bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex Differences in Financial Barriers and the Relationship to Recovery After Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Beckman Adam L. , Bucholz Emily M. , Zhang Weiwei , Xu Xiao , Dreyer Rachel P. , Strait Kelly M. , Spertus John A. , Krumholz Harlan M. , Spatz Erica S.
Published: October 2016

Background

Financial barriers to health care are associated with worse outcomes following acute myocardial infarction (
AMI
). Yet, it is unknown whether the prevalence of financial barriers and their relationship with post‐
AMI
outcomes vary by sex among young adults.

Methods and Results

We assessed sex differences in patient‐reported financial barriers among adults aged <55 years with
AMI
using data from the Variation in Recovery: Role of Gender on Outcomes of Young
AMI
Patients study. We examined the prevalence of financial barriers and their association with health status 12 months post‐
AMI
. Among 3437 patients, more women than men reported financial barriers to medications (22.3% vs 17.2%;
P
=0.001), but rates of financial barriers to services were similar (31.3% vs 28.9%;
P
=0.152). In multivariable linear regression models adjusting for baseline health, psychosocial status, and clinical characteristics, compared with no financial barriers, women and men with financial barriers to services and medications had worse mental functional status (Short Form‐12 mental health score: mean difference [
MD
]=−3.28 and −3.35, respectively), greater depressive symptomatology (Patient Health Questionnaire‐9:
MD,
2.18 and 2.16), lower quality of life (Seattle Angina Questionnaire–Quality of Life:
MD
, −4.98 and −7.66), and higher perceived stress (Perceived Stress Score:
MD
, 3.76 and 3.90; all
P
<0.05). There was no interaction between sex and financial barriers.

Conclusions

Financial barriers to care are common in young patients with
AMI
and associated with worse health outcomes 1 year post‐
AMI
. Whereas women experienced more financial barriers than men, the association did not vary by sex. These findings emphasize the importance of addressing financial barriers to recovery post‐
AMI
in young adults.
Chemerin Elicits Potent Constrictor Actions via Chemokine‐Like Receptor 1 (CMKLR1), not G‐Protein‐Coupled Receptor 1 (GPR1), in Human and Rat Vasculature
Authors: Kennedy Amanda J. , Yang Peiran , Read Cai , Kuc Rhoda E. , Yang Lucy , Taylor Emily J. A. , Taylor Colin W. , Maguire Janet J. , Davenport Anthony P.
Published: October 2016

Background

Circulating levels of chemerin are significantly higher in hypertensive patients and positively correlate with blood pressure. Chemerin activates chemokine‐like receptor 1 (
CMKLR
1 or ChemR23) and is proposed to activate the “orphan” G‐protein‐coupled receptor 1 (
GPR
1), which has been linked with hypertension. Our aim was to localize chemerin,
CMKLR
1, and
GPR
1 in the human vasculature and determine whether 1 or both of these receptors mediate vasoconstriction.

Methods and Results

Using immunohistochemistry and molecular biology in conduit arteries and veins and resistance vessels, we localized chemerin to endothelium, smooth muscle, and adventitia and found that
CMKLR
1 and
GPR
1 were widely expressed in smooth muscle. C9 (chemerin149–157) contracted human saphenous vein (
pD
2
=7.30±0.31) and resistance arteries (
pD
2
=7.05±0.54) and increased blood pressure in rats by 9.1±1.0 mm Hg at 200 nmol. Crucially, these in vitro and in vivo vascular actions were blocked by
CCX
832, which we confirmed to be highly selective for
CMKLR
1 over
GPR
1. C9 inhibited
cAMP
accumulation in human aortic smooth muscle cells and preconstricted rat aorta, consistent with the observed vasoconstrictor action. Downstream signaling was explored further and, compared to chemerin, C9 showed a bias factor=≈5000 for the G
i
protein pathway, suggesting that
CMKLR
1 exhibits biased agonism.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that chemerin acts at
CMKLR
1, but not
GPR
1, to increase blood pressure. Chemerin has an established detrimental role in metabolic syndrome, and these direct vascular actions may contribute to hypertension, an additional risk factor for cardiovascular disease. This study provides proof of principle for the therapeutic potential of selective
CMKLR
1 antagonists.
Obsessionality
Authors: Bergstein Avner
Published: October 2016

Experiences with autistic and primitive mental states have significant implications for our understanding of obsessionality. Consequently, obsessionality is seen as an attempt at a massive simplification of experience, in order to deal with the pain inherent in the encounter with intense emotional experience and with the separateness of an enigmatic object that eludes one’s omnipotent control. Moreover, early loss and a precocious awareness of separateness often play roles in the withdrawal to obsessional thinking and verbosity, and to an illusion of omnipotent control of the object. Interpretations focusing on conflicting desires, or linking repressed and displaced parts of the personality with the defenses against them, do not reach these patients in a way that facilitates psychic change. An alternative approach, it is suggested, is to work at primitive, nonsymbolic levels of mental functioning, where experience cannot be verbally communicated and dynamically interpreted, but must first be lived in the here and now of the analysis. This is illustrated through the analysis of a person trying to cope with the experience of early loss by deadening emotion and finding shelter in obsessionality.
The prevalence of metabolic syndrome increases with serum high sensitivity C-reactive protein concentration in individuals without a history of cardiovascular disease: a report from a large Persian cohort
Authors: Kazemi-Bajestani Seyyed MR , Tayefi Maryam , Ebrahimi Mahmoud , Heidari-Bakavoli Ali R , Moohebati Mohsen , Parizadeh Seyyed MR , Esmaeili Habibollah , Ferns Gordon AA , Ghayour-Mobarhan Majid
Published: October 2016

