bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Return policy: Hassle‐free or your money‐back guarantee?
Authors: Hsiao Lu , Chen Ying‐Ju 
Published: June 2014

AbstractThis article compares the profitability of two pervasively adopted return policies—money‐back guarantee and hassle‐free policies. In our model, a seller sells to consumers with heterogeneous valuations and hassle costs. Products are subject to quality risk, and product misfit can only be observed post‐purchase. While the hassle‐free policy is cost advantageous from the seller's viewpoint, a money‐back guarantee allows the seller to fine‐tune the consumer hassle on returning the product. Thus, when the two return policies lead to the same consumer behaviors, the hassle‐free policy dominates. Conversely, a money‐back guarantee can be more profitable even if on average, high‐valuation consumers experience a lower hassle cost than the low‐valuation ones. The optimal hassle cost can be higher when product quality gets improved; thus, it is not necessarily a perfect proxy or signal of the seller's quality. We further allow the seller to adopt a mixture of these policies, and identify the concrete operating regimes within which these return policies are optimal among more flexible policies. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics 61: 403–417, 2014
Long‐term benefits of inhaled corticosteroids in asthma: the propensity score method
Authors: Chanoine Sébastien , Dumas Orianne , Benmerad Meriem , Pison Christophe , Varraso Raphaëlle , Gormand Frédéric , Just Jocelyne , Le Moual Nicole , Bedouch Pierrick , Bousquet Jean , Kauffmann Francine , Pin Isabelle , Siroux Valérie 
Published: June 2014

AbstractPurposeThe aim of this study was to apply a propensity score approach to assess the long‐term benefits of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) on respiratory health in asthma.MethodsThis analysis was conducted on adults with persistent asthma from the Epidemiological study on the Genetics and Environment of Asthma, a 12‐year follow‐up study. ICS exposure was assessed by questionnaire. Change in lung function over the follow‐up period, asthma control, and health‐related quality of life (asthma quality of life questionnaire) were assessed by standardized and validated methods.ResultsAmong 245 adults with persistent asthma, 78 (31.8%) were regularly/continuously exposed to ICS (≥6 months/year, ICS++) and 167 never/irregularly exposed to ICS (<6 months/year, ICS+/−) over the follow‐up period. Compared with ICS+/− subjects, a nonsignificant trend for a slower lung function decline (mL/year) was observed in ICS++ subjects (β [95%CI] = −11.4 [−24.9; 2.0]). The ICS++ subjects did not have better controlled asthma and higher health‐related quality of life as compared with ICS+/− subjects.ConclusionsApplying a propensity score method did not offer evidence of a statistical significant long‐term benefit of ICS on respiratory health in adults with persistent asthma regularly or continuously exposed to ICS over a long period. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
El Harka: Perceptions of the Migration‐Development Nexus in Post‐Revolution Tunis
Authors: Harris Jonathan 
Published: June 2014

AbstractIn the 3 years since the ousting of Tunisia's dictator Zine El Abedine Ben Ali in January 2011, net emigration from Tunisia has doubled, suggesting a link between revolutionary politics and aspirations to emigrate. A large proportion of this emigration has taken the form of a clandestine crossing to Europe, locally called El Harka. This paper explores the complex interactions between the ‘migration‐development nexus’ and revolutionary national politics in the aspirations of Tunisian young men to emigrate in the post‐Revolution period. I use the sociologist Albert O. Hirschman's concept of ‘Exit‐Voice‐Loyalty’ to come to an understanding of the geographical imaginaries and spatial practices expressed by individual Tunisian men in relation to migration. I present my findings within a typology of ‘surplus’, ‘circulation’, and ‘engagement’ to describe the ways in which the inherent politics of migration are expressed. ‘Surplus’ emerged as a powerful discourse in post‐Revolution Tunis, leading to politically significant notions of migrant identity. ‘Circulation’ denotes the developmental ideal held in tension with concerns over legality. I argue that the primacy of illegal emigration from Tunisia indicates the dominance of exploitative migration policies. Finally, political ‘engagement’ in the post‐Revolution period is theorised to correlate to disinterest in emigration. The institution of freedom of expression is argued to increase ‘loyalty’, through privileging ‘voice’ over ‘exit’ as a course of action for the discontent. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Flexibility in Men's Sexual Practices in Response to Iatrogenic Erectile Dysfunction after Prostate Cancer Treatment
Authors: Dowsett G. W. , Lyons A. , Duncan D. , Wassersug R. J. 
Published: June 2014

