bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methodologies for evaluating strategies to reduce diagnostic error: report from the research summit at the 7th International Diagnostic Error in Medicine Conference
Authors: Bruce Beau B. , El-Kareh Robert , Ely John W. , Kanter Michael H. , Rao Goutham , Schiff Gordon D. , ten Berg Maarten J. , McDonald Kathryn M.
Published: December 2016

In this article we review current evidence on strategies to evaluate diagnostic error solutions, discuss the methodological challenges that exist in investigating the value of these strategies in patient care, and provide recommendations for methods that can be applied in investigating potential solutions to diagnostic errors. These recommendations were developed iteratively by the authors based upon initial discussions held during the Research Summit of the 7th Annual Diagnostic Error in Medicine Conference in September 2014. The recommendations include the following elements for designing studies of diagnostic research solutions: (1) Select direct and indirect outcomes measures of importance to patients, while also practical for the particular solution; (2) Develop a clearly-stated logic model for the solution to be tested; (3) Use rapid, iterative prototyping in the early phases of solution testing; (4) Use cluster-randomized clinical trials where feasible; (5) Avoid simple pre-post designs, in favor of stepped wedge and interrupted time series; (6) Leverage best practices for patient safety research and engage experts from relevant domains; and (7) Consider sources of bias and design studies and their analyses to minimize selection and information bias and control for confounding. Areas of diagnostic error mitigation research identified for further attention include: role of competing diagnoses, understanding the impacts of organizational culture, timing of diagnosis, and sequencing of research studies. Future research will likely require novel clinical, health services, and qualitative research methods to address the age-old problem of arriving at an accurate diagnosis.
An analysis of Chosen Image Formation Algorithms for Synthetic Aperture Radar with FMCW
Authors: Okoń-Fąfara Marta , Serafin Piotr , Kawalec Adam
Published: December 2016

The modelling of FMCW SAR systems, due to long signal duration time, commonly used start-stop approximation for pulsed radars causes errors in the image. Continuous motion of the radar platform results in additional range-azimuth couplings and range walk term that should be considered in processing of signal from this type of radar. The paper presents an analysis of the following algorithms: Time Domain Correlation (TDC), Range Doppler Algorithm (RDA), and Range Migration Algorithm (RMA). The comparison of the algorithms is based on theoretical estimation of their computation complexity and the quality of images obtained on the basis of real signals of FMCW SAR systems.
Comparison of Indoor/Outdoor, RSSI-Based Positioning Using 433, 868 or 2400 MHz ISM Bands
Authors: Chruszczyk Łukasz , Zając Adam
Published: December 2016

This paper compares accuracy of indoor positioning systems using one of three selected ISM bands: 433, 868 or 2400 MHz. Positioning is based on Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI), received by majority of ISM RF modules, including low-cost ones. Investigated environment is single, indoor space (e.g. office, hall) and personal use, thus 2-dimensional (2D) coordinate system is used. Obtained results, i.a. average positioning error, are compared with similar measurements taken at outdoor, open space environment. The system is local, i.e. its operational area is limited by range of used RF modules – typical a few tens of meters. The main focus is research of how much accuracy (and usefulness) can be expected from standard RF modules working at typical ISM frequencies.
Utility of the Colorimetric Folin-Ciocalteu and Aluminum Complexation Assays for Quantifying Secondary Metabolite Variation among Wild Sunflowers
Authors: Webber Juliana F. , Mason Chase M.
Published: December 2016

Secondary metabolites serve multiple functions in plants, and play a key role in many ecological processes. Accordingly, the quantification of such compounds is central to addressing many questions in plant science. Alongside precision analytical methods like gas and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, there exists a substantial niche for inexpensive and rapid spectrophotometric approaches if their usefulness in a system can be demonstrated. This study seeks to examine the utility of two commonly used colorimetric methods – the Folin-Ciocalteu assay and the aluminum complexation assay – for quantifying variation in leaf phenolic and flavonoid content among members of the genus Helianthus, the sunflowers. Among species known a priori to vary substantially in both the diversity and relative concentrations of secondary metabolites, both assays detect substantial variation among species. Moreover, total phenolic content as assessed by the Folin-Ciocalteu assay correlates positively with concentrations of multiple individual phenolic compounds as quantified by high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, indicating that the Folin-Ciocalteu describes variation in sunflower phenolic content. Additionally, the diversity of flavonoids known from Helianthus include a number of those known to be sensitive to the aluminum complexation assay, indicating that this assay may also be a useful descriptor of relative variation in sunflower flavonoid content. In total, both the Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum complexation assays appear to capture useful, if coarse, variation in secondary metabolites among Helianthus species, and seem useful as rapid low-cost methods for exploratory research, preliminary analyses, and potentially useful for high-throughput phenotyping within wild or cultivated sunflower with proper calibration.
Design of Broadband High Dynamic-Range Fiber Optic Links
Authors: Monsurrò P. , Tommasino P. , Trifiletti A. , Vannucci A.
Published: December 2016

An analytic design-oriented model of microwave optical links has been developed. The core of the model is the non-linear and noise model of a Mach-Zehnder LiNbO3 interferometer. Both a 100 MHz–20 GHz link and a linearized microwave link, comprising an auxiliary modulator, have been designed and prototyped by using the model.
Improved Performance Analysis of Free Space Optics Communication Link under Rain Conditions using EDFA Pre-amplifier
Authors: Singh Mehtab
Published: December 2016

