bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Latinx Immigrant Youth’s Indirect and Direct Disclosures About Their Family-Undocumented Experiences, Received Emotional Support, and Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Kam Jennifer A. , Merolla Andy J. , High Andrew C.
Published: June 2019

Drawing upon sensitive interaction systems theory, this study investigated Latinx immigrant youth’s indirect and direct disclosures about their family-undocumented experiences (i.e., informing others of their own or family’s undocumented experiences, including details surrounding their undocumented situation) to a teacher(s) or a friend(s). Furthermore, this study examined how such disclosures relate to subsequent disclosure and to received emotional support across an academic year. Received emotional support, in turn, was theorized to predict youth’s depressive symptoms. Survey data were collected in the beginning, middle, and end of the 2015-2016 academic year from 410 Latinx family-undocumented students (ninth-12th grades). Latinx students reported more indirect than direct disclosures about their family-undocumented experiences, potentially as a way to seek support. They also reported greater indirect and direct disclosure about their family-undocumented experiences to a friend(s) compared with a teacher(s). Emotional support did not significantly mediate the associations between disclosure and depressive symptoms; however, indirect and direct disclosures to a friend(s) positively related to depressive symptoms within various waves.
From Me to You: Self-Compassion Predicts Acceptance of Own and Others’ Imperfections
Authors: Zhang Jia Wei , Chen Serena , Tomova Shakur Teodora K.
Published: June 2019

Self-compassion offers many personal benefits. However, whether and how the benefits of self-compassion may transmit to others remains unclear. Across three studies, we demonstrated that one way in which the benefits of being self-compassionate can spread from the self to others is by increasing acceptance of one’s own imperfections, which may, in turn, enhance acceptance of others’ imperfections. Specifically, Studies 1 and 2 found that self-compassionate people reported more acceptance of their own flaw, which, in turn, predicted greater acceptance of their romantic partner’s and acquaintance’s flaws. Study 3 used a dyadic design with romantic couples and found that self-compassion promoted felt acceptance of one’s own flaw by both members in the relationship. This occurred by virtue of acceptance of one’s own flaw, which, in turn, promoted greater acceptance of each other’s flaws. We discuss the implications of these results for future research on self-compassion.
The multidimensional subjective financial well-being scale for emerging adults: Development and validation studies
Authors: Sorgente Angela , Lanz Margherita
Published: June 2019

After the 2008 economic crisis, the financial condition of youth has become a frequent research topic and the need for an instrument measuring financial constructs relevant for this stage of life is increasing. The current paper consists of four studies aiming to develop and validate an instrument measuring subjective financial well-being in a population of European emerging adults. The first study collected qualitative data – performing interviews with experts and the target population – in order to contextualize the construct. Based on these results, we developed the initial 44-item version of the scale. The second study aimed to test the psychometric characteristics of these items. There were 25 items measuring five different aspects of subjective financial well-being (general subjective financial well-being, money management, peer comparison, having money, financial future) with acceptable psychometric properties. The third study aimed to collect validity evidence about the newly developed scale. Five different kinds of evidence suggested that the scale is a good measure of subjective financial well-being. The last study tested measurement invariance between the Portuguese and Italian versions of the scale. Results suggested that the Multidimensional Subjective Financial Well-being Scale works well in both countries.
Can information campaigns impact preferences toward vote selling? Theory and evidence from Kenya
Authors: Erlich Aaron
Published: June 2019

What factors shape citizens’ willingness to engage in vote selling? This paper argues that providing voters with information about the detrimental effect of vote selling (public service predation) or telling them that their community members will look down on them if they engage in the practice (social sanctioning) can shape vote-selling attitudes in emerging democracies. Using a nationwide randomized survey experiment carried out between May and June of 2012 in Kenya, this study primes voters with theory-based informational messages for voters to test whether such messages can potentially curtail vote-selling attitudes. The paper finds that both public service predation and social sanctioning messages can reduce stated vote-selling preferences as much as legal campaigns that have been tested previously. The study has important implications for researchers and policy-makers because it suggests alternative methods to change vote-selling attitudes and even behavior in the short- to medium-term.
Sizing of medical below-knee compression stockings in an Indian population: A major risk factor for non-compliance
Authors: Jindal Ravul , Uhl Jean-Francois , Benigni JP
Published: June 2019

Background

The compliance to compression stockings in India is poor. One of the reasons is related to the inadequacy of sizing tables of compression stockings sold in India by western companies.

Methods

In 922 Indian patients, three circumference measurements of leg were taken in a standing position at different levels: Instep (level Y), Ankle (level B) and largest part of the calf (level C). We compared these measurements with the standard sizing tables according to the recommendations of the manufacturers’ sizing tables. The statistical analysis method: mean comparison of the circumferences was tested with the Wilcoxon test.