Abstract

Introduction
Prostate cancer (PCa) treatments are associated with a high incidence of erectile dysfunction (ED). Interventions to help men with iatrogenic ED have largely focused on penile tumescence adequate for vaginal penetration. Less research has been undertaken on sex practices other than penile/vaginal intercourse.

Aim
The aim of this study was to explore forms of sexual practice engaged in by men following treatment for PCa. We focused in particular on anal intercourse (AI) as practiced by both nonheterosexual (i.e., gay-identified men and other men who have sex with men) and heterosexual men. We sought to determine how common AI was subsequent to PCa treatment and how flexible AI practitioners were in their modes (e.g., from insertive to receptive) when faced with iatrogenic ED.

Methods
An international online survey was conducted in 2010–2011 of men treated for PCa, where participants (N = 558) were asked explicitly about their sexual practices before and after PCa treatment.

Main Outcome Measures
The outcome measures were the numbers and percentages of men who practiced AI before and after PCa treatment as well as the percentage who changed AI practice after PCa treatment.

Results
Five hundred twenty-six men (90 nonheterosexual men; 436 heterosexual men) answered questions on AI practices. A proportion of nonheterosexual (47%) and heterosexual men (7%) practiced AI following PCa treatment, and did so in all modes (insertive, receptive, and “versatile”). Many nonheterosexual men continued to be sexually active in the face of iatrogenic ED by shifting from the insertive to receptive modes. A few men, both heterosexual and nonheterosexual, adopted AI for the first time post-PCa treatment.

