bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Escaping the “Balkanizing” Gaze? Perceptions of Global and Internal Developmental Hierarchies in Romania
Authors: Kiss Tamás
Published: May 2017

The article presents the perceptions of global and internal developmental hierarchies in Romania. According to our empirical results, the Western-centred developmental paradigm has deeply penetrated the worldviews of ordinary people in Romania. As a consequence, national self-perceptions, respectively, constructions of internal regional and ethnic differences in Romania, are powerfully shaped by the idea of East–West developmental hierarchies. Melegh introduced the concept of an “East–West slope” to denote a discursive construction used since the eighteenth century. This construction suggests that there is a gradual decline of development (or “civilization”) as one moves from the West (North West) toward the East (South East). The author argues that this framework not only defines how Romanians position themselves in the global developmental hierarchy but also how they define their internal (regional and ethnic) hierarchies. The article also discusses Todorova’s concept of Balkanism. This interpretive framework not only defines the perceptions of external observers but (following a process of cultural penetration) may also shape the self-perceptions of those involved. This article argues that Romanians have succeeded in avoiding—at least partially—the most severe consequence of the “Balkanizing gaze,” which is a constant sense of inferiority. It is also important, however, that this Balkanizing gaze can be reproduced at a national/local level and (in interrelation with other types of developmental discourses) can organize internal hierarchies.
Does Knowing Hurt? Perceiving Oneself as Overweight Predicts Future Physical Health and Well-Being
Authors: Daly Michael , Robinson Eric , Sutin Angelina R.
Published: May 2017

Identifying oneself as being overweight may be associated with adverse health outcomes, yet prospective tests of this possibility are lacking. Over 7 years, we examined associations between perceptions of being overweight and subsequent health in a sample of 3,582 U.S. adults. Perceiving oneself as being overweight predicted longitudinal declines in subjective health ( d = −0.22, p < .001), increases in depressive symptoms ( d = 0.09, p < .05), and raised levels of physiological dysregulation ( d = 0.24, p < .001), as gauged by clinical indicators of cardiovascular, inflammatory, and metabolic functioning. These associations remained after controlling for a range of potential confounders and were observed irrespective of whether perceptions of being overweight were accurate or inaccurate. This research highlights the possibility that identifying oneself as overweight may act independently of body mass index to contribute to unhealthy profiles of physiological functioning and impaired health over time. These findings underscore the importance of evaluating whether weight-feedback interventions may have unforeseen adverse consequences.
Dissociable Contributions of Imagination and Willpower to the Malleability of Human Patience
Authors: Jenkins Adrianna C. , Hsu Ming
Published: May 2017

The ability to exercise patience is important for human functioning. Although it is known that patience can be promoted by using top-down control, or willpower, to override impatient impulses, patience is also malleable—in particular, susceptible to framing effects—in ways that are difficult to explain using willpower alone. So far, the mechanisms underlying framing effects on patience have been elusive. We investigated the role of imagination in these effects. In a behavioral experiment (Experiment 1), a classic framing manipulation (sequence framing) increased self-reported and independently coded imagination during intertemporal choice. In an investigation of neural responses during decision making (Experiment 2), sequence framing increased the extent to which patience was related to activation in brain regions associated with imagination, relative to activation in regions associated with willpower, and increased functional connectivity of brain regions associated with imagination, but not willpower, relative to regions associated with valuation. Our results suggest that sequence framing can increase the role of imagination in decision making without increasing the exertion of willpower.
Modeling qRT-PCR dynamics with application to cancer biomarker quantification
Authors: Chervoneva Inna , Freydin Boris , Hyslop Terry , Waldman Scott A
Published: May 2017

Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) is widely used for molecular diagnostics and evaluating prognosis in cancer. The utility of mRNA expression biomarkers relies heavily on the accuracy and precision of quantification, which is still challenging for low abundance transcripts. The critical step for quantification is accurate estimation of efficiency needed for computing a relative qRT-PCR expression.

We propose a new approach to estimating qRT-PCR efficiency based on modeling dynamics of polymerase chain reaction amplification. In contrast, only models for fluorescence intensity as a function of polymerase chain reaction cycle have been used so far for quantification. The dynamics of qRT-PCR efficiency is modeled using an ordinary differential equation model, and the fitted ordinary differential equation model is used to obtain effective polymerase chain reaction efficiency estimates needed for efficiency-adjusted quantification.

