bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rate-Related Kinematic Changes in Younger and Older Adults
Authors: van Brenk Frits , Terband Hayo , van Lieshout Pascal , Lowit Anja , Maassen Ben
Published: March 2014

Aims: This study aimed to investigate the effects of speech rate changes on kinematic characteristics and stability of speech movements in younger and older speakers using electromagnetic midsagittal articulography. Patients and Methods: Eight young adults and 8 older adults engaged in a series of syllable repetition tasks of /pa/, /sa/ and /ta/ obtained at self-paced slow, habitual and fast speech rates, as well as in a series of metronome-guided speech rates, ranging from 2 to 4 syllables per second. The kinematic parameters duration, amplitude and peak velocity were obtained for opening and closing movements. Results: Older speakers were able to increase speech rate to the same degree or higher compared to younger speakers in both pacing conditions. Kinematic data show that older adults increased duration and decreased peak velocity in closing movements of alveolar constrictions at slower rates more prominently than younger adults. The results on movement stability revealed no differences between age groups. Conclusions: The results suggest that an age-related difference in speed-accuracy trade-off can be ruled out. Differences in kinematic characteristics point towards the possibility that older adults aimed to facilitate a closed-loop control system to maintain movement stability at slower speech rates.
Relationship of Salivary and Plasma Cortisol Levels in Preterm Infants: Results of a Prospective Observational Study and Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Maas Christoph , Ringwald Christine , Weber Karin , Engel Corinna , Poets Christian F. , Binder Gerhard , Bassler Dirk
Published: March 2014

Background and Objectives: (1) To investigate the relationship of salivary and plasma cortisol levels in preterm infants with a focus on the usability of salivary cortisol in diagnostic work-up of infants at risk of adrenal insufficiency. (2) To perform a systematic review addressing this question. Methods:Clinical study: We conducted a prospective observational single-center study in preterm infants. We analyzed plasma and saliva cortisol concentrations by enzyme immunoassay. Correlation analysis was used to determine the relation between salivary and plasma cortisol levels and the agreement of the measurement methods was analyzed according to Bland-Altman. Systematic review: A systematic literature search (PubMed and Embase) on the relationship of salivary and plasma cortisol levels in neonates was performed in November 2012. Results:Clinical study: We enrolled 58 preterm infants (median (interquartile range) gestational age at birth was 31.4 (28.1-32.7) weeks, birth weight 1,340 (974-1,745) g, respectively). Correlation analyses revealed a relationship of plasma cortisol and salivary cortisol levels. Rank correlation coefficient was 0.6. Estimating plasma cortisol levels based on measured salivary cortisol levels showed poor agreement of the two methods for determining plasma cortisol levels (direct and via salivary cortisol). Sensitivity and specificity of salivary cortisol for the detection of adrenal insufficiency were 0.66 and 0.62, respectively. Systematic review: Six studies in preterm infants and term neonates depicting the correlation of salivary and plasma cortisol were identified with a range of saliva-plasma correlation coefficients from 0.44 to 0.83. Conclusions: Substitution of plasma cortisol by salivary cortisol determination cannot be recommended in preterm infants because of unsatisfactory agreement between methods.
Organization of the Serotonergic System in the Central Nervous System of Two Basal Actinopterygian Fishes: the Cladistians Polypterus senegalus and Erpetoichthys calabaricus
Authors: López Jesús M. , González Agustín
Published: March 2014

Cladistians (Polypteriformes) are currently considered basal to other living ray-finned fishes (actinopterygians), and their brain organization is therefore critical to providing information about the primitive neural characters that existed in the earliest ray-finned fishes. The organization of the serotonergic system in the brain has been carefully analyzed in most vertebrate groups, and in the present study we provide the first detailed information on the distribution of serotonergic cell bodies and fibers in the central nervous system of representative species of the two extant genera of cladistians, i.e. Polypterus senegalus and Erpetoichthys calabaricus, by means of immunohistochemistry against serotonin (5-HT). Distinct groups of immunoreactive cells were detected in the preoptic area, the hypothalamic paraventricular organ, the pineal organ, the pretectal region, the long column of the raphe in the rhombencephalic midline, the spinal cord, and amacrine cells in the inner nuclear layer of the retina. Fiber labeling was widely distributed in all main brain subdivisions but was more abundant in distinct pallial and subpallial areas, the preoptic area, the thalamus, the optic tectum, the tori semicircularis and lateralis, the rhombencephalic reticular formation, the nucleus of the solitary tract, and the dorsal aspect of the spinal cord. Our analysis makes it possible to establish which serotonergic structures characterized the earliest ray-finned fishes, and a comparison of these results with those from other classes of vertebrates, including a segmental analysis to correlate cell populations, reveals that most characteristics, such as the presence of serotonergic cells in the preoptic area and the basal hypothalamus, are preserved in all anamniotes. However, this system seems to be reduced in amniotes, mainly mammals, although important features are shared, such as the presence of serotonergic cells in the pineal organ, the retina, and the raphe nuclei.
A ZZ/ZW Sex Chromosome System in the Thick-Tailed Gecko (Underwoodisaurus milii; Squamata: Gekkota: Carphodactylidae), a Member of the Ancient Gecko Lineage
Authors: Pokorná M. , Rens W. , Rovatsos M. , Kratochvíl L.
Published: March 2014