Background

Metabolic syndrome is defined by a clustering of cardiovascular risk factors and is associated with a heightened inflammatory state. A raised serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation, is also known to associate with cardiovascular risk. We have investigated the relationship between the presence of metabolic syndrome and serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein concentration in a large representative Persian population cohort without a history of cardiovascular disease.

Methods

The MASHAD study population cohort comprised 9778 subjects, who were recruited from the city of Mashhad, Iran, between 2007 and 2008. Several cardiovascular risk factors were measured in this population without cardiovascular disease. Individuals were categorized into quartiles of serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein concentration: first quartile – 0.72 (0.59–0.85) (median [range]) mg/L, second quartile – 1.30 (1.14–1.4) mg/L, third quartile – 2.29 (1.92–2.81) mg/L and fourth quartile – 6.63 (4.61–11.95) mg/L, respectively. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome in each quartile was determined using either International Diabetes Federation or Adult Treatment Panel III criteria.

Results

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was highest in the fourth quartile for serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (1220 subjects [50.0%]), and significantly higher than that in the first quartile (reference group) (634 subjects [25.9%]) ( P < 0.001). A positive smoking habit (OR, 1.47 [1.26–1.70], P < 0.001) and the presence of either metabolic syndrome-International Diabetes Federation (OR, 1.35 [1.18–1.55], P < 0.001) or metabolic syndrome-ATPIII (OR, 1.40 [1.18–1.50], P < 0.001) were strong predictors of a fourth quartile for serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein concentration.

Conclusions

There was a significant association between high concentrations of serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and the presence of metabolic syndrome among individuals without a history of cardiovascular disease in our Persian cohort.
The role of calculated non-caeruloplasmin-bound copper in Wilson’s disease
Authors: Duncan Andrew , Yacoubian Calum , Beetham Robert , Catchpole Anthony , Bullock David
Published: October 2016

Background

US and European guidelines suggest the use of calculated non-caeruloplasmin-bound copper (free copper index) for the diagnosis and management of Wilson’s Disease. However, there is concern that the required analytical measurements of caeruloplasmin and copper may not be sufficiently robust at the concentrations usually found.

Methods

Aliquots of six plasma specimens were sent to laboratories participating in the UK National External Quality Assessment Scheme for copper and caeruloplasmin. The variability of these two reported measurements and the calculated non-caeruloplasmin-bound copper concentrations were compared. The variability of caeruloplasmin reference ranges quoted by laboratories was also investigated.

Results

No laboratories use the required enzymatic methods in the calculation of non-caeruloplasmin-bound copper. The interlaboratory variations in caeruloplasmin concentrations and calculated non-caeruloplasmin-bound copper concentrations were very considerable so making clinical interpretation unreliable. Wide differences in the caeruloplasmin reference ranges used were also found.

Conclusions

Such variations of the calculated non-caeruloplasmin-bound copper concentrations and the predominant use of immunological methods for measuring caeruloplasmin preclude a clinical role for this calculated value in the investigation of Wilson’s disease.
Vitamin D-binding protein as it is understood in 2016: is it a critical key with which to help to solve the calcitriol conundrum?
Authors: Davey RX
Published: October 2016

Background

The misnamed ‘vitamin’ D is actually the hormone calcitriol (1,25 dihydroxyhydroxyvitamin D). It has a central regulatory role in calcium metabolism, and more widely in the immune system. The prohormone calcifediol (25 hydroxyvitamin D) is more easily measured in the laboratory and is the analyte used in reference interval formulation. Being highly lipid soluble, both calcifediol and calcitriol travel in the bloodstream on carriage proteins, principally on vitamin D-binding protein.

This review reports our current understanding of vitamin D-binding protein. Its genetic determinants and their effect on it and secondarily on calcifediol concentrations and assays are described. Its complex interplay with parathyroid hormone is considered. The analytical state of the art is translated into the challenge it imposes clinically, in the formulation of reference intervals and in their use in advising and managing patients. Several recent challenges thrown up to laboratories by percipient clinicians highlight the dilemma vitamin D-binding protein poses. A way forward is suggested.
Late diagnosis of primary hyperoxaluria type III
Authors: Richard Emmanuel , Blouin Jean-Marc , Harambat Jérome , Llanas Brigitte , Bouchet Stéphane , Acquaviva Cécile , de la Faille Renaud
Published: October 2016

We report the case of a 78-year-old patient with late diagnosis of hyperoxaluria type III (PH3). He developed renal failure after nephrectomy for clear cell papillary renal carcinoma and complained of recurrent urolithiasis for some 30 years, whose aetiology was never identified. Biochemical laboratory investigations of urine and urolithiasis composition revealed marked hyperoxaluria but normal concentrations of urinary glyceric and glycolic acid as well as stones of idiopathic calcium-oxalate appearance. Furthermore, the dietary survey showed excessive consumption of food supplements containing massive amounts of oxalate precursors. However, the persistence of excessive hyperoxaluria after his eating habits was changed leading us to perform molecular genetic testing. We found heterozygous mutations of the recently PH3-associated HOGA1 gene when sequencing PH genes. This is the first description of late diagnosis primary PH3 in a patient with several additional pro-lithogenic factors. This case illustrates the importance of undertaking a complete biological work-up to determine the aetiology of hyperoxaluria. This may reveal underdiagnosed primary hyperoxaluria, even in older patients.
An ISBD perspective on the sociocultural challenges of managing bipolar disorder: A content analysis
Authors: Oedegaard Christine H , Berk Lesley , Berk Michael ,   International Society for Bipolar Disorders (ISBD) Transcultural Task Force, Youngstrom Eric A , Dilsaver Steven C , Belmaker Robert H , Oedegaard Ketil J , Fasmer Ole B , Engebretsen Ingunn M
Published: October 2016

Objective:

Clinical management of bipolar disorder patients might be affected by culture and is further dependent on the context of healthcare delivery. There is a need to understand how healthcare best can be delivered in various systems and cultures. The objective of this qualitative study was to gain knowledge about culture-specific values, beliefs and practices in the medical care provided to patients with bipolar disorders from a provider perspective in various areas of the world.

Sampling and methods:

The International Society for Bipolar Disorders (ISBD) network provided the framework for this qualitative study. An electronic interview with open-ended questions was administered to 19 international experts on bipolar spectrum disorder representing the International Society for Bipolar Disorders chapter network in 16 countries and six continents. In addition, there were two in-depth interviews with bipolar spectrum disorder experts done prior to the survey. The data were analysed using content analysis, and the information was structured using the software NVivo by QSR International Pty Ltd.

Findings:

All participants described sociocultural factors as important in healthcare delivery to bipolar patients in their part of the world, both in accessing healthcare and in providing culturally appropriate care. Factors that affected the provider’s ability to supply good clinical management of patients were access to treatment options and long-term follow-up, as well as general strategies to combat stigma. In some societies, the patients’ use of alternative treatments, gender issues and religion were also important factors. Understanding the impact of such culturally specific factors was overall regarded as essential for proper treatment interventions.

Conclusion:

Sociocultural factors clearly affect the nature and quality of medical services delivered to bipolar patients. Financial, social and cultural factors affect patients’ health-seeking behaviour, and this highlights the need for knowledge about such factors in order to adequately identify and treat bipolar patients globally. Culturally adapted training and psychoeducation programmes are particularly warranted.
LGBTQ Youth’s Perceptions of Primary Care
Authors: Snyder Barbara K. , Burack Gail D. , Petrova Anna
Published: October 2016

Despite published guidelines on the need to provide comprehensive care to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning/queer (LGBTQ) youth, there has been limited research related to the deliverance of primary health care to this population. The goals of this study were to learn about LGBTQ youth’s experiences with their primary care physicians and to identify areas for improvement. Youth attending 1 of 5 community-based programs completed a written questionnaire and participated in a focus group discussion regarding experiences at primary care visits, including topics discussed, counselling received, and physician communication. Most of the youth did not feel their health care needs were well met. The majority acknowledged poor patient-provider communication, disrespect, and lack of discussions about important topics such as sexual and emotional health. Participants cited concerns about confidentiality and inappropriate comments as barriers to care. Youth expressed a strong desire to have physicians be more aware of their needs and concerns.
Street-level bureaucrats as strategy shapers in social and health service delivery: Empirical evidence from six countries
Authors: Virtanen Petri , Laitinen Ilpo , Stenvall Jari
Published: October 2016

In this research article, we discuss the social construction of public services within the conceptual and theoretical framework provided by Lipsky. We are interested in what it means if/when street-level bureaucrats (SLBs) have an active role in the construction of a service system. We argue that there are multiple realities in terms of the construction of public services and we approach the question by deploying Lipsky’s notion on SLBs by empirically analysing middle managers’ views on how SLBs act and their role in this construction process. This paper is based on empirical interviews (N=100) collated in 2012 from Barcelona, Den Bosch, Glasgow, Melbourne, Toronto, Vancouver, the Greater London area, and the US state of Vermont. The research collation strategy was to include reform-oriented cities and countries in terms of developing and delivering public services. We found that SLBs have three different kinds of strategies in the construction process: policy-making, working practices, and professionalism. We found that there are no conflicts arising from SLBs’ beliefs, organisational demands, and rules and regulations. Instead, SLBs try to solve conflicts or bridge gaps between policy-making and practical work in the boundaries between SLBs and service users. Based on this research, the role of SLBs and the built-in flexibility and agility of public service leadership and organisations must be addressed and developed further. The role of organisational learning and changing organisational cultures must also be scrutinized in the context of public service systems. The analysis of professional resilience in the context of public services planning needs more theoretical and empirical attention. The resilience of organisations and the capacities of SLBs need to be researched more. Finally, there is the need for better cultivation of the role of the SLBs and service users with regard to accountability aspects (horizontal and vertical).
The role of international non-governmental organizations in service delivery for orphans and abandoned children in China
Authors: Chui Cheryl , Jordan Lucy P
Published: October 2016

This article examines the role of international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) in social welfare provision in addressing the developmental and material needs of orphans in rural China. Data from qualitative interviews with INGO representatives and state officials were combined with documentary analysis to investigate the ways in which the state and civil society respond to orphans’ needs. It was found that while INGOs are actively contributing to the social provision of orphans, in part reflecting the pluralization of welfare, there is an urgent need for the Chinese government to play a more proactive role in safeguarding the care and protection of one of China’s most vulnerable population groups.
Solidarity Clinics and social work in the era of crisis in Greece
Authors: Teloni Dimitra-Dora , Adam Sofia
Published: October 2016

After the eruption of the crisis and the imposition of strict austerity measures, a number of grassroots solidarity initiatives emerged in Greece. The growth of Solidarity Clinics (SCs) emerged as an answer to the lack of primary health care for around 2.5 million people who were excluded from the national health system. This article presents and discusses the findings of a research project conducted from May 2014 to September 2014 in Greece. The aim and profile of SCs as well as the involvement of social workers in the initiatives are presented and discussed within the framework of the role of social work.
Francis Cress Welsing’s Contributions to Africana Studies Epistemology
Authors: Jayawardene Sureshi M. , McDougal Serie
Published: October 2016

Francis Cress Welsing, a Black psychiatrist and medical school professor, advanced one of the most notable and controversial theories about the perpetuation of global White supremacy. The cress theory of color confrontation (CTCC) seeks to etiologically explain the varying degrees of White supremacist patterns of behavior that shape White interaction with Black people in particular and “non-White” people in general. White supremacy has been under-theorized in Africana Studies save for a few key scholars. The present investigation seeks to locate the CTCC within Africana Studies in terms of Christian’s, McDougal’s, Karenga’s, and Banks’s epistemological models, and to estimate the analytical value it adds to knowledge production in the discipline. This analysis concludes that CTCC both enhances and challenges Africana Studies. It offers a systematic scientific examination of White supremacist behaviors and psychology to equip Africana communities for the continuing needs of the freedom struggle. CTCC also challenges Africana Studies in that in order to move beyond a reactive posture toward racism, it is necessary to direct systematic attention, resources, and research toward studying White thought, in order to understand, anticipate, and defeat its efforts to oppress people of African descent.
Lessons on Political Violence from America’s Post–9/11 Wars
Authors: Mikulaschek Christoph , Shapiro Jacob N.
Published: October 2016

A large literature has emerged in political science that studies the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. This article summarizes the lessons learned from this literature, both theoretical and practical. To put this emerging knowledge base into perspective, we review findings along two dimensions of conflict: factors influencing whether states or substate groups enter into conflict in the first place and variables affecting the intensity of fighting at particular times and places once war has started. We then discuss the external validity issues entailed in learning about contemporary wars and insurgencies from research focused on the Afghanistan and Iraq wars during the period of US involvement. We close by summarizing the uniquely rich qualitative and quantitative data on these wars (both publicly available and what likely exists but has not been released) and outline potential avenues for future research.
Differences in Empathic Concern and Perspective Taking Across 63 Countries
Authors: Chopik William J. , O’Brien Ed , Konrath Sara H.
Published: October 2016

Cultural practices socialize people to relate to others in different ways. One critical way in which these interpersonal bonds are formed and maintained is via empathy, our emotional reactivity toward others’ experiences. However, the extent to which individuals from different cultures vary in their dispositional empathy, and the correlates of these differences, are relatively unknown. Thus, the current study explored cultural variation in empathy, and how this variation is related to psychological characteristics and prosocial behavior across cultures. Evidence from an original sample of 104,365 adults across 63 countries reveals that higher empathy countries also have higher levels of collectivism, agreeableness, conscientiousness, self-esteem, emotionality, subjective well-being, and prosocial behavior. These findings reveal that empathy is situated within a broader nomological network of other psychological characteristics, emotional expression and experiences, and prosocial behavior across cultures. The current study expands our understanding about how psychological characteristics vary across cultures and how these characteristics can manifest in broader national indicators of prosocial behavior.
Processing Relationships Between Language-Being-Spoken and Other Speech Dimensions in Monolingual and Bilingual Listeners
Authors: Vaughn Charlotte R. , Bradlow Ann R.
Published: October 2016

