2014

The influence of viscosity of a food‐based model liquid on the flow patterns inside an effervescent atomizer as well as on the spray was investigated. Viscosity ranged from 0.001 to 0.308 Pa·s. The flow pattern inside the atomizer changes from annular to an unfavorable slug flow for liquids with increased viscosity with increasing liquid volume flow rate. We used the time averaged Sauter mean diameter (SMD) as well as the fluctuation κt of the time‐discrete drop size around its mean to characterize the spray. For an annular flow, small values of SMD and κt are observed regardless of viscosity; but as the flow pattern transforms to slug flow, a considerable increase of SMD and κt is observed. The results indicate that the application of the effervescent atomizing principle to the tasks of food spray drying requires a specific flow pattern inside the atomizer.

Practical Application

The effervescent atomizer, originally invented in the field of combustion science, is reported to be capable of atomizing liquids with elevated viscosity into small drops at low gas consumption. These attributes make the atomizing principle also interesting for other techniques such as the spray drying of foods. If an implementation is possible, the atomization technique offers the potential of drying feeds with high viscosity at low gas consumption. This, in turn, opens two new possibilities in spray drying of foods: first, to save drying energy via a higher concentrated feed and, second, to prevent heat‐sensitive ingredients from damage because a lower feed temperature prior to atomization could be chosen compared with conventional atomizers. Unfortunately, an unsteady spray is reported for certain operation conditions. In this case, an application is likely to be limited.
Predicting the Growth Kinetics of Total Microflora in Kimchi Powder‐Treated Pork Snack Sticks
Authors: Kim Hyoun Wook , Heo Chan , Han Doo‐Jeong , Kim Cheon‐Jei , Kim Kee‐Tae , Park Beom‐Young , Ahn Dong Uk , Paik Hyun‐Dong
Published: December 2014

The purpose of this research was to apply mathematical models to predict the effect of kimchi powder on the growth of spoilage microflora in pork snack sticks. Kimchi powder was added to the pork sticks at concentrations of 0% (control, C), 1% (T1), 2% (T2) and 3% (T3) of total content. Microbiological analysis was performed at the end of the drying process (day 0) and after 15, 30, 45, 60 and 90 days of storage at 25C. The obtained data were applied to the Baranyi growth model. Application of up to 2% kimchi powder to pork snack sticks had no effect on the initial and maximal bacterial counts, but 3% of kimchi powder reduced the lag time (tlag) and extended the maximum specific growth rate (μmax) of total plate count, anaerobic bacteria and lactic acid bacteria significantly. Mathematical models developed on the basis of the Baranyi model were useful in predicting natural microflora in the pork snack sticks during storage.

Practical Applications

Many kinds of jerky have become diversified and industrialized recently and kimchi, fermented vegetable, has been known to have various antimicrobial effects. Kimchi powder‐treated pork jerky has higher consumer acceptability because of its spicy taste. However, the possibility of contamination of microflora in terms of food safety can be high through manufacture and distribution in industry. The predictive model suggested in this study can be used to control the possibility of microfloral contamination in restructured pork jerky products supplemented with kimchi powder as basic information.