The proposed new qRT-PCR efficiency estimates were used to quantify GUCY2C (Guanylate Cyclase 2C) mRNA expression in the blood of colorectal cancer patients. Time to recurrence and GUCY2C expression ratios were analyzed in a joint model for survival and longitudinal outcomes. The joint model with GUCY2C quantified using the proposed polymerase chain reaction efficiency estimates provided clinically meaningful results for association between time to recurrence and longitudinal trends in GUCY2C expression.
Towards an ethics for telehealth
Authors: Botrugno Carlo
Published: May 2017

Over the last two decades, a public rationale for the implementation of telehealth has emerged at the interplay of specialised literature and political orientations. Despite the lack of consistent findings on the magnitude of its benefits, telehealth is nowadays presented as a worthy solution both for patients and healthcare institutions. Far from denying the potential advantages of telehealth, the main objective of this work is to provide a critical assessment on the spread of the remote services as a vector of positive transformation of contemporary health systems. For pursuing this objective, the EU agenda for the promotion of telehealth will be retraced, and the main evidences alleged to sustain the implementation of remote care services will be assessed. Furthermore, it will be evaluated the attempt made by the European Commission to establish an ethical framework for guiding the use of telehealth in daily practice, and a roadmap of the most relevant legal and ethical issues posed by the spread of telehealth will be traced. In the conclusions, it will be argued that the radical transformations induced by this form of technological innovation call on to a new, ad hoc ethics through which critically evaluate benefits and implications of telehealth services, with a view to keep high the standard of healthcare against the economic interests of private stakeholders and ICTs’ vendors.
Humanization in a Hospital
Authors: Pascuci Lucilane , Meyer Victor , Nogueira Eros Eloy , Forte Luiza Tatiana
Published: May 2017

Concern with humanization in hospitals has been an increasingly common feature in debates related to healthcare, public policies and hospital management. However, in most Brazilian hospitals, humanization has not gone beyond the stage of ‘politically correct’ discourse and has not resulted in substantive changes in organizational behaviour. These changes mean a greater challenge especially in hospital organizations, as these are renowned for their complexity, pluralism and knowledge-based work. From an ethnographic experience guided by intervention in the implementation of a humanization programme at a hospital, we analyzed the resulting cultural change, highlighting the obstacles that were encountered and the main actions taken to overcome them. The results of this initiative reveals important lessons: (i) it represents an organizational commitment to the continuous improvement of health services by focusing on one of the most critical elements: human beings; (ii) to implement the initiative, it was necessary to develop social actions such as relationships with the government, market and society; (iii) it was necessary to hold a scientific, albeit incipient, debate concerning the role and relevance of clinical psychology in hospitals. Results were grouped as individual, social and organizational dimensions reflecting substantive aspects of the change process in complex setting.
Communication Protocols in Public Health
Authors: Dwivedi Siddharth , Sagar Mahim
Published: May 2017

This work was initiated primarily to analyze the role of communication in public health policy and hence develop protocols to design effective communication strategies. Research was motivated by the fact that the traditional approaches towards communication in health management have proved inadequate in front of the complexity of recent challenges. New and innovative ‘Integrated Communication Strategies’, which employ targeted communication tools for achieving public cooperation, have emerged as the need of the hour. This was revealed by the extensive literature review carried out by the authors. The fact that most of the researches so far have been either to empirically determine factor linkages and hierarchies on a small population sample or to analyze some specific aspect of the whole public communication architecture restricts their usability to large-scale, real-life situations. This research aims at constructing that big picture, a wholesome view of the role communication is expected to play in a public health programme and how the researches so far can be collated with insights from the case study of dengue fever in New Delhi carried out by the authors to yield protocols for designing highly effective communication programmes, which shall go long way in ensuring a successful health campaign.
A Study of Predictors of Entrepreneurial Intentions: Development of Comprehensive Measures
Authors: Bhaskar A. Uday , Garimella Somayajullu
Published: May 2017

The purpose of this study was to develop a comprehensive set of measures to predict entrepreneurial intentions drawn from measures used in existing studies. Since intentions can be valuable for explaining the act of creating the venture, it is vital to develop a set of comprehensive measures that can better predict the intentions and the entrepreneurial behaviour. An extensive search of literature for a complete set of measures that are capable of explaining entrepreneurial intentions and behaviour did not yield any result. The present study was, therefore, attempted to address this gap in the extant literature. The final scale developed in this study is, in essence, the drawing together of various items from disparate sources and it should provide a more comprehensive research tool. Data was collected from four leading Indian business school students through an online survey. One hundred and one responses completed responses were obtained through the online survey which was open for one week. The data was subjected to statistical analysis to check the psychometric properties of the instruments. The scales were tested for validity and reliability. A total of 13 factors (measures) emerged from the study totalling 54 items. Out of these, seven factors were for motivators (28 items), five factors were for barriers (20 items) and one factor was for intention (6 items). These measures can be used by researchers to determine entrepreneurial intentions and behaviour of students, women, working managers and other sections of the society.
The mediating effect of work–life balance on the relationship between work–family conflict and life satisfaction
Authors: Taşdelen-Karçkay Arzu , Bakalım Orkide
Published: May 2017

