bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crosstalk Between Nuclear Glucose-Regulated Protein 78 and Tumor Protein 53 Contributes to the Lipopolysaccharide Aggravated Apoptosis of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Responsive Porcine Intestinal Epithelial Cells
Authors: Jiang Qian , Liu Gang , Chen Jiashun , Yao Kang , Yin Yulong
Published: August 2018

Background/Aims: Lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) act as virulence factors that trigger intestinal inflammation and thereby compromise the production of pigs worldwide. Intestinal diseases and dysfunction have been attributed to endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and the subsequent apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells. Therefore It is important to explore whether LPSs aggravate ERS-mediated apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells. Methods: ERS and inflammation models were established in porcine cell line J2 (IPEC-J2) and the cells were treated with tunicamycin or LPS at specific times. The expression of marker proteins was determined by western blot and immunofluorescence. Possible crosstalk between proteins was analyzed by co-immunoprecipitation. Small interfering RNA transfection was employed to verify the mechanisms. Results: We found that Escherichia coli-derived LPS aggravated ERS and ERS-mediated apoptosis in ERS-responsive IPEC-J2 cells. The crosstalk between nuclear glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) and tumor protein 53 (p53) was verified to trigger this LPS-aggravated apoptosis of ERS-responsive intestinal cells. Conclusion: This novel finding implies that intestinal malfunctions might solely originate from the effects of Gram-negative bacteria on ERS-responsive intestinal cells. The regulation of ERS signaling (especially the crosstalk between nuclear GRP78 and p53) in ERS-responsive/rapidly growing intestines may help intestinal cells survive from Gram-negative bacterial infections.
Ginsenoside Rg1 Prevents Chronic Stress-Induced Depression-Like Behaviors and Neuronal Structural Plasticity in Rats
Authors: Yu Hongluan , Fan Cuiqin , Yang Lejin , Yu Shuyan , Song Qiqi , Wang Peng , Mao Xueqin
Published: August 2018

Background/Aims: Ginsenoside Rg1 has been demonstrated to exhibit neuroprotective effects in various studies. This study aimed to investigate the neuronal mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective and antidepressant-like effects of ginsenoside Rg1 in a rat model of depression. Methods: Chronic unpredictable mild stress was used to induce depression-like behaviors in rats. Transmission electron microscopy was used to observe neuronal synapses within the basolateral amygdala (BLA). The expression of microRNA (miR)-134 in the BLA was verified by real-time quantitative PCR. Finally, the synaptic plasticity-associated proteins CAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) were detected by immunoblotting. Results: Results showed that chronic stress effectively induced depression-like behaviors in rats, which were associated with significant ultrastructural changes within BLA neurons. Moreover, chronic stress decreased the expression of miR-134 in the BLA, which was accompanied by decreased phosphorylation of CREB and decreased expression of BDNF. Remarkably, chronic administration of ginsenoside Rg1 (40 mg/kg, i.p., 5 weeks) significantly ameliorated the neuronal structural abnormalities and biochemical changes induced by chronic stress, as well as preventing depression-like behaviors in these rats. Conclusion: Results suggested that ginsenoside Rg1 may exhibit neuroprotection and antidepressant-like effects by activating the CREB-BDNF system within the BLA in this rat model of depression. Amelioration of depression-like behaviors by ginsenoside Rg1 appears to involve modulation of the synapse-associated factor miR-134 within the BLA. Therefore, these findings demonstrate some of the neuronal mechanisms associated with depression and the therapeutic potential of ginsenoside Rg1 for use in the treatment of depression in clinical trials.
Knockdown of Linc00515 Inhibits Multiple Myeloma Autophagy and Chemoresistance by Upregulating miR-140-5p and Downregulating ATG14
Authors: Lu Daifeng , Yang Chuandong , Zhang Zhitao , Cong Yu , Xiao Mochao
Published: August 2018

Background/Aims: The purpose of our experiments was to investigate the targeting relationship of linc00515, miR-140-5p and ATG14 and to explore the roles of linc00515, miR-140-5p and ATG14 in autophagy and chemoresistance of melphalan-resistant multiple myeloma cells. Methods: Plasmids that could interfere with the expression of linc00515 and ATG14 were loaded into myeloma cells, which were cultured with melphalan. MTT assay and flow cytometry analysis were utilized to investigate the effect of linc00515, miR-140-5p and ATG14 on the resistance of myeloma cells. QRT-PCR was used to determine the levels of mRNAs. Western blot was utilized to explore the level of ATG14 and autophagy-related proteins. Dual luciferase assay was utilized to explore the targeting relationship between linc00515, miR-140-5p and ATG14. GFP LC3 fluorescence assay was conducted to study the autophagy of cells. Results: The expression of linc00515 and ATG14 were significantly higher in melphalan-resistant myeloma cells. Knockdown of linc00515 and ATG14 led to decreased autophagy and chemoresistance of melphalan-resistant myeloma cells. The forced expression of miR-140-5p suppressed autophagy and chemoresistance of melphalan-resistant myeloma cells. Conclusion: Linc00515 enhanced autophagy and chemoresistance of melphalan-resistant myeloma by directly inhibiting miR-140-5p, which elevated ATG14 level.
Identification and Validation of Two Novel Prognostic lncRNAs in Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Song Jukun , Peng Juxiang , Zhu Chen , Bai Guohui , Liu Yongda , Zhu Jianguo , Liu Jianguo
Published: August 2018