Free Space Optics (FSO) also known as Optical Wireless Communication (OWC) is a communication technology in which free space/air is used as the propagation medium and optical signals are used as the information carriers. One of the most crucial factors which degrade the performance of FSO link is the signal attenuation due to different atmospheric weather conditions such as haze, rain, storm, and fog. In this paper, an improved performance analysis of a 2.5 Gbps FSO link under rain conditions has been reported using Erbium-Doped Fiber Amplifier (EDFA) as a pre-amplifier. The results show that the maximum link distance for an FSO link under rain weather conditions with acceptable performance levels (Q

∼
6

$$\sim6$$

and BER

≤

10

−
9

)

$$ \le {10^{- 9}})$$

in the absence of EDFA pre-amplifier is 1,250 m which increases to 1,675 m with the use of EDFA pre-amplifier.
Digital Narratives of Belonging as
Anglophone or Francophone in a Cameroon
Online News Forum
Authors: Anchimbe Eric A.
Published: December 2016

Using readers’ comments on an online news forum (The Post newspaper), this paper describes
patterns of belonging to the historical (colonial) linguistic in-group anglophone and out-group francophone
in Cameroon. These groups emerged from the British-French colonisation of the country after WW1, with
anglophones representing the former British colony and francophones the French. My focus is on the use
of eight plural pronouns and how they index in-group or out-group belonging. Four of the pronouns, we,
our, us and ourselves are used inclusively to create a solid anglophone in-group through the narration of a
common (colonial) history, linguistic background (the use of English) and experiences. The other four, they,
them, their and themselves refer predominantly to francophones as an out-group that must be differentiated
from the close-knit anglophone in-group. I illustrate how, in defending the boundaries of these groups,
the commentators autobiographically narrate the life trajectories of their in-group, highlight its values and
interrogate the moral stance of the out-group. They benefit from the digital space which provides anonymity
and closes the geographical distances between them. Overall, the anglophone in-group narrative emerges
as an autobiographical narrative within the bigger (national) autobiographical narrative of the country, into
which it often opens and is sometimes integrated.
The Imperative to Explore the Impact of Disarmament on Peacemaking Efforts and Conflict Recurrence
Authors: Levin Jamie , Miodownik Dan
Published: December 2016

There is today a well-established consensus that belligerents must be disarmed in order to reconstruct shattered states and establish a robust and durable peace in the wake of internal armed conflict. Indeed, nearly every UN peacekeeping intervention since the end of the Cold War has included disarmament provisions in its mandate. Disarmament is guided by the arrestingly simple premise that weapons cause conflict and, therefore, must be eradicated for a civil conflict to end. If the means by which combatants fight are eliminated, it is thought, actors will have little choice but to commit to peace. Disarmament is, therefore, considered a necessary condition for establishing the lasting conditions for peace. To date, however, no systematic quantitative analysis has been undertaken of the practice of disarmament and the causal mechanisms remain underspecified. This paper is a preliminary attempt to fill that gap. In it we outline a series of hypotheses with which to run future statistical analyses on the effects of disarmament programs. The success of negotiations and the durability of peace are, perhaps, the single most salient issues concerning those engaged in conflict termination efforts. We therefore focus the bulk of this paper on a review of the supposed effects of disarmament on negotiating outcomes and war recurrence.
Two centuries-long dendroclimatic reconstruction based on Low Arctic Betula pubescens from Tromsø Region, Northern Norway
Authors: Opała Magdalena , Migała Krzysztof , Owczarek Piotr
Published: December 2016

This study presents the results of dendrochronological and dendroclimatological research of Betula pubescens from four sites in northern Norway (Kvaløya Island, Tromsøya Island and Storelva Valley), which provided a 193-year chronology. Our results highlight the importance of the site selection in dendroclimatological studies. We demonstrated that activity of geomorphic processes connected with local topography could led to reduced strength of climatic signal embedded in tree-ring data. Negative pointer years, triggered mainly by unfavourable climatic conditions and insect outbreaks, were common for all site chronologies in 1945, 1955, 1965, 1975, 1986, 2004. However, some site-specific differences were also distinguished. Response function analysis confirmed that June, July and August temperatures were positively correlated with tree-ring widths. This climate-growth relationship was stable throughout the years 1925–2000. From summer temperature reconstruction back to AD 1820, two colder (c. 1835–1850 and 1890–1920) and two warmer (c. 1825–1835 and 1920–1940) periods were identified. The tree-ring record from the Tromsø Region, well correlated between series, sites and climate variables, is an important element of a large-scale reconstruction of pre-instrumental climate variation in the northeastern part of the Atlantic Ocean. Our dendroclimatic reconstruction corresponds well with other climate proxy data, like fluctuations of mountain glaciers in Scandinavia or sea ice extent.
Freshwater mineral nitrogen and essential elements in autotrophs in James Ross Island, West Antarctica
Authors: Coufalík Pavel , Prochazková Petra , Zvěřina Ondřej , Trnková Kateřina , Skácelová Kateřina , Nývlt Daniel , Komárek Josef
Published: December 2016

