bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Dimensions of Strategic Orientation on the Growth of Small Firms and Resources as Moderating Variables
Authors: Gupta Rakesh , Basu Sriparna
Published: September 2015

The strategy–firm growth relationship has remained an important issue for researchers, and in spite of the growing volume of work in this area, little consensus has emerged on this issue. One of the reasons behind this lack of consensus is the question—how to conceptualize strategy? and in this, a lesser examined way has been to use the strategic orientation (SO) construct. As conceptualized by Venkatraman (1989), the SO construct comprises six dimensions, that of analysis, pro-activeness, riskiness, aggressiveness, futurity and defensiveness. The need to integrate SO and resource-based view (RBV) has seen increasing emphasis by researchers since the choice of resources constitutes an important precondition for firm growth and even more so in the case of small firms. This study empirically examines strategy–firm growth relationship through the lens of SO by studying the influence of individual SO dimensions on firm growth. In this study, we attempt to empirically examine and validate the nature of SO construct and how its individual dimensions influence small firm growth, how the dimensions interact with firm resources and what is the moderating influence of resources on the relationship between individual SO dimensions and small firm growth.
Female Portrayals in Advertising and Its Impact on Marketing Communication—Pieces of Evidence from India
Authors: Kumari Shyama , Shivani Shradha
Published: September 2015

Researchers in different parts of the world have shown great concern on gender stereotyping in advertising. However, very few studies have analyzed the effect of such a message strategy on consumers, more so in the case of India. As per the census data, there is an increase in the literacy rate, education status and work participation rate of women in India. Therefore, it is imperative to assess the consumer responses towards the appropriateness of such a message strategy. A structured questionnaire was administered to 450 respondents comprising males and females in the age group of 20–50 years in the Delhi region. Consumer responses were evaluated to understand the effect of female portrayals in advertising on the dimensions of the following: preference for advertisement, attitude towards the advertisement (with respect to ad liking and believability of the ad), towards the brand (with respect to brand liking, brand recall, brand recognition and brand image) and intention to buy. Demographic factors were also evaluated to assess the impact of female portrayals on consumer evaluations. Several hypotheses were developed and tested in this study. Analysis of variance, T-test, correlation and regression were employed to test the hypotheses. Findings of the study indicate that the portrayal of females in advertisements is associated with ad liking, believability of ad, brand liking, brand recognition, brand recall and brand image, and has a lesser impact on intention to buy. The study also reports new findings on female portrayal and communication impact. Implications for marketing practitioners have also been discussed in the article.
Organizational Citizenship Behaviour, Job Performance and HR Practices: A Relational Perspective
Authors: Mallick Eeman , Pradhan Rabindra Kumar , Tewari Hare Ram , Jena Lalatendu Kesari
Published: September 2015

Organizational citizenship behaviour (OCB) is defined as actions or behaviours that employees are willing to engage beyond their recommended role requirements. Several empirical studies have shown that OCB is positively related to indicators of individual, unit and organizational performance. In view of OCB’s positive relation with individual and organizational performance, there is an increasing concern among organizations for enhancing these contextual behaviours. The present study aims to explore the relationship between OCB and job performance. It has also tried to examine the interactive relationship between OCB and human resources (HR) practices with its corresponding impact on job performance. The findings revealed that OCB is having a significant relationship with job performance. Among the different dimensions of OCB, we have found that altruistic dimension has the strongest relationship with job performance, whereas the civic virtue dimension has an insignificant one. Further, HR practices have significantly moderated the relationship between OCB and job performance. However, the interaction between both the constructs was found to have an inverse effect on the relationship between OCB and job performance. The findings have advocated that the involvement of employees in altruistic behaviour enhances productivity and performance at workplace.
Impact of a Sudarshan Kriya-based Occupational Stress Management Intervention on Physiological and Psychological Outcomes
Authors: Mulla Zubin R. , Vedamuthachar
Published: September 2015

In a field experiment with 72 participants, we study the impact of Sudarshan Kriya on participants’ physiological and psychological variables. The intervention significantly reduced participants’ stress levels and blood cortisol levels and increased their life satisfaction, emotional intelligence and emotional stability. The results of the field experiment were triangulated with an open-ended survey of participants, and we found that the effects of the programme were sustainable after a year, especially for those who continued to practise the technique learned in the programme.
Navigating the stigmatised identities of poverty in austere times: Resisting and responding to narratives of personal failure
Authors: Pemberton Simon , Fahmy Eldin , Sutton Eileen , Bell Karen
Published: September 2015

Behavioural explanations of poverty and disadvantage have figured heavily in political rhetoric in the era of austerity, as a means to understand trajectories into poverty and subsequent relationships between benefit claimants and the state. These discourses are not restricted to political debate, as previous studies demonstrate they impact upon public consciousness and structure the ways that the general public think about poverty, as well as shaping the ways in which people living on low incomes are treated. Drawing upon the testimonies of 62 people in England and Scotland experiencing poverty, this article seeks to understand our participants’ responses to these discourses, in particular: how these behavioural explanations impact upon their understanding of their own situations, as well as their self perceptions; how these discourses shape their relationships with others, in terms of their experience of disrespect; and how participants seek to dissociate themselves from their stigmatising implications.
Towards a Parasitic Ethics
Authors: Burton James , Tam Daisy
Published: September 2015

