bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Skill as a relational construct: hiring practices from the standpoint of Chinese immigrant engineers in Canada
Authors: Shan Hongxia
Published: September 2013

Under-employment and unemployment of immigrants has often been attributed to immigrants’ lack of human capital skills and/or cultural and social capital endowments. Few studies have addressed the fact that despite these possible ‘capital’ disadvantages, immigrant niches are occasionally made in professional fields. Based on an institutional ethnographic study, this article sheds light on this phenomenon. Specifically, it traces some of the hiring practices found within the engineering profession in Canada from the standpoint of Chinese immigrant engineers. It unveils a hard versus soft skill discourse that ideologically relegates minoritized immigrants to the bottom of the hiring queue. It also maps a project-based and network-dependent hiring schema that paradoxically renders immigrants without ‘desirable’ skills simultaneously dismissible and indispensable. It further argues that the skill discourse revealed constitutes a rationalizing mechanism through which racialization and capitalist pursuit of maximum surplus value interact to produce differential opportunities for immigrants at different places and times.
Mechanical characterization of living and dead undifferentiated human adipose-derived stem cells by using atomic force microscopy
Authors: Hu Kexiang , Zhao Feihu , Wang Qingkang
Published: September 2013

In this article, to map the mechanical properties of undifferentiated human adipose-derived stem cells, local mechanical characterization is carried out on the adipose-derived stem cells. In addition, to distinguish the living and dead human adipose-derived stem cells, mechanical characterization is also implemented on both living and dead adipose-derived stem cells. In this study, Young’s modulus of the cell membrane is used for representing the mechanical properties of cells. To obtain Young’s modulus of cell membrane, the force-spectroscopy mode of atomic force microscopy is employed to measure the atomic force microscopy tip indentation depth and force on the cells. Then, Young’s modulus is obtained through fitting these experimental data to the Hertzian contact mechanics model. The global Young’s moduli of living and dead undifferentiated adipose-derived stem cells are about 1.27 and 18.61 kPa, respectively. This displays obvious gap of Young’s modulus between the living and dead undifferentiated adipose-derived stem cells. Finally, comparison of the local Young’s modulus shows deviation of the local Young’s modulus for either living or dead undifferentiated adipose-derived stem cells, and the root-mean-square errors of the global Young’s modulus of living and dead undifferentiated adipose-derived stem cells are about 0.48 and 5.05 kPa, respectively.
Design and performance calculations of chemically recuperated gas turbine on ship
Authors: Pan Fumin , Zheng Hongtao , Liu Qingzhen , Yang Ren
Published: September 2013

This paper describes the design and performance analysis of a chemically recuperated gas turbine powering a ship. The system studied consisted of an efficient steam-generating system, a reforming regenerator, and a gas turbine. Mathematical models were built for the performance analyses. An efficient steam-generating system was designed and the effects of various parameters on the steam generation were studied. The calculations indicate that the steam-generating system can meet the steam requirements for reforming and fresh water needs of the ship. The diesel steam-reforming reaction was adopted for heat recuperation, and the reaction degrees were analyzed under different conditions. It was found that the reforming regenerator recovered heat from the waste gas to reform the fuel leading to improved combustion. The performance analysis shows that the chemically recuperated gas turbine has a higher thermal efficiency and consequently delivers more power. The steam reforming cycle has a low reaction degree and needs to be improved through additional research.
Observer-based H∞ control for vehicle handling and stability subject to parameter uncertainties
Authors: Zhang Zhiyong , Zhang Nong , Huang Caixia , Liu Xin , Ding Fei
Published: September 2013

This article presents a model-based controller design approach for vehicle to improve handling and stability while the vehicle parameters are uncertain and the state of body sideslip angle is immeasurable. The variations in tire cornering stiffness, which are due to model simplification, are considered and treated as parameter uncertainties. By translating parameter uncertainties into perturbed matrices and combining with state observer, a sufficient condition for the theorem of an observer-based, optimal, and robust H∞ controller subject to parameter uncertainties is derived. In the theorem, the controller and the state observer are integrated into a linear matrix inequality optimization problem and designed together. The performances of the control system are evaluated via numerical simulation under various critical maneuvers and road conditions. The simulation results demonstrated that the vehicle dynamic control system designed by the approach proposed in this article can significantly improve vehicle handling and stability regardless of the variations on the tire cornering stiffness and the absence of the measured body sideslip angle.
Effects of nicotine on the testicular toxicity of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat
Authors: Kushwaha S , Jena GB
Published: September 2013

