bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Response of the Internal Wave Field to Remote Wind Forcing by Tropical Cyclones
Authors: Köhler Janna , Völker Georg S. , Walter Maren
Published: December 2017

In the tropical North Atlantic, mean winds introduce relatively little energy into the internal wave field, but hurricanes act as very energetic sources for near-inertial waves. In addition to the eventlike passage of such tropical cyclones, changes in the wind speed north of the trade wind system induce a seasonal cycle in surface swell, with potential implications for the high-frequency part of the internal wave field. Using a 5-yr mooring time series in the interior of the tropical North Atlantic at 16°N, the temporal variability of internal wave energy south of the main hurricane track in different frequency bands is studied, and the magnitude of its variability, along with possible energy transfer mechanisms, is analyzed. The results show that changes in near-inertial energy are dominated by the passage of internal waves generated by hurricanes centered several hundred kilometers north of the mooring. The major role of hurricanes in the generation of near-inertial waves is also seen in an extended slab model that takes the horizontal divergence of the near-inertial current field at the mixed layer base into account. A seasonal cycle is observed in the energy at the high-frequency end (frequencies above 6 cpd) of the internal wave spectrum. It is not in phase with the near-inertial energy variability but covaries with changes in the local surface waves. These high-frequency internal waves are most energetic at times when large-amplitude surface swell with long periods and correspondingly long wavelengths is observed.
Place-Based Reform in the Context of Neighborhood Change: A Case Study of the Mission Promise Neighborhood
Authors: Lash Cristina L. , Sanchez Monika
Published: December 2017

Nationwide, place-based initiatives aiming to improve school and community outcomes are in the midst of neighborhood demographic change. We explore this issue through a case study of the Mission Promise Neighborhood (MPN). We discuss how the social and educational context of MPN poses several challenges to implementing Promise Neighborhood reforms. Drawing on enrollment and residence data from San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) and the U.S. Census, we show that the MPN service population extends beyond the geographic boundaries of the neighborhood and includes two primary groups of increasingly unequal social and economic status: working-class Latinos and high-income Whites. We situate these findings within the context of SFUSD’s school assignment policy and gentrification in the Mission neighborhood. We conclude that complexities in the MPN service population have significant implications for MPN service provision and the definition of a “neighborhood community.” These implications apply to other place-based initiatives experiencing neighborhood demographic change.
A stakeholder perspective on public sector innovation: why position matters
Authors: de Vries Hanna , Tummers Lars , Bekkers Victor
Published: December 2017

Studies on the adoption of innovations often treat an organization as a uniform entity. Such studies implicitly assume that perceptions regarding the adoption of an innovation are identical across the organization. However, organizational theory and change management literature argue that organizations are composed of distinct groups that have different values and goals. It is therefore important to dissect the organization and to look at the various internal stakeholders involved. In this study, we follow this advice and study how two key organizational groups (city managers and Works Council members) perceive their organization’s members’ views regarding the specific innovation of teleworking. We use unique data collected through two nationwide surveys of city managers and Works Council members. The results show that there are crucial differences in the perceptions of the two groups, with city managers generally being more positive about the innovation. Based on our analysis, we conclude that it is important to distinguish between different organizational stakeholders in the innovation adoption process and that managers should be aware of a bias in their perceptions.

Points for practitioners

It is important to distinguish between the various organizational stakeholders in the innovation adoption process because they probably have different attitudes regarding an innovation. Managers should look beyond their own perceptions regarding an innovation and be aware that they are probably more positive in their perceptions than are others in their organization. More specifically, we found that Works Council members attach more importance to the ability to try out innovations before their full introduction than city managers. It is also more important for them that an innovation seems easy to implement and use.
Celebrities’ Memorial Afterlives: Obituaries, Tributes, and Posthumous Gossip in the Romanian Media Deathscape
Authors: Rusu Mihai S.
Published: December 2017

Cross-culturally, dead are protected from posthumous negative evaluations by the universal “nil nisi bonum” precept that governs the ethics within the community of mourners. In this study, we set out to test the observance of this injunction against posthumous gossiping in the Romanian public deathscape. Obituaries and other posthumous articles ( N = 1,148) were collected that covered the deaths of 63 celebrities who passed away between 2013 and 2016. Materials were gathered from the digital archives of three Romanian news sources (a news agency, a “quality” newspaper, and a tabloid), published one week after the moment of death. The findings show that 22% of the articles do contain negative evaluations of the deceased. The percentage rises to 36.4% if we restrict the sample to only those celebrities with a controversial anthumous reputation (19 of 63). These results indicate that celebrities are not spared from critical assessments after they pass away.
Taming Deep Uncertainty: The Potential of Pragmatist Principles for Understanding and Improving Strategic Crisis Management
Authors: Ansell Chris , Boin Arjen
Published: December 2017

