bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Brazilian Propolis on Exacerbation of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection in Mice Exposed to Tetrabromobisphenol A, a Brominated Flame Retardant
Authors: Takeshita Tomomi , Watanabe Wataru , Toyama Satomi , Hayashi Yuya , Honda Shiori , Sakamoto Shuichi , Matsuoka Sayuri , Yoshida Hiroki , Takeda Shiro , Hidaka Muneaki , Tsutsumi Shigetoshi , Yasukawa Ken , Park Yong Kun , Kurokawa Masahiko
Published: October 2013

Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), a brominated flame retardant, has been found to exacerbate pneumonia in respiratory syncytial virus- (RSV-) infected mice. We examined the effect of Brazilian propolis (AF-08) on the exacerbation of RSV infection by TBBPA exposure in mice. Mice were fed a powdered diet mixed with 1% TBBPA alone, 0.02% AF-08 alone, or 1% TBBPA and 0.02% AF-08 for four weeks and then intranasally infected with RSV. TBBPA exposure increased the pulmonary virus titer and level of IFN-γ, a representative marker of pneumonia due to RSV infection, in the lungs of infected mice without toxicity. AF-08 was significantly effective in reducing the virus titers and IFN-γlevel increased by TBBPA exposure. Also, AF-08 significantly reduced proinflammatory cytokine (TNF-αand IL-6) levels in the lungs of RSV-infected mice with TBBPA exposure, but Th2 cytokine (IL-4 and IL-10) levels were not evidently increased. Neither TBBPA exposure nor AF-08 treatment affected the anti-RSV antibody production in RSV-infected mice. In flow cytometry analysis, AF-08 seemed to be effective in reducing the ratio of pulmonary CD8a+cells in RSV-infected mice with TBBPA exposure. TBBPA and AF-08 did not exhibit anti-RSV activityin vitro. Thus, AF-08 probably ameliorated pneumonia exacerbated by TBBPA exposure in RSV-infected mice by limiting excess cellular immune responses.
The Use of Iliac Stem Prosthesis for Acetabular Defects following Resections for Periacetabular Tumors
Authors: De Paolis Massimiliano , Biazzo Alessio , Romagnoli Carlo , Alì Nikolin , Giannini Sandro , Donati Davide Maria
Published: October 2013

Introduction. The management of pelvic tumors is a challenge for orthopaedic oncologists due to the complex anatomy of the pelvis and the need to have extensive exposure. Various reconstructive techniques have been proposed with poor functional results and a high percentage of complications. Our purpose is to determine the functional results and the rate of complications of iliac stem prosthesis for acetabular defects following resections for periacetabular tumors. Materials and Methods. Between 1999 and 2012, 45 patients underwent pelvic resections for periacetabular bone tumors followed by reconstruction with stem cup prosthesis. The most common diagnosis was CS (chondrosarcoma, 29 cases), followed by OS (osteosarcoma, 9 cases) and metastasis (3 cases). In 33 cases, this implant was associated with massive bone allografts. Minimum follow‐up required to evaluate functional outcome was 2 years. We classified pelvic resections according to Enneking and Dunham’s classification and we used MSTS (musculoskeletal tumor system) score to evaluate functional outcomes. Results and Discussion. Sixteen patients died of their disease, three were lost to follow‐up, four are alive with disease, and twenty‐two are alive with no evidence of disease. Fifteen patients had local recurrence. Sixteen patients had bone or lung metastasis. We have had 6 infections, 2 aseptic loosening, and 2 cases of hip dislocation. Iliac sovracetabular osteotomy was fused in all cases at 10 months from surgery. Functional results were good or excellent in 25 of 31 patients with long‐term follow‐up (77%), with a percentage similar to that reported in the literature. Conclusion. The use of iliac stem prosthesis is a simple reconstructive technique that reduces operative times and risk of infection. It allows having good results and low rate of complications, but it should be performed in selected cases and centres of reference.
A Case of Almost Painless Herpes Zoster Presenting with Symptoms of Cystitis, Penile Numbness, and Acute Vestibular Failure
Authors: Al-Sardar Hussain
Published: October 2013

Herpes zoster (shingles) is an acute, painful, vesicular, and cutaneous eruption caused by varicella zoster virus, the same virus which causes chicken pox. It is due to the reactivation of the virus which remains dormant in sensory ganglions following chicken pox. It is usually confined to a single dermatome but may involve 2-3 dermatomes. Typically, it is a unilateral lesion which can affect both cranial and peripheral nerves. It is usually a self-limiting disease; however, it may cause significant morbidity especially in the elderly. It is more common in older people and individuals with immunocompromised conditions. Antiviral drugs can shorten the duration and the severity of the illness and need to be started as soon as possible after the appearance of the rash. Gabapentin and tricyclic antidepressant are effective in postherpetic neuralgia. Vaccine can reduce the risk of infection and its associated pain. Typically, it occurs once in a lifetime, but some individuals may have more than one episode.
An Energy-Heterogeneous Clustering Scheme to Avoid Energy Holes in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Bencan Gong , Tingyao Jiang , Shouzhi Xu , Peng Chen
Published: October 2013