The aim of the present study is to investigate whether nicotine augmented the testicular toxicity and angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, enalapril, can ameliorate the effects in diabetic rat. Male Sprague Dawley rats were randomized into five groups: control, nicotine, diabetic, Diab + Nico, and Diab + Nico + Enal. Animals were made diabetic by single injection of streptozotocin (55 mg/kg/intraperitoneally). Nicotine dissolved in drinking water at a concentration of 100 µg/ml was given ad libitum and enalapril was given orally at a dose of 10 mg/kg/day for four consecutive weeks. After 4 weeks of treatment, animals were killed and biochemical parameters glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, cotinine, and the testosterone levels were measured. Testicular toxicity was evaluated using sperm count, sperm comet assay, histology, and immunohistochemical staining of 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-oxo-dG) and the proinflammatory markers (nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), cyclooxygenase (COX-2), and tissue necrotic factor alpha (TNF-α)) evaluated by western blotting. Results showed that nicotine did not alter the blood glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin level, significantly decreased the sperm count and increased the sperm DNA damage. These changes were accompanied by significant increases in the 8-oxo-dG, NF-κB, COX-2, and TNF-α expression. Furthermore, the intervention of enalapril in nicotine-treated diabetic rat attenuated the testicular damage and restored sperm count, sperm DNA damage, as well as reduced the expression of NF-κB, COX-2, and TNF-α. These findings clearly suggest that nicotine not only augmented the testicular toxicity in the diabetic rat but also increases the risk of germ cell toxicity effects that were attenuated by enalapril treatment.
Statistics in science and in society: From a state-of-the-art to a new research agenda
Authors: von Roten Fabienne Crettaz , de Roten Yves
Published: September 2013

Statistics occupies a prominent role in science and citizens’ daily life. This article provides a state-of-the-art of the problems associated with statistics in science and in society, structured along the three paradigms defined by Bauer, Allum and Miller (2007). It explores in more detail medicine and public understanding of science on the one hand, and risks and surveys on the other. Statistics has received a good deal of attention; however, very often handled in terms of deficit – either of scientists or of citizens. Many tools have been proposed to improve statistical literacy, the image of and trust in statistics, but with little understanding of their roots, with little coordination among stakeholders and with few assessments of impacts. These deficiencies represent as many new and promising directions in which the PUS research agenda could be expanded.
Patient attitudes towards faecal immunochemical testing for haemoglobin as an alternative to colonoscopic surveillance of groups at increased risk of colorectal cancer
Authors: Bowyer Harriet L , Vart Gemma , Kralj-Hans Ines , Atkin Wendy , Halloran Stephen P , Seaman Helen , Wardle Jane , Wagner Christian von
Published: September 2013

Objectives

To examine attitudes towards an annual faecal immunochemical test for haemoglobin (FIT) versus three-yearly colonoscopic surveillance of individuals at intermediate risk of colorectal cancer (CRC).

Setting

A London hospital.

Methods

Five semi-structured discussion groups were conducted with 28 adults (aged 60–74, 61% female) with different levels of CRC risk and experience of colonoscopy or colonoscopic surveillance. Information was presented sequentially using a step-by-step discussion guide. Results were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

When evaluating FIT in the context of a surveillance programme, all respondents readily made comparisons with related tests that they had been exposed to previously. Those with no experience of surveillance were enthusiastic about an annual FIT to replace three-yearly colonoscopy, because they felt that the higher testing frequency could improve detection of advanced lesions. Those with experience of colonoscopic surveillance did not perceive FIT to be as accurate as colonoscopy, and therefore either preferred colonoscopy on its own or wanted an annual FIT in addition to three-yearly colonoscopy.

Conclusions

FIT may be well-received as an additional method of surveillance for new patients at intermediate risk of CRC. More research is required to better understand potential barriers associated with FIT surveillance for patients with experience of colonoscopic surveillance.
From boom to crash: Spanish urban areas in a decade of change (2001–2011)
Authors: Gil-Alonso Fernando , Bayona-i-Carrasco Jordi , Pujadas-i-Rúbies Isabel
Published: September 2013

This paper has two main aims: on the one hand, it provides an overview of recent metropolitan area population changes in Spain and assesses their spatial patterns through a typology and on the other hand, it analyses the impact of the current economic crisis on the aforementioned trends. The main source used is the Padrón continuo, the local continuous registration system providing official data updated every year on 1 January. Regarding metropolitan area delimitation, we have decided to use that employed by the Atlas de las Áreas Urbanas de España and to situate the population threshold at 500,000 inhabitants. Fifteen urban areas satisfied the requirements. Therefore, this paper analyses, for the 2001–2011 decade, population growth and urban expansion in the 15 Spanish largest metropolitan areas. In the first phase, suburbanisation intensified while the areas simultaneously received significant international migration inflows. The latter compensated Spaniards’ exit flows from core cities, which increased their population again. The economic crisis, which began in 2008, and its significant impact on the real estate sector, drew an end to this urban expansion and growth period, as it seems to have slowed Spanish metropolitan area growth and restrained suburbanisation dynamics. Consequently, in recent years, residential mobility has decreased and metropolitan areas have entered a new phase characterised by a reduction of both foreign immigration inflows and Spaniards’ movements away from core cities. Therefore, with few exceptions, urban centres are currently once again gaining Spanish residents or at least have stopped losing them.
Globalisation, cost competitiveness and international trade: The evolution of the Italian textile and clothing industries and the growth of trade with China
Authors: Dunford Michael , Dunford Robin , Barbu Mirela , Liu Weidong
Published: September 2013

Amongst developed countries, Italy is unusual in that it has maintained a specialisation in traditional industries such as textiles and clothing (TCI). Explanations of Italy’s unusual industrial profile mainly emphasise the role of endogenous economic and cultural resources. Globalisation in the 1990s and 2000s saw slow growth and a significant decline of these formerly resilient industries. Analyses of trade and unit value data support accounts of the lateness of the Italian TCI’s movement in the direction of Outward Processing Traffic (OPT) and the subsequent rise of a pan-Euro-Mediterranean system. More recently, however, this system has declined as a result of new competitive challenges from China and other emerging economies that have eroded the position of Italian enterprises on export and domestic markets and adversely affected their Euro-Mediterranean suppliers. As district and value-chain theories show, the geography of industrial activities is a result of enterprise strategies and the environment in which they operate. To embrace recent trends these theories must, however, be extended to give greater weight to exchange rate, trade, market, demand-side and related institutional issues.
Text Messaging for Sexual Communication and Safety Among African American Young Adults
Authors: Broaddus Michelle R. , Dickson-Gomez Julia
Published: September 2013

African American young adults are at high risk of HIV infection during their lifetimes, and the male condom remains the best method of prevention. Efforts to increase condom use should address the barrier of condom negotiation. We conducted a thematic analysis of qualitative, semistructured interviews with African American young adults to examine their use of text messaging for requesting human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing and condom use within the larger context of general sexual communication using text messages. Text messaging gave participants a level of comfort and disinhibition to discuss sexual topics and negotiate sexual safety. Benefits of text messages included ease of communication, privacy, and increased ability to express condom desires. Difficulties reflected the potential relationship implications of suggesting HIV/STI testing and condom use. Condom negotiation strategies using text messages also mirrored those found to be used in face-to-face communication.
Intimate Partner Abuse Among Older Women
Authors: Finfgeld-Connett Deborah
Published: September 2013

The purpose of this qualitative systematic review was to more fully understand intimate partner abuse (IPA) among older women and to explicate strategies for enhancing their well-being. The sample ( N = 20) was assembled based on an expansive search of the peer-reviewed literature using multiple electronic databases. Qualitative findings were extracted and coded/categorized. Reflective memos were developed, and a cohesive interpretation of the raw data emerged. IPA tends to be a multigenerational problem that older women are reluctant to discuss. With age, IPA assumes different forms, and many older women actively choose to make the best of their situations. Older women cope by trying to make sense of their lives and nurturing themselves in small ways. Occasionally, events occur that enable permanent change. Nurses are encouraged to nonjudgmentally assist older women to enhance their well-being, despite IPA. They are also urged to actively intervene when opportunities for significant change arise.
Reading Playboy for the Articles
Authors: Kettrey Heather Hensman
Published: September 2013

This longitudinal investigation analyzes the manner in which rape myths are conveyed through textual material published in Playboy. Results indicate that Playboy (a) portrays rape as a gender-neutral issue, ignoring patriarchal roots of sexual violence against women, and (b) promulgates ambiguous discourse, which is equally likely to endorse and refute rape myths. Interestingly, readers’ contributions are most often the source of refutations of rape myths. Overall, findings suggest that little progress has been made over time in deconstructing rape myths promulgated to men, as this particular men’s publication has consistently painted a gray picture in which refutations have remained unsuccessful in disempowering rape myths.
Explaining Aboriginal/Non-Aboriginal Inequalities in Postseparation Violence Against Canadian Women
Authors: Pedersen Jeanette Somlak , Malcoe Lorraine Halinka , Pulkingham Jane
Published: September 2013

Adopting a structural violence approach, we analyzed 2004 Canadian General Social Survey data to examine Aboriginal/non-Aboriginal inequalities in postseparation intimate partner violence (IPV) against women. Aboriginal women had 4.12 times higher odds of postseparation IPV than non-Aboriginal women ( p < .001). Coercive control and age explained most of this inequality. The final model included Aboriginal status, age, a seven-item coercive control index, and stalking, which reduced the odds ratio for Aboriginal status to 1.92 ( p = .085) and explained 70.5% of the Aboriginal/non-Aboriginal inequality in postseparation IPV. Research and action are needed that challenge structural violence, especially colonialism and its negative consequences.
Nutritional quality changes throughout shelf-life of fresh-cut kailan-hybrid and ‘Parthenon’ broccoli as affected by temperature and atmosphere composition
Authors: Martínez-Hernández Ginés Benito , Gómez Perla A , Artés Francisco , Artés-Hernández Francisco
Published: September 2013