The parasite is widely conceived as a negative figure that takes without giving; perceived as an agent of corruption and destruction, it is subjected to programmes of eradication and expulsion across cultural, economic, political and ethical contexts. This paper offers an alternative approach to the status of parasitic relations in light of Michel Serres’s The Parasite, elaborated through ethnographic research into the after-hours culture and hidden economy of London’s Borough Market. We highlight the mutual dependence of agents in host-parasite networks according to what we term ‘general parasitism’, while inquiring into its ethical potential. Ultimately, we argue that while taking into account the near ubiquity of parasitic relations cannot form the basis for any concrete axiomatic ethical paradigm, it should at least encourage an ethics of hesitation before judgement when faced with any apparent instance of parasitism: to presume that parasitism is undesirable and unethical is itself undesirable and unethical.
Frames in environmental policy integration: Are Swedish sectors on track?
Authors: Sjöstedt Viveca , Kleinschmit Daniela
Published: September 2015

This paper explores whether and how frames used within different sectors in Sweden concerned with bioenergy from forest products are driven by environmental objectives. It complements existing research on environmental policy integration (EPI) in bioenergy policies of political-administrative Swedish sectors by conducting a frame analysis of articles published in three journals in Sweden that represent the energy, agricultural and forestry sectors. Ten frames that were used consistently across the three sectors in the time period from 2001 to 2010 were identified. Environmental rhetoric, one of the prerequisites for EPI, was identified; however, it plays only a secondary role given that bioenergy frames focus mainly on economic objectives, presenting bioenergy as a means of increasing profitability.
Explaining the currency of novel policy concepts: learning from green infrastructure planning
Authors: Lennon Mick
Published: September 2015

The ‘interpretive turn’ in policy analysis has greatly enhanced understanding of policy process dynamics. However, it has not afforded much attention to explaining the currency of novel concepts where open dispute appears absent in policy discussions. This paper seeks to address this lacuna by employing an innovative discourse analysis approach to examining the emergence of green infrastructure planning policy in the Republic of Ireland. Whereas the analysis accounts for the rhetorical force of language, it reveals that those advocating the green infrastructure concept were not passive actors in receiving a static discourse. Instead, it demonstrates that such agents actively sought to negate opposition and advance their policy objectives by exploiting the discourse's flexibility and consensus-building potential, as well as strategically identifying and employing a range of dissemination opportunities. Drawing lessons from this case, a new framework for understanding the interpretive analysis of seemingly unopposed novel policy concepts is presented.
Pedagogy for the new planner: Refining the qualitative toolbox
Authors: Eizenberg Efrat , Shilon Mor
Published: September 2015

Planning researchers and practitioners are adapting to new and evolving planning cultures that require new skills and techniques. This paper examines the introduction of qualitative research methods, traditionally developed as part of anthropology, sociology, and psychology disciplines, to planning students. We present an analysis of qualitative research methods’ courses that were instructed to planning students. The paper portrays three principles of planning discipline that are in tension with a more constructive interpretation of the socio-spatial realities. We then offer several pedagogical inputs to qualitative methodology education for planners and how it could contribute to new and developing planning environments.
Outcomes associated with ablation compared to combined ablation and transilluminated powered phlebectomy in the treatment of venous varicosities
Authors: Obi Andrea T , Reames Bradley N , Rook Trent J , Mouch Sandford O , Zarinsefat Arya , Stabler Cathy , Rectenwald John E , Coleman Dawn M , Wakefield Thomas W ,   the Michigan Vein Health Program
Published: September 2015

Background

Patients with painful varicose veins and venous insufficiency can be treated by eliminating axial reflux only or by eliminating axial reflux plus phlebectomy with transilluminated powered phlebectomy. This study was undertaken with the aim of determining and improving signs and symptoms of venous disease (measured by venous clinical severity score) and complications (by routine surveillance ultrasound and long-term post-operative follow up) for each treatment strategy.

Methods

We performed a retrospective evaluation of prospectively collected data from 979 limbs undergoing procedures for significant varicose veins and venous insufficiency from March 2008 until June 2014 performed at a single tertiary referral hospital. Patient demographics, Clinical Etiology Anatomy and Pathophysiology classification, venous clinical severity scores pre- and post-procedure, treatment chosen, and peri-operative complications were collected; descriptive statistics were calculated and unadjusted surgical outcomes for patients stratified by the procedure performed. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate the relationship between procedure type and thrombotic complications after adjusting for patient characteristics, severity of disease, pre-operative anticoagulation, and post-operative compression.