Geckos (Gekkota) are a highly diversified group of lizards with an exceptional diversity in sex-determining systems. Despite this intriguing documented variability, data on sex determination in many lineages is still scarce. Here, we document the previously overlooked heteromorphic ZZ/ZW sex chromosomes in the thick-tailed gecko, Underwoodisaurus milii, a member of the ancient lineage of pygopodoid geckos. The finding of female heterogamety within pygopodoid geckos was unexpected, as until now only male heterogamety and environmental sex determination have been reported in this group, and female heterogamety was known only in distantly related gecko families separated from the pygopodoid geckos around 150 million years ago. The W chromosome in U. milii is highly heterochromatic and contains a large number of telomeric-like repeats comparable to around 50% of all telomeric-like sequences present in male genomes. The accumulation of these repeats might have been responsible for the considerable size expansion of the W chromosome in comparison to the Z chromosome. The heteromorphic ZZ/ZW sex chromosomes with accumulated telomeric-like repeats in the thick-tailed geckos further illustrate the exceptional diversity of sex-determining systems in geckos and add important information to our understanding of the evolution and phylogeny of sex-determining systems in reptiles.
Bilateral Internal Carotid Artery Occlusion Associated with the Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome
Authors: Anand Pria , Mann Sharan K. , Fischbein Nancy J. , Lansberg Maarten G.
Published: March 2014

A 39-year-old woman presented with a right-hemispheric stroke 1 year after she had suffered a left-hemispheric stroke. Her diagnostic workup was notable for bilateral occlusions of the internal carotid arteries at their origins and a positive lupus anticoagulant antibody test. There was no evidence of carotid dissection or another identifiable cause for her carotid occlusions. These findings suggest that the antiphospholipid antibody syndrome may be implicated in the pathological changes that resulted in occlusions of the extracranial internal carotid arteries. Young stroke patients who present with unexplained internal carotid artery occlusions may benefit from testing for the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies.
Traumatic Maculopathy 6 Months after Injury: A Clinical Case Report
Authors: Mendes Sílvia , Campos António , Beselga Diana , Campos Joana , Neves Arminda , Castro Sousa João Paulo
Published: March 2014

Purpose: This study aims to report a case of traumatic maculopathy in a 12-year-old male following blunt trauma in his left eye (LE) who presented 6 months after injury. Methods: Retrospective and descriptive case report based on data from clinical records, patient observation and analysis of diagnostic tests. Results: A previously healthy, 12-year-old male presented for a routine visit with complaints of a 2-month history of decreased visual acuity in his LE. Six months before the initial visit, he suffered blunt trauma to the LE during a struggle and had no medical observation. At the visit, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in the LE was counting fingers and in the right eye, it was 20/20. Fundus examination of the LE showed a central macular lesion of 1 disc diameter with fibrosis, increased retinal thickness and intraretinal hemorrhage. Optical coherence tomography showed disruption of the inner/outer segment (IS/OS) photoreceptor junction, increased reflectivity, cell infiltration of the retinal wall and retinal pigment epithelium detachment. Retinal thickness was 289 μm at the site of the lesion. A fluorescein angiogram revealed early impregnation and late diffusion. High-dose steroid pulse therapy (intravenous methylprednisolone 500 mg for 3 days and oral prednisolone 30 mg, tapering for 10 days) was done. LE BCVA increased to 20/200, and retinal thickness decreased by 71 μm 1 week after treatment. Off-label intravitreal triamcinolone (IVTA; 0.05 ml/2 mg) was administered 2 weeks after oral treatment in an attempt to achieve additional improvement. Three weeks after IVTA, LE BCVA improved to 20/150 and retinal thickness decreased by 10 μm. Three months after the initial visit, LE BCVA was 20/125 and retinal thickness 208 μm. Conclusion: We present a case of commotio retinae caused by an ocular blunt trauma 6 months before, with loss of BCVA. BCVA improved after oral steroids and IVTA. Nevertheless, fibrosis and disruption of the IS/OS junction in the macula limited the gain of BCVA.
High-Dose Lanreotide in the Treatment of Poorly Differentiated Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Carcinoma: A Case Report
Authors: Van Fraeyenhove Frank , Meireson Nathalie , Terriere Luc , Willemsen Paul , Kunnen Jan , Mattelaer Caroline , Van Acker Frank , Schrijvers Dirk
Published: March 2014

Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), including poorly differentiated carcinomas (NECs), are rarely encountered. The majority of these tumors do not secrete excess hormones, but functioning NETs produce large amounts of vasoactive peptides and may cause carcinoid syndrome. Synthetic somatostatin analogs (SSAs) have been widely used in NETs for control of hormonal syndromes. Here, we present a case of poorly differentiated, grade 3 pancreatic NEC associated with carcinoid syndrome, for which adequate symptom control was achieved for 2 years and 4 months using the long-acting SSA lanreotide Autogel®. In February 2009, a 55-year-old woman presented with episodes of flushing, diarrhea and epigastric pain. Imaging techniques revealed the presence of a metabolically active mass expressing somatostatin receptors in the hilar area of the liver. Histopathological examination confirmed the malignant nature of the mass, which was identified as a poorly differentiated grade 3 pancreatic NEC (TNM staging: T4NxM0). Therapeutic options were limited for the patient because of the extent of the primary mass involving the celiac axis, severe gastrointestinal toxicity experienced as a side effect of chemotherapy with cisplatin-etoposide and, later in the course of the disease, extensive liver metastases and carcinoid heart syndrome. Along with a palliative debulking surgery and right portal vein embolization, biotherapy with a high dose of lanreotide Autogel (120 mg/14 days) contributed to alleviation of symptoms caused by hormone overproduction, even after the development of liver metastases. These results suggest that patients with poorly differentiated NECs who exhibit signs of carcinoid syndrome can benefit from treatment with somatostatin analogs.
Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment and 2-Year Mortality in Elderly Patients Hospitalized for Heart Failure
Authors: Rodriguez-Pascual Carlos , Paredes-Galan Emilio , Vilches-Moraga Arturo , Ferrero-Martinez Ana Isabel , Torrente-Carballido Marta , Rodriguez-Artalejo Fernando
Published: March 2014

Background—

In older adults hospitalized for heart failure, a poor score on a comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) is associated with worse prognosis during hospitalization and at 1 month after discharge. However, the association between the CGA score and long-term mortality is uncertain.

Methods and Results—

This is a prospective study of 487 patients aged ≥75 years admitted for decompensated heart failure. At discharge, a CGA score (range, 0–10) was calculated based on limitation in activities of daily living, mobility limitation, comorbidity, cognitive decline, and previous medication use. The analysis of the association between the CGA score and 2-year subsequent mortality was performed with Cox regression and adjusted for the main confounders. A 1-point increase in the CGA score was associated with a 19% higher mortality (hazard ratio, 1.19; 95% confidence interval, 1.11–1.27). Results were similar regardless of age, sex, left ventricular ejection fraction, and the coexistence of atrial fibrillation, ischemic heart disease, or hypertensive cardiopathy. All components of the CGA score showed a consistent association with higher death risk: the hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) of mortality was 1.78 (1.25–2.54) with ≥3 versus 0 limitations in activities of daily living, 1.36 (1.0–1.86) with moderate or severe versus no or mild limitation in mobility, 1.98 (1.29–3.03) with a ≥5 versus ≤1 score on the Charlson index, 2.48 (1.84–3.34) with previous cognitive decline, and 1.77 (0.99–3.18) in those using ≥8 versus ≤3 medications.

Conclusions—

The score on a simple CGA is associated with long-term mortality in older patients hospitalized for heart failure.
Campanula teutana, a new isophyllous Campanula (Campanulaceae) from the Adriatic region
Authors: Bogdanović Sandro , Brullo Salvatore , Rešetnik Ivana , Satovic Zlatko , Liber Zlatko
Published: March 2014

The Balkan Peninsula and the amphi-Adriatic region are biodiversity centres with a high number of Campanula species, some of them with restricted and isolated distributions. Among those is the morphologically, karyologically and genetically well-defined linage of isophyllous Campanula species of the garganica clade, taxonomically treated as Campanula ser. Garganicae. In the central Adriatic, on the Island of Vis (Croatia), an isophyllous Campanula was found growing in rocky crevices of calcareous sea cliffs among chasmophytic vegetation with extremely challenging ecological conditions. Based on morphological characters (monopodial growth form, cordate to ovate basal leaves, campanulate corolla, presence of obtuse hairs at the base of filaments, capsule opening by basal pores and brown shiny seeds) the unidentified plant from the Island of Vis falls into ser. Garganicae. To establish the phylogenetic position and relationships of the unknown Campanula among other species of the garganica clade, nuclear ITS and chloroplast trnL-F sequences as well as comparative morphology, karyology and scanning electron microscopy of seeds were used. Due to its campanulate corolla the plants from Vis are morphologically close to C. portenschlagiana from the eastern Adriatic, from which they differ in several quantitative floral characters. The karyological analysis revealed a diploid chromosome number (2n = 34), while SEM analysis showed that seed coat of new taxon has weakly striate testa, thin wavy striped radial walls and slightly marked lumen. Additionally, molecular data show that the Vis taxon is clearly separated as a distinct species from other species of ser. Garganicae. Therefore, it is described and illustrated as a new species, Campanula teutana Bogdanović & Brullo.  Because of the small number of individuals within the single population, C. teutana should be included on the Red List of the vascular flora of Croatia as an endangered species (EN).
A new species of Lindernia (Linderniaceae) from India
Authors: PRASAD MANGAVAYAL GOVINDAN
Published: March 2014