The nutritional quality changes of the fresh-cut kailan-hybrid broccoli were compared with those of the ‘Parthenon’ cv. throughout 15 days at 2 ℃, 5 ℃ and 8 ℃ under air and modified atmosphere packaging. Florets showed higher dietary fiber content than stems. The total protein content of kailan-hybrid florets was 2.2-fold higher than that of ‘Parthenon’ cv. and higher amounts of S, Ca, Mg, Fe, Sr, Mn, Zn and Cu were found. However, ‘Parthenon’ florets registered higher initial total phenolics content than the kailan-hybrid edible part, followed by an increase throughout shelf-life favored at 5 ℃ and 8 ℃ under modified atmosphere packaging (5–7 kPa O2 + 14–15 kPa CO2). Modified atmosphere packaging stored samples at 8 ℃ showed higher individual phenolics content than modified atmosphere packaging stored samples at 2 ℃. The initial total antioxidant capacity of the kailan-hybrid edible part was higher than that of ‘Parthenon’ cv. florets. In conclusion, the kailan-hybrid florets generally showed healthier properties on the analyzed bioactive compounds, except total phenolic content, compared to the conventional ‘Parthenon’ cv.
Structural Approaches to Health Promotion
Authors: Lieberman Lisa , Golden Shelley D. , Earp Jo Anne L.
Published: September 2013

Although the public health literature has increasingly called on practitioners to implement changes to social, environmental, and political structures as a means of improving population health, recent research suggests that articles evaluating organization, community, or policy changes are more limited than those focused on programs with individuals or their social networks. Even when these approaches appear promising, we do not fully understand whether they will benefit all population groups or can be successful in the absence of accompanying individually oriented programs. The role of this broad category of approaches, including both policy and environmental changes, in decreasing health disparities is also unclear, often benefiting some communities more than others. Finally, the political nature of policy and environmental change, including the impact on personal autonomy, raises questions about the appropriate role for public health professionals in advancing specific policies and practices that alter the conditions in which people live. This article addresses these issues and ends with a series of questions about the effectiveness and ethical implementation of what we have termed “structural initiatives.”
Indian Cinema as a Model for De-Westernizing Media Studies
Authors: Murthy C.S.H.N.
Published: September 2013

The need to de-Westernize or decolonize media studies and research has been echoed recurrently in Asian media studies circles for over two decades, from the pioneering works of Chu and Cheng (1978), Chu (1988), Dissanayake (1988) through James Curran and Myung-Jin Park’s seminal work, De-Westernizing Media Studies (2000) to the recent volume edited by Georgette Wang, De-Westernizing Communication Research: Altering Questions and Changing Frameworks (2011 ). Communication media theories and models from the West are deemed to have overlooked the rich cultural and communication traditions in Asia—for instance, from India, China and Japan. This paper examines the communication models and theories that existed in ancient Indian literature (epics and fables; classical dance, Natyashastra, music, Carnatic and Hindustani traditions; folk dance and music) and painting, art and sculpture, which predate the epistemological, axiological, and metaphysical bases of communication and cultural models developed in the West. Discussion defers to contemporary Indian cinema to sieve the philosophical, axiological, epistemological and metaphysical elements that have governed knowledge and power relations in Indian society over many centuries. Finally, these elements are used to propose a localized media studies curriculum relevant to the Indian socio-cultural and political milieu.
Existential and object authenticity in Southwestern pottery: Intertwined and complementary
Authors: Felker Fiona M , Hammond Joyce D , Schaaf Gregory , Stevenson Joan C
Published: September 2013

A much discussed concept, authenticity is still very important to collectors and museums in 2013 with respect to Native American art, but few have examined the dynamic between artist and buyer in relation to how concepts of authenticity affect the exchange. Useful here is a constructivist approach that examines authenticity with respect to local perceptions, values and setting. Existential authenticity is revealed through statements by the potters of Santa Clara and San Ildefonso Pueblos, New Mexico, and object authenticity is derived from attributes of the pot and potter partly from online advertisements for 571 pots. The proxies for existential values predict 39 per cent of the cash value of the pot. Ongoing discussions among all the stakeholders preceding juried competitions conserve potters’ values and support artist agency. These values, as expressed in the pottery, are likely part of buyers’ attraction to the pottery.
Confronting Neoliberalism
Authors: Giardina Michael D. , Denzin Norman K.
Published: September 2013

This article is structured along two particularly pressing fault lines: (a) the educational arena and our work as critical pedagogues and engaged public intellectuals, and (b) the location of our research to what we may term the street (or, the spaces in which neoliberal engagements are faced head-on). It presents a discussion on neoliberal fundamentalism, and both political and academic responses to its ravages. It also discusses neoliberalism in the context of subjectivity, and how we can see our way forward in the promotion of social justice imperatives that effectuate change through blood, sweat, and tears.
In and Against Rhythms of the Neoliberal Public
Authors: Newman Joshua I. , Shields Rachel
Published: September 2013