The lakes and watercourses are habitats for various communities of cyanobacteria and algae, which are among the few primary producers in Antarctica. The amount of nutrients in the mineral-poor Antarctic environment is a limiting factor for the growth of freshwater autotrophs in most cases. In this study, the main aim was to assess the availability of mineral nitrogen for microorganisms in cyanobacterial mats in James Ross Island. The nitrate and ammonium ions in water environment were determined as well as the contents of major elements (C, N, P, S, Na, K, Ca, Mg, Al, Fe, Mn) in cyanobacterial mats. The molar ratios of C:N, C:P and N:P in mats were in focus. The growth of freshwater autotrophs seems not to be limited by the level of nitrogen, according to the content of available mineral nitrogen in water and the biogeochemical stoichiometry of C:N:P. The source of nutrients in the Ulu Peninsula is not obvious. The nitrogen fixation could enhance the nitrogen content in mats, which was observed in some samples containing theNostocsp.
Investigations on Health Conditions of Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant Accident Recovery Workers from Latvia in Late Period after Disaster
Authors: Reste Jeļena , Zvagule Tija , Kurjāne Nataļja , Šķesters Andrejs , Silova Alīse , Eglīte Maija , Cīrule Jolanta , Gabruševa Natālija , Zīverts Andris , Čurbakova Elvīra
Published: December 2016

The paper summarises the main findings on Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant (CNPP) accident recovery workers from Latvia and their health disturbances, which have been studied by the authors during the last two decades. Approximately 6000 persons from Latvia participated in CNPP clean-up works in 1986–1991. During their work period in Chernobyl they were exposed to external as well as to internal irradiation, but since their return to Latvia they were living in a relatively uncontaminated area. Regular careful medical examinations and clinical studies of CNPP clean-up workers have been conducted during the 25 years after disaster, gathering knowledge on radiation late effects. The aim of the present review is to summarise the most important information about Latvian CNPP clean-up worker health revealed by thorough follow-up and research conducted in the period of 25 years after the accident. This paper reviews data of the Latvian State Register of Persons Exposed to Radiation due to CNPP Accident and gives insight in main health effects found by the researchers from the Centre of Occupational and Radiological Medicine (Pauls Stradiņš Clinical University Hospital) and Rīga Stradiņš University in a number of epidemiological, clinical, biochemical, immunological, and physiological studies. Latvian research data on health condition of CNPP clean-up workers in the late period after disaster indicate that ionising radiation might cause premature ageing and severe polymorbidity in humans.
Preschool Personnel Exposure to Occupational Noise
Authors: Kaļužnaja Darja , Lakiša Svetlana
Published: December 2016

Increased noise, which is also below the occupational exposure values and is “hearing safe” noise, affects the exposed person’s health as a non-specific stressor. Increased noise level also creates an environment for additional vocal apparatus load. The objective of this study was to determine preschool personnel occupational noise and its relationship with subjective health complaints. Data were obtained with survey assistance through subjective answers of respondents about health complaints and noise exposure among Rīga preschool personnel. Objective noise measurements were made to assess real noise levels in the preschool environment. Data from 155 respondents and objective measurements of 37 preschool classrooms were obtained. The results showed that the average 8-h noise exposure among Rīga preschool educational institutions was 70 dB(A), which did not exceed the Latvian work environment noise limits, but exceeded the 35–40 dB(A) noise limit in the educational environment guidelines recommended by the WHO. The survey results showed that loud noise is one of the most important workplace environmental factors (~70% of respondents feel a necessity to increase voice because of noise). A constant feeling of fatigue, headache, irritable feeling, and a desire to isolate oneself from others more often occurred in respondents exposed to increased noise, compared with those who noted that they were not exposed to increased noise. In general, loud noise was associated with increased subjective health complaints in preschool education institution personnel.
The content of chromium and copper in plants and soil fertilized with sewage sludge with addition of various amounts of CaO and lignite ash
Authors: Wysokiński Andrzej , Kalembasa Stanisław , Kuziemska Beata , Łozak Izabela , Mucuś Łukasz
Published: December 2016

The influence of fertilization with fresh sewage sludge with the addition of calcium oxide and lignite ash in the proportions dry mass 6:1, 4:1, 3:1 and 2:1 on the content of chromium and copper in plants and soil and uptake of these elements was investigated in pot experiment. Sewage sludge were taken from Siedlce (sludge after methane fermentation) and Łuków (sludge stabilized in oxygenic conditions), eastern Poland. The chromium content in the biomass of the test plants (maize, sunflower and oat) was higher following the application of mixtures of sewage sludge with ash than of the mixtures with CaO. The copper content in plants most often did not significantly depend on the type of additives to the sludge. Various amounts of additives to the sewage sludge did not have a significant effect on the contents of either of the studied trace elements in plants. The contents of chromium and copper in soil after 3 years of cultivation of plants were higher than before the experiment, but these amounts were not significantly differentiated depending on the type and the amount of the used additive (i.e. CaO vs. ash) to sewage sludge.
The effect of municipal sewage sludge on the chemical composition of spring barley
Authors: Kępka Wojciech , Antonkiewicz Jacek , Jasiewicz Czesława , Gambuś Florian , Witkowicz Robert
Published: December 2016