A new species, Lindernia tamilnadensis is described and illustrated from Vijayanarayanam, Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu, India. The species shows similarity with a worldwide distributed species, Lindernia rotundifolia in its leaf and seed characters but differs mainly in comparatively smaller floral parts, lanceolate calyx lobes, in the absence of trichomes at the base of the anterior corolla lobes, the presence of staminodal appendages, undeflexed fruiting pedicels and globose capsules. Detailed description, illustration and other relevant notes are provided.
New species of the feather mite genus Protolichus Trouessart, 1884 (Astigmata, Pterolichidae) from lories and lorikeets (Aves: Psittaciformes)
Authors: Mironov Sergey V. , Ehrnsberger Rainer , Dabert Jacek
Published: March 2014

Five new species of the feather mite genus Protolichus Trouessart, 1884 (Astigmata, Pterolichidae) are described from parrots of the subfamily Loriinae (Psittaciformes: Psittacidae): Protolichus ornatus sp. n. from Trichoglossus ornatus (Linnaeus, 1758), P. lorinus sp. n. from Lorius lory (Linnaeus, 1758), P. placentis sp. n. from Charmosyna placentis (Temminck, 1835), P. pulchellae sp. n. from C. pulchella (Gray GR, 1859), and P. rubiginosus sp. n. from T. rubiginosus (Bonaparte, 1850). Protolichus ornatus belongs to the brachiatus species group; the other new species belong to the crassior species group.
Two new species of the genus Khorata (Araneae: Pholcidae) from China
Authors: WEI XIAO , XU XIANG
Published: March 2014

Two new species of Khorata are described from China: K. ningyuan sp. nov. and K. sancai sp. nov. Both species were collected in caves.
Sweet Home: A Preliminary Investigation into the Socio-Political Character of Recent Road Blockades by Protesting Shack Dwellers in South Africa*
Authors: Sacks Jared
Published: March 2014

For much of the winter of 2012, communities in shack settlements across Cape Town took to the streets in some of the most active civil disobedience protests since 1994. Knowing that the mainstream political terrain often seeks to obfuscate and mislead the public about the true nature of these protests, this paper investigates claims by politicians from the Democratic Alliance (DA) that these protests were being coordinated by the Youth League of the African National Congress (ANCYL). These big political players moralize the debate, shifting the focus from the perfectly legitimate issues of service delivery and demands for meaningful engagement. Speaking directly to community members of Sweet Home Farm, an informal settlement of 15,000 people in the Philippi area, revealed a yawning chasm between what official players are saying about Sweet Home and the actual realities on the ground.
Comparisons of methods measuring fiber maturity and fineness of Upland cotton fibers containing different degrees of fiber cell wall development
Authors: Kim Hee Jin , Rodgers James , Delhom Chris , Cui Xiaoliang
Published: March 2014

Maturity and fineness are important physical properties of cotton fibers affecting qualities of fibers and yarns. A number of methods are used for measuring fiber maturity and fineness from developed fibers that are desiccated and harvested from open bolls. With the recent advent of molecular breeding and genomics, there is a growing need for measuring the physical properties of developing fibers that are living cells containing genetic materials. Unlike the developed fibers, the developing fibers are immature fibers composed of high levels of physiological sugars causing stickiness. Therefore, there is a challenge in measuring fiber properties from the developing fibers. To identify methods enabling the measurement fiber maturity and fineness from developing fibers, we compared various methods including the use of the USTER Advanced Fiber Information System (AFIS), high-volume instrument, Cottonscope, fiber cross-section image analysis microscopy, cellulose assay, and gravimetric fineness methods. Our results showed that maturity ratios (MR) measured from high maturity fibers correlated among all methods, whereas AFIS MR measured from low maturity fibers did not correlate with other methods. The fineness values measured by AFIS and Cottonscope were affected by the levels of physiological sugars in developing fibers. As a result, we conclude that pre-elimination of physiological sugars causing the stickiness was crucial to measure accurate fineness values from developing fibers. The results demonstrated strengths and weaknesses of various methods of measuring fiber maturity and fineness from immature and developing fibers. The information will help cotton scientists measuring and interpreting fiber properties from developing fibers.
When do health and well-being interventions work? Managerial commitment and context
Authors: Greasley Kay , Edwards Paul
Published: March 2014

Health and well-being interventions are increasingly assessed as complex processes rather than randomized controlled trials. In this study the health and well-being interventions refer to voluntary actions and are not in response to any regulatory requirement. This article looks specifically at managerial commitment to these interventions and at the organizational context in which they occur. Ex-ante study predictions as to the effects of commitment in three organizations were made and then followed up. This commitment was positively associated with employee perceptions of health promotion campaigns. But broader impacts, such as commitment to the organization and a sense of autonomy, were not evident. The explanation lies in wider features of the organization of work: permanent constraints such as job design and shift systems ran against the aims of the health interventions. Relating well-intentioned interventions to such features of organizational life remains a challenge for many organizations.
U.S. public administration programs
Authors: Naylor Lorenda A , Wooldridge Blue , Lyles Alan
Published: March 2014

