bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ON THE USE OF A CENTRAL THORIUM FUEL ELEMENT IN PRESSURE-TUBE HEAVY-WATER REACTOR FUEL BUNDLES
Authors: McDonald Michael , Moore Megan , Wojtaszek Dan , Chornoboy Nicholas , Edwards Geoffrey
Published: September 2017

An incremental approach to introducing thorium to the conventional pressure-tube heavy-water reactor natural uranium fuel cycle is investigated. The approach involves the replacement of the centre fuel element of the bundle with an element of thorium dioxide. Increasing the operating margin of a key safety parameter, the coolant void reactivity, is a prime motivating factor. The analyses showed that the simple use of a single pin of thorium is unlikely to be economically advantageous due to a large burnup penalty and increased fuel costs. However, a slight reduction in the void reactivity is observed, and this approach does allow the exploitation of the energy potential available in thorium as an alternative nuclear fuel resource through the development of a U-233 resource. This bundle concept may also be advantageous from a fuel disposal point of view, as the fuel requires less time in storage before emplacement in a deep geological repository.
Current predictive models do not accurately differentiate between single and multi gland disease in primary hyperparathyroidism: a retrospective cohort study of two endocrine surgery units
Authors: Edafe O , Collins EE , Ubhi CS , Balasubramanian SP
Published: September 2017

Background

Minimally invasive parathyroidectomy (MIP) for primary hyperparathyroidism is dependent upon accurate prediction of single-gland disease on the basis of preoperative imaging and biochemistry. The aims of this study were to validate currently available predictive models of single-gland disease in two UK cohorts and to determine if these models can facilitate MIP.

Methods

This is a retrospectively cohort study of 624 patients who underwent parathyroidectomy for primary hyperparathyroidism in two centres between July 2008 and December 2013. Two recognised models: CaPTHUS (preoperative calcium, parathyroid hormone, ultrasound, sestamibi, concordance imaging) and Wisconsin Index (preoperative calcium, parathyroid hormone) were validated for their ability to predict single-gland disease.

Results

The rates of single- and multi-gland disease were 491 (79.6%) and 126 (20.2%), respectively. Cure rates in centres 1 and 2 were 93.2% and 93.8%, respectively (P = 0.789). The positive predictive value (PPV) of CaPTHUS score . 3 in predicting single-gland disease was 84.6%, compared with 100% in the original report. CaPTHUS . 4 and 5 had a PPV of 85.1 and 87.1, respectively. There were no differences in Wisconsin Index (WIN) between patients with single- and multi-gland (P = 0.573). A WIN greater than 1600 and weight of excised gland greater than 1 g had a positive predictive value of 86.7% for single-gland disease.

Conclusions

The use of CaPTHUS and WIN indices without intraoperative adjuncts (such as IOPTH) had the potential to result in failure to cure in up to 15% (CaPTHUS) and 13% (WIN) of patients treated by MIP targeting a single enlarged gland.
Does a missed obstetric anal sphincter injury at time of delivery affect short-term functional outcome?
Authors: Ramage L , Yen C , Qiu S , Simillis C , Kontovounisios C , Tan E , Tekkis P
Published: September 2017

Introduction

This study aimed to ascertain whether missed obstetric anal sphincter injury at delivery had worse functional and quality of life outcomes than primary repair immediately following delivery.

Materials and methods

Two to one propensity matching was undertaken of patients presenting to a tertiary pelvic floor unit with ultrasound evidence of missed obstetric anal sphincter injury within 24 months of delivery with patients who underwent primary repair at the time of delivery by parity, grade of injury and time to assessment. Outcomes compared included Birmingham Bowel, Bladder and Urinary Symptom Questionnaire (BBUSQ), Wexner Incontinence Score, Short Form-36, Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire and anorectal physiology results.

Results

Thirty-two missed anal sphincter injuries were matched two to one with sixty-two patients who underwent primary repair of an anal sphincter defect. Mean time to follow-up was 9.31 ± 6.79 months. Patients with a missed anal sphincter injury had suffered more incontinence, as seen in higher the Birmingham Bowel, Bladder and Urinary Symptom Questionnaire (BBUSQ; 30.56% ± 14.41% vs. 19.75% ± 15.65%, P = 0.002) and Wexner scores (6.00 ± 3.76 vs. 3.67 ± 4.06, P = 0.009). They also had a worse BBUSQ urinary domain score (28.25% ± 14.9% vs. 17.01 ± 13.87%, P = 0.001) and worse physical functioning as measured by the Short Form-36 questionnaire (P = 0.045). There were no differences in other outcomes compared, including anorectal physiology and sexual function.

Discussion

In the short-term, patients with a missed obstetric anal sphincter injury had significantly worse faecal incontinence and urinary function scores, however quality of life and sexual function were largely comparable between groups.

Conclusions

Longer-term follow-up is needed to assess the effects of missed obstetric anal sphincter injury over time.
An assessment of pelvic binder placement at a UK major trauma centre
Authors: Naseem H , Nesbitt PD , Sprott DC , Clayson A
Published: September 2017

Introduction

Pelvic binders are used to reduce the haemorrhage associated with pelvic ring injuries. Application at the level of the greater trochanters is required. We assessed the frequency of their use in patients with pelvic ring injuries and their positioning in patients presenting to a single major trauma centre.