Due to the fact that soils in Poland are mostly light soils, there is a need to improve their physical, chemical and biological properties. In addition, as a result of the decrease in the number of farm animals, a decrease in production of natural fertilizers can be observed. Low production of natural fertilizers speaks in favor of agricultural use of municipal sewage sludge in Poland. Municipal sewage sludge is composed of large quantities of macronutrients necessary for plants. This waste also contains significant amounts of organic substance. Chemical properties, including a high content of nitrogen, phosphorus, and often calcium, speak in favor of environmental use of municipal sewage sludge. Increasing requirements with respect to environmental protection cause the necessity to assess the effects of using organic waste for fertilization. In a farm located in the commune of Iwanowice (Małopolska province), municipal sewage sludge was applied under spring barley cultivation. The soil on which municipal sewage sludge was applied was classified into the category of heavy soils with neutral reaction. When assessing the content of available nutrients (P, K, Mg) in the soil, their low content was determined. After application of municipal sewage sludge in a dose of 24 Mg fresh matter per hectare, which corresponded to 5.34 Mg DM·ha−1, under spring barley, beneficial changes in chemical properties of the soil were observed. An increase in soil abundance in organic carbon and total nitrogen was observed, as well as an increase in the content of available forms of phosphorus, potassium and magnesium. Based on the results of the conducted chemical analyses, it was established that biomass of spring barley fertilized with sewage sludge contained more macronutrients (N, P, K, Na, Ca and Mg), which improved its feed value. The field experiment showed that application of municipal sewage sludge increased uptake of macronutrients by spring barley.
Fachkräftemangel im Gastgewerbe
Authors: Küblböck Stefan , Standar Marcel
Published: December 2016

Am Beispiel der Region Braunschweig-Wolfsburg zeigen die Autoren anhand von Sekundär- und mehrstufiger Primärforschung, dass Fachkräftemangel bereits heute die Managementpraxis der Hotelbetriebe prägt. Trotz problematischer Beschaffung von Arbeitskräften können die meisten Hotels Engpässe der Personalverfügbarkeit gegenwärtig noch kompensieren. Die Mehrheit der Verantwortlichen befürchtet jedoch, Ziele in Bezug auf die Personalpolitik und die zu erbringenden Leistungen bald zu verfehlen. Viele Betriebe stellen sogar die Zukunft ihres Unternehmens in Frage. Die Ursachen hinter dem Mangel können als Bündel betrachtet werden. Besonders tief scheint die Kluft zwischen den Ansprüchen junger Auszubildender einerseits und Branchenspezifika sowie-traditionen andererseits zu sein. An ihrer Konvergenz müssen sich auch mögliche Lösungsmaßnahmen orientieren, um das bestehende Nachhaltigkeitsdefizit auszugleichen.
Postcolonial Ekphrasis and Counter-Visions in Derek Walcott’sTiepolo’s Hound– Contacts, Contests and Translations
Authors: Neumann Birgit
Published: December 2016

The article sets out to investigate configurations of literary visuality in Derek Walcott’s long poemTiepolo’s Hound, illustrating how an engagement with verbal-visual relations might add to our understanding of Walcott’s postcolonial aesthetics. It is argued that the evocation of Eurocentric visual practices constitutes an act of intermedial and transcultural translation, which both acknowledges the influence of imposed models and subjects them to creative processes of exchange.
Retinal and Nonretinal Contributions to Extraclassical Surround Suppression in the Lateral Geniculate Nucleus
Authors: Fisher Tucker G. , Alitto Henry J. , Usrey W. Martin
Published: December 2016

Extraclassical surround suppression is a prominent receptive field property of neurons in the lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) of the dorsal thalamus, influencing stimulus size tuning, response gain control, and temporal features of visual responses. Despite evidence for the involvement of both retinal and nonretinal circuits in the generation of extraclassical suppression, we lack an understanding of the relative roles played by these pathways and how they interact during visual stimulation. To determine the contribution of retinal and nonretinal mechanisms to extraclassical suppression in the feline, we made simultaneous single-unit recordings from synaptically connected retinal ganglion cells and LGN neurons and measured the influence of stimulus size on the spiking activity of presynaptic and postsynaptic neurons. Results show that extraclassical suppression is significantly stronger for LGN neurons than for their retinal inputs, indicating a role for extraretinal mechanisms. Further analysis revealed that the enhanced suppression can be accounted for by mechanisms that suppress the effectiveness of retinal inputs in evoking LGN spikes. Finally, an examination of the time course for the onset of extraclassical suppression in the LGN and the size-dependent modulation of retinal spike efficacy suggests the early phase of augmented suppression involves local thalamic circuits. Together, these results demonstrate that the LGN is much more than a simple relay for retinal signals to cortex; it also filters retinal spikes dynamically on the basis of stimulus statistics to adjust the gain of visual signals delivered to cortex.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTThe lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) is the gateway through which retinal information reaches the cerebral cortex. Within the LGN, neuronal responses are often suppressed by stimuli that extend beyond the classical receptive field. This form of suppression, called extraclassical suppression, serves to adjust the size tuning, response gain, and temporal response properties of neurons. Given the important influence of extraclassical suppression on visual signals delivered to cortex, we performed experiments to determine the circuit mechanisms that contribute to extraclassical suppression in the LGN. Results show that suppression is augmented beyond that provided by direct retinal inputs and delayed, consistent with polysynaptic inhibition. Importantly, these mechanisms influence the effectiveness of incoming retinal signals, thereby filtering the signals ultimately conveyed to cortex.
Formation of Long-Term Locomotor Memories Is Associated with Functional Connectivity Changes in the Cerebellar–Thalamic–Cortical Network
Authors: Mawase Firas , Bar-Haim Simona , Shmuelof Lior
Published: December 2016