Global economic shifts are forcing universities to become more competitive and operationally efficient. As a result, universities emphasize access, affordability, and achievement. More specifically, U.S. universities have responded by emphasizing course assessment, retention rates, and graduation rates. Both university administrators and faculty members recognize that student cognitive styles are an important dimension in retention and graduation rates. Equally important, the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration requires graduate programs to meet universal core competencies and assess student learning outcomes. Within the context of U.S. higher education trends and new accreditation standards, we examine the demographic characteristics and cognitive styles of 130 Master of Public Administration (MPA) students currently enrolled at the University of Baltimore, which is one of the largest accredited MPA programs in the United States. Student cognitive styles are measured using a point in time Group Embedded Figures Test instrument. Key findings reveal that a stronger concentration in quantitative skills is essential in bolstering core competencies and student marketability in the global economy. Recommendations for course design and pedagogical modifications are discussed.
The Shadow of Negative Mentoring at the Workplace
Authors: Kumar Payal , Irudayaraj I.S.F. , Jomon M.G. , Singhal Manish
Published: March 2014

This study explores the mediating role of negative affect between three negative mentoring experiences of protégés: ( i) a mentor–protégé mismatch within the dyad; ( ii) the mentor’s distancing behaviour; and ( iii) the mentor’s work-related attitude, and one outcome of negative mentoring, namely, decline of organizational citizenship behaviour for the protégé. Drawing on affective events theory, it is suggested that negative mentoring experiences for the protégé may have far-reaching implications for the protégé and for the organization too.
Organizational Commitment and Employee Perceived TQM Excellence
Authors: Wickramaratne W.P. Richard
Published: March 2014

Today, product and service quality is a major concern in both private and public sector organizations since it serves as a means of facing global competition. However, we do not know exactly how organizational commitment of operational employees is related to the total quality management (TQM) excellence of an organization. Therefore, the current study fills this gap by investigating the relationship between organizational commitment and TQM excellence. Data from 67 operational-level employees in apparel manufacturing firms in Sri Lanka showed that the three components of organizational commitment were jointly and separately related to the TQM excellence. These relationships were positive and moderate. The implications of the study are also discussed.
Employment Intensity of Growth in India
Authors: Pattanaik Falguni
Published: March 2014

In the face of the challenges of globalization, there are new questions about the ability of Indian economy to adjust to structural change and how to foster a more dynamic and competitive environment that encourages to enhance productivity and create new employment. However, there is a need to answer several important questions when examining the issue of employment intensity of growth: the patterns of economic growth and what are the sectors and subsectors in which output growth generates more jobs; and are these sectors getting sufficient priority to meet the employment objective? The findings suggest that favourable macroeconomic environment and improvements in the functioning of labour markets and institutions are essential to adjust to globalization and transformation of the Indian economy.
Integrated Framework of Antecedents and Effects of Market Orientation
Authors: Jain Ravindra , Jain Cherry , Jain Prachi
Published: March 2014

Earlier research concerning market orientation-related issues focuses on conceptualization of market orientation and its ingredients; various antecedents of market orientation; and impact of market orientation on firm’s entrepreneurial orientation, strategies, innovativeness and performance. This article is a descriptive and qualitative review of earlier research concerning all these issues. It also discusses the mediators and moderators that affect relationship between market orientation and firm’s performance. This article provides the holistic picture of what it means to be market oriented, what needs to be done to be better in market orientation and how market orientation affects firm’s performance. The article summarizes the propositions that emerged from the extensive review of literature, followed by the presentation of a proposed integrated framework of antecedents and effects of market orientation with its likely implications. These propositions and the proposed integrated framework provide a concrete base for carrying out future research studies. Thus, this article is significant value addition to the body of knowledge. Review of earlier research established that there exists a positive, significant and robust link between market orientation and firm performance. The review also indicates that market orientation has positive associations with an organization’s innovativeness and orientation mediated by innovation creates superior performance of a firm. The review also states that in earlier research, it has been found that there exists a close association between market orientation and entrepreneurial orientation as well as between market orientation and marketing planning/operational marketing strategies. Developing and improving on a firm’s market orientation may make a firm’s capabilities become more distinctive over the long run, resulting in sustainable competitive advantage.
African Theology and the Paradox of Missions: Three Intellectual Responses to the Modern Missions Crisis of the African Church
Authors: Michael Matthew
Published: March 2014

In modern times, Christian theology has increasingly become a ‘mission field’ itself because its ‘intellectual space’ has largely marginalized the missions mandate of the local church. On this conceptual mapping, the present work engages three intellectual responses of the African theological discourse to the modern missions’ crisis of the African church. Reading the writings of Bediako, Katongole, and de Gruchy as missions’ texts, the work seeks to show the paradox of missions in Africa particularly in its eternal preoccupation with issues arising from missions, and yet its inability to provide practical and helpful insights for the missionaries on the African missions fields. Importantly, the article notes the dialectical distance between the ‘intellectual space’ of these Christian theologies and the actual missions practices of the African church.
Chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency in Ménière disease
Authors: Di Berardino Federica , Alpini Dario Carlo , Bavera Pietro Maria , Cecconi Piero , Farabola Mario , Mattei Valentina , Ambrosetti Umberto , Cesarani Antonio
Published: March 2014

Objectives

The aim of this study was to focus on patients suffering from cochleo-vestibular disorder with and without Ménière disease (MD) in order to verify whether chronic cerebrospinal drainage abnormalities could play a role in the etiopathogenesis of endolymphatic hydrops.

