bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hotel general managers’ perceptions of CSR culture: A research note
Authors: Holcomb Judy L , Smith Scott
Published: December 2015

The lodging industry has recently placed a greater emphasis on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in an effort to present itself as a responsible global citizen. The objective of the study was to identify hotel general managers’ (GM) perceptions of their corporate-level Corporate Social Responsibility culture. The data were collected via an online survey of Florida hotel general managers using a CSR scale developed by Turker in the year 2009 and a Social Attitude Scale. A total of 123 surveys were returned and deemed usable, equating to a 22% response rate. The overall results indicated that GMs had a positive perception of their corporation’s CSR culture. In addition, the results of the study indicated that there was a positive correlation between the GMs’ personal attitudes toward CSR and their perception of their corporation’s CSR culture. Also, GMs of smaller hotels tended to have a more positive perception of their corporation’s CSR culture, although there was no difference based upon ownership structure. This study contributes to the general CSR research body of knowledge and is unique in terms of providing a number of benchmarks for the hospitality industry.
Digital communication support and Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Ekström Anna , Ferm Ulrika , Samuelsson Christina
Published: December 2015

Communication is one of the areas where people with dementia and their caregivers experience most challenges. The purpose of this study is to contribute to the understanding of possibilities and pitfalls of using personalized communication applications installed on tablet computers to support communication for people with dementia and their conversational partners. The study is based on video recordings of a woman, 52 years old, with Alzheimer’s disease interacting with her husband in their home. The couple was recorded interacting with and without a tablet computer including a personalized communication application. The results from the present study reveal both significant possibilities and potential difficulties in introducing a digital communication device to people with dementia and their conversational partners. For the woman in the present study, the amount of interactive actions and the number of communicative actions seem to increase with the use of the communication application. The results also indicate that problems associated with dementia are foregrounded in interaction where the tablet computer is used.
“How Should I Be?” A Photovoice Exploration Into Body Image Messaging for Young Women Across Ethnicities and Cultures
Authors: Madden Devin , Breny Jean M.
Published: December 2015

Photovoice, a community-based participatory research method that allows participants to inform research questions in an intimate way, has proven successful with youth. A diverse group of teenage girls living in New York City were asked to take photographs and reflect on what messages they received and from whom, how these messages translate across cultures and ethnicities, and how these messages are internalized and acted on. The group selected specific photographs to discuss together and themes emerged to answer the research questions; themes were reinforced by journal responses and agreed on by the group at the concluding session. The participants identified the media, peers, and family as cultural influencers on body image but noted that these messages change depending on the delivering medium. Participants not only offered recommendations with policy implications for advertising and media giants but also urged public health practitioners, teachers, and other key stakeholders working with young women of color to simply provide them with more space for talking. While Photovoice served as an effective methodology for gaining a more expansive understanding of how body image messages are received with young women of color, the tool should be considered for youth development interventions that take a community-based participatory approach.
Validation of Neuropsychological Tests to Screen for Dementia in Chinese Patients With Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Qiao Jin , Wang Xiaoyan , Lu Wenhui , Cao Hongmei , Qin Xing
Published: December 2015

To compare the accuracy of different neuropsychological tests and their combinations for deriving reliable cognitive indices for dementia diagnosis in Parkinson’s disease (PD). One hundred forty consecutive patients with PD were recruited and administrated an extensive battery of neuropsychological tests. Discriminant analysis and receiver–operator characteristic curve were used to evaluate their correct classifications and validity. Patients with PD having dementia (PDD; 23.5%) performed significantly worse in all tests than patients without dementia. Age of onset, disease duration, Hoehn-Yahr grade, Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale part III scores, and education were associated with dementia in patients with PD. Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and Block Design (BD) showed better specificity and sensitivity when used alone, and combined use of MMSE and BD further increased the validity. Our results indicated that the accuracy of MMSE was better in dementia diagnosis of Chinese patients with PD, and combined use of MMSE and BD could further increase the validity of dementia diagnosis.
Membrane depolarization increases ryanodine sensitivity to Ca2+ release to the cytosol in L6 skeletal muscle cells: Implications for excitation–contraction coupling
Authors: Pitake Saumitra , Ochs Raymond S
Published: December 2015