Although motor adaptation is typically rapid, accumulating evidence shows that it is also associated with long-lasting behavioral and neuronal changes. Two processes were suggested to explain the formation of long-term motor memories: recall, reflecting a retrieval of previous motor actions, and faster relearning, reflecting an increased sensitivity to errors. Although these manifestations of motor memories were initially demonstrated in the context of adaptation experiments in reaching, indications of long-term motor memories were also demonstrated recently in other kinds of adaptation such as in locomotor adaptation. Little is known about the neural processes that underlie these distinct aspects of memory. We hypothesize that recall and faster relearning reflect different learning processes that operate at the same time and depend on different neuronal networks. Seventeen subjects performed a multisession locomotor adaptation experiment in the laboratory, together with resting-state and localizer fMRI scans, after the baseline and the locomotor adaptation sessions. We report a modulation of the cerebellar–thalamic–cortical and cerebellar–basal ganglia networks after locomotor adaptation. Interestingly, whereas thalamic–cortical baseline connectivity was correlated with recall, cerebellar–thalamic baseline connectivity was correlated with faster relearning. Our results suggest that separate neuronal networks underlie error sensitivity and retrieval components. Individual differences in baseline resting-state connectivity can predict idiosyncratic combination of these components.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTThe ability to shape our motor behavior rapidly in everyday activity, such as when walking on sand, suggests the existence of long-term motor memories. It was suggested recently that this ability is achieved by the retrieval of previous motor actions and by enhanced relearning capacity. Little is known about the neural mechanisms that underlie these memory processes. We studied the modularity in long-term motor memories in the context of locomotor adaptation using resting-state fMRI. We show that retrieval and relearning effects are associated with separate locomotor control networks and that intersubject variability in learning and in the generation of motor memories could be predicted from baseline resting-state connectivity in locomotor-related networks.
More than Food Porn: Twitter, Transparency, and Food Systems
Authors: Pennell Michael
Published: December 2016

This article explores the ways in which social media, specifically Twitter, can provide transparency to local and national food systems. Those interested in and invested in food systems should focus more attention on the mundane, but easily dismissed, photos and tweets that populate Twitter, Instagram, and other social media feeds, especially those from chefs, mobile food vendors, and fishermen and women. As evidence, the article includes excerpts from interviews with and observations of chefs, food cart operators, and fishermen and women operating in the state of Rhode Island.
The Politics of Food Anti-Politics
Authors: Biltekoff Charlotte
Published: December 2016

This article explores the dynamics of a discursive contest between a “Real Food” frame in which, for concerned consumers and activists, processed food is an unhealthy product of a troubled food system, and a “Real Facts” frame in which, for food science and food industry advocates, processed food is a solution to the need to provide abundant, safe, and nutritious food. The analysis focuses on two school curricula that are vying to teach children “where food comes from.” I argue that the “food” in these two curricula is not the same thing. Within the Food, Inc. Discussion Guide, food is connection, responsibility, and politics. The Alliance to Feed the Future curricula respond with a strategic anti-politics of food, asserting that food can only be “what it obviously is” and framing Real Food's challenge as scientific and technical ignorance.
Invisible While in Plain Sight
Authors: Campbell Nnenia , McAllister Lucy , Downey Liam
Published: December 2016

Despite the key role the World Bank plays in funding and promoting development projects that not only harm developing nations but also maintain their dependence on core nations, core nation corporations, and international development institutions, many people still regard the World Bank as the world's most important and successful development institution, raising the question of how it is able to legitimate itself so successfully. Researchers have long been interested in explaining how powerful actors legitimize their activities, with one important strand of research highlighting the ways in which powerful organizations use impression management to keep the general public ignorant of actions these organizations undertake that would be deemed inappropriate, immoral, or illegitimate if widely known. We extend the literature on impression management, which tends to highlight powerful organizations’ defensive image maintenance practices and the strategies they use for communicating positive images to key stakeholders, by asking whether significant external parties, such as the news media, play an important role in affirming these organizational images and communicating them to external audiences. In particular, we examine three years’ worth of New York Times articles that highlight or in some way reference the World Bank, and ask whether the images of the World Bank presented by the Times are consistent with either the images of itself that the World Bank presents or the images set forth by the Bank's critics. We find that the Times highlights images of the World Bank that are highly consistent with the images set forth by the World Bank, while downplaying and ignoring images highlighted by the Bank's critics. This suggests that, intentionally or not, the New York Times plays an important role in helping the World Bank legitimize itself, in large part by helping the World Bank keep US citizens ignorant of the many negative effects of its development projects.
De solidaridades problemáticas y utopías sin armonizar: una lectura de Limón Reggae (2007), de Anacristina Rossi, y Big Banana (2000), de Roberto Quesada
Authors: Rios Quesada Veronica
Published: December 2016