Methods

A retrospective review of our trauma database was performed to randomly select 1000 patients for study from April 2012 to December 2016. Patients with a pelvic binder or a pelvic ring injury defined by the Young and Burgess classification were included. Computed tomography was used to identify and measure pelvic binder placement.

Results

140 patients were identified: 110/140 had a binder placed. Of the total, 54 (49.1%) patients had satisfactory placement and 56 (50.9%) had unsatisfactory placement; 30/67 (44.8%) patients with a pelvic ring injury had no binder applied, of whom 6 (20%) had an unstable injury; 9/67 patients died.

Discussion

This is the first study assessing pelvic binder placement in patients at a UK major trauma centre. Unsatisfactory positioning of the pelvic binder is a common problem and it was not used in a large proportion of patients with pelvic ring injuries. This demonstrates that there is a need for continuing education for teams dealing with major trauma.
Aural exostoses (surfer’s ear) provide vital fossil evidence of an aquatic phase in Man’s early evolution
Authors: Rhys Evans PH , Cameron M
Published: September 2017

For over a century, otolaryngologists have recognised the condition of aural exostoses, but their significance and aetiology remains obscure, although they tend to be associated with frequent swimming and cold water immersion of the auditory canal. The fact that this condition is usually bilateral is predictable since both ears are immersed in water. However, why do exostoses only grow in swimmers and why do they grow in the deep bony meatus at two or three constant sites? Furthermore, from an evolutionary point of view, what is or was the purpose and function of these rather incongruous protrusions?

In recent decades, paleoanthropological evidence has challenged ideas about early hominid evolution. In 1992 the senior author suggested that aural exostoses were evolved in early hominid Man for protection of the delicate tympanic membrane during swimming and diving by narrowing the ear canal in a similar fashion to other semiaquatic species. We now provide evidence for this theory and propose an aetiological explanation for the formation of exostoses.
Feminina e não feminista: a construção mediática do backlash, do consumo e dos pós-feminismos
Authors: Souza Juliana Mello
Published: September 2017

A significativa intervenção dos feminismos na identificação e na desconstrução das práticas sociais ainda dominantes, logo, na emersão de novas perspetivas de mudança, sempre foram obscurecidos e negligenciados, se não mesmo tornados ausentes, no debate com o grande público. Dado o impacto da nova linguagem mediática em torno dos feminismos parece- nos importante o exercício de passar em revista como os constructos neoliberais dos feminismos, sobretudo apropriados pelos veículos de comunicação social, podem ser observados e interpretados como um fenómeno social que envolve, no seu modus operandi, tanto as estruturas de controlo/poder como as lógicas identitárias de uma sociedade marcadamente patriarcal. É o que se pretende fazer no presente artigo.
Modelo para vida útil restante de ativos em terminais aeroportuários
Authors: Müller Beuren Marcelo , Duarte Ribeiro José Luis
Published: September 2017

Estudos destacam a importância da previsão da vida útil de ativos para redução de custos e aumento de produtividade nas companhias, em especial, a vida útil restante. No entanto, esta previsão é muito sensível ao método utilizado e à quantidade de dados disponível para a análise. Apesar de existirem diversos modelos para vida útil restante de ativos, nenhum deles foi desenvolvido considerando especificamente o ambiente aeroportuário, que apresenta problemas na gestão de seus ativos. O objetivo principal deste trabalho é propor um modelo para estimativa de vida útil restante de ativos em aeroportos, além da sua aplicação em um aeroporto brasileiro na forma de estudo de caso. O trabalho concluiu que modelo conseguiu identificar ativos com um amplo intervalo de vida útil restante, apoiando-se em informações subjetivas e poucos dados históricos. Como principal contribuição, cita-se o estudo das variáveis presentes em ambientes aeroportuários, o que permitiu a proposição de um modelo adequado para lidar com as especificidades do setor.
Eficácia da heurística da utilização incremental para balanceamento de linha: estudo de caso em um processo de tratamento de superfície
Authors: Leite Marcela de Souza , Santos Stephanie Conceição , Da Silva Adriano Maniçoba , Ferreira William de Paula
Published: September 2017

O balanceamento de linha permite aumentar a eficiência de um processo produtivo. Apesar de recorrentemente pesquisada no exterior, a aplicação da heurística da utilização incremental para balanceamento de linha no Brasil foi apresentada em poucos estudos. Neste contexto, o objetivo desta pesquisa é, através de um estudo de caso, apresentar o resultado do balanceamento das atividades da linha de tratamento de superfície de uma indústria de mobiliário escolar e desportivo. Mediante a aplicação da heurística da utilização incremental para o balanceamento de linha, foi possível ampliar a capacidade produtiva do setor de serralheria. Comparou-se ainda a solução obtida pela heurística com a solução ótima obtida com programação linear. Concluiu-se que a aplicação da heurística de utilização incremental é eficaz para realizar o balanceamento de linha podendo ser mais bem explorada em aplicações no âmbito nacional.
Controle do desempenho operacional na indústria plástica: uma abordagem estruturada para a avaliação de custos e planejamento da capacidade
Authors: Almeida Rodrigo Pessotto , Romanzini Fernanda , Amorin Anderson Luis Walker , Werner Liane , Kliemann Neto Francisco José
Published: September 2017