Modern societies are increasingly faced with “unknown unknowns,” Black Swans, and mega-crises. Both public and corporate leaders find it deeply challenging to respond to these crisis events. Existing approaches and tools to cope with crisis-induced uncertainty are of little help in these dynamic environments. This article explores how the principles of Pragmatism may provide the building blocks for a theory of effective strategic crisis management. We argue that these principles, formulated by a group of American philosophers in a time of deep uncertainty, provide a way of thinking that will help practitioners prepare for, and deal with, emerging risks, crises, and disasters.
Examining Africentric Cultural Values, Ethnic Identity, and Substance Use Abstinence in Low-Income, Early Adolescent, African American Girls
Authors: Sanchez Delida , Hamilton Emma R. , Gilbert Dorie J. , Vandewater Elizabeth A.
Published: December 2017

An examination of cultural protective factors that foster substance use abstinence among low-income, early adolescent, African American girls may be helpful in understanding how to promote resilience and reduce negative health outcomes. This study examined the relations between Africentric cultural values, ethnic identity, and substance use abstinence among 196 low-income African American early adolescent girls (age 11-14 years). Results of logistic regressions revealed that Africentric values were negatively linked to cigarette and alcohol abstinence. Results also showed a significant positive interaction between Africentric cultural values and ethnic identity exploration that contributed to increased cigarette and alcohol abstinence. Implications for research and practice with African American early adolescent girls are discussed.
Accidental Revitalization? Looking at the Complex Realities of Union Renewal
Authors: Foster Jason
Published: December 2017

This article outlines a union renewal case study with unexpected circumstances. It examines a local that underwent significant renewal in a context where renewal would normally not be expected. It did so by significantly altering its practices while retaining a stable leadership and highly centralized structure. This unexpected renewal is explained through the application of a referential unionisms framework. The article coins the term accidental revitalization to describe the case, arguing the intentionality for reform lies not in design, policy, or upheaval, but instead in an extension of logics constructed through narrative resources mobilization.
Mannosylated T/Tn with Freund’s adjuvant induces cellular immunity
Authors: Son Hye-Youn , Apostolopoulos Vasso , Kim Chul-Woo
Published: December 2017

Inducing cancer-specific cellular immune responses has become an attractive strategy in cancer treatment. In this study, we investigated the role of several adjuvants in eliciting T/Tn-specific cellular immunity and protection against T/Tn expressing tumor challenge. T/Tn (9:1) antigen was purified from blood type “O” erythrocytes donated from healthy Korean volunteers. Immunization was performed using: T/Tn only, T/Tn mixed with Freund’s adjuvant (T/Tn + FA), keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH)-conjugated T/Tn mixed with FA (KLH-T/Tn + FA), and oxidized mannan-conjugated T/Tn mixed with FA (ox-M-T/Tn + FA). Mice immunized with ox-M-T/Tn + FA generated T/Tn-specific CD3, helper T (Th) cells, major histocompatibility complex (MHC) II, and MHC I; T/Tn presentation was significantly high and tolerogenic CD11b+ was the lowest among the tumor models. To verify Th type, we stained intracellular cytokines (interferon gamma (IFN-γ), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), interleukin (IL)-4, and IL-10) using CD3 co-staining. Th1 (IFN-γ and GM-CSF) cytokines were highly expressed and showed high FasL/Fas ratios, cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activity, and cytotoxic T lymphocyte precursor (CTLp) activity in mice immunized with ox-M-T/Tn + FA. Lymphocyte infiltration was highest in mice immunized with ox-M-T/Tn + FA. Additionally, we monitored FasL, MHC I, CD301, and T/Tn expression levels using immunohistochemistry (IHC) on macrophage and tumor sites. The expression of all markers was highest in the ox-M-T/Tn + FA group. Furthermore, tumor retardation and survival rate were highest in the ox-M-T/Tn + FA group. These results demonstrate that a vaccine formulation of T/Tn conjugated with ox-M and mixed with FA-induced cellular immunity and sustained a humoral immune response without over-activating the immune system, thus effectively inhibiting tumor growth.
Access in the Food Environment: A Health Equity Approach Reveals Unequal Opportunity
Authors: Diehl Jessica A. , Heard Debbie , Lockhart Steven , Main Deborah S.
Published: December 2017

Evidence shows that not all places offer people equal access to affordable, healthy food; unequal access is a potential explanation for disparities in health. This study applied the theoretically grounded social science concept of health equity to shift the focus from equal (same for all) to equitable (needs-based) access. Using data from Taking Neighborhood Health to Heart (TNH2H), a large community-based participatory research (CBPR) initiative in Denver, Colorado, this article examines how food access can vary based on social advantage and disadvantage ( n = 926). Findings uncovered important inequities and demonstrated a new and promising approach to understanding the food environment–health relationship.
Perspective-Taking and Empathy Mitigate Family-of-Origin Risk for Electronic Aggression Perpetration Toward Dating Partners: A Brief Report
Authors: Ramos Michelle C. , Miller Kelly F. , Moss Ilana K. , Margolin Gayla
Published: December 2017