Background/Aims: Kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) is one of the most fatal malignancies due to late diagnosis and poor treatment. To improve its prognosis, a screening for molecular biomarkers of KIRC is urgently needed. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important roles in tumorigenesis and prognosis of cancers. However, it is not clear whether lncRNAs can be used as molecular biomarkers in predicting the survival of KIRC patients. Methods: In this study, our aim was to identify lncRNAs/mRNAs signatures and their prognostic values in KIRC. The aberrant expression profile of mRNAs and lncRNAs in 529 KIRC tissues and 72 adjacent non-tumor pancreatic tissues were obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). A weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) of two key lncRNAs was constructed. We constructed an aberrant lncRNA-mRNA-miRNA ceRNA network in CESC. In addition, Gene Ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway analysis were performed. Results: Using lncRNA/mRNA expression profiling data, the overall analysis revealed that two novel lncRNA signatures (DNM1P35 and MIR155HG) and several mRNAs were found to be significantly correlated with KIRC patient’s overall analysis. Based on the target gene of the two lncRNA in co-expression network, the GO and KEGG analysis were also performed. A dysregulated lncRNA-related ceRNA network was also observed. Conclusion: These results suggested that the two novel lncRNAs signatures may act as independent prognostic biomarkers for predicting the survival of KIRC patient.
Plasma Biochemistry values in wild female hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) during nesting in Mexican coast
Authors: Salvarani Patricia Ishisaki , Osten Jaime Rendón von , Morgado Fernando
Published: August 2018

To obtain plasma biochemistry values, blood was collected for 47 nesting females of apparently healthy Eretmochelys imbricata sea turtles using sodium heparin as an anticoagulant. Blood samples were collected in April-Jun for two years (nesting season). Hematologic characteristics, including packed cell volume, white blood cell counts, red blood cell count and hemoglobin level; and plasma chemistry values, including creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, uric acid, triglyceride, total cholesterol, and glucose were measured. The data generated from this study may be useful for clinical assessment of health and disease of wild hawksbill sea turtles on nearshore habitats in the Gulf of Mexico, thus contributing to a conservation of this species.
Brucellosis and tuberculosis in cattle in South America
Authors: Ferreira Neto José Soares
Published: August 2018

In general, European and North American countries, as well as Australia and New Zealand, have already eradicated or reached good levels of control of brucellosis and tuberculosis in cattle. In the rest of the world, however, the epidemiological situation of these two diseases is frequently poorly understood. In this review article, quantified data on these diseases in the South American countries are presented. Initially, the aspects that led the continent to host 25% of the world cattle population are presented, in addition to the aspects that placed the continent at a prominent position in the international meat market. Subsequently the continent was divided into three country groups, considering the size of the cattle population and how well the epidemiological situation of brucellosis and tuberculosis in cattle is quantified. It is argued that countries that do not generate high-quality quantitative epidemiological data on these diseases have serious limitations in outlining and managing control or eradication strategies. Thus, for successful outcomes, at least methodologies to estimate the prevalence of infected herds should be employed.
Karen Culture of Evangelism and Early Baptist Mission in Nineteenth Century Burma
Authors: Hayami Yoko
Published: August 2018

The success story of nineteenth-century Baptist missionary work among minority ethnic groups in Burma was one well-known facet of the early beginnings of modern Protestant missions. Behind this success was the extensive travel and evangelizing work done by native Karen Christians. In the face of the unexpected speed and zeal with which the Karen converts spread the gospel, to which I apply the term “culture of evangelism”, the Baptist mission in Burma was formed through an interactive process of continual self-reformulation, negotiation, and compromise on crucial matters such as baptism, ordination, self-support, division of roles, and language use. This has had far-reaching effects in shaping the Baptist churches in Myanmar today.
Enhancing the Data Coverage in the Integrated Global Radiosonde Archive
Authors: Durre Imke , Yin Xungang , Vose Russell S. , Applequist Scott , Arnfield Jeff
Published: August 2018

The Integrated Global Radiosonde Archive (IGRA) is a collection of historical and near-real-time radiosonde and pilot balloon observations from around the globe. Consisting of a foundational dataset of individual soundings, a set of sounding-derived parameters, and monthly means, the collection is maintained and distributed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI). It has been used in a variety of applications, including reanalysis projects, assessments of tropospheric and stratospheric temperature and moisture trends, a wide range of studies of atmospheric processes and structures, and as validation of observations from other observing platforms. In 2016, NCEI released version 2 of the dataset, IGRA 2, which incorporates data from a considerably greater number of data sources, thus increasing the data volume by 30%, extending the data back in time to as early as 1905, and improving the spatial coverage. To create IGRA 2, 40 data sources were converted into a common data format and merged into one coherent dataset using a newly designed suite of algorithms. Then, an overhauled version of the IGRA 1 quality-assurance system was applied to the integrated data. Last, monthly means and sounding-by-sounding moisture and stability parameters were derived from the new dataset. All of these components are updated on a regular basis and made available for download free of charge on the NCEI website.
Circulating tumour DNA as a cancer biomarker
Authors: Duffy Michael J
Published: August 2018