The dihydropyridine receptor in the plasma membrane and the ryanodine receptor in the sarcoplasmic reticulum are known to physically interact in the process of excitation–contraction coupling. However, the mechanism for subsequent Ca2+ release through the ryanodine receptor is unknown. Our lab has previously presented evidence that the dihydropyridine receptor and ryanodine receptor combine as a channel for the entry of Ca2+ under resting conditions, known as store operated calcium entry. Here, we provide evidence that depolarization during excitation–contraction coupling causes the dihydropyridine receptor to disengage from the ryanodine receptor. The newly freed ryanodine receptor can then transport Ca2+ from the sarcoplasmic reticulum to the cytosol. Experimentally, this should more greatly expose the ryanodine receptor to exogenous ryanodine. To examine this hypothesis, we titrated L6 skeletal muscle cells with ryanodine in resting and excited (depolarized) states. When L6 muscle cells were depolarized with high potassium or exposed to the dihydropyridine receptor agonist BAYK-8644, known to induce dihydropyridine receptor movement within the membrane, ryanodine sensitivity was enhanced. However, ryanodine sensitivity was unaffected when Ca2+ was elevated without depolarization by the ryanodine receptor agonist chloromethylcresol, or by increasing Ca2+ concentration in the media. Ca2+ entry currents (from the extracellular space) during excitation were strongly inhibited by ryanodine, but Ca2+ entry currents in the resting state were not. We conclude that excitation releases the ryanodine receptor from occlusion by the dihydropyridine receptor, enabling Ca2+ release from the ryanodine receptor to the cytosol.
Single-Center Experience With Remote Endarterectomy for the Treatment of Long-Segment Superficial Femoral Artery Occlusion
Authors: Karathanos Christos , Spanos Konstantinos , Saleptsis Vassileios , Antoniou Georgios A. , Koutsias Stylianos , Giannoukas Athanasios D.
Published: December 2015

Objectives:

Remote endarterectomy (RE) is a relatively minimally invasive procedure as an alternative to femoropopliteal above-knee bypass for the treatment of long-segment superficial femoral artery (SFA) occlusion. The objective of this study was to report our experience and to evaluate the long-term outcome.

Design:

Single-center nonrandomized retrospective study with prospective collection of patients’ data.

Methods:

Twelve patients (11 men; mean age 72 years, range 55-81 years) with long (>10 cm) SFA occlusion underwent RE followed by stent (aSpire) placement at the distal end of the endarterectomy. All patients had at least 2 tibial vessels outflow. Indications were severe claudication in 9 (75%), rest pain in 1(8%), and gangrene in 2 (17%) cases. Technical, hemodynamic success rates and clinical improvement were recorded. Assessment of patency and limb loss was made at a mean follow–up of 50 months (range 12-66 months).

Results:

Technical success rate was 100%. Immediate hemodynamic and clinical improvement were 92% and 75%, respectively. The mean increase in the Ankle-Brachial pressure index was 0.24. The primary, primary-assisted, and secondary patency rates were 50%, 83%, and 100%, respectively. The perioperative mortality rate was 8% (one death due to myocardial infarction). There was no early (30-day) reocclusion. During the follow-up, 5 (41.6%) cases underwent 7 reinterventions, all by endovascular means. The amputation rate was 16% (2 of 12). Conclusions: The RE for long SFA occlusion is a feasible procedure with acceptable short- and long-term outcomes in the presence of distal arterial outflow. Good long-term patency and limb salvage can be achieved with close surveillance and with the compensation of endovascular reintervention procedures.
A Grounded Theory Approach to Physical Activity and Advanced Cancer
Authors: Lowe Sonya S. , Milligan Christine , Watanabe Sharon M. , Brearley Sarah G.
Published: December 2015

Background:

Physical activity has demonstrated benefits in cancer-related fatigue and physical functioning in early-stage cancer patients, however the role of physical activity at the end stage of cancer has not been established. To challenge positivist–empiricist assumptions, I am seeking to develop a new theoretical framework that is grounded in the advanced cancer patient’s experience of activity.

Aim:

To gain an in-depth understanding of the experience of activity and quality of life in advanced cancer patients.

Objectives:

(1) To explore the meaning of activity for advanced cancer patients in the context of their day-to-day life, (2) to elicit advanced cancer patients’ perceptions of activity with respect to their quality of life, and (3) to elicit advanced cancer patients’ views of barriers and facilitators to activity in the context of their day-to-day life.

Study Design:

A two-phase, cross-sectional, qualitative study will be conducted through the postpositivist lens of subtle realism and informed by the principles of grounded theory methods.

Study Methods:

Advanced cancer patients will be recruited through the outpatient department of a tertiary cancer center. For Phase one, participants will wear an activPAL™ activity monitor and fill out a daily record sheet for seven days duration. For Phase two, the activity monitor output and daily record sheets will be used as qualitative probes for face-to-face, semistructured interviews. Concurrent coding, constant comparative analysis, and theoretical sampling will continue with the aim of achieving as close as possible to theoretical saturation.

Ethics and Discussion:

Ethical and scientific approval will be obtained by all local institutional review boards prior to study commencement. The findings will generate new mid-level theory about the experience of activity and quality of life in advanced cancer patients and aid in the development of a new theoretical framework for designing interventions for this population.
Reflectivity in Research Practice
Authors: Mortari Luigina
Published: December 2015

The article grounds on the assumption that researchers, in order to be not mere technicians but competent practitioners of research, should be able to reflect in a deep way. That means they should reflect not only on the practical acts of research but also on the mental experience which constructs the meaning about practice. Reflection is a very important mental activity, both in private and professional life. Learning the practice of reflection is fundamental because it allows people to engage into a thoughtful relationship with the world-life and thus gain an awake stance about one’s lived experience. Reflection is a crucial cognitive practice in the research field. Reflexivity is largely practiced in qualitative research, where it is used to legitimate and validate research procedures. This study introduces different perspectives of analysis by focusing the discourse on the main philosophical approaches to reflection: pragmatistic, critical, hermeneutic, and finally phenomenological. The thesis of this study is that the phenomenological theory makes possible to analyze in depth the reflective activity and just by that to support an adequate process of training of the researcher.
Computer-aided design–computer-aided engineering associative feature-based heterogeneous object modeling
Authors: Liu Jikai , Duke Kajsa , Ma Yongsheng
Published: December 2015

Conventionally, heterogeneous object modeling methods paid limited attention to the concurrent modeling of geometry design and material composition distribution. Procedural method was normally employed to generate the geometry first and then determine the heterogeneous material distribution, which ignores the mutual influence. Additionally, limited capability has been established about irregular material composition distribution modeling with strong local discontinuities. This article overcomes these limitations by developing the computer-aided design–computer-aided engineering associative feature-based heterogeneous object modeling method. Level set functions are applied to model the geometry within computer-aided design module, which enables complex geometry modeling. Finite element mesh is applied to store the local material compositions within computer-aided engineering module, which allows any local discontinuities. Then, the associative feature concept builds the correspondence relationship between these modules. Additionally, the level set geometry and material optimization method are developed to concurrently generate the geometry and material information which fills the contents of the computer-aided design–computer-aided engineering associative feature model. Micro-geometry is investigated as well, instead of only the local material composition. A few cases are studied to prove the effectiveness of this new heterogeneous object modeling method.
Multi-objective Gaussian particle swarm algorithm optimization based on niche sorting for actuator design
Authors: Liang Huimin , Zhang Kun , You Jiaxin , Yu Hao
Published: December 2015

With the fast-developing electromagnetic valve actuator, multi-objective optimal methods for actuator problems have been widely concerned in recent years. This article presents a modified multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm based on sorting method and employs it to the product design of the actuator. The simulation results show that modified optimization algorithm could obtain a better Pareto front in contrast to classical non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm-II method, meanwhile preserving the high capacity of fast solving of non-dominated solutions.
Exploring the most influenced financial determinants of supply chain management by cross-employing factor analysis approach and fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis method
Authors: Huang Yin-Tsuo , Hsieh Ming-Yuan
Published: December 2015

A majority of manufacturing companies are confronting the various financial influences on modern supply chain management. Therefore, this research employs factor analysis approach to synthetically evaluate the weight measurements of random Taiwanese interviewees and significantly further applies fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis method to testify measured results of factor analysis approach to successfully institute the most reliably evaluated model in order to induce the most influenced financial determinants for effectually minimizing the negative financial influences. Consequently, sale forecast accuracy of forecasting financial assessed factor, inventory-sales days of delivery financial assessed factor, and supplier’s material delivered on-time rate of electronic-transaction financial assessed factor are the most influenced financial determinants. The most valuable contribution of this research is to academically resupply research gap as well as empirically provide handy recommendations for relative manufacturing industrialists in this contemporarily complex, higher comparative, and lower profit era.
Neutrophil degranulation differentially modulates phenotype and function of bovine monocyte subsets
Authors: Hussen Jamal , Koy Mirja , Petzl Wolfram , Schuberth Hans-Joachim
Published: December 2015

Monocytes and neutrophils are important players in the innate immune response and cooperate during infection and inflammation. In our study we analyzed the effects of neutrophil degranulation products (polymorphonuclear granulocytes degranulation products, PMN-DGP) on the activation, the adhesion and the migration of three bovine monocyte subsets, as well as their effects on monocyte-macrophage differentiation. Cross-linking of surface CD18 molecules on bovine PMN resulted in the release of primary, secondary and tertiary granules as well as of secretory vesicles. PMN-DGP induced a significant Ca2+-influx in classical (classical monocytes, cM) and intermediate monocytes (intermediate monocytes, intM) but not in non-classical monocytes (non-classical monocytes, ncM). A selective and up-regulated expression induced by PMN-DGP was only seen for CD11a and CD31 on intM. PMN-DGP induced a selective migration of intM in vitro. The presence of PMN-DGP during the differentiation of cM or intM into macrophages resulted in increased expression of membrane CD163 and reduced expression of MHC-II molecules. PMN-DGP-derived macrophages produced more IL-12 and IL-10 and showed enhanced phagocytosis and ROS production capacities. In conclusion, PMN-DGP selectively attract bovine intM and skew the functional maturation of cM and intM.
The development of a visualisation tool for acquired motorsport data
Authors: Parker Matthew C , Hargrave Graham K
Published: December 2015

