bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advanced Encryption Standard‐XTS implementation in field programmable gate array hardware
Authors: Ahmed Shakil , Samsudin Khairulmizam , Ramli Abdul Rahman , Rokhani Fakhrul Zaman
Published: April 2014

In recent years, security has been a common concern for the data in‐transit between communication networks as well as data at rest in storage devices. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers P1619 Security in Storage Working Group proposed a standard for the security of static data. One of the components of this standard is the cryptographic protection of data on block storage devices. This standard uses Advanced Encryption Standard‐XEX weakable block cipher with ciphertext stealing as a building block for the protection of data. Few field programmable gate array‐based implementations of this mode that achieve sustainable throughput for block storage devices exist. This work proposes and demonstrates a different scheme that achieves better efficiency compared with current implementations. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Probabilistic atlas and geometric variability estimation to drive tissue segmentation
Authors: Xu Hao , Thirion Bertrand , Allassonnière Stéphanie
Published: April 2014

Computerized anatomical atlases play an important role in medical image analysis. While an atlas usually refers to a standard or mean image also called template, which presumably represents well a given population, it is not enough to characterize the observed population in detail. A template image should be learned jointly with the geometric variability of the shapes represented in the observations. These two quantities will in the sequel form the atlas of the corresponding population. The geometric variability is modeled as deformations of the template image so that it fits the observations. In this paper, we provide a detailed analysis of a new generative statistical model based on dense deformable templates that represents several tissue types observed in medical images. Our atlas contains both an estimation of probability maps of each tissue (called class) and the deformation metric. We use a stochastic algorithm for the estimation of the probabilistic atlas given a dataset. This atlas is then used for atlas‐based segmentation method to segment the new images. Experiments are shown on brain T1 MRI datasets. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A comparison of the generalized gamma and exponentiated Weibull distributions
Authors: Cox Christopher , Matheson Matthew
Published: April 2014

This paper provides a comparison of the three‐parameter exponentiated Weibull (EW) and generalized gamma (GG) distributions. The connection between these two different families is that the hazard functions of both have the four standard shapes (increasing, decreasing, bathtub, and arc shaped), and in fact, the shape of the hazard is the same for identical values of the three parameters. For a given EW distribution, we define a matching GG using simulation and also by matching the 5th, 50th, and 95thpercentiles. We compare EW and matching GG distributions graphically and using the Kullback–Leibler distance. We find that the survival functions for the EW and matching GG are graphically indistinguishable, and only the hazard functions can sometimes be seen to be slightly different. The Kullback–Leibler distances are very small and decrease with increasing sample size. We conclude that the similarity between the two distributions is striking, and therefore, the EW represents a convenient alternative to the GG with the identical richness of hazard behavior. More importantly, these results suggest that having the four basic hazard shapes may to some extent be an important structural characteristic of any family of distributions. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Examining Sexual Dysfunction in Non-Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer: Results of Cross-Sectional Mixed-Methods Research
Authors: Kowalkowski M. A. , Chandrashekar A. , Amiel G. E. , Lerner S. P. , Wittmann D. A. , Latini D. M. , Goltz H. H.
Published: April 2014

Introduction

More than 70,000 new cases of bladder cancer are diagnosed in the United States annually; with 75% being non-muscle-invasive (NMIBC). Research examining sexual dysfunction in bladder cancer survivors is limited, and previous studies have focused on cystectomy patients.

Aims

To evaluate the impact of sexual dysfunction on NMIBC survivors.

Methods

Mixed-methods data collection integrated a quantitative survey (Study 1; n = 117) and semi-structured qualitative interviews (Study 2; n = 26) from a non-overlapping sample of NMIBC survivors. We performed descriptive and classification and regression tree (CART) analyses of survey data and qualitative analysis of interviews.

Main Outcome Measures

Self-reported sexual activity, interest in sex, and physiologic symptoms (e.g., male erectile/ejaculatory difficulties, female vaginal dryness) over the previous 4 weeks; partner communication about sexuality; contamination concerns; illness intrusiveness.

Results

Participants in these studies averaged 65 years of age (mean and median) and were male (77%), white (91%), and married (75%). Survey (Study 1) results linked NMIBC treatment to sexual symptoms and relationship issues. Many participants reported sexual inactivity (38.8%). Sexually active participants reported erectile difficulties (60.0%), vaginal dryness (62.5%), and worry about contaminating partner with treatment agents (23.2%). While almost one-half reported the usefulness of talking with partners about sexual function, only one-fifth of participants reported sharing all concerns with their partners. CART analysis supported the importance of communication.

One-half of interviewees (Study 2) reported sexual dysfunction. Two-thirds reported negative impacts on their relationships, including perceived loss of intimacy and divorce; over one-third were sexually inactive for fear of contaminating their partner or spreading NMIBC.