The first purpose of this study was to develop a scale of work–life balance for Turkish working women and men. The second purpose was to investigate the mediating effect of work–life balance between work–family conflict, family–work conflict, and life satisfaction. In Study 1 ( N = 274), a work–life balance scale was developed and initial validity evidence was presented. In Study 2 ( N = 356), confirmatory factor analyses supported the scale’s unidimensionality. Cronbach’s alpha and the composite reliability for internal consistency were .92. All studies indicated that the Work–Life Balance Scale was valid and reliable for a Turkish employee sample. Structural equation modeling supported indirect effects of work–family conflict and family–work conflict on life satisfaction via work–life balance. Multi-group analysis showed that the structural paths of the full model did not differ by gender.
Informing the career development of IT students by understanding their career aspirations and skill development action plans
Authors: McKenzie Sophie , Coldwell-Neilson Jo , Palmer Stuart
Published: May 2017

Attending university can assist students to make informed and realistic choices regarding their career. However, career development is a complex process and there are discipline-specific aspects to consider. In Information Technology, no clear career developmental pathway is evident in the literature despite recent efforts by employers, educators, and professional societies to help students improve their career expectations and employability upon graduation. This study aims to understand better the career aspirations and expectations of tertiary Information Technology students, so that their beliefs and needs can be taken into consideration when supporting them in career development. This study uses both qualitative and quantitative analyses to explore the career aspirations of 306 students. The results demonstrated variability in students’ short-term aspirations and a lack of understanding regarding effective actions to achieve their career goals, highlighting issues with setting realistic expectations. Outcomes show that undergraduate Information Technology students may require assistance with negotiating career choice.
Influences on career identity in Vietnamese students at an international university
Authors: Mate Susan , Mcdonald Matthew , Morgan Arthur , Hoang Duc-Nhat , Das Mita , Dinh Nhung
Published: May 2017

This study considers the career identities of Vietnamese students studying at an offshore (Australian) university in Vietnam. The students had completed the first module of a new career development learning program called Career Passport. As part of the program, students were required to write a narrative on their ‘career story’ to reflect on their experiences and synthesise their learning. The study drew on a social constructionist and narrative psychology approach to explore the major influences on the career identity that emerged from the students’ narratives. The strongest influence on the students’ career identities and career decision-making was family, which is in accordance with the collectivist cultural values of Vietnam. Somewhat less expected was the effect of various media, such as film and television. Despite the influence of family, the narratives reflect a strong desire to meet individual values, needs and interests in what the students would like their future careers to look like. The latter two findings perhaps indicate that Vietnamese students at an international university are more influenced by Western values and expectations of ‘career’ than their counterparts who study at domestic universities.
Real-time structural health monitoring of fatigue crack on aluminum beam using an impedance-based portable device
Authors: de Souza Rabelo Diogo , Hobeck Jared D , Inman Daniel J , Finzi Neto Roberto Mendes , Steffen Valder
Published: May 2017

A common problem in aircraft maintenance is the development and detection of fatigue cracks in structural components with localized high-stress concentration. Traditional non-destructive testing methods are effective in inspecting cracks through an offline manner; however, real-time implementation of these methods is not common. In this contribution, a procedure to monitor propagating cracks in aluminum beams undergoing dynamic cyclic loading is presented. High-frequency impedance measurements were performed from a lead zirconate titanate patch bonded to an aluminum beam while the beam experienced cyclic loading at a prescribed amplitude. Fatigue loading at prescribed stress levels was achieved by exciting the beam with an electromechanical shaker. A control scheme was used to keep the drive frequency and drive acceleration under resonance in the first vibration mode. During the tests, impedance measurements were acquired using a low-cost portable impedance device. Damage indices were correlated with the specific number of stress cycles until changes in the natural frequency caused by propagating fatigue cracks reached a critical limit. Finally, a statistical method is proposed to obtain the damage threshold. Based on S/N curves, the determined threshold was compared to the damage indices so that incipient damage could be detected before a visible crack could be seen.
The (Not So) Evil Within? Agency in Video Game Choice and the Impact of Violent Content
Authors: Ferguson Christopher J. , Colon-Motas Kay , Esser Carolin , Lanie Connor , Purvis Skylar , Williams Mark
Published: May 2017

Background. The degree to which violent video games do, or do not contribute to aggressive behavior and hostility remains controversial in the scientific community, with scholars not yet having come to a consensus about effects. Recent studies have examined whether other issues such as frustration or competition might explain some video game influences that were previously thought to be due to violent content.

Aim. The current study examines whether player agency in determining choice of game played influences aggressive outcomes.

Methods. Young adult players were randomized either to play a violent game, a non-violent game, or to be given the choice between several violent and non-violent games. Players were examined for subsequent aggressive behavior using the ice water task as well as for stress levels and hostility.

Results. Game condition did not influence hostility, stress, or aggressive behavior, whether with randomized or chosen games.