Em um ambiente caracterizado pela alta competitividade, torna-se imprescindível a busca pela excelência nos padrões de desempenho empresariais. Isto tem exigido das empresas medidas de controle de seus processos internos, a fim de eliminar perdas relacionadas ao uso inadequado de recursos. Neste contexto, o presente artigo desenvolve um modelo para o controle do desempenho operacional do sistema produtivo, utilizando a avaliação de custos e o planejamento da capacidade de produção. O objetivo é evidenciar as parcelas de custos relativos à produção, bem como os custos originados pela ociosidade do sistema, investigando seus impactos no resultado final. Para avaliar a eficácia do modelo proposto, este foi aplicado em uma empresa de manufatura de materiais plásticos para a construção civil, em um sistema com múltiplos produtos e múltiplas máquinas.
Meropenem-induced Valproic Acid Elimination: A Case Report of Clinically Relevant Drug Interaction
Authors: Šíma Martin , Hartinger Jan , Rulíšek Jan , Šachl Robert , Slanař Ondřej
Published: September 2017

We present two case reports of drug interaction between valproic acid and meropenem. In comparison with expected population-kinetic based serum levels, we observed 90.8 and 93.5% decrease in valproic acid serum levels during concomitant administration with meropenem. If carbapenems need to be administered to valproic acid treated patient, other anticonvulsant addition seems to be the appropriate as most probably the valproic acid dose escalation would not be sufficient to achieve therapeutic serum concentration.
Besov regularity for solutions of p-harmonic equations
Authors: Clop Albert , Giova Raffaella , Passarelli di Napoli Antonia
Published: September 2017

We establish the higher fractional differentiability of the solutions to nonlinear elliptic equations in divergence form, i.e.,

{\operatorname{div}\mathcal{A}(x,Du)=\operatorname{div}F,}

when

{\mathcal{A}}

is a p-harmonic type operator, and under the assumption that

{x\mapsto\mathcal{A}(x,\xi\/)}

belongs to the critical Besov–Lipschitz space

{B^{\alpha}_{{n/\alpha},q}}

.
We prove that some fractional differentiability assumptions on F transfer to Du with no losses in the natural exponent of integrability.
When

{\operatorname{div}F=0}

, we show that an analogous extra differentiability property for Du holds true under a Triebel–Lizorkin assumption on the partial map

{x\mapsto\mathcal{A}(x,\xi\/)}

.
Spieler oder Schachfigur? Schach als epistemologisches Modell bei Solvej Balle
Authors: Eglinger Hanna
Published: September 2017

In a close reading of a short story by the Danish writer Solvej Balle (in
Når forfatteren snakker med. Metalepsis og disclosure i Karen Blixens fortællinger
Authors: Christensen Markus Floris
Published: September 2017

This article explores and examines the narratological concepts of metalepsis and disclosure as they manifest themselves in Karen Blixen’s
Biological and topochemical studies on the resistance of excavated oak piles (Quercus sp.) from a historical bridge in Bavaria
Authors: Koch Gerald , Melcher Eckhard , Lenz Marie-Therese , Bauch Josef
Published: September 2017

Archaeological wood of 13 excavated oak piles from five historical bridge generations in Bavaria, dated from 1447 to 1787, was investigated by means of light microscopy (LM) and cellular UV-microspectrophotometry (UMSP) to study the ageing and natural resistance of the excavated wood. Furthermore, the mineral content of the ancient wood was determined to evaluate the impact of mineral inclusions on microbial resistance, tested using a mini block fungal test. The LM and UMSP analyses revealed well preserved cell wall structures and no significant modification of the lignin composition and distribution in predominant parts of the piles. Slight microbial decay caused by soft rot and erosion bacteria was only detectable at the outermost millimetres of individual piles. The fungal mini block tests yielded mass losses of ancient oak samples between 15% and 30%, independent of their analysed mineral content. The results provided evidence that the fungal resistance of the investigated ancient wood is mainly determined from the special soil with its high mineral content.
Experimental Synchronization of Two Van der Pol Oscillators with Nonlinear and Delayed Unidirectional Coupling
Authors: Siewe Raoul Thepi , Talla Alain Francis , Woafo Paul
Published: September 2017

This paper presents the experimental investigation on synchronization of two Van der Pol oscillators with polynomial and delay unidirectional couplings. The intervals of coupling coefficients and delay leading to synchronization are determined experimentally using analog electronic circuits. Three cases are considered: autonomous Van der Pol oscillators, sinusoidally exited Van der Pol oscillators in the chaotic state and Van der Pol oscillators with two slowly sinusoidal excitations delivering periodic patterns of periodic pulses. It is found that the degree of the polynomial coupling reduces the intervals of coupling coefficients leading to synchronization and the delay affects the coupling intervals in a periodic way. The experimental results agree well with the results of the theoretical (mathematical and numerical) investigation.
Anti-arthritic and gastroprotective activities of Ardisia crispa root partially mediated via its antioxidant effect
Authors: Hamid Roslida Abdul , Fong Lau Moi , Ting Yeong Looi
Published: September 2017

Background

Ardisia crispa Thunb A.DC (Myrsinaceae), commonly known as “hen’s eyes”, has been traditionally used in treating various inflammatory diseases. The present study evaluated anti-arthritic, gastroprotective and antioxidant activities of Ardisia crispa root hexane extract (ACRH) in various animal models.

