bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cannabinoids Regulate the Diameter of Pericyte-Containing Retinal Capillaries in Rats
Authors: Zong Yuan , Zhou Xujiao , Cheng Jingyi , Yu Jian , Wu Jihong , Jiang Chunhui
Published: October 2017

Background/Aims: Cannabinoids are vasoactive substances that act as key regulators of arterial tone in the blood vessels supplying peripheral tissues and the central nervous system. We therefore investigated the effect of cannabinoids on retinal capillaries and pericytes. Methods: The effects of cannabinoids on capillary diameters were determined using an ex vivo whole-mount rat retinal model. Western blotting, quantitative PCR, and immunohistochemistry were performed to explore the underlying mechanism. Results: Endogenous cannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol and anandamide and exogenous cannabinoid (R-(+)-WIN55212-2) dilated the noradrenaline-precontracted capillaries in a concentration-dependent manner (1 µM to 0.1 mM). The extent of vasorelaxation was positively correlated with changes in pericyte width. The effects of R-(+)-WIN55212-2 on vasorelaxation and pericyte width were inhibited by a cannabinoid receptor type-1 (CB1) antagonist, AM251 or rimonabant (SR141716A), the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor l-NAME, and the guanylate cyclase inhibitor ODQ. They were also abolished by the removal of the endothelium, but not by the cannabinoid receptor-2 antagonist SR144528, the endothelial cannabinoid receptor antagonist O-1918, or the cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin. Conclusion: The exogenous cannabinoid R-(+)-WIN55212-2 promotes the vasorelaxation of pericyte-containing rat retinal capillaries. This effect of R-(+)-WIN55212-2 is dependent on CB1 and the nitric oxide–cyclic guanosine monophosphate pathway, and requires an intact endothelium.
Availability of essential medicines in primary health care of the Brazilian Unified Health System
Authors: Nascimento Renata Cristina Rezende Macedo do , Álvares Juliana , Guerra Junior Augusto Afonso , Gomes Isabel Cristina , Costa Ediná Alves , Leite Silvana Nair , Costa Karen Sarmento , Soeiro Orlando Mario , Guibu Ione Aquemi , Karnikowski Margô Gomes de Oliveira , Acurcio Francisco de Assis
Published: October 2017

OBJECTIVE: To characterize the availability of tracer medicines in pharmaceutical services in primary health care of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS). METHODS: This is a cross-sectional and evaluative study, part of the Pesquisa Nacional Sobre Acesso, Utilização e Promoção do Uso Racional de Medicamentos – Serviços, 2015 (PNAUM – National Survey on Access, Use and Promotion of Rational Use of Medicines – Services, 2015). To analyze the availability of medicines, we verified 50 items selected from the Relação Nacional de Medicamentos Essenciais (Rename – National List of Essential Medicines) of 2012. Observation scripts were applied to medicine dispensing services in the primary health care. Interviews were carried out with patients, health care professionals, and public managers, using semi-structured questionnaires. The availability index was presented as the percentage of health units where the medicines were available. For statistical analysis, absolute, relative, and mean frequencies were presented (with 95% confidence intervals). The comparison of groups was carried out by Pearson Chi-square tests or variance analysis, when needed. RESULTS: One thousand, one hundred, and seventy-five observation scripts were filled in a national representative sample composed by 273 cities. Statistically significant differences were observed regarding the type of unit, infrastructure, and presence of a pharmacist between regions of Brazil. The average availability of tracer medicines in primary health care was 52.9%, with differences between regions and sampling strata. This index increased to 62.5% when phytotherapic medicines were excluded. We found limited availability of medicines for treatment of chronic and epidemiological diseases, such as tuberculosis and congenital syphilis. CONCLUSIONS: The low availability of essential medicines purchased centrally by the Brazilian Ministry of Health indicates deficiencies in supply chain management. The different views on the availability of tracer medicines in SUS confirm the general availability verified in this study. Among patients, about 60% said they obtain medicines in SUS units, data consistent with the lack of medicines reported by medicine dispensers and in line with physicians’ evaluations
Management of pharmaceutical services in the Brazilian primary health care
Authors: Gerlack Letícia Farias , Karnikowski Margô Gomes de Oliveira , Areda Camila Alves , Galato Dayani , Oliveira Aline Gomes de , Álvares Juliana , Leite Silvana Nair , Costa Ediná Alves , Guibu Ione Aquemi , Soeiro Orlando Mario , Costa Karen Sarmento , Guerra Junior Augusto Afonso , Acurcio Francisco de Assis
Published: October 2017