Result

The measurements found do not allow a satisfactory adaptation of compression stockings marketed in India by Medi®, Sigvaris® and Jobst®. The risk of threading difficulties is 15% with Medi® and Sigvaris® compression stockings. The risk of slippage is 61% for Sigvaris® and 48% for Medi®. With the Jobst® sizing table, no knitting makes it possible to reach a pressure at point C equal to at least 50% of the pressure of point B.

Conclusion

These data underline the need to adapt the measurements of compression stockings to the morphologies of patients' lower limbs in India, to improve compliance.
Which outcome domains are important in palliative care and when? An international expert consensus workshop, using the nominal group technique
Authors: de Wolf-Linder Susanne , Dawkins Marsha , Wicks Francesca , Pask Sophie , Eagar Kathy , Evans Catherine J , Higginson Irene J , Murtagh Fliss E M
Published: June 2019

Background:

When capturing patient-level outcomes in palliative care, it is essential to identify which outcome domains are most important and focus efforts to capture these, in order to improve quality of care and minimise collection burden.

Aim:

To determine which domains of palliative care are most important for measurement of outcomes, and the optimal time period over which these should be measured.

Design:

An international expert consensus workshop using nominal group technique. Data were analysed descriptively, and weighted according to ranking (1–5, lowest to highest priority) of domains. Participants’ rationales for their choices were analysed thematically.

Setting/participants:

In all, 33 clinicians and researchers working globally in palliative care outcome measurement participated. Two groups (n = 16; n = 17) answered one question each (either on domains or optimal timing). This workshop was conducted at the 9th World Research Congress of the European Association for Palliative Care in 2016.

Results:

Participants’ years of experience in palliative care and in outcome measurement ranged from 10.9 to 14.7 years and 5.8 to 6.4 years, respectively. The mean scores (weighted by rank) for the top-ranked domains were ‘overall wellbeing/quality of life’ (2.75), ‘pain’ (2.06), and ‘information needs/preferences’ (2.06), respectively. The palliative measure ‘Phase of Illness’ was recommended as the preferred measure of time period over which the domains were measured.

Conclusion:

The domains of ‘overall wellbeing/quality of life’, ‘pain’, and ‘information needs/preferences’ are recommended for regular measurement, assessed using ‘Phase of Illness’. International adoption of these recommendations will help standardise approaches to improving the quality of palliative care.
A brief, patient- and proxy-reported outcome measure in advanced illness: Validity, reliability and responsiveness of the Integrated Palliative care Outcome Scale (IPOS)
Authors: Murtagh Fliss EM , Ramsenthaler Christina , Firth Alice , Groeneveld Esther I , Lovell Natasha , Simon Steffen T , Denzel Johannes , Guo Ping , Bernhardt Florian , Schildmann Eva , van Oorschot Birgitt , Hodiamont Farina , Streitwieser Sabine , Higginson Irene J , Bausewein Claudia
Published: June 2019

Background:

Few measures capture the complex symptoms and concerns of those receiving palliative care.

Aim:

To validate the Integrated Palliative care Outcome Scale, a measure underpinned by extensive psychometric development, by evaluating its validity, reliability and responsiveness to change.

Design:

Concurrent, cross-cultural validation study of the Integrated Palliative care Outcome Scale – both (1) patient self-report and (2) staff proxy-report versions. We tested construct validity (factor analysis, known-group comparisons, and correlational analysis), reliability (internal consistency, agreement, and test–retest reliability), and responsiveness (through longitudinal evaluation of change).

Setting/participants:

In all, 376 adults receiving palliative care, and 161 clinicians, from a range of settings in the United Kingdom and Germany

Results:

We confirm a three-factor structure (Physical Symptoms, Emotional Symptoms and Communication/Practical Issues). Integrated Palliative care Outcome Scale shows strong ability to distinguish between clinically relevant groups; total Integrated Palliative care Outcome Scale and Integrated Palliative care Outcome Scale subscale scores were higher – reflecting more problems – in those patients with ‘unstable’ or ‘deteriorating’ versus ‘stable’ Phase of Illness (F = 15.1, p < 0.001). Good convergent and discriminant validity to hypothesised items and subscales of the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–General is demonstrated. The Integrated Palliative care Outcome Scale shows good internal consistency (α = 0.77) and acceptable to good test–retest reliability (60% of items kw > 0.60). Longitudinal validity in form of responsiveness to change is good.

Conclusion:

The Integrated Palliative care Outcome Scale is a valid and reliable outcome measure, both in patient self-report and staff proxy-report versions. It can assess and monitor symptoms and concerns in advanced illness, determine the impact of healthcare interventions, and demonstrate quality of care. This represents a major step forward internationally for palliative care outcome measurement.
Effect of microRNA-29b on proliferation, migration, and invasion of endometrial cancer cells
Authors: Kong Jian , He Xiuting , Wang Yan , Li Jie
Published: June 2019

Objective

Aberrant expression of microRNAs is a key regulator of tumorigenesis and progression in endometrial cancer. We assessed the effect of microRNA-29b (miR-29b) on proliferation, chemosensitivity, migration, and invasion of endometrial cancer cells.