Result

Venous clinical severity scores improved more with radiofrequency ablation + transilluminated powered phlebectomy as compared to radiofrequency ablation alone (3.8 ± 3.4 vs. 3.2 ± 3.1, p = 0.018). Regarding deep venous thrombosis, there was no significant difference between radiofrequency ablation + transilluminated powered phlebectomy vs. radiofrequency ablation alone. There was no statistical difference in asymptomatic endovenous heat-induced thrombosis or infection, although there were slightly more hematomas and cases of asymptomatic superficial thrombophlebitis with combined therapy. On multivariable analysis, only procedure type predicted thrombotic complications.

Conclusion

Ablation of axial reflux plus transilluminated powered phlebectomy produces improved outcomes as measured by venous clinical severity score, with slight increases in minor post-operative complications and should be strongly considered as initial therapy when patients present with significant symptomatic varicose veins and superficial venous insufficiency. Implementation of a standardized thromboprophylaxis protocol with individual risk assessment results in few significant thrombotic complications amongst high-risk patients, thus potentially obviating the need for routine post-operative duplex.
End-of-life care during and after an acute hospitalization in older patients with cancer, end-stage organ failure, or frailty: A sub-analysis of a prospective cohort study
Authors: Huijberts Sanne , Buurman Bianca M , de Rooij Sophia E
Published: September 2015

Background:

Many patients show deterioration in functioning and increased care needs in the last year of life. End-of-life care needs and health care utilization might differ between groups of acutely hospitalized older patients.

Aim:

To investigate differences in geriatric conditions, advance care planning, and health care utilization in patients with cancer, organ failure, or frailty, who died within 1 year after acute hospitalization.

Design:

Prospective cohort study conducted between 2002 and 2008, with 1-year follow-up.

Setting:

University teaching hospital in the Netherlands.

Participants:

Aged ⩾65 years, acutely hospitalized for ⩾48 h, and died within 1 year after hospitalization. At admission, all patients received a systematic comprehensive geriatric assessment. Hospital records were searched for advance care planning information and health care utilization. Differences between patient groups were calculated.

Results:

In total, 306 patients died within 1 year after acute admission (35%) and were included; 151 with cancer, 98 with end-stage organ failure, and 57 frail older persons. At hospital admission, 72% of the frail group had delirium and/or severe pre-existing cognitive impairment. The frail and organ failure group had many pre-existing disabilities. Three months post-discharge, 75% of the frail and organ failure group had died, 45% of these patients had an advance care plan in their hospital records.

Conclusion:

Patients with frailty and organ failure had highest rates of geriatric conditions at hospital admission and often had missing information on advance care planning in the hospital records. There is a need to better identify end-of-life needs for these groups.
Antipsychotic-induced metabolic effects in the female rat: Direct comparison between long-acting injections of risperidone and olanzapine
Authors: Ersland Kari M , Skrede Silje , Røst Therese H , Berge Rolf K , Steen Vidar M
Published: September 2015

Several antipsychotics have well-known adverse metabolic effects. Studies uncovering molecular mechanisms of such drugs in patients are challenging due to high dropout rates, previous use of antipsychotics and restricted availability of biological samples. Rat experiments, where previously unexposed animals are treated with antipsychotics, allow for direct comparison of different drugs, but have been hampered by the short half-life of antipsychotics in rodents. The use of long-acting formulations of antipsychotics could significantly increase the value of rodent models in the molecular characterization of therapeutic and adverse effects of these agents. However, as long-acting formulations have rarely been used in rodents, there is a need to characterize the basic metabolic phenotype of different antipsychotics. Using long-acting olanzapine injections as a positive control, the metabolic effects of intramuscular long-acting risperidone in female rats were investigated for the first time. Like olanzapine, risperidone induced rapid, significant hyperphagia and weight gain, with concomitant increase in several plasma lipid species. Both drugs also induced weight-independent upregulation of several genes encoding enzymes involved in lipogenesis, but this activation was not confirmed at the protein level. Our findings shed light on the role of drug administration, drug dose and nutritional status in the development of rodent models for adverse metabolic effects of antipsychotic agents.
Predictors of Perceptions of Scientists
Authors: Besley John C.
Published: September 2015

The 2001 and 2012 National Science Foundation surveys of public attitudes and knowledge about science were used to model perceptions of scientists and explore whether the predictors of such perceptions have changed over time. The available data indicate that the relative impact of the available predictors changed in only minor ways between the two time periods. Predictors of views about scientists include age, gender, and scientific knowledge, regardless of time period. Science museum attendance and primary source of science news were only rarely significant predictors. A limitation of the modeling is that the available predictors do a relatively poor job predicting both positive and negative views about scientists. This may suggest the need to reconsider which questions get included in the biennial National Science Foundation science and technology survey or the measures used to assess views about scientists.
Toward a Simple Framework for Writing Histories of the Distributive Trades
Authors: Sandgren Fredrik
Published: September 2015