Conclusion. The present study provided no evidence that violent video games contribute to aggressive behavior. Lack of influence for agency in game choice can be understood given the lack of any aggression effect for violent game exposure.
Popular Music Genres, Music Producers, and Song Creation in the General Music Classroom
Authors: Colquhoun Shane
Published: May 2017

In secondary general music classes, music educators have the opportunity to bridge the gap between the music students’ experiences in school and the music they engage with outside of school. According to Williams, nontraditional music students have musical lives outside of school but choose not to participate in traditional ensembles. In this article, I explore three teaching strategies that can be used to engage students with popular music. These strategies are through studying music genres, studying music producers, and listening to popular songs to distinguish if a song is a remake, cover, sample, remix, or an original song.
The Theory of Dyadic Morality: Reinventing Moral Judgment by Redefining Harm
Authors: Schein Chelsea , Gray Kurt
Published: May 2017

The nature of harm—and therefore moral judgment—may be misunderstood. Rather than an objective matter of reason, we argue that harm should be redefined as an intuitively perceived continuum. This redefinition provides a new understanding of moral content and mechanism—the constructionist Theory of Dyadic Morality (TDM). TDM suggests that acts are condemned proportional to three elements: norm violations, negative affect, and—importantly—perceived harm. This harm is dyadic, involving an intentional agent causing damage to a vulnerable patient (A→P). TDM predicts causal links both from harm to immorality (dyadic comparison) and from immorality to harm (dyadic completion). Together, these two processes make the “dyadic loop,” explaining moral acquisition and polarization. TDM argues against intuitive harmless wrongs and modular “foundations,” but embraces moral pluralism through varieties of values and the flexibility of perceived harm. Dyadic morality impacts understandings of moral character, moral emotion, and political/cultural differences, and provides research guidelines for moral psychology.
Resilient co-scheduling of malleable applications
Authors: Benoit Anne , Pottier Loïc , Robert Yves
Published: May 2017

Recently, the benefits of co-scheduling several applications have been demonstrated in a fault-free context, both in terms of performance and energy savings. However, large-scale computer systems are confronted by frequent failures, and resilience techniques must be employed for large applications to execute efficiently. Indeed, failures may create severe imbalance between applications and significantly degrade performance. In this article, we aim at minimizing the expected completion time of a set of co-scheduled applications. We propose to redistribute the resources assigned to each application upon the occurrence of failures, and upon the completion of some applications, in order to achieve this goal. First, we introduce a formal model and establish complexity results. The problem is NP-complete for malleable applications, even in a fault-free context. Therefore, we design polynomial-time heuristics that perform redistributions and account for processor failures. A fault simulator is used to perform extensive simulations that demonstrate the usefulness of redistribution and the performance of the proposed heuristics.
Where Is the Pill for the “Reproductive Man?”: A Content Analysis of Contemporary US Newspaper Articles
Authors: Campo-Engelstein Lisa , Kaufman Suzanne , Parker Wendy M.
Published: May 2017

We used content analysis methodology to examine the reasons newspaper articles ( n = 121) provide for why we do not have new male contraceptives (NMCs). Articles were six times more likely to state that developing NMCs is good than bad. Yet half of all articles noted the safety or side effects of NMCs, which could leave the public with a sense of confusion or hesitation around the science and interest in NMCs. Our results indicate that while articles recognize the advantages of NMCs and are ostensibly supportive of them, we as a society are not yet culturally ready for them. We highlight the emergence of a new cultural narrative regarding men and contraceptive responsibility, which we refer as the “reproductive man” because he considers himself a reproductive being who needs to take ownership and responsibility for his reproductive activity and decisions.
Comparison group matters for chronic stress effects of subjective social status
Authors: Geiger Ashley M , Kirschbaum Clemens , Wolf Jutta M
Published: May 2017

Inconsistent associations between health and measures of subjective social status compared to one’s community suggest that how people define community may matter. This study broke down community into status among neighborhood and friends/family to assess the impact of each domain on chronic stress in individuals differing in socioeconomic status (18 employed and 18 unemployed individuals). The findings suggest that for ratings of subjective social status, the social and physical proximity of the reference group matters. Specifically, neighborhood status was affected by unemployment, while friends/family status was associated with perceived stress, emphasizing the importance of the comparison group in assessing subjective status.
‘It’s normal to have damp’: Using a qualitative psychological approach to analyse the lived experience of energy vulnerability among young adult households
Authors: Butler Danielle , Sherriff Graeme
Published: May 2017