Methods

The proliferation of endometrial cancer cells was examined by water-soluble tetrazolium (WST)-1 assay. The effects of miR-29b on migration and invasion were evaluated by transwell migration and Matrigel invasion assays. Western blotting was used to assess protein expression levels after altered expression of miR-29b. The effect of miR-29b on cisplatin-induced apoptosis was examined by Caspase-Glo 3/7 assay.

Results

miR-29b inhibited proliferation and decreased migration and invasion of endometrial cancer cells. It also enhanced the sensitivity of endometrial cancer cells to cisplatin and increased cisplatin-induced apoptosis by regulating expression of BAX and Bcl-2. Moreover, miR-29b changed the expression level of phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) and p-AKT by directly binding to the 3′ untranslated region of PTEN.

Conclusion

miR-29b played important roles in proliferation and progression in endometrial cancer cells by direct regulation of PTEN. It might be used as a biomarker to predict chemotherapy response and prognosis in endometrial cancer.
Effects of Luo Han Guo on throat complications associated with tracheal intubation: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Tan Hui-Lian , Liang Yu-Kun , Li Yong-Ming , Qiu Li-Yu , Huang Rui , Guo Li , Yang Xiao-Hua , Lu Hui-Xia , Liang Hong-Mei , Chen Ai-Ping
Published: June 2019

Objectives

Conventional treatment for throat complications after surgery involves the use of hormone therapy, which has variable effects. This study was performed to investigate the effects of oral administration of Luo Han Guo decoction for throat complications after tracheal intubation during general anesthesia for laparoscopic radical hysterectomy.

Methods

Beginning at 6 h after surgery, patients in the experimental group were administered 30 mL of a Luo Han Guo decoction; the control group received black tea. Patients in both groups were evaluated using a Visual Analogue Scale for the degree of throat soreness at 2, 12, 24, and 48 h after surgery; coughing and expectoration were evaluated at 48 h after surgery.

Results

This study included 203 patients: 102 in the experimental group and 101 in the control group. Compared with controls, the experimental group had significantly lower evaluation scores at 12, 24, and 48 hours postoperatively. Moreover, at 48 hours postoperatively, coughing and expectoration were significantly reduced in the experimental group, compared with in the control group.

Conclusions

Administration of a Luo Han Guo decoction can effectively reduce throat pain, hoarseness, throat swelling, cough, and sputum after tracheal intubation during general anesthesia.
Preventative effects of aripiprazole and quetiapine on seizure and lethality in a mice cocaine toxicity model: an experimental study
Authors: Yilmaz Atakan , Erdur Bulent , Ozen Mert , Sabirli Ramazan , Turkcuer Ibrahim , Sarohan Ahmet , Seyit Murat
Published: June 2019

Objective

To assess the effectiveness of pre-treatment with aripiprazole and quetiapine to prevent acute cocaine toxicity in a mouse model of cocaine toxicity.

Methods

This experimental study included three groups ( n = 25 per group) of mice that were intraperitoneally injected with normal saline solution, 10 mg/kg quetiapine or 10 mg/kg aripiprazole 15 min before 105 mg/kg cocaine hydrochloride. When the cocaine administration was completed, researchers blinded to the study groups observed the mice in terms of seizures and death for a further 30 min.

Results

In the cocaine + quetiapine group, the mean ± SE time to the first seizure was 10.80 ± 2.27 min and seizure activity was detected in 18 mice (72%) by the end of the 30 min. In the cocaine + aripiprazole group, the mean ± SE time to the first seizure was 18.10 ± 1.94 min and seizure activity was detected in 15 mice (60%) by the end of the 30 min. When compared with the control group, there was a significant difference between the cocaine + quetiapine and cocaine + aripiprazole groups in terms of seizure activity. Survival time was increased in the cocaine + aripiprazole group compared with the control and cocaine + quetiapine groups.

Conclusion

Quetiapine and aripiprazole pre-treatment reduced seizure activity and delayed the onset of seizures compared with the control group.
Regulatory brokerage: Competitive advantage and regulation in the field of regenerative medicine
Authors: Sleeboom-Faulkner Margaret
Published: June 2019