Methods

Anti-arthritic activity was evaluated in complete Freund adjuvant (CFA)-induced adjuvant arthritis and gastroprotective effect was studied in the ethanol-induced ulcer model in rats. ACRH was further isolated to yield quinone-rich fraction (QRF) and both were analyzed for their total phenolic content, total flavonoid content and antioxidant activities in various antioxidant assays. Both ACRH and QRF were also analyzed for the quinone composition via gas chromatography analysis.

Results

ACRH exerted significant reduction of IL-1β and TNF-α at a lower dose range in CFA-induced arthritis, as well as exhibited its cytoprotective effect against ethanol-induced ulcer lesion via involvement of mucosal nonprotein sulfhydryl (NP-SH) groups. ACRH also showed higher phenolic and flavonoid contents, as well as better antioxidant activities than QRF.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrated the plant as a potential anti-inflammatory agent, with ACRH succeeded in inhibiting both arthritic and ulcerogenic effect, possibly mediated via its antioxidant effect.
Social class and the inequality of English speakers in a globalized world
Authors: Darvin Ron
Published: September 2017

Responding to observations in ELF research that Anglophone-centric attitudes towards English are eroding among speakers of a younger generation, this paper demonstrates that attitudes towards English can in fact vary among youth of different social class backgrounds. Drawing on a case study of immigrant Filipino adolescents in Vancouver, this paper examines how class differences of these youth impinge on their lived experiences and the material conditions of their migration, shaping how they negotiate their linguistic capital, particularly their use of English. Data illustrate how such conditions shape their dispositions, their sense of agency, and feelings of linguistic confidence and insecurity. Using Darvin and Norton’s (2015. Identity and a model of investment in applied linguistics.Annual Review of Applied Linguistics35. 36–56) model of investment as a lens to investigate the interplay of identity, capital, and ideology in communicative contexts, this paper asserts how contrasting language attitudes are constructed by asymmetrical relations of power between speakers. In the spirit of accommodation and adaptation that characterizes ELF communication, this paper calls for a critical pedagogy that enables speakers to reflect on how they position themselves and others in these contexts, and assert their place as legitimate speakers of English.
“Co-certification”: a close encounter with ELF for an international examining board
Authors: Newbold David
Published: September 2017

Over the last decade ELF has become a reality in European universities, but this is not reflected in the major international language tests designed for access to higher education and for university students. In this paper I describe an experiment in “co-certification,” a test of English set at level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), jointly developed by Trinity College London and the University of Ca’ Foscari Venice, in which an international version of the test was adapted locally to include locally relevant components and enhance validity and task authenticity. One feature of the co-certification was the introduction of an independent listening task which took the form of understanding an extract from a lecture given in English by a non-native speaker. Possible problems we had anticipated ranged from the kind of discourse features they should include, and whether or not there was a fairness issue related to accent recognition. In fact, the overall results showed no significant difference from the previous version of the exam, while the listening part had a higher pass rate than the overall oral test which involved interaction with a native speaker. As far as we know, the co-certification is the first example of an internationally recognized board engaging systematically with characteristic features of ELF communication, notably non-native phonology and intonation patterns, in a test of listening. The findings so far suggest that, for the test takers at least, this can be unproblematic and uncontroversial.
Delayed diagnosis of proopiomelanocortin (POMC) deficiency with type 1 diabetes in a 9-year-old girl and her infant sibling
Authors: Ozsu Elif , Bahm Allison
Published: September 2017

Background:

Proopiomelanocortin (POMC) protein, encoded by the

Case presentation:

A 9-year-old girl from a consanguineous family of Iraqi origin was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. She also had a tall stature. Her laboratory assessment showed low cortisol and ACTH concentrations, normal renin and poor response to ACTH stimulation. Genetic testing revealed a novel biallelic mutation in the

Conclusions:

POMC deficiency results in significant morbidity due to obesity, and it is also a potentially life threatening disease because of adrenal insufficiency. Therefore any suggestive symptom or sign of POMC deficiency warrants detailed investigations.
Ultrasound study of fetal movements in singleton and twin pregnancies at 12–19 weeks
Authors: AboEllail Mohamed Ahmed Mostafa , Kanenishi Kenji , Mori Nobuhiro , Noguchi Junko , Marumo Genzo , Hata Toshiyuki
Published: September 2017

Objective

To evaluate fetal behavioral differences between singleton and twin fetuses before 20 weeks of gestation using four-dimensional (4D) ultrasound.

Methods

4D ultrasound was used to examine fetal movements in 58 singleton and 48 twin normal fetuses at 12–19 weeks. The frequencies of eight fetal movements were assessed through 15-min recordings. The fetuses were divided into two gestational age groups (12–13 and 14–19 weeks) to evaluate the changes with advancing gestation in twin versus singleton fetuses.