Data acquisition and analysis are an intrinsic part of motorsport, helping a race team objectively evaluate the performance of both their car and driver. Over time, data acquisition has become almost universally employed through all levels of racing. While large teams in the sport’s highest ranks have many resources to derive answers from these data, users in more minor ‘stepping stone’ categories often find themselves unable to successfully exploit the full potential of the information gathered because of its volume and their limited resources. Further to issues associated with the volume of data, recent trends in racing have seen cuts to the time available for driver and car testing through all levels of the sport to reduce escalating competition costs. While users are faced with ever more data and less time in which to extract useful information, the tools provided by commercial analysis packages have shown little development. This article describes the investigation into a new three-dimensional graphical display method, which aims to help the user more rapidly assimilate acquired motorsport data to the race car producing it. The first two preliminary stages of development of this system are presented, demonstrating the ability of the system to operate with two levels of complexity, which might be considered to suitably represent different levels of user. Together, results from both demonstrate the system’s potential for further development as a useful tool for accelerating a race team’s analysis of acquired data.
A Systematic Review of the Role of Surgical Approaches on the Outcomes of the Tibia Pilon Fracture
Authors: Liu Jiayong , Smith Carson D. , White Erik , Ebraheim Nabil A.
Published: December 2015

Background. The role of each surgical approach on the outcomes of pilon fractures has not been investigated in a systematic review. Methods. This systematic review was conducted with a thorough literature search on PubMed using the keywords (“pilon” OR “plafond”) “fracture.” Only articles written in the English language that have been published within the past 15 years and discussed the surgical approach were considered. Results. A total of 733 patients were included in this review. All the fractures were either OTA Type B or C fractures: 157 were Type B and 576 were Type C. Anterior and medial approaches have some of the best results in the literature with respect to complication rate. The posterolateral and anteromedial approaches have markedly higher complication rates. Conclusions. The anterolateral group had the largest number of patients—comprising one third of the entire study population. The anterior approach had one of the lowest complication rates with a patient base that had a high proportion of OTA Type C fractures. The medial approach produced a low complication rate over a larger patient base that had a higher proportion of OTA Type B fractures.

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV: Systematic review
Corporate social responsibility (CSR) in India: A dialectical analysis of the communicative construction of the meanings and boundaries of CSR in India
Authors: Dhanesh Ganga Sasidharan
Published: December 2015

Academic research tends to examine the communication of corporate social responsibility (CSR) using mostly functionalist or critical approaches and to a lesser extent, a dialogic perspective. This article extends the latter perspective by employing a dialectical approach to empirically analyze how organizational actors communicatively construct meanings and boundaries of CSR in India. Based on data generated through in-depth interviews with senior managers of companies recognized as socially responsible in India, the analysis reveals two key dialectics – the dialectic of selflessness and selfishness inherent in the discursive construction of the meaning of CSR in India as inclusive growth and the dialectic of togetherness and separateness in the articulation of boundaries of CSR in India as shared social responsibility. The article concludes with implications for research on CSR communication.
Coordination of care for patients with COPD: Clinical points of interest
Authors: Kasteleyn Marise J , Bonten Tobias N , Taube Christian , Chavannes Niels H
Published: December 2015

The management of care of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease improved over the last years but is still very complex. Both over- and underdiagnosis are often reported and misclassification of disease severity is common. Differentiating between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma and asthma-chronic obstructive pulmonary disease overlap syndrome remains difficult. Much is known about the effectiveness of treatment approaches in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, but patients are often not treated according to the guidelines, and we need more evidence on effectiveness in phenotypes of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Care coordination is of great importance and can help to further improve care for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients. Pulmonary rehabilitation and self-management are considered important aspects of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease care. In our opinion, there is a major role for eHealth to improve coordination of care of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
A randomized trial of teriflunomide added to glatiramer acetate in relapsing multiple sclerosis
Authors: Freedman MS , Wolinsky JS , Truffinet P , Comi G , Kappos L , Miller AE , Olsson TP , Benamor M , Chambers S , O’Connor PW
Published: December 2015

Background

Teriflunomide is a once-daily oral immunomodulator for the treatment of relapsing−remitting MS.

Objective

To evaluate the safety and tolerability of teriflunomide as add-on therapy to a stable dose of glatiramer acetate (GA) in patients with relapsing forms of MS (RMS).

Methods

Phase II, randomized, double-blind, add-on, placebo-controlled study. The primary objective was to assess safety and tolerability; secondary objectives were to evaluate effects of treatment on disease activity assessed by MRI and relapse.