In this article, we offer commentary on moving bodies and the spaces they simultaneously inhabit and produce, pointing specifically to dominant rhythmologies of the contemporary market society. We offer as the article’s core thrust the pedagogical, political, and performative exigencies of the street: its traversal and occupation, its flow and stasis. We utilize the theories of Jean-Luc Nancy, Roberto Esposito, Lieven de Cauter, Guy Debord, and Paul Virilio to build an argument against hermeneutic determinism(s). In so doing, we (temporarily) look past conceptualizations of the street as late modern discursive metonym, and instead turn toward public dimensions of time and space. In so doing, we encourage qualitative inquirers to look beyond the dynamic texts or fixed environs and toward the sensual and sensory, postulating a (re)location of the flesh and bones that has often been missing from the thinking(s) and doing(s) of qualitative research.
Come on Dear Gal
Authors: Reinertsen Anne B.
Published: September 2013

Thinkingfeeling my ways into and toward future intra-activist material and performance research possibilities, I argue for embracing the mobilized gaze of the flaneur to explore and create powerful blends of interpretive auto-ethnographic/-biographic/-ethnomethodology writing approaches: Mygazes: They are broad, multifaceted, and partial. They are recursive and “unselfed” (Iris Murdoch; 1919-1999). Simone Weil’s (1909-1943) onto-political concepts of (world) “attention” and “decreation” as a willed dissolution of the subjective ego are good to thinkfeel with. Accordingly, such approaches are about a scienced-up me producing myself through using knowledges without fear and my will born from it: My personal accountability and authenticity is pivotal: Mymethods: They are about the wrong pedagogy, and thus, always integrating failure as an important part of any activity. They are about word making for reimagining democratic societies; a new era of personal and social responsibility and learning democracy: Mylanguages: It is a member’s methods; My Own (Stirner, 2012) methods and from here; I am my own to thinkfeel with and me showing me Myforces and Mychanges.
Capsazepine concentration dependently inhibits currents in HEK 293 cells mediated by human hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated 2 and 4 channels
Authors: Zuo Guang-Feng , Li Ming-Hui , Zhang Jun-Xia , Li Bing , Wang Zhi-Mei , Wang Qiang , Xiao Hang , Chen Shao-Liang
Published: September 2013

Recent studies indicate that blockade of currents (Ih) mediated by hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channels (particularly HCN1) may partly account for the antinociceptive effects of capsazepine (CPZ). Unfortunately, determining whether capsazepine is a selective HCN channel blocker and determining its adverse effects when it is used for the treatment of neuropathic pain, have been thus far understudied. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the effects of capsazepine on human HCN2 (hHCN2) and HCN4 (hHCN4) channels in HEK293 cells. The vectors that expressed hHCN2 and hHCN4 cDNA were constructed and transfected into HEK293 cells. Enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) fluorescence and the reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were used to confirm the successful transfection of the vectors. After G418 (neomycin) screening, cell lines that expressed hHCN2 and hHCN4 were obtained. The whole-cell voltage-clamp technique was used to determine the currents from hHCN2 and hHCN4 channels, which were perfused with five concentrations (0.1 µM, 1 µM, 5 µM, 10 µM and 50 µM) of capsazepine. The results showed that capsazepine at the range from 0.1 to 50 µM markedly inhibited hHCN2 and hHCN4 currents in a concentration-dependent manner, with most inhibition achieved at a concentration of 10 µM of capsazepine. When compared with the control group, a V0.5 for the hHCN2 and hHCN4 channel showed that 10 µM capsazepine significantly shifted the membrane potential towards hyperpolarization. The present results indicate that capsazepine is not a selective HCN1 channel blocker and that it may have adverse effects when used to treat neuropathic pain.
Expression and significance of HIF-1α in pulmonary fibrosis induced by paraquat
Authors: Xie Hui , Tan Jiu-ting , Wang Rui-lan , Meng Xiao-Xiao , Tang Xue , Gao Shan
Published: September 2013