Results

Arm and general movements were the most frequent movements in singleton fetuses, whereas only general movement was significantly more frequent than the other seven fetal movements in twin fetuses at 12–13 weeks. At 14–19 weeks, frequencies of arm and leg movements were significantly higher than those of the other six movements in singleton fetuses, while only arm movement was significantly more frequent than the other fetal movements in twin fetuses. Comparisons of fetal movements between singleton and twin fetuses revealed that only arm movement showed a significant difference at 12–13 weeks, while the frequencies of all movements in singleton fetuses were significantly higher than those in twin fetuses at 14–19 weeks.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the limitation of available space and crowding of twin fetuses with advancing gestation may have a marked impact on twin fetal movements compared with singleton fetuses, even in the first half of pregnancy. Further studies are needed to assess whether decreased fetal movements in twin pregnancy can affect fetal and neonatal development and maturation before and after birth.
An observation of umbilical coiling index in a low risk population in Nigeria
Authors: Adesina Kikelomo T. , Ogunlaja Olumuyiwa A. , Olarinoye Adebunmi O. , Aboyeji Abiodun P. , Akande Halimat J. , Fawole Adegboyega A. , Adeniran Abiodun S.
Published: September 2017

Objectives:

The umbilical coiling index (UCI) is one of cord parameters for foetal assessment with limited studies in our environment. With recent advances in its evaluation, its significance, pattern, abnormalities and correlates need to be defined in our parturients.

Methods:

The umbilical cords of 436 neonates were examined. Gross examination was done within 5 min of delivery. The UCI was defined as the number of complete coils per centimetre of cord. Normal UCI was defined as values between the 10thand 90thpercentiles of the study population.

Results:

The mean umbilical cord length was 52.7±11.5 cm, mean number of coils was 10.8±5.1 and mean UCI was 0.21±0.099. The range was between 0.0 and 1.0. UCI values of 0.13 and 0.30 were 10thand 90thpercentiles, respectively. Normal UCI was observed in 351 (80.5%) neonates, 44 (10.4%) and 41 (9.1%) had hypo- and hypercoiled cords, respectively. Congenital abnormalities occurred in the normocoiled and hypercoiled groups but was not demonstrated in the hypocoiled group. The mean value of UCI in neonates with congenital abnormalities was 0.29±0.12 (P=0.011). There was no significant statistical relationship between foetal outcome and degree of UCI.

Conclusion:

The UCI was not associated with adverse perinatal outcome in this study.
On Jordan mappings of inverse semirings
Authors: Shafiq Sara , Aslam Muhammad
Published: September 2017

In this paper, the notions of Jordan homomorphism and Jordan derivation of inverse semirings are introduced. A few results of Herstein and Brešar on Jordan homomorphisms and Jordan derivations of rings are generalized in the setting of inverse semirings.
Therapeutic nanomedicine surmounts the limitations of pharmacotherapy
Authors: Odiba Arome , Ottah Victoria , Ottah Comfort , Anunobi Ogechukwu , Ukegbu Chimere , Edeke Affiong , Uroko Robert , Omeje Kingsley
Published: September 2017

Science always strives to find an improved way of doing things and nanoscience is one such approach. Nanomaterials are suitable for pharmaceutical applications mostly because of their size which facilitates absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of the nanoparticles. Whether labile or insoluble nanoparticles, their cytotoxic effect on malignant cells has moved the use of nanomedicine into focus. Since nanomedicine can be described as the science and technology of diagnosing, treating and preventing diseases towards ultimately improving human health, a lot of nanotechnology options have received approval by various regulatory agencies. Nanodrugs also have been discovered to be more precise in targeting the desired site, hence maximizing the therapeutic effects, while minimizing side-effects on the rest of the body. This unique property and more has made nanomedicine popular in therapeutic medicine employing nanotechnology in genetic therapy, drug encapsulation, enzyme manipulation and control, tissue engineering, target drug delivery, pharmacogenomics, stem cell and cloning, and even virus-based hybrids. This review highlights nanoproducts that are in development and have gained approval through one clinical trial stage or the other.
The Effect of Farmer-Pastoralist Violence on State-Level Internal Revenue Generation in Nigeria: A Modified Synthetic Control Analysis Approach
Authors: McDougal Topher , Hagerty Talia , Inks Lisa , Conroy Stone
Published: September 2017

Nigeria’s ethnically and religiously diverse Middle Belt has experienced recurrent eruptions of violence over the past several decades. Disputes between pastoralists and farmers arise from disagreements over access to farmland, grazing areas, stock routes, and water points for both animals and households. Although relatively low in intensity, this form of violence is widespread, persistent, and arguably increasing in its incidence. This study seeks to answer the question: How has farmer-pastoralist conflict affected state internally-generated revenues (IGR)? The literature on the effect of violence on sub-national fiscal capacity is slim to none. We use a synthetic control approach to model how IGR for four conflict-affected states – Benue, Kaduna, Nasarawa, and Plateau – would have developed in the absence of violence. To account for the endogeneity criticism commonly leveled at such synthetic control analyses, we then use a fixed-effects IV model to estimate IGR losses predicted by the synthetic control analysis as a function of farmer-pastoralist fatalities. Our conservative estimates for percentage reduction to annual state IGR growth for the four states are 0%, 1.2%, 2.6%, and 12.1% respectively, implying that IGR is likely much more sensitive to conflict than GDP. In total, the four study states of Benue, Kaduna, Nasarawa, and Plateau are estimated to have lost between US$719,000 and US$2.3 million in 2010 US dollars, or 22–47% of their potential IGR collection during the period of intense.
Investigation on the Accuracy of Superposition Predictions of Film Cooling Effectiveness
Authors: Meng Tong , Zhu Hui-ren , Liu Cun-liang , Wei Jian-sheng
Published: September 2017