Results

Patients with RMS on GA ( N = 123) were randomized 1:1:1 to receive teriflunomide 14 mg ( n = 40), 7 mg ( n = 42), or placebo ( n = 41) for 24 weeks; 96 patients entered the 24-week extension, remaining on original treatment allocation. Teriflunomide was well tolerated over 48 weeks. The frequency of adverse events (AEs) was low across all groups; 5 (12.2%), 3 (7.1%), and 2 (5.0%) patients in the 14 mg, 7 mg, and placebo groups, respectively, discontinued treatment due to AEs. Teriflunomide reduced the number of T1-Gd lesions vs placebo (14 mg: 46.6% relative reduction, p = 0.1931; 7 mg: 64.0%: relative reduction, p = 0.0306).

Conclusions

Teriflunomide added to stable-dose GA had acceptable safety and tolerability, and reduced some MRI markers of disease activity compared with GA alone. NCT00475865 (core study); NCT00811395 (extension).
Managing School Internal Mechanisms for Performance Improvement in Secondary Education
Authors: Chua Consolata L. , Mosha Herme J.
Published: December 2015

Recent apprehensions over the poor performance of secondary schools at ordinary level in Tanzania have given rise to concerns over the quality of education provided at this level. Addressing the issue of poor performance requires a gargantuan understanding of the environment under which these schools operate. This study explored how management of school internal mechanisms contributed toward enhancement of school performance for improved quality of secondary education in Tanzania. The article reports on the findings of a comparative case study conducted in six secondary schools in the Eastern Education zone of Tanzania. Findings revealed that, performance of schools was mainly attributed to the kind of management available in a particular school, which will ensure availability of workable and agreed on mechanisms of providing effective teaching and learning. The findings provide several important implications for education and school practitioners on how best to manage school internal mechanisms for improved performance.
Politics in Levinas and Derrida
Authors: Urabayen Julia , León Casero Jorge
Published: December 2015

This essay investigates the conception of politics in the works of Levinas and Derrida to show not only their points of convergence but also (and especially) their differences. We have structured this article into two sections, dedicated respectively to Levinas and to Derrida. In this article, we will reflect on one of the topics that has traditionally been considered to link Levinas and Derrida most strongly, and will seek to show that their critiques of liberal political theory are very different, and are built on the basis of distinct presuppositions. In this way, we will be able to go deeper into Levinas’s political theory, and we will establish a reading concerning the relationship between the political theories of Levinas and Derrida that accepts the classical interpretation that sees the Algerian as the heir and continuer of the Lithuanian but confirms that Derrida uses Levinas’s critique only as a point of departure. In Derrida’s political works, written after Politics of Friendship, there is ever more distance between him and the Lithuanian, and the meaning of his critique of liberalism is completely different.
The Role of the Family in Attributing Meaning to Living With HIV and Its Stigma in Turkey
Authors: Öktem Pınar
Published: December 2015

Stigma attached to HIV/AIDS remains a global problem, with severe negative consequences for people living with HIV (PLHIV). Family support is fundamental for PLHIV’s psychological and physical well-being. HIV-related stigma is high in Turkey, where HIV/AIDS prevalence is low and the epidemic is not considered a priority. Based on qualitative data generated with HIV-positive women and men, this article explores the process of stigmatization, as experienced and perceived by PLHIV in Turkey, focusing on the institution of the family. Results indicated that enacted stigma from family members is lower than anticipated. While most participants’ narratives showed patterns of support rather than rejection from families, the strong expectations around the cultural value attributed to “the family” are found to be the main facilitators of internalized stigma. The article critically discusses the meaning and implications of family support, addressing the role of patriarchal values attributed to womanhood, manhood, and sexuality in Turkey.
The Dark Side of the Affective Profiles
Authors: Garcia Danilo , Adrianson Lillemor , Archer Trevor , Rosenberg Patricia
Published: December 2015

The affective profiles model is based on the combination of individuals’ experience of high/low positive affect and high/low negative affect: self-fulfilling, high affective, low affective, and self-destructive. We used the profiles as the backdrop for the investigation of individual differences in malevolent character traits (i.e., the Dark Triad: psychopathy, Machiavellianism, and narcissism). A total of 1,000 participants (age: M = 31.50 SD = 10.27, 667 males and 333 females), recruited through Amazons’ Mechanical Turk (MTurk), responded to the Positive Affect Negative Affect Schedule and the Dark Triad Dirty Dozen. Individuals with a high affective profile reported higher degree of narcissism than those with any other profile, and together with individuals with a self-destructive profile, also higher degree of Machiavellianism and psychopathy than individuals with a low affective and self-fulfilling profile. Males scored higher in Machiavellianism and psychopathy. Together with earlier findings, our results show that while individuals in both the self-fulfilling and high affective profiles are extrovert and self-directed, only those in the high affective profile express an immature and malevolent character (i.e., high levels of all Dark Triad traits). Conversely, individuals in the self-fulfilling profile have earlier reported higher levels of cooperativeness and faith. More importantly, the unique association between high levels of positive emotions and narcissism and the unified association between negative emotions to both psychopathy and Machiavellianism imply a dyad rather than a triad of malevolent character traits.
Pilot Evaluation Study of the Life Skills Program REBOUND
Authors: Jungaberle Henrik , Nagy Ede
Published: December 2015