En este artículo se analizan los límites de la solidaridad desde el descentramiento de los protagonistas mestizos en Limón Reggae, de la costarricense Anacristina Rossi (2007), y Big Banana, del hondureño Roberto Quesada (2000). En la primera novela se representa a los descendientes costarricenses de los migrantes antillanos (jamaiquinos en su mayoría), y en la segunda, a los garífunas hondureños. Mientras Limón Reggae explora una solidaridad de carácter político-estructural, tanto en Costa Rica como en Estados Unidos, así como la posibilidad de una relación amorosa interracial, Big Banana se enfoca en la solidaridad por empatía a través de la relación entre Eduardo y Mairena en territorio estadounidense, problematizando así la posibilidad de reinvención identitaria en ese “tercer espacio”. Ninguno de los dos textos se atreve a presentar una solución simplista u homogénea para la convivencia, por lo que los dos grupos, finalmente, permanecen separados. Ambas recalcan la importancia del lugar de enunciación y, deesta manera, evitan caer en las falacias de las ficciones de solidaridad que se pierden en su propia fantasía de solidaridad.
¿Black is black? El Caribe y Centroamérica más allá de África y la negritud
Authors: Mackenbach Werner
Published: December 2016

En los estudios sobre el Caribe se ha vuelto un tópico común entender la región en términos de afrodescendencia y negritud. Con eso, se ha perfilado cierta tendencia de encerrar el espacio cultural tan diverso del Caribe y Centroamérica en una nueva concepción limitada y esencialista que hace abstracción de las múltiples y complejas convergencias transculturales a lo largo de su historia. Sin embargo, ya a partir de los años setenta y ochenta del siglo XX se han generado ensayos abarcadores e innovadores en y desde el espacio caribeño mismo que introducen nuevas dimensiones en los debates sobre caribeñidad, antillanidad, mestizaje, ‘creolidad’ etc. En las literaturas caribeñas y centroamericanas han emergido numerosas obras que tematizan, ironizan y parodian la búsqueda de una identidad exclusivamente negra de los Caribes y de los intentos de regresar a la “Madre África”. El ensayo se dedica al análisis de este fenómeno en cuatro novelas de los Caribes francófono e hispanófono: Ti Jean l’horizon (1979) de Simone Schwarz-Bart (Guadalupe), Calypso (1996) de Tatiana Lobo (Costa Rica), Limón Blues (2002) de Anacristina Rossi (Costa Rica) y Black is black (2008) de Raphaël Confiant (Martinica).
Potential Settlement Due to Seismic Effects in the Residential Area of Ilgin (Konya, Turkey)
Authors: Ozdemir Adnan , Nalbantcilar Mahmut Tahir
Published: December 2016

Ilgin lies on newly formed, loose, granular deposits, and there is a substantial risk for surface liquefaction and foundation settlements due to the seismic effects resulting from groundwater close to the surface. This study evaluates potential settlement due to seismic effects in the residential areas of Ilgin using the Standard Penetration Test (SPT) performed on 45 geotechnical bores. In Turkey, where earthquakes occur frequently, the selection of residential areas is of great importance. In this research, the number of settlements was calculated considering an earthquake having a Local Magnitude of 6 (i.e., ML ≥ 6.0 and a ≥ 0.4 g) under a 0.4 g seismic force, and a potential settlement map of the residential area was prepared. The amount of settlement exceeds 20 cm at locations near Ilgin Lake and in the northern section of Ilgin residential areas; downtown, the settlement ranges from 10-20 cm. The settlements presented here exceed the allowable threshold limits for structures constructed using adobe and brick in this district. Thus, improvements to minimize earthquake-induced damages are required for structures in Ilgin. Moreover, the selection of new residential areas, along with the proper design of the structures before construction, should be examined further to avoid ground liquefaction and structure damage due to settlement.  ResumenLa localidad de Ilgin está ubicada sobre depósitos recién formados, granulares y no compactos, por lo que existe un riesgo sustancial de licuefacción de la superficie y la creación de asentamientos o deslizamientos debido a los efectos sísmicos resultantes del agua subterránea poco profunda. Este artículo evalúa el potencial de asentamiento debido a los efectos sísmicos en las áreas residenciales de Ilgin a través del Ensayo de Penetración Estándar (SPT, en inglés) realizado en 45 perforaciones geotécnicas. En Turquía, donde los terremotos ocurren frecuentemente, la selección de áreas residenciales es de gran importancia. En esta investigación, se calculó el número de asentamientos ante un terremoto con Magnitud Local (ML) de 6 y con una fuerza sísmica de 0.4 g para preparar un mapa de asentamientos en el área residencial. La cantidad de asentamientos supera los 20 centímetros en lugares cercanos al lago Ilgin y en la sección norte del área residencial; en el centro, los rangos de asentamiento van de 10 a 20 cm. Los asentamientos presentados exceden los límites de lo permitido para estructuras construidas en adobe y ladrillo en este distrito. Por esto, se requieren mejoras para minimizar los daños inducidos por terremotos en las estructuras de Ilgin. Además, la selección de nuevas áreas residenciales, junto con el diseño apropiado de las estructuras antes de la construcción, debe ser revisado atentamente para evitar la licuefacción del suelo y el daño de las estructuras debido al asentamiento.
Temporal-spatial distribution of oceanic vertical deflections determined by TOPEX/Poseidon and Jason-1/2 missions
Authors: Guo Jin Yun , Shen Yi , Zhang Kaihua , Liu Xin , Kong Qiaoli , Xie Feifei
Published: December 2016