This article concerns the roles of entrepreneurial scientists in the co-production of life science research and regulation. Regulatory brokerage, defined as a mode of strategic planning and as the negotiation of regulation based on comparative advantage and competition, is expressed in scientific activities that take advantage of regulatory difference. This article is based on social science research in Japan, Thailand, India and the UK. Using five cases related to Japan’s international activities in the field of regenerative medicine, I argue that, driven by competitive advantage, regulatory brokerage at lower levels of managerial organization and governance is emulated at higher levels. In addition, as regulatory brokerage affects the creation of regulation at national, bilateral and global levels, new regulation may be based on competition in regulatory advantage rather than on ethical and scientific values. I argue that regulatory brokerage as the basis for regulatory reform bypasses issues that need to be decided by a broader public. More space is needed for international and political debate about the socio-political consequences of the global diversity of regulation in the field of the life sciences.
Day-to-Day Learning Framework for Online Origin–Destination Demand Estimation and Network State Prediction
Authors: Kim Eunhye , Mahmassani Hani S. , Ale-Ahmad Haleh , Ostojic Marija
Published: June 2019

Origin–destination (O–D) demand is a critical component in both online and offline dynamic traffic assignment (DTA) systems. Recent advances in real-time DTA applications in large networks call for robust and efficient methodologies for online O–D demand estimation and prediction. This study presents a day-to-day learning framework for a priori O–D demand, along with a predictive data-driven O–D correction approach for online consistency between predicted and observed (sensor) values. When deviations between simulation and real world are observed, a consistency-checking module initiates O–D demand correction for the given prediction horizon. Two predictive correction methods are suggested: 1) simple gradient method, and 2) Taylor approximation method. New O–D demand matrices, corrected for 24 simulation hours by the correction module, are used as the updated a priori demand for the next day simulation. The methodology is tested in a real-world network, Kansas City, MO, for a 3-day period. Actual tests in real-world networks of online DTA systems have been very limited in the literature and in actual practice. The test results are analyzed in time and space dimensions. The overall performance of observed links is assessed. To measure the impact of O–D correction and daily O–D updates, traffic prediction performance with the new modules is compared with the base case. Predictive O–D correction improves prediction performance in a long prediction window. Also, daily updated O–D demand provides better initial states for traffic prediction, enhancing prediction in short prediction windows. The two modules collectively improve traffic prediction performance of the real-time DTA system.
Structural equation modeling of work-related conditions on safety perception and safety education in waste and recycling collectors
Authors: Shin Dong Seok , Park Myoung Hwan , Jeong Byung Yong
Published: June 2019

Waste and recycling collectors are responsible for cleaning, collecting, transporting and sorting various garbage. The purpose of this study is to investigate relationships between work-related conditions, safety perception and safety education in waste and recycling collectors. A total of 675 workers who collect domestic, street, recyclable or food waste were selected by stratified sampling in the waste and recycling industry. A structural equation model was used to analyze whether work-related conditions and safety perception affect safety education factors and whether there exists a causal relationship between them. According to the results of structural equation modeling, work-related conditions directly affect the level of safety education and indirectly affect the level of safety education by having an impact on safety perception. Waste and recycling collectors are more likely to participate in safety education and to be more concerned about safety education as company size and salaries increase. The results of this study suggest that accident-prevention measures that are appropriate to job characteristics are effective because worker’s features and their safety climate are different according to job type in the service industry.
German Translation of the Satisfaction With Life Scale for Children and Adolescents
Authors: Lang Jessica , Schmitz Bernhard
Published: June 2019

The research in the field of positive psychology is alive for children and adolescents, and especially the effects of intervention studies are promising. While a large number of instruments exist for adults, there is a need for greater attention to basic measurement work of constructs for children. The Satisfaction With Life Scale is one of the most common questionnaires used in the field of positive psychology. Whereas the adult version is translated into many languages, the child version has only been translated into a few languages yet. This is a limitation for countries where young students are not familiar with the English language. The aim of the present study was to translate the Satisfaction With Life Scale–child version (SWLS-C) into German with the use of a backtranslation-proceeding (Study 1) and to validate the questionnaire with a sample of 1,099 students aged 8 to 17 years (Study 2). This included retesting of reliability as well as concurrent and discriminant validity by additionally measuring several established constructs of positive psychology. Model fit indices, internal consistencies, retest reliability as well as concurrent and discriminant validity evidence were satisfying. The German version of the SWLS-C can be used in future studies, but to compare SWLS-C data of different nationalities more translations of the questionnaire as well as crosscultural measurement invariance studies are needed.
Intravenous Immunoglobulin as a Therapeutic Option for Mycoplasma pneumoniae Encephalitis
Authors: Daba Mebratu , Kang Peter B. , Sladky John , Bidari Sharatchandra S. , Lawrence Robert M. , Ghosh Suman
Published: June 2019

Objective:

To analyze the outcomes of a cohort of children diagnosed with Mycoplasma pneumoniae encephalitis whose treatment regimens included intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG).

Methods:

A retrospective study was performed at a single center between 2011 and 2016 of children diagnosed with Mycoplasma pneumoniae encephalitis whose acute treatment regimen included IVIG. Details of therapeutic interventions and the clinical course were retrieved from medical records via an institutionally approved protocol. The modified Rankin score was used to quantify outcomes.