Conclusions

Survivors' sexual symptoms may result from NMIBC, comorbidities, or both. These results inform literature and practice by raising awareness about the frequency of symptoms and the impact on NMIBC survivors' intimate relationships. Further work is needed to design symptom management education programs to dispel misinformation about contamination post-treatment and improve quality of life.
Beitrag zur Berechnung von Verbundträgern mit elastischem Verbund
Authors: Zhou Donghua , Pahn Matthias , Kurz Wolfgang
Published: April 2014

In diesem Beitrag werden Verfahren zur Berechnungen von Trägern mit starrem oder elastischem Verbund sowie ohne Verbundwirkung behandelt. Die Anwendung von geschlossenen Lösungen für die exakte Berechnung des elastischen Verbundes ist unentbehrlich. Einige geschlossene Lösungen zur Bestimmung der Normalkraft und der Durchbiegung werden angegeben. Anwendungsmöglichkeiten des hier eingeführten Verbundfaktors und die dahinter stehenden Federmodelle werden gezeigt. Schließlich wird eine Näherungsmethode in Verwendung eines erweiterten Federmodells und eines Verbundfaktors entwickelt. Die Ergebnisse, die nach beiden Rechenmethoden in Beispielen berechnet wurden, zeigen eine gute Übereinstimmung.

Contribution to the calculation of composite beams with elastic composite action. Methods of Calculations according to the exact equations for rigid and elastic composite action as well as without composite action are discussed. The application of closed solutions is essential for the calculation of the elastic composite action. Some closed solutions for the normal force and the deflection are given. Applications of the introduced composite factor and the spring models behind it are shown. Finally, an approximation method is developed from an extended spring model and the composite factor. The results of model calculations, which were carried out by both methods, show a good agreement.
3d‐ and 4d‐Metal(II) Complexes of a Tris(pyridyl)ethane‐­Derived N4 Ligand – A Structural Study and Reactivity ­Remarks
Authors: Wiedemann Dennis , Grohmann Andreas
Published: April 2014

A series of complexes of the new N4 chelate ligand L (L = 1‐{6‐[1, 1‐bis(pyridin‐2‐yl)ethyl]pyridin‐2‐yl}‐N,N‐dimethylmethanamine) with intermediate to late divalent transition metal ions M was obtained by the reaction between L and the respective chloride salt or similar precursor in methanol: [MCl2L] (M = Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Zn; Ru) and [CuClL]Cl. The stereochemical characteristics of the chelate ligand were studied by means of single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, and quantified on the basis of several geometric parameters, including the tetragonal distortion Σ and the continuous symmetry measure S(Oh). The overall distortion of the coordination environment is predominantly determined by the steric demand of the central ion, while electronic or other subtler influences essentially contribute to the distortion of the ligand L. Unlike similar complexes, [MnIICl2L] cannot be oxidized to a manganese(III) complex by dioxygen, hydrogen peroxide, or iodosylbenzene. In [RuIICl2L], one chlorido ligand can be exchanged against small π‐accepting molecules such as acetonitrile or dinitrogen. L offers an environment ideal for small metal ions (0.4–0.6 Å), such as low‐spin iron(II), which rationalizes the late onset of thermal spin crossover in the complex [FeIIL(NCS)2].
Some recent results on MDGKN‐systems
Authors: Hagedorn P. , Heffel E. , Lancaster P. , Müller P.C. , Kapuria S.
Published: April 2014

The linearized equations of motion of finite dimensional autonomous mechanical systems are normally written as a second order system and are of the MDGKN type, where the different n × n matrices have certain characteristic properties. These matrix properties have consequences for the underlying eigenvalue problem. Engineers have developed a good intuitive understanding of such systems, particularly for systems without gyroscopic terms (G‐matrix) and circulatory terms (N‐matrix, which may lead to self‐excited vibrations). A number of important engineering problems in the linearized form are described by this type of equations. It has been known for a long time, that damping (D‐matrix) in such systems may either stabilize or destabilize the system depending on the structure of the matrices. Here we present some new results (using a variety of methods of proof) on the influence of the damping terms, which are quite general. Starting from a number of conjectures, they were jointly developed by the authors during recent months.
Graft Vessel Disease Following Heart Transplantation: A Systematic Review of the Role of Statin Therapy
Authors: Som Robin , Morris Peter J. , Knight Simon R.
Published: April 2014

Background

Graft vessel disease (GVD) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in cardiac allograft recipients. Hyperlipidemia is a risk factor for GVD, and the majority of patients will display abnormal lipid profiles in the years following transplant.

Objective

This systematic review aims to establish the clinical impact of statins in cardiac allograft recipients, critically appraising the literature on this subject.