OBJECTIVE: To identify limiting factors in the management of pharmaceutical services in the primary health care provided by the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS). METHODS: This study was based on the data from the Pesquisa Nacional sobre Acesso, Utilização e Promoção do Uso Racional de Medicamentos no Brasil (PNAUM – National Survey on Access, Use and Promotion of Rational Use of Medicines), and it was conducted by interviews with professionals responsible for pharmaceutical services in Brazilian cities, in 2015. To identify the management limiting factors, we considered the organizational, operational, and sustainability indicators of the management. For the analyses, we included the weights and structure of analysis plan for complex samples. The results were expressed by frequencies and measures of central tendency with 95% confidence interval, considering the Brazilian geographic regions. RESULTS: We identified the following limiting factors: lack of pharmaceutical services in the Municipal Health Secretariat organization chart (24%) and in the health plan (18%); lack of participation of managers in the Health Board and the absence of reference to this topic in the agenda of meetings (58.4%); lack of financial autonomy (61.5%) and lack of knowledge on the available values (81.7%); lack of adoption of operational procedures (about 50%) for selection, scheduling, and acquisition; and the fact that most professionals evaluate the organization of pharmaceutical services as good and great (58.8%), despite the worrisome indicators. CONCLUSIONS: Pharmaceutical services management is currently supported by a legal and political framework that should guide and contribute to improve the pharmaceutical services in the Brazilian Unified Health System primary health care. However, there is a mismatch between the goals established by these guidelines and what is actually happening
Main characteristics of patients of primary health care services in Brazil
Authors: Guibu Ione Aquemi , Moraes José Cássio de , Guerra Junior Augusto Afonso , Costa Ediná Alves , Acurcio Francisco de Assis , Costa Karen Sarmento , Karnikowski Margô Gomes de Oliveira , Soeiro Orlando Mario , Leite Silvana Nair , Álvares Juliana
Published: October 2017

OBJECTIVE: To characterize patients of primary health care services according to demographic and socioeconomic aspects, habits and lifestyle, health condition, and demand for health services and medicines. METHODS: This study is part of the Pesquisa Nacional sobre Acesso, Utilização e Promoção do Uso Racional de Medicamentos – Serviços (PNAUM – National Survey on Access, Use and Promotion of Rational Use of Medicines – Services), a cross-sectional study carried out between 2014 and 2015. Interviews were conducted with patients over the age of 17 years, with a standardized questionnaire, in primary health care services of a representative sample of cities, stratified by regions of Brazil. The analysis was performed for complex samples and weighted according to the population size of each region. RESULTS: A total of 8,676 patients were interviewed, being 75.8% women, most of them aged from 18 to 39 years; 24.2% men, most of them aged from 40 to 59 years; 53.7% with elementary school; 50.5% reported to be of mixed race ethnicity, 39.7%, white, and 7.8%, black. Half of patients were classified as class C and 24.8% received the Bolsa Familia benefit. Only 9.8% had health insurance, with higher proportion in the South and lower in the North and Midwest. The proportion of men who consumed alcohol was higher than among women, as well as smokers. The self-assessment of health showed that 57% believed it to be very good or good, with lower proportion in the Northeast. The prevalence of chronic diseases/conditions, such as hypertension (38.6%), dyslipidemia (22.7%), arthritis/rheumatism (19.4%), depression (18.5%), diabetes (13.6%), and others are higher in these patients them among the general population. Medicines were predominantly sought in the health care service or in pharmacies of the Brazilian Unified Health System. CONCLUSIONS: It was possible to characterize the profile of patients of Primary Health Care, but the originality of the research and its national scope hinders the comparison of results with official data or other articles
Workforce in the pharmaceutical services of the primary health care of SUS, Brazil
Authors: Carvalho Marselle Nobre , Álvares Juliana , Costa Karen Sarmento , Guerra Junior Augusto Afonso , Acurcio Francisco de Assis , Costa Ediná Alves , Guibu Ione Aquemi , Soeiro Orlando Mario , Karnikowski Margô Gomes de Oliveira , Leite Silvana Nair
Published: October 2017

OBJECTIVE: To characterize the workforce in the pharmaceutical services in the primary care of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS). METHODS: This is a cross-sectional and quantitative study, with data from the Pesquisa Nacional sobre Acesso, Utilização e Promoção do Uso Racional de Medicamentos – Serviços, 2015 (PNAUM – National Survey on Access, Use and Promotion of Rational Use of Medicines – Services, 2015). For the analysis, we considered the data stratification into geographical regions. We analyzed the data on workers in the municipal pharmaceutical services management and in the medicine dispensing units, according to the country’s regions. For the statistical association analysis, we carried out a Pearson correlation test for the categorical variables. RESULTS: We analyzed 1,175 pharmacies/dispensing units, 507 phone interviews (495 pharmaceutical services coordinators), and 1,139 professionals responsible for medicine delivery. The workforce in pharmaceutical services was mostly constituted by women, aged from 18 to 39 years, with higher education (90.7% in coordination and 45.5% in dispensing units), having permanent employment bonds (public tender), being for more than one year in the position or duty, and with weekly work hours above 30h, working both in municipal management and in medicine dispensing units. We observed regional differences in the workforce composition in dispensing units, with higher percentage of pharmacists in the Southeast and Midwest regions. CONCLUSIONS: The professionalization of municipal management posts in primary health care is an achievement in the organization of the workforce in pharmaceutical services. However, significant deficiencies exist in the workforce composition in medicine dispensing units, which may compromise the medicine use quality and its results in population health
Health-related quality of life of patients of Brazilian primary health care
Authors: Ascef Bruna de Oliveira , Haddad João Paulo Amaral , Álvares Juliana , Guerra Junior Augusto Afonso , Costa Ediná Alves , Acurcio Francisco de Assis , Guibu Ione Aquemi , Costa Karen Sarmento , Karnikowski Margô Gomes de Oliveira , Soeiro Orlando Mario , Leite Silvana Nair , Silveira Micheline Rosa
Published: October 2017