Measurement of genetically altered DNA shed from tumours into the circulation can potentially provide a new generation of blood-based cancer biomarkers. Compared with tissue DNA biomarkers which require surgery or biopsy, samples for circulating tumour DNA assays can be obtained with minimal inconvenience and at lower cost. Furthermore, in contrast to tissue, the use of circulating tumour DNA allows serial monitoring, faster delivery of results and potentially provides an integrative representation of genetic alterations across all tumour sites within a patient. In contrast to existing protein-based cancer biomarkers, all of which can be produced by benign disease, circulating tumour DNA biomarkers would be expected to be more specific for malignancy. Furthermore, unlike the available blood cancer biomarkers, circulating tumour DNA can be used to predict response to specific therapies, identify mechanisms of therapy resistance and detect potentially actionable mutations. One of the first circulating tumour DNA assays recommended for clinical use involves EGFR mutation testing for predicting response to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer, especially when tumour tissue is unavailable. In order to accelerate the introduction of circulating tumour DNA assays into routine clinical use, laboratory medicine staff will have to undergo training in the use of polymerase chain reaction and DNA sequencing. Furthermore, existing circulating tumour DNA assays will need to be simplified, standardized, shown to have clinical utility, be made available at reasonable costs and be reimbursable.
School Discipline Policies, Perceptions of Justice, and In-School Delinquency
Authors: Fissel Erica R. , Wilcox Pamela , Tillyer Marie Skubak
Published: August 2018

School crime has been a national issue for nearly 40 years and remains a concern for students, administrators, parents, and the public. Schools engage in numerous strategies aimed at curbing crime, ranging from harsh disciplinary practices to proactive strategies focused on gaining student compliance. This study examines the impact of disciplinary practices on in-school delinquency, while also considering the influence of students’ perceptions of injustice. Using student- and school-level data from the Rural Substance Abuse and Violence Project and hierarchical Poisson regression analyses, findings reveal that students’ perceptions of injustice were significantly related to in-school delinquency, while proactive and reactive discipline practices, spanning the punitiveness continuum, were not. The findings provide tentative guidance for school-based discipline management policies and practices.
Exploring the Test of Covariate Moderation Effects in Multilevel MIMIC Models
Authors: Cao Chunhua , Kim Eun Sook , Chen Yi-Hsin , Ferron John , Stark Stephen
Published: August 2018

In multilevel multiple-indicator multiple-cause (MIMIC) models, covariates can interact at the within level, at the between level, or across levels. This study examines the performance of multilevel MIMIC models in estimating and detecting the interaction effect of two covariates through a simulation and provides an empirical demonstration of modeling the interaction in multilevel MIMIC models. The design factors include the location of the interaction effect (i.e., between, within, or across levels), cluster number, cluster size, intraclass correlation (ICC) level, magnitude of the interaction effect, and cross-level measurement invariance status. Type I error, power, relative bias, and root mean square of error of the interaction effects are examined. The results showed that multilevel MIMIC models performed well in detecting the interaction effect at the within or across levels. However, when the interaction effect was at the between level, the performance of multilevel MIMIC models depended on the magnitude of the interaction effect, ICC, and sample size, especially cluster number. Overall, cross-level measurement noninvariance did not make a notable impact on the estimation of interaction in the structural part of multilevel MIMIC models when factor loadings were allowed to be different across levels.
The impact of youth labour market experiences on later employment opportunities: What roles do ethnicity and gender play?
Authors: Zuccotti Carolina Viviana , O’Reilly Jacqueline
Published: August 2018

Youth joblessness often leaves a scar. However, some ethnic groups appear to be more successful in recovering from this than others. Using a unique dataset (ONS Longitudinal Study) linking census records for a 1% sample of the population of England and Wales, we examine the relationship between early labour market experiences and later employment outcomes for men and women from Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi and Caribbean origins to those of white British individuals. Our results show that, on average, being unemployed or inactive in youth (vs being employed or in education) reduces employment opportunities later in life. However, this varies greatly by ethnicity and gender: Indian and, especially, Bangladeshi men are substantively less affected by previous non-employment compared with white British men; for women, having an ethnic minority background continues to limit their labour market integration. Addressing gender and ethnic labour market inequalities requires a more nuanced understanding of how these disadvantages unfurl over time for different communities.
Repair work as good work: Craft and love in classic car restoration training
Authors: Bozkurt Ödül , Lara Cohen Rachel
Published: August 2018