This article presents a simple analytic framework that can be used to write economic histories of the distributive trades where both retailing and wholesaling are systematically discussed. It is argued that a focus on the innovation of formats of distribution, in turn related to technological and organizational innovations and institutions, laws, rules and norms, is a fruitful approach when analyzing national histories of this economic sector and when making international comparisons. The framework is derived from previous historical studies, where a selection of ten major works is analyzed and discussed. The major strengths of the suggested framework are that it is firmly grounded in previous discussions, but also that it is simple, focused on important aspects, and adaptable to any place or any time.
Objective measurement of the distal resection margin by MRI of the fresh and fixed specimen after partial mesorectal excision for rectal cancer: 5 cm is not just 5 cm and depends on when measured
Authors: Bondeven Peter , Hagemann-Madsen Rikke H , Bro Lise , Moran Brendan J , Laurberg Søren , Pedersen Bodil Ginnerup
Published: September 2015

Background

Most studies have directly established the optimal perioperative in situ clearance margin in surgery for rectal cancer from the histologically observed extent of distal spread, neglecting the tissue variability that occurs after resection and fixation of the rectal specimen.

Purpose

To measure the length of the distal resection margin in the fresh and fixed specimen following partial mesorectal excision for rectal cancer using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to document tissue shrinkage after surgical removal and fixation.

Material and Methods

The length of the distal resection margin was measured by MRI of the fresh and fixed specimen and at histopathological examination of the fixed specimen in 10 patients who underwent surgery for upper rectal cancer. In addition, tissue shrinkage was estimated by measuring the total length of the fresh and fixed specimen and distance from the peritoneal reflection anteriorly to the distal cut edge of the specimen.

Results

Measured by MRI, the distal resection margin was in the range of 0.6–10.2 cm (mean, 4.6 cm) in the fresh specimen, and 0.5–6.2 cm (mean, 3.2 cm) in the fixed specimen. The tissue shrinkage ratio was a mean of 69% (interquartile range, 61–77%). Taking all ratios from MRI and histopathological examination of tissue shrinkage into account, the collective tissue shrinkage ratio was 70% (95% confidence interval, 67–73%)

Conclusion

The length of the distal resection margin was reduced by 30% after surgical removal and fixation of the specimen.
The phase value of putamen measured by susceptibility weighted images in Parkinson’s disease and in other forms of Parkinsonism: a correlation study with F18 FP-CIT PET
Authors: Kwon Gene Hyuk , Jang Jinhee , Choi Hyun Seok , Hwang Eo-Jin , Jung So-Lyung , Ahn Kook-Jin , Kim Bum-soo , Yoo Ie Ryung , Kim Sung Hoon , Haacke E Mark
Published: September 2015

Background

Iron deposition of basal ganglia in Parkinson’s disease (PD) can be measured using susceptibility weighted images (SWI) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Fluoropropyl carbomethoxy-3b-4-iodophenyltropane (F18 FP-CIT) positron emission tomography (PET) has been used to differentiate Parkinsonism.

Purpose

To compare SWI phase values in Parkinsonian syndrome and age-matched control and to correlate them with F18 FP-CIT PET.

Material and Methods

Retrospectively, patients with Parkinsonian movement disorder ( n = 62) and age-matched control ( n = 16) were enrolled. Mean phase values on SWI were measured by region of interest (ROI) in putamens and caudate heads. Mean standardized uptake value (SUV) on F18 FP-CIT were measured in the same ROIs of PD ( n = 40) and other forms of Parkinsonism ( n = 22). A statistical analysis was performed to compare the phase values and SUVs and to correlate them between groups.

Results

The putaminal mean phase values were higher in Parkinsonism than in the control ( P ≤ 0.001). There was no difference of phase value in caudate head among the groups. Also, the mean phase value of putamen between PD and other forms of Parkinsonism was not different. Mean SUV of F18 FP-CIT in the putamen was lower in PD than other forms of Parkinsonism ( P ≤ 0.014). However, there was no significant correlation between phase values and mean SUV ( P >  0.05).

Conclusion

The putaminal phase value was higher than in Parkinsonian syndrome than in the age-matched controls. F18 FP-CIT PET/CT showed different tracer activity between PD and other forms of Parkinsonism. However, no correlation between phase and SUV values was discovered.
Analysis of corneal topography in patients with pure microphthalmia in Eastern China
Authors: Hu Pei-Hong , Gao Gui-Ping , Yu Yao , Pei Chong-Gang , Zhou Qiong , Huang Xin , Zhang Ying , Shao Yi
Published: September 2015

Objectives

To determine the typical corneal changes in pure microphthalmia using a corneal topography system and identify characteristics that may assist in early diagnosis.

Methods

Patients with pure microphthalmia and healthy control subjects underwent corneal topography analysis (Orbscan IIZ® Corneal Topography System; Bausch and Lomb, Bridgewater, NJ, USA) to determine degree of corneal astigmatism (mean A), simulation of corneal astigmatism (sim A), mean keratometry (mean K), simulated keratometry (sim K), irregularities in the 3 - and 5-mm zone, and mean thickness of nine distinct corneal regions.