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) of patients of the primary health care of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) and its associated factors. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study with data from the Pesquisa Nacional sobre Acesso, Utilização e Promoção do Uso Racional de Medicamentos – Serviços, 2015 (PNAUM – National Survey on Access, Use and Promotion of Rational Use of Medicines – Services, 2015). Data were collected with a questionnaire that included the EuroQol 5 Dimensions (EQ-5D) instrument. Patients from the five regions of Brazil were interviewed. Multiple linear regression was used to analyze their Health-Related Quality of Life and its associated factors. RESULTS: Of the total of 8,590 patients, the most frequent dimensions were pain/discomfort (50.7%) and anxiety/depression (38.8%). About 10% of the patients reported extreme problems in these dimensions. The following factors were significantly associated with a worse quality of life: being female; having arthritis, osteoarthritis, or rheumatism; cerebrovascular accident; heart disease; depression; health self-assessment as poor or very poor; drinking alcoholic beverages once or more per month; dieting to lose weight, avoiding salt consumption, and reducing fat intake. Significant association was observed between a better quality of life and: living in the North and Southeast regions of Brazil; practicing physical activities; and having a higher educational level. No association was observed with factors related to the health services. CONCLUSIONS: The Health-Related Quality of Life of patients was influenced by demographic and socioeconomic factors that were related to health conditions and lifestyle, being useful to guide specific actions for promoting health and the integral care to patients of the Brazilian Unified Health System
Access to medicines:
Authors: Barros Rafael Damasceno de , Costa Ediná Alves , Santos Djanilson Barbosa dos , Souza Gisélia Santana , Álvares Juliana , Guerra Junior Augusto Afonso , Acurcio Francisco de Assis , Guibu Ione Aquemi , Costa Karen Sarmento , Karnikowski Margô Gomes de Oliveira , Soeiro Orlando Mario , Leite Silvana Nair
Published: October 2017

OBJETIVE: To analyze the relationship between access to medicines by the population and the institutionalization of pharmaceutical services in Brazilian primary health care. METHODS: This study is part of the Pesquisa Nacional sobre Acesso, Utilização e Promoção do Uso Racional de Medicamentos – Serviços 2015 (PNAUM – National Survey on Access, Use and Promotion of Rational Use of Medicines – Services 2015), a cross-sectional, exploratory, and evaluative study composed of an information survey in a representative sample of cities, stratified by Brazilian regions. Access was defined based on the acquisition of medicines reported by the patient, ranging between: total, partial, or null. The institutionalization of pharmaceutical services was analyzed based on information provided by pharmaceutical services providers and by those responsible for medicines delivery. Chi-square test and multinomial logistic regression were used in the statistical analysis. RESULTS: Full access to medicines was greater when professionals affirmed there were the following aspects of the dimensions: “management tools,” “participation and social control,” “financing,” and “personnel structure,” with significant associations in the bivariate analysis. The “pharmaceutical care” dimension did not achieve such an association. After multinomial logistic regression, full access was more prevalent when those in charge of pharmaceutical services stated that: they always or repeatedly attend meetings of the Municipal Health Council, OR = 3.3 (95%CI 1.5-7.3); there are protocols for medicines delivery, OR = 2.7 (95%CI 1.2-6.1); there is computerized system for managing pharmaceutical services, OR = 3.9 (95%CI 1.9-8.0); those responsible for medicines delivery reported having participated in a course or training for professionals in the past two years, OR = 2.0 (95%CI 1.1-3.5); there is computerized system for pharmaceutical services management, OR = 4.3 (95%CI 2.4-7.5). CONCLUSIONS: Aspects related to the institutionalization of pharmaceutical services have been strongly related to access to medicines. Our results indicate the need to prioritize its implementation, contributing to its consolidation in Brazil and to the effectiveness of health services regarding the purposes of pharmaceutical services policies
Pharmaceutical services in the primary health care of the Brazilian Unified Health System:
Authors: Costa Karen Sarmento , Tavares Noêmia Urruth Leão , Nascimento Júnior José Miguel do , Mengue Sotero Serrate , Álvares Juliana , Guerra Junior Augusto Afonso , Acurcio Francisco de Assis , Soeiro Orlando Mario
Published: October 2017

This study is a synthesis of the main results of the Pesquisa Nacional sobre Acesso, Utilização e Promoção do Uso Racional de Medicamentos (PNAUM – National Survey on Access, Use and Promotion of Rational Use of Medicines), Evaluation Component of the Basic Pharmaceutical Services. Based on the critical narrative of the elements of Brazil’s pharmaceutical policies, we discuss aspects related to the structure of the pharmaceutical services, the medicines’ sanitary state, human resources, access to medicines, rational use and management. Despite the advances that reflect the commitment of the group of actors involved, the results of the Survey indicate challenges, such as equitable access to medicines, the structuring of pharmaceutical services, the improvement of logistics and administration, and the implementation of actions directed to pharmaceutical care in the health units
Acute Biventricular Mechanical Circulatory Support for Cardiogenic Shock
Authors: Kuchibhotla Sudeep , Esposito Michele L. , Breton Catalina , Pedicini Robert , Mullin Andrew , O'Kelly Ryan , Anderson Mark , Morris Dennis L. , Batsides George , Ramzy Danny , Grise Mark , Pham Duc Thinh , Kapur Navin K.
Published: October 2017

Background

Biventricular failure is associated with high in‐hospital mortality. Limited data regarding the efficacy of biventricular Impella axial flow catheters (BiPella) support for biventricular failure exist. The aim of this study was to explore the clinical utility of percutaneously delivered BiPella as a novel acute mechanical support strategy for patients with cardiogenic shock complicated by biventricular failure.