Film cooling effectiveness on flat plates with double rows of holes has been studied experimentally and numerically in this paper. This configuration is widely used to simulate the multi-row film cooling on turbine vane. Film cooling effectiveness of double rows of holes and each single row was used to study the accuracy of superposition predictions. Method of stable infrared measurement technique was used to measure the surface temperature on the flat plate. This paper analyzed the factors that affect the film cooling effectiveness including hole shape, hole arrangement, row-to-row spacing and blowing ratio. Numerical simulations were performed to analyze the flow structure and film cooling mechanisms between each film cooling row. Results show that the blowing ratio within the range of 0.5 to 2 has a significant influence on the accuracy of superposition predictions. At low blowing ratios, results obtained by superposition method agree well with the experimental data. While at high blowing ratios, the accuracy of superposition prediction decreases. Another significant factor is hole arrangement. Results obtained by superposition prediction are nearly the same as experimental values of staggered arrangement structures. For in-line configurations, the superposition values of film cooling effectiveness are much higher than experimental data. For different hole shapes, the accuracy of superposition predictions on converging-expanding holes is better than cylinder holes and compound angle holes. For two different hole spacing structures in this paper, predictions show good agreement with the experiment results.
The essentials of a global index for cognitive function
Authors: Antony Joseph Mathew , Weaver Ian , Rueffer Matthew , Guthrie Najla , Evans Malkanthi
Published: September 2017

Cognition is comprised of the faculties: perception, creativity, intuition, and ratiocination. Optimal levels of cognition are needed for independent functioning and balanced living. With an aging population that continues to grow, dietary supplements that tilt the balance towards maintenance of cognition are being marketed for vulnerable populations facing these challenges. Randomized clinical trials provide the causal inference necessary to define the efficacy of emerging nutraceuticals. Cognition testing, in particular, requires a battery of tests that encompass all brain regions involved in cognition so as to provide endpoints necessary for product validation. The lack of well controlled studies for comparison analyses, limited sample sizes, ambiguous dosages, and poor cognitive measures result in data that cannot be compared across studies to determine the efficacy of supplements claiming to enhance cognition. Clinical trials for the nutraceutical industry should consider the multifaceted nature of supplements, where clinical endpoints must be comprehensive while remaining feasible. Combining endpoints of cognition with physiological biomarkers of immunity and metabolism to arrive at a global index for cognitive health may be necessary for claim substantiation in order to fully justify and scientifically validate improvements in cognitive health. The issues and needs of a global index will be discussed here.
Influence of Steel Substrate on the Properties of PACVD Gradient Multilayer TiCN Coating
Authors: Kovačić S. , Cajner F. , Landek D.
Published: September 2017

Titanium-based hard coatings are known for increasing both hot work and cold work tool steel performance in terms of wear and corrosion resistance. In this paper, the influence of different steel substrates on the properties of plasma-assisted chemical vapor deposition (PACVD) gradient multilayer titanium carbo-nitride (TiCN) coating was investigated. The same gradient multilayer TiCN coating was deposited by pulsed direct current (dc) PACVD on a hot work tool steel grade X37CrMoV5-1 and two Böhler cold work tool steels K390 PM and K110. Hardened samples of each steel were also included in the investigation. The coating-substrate systems have been characterized with respect to their chemical composition, thickness, adhesion, and resistance to electrochemical corrosion, abrasion, erosion, and dry sliding wear. The results show an increased wear and corrosion resistance of TiCN-coated specimens compared with noncoated and prehardened specimens. The application of gradient multilayer TiCN coating on different steel substrates shows the different behavior of TiCN coating. Therefore, besides the coating itself, the base material on which the coating is applied has a significant influence on the tool properties.
Dopamine D2 Receptors Modulate Pyramidal Neurons in Mouse Medial Prefrontal Cortex through a Stimulatory G-Protein Pathway
Authors: Robinson Sarah E. , Sohal Vikaas S.
Published: September 2017