Electronic dating aggression among emerging adults is prevalent and has adverse consequences, yet factors that increase or decrease the risk for perpetrating electronic aggression against a romantic partner are understudied. This investigation advances the literature in two novel ways. First, based on intergenerational transmission of violence theories, we tested the link between family-of-origin aggression (FOA) history and electronic aggression toward romantic partners, using a diverse sample of emerging adults. Second, we examined whether perspective-taking and empathy each moderated the association between FOA and electronic dating aggression and explored the moderating role of gender. Participants included 359 undergraduate students (50% female; 42% White) from an urban university. Results indicated that greater FOA during childhood was associated with perpetrating greater electronic aggression against romantic partners. Furthermore, significant interactions indicated that perspective-taking and empathy separately buffered these associations. Youth from aggressive families did not exhibit increased electronic dating perpetration when they had higher perspective-taking or empathy. Males were especially sensitive to the protective effects of perspective-taking. Findings highlight potential points of intervention (i.e., cognitive and affective empathy training) to decrease electronic aggression in romantic relationships and break intergenerational cycles of aggression.
Instrument Development of Integrative Health and Wellness Assessment™
Authors: McElligott Deborah , Eckardt Sarah , Montgomery Dossey Barbara , Luck Susan , Eckardt Patricia
Published: December 2017

The nurse coach role was developed to address the needs of our nation and the world for health and wellbeing. The Theory of Integrative Nurse Coaching provides a foundation for coaching interventions supporting health promotion, and a framework for the development of the Integrative Health and Wellness Assessment (IHWA) short form. This 36-question Likert-type scale self-reporting tool assists participants in assessing healthy behaviors through a self-reflection process, provides information for the coaching relationship, and may be an outcome measurement. This article describes the history of the IHWA tool and the development and pilot testing of the IHWA short form using guidelines provided by DeVellis. Results of the Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin test yielded a value of .520, and the Bartlett’s test of sphericity was significant. Cronbach’s alpha overall scale internal consistency was .88 ( n = 36). Pilot study results indicate that the scale could be improved through additional revision, and an ongoing study is in progress.
Is the long-term sequestration of CO2 in and around deep, abandoned coal mines feasible?
Authors: Li Wei , Ren Tian-wei , Su Er-lei , Cheng Yuanping
Published: December 2017

Many of the largest fixed sources of CO2 emissions are major power stations located on or very close to major coalfields. Even when local coal reserves are exhausted, coal- and/or biomass-fired power generation often persists at such sites, as they occupy pivotal positions in the national power grids that developed around them. To date, strategies for CO2 sequestration from such power plants have focused on long-distance transport by pipeline to depleted hydrocarbon reservoirs and similar deep saline aquifers. Yet where abandoned coal mines extend more than about 800 m below ground level, the void space represented by the old mine voids themselves, and roof strata that have been rendered more permeable by void collapse, could represent convenient auxiliary loci for CO2 sequestration. Furthermore, the geochemical nature of coal and coal-bearing strata may offer mechanisms for entrapment of injected CO2 in or on the solid phase that are not available in potential storage zones considered to date. Engineering evaluation of this possibility requires consideration of the likely fate of CO2 in free, adsorbed, dissolved, and mineralized forms, and of the geotechnical integrity of enclosing strata and abandoned mine infrastructure that could serve as seals to trap injected CO2 in place. A protocol for assessing these factors has been developed, based on critical evaluation of mining records, hydrogeological conditions, and geotechnical data, resulting in a quantitative assessment of the capacity for CO2 sequestration represented by deep abandoned coal mine workings. Preliminary application of the decision logic is illustrated for the Daning coal mines in China.
Adoption of voluntary approach: Can voluntary approach generate collective impacts for China achieving ambitious energy efficiency targets?
Authors: Zhang Mingshun , Cui Ying , ter Avest Erik , van Dijk Meine Pieter
Published: December 2017

China has a fast growing economy in the past three decades that not only contributes to a rise in welfare but also to major energy, resource and environmental problems. Traditional command-and-control approaches are focusing on laggards instead of the forerunners and on sanctions of polluters that are not yet complying with standards. These policy approaches are ineffective to mobilize the potential capacities of cleaner production. This study is conducted in three phases of feasibility studies, demonstrations and up-scaling of adoption of voluntary approaches in China for achieving ambitious energy and environmental targets. The results show that voluntary approach is a proven collective impact approach for China achieving ambitious energy targets. As compared to the energy and environmental targets set by authorities, more than 10%–20% higher targets of energy efficiency and environmental performance can be achieved by adoption of voluntary approaches. The study has concluded six successful factors that are crucial for China adopting collective impact approach of Voluntary Agreement in the field of sustainable production. Those six factors are: (1) a common agenda with shared vision for improvement, (2) co-create with trust, (3) continuous communication based on trust and common motivation, (4) backbone support and facilitation, (5) incentives and sanctions and (6) monitoring, data verification and evaluation. This study provides a good example for China developing and implementing more flexible, public–private-partnership oriented, cost-effective and collective impact policies that could facilitate China achieving high sustainability in industries.
Sertoli Cells Loaded with Doxorubicin in Lipid Micelles Reduced Tumor Burden and Dox-Induced Toxicity
Authors: Das Mahasweta , Howell Mark , Foran Elspeth A. , Iyre Rohit , Mohapatra Shyam S. , Mohapatra Subhra
Published: December 2017