Seeking to promote methodological innovation in fuel poverty research, this paper reflects on the use of a novel qualitative psychological approach known as interpretative phenomenological analysis. The benefits and limitations of this methodological approach are discussed within a detailed account of findings from a small-scale study undertaken in Salford, UK. Contributing to an existing gap in the existing evidence base, the research focused on the lived experience of young adult households: a demographic group identified as being disproportionately more likely to be living in fuel poverty compared to any other age group. Three emergent themes were identified: ‘establishing the independent home’, ‘threats to home comfort’ and ‘energy and coping’. Multiple references to conditions typical of fuel poverty were disclosed, such as: self-disconnection, energy debts, cold homes and unrelenting challenges with damp and laundry practices. ‘Vulnerability’ mostly consumed narratives of past experience, with participants discussing the present and future with positive affectivity. Implications for further research are explored, including the potential to more effectively target support by reframing current discourse away from one centred on ‘vulnerability’.
Imaging modalities for midfacial fractures
Authors: David Chaya M , Kastala Ramya K , Jayapal Namitha , Majid Shanila A
Published: May 2017

The middle third of the facial skeleton is one of the most complex areas of the human body. A critical factor determining the successful treatment of midfacial fractures is an early and correct diagnosis. Assessment and management of the traumatized patient requires rapid evaluation and decision making. Imaging for the evaluation of patients with midfacial fractures has contributed to achieving an accurate diagnosis and a subsequent successful management. It requires a knowledge of those imaging modalities and projections that provide the most information with the least exposure of radiation to the patient. Conventional radiography has been used successfully for many years although advanced imaging methods such as—three-dimensional computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and cone beam computed tomography have been applied more recently. In this article, we will take a relook at various modalities to image midfacial fractures, and discuss the rationale for selection of those procedures that offer the greatest diagnostic information.
Effects of spall edge profiles on the edge plastic deformation for a roller bearing
Authors: Liu Jing , Shi Zhifeng , Shao Yimin , Xiao Huifang
Published: May 2017

A clear understanding of the plastic deformations at the spall edges is a primary task for the edge propagation predictions in rolling element bearings. This work proposed an elastic–plastic two-dimensional finite element model for calculating the contact stress and plastic deformation between the rolling element and raceway. This model includes a rolling element and one raceway. The rectangular plane strain solid elements are used to formulate the finite element model. The Coulomb model is used to formulate the friction force between the rolling element and raceway. A bilinear kinematic hardening material model is used in the finite element model, which can formulate the elastic–plastic deformations. The studied spall edge profiles are assumed to be sharp and cylindrical ones. To validate the finite element model, the contact deformations between the rolling element and the raceway from the proposed model and Hertzian contact theory are compared. Effects of spall edge profiles on the edge plastic deformations at the edge are analyzed, as well as the edge plastic deformation zone width. Based on the numerical results, the relationship between the edge plastic deformation and the spall edge profile, and that between the edge plastic deformation zone width and the spall edge profile are established. The results show that the edge plastic deformation is significantly influenced by the spall edge profiles, as well as the edge plastic deformation zone width. This paper provides a clear understanding of the effects of the edge profiles on the plastic deformations and propagation at the spall edge.
Different metabolic responses induced by long-term interdisciplinary therapy in obese adolescents related to ACE I/D polymorphism
Authors: Almeida Sandro S , Corgosinho Flavia C , Amorim Carlos EN , Gregnani Marcos F , Campos Raquel MS , Masquio Deborah CL , Sanches Priscila L , Ganen Aline P , Pesquero João B , Dâmaso Ana R , Mello Marco T , Tufik Sergio , Araújo Ronaldo C
Published: May 2017

Introduction:

The main purpose of the present study was to investigate whether I/D polymorphism of the ACE gene might affect metabolic changes related to the metabolic syndrome through a long-term interdisciplinary therapy in obese adolescents.

Methods:

In total, 125 obese adolescents who entered the interdisciplinary obesity programme were assigned to the following two subgroups: metabolic syndrome or non-metabolic syndrome. They were evaluated at baseline and after 1 year. Genomic DNA was extracted from circulating leukocytes.

Results:

Subjects with the II genotype in the non-metabolic syndrome group were only to increase their fat-free mass after therapy. Regarding lipid profile, subjects with ID and DD genotypes from both groups reduced their low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels significantly. The metabolic parameters from the ID and DD genotypes of the non-metabolic syndrome group showed a significantly improved insulin response.