Results

Patients with pure microphthalmia ( n = 12) had significantly higher mean K, sim K, mean A, sim A, 3.0 mm irregularity and 5.0 mm irregularity, and exhibited significantly more false keratoconus than controls ( n = 12). There was a significant between-group difference in the morphology of the anterior corneal surface and the central curvature of the cornea.

Conclusions

Changes in corneal morphology observed in this study could be useful in borderline situations to confirm the diagnosis of pure microphthalmia.
Decomposition-based calibration/validation metrics for use with full-field measurement situations
Authors: Allemang Randall , Kolluri Murali Mohan , Spottswood Michael , Eason Thomas
Published: September 2015

Calibration and validation metrics that involve decomposition of simulation and test data have been developed for potential use in the quantification of margin and uncertainty. The uniqueness of these validation metrics allows for nearly full-field, simulation and test data over a wide range of spatial realizations (three-dimensional responses over multiple input conditions) and temporal (time or frequency) information, as needed. Currently, no other calibration/validation metrics have been developed that span multiple spatial realizations and temporal information simultaneously. A demonstration example utilizing two datasets explains how the calibration/validation metrics are formed and how they can be used to quantify the margin between the simulation and the test data as well as how it can quantify the uncertainty. The primary advantage of a proposed principal component analysis validation metric is that it preserves the engineering units of the original data so that the quantifications of margin and uncertainty can be made in engineering unit. A second advantage of the principal component analysis validation metric is that it can be used over a wide range of temporal information. The potential case of using sets of data with mismatched degree of freedom information is also explored. The general approach of using decomposition methods as the basis for calibration/validation metrics is extended to image decomposition methods. All decomposition methods successfully quantify margin and uncertainty in this general calibration/validation metric approach.
Beyond the factory: Struggling with class and class struggle in the post-industrial context
Authors: Chatterjee Ipsita
Published: September 2015

A dominant strand of literature adopting an identity-oriented approach towards industrial decline and post-Fordist flexibilisation argues that we are in a ‘post-industrial’ world in which class struggles and ‘old’ labour movements have been replaced by struggles around identity. This article examines working-class politics in the city of Ahmedabad, India, in the pre- and post-liberalisation phases in order to understand whether class struggle is indeed being replaced by identity struggle. In juxtaposing Marx with E.P. Thompson, the article re-visits concepts such as class, class struggle and exploitation in order to understand them in new ways in an increasingly ‘post-industrial’, ‘post-Fordist’ world.
Efficacy of the FIFA 11+ Injury Prevention Program in the Collegiate Male Soccer Player
Authors: Silvers-Granelli Holly , Mandelbaum Bert , Adeniji Ola , Insler Stephanie , Bizzini Mario , Pohlig Ryan , Junge Astrid , Snyder-Mackler Lynn , Dvorak Jiri
Published: September 2015

Background:

The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) 11+ program has been shown to be an effective injury prevention program in the female soccer cohort, but there is a paucity of research to demonstrate its efficacy in the male population.

Hypothesis:

To examine the efficacy of the FIFA 11+ program in men’s collegiate United States National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I and Division II soccer.

Study Design:

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods:

Before the commencement of the fall 2012 season, every NCAA Division I and Division II men’s collegiate soccer team (N = 396) was solicited to participate in this research study. Human ethics review board approval was obtained through Quorum Review IRB. Sixty-five teams were randomized: 34 to the control group (CG; 850 players) and 31 to the intervention group (IG; 675 players). Four teams in the IG did not complete the study, reducing the number for analysis to 61. The FIFA 11+ injury prevention program served as the intervention and was utilized weekly. Athlete-exposures (AEs), compliance, and injury data were recorded using a secure Internet-based system.

Results:

In the CG, 665 injuries (mean ± SD, 19.56 ± 11.01) were reported for 34 teams, which corresponded to an incidence rate (IR) of 15.04 injuries per 1000 AEs. In the IG, 285 injuries (mean ± SD, 10.56 ± 3.64) were reported for 27 teams, which corresponded to an IR of 8.09 injuries per 1000 AEs. Total days missed because of injury were significantly higher for the CG (mean ± SD, 13.20 ± 26.6 days) than for the IG (mean ± SD, 10.08 ± 14.68 days) ( P = .007). There was no difference for time loss due to injury based on field type ( P = .341).