It is commonly accepted that epithelial–mesenchymal transition contributes to fibrotic remodeling, but the molecular pathways involved in paraquat (PQ)-induced epithelial–mesenchymal transition remain uncharacterized. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential involvement of HIF-1α in TGF-β1/β-Catenin and Snail pathway after PQ poisoning. In our study, 86 Spragne-Dawley rats were randomly divided into control group and PQ group, which received intragastric infusion of 20% PQ solution 50 mg/kg. Rats in the PQ group were subsequently divided into eight subgroups (10 for each subgroup) and samples were collected at different predetermined time points (2, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, 96 h and 7 d). Fibrosis markers, including β-catenin, snail and α-SMA, were measured by western blot. The activity of HIF-1α was determined by western blot and immunofluorescence. We found that in PQ-induced pulmonary fibrosis, the level of PaO2 was significantly reduced in the 6-h subgroup, when compared to the control group ( P < 0.01). Interestingly, between 6 and 72 h, there was no significant difference in PaO2. On the other hand, the level of PaCO2 started to increase from 72-h subgroup ( P < 0.01). Fibrosis markers including β-catenin, snail and α-SMA, measured by western blot, were significantly increased at 2 h, while the level of p-GSK-3β was increased at 6 h. And the level of GSK-3β showed significant reduction beginning at 24 h. The activity of HIF-1α measured by western blot assays was significantly increased starting from 2 h with sustained expression. The result of Pearson coefficient analysis showed that HIF-1α was positively correlated with Snail ( r = 0.935, P < 0.01) and β-catenin ( r = 0.761, P < 0.05). Meanwhile, immunofluorescent analysis of HIF-1α revealed partial staining appearing from 2 h. Our data illustrated a positive correlation between Snail, β-catenin signaling and HIF-1α, suggesting a potential synergistic role of HIF-1α in PQ-induced pulmonary fibrosis, which may be independent of GSK-3β. It might also represent a potential therapeutic window for treatment of paraquat poisoning.
Integrating Mixed Method Data in Psychological Research
Authors: Franz Anke , Worrell Marcia , Vögele Claus
Published: September 2013

In recent years, combining quantitative and qualitative research methods in the same study has become increasingly acceptable in both applied and academic psychological research. However, a difficulty for many mixed methods researchers is how to integrate findings consistently. The value of using a coherent framework throughout the research process is discussed and arguments illustrated by referring to a study on individual- and cultural-level influences on sexual health behaviors conducted with adolescents in Germany and England. The article concludes that using an appropriate framework throughout the research process can ensure integration of findings in a consistent and coherent way. This can improve mixed methods research and produce greater “yield.”
Activation of liver X receptor suppresses the production of the IL-12 family of cytokines by blocking nuclear translocation of NF-κBp50
Authors: Canavan Mary , McCarthy Ciara , Larbi Nadia Ben , Dowling Jennifer K , Collins Laura , O’Sullivan Finbarr , Hurley Grainne , Murphy Carola , Quinlan Aoife , Moloney Gerry , Darby Trevor , MacSharry John , Kagechika Hiroyuki , Moynagh Paul , Melgar Silvia , Loscher Christine E
Published: September 2013

There is now convincing evidence that liver X receptor (LXR) is an important modulator of the inflammatory response; however, its mechanism of action remains unclear. This study aimed to examine the effect of LXR on the IL-12 family of cytokines and examined the mechanism by which LXR exerted this effect. We first demonstrated that activation of murine-derived dendritic cells (DC) with a specific agonist to LXR enhanced expression of LXR following activation with LPS, suggesting a role in inflammation. Furthermore, we showed LXR expression to be increased in vivo in dextrane sulphate sodium-induced colitis. LXR activation also suppressed production of IL-12p40, IL-12p70, IL-27 and IL-23 in murine-derived DC following stimulation with LPS, and specifically targeted the p35, p40 and EBI3 subunits of the IL-12 cytokine family, which are under the control of the NF-κB subunit p50 (NF-κBp50). Finally, we demonstrated that LXR can associate with NF-κBp50 in DC and that LXR activation prevents translocation of the p50 subunit into the nucleus. In summary, our study indicates that LXR can specifically suppress the IL-12 family of cytokines though its association with NF-κBp50 and highlights its potential as a therapeutic target for chronic inflammatory diseases.
Mouse nasal epithelial innate immune responses to Pseudomonas aeruginosa quorum-sensing molecules require taste signaling components
Authors: Lee Robert J , Chen Bei , Redding Kevin M , Margolskee Robert F , Cohen Noam A
Published: September 2013

We previously observed that the human bitter taste receptor T2R38 is an important component of upper respiratory innate defense because it detects acyl homoserine lactone (AHL) quorum-sensing molecules secreted by Gram-negative bacteria. T2R38 activation in human sinonasal epithelial cells stimulates calcium and NO signals that increase mucociliary clearance, the major physical respiratory defense against inhaled pathogens. While mice do not have a clear T2R38 ortholog, they do have bitter taste receptors capable of responding to T2R38 agonists, suggesting that T2R-mediated innate immune mechanisms may be conserved in mice. We examined whether AHLs activate calcium and NO signaling in mouse nasal epithelial cells, and utilized pharmacology, as well as cells from knockout mice lacking important components of canonical taste signal transduction pathways, to determine if AHL-stimulated responses require taste signaling molecules. We found that AHLs stimulate calcium-dependent NO production that increases mucociliary clearance and thus likely serves an innate immune role against Gram-negative bacteria. These responses require PLCβ2 and TRPM5 taste signaling components, but not α-gustducin. These data suggest the mouse may be a useful model for further studies of T2R-mediated innate immunity.
One, two, three or four: Does the number of Clegg hammer drops alter ground hardness readings on natural grass?
Authors: Twomey Dara M , Ullah Shahid , Petrass Lauren A
Published: September 2013