Methods and Results

We retrospectively analyzed data from 20 patients receiving BiPella for biventricular failure from 5 tertiary‐care hospitals in the United States. Left ventricular support was achieved with an Impella 5.0 (n=8), Impella
CP
(n=11), or Impella 2.5 (n=1). All patients received the Impella
RP
for right ventricular (
RV
) support. BiPella use was recorded in the setting of acute myocardial infarction (n=11), advanced heart failure (n=7), and myocarditis (n=2). Mean flows achieved were 3.4±1.2 and 3.5±0.5 for left ventricular and
RV
devices, respectively. Total in‐hospital mortality was 50%. No intraprocedural mortality was observed. Major complications included limb ischemia (n=1), hemolysis (n=6), and Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction major bleeding (n=7). Compared with nonsurvivors, survivors were younger, had a lower number of inotropes or vasopressors used before BiPella, and were more likely to have both devices implanted simultaneously during the same procedure. Compared with nonsurvivors, survivors had lower pulmonary artery pressures and
RV
stroke work index before BiPella. Indices of
RV
afterload were quantified for 14 subjects. Among these patients, nonsurvivors had higher pulmonary vascular resistance (6.8; 95% confidence interval [95%
CI
], 5.5–8.1 versus 1.9; 95%
CI
, 0.8–3.0;
P
<0.01), effective pulmonary artery elastance (1129; 95%
CI
, 876–1383 versus 458; 95%
CI
, 263–653;
P
<0.01), and lower pulmonary artery compliance (1.5; 95%
CI
, 0.9–2.1 versus 2.7; 95%
CI
, 1.8–3.6;
P
<0.05).

Conclusions

This is the largest, retrospective analysis of BiPella for cardiogenic shock. BiPella is feasible, reduces cardiac filling pressures and improves cardiac output across a range of causes for cardiogenic shock. Simultaneous left ventricular and
RV
device implantation and lower
RV
afterload may be associated with better outcomes with BiPella. Future prospective studies of BiPella for cardiogenic shock are required.
The broad-snouted caiman population recovery in Argentina. A case of genetics conservation
Authors: Amavet Patricia Susana , Rueda Eva Carolina , Vilardi Juan César , Siroski Pablo , Larriera Alejandro , Saidman Beatriz Ofelia
Published: October 2017

Caiman latirostriswild populations have suffered a drastic reduction in the past, and for that reason, a management and monitoring plan was applied since 1990 in Santa Fe, Argentina in order to achieve population recovery. Although ranching system has a noteworthy success in terms of population size recovering, there is no information about the estimation of population genetic parameters. In particular, the consequence of the bottleneck underwent by these populations has not been assessed. We evaluated variability and genetic structure ofC. latirostrispopulations from Santa Fe through time, using microsatellites and mitochondrial DNA. Population genetic parameters were compared among four sites and three different periods to assess the impact of management activities, and effective population size was estimated in order to detect bottleneck events. We observed an increase in microsatellite variability and low genetic variability in mitochondrial lineages through time. Variability estimates are similar among sites in each sampling period; and there is scarce differentiation among them. The genetic background of each sampling site has changed through time; we assume this fact may be due to entry of individuals of different origin, through management and repopulation activities. Moreover, taking into account the expected heterozygosity and effective population size values, it can be assumed that bottleneck events indeed have occurred in the recent past. Our results suggest that, in addition to increasing population size, genetic variability of the species has been maintained. However, the information is still incomplete, and regular monitoring should continue in order to arrive to solid conclusions.
Soil nematode abundance and diversity from four vegetation types in Central Mexico
Authors: Mejía-Madrid Hugo H.
Published: October 2017

Soil nematode abundance and MOTU diversity were estimated from a geographically broad area of Mexico that included four out of seven recognised vegetation types. Vegetation types were assessed for abundance and diversity of nematode communities and inferred ecological relationships between them. Soils were sampled from tropical rainforest, tropical dry deciduous forest, temperate coniferous forest and xerophytic shrub during 2013, 2014 and 2015. Fourteen sampling sites withca10-20 samples per site from 11 localities spread across Central Mexico were assessed. Altitudes sampled ranged from 113 m a.s.l. (tropical coastal plain) to 2400 m a.s.l. (Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt). Samples were drawn from conserved and cultivated plots from each sampling site covering an area of ⩾100 m2. A total of 13 263 individuals from 25 identified families of nematodes were collected. Family abundance and complementarity indices between sites revealed to some extent the affinities between vegetation types. Nevertheless, statistical analyses revealed no differences between nematode family abundances between sites, only between families across all sites. Molecular operational taxonomic units (MOTU) methods were employed as a framework to assess biodiversity. From these, 77 high-quality sequences for taxonomic barcoding were recovered and later identified with morphological traits. Only six sequences matched at a 98-99% level with those reported in GenBank. Sequences amounted to a total of 41 MOTU, where 100% of the MOTU from both conserved and disturbed tropical rainforest, tropical dry deciduous forest and xerophytic shrub exhibited a ⩾3% cut-off genetic identity, whilst temperate coniferous forest and disturbed temperate coniferous forest showed 73% and 70% respectively. In addition, 12.2% MOTU were shared among localities and 87.8% exhibited an apparently locality-limited distribution. The potential for a considerable diversity of nematodes, as revealed from a small sample of MOTU diversity, is discussed.
“Moral Execution of a General”
Authors: Storkmann Klaus
Published: October 2017