Conclusion:

The FIFA 11+ significantly reduced injury rates by 46.1% and decreased time loss to injury by 28.6% in the competitive male collegiate soccer player (rate ratio, 0.54 [95% CI, 0.49-0.59]; P < .0001) (number needed to treat = 2.64).
Significance of serum Il-9 levels in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Defendenti Caterina , Sarzi-Puttini Piercarlo , Saibeni Simone , Bollani Simona , Bruno Savino , Almasio Piero Luigi , Declich Paolo , Atzeni Fabiola
Published: September 2015

IL-9, which may be an inflammatory or regulatory cytokine, can be experimentally produced in a Th17 or modified Th2 context in the presence of T cell receptor (TCR) stimulation. The primary aim of this study was to measure serum IL-9 levels in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and evaluate their relationships with the patients’ clinical characteristics. The secondary aim was to determine the levels of interferon-γ (IFN (interferon)-γ), Th2 cytokines (IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13), and IL-6 in order to clarify the context of detectable peripheral cytokines in which IL-9 is produced.

Venous blood samples of 43 IBD patients (20 with Crohn’s disease [CD] and 23 with ulcerative colitis [UC]) were analysed by means of quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays using purified anti-human IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, IFN-γ, IL-9 and IL-6 antibodies, and the laboratory findings were statistically correlated with their clinical expression.

None of the patients showed the peripheral presence of IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13. Forty (93%) were positive for IFN-γ, thus confirming the presence of Th1 in both UC and CD, and IFN-γ levels correlated with disease activity ( P = 0.045). Eighteen patients (41%) were positive for IL-9, which was associated with a severe prognosis ( P <0.001), and 72.2% of the IL-9-positive patients were also IL-6 positive. There was a significant correlation between disease severity and IL-9 in the CD patients ( P <0.001), but not in the UC patients ( P = 0.1).

Our findings confirm the presence of common Th1 cytokines in UC and CD. However the IL-9 positivity indicates the presence of an alternative population of T cells that respond to antigen stimulation and condition the prognosis of IBD. The fact that the same serum IL-9 levels were differentially associated with clinical measures of CD and UC activity suggest that the same cytokine can be produced in different contexts.
Ethnic Differences in Social Desirability Bias: Effects on the Analysis of Public Service Motivation
Authors: Kim Seung Hyun , Kim Sangmook
Published: September 2015

Public service motivation (PSM) research heavily relies on self-report measures that are often susceptible to social desirability bias (SDB). Cultural orientation is also correlated with SDB. This study explores the ethnic differences in socially desirable responding when measuring PSM and job satisfaction in a multicultural but individualistic society like the United States. It tests the magnitude and pattern of SDB in measurements of PSM in this society as a whole, as well as the influence of ethnicity on SDB. The results of our experimental survey research show that SDB is significantly correlated with PSM measures, as well as job satisfaction. We therefore expect a spurious effect to occur in the correlational analysis. This implies that the correlation between job satisfaction and PSM is at least partly spurious due to measurement artifacts. Alternative ways to measure PSM need to be explored to control SDB.
The Experience of Early Marriage
Authors: Segal-Engelchin Dorit , Huss Efrat , Massry Najlaa
Published: September 2015

The negative impact of early marriage on girls’ psychosocial well-being is well documented in the literature, but little is known about the girls’ motivations and experiences within marriage. A phenomenological case study approach, combining artwork and semi-structured interviews, was used to investigate the motivations and experiences of early marriage among 10 engaged and married young Muslim women who married young in Israel. The findings regarding the engaged women point to their decision to use marriage as a way to fulfill their need for freedom, their wish to experience love in a culturally respectable frame, and to escape from poverty and from difficult family. Conversely, the married women’s narratives point to the heavy price and limited benefits of early marriage, in creating intense new problems and not providing relief from former problems. The regret over having not studied, intense loneliness, lack of money, and the search for a more respect-based marriage are predominant themes. The financial and social motivations for marriage found among the women studied suggest that in their decision to marry young, they were not passive victims of love or society but were rather taking an active pragmatic decision within the very limited options open to them.
Parenteral MCT/ω‐3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid–Enriched Intravenous Fat Emulsion Is Associated With Cytokine and Fatty Acid Profiles Consistent With Attenuated Inflammatory Response in Preterm Neonates
Authors: Skouroliakou Maria , Konstantinou Dimitris , Agakidis Charalampos , Kaliora Andriana , Kalogeropoulos Nick , Massara Paraskevi , Antoniadi Marina , Panagiotakos Demosthenes , Karagiozoglou‐Lampoudi Thomais
Published: September 2015