The Clegg hammer is currently used to measure hardness of natural turf surfaces to inform performance and safety decisions. However, the number of Clegg hammer drops reported in natural grass testing varies from one to four drops, and the impact of the choice of the number of drops is unknown. The aim of this article is to determine whether significant differences exist between the four Clegg hammer drops on natural grass across a variety of conditions. Hardness readings (using a 2.25 kg Clegg hammer), soil moisture and botanical composition were recorded at nine different sites on seven football fields during an 18-week playing season. A total of 1255 hardness readings were collected for each of four consecutive Clegg hammer drops. Overall, there were significant differences between drop 1 and the other three consecutive drops, on all fields and on all sites. Deep soil moisture was the only factor that significantly influenced the hardness readings. The results of this study demonstrate that the decision regarding the number of drops recorded needs careful consideration as conclusions drawn on playability of a ground or the association with injury risk may vary considerably depending on the number of drops.
HBO’s The Weight of the Nation for Kids
Authors: Karimbakas Joanne
Published: September 2013

The Weight of the Nation for Kids film series highlights youth who take a lead role in making healthy changes in their schools and communities. School nurses can combat childhood obesity in their schools and communities by implementing an initiative based on the film series along with resources from the National Institutes of Health to support healthy eating and regular physical activity in youth.
A prospective observational study on different poisoning cases and their outcomes in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Mittal Niti , Shafiq Nusrat , Bhalla Ashish , Pandhi Promila , Malhotra Samir
Published: September 2013

Objectives:

Poisonings and snake bites constitute major health-care problems worldwide. This observational study was conducted to identify factors associated with outcomes in such cases and to suggest strategies to improve them.

Methods:

This is a prospective study conducted in the emergency medicine department of a tertiary care hospital. The study included 102 poisoning and 64 snake bite cases. Data regarding demographics, mode of poisoning, lag time in treatment, first aid, outside and indoor treatment, co-morbid illness, duration of hospitalisation and final outcome were collected in a prestructured proforma.

Results:

The age of the patients ranged from 11 to 68 years and incidence was more common among males (69.9%) compared to females (30.1%). The major types of poisonings included organophosphorus compounds (16.3%), aluminium phosphide (12%), drug overdose (10.8%) and corrosives (6%). There were 18 (18.6%) and 1 (1.6%) deaths in poisoning and snake bite cases, respectively. In poisoning cases, the duration of hospitalisation was significantly decreased if patient received outside treatment ( p = 0.02) and if he or she had lesser lag time in reaching the hospital ( p = 0.009).

Conclusions:

Measures to reduce lag time and provide immediate treatment at initial encounter may be effective in reducing duration of hospitalisation and possibly mortality in poisoning and snake bite cases.
The Return of President Putin and Russian–Turkish Relations
Authors: Warhola James W. , Bezci Egemen B.
Published: September 2013

By the time of Vladimir Putin’s return to the presidency of Russia in May 2012, the Russian–Turkish rapprochement that began over a decade earlier had become a significant fixture of the Eurasian landscape. Nonetheless, numerous questions remain about the nature of the relation, implications for the region of western Eurasia, and its likely future directions. Four general characteristics of the bilateral relation have emerged, and recognizing them enables a deeper understanding of the opportunities and limits likely to be afforded, for Russia, Turkey, and the region: (a) pragmatism, (b) a multivectored approach to the bilateral relation, (c) commonalities despite contradictions, and (d) durability even despite episodic antagonism. The Russian–Turkish rapprochement has become a defining feature of the Eurasian landscape, but remains an unequal one, on several counts: energy resources, geopolitical strength, military capability, and underlying demographics. Nonetheless, various factors make a deepening rapprochement likely: mutual desirability of increased trade, wariness toward the West, Turkey’s pursuit of a “no enemies” foreign policy, Russia’s interest in regional great-power status, and common interest in regional conflict resolution.
On the Persian Wedding Invitation Genre
Authors: Sharif Maryam , Yarmohammadi Lotfollah
Published: September 2013

The present study is an attempt to conduct a genre analysis of Persian wedding invitations. Drawing on the model of genre analysis proposed by Swales, a sample of 70 Persian wedding invitation cards has been analyzed in terms of their component moves, obligatory and optional moves, and move order. The results of the analysis have revealed seven generic components by means of which Iranian inviters ritually structure their wedding invitation texts in Persian. The results of the study will shed light on how the Persian wedding invitation genre is constructed drawing on the linguistic features of its generic moves and why the wedding invitation texts are structured in this particular way in Persian providing hints of the underlying socio-cultural conventions responsible for shaping this very genre in Persian. It is hoped that the results of this study will be illuminating for raising cultural awareness.
Embodying Social Work as a Profession
Authors: Nsonwu Maura B. , Casey Kathleen , Cook Sharon Warren , Busch Armendariz Noel
Published: September 2013