Methods

Fifty-two volunteers were enrolled and subdivided into two groups: 24 definite MD and 28 not-MD. Both magnetic resonance venography imaging with contrast-enhanced imaging of the venous cerebrospinal system (MRV) and venous echo-color Doppler (ECD) were performed.

Results

MRV showed abnormalities in 83% of MD and 57% of not-MD subjects ( p < 0.001). Asymmetrical cervical venous flow, assessed by MRV, was confirmed by ECD in 62.5% of MD but in only 21.5% of not-MD subjects ( p<0.001).

Conclusion

Chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency might be the anatomical background, which provides a predisposing factor for the development of endolymphatic hydrops in MD patients.
Worldviews and human–animal relations: Critical perspectives on bison–human relations among the Euro-Canadians and Blackfoot
Authors: Oetelaar Gerald A
Published: March 2014

Researchers generally study human–animal relations in terms of hunter–gatherers, pastoralists or urbanites but few have explored the relationship between humans and the same animal across cultures. In this paper, I examine the relationship between humans and bison in the world of Euro-Canadians and the cosmos of the Blackfoot. Although both groups perceived the bison as a valuable resource and implemented conservation strategies to ensure its survival, their respective attitudes toward this species reflected very different worldviews. To Euro-Canadians and western researchers, the bison are perceived as being a part of nature, and thus human–animal relations change in tandem with the changing perceptions of the natural environment. To the Blackfoot people, humans are part of nature as are bison, and therefore, human–animal relations involve direct interactions between sentient beings.
Herméneutique, pragmatisme et critique des institutions
Authors: Michel Johann
Published: March 2014

This article examines the ‘question of meaning’ in institutions by distinguishing several levels of both meaning and analysis. The institution presents itself (semantic level) as an objectified configuration of meaning whose historicity (socio-genetic level) we should be able to reconstruct. Although it has stabilized over time, the objectified meaning is subject to modification by situated lived interactions (pragmatic level). If institutions cannot exist without a naturalized and pre-reflexive relation to rules and roles, we nevertheless need to distinguish intermediate levels of reflexivity without these necessarily having to challenge the established order. Because institutions, which are always contingent, are ‘fragile’, those who occupy dominant positions carry ‘additional meaning’, on top of the immanent meaning of the rules and roles. This additional meaning, as a legitimation device, is assimilated to a meta-pragmatic level. The present article, then, seeks to ‘graft’ a plurality of hermeneutic theories, stemming from textual science, onto these levels of analysis, in order to increase the intelligibility of the institutional phenomenon.
Influential factors on ethnocentrism: The effect of socioeconomic status, anomie, and authoritarianism
Authors: Heydari Arash , Teymoori Ali , Haghish E.F. , Mohamadi Behrang
Published: March 2014

This study examines the relation of dimensions of ethnocentrism with socio-structural factors such as socioeconomic status (SES), feelings of anomie, and authoritarianism. Using clustered sampling, 500 students were selected from ten high schools in Ahvaz, Iran. Results of structural equation modeling showed that SES has a direct positive effect on ethnocentrism and an indirect effect through anomie and authoritarianism. Similarly, anomie mediates the effect of SES on authoritarianism. Anomie was found to have an indirect effect on dimensions of ethnocentrism via authoritarianism. Findings confirmed the proposed conceptual path model, which is consistent with findings from other countries. The influence of feelings of anomie in the model is highlighted since it has a very important effect on dimensions of ethnocentrism.
The fighter, the punk and the clown: How to overcome the position of victim of bullying?
Authors: Viala Eva Silberschmidt
Published: March 2014

Despite extensive research on the causes of bullying and how it can be stopped, little is known about how some children overcome or avoid a position as victim of bullying. Based on analyses of three ‘extreme cases’ in which peer victimization has been stopped or prevented, the article attempts to describe how and why some children succeed in overcoming their position of victim of bullying. The analyses indicate that it is possible to exceed or avert the victim position, but the strategies applied are different and the issue of dignity emerges as important in the victims’ struggle for acceptance.
Design of a measurement system for use in static balancing a two-axis gimbaled antenna
Authors: Yan WX , Zhan ST , Qian ZY , Fu Z , Zhao YZ
Published: March 2014