The main aim of the study is pilot evaluation of the life skills program REBOUND in a school context focusing on substance use, risk perception, and knowledge about psychoactive substances ([Formula: see text] = 723 students in five schools and 46 classes, Mage = 14.8, range 14-18) for the total sample and in the subgroups gender, age, and school type. Main goal of the study is collecting evidence for program optimization. A controlled study was carried out with repeated measurement before and after the intervention (4-6 months). Multilevel analyses, ANCOVA, and logistic regression analyses were applied to measure the effects. Overall, significantly lower incidence rates of drunkenness (odds ratio [OR] = .55; p = .033), improved knowledge about psychoactive substances ( p = .006), lower personal ( p = .013) and general tobacco risk perception among users ( p = .002), and lower general tobacco ( p = .018) and cannabis ( p = .000) risk perception in non-users were found in the total intervention group. In subgroups, significantly lower rates for the incidence of drunkenness can be shown for males ( p = .008) and for younger participants ( p = .004). Students at academic high school (German Gymnasium) showed a decrease in 30-day prevalence for alcohol ( p = .017) and cannabis ( p = .014), and they improved in their knowledge about psychoactive substances ( p = .000). In vocational high school classes (German Realschule), there was an increase in the relative alcohol risk perception of the students ( p = .019). REBOUND contributes to a controlled use of alcohol and increases knowledge about psychoactive substances. REBOUND has various effects on the examined subgroups age, gender, and school type: Males, younger students, and students in academic high school benefitted more from the course regarding consumption-related criteria. We suggest a program optimization specific to school form and age, inclusion of a tobacco intervention, and the use of more gender-segregated interventions.
In Prayer and Protest: Understanding the Moral World of the SaphaHors in the Santal Parganas (1871–1947)
Authors: Sarkar Anamitra
Published: December 2015

In 1871 a sect called the SaphaHors or clean men emerged in the Santal Parganas in the shadows of the repression of the Santal rebellion of 1855. In an ambience of disillusionment, they sought to redefine their identity through a code of morality. These were, however, not a written code but passed down orally through generations by numerous gurus around whom the brotherhoods were formed. Through a study of the SaphaHors we seek to understand the evolution and significance of the moral code; the nature of the anti-colonialism which lay inchoate in the moral code; the syncretistic practices that constituted the moral world thereby opening possibilities of questioning stereotypes like Hinduisation of the tribes. The complex interplay between culture, power and identity helps to explain the mysteries behind the unique survival of the little known sect from the Santal Parganas.
How Does Diaspora Mobilization Become a Causal Feature of Structural Change?
Authors: Kim MyungJa
Published: December 2015

National integration became a major priority for the Japanese elite’s nation-building policy after World War II. The ambiguous identification of postcolonial Koreans in Japan (the Zainichi Koreans), however, shows that the policy of integration has not developed in a linear or coherent form since those post-war years. This paper examines why long-term migrants—fourth or even fifth generations in some cases—have not fully integrated into host country, and asks how a particular ethnic group becomes engaged in mobilizing across a transnational space until it becomes a diaspora group that is deeply involved in political struggles and international relations. This paper uses the example of the Zainichi diaspora to identify and explore such a transnational space—a space that also provides leverage that can be exploited by individuals or collective actors who make up the elites of both the host state and the homeland. By focusing on the changing roles of the Korean Zainichi diaspora in the light of shifting policies that reflect Japan’s external security environment, the article argues how host state policies allow an entity such as the Zainichi diaspora to transform itself into an agent capable of structural change.
State Securitization and Internal Ethnic Conflicts in India: Re-visiting the Naga Imbroglio
Authors: Roychoudhury Sreya Maitra
Published: December 2015