Repair work is essential if we are to develop environmentally-sustainable societies, but repair activity has largely disappeared in advanced economies. Where it survives, work in repair is typically ‘dirty’ and undesirable. This article asks how repair work can be experienced as ‘good work’, drawing on the accounts of 20 trainees on a classic car restoration course. We observe that two features made repair ‘good work’ in trainees’ eyes: craft and love. Craft skills enabled trainees to imagine improved employment futures, but also engendered emotional satisfactions. What the trainees emphasized even more was love, in four distinct ways. First, there was ‘object-love’ for the classic car. Second, love was evoked as repair reconnected them with ‘authentic’ younger selves. Third, love was claimed to be a prerequisite to do the work. Fourth, love mediated market relationships, connecting repairers and clients in a ‘community of enthusiasm’. Our discussion contributes to studies of workplace emotions, which typically focus on feminized work, by showing how love also matters in experiences of masculine work. Identifying the attractions of repair, we also consider the liminal context of training and highlight the key conditions for the survival and growth of repair as paid ‘good work’.
The Dynamics of Insurance Development and Economic Growth in Nigeria
Authors: Nwosa Philip Ifeakachukwu , Mustapha Zainab Bolanle
Published: August 2018

This study examined the dynamics of insurance development and economic growth in Nigeria for the period 1996–2014. Specifically, the study addressed two important issues: the impact of insurance development on economic growth and the causal nexus between insurance development and economic growth. The study utilised two techniques: ordinary least squares (OLS) and causality. The OLS regression estimate revealed that insurance development had an insignificant effect on economic growth, while the causality estimate showed a one-way causation from economic growth to insurance development. The study recommended that the government should put in place appropriate policies and regulations which would bring about sound development of the insurance sector. This would enhance the contribution of the insurance industry to the growth of the Nigerian economy.

JEL Classification: E44, G22, O40
What do Fiscal Indicators of Fifteen Major States of India Reveal? 2005–2006 to 2013–2014
Authors: Mohan R. , Ramalingam N.
Published: August 2018

The article examines the revenue and expenditure trends of 15 states of India during the period 2005–2006 to 2013–2014, by grouping them into high, middle and low income based on per capita Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP). The analysis reveals that the middle-income states have performed better than the high- and low-income states in own tax effort, whereas low-income states are ahead of all states average in proportion of development expenditure to GSDP. The quality of fiscal deficit has improved, as a major part of it is capital outlay for 12 out of 15 states. Central grants and taxes have shown progressive trends with the degree of progressivity more in the latter. In devolution of resources to local self governments (LSGs), only 5 states are ahead of all states average. The association between development expenditure, own tax revenue effort, devolution of Central taxes and Central grants is positive and statistically significant.
The Effectiveness of Public Spending on Education and Health Care in Indian Economy
Authors: Kundu Amit
Published: August 2018

The present study endeavours to examine the role of government spending on the education and health sectors with regard to promoting the gross domestic product (GDP) of India over the last three decades. Johansen cointegration test confirmed the existence of cointegrating relation. The causal impact of education and health care spending on GDP was further examined in the study. Results of the estimated vector autoregression (VAR) models showed that public spending on education and public spending on health care have not been able to exert any impact on GDP. On the contrary, it is found that two-periods-lagged GDP Granger caused the government spending on health care. The variance decomposition analysis indicates that in India, education spending and health care spending may contribute just about 3 per cent and 15 per cent respectively in constituting a GDP growth profile in the coming future. Therefore, it is found that India’s fiscal system has a relatively low impact on the distribution of income as far as public spending on education and health care are concerned.

JEL Classification: I25
Regional Manufacturing Disparity in India and the Role of Investment
Authors: Padhi Satya Prasad
Published: August 2018

There is some evidence that an increase in the regional manufacturing disparity in India is associated with regional (panel data specific) embodiment hypothesis. The purpose of the present article is to provide different interpretations of such association. It endeavours to illustrate that the neoclassical perspective is best suited for universal applications (and long-run tendency towards global regional convergence), and the tweaking of such principles—to generate conditional convergence theories, just to explain persistence regional disparity—fails to convince. In this present context, the present article adopts an augmented Keynesian–Youngian thesis wherein the embodiment hypothesis not only explains the intrinsic possibility of the disparity but also makes clear why the so-called conditional variables (emphasised otherwise by the neoclassical attempts) differ regionally.

JEL Codes: O11, O15, O47, R11, D29
How Eugene, Oregon, Lowered Costs
Authors: Goold H. R.
Published: August 2018

While the author modestly disclaims any financial miracle, his reduction of costs has apparently been accomplished without the loss of efficiency which generally accompanies emergency cuts. The article suggests attention to basic elements in value getting.
Close-ups of Good Teaching
Authors: Clem Orlie M.
Published: August 2018

A Junior High School Assembly is seen in lively action in this Fourth Article of Dr. Clem's inspiring series.
New Goal for Physical Education
Authors: Hillebrand Adam A.
Published: August 2018

Joyous bodily activity can contribute much toward the building of mental health habits
A Club Attack on Stealing
Authors: Smith Enid S.
Published: August 2018

Theft was a large and serious problem until public opinion of the school was enlisted… How?
Alarm under a Prune Tree
Authors: McCullough Constance M.
Published: August 2018