Results:

Four children met inclusion criteria, 3 of whom had prodromal symptoms of infection lasting 5 to 7 days before onset of their neurologic symptoms. One patient presented with neurologic symptoms with no clinical prodrome. The initial treatment regimen included systemic corticosteroids, antibiotics, or both. IVIG was administered for a total dose of 2 g/kg divided over 2 to 4 days to all 4 children. All children showed clinical improvement after IVIG. The 3 children with prodromal symptoms showed immediate and dramatic clinical improvement after IVIG therapy.

Discussion:

The immediate response to immunomodulatory therapy in the patients with prodrome suggests that the neurologic syndrome may be caused at least in part by an autoimmune process. The child who did not respond to IVIG had no prodrome, and also had normal electroencephalographic (EEG) and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings. These cases suggest that early administration of IVIG should be considered in patients suspected of having Mycoplasma encephalitis, particularly in those who have had prodromal symptoms.
Study of the hydrolytic degradation of poly-3-hydroxybutyrate in the development of blends and polymeric bionanocomposites
Authors: Silva Raquel do Nascimento , da Silva Lucas Rafael Carneiro , de Morais Ana Carolina Lemos , Alves Tatianny Soares , Barbosa Renata
Published: June 2019

Bionanocomposites of poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (PHB), polyethylene glycol (PEG), and organophilic vermiculite (VMT) clay were prepared at 95/5/3% and 90/10/3%and blends at 95/5% and 90/10% PHB/PEG in the form of films obtained via solution intercalation. The films were submitted to hydrolytic degradation according to the ASTM F1635-11. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, mass loss, visual inspection, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy evaluated the properties of films. XRD analysis showed that the polymer chains were intercalated into the organoclay layers, and some degree of exfoliation was observed from this analysis. FTIR was performed to calculate the carbonyl index and to quantify the causing group of the degradation process. The visual inspection results showed that the film surfaces were whitened and brittle. This characteristic was more evident for the 90/10% PHB/PEG blend and 90/10/3% PHB/PEG/VMT composite. The addition of the organophilic VMT clay at 95/5/3% (PHB/PEG/VMT) displayed a larger mass loss; FTIR showed that degradation of pure PHB occurred in the amorphous regions and that the presence of PEG and VMT increased the polymer degradation, decreasing crystallinity.
Precision machining of biopolymers: A brief review of the literature and case study on diamond turning
Authors: Mishra Vinod , Singh Gagandeep , Yadav Chandra B , Karar Vinod , Prakash Chander , Singh Sunpreet
Published: June 2019

Nowadays, biomaterials have attained great importance in medical sector owing to the urgent requirement of the material systems which can be suitable for different sorts of human body treatments. Among the various biomaterials available, commercially, polymeric materials occupy great importance because of their near-to-organ characteristics, biocompatibility, corrosion resistance, and other essential mechanical features. The current applications of biopolymers include scaffolding, load-bearing implants, intraocular lenses, artificial heart valves, cardiovascular prostheses, cardiopulmonary bypass, hemodialysis, and dental and orthopedic applications. Although there exist numerous established fabrication routes for biopolymers, yet, their post processing is often required in order to achieve required geometrical and topographical performances. Therefore, machining of the processed biopolymers is often required. The aim of this article was to present a crisp review of the machining of different biopolymers. Further, being an ultraprecision machining operation, specific attention has been paid on the diamond turning technique as well as a case study has been performed to study the effect of process parameters on the resulting characteristics. Overall, the current work will provide a unique platform which could be helpful for young biomedical engineers and scientists focusing on precision surface engineering.
The efficacy of cheap talk in collective action problems
Authors: Kenkel Brenton
Published: June 2019

Incomplete information exacerbates the problems inherent in collective action. Participants cannot efficiently coordinate their actions if they do not know each other’s preferences. I investigate when ordinary communication, or cheap talk, may resolve mutual uncertainty in collective action problems. I find that the efficacy of communication depends critically on the relationship between contributions and the value of the joint project. The incentive barriers to honesty are highest when every contribution increases the project’s value. Participants then have a strict incentive to say whatever would induce others to contribute the most, so cheap talk lacks credibility. By contrast, when contributions may be marginally worthless, such as when the project has no value unless contributions hit a certain threshold, communication may help participants avoid wasted effort. Using these findings, I identify which collective action problems in politics might benefit from communication and which require more expensive solutions to overcome uncertainty.
Optimal design of passenger vehicle seat with the use of negative stiffness elements
Authors: Papaioannou Georgios , Voutsinas Artemios , Koulocheris Dimitrios
Published: June 2019