Dopaminergic modulation of prefrontal cortex (PFC) is thought to play key roles in many cognitive functions and to be disrupted in pathological conditions, such as schizophrenia. We have previously described a phenomenon whereby dopamine D2 receptor (D2R) activation elicits afterdepolarizations (ADPs) in subcortically projecting (SC) pyramidal neurons within L5 of the PFC. These D2R-induced ADPs only occur following synaptic input, which activates NMDARs, even when the delay between the synaptic input and ADPs is relatively long (e.g., several hundred milliseconds). Here, we use a combination of electrophysiological, optogenetic, pharmacological, transgenic, and chemogenetic approaches to elucidate cellular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon in male and female mice. We find that knocking out D2Rs eliminates the ADP in a cell-autonomous fashion, confirming that this ADP depends on D2Rs. Hyperpolarizing current injection, but not AMPA receptor blockade, prevents synaptic stimulation from facilitating D2R-induced ADPs, suggesting that this phenomenon depends on the recruitment of voltage-dependent currents (e.g., NMDAR-mediated Ca2+influx) by synaptic input. Finally, the D2R-induced ADP is blocked by inhibitors of cAMP/PKA signaling, insensitive to pertussis toxin or β-arrestin knock-out, and mimicked by Gs-DREADD stimulation, suggesting that D2R activation elicits the ADP by stimulating cAMP/PKA signaling. These results show that this unusual physiological phenomenon, in which D2Rs enhance cellular excitability in a manner that depends on synaptic input, is mediated at the cellular level through the recruitment of signaling pathways associated with Gs, rather than the Gi/o-associated mechanisms that have classically been ascribed to D2Rs.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTDopamine D2 receptors (D2Rs) in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) are thought to play important roles in behaviors, including working memory and cognitive flexibility. Variation in D2Rs has also been implicated in schizophrenia, Tourette syndrome, and bipolar disorder. Recently, we described a new mechanism through which D2R activation can enhance the excitability of pyramidal neurons in the PFC. Here, we explore the underlying cellular mechanisms. Surprisingly, although D2Rs are classically assumed to signal through Gi/o-coupled G-proteins and/or scaffolding proteins, such as β-arrestin, we find that the effects of D2Rs on prefrontal pyramidal neurons are actually mediated by pathways associated with Gs-mediated signaling. Furthermore, we show how, via this D2R-dependent phenomenon, synaptic input can enhance the excitability of prefrontal neurons over timescales on the order of seconds. These results elucidate cellular mechanisms underlying a novel signaling pathway downstream of D2Rs that may contribute to prefrontal function under normal and pathological conditions.
Disruption of Bmal1 Impairs Blood–Brain Barrier Integrity via Pericyte Dysfunction
Authors: Nakazato Ryota , Kawabe Kenji , Yamada Daisuke , Ikeno Shinsuke , Mieda Michihiro , Shimba Shigeki , Hinoi Eiichi , Yoneda Yukio , Takarada Takeshi
Published: September 2017

Circadian rhythm disturbances are well established in neurological diseases. However, how these disruptions cause homeostatic imbalances remains poorly understood. Brain and muscle aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator-like protein 1 (Bmal1) is a major circadian clock transcriptional activator, and Bmal1 deficiency in maleBmal1nestin−/−mice induced marked astroglial activation without affecting the number of astrocytes in the brain and spinal cord. Bmal1 deletion caused blood–brain barrier (BBB) hyperpermeability with an age-dependent loss of pericyte coverage of blood vessels in the brain. Using Nestin-green fluorescent protein (GFP) transgenic mice, we determined that pericytes are Nestin-GFP+in the adult brain. Bmal1 deletion caused Nestin-GFP+pericyte dysfunction, including the downregulation of platelet-derived growth factor receptor β (PDGFRβ), a protein necessary for maintaining BBB integrity. Knockdown of Bmal1 downregulated PDGFRβ transcription in the brain pericyte cell line. Thus, the circadian clock component Bmal1 maintains BBB integrity via regulating pericytes.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTCircadian rhythm disturbances may play a role in neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease. Our results revealed that one of the circadian clock components maintains the integrity of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) by regulating vascular-embedded pericytes. These cells were recently identified as a vital component for the control of BBB permeability and cerebral blood flow. Our present study demonstrates the involvement of circadian clock component Bmal1 in BBB homeostasis and highlights the role of Bmal1 dysfunction in multiple neurological diseases.
La Construcción Social de la Hiperactividad
Authors: Vargas Rodríguez Ángela María , Parales Quenza Carlos José
Published: September 2017

El trastorno por déficit de atención e hiperactividad (tdah)es una afección frecuente, con alta variabilidad en su preva-lencia a través de contextos, y de interés por la repercusión que tiene sobre el desempeño escolar de quienes la padecen. Se exploraron las construcciones simbólicas que hacen diferentes actores acerca de niños diagnosticados con TDAH. Con tal fin se realizaron entrevistas abiertas de tipo semántico y episódico a 31 participantes bogotanos, distribuidos en grupos de maestros, padres y niños. Estas entrevistas fueron abordadas desde una perspectiva de análisis de discurso. Los resultados mostraron que el tdahse reconstruye, a partir de la perspectiva del observador y del contexto, en términos de problema hereditario y de fallas en las prácticas de crianza. Por su parte, para los niños, el diagnóstico es un evento importante en la construcción de su subjetividad.
Impacto de la Entrevista Motivacional en la Adherencia de Pacientes Diabéticos Inactivos a la Actividad Física: Estudio Piloto de un Ensayo Clínico EMOACTIF – DM
Authors: Muñoz Flórez Anamaria , Cortés Ferreira Olga Lucia
Published: September 2017

Este artículo investiga la factibilidad y aceptabilidad de un ensayo clínico para evaluar el impacto de la entrevista motivacional (EM) en la adherencia a la actividad física (AF) de pacientes inactivos con diabetes mellitus. En este ensayo se incluyeron treinta participantes; dieciséis recibieron em con refuerzo telefónico durante 4 semanas, los restantes recibieron cuidado convencional. Se evaluó AF, índice de masa corporal, nivel de glucosa en la sangre y autoeficacia hacia la AF. El grupo de intervención mostró mejoría significativa en la AF (p<.05) y el nivel de glucosa en la sangre (p<.05). Al tener en cuenta el cambio en imc para un estudio a gran escala, el cálculo de la muestra oscila entre 710 y 950 pacientes. Para estudios de menor escala, si se tiene en cuenta el cambio en METS, glucemia y autoeficacia, el cálculo de la muestra oscila entre 34 y 272 pacientes.
¿Dónde Estamos? La Cultura Laboral Chilena desde Hofstede
Authors: Pino Osvaldo Didier , Luna Juan Francisco
Published: September 2017

36 años después de la primera publicación del estudio de culturas nacionales desarrollado por Hofstede, se emprende un nuevo ejercicio para evaluar la configuración de valores de Chile. Este trabajo se enfocó en el diagnóstico de la capacidad de replicar los resultados obtenidos en estudios anteriores, a través de una muestra representativa de la población económicamente activa, y buscó integrar otros estudios sobre la llamada cultura organizacional chilena. En este sentido, se llevan a cabo consideraciones respecto a la calidad de los datos y los vacíos metodológicos que presentan las mediciones anteriores y se propone cuál sería la actual configuración de la cultura laboral chilena.
Editorial
Authors: Lamprea Rodríguez Marisol
Published: September 2017

Editorial
Conceptos, evidencia y realidad. El caso del “encierro” 1 del sitio arqueológico Nuevo Corintio (L-72NC), Guápiles, Limón
Authors: Castillo-Poveda Manuel
Published: September 2017

El presente trabajo ahonda en la relación entre el lenguaje, la ciencia y la arquitectura, mediante el análisis y la deconstrucción de un término referido a un espacio arquitectónico precolombino denominado “encierro” en el sitio arqueológico Nuevo Corinto (L-72NC). Se evidenciará cómo esto repercute no solo en un cambio conceptual, sino también en el entendimiento de la realidad social llevada a cabo en este sitio por las sociedades antiguas.
Management of an acute ischemic stroke during thrombolytic treatment in a pregnant patient with prosthetic valve thrombosis
Authors: Kalçık Macit , Yesin Mahmut , Bayam Emrah , Gürsoy Mustafa Ozan , Güner Ahmet , Gündüz Sabahattin , Özkan Mehmet
Published: September 2017

Prosthetic valve thrombosis (PVT) is a life-threatening complication in pregnant women with mechanical prosthetic heart valves. Thrombolytic therapy (TT) has evolved as an effective treatment alternative to surgery, which is associated with very high maternal and fetal mortality and morbidity in these patients. Acute ischemic stroke may rarely occur during TT for PVT. Here, we present a pregnant patient who was complicated with cerebral thromboembolism during TT for PVT and successfully managed with continuation of TT.
A rare complication of percutaneous coronary intervention: Coronary pseudoaneurysm formation
Authors: Çelik Oğuzhan , Bekar Lütfü , Yetim Mucahit , Doğan Tolga , Alp Çağlar , Kalçık Macit , Karavelioğlu Yusuf
Published: September 2017

Coronary pseudoaneurysms (CPAs) are rare complications developed after percutaneous coronary interventions. They may cause stent thrombosis, distal embolization, and coronary rupture leading to cardiac tamponade. Therefore, high-risk CPA should be promptly treated after diagnosis. They can be managed with percutaneous or surgical intervention. Herein, we aimed to present a patient who developed CPA 3 weeks after percutaneous coronary intervention and successfully treated with percutaneous intervention using a covered stent.
Social media addiction: What is the role of content in YouTube?
Authors: Balakrishnan Janarthanan , Griffiths Mark D.
Published: September 2017

Background

YouTube, the online video creation and sharing site, supports both video content viewing and content creation activities. For a minority of people, the time spent engaging with YouTube can be excessive and potentially problematic.

Method

This study analyzed the relationship between content viewing, content creation, and YouTube addiction in a survey of 410 Indian-student YouTube users. It also examined the influence of content, social, technology, and process gratifications on user inclination toward YouTube content viewing and content creation.

Results

The results demonstrated that content creation in YouTube had a closer relationship with YouTube addiction than content viewing. Furthermore, social gratification was found to have a significant influence on both types of YouTube activities, whereas technology gratification did not significantly influence them. Among all perceived gratifications, content gratification had the highest relationship coefficient value with YouTube content creation inclination. The model fit and variance extracted by the endogenous constructs were good, which further validated the results of the analysis.

Conclusion

The study facilitates new ways to explore user gratification in using YouTube and how the channel responds to it.
Peer-assisted learning - an antidote for spoonfeeding? Reflections on peer-assisted learning activites in a veterinary curriculum
Authors: Reid Alison , MacDiarmid Rosie , Ormandy Emma , Noble Karen , Penrose Fay
Published: September 2017

This article was migrated. The article was marked as recommended. Peer-assisted learning (PAL) is a potentially valuable teaching tool for students on veterinary and medical curricula, helping them to develop crucial learning, teaching and meta-adaptive skills (Lizzio & Wilson, 2004) which will serve them during their undergraduate studies and throughout their future careers. This reflective article describes experiences of PAL activities on a UK veterinary degree course, and discusses potential reasons for success and failure of such activities. Advice is given for anyone planning to implement, or reviewing their own experiences of PAL.