Why is English so ineffectually taught? Blaming the teachers of the earlier grades won't find the answer….
Individual Differences
Authors: Beck Roland L.
Published: August 2018

Democracy in education implies that each child shall be given his best opportunity for growth.
“All God's Chillun Got Wings”
Authors: Johnson Martha Inez
Published: August 2018

Can an ordinary teacher teach creative writing to ordinary children? The auther answers “Yes”–and cites examples.
Physical Education—What?
Authors: Peavy G. Darwin
Published: August 2018

A sequel to “Physical Education—Why?” by the same author, in our March issue.
A positive psychology–motivational interviewing intervention for patients with type 2 diabetes: Proof-of-concept trial
Authors: Celano Christopher M , Gianangelo Taylor A , Millstein Rachel A , Chung Wei-Jean , Wexler Deborah J , Park Elyse R , Huffman Jeff C
Published: August 2018

Objective

Eighteen million Americans with type 2 diabetes (T2D) do not follow recommended guidelines for physical activity. Motivational interviewing (MI) has had modest effects on activity and related behaviors in T2D. Positive psychological attributes (e.g., optimism) are associated with superior medical outcomes in T2D, and positive psychology (PP) interventions promote such attributes. There had been no study in T2D of a combined PP–MI intervention to promote well-being and health behavior adherence. We developed a novel, telephone-delivered, 16-week PP–MI intervention and explored its feasibility and impact in T2D patients in a single-arm, proof-of-concept trial.

Method

Participants completed PP-based exercises and MI-based physical activity goal-setting activities and reviewed these activities weekly with a study trainer for 16 weeks. Feasibility and acceptability were assessed via exercise completion rates and post-exercise ratings of ease/utility (0–10 scales). Impact was explored by examining changes in physical activity (via accelerometers and self-report), other health behaviors, psychological measures, and medical outcomes (e.g., hemoglobin A1c (A1C)) from baseline to 16 weeks, using paired t tests.

Results

Twelve participants enrolled, and 10 provided follow-up data. Seventy-eight percent of PP–MI activities were completed, and participants rated the PP–MI content and sessions as easy (mean = 8.2/10, standard deviation (SD) = 1.9) and useful (mean = 9.1/10, SD = 1.5). PP–MI was associated with improved adherence to health behaviors and overall self-care, variable effects on accelerometer-measured activity and psychological outcomes, and modest beneficial effects on body mass index and A1C.

Conclusion

Further testing of this intervention is warranted in a larger, controlled trial to assess its effects on important health outcomes.
Examining the Sources of Violent Victimization Among Jail Inmates
Authors: Ellison Jared M. , Steiner Benjamin , Wright Emily M.
Published: August 2018

This study involves an examination of the individual- and jail-level predictors of violent victimization during short-term incarceration using data from the most recent Survey of Inmates in Local Jails and the corresponding National Jail Census. Findings suggest that individuals whose attributes make them appear more vulnerable or whose attributes antagonize others have a greater risk of violent victimization in jail. In addition, the findings suggest that jails with more stagnant inmate populations and older jails may have higher levels of violent victimization. Overall, the study results add validity to the opportunity framework as a general explanation for victimization risk regardless of the setting in which individuals are placed.
Behavior jargon and teacher acceptability of positive behavior interventions
Authors: Shemanski Katie , DeMatteo Francis J. , Fruehan Allison
Published: August 2018

The current study examined elementary school teachers’ acceptability of a positive behavioral intervention based on the use of jargon and non jargon language during behavioral consultation. One-hundred and one kindergarten through grade six teachers responded to the Usage Rating Profile-Intervention Revised (URP-IR) after reviewing a vignette describing a positive behavioral intervention utilizing jargon or non-jargon language. No statistically significant difference existed between acceptability and usage of a positive behavioral intervention when described in either jargon or non-jargon terms.
Mere Exposure Effects on Implicit Stimulus Evaluation: The Moderating Role of Evaluation Task, Number of Stimulus Presentations, and Memory for Presentation Frequency
Authors: Van Dessel Pieter , Mertens Gaëtan , Smith Colin Tucker , De Houwer Jan
Published: August 2018

The mere exposure (ME) effect refers to the well-established finding that people evaluate a stimulus more positively after repeated exposure to it. So far, the vast majority of studies on ME effects have examined changes in explicit stimulus evaluation. We describe the results of three large-scale studies (combined N = 3,623) that examined ME effects on implicit stimulus evaluation. We looked at three moderators of these effects: the implicit evaluation measure, the number of stimulus presentations, and memory for presentation frequency. We observed ME effects on implicit stimulus evaluations as measured with an Implicit Association Test (IAT) and Affect Misattribution Procedure (AMP), but not an Evaluative Priming Task (EPT). ME effects were more robust when there were relatively few stimulus presentations and when participants had accurate memory for the presentation frequencies. We discuss how these findings relate to ME effects on explicit evaluations as well as theoretical and practical implications.
Closing the Future: Environmental Research and the Management of Conflicting Future Value Orders
Authors: Andersson Jenny , Westholm Erik
Published: August 2018