A seat that provides good vibration isolation is of prime importance for passenger’s safety and health. The main conflict in seat suspensions implies that the increasing initial deformation of the system (increase in “static discomfort”) leads to better isolation of accelerations (increase in “dynamic comfort”). Many researchers have focused on overcoming or at least suppressing this conflict between load support capacity and vibration isolation by modeling new suspension systems, such as the so-called negative suspension systems. However, apart from the modeling of new suspension systems, optimization is an important part in designing a seat and finding the best compromise between these two objectives. Thus, in this work, four types of seat suspension systems with embedded negative stiffness elements are implemented and optimized in order to be benchmarked. Three of them have already been tested either in passenger or in an off-road vehicle seat. All the vibration isolators are optimized with genetic algorithms in respect to static and dynamic factors of ride comfort by applying constraints oriented to the objectives and the design of the structure. The optimization is implemented for two excitations, which correspond to a vehicle driving over road profiles of Classes A and B, and the common solutions are outlined.
The neuroprotection of hypoxic adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells in experimental traumatic brain injury
Authors: Ma Hui , Lam Ping Kuen , Tong Cindy See Wai , Lo Kin Ki Yan , Wong George Kwok Chu , Poon Wai Sang
Published: June 2019

Traumatic brain injury is one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide. At present there is no effective treatment. Previous studies have demonstrated that topical application of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells can improve functional recovery in experimental traumatic brain injury. In this study, we evaluated whether hypoxic preconditioned mesenchymal stem cells could enhance the recovery from traumatic brain injury. Traumatic brain injury was induced with an electromagnetically controlled cortical impact device. Two million mesenchymal stem cells derived from the adipose tissue of transgenic green fluorescent protein Sprague-Dawley rats were cultured under either hypoxic (2.5% O2 for 18 hours) ( N = 30) or normoxic (18% O2) ( N = 30) conditions, then topically applied to the exposed cerebral cortex within 1 hour after traumatic brain injury. A thin layer of fibrin was used to fix the cells in position. No treatment was given to the animals with traumatic brain injury ( N = 30). Animals that underwent craniectomy without traumatic brain injury were treated as the sham group ( N = 15). Neurological functions were evaluated with water maze, Roto-rod and gait analysis. Animals were sacrificed at days 3, 7, and 14 for microscopic examinations and real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. The rats treated with hypoxic mesenchymal stem cells showed the greatest improvement in neurological function recovery. More green fluorescent protein-positive cells were found in the injured brain parenchyma treated with hypoxic mesenchymal stem cells that co-expressed glial fibrillary acidic protein, Nestin, and NeuN. Moreover, there was early astrocytosis triggered by the infiltration of more glial fibrillary acidic protein-positive cells and microgliosis was suppressed with fewer ionized calcium binding adapter molecule 1-positive cells in the penumbra region of hypoxic mesenchymal stem cells group at day 3. Compared with normoxic mesenchymal stem cells and traumatic brain injury only groups, there was significantly ( p < 0.05) less neuronal death in both the hippocampus and penumbral regions in sections treated with hypoxic mesenchymal stem cells as determined by Cresyl violet and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end-labeling staining respectively. The expression of pro-inflammatory genes (interleukin 6, interleukin 1a, interleukin 1b, tumor necrosis factor α) was upregulated and apoptotic gene (Caspase-3) expression was suppressed at day 3. Anti-inflammatory (interleukin 10) and anti-apoptotic (BCL2 associated agonist of cell death) gene expression was upregulated at days 7 and 14. Our study showed that a hypoxic precondition enhanced the beneficial effects of mesenchymal stem cells on neurological recovery after traumatic brain injury.
Governing urban diversity in Istanbul: Pragmatic and non-discriminatory solutions of governance initiatives in response to politicisation of diversity
Authors: Yenigun Ozge , Eraydin Ayda
Published: June 2019

This paper examines the discourses and practices of central and local governments, as related to the issues of urban governance and diversity, and the emergence of new governance arrangements in different fields of Istanbul’s diversity. The paper claims that current diversity discourses and policies in Turkey are being increasingly used as a rhetorical device to promote the economic development of the city, and to circumvent the different demands of people of diverse cultural, ethnic and religious backgrounds. In such processes of politicising diversity, governance initiatives undertake an important mission in coming up with pragmatic and non-discriminatory solutions to diversity-related issues. Through an examination of recent changes in the diversity policies of Istanbul and the emerging governance arrangements, this paper uncovers the conflicts and the mismatches that exist between the highly politicised discourses, policies and practices, and explores how different types of governance arrangements bring new arenas of expression to the diverse groups.
A Study of the Relationship between Social Cognitive Factors and Career Choice Satisfaction in the Technology Career Path: A Gendered Perspective
Authors: Nguti Lucy Esther Kuthea , Osarenkhoe Aihie , Kiraka Ruth N.
Published: June 2019