Conclusions
Flexibility in sexual practice is possible for some men, both nonheterosexual and heterosexual, in the face of iatrogenic ED. Advising PCa patients of the possibilities of sexual strategies that include AI may help them in reestablishing a sex life that is not erection dependent.
Nitric Oxide-Induced Murine Hematopoietic Stem Cell Fate Involves Multiple Signaling Proteins, Gene Expression, and Redox Modulation
Authors: Nogueira-Pedro Amanda , Dias Carolina C. , Regina Helena , Segreto C. , Addios Priscilla C. , Lungato Lisandro. , D’Almeida Vania , Barros Carlos C. , Higa Elisa M. S. , Buri Marcus V. , Ferreira Alice T. , Paredes-Gamero Edgar Julian 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
There are a growing number of reports showing the influence of redox modulation in cellular signaling. Although the regulation of hematopoiesis by reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) has been described, their direct participation in the differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) remains unclear. In this work, the direct role of nitric oxide (NO•), a RNS, in the modulation of hematopoiesis was investigated using two sources of NO•, one produced by endothelial cells stimulated with carbachol in vitro and another using the NO•-donor S-nitroso-N-acetyl-d,l-penicillamine (SNAP) in vivo. Two main NO• effects were observed: proliferation of HSCs—especially of the short-term HSCs—and its commitment and terminal differentiation to the myeloid lineage. NO•-induced proliferation was characterized by the increase in the number of cycling HSCs and hematopoietic progenitor cells positive to BrdU and Ki-67, upregulation of Notch-1, Cx43, PECAM-1, CaR, ERK1/2, Akt, p38, PKC, and c-Myc. NO•-induced HSCs differentiation was characterized by the increase in granulocytic-macrophage progenitors, granulocyte–macrophage colony forming units, mature myeloid cells, upregulation of PU.1, and C/EBPα genes concomitantly to the downregulation of GATA-3 and Ikz-3 genes, activation of Stat5 and downregulation of the other analyzed proteins mentioned above. Also, redox status modulation differed between proliferation and differentiation responses, which is likely associated with the transition of the proliferative to differentiation status. Our findings provide evidence of the role of NO• in inducing HSCs proliferation and myeloid differentiation involving multiple signaling. Stem Cells 2014;32:2949–2960
Targeting the bHLH Transcriptional Networks by Mutated E Proteins in Experimental Glioma
Authors: Beyeler Sarah , Joly Sandrine , Fries Michel , Obermair Franz-Josef , Burn Felice , Mehmood Rashid , Tabatabai Ghazaleh , Raineteau Olivier 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
Glioblastomas (GB) are aggressive primary brain tumors. Helix-loop-helix (HLH, ID proteins) and basic HLH (bHLH, e.g., Olig2) proteins are transcription factors that regulate stem cell proliferation and differentiation throughout development and into adulthood. Their convergence on many oncogenic signaling pathways combined with the observation that their overexpression in GB correlates with poor clinical outcome identifies these transcription factors as promising therapeutic targets. Important dimerization partners of HLH/bHLH proteins are E proteins that are necessary for nuclear translocation and DNA binding. Here, we overexpressed a wild type or a dominant negative form of E47 (dnE47) that lacks its nuclear localization signal thus preventing nuclear translocation of bHLH proteins in long-term glioma cell lines and in glioma-initiating cell lines and analyzed the effects in vitro and in vivo. While overexpression of E47 was sufficient to induce apoptosis in absence of bHLH proteins, dnE47 was necessary to prevent nuclear translocation of Olig2 and to achieve similar proapoptotic responses. Transcriptional analyses revealed downregulation of the antiapoptotic gene BCL2L1 and the proproliferative gene CDC25A as underlying mechanisms. Overexpression of dnE47 in glioma-initiating cell lines with high HLH and bHLH protein levels reduced sphere formation capacities and expression levels of Nestin, BCL2L1, and CDC25A. Finally, the in vivo induction of dnE47 expression in established xenografts prolonged survival. In conclusion, our data introduce a novel approach to jointly neutralize HLH and bHLH transcriptional networks activities, and identify these transcription factors as potential targets in glioma. Stem Cells 2014;32:2583–2595
One grammar or two? Sign Languages and the Nature of Human Language
Authors: Lillo‐Martin Diane C. , Gajewski Jon 
Published: June 2014

Linguistic research has identified abstract properties that seem to be shared by all languages—such properties may be considered defining characteristics. In recent decades, the recognition that human language is found not only in the spoken modality but also in the form of sign languages has led to a reconsideration of some of these potential linguistic universals. In large part, the linguistic analysis of sign languages has led to the conclusion that universal characteristics of language can be stated at an abstract enough level to include languages in both spoken and signed modalities. For example, languages in both modalities display hierarchical structure at sub‐lexical and phrasal level, and recursive rule application. However, this does not mean that modality‐based differences between signed and spoken languages are trivial. In this article, we consider several candidate domains for modality effects, in light of the overarching question: are signed and spoken languages subject to the same abstract grammatical constraints, or is a substantially different conception of grammar needed for the sign language case? We look at differences between language types based on the use of space, iconicity, and the possibility for simultaneity in linguistic expression. The inclusion of sign languages does support some broadening of the conception of human language—in ways that are applicable for spoken languages as well. Still, the overall conclusion is that one grammar applies for human language, no matter the modality of expression. WIREs Cogn Sci 2014, 5:387–401. doi: 10.1002/wcs.1297This article is categorized under:

Linguistics > Linguistic Theory
Time perception: the bad news and the good
Authors: Matthews William J. , Meck Warren H. 
Published: June 2014

Time perception is fundamental and heavily researched, but the field faces a number of obstacles to theoretical progress. In this advanced review, we focus on three pieces of ‘bad news’ for time perception research: temporal perception is highly labile across changes in experimental context and task; there are pronounced individual differences not just in overall performance but in the use of different timing strategies and the effect of key variables; and laboratory studies typically bear little relation to timing in the ‘real world’. We describe recent examples of these issues and in each case offer some ‘good news’ by showing how new research is addressing these challenges to provide rich insights into the neural and information‐processing bases of timing and time perception. WIREs Cogn Sci 2014, 5:429‐446. doi: 10.1002/wcs.1298This article is categorized under:

Psychology > Perception and Psychophysics
Neuroscience > Cognition
Neighborhood Racial Composition, Racial Discrimination, and Depressive Symptoms in African Americans
Authors: English Devin , Lambert Sharon F. , Evans Michele K. , Zonderman Alan B. 
Published: June 2014

AbstractWhile evidence indicates that experienced racial discrimination is associated with increased depressive symptoms for African Americans, there is little research investigating predictors of experienced racial discrimination. This paper examines neighborhood racial composition and sociodemographic factors as antecedents to experienced racial discrimination and resultant levels of depressive symptoms among African American adults. The sample included 505 socioeconomically‐diverse African American adults from Baltimore, MD. Study data were obtained via self‐report and geocoding of participant addresses based on 2010 census data. Study hypotheses were tested using multiple pathways within a longitudinal Structural Equation Model. Experienced racial discrimination was positively associated with age and sex such that older individuals and males experienced increased levels of racial discrimination. In addition, the percentage of White individuals residing in a neighborhood was positively associated with levels of experienced racial discrimination for African American neighborhood residents. Experienced racial discrimination was positively associated with later depressive symptoms. Neighborhood‐level contextual factors such as neighborhood racial composition and individual differences in sociodemographic characteristics appear to play an important role in the experience of racial discrimination and the etiology of depression in African American adults.
Winter warming pulses differently affect plant performance in temperate heathland and grassland communities
Authors: Schuerings Jan , Jentsch Anke , Walter Julia , Kreyling Juergen 
Published: June 2014

AbstractWinter air temperature variability is projected to increase in the temperate zone whereas snow cover is projected to decrease, leading to more variable soil temperatures. In a field experiment winter warming pulses were applied and aboveground biomass and root length of four plant species were quantified over two subsequent growing seasons in monocultures and mixtures of two species. The experiment was replicated at two sites, a colder upland site with more snow and a warmer, dryer lowland site. Aboveground biomass of Holcus lanatus declined (−29 %) in the growing season after the warming pulse treatment. Its competitor in the grassland mixture, Plantago lanceolata, profited from this decline by increased biomass production (+18 %). These effects disappeared in the second year. There was a strong decline in biomass for P. lanceolata at the lowland site in the second year. These two species also showed a decline in leaf carbohydrate content during the manipulation. Aboveground productivity and carbohydrate content of the heathland species was not affected by the treatment. The aboveground effects of the treatment did not differ significantly between the two sites, thereby implying some generality for different temperate ecosystems with little and significant amount of snowfall. Root length increased directly after the treatment for H. lanatus and for Calluna vulgaris with a peak at the end of the first growing season. The observed species‐specific effects emphasize the ecological importance of winter temperature variability in the temperate zone and appear important for potential shifts in community composition and ecosystem productivity.
Balance and Stability–Focused Exercise Program Improves Stability and Balance in Patients After Acute Stroke in a Resource‐poor Setting
Authors: Puckree Threethambal , Naidoo Pooveshni 
Published: June 2014

ObjectiveTo compare the effect of a balance and stability–focused outpatient community‐based rehabilitation and a regular physiotherapy program on balance, stability, and perceptions of improvement after acute stroke.DesignA randomized controlled trial in a community‐based therapy center.ParticipantsFifty consecutive patients with a first stroke, who reported to a community‐based therapy center over a 7‐month period were allocated to the control group (regular physiotherapy) or the experimental group (balance and stability–focused rehabilitation).InterventionA program of physiotherapy focused on balance and stability exercises. The control group received the regular physiotherapy program.Main Outcome MeasurementsThe Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke Patients (PASS) and the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) monitored stability and balance. The normalized data (PASS and BBS) were analyzed by using analysis of covariance. Qualitative data were thematically described.ResultsInternal consistency of baseline PASS and BBS scores was high (Cronbach α, .964 and .974, respectively). PASS overall pretest scores increased from 21.96 ± 21.41 (mean ± standard deviation) and 21.52 ± 8.43 to 67.67 ± 28.42 and 80.16 ± 22.60 posttest in the control and experimental groups, respectively. Posttest scores were significantly different (P = .004). The effect size was medium (.490). The overall BBS scores showed overall mean (standard deviation) increases from 44.71 ± 22.24 and 43.43 ± 17.11 pretest to 48.71 ± 23.18 and 59.71 ± 18.20 posttest for the control and experimental groups, respectively. The effect size was considered medium (.532).ConclusionThe balance and stability–focused community‐based rehabilitation program was more effective in improving stability and balance in patients with stroke compared with the regular physiotherapy program in resource‐poor settings.
“ONLY THE HUMAN WAY MAY BE FOLLOWED” READING THE GUODIAN MANUSCRIPTS AGAINST THEMOZI
Authors: Meyer Andrew 
Published: June 2014

AbstractThough the Guodian manuscripts have been viewed as an eclectic mix of texts, this article argues that, viewed in historical context, the collection has more coherence than has conventionally been supposed. Since the texts were interred in Chu c. 300b.c.e., they should be read against other expressions of that time and place. TheMozi, much of which was likely used or produced by authors active in Chu at the time of the Guodian internment, is particularly illuminating in this regard. Though the individual Guodian texts do frequently contradict one another, they are yet commonly useful for formulating logical and rhetorical attacks on the teachings of theMozi. The occupant of Guodian Tomb Number One may thus have collected these texts not for their doctrinal consistency with one another, but for their usefulness in use against intellectual opponents (among whom the Mohists clearly ranked). This, in fact, was likely a guiding principle for many Warring States literati in negotiating their production and utilization of texts.
Gastric digestion of α-lactalbumin in adult human subjects using capsule endoscopy and nasogastric tube sampling
Authors: Sullivan Louise M. , Kehoe Joseph J. , Barry Lillian , Buckley Martin J. M. , Shanahan Fergus , Mok K. H. , Brodkorb André 
Published: June 2014

In the present study, structural changes in the milk protein α-lactalbumin (α-LA) and its proteolysis were investigated for the potential formation of protein–fatty acid complexes during in vivo gastric digestion. Capsule endoscopy allowed visualisation of the digestion of the test drinks, with nasogastric tubes allowing sampling of the gastric contents. A total of ten healthy volunteers had nasogastric tubes inserted into the stomach and ingested test drinks containing 50 g/l of sucrose and 25 g/l of α-LA with and without 4 g/l of oleic acid (OA). The samples of gastric contents were collected for analysis at 3 min intervals. The results revealed a rapid decrease in the pH of the stomach of the subjects. The fasting pH of 2·31 (sd 1·19) increased to a pH maxima of pH 6·54 (sd 0·29) after ingestion, with a subsequent decrease to pH 2·22 (sd 1·91) after 21 min (n 8). Fluorescence spectroscopy and Fourier transform IR spectroscopy revealed partial protein unfolding, coinciding with the decrease in pH below the isoelectric point of α-LA. The activity of pepsin in the fasting state was found to be 39 (sd 12) units/ml of gastric juice. Rapid digestion of the protein occurred: after 15 min, no native protein was detected using SDS–PAGE; HPLC revealed the presence of small amounts of native protein after 24 min of gastric digestion. Mirocam® capsule endoscopy imaging and video clips (see the online supplementary material) revealed that gastric peristalsis resulted in a heterogeneous mixture during gastric digestion. Unfolding of α-LA was observed during gastric transit; however, there was no evidence of a cytotoxic complex being formed between α-LA and OA.