Methods

A literature search for randomized studies assessing statin use in cardiac allograft recipients was undertaken. The Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE, clinicaltrials.gov, and the Transplant Library from the Centre for Evidence in Transplantation were searched. The primary outcome was presence of GVD. Secondary outcomes included graft and patient survival, acute rejection, and adverse events. Meta‐analysis was precluded by heterogeneity in outcome reporting and therefore narrative synthesis was undertaken.

Results

Seven randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified. The majority of RCTs demonstrated some risk of bias, and methods of outcome measurement were variable. Studies reporting incidence or severity of GVD suggest that statins do confer benefit. Survival benefit from statin use is modest. There is a low incidence of adverse events attributable to statins. There was no difference in the overall number of episodes of rejection.

Conclusion

Whilst the methodological quality of evidence describing the use of statins in cardiac allograft recipients is limited, the available evidence suggests benefit from their use. This is compatible with the effects of statins in non‐transplant patients with cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, the rate of adverse events in the trials is low.
Formación en competencias gerenciales. Una mirada desde los fundamentos filosóficos de la administración
Authors: Lombana Jahir , Cabeza Leonor , Castrillón Jaime , Zapata Álvaro
Published: April 2014

El propósito de esta investigación es clasificar competencias gerenciales (genéricas y específicas) deacuerdo a la perspectiva de fundamentos filosóficos de Renée Bédard e identificar su importancia y des-arrollo en cada uno de los fundamentos: ontológicos, axiológicos, epistemológicos y praxeológicos. Lainvestigación utiliza un método inductivo soportado en la inferencia estadística, partiendo de los resul-tados para docentes y empleadores del trabajo realizado por ASCOLFA-GRIICA (réplica en Colombia delproyecto Tunning-América Latina). En conclusión, los procesos de formación de los administradores enColombia privilegian las competencias epistemológicas y praxeológicas, principalmente en las especí-ficas; además, las genéricas ontológicas y epistemológicas están poco desarrolladas. Estos resultadosorientan la construcción de currículos y los procesos de selección y evaluación del desempe˜no profesional.
miR‐202 suppresses cell proliferation in human hepatocellular carcinoma by downregulating LRP6 post‐transcriptionally
Authors: Zhang Yi , Zheng Dayong , Xiong Yan , Xue Chengbiao , Chen Gen , Yan Bibo , Ye Qifa
Published: April 2014

MicroRNAs have emerged as important regulators of carcinogenesis. In the current study, we observed that microRNA‐202 (miR‐202) is downregulated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells and tissues, indicating a significant correlation between miR‐202 expression and HCC progression. Overexpression of miR‐202 in HCC cells suppressed cell proliferation and tumorigenicity, while downregulation of miR‐202 enhanced the cells’ proliferative capacity. Furthermore, we identified low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 6 (LRP6) as a direct target of miR‐202. miR‐202 suppresses the expression of LRP6 by binding to the 3′‐untranslated region (UTR) of its mRNA. Finally, we found that silencing the expression of LRP6 is the essential biological function of miR‐202 during HCC cell proliferation. Collectively, our findings reveal that miR‐202 is a potential tumor suppressive miRNA that participates in carcinogenesis of human HCC by suppressing LRP6 expression.
Fructose 1‐phosphate is the one and only physiological effector of the Cra (FruR) regulator of Pseudomonas putida
Authors: Chavarría Max , Durante-Rodríguez Gonzalo , Krell Tino , Santiago César , Brezovsky Jan , Damborsky Jiri , de Lorenzo Víctor
Published: April 2014

Fructose‐1‐phosphate (F1P) is the preferred effector of the catabolite repressor/activator (Cra) protein of the soil bacterium Pseudomonas putida but its ability to bind other metabolic intermediates in vivo is unclear. The Cra protein of this microorganism (CraPP) was submitted to mobility shift assays with target DNA sequences (the PfruB
promoter) and candidate effectors fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphate (FBP), glucose 6‐phosphate (G6P), and fructose‐6‐phosphate (F6P). 1 mM F1P was sufficient to release most of the Cra protein from its operators but more than 10 mM of FBP or G6P was required to free the same complex. However, isothermal titration microcalorimetry failed to expose any specific interaction between CraPP and FBP or G6P. To solve this paradox, transcriptional activity of a PfruB‐lacZ fusion was measured in wild‐type and ΔfruB cells growing on substrates that change the intracellular concentrations of F1P and FBP. The data indicated that PfruB
activity was stimulated by fructose but not by glucose or succinate. This suggested that CraPP represses expression in vivo of the cognate fruBKA operon in a fashion dependent just on F1P, ruling out any other physiological effector. Molecular docking and dynamic simulations of the Cