bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Social Relationships and Salivary Telomere Length Among Middle-Aged and Older African American and White Adults
Authors: Lincoln Karen D , Lloyd Donald A , Nguyen Ann W 
Published: April 2017

AbstractObjectivesA common mechanism underlying premature morbidity may be accelerated biological aging as reflected by salivary telomere length (STL). This study examined the extent to which social relationships, both positive and negative, can be protective or confer risk relative to biological aging.MethodData from the Health and Retirement Study and multiple regression were used to examine cross-sectional associations between STL, self-reported social support, and negative interaction (e.g., conflict, criticism) with family in a nationally representative sample of African American and non-Hispanic White middle-aged and older adults (N = 4,080).ResultsSocial support from family was associated with shorter STL. Negative interaction with family had no main effect on STL but interactions characterized by high social support and more frequent negative interactions were associated with longer STL. Negative interaction with family was negatively associated with STL for African Americans and Whites but the magnitude of the effect was greater for African Americans.DiscussionStudy findings highlight the role of social relationships in physiological deterioration among middle-aged and older adults and identify a potential mechanism whereby race is linked to accelerated biological aging. Findings highlight the importance of considering positive and negative aspects of social relationships to understand the consequences of social connections for cellular aging in diverse populations.
Are fast radio bursts markers of dark core collapse?
Authors: Katz J. I. 
Published: April 2017

Abstract
Are some neutron stars produced without a supernova, without ejecting mass in a remnant? Theoretical calculations of core collapse in massive stars often predict this. The observation of the repeating FRB 121102, whose dispersion measure has not changed over several years, suggests that dark core collapses are not just failures of computer codes, but may be real. The existence of one repeating fast radio burst (FRB) with unchanging dispersion measure is not conclusive, but within a decade hundreds or thousands of FRB are expected to be discovered, likely including scores of repeaters, permitting useful statistical inferences. A naïve supernova remnant model predicts observable decline in dispersion measure for 100 yr after its formation. If an upper limit on the decline of 2 pc cm−3 yr−1 is set for five repeating FRBs, then the naïve model with nominal parameters is rejected at the 95 per cent level of confidence. This may indicate dark neutron star formation without a supernova or supernova remnant. This hypothesis may also be tested with the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST) data that would show, if present, a supernova at an interferometric FRB position if it occurred within the LSST epoch.
Increased Central Nervous System Interleukin-8 in a Majority Postlaminectomy Syndrome Chronic Pain Population
Authors: Giron Sarah E , Bjurstrom Martin F , Griffis Charles A , Ferrante F Michael , Wu Irene I , Nicol Andrea L , Grogan Tristan R , Burkard Joseph F , Irwin Michael R , Breen Elizabeth Crabb 
Published: April 2017

AbstractBackground and ObjectivesMultiple processes have been identified as potential contributors to chronic pain, with increasing evidence illustrating an association with aberrant levels of neuroimmune mediators. The primary objectives of the present study were to examine central nervous system cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors present in a chronic pain population and to explore patterns of the same mediator molecules over time. Secondary objectives explored the relationship of central and peripheral neuroimmune mediators while examining the levels of anxiety, depression, sleep quality, and perception of pain associated with the chronic pain patient experience.MethodsCerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from a population of majority postlaminectomy syndrome patients (N = 8) was compared with control CSF samples (N = 30) to assess for significant differences in 10 cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors. The patient population was then followed over time, analyzing CSF, plasma, and psychobehavioral measures.ResultsThe present observational study is the first to demonstrate increased mean CSF levels of interleukin-8 (IL-8; P < 0.001) in a small population of majority postlaminectomy syndrome patients, as compared with a control population. Over time in pain patients, CSF levels of IL-8 increased significantly (P < 0.001).ConclusionsThese data indicate that IL-8 should be further investigated and psychobehavioral components considered in the overall chronic pain paradigm. Future studies examining the interactions between these factors and IL-8 may identify novel targets for treatment of persistent pain states.
Salience network dynamics underlying successful resistance of temptation
Authors: Steimke Rosa , Nomi Jason S. , Calhoun Vince D , Stelzel Christine , Paschke Lena M. , Gaschler Robert , Walter Henrik , Uddin Lucina Q. 
Published: April 2017

AbstractSelf-control and the ability to resist temptation are critical for successful completion of long-term goals. Contemporary models in cognitive neuroscience emphasize the primary role of prefrontal cognitive control networks in aligning behavior with such goals. Here we use gaze pattern analysis and dynamic functional connectivity fMRI data to explore how individual differences in the ability to resist temptation are related to intrinsic brain dynamics of the cognitive control and salience networks. Behaviorally, individuals exhibit greater gaze distance from target location (e.g. higher distractibility) during presentation of tempting erotic images compared with neutral images. Individuals whose intrinsic dynamic functional connectivity patterns gravitate towards configurations in which salience detection systems are less strongly coupled with visual systems resist tempting distractors more effectively. The ability to resist tempting distractors was not significantly related to intrinsic dynamics of the cognitive control network. These results suggest that susceptibility to temptation is governed in part by individual differences in salience network dynamics, and provide novel evidence for involvement of brain systems outside canonical cognitive control networks in contributing to individual differences in self-control.
Evaluating Methods of Correcting for Multiple Comparisons Implemented in SPM12 in Social Neuroscience fMRI Studies: An Example from Moral Psychology
Authors: Han Hyemin , Glenn Andrea L. 
Published: April 2017

AbstractIn fMRI research, the goal of correcting for multiple comparisons is to identify areas of activity that reflect true effects, and thus would be expected to replicate in future studies. Finding an appropriate balance between trying to minimize false positives (Type I error) while not being too stringent and omitting true effects (Type II error) can be challenging. Furthermore, the advantages and disadvantages of these types of errors may differ for different areas of study. In many areas of social neuroscience that involve complex processes and considerable individual differences, such as the study of moral judgment, effects are typically smaller and statistical power weaker, leading to the suggestion that less stringent corrections that allow for more sensitivity may be beneficial, but also result in more false positives. Using moral judgment fMRI data, we evaluated four commonly used methods for multiple comparison correction implemented in SPM12 by examining which method produced the most precise overlap with results from a meta-analysis of relevant studies and with results from nonparametric permutation analyses. We found that voxel-wise thresholding with family-wise error correction based on Random Field Theory provides a more precise overlap (i.e., without omitting too few regions or encompassing too many additional regions) than either clusterwise thresholding, Bonferroni correction, or false discovery rate correction methods.
Using Neural Networks to Improve Single Cell RNA-Seq Data Analysis
Authors: Lin Chieh , Jain Siddhartha , Kim Hannah , Bar-Joseph Ziv 
Published: April 2017

AbstractWhile only recently developed, the ability to profile expression data in single cells (scRNA-Seq) has already led to several important studies and findings. However, this technology has also raised several new computational challenges including questions related to handling the noisy and sometimes incomplete data, how to identify unique group of cells in such experiments and how to determine the state or function of specific cells based on their expression profile. To address these issues we develop and test a method based on neural networks (NN) for the analysis and retrieval of single cell RNA-Seq data. We tested various NN architectures, some biologically motivated, and used these to obtain a reduced dimension representation of the single cell expression data. We show that the NN method improves upon prior methods in both, the ability to correctly group cells in experiments not used in the training and the ability to correctly infer cell type or state by querying a database of tens of thousands of single cell profiles. Such database queries (which can be performed using our web server) will enable researchers to better characterize cells when analyzing heterogeneous scRNA-Seq samples.Supporting website:http://sb.cs.cmu.edu/scnn/Password for accessing the retrieval task webserver: scRNA-Seq
Quantitative assessment of cell fate decision between autophagy and apoptosis
Authors: Liu Bing , Oltvai Zoltán N. , Bayir Hulya , Silverman Gary A. , Pak Stephen C. , Perlmutter David H. , Bahar Ivet 
Published: April 2017

AbstractAutophagy and apoptosis regulate cell survival and death, and are implicated in the pathogenesis of many diseases. The same type of stress signals can induce either process, but it is unclear how cells ‘assess’ cellular damage and make a ‘life’ or ‘death’ decision by activating autophagy or apoptosis. A computational model of coupled apoptosis and autophagy is built here to study the systems-level dynamics of the underlying signaling network. The model explains the differential dynamics of autophagy and apoptosis in response to various experimental stress signals. Autophagic response dominates at low-to-moderate stress; whereas the response shifts from autophagy (graded activation) to apoptosis (switch-like activation) with increasing intensity of stress. The model reveals that this dynamic cell fate decision is conferred by a core regulatory network involving cytoplasmic Ca2+as a rheostat that fine-tunes autophagic and apoptotic responses. A G-protein signaling-mediated feedback loop maintains cytoplasmic Ca2+level, which in turn governs autophagic response through an AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-mediated feedforward loop. The model identified Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent kinase kinase β (CaMKKβ) as a determinant of the opposite roles of cytoplasmic Ca2+in autophagy regulation. The results also demonstrated that the model could contribute to the development of pharmacological strategies modulate cell fate decisions.
The good, the bad, and the ugly in the melting pot
Authors: George Olusoji , Yusuff Kolawole M. , Cornelius Nelarine 
Published: April 2017

PurposeTaking a clue from the aftermaths of colonisation and the need to manage an “unholy marriage” created by the British colonial masters, the purpose of this paper is to examine the peculiar challenges of managing Nigeria’s unique diversity in the public sector through the critical lens of the Federal Character Principle (FCP) with specific focus on how this invented model of diversity management ended up creating more serious problems than it was meant to solve in the Nigerian public administration.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is essentially a review, and it relies on previous studies and real-world evidence on the subject. The paper systematically traces the evolution of diversity management in Nigerian public administration through the critical lens of the FCP with specific focus on how problematic it is to management Nigeria’s unique diversity with more serious problems being created by the FCP application in the public sector.FindingsThe paper reveals that the constitutional provisions of the “Federal Character Principle” ended up in creating more problems than it set out to solve, reflecting in the “melting pot” allegory. It reveals how problematic it is to manage the country’s diversity, and highlights some of the problems created by the FCP. The review makes a case for an urgent need to intensify empirical research on the subject in order to fashion out a better way of managing Nigeria’s diversity in the public sector.Research limitations/implicationsOne major limitation of this paper is rooted in lack of empirical research such as survey to further explore the topic. Few real life examples and cases provided are considered insufficient to justify some of the assertions. Thus, a call for more systematic and empirical research is made.Practical implicationsThe implication of the finding is that the model for managing workforce diversity especially in the Nigerian public sector (not limited to the public administration) must be “Nigerianised” such that the unique socio-cultural realities of the Nigeria’s society as well as benefits accrued to diversity can be fully explored in driving the growth of the country and survival of the “unity-in-diversity” goal.Originality/valueThe paper will benefit the government, all stakeholders, and the Nigerian society at large. It offers some useful insights into public administration. It stimulates an interest to conduct further research on diversity management with a view to producing some useful findings that could lead to a better management of diversity in the country.
The technology foresight system of the Russian Federation: a systemic view
Authors: Kuzminov Ilya F. , Thurner Thomas , Chulok Alexander 
Published: April 2017

Purpose
This paper aims to describe and discuss the architecture of Russia’s Technology Foresight System (TFS). This paper introduces the reader to the integration of the TFS into the public administration system and, specifically, into the national strategic planning system.

Design/methodology/approach
To do so, the authors fall back on more than 10 years of experience in performing foresight exercises for Russian policy makers of their institution.

Findings
Thereby, the paper highlights the implications arising from the interaction between sectoral and national components of TFS and on application of the results of foresight studies (implemented within the framework of TFS) for the strategic planning.

Originality/value
Russia has a long history of technological planning and forecasting and engages regularly in extensive foresight activities of both national and sectoral relevance. Also, Russia’s leadership repeatedly stresses the importance of such foresight activities which are outlined by a national law since 2014.
Diversity management in tourism and hospitality: an exploratory study
Authors: Malik Ruchika , Madappa Tanavi , Chitranshi Jaya 
Published: April 2017

Purpose
The hospitality and tourism industry has seen an increase in organizations operating internationally, bringing people from diverse cultural backgrounds together. The authors aim to help clarify that with a lack of awareness and understanding about diversity, many problems arise in terms of effective intercultural communication between managers and employees and employees and the customers. This paper helps in answering the questions related to the importance of cross cultural management, the intercultural issues faced by an organization, the best practices for diversity management and the future of cultural diversity.

Design/methodology/approach
The authors have carried out a review-based research of 60 papers relevant to the topic. The study has been restricted to secondary data consisting of research in the area of managing cultural diversity.

Findings
The researchers have concluded that there are different dimensions of cultural diversity and thus policies and programs to manage it have to be carefully implemented and integrated. Also, managers need to identify the current gaps in the organization in terms of diversity management to take the necessary steps for building a harmonious relationship between expatriates and the local employees.

Originality/value
The study addresses the complex nature of cultural diversity and the management issues of multiculturalism within the hospitality and tourism industry. The authors have made an effort to identify the best practices and programs for managing a diverse workforce which may also improve engagement and retention levels through radical inclusion of employees.
Professional development of sustainability competences in higher education
Authors: Lambrechts Wim , Verhulst Elli , Rymenams Sara 
Published: April 2017

PurposeThis paper aims to provide insights into the relation between professional development (PD) and organisational change processes towards sustainability, with a specific focus on empowerment.Design/methodology/approachThe paper builds upon a constructivist approach, combining a literature review, a desk research on key publications and reports and a socio-political analysis to reveal the specific context in Flanders, Belgium. Findings are then connected to earlier insights from research on organisational change for sustainability.FindingsThe paper provides a number of PD initiatives that focus on sustainability in general and in a single higher education (HE) institution. Framing such initiatives as an organisational change process offers insights on how elements of empowerment are currently incorporated in PD initiatives and how it can strengthen them to lead to the further integration of sustainability competences in HE.Research limitations/implicationsLimitations are linked with the kind of sources used in the constructivist approach. The analysis only looks at written reports on the topic, albeit it also builds upon the first-hand experiences of educators in the HE institution focused upon in the case.Practical implicationsThere is a need to frame PD initiatives as an organisational change process towards sustainability with specific attention towards empowerment. Without this framing, PD approaches comprise the risk of being left in the margins or being understood as single initiatives without any connection to the bigger picture, i.e. the transition towards sustainability in HE.Social implicationsInterlinking PD and organisational change provides opportunities to frame the sustainability transition within the university in a wider societal context.Originality/valueThe paper provides an original contribution to the debate on sustainability competences, as it frames the PD within an organisational context, rather than focusing on the individual role of educators.
Engaging teacher educators with the sustainability agenda
Authors: Amado Addise , Dalelo Aklilu , Adomßent Maik , Fischer Daniel 
Published: April 2017

Purpose
There is broad consensus that the implementation of education for sustainable development (ESD) requires the consideration of geographical and cultural contexts. Despite such an agreement at a theoretical level, there is so far an apparent lack of practical experiences and solid research on approaches that effectively manage to engage professional educators in higher education with ESD in the context of a developing country from the Global South. This paper aims to address this gap and present a case study from a pilot professional development program (PDP) that sought to implement and mainstream ESD among Ethiopian colleges of teacher education (CTEs) and theological seminaries (TSs).

Design/methodology/approach
The research presented is based on the methodology of evaluative case study research in ESD. It analyzes the PDP’s specific objectives with regard to capacity and structure building, describes major activities implemented and how these relate to the objectives and explores major outcomes of the PDP.

Findings
The paper presents a comprehensive training curriculum aimed at addressing ESD in Ethiopian CTEs and TSs in a whole-institution approach. Results suggest that the PDP’s approach to combine human capacity and institutional structure building was effective in supporting the implementation and mainstreaming of ESD in CTEs and TSs in Ethiopia.

Originality/value
This case study presents original research on a pilot Ethiopian PDP that was implemented in collaboration with two academic institutions from Ethiopia and Germany.
Training sessions fostering transdisciplinary collaboration for sustainable development
Authors: Meyer Jonas , Mader Marlene , Zimmermann Friedrich , Çabiri Ketrina 
Published: April 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine sustainability-related challenges in the two Western Balkan countries – Albania and Kosovo. It discusses the opportunities of local higher education institutions (HEIs) taking responsibility to tackle these challenges by providing professional development through science–society collaboration in innovative training sessions for university educators.

Design/methodology/approach
A literature review on actual challenges and transformations of higher education for sustainable development (ESD) in Albania and Kosovo will be the starting point of this paper. Subsequently, experiences from the on-going European Union (EU) project “ConSus” will be used to draw both a competence framework for ESD within science–society collaboration based on the training sessions, as well as possible scaling opportunities.

Findings
The paper draws possible approaches of training sessions for university educators promoting sustainable development and science–society collaboration in higher education. They will be concluded by addressing possible scaling opportunities of the project’s activities.

Practical implications
The experiences of the ConSus training sessions will outline competences of university educators in ESD gained in relation to transdisciplinary collaboration in research and teaching.

Originality/value
The paper will contribute to ESD approaches in higher education in Albania and Kosovo. Furthermore, scaling possibilities will be discussed to systematically implement ESD approaches also in higher hierarchical levels and other HEIs.
Research involving people with dementia: a literature review
Authors: Rivett Emma 
Published: April 2017

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to review existing literature that addresses involving people with dementia in research, and how this can relate to involving people with dementia in research as co-researchers.Design/methodology/approachThe approach takes the form of a literature review.FindingsDespite a growing drive for patient and public involvement in research, people with dementia are often still excluded from many areas of research, and are rarely given the opportunity to act as co-researchers. Existing principles focussing on how people with dementia can effectively and safely be involved in research as participants (including ethical considerations, enabling participation, support for people with dementia and the involvement of family members and carers) can also be applied to enabling people with dementia to be actively involved with research as co-researchers. The benefits of involving people with dementia in research are also explored.Originality/valueThis paper adds to the small body of literature that addresses involving people with dementia in research as co-researchers, and advocates for ongoing research and development in this area.