This paper examines a struggle over the future use of Nordic forests, which took place from 2009 to 2012 within a major research program, Future Forests—Sustainable Strategies under Uncertainty and Risk, organized and funded by Mistra, The Swedish Foundation for Strategic Environmental Research. We explore the role of strategic environmental research in societal constructions of long-term challenges and future risks. Specifically, we draw attention to the role played by environmental research in the creation of future images that become dominant for how societies structure action for the long term. We also show that this process is on several accounts problematic. Research labeled “strategic” or “relevant” is intended to manage long-term risks and challenges in a sustainable way, by taking into account the “open” and “plural” nature of the future. The case of Future Forests suggests, rather, that by contributing to the emergence of dominant future images, environmental research is entangled with a process of gradual consensus creation around what may be highly selective or biased narratives of the long term, which may conceal or postpone key forms of future conflict.
Older victims of crime: Vulnerability, resilience and access to procedural justice
Authors: Brown Kevin J , Gordon Faith
Published: August 2018

This article provides the first comprehensive examination of the phenomenon of unequal access to procedural justice for older victims of crime. It analyses quantitative and qualitative data exploring the interactions of older people with the criminal justice system of Northern Ireland. It identifies that older victims of crime are less likely to have a successful crime outcome (known as ‘detection’ or ‘clear-up’ in other jurisdictions) to their case when compared to other adults. The results provide evidence of a system failing to adequately take into account additional vulnerabilities that disproportionately impact on older victims’ ability to engage with the justice process. There is an analysis of the relationships between vulnerability, resilience and access to justice. The current conceptual understanding of vulnerability as applied to older people within the justice system is challenged. The findings are relevant for researchers and policy-makers in the United Kingdom, Ireland and further afield concerned with the treatment of older and vulnerable victims by the justice system.
Performance of tumor testing for Lynch syndrome identification in patients with colorectal cancer: A retrospective single-center study
Authors: Signoroni Stefano , Tibiletti Maria Grazia , Ricci Maria Teresa , Milione Massimo , Perrone Federica , Pensotti Valeria , Chiaravalli Anna Maria , Carnevali Ileana , Morabito Alberto , Bertario Lucio , Vitellaro Marco
Published: August 2018

Objective:

To investigate the performance of tumor testing approaches in the identification of Lynch syndrome (LS) in a single-center cohort of people with colorectal cancer (CRC).

Methods:

A retrospective analysis of data stored in a dedicated database was carried out to identify patients with CRC suspected for LS who were referred to Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy, between 1999 and 2014. The sensitivity and specificity of immunohistochemistry (IHC) for mismatch repair (MMR) proteins and microsatellite instability (MSI) analysis (alone or combined) were calculated with respect to the presence of causative MMR germline variants.

Results:

A total of 683 patients with CRC suspected for LS were identified. IHC results of MMR protein analysis and MSI were assessed in 593 and 525 CRCs, respectively, while germline analysis was performed in 418 patients based on the IHC or MSI test result and/or clinical features. Univariate and multivariate analysis revealed a significant correlation of pathogenic MMR germline variants with all clinicopathologic features including Amsterdam criteria, presence of endometrial cancer, CRC site, age at onset, stage, and grade. The highest odds ratio values were observed for IHC and MSI (17.1 and 8.8, respectively). The receiver operating characteristic curve and area under the curve values demonstrated that IHC alone or combined with other clinicopathologic parameters was an excellent test for LS identification.

Conclusions:

This study confirms the effectiveness of tumor testing to identify LS among patients with CRC. Although IHC and MSI analysis were similarly effective, IHC could be a better strategy for LS identification as it is less expensive and more feasible.
Update on small bowel surveillance in hereditary colorectal cancer syndromes
Authors: Sanchez-Mete Lupe , Stigliano Vittoria
Published: August 2018

Despite its rarity in the general population, small bowel adenocarcinoma risk is increased in individuals with hereditary colorectal cancer syndromes (HCCS). In the last decade, the advent of capsule endoscopy and device-assisted balloon enteroscopy procedures in patients with HCCS have allowed to investigate the whole small bowel, increasing the diagnostic yield of small bowel tumor. Nonetheless, there is a significant variability in the international guideline recommendations. The aim of this review is to provide an update on surveillance of small bowel in HCCS and to identify the key points for the clinical management of these patients.
Estrogen Receptor–α and Progesterone Receptor Expression in Mammary Proliferative Lesions of Female Pet Rabbits
Authors: Degner Sophie , Schoon Heinz-Adolf , Laik-Schandelmaier Claudia , Aupperle-Lellbach Heike , Schöniger Sandra
Published: August 2018