The two-axis gimbaled antenna’s performance can be greatly improved if it is statically balanced. This paper intends to present a novel design of a measurement system for use in statically balancing a two-axis gimbaled antenna mounted on an aircraft. The details of the measurement system and its working principle are explained, including the dynamics of the two-degree-of-freedom flexure-hinge leverage and the control configuration of the measurement system. The measurement principle is proposed after the theoretical measurement uncertainties estimated and the key factors that determine the measurement accuracy are found. By controlling the uncertainty induced from the major factors, the measurement accuracy can be finally controlled. The measurement result is proved sufficiently accurate by means of High-speed centrifuge method.
Diallyl sulphide, a component of garlic, abrogates ferric nitrilotriacetate-induced oxidative stress and renal damage in rats
Authors: Ansar S , Iqbal M , AlJameil N
Published: March 2014

Ferric nitrilotriacetate (Fe-NTA) induces tissue necrosis as a result of lipid peroxidation (LPO) and oxidative damage that leads to high incidence of renal carcinomas. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of diallyl sulphide (DAS) against Fe-NTA-induced nephrotoxicity. A total of 30 healthy male rats were randomly divided into 5 groups of 6 rats each: (1) control, (2) DAS (200 mg kg−1), (3) Fe-NTA (9 g Fe kg−1), (4) DAS (100 mg kg−1) + Fe-NTA (9 mg Fe kg−1) and (5) DAS (200 mg kg−1) + Fe-NTA (9 mg Fe kg−1). Fe-NTA + DAS-treated groups were given DAS for a period of 1 week before Fe-NTA administration. The intraperitoneal administration of Fe-NTA enhanced blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels with reduction in levels of antioxidant enzymes. However, significant restoration of depleted renal glutathione and its dependent enzymes (glutathione reductase and glutathione- S-transferase) was observed in DAS pretreated groups. DAS also attenuated Fe-NTA-induced increase in LPO, hydrogen peroxide generation and protein carbonyl formation ( p < 0.05). The results indicate that DAS may be beneficial in ameliorating the Fe-NTA-induced renal oxidative damage in rats.
Posttraumatic Stress and Meaning Making in Mexico City
Authors: Doran Jennifer M. , Kalayjian Ani , Toussaint Loren , Mendez Diana Maria
Published: March 2014

Mexico City, established in 1524, is Mexico’s most important educational, financial and cultural centre. As is typical of large metropolitan cities, Mexico City has its share of crime, violence and poverty. It also has a history of natural disasters, particularly large-scale earthquakes. There is a lack of research on the impacts and correlates of chronic exposure to trauma in developing societies such as Mexico City. Particularly, a dearth of research that examines the relationship between exposure to trauma and posttraumatic growth in these populations exists. Recently, the Association of Trauma Outreach and Prevention (ATOP) organised a humanitarian mission to Mexico City to assess posttraumatic symptomatology and identify factors that contributed to meaning making and posttraumatic growth, including socio-demographic variables. The results demonstrated that age and marital status were associated with traumatic stress symptomatology and the ability to find meaning in trauma and purpose in one’s life. Inconsistent with previous research, there were no differential associations in symptomatology or posttraumatic growth on the basis of gender. Of note, the results suggested that individuals who had offered support to others during a traumatic event were currently experiencing lower levels of posttraumatic stress and an increased ability to find meaning in the trauma.
Women and Food Security
Authors: Mathur Arpita
Published: March 2014

Women as a social group are vulnerable to food insecurity despite being primary actors in the food chain. The problem is especially rampant in parts of South Asia and Southeast Asia. The drivers of this vulnerability range from economic to social, cultural, legal and psychological factors. Vulnerability to food insecurity has a definite effect on the health of women and children, as well as social and economic impacts in terms of fewer opportunities for education and greater instances of early marriages. A comparison of indicators used to assess vulnerabilities of women in the two regions shows that the overall situation in South Asia is worse than that in Southeast Asia. There is also a conspicuous difference in terms of the relative weight of the drivers behind this vulnerability. The primary securitising actors at the national, regional and international levels have to play an individual and collective role in rectifying the situation. It is equally mandatory for regional groupings such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) to provide a sound systemic environment for individual countries to work towards achieving these objectives.
Jammu & Kashmir and the Armed Forces Special Powers Act
Authors: Rabbani Attar
Published: March 2014

The Armed Forces (Jammu & Kashmir) Special Powers Act (AFSPA) has been in force since the last two decades without a lull in between. More than anything else, it has facilitated violations of human rights on account of several of its draconian provisions. Though originally meant for a limited period, AFSPA has become a permanent feature now. The reports of torture, custodial killings, rapes, forced disappearances, fake encounters continuously pour from the state. Moreover, there is a virtual military rule in the state with 500,000 armed troops (300,000 army troops, 70,000 Rashtriya Rifle soldiers, 130,000 central police forces) to control the people and over 100,000 civilian intelligence and surveillance operatives to monitor them. The AFSPA has emboldened these forces to use excessive force to suppress popular aspiration in order to maintain ‘calm’ which has resulted in the death of thousands of innocent people. This article argues that this situation is untenable in view of the oft-claimed democratic credentials of India and hence argues for AFSPA’s annulment.
Baby Walker Injury Awareness Among Grade-12 Girls in a High-Prevalence Arab Country in the Middle East
Authors: Grivna Michal , Barss Peter , Al-Hanaee Amna , Al-Dhahab Ayesha , Al-Kaabi Fatima , Al-Muhairi Shamma
Published: March 2014

Baby walkers (BWs) are a consumer product frequently associated with infant injuries. With little research in the Middle East and few population studies anywhere, female students in grade 12 in the United Arab Emirates were surveyed, assessing the prevalence of use, perceived safety, and interventions. The study population included grade-12 students in a large UAE city. Multistage random sampling selected 4/8 female Arab government schools and 3 classes each from science and arts tracks for interview by self-administered questionnaire. Response was 100%, with a total of 696 students, 55% (n = 385) of whom were Emirati citizens; 90% (n = 619) of the families used/had used BWs. Among the reasons for use, 92% reported “keeping baby safe,” with 11% perceiving BWs as very safe and 74% as moderately safe. Only 16% perceived that BWs could cause injuries. Despite causing many injuries, including fatalities, BWs were perceived to be safe and used by nearly all families. Effective education of professionals, patients, the public, and decision makers is needed. Governments should consider countermeasures such as prohibiting importation, sales, and advertising, together with public education and provision of stationary activity centers.
Nonlinear viscoelastic dynamic modeling of high-speed polypyrrole-based trilayer bending plate-like actuators based on first-order shear deformation plate theory
Authors: Alizadeh Vahidreza , Tahani Masoud
Published: March 2014

In this study, we intend to introduce a nonlinear dynamic theory for analyzing dynamic behavior of plate-like polypyrrole-based trilayer actuators for the first time. Within the displacement field of a first-order shear deformation plate theory and contemplating the nonlinear strain–displacement relations, nonlinear equations of motion are derived using Hamilton’s principle. The nonlinear governing equations are solved using the generalized differential quadrature method together with Newmark’s time integration scheme and the Newton–Raphson iterative method. For the assessment of the accuracy of the present theory, experimental data available in the literature are utilized. Two types of boundary conditions for both steady-state and dynamic analyses are investigated. The present results indicate the importance of considering geometric nonlinearity in the system.
What Consumers Want to Know About Quality When Choosing a Hospice Provider
Authors: Smith Brad , McDuff Jessica , Naierman Naomi , Kreling Barbara , Tein Naomi , Hunter Dora , Deviney Meredith , Lynn Joanne
Published: March 2014

Despite the availability of endorsed quality measures and widespread usage of hospice, hospice quality data are rarely available to consumers. Moreover, little is known about how consumers prioritize extant measures. This study drew on focus group and survey data collected in 5 metropolitan areas. The study found that consumers reported the hospice quality indicators we tested were easy to understand. Participants placed top priority on measures related to pain and symptom management. Relative to consumers with hospice experience, consumers without previous experience tended to place less value on spiritual support for patients and caregivers, emotional support for caregivers, and after-hours availability. The National Quality Forum-approved measures resonate well with consumers. Consumers also appear to be ready for access to data on the quality of hospice providers.
A Biobehavioral Perspective on Telomere Length and the Exposome
Authors: Lyon Debra E. , Starkweather Angela R. , Montpetit Alison , Menzies Victoria , Jallo Nancy
Published: March 2014

A major objective of biobehavioral research is defining the mechanisms that underlie linkages among behavior, biology, health, and disease. The genomic revolution has demonstrated the importance of studying the role of the environment in (epi)genetic mechanisms. The idea that interactions between environment and genetics influence health outcomes is a central concept of the exposome, a measure of environmental exposures throughout a lifetime. Research suggests that telomere length (TL) and biologic factors involved in telomere stability may provide an understanding of the effects of gene–environment interaction on disease risk. Telomeres, thus, have become important biomarkers for aging as well as for stress-related disease. However, incorporating telomeres into biobehavioral research requires consideration of several aspects of the exposome. Internal and external modifiable and nonmodifiable exposures have the potential to influence TL. Future research utilizing the concept of the exposome will provide meaningful findings related to exposure sources as well as dosage and duration across the life span that influence telomere biology and disease occurrence. Such findings can be translated into clinical practice and may provide a basis for personalized disease prevention and treatment approaches.
Framing “I can’t draw”: The influence of cultural frames on the development of drawing
Authors: Cohn Neil
Published: March 2014

Why is it that many people feel that they “can’t draw”? In a recent article Cohn, 2012 , I put forth a new theory that compared the cognitive structure of drawing to the cognitive structure of language. Like language, drawing uses schemas that combine in innumerable novel ways, and thus children learning to draw must acquire these schemas from the drawings in their environment. However, while most people in the United States and Europe “can’t draw,” Japanese children have far greater proficiency in drawing. This paper explores reasons for this cultural disparity in graphic fluency originating in the structure of the drawing systems in those respective cultures and the beliefs that frame ideas about drawing and art education. In particular, I explore the intriguing possibility that cultural assumptions admonishing imitation of other people’s drawings prohibits the acquisition of graphic schemas, thereby leading to people feeling that they “can’t draw.”