While indexical information is implicated in many levels of language processing, little is known about the internal structure of the system of indexical dimensions, particularly in bilinguals. A series of three experiments using the speeded classification paradigm investigated the relationship between various indexical and non-linguistic dimensions of speech in processing. Namely, we compared the relationship between a lesser-studied indexical dimension relevant to bilinguals, which language is being spoken (in these experiments, either Mandarin Chinese or English), with: talker identity (Experiment 1), talker gender (Experiment 2), and amplitude of speech (Experiment 3). Results demonstrate that language-being-spoken is integrated in processing with each of the other dimensions tested, and that these processing dependencies seem to be independent of listeners’ bilingual status or experience with the languages tested. Moreover, the data reveal processing interference asymmetries, suggesting a processing hierarchy for indexical, non-linguistic speech features.
Orientation image analysis of electrospun submicro-fibers based on Hough transform and Regionprops function
Authors: Zhang Lijuan , Yu Weidong
Published: October 2016

Popular electrospun technology can only obtain submicron fibers and fiber membranes in random or in slight orientation, in fact, they are not real nanofibers. A fast-rotating drum-collector has been introduced into the electrospinning setup to improve the orientation of electrospun fibers/membranes and, more importantly, to stretch the electrospun fibers. The measured results indicate that: (1) the submicro-fiber orientation and the angle frequency distribution can be characterized quantitatively by Hough transform (HT) and Regionprops function (RF) approaches, and the accuracy of HT is relatively higher than that of RF; (2) through changing the drum speed, an extra stretching force is exerted on the submicro-fibers, so making them thinner; and (3) the higher the drum surface speed, the greater is the orientation of the electrospun fibers, and the finer and stronger the submicro-fibers; their diameter ranges from about 250 nm at zero drum speed to 170 nm at 7 m/min, and may even get into the nanoscale—that is, 1–100 nm.
Influence of the homehold composting conditions on the structural changes of polylactide spun-bonded nonwovens during degradation
Authors: Puchalski Michał , Siwek Piotr , Biela Tadeusz , Sztajnowski Sławomir , Chrzanowski Michał , Kowalska Stanisława , Krucińska Izabella
Published: October 2016

In this study, the influence of homehold composting conditions on the molecular and supramolecular structure of polylactide (PLA) in the form of spun-bonded nonwovens was investigated. Nonwoven samples were studied using size-exclusion chromatography coupled with multiangle laser light scattering detection, wide-angle X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. In addition, the physical and mechanical properties of the nonwovens before and after composting were determined. The results show the varying degree of influence of the prepared compost mixtures of soil with common horticultural additives, such as chalk, commercially available agents, cow manure and chicken litter, on the molecular and supramolecular structure of PLA and its degradation rate. The obtained experiment explained which popular homehold agent had the strongest affect on the PLA nonwoven dedicated for agriculture use in the first period of season composting (first 6 months).
Intersectionopoly
Authors: Paino Maria , May Matthew , Burrington Lori A. , Becker Jacob H.
Published: October 2016

This article describes a simulation activity designed to teach students about the wage gap. The wage gap is an important topic in many sociology classrooms, but it can be difficult to convey the accumulated disadvantage experienced by women and racial/ethnic minorities to students using in-class discussions, lectures, or assigned readings alone. This is particularly true on college campuses that may draw their students from more affluent areas. Classroom simulations, however, provide an opportunity for students with all types of backgrounds to engage their sociological imaginations. In our simulation—Intersectionopoly—we use a modified version of Monopoly based on the wage gap and racial/ethnic minorities’ experiences of everyday life to illustrate how members of different racial and gender groups experience disparities in earnings. Unlike other versions of stratified Monopoly, this simulation more closely mirrors the subtle nature of discrimination in the contemporary United States.
Everyday Power Relations in State Firms in Socialist China: A Reexamination
Authors: Li Huaiyin
Published: October 2016

Drawing on interviews with 97 retirees from different cities, this article reinterprets power relations in state-owned enterprises during the Mao era, centering on an analysis of day-to-day interactions between factory cadres and workers and between the elites and the ordinary among workers. The main issues addressed in this study include how cadres exercised discretion in administrative activities that directly affected workers’ material and nonmaterial interests, such as wage raises, housing allocations, party membership, promotions, and political awards; to what extent workers developed personal dependence on their supervisors; and whether or not workers were split into two antagonistic groups of activists and nonactivists. Without denying the instances of favoritism and personal dependence in cadre-worker relations under certain circumstances, which became increasingly noticeable in the early reform years, this study underscores the constraints of formal and informal institutions on cadres and questions the validity of the clientelist model in explaining micro-political realities on the factory floor in Chinese industry before the reform era.
Generating Regime Support in Contemporary China
Authors: Dickson Bruce J. , Shen Mingming , Yan Jie
Published: October 2016

Autocrats may try to generate regime support in order to remain in power, but do they get the results they intend? This article analyzes the causes and consequences of regime support in China. We show two key findings. First, as in previous studies, we find significant differences in levels of support and trust for central and local political institutions, what we refer to as the “local legitimacy deficit.” The factors that produce support and trust in the central state have dissimilar impacts on local levels of the state. Second, rising prosperity, normative values, and institutional ties to the state—when analyzed together instead of viewed in isolation—do not influence regime support in the way expected by conventional wisdom. These findings have direct implications for state-society relations in contemporary China and for the sustainability of authoritarian regimes more generally.
Wanting to Be Different Predicts Nonmotivated Change
Authors: DeMarree Kenneth G. , Rios Kimberly , Randell J. Adam , Wheeler S. Christian , Reich Darcy A. , Petty Richard E.
Published: October 2016