In breast cancer of women, the estrogen receptor–α (ERα) and progesterone receptor (PR) status has prognostic and therapeutic significance. The aim of this study was (1) to characterize by immunohistochemistry the expression of ERα and PR in nonneoplastic and neoplastic mammary gland tissue of pet rabbits and (2) to correlate the ERα/PR status and histological features. All 124 rabbits included in this study had a mammary tumor; in addition, 2 rabbits had lobular hyperplasia and 25 had multiple cysts. Of the 124 neoplasms, 119 (96%) were carcinoma, 2 (2%) were carcinoma in situ, and 3 (2%) were adenoma. ERα or PR or both were detected in 2 of 2 carcinomas in situ, 3 of 3 adenomas, 19 of 25 cysts, and 2 of 2 lesions of lobular hyperplasia. Most carcinomas (75/119, 63%) were negative for both ERα and PR; 22 of 119 carcinomas (18%) were double-immunopositive. The ERα and PR expression was not influenced by histotype or histological tumor grade. In carcinomas, there was a statistically significant correlation between increased mitotic count and reduced expression of ERα and PR, and the mitotic count was higher in double-immunonegative carcinomas (75/119). The findings suggest that in rabbit mammary carcinomas, proliferative activity is mainly influenced by factors other than estrogen and progesterone and provides the basis for future investigations into the prognostic significance of the ERα and PR status of mammary tumors.
Evaluating the impact of a generalist teacher-led music program on early childhood school children’s singing skills and attitudes to music
Authors: Barrett Margaret S. , Zhukov Katie , Brown Joanne E. , Welch Graham F.
Published: August 2018

This article reports on the impact of a generalist teacher-led music program on early childhood school children’s singing skills and attitudes to music. Singing tests and class surveys were administered to students in 11 Australian primary schools where music specialists mentored classroom teachers over the period of one to two school terms. The results show that implementing music activities in early education settings can positively impact young children’s singing skills and attitudes to music regardless of gender, ethnicity and socio-economic standing of the school. The study provides empirical evidence of the benefits accrued by children through access to music education.
Households’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward solid waste management in suburbs of Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Authors: Seng Bandith , Fujiwara Takeshi , Spoann Vin
Published: August 2018

This study developed logistic regression models to analyse the relationship between 12 observed variables on knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward solid waste management in the suburbs of Phnom Penh city. We interviewed 800 households, including 200 collection service users and 600 non-service users. The determinants of how individuals are aware of, think of, and behave were assessed in the models based on the values of estimated coefficient and probability of t-statistics. As a result, education level and knowledge of health effects have positive influences on knowledge of waste problems. Income is a decisive economic factor of knowledge and attitudes. The residents seem dissatisfied with the status of waste management and collection service if they are aware of the problems. The administration, therefore, needs improvements to satisfy the knowledgeable citizens. Service provision to the non-service users is imperative to halt the practice of illegal dumping. However, the infrequent collection still leads to the improper practice of the service users. We suggest that the service is provided widely, efficiently, and regularly.
Glass Ceiling in Federal Law Enforcement: An Exploratory Analysis of the Factors Contributing to Women’s Career Advancement
Authors: Yu Helen H.
Published: August 2018

In recent years, there has been limited focus on representative bureaucracy at the upper levels of government organizations. Scholarship on the glass ceiling has emphasized systematic and sociopsychological barriers as impediments for women to advance into upper level management positions. Despite the importance of continuing to highlight these obstacles, factors contributing to their success have received little attention in public administration. This study provides a descriptive analysis of the factors contributing to women’s career advancement in federal law enforcement. Using survey data collected from 32 senior female federal law enforcement officers working in 16 federal law enforcement agencies, nine themes emerge as factors contributing to their success. The topic of the glass ceiling continues to be relevant in today’s literature for responding to women’s lack of passive or active representation in the upper ranks of nontraditional occupations such as law enforcement.
Sexual behaviours and sexually transmitted infection outcomes in a cohort of HIV-negative men who have sex with men attending sexual health clinics in England
Authors: Desai S , Burns F , Schembri G , Williams D , Sullivan A , McOwan A , Antonucci S , Mercey D , Hughes G , Hart G , Gill ON , Nardone Anthony
Published: August 2018

Men who have sex with men (MSM) attending sexual health (SH) clinics are at high risk for HIV acquisition and are disproportionately affected by sexually transmitted infections (STIs). We collected standardised behavioural data from MSM attending clinics to characterise sexual behaviours and identify predictors for HIV and STIs. In 2012–2013, HIV-negative MSM attending five SH clinics in England reported sexual behaviours in the previous three months via a self-administered questionnaire. Behaviours were linked to the individual’s clinical records using national surveillance. The prevalence and incidence of bacterial STIs (gonorrhoea, Chlamydia, lymphogranuloma venereum and syphilis) and incidence of HIV were calculated. Adjusted odds ratios and hazard ratios with 95% confidence interval (CI) were reported for significant predictors. Of 1278 HIV-negative MSM, 54% were of white ethnicity and UK-born and 43% were 25–34 years old. Almost all men reported at least one partner in the last three months. Half reported condomless anal sex and 36% condomless receptive anal intercourse (CRAI). Incidence of bacterial STIs was 46/100 (95%CI 39–54) person years (py) and of HIV was 3.1/100 (95%CI 1.7–5.6) py. A STI at baseline and CRAI with increasing numbers of partners were associated with both incident infections. In this cohort of MSM high-risk behaviours and STIs were prevalent. Engagement in CRAI increased the likelihood of subsequent infection, while men diagnosed with a bacterial STI were at increased risk of a future STI. Clinical and behavioural risk assessments to determine an individual’s risk of infection could allow a more nuanced prevention approach that has greater success in reducing transmission.
Changes in prefrontal cortex near infrared spectroscopy activity as a function of difficulty in a visual P300 paradigm
Authors: Rizer Will , Aday Jacob S , Carlson Joshua M
Published: August 2018