Clustering techniques can reduce energy consumption of nodes and increase the scalability of the network. However, in uniformly deployed clustering wireless sensor networks, the uneven distribution of communication loads often causes the energy-hole problem, which means that the energy of the nodes in the hole region will be used up sooner than the nodes in other regions. In order to solve the problem, this paper theoretically analyzes the energy consumption of nodes in different network areas, gives the expression of the optimal energy distribution of heterogeneous nodes, and designs an energy-efficient clustering routing protocol. The goal of our work is to propose an energy-heterogeneous clustering scheme (EHCS) that allows the initial energy of the sensor nodes to be varied with the distance to sink. The nearer nodes from sink have more energy. Simulation results show that the method can balance the energy consumption among sensor nodes, achieve an obvious improvement on the network lifetime, and effectively avoid the energy-hole problem.
Bogdanov-Takens Bifurcation of a Delayed Ratio-Dependent Holling-Tanner Predator Prey System
Authors: Liu Xia , Liu Yanwei , Wang Jinling
Published: October 2013

A delayed predator prey system with refuge and constant rate harvesting is discussed by applying the normal form theory of retarded functional differential equations introduced by Faria and Magalhães. The analysis results show that under some conditions the system has a Bogdanov-Takens singularity. A versal unfolding of the system at this singularity is obtained. Our main results illustrate that the delay has an important effect on the dynamical behaviors of the system.
On Robe's Circular Restricted Problem of Three Variable Mass Bodies
Authors: Singh Jagadish , Leke Oni
Published: October 2013

This paper investigates the motion of a test particle around the equilibrium points under the setup of the Robe’s circular restricted three-body problem in which the masses of the three bodies vary arbitrarily with time at the same rate. The first primary is assumed to be a fluid in the shape of a sphere whose density also varies with time. The nonautonomous equations are derived and transformed to the autonomized form. Two collinear equilibrium points exist, with one positioned at the center of the fluid while the other exists for the mass ratio and density parameter provided the density parameter assumes value greater than one. Further, circular equilibrium points exist and pairs of out-of-plane equilibrium points forming triangles with the centers of the primaries are found. The out-of-plane points depend on the arbitrary constant , of the motion of the primaries, density ratio, and mass parameter. The linear stability of the equilibrium points is studied and it is seen that the circular and out-of-plane equilibrium points are unstable while the collinear equilibrium points are stable under some conditions. A numerical example regarding out-of-plane points is given in the case of the Earth, Moon, and submarine system. This study may be useful in the investigations of dynamic problem of the “ocean planets” Kepler-62e and Kepler-62f orbiting the star Kepler-62.
Pore Structure and Influence of Recycled Aggregate Concrete on Drying Shrinkage
Authors: Guo Yuanchen , Qian Jueshi , Wang Xue
Published: October 2013

Pore structure plays an important role in the drying shrinkage of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC). High-precision mercury intrusion and water evaporation were utilized to study the pore structure of RAC, which has a different replacement rate of recycled concrete aggregate (RCA), and to analyze its influence on drying shrinkage. Finally, a fractal-dimension calculation model was established based on the principles of mercury intrusion and fractal-geometry theory. Calculations were performed to study the pore-structure fractal dimension of RAC. Results show the following. (1) With the increase in RCA content, the drying shrinkage values increase gradually. (2) Pores with the greatest impact on concrete shrinkage are those whose sizes ranging from 2.5 nm to 50 nm and from 50 nm to 100 nm. In the above two ranges, the proportions of RAC are greater than those of RC0 (natural aggregate concrete, NAC), which is the main reason the shrinkage values of RAC are greater than those of NAC. (3) The pore structure of RAC has good fractal feature, and the addition of RCA increases the complexity of the pore surface of concrete.
Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Brain Bioenergetics, Sleep, and Cognitive Performance in Cocaine‐Dependent Individuals
Authors: Trksak George H. , Bracken Bethany K. , Jensen J. Eric , Plante David T. , Penetar David M. , Tartarini Wendy L. , Maywalt Melissa A. , Dorsey Cynthia M. , Renshaw Perry F. , Lukas Scott E.
Published: October 2013

In cocaine‐dependent individuals, sleep is disturbed during cocaine use and abstinence, highlighting the importance of examining the behavioral and homeostatic response to acute sleep loss in these individuals. The current study was designed to identify a differential effect of sleep deprivation on brain bioenergetics, cognitive performance, and sleep between cocaine‐dependent and healthy control participants. 14 healthy control and 8 cocaine‐dependent participants experienced consecutive nights of baseline, total sleep deprivation, and recovery sleep in the research laboratory. Participants underwent [31]P magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) brain imaging, polysomnography, Continuous Performance Task, and Digit Symbol Substitution Task. Following recovery sleep, [31]P MRS scans revealed that cocaine‐dependent participants exhibited elevated global brain β‐NTP (direct measure of adenosine triphosphate), α‐NTP, and total NTP levels compared to those of healthy controls. Cocaine‐dependent participants performed worse on the Continuous Performance Task and Digit Symbol Substitution Task at baseline compared to healthy control participants, but sleep deprivation did not worsen cognitive performance in either group. Enhancements of brain ATP levels in cocaine dependent participants following recovery sleep may reflect a greater impact of sleep deprivation on sleep homeostasis, which may highlight the importance of monitoring sleep during abstinence and the potential influence of sleep loss in drug relapse.
Nanosphere Lithography: A Powerful Method for the Controlled Manufacturing of Nanomaterials
Authors: Colson Pierre , Henrist Catherine , Cloots Rudi
Published: October 2013