The technology workforce is plagued by a diversity issue caused by women leaving the field at an alarming rate. This global phenomenon afflicts developing nations in particular, since women are believed to make up only 30 per cent of the technology workforce. However, there are little empirical data from developing nations on the phenomenon since most studies on the topic have been conducted in industrialized countries. This article, therefore, explores the relationship between socio-cognitive mechanisms (self-efficacy, outcome expectation, perceived social support and academic-family role conflict) and career choice satisfaction, which is posited to be one of the key influencers in an individual’s decision to continue along a particular career path. A questionnaire was used to collect data from students pursuing technology courses, such as in bachelor programmes in informatics and telecommunications, at a private university in Kenya. The findings reveal that self-efficacy, outcome expectations and perceived social support positively influence career choice satisfaction, especially among female students, whereas academic-family role conflict negatively influences career choice satisfaction of female students only. This means that government, higher education institutions and employers need to be attentive to socio-cognitive mechanisms that influence women and use this information to reduce the exodus of women from careers in technology.
Factors Influencing Service Quality Perception in Indian Life Insurance Sector
Authors: Saha Shyamasree , Dutta Anirban
Published: June 2019

The Indian insurance industry has gone through major transformations over the past two decades and life insurance sector has been no exception to it. With the introduction of privatization and the increase in number of insurance providers, the competition has risen unprecedentedly. To survive this immense competition, the companies have come up with numerous products and solutions to lure the customers. Other factors like increased coverage of lives/property, diverse customer-friendly products and rapid growth of multiple channels, like agency, bancassurance, etc., are gradually gaining momentum to intensify the level of competitiveness in the market. But unfortunately, this has somehow compromised the quality of service that is being delivered to the customers, and no attempt has been made to measure and ensure the service quality of this industry. This research aims to identify the determinant factors that contribute a substantial role in sculpting customers’ perception of service quality in Indian life insurance sector. Six factors were identified after the whole data mining process (using factor analysis) which were considered to be as the ‘Factors Influencing of Service Quality Perception in Indian Life Insurance Sector’.
Revisiting the Relationship Between Work Role Stress and Employee Outcomes in Indian Organizations: Moderating Role of Core Self-evaluation
Authors: Chhabra Bindu
Published: June 2019

The present research was aimed at exploring the effect of work role stressors and core self-evaluation (CSE) on important employee outcomes of job satisfaction, organizational citizenship behaviour (OCB) and turnover intentions. Another important objective of this study was to investigate whether CSE acts as a moderator in the above-mentioned relationship between work role stressors and employee outcomes. The sample of the study was 347 professionals from 5 sectors. The results of the hierarchical multiple regression revealed that work role stress was negatively related to both job satisfaction and OCB but positively related to turnover intentions. Further, CSE was found to be positively related to job satisfaction and OCB but negatively related to turnover intentions. The support was also found for the stress buffering effect of CSE in the prediction of job satisfaction and turnover intentions. The result of the present research finds support for the job demands-resources (JD-R) model and contributes to the existing literature by focusing on the fact that the negative effects of work role stressors on employee outcomes can be alleviated by personal resources which act as a buffer to weaken this effect. The results of the study highlight the importance of selecting the employees with high CSE, especially for the demanding jobs.
Navigating InsurTech: The digital intermediaries of insurance products and customer protection in the EU
Authors: Marano Pierpaolo
Published: June 2019

Emerging technology-driven innovations in the insurance industry is a trend of recent years. ‘InsurTech’ is the portmanteau describing this phenomenon. Insurance intermediaries are the main distributors of the insurance contracts and several digital intermediaries are already operating with InsurTech. The European Union legal framework on insurance distribution mainly consists of the Insurance Distribution Directive, which came into force a few months ago. However, the Insurance Distribution Directive does not provide standards specifically dictated to these intermediaries. The paper aims to verify, despite this shortcoming, whether and how the recent discipline applies to digital intermediaries.
Relational Maintenance Strategies and Satisfaction in the Stepmother–Stepdaughter Dyad
Authors: Maier Melissa , Turkiewicz Katie , Herrman Anna R.
Published: June 2019

Existing research demonstrates the unique communication challenges faced within stepfamilies—particularly within the stepmother–stepdaughter dyad. This study examined the stepmother–stepdaughter relationship using Canary and Stafford’s relational maintenance strategy measure (RMSM). Specifically, researchers identified which relational maintenance strategies (RMS) are utilized by stepmothers and stepdaughters and the relationship between RMS and relational satisfaction. A sample of stepmothers ( n = 20) and stepdaughters ( n = 61) completed the RMSM and a relational satisfaction measure. Results indicate that stepmothers and stepdaughters most frequently use positivity and share task strategies, and that the openness strategy is strongly and positively related to relational satisfaction. Theoretical implications for scholars and practical implications for counselors and stepfamilies, along with areas for future research, are discussed.
Receptor GP IIb/IIIa as an Indicator of Risk in Vascular Events
Authors: Fiodorenko-Dumas Żanna , Dumas Ilias , Mastej Krzysztof , Jakobsche-Policht Urszula , Bittner Jadwiga , Adamiec Rajmund
Published: June 2019