Conclusion:

In the present study, we showed that the ACE polymorphism was able to influence the fat-free mass in the I-carry allele in the non-metabolic syndrome group positively. In addition, the I-carry allele was able to improve the insulin resistance of the metabolic syndrome group significantly. These results suggest that the ACE I/D genotypes can influence, in different ways, the specific parameters of metabolism among obese adolescents submitted for long-term interdisciplinary therapy.
Intelligence and Fitness: The Mediating Role of Educational Level
Authors: Međedović Janko
Published: May 2017

The evolutionary status of intelligence is not clear: It is positively related to various indicators of fitness but negatively to reproductive success as the most important fitness marker. In the present research, we explored the links between intelligence and three fitness indicators: number of children (short-term reproductive success), number of grandchildren (long-term reproductive success), and age at first birth. Participants were individuals in a postreproductive stage ( N = 191; mean age = 66.5 years). Intelligence had a positive correlation with short-term reproductive success and age at first birth but a negative correlation with long-term reproductive success. Participants’ education turned out to be a significant mediator of the link between intelligence and criterion measures. The results showed that intelligence can elevate short-term reproductive success. Furthermore, individuals with higher intellectual abilities tended to delay reproduction, which negatively affected their long-term reproductive success. Education was revealed as a very important resource which affects the link between cognitive abilities and fitness, thus proving its evolutionary role in contemporary populations.
Score Disparity Between the MMSE and the SLUMS
Authors: Yoelin Ann B. , Saunders Nathan W.
Published: May 2017

Background:

Multiple brief cognitive instruments are available to assess cognitive impairment in older adults. However, not all instruments demonstrate the same effectiveness when utilized with higher educated adults. This study evaluates the score disparity between the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the St. Louis University Mental Status (SLUMS) Examination across the education spectrum. It was hypothesized that individuals with more years of formal education would produce higher scores on both the MMSE and SLUMS. Previous research was conducted to create a conversion scale used to compare and convert the MMSE scores to SLUMS scores. This research study provides additional data to add to the body of knowledge regarding a conversion scale for the MMSE and SLUMS.

Methods:

Seventy-five adults older than the age of 60 years were each administered the MMSE and SLUMS.

Results:

Contrary to our hypothesis, individuals with more years of formal education did not produce significantly greater scores on the MMSE or SLUMS. Likewise, education level analyzed as a continuous measure was not significantly correlated with the MMSE, r(75) = −0.191, or SLUMS, r(75) = 0.019. Interestingly, among participants with a high (but not low) education level, there was a marginal but significant difference in mean score between the MMSE (29.00 ± 1.47) and SLUMS (27.74 ± 3.08), t(64) = 3.70, P < .001.

Conclusion:

Other factors besides education may impact the performance of older adults on the MMSE and SLUMS, but it does appear that education level may moderate the score disparity between the 2 instruments. Additional studies are needed before using the MMSE to predict the score on the SLUMS and vice versa.
Approaches for Developing Intercultural Competence: An Extended Learning Model With Implications From Cultural Neuroscience
Authors: Chang Wei-Wen
Published: May 2017

In today’s workplace, organizations invest widely in intercultural training programs to develop leaders’ and employees’ abilities to function effectively overseas or in a culturally diverse work environment. However, these training programs are often perceived as ineffective or are even occasionally suspected of increasing the biases between groups from varied backgrounds. Faced with such results, the emerging field of cultural neuroscience has provided a biological perspective to explain the contradictions between training goals and outcomes. This article first discusses the prevailing training approaches and reviews recent studies in cultural neuroscience to explore neural reasons for certain cultural behaviors. It then identifies three implications from this review and presents an extended experiential learning model. Finally it provides three suggestions for intercultural training design.
Butyrate reduces high-fat diet-induced metabolic alterations, hepatic steatosis and pancreatic beta cell and intestinal barrier dysfunctions in prediabetic mice
Authors: Matheus VA , Monteiro LCS , Oliveira RB , Maschio DA , Collares-Buzato CB
Published: May 2017

In this study, we investigated the effect of diet supplementation with sodium butyrate (5% w/w), a short-chain fatty acid produced by the intestinal microbiota, on metabolic parameters, body adiposity, hepatic and pancreatic lipid accumulation, beta cell function/mass as well as on the structure and function of the tight junction-mediated intestinal epithelial barrier in both normal and obese/prediabetic C57 mice fed a regular (control) or high-fat diet for 60 days, respectively. Butyrate treatment significantly inhibited all the high-fat-induced metabolic dysfunctions evaluated, i.e. significantly reduced the weight gain and body adiposity as well as the insulin resistant state, hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia, without changing food intake. In addition, high-fat-fed mice treated with this short-chain fatty acid displayed no compensatory hyperplasia of pancreatic beta cells nor marked hepatic steatosis as seen in prediabetic mice after high-fat diet only. Isolated pancreatic islets from high-fat-fed mice treated with butyrate showed improvement of the insulin secretion, which was associated with a significant decrease in lipid accumulation within the pancreas. Butyrate enhanced the intestinal epithelial barrier, as revealed by the FITC-Dextran permeability assay, which was accompanied by a significant increase in the junctional content of the tight junction-associated claudin-1 in intestinal epithelia of jejunum, ileum, and colon of both control and high-fat mice. In conclusion, our results showed that diet supplementation with butyrate inhibits the deleterious effects of high-fat diet intake on metabolic parameters and structure/function of several tissues/organs associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus in a mouse model, suggesting a potential use of this short-chain fatty acid in the treatment of this endocrine-metabolic disorder.