Deflections of the Vertical (DOV) are essential data in the geodetic observation reduce, the earth gravity field and geoid model refinement, and the mass earth change. The meridional and prime vertical components of global oceanic DOVs are estimated from altimetry data of TOPEX/Poseidon, Jason-1, and Jason-2, through 1992 to 2013 with the crossover method, to analyze the temporal-spatial distribution of marine DOVs. Comparing with the EGM2008-modelled DOVs, precisions of meridional and prime vertical components can be up to 0.98” and 1.02”, respectively. The time series of annual mean DOVs from 1992 to 2013 are studied to get the annual variation law. Annual changes of meridional and prime vertical components are small over most oceans. But the annual changes are significant over oceans with large submarine topography undulations. The spatial distribution of oceanic DOVs is also analyzed. The absolute DOVs over oceans around lands, islands, and large oceanic trenches are greater than those over the other oceans. The meridional and prime vertical components are consistent with the longitude and latitude directions, respectively. ResumenLas Desviaciones de la Vertical (DOV, del inglés Deflections of the Vertical) son información esencial en la simplificación de la observación geodésica, el campo gravitatorio terrestre y el perfeccionamiento del modelo geoide, y el cambio de la masa terrestre. Se estimaron los componentes meridional y principal vertical de las desviaciones de la vertical oceánica global con la información altimétrica de TOPEX/Poseidón, Jason 1 y Jason 2, de 1992 a 2013, con un método de cruce para analizar la distribución espacio-temporal de las desviaciones de la vertical marinas. Comparadas con las desviaciones de la vertical obtenidas con el modelo EGM2008 (Modelo de Gravitación de la Tierra), la precisión de los componentes meridional y principal vertical puede aumentarse 0.98" y 1.02", respectivamente. Se estudiaron las series temporales de la media anual de las desviaciones de la vertical desde 1992 a 2013 para obtener la ley anual de variación. Los cambios anuales de los componentes meridional y principal vertical son muy pequeñas en la mayoría de los océanos. Sin embargo, los cambios anuales son mayores en aquellos océanos con una topografía submarina de grandes ondulaciones. También se analizó la distribución espacial de las desviaciones de la vertical oceánicas. Las desviaciones de la vertical absolutas alrededor de los continentes, islas y fosas oceánicas mayores son superiores que aquellas sobre los otros océanos. Los componentes meridional y vertical principal son consistentes con las direcciones de la longitud y la latitud, respectivamente.
Experimental study of petrophysical properties of a tight formation by considering the clay minerals and flow sensitivities
Authors: Liu Guangfen , Li Shoujun , Gu Daihong , Lu Yang , Asamoah Emmanuel
Published: December 2016

Quantitative X-ray diffraction analysis of rock, X-ray diffraction analysis of clay minerals types and components, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) and sensitivity flow experiments methods were used toresearch the effects of clay minerals on the porosity and permeability of Ordos Basin’s tight Chang 7 reservoir (Zhenbei area). These methods were also used to analyze the type, degree, and factors affecting reservoir sensitivity. The research showed that the reservoir possessed poor water, salt, and alkali sensitivity, poor to strong acid sensitivity and none to poor velocity sensitivity. Acid sensitivity among them had comparatively large differences, mainly because acid sensitivity was not only affected by chlorite but also by components of carbonate minerals. Stress sensitivity experiment results showed that the maximum degree of permeability damage in the rocks of this reservoir was median to very strong; irreversible damage level was weak to strong. Consequently, the experimental studies are favorable to not only determine the factor dominating the petrophysical properties of the tight formation, but also to optimize the follow-up development strategies, e.g. injection schedule and hydraulic fracturing implement. Estudio Experimental de las propiedades petrofísicas de una formación compacta al considerar las arcillas minerales y las respuestas de flujo ResumenEste trabajo utilizó análisis cuantitativos de rocas por difracción de rayos X, análisis de los tipos y componentes de arcillas minerales por difracción de rayos X, análisis con el microscopio electrónico de efecto de campo (FESEM, del inglés Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope) y ensayos de respuesta de flujo para investigar los efectos de las arcillas minerales en la porosidad y permeabilidad del depósito Chang 7, en la cuenca del Ordos (región Zhenbei). Estos métodos también se utilizaron para analizar el tipo, el grado y los factores que afectan la respuesta del depósito. La investigación demuestra que el depósito posee poca agua, sal y respuesta alcalina, baja a fuerte respuesta de acidez, y ninguna a baja respuesta de velocidad. Entre estas características, la respuesta de acidez presentó grandes diferencias comparativas debido a que está afectada tanto por el clorito como por los componentes de minerales carbonatos. Los resultados de los ensayos de respuesta de tensión muestran que el máximo grado de daño por permeabilidad en las rocas del depósito es de mediano a muy fuerte; el nivel de daño irreversible va de débil hasta fuerte. Por lo tanto lo estudios experimentales son favorables no solo para determinar el factor dominante en las propiedades petrofísicas de la formación compacta sino también para optimizar las futuras estrategias de desarrollo, como una programación de las tareas de inyección y la implementación de la fractura hidráulica.
One versus two visits of endodontic treatment on teeth with apical periodontitis
Authors: Nugroho Juni J.
Published: December 2016