International relations has systematically theorized the causes and dynamics of violent internal conflicts since the last quarter of the nineteenth century. India has internally grappled with internal ethnic turmoil since the immediate post-independence era. It has historically both used, and justified the use of, armed forces to tackle insurgencies as existential threats to national security. As India marches ahead to emerge as a major global power, these conflict zones jettison India’s domestic stability and democratic credentials, and also render tense relations with immediate neighbours in South Asia. Insurgent activity of the Nagas in India’s northeast, which has continued for over 60 years now, is also India’s first experiment in armed intervention and counter-insurgency. Establishing a causal link between securitization theory postulated by the Copenhagen School of Security Studies and internal ethnic conflicts, the paper examines the state securitization of the Naga crisis, delineating its causes and conditions. The Naga discourse of resisting assimilation into the Indian state based on ethnic origins and geographical isolation, and its gradual fragmentation into moderates and radicals are highlighted. The paper also audits the state securitization of the Naga crisis by examining the political realities of the 1990s, dynamics and consequences of the indefinite ceasefire, and critical reflections of the civil society members who demand inclusion in the ongoing peace process as stakeholders.
Between ‘Concern’ and ‘Opportunity’: US Pivot to Asia and Foreign Policy Debate in India
Authors: Joshi Yogesh
Published: December 2015

Underlined by China’s growth and the relative decline of the US, a transition of power is taking place in Asia-Pacific. To arrest its declining influence, the US has initiated a pivot to the region. India, being a regional rising power, has received special attention from the US as part of its strategy to manage Asia’s changing balance of power. On pivot, domestic foreign policy debate in India is highly fractured, however. Perceptions of the pivot in India range between viewing it as a ‘strategic concern’, on the one hand, and a ‘strategic opportunity’, on the other. This debate reflects the divide between two major schools in Indian foreign policy: Traditional Nationalists versus the Great Power Realists. Under Manmohan Singh, India foreign policy practice indicated a preference for ‘strategic autonomy’ as suggested by the Traditional Nationalists. However, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ascension to power suggests that India is now ready for greater engagement with the US on balancing China’s growing power in Asia, a position espoused by the Great Power Realists.
Pirfenidone for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: analysis of pooled data from three multinational phase 3 trials
Authors: Noble Paul W. , Albera Carlo , Bradford Williamson Z. , Costabel Ulrich , du Bois Roland M. , Fagan Elizabeth A. , Fishman Robert S. , Glaspole Ian , Glassberg Marilyn K. , Lancaster Lisa , Lederer David J. , Leff Jonathan A. , Nathan Steven D. , Pereira Carlos A. , Swigris Jeffrey J. , Valeyre Dominique , King Talmadge E.
Published: December 2015

Pirfenidone is an antifibrotic agent that has been evaluated in three multinational phase 3 trials in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). We analysed pooled data from the multinational trials to obtain the most precise estimates of the magnitude of treatment effect on measures of disease progression.

All patients randomised to pirfenidone 2403 mg·day−1or placebo in the CAPACITY or ASCEND studies were included in the analysis. Pooled analyses of outcomes at 1 year were based on the pre-specified end-points and analytic methods described in the ASCEND study protocol.

A total of 1247 patients were included in the analysis. At 1 year, pirfenidone reduced the proportion of patients with a ≥10% decline in per cent predicted forced vital capacity or death by 43.8% (95% CI 29.3–55.4%) and increased the proportion of patients with no decline by 59.3% (95% CI 29.0–96.8%). A treatment benefit was also observed for progression-free survival, 6-min walk distance and dyspnoea. Gastrointestinal and skin-related adverse events were more common in the pirfenidone group, but rarely led to discontinuation.

Analysis of data from three phase 3 trials demonstrated that treatment with pirfenidone for 1 year resulted in clinically meaningful reductions in disease progression in patients with IPF.
Impact of sleep disturbances on kidney function decline in the elderly
Authors: Jaussent Isabelle , Cristol Jean-Paul , Stengel Benedicte , Ancelin Marie-Laure , Dupuy Anne-Marie , Besset Alain , Helmer Catherine , Ritchie Karen , Berr Claudine , Dauvilliers Yves
Published: December 2015

While sleep disturbances are frequent in renal disease patients, no studies have examined prospectively the associations between sleep disturbances and kidney function decline in community-dwelling elderly subjects.

Glomerular filtration rates (eGFRs) were estimated at baseline and at 11-year follow-up. A glomerular filtration decline over the follow-up period was defined as a percentage decline greater than or equal to the cut-off value of the highest tertile of kidney function decline (22%) in 1105 subjects. Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) and insomnia complaints were self-rated at baseline. Restless legs syndrome (RLS) and its age at onset were assessed at study end-point. An ambulatory polysomnography recording was performed during the follow-up in 277 subjects. Apnoea-hypopnoea index (AHI), periodic limb movements during sleep (PLMS) and total sleep time were analysed.

An increased risk of eGFR decline was associated with EDS (OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.18–2.34) and RLS (OR 1.98, 95% CI 1.18–3.30) independently of potential confounders including cardiovascular risk factors. Among insomnia complaints, a borderline association with eGFR decline was found for early morning awakening only. High AHI (≥30 events·h−1) and short total sleep time (<6 h), but not PLMS were linked to eGFR decline in crude associations, but only AHI remained significantly associated after multi-adjustments.

EDS, RLS and AHI constitute independent risk factors for kidney glomerular function decline.
Larval nutrition-induced plasticity affects reproduction and gene expression of the ladybeetle, Cryptolaemus montrouzieri
Authors: Xie Jiaqin , De Clercq Patrick , Pan Chang , Li Haosen , Zhang Yuhong , Pang Hong
Published: December 2015

Background

Organisms may develop into multiple phenotypes under different nutritional environments by developmental plasticity, whereas the potential costs and mechanisms of such plasticity are poorly understood. Here we examined the fitness and gene expression of nutrition-induced phenotypes in the ladybeetle, Cryptolaemus montrouzieri after having experienced varying larval food regimes.

Results

We found that C. montrouzieri adults undergoing a variable larval food regime achieved a similar developmental time, survival, body mass and egg production as those undergoing a high larval food regime. The survival, developmental time, body mass and fecundity of the adults from a restricted larval food regime were inferior to those from the high and variable larval food regimes. However, the adults from this restricted larval food regime had a higher expression level of genes encoding immune- and antioxidant-related enzymes than those from the high and variable larval food regimes when exposed to starvation and pesticide conditions in adult life.

Conclusions

These results suggest that larval food availability in C. montrouzieri not only triggers adult phenotypic differences but also affects reproduction and expression level of genes in adult life, indicating that the larval nutritional conditions can affect adult fitness and resistance to stressful conditions through developmental plasticity.
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) for critically ill adults in the emergency department: history, current applications, and future directions
Authors: Mosier Jarrod M. , Kelsey Melissa , Raz Yuval , Gunnerson Kyle J. , Meyer Robyn , Hypes Cameron D. , Malo Josh , Whitmore Sage P. , Spaite Daniel W.
Published: December 2015

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a mode of extracorporeal life support that augments oxygenation, ventilation and/or cardiac output via cannulae connected to a circuit that pumps blood through an oxygenator and back into the patient. ECMO has been used for decades to support cardiopulmonary disease refractory to conventional therapy. While not robust, there are promising data for the use of ECMO in acute hypoxemic respiratory failure, cardiac arrest, and cardiogenic shock and the potential indications for ECMO continue to increase. This review discusses the existing literature on the potential use of ECMO in critically ill patients within the emergency department.
Genetic modification of human mesenchymal stem cells helps to reduce adiposity and improve glucose tolerance in an obese diabetic mouse model
Authors: Sen Sabyasachi , Domingues Cleyton C. , Rouphael Carol , Chou Cyril , Kim Chul , Yadava Nagendra
Published: December 2015

Introduction

Human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells that can differentiate into fat, muscle, bone and cartilage cells. Exposure of subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue derived AD-MSCs to high glucose (HG) leads to superoxide accumulation and up-regulation of inflammatory molecules. Our aim was to inquire how HG exposure affects MSCs differentiation and whether the mechanism is reversible.

Methods

We exposed human adipose tissue derived MSCs to HG (25 mM) and compared it to normal glucose (NG, 5.5 mM) exposed cells at 7, 10 and 14 days. We examined mitochondrial superoxide accumulation (Mitosox-Red), cellular oxygen consumption rate (OCR, Seahorse) and gene expression.

Results

HG increased reactive superoxide (ROS) accumulation noted by day 7 both in cytosol and mitochondria. The OCR between the NG and HG exposed groups however did not change until 10 days at which point OCR of HG exposed cells were reduced significantly. We noted that HG exposure upregulated mRNA expression of adipogenic (PPARG, FABP-4, CREBP alpha and beta), inflammatory (IL-6 and TNF alpha) and antioxidant (SOD2 and Catalase) genes. Next, we used AdSOD2 to upregulate SOD2 prior to HG exposure and thereby noted reduction in superoxide generation. SOD2 upregulation helped reduce mRNA over-expression of PPARG, FABP-4, IL-6 and TNFα. In a series of separate experiments, we delivered the eGFP and SOD2 upregulated MSCs (5 days post ex-vivo transduction) and saline intra-peritoneally (IP) to obese diabetic (db/db) mice. We confirmed homing-in of eGFP labeled MSCs, delivered IP, to different inflamed fat pockets, particularly omental fat. Mice receiving SOD2-MSCs showed progressive reduction in body weight and improved glucose tolerance (GTT) at 4 weeks, post MSCs transplantation compared to the GFP-MSC group (control).

Conclusions

High glucose evokes superoxide generation, OCR reduction and adipogenic differentiation. Mitochondrial superoxide dismutase upregulation quenches excess superoxide and reduces adipocyte inflammation. Delivery of superoxide dismutase (SOD2) using MSCs as a gene delivery vehicle reduces inflammation and improves glucose tolerance in vivo. Suppression of superoxide production and adipocyte inflammation using mitochondrial superoxide dismutase may be a novel and safe therapeutic tool to combat hyperglycemia mediated effects.