The toxic side effects of doxorubicin (Dox) limit its long-term use as a lung cancer chemotherapeutic. Additionally, drug delivery to the deep lung is challenging. To address these challenges, isolated rat Sertoli cells (SCs) were preloaded with Dox conjugated to lipid micelle nanoparticles (SC-DLMNs) and delivered to mouse lungs. These immunocompetent cells, when injected intravenously, travel to the lung, deliver the payload, and get cleared by the system quickly without causing any adverse reaction. We observed that SC-DLMNs effectively treated Lewis lung carcinoma 1-induced lung tumors in mice and the drug efficacy was comparable to SC-Dox treatment. Mice treated with SC-DLMNs also showed significantly less toxicity compared to those treated with SC-Dox. The encapsulation of Dox in lipid micelle nanoparticles reduced the toxicity of Dox and the SC-based delivery method ensured drug delivery to the deep lung without evoking any immune response. Taken together, these results provide a novel SC-based nanoparticle drug delivery method for improved therapeutic outcome of cardiotoxic antilung cancer drugs.
Aortic Graft at Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery as a Source of Human Aortic Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Kostina Daria , Zverev Dmitry , Grebennik Vadim , Gordeev Mikhail , Ignatieva Elena , Voronkina Irina , Kostareva Anna , Malashicheva Anna
Published: December 2017

One of the serious obstacles of the aortopathies research is a considerable shortage of human aortic smooth muscle cells (SMCs), which can be used to model the disease. SMC in most cases come from the whole aorta of transplant donors, which are rather difficult to access. In the course of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, a fragment of aortic tissue is excised to make a bypass root. In this study, we show a possibility to use CABG leftover fragments of thoracic aorta as a source of human SMC for in vitro research. We isolated SMC from the fragments of aortic tissues obtained during CABG procedure and compared these cells to the cells that were isolated from aortic tissue of transplant donors. The content of key SMC contractile markers (SMA, SM22α, and vimentin) as well as proliferation and migration rates, metalloproteases MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities were similar in CABG-derived SMC and in transplant donor–derived SMC. In conclusion, leftovers of ascending thoracic aorta obtained during CABG can be used as a source of human aortic SMCs for in vitro research.
S-allylcysteine Improves Blood Flow Recovery and Prevents Ischemic Injury by Augmenting Neovasculogenesis
Authors: Syu Jia-Ning , Yang Mei-Due , Tsai Shu-Yao , Chiang En-Pei Isabel , Chiu Shao-Chih , Chao Che-Yi , Rodriguez Raymond L. , Tang Feng-Yao
Published: December 2017

Studies suggest that a low level of circulating human endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) is a risk factor for ischemic injury and coronary artery disease (CAD). Consumption of S-allylcysteine (SAC) is known to prevent CAD. However, the protective effects of SAC on the ischemic injury are not yet clear. In this study, we examined whether SAC could improve blood flow recovery in ischemic tissues through EPC-mediated neovasculogenesis. The results demonstrate that SAC significantly enhances the neovasculogenesis of EPCs in vitro. The molecular mechanisms for SAC enhancement of neovasculogenesis include the activation of Akt/endothelial nitric oxide synthase signaling cascades. SAC increased the expression of c-kit, β-catenin, cyclin D1, and Cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4) proteins in EPCs. Daily intake of SAC at dosages of 0.2 and 2 mg/kg body weight significantly enhanced c-kit protein levels in vivo. We conclude that dietary consumption of SAC improves blood flow recovery and prevents ischemic injury by inducing neovasculogenesis in experimental models.
Multicenter Assessment of Animal-free Collagenase AF-1 for Human Islet Isolation
Authors: Brandhorst Daniel , Parnaud Géraldine , Friberg Andrew , Lavallard Vanessa , Demuylder-Mischler Sandrine , Hughes Stephen , Saphörster Julia , Kurfürst Manfred , Korsgren Olle , Berney Thierry , Johnson Paul R. V.
Published: December 2017

Animal-free (AF) SERVA Collagenase AF-1 and Neutral Protease (NP) AF GMP Grade have recently become available for human islet isolation. This report describes the initial experiences of 3 different islet transplant centers. Thirty-four human pancreases were digested using 1 vial of the 6 different lots of Collagenase AF-1 (2,000–2,583 PZ-U/vial) supplemented with 4 different lots of NP AF in a range of 50 to 160 DMC-U per pancreas. Isolation, culture, and quality assessment were performed using standard techniques as previously described. All data are presented as mean ± standard error of the mean (SEM). Variability of pancreas weight was associated with a wide range of collagenase and NP activities, ranging from 12.7 to 46.6 PZ-U/g (26.0 ± 1.5 PZ-U/g) and 0.4 to 3.0 DMC-U/g (1.5 ± 0.1 DMC-U/g), respectively. Postpurification islet yield was 296,494 ± 33,620 islet equivalents (IEQ) equivalent to 3,274 ± 450 IEQ/g with a purity of 55.9% ± 3.2%. Quality assessment performed after 2 to 4 d of culture demonstrated a viability of 88.1% ± 1.5% and a stimulation index of 3.7 ± 0.7. Eighteen of the 34 preparations were transplanted into type 1 diabetic patients equivalent to a transplantation rate of 52.9%. Six preparations, which were infused into patients as first transplant, could be analyzed and increased the fasting C-peptide level from 0.11 ± 0.08 pretransplant to 1.23 ± 0.24 and 2.27 ± 0.31 ng/mL 3 and 6 mo posttransplant ( P < 0.05), respectively. Insulin requirements were simultaneously reduced at the same time from 39.2 ± 3.8 IU/d before transplantation to 10.8 ± 4.1 and 4.0 ± 2.3 IU/d, after 3 and 6 mo posttransplant ( P < 0.05), respectively. This study demonstrates the efficiency of AF SERVA Collagenase AF-1 and NP AF for clinical islet isolation and transplantation. The new plant-based production process makes these products a safe new option for the islet field.
Book Review: J. Klewes, D. Popp and M. Rost-Hein (Eds), Out-thinking Organisational Communications: The Impact of Digital Transformation
Authors: Bhalla Bhavna
Published: December 2017

J. Klewes, D. Popp and M. Rost-Hein (Eds), Out-thinking Organisational Communications: The Impact of Digital Transformation, 2017, Switzerland: Springer International Publishing, 199 pp., €69,99, ISBN: 978-3-319-41844-5 (Hardcover).
Searching for solidarity in the EU asylum and border policies
Authors: Thym Daniel , Tsourdi Evangelia (Lilian)
Published: December 2017

Solidarity was once at the core of the European integration process. While originally intended to facilitate further integration, solidarity, in recent years, has often been associated with the intention of safeguarding existing policies. This article attempts to untangle this polysemous concept. It discusses the constitutional significance of solidarity, ultimately distinguishing four discernible dimensions in the EU context: transnational solidarity, inter-state solidarity, solidarity between a particular group of individuals and, finally, the institutional dimension. It unpacks the interaction between solidarity, loyalty and mutual trust, ascertaining them as interlocking principles. We focus on solidarity in the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice, revealing it to have legal effects which require compensatory action to support the application of supranational rules. Nonetheless, the principle can be realized in different ways, and it is far from certain whether the EU institutions are able to muster the political clout and the political legitimacy necessary to overcome divergences of opinion and perception. Against this backdrop, we sketch what EU institutions have undertaken to operationalize the principle in the ambit of EU asylum and border control policies to respond to the refugee policy crisis. The contributions to this special issue delve more deeply into the different aspects of this central theme.
Health Care Professionals, Rurality, and Intimate Femicide
Authors: Reckdenwald Amy , Yohros Alexis , Szalewski Alec
Published: December 2017

Research demonstrates that disparities exist in access to quality rural health care. With studies showing that intimate partner violence is more severe and homicide is more prevalent in rural areas, scholars have begun to turn to the inaccessibility of health care in these areas as an explanation. The current study sets out to further this limited body of literature by examining the importance of rurality on the relationship between the availability of health care professionals and intimate femicide at the county level. Results indicate that rurality moderates the relationship between the availability of health care professionals and intimate femicide; however, results are not as predicted.
Static characteristics of hydrostatic doubled-layered porous journal bearings with slip flow including additives percolation into pores under coupled stress lubrication
Authors: Some Shitendu , Guha Sisir K
Published: December 2017

A theoretical analysis of the steady-state characteristics of finite hydrostatic double-layered porous journal bearings dealing with the effects of slip flow at the fine porous layer–film interface and percolation of additives into pores under the coupled stress fluid lubrication is presented. Based on the Beavers–Joseph’s criterion for slip flow, the modified Reynolds equation applicable to finite porous journal bearings lubricated with coupled stress fluids have been derived. The governing equations for flow in the coarse and fine layers of porous medium incorporating the percolation of polar additives of lubricant and the modified Reynolds equation are solved simultaneously using finite difference method satisfying appropriate boundary conditions to obtain the steady-state performance characteristics for various parameter namely percolation factor, slip coefficient, bearing feeding parameter, coupled stress parameter, and eccentricity ratio. The results are exhibited in the form of graphs, which may be useful for design of such bearing.
Resting high-frequency heart rate variability moderates the association between early-life adversity and body adiposity
Authors: Curtis David S , Fuller-Rowell Thomas E , Hinnant J Benjamin , Kaeppler Alexander K , Doan Stacey N
Published: December 2017

This study investigates resting high-frequency heart rate variability as a moderator of the association between early-life adversity and two measures of body adiposity. Data were collected from 149 young adults attending a large university in the Midwestern United States ( Mage = 18.8 years; 45% black; 55% white; 56% female). Self-reported early-life adversity was associated with greater waist-to-height ratio and body mass index. The strength of these associations was moderated by high-frequency heart rate variability, such that the link was stronger for individuals with lower heart rate variability. Resting high-frequency heart rate variability thus has potential health significance as a biomarker of stress vulnerability.
Overview of recent cases before the court of justice of the European Union (April−September 2017)
Authors: van der Mei Anne Pieter
Published: December 2017

This contribution presents an overview of the case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union in the period April–September 2017 on social security matters. The relevant rulings concern first and foremost the rules determining the applicable legislation as enshrined in Regulation 883/2004 and Regulation 1408/71. In addition, the Court of Justice has delivered important rulings concerning posted worker and the binding effect of A1 certificates, the social security rights of third country nationals holding a single-permit and the protection of social rights in the context of financial crisis and austerity measures.
Post-secularism in multiple modernities
Authors: Possamai Adam
Published: December 2017

‘Post-secularism’ is a term that has emerged in various disciplines, including sociology, to reflect religion’s move back into the public sphere and the need to take into account the voice of religious actors in any contemporary analysis of society. This article argues that post-secularism is, in fact, a specific type of secularism that deals with the neoliberal management of religion in the public sphere. To unpack this argument, the article will first explore what is meant by post-secularism, and then, via a case study of Shari’a in Australia, it will move to the theory of multiple modernities in order to underline the relativeness of such a term. It will then be proposed that what is meant by post-secularism is, in fact, a type of secularism (perhaps ‘late’ rather than ‘post’) in neoliberal societies.
Mobiles in class?
Authors: Derounian James Garo
Published: December 2017

Change and exploration offer students and staff the opportunity to positively embrace use of mobile devices in higher education teaching, so that the much-vaunted pursuit of technology-based co-production of learning can become a reality. There is a need to evaluate the incidence and effect of the use of mobile devices in class, however, given the newness and rapidly changing nature of the technologies. This study presents a review of the pros and cons of students using mobile phones, smartphones, laptops and tablets in contact sessions. It sets out to determine how the potential of mobile devices for learning may be realised, and negatives minimised, given that the literature paints a very mixed picture of both positive and negative impacts of using mobile devices for higher education teaching and learning. In addition, there are insights from students about how they and lecturers can practically enhance use of technologies in class. There remain gaps in research around this topic, for example, looking at whether students undertaking different subjects respond differently to the use of mobile devices for study.
Value of HCC-MELD Score in Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma Undergoing Liver Transplantation
Authors: Guerrini Gian Piero , Pinelli Domenico , Marini Elena , Corno Vittorio , Guizzetti Michela , Zambelli Marco , Aluffi Alessandro , Lincini Lisa , Fagiuoli Stefano , Lucianetti Alessandro , Colledan Michele
Published: December 2017

Context:

Liver transplantation (LT) is considered the ideal therapy for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) having cirrhosis but the shortage of liver donors and the risk of dropout from the wait list due to tumor progression severely limit transplantation. A new prognostic score, the HCC-model for end-stage liver disease (HCC-MELD), was developed by combining α-fetoprotein (AFP), MELD, and tumor size, to improve risk stratification of dropout in patients with HCC.

Objectives:

In this study, we investigated the ability of the HCC-MELD score in predicting the posttransplant for patients fulfilling Milan criteria (MC).

Design:

Two hundred patients with stage II tumor were retrospectively reviewed from a total of 1290 transplants performed at our institution from October 1997 through April 2015. Cox regression analysis was performed to identify the prognostic factors impacting the posttransplant survival.

Results:

Overall survival at 1, 5, and 10 years was 89.3%, 71.1%, and 67.2%, whereas disease-free survival was 86.4%, 66.5%, and 52.4%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed HCC-MELD score (hazard ratio [HR] 39.6, P < .001) and microvascular invasion (HR 2.41, P = .002) to be independent risk factors for recurrence, whereas HCC diameter (HR 1.15, P = .041), HCC-MELD (HR 15.611, P = .006), and grading (HR 2.17, P = .03) proved to be predictive factors of poor overall survival.

Conclusion:

Our study showed the validity of the HCC-MELD equation in the evaluation of patients undergoing LT for HCC. This score offers a reliable method to assess the risk of waiting list dropout and predict posttransplantation outcomes.
MiR-145 regulates osteogenic differentiation of human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells through targeting FoxO1
Authors: Hao Wei , Liu Hongzhi , Zhou Lugang , Sun Yujie , Su Hao , Ni Jianqiang , He Tian , Shi Peng , Wang Xin
Published: December 2017

In this study, we aimed to investigate the expression of miR-145 before and after hASCs osteogenic differentiation. We also intended to explore the influence of the target relationship between miR-145 and FoxO1 on osteogenic differentiation. Dual-luciferase reporter gene assay and real-time PCR were used to confirm the target relationship between miR-145 and FoxO1. Furthermore, the modulatory effects of miR-145 and FoxO1 on hASCs osteoinductive differentiation were measured by real-time PCR , Western blot, ALP staining, ARS staining, and cell immunofluorescence assay. After osteogenic differentiation, miR-145 was gradually down-regulated, while FoxO1 was up-regulated in hASCs. MiR-145 could directly target FoxO1 3′UTR. FoxO1 was negatively regulated by miR-145. After osteoinductive differentiation, BSP, Ocn, and OPN expression was lowered with the overexpression of miR-145 or the knockdown of FoxO1. Furthermore, ALP and ARS staining assay results showed weakened ALP activity and extracellular matrix calcification. When overexpressing miR-145 and FoxO1 simultaneously, no obvious change in ALP activity and extracellular matrix calcification was seen. MiR-145 could suppress hASCs osteoinductive differentiation by suppressing FoxO1 directly.

Impact statement

Researching on ASCs was a promising strategy to study osteogenic differentiation. The regulatory role of miR-145 on hASCs osteogenic differentiation remained partially explored. Our study revealed a novel mechanism of the osteogenic differentiation process and suggested that miR-145 and its target gene FoxO1 may be potential targets for the therapy of human osteogenic-related disorders.
Examining Anosognosia of Neglect
Authors: Grattan Emily S. , Skidmore Elizabeth R. , Woodbury Michelle L.
Published: December 2017

Unilateral neglect (neglect) and anosognosia often co-occur post stroke. It is unknown whether anosognosia of neglect varies for different types of daily activities. The objective is to examine the frequency of anosognosia of neglect for items on the Catherine Bergego Scale (CBS) and to determine the level of agreement between participant/assessor item ratings and total scores. Secondary analysis of data was carried out. We conducted descriptive analyses and interrater reliability analyses (Cohen’s kappa) to determine the level of agreement between assessor and participant item ratings. A paired t test was conducted to compare assessor and participant total scores. The frequency of anosognosia among items varied (29.2%-83.3%) and Kappa statistics ranged from -0.07 (no agreement) to 0.23 (fair agreement) for item ratings. There was a significant difference— t(36) = 3.02, p ≤ .01)—between assessor ( M = 8.0, SD = 5.2) and participant-rated ( M = 5.3, SD = 4.5) total CBS scores. Anosognosia is prevalent among those with neglect. Findings highlight the importance of assessing for anosognosia.
Congenital cranial ventral abdominal hernia, peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia and sternal cleft in a 4-year-old multiparous pregnant queen
Authors: Bismuth Camille , Deroy Claire
Published: December 2017

Case summary

Cranial ventral midline hernias, most often congenital, can be associated with other congenital abnormalities, such as sternal, diaphragmatic or cardiac malformations. A 4-year-old multiparous queen with a substernal hernia was admitted for evaluation of a mammary mass. During CT examination, a bifid sternum, the abdominal hernia containing the intestines, spleen, omentum, three fetuses, a mammary mass and an incidental peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia were identified. Surgery consisted of a standard ovariohysterectomy and repair of the peritoneopericardial hernia. Primary closure of the abdominal hernia was attempted but deemed impossible even after the ovariohysterectomy, splenectomy and a partial omentectomy. An external abdominal oblique muscle flap was used to close with no tension on the cranial part of the hernia. One month postoperatively, the queen had no respiratory abnormalities and the herniorrhaphy was fully healed.

Relevance and novel information

This case is the first description of a 4-year-old multiparous pregnant queen with complex congenital malformations and surgical correction of a peritoneopericardial hernia and a 6 × 8 cmsubsternal hernia with an external abdominal oblique muscle flap. Life-threatening sequelae associated with large abdominal hernias can be attributed to space-occupying effects known as loss of domain and compartment syndrome, which is why a muscle flap was used in this case. The sternal cleft was not repaired because of the size of the cleft and the age of the cat.
The Utility of Objective Strength and Functional Performance to Predict Subjective Outcomes After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Menzer Heather , Slater Lindsay V. , Diduch David , Miller Mark , Norte Grant , Goetschius John , Hart Joseph M.
Published: December 2017

Background:

Many clinicians release patients to return to activity after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) based on time from surgery despite deficits in muscle strength and function. It is unclear whether symmetry or unilateral performance is the best predictor of subjective outcomes after ACLR.

Purpose:

To determine physical performance predictors of patient-reported outcomes after reconstruction.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 88 participants (49 males, 39 females; mean ± SD height, 174.0 ± 9.6 cm; weight, 76.1 ± 18.5 kg; age, 19.4 ± 3.7 years) who underwent primary, unilateral ACLR volunteered for this study. Participants had undergone reconstruction a mean of 6.9 ± 1.8 months (range, 5.0-14.1 months) before the study. All participants underwent strength testing as well as hop testing and then completed the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) questionnaires. Stepwise linear regression models were used for symmetry and unilateral performance to identify the proportion of variance explained in the IKDC score, KOOS total score, KOOS-sport subscale, and time from surgery, as well as receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses on those variables that explained the most variance in patient-reported outcomes to determine cutoff thresholds.

Results:

No significant correlations were found between time from surgery and objective performance. The only significant predictors of IKDC score were single-hop limb symmetry index (LSI) and age ( R2 = 0.177) and unilateral triple-hop performance and age ( R2 = 0.228). The cutoff for single-hop symmetry was 0.92 (area under the curve [AUC], 0.703; P = .012), and the cutoff for normalized triple-hop distance was 3.93 (AUC, 0.726; P = .005). When stratified by age, the cutoff for single-hop symmetry was 0.81 (AUC, 0.721; P = .051) for younger patients (age <19.1 years) and was not significant for older patients (age ≥19.1 years). The cutoff for normalized triple-hop distance was 3.85 (AUC, 0.832; P = .005) in older patients and was not significant for younger patients. The only significant predictors of KOOS-sport subscale were single-hop LSI ( R2 = 0.140) and normalized knee extensor power at 180 deg/s ( R2 = 0.096). When subjective outcomes were predicted based on KOOS-sport subscale, the cutoff for single-hop symmetry was 0.85 (AUC, 0.692; P = .018).

Conclusion:

Hopping performance is the most predictive functional variable of subjective outcomes after reconstruction. Single-hop symmetry was most important for younger patients and unilateral triple-hop distance was most important for older patients. Clinicians should consider hopping performance when making return-to-activity decisions after ACLR.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Among Residents of Wayu Town, Western Ethiopia
Authors: Belachew Negash , Tadesse Tarekegne , Gube Addisu Alemayehu
Published: December 2017

Complementary and alternative medicine covers a wide variety of therapies and practices, which vary from country to country and region to region. The study was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of complementary and alternative medicine among the residents of Wayu town, Western Ethiopia. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out on 302 residents. A systematic sampling was used to select households. Data were entered in SPSS (version 20; IBM Corp) and descriptive statistics was carried out. Of 302 participants, 51.65% have a good knowledge, 78.6% were aware of complementary and alternative medicine, and 74.22% used it in the past 2 years. A total of 23.83% believe that complementary and alternative medicine is more effective than modern medicine and 28.8% preferred complementary and alternative medicine to modern medicine. This study revealed that in Wayu town, there is relatively high public interest in complementary and alternative medicine practices and a significant number has a good knowledge but generally the attitude toward complementary and alternative medicine is relatively low.
Red cell exchange transfusions lower cerebral blood flow and oxygen extraction fraction in pediatric sickle cell anemia
Authors: Guilliams Kristin P. , Fields Melanie E. , Ragan Dustin K. , Eldeniz Cihat , Binkley Michael M. , Chen Yasheng , Comiskey Liam S. , Doctor Allan , Hulbert Monica L. , Shimony Joshua S. , Vo Katie D. , McKinstry Robert C. , An Hongyu , Lee Jin-Moo , Ford Andria L.
Published: December 2017

Key Points

Exchange transfusions lower global CBF and OEF in SCA, suggesting transfusions reduce infarct risk by relieving cerebral metabolic stress. In SCA, OEF is highest in the deep white matter, where infarct risk is high; transfusions reduce the volume of tissue with elevated OEF.
Recommendations for the surgical treatment of endometriosis—part 1: ovarian endometrioma
Authors:   Working group of ESGE, ESHRE, and WES, Saridogan Ertan , Becker Christian M. , Feki Anis , Grimbizis Grigoris F. , Hummelshoj Lone , Keckstein Joerg , Nisolle Michelle , Tanos Vasilios , Ulrich Uwe A. , Vermeulen Nathalie , De Wilde Rudy Leon
Published: December 2017

Study question

What does this document on the surgical treatment of endometriosis jointly prepared by the European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (ESGE), ESHRE, and the World Endometriosis Society (WES) provide?

Summary answer

This document provides recommendations covering technical aspects of different methods of surgery for endometriomas in women of reproductive age.

What is already known

Endometriomas (ovarian endometriotic cysts) are a commonly diagnosed form of endometriosis, owing to the relative ease and accuracy of ultrasound diagnosis. They frequently present a clinical dilemma as to whether and how to treat them when found during imaging or incidentally during surgery. Previously published guidelines have provided recommendations based on the best available evidence, but without technical details on the management of endometriosis.

Study design, size and duration

A working group of ESGE, ESHRE and WES collaborated on writing recommendations on the practical aspects of endometrioma surgery.

Participants/materials, setting and methods

This document focused on endometrioma surgery. Further documents in this series will provide recommendations for surgery of deep and peritoneal endometriosis.

Main results and the role of chance

The document presents general recommendations for surgery of endometrioma and specific recommendations for cystectomy, ablation by laser or by plasma energy, electrocoagulation and a combination of these techniques applied together or with an interval between them.

Limitations and reasons for caution

Owing to the limited evidence available, recommendations are mostly based on clinical expertise.

Wider implications of the findings

These recommendations complement previous guidelines on the management of endometriosis.

Study funding/competing interests

The meetings of the working group were funded by ESGE, ESHRE and WES. CB declares to be a member of the independent data monitoring committee for a clinical study by ObsEva and receiving research grants from Bayer, Roche Diagnostics, MDNA Life Sciences and Volition. ES received honoraria for provision of training to healthcare professionals from Ethicon, Olympus and Gedeon Richter. The other authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.