The microbiological purpose of teeth endodontic treatment with apical periodontitis is to reduce microbes in order to achieve periradicular tissue healing and to prevent microbes recolonized. These are obtained by antimicrobial measures, including chemo-mechanical procedures and intra-canal medication, with root canal obturation steps. One of the problems in endodontic is the planning consideration to give treatment with one or two visits. Performing intra-appointment medication is an absolute measure to promote disinfection and successful treatment. Another purpose of this paper is to provide a reference about one or two visit of endodontic treatment decision making for dental professionals. Root canal system on teeth with apical periodontitis treated in two visits endodontic and calcium hydroxide as the intra-appointment medication achieved better microbiological status than the one treated in one visit endodontic.
Recruitment of newly qualified doctors – a work in progress
Authors: Sharma Neel
Published: December 2016

This article was migrated. The article was not marked as recommended. The Situational Judgement Test (SJT) is currently used in the UK as a selection tool for students entering the Foundation Programme. This article aims to highlight the current lack of evidence for its utilisation in this regard.
Randomized Phase II Study of Cabazitaxel Versus Methotrexate in Patients With Recurrent and/or Metastatic Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck Previously Treated With Platinum-Based Therapy
Authors: Machiels Jean-Pascal Henry , Van Maanen Aline , Vandenbulcke Jean-Marie , Filleul Bertrand , Seront Emmanuel , Henry Stéphanie , D’Hondt Lionel , Lonchay Christophe , Holbrechts Stéphane , Boegner Petra , Brohee Dany , Dequanter Didier , Louviaux Ingrid , Sautois Brieuc , Whenham Nicolas , Berchem Guy , Vanderschueren Brigitte , Fontaine Christel , Schmitz Sandra , Gillain Aline , Schoonjans Joelle , Rottey Sylvie
Published: December 2016

Lessons Learned

Cabazitaxel has activity in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) and taxane-resistant cell lines. For the first time, cabazitaxel was investigated in incurable patients with recurrent SCCHN. Patients were randomly assigned to cabazitaxel every 3 weeks or weekly methotrexate. This phase II study did not meet its primary endpoint. Cabazitaxel has low activity in SCCHN. The toxicity profile in this population also was not favorable owing to the high rate of febrile neutropenia observed (17%).

Background.

Cabazitaxel is a second-generation taxane that improves the survival of patients with metastatic castrate-resistant prostate cancer following docetaxel therapy. Cabazitaxel has activity in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) and taxane-resistant cell lines. In this randomized phase II trial, we investigated cabazitaxel in patients with recurrent SCCHN.

Methods.

Patients with incurable SCCHN with progression after platinum-based therapy were randomly assigned to cabazitaxel every 3 weeks (cycle 1, 20 mg/m2, increased to 25 mg/m2 for subsequent cycles in the absence of nonhematological adverse events [AEs] greater than grade 2 and hematological AEs greater than grade 3) or methotrexate (40 mg/m2/week). The patients were stratified according to their performance status and previous platinum-based chemotherapy for palliation versus curative intent. The primary endpoint was the progression-free survival rate (PFSR) at 18 weeks.

Results.

Of the 101 patients, 53 and 48, with a median age of 58.0 years (range, 41–80), were randomly assigned to cabazitaxel or methotrexate, respectively. The PFSR at 18 weeks was 13.2% (95% confidence interval [CI], 5%–25%) for cabazitaxel and 8.3% (95% CI, 2%–20%) for methotrexate. The median progression-free survival was 1.9 months in both arms. The median overall survival was 5.0 and 3.6 months for cabazitaxel and methotrexate, respectively. More patients experienced serious adverse events with cabazitaxel than with methotrexate (54% vs. 36%). The most common drug-related grade 3–4 AE in the cabazitaxel arm was febrile neutropenia (17.3%).

Conclusion.

This study did not meet its primary endpoint. Cabazitaxel has low activity in recurrent SCCHN.
Distributed Ledger Technology in Payments, Clearing, and Settlement
Authors: Mills David , Wang Kathy , Malone Brendan , Ravi Anjana , Marquardt Jeff , Chen Clinton , Badev Anton , Brezinski Timothy , Fahy Linda , Liao Kimberley , Kargenian Vanessa , Ellithorpe Max , Ng Wendy , Baird Maria
Published: December 2016

Digital innovations in finance, loosely known as fintech, have garnered a great deal of attention across the financial industry. Distributed ledger technology (DLT) is one such innovation that has been cited as a means of transforming payment, clearing, and settlement (PCS) processes, including how funds are transferred and how securities, commodities, and derivatives are cleared and settled. DLT is a term that has been used by the industry in a variety of ways and so does not have a single definition. Because there is a wide spectrum of possible deployments of DLT, this paper will refer to the technology as some combination of components including peer-to-peer networking, distributed data storage, and cryptography that, among other things, can potentially change the way in which the storage, recordkeeping, and transfer of a digital asset is done.