Type 2 diabetes causes a significant risk of cardiovascular diseases, leading to 70% of deaths in patients with diabetes. The effective treatment of diabetes significantly reduces the risk of requiring the involvement of specialists from various fields of medicine. This research aimed to assess the risk of cardiovascular events based on selected biochemical parameters (glycoprotein [GP] IIb/IIIa, von Willebrand factor [vWf], fibrinogen) and their changes in response to physical exercise. The research group consisted of 52 patients with type 2 diabetes with micro- or macro-angiopathy at a mean age of 63.80 years (8.79). The control group consisted of 50 healthy volunteers (17 women and 33 men) at a mean age of 51.16 years (6.39). All the patients consented to have their venous blood tested to measure complete blood counts. Activated GP IIb/IIIa receptors were labeled and analyzed by flow cytometry. Mean values of vWF factor were higher when compared with the control group (196.59% [80.32%] vs 148.06% [90.34%], respectively). The GP IIb/IIIa receptor expression was much higher in test patients than in the control group (3.91% [2.91%] vs 2.79% [2.51%]). Physical exercise had a positive influence on GP IIb/IIIa receptor expression and vWF, decreasing their baseline percentage values.
Commercializing Sustainable Technologies by Developing Attractive Value Propositions: The Case of Photovoltaic Panels
Authors: Vernay Anne-Lorène , Sohns Melanie , Schleich Joachim , Haggège Meyer
Published: June 2019

Despite their promise for tackling environmental problems, sustainable technologies are difficult to move from niche to mass markets. They require firms to develop innovative business models. This article focuses on how firms can develop their value propositions to increase the market attractiveness of sustainable technologies that are economically attractive but are difficult to commercialize. The results are based on an analysis of six German utilities that developed offers for power supply self-sufficiency using photovoltaic technology. The article proposes four generic tactics firms can use to market this technology—simplify, mimic, configure, and engage—and describes and discusses how each of these tactics can help firms deliver and capture value. The study also compares and contrasts how firms combine tactics to increase the attractiveness of their value propositions. The article contributes to the growing literature on business models for sustainability and proposes recommendations to help sustainable innovation overcome customer inertia.
Multi-objective optimization for designing metallic corrugated core sandwich panels under air blast loading
Authors: Cai Sipei , Zhang Pan , Dai Wenxi , Cheng Yuansheng , Liu Jun
Published: June 2019

This research aims to improve the blast performance of trapezoidal corrugated core sandwich panel under air blast loading. A finite element model for the prediction of dynamic responses of trapezoidal corrugated core sandwich panel was first proposed and validated by experiments. Based on the simulation results, kriging models were established to approximate the relationships between design variables and blast performances, and correlation analyses were carried out to investigate the effects of the design variables on the maximum back face deflection and specific energy absorption. It is found that any decrease in maximum back face deflection would always lead to undesirable deterioration in specific energy absorption, and the correlation relationships are associated with the stand-off distance. Using the developed kriging models, multi-objective design optimization was performed to seek trade-off solutions for the trapezoidal corrugated core sandwich panel under specific and variable stand-off distances. Results show that the design on Pareto fronts depended upon stand-off distance. Comparisons of the blast performance between optimized designs and initial designs turned out that there indeed existed a great potential in performance improvement. Importantly, careful examination of the responses of the optimized designs revealed some valuable design methods which should be useful for the engineering applications of trapezoidal corrugated core sandwich panel.
Numerical modelling of foam-core sandwich panels with nano-reinforced composite facesheets
Authors: Ramakrishnan Karthik Ram , Guérard Sandra , Zhang Zhifang , Shankar Krishna , Viot Philippe
Published: June 2019

Sandwich composites with ﬁbre-reinforced plastic facesheets and foam core have emerged as a major class of lightweight structural materials but low-velocity impact damage severely reduces the structural integrity of the component. Different methods have been proposed to improve the impact damage resistance of sandwich composites including the addition of nanoparticles to the matrix. The objective of this paper is to evaluate the effect of adding nanostrength, a block copolymer that self-assembles in the nanoscale, to the epoxy matrix on the low-velocity impact behaviour of sandwich panels with Kevlar facesheets and Rohacell foam core. Most previous studies on low-velocity impact damage used experimental testing but a combination of improved constitutive modelling of constituents and decreased computational costs make it possible to utilise continuum modelling to numerically simulate impact response of sandwich composites for a much wider range of conditions. A numerical model was developed in explicit FE software LS-Dyna and a constitutive law based on continuum damage mechanics was used for the simulation of the composite facesheets with and without the nano-reinforcements. A crushable foam model was used for the Rohacell foam core. The LS-Dyna model was validated by comparing the force, displacement measurements and damage assessment from the simulation with experimental impact tests conducted using a drop tower. The FE model shows good comparison with the experiment and a macroscopic phenomenological model is capable of capturing the impact damage behaviour of the sandwich plates with nano-reinforcements.