Background: Soybean oil–based intravenous fat emulsion (IVFE) administered to preterm neonates can induce oxidative stress and inflammatory response, which are associated with severe complications of prematurity. This study aimed to test the hypothesis that administration of medium‐chain triglyceride (MCT)/ω‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA)–enriched IVFE in preterm neonates is associated with a cytokine and fatty acid (FA) profile consistent with attenuated inflammatory response. Patients/Methods: In a double‐blind randomized study, 60 preterm neonates (gestational age 26–32 weeks) were randomized to receive either MCT/ω‐3 PUFA‐enriched IVFE (intervention group) or soybean oil–based IVFE (control group). Serum biochemistry, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)–α, interleukin (IL)–6, IL‐8, α‐tocopherol, and FAs were assessed at baseline, on day of life 15, and day of life 30 or at the end of intervention. Results: All cytokine levels changed significantly across the 3 time points, whereas the type of IVFE had a significant effect on final IL‐6 and IL‐8 levels, which were lower in the intervention group. The difference in final IL‐6 and IL‐8 levels remained significant after controlling for bronchopulmonary dysplasia and/or infection. α‐Tocopherol and FA values changed significantly over time. MCT/ω‐3 PUFA‐enriched IVFE administration was associated with significantly higher α‐tocopherol, eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, and ω‐3 PUFAs and lower linolenic acid, total PUFA, and ω‐6/ω‐3 PUFA values compared with soybean oil–based IVFE. Both IVFEs were well tolerated. Conclusion: Compared with the soybean oil–based IVFE, the MCT/ω‐3 PUFA‐enriched IVFE is associated with a more favorable cytokine and FA profile consistent with attenuated inflammatory response in preterm neonates.
Policy Change and Recidivism: The Effects of California’s Realignment and Local Implementation Strategies on Rearrest and Reconviction
Authors: Bird Mia , Grattet Ryken
Published: September 2015

California’s 2011 Public Safety Realignment created an unprecedented policy experiment by transferring the authority over lower level felony offenders from the state correctional system to 58 county jail and probation systems. Realignment provides a unique opportunity to examine the ways that correctional policy change can influence recidivism patterns. We examine two questions about policy change and recidivism: “Did realignment affect change in statewide recidivism patterns?” and “Does county-level variation in implementation strategies help account for differences in recidivism across counties?” We find that statewide recidivism rates actually increased somewhat after realignment. However, we also find that offenders released to counties that prioritized reentry services in their implementation of realignment had better post-realignment recidivism outcomes than offenders released to counties that prioritized traditional enforcement methods. We conclude by considering additional steps needed to understand the links between policy change and recidivism outcomes.
When Breast Milk Alone Is Not Enough
Authors: Kair Laura R. , Colaizy Tarah T.
Published: September 2015

Background:

Maternal overweight and obesity are associated with decreased breastfeeding duration.

Objective:

This study aimed to identify barriers to breastfeeding continuation among overweight and obese mothers.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort study examining breastfeeding continuation barriers was conducted using results of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System survey from Illinois, Maine, and Vermont from 2004 to 2008. SAS Complex Survey version 9.3 was used for analysis.

Results:

Of 19 145 mothers surveyed, 3717 (19%) were obese and 4367 (23%) were overweight. Overall, 14 731 women initiated breastfeeding, and 6467 discontinued breastfeeding prior to survey completion, around 4 months postpartum. The most common reasons that mothers reported for discontinuing breastfeeding were insufficient milk supply, infant not satisfied with breast milk alone, and breastfeeding difficulty. Overweight and obese women, compared with women of normal weight, had higher odds of discontinuing breastfeeding because their babies were not satisfied by breast milk alone (overweight: odds ratio [OR] = 1.39, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.16-1.68; obese: OR = 1.26, 95% CI, 1.03-1.54). Obese mothers, compared with normal weight mothers, had lower odds of discontinuing breastfeeding because it felt like the right time (OR = 0.64, 95% CI, 0.47-0.88) and higher odds of discontinuing due to breastfeeding difficulties (OR = 1.29, 95% CI, 1.05-1.58) and infant jaundice (OR = 1.81, 95% CI, 1.26-2.60).

Conclusion:

Obese and overweight mothers were significantly more likely to discontinue breastfeeding due to infant dissatisfaction with breast milk alone. Obese mothers had higher odds than normal weight mothers of discontinuing breastfeeding due to breastfeeding difficulties and infant jaundice. Breastfeeding education and support should be enhanced for this at-risk population.
Gender and time use in college
Authors: Quadlin Natasha Yurk
Published: September 2015

Gender differences in children’s and adults’ time use are well documented, but few have examined the intervening period—young adulthood. Because many Americans navigate higher education in young adulthood, college time use provides insight into how gendered behaviors evolve during this critical life stage. Using three years of time use data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Freshmen and latent transition analysis, I examine gender differences in time use within and across the college years for those in selective institutions. Among students whose time use is consistent throughout college, I find that women exhibit academically-oriented time use more often, and men exhibit socially oriented time use more often. However, many men transition from social time use at the beginning of college to academic time use toward the end—to the extent that gender gaps in academic time use converge by the third year. I argue that men and women construct distinct college pathways, and that men, in particular, must reroute their time use to accommodate gendered expectations for the transition to adulthood.
Indigenous Women’s Political Participation
Authors: Worthen Holly
Published: September 2015