Four-Star-General Günter Kießling (1925–2009) was the highest-ranking West German general in nato and Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe. His dismissal due to false accusations that he was homosexual came in late summer 1983, at the height of the conflict over the deployment of new intermediate-range missiles in Europe. Eventually, the Military Counterintelligence Service was ordered to conduct investigations in the Cologne gay scene. The Minister of Defence ordered to suspend the general from active duty without military honours in December 1983. Kießling decided not to retire quietly but to fight for his honour. Since nothing that “incriminated” Kießling was found, the minister altered course completely. The major issue raised by the Kießling scandal later centred around the question of who was to “blame” for it. And finally, an East German agent at the top of the West German Military Counterintelligence Service, who had been compromised in 1990, was another person to blame, as he had an almost ideal role of the evil.
Life and Demise of Intrathermocline Mesoscale Vortices
Authors: Radko Timour , Sisti Cassandra
Published: October 2017

This study is focused on finescale dissipation mechanisms of intrathermocline mesoscale vortices exemplified by meddies, large anticyclonic salt lenses of Mediterranean origin commonly observed in the lower North Atlantic thermocline. High-resolution numerical experiments are diagnosed to quantify the rates of temperature and salinity (T, S) dispersion in salt lenses and to determine the relative contribution of various mixing processes in the decay of their thermohaline signatures. This study finds, in agreement with observations, that meddies dissipate on the characteristic time scale of several years and that their ultimate disintegration can be attributed to thermohaline interleaving driven by double-diffusive mixing. Mechanically generated turbulence, on the other hand, tends to suppress the interleaving and therefore has an adverse net effect on eddy dispersion. It is found that the dispersion properties of static lenses, characterized by density-compensated T–S patterns, and their rapidly rotating counterparts are dramatically different.
High-Frequency Variability in the Circulation and Hydrography of the Denmark Strait Overflow from a High-Resolution Numerical Model
Authors: Almansi Mattia , Haine Thomas W. N. , Pickart Robert S. , Magaldi Marcello G. , Gelderloos Renske , Mastropole Dana
Published: October 2017

Initial results are presented from a yearlong, high-resolution (~2 km) numerical simulation covering the east Greenland shelf and the Iceland and Irminger Seas. The model hydrography and circulation in the vicinity of Denmark Strait show good agreement with available observational datasets. This study focuses on the variability of the Denmark Strait overflow (DSO) by detecting and characterizing boluses and pulses, which are the two dominant mesoscale features in the strait. The authors estimate that the yearly mean southward volume flux of the DSO is about 30% greater in the presence of boluses and pulses. On average, boluses (pulses) are 57.1 (27.5) h long, occur every 3.2 (5.5) days, and are more frequent during the summer (winter). Boluses (pulses) increase (decrease) the overflow cross-sectional area, and temperatures around the overflow interface are colder (warmer) by about 2.6°C (1.8°C). The lateral extent of the boluses is much greater than that of the pulses. In both cases the along-strait equatorward flow of dense water is enhanced but more so for pulses. The sea surface height (SSH) rises by 4–10 cm during boluses and by up to 5 cm during pulses. The SSH anomaly contours form a bowl (dome) during boluses (pulses), and the two features cross the strait with a slightly different orientation. The cross streamflow changes direction; boluses (pulses) are associated with veering (backing) of the horizontal current. The model indicates that boluses and pulses play a major role in controlling the variability of the DSO transport into the Irminger Sea.
Combined Assimilation of Satellite Precipitation and Soil Moisture: A Case Study Using TRMM and SMOS Data
Authors: Lin Liao-Fan , Ebtehaj Ardeshir M. , Flores Alejandro N. , Bastola Satish , Bras Rafael L.
Published: October 2017

This paper presents a framework that enables simultaneous assimilation of satellite precipitation and soil moisture observations into the coupled Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) and Noah land surface model through variational approaches. The authors tested the framework by assimilating precipitation data from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) and soil moisture data from the Soil Moisture Ocean Salinity (SMOS) satellite. The results show that assimilation of both TRMM and SMOS data can effectively improve the forecast skills of precipitation, top 10-cm soil moisture, and 2-m temperature and specific humidity. Within a 2-day time window, impacts of precipitation data assimilation on the forecasts remain relatively constant for forecast lead times greater than 6 h, while the influence of soil moisture data assimilation increases with lead time. The study also demonstrates that the forecast skill of precipitation, soil moisture, and near-surface temperature and humidity are further improved when both the TRMM and SMOS data are assimilated. In particular, the combined data assimilation reduces the prediction biases and root-mean-square errors, respectively, by 57% and 6% (for precipitation); 73% and 27% (for soil moisture); 17% and 9% (for 2-m temperature); and 33% and 11% (for 2-m specific humidity).
Building a Framework for Process-Oriented Evaluation of Regional Climate Outlook Forums
Authors: Gerlak Andrea K. , Guido Zack , Vaughan Catherine , Rountree Valerie , Greene Christina , Liverman Diana , Trotman Adrian R. , Mahon Roché , Cox Shelly-Ann , Mason Simon J. , Jacobs Katharine L. , Buizer James L. , Van Meerbeeck Cedric J. , Baethgen Walter E.
Published: October 2017

In many regions around the world, Regional Climate Outlook Forums (RCOFs) provide seasonal climate information and forecasts to decision-makers at regional and national levels. Despite having two decades of experience, the forums have not been systematically monitored or evaluated. To address this gap, and to better inform nascent and widespread efforts in climate services, the authors propose a process-oriented evaluation framework derived from literature on decision support and climate communication around the production and use of scientific information. The authors apply this framework to a case study of the Caribbean RCOF (CariCOF), where they have been engaged in a collaborative effort to integrate climate information and decision processes to enhance regional climate resilience. The authors’ examination of the CariCOF shows an evolution toward the use of more advanced and more diverse climate products, as well as greater awareness of user feedback. It also reveals shortfalls of the CariCOF, including a lack of diverse stakeholder participation, a need for better understanding of best practices to tailor information, undeveloped market research of climate products, insufficient experimentation and vetting of communication mechanisms, and the absence of a way to steward a diverse network of regional actors. The authors’ analysis also provides insight that allowed for improvements in the climate services framework to include mechanisms to respond to changing needs and conditions. The authors’ process-oriented framework can serve as a starting point for evaluating RCOFs and other organizations charged with the provision of climate services.
Leading for literacy
Authors: Schoenbach Ruth , Greenleaf Cynthia
Published: October 2017

Two-thirds of U.S. high school students today are unable to read and comprehend complex academic materials, think critically about texts, synthesize information from multiple sources, or effectively communicate what they have learned. And in response, many teachers simply stop assigning challenging texts, opting instead to “deliver content” through lectures. For 25 years, though, the Reading Apprenticeship program has shown that when school and district leaders embrace a collective responsibility to provide effective reading and writing instruction, they can help subject-area teachers reflect on their own literacy practices and fundamentally rethink their approach to literacy instruction.
The Editor’s Note
Authors: Richardson Joan
Published: October 2017

We must guard against developing schools that track kids into certain academic paths because of their race, gender, or socioeconomic circumstances. Not only do we need to ensure that a black girl from a low-income family has access to higher education, we must also ensure that a white boy from an affluent family has the option to get his hands dirty in an auto mechanics class. Class bias can work both ways and should never limit a child’s access to his or her dreams.
Performance of shear-wave elastography for breast masses using different region-of-interest (ROI) settings
Authors: Youk Ji Hyun , Son Eun Ju , Han Kyunghwa , Gweon Hye Mi , Kim Jeong-Ah
Published: October 2017

Background

Various size and shape of region of interest (ROI) can be applied for shear-wave elastography (SWE).

Purpose

To investigate the diagnostic performance of SWE according to ROI settings for breast masses.

Material and Methods

To measure elasticity for 142 lesions, ROIs were set as follows: circular ROIs 1 mm (ROI-1), 2 mm (ROI-2), and 3 mm (ROI-3) in diameter placed over the stiffest part of the mass; freehand ROIs drawn by tracing the border of mass (ROI-M) and the area of peritumoral increased stiffness (ROI-MR); and circular ROIs placed within the mass (ROI-C) and to encompass the area of peritumoral increased stiffness (ROI-CR). Mean (Emean), maximum (Emax), and standard deviation (ESD) of elasticity values and their areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUCs) for diagnostic performance were compared.

Results

Means of Emean and ESD significantly differed between ROI-1, ROI-2, and ROI-3 ( P < 0.0001), whereas means of Emax did not ( P = 0.50). For ESD, ROI-1 (0.874) showed a lower AUC than ROI-2 (0.964) and ROI-3 (0.975) ( P < 0.002). The mean ESD was significantly different between ROI-M and ROI-MR and between ROI-C and ROI-CR ( P < 0.0001). The AUCs of ESD in ROI-M and ROI-C were significantly lower than in ROI-MR ( P = 0.041 and 0.015) and ROI-CR ( P = 0.007 and 0.004).

Conclusion

Shear-wave elasticity values and their diagnostic performance vary based on ROI settings and elasticity indices. Emax is recommended for the ROIs over the stiffest part of mass and an ROI encompassing the peritumoral area of increased stiffness is recommended for elastic heterogeneity of mass.
Patient satisfaction with mental health services based on Andersen’s Behavioral Model
Authors: Fortin Marilyn , Bamvita Jean-Marie , Fleury Marie-Josée
Published: October 2017

Objective:

The purpose of this article was to assess the satisfaction of adult patients who received mental health services (MHS) in healthcare networks staffed by multidisciplinary professionals and offering a range of MHS, and to identify variables associated with patient satisfaction.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study included 325 patients with mental disorders (MDs) among 4 Quebec health service networks. Data were collected using 9 standardized instruments and participant medical records. A 3-factor conceptual framework (predisposing, enabling, and needs-related factors) based on Andersen’s Behavioral Model was used, integrating sociodemographic, clinical, needs-related, service utilization, social support, and quality-of-life (QOL) variables. An adjusted multiple linear regression model was performed.

Results:

The global mean score for patient satisfaction was 4.11 (minimum: 2.0; maximum: 5.0). Among the enabling factors, continuity of care, having a case manager, and help received from services were positively associated with patient satisfaction, whereas being hospitalized was negatively associated. Among the needs-related factors, the number of needs was negatively associated with satisfaction.

Conclusions:

Findings demonstrated higher levels of satisfaction among patients who received good continuity of care and well-managed, frequent services in relation to their needs. Dissatisfaction was higher for patients with serious unmet needs or those hospitalized, which underlines the importance of taking these particular variables into account in the interest of improving MHS delivery and patient recovery.
Students With Learning Disabilities in Inquiry-Based Science Classrooms: A Cross-Case Analysis
Authors: McGrath Allison L. , Hughes Marie Tejero
Published: October 2017

Students with learning disabilities (LD) often receive instruction in general education science classrooms. However, little is known about the academic success of students with LD in this setting. As inquiry-based science instruction has become more prominent, research focusing on student learning is needed to explore how such instruction meets students’ needs. To address this, a cross-case analysis was conducted. It included six middle school students, each with LD, from a Midwestern city. Each student was enrolled in a general education science class that used inquiry-based instruction. Data sources included student and educator interviews, classroom observations, and student portfolios. Results indicated that most of the students with LD had difficulty acquiring science process knowledge and that students relied on peer supports to facilitate their learning. Findings extend the research on science instruction for students with LD in middle school classrooms using inquiry-based instruction.
Sampled-data vehicular platoon control with communication delay
Authors: Gong Jian , Zhao Yuan , Lu Zibao
Published: October 2017

This article investigates sampled-data vehicular platoon control with communication delay. A new sampled-data control method is established, in which the effect of the communication delay is involved. First, a linearized vehicle longitudinal dynamic model is obtained using the exact feedback-linearization technique. Then, under the leader–predecessor following communication strategy, considering communication delay, a platoon control law is proposed based on sampled state information, which allows the weights of state errors to vary along the platoon. Complemented by additional string stability conditions, a useful string-stable platoon controller design algorithm is proposed. Finally, the effectiveness of platoon controller design methodology is demonstrated by numerical examples.
The Impact of Celebrity Expertise on Advertising Effectiveness: The Mediating Role of Celebrity Brand Fit
Authors: Thomas Tijo , Johnson Johney
Published: October 2017

The studies in the field of marketing have shown that characteristics of the source will influence persuasiveness of the advertisement. This study evaluates the effect of celebrity expertise on advertising effectiveness. Research participants ( N = 109) were selected based on area sampling method. The respondents completed a questionnaire that measured the respondent’s perception of celebrity’s expertise, celebrity brand fit, attitude towards advertisement, attitude towards brand and purchase intention. Path analysis was used to evaluate the hypothesis. The study found that celebrity expertise has got a very significant influence on purchase intention indicating that the practitioner should focus on celebrity’s field of expertise before deciding on the endorsement. The study also found that influence of celebrity brand fit on purchase intention is mediated by the attitude towards advertisement and attitude towards the brand.
MTC Sadism Scale: Toward a Dimensional Assessment of Severe Sexual Sadism With Behavioral Markers
Authors: Longpré Nicholas , Guay Jean-Pierre , Knight Raymond A.
Published: October 2017

Sadism was initially described as the experience of sexual pleasure produced by acts of cruelty and bodily punishment. Sadism was conceptualized as if sadists were fundamentally different from nonsadists. Recent studies have suggested that sadism is distributed as a dimension rather than as a category. The aim of the current study was to assess the psychometric properties the MTC Sexual Sadism Scale. Our analyses were conducted on a sample of 486 sexual offenders assessed at a correctional institution in Massachusetts. In summary, the results indicate that the MTC Sexual Sadism Scale possesses good psychometric properties for the dimensional assessment of severe sexual sadism with behavioral markers. Moreover, the scale captures a wide range of intensity of sadism among sexual offenders. These results are consistent with prior research and support the current consensus to move toward a dimensional interpretation of sadism. Implications both for clinical assessment and for research on the development of sadism are discussed.
Clinical Characteristics of Troublesome Pediatric Tinnitus
Authors: Szibor Annett , Jutila Topi , Mäkitie Antti , Aarnisalo Antti
Published: October 2017

Objectives:

The frequency of tinnitus in children and adults is practically the same. However, although adults reveal their symptoms and seek for medical aid, the suffering often remains unrecognized in the young. This is due to both the inability of children to properly describe their symptoms and the lack of recognition.

Materials and methods:

Among 5768 patients entering our department with complaints of tinnitus between 2010 and 2015, there were only 112 children. A full clinical history and medical status had been determined at the time of presentation and were analyzed retrospectively.

Results:

The average duration from first complain to clinical presentation was approximately 12 months. A normal hearing capability of less than 25 dB was measured in 80% of the cases. Only 23 patients presented with a hearing impairment. The causes ranged from hearing loss, previous orthodontic treatment, noise trauma, middle ear aeration, muscular neck tension, and skull base fracture. Typical co-morbidities such as sleeping disorders, concentration disorders, and hyperacusis were observed.

Conclusions:

This retrospective study shows that recognition of tinnitus in the childhood is generally delayed. A better characterization of complaints and triggers, however, is a prerequisite to sensitize medical personnel and caretakers for the suffering and to avoid developmental impairments.
Remixing Creativity in Learning and Learning of Creativity: A Case Study of Audio Remix Practice with Undergraduate Students
Authors: Order Simon , Murray Leo , Prince Jon , Hobson Julia , Freitas Sara de
Published: October 2017

Testing creativity in tertiary learning activities is a young field of research, and current assessment methods are difficult to apply within the diverse context of media production education, where disciplines range from journalism through to video game production. However, the concept of remix is common across this wide range of media, and offers practitioners ‘endless hybridizations in language, genre, content, technique and the like’ (Knobel & Lankshear, 2008, p. 22). The conceptual commonality of remix indicates that the study conclusions will have useful implications across a range of media production disciplines. This study aims to consider new methods for testing creativity in media production learning activities and to provide better assessments for learning design. This study focused upon a learner cohort of music technology students that were undertaking a work-integrated learning programme with a record label. To make the students more work-ready and inspire greater creativity, they remixed tracks recorded by professional music artists as part of a unit assessment. Subsequent self-report surveys ( N = 29) found that the process of creating a ‘remix’ enhanced their creativity and provided suggested improvements to the design of the learning experience. Importantly, we found no relationship between the survey responses and objective assessments, indicating that the self-reported improvements in creativity were not simply a measure of how well the students performed the formally assessed tasks. Although more research is needed to establish effective measures of creativity, these findings demonstrate that self-report survey tools can be a powerful tool for measuring creativity and supporting improved iterative learning design.
Knowing Behavior Helps Insure Models Against Breakage: A Commentary on Kaber’s “Issues in Human–Automation Interaction Modeling”
Authors: Byrne Evan
Published: October 2017

This commentary on Kaber’s review of human–automation interaction (HAI) modeling and levels of automation (LOA) highlights some of the challenges designers of automated systems face as a result of a heterogeneous user base. It advocates for understanding the variability in the intended user base to facilitate decisions on whether to constrain user behavior or the system design to optimize overall system performance and the need to anticipate adaptive user strategies before system deployment. It argues that the predictive efficacy of LOA models depends on the heterogeneity of the user base and an increased understanding of behavior through evaluation of breakdowns in HAI.
Relationship of Glucose Variability With Glycated Hemoglobin and Daily Mean Glucose: A Post Hoc Analysis of Data From 5 Phase 3 Studies
Authors: Luo Junxiang , Qu Yongming , Zhang Qianyi , Chang Annette M. , Jacober Scott J.
Published: October 2017

Background:

The association of glucose variability (GV) with other glycemic measures is emerging as a topic of interest. The aim of this analysis is to study the correlation between GV and measures of glycemic control, such as glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and daily mean glucose (DMG).

Methods:

Data from 5 phase 3 trials were pooled into 3 analysis groups: type 2 diabetes (T2D) treated with basal insulin only, T2D treated with basal-bolus therapy, and type 1 diabetes (T1D). A generalized boosted model was used post hoc to assess the relationship of the following variables with glycemic control parameters (HbA1c and DMG): within-day GV, between-day GV (calculated using self-monitored blood glucose and fasting blood glucose [FBG]), hypoglycemia rate, and certain baseline characteristics.

Results:

Within-day GV (calculated using standard deviation [SD]) was found to have a significant influence on endpoints HbA1c and DMG in all 3 patient groups. Between-day GV from FBG (calculated using SD), within-day GV (calculated using coefficient of variation), and hypoglycemia rate were found to significantly influence the endpoint HbA1c in the T2D basal-only group.

Conclusions:

Lower within-day GV was significantly associated with improvement in DMG and HbA1c. This finding suggests that GV could be a marker in the early phases of new antihyperglycemic therapy development for predicting clinical outcomes in terms of HbA1c and DMG.
Toward a Sociomaterial Understanding of Writing Experiences Incorporating Digital Technology in an Early Childhood Classroom
Authors: Kervin Lisa , Comber Barbara , Woods Annette
Published: October 2017

This article examines the resources, tools, and opportunities children enact as they engage with teacher-devised writing experiences within their classroom space. We begin with discussion about classroom writing time from the perspective of both the teacher and children of one Grade 1/2 composite class. We also reveal resources within the classroom space to consider the expertise available during writing times. We then examine a 5-week unit that focused on multimodal text construction. Using optical flow computer vision analysis to examine the movement of children during four video-recorded independent writing instances, we provide commentary about how the classroom writing experiences have been interpreted as the use of space, resources, and interactions come to the forefront. In taking this approach, this article will explore learning to write from a sociomaterial perspective, as we investigate the operation of the classroom.