bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment and Implications of Coping Styles in Response to a Social Stressor Among Early Adolescents in China
Authors: Kingsbury Mila , Liu Junsheng , Coplan Robert J. , Chen Xinyin , Li Dan
Published: December 2014

The aims of the present study were to (a) examine the factor structure of the Self-Report Coping Scale in a sample of Chinese early adolescents and (b) explore associations between coping and socioemotional functioning in this sample. Participants were N= 569 elementary school students (307 boys) in Grades 4 to 6. Participants completed a measure of coping in response to an argument with a friend. Students’ functioning across multiple domains was assessed using self, peer, and teacher reports. Results suggested a five-factor model of coping in Chinese early adolescents (problem solving, seeking social support, internalizing, externalizing, distancing). In support of predictions, internalizing and distancing coping were positively related to adjustment indices, whereas seeking social support and problem-solving coping were negatively related to outcomes. Results are discussed in terms of the important role of coping for adolescents’ adjustment across multiple domains and in relation to recent shifts in traditional Chinese cultural values.
Effects of diet on adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase activity and disease progression in an amyotrophic lateral sclerosis model
Authors: Zhao Zichun , Sui Yanling , Gao Wenchao , Cai Bin , Fan Dongsheng
Published: December 2014

Objectives

To study the effects of diet on disease progression and activity levels of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and its downstream targets, in an amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) animal model.

Methods

AMPK activity was measured in cerebral cortex, spinal cord, cerebellum and hindlimb muscle tissue using immunohistochemistry in transgenic mice overexpressing human superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD1G93A) fed a high-fat (HFD), standard ad libitum (AL) or calorie-restricted (CR) diet; AMPK activity was also measured in wild-type (SOD1WT) mice. Activity of AMPK and phospho-AMPK, acetyl coenzyme-A carboxylase (ACC), phospho-ACC and heat shock protein-70 (Hsp70) were also measured using Western blot. Food intake and grip strength were recorded; body composition was analysed using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Motor neuron survival was observed using Nissl staining.

Results

AMPK activity increased and Hsp70 expression decreased in AL SOD1G93A mice compared with SOD1WT mice in spinal cord and hindlimb muscle. Compared with AL SOD1G93A mice, CR SOD1G93A mice showed increased AMPK activity, downregulated Hsp70 expression, reduced motor neuron survival in spinal cord and hindlimb muscle and reduced lifespan; HFD SOD1G93A mice showed opposite effects.

Conclusions

In this mouse model, increased AMPK activity seems to play a negative role in motor neuron survival, possibly through a novel mechanism involving Hsp70 downregulation. These changes can be modified by diet. Inhibition of AMPK may provide a therapeutic strategy for ALS.
Political geography II
Authors: Mountz Alison
Published: December 2014

This second of two progress reports on the subdiscipline of political geography explores islands and archipelagos as material sites and political concepts with which to understand spatial ontologies of power. The piece reviews thematic interests in the interdisciplinary field of island studies as well as those taken up by political geographers. Areas for future research are also identified.
A review on structural analysis and experimental investigation of fiber reinforced composite leaf spring
Authors: Jancirani J , Assarudeen H
Published: December 2014

A leaf spring is a simple form of spring commonly used for the suspension in wheeled vehicles. Weight reduction is the major problem faced by many automobile industries. Weight reduction can be achieved by designing new materials and sophisticated manufacturing processes. Due to increasing competition and innovation in recent decades, automobile industries show interest in replacing conventional steel leaf spring with fiber-reinforced composite leaf spring which has advantages such as higher strength to weight ratio, higher stiffness, high impact energy absorption, and lesser stresses. Selection of constituents for the composites is based on the type of application, availability, strength required, and cost of material. This paper gives an overview about the research carried out for the part of two decades on selection of material, different fabrication processes, experimental investigation, design and analysis using CAD tools.
Assessment of an Expanded Functional Disability Scale for Older Adults With Diabetes
Authors: Ng Xinyi , Quinn Charlene C. , Burcu Mehmet , Harrington Donna
Published: December 2014

Although prior literature has shown the plausibility of combining the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) items to form an expanded scale for measuring the degree of functional decline, this has not been shown in older adults with diabetes who are disproportionately affected by functional disability. Using the 2009 Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey data, we evaluated the factor structure of the pooled ADL and IADL items. Based on our study comprising 2,158 community-dwelling older adults (≥65 years) with diabetes, the unidimensional model exhibited good fit. Despite well-fitting indices, high correlations were observed between the latent constructs (>.70) of the multi-factor models, suggesting a lack of discriminant validity. These findings provide empirical support for a combined scale that can comprehensively and efficiently characterize the extent of functional disability in older adults with diabetes for research, risk adjustment, and evaluation in patient-centered medical homes.
Too good to be true? United Nations peacebuilding and the democratization of war-torn states
Authors: Steinert Janina Isabel , Grimm Sonja
Published: December 2014

This article examines the effectiveness of UN peacebuilding missions in democratizing war-torn states, emphasizing those missions that include democracy promotion components in their mandates. Based on a multinominal logistic regression, we reveal that democratization is significantly more likely if a UN peacebuilding mission is deployed. Furthermore, regimes categorized as more liberal at the outset have an increased risk of revealing antidemocratization trends over the post-war period. Oil wealth impedes democratization and clear victory of one conflict party makes regime transitions more likely, yet in both directions. Descriptive statistics suggest that an increase in the mission’s capacities may be conducive to democratization.
5-HTTLPR, Suicidal Behavior by Others, Depression, and Criminal Behavior During Adolescence
Authors: Watts Stephen J.
Published: December 2014

Vicarious strains like suicidal behavior on the part of others have been shown to be predictive of both negative emotions and antisocial behavior during adolescence. Little research to date, however, has examined the role that biological factors play in moderating these relationships. Using a sample of adolescents drawn from the National Longitudinal Survey of Adolescent Health ( N = 7,995), and drawing on two separate, but related, theories, I explore whether the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTTLPR) interacts with suicidal behavior by others to affect depression and self-reported crime. Results of ordinary least squares and negative binomial regressions reveal that suicide by others interacts with 5-HTTLPR to increase both depression and crime for males but not females, net of controls. Thus, 5-HTTLPR may be implicated in shaping negative emotions and antisocial behavior among males during adolescence by moderating the effects of suicide by others. Implications for theory are discussed.
Exploring Home-School Value Conflicts
Authors: Vasquez-Salgado Yolanda , Greenfield Patricia M. , Burgos-Cienfuegos Rocio
Published: December 2014

U.S. colleges place a high value on the fulfillment of academic obligations by their students. The academic achievement of each individual student is the institutional priority; this is an individualistic frame of reference. However, many Latino first-generation college students have been raised to prioritize family obligations; their home socialization is collectivistic. Our exploratory study investigated how Latino first-generation college students experience home-school value conflict between family obligation and individual academic achievement during their transition to college. A group interview followed the prompt of a conflict scenario that each group member first responded to in writing. The written responses provide evidence of the prioritization of school or home and the conflict that can arise in making these decisions. The group discussions that followed identified multiple types of home-school conflict and provide insights into how these conflicts are experienced. Conflicts revealed by the data included attending family events or visiting parents versus doing academic work, family assistance versus focusing on academics, allocating money for travel to see family versus allocating money for educational expenses. In turn, these home-school value conflicts were experienced both as lasting over time and as playing a negative role in students’ academic achievement and sense of well-being.
Immigrant Professionals, Microaggressions, and Critical Sensemaking in the U.S. Workplace
Authors: Shenoy-Packer Suchitra
Published: December 2014

This study uses the frameworks of microaggressions and critical sensemaking (CSM) to examine the work realities of immigrant professionals (IPs) in the United States, a context rarely explored in organizational communication research. Findings indicate that IPs experience verbal, attitudinal, and professional microaggressions stemming from their ethnic/national group membership, which they make sense of by using critical discursive strategies; rationalizing, creating alternative selves, and taking ownership/blaming self. Theoretical insights provided by the frameworks and practical implications highlight the contributions of this study.
An theoretical investigation of reaction site of 2,4′,6-trifluorobenzophenone, 2,4′,6-trifluorophenylsulfone with hydroquinone
Authors: Zhang Dandan , Chen Xiankai , Liu Huiling , Huang Xuri
Published: December 2014

A detailed theoretical study for the nucleophilic aromatic substitution reaction of 2,4′,6-trifluorobenzophenone (TF), 2,4′,6-trifluorophenylsulfone (TFS) with hydroquinone was performed at the density function theory level together with the polarizable continuum model. With detailed free energy profiles and transition state structures, our theoretical study confirms that TF or TFS with the para-position fluorine has more thermodynamic and kinetic advantages than that with the ortho-position fluorine. In addition, the calculations involving the local reactivity indices (Fukui function), the global reactivity indices (electronic chemical potential), and rate constants further corroborate the location of the preferred bonding site. The impacts of resonance effect, introductive effect, and steric effect were comprehensively considered to explain the reason why para-position is a good reaction site. Our computational results are in good agreement with experimental results and give the potential polymer materials TFS.
Don't ask, sometimes tell. A survey of men who have sex with men sexual orientation disclosure in general practice
Authors: Metcalfe Rebecca , Laird George , Nandwani Rak
Published: December 2014

Despite advances in lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality in recent years, some men who have sex with men remain at increased risk of ill-health. Positive interventions in primary care include psychological support and strategies for risk reduction. It is important that men who have sex with men can disclose sexual orientation in primary care. To quantify disclosure of sexual orientation by men who have sex with men attending general practice and identify barriers to disclosure we surveyed a group of Scottish men. A questionnaire was distributed by voluntary organisations and the National Health Service in the West of Scotland, to rural and urban populations. Two hundred and four gave evaluable responses, with all ages represented. A total of 199 (98%) were registered with a General Practitioner and 167 (83%) attended in the previous year. A total of 81 (40%) stated staff were aware of their sexual orientation. A total of 93/121 (75%) men who have sex with men whose GP was unaware stated this was because they had never been asked. A total of 36/81(44%) men who have sex with men rated support from practices since disclosure as ‘excellent’ and qualitative responses were positive. It is reassuring that almost all respondents were registered with GPs and attending primary care services. However, only 40% had disclosed sexual orientation. This was not because of fear of negative impact on care but because men who have sex with men felt it was irrelevant to their attendance. GPs appear to be reluctant to raise the issue of sexual orientation without prompting.
Rituximab: an emerging treatment for recurrent diffuse alveolar hemorrhage in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Tse J R , Schwab K E , McMahon M , Simon W
Published: December 2014

Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is a rare manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and is associated with high mortality rates. Treatment typically consists of aggressive immunosuppression with pulse-dose steroids, cyclophosphamide, and plasma exchange therapy. Mortality rates remain high despite use of multiple medical therapies. We present a case of recurrent DAH in a 52-year-old female with SLE after a deceased donor renal transplant who was successfully treated with rituximab. Our report highlights the pathophysiologic importance of B-cell-mediated immunosuppression in SLE-associated DAH and suggests that rituximab may represent a viable alternative to cyclophosphamide in the treatment of this disease. We also review eight other reported cases of rituximab use in SLE-associated DAH.
Participation of childbearing international migrant women in research
Authors: Merry Lisa , Low Amy , Carnevale Franco , Gagnon Anita J
Published: December 2014

Fear of burdening or harming childbearing, migrant women, particularly refugees or others who have experienced war, torture, abuse, or rape, can result in their exclusion from research. This exclusion prohibits health issues and related solutions to be identified for this population. For this reason, while it may be challenging to include these women in studies, it is ethically problematic not to do so. Using ethical guidelines for research involving humans as a framework, and drawing on our research experiences. This discussion article proposes a number of strategies to improve the conditions for childbearing migrant women to participate in health research. What emerged as key for studying this diverse population and ensuring an ethically responsible approach are the use of methods that are adapted to the circumstances of childbearing migrant women and the involvement and support from “migrant-friendly” organizations. Ensuring migrant women are involved in the research process and knowledge produced is also critical. The more researchers working in this field communicate their experiences, the more will be learnt about how best to approach research with migrants. More migration and health research will enable a greater contribution to the knowledge base upon which the needs of this population can be met and their strengths maximized.
Experience of non-breastfeeding mothers
Authors: Fahlquist Jessica Nihlén
Published: December 2014

Background:

Breastfeeding is currently strongly recommended by midwives and paediatricians, and the recommendations are based on documents provided by the World Health Organization and public health authorities worldwide.

Research question:

The underlying question is, how are non-breastfeeding mothers affected emotionally when informed that breastfeeding is the safest and healthiest option?

Research design:

The method used is an anonymous web-based qualitative survey exploring the narratives of non-breastfeeding mothers, published on Thesistools.com . The aim is to achieve qualitative knowledge about the emotions of non-breastfeeding mothers.

Participants and research context:

Participants were based in Sweden, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands and were selected through a purposeful sample.

Ethical considerations:

The online survey anonymizes responses automatically, and all respondents had to tick a box agreeing to be quoted anonymously in scientific articles. The study conforms to research ethics guidelines.

Findings:

Respondents describe how they were affected, and the following themes emerged in studying their descriptions: depression, anxiety and pain, feeling failed as a mother and woman, loss of freedom/feeling trapped, relief and guilt.

Discussion:

The themes are discussed against the background of the ethics of care and a theory of ethically responsible risk communication.

Conclusion:

Three conclusions are made. First, the message should become more empathetic. Second, information should be given in an attentive dialogue. Third, information providers should evaluate effects in a more inclusive way.
A Model for Stakeholders’ Influence on Internationalization
Authors: Castro Rita , Rosa Maria João , Pinho Carlos
Published: December 2014

This article aims to discuss stakeholders’ influence on higher education institutions’ (HEIs) internationalization, through an analysis of the relationships established between stakeholders’ importance and the institutions’ rationales for internationalization, the strategies developed for internationalization, and the benefits from internationalization. Data for this study were collected in 80 Portuguese, Dutch, and Brazilian HEIs, using a questionnaire adapted from the 2nd and 3rd International Survey of Internationalization of the International Association of Universities. The results obtained from a descriptive–correlational treatment of the data allowed developing and proposing a typology for stakeholders’ classification and a model for their influence on internationalization.
Parallelogram-shaped dielectric elastomer generators: Analytical model and experimental validation
Authors: Moretti Giacomo , Fontana Marco , Vertechy Rocco
Published: December 2014

Dielectric elastomers are smart materials that can be used to conceive solid-state electromechanical transducers such as actuators, sensors, and generators. Dielectric elastomer generators, in particular, are very promising for energy harvesting applications because they potentially feature large energy densities, good conversion efficiencies, good shock and corrosion resistance, and low cost. In this article, a novel concept of parallelogram-shaped dielectric elastomer generator is presented and analyzed. Parallelogram-shaped dielectric elastomer generators are rotary variable capacitance transducers, which are made by planar dielectric elastomer membranes that are covered with compliant electrodes and clamped along their perimeter to the links of a parallelogram four-bar mechanism. First, an analytical model for the electro-hyperelastic response of the parallelogram-shaped dielectric elastomer generator is described and used to assess the maximum theoretical performances of the device. Then, an experimental case study with a parallelogram-shaped dielectric elastomer generator prototype featuring a natural rubber dielectric elastomer membrane and carbon conductive grease electrodes is presented. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate the practical feasibility of the parallelogram-shaped dielectric elastomer generator concept.
Fracture analysis on a multiferroic cylindrical shell: Effects of coupled interphase imperfections
Authors: Li Yong-Dong , Zhou Kai , Xiong Tao
Published: December 2014

When interphases between ferromagnetic and ferroelectric layers become imperfect, the magnetic, electric, and mechanical imperfections may have inter-couplings. A coupled generalized linear spring model is proposed to formulate such inter-couplings. As an application, fracture analysis is performed on a multiferroic cylindrical shell containing an imperfect interphase. Parametric studies are made on the numerical results of the stress intensity factor to reveal the effects of the three kinds of imperfections and their inter-couplings. Three conclusions are drawn: (a) the mechanical imperfection can enhance the stress intensity factors and meanwhile weaken and even prevent the crack interaction across the interphase; (b) the magnetic/electric imperfection cannot affect the cracks independently, and only when it is coupled with the mechanical one can it reduce the stress intensity factor; and (c) the magneto-mechanical and electro-mechanical imperfection couplings are beneficial to reducing the stress intensity factor, but the magneto-electric imperfection coupling cannot affect the cracks.
The Influence of Symbols and Equations on Understanding Mathematical Equivalence
Authors: Powell Sarah R.
Published: December 2014

Students with mathematics difficulty demonstrate lower mathematics performance than typical-performing peers. One contributing factor to lower mathematics performance may be misunderstanding of mathematics symbols. In several studies related to the equal sign (=), students who received explicit instruction on the relational definition (i.e., “the same as”) of the equal sign demonstrated improved performance on equation solving and equal-sign understanding. In one study, equal-sign instruction improved performance on word problems when students used an equation to set up and solve word problems. Implications for teachers include (a) providing explicit instruction on a relational definition of the equal sign and (b) providing more exposure to equation types (e.g., 9 – 5 = _ + 3) students rarely see in mathematics textbooks.
Contribution of the Sural Nerve to Postural Stability and Cutaneous Sensation of the Lower Limb
Authors: Mazzella Natalie L. , McMillan Andrew M.
Published: December 2014

Background:

The sural nerve is a cutaneous nerve of the lower limb that innervates the posterolateral aspect of the lower leg, ankle, and foot. Considering this pattern, it is plausible that it contributes to the maintenance of postural stability. However, the implications of sensory loss following sural nerve injury have yet to be thoroughly investigated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the immediate effect of sural nerve sensory loss on postural stability and its variability of innervation to the lower limb.

Methods:

Twenty-five healthy adult subjects participated in an observational study with a repeated-measures design. Each participant underwent a postural stability assessment using the Neurocom Balance Master under 2 conditions: 1) with the sural nerve functioning normally and 2) following a bilateral ultrasound-guided sural nerve block. The cutaneous distribution of the sural nerve was mapped for descriptive purposes.

Results:

There were no statistically significant differences between conditions for the primary outcome measure (unilateral stance on the dominant leg with eyes closed). A statistically significant reduction in postural stability was detected during unilateral stance on the nondominant leg (with eyes closed) following the nerve block (mean increase, 2.25 deg/s; 95% confidence interval, –0.48 to 2.91; t = 2.75; df = 24; P = .01). The mean area of plantar skin innervated by the sural nerve was 17% ± 11%, and the mean area of lateral skin was 50% ± 6%.

Conclusion:

Our findings demonstrate that a loss in sural nerve function is unlikely to reduce postural stability during daily activities. The sural nerve has a variable innervation pattern that can involve the third digit and the plantar medial border of the heel.

Clinical Relevance:

Practitioners should consider this variability when assessing for potential sensory deficits and when planning procedures requiring anesthesia to the plantar surface of the foot.
Interpreting Results From the Multinomial Logit Model
Authors: Wulff Jesper N.
Published: December 2014

This article provides guidelines and illustrates practical steps necessary for an analysis of results from the multinomial logit model (MLM). The MLM is a popular model in the strategy literature because it allows researchers to examine strategic choices with multiple outcomes. However, there seem to be systematic issues with regard to how researchers interpret their results when using the MLM. In this study, I present a set of guidelines critical to analyzing and interpreting results from the MLM. The procedure involves intuitive graphical representations of predicted probabilities and marginal effects suitable for both interpretation and communication of results. The practical steps are illustrated through an application of the MLM to the choice of foreign market entry mode.
Survey of dietary and medication practices of owners of cats with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Markovich Jessica E , Freeman Lisa M , Labato Mary A , Heinze Cailin R
Published: December 2014

The objective of this study was to describe the dietary and medication patterns of cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD). In this prospective, cross-sectional descriptive study, owners of cats with CKD were asked to complete a web-based survey. The study was advertised on CKD-, pet-, veterinary- and breed-associated websites and list serves. Owners of 1089 cats with CKD participated in the study. The mean reported age of the cats with CKD was 13.7 ± 4.2 years. Forty percent (430/1089) of cats had concurrent diseases, with hyperthyroidism, heart disease and inflammatory bowel disease being the most common. Veterinarian recommendation was the most common reason reported (684/1032; 66%) for diet selection, and 51% (556/1089) of owners fed a veterinary therapeutic diet formulated for kidney disease as some component of the diet. Many owners (466/1079; 43%) reported that their cats had an abnormal appetite; of these owners, 52% responded that their cats had a poor appetite or required coaxing to eat 5–7 days per week. Forty-seven percent and 51% of cats were receiving subcutaneous fluids and oral medications, respectively; however, most cats (811/1036; 78%) were not receiving phosphorus-binding medications. Fifty-six percent and 38% of cats received commercial cat treats and dietary supplements, respectively. Anorexia or hyporexia is a common problem in cats with CKD and may lead to cats being fed suboptimal diets for their disease. This information may be useful for treating or designing nutritional studies for cats with CKD.
Absence of bacterial DNA in culture-negative urine from cats with and without lower urinary tract disease
Authors: Lund Heidi Sjetne , Skogtun Gaute , Sørum Henning , Eggertsdóttir Anna Vigdís
Published: December 2014

A diagnosis of bacterial cystitis commonly relies on a positive microbiological culture demonstrating the presence of a significant number of colony-forming units/ml urine, as urine within the upper urinary tract, bladder and proximal urethra generally is considered sterile. Recent studies from human and veterinary medicine indicate the presence of non-culturable bacteria in culture-negative urine samples. The aim of the present study was to determine the occurrence of bacterial DNA in culture-negative urine samples from cats with signs of feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) and healthy control cats by 16S ribosomal DNA PCR and subsequent sequencing. The study sample included 38 culture-negative urine samples from cats with FLUTD and 43 culture-negative samples from control cats. Eight culture-positive urine samples from cats with FLUTD were included as external positive controls in addition to negative reaction controls. Of possible methodological limitations, degradation of DNA due to storage, the use of non-sedimented urine for DNA isolation and lack of internal positive reaction controls should be mentioned. The positive controls were recognised, but occurrence of bacterial DNA in culture-negative urine from cats with or without signs of lower urinary tract disease was not demonstrated. However, considering the possible methodological limitations, the presence of bacterial DNA in the urine of culture-negative FLUTD cats cannot be excluded based on the present results alone. Therefore, a prospective study reducing the possibility of degradation of DNA due to storage, in combination with modifications enhancing the chance of detecting even lower levels of bacterial DNA in culture-negative samples, seems warranted.
Treatment of feline asthma with ciclosporin in a cat with diabetes mellitus and congestive heart failure
Authors: Nafe Laura A , Leach Stacey B
Published: December 2014

A 5-year-old domestic shorthair cat that had been previously diagnosed with diabetes mellitus was presented for episodes of coughing and respiratory distress. Diagnostic testing revealed congestive heart failure secondary to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and concurrent asthma. All clinical signs and eosinophilic airway inflammation resolved with oral ciclosporin while the cat was concurrently receiving medications for treatment of heart failure (furosemide and enalapril). Ciclosporin should be considered for treatment of feline asthma in patients with concurrent diseases (eg, diabetes mellitus, severe heart disease) that may contraindicate use of oral glucocorticoid therapy.
Puberty in females enhances the risk of an outcome of multiple sclerosis in children and the development of central nervous system autoimmunity in mice
Authors: Ahn Jeeyoon Jennifer , O’Mahony Julia , Moshkova Marina , Hanwell Heather E , Singh Hargurinder , Zhang Monan Angela , Marrie Ruth Ann , Bar-Or Amit , Sadovnick Dessa A , Dunn Shannon E , Banwell Brenda L
Published: December 2014

Background:

For reasons that remain unclear, three times more women develop multiple sclerosis (MS) than men. This preponderance among women is evident only after 12 years of age, implicating pubertal factors in the risk of MS.

Objective:

To investigate the influence of female puberty on central nervous system (CNS) autoimmunity.

Methods:

We examined the relationship between age of menarche on MS outcomes in 116 female children (< 16 years old) whom presented with incident ‘acquired demyelinating syndromes’ (ADS) and were followed prospectively in the national Canadian Pediatric Demyelinating Disease Study, from 2004–2013. Furthermore, we directly investigated the effects of puberty on susceptibility to experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in two groups of female mice that differed only in their pubertal status.

Results:

In the ADS children, a later age of menarche was associated with a decreased risk of subsequent MS diagnosis. This relationship persisted, after accounting for patient age at ADS presentation and the presence of ≥1 T2 lesions on brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), with a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.64; and additional factors that associate with MS outcomes in ADS children, including low vitamin D levels. Furthermore, we found female mice that had transitioned through puberty were more susceptible to EAE than age-matched, pre-pubertal mice.

Conclusion:

Puberty in females enhances CNS autoimmune mechanisms that lead to MS in humans and EAE in mice.
Structural ‘connectomic’ alterations in the limbic system of multiple sclerosis patients with major depression
Authors: Nigro Salvatore , Passamonti Luca , Riccelli Roberta , Toschi Nicola , Rocca Federico , Valentino Paola , Nisticò Rita , Fera Francesco , Quattrone Aldo
Published: December 2014

Background:

Major depression (MD) is a common psychiatric disorder in multiple sclerosis (MS). Despite the negative impact of MD on the quality of life of MS patients, little is known about its underlying brain mechanisms.

Objective:

We studied the whole-brain connectivity patterns that were associated with MD in MS. Alterations were mainly expected within limbic circuits.

Methods:

Diffusion tensor imaging data were collected in 20 MS patients with MD, 22 non-depressed MS patients and 16 healthy controls. We used deterministic tractography and graph analysis to study the white-matter connectivity patterns that characterized MS patients with MD.

Results:

We found that MD in MS was associated with increased local path length in the right hippocampus and right amygdala. Further analyses revealed that these effects were driven by an increased shortest distance between both the right hippocampus and right amygdala and a series of regions including the dorsolateral and ventrolateral prefrontal cortex, orbitofrontal cortex, sensory-motor cortices and supplementary motor area.

Conclusion:

Our data provide strong support for neurobiological accounts positing that MD in MS is mediated by abnormal ‘communications’ within limbic circuits. We also found evidence that MD in MS may be linked with connectivity alterations at the limbic-motor interface, a group of regions that translates emotions into survival-oriented behaviors.
Parity is associated with a longer time to reach irreversible disability milestones in women with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Masera S , Cavalla P , Prosperini L , Mattioda A , Mancinelli CR , Superti G , Chiavazza C , Vercellino M , Pinessi L , Pozzilli C
Published: December 2014

Background:

Multiple sclerosis (MS) frequently affects women of childbearing age. While short-term effects of pregnancy on MS course are well-known, whether pregnancy may influence long-term disability progression is debated.

Methods:

A two-centre retrospective study to investigate long-term effect of pregnancy on disability was performed in a population of MS women. Survival analyses and multivariate Cox proportional regression models (including early predictors of MS severity and exposure to disease-modifying treatments) were performed to compare time to reach well-established disability milestones in nulliparous women and in those with pregnancies after MS onset (‘parous’). Women with pregnancies before MS onset were excluded from analyses as they represent a heterogeneous group.

Results:

Data about 445 women (261 nulliparous, 184 ‘parous’) were analysed. A longer time to reach Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) 4.0 and 6.0 was observed in parous women; Cox regression models revealed a lower risk for ‘parous’ than nulliparous women in reaching EDSS 4.0 and 6.0 (HR = 0.552, p = 0.008 and HR = 0.422, p = 0.012 respectively).

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest that pregnancy after MS onset is associated with a slower long-term disability progression. Whether this represents a biological/immunological effect, or reflects a higher propensity toward childbearing in women with milder disease, it remains uncertain deserving further investigations.
Inverse correlation of genetic risk score with age at onset in bout-onset and progressive-onset multiple sclerosis
Authors: Sorosina Melissa , Esposito Federica , Guaschino Clara , Clarelli Ferdinando , Barizzone Nadia , Osiceanu Ana Maria , Brambilla Paola , Mascia Elisabetta , Cavalla Paola , Gallo Paolo ,   PROGRESSO,   PROGEMUS, Martinelli Vittorio , Leone Maurizio , Comi Giancarlo , D’Alfonso Sandra , Martinelli Boneschi Filippo
Published: December 2014

We correlated the weighted genetic risk score measured using 107 established susceptibility variants for multiple sclerosis (MS) with the age at onset in bout-onset (BOMS, n=906) and progressive-onset MS Italian patients (PrMS) ( n=544). We observed an opposite relationship in the two disease courses: a higher weighted genetic risk score was associated with an earlier age at onset in BOMS (rho= −0.1; p=5 × 10−3) and a later age at onset in PrMS cases (rho=0.07; p=0.15) ( p of difference of regression=1.4 × 10−2). These findings suggest that established MS risk variants anticipate the onset of the inflammatory phase, while they have no impact on, or even delay, the onset of the progressive phase.
The use of gaming technology for rehabilitation in people with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Taylor MJD , Griffin M
Published: December 2014

Gaming technology – exergaming – is a novel tool to facilitate exercise, improve balance, and encourage rehabilitation training. This review will describe some of the key exergame research to promote physical activity and its use in rehabilitation in other diseases or clinical populations. We will then describe the current state of research in exergaming in people with multiple sclerosis and describe the theories for the mechanism behind some of the improvements in outcomes seen after using exergaming. Lastly, we will identify gaps in the literature and provide directions for future work in this growing area. The current work is contradictory and there is no consensus with regards to training duration/intensity and the outcomes used to assess the clinical effectiveness. This in part is due to the off-the-shelf nature of the games used. A more satisfactory approach would be the development of bespoke games which match a clinical need. Exergames are seen as enjoyable and could be effective in enhancing adherence to rehabilitation. However, the definitive RCT has yet to be carried out comparing exergaming to traditional exercise.
Managing psychological stress in the multiple sclerosis medical visit: Patient perspectives and unmet needs
Authors: Senders Angela , Sando Kelsi , Wahbeh Helané , Peterson Hiller Amie , Shinto Lynne
Published: December 2014

Psychological stress can negatively impact multiple sclerosis. To further understand how stress is addressed in the multiple sclerosis medical visit, 34 people with multiple sclerosis participated in focus groups. Transcripts were analyzed by inductive thematic analysis. The majority of participants did not discuss stress with their provider, citing barriers to communication such as lack of time, poor coordination between specialties, physician reliance on pharmaceutical prescription, and patient lack of self-advocacy. Participants recommended several ways to better manage psychological well-being in the clinical setting. These findings provide a foundation for future studies aimed at minimizing the detrimental effect of stress in multiple sclerosis.
Non-normative critique
Authors: Hansen Magnus Paulsen
Published: December 2014

The close ties between modes of governing, subjectivities and critique in contemporary societies challenge the role of critical social research. The classical normative ethos of the unmasking researcher unravelling various oppressive structures of dominant vs. dominated groups in society is inadequate when it comes to understand de-politicizing mechanisms and the struggles they bring about. This article argues that only a non-normative position can stay attentive to the constant and complex evolution of modes of governing and the critical operations actors themselves engage in. The article outlines a non-normative but critical programme based on an ethos of re-politicizing contemporary pervasive modes of governing. The analytical advantages and limitations of such a programme are demonstrated by readings of both Foucauldian studies and the works of and debates regarding the French pragmatic sociology of Boltanski and Thévenot.
Television’s changing role in social togetherness in the personalized online consumption of foreign TV
Authors: Tse Yu-Kei
Published: December 2014

This article studies how television’s role in social togetherness has changed in the post-network context, using Taiwanese consumption of foreign programs via online sharing as a case study. Interview findings demonstrate that while audiences celebrated the personalization of online viewing, they sometimes wondered if they would become detached from society if they did not follow broadcast television. Moreover, by using online platforms, audiences achieved a sense of togetherness in two ways: by connecting to others with the same interests in foreign programs and by reassociating with home when they are abroad by consuming domestic programs. While the audiences’ personalization of online viewing is increasingly becoming a common television experience with their acquaintances and/or unknown fellow members, a sense of togetherness was attained, even though it might be less explicit than that generated in the consumption of broadcast television.
Invited Review: Development of a one-dimensional computational fluid dynamics modeling approach to predict cycle-to-cycle variability in spark-ignition engines based on physical understanding acquired from large-eddy simulation
Authors: Richard Stéphane , Dulbecco Alessio , Angelberger Christian , Truffin Karine
Published: December 2014

In order to satisfy emission standards and CO2 targets, spark-ignition engines are designed to operate with high dilution rates, compression ratios and boost levels, thus increasing the propensity for unstable combustion. Therefore it is important to address cycle-to-cycle variability (CCV) in complete engine simulators in order to support the design of viable architectures and control strategies. This work concerns the development, validation and application to a multi-cylinder spark-ignition engine of a physics-based one-dimensional combustion model able to render CCV. Its basis relies on the analysis of Large-Eddy Simulation (LES) of flow in a single-cylinder engine used to extract information relating physics to cyclic fluctuations. A one-dimensional CCV model is derived, accounting for variability related to in-cylinder aerodynamics, turbulence and mixture composition. A detailed spark-ignition model is developed, and the resulting model captures the strongly non-linear interactions between flow and combustion, starting from spark ignition and covering laminar/turbulent transition and wrinkling of the flame surface. A first validation is presented against dedicated experimental data from a single-cylinder engine. Detailed comparisons between measurements and predictions are reported on a set of parametric variations around a reference point to assess the physical bases of the model. The resulting model is applied to the simulation of the operating map of a multi-cylinder turbocharged engine. It is found able to reproduce CCV without the need to perform specific LES of that engine, highlighting a certain level of generality of the developed model.
Reactivity-controlled compression ignition drive cycle emissions and fuel economy estimations using vehicle system simulations
Authors: Curran Scott J , Gao Zhiming , Wagner Robert M
Published: December 2014

In-cylinder blending of gasoline and diesel to achieve reactivity-controlled compression ignition has been shown to reduce NOX and soot emissions while maintaining or improving brake thermal efficiency as compared with conventional diesel combustion. The reactivity-controlled compression ignition concept has an advantage over many advanced combustion strategies in that the fuel reactivity can be tailored to the engine speed and load, allowing stable low-temperature combustion to be extended over more of the light-duty drive cycle load range. A multi-mode reactivity-controlled compression ignition strategy is employed where the engine switches from reactivity-controlled compression ignition to conventional diesel combustion when speed and load demand are outside of the experimentally determined reactivity-controlled compression ignition range. The potential for reactivity-controlled compression ignition to reduce drive cycle fuel economy and emissions is not clearly understood and is explored here by simulating the fuel economy and emissions for a multi-mode reactivity-controlled compression ignition–enabled vehicle operating over a variety of US drive cycles using experimental engine maps for multi-mode reactivity-controlled compression ignition, conventional diesel combustion, and a 2009 port-fuel injected gasoline engine. Drive cycle simulations are completed assuming a conventional mid-size passenger vehicle with an automatic transmission. Multi-mode reactivity-controlled compression ignition fuel economy simulation results are compared with the same vehicle powered by a representative 2009 port-fuel injected gasoline engine over multiple drive cycles. Engine-out drive cycle emissions are compared with conventional diesel combustion, and observations regarding relative gasoline and diesel tank sizes needed for the various drive cycles are also summarized.
Intercultural exchange and mutuality in volunteer tourism: The case of intercambio in Ecuador
Authors: Everingham Phoebe
Published: December 2014

Volunteer tourism has been criticised for promoting neo-colonial discourses of development aid. To date, there is a dearth of research into organisations that do not overtly position themselves within a development aid context. This article draws on ethnographic research within a small-scale organisation in Ecuador, Fundacion Arte del Mundo, which promotes the creative arts, intercultural learning and mutuality as core to its volunteerism. This article highlights the benefits and potentialities of emphasising such intercultural learning exchanges and suggests that the predominance of development aid discourses, both in the practice and critiques of volunteer tourism can obscure a more serious engagement with such examples of learning and mutuality as constitutive of a less paternalistic volunteer tourism. The article argues that the experiences evident in the volunteerism of Fundacion Arte del Mundo at times actively subvert and decentre neo-colonial binaries and power differentials that often underpin exchanges between volunteers and the local community. By drawing attention to experiences of intercultural learning and mutuality, the article serves to shift the framing of discussion and practices of volunteer tourism away from those which consistently draw on neo-colonial binaries as the reference point of analysis and in doing so reify their interpretive power.
Core risk factors influencing safe handling operations for container terminals at Kaohsiung port
Authors: Yang Ya-Ling , Ding Ji-Feng , Chiu Chien-Chung , Shyu Wen-Hwa , Tseng Wen-Jui , Chou Ming-Tao
Published: December 2014

Safe handling operations for container terminals significantly determine whether cargos can be successfully delivered. However, the container terminals involve frequent container operations with heavy machinery and accidents occur quite often, causing financial losses, injuries and even deaths. Since various handling operations cannot guarantee absolute safety as well as many of these operations have substantial risks that can cause losses, we find safe handling operations a topic worthy of in-depth investigation. This study analyzed risk factors influencing safe handling operation problems with complicated cause–effect relationships and their correlations; hence, the main purpose of this article was to apply the Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory method to evaluate the core risk factors of the container handling operations at Kaohsiung port in Taiwan. This article first sorted out five major risk aspects with 17 risk factors through interviews with other scholars and direct investigation at Kaohsiung port. Then, based on the questionnaire surveys, we used the Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory method to analyze the cause–effect relationships of each risk factor. To clearly explain the relationship between each risk factor shown in the cause–effect diagram, the Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory results finally showed four quadrants and their corresponding risk factors. To achieve our research purpose, the seven core risk factors in the first quadrant are identified, including “individual experience,”“operation safety protocols,”“implementation of safety education,”“training and assessment of operation skills,”“personnel safety equipment conditions,”“establishment of a culture that values safety” and “delegation of work,” respectively. Furthermore, some suggestions concerning risk control strategies and financial strategies addressing the core risk factors are provided in this article. We hope the results of this research should prove beneficial to cargo-handling businesses in Taiwan.