The P300 event-related potential is an index of attentional resources related to target detection. Source localization and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) research has indicated that, among other regions, the prefrontal cortex contributes to the generation of the P300. Similar to fMRI, near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy measures change in blood oxygen levels, but offers several advantages including portability, low expense, and superior temporal resolution. No studies to date have examined the extent to which prefrontal cortex NIR spectroscopy measures are active during the P300 paradigm. To address this knowledge gap, participants completed a two-difficulty visual oddball task in which NIR spectroscopy and P300 data were collected in a counterbalanced order. Confirmatory results indicate that the P300 event-related potential is attenuated as a function of task difficulty. Similarly, NIR spectroscopy measures of oxygenated hemoglobin in the right medial prefrontal cortex are attenuated as a function of task difficulty. The results suggest that prefrontal cortex NIR spectroscopy measures are sensitive to task difficulty in a visual P300 oddball task.
Process Externalism and mental causation: setting metaphysical bounds on cognitive science
Authors: Ramirez Motoa Camilo
Published: August 2018

In this article, I examine the argument by which Process Externalism—an interesting empirical theory that echoes 4E’s core ideas—undermines Kim’s supervenience argument. If mental properties do not depend exclusively on neurological properties but depend on external or extra-cranial properties, mental causation cannot be pre-empted by or reduced to neurological properties. In this sense, Keijzer and Schouten argue that this theory entails a robust nonreductive materialism (RNM) that vindicates a notion of mental causation. However, I will argue that this maneuver produces different kinds of overdetermination problems that compromise the metaphysical austerity of a materialist theory of cognition and, for this reason, Process Externalism might not be conceived as entailing an RNM. Finally, I will suggest that the theory could be rendered as a moderate reductive account of the cognitive phenomena that would avoid the overdetermination problems that haunt nonreductive accounts of cognition.
Facilitating a Therapeutic Environment
Authors: Mana Adi , Naveh A. Rosa
Published: August 2018

This article will focus on how the wraparound model of intervention was applied to a treatment program for children and families at risk. The program was naturally developed during a decade of therapeutic work with families in the Center for Children and Parents in Sderot, Israel. This article illustrates the theoretical assumptions underlying the critical principle on which the wraparound intervention is based and its application to the idea of the therapeutic community as a “facilitating environment.” We will share our experiences as to how the cooperation of a therapeutic community acts as a role model and contributes to the healing of at-risk families and preventing out-of-home placement. Practical issues related to the difficulties in developing a therapeutic community, and also several “best practice strategies” for establishing a therapeutic community as a facilitating environment, will be described.
Cytokine Measurements for Diagnosing and Characterizing Leukemoid Reactions and Immunohistochemical Validation of a Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor and CXCL8-Producing Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Åström Maria , Tajeddinn Walid , Karlsson Mats G , Linder Olle , Palmblad Jan , Lindblad Per
Published: August 2018

Background:

Various paraneoplastic syndromes are encountered in renal cell carcinomas. This case report illustrates that a paraneoplastic leukemoid reaction may precede the diagnosis of renal cell carcinoma and be explained by cytokine production from the cancer cells.

Case presentations:

A 64-year-old man was referred for hematology workup due to pronounced leukocytosis. While being evaluated for a possible hematologic malignancy as the cause, he was found to have a metastasized renal cell carcinoma, and hyperleukocytosis was classified as a leukemoid reaction. A multiplex panel for measurement of 25 serum cytokines/chemokines showed highly elevated levels of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) and CXCL8 (C-X-C-motif chemokine ligand 8, previously known as interleukin [IL]-8). By immunohistochemistry it was shown that the renal carcinoma cells expressed both these cytokines. Two additional, consecutive patients with renal cell carcinoma with paraneoplastic leukocytosis also showed elevated serum levels of CXCL8, but not of G-CSF. Nonparametric statistical evaluation showed significantly higher serum concentrations of CXCL8, IL-6, IL-10, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1), and tumor necrosis factor, but lower interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and IL-1α, for the 3 renal cell carcinoma cases compared with healthy blood donors.

Conclusions:

In suspected paraneoplastic leukocytosis, multiplex serum cytokine analyses may facilitate diagnosis and provide an understanding of the mechanisms for the reaction. In the index patient, combined G-CSF and CXCL8 protein expression by renal carcinoma cells was uniquely documented. A rapidly fatal course was detected in all 3 cases, congruent with the concept that autocrine/paracrine growth signaling in renal carcinoma cells may induce an aggressive tumor phenotype. Immune profiling studies could improve our understanding for possible targets when choosing therapies for patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma.