bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Use in Bladder Cancer: A Survey of Current Practice and Opinions
Authors: Cowan N. G. , Chen Y. , Downs T. M. , Bochner B. H. , Apolo A. B. , Porter M. P. , La Rochelle J. C. , Amling C. L. , Koppie T. M.
Published: May 2014

Objectives. Level 1 evidence supports the use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) to improve overall survival in muscle invasive bladder cancer; however utilization rates remain low. The aims of our study were to determine factors associated with NAC use, to more clearly define reasons for low utilization, and to determine the current rate of NAC use among urologic oncologists.Materials and Methods. Active members of the Society for Urologic Oncology were provided a 20-question survey. Descriptive statistical analysis was conducted for each question and univariate analysis was performed.Results. We achieved a response rate of 21%. Clinical T3/T4 disease was the most often selected reason for recommending NAC (87%). Concerns with recommending NAC were age and comorbidities (54%) followed by delay in surgery (35%). An association was identified between urologic oncologists who discussed NAC with >90% of their patients and medical oncologists “always” recommending NAC (P=0.0009). NAC utilization rate was between 30 and 57%.Conclusions. Amongst this highly specialized group of respondents, clinical T3-T4 disease was the most common reason for implementation of NAC. Respondents who frequently discussed NAC were more likely to report their medical oncologist always recommending NAC. Reported NAC use was higher in this surveyed group (30–57%) compared with recently published rates.
Conjugate Heat Transfer in Rayleigh-Bénard Convection in a Square Enclosure
Authors: Saleh Habibis , Hashim Ishak
Published: May 2014

Conjugate natural convection-conduction heat transfer in a square enclosure with a finite wall thickness is studied numerically in the present paper. The governing parameters considered are the Rayleigh number5×103≤Ra≤106, the wall-to-fluid thermal conductivity ratio0.5≤Kr≤10, and the ratio of wall thickness to its height0.2≤D≤0.4. The staggered grid arrangement together with MAC method was employed to solve the governing equations. It is found that the fluid flow and the heat transfer can be controlled by the thickness of the bottom wall, the thermal conductivity ratio, and the Rayleigh number.
Photobacteriosis: Prevention and Diagnosis
Authors: Andreoni Francesca , Magnani Mauro
Published: May 2014

Photobacteriosis or fish pasteurellosis is a bacterial disease affecting wild and farm fish. Its etiological agent, the gram negative bacteriumPhotobacterium damselaesubsp.piscicida, is responsible for important economic losses in cultured fish worldwide, in particular in Mediterranean countries and Japan. Efforts have been focused on gaining a better understanding of the biology of the pathogenic microorganism and its natural hosts with the aim of developing effective vaccination strategies and diagnostic tools to control the disease. Conventional vaccinology has thus far yielded unsatisfactory results, and recombinant technology has been applied to identify new antigen candidates for the development of subunit vaccines. Furthermore, molecular methods represent an improvement over classical microbiological techniques for the identification ofP. damselaesubsp.piscicidaand the diagnosis of the disease. The complete sequencing, annotation, and analysis of the pathogen genome will provide insights into the pathogen laying the groundwork for the development of vaccines and diagnostic methods.
A Brief Report on the Factor Structure of the Cognitive Measures in the HRS/AHEAD Studies
Authors: Blankson A. Nayena , McArdle John J.
Published: May 2014

Using cognitive data from the Health and Retirement Study and Asset Health Dynamics Among the Oldest Old studies that were collected between 1992 and 2004, McArdle and colleagues (2007) found that a two-factor model (episodic memory and mental status) fit better than a one-factor model. The question that was addressed in the present study was whether these results would replicate in newer cohorts of data, collected between 2006 and 2010. We also tested age, education, and gender as predictors of the identified factors. Results confirm that a two-factor structure fits better than the single-factor model in the newer cohorts. Differential predictors were also observed.
Evaluation of Stability of Surface-Treated Mini-Implants in Diabetic Rabbits
Authors: Oh Nam-Hee , Kim Eun-Young , Paek Janghyun , Kook Yoon-Ah , Jeong Do-Min , Cho Il-Sik , Nelson Gerald
Published: May 2014

Introduction. The purpose of this study was to investigate effects of surface treatment of mini-implants in diabetes-induced rabbits by comparing osseointegration around mini-implants.Methods. Twelve New Zealand white rabbits were divided into two groups (alloxan-induced diabetic group and control group). A total of 48 mini-implants were placed after four weeks of diabetic induction. 24 mini-implants were surface-treated with SLA (sandblasted with large grit, and acid etched) and the remaining 24 mini-implants had smooth surfaces. Four weeks after placement, 32 mini-implants were removed from 4 control and 4 diabetic rabbits. Insertion and removal torques were measured. The remaining 16 mini-implants from the two groups were histomorphometrically analyzed.Results. Maximum insertion torque showed no difference between diabetic and control groups, but total insertion energy was higher in control group. In surface-treated mini-implants, maximum removal torque was higher in both diabetic and control groups. Bone-implant contact (BIC) was increased in the control group when compared to the diabetic group. Surface-treated group had higher BIC than smooth surface group in both control and diabetic groups. However, there was no significantly statistical difference.Conclusions. Type 1 diabetes mellitus and surface treatment method of mini-implant affected primary stability of mini-implants. In addition, the use of orthodontic mini-implants in a diabetic patient is likely to show results similar to the healthy patient.
Identification of MicroRNAs as Potential Biomarker for Gastric Cancer by System Biological Analysis
Authors: Yan Wenying , Wang Shouli , Sun Zhandong , Lin Yuxin , Sun Shengwei , Chen Jiajia , Chen Weichang
Published: May 2014

Gastric cancers (GC) have the high morbidity and mortality rates worldwide and there is a need to identify sufficiently sensitive biomarkers for GC. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) could be promising potential biomarkers for GC diagnosis. We employed a systematic and integrative bioinformatics framework to identify GC-related microRNAs from the public microRNA and mRNA expression dataset generated by RNA-seq technology. The performance of the 17 candidate miRNAs was evaluated by hierarchal clustering, ROC analysis, and literature mining. Fourteen have been found to be associated with GC and three microRNAs (miR-211, let-7b, and miR-708) were for the first time reported to associate with GC and may be used for diagnostic biomarkers for GC.
Reproductive Dynamics ofSterna hirundinaceaLesson, 1831 in Ilha dos Cardos, Santa Catarina, Brazil
Authors: Fracasso Hélio Augusto Alves , Branco Joaquim Olinto , Efe Márcio Amorim , Barreiros João Pedro
Published: May 2014

In this work, we intend to describe the reproductive dynamics ofSterna hirundinaceain an island from South Brazil. We studied the reproductive biology of this species in its natural environment and provide data on their growth, survival, and reproductive success in Ilha dos Cardos, Santa Catarina, South Brazil. Samplings were carried out daily on the island throughout the reproductive seasons of 2003, 2005, and 2006 and the different stages of development of the chicks were characterized according to age, length of the beak, and plumage characteristics. We provide a basic equationLm=167.91 (1-e-0.062t--0.23)to determine the approximate age of individuals using their body mass. The main cause of chick mortality on the island was natural (63.17% in 2003, 81.41% in 2005, and 79.96% in 2006), whereas predation contributed to mortality in a proportion of 38.83% in 2003, 18.59% in 2005, and 20.04% in 2006. The absence in the area of the chicks’ main predator, Kelp gull (Larus dominicanus), the large number of chicks that reached the final stages of development, and their reproductive success demonstrate that Ilha dos Cardos is an important breeding site for the species in southern Brazil.
Evaluation of CoBlast Coated Titanium Alloy as Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Bipolar Plates
Authors: Oladoye Atinuke M. , Carton James G. , Olabi Abdul G.
Published: May 2014

We investigated the potential of graphite based coatings deposited on titanium V alloy by a low-cost powder based process for bipolar plate application. The coatings which were deposited from a mixture of graphite and alumina powders at ambient temperature, pressure of 90 psi, and speed of 20 mm were characterised and electrochemically polarised in 0.5 M H2SO4 + 2 ppm HF bubbled with air and hydrogen gas to depict the cathode and anode PEM fuel cell environment, respectively. Surface conductivity and water contact angles were also evaluated. Corrosion current in the 1 μA/cm2 range in both cathodic and anodic environment at room temperature and showed negligible influence on the electrochemical behaviour of the bare alloy. Similar performance, which was attributed to the discontinuities in the coatings, was also observed when polarised at 0.6 V and −0.1 V with air and hydrogen bubbling at 70∘C respectively. At 140 N/cm2, the coated alloy exhibited contact resistance of 45.70 mΩ·cm2 which was lower than that of the bare alloy (66.50 mΩ·cm2) but twice that of graphite (21.29 mΩ·cm2). Similarly, the wettability test indicated that the coated layer exhibited higher contact angle of 99.63° than that of the bare alloy (66.32°). Over all, these results indicated need for improvement in the coating process to achieve a continuous layer.
The State of the Art of Robotic Pancreatectomy
Authors: Del Chiaro Marco , Segersvärd Ralf
Published: May 2014

During the last decades an increasing number of minimally invasive pancreatic resections have been reported in the literature. With the development of robotic surgery a new enthusiasm has not only increased the number of centers approaching minimally invasive pancreatic surgery in general but also enabled the use of this technique for major pancreatic procedures, in particular in minimally invasive pancreatoduodenectomy. The aim of this review was to define the state of the art of pancreatic robotic surgery. No prospective randomized trials have been performed comparing robotic, laparoscopic, and open pancreatic procedures. From the literature one may conclude that robotic pancreatectomies seem to be as feasible and safe as open procedures. The general idea that the overall perioperative costs of robotic surgery would be higher than traditional procedures is not supported. With the current lack of evidence of any oncologic advantages, the cosmetic benefits offered by robotic surgery are not enough to justify extensive use in cancer patients. In contrast, the safety of these procedure can justify the use of the robotic technique in patient with benign/low grade malignant tumors of the pancreas.
Mechanism and Efficacy of Sub–50-nm Tenfibgen Nanocapsules for Cancer Cell–Directed Delivery of Anti-CK2 RNAi to Primary and Metastatic Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Unger Gretchen M. , Kren Betsy T. , Korman Vicci L. , Kimbrough Tyler G. , Vogel Rachel I. , Ondrey Frank G. , Trembley Janeen H. , Ahmed Khalil
Published: May 2014

Improved survival for patients with head and neck cancers (HNC) with recurrent and metastatic disease warrants that cancer therapy is specific, with protected delivery of the therapeutic agent to primary and metastatic cancer cells. A further objective should be that downregulation of the intracellular therapy target leads to cell death without compensation by an alternate pathway. To address these goals, we report the utilization of a sub–50-nm tenfibgen (s50-TBG) nanocapsule that delivers RNAi oligonucleotides directed against the essential survival signal protein kinase CK2 (RNAi-CK2) in a cancer cell–specific manner. We have evaluated mechanism and efficacy of using s50-TBG-RNAi-CK2 nanocapsules for therapy of primary and metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). s50-TBG nanocapsules enter cancer cells via the lipid raft/caveolar pathway and deliver their cargo (RNAi-CK2) preferentially to malignant but not normal tissues in mice. Our data suggest that RNAi-CK2, a unique single-stranded oligonucleotide, co-opts the argonaute 2/RNA-induced silencing complex pathway to target the CK2αα′ mRNAs. s50-TBG-RNAi-CK2 inhibited cell growth corresponding with reduced CK2 expression in targeted tumor cells. Treatment of three xenograft HNSCC models showed that primary tumors and metastases responded to s50-TBG-RNAi-CK2 therapy, with tumor shrinkage and 6-month host survival that was achieved at relatively low doses of the therapeutic agent without any adverse toxic effect in normal tissues in the mice. We suggest that our nanocapsule technology and anti-CK2 targeting combine into a therapeutic modality with a potential of significant translational promise. Mol Cancer Ther; 13(8); 2018–29. ©2014 AACR.
Myeloid Lineage–Specific Deletion of Antioxidant System Enhances Tumor Metastasis
Authors: Hiramoto Keiichiro , Satoh Hironori , Suzuki Takafumi , Moriguchi Takashi , Pi Jingbo , Shimosegawa Tooru , Yamamoto Masayuki
Published: May 2014

Oxidative stress accelerates the pathogenesis of a number of chronic diseases including cancer growth and its metastasis. Transcription factor NF-E2–related factor-2 (Nrf2), which regulates the cellular defense system against oxidative stress, elicits essential protection against chemical-induced carcinogenic insults. We recently demonstrate that the systemic deletion of Nrf2 leads to an increased susceptibility to cancer metastasis, which is associated with aberrant reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation in myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC). However, it remains elusive whether cellular antioxidant defense system in the myeloid lineage cells plays indispensable roles for metastatic cancer progression. We herein found that myeloid lineage–specific Nrf2-deficient mice exhibited an increased susceptibility to pulmonary metastasis of the mouse Lewis lung carcinoma cells, and ROS level was more highly elevated in MDSCs of cancer-bearing Nrf2-deficient mice. Similarly, myeloid lineage–specific deletion of selenocysteine-tRNA gene (Trsp), which is essential for synthesis of antioxidant selenoenzymes, resulted in increased number of metastatic nodules along with ROS accumulation in MDSCs of cancer-bearing mice. These results thus indicate that the antioxidant systems directed by Nrf2 and selenoenzymes contribute to the clearance of ROS in MDSCs, efficiently preventing cancer cell metastasis. Consistent with this notion, a synthetic triterpenoid 1-[2-cyano-3,12-dioxooleana-1,9(11)-dien-28-oyl] imidazole (CDDO-Im), a potent Nrf2 inducer, attenuated the ROS production in MDSCs, and thereafter reduced metastatic nodules. Taken together, this study provides compelling lines of evidence that Nrf2 inducer retains therapeutic efficacy against cancer cell metastasis. Cancer Prev Res; 7(8); 835–44. ©2014 AACR.
Optimization in Stent Implantation by Manual Thrombus Aspiration in ST-Segment–Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Fernández-Rodríguez Diego , Regueiro Ander , Brugaletta Salvatore , Martín-Yuste Victoria , Masotti Mónica , Cequier Angel , Iñíguez Andrés , Serra Antonio , Hernández-Antolín Rosana , Mainar Vicente , Valgimigli Marco , Tespili Maurizio , den Heijer Pieter , Bethencourt Armando , Vázquez Nicolás , Serruys Patrick W. , Sabaté Manel
Published: May 2014

Background—

Manual thrombus aspiration (TA) is effective to reduce the thrombus burden during primary percutaneous coronary intervention for ST-elevation myocardial infarction. The objective of this study is to assess the impact of manual TA on stent implantation during primary percutaneous coronary intervention.

Methods and Results—

Population of the EXAMINATION trial (n=1498) was divided into 2 groups according to the use of TA. Immediate angiographic results, primary patient-oriented end point (combination of all-cause death, myocardial infarction, and any revascularization) and secondary device-oriented end point (combination of cardiac death, target vessel myocardial infarction, and clinically driven target lesion revascularization), definite/probable stent thrombosis, and major/minor bleeding were evaluated at 2 years. A total of 976 (65.2%) patients were classified into TA group and 522 (34.8%) patients into nonthrombus aspiration group. Manual TA was most frequently used in patients with worse initial thrombolysis in myocardial infarction flow. The TA group received less number of stents implanted (1.35±0.62 versus 1.45±0.71,
P
=0.005) with bigger size (3.25±0.44 versus 3.11±0.46 mm,
P
<0.001) compared with the nonthrombus aspiration group. A higher rate of direct stenting (69.2% versus 43.3%,
P
<0.001) with lower rate of postdilatation (13.0% versus 18.0%,
P
<0.009) was also present in the TA group compared with the nonthrombus aspiration group. At 2-year follow-up, no differences in clinical end point were observed between groups.

Conclusions—

Manual TA during primary percutaneous coronary intervention is associated with a higher rate of direct stenting, a lower rate of postdilatation, and larger and less stents in comparison with conventional primary percutaneous coronary intervention. Conversely, manual TA had no apparent impact on clinical outcomes at long-term follow-up.

Clinical Trial Registration—

http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00828087.
Maternal Parity, Fetal and Childhood Growth, and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors
Authors: Gaillard Romy , Rurangirwa Akashi A. , Williams Michelle A. , Hofman Albert , Mackenbach Johan P. , Franco Oscar H. , Steegers Eric A.P. , Jaddoe Vincent W.V.
Published: May 2014

We examined the associations of maternal parity with fetal and childhood growth characteristics and childhood cardiometabolic risk factors in a population-based prospective cohort study among 9031 mothers and their children. Fetal and childhood growth were repeatedly measured. We measured childhood anthropometrics, body fat distribution, left ventricular mass, blood pressure, blood lipids, and insulin levels at the age of 6 years. Compared with nulliparous mothers, multiparous mothers had children with higher third trimester fetal head circumference, length and weight growth, and lower risks of preterm birth and small-size-for-gestational-age at birth but a higher risk of large-size-for-gestational-age at birth (
P
<0.05). Children from multiparous mothers had lower rates of accelerated infant growth and lower levels of childhood body mass index, total fat mass percentage, and total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol than children of nulliparous mothers (
P
<0.05). They also had a lower risk of childhood overweight (odds ratio, 0.75 [95% confidence interval, 0.63–0.88]). The risk of childhood clustering of cardiometabolic risk factors was not statistically significantly different (odds ratio, 0.82; 95% confidence interval, 0.64–1.05). Among children from multiparous mothers only, we observed consistent trends toward a lower risk of childhood overweight and lower cholesterol levels with increasing parity (
P
<0.05). In conclusion, offspring from nulliparous mothers have lower fetal but higher infant growth rates and higher risks of childhood overweight and adverse metabolic profile. Maternal nulliparity may have persistent cardiometabolic consequences for the offspring.
Is More Better? Using Metadata to Explore Dose–Response Relationships in Stroke Rehabilitation
Authors: Lohse Keith R. , Lang Catherine E. , Boyd Lara A.
Published: May 2014

Background and Purpose—

Neurophysiological models of rehabilitation and recovery suggest that a large volume of specific practice is required to induce the neuroplastic changes that underlie behavioral recovery. The primary objective of this meta-analysis was to explore the relationship between time scheduled for therapy and improvement in motor therapy for adults after stroke by (1) comparing high doses to low doses and (2) using metaregression to quantify the dose–response relationship further.

Methods—

Databases were searched to find randomized controlled trials that were not dosage matched for total time scheduled for therapy. Regression models were used to predict improvement during therapy as a function of total time scheduled for therapy and years after stroke.

Results—

Overall, treatment groups receiving more therapy improved beyond control groups that received less (
g
=0.35; 95% confidence interval, 0.26–0.45). Furthermore, increased time scheduled for therapy was a significant predictor of increased improvement by itself and when controlling for linear and quadratic effects of time after stroke.

Conclusions—

There is a positive relationship between the time scheduled for therapy and therapy outcomes. These data suggest that large doses of therapy lead to clinically meaningful improvements, controlling for time after stroke. Currently, trials report time scheduled for therapy as a measure of therapy dose. Preferable measures of dose would be active time in therapy or repetitions of an exercise.
Two new sympatric species of Eusarsiella (Ostracoda: Myodocopida: Sarsiellidae) from the Florida Keys with a morphological phylogeny of Sarsiellinae
Authors: CHURCHILL CELIA K.C. , ELLIS EMILY A. , PIQUE ALANNAH E. , OAKLEY TODD H.
Published: May 2014

We describe two new sympatric species of Sarsiellidae from coastal Florida, USA: Eusarsiella bryanjuarezi sp. nov. and Eusarsiella eli sp. nov. We also present a morphological character matrix and maximum likelihood phylogenetic analysis for Sarsiellinae based on original species descriptions, representing 139 sarsiellins (including E. bryanjuarezi and E. eli). While support values across the phylogeny are low, E. bryanjuarezi and E. eli form a sister group pair with 68 % bootstrap support. Our phylogeny also showed support for six other sympatric sister-species pairs, distributed across Sarsiellinae’s range, which may be candidates for the study of speciation and niche differentiation. Similar to other analyses of myodocopids, our Sarsiellinae phylogeny recovered only three monophyletic genera: Anscottiella, Cymbicopia, and Chelicopia, indicating that characters used in taxonomy may often be homoplasious. Because of our finding of multiple polyphyletic genera, including the two most speciose genera in the subfamily (Eusarsiella and Sarsiella, the type genus) Sarsiellinae is a strong candidate for taxonomic revision.
The family Hyalidae (Crustacea: Amphipoda: Talitroidea) from Korean waters. 1. Genus Ptilohyale Bousfield & Hendrycks, 2002
Authors: EUN YE , KIM YOUNG-HYO , HENDRYCKS ED A. , LEE KYUNG-SOOK
Published: May 2014

Two species of the genus Ptilohyale were collected from shallow coastal waters of Korea. One species is identified as a new species: Ptilohyale brevicrus sp. nov. The morphology of gnathopod 2, pereopods, uropods and mandible are the major characteristics which differentiate the new species from its congeners. The remaining species, P. barbicornis (Hiwatari & Kajihara, 1981) is recorded for the first time from Korea. Both species are fully described and illustrated. A key to the family Hyalidae and species of Ptilohyale from Korea is also provided.
A Sociotechnical Model of the Flight Crew Task
Authors: Cahill Joan , McDonald Nick , Losa Captain Gabriel
Published: May 2014

Objective:

The objective of this research was to advance an improved model of Flight Crew task performance.

Background:

Existing task models present a “local” description of Flight Crew task performance.

Method:

Process mapping workshops, interviews, and observations were conducted with both pilots and flight operations personnel from five airlines, as part of the Human Integration into the Lifecycle of Aviation Systems (HILAS) project.

Results:

The functional logic of the process dictates Flight Crew task requirements and specific task workflows. The Flight Crew task involves managing different levels of operational and environmental complexity, associated with the particular flight context. In so doing, the Flight Crew act as a coordinating interface between different human agents involved in the Active Flight Operations process and other processes that interface with this process.

Conclusion:

This article presents a new sociotechnical model of the Flight Crew task. The proposed model reflects a shift from a local explanation of Flight Crew task activity to a broader process-centric explanation. In so doing, it illuminates the complex role of procedures in commercial operations.

Application:

The task model suggests specific requirements for pilot task support tools, procedures design, performance evaluation and crew resource management (CRM) training. Also, this model might be used to assess future operational concepts and associated technology requirements. Lastly, this model provides the basis for the operational validation of both existing and future cockpit technologies.
Analysis on influence of machining parameters on thrust force in drilling GFRP-armor steel sandwich composites
Authors: Bosco MAJ , Palanikumar K , Prasad B Durga , Velayudham A
Published: May 2014

This paper presents a study and analysis on the thrust force in the drilling of dissimilar materials. The material used is armor steel-glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) composites. The armor steel is sandwiched between the two GFRP layers. Experimental design technique is used for conducting the experiments. The three panels are drilled, and the influences of feed and spindle speed on the thrust force are measured and mathematical models are established between the drilling parameters. The results indicate that the thrust force required is more for the bottom panel than for the top, most probably due to part of the drill is engaged in the armor plate and the heat is also generated because of higher thrust force experienced in drilling the middle layer. The results are discussed and presented in detail.
Melt blending and characterization of carbon nanoparticles-filled thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers
Authors: Cruz Sílvia M. , Viana Júlio C.
Published: May 2014

In this work, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) elastomers reinforced with carbon nanosized particles were produced by a special melt blending technique. A TPU was melt blended with high-structured carbon black and carbon nanofibres (1 wt%). A miniature asymmetric batch mixer, which applies high shear levels to the melt, ensured good particles dispersion. The TPU material systems were then thoroughly characterized using thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, tensile mechanical testing, electrical resistance measurements and flammability tests. The different nanofillers exhibited different influences on the TPU properties, these materials featuring interesting and improved multifunctional behaviours, with high propensity for large deformation sensors applications.
Grief-processing-based psychological intervention for children orphaned by AIDS in central China: A pilot study
Authors: Lin Xiuyun , Fang Xiaoyi , Chi Peilian , Li Xiaoming , Chen Wenrui , Heath Melissa Allen
Published: May 2014

A group of 124 children orphaned by AIDS (COA), who resided in two orphanages funded by the Chinese government, participated in a study investigating the efficacy of a grief-processing-based psychological group intervention. This psychological intervention program was designed to specifically help COA process their grief and reduce their psychological distress. Six sessions of group intervention focused on processing grief, reducing traumatic symptoms and psychological distress, and fostering hope about the future. At the three-month post-test, children in both groups (intervention group and control group) reported significant reduction in trauma symptoms and demonstrated similar levels of hope. However, the intervention group reported significantly increased levels of grief processing and decreased levels of trauma symptoms, depression, and threat appraisal. The intervention group also reported subjective improvements in mood, relationships, individual growth, self-confidence, and perceived social support. These outcomes supported the potential efficacy of grief-processing-based psychological intervention to reduce the psychological distress among COA.
“We Are All Gonna Get Diabetic These Days”
Authors: Pyatak Elizabeth A. , Florindez Daniella , Peters Anne L. , Weigensberg Marc J.
Published: May 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate how an intergenerational legacy of type 2 diabetes affected the knowledge, attitudes, and treatment strategies of Hispanic young adults with diabetes.

Methods

Eight Hispanic young adults (ages 18-30 years) participated in a series of in-home longitudinal qualitative interviews, and 11 of their family members completed single in-home interviews, regarding their diabetes management practices. Interview transcripts were analyzed thematically by a team of researchers.

Results

Five themes emerged that characterized the influence of an intergenerational legacy of diabetes on young adults: food and family (how meal preparation and eating are shared within families), doing together (activity participation is contingent on others’ participation), knowledge and expectations (expectations for the future and understandings of diabetes are shaped by family members), miscarried helping (well-intentioned actions have negative consequences), and reciprocal support (children and parents support each other’s diabetes care).

Conclusions

Hispanic young adults’ knowledge, attitudes, and self-care practices related to diabetes are strongly influenced by the diabetes management practices of family members with diabetes, which often depart from current standards of diabetes care. Care providers should consider family members as a potentially significant influence, either positive or negative, on the diabetes self-care practices of this population.
Bringing Tasks Back In
Authors: Soda Giuseppe , Furlotti Marco
Published: May 2014

To progress beyond the idea that the value of interfirm collaboration is largely determined by the complementarity of the resources held by partners, we build a theoretical framework that explains under which conditions a set of resources or capabilities can be considered as complementary and resulting in superior value creation. Specifically, we argue that the tasks that an interfirm collaboration has to perform determine complementarities and that complementarities arise from similar and dissimilar resources alike. We capture this relationship in the concept of task resource complementarity. Further, we examine factors that impact on the relevance of this construct as a predictor of partner selection. Finally, we discuss which implications arise for a theory of the firm when tasks are explicitly incorporated into the conceptualization of resource complementarity.
It’s (Not) All About the Jacksons
Authors: Bareket-Bojmel Liad , Hochman Guy , Ariely Dan
Published: May 2014

The use of short-term bonuses to motivate employees has become an organizational regularity, but a thorough understanding of the relationship between these incentives and actual performance is lacking. We aim to advance this understanding by examining how three types of bonuses (cash, family meal voucher, and verbal reward) affect employees’ productivity in a field experiment conducted in a high-tech manufacturing factory. While all types of bonuses increased performance by over 5%, nonmonetary short-term bonuses had a slight advantage over monetary bonuses. In addition, the removal of the bonuses led to decreased productivity for monetary bonuses but not for the verbal reward. However, this negative effect of monetary short-term bonuses diminishes when a cash bonus is chosen by employees rather than granted by default. Theoretical implications about the effect of short-term bonuses on intrinsic motivation and reciprocity, as well as practical applications of short-term bonus plans that stem from our findings, are discussed.
The Ophthalmology Microscalpel versus Standard Scalpels and Wound Healing in a Rat Model
Authors: Pearce Elizabeth C. , Hall Joseph E. , Boyd Kelli L. , Rousseau Bernard , Ries W. Russell
Published: May 2014

Objective

We tested the hypothesis that the ophthalmology microscalpel, compared to standard incisional instruments, causes less trauma during incisions resulting in decreased inflammation and greater tensile strength of wounds.

Study Design

Prospective animal study.

Setting

Animal laboratory.

Subjects and Methods

Thirty‐four Sprague‐Dawley rats received dorsum skin incisions with the microscalpel, electrosurgical device, 11 blade scalpel, and 15 blade scalpel. Wounds were harvested at 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, and 6 weeks, then analyzed histologically in a blinded manner for inflammation markers and tested for tensile strength.

Results

The microscalpel wounds had significantly higher tensile strength compared to the 15 blade (P =. 045) and electrocautery device (P =. 000) but equivocal strength to the 11 blade (P =. 457). The electrocautery wounds were weaker than all 3 steel blades. No significant difference was found between the microscalpel, 11 blade, and 15 blade incisions for the 5 markers of inflammation. Electrocautery wounds had significantly worse inflammatory scores, specifically, higher angiogenesis and larger wound gap compared to the microscalpel (P =. 004, P =. 002), 11 blade (P =. 007, P =. 023), and 15 blade (P =. 010, P =. 003), respectively.

Conclusion

Microscalpel incisions result in less inflammation and increased tensile strength compared with electrocautery and higher tensile strength compared to the 15 blade in the rat model. Inflammation scores were equivocal between the microscalpel, 11 blade, and 15 blade. Our findings support the use of the microscalpel blade for facial plastic and reconstructive procedures. Prospective, randomized human studies are warranted.
Korean Apocalyptic Visions and Biblical Imagery
Authors: Grayson James H
Published: May 2014

This study examines the character and imagery of the apocalyptic visions of a rural evangelist in Korea at the end of the Second World War. Pak Tonggi, a charismatic figure who founded a millennarian movement called the Empire of Mount Sion, experienced five major visions which shaped both his ministry and his understanding of world history. This article examines these visions and compares them with the form and motifs of apocalyptic visions recorded in the Old and New Testaments. While Pak’s visions owe much to the ethos of the Biblical visions, their precise content and imagery are seen to be very ‘local’.
Edinburgh 1910 and Pentecostalism: Towards a Pneumatological Missiology
Authors: Lukose Wessly
Published: May 2014

This article examines the missionary spirit of the Edinburgh Conference 1910 and that of the Pentecostal movement. While the optimistic confidence of Edinburgh to evangelize the entire world by the best human resources of the Western church was waned away in a couple of decades after the Conference, the Spirit empowered missionaries of the Pentecostal movement were more effective in accomplishing the same task. Although Pentecostals did not complete the task of world evangelization yet, they became the fastest growing missionary movement in the world today. A definite missiological shift seems to be the key in Pentecostal mission – from an anthropological dimension to a theological dimension of mission – which leads this article to propose a pneumatological Pentecostal missiology. A pneumatological missiology has the potential to serve multiple purposes, as it takes into consideration several aspects of mission, including evangelism, social action, and engaging with people of other faiths.
Swaraj, the Raj, and the British Woman Missionary in India, c. 1917–1950
Authors: Pass Andrea
Published: May 2014

This article explores the complex position of British women missionaries under the Raj at a time of rising Indian nationalism in the 1920s, 1930s and 1940s. By 1920, 311 unmarried female recruits were serving the two leading Anglican societies in India – the high-Church Society for the Propagation of the Gospel (SPG) and the evangelical Church Missionary Society (CMS) – as opposed to 270 men. Although they transgressed imperial norms of ‘pukka’ female behaviour, these single women had numerous ties to the British regime. Missionary and imperial ideals of service intertwined, and mission institutions frequently enjoyed imperial patronage. Sometimes, as at the Criminal Tribes Settlement in Hubli, women missionaries were even employed in direct government service. Using letters and reports, this article examines women missionaries’ negotiation of their complicated status, traversing the gap between the ruling race and its awakening subjects. It highlights their reticence with regards to all-India nationalist politics and their concentration on immediate, local affairs, arguing that such apoliticism and parochialism were consequences of their distinctive, gendered position within mission and imperial hierarchies. Their responses to nationalism and Independence were also conditioned by their Christianity, in particular their ultimate aim to ‘Indianize’ the Mission, promoting swaraj – not necessarily for India as a nation – but for the indigenous Indian Church. After Independence, this ongoing work, and the ambiguities of women missionaries’ connections to Empire, legitimated their continued presence in the subcontinent.
A God of Volcanoes: Did Yahwism Take Root in Volcanic Ashes?
Authors: Dunn Jacob E.
Published: May 2014

Since time immemorial countless scholars have sought to discover the location of Mount Sinai and the origin of the deity Yahweh. One theory, the Midianite–Kenite hypothesis, places the early Yahwistic tradition and the sacred mountain associated with it in Midian on the eastern shores of Aqabah, far south of Canaan proper. This study combines the southern geographical placement of Yahweh's sacred mountain in Midian with biblical descriptions of the theophany at Sinai-Horeb—descriptions which have prompted scholars to interpret the events at the ‘mountain of God’ as volcanic in nature. Because the thesis of Yahweh as a volcano-god has virtually disappeared from the current scientific literature, it is worthwhile to present it once again. First revisiting the history of the ‘volcano hypothesis’ and prior scholarship, this study next advances an interdisciplinary approach and a new reformulation of the Midianite–Kenite hypothesis, combining geography, geology, and volcanology with the textual element that deals with ancient Midian and the Sinai-Horeb tradition. Finally, this study seeks to offer a scientific analysis of the texts, both poetic and narrative, which seem to indicate Sinai-Horeb was a volcanic mountain and pilgrimage site in northwest Saudi Arabia.
Dreaming of Droughts: Genesis 37.1–11 in Dialogue with Contemporary Science
Authors: Corey Judith
Published: May 2014

Dreams of a future reality, particularly Joseph's dreams in which he envisions himself in a position of status during a time of drought, tend to be labeled as supernatural gift from a distant God without further elaboration. However, a form-critical analysis of the text indicates that societal and emotional factors influence the dreaming brain of Joseph. These same factors also aid in propelling the plot of the Genesis novella forward, increasing the probability of the dream becoming a reality. In this study, answers to how our dreams could present a vision of a future reality are examined from ancient Greek philosophers to the contemporary sciences. The history of the tradition of futures forecasting is traced from the ancient Babylonians through Hermetic philosophers to modern meteorology. The primary element necessary for such predictions to be possible is the observation of patterns in the natural environment. Rather than the view of dreams of a future reality as simply supernatural gift from a distant God, the thesis of this article is that Joseph's dreams are a culmination of natural processes from societal and environmental influences, all in intimate connection with the divine.
History and philosophy of geography II
Authors: Powell Richard C.
Published: May 2014

This report juxtaposes recent statements on geographical knowledge by Robert Kaplan and David Harvey to review current concerns in the history and philosophy of geography. Three general trends are identified. First, there have been attempts to address the geographical contributions evident in the corpus of key thinkers, particularly Immanuel Kant. Second, a broader concern with articulating histories of disciplinary subfields, such as cultural, economic and physical geography, has been evident, often connected to personal biographies and reminiscences. Third, a body of work has attempted to put geography’s story into dialogue with that of the wider social sciences, especially for the Cold War period. The paper concludes by noting the continuing difficulties of engaging with the histories and philosophies of geography.
Recovering the politics of the city
Authors: Davidson Mark , Iveson Kurt
Published: May 2014

This paper uses Jacque Rancière's understanding of politics to ask what makes cities political entities. We review existing urban geography debates to identify some of the defining features of urban politics and then subject them to critical questioning: are they actually political? The paper seeks to develop existing interpretations of Rancière's philosophy within geography to develop his ‘method of equality’ in order to recover the politics of the city. This identifies three necessary components of critical urban scholarship in order that it transcends critique and works towards making democratic politics possible.
Exploring cultural inclusion: Perspectives from a community arts organisation
Authors: Azmat Fara , Fujimoto Yuka , Rentschler Ruth
Published: May 2014

Using focus group interviews and individual stories of participants from secondary data, we illuminate the role of Multicultural Arts Victoria (MAV) in Australia in how it promotes cultural inclusion through programs of social and civic service. Our findings confirm the significance of cultural inclusion and the potentially useful role of arts in creating inclusive organisations and communities. We further develop a framework of cultural inclusion in the workplace to provide a holistic understanding of the cultural inclusion process that can lead to the development of inclusive workplaces. As social inclusion is central to Australia’s national identity, this article helps researchers and practitioners to understand how cultural inclusion and inclusive organisational theories collide and complement each other to create inclusive organisations.
Chondroprotection and the Prevention of Osteoarthritis Progression of the Knee
Authors: Gallagher Brian , Tjoumakaris Fotios P. , Harwood Marc I. , Good Robert P. , Ciccotti Michael G. , Freedman Kevin B.
Published: May 2014

Background:

Structure-modifying medications or nutraceuticals may be an effective treatment for osteoarthritis. This study identified 12 treatments that may possess chondroprotective properties: oral glucosamine; chondroitin; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs); polyunsaturated fatty acids; S-adenosylmethionine; avocado and soybean unsaponifiable fractions; methylsulfonylmethane; vitamins C, D, and E; intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid; and platelet-rich plasma (PRP).

Purpose:

To perform a systematic review of randomized controlled trials for the effectiveness of each agent in preserving articular cartilage of the knee and delaying the progression of osteoarthritis.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

A literature search was performed using PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Searches were performed using “treatment,” “osteoarthritis,” and “knee” as keywords. Selection criteria included randomized controlled trials of ≥12 months, with a placebo control, measuring radiographic changes in joint space width, cartilage volume, or radiographic progression of osteoarthritis. The primary outcome was changes in joint integrity measures.

Results:

A total of 3514 studies were identified from the initial search, 13 of which met inclusion criteria. Treatment with chondroitin sulfate showed a significant reduction in cartilage loss in 3 of 4 studies identified compared with placebo. Two of 3 trials identified for glucosamine also reported significant structural effects relative to placebo. Intra-articular hyaluronic acid was effective in lowering the rate of cartilage loss in only 1 of 3 studies identified versus placebo. Of the 6 studies identified for NSAIDs, vitamin E, and vitamin D, none showed any structural effect compared with placebo. No studies were found that met the inclusion criteria for polyunsaturated fatty acids, S-adenosylmethionine, avocado and soybean unsaponifiable fractions, methylsulfonylmethane, vitamin C, or PRP.

Conclusion:

For patients with or at risk for osteoarthritis, the use of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate may serve as a nonoperative means to protect joint cartilage and delay osteoarthritis progression. Hyaluronic acid injections showed variable efficacy, while NSAIDs and vitamins E and D showed no effect on osteoarthritis progression. The other agents evaluated had no evidence in the literature to support or refute their use for chondroprotection.
Should HR Professionals Devote More Time to Intrinsic Rewards?
Authors: Giancola Frank L.
Published: May 2014

Intrinsic motivation is a subject that receives sporadic, low key coverage in human resources (HR) management. Interest tends to peak periodically when a well-publicized, non-HR professional criticizes the use of extrinsic rewards and suggests intrinsic rewards as a more effective alternative. Periodic surveys on employee engagement levels mention the importance of specific intrinsic factors but lack a full discussion of the general topic. Otherwise, little is said in the current HR literature about using intrinsic rewards. The fallout is that many HR professionals may not realize how important intrinsic rewards are to employees, how satisfied they are with what they have and what, if any, actions should be taken as a result.