Impact statement

Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid produced by the intestinal microbiota through the fermentation of non-absorbable carbohydrates and proteins (e.g. fibers). Sodium butyrate incorporated into the diet displayed a protective action on metabolic, hepatic, pancreatic and intestinal alterations induced by high-fat diet in mice, resulting in significant inhibition of the development of a prediabetic state. Thus, our data suggest that butyrate may have a potential therapeutic use in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and related disorders.
Opportunities and challenges in the wider adoption of liver and interconnected microphysiological systems
Authors: Hughes David J , Kostrzewski Tomasz , Sceats Emma L
Published: May 2017

Liver disease represents a growing global health burden. The development of in vitro liver models which allow the study of disease and the prediction of metabolism and drug-induced liver injury in humans remains a challenge. The maintenance of functional primary hepatocytes cultures, the parenchymal cell of the liver, has historically been difficult with dedifferentiation and the consequent loss of hepatic function limiting utility. The desire for longer term functional liver cultures sparked the development of numerous systems, including collagen sandwiches, spheroids, micropatterned co-cultures and liver microphysiological systems. This review will focus on liver microphysiological systems, often referred to as liver-on-a-chip, and broaden to include platforms with interconnected microphysiological systems or multi-organ-chips. The interconnection of microphysiological systems presents the opportunity to explore system level effects, investigate organ cross talk, and address questions which were previously the preserve of animal experimentation. As a field, microphysiological systems have reached a level of maturity suitable for commercialization and consequent evaluation by a wider community of users, in academia and the pharmaceutical industry. Here scientific, operational, and organizational considerations relevant to the wider adoption of microphysiological systems will be discussed. Applications in which microphysiological systems might offer unique scientific insights or enable studies currently feasible only with animal models are described, and challenges which might be addressed to enable wider adoption of the technologies are highlighted. A path forward which envisions the development of microphysiological systems in partnerships between academia, vendors and industry, is proposed.

Impact statement

Microphysiological systems are in vitro models of human tissues and organs. These systems have advanced rapidly in recent years and are now being commercialized. To achieve wide adoption in the biological and pharmaceutical research communities, microphysiological systems must provide unique insights which translate to humans. This will be achieved by identifying key applications and making microphysiological systems intuitive to use.
Routine Shunting During Carotid Endarterectomy in Patients With Acute Watershed Stroke
Authors: Perini Paolo , Bonifati Domenico Marco , Tasselli Sebastiano , Sogaro Filippo
Published: May 2017

Aim:

To evaluate the protective role of routine shunting in patients with acute watershed stroke (WS) undergoing carotid endarterectomy (CEA).

Methods:

A total of 138 patients with symptomatic carotid stenosis (SCS) who underwent CEA after acute ischemic stroke from March 2008 to March 2015 were included in this study. Transient ischemic attacks were excluded. These patients were divided into 2 groups according to the topographic pattern of the stroke on magnetic resonance imaging: group 1, territorial strokes (TS) caused by emboli of carotid origin, and group 2, WS caused by a hemodynamic mechanism related to an SCS. Primary end points were 30-day mortality and postoperative neurological morbidity. The insertion of a Pruitt carotid shunt was performed systematically.

Results:

Ninety (65.2%) patients presented a TS of carotid origin and were included in group 1, and 48 (34.8%) of the 138 patients had a WS related to an SCS and were included in group 2. The median time between clinical onset of the cerebral ischemic event and surgery was 9 days (range: 0-89 days). Postoperative mortality was 0%. Seven (5.1%) patients had an aggravation of the neurological status during the postoperative period, of whom 2 presented a complete regression of the symptoms in less than 1 hour (definitive postoperative neurologic morbidity: 3.6%). Postoperative neurologic morbidity rate was significantly higher in the TS group (7 of 90; 7.8%) compared to the WS group (0 of 48; P = .04). No other independent predictive factor of neurologic morbidity after CEA for an SCS was found.

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that routine shunting should be considered in case of acute WS since it may play a protective role. Further studies are eagerly awaited to better define the timing and the best treatment option for both acute WS and TS related to an SCS in order to reduce postoperative neurologic morbidity.
Carotid angioplasty-assisted mechanical thrombectomy without urgent stenting may be a better option in acute tandem occlusions
Authors: Akpinar Cetin K , Gürkaş Erdem , Aytac Emrah
Published: May 2017

Background

The aim of the study was to assess the efficacy of balloon angioplasty-assisted mechanical thrombectomy without urgent stenting in the carotid artery as another approach for endovascular treatment of tandem occlusions.