The never‐ending race towards miniaturization of devices induced an intense research in the manufacturing processes of the components of those devices. However, the complexity of the process combined with high equipment costs makes the conventional lithographic techniques unfavorable for many researchers. Through years, nanosphere lithography (NSL) attracted growing interest due to its compatibility with wafer‐scale processes as well as its potential to manufacture a wide variety of homogeneous one‐, two‐, or three‐dimensional nanostructures. This method combines the advantages of both top‐down and bottom‐up approaches and is based on a two‐step process: (1) the preparation of a colloidal crystal mask (CCM) made of nanospheres and (2) the deposition of the desired material through the mask. The mask is then removed and the layer keeps the ordered patterning of the mask interstices. Many groups have been working to improve the quality of the CCMs. Throughout this review, we compare the major deposition techniques to manufacture the CCMs (focusing on 2D polystyrene nanospheres lattices), with respect to their advantages and drawbacks. In traditional NSL, the pattern is usually limited to triangular structures. However, new strategies have been developed to build up more complex architectures and will also be discussed.
miRNA-95 Mediates Radioresistance in Tumors by Targeting the Sphingolipid Phosphatase SGPP1
Authors: Huang Xiaoyong , Taeb Samira , Jahangiri Sahar , Emmenegger Urban , Tran Elisa , Bruce Jeff , Mesci Aruz , Korpela Elina , Vesprini Danny , Wong C. Shun , Bristow Robert G. , Liu Fei-Fei , Liu Stanley K.
Published: October 2013

Radiation resistance poses a major clinical challenge in cancer treatment, but little is known about how microRNA (miR) may regulate this phenomenon. In this study, we used next-generation sequencing to perform an unbiased comparison of miR expression in PC3 prostate cancer cells rendered resistant to fractionated radiation treatment. One miR candidate found to be upregulated by ionizing radiation was miR-95, the enforced expression of which promoted radiation resistance in a variety of cancer cells. miR-95 overexpression recapitulated an aggressive phenotype including increased cellular proliferation, deregulated G2–M checkpoint following ionizing radiation, and increased invasive potential. Using combined in silico prediction and microarray expression analyses, we identified and validated the sphingolipid phosphatase SGPP1, an antagonist of sphingosine-1-phosphate signaling, as a target of miR-95 that promotes radiation resistance. Consistent with this finding, cell treatment with FTY720, a clinically approved small molecule inhibitor of S1P signaling, sensitized miR-95 overexpressing cells to radiation treatment. In vivo assays extended the significance of these results, showing that miR-95 overexpression increased tumor growth and resistance to radiation treatment in tumor xenografts. Furthermore, reduced tumor necrosis and increased cellular proliferation were seen after radiation treatment of miR-95 overexpressing tumors compared with control tumors. Finally, miR-95 expression was increased in human prostate and breast cancer specimens compared with normal tissue. Together, our work reveals miR-95 expression as a critical determinant of radiation resistance in cancer cells. Cancer Res; 73(23); 6972–86. ©2013 AACR.
Decoding the Histone Code: Role of H3K36me3 in Mismatch Repair and Implications for Cancer Susceptibility and Therapy
Authors: Li Guo-Min
Published: October 2013

DNA mismatch repair (MMR) maintains genome stability primarily by correcting replication-associated mismatches. Defects in MMR lead to several human cancers characterized by frequent alterations in simple repetitive DNA sequences, a phenomenon called microsatellite instability (MSI). In most MSI-positive cancers, genetic or epigenetic changes that alter the function or expression of an essential MMR protein have been identified. However, in a subset of MSI-positive cancers, epigenetic or genetic changes have not been found in known MMR genes, such that the molecular basis of the MMR defect in these cells remains unknown. A possible answer to this puzzle emerged recently when it was discovered that H3K36me3, a well-studied posttranslational histone modification or histone mark, plays a role in regulating human MMR in vivo. In this review, potential roles for this histone mark to modulate genome stability and cancer susceptibility in human cells are discussed. Cancer Res; 73(21); 6379–83. ©2013 AACR.
Microperimetry of Subretinal Drusenoid Deposits
Authors: Forte Raimondo , Cennamo Gilda , de Crecchio Giuseppe , Cennamo Giovanni
Published: October 2013

Purpose: To investigate light sensitivity in eyes presenting with subretinal drusenoid deposits (SDD). Methods: All consecutive patients with SDD only seen between January 2012 and July 2012 were included. A control group of consecutive age- and sex-matched control subjects presenting at least one eye with early age-related macular degeneration was considered. In all cases best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), color fundus photography, fundus autofluorescence imaging and spectral-domain-optical coherence tomography with integrated microperimetry were performed. Results: Twenty-one eyes (21 patients, 9 females, 12 males, mean age 69.2 ± 5.3 years, mean BCVA 0.18 ± 0.14 LogMAR) were included in the SDD group. Twenty eyes of 20 patients (13 females, 7 males, mean age 69.1 ± 3.9 years, mean BCVA 0.16 ± 0.15 LogMAR) were included in the control group. In eyes with SDD the choroid was thinner at the subfoveal location, and at 1,500 μm superior, inferior, temporal and nasal to the fovea (p < 0.05). In eyes with SDD, the overall mean light sensitivity in the central macula (4.21 ± 2.46 dB) was significantly reduced when compared to the control group (6.81 ± 2.12 dB, p = 0.001), while stable fixation was present in both groups. Correlation between BCVA and mean light sensitivity in the central 7 × 7 mm square was low in the SDD group (Pearson's rho = 0.4, p = 0.01), while it was good in the control group (Pearson's rho = 0.7, p = 0.001). Conclusions: Eyes with SDD showed reduced sensitivity despite preserved BCVA. Reduced choroidal thickness could be involved in reduction of light sensitivity.
Glomerular Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 in Pediatric IgA Nephropathy
Authors: Urushihara Maki , Seki Yusuke , Tayama Takahiro , Nagai Takashi , Kinoshita Yukiko , Jamba Ariunbold , Kondo Shuji , Kagami Shoji
Published: October 2013

Background: Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) 2 is a homolog of ACE and is thought to be a potent counter-regulator against ACE activity. However, the role of ACE2 has not been investigated in pediatric patients with IgA nephropathy (IgAN). This study was performed to examine the relationship between ACE2 expression and the development of pediatric IgAN. Methods: We performed immunohistochemical analysis of ACE2 and ACE in 39 patients with pediatric IgAN and 14 patients with minor glomerular abnormalities, and elucidated the effects of various cytokines on ACE2 expression in cultured human mesangial cells. Results: ACE2 expression levels in glomeruli and tubules were positively correlated with the mesangial hypercellularity score, while ACE expression levels in glomeruli and tubules are not. Multiple regression analysis showed that the mesangial hypercellularity score correlated with the ACE2 expression level in glomeruli and the urinary protein-creatinine ratio. In IgAN patients not treated with a renin-angiotensin system blocker, ACE2 expression levels in glomeruli were significantly increased compared to patients with minor glomerular abnormalities. IgAN patients treated with a renin-angiotensin system blocker did not show this increase in ACE2 expression. Furthermore, cultured human MC showed increased ACE2 mRNA and protein after treatment with IL-1β, a pro-inflammatory cytokine in IgAN. In fact, glomerular expressions of IL-1β were remarkably increased in patients with IgAN. Conclusion: These data indicate that ACE2 expression in glomeruli is associated with mesangial hypercellularity in early lesions of pediatric IgAN.
Association Between Ambulatory Systolic Blood Pressure During the Day and Asymptomatic Intracranial Arterial Stenosis
Authors: Chen Chao-Ting , Li Yan , Zhang Jin , Wang Yan , Ling Hua-Wei , Chen Ke-Min , Gao Ping-Jin , Zhu Ding-Liang
Published: October 2013

It is unclear at what time-window of the day blood pressure (BP) is most closely associated with cerebrovascular damage. In this cross-sectional study, we examined the strength of association between intracranial arterial stenosis (ICAS) and systolic BP (SBP) across different time-windows using 24-hour ambulatory BP monitoring in 757 consecutively recruited patients with hypertension. ICAS was diagnosed with computerized tomographic angiography in 127 (16.8%) patients, of whom 64 (50.4%) had stenosis ≥50% and 82 (64.6%) had ICAS in ≥2 vessels. Patients with ICAS (142 mm Hg), especially of multiple vessels (145 mm Hg), compared with patients without ICAS (126 mm Hg), had significantly (
P
<0.001) higher early morning (05:00–07:59
am
) SBP. The differences remained significant (
P
≤0.015) after adjustment for cardiovascular risk factors and SBPs at other time-windows of the day. Multivariate regression analysis showed that consecutive 3-hourly mean SBPs during the day were significantly associated with ICAS (odds ratio for each 10-mm Hg increase, 1.28–1.38;
P
≤0.001). However, only mean SBP obtained between 05:00
am
and 07:59
am
remained significant for ICAS (odds ratio, 1.30;
P
=0.019) when all consecutive 3-hourly mean SBPs were forced into a single multivariate model. In conclusion, the present study showed a significant association between early morning SBP and asymptomatic ICAS in patients with hypertension after accounting for conventional cardiovascular risk factors. Our findings highlight the importance of morning SBP as a cardiovascular risk factor and should be validated in prospective studies.
Information Spillovers from Protests against Corporations
Authors: Yue Lori Qingyuan , Rao Hayagreeva , Ingram Paul
Published: October 2013

In this study of the impact of protests against Walmart (a first entrant) on Target (a second entrant) from 1998 to 2008 in U.S. geographic markets, we develop and test a theory of information spillovers from protests against corporations proposing to enter a new market. We argue that the number of protests directed against a first entrant is a noisy signal for the second entrant because such protests are likely to be dominated by protest-prone activists and so do not reflect the sentiments of the community. The second entrant is likely to discount protests against the first entrant that are led by protest-prone activists and rely instead on protests led by local, decentralized activists as indicative of a community’s preferences. We argue that the second entrant differentiates between protests against the first-entrant firm and the organizational form, and discounts protests against a specific firm but not those against the form (e.g., big-box stores). Further, the second entrant is likely to rely on the reaction of the first entrant as an indication of the meaning of the protest. Finally, all of these signaling effects will be stronger in markets in which the second entrant has no experience and so lacks local knowledge. The study provides broad support for our arguments.
Current Trends and Resources in Worship
Authors: Fender-Allison Graham
Published: October 2013

Distinct methods and practical resources are accessible to all involved in the planning and leading of worship. Through education and enabling, these methods and resources are both responding to and shaping current trends in worship such as increased participation and all-age worship. As we embrace these resources they stimulate our own creativity, giving rise to possibilities of future resources being created locally and shared widely.
Addressing the Rohingya Problem
Authors: Kipgen Nehginpao
Published: October 2013

The simmering tension between Rakhine Buddhists and Rohingya Muslims in Western Myanmar escalated into a violent conflict in 2012, first in June and again in October. The violence led to the loss of over a hundred lives, destruction of thousands of homes, and the displacement of tens of thousands of people. The Myanmar government intervened to end the bloodshed but tension continues to linger. This article argues that, instead of alienating the Rohingyas politically, consociational democracy should be pursued to address the problem. The support and cooperation of both Buddhists and Muslims, and perhaps assistance from a neutral organization like the United Nations, would help achieve a political solution.
Cultural Understanding and Personal Growth Through Taekwondo as Cross-Cultural Activity
Authors: Kim Junhyoung , Heo Jinmoo , King Carina , Kim Sooyeon
Published: October 2013

The purpose of this study was to explore the benefits of Taekwondo participation related to cross-cultural understanding. Using a series of in-depth interviews with Taekwondo participants, this study investigated whether Taekwondo participation would promote cultural and ethnic understanding and gain new or different cultural perspectives. A total of 12 Taekwondo participants in a Midwestern city were interviewed. From the analysis of the interviews, two themes emerged that described the Taekwondo experiences: (a) cultural knowledge and (b) personal growth associated with cross-cultural contacts. The findings suggest that Taekwondo participation provides rich opportunities for individuals to foster cultural and ethnic understandings related to East Asian cultures and facilitate social interactions with other Asian people, which contributed to personal growth. This study also provided evidence of the role of recreation activities in positive cross-cultural contacts and interactions.
Identification and modeling of the three rotational movements of a miniature coaxial helicopter
Authors: Muresan Bogdan , Folea Silviu , Nascu Ioan , Ionescu Clara , De Keyser Robin
Published: October 2013

This paper presents the identification of a miniature coaxial helicopter system. First, the helicopter flying principles are described and the hardware setup of the developed platform is presented. Further, linear models are developed for the movements of the helicopter using prediction error identification methods. The results in this case are accurate and can be used for performant controller design in some operating points. But in order to model the complete dynamics of the helicopter, nonlinear models are developed using recurrent dynamic neural networks. In this case the models obtained present a higher accuracy compared with the linear case and also with the results published until now. In the end, the advantages of nonlinear modeling based on neural networks is emphasized and some conclusions are drawn.
Does the Behavioral Immune System Prepare Females to Be Religiously Conservative and Collectivistic?
Authors: Terrizzi John A. , Clay Russ , Shook Natalie J.
Published: October 2013

Previous research has indicated that females are more likely than males to endorse collectivistic values and religious conservatism. The present research investigated an evolutionary explanation for these sex differences. More specifically, the sex differences in social conservatism may be due to variation in the behavioral immune system (BIS). The BIS is a set of psychological mechanisms that are proposed to be evolved solutions to disease threat. Four studies were conducted to examine this evolutionary explanation. In Study 1, BIS measures (e.g., disgust sensitivity) fully mediated sex differences in collectivism. This effect was specific to sexual disgust (Study 2). In Studies 3 and 4, the effect was extended to other forms of social conservatism (i.e., religious conservatism) and measures of the BIS. Together, these results suggest that sex differences in collectivism and religious conservatism may be explained in part by sex differences in the BIS.
Deliberative capacity as an indicator of democratic quality: The case of the Philippines
Authors: Curato Nicole
Published: October 2013

The theory and practice of democracy have moved on from the paradigm of electoral democracy to conceptualising alternative models that can facilitate democratic deepening in different contexts. Methodology should follow too. In this piece, I build on Morlino’s framework, which takes a step towards a pluralised assessment of democratic qualities but remains largely hinged on the electoral model of democracy. I suggest that Morlino’s heuristic tools can be further sharpened by incorporating a deliberative democratic criterion. I provide an empirical illustration through the Philippine case – a country that already exhibits formal features of electoral democracy but fails to translate democratic impulses into democratic deepening.
Determinants of Quality of Work Life
Authors: Kang Lakhwinder Singh , Deepak
Published: October 2013

The present study attempts to identify the various determinants of Quality of Work Life (QWL), and the level of QWL among the veterinary doctors of Punjab. The factor analysis of 45 variables yielded 13 job characteristics of which ‘Monetary Consideration’, ‘Social Relations at Work’, ‘Constitutionalism at Work’, ‘Pride in Job’, ‘Facilitation for Current Performance and Future Growth’, ‘Security and Safety’, ‘Fair and Unbiased Attitude of Top Officials’, ‘Space and Infrastructure’, ‘Diagnostic Facilities and Staff’ and ‘Reporting’, have been found associated positively and significantly with QWL. ‘Nature of Job’ has been found negatively and significantly related with QWL, whereas ‘Innovative and Challenging Job’ and ‘Less Educated and Ignorant Clients’ have not been found linked with QWL. The respondents were found to experience moderate to high levels of QWL.
A Theoretical and Quantitative Analysis of Financial Inclusion and Economic Growth
Authors: (Kablana) Anand S. Kodan , Chhikara Kuldip S.
Published: October 2013

The heterogeneity in view about the financial inclusion prevails across the globe. Since the need of financial products varies from individual to individual and country to country ( Kempson and Whyley, 1999 ; Regan and Paxton, 2003 ; Speak and Graham, 2000 ). But, majority of researchers and thinkers opine that ‘financial inclusion is the easy availability of all banking services at an affordable cost, reasonable time & adequate quantity to all needy people and which should also be available in appropriate forms’ (broader sense); ‘financial inclusion includes the easy access of all people to the minimum basic financial services’ (narrow sense). The determinants and impacts of financial inclusion are main ingredients of the article. The depth ratio emerged as leading contributor in the value of financial inclusion index among all the three variables—depth or penetration, availability and usage—across the world, including Indian states, through the log-linear regression model. The study further indicated that a 1 per cent increase in the financial inclusion led to on an average 0.142 per cent increase in the value of human development index (cross-country data); while in case of Indian states, it resulted into 0.139 per cent increase in the index. The depth, availability and usages ratios were found to be inversely associated to the poverty. The study found only three states of India in between high financial inclusion position, while remaining 90 per cent states belong to very low/weak financial inclusion status. On the basis of findings of the study, it is suggested that the policy makers around the globe should strive to surge the level of financial inclusion for an optimal, sustainable, inclusive economic growth and development of the economies by focusing on removing the regional imbalances.
Book Review: Organization Change: Theory and Practice
Authors: Balasubramanian Girish
Published: October 2013

Warner W. Burke, Organization Change: Theory and Practice, 3rd edition. New Delhi: SAGE Publications, 2012, pp. 362. ₹ 395.
Consumer Vulnerability and Marketplace Exclusion
Authors: Wang Jeff Jianfeng , Tian Qian
Published: October 2013

With urbanization and the ongoing migration of people from rural regions to urban areas, marketplaces have become increasingly diverse and complex. Rural migrants face numerous challenges in a complex marketplace, and they are likely to become vulnerable consumers. By using ethnographic methods, this study examines Chinese rural migrants, the so-called “urban villagers.” We find that structural barriers, including government policies and rules imposed by institutions, restrict rural migrants’ acquisition of financial products in urban marketplaces. As a result, they often turn to their social networks and traditional resources. Their reliance on social ties, however, limits their acculturation and adaptation into the urban environment. We conclude with public policy suggestions that aim to improve rural migrants’ opportunities for consumption and well-being.
Scale-free coordinates for multi-robot systems with bearing-only sensors
Authors: Cornejo Alejandro , Lynch Andrew J. , Fudge Elizabeth , Bilstein Siegfried , Khabbazian Majid , McLurkin James
Published: October 2013

We propose scale-free coordinates as an alternative coordinate system for multi-robot systems with large robot populations. Scale-free coordinates allow each robot to know, up to scaling, the relative position and orientation of other robots in the network. We consider a weak sensing model where each robot is only capable of measuring the angle, relative to its own heading, to each of its neighbors. Our contributions are three-fold. First, we derive a precise mathematical characterization of the computability of scale-free coordinates using only bearing measurements, and we describe an efficient algorithm to obtain them. Second, through simulations we show that even in graphs with low average vertex degree, most robots are able to compute the scale-free coordinates of their neighbors using only two-hop bearing measurements. Finally, we present an algorithm to compute scale-free coordinates that is tailored to low-cost systems with limited communication bandwidth and sensor resolution. Our algorithm mitigates the impact of sensing errors through a simple yet effective noise sensitivity model. We validate our implementation with real-world robot experiments using static accuracy measurements and a simple scale-free motion controller.
A deviation from standard design? Clinical trials, research ethics committees, and the regulatory co-construction of organizational deviance
Authors: Hedgecoe Adam
Published: October 2013

Focusing on the high-profile drug disaster at London’s Northwick Park Hospital in 2006, this article explores how such an event can be seen as an example of organizational deviance co-constructed between the company running the research and the research ethics committee which approved the trial. This deviance was the result of the normalization of a specific dosing practice in the broader regulatory field, allowing the researchers and regulators to take a risky dosing strategy for granted as best practice. Drawing on the work of Diane Vaughan, this article uses interview data with researchers and members of the research ethics committee concerned as well as documentary material, to show how work group cultures between regulators and those they are intended to oversee are maintained, and how the culturally embedded assumptions of such work groups can result in organizational and regulatory deviance.
Long-term Outcomes After First-Generation Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation for Cartilage Defects of the Knee
Authors: Niemeyer Philipp , Porichis Stella , Steinwachs Matthias , Erggelet Christoph , Kreuz Peter C. , Schmal Hagen , Uhl Markus , Ghanem Nadir , Südkamp Norbert P. , Salzmann Gian
Published: October 2013

Background:

Autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) represents an established surgical therapy for large cartilage defects of the knee joint. Although various studies report satisfying midterm results, little is known about long-term outcomes.

Purpose:

To evaluate long-term clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) outcomes after ACI.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Between January 1997 and June 2001, a total of 86 patients were treated with ACI for isolated cartilage defects of the knee. The mean patient age at the time of surgery was 33.3 ± 10.2 years, and the mean defect size was 6.5 ± 4.0 cm2. Thirty-four defects were located on the medial femoral condyle and 13 on the lateral femoral condyle, while 6 patients were treated for cartilage defects of the trochlear groove and 17 for patellar lesions. At a mean follow-up of 10.9 ± 1.1 years, 70 patients (follow-up rate, 82%) treated for 82 full-thickness cartilage defects of the knee were available for an evaluation of knee function using standard instruments, while 59 of these patients were additionally evaluated by 1.5-T MRI to quantify the magnetic resonance observation of cartilage repair tissue (MOCART) score. Clinical function at follow-up was assessed by means of the Lysholm score, the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, and the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). Patient activity was assessed by the Tegner score. In addition, pain on a visual analog scale (VAS) and patient satisfaction were evaluated separately.

Results:

At follow-up, 77% reported being “satisfied” or “very satisfied.” The mean IKDC score at follow-up was 74.0 ± 17.3. The mean Lysholm score improved from 42.0 ± 22.5 before surgery to 71.0 ± 17.4 at follow-up ( P < .01). The mean pain score on the VAS decreased from 7.2 ± 1.9 preoperatively to 2.1 ± 2.1 postoperatively. The mean MOCART score was 44.9 ± 23.6. Defect-associated bone marrow edema was found in 78% of the cases. Nevertheless, no correlation between the MOCART score and clinical outcome (IKDC score) could be found (Pearson coefficient, r = 0.173).

Conclusion:

First-generation ACI leads to satisfying clinical results in terms of patient satisfaction, reduction of pain, and improvement in knee function. Nevertheless, full restoration of knee function cannot be achieved. Although MRI reveals lesions in the majority of the cases and the overall MOCART score seems moderate, this could not be correlated with long-term clinical outcomes.
Directional migration of vascular smooth muscle cells guided by synergetic surface gradient and chemical pattern of poly(ethylene glycol) brushes
Authors: Wu Jindan , Mao Zhengwei , Han Lulu , Xi Jiabin , Zhao Yizhi , Gao Changyou
Published: October 2013

Directional migration of cells in vitro can mimic corresponding biological events in vivo, which provides a way to determine the cascade responses in the tissue regeneration process and develop novel criteria for the design of tissue-inductive biomaterials. In this work, a density gradient of methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) brushes (from 0.37 to 0.95 chains/nm2) on plain and striped pattern surfaces was fabricated, using a dynamically controlled reaction process, and characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation. Adhesion and migration behavior of vascular smooth muscle cells were studied on the gradient and gradient-patterned surfaces. The vascular smooth muscle cells exhibited preferential orientation and enhanced directional migration on the gradient surface toward the lower end of the methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) density. By introducing methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) chemical striped patterns in parallel with the gradient direction on the surface, the extent of cell orientation and directional migration were significantly improved. Due to the synergetic effects of surface methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) striped patterns and gradient cues, almost all cells were oriented, and 67% of the cells were observed to move unidirectionally.
Nanoscale architecture and cellular adhesion of biomimetic collagen substrates
Authors: Jabaiah Abeer , Wang Xi , Raman Senthil Kumar , Ragan Regina , Da Silva Nancy A , Wang Szu-Wen
Published: October 2013

The ability to engineer bioactive sites within the biopolymer collagen has significant potential to dictate cellular microenvironments and processes. We have developed a novel recombinant DNA platform that enables such molecular-level control over this important material. In this investigation, we demonstrated the production of synthetic human collagen using yeast strains that were engineered with human prolyl hydroxylase α and β genes integrated into the genome and a codon-optimized collagen gene carried on a plasmid. To understand the extent to which this synthetic collagen can mimic native human collagen, we examined the relationships between the structural topology and physical stability with the ability to support adhesion of HT-1080 cells. Characterization of these biopolymers included evaluation using circular dichroism spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, and MTT metabolic activity assays. Although the apparent melting temperatures of the recombinant collagens were ∼3–5℃ less than native sources, the recombinant and native collagens exhibited comparable triple helical structure, polymeric dimensions, adsorption on polystyrene, and cellular adhesion properties below their respective melting temperature values. These results support the feasibility of producing molecularly-engineered collagens that can mimic native substrates for therapeutic and tissue engineering applications.
The close supervision of further education lecturers: ‘You have been weighed, measured and found wanting’
Authors: Mather Kim , Seifert Roger
Published: October 2013

This is an empirically based study of changes in the FE lecturer labour process driven by college managers under pressure from central state targets and funding controls. Two elements of labour management are considered: close observation and professional development. The dialectical dynamic of workplace employment relations is exposed as an endless struggle between managers seeking to degrade the staff through control over task and staff seeking to maintain professional standards to protect themselves and their vision of education. The findings are expressed in the words of the lecturers themselves and reveal the everyday pathology of ever more oppressive workplace labour management in the context of a particular organizational political economy.
Universal newborn screening for haemoglobinopathies in Guadeloupe (French West Indies): A 27-year experience
Authors: Saint-Martin Christian , Romana Marc , Bibrac Alix , Brudey Karine , Tarer Vanessa , Divialle-Doumdo Lydia , Petras Marie , Keclard-Christophe Lisiane , Lamothe Sandrine , Broquere Cédric , Etienne-Julan Maryse
Published: October 2013

Objectives

In Guadeloupe, an island in the French West Indies, a universal newborn screening programme for sickle cell disease and other abnormal haemoglobins was initiated in 1984. In 1990, a comprehensive sickle cell centre was established to carry on the management programme. We here report the main results from the newborn screening programme from 1984 to 2010, and consider how the establishment of the sickle cell centre affected the programme.

Methods

All blood samples were screened for the haemoglobinopathies using two reference methods in a single reference diagnosis laboratory. DNA analyses were also performed for confirmatory tests and analysis of the globin gene status.

Results

Between 1 January 1984 and 31 December 2010, 178,428 newborns were screened at birth, and 585 children were diagnosed with major sickle cell syndromes (ie. an overall incidence of 1 in 304 births). Sickle cell anaemia (haemoglobin SS disease) was the most frequently observed (1 in 575 births), followed by haemoglobin SC disease (1 in 771 births) and haemoglobin Sβ-thalassemia disease (1 in 4,243 births). Some other rare haemoglobin variants were also detected, the most common being HbDPunjab. The establishment of a comprehensive sickle cell centre resulted in a significant improvement in the screening coverage ( p < 0.001) and a significant reduction of the delay between diagnosis and the first medical visit ( p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The universal screening programme has made it possible to establish the incidence of the major sickle cell syndromes in Guadeloupe, and the management centre has improved its efficiency.
The Influence of State Sales and Use Taxes on Manufacturers’ Capital Expenditures and Employment
Authors: Hageman Amy , Bobek Donna , Luna LeAnn
Published: October 2013

This study investigates the relationship between the state sales and use tax (SUT) burden and manufacturing firms’ employment and capital expenditures for the period 1983–2006. Using an instrumental variable model, our results indicate that the SUT burden (i.e., the product between the sales and use tax rate and sales and use tax exemptions) on purchases of materials and machinery is related to changes in capital expenditures and employment, even after controlling for corporate income tax variables and other economic factors. The economic impact of this relationship is relatively small; however, the results have important policy implications in the present lean state budget environment, as state legislators must balance revenue needs with the desire to provide economic development incentives.
Teacher learning in the workplace: A study of the relationship between a novice EFL teacher’s classroom practices and cognition development
Authors: Kang Yan , Cheng Xiaotang
Published: October 2013

This article reports on an in-depth case study of a novice middle school EFL teacher’s cognition development during the process of learning to teach in the workplace. Data was collected mainly through classroom observations and interviews. Results indicate that the teacher exhibited a considerable amount of change in her classroom practices, which could be attributed to a number of interconnected factors, including teacher experience, reflection on practice and the teaching context. In relation to the behavioral adjustments, the teacher’s cognition has also changed in varying degrees. It is concluded that the development of teacher cognition is the result of the cyclical interaction between the teacher’s knowledge and belief system and her classroom practices. This study helps understand the nature and the process of teacher cognition development in the real workplace.
Indian Students’ Perspectives on Obesity and School-Based Obesity Prevention
Authors: Riggs Nathaniel , Tewari Abha , Stigler Melissa , Rodrigues Lindsay , Arora Monika , Khubchandani Jagdish , Simmons Rob , Pentz Mary Ann
Published: October 2013

Childhood obesity has recently been reported as a growing problem in low- and middle-income countries. One potential prevention strategy is to apply effective obesity prevention approaches from the United States and/or other Western countries into programs that can be implemented in developing countries such as India. The purpose of this study was to explore Indian students’ perceptions of social–contextual factors related to obesity and whether they perceived a role for school-based obesity prevention. This study was conducted as a first step in a model to translate interventions from one culture to another. A total of 183 fourth- and fifth-grade students of middle socioeconomic status participated in focus group discussions. Analyses were guided by the essential principles of qualitative research and informed by social cognitive and social ecological theories. Results yielded five relevant themes: (a) student health behavior knowledge, (b) parental influence on health behavior, (c) school influence on health behavior, (d) media influence on health behavior, and (e) contexts for health promotion intervention. We found that students had moderate knowledge related to health behaviors (i.e., food intake and physical activity); that parents, schools, and the media are all important contributors to healthy and unhealthy behavior; and that schools can play an important role in the prevention of obesity. Results suggest that Indian middle socioeconomic status students are already moderately aware of the health benefits to nutritious food intake and physical activity, but parents, schools, and the media can influence unhealthy behaviors.