In Latin America, rights to local political participation in many indigenous communities are not simply granted, but rather “earned” through acts of labor for the community. This is the case in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico, where almost three-fourths of municipalities elect municipal authorities through custom and tradition rather than secret ballot and universal suffrage. The alarmingly low rate of women’s formal participation in these municipalities has garnered attention from policymakers, provoking a series of legislative reforms designed to increase women’s roles in local politics. However, these initiatives often miss their mark. Focused on a liberal model of women as individual rights-bearers, they fail to understand the complex ways in which gendered labor influences political participation in nonliberal contexts. This article examines a case in which indigenous women reject such an initiative because it would exacerbate their exploitation within the local terms of gendered collective labor instead of promoting equality. It thus explains potential barriers to indigenous women’s political leadership at the local level and suggests ways in which gender equality can be promoted in nonliberal contexts.
Clinical Significance of Individual GAD Symptoms in Later Life
Authors: Miloyan Beyon , Pachana Nancy A.
Published: September 2015

Background:

There are age-related differences in the manifestation of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) symptoms and their associated impact on psychosocial and functional status. However, it remains unclear whether specific symptoms (or symptom patterns) are of comparable clinical significance across different functional domains.

Methods:

A sample of 865 self-reported worriers (aged 60 years and older) who endorsed GAD screening questions in the Alcohol Use Disorder and Associated Disabilities Interview Schedule, Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition, were derived from Wave 1 of the National Epidemiological Survey of Alcohol and Related Conditions.

Results:

Being easily fatigued was significantly associated with occupational disability and a functional disability variable (restricting usual activity in any way). Irritability was significantly associated with social friction (arguments with friends, family, or colleagues) and a functional disability variable (found was unable to do something wanted to do), and poor self-perceived health was also associated with the same functional disability variable. Excessive worry, despite being among the least reported symptoms, was significantly associated with distress.

Conclusions:

These findings suggest that individual GAD symptoms are differentially associated with aspects of clinical significance relevant to daily life, such as social, occupational, and functional ability. The differential impact of individual symptoms on functional status may be diluted when using symptom sum scores. A nuanced approach to assessing the clinical significance of individual GAD symptoms in older adults may be fruitful for efforts aimed at early detection and treatment.
Degradation process of low molar mass poly(ethylene terephthalate)/organically modified montmorillonite nanocomposites
Authors: de Lima Juliana A , Fitaroni Lays B , Chiaretti Daniel VA , Kaneko Manuela LQA , Cruz Sandra A
Published: September 2015

The aim of this work is to investigate the degradation of low molar mass poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET)/organically modified montmorillonite (OMMT) clay nanocomposites prepared by melt processing. The rheological behavior in combination with transmission electron microscopic images suggests an intercalation and therefore a percolating network. Furthermore, the results indicate that the increase of organoclay content caused a degradation of PET during processing of PET/OMMT nanocomposites, once it was observed the PET molar mass decreases. The effect mentioned could be attributed to an increase of Brønsted acidic sites on the platelet surface, which is produced by the Hofmann elimination reaction of ammonium, and also the presence of residual metal compounds on clay surface might possibly favored the polymer matrix degradation process.
Analytical investigation of high-velocity impact on hybrid unidirectional/woven composite panels
Authors: Shanazari H , Liaghat GH , Hadavinia H , Aboutorabi A
Published: September 2015

In addition to fiber properties, the fabric structure plays an important role in determining ballistic performance of composite body armor textile. Textile structures used in ballistic protection are woven fabrics, unidirectional (UD) fabric structures, and nonwoven fabrics. In this article, an analytical model based on wave propagation and energy balance between the projectile and the target is developed to analyze hybrid fabric panels for ballistic protection. The hybrid panel consists of two types of structure: woven fabrics as the front layers and UD material as the rear layers. The model considers different cross sections of surface of the target in the woven and UD fabric of the hybrid panel. Also the model takes into account possible shear failure by using shear strength together with maximum tensile strain as the failure criteria. Reflections of deformation waves at interface between the layers and also the crimp of the yarn are modeled in the woven part of the hybrid panel. The results show greater efficiency of woven fibers in front layers (more shear resistance) and UD yarns in the rear layers (more tensile resistance), leading to better ballistic performance. Also modeling the yarn crimp results in more trauma at the backface of the panel producing data closer to the experimental results. It was found that there is an optimum ratio of woven to UD materials in the hybrid ballistic panel.
The formation of an agonistic public sphere: Emotions, the Internet and news media in China
Authors: Tong Jingrong
Published: September 2015

This article discusses the importance of emotions to China’s public life and the way in which the Internet and news media channels have publicized emotional outbursts by the public in China in recent years. An agonistic public sphere is being formed, the basis of which is the expression of emotions, especially hatred, resentment, anger and compassion, both on the Internet and in the news media. As a result, conflicting interests are contested and paradoxes in society are exposed. This development is close to what radical democracy theories conceptualize as an agonistic public sphere. This emotional dimension in public life is a crucial means for China’s subordinated citizens to strive to utilize resources to change the current hierarchy in society. The formation of an agonistic public sphere democratizes communication processes, opens a space for public participation and gives voice to the public who are otherwise silent. The expression of emotions has the potential to break down the Chinese Communist Party’s hegemony.