Methods

Fifteen consecutive cases of tandem occlusions treated with the endovascular approach between January 2014 and May 2016 were reviewed. The study cohort included patients with an etiology of large vessel atherosclerosis. Extracranial carotid stenting was performed in another session if post-thrombectomy mRS modified Rankin Score (mRS) was 0–2. Good clinical outcome was determined by follow-up at 7–10, 30 and 90 days according to the mRS.

Results

Most patients (80%) were male. Eight (53.4%) patients received intravenous thrombolysis before angiography. Proximal revascularization was successful in 100% of cases with balloon angioplasty internal carotid artery (ICA) origin. Successful recanalization (modified thrombolysis in cerebral infarction (mTICI) 2b-3) (mTICI 2 b–3) occurred in 12 cases (80%) and good clinical outcomes were achieved in 10 patients (66.7%). Cervical ICA stent placement was performed in 10 patients with good clinical outcomes. No symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage occurred after delayed ICA stenting

Conclusions

This is the first reported case series to evaluate this approach for endovascular treatment of tandem occlusions. Carotid angioplasty-assisted mechanical thrombectomy without urgent stenting seems to be a safer approach.
Transformation of professional identity in an experienced primary school principal
Authors: Robertson Sylvia
Published: May 2017

School principals have unique identities that influence capacity to manage change. This New Zealand study explores professional identity in educational leadership and addresses a lesser researched area of identity transformation in longer-serving principals. Principals were asked how they perceived themselves as changing or changed as they led their schools through complex change processes. This article references the insights and perceptions of the most experienced of the participating principals. Findings suggest that longer-serving principals continue to transform their professional identities as they manage emotions, make decisions, access professional learning and interact with others.
Understanding pain physiology and its application to person with intellectual disability
Authors: Doody Owen , Bailey Maria E
Published: May 2017

The issue of pain warrants attention as, by virtue of having an intellectual disability, a person may have associated medical or physical conditions and associated factors increasing their risk of pain disorders. People with intellectual disability experiencing pain need to be provided with the best possible care. The focus of this article is on the exploration of pain: physiology and types; manifestations and responses in the context of intellectual disability in order to promote effective, knowledgeable assessment and management of pain for this client group. Pain is a subjective, complex, physiological and psychological phenomenon that can be acute or chronic and may be classified according to its cause. Within the experience of pain, the concept of total pain describes the physical, psychological, social and spiritual factors that influence the experience of pain.
A mini review focused on the proangiogenic role of silicate ions released from silicon-containing biomaterials
Authors: Dashnyam Khandmaa , El-Fiqi Ahmed , Buitrago Jennifer O , Perez Roman A , Knowles Jonathan C , Kim Hae-Won
Published: May 2017

Angiogenesis is considered an important issue in the development of biomaterials for the successful regeneration of tissues including bone. While growth factors are commonly used with biomaterials to promote angiogenesis, some ions released from biomaterials can also contribute to angiogenic events. Many silica-based biomaterials have been widely used for the repair and regeneration of tissues, mainly hard tissues such as bone and tooth structure. They have shown excellent performance in bone formation by stimulating angiogenesis. The release of silicate and others (Co and Cu ions) has therefore been implicated to play critical roles in the angiogenesis process. In this short review, we highlight the in vitro and in vivo findings of angiogenesis (and the related bone formation) stimulated by the various types of silicon-containing biomaterials where silicate ions released might play essential roles. We discuss further the possible molecular mechanisms underlying in the ion-induced angiogenic events.
Growing pains: understanding the needs of emerging adults with chronic pain
Authors: Twiddy Hannah , Hanna Julie , Haynes Louise
Published: May 2017

Background:

Emerging adulthood (18–30 years), in the Western world, is often a time of identity development and exploration, focusing on areas of work, relationships and education. Individuals with chronic illnesses, such as chronic pain, may be more vulnerable to facing challenges during this time. This study aims to investigate the needs of young adults (YAs) attending a tertiary level National Health Service (NHS) Pain Management Programme (PMP) Service in the United Kingdom; exploring how these needs may translate on to clinical assessment and the delivery of rehabilitation interventions.

Method:

This is a descriptive qualitative study influenced by phenomenological approaches. YA with a diagnosis of chronic pain were recruited and assigned to one of four focus groups facilitated by a clinical psychologist and occupational therapist. A semi-structured interview guide was used to help facilitate the group discussion.

Results:

Qualitative analysis identified four key themes in understanding the needs of YAs with chronic pain: (1) thwarted opportunities, (2) peer separation, (3) perceived illness validity in the context of age and (4) dependency/parental enmeshment.

Conclusions:

The emerging adulthood literature provides a valuable framework for examining a normal developmental trajectory and highlights the relevance of age-related processes in YAs with chronic pain. The idealisation of opportunity and the role of perception in this developmental phase both appear relevant. It is significant that emotional stability is not yet established in emerging adulthood and links to unhelpful management strategies that may be differentiated from older populations are identified.