Actual–desired discrepancies in people’s self-concepts represent structural incongruities in their self-representations that can lead people to experience subjective conflict. Theory and research suggest that structural incongruities predict susceptibility to subtle influences like priming and conditioning. Although typically examined for their motivational properties, we hypothesized that because self-discrepancies represent structural incongruities in people’s self-concepts, they should also predict susceptibility to subtle influences on people’s active self-views. Across three studies, we found that subtle change inductions (self-evaluative conditioning and priming) exerted greater impact on active self-perceptions and behavior as actual–desired self-discrepancies increased in magnitude. Exploratory analyses suggested that these changes occurred regardless of the compatibility of the change induction with individuals’ desired self-views.
Delighting the Customer: Creativity-Oriented High-Performance Work Systems, Frontline Employee Creative Performance, and Customer Satisfaction
Authors: Martinaityte Ieva , Sacramento Claudia , Aryee Samuel
Published: October 2016

Drawing on self-determination theory, we proposed and tested a cross-level model of how perceived creativity-oriented high-performance work systems (HPWS) influence customer satisfaction. Data were obtained from frontline employees (FLEs), their managers, and branch records of two organizations (retail bank and cosmetics) in Lithuania. Results of multilevel structural equation modeling analyses revealed partial support for our model. Although perceived creativity-oriented HPWS related to creative performance at the individual level, this effect was mediated solely by need satisfaction and not by creative process engagement nor by a serial mediation of both variables as we hypothesized. However, as we did hypothesize, average branch creative performance related to branch customer satisfaction. We interpret our findings as underscoring the utility of perceived creativity-oriented HPWS in fostering FLEs’ creative performance and ultimately, customer satisfaction.
Comparing adsorption of bisphenol A and similar compounds in aqueous solution by syringe filters
Authors: Godby Nathaniel , Conklin Alfred
Published: October 2016

Analyte loss during syringe filtration is often overlooked in quantitative analyses. Bisphenol A and similar compounds are being extensively examined for their toxicity. This study serves to characterize common syringe filters and their effects on analytical results. The adsorbance of bisphenol A and similar compounds by filter media made from cellulose acetate, nylon, and polytetrafluoroethylene was examined using UV–Vis spectroscopy. Samples of bis(4-hydroxydiphenyl)methane, bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)sulfone, 2,2-bis(3-methyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)propane, 4,4′-(propane-2,2-diyl)diphenol, 4-cumylphenol, and phenol were studied. Solutions were analyzed before and after filtration. Filter composition significantly affected analyte concentrations in the filtrate solutions.
Independent exercise for glottal incompetence to improve vocal problems and prevent aspiration pneumonia in the elderly: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Fujimaki Yoko , Tsunoda Koichi , Kobayashi Rika , Tonghyo Chong , Tanaka Fujinobu , Kuroda Hiroyuki , Numata Tsutomu , Ishii Toyota , Kuroda Reiko , Masuda Sawako , Hashimoto Sho , Misawa Hayato , Shindo Naoko , Mori Takahiro , Mori Hiroko , Uchiyama Naoki , Kamei Yuichirou , Tanaka Masashi , Hamaya Hironobu , Funatsuki Shingo , Usui Satoko , Ito Ikuno , Hamada Kohei , Shindo Akihito , Tokumaru Yutaka , Morita Yoko , Ueha Rumi , Nito Takaharu , Kikuta Shu , Sekimoto Sotaro , Kondo Kenji , Sakamoto Takashi , Itoh Kenji , Yamasoba Tatsuya , Matsumoto Sumio ,   Research Group for Aspiration Pneumonia, National Hospital Organization, Japan
Published: October 2016

Objectives:

To evaluate the effect of a self-controlled vocal exercise in elderly people with glottal closure insufficiency.

Design:

Parallel-arm, individual randomized controlled trial.

Methods:

Patients who visited one of 10 medical centers under the National Hospital Organization group in Japan for the first time, aged 60 years or older, complaining of aspiration or hoarseness, and endoscopically confirmed to have glottal closure insufficiency owing to vocal cord atrophy, were enrolled in this study. They were randomly assigned to an intervention or a control group. The patients of the intervention group were given guidance and a DVD about a self-controlled vocal exercise. The maximum phonation time which is a measure of glottal closure was evaluated, and the number of patients who developed pneumonia during the six months was compared between the two groups.