The purpose of this research is to highlight competing and contrasting definitions of social work that have been the subject of continuous ideological debate. These opposing interpretations have characterized public and professional discourse. It is the growth of, and struggle over, these conflicting versions of social work that we trace by exploring and expanding on the work of African American and White social work pioneers, feminist and empowerment epistemologies, and implications for social work practice and pedagogy. Our discussion emphasizes the construction of meaning through personal experiences by reuniting the head, hands, heart, and soul of our profession. We offer a reconstructed framework that echoes the groundbreaking work of our historical pioneers and collectively weaves their wisdom into contemporary social work practice.
Tunisia in the Aftermath of the Revolution
Authors: Moalla Asma
Published: September 2013

In this study, humor and the confused feelings of overwhelming happiness, fear, and uncertainty intertwine to reflect Tunisians’ attitudes, beliefs, feelings, and experiences in the aftermath of the revolution. The study adopts a blended netnography/ethnography approach to data collection and analysis. My original data consist of 2 hrs of recorded discussions of 60 Tunisian students and a total of 300 online humorous posts collected from the social network Facebook (FB). The data revealed that Tunisians interacting via FB used two main types of situational humor: Third party insult and Alternate reality. These two types of humor were found to be associated with a variety of psychological and social functions and to serve as effective interpersonal strategies to construct group cohesion, strengthen shared attitudes and beliefs, and develop relational identity.
Neoliberalism and University Education in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Ochwa-Echel James R.
Published: September 2013

This article reviews the history of university development in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and discusses the impact of neoliberal policies. This will be followed by an examination of the problems facing universities in the region. The following questions will be explored: (a) Are the existing universities in SSA serving the development needs of the region? (b) Are these universities up to the task of moving SSA out of the predicaments it faces such as famine, HIV/AIDS, poverty, diseases, debt, and human rights abuses? Finally, the article argues that for universities to play a role in the development of the region, a new paradigm that makes university education a public good should be established.
International hostility and aggressiveness on the soccer pitch: Evidence from European Championships and World Cups for the period 2000–2012
Authors: Caruso Raul , Di Domizio Marco
Published: September 2013

Some researchers consider soccer matches as the stylization of a war in other battlefields. Such an approach has largely been used to interpret the violent phenomena related to the soccer environment, while less attention has been paid to the potential role of political and economic interactions between countries in determining the aggressive attitude of players on the pitch. In our paper we empirically investigate whether and how political hostility among countries reverberates on a soccer pitch by influencing players’ aggressiveness. The analysis focuses on official matches played by national teams in the final phases of the European and World Cup tournaments since 2000. We estimate a negative binomial regression including both political and sport variables, and we find that (a) commercial hostility, (b) the level of diplomatic relationships, (c) power asymmetry and (d) education gap between countries are positively and significantly associated with aggressiveness of the players on the pitch, approximated by the number of yellow and red cards. That is, briefly stated, international hostility reverberates onto the pitch. Moreover, sport covariates present the expected signs, namely, results show that the closeness of the teams, their ranking and the stage of the game (knockout stages with respect to the group phases) are also crucial in determining the cautions.
FIFA and the South Africa question: The 1976/1977 football unity talks and their impact on the development of professional football in South Africa
Authors: Ndlovu Sifiso Mxolisi
Published: September 2013

The football unity talks which formally began in October 1976 were important because sport was integral to the debate about the national question in South Africa. At the time, football as a sport code was designated in negative and racist undertones as a ‘sport for blacks’ and rugby, golf, athletics, hockey, cricket and swimming were regarded as sporting codes reserved for white South Africans. These sports benefited immensely in terms of generous funding, infrastructure and facilities provided by the apartheid regime. This paper will be based on the following themes. First, it will focus on the broad legislative measures which reinforced separate development and racism in South Africa and how these laws impacted on the development of sport. Second, it will scrutinize the role of the multilateral, worldwide antiapartheid movement and boycott movement, Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in using football sanctions as a tool to fight apartheid and racism in sport. Third, the football unity talks of 1976 will be analysed. This discussion will focus on issues inside the boardroom, the football field and what took place outside the boardroom and off the football field. Lastly, the impact of the unity on the players and the public at large-including the development of professional football since 1976 will be reviewed. A major theme which runs through the different sections is defined by the use and abuse of football as a tool for public and sport diplomacy. This was because the football unity talks in South Africa were as a result of what was taking place in the world of international, continental, national and local politics.
Japan’s sports diplomacy in the early post-Second World War years
Authors: Guthrie-Shimizu Sayuri
Published: September 2013

This essay outlines key cases of sports diplomacy practiced by Japan with the assistance of the Allied Occupation Authorities after the Second World War. Both Japan and the occupation overlord employed sports to good effect as a tool for reshaping Japan’s national image as one of a rule-abiding civilized society and buttressing the idea of US–Japanese friendship during the Cold War. Both amateur and professional sports heroes played a part in these binational efforts.