Results:

Of the 543 patients enrolled in this trial, 259 were allocated into the intervention group and 284 into the control; 60 of the intervention group and 75 of the control were not able to continue the trial. A total of 199 patients (age 73.9 ±7.25 years) in the intervention group and 209 (73.3 ±6.68 years) in the control completed the six-month trial. Intervention of the self-controlled vocal exercise extended the maximum phonation time significantly ( p < 0.001). There were two hospitalizations for pneumonia in the intervention group and 18 in the control group, representing a significant difference ( p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

The self-controlled vocal exercise allowed patients to achieve vocal cord adduction and improve glottal closure insufficiency, which reduced the rate of hospitalization for pneumonia significantly. Clinical Trial.gov Identifier-UMIN000015567
Magnetic resonance imaging of blood–brain barrier permeability in ischemic stroke using diffusion-weighted arterial spin labeling in rats
Authors: Tiwari Yash V , Lu Jianfei , Shen Qiang , Cerqueira Bianca , Duong Timothy Q
Published: October 2016

Diffusion-weighted arterial spin labeling magnetic resonance imaging has recently been proposed to quantify the rate of water exchange (Kw) across the blood–brain barrier in humans. This study aimed to evaluate the blood–brain barrier disruption in transient (60 min) ischemic stroke using Kw magnetic resonance imaging with cross-validation by dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging and Evans blue histology in the same rats. The major findings were: (i) at 90 min after stroke (30 min after reperfusion), group Kw magnetic resonance imaging data showed no significant blood–brain barrier permeability changes, although a few animals showed slightly abnormal Kw. Dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging confirmed this finding in the same animals. (ii) At two days after stroke, Kw magnetic resonance imaging revealed significant blood–brain barrier disruption. Regions with abnormal Kw showed substantial overlap with regions of hyperintense T2 (vasogenic edema) and hyperperfusion. Dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging and Evans blue histology confirmed these findings in the same animals. The Kw values in the normal contralesional hemisphere and the ipsilesional ischemic core two days after stroke were: 363 ± 17 and 261 ± 18 min−1, respectively (P < 0.05, n = 9). Kw magnetic resonance imaging is sensitive to blood–brain barrier permeability changes in stroke, consistent with dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging and Evans blue extravasation. Kw magnetic resonance imaging offers advantages over existing techniques because contrast agent is not needed and repeated measurements can be made for longitudinal monitoring or averaging.
In vivo variation in same-day estimates of metabotropic glutamate receptor subtype 5 binding using [11C]ABP688 and [18F]FPEB
Authors: DeLorenzo Christine , Gallezot Jean-Dominique , Gardus John , Yang Jie , Planeta Beata , Nabulsi Nabeel , Ogden R Todd , Labaree David C , Huang Yiyun H , Mann J John , Gasparini Fabrizio , Lin Xin , Javitch Jonathan A , Parsey Ramin V , Carson Richard E , Esterlis Irina
Published: October 2016

Positron emission tomography tracers [11C]ABP688 and [18F]FPEB target the metabotropic glutamate receptor subtype 5 providing quantification of the brain glutamatergic system in vivo. Previous [11C]ABP688 positron emission tomography human test–retest studies indicate that, when performed on the same day, significant binding increases are observed; however, little deviation is reported when scans are >7 days apart. Due to the small cohorts examined previously (eight and five males, respectively), we aimed to replicate the same-day test–retest studies in a larger cohort including both males and females. Results confirmed large within-subject binding differences (ranging from −23% to 108%), suggesting that measurements are greatly affected by study design. We further investigated whether this phenomenon was specific to [11C]ABP688. Using [18F]FPEB and methodology that accounts for residual radioactivity from the test scan, four subjects were scanned twice on the same day. In these subjects, binding estimates increased between 5% and 39% between scans. Consistent with [11C]ABP688, mean absolute test–retest variability was previously reported as <12% when scans were >21 days apart. This replication study and pilot extension to [18F]FPEB suggest that observed within-day binding variation may be due to characteristics of mGluR5; for example, diurnal variation in mGluR5 may affect measurement of this receptor.
Reappraisal of the reference levels for energy metabolites in the extracellular fluid of the human brain
Authors: Sánchez-Guerrero Angela , Mur-Bonet Gemma , Vidal-Jorge Marian , Gándara-Sabatini Darío , Chocrón Ivette , Cordero Esteban , Poca Maria-Antonia , Mullen Katharine , Sahuquillo Juan
Published: October 2016

Cerebral microdialysis is widely used in neurocritical care units. The goal of this study was to establish the reference interval for the interstitial fluid concentrations of energy metabolites and glycerol by using the extrapolation to zero-flow methodology in anesthetized patients and by constant perfusion at 0.3 µL/min in awake patients. A CMA-71 probe was implanted during surgery in normal white matter of patients with posterior fossa or supratentorial lesions, and the perfusion flow rate was randomized to 0.1, 0.3, 0.6, 1.2, and 2.4 µL/min. Within 24 h of surgery, perfusion was restarted at a constant 0.3 µL/min in fully awake patients. The actual interstitial fluid metabolite concentrations were calculated using the zero-flow methodology. In vitro experiments were also conducted to evaluate the reproducibility of the in vivo methodology. Nineteen patients (seven males) with a median age of 44 years (range: 21–69) were included in the in vivo study. The median (lower–upper) reference interval values were 1.57 (1.15–4.13 mmol/L) for glucose, 2.01 (1.30–5.31 mmol/L) for lactate, 80.0 (54.4–197.0 µmol/L) for pyruvate, and 49.9 (23.6–227.3 µmol/L) for glycerol. The reference intervals reported raises the need to reconsider traditional definitions of brain metabolic disturbances and emphasize the importance of using different thresholds for awake patients and patients under anesthesia.
Function of neural stem cells in ischemic brain repair processes
Authors: Zhang Ruilan , Zhang Zhenggang , Chopp Michael
Published: October 2016

Hypoxic/ischemic injury is the single most important cause of disabilities in infants, while stroke remains a leading cause of morbidity in children and adults around the world. The injured brain has limited repair capacity, and thereby only modest improvement of neurological function is evident post injury. In rodents, embryonic neural stem cells in the ventricular zone generate cortical neurons, and adult neural stem cells in the ventricular–subventricular zone of the lateral ventricle produce new neurons through animal life. In addition to generation of new neurons, neural stem cells contribute to oligodendrogenesis. Neurogenesis and oligodendrogenesis are essential for repair of injured brain. Much progress has been made in preclinical studies on elucidating the cellular and molecular mechanisms that control and coordinate neurogenesis and oligodendrogenesis in perinatal hypoxic/ischemic injury and the adult ischemic brain. This article will review these findings with a focus on the ventricular–subventricular zone neurogenic niche and discuss potential applications to facilitate endogenous neurogenesis and thereby to improve neurological function post perinatal hypoxic/ischemic injury and stroke.
The effect of dichloroacetate on male rat thymus and on thymocyte cell cycle
Authors: Stanevičiūtė Jurate , Urbonienė Daiva , Valančiūtė Angelija , Balnytė Ingrida , Vitkauskienė Astra , Grigalevičienė Brigita , Stakišaitis Donatas
Published: October 2016

The study aim was to investigate the effect of dichloroacetate (DCA) on thymus and the thymocyte cycle in rats. Wistar male gonad-intact and castrated rats (4–5 weeks) were investigated in the following groups: (1) control; (2) treated with DCA; and (3) treated with the DCA and sodium valproate (NaVP) combination. Rats were treated for 4 weeks with DCA 200 mg/kg/day alone and 300 mg/kg/day of NaVP plus 200 mg/kg/day of DCA (every second week, beginning with NaVP). After the experiment, the thymus was weighted, and the thymus lobe was taken for thymocyte flow cytometry. In gonad-intact rats, the thymus weight of the control was higher than in rats treated with DCA ( P <0.001) or with the NaVP–DCA combination ( P <0.04); a comparison of thymus weight between DCA- and NaVP–DCA-treated groups revealed a higher thymus weight loss in the DCA-treated group ( P <0.03). Flow cytometry shows that DCA treatment increased the percentage of cells in the G2–M phase ( P <0.03) and reduced in G1–G0 ( P <0.02). The DCA treatment effect was determined only in gonad-intact but not in castrated rats. The authors discuss the possible DCA and NaVP interaction mechanisms.
Characterisation of excavated fine fraction and waste composition from a Swedish landfill
Authors: Jani Yahya , Kaczala Fabio , Marchand Charlotte , Hogland Marika , Kriipsalu Mait , Hogland William , Kihl Anders
Published: October 2016

The present research studies the characterisation and the physico-chemical properties of an excavated fine fraction (<10 mm) from a Swedish landfill, the Högbytorp. The results showed that the fine fraction represents 38% by mass of the total excavated wastes and it contains mainly soil-type materials and minerals. Higher concentrations of zinc, copper, barium and chromium were found with concentrations higher than the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for contaminated soil. The found moisture and organic contents of the fine fraction were 23.5% and 16.6%, respectively. The analysed calorific value (1.7 MJ kg−1), the potential of CH4 (4.74 m3 t−1 dry matter) and Total Organic Carbon (TOC) (5.6%) were low and offer low potential of energy. Sieving the fine fraction further showed that 80% was smaller than 2 mm. The fine represents a major fraction at any landfill (40%–70%), therefore, characterising the properties of this fraction is essential to find the potential of reusing/recycling or safely redisposing.
Contaminant retention characteristics of fly ash–bentonite mixes
Authors: Deka Abhijit , Sekharan Sreedeep
Published: October 2016

It is important to determine the contaminant retention characteristics of materials when assessing their suitability for use as liners in landfill sites. Sand–bentonite mixtures are commonly used as liners in the construction of landfill sites for industrial and hazardous wastes. Sand is considered to be a passive material with a negligible chemical retention capacity; fly ash, however, offers the additional advantage of adsorbing the heavy metals present in landfill leachates. There have been few studies of the contaminant retention characteristics of fly ash–bentonite mixes. The study reported here determined the contaminant retention characteristics of different fly ashes, bentonite and selected fly ash–bentonite mixes for Pb2+ using 24 h batch tests. The tests were conducted by varying the initial concentrations of metal ions under uncontrolled pH conditions. The efficiency of the removal of Pb2+ by the different types of fly ash and fly ash–bentonite mixes was studied. The influence of multiple sources of fly ash on the retention characteristics of fly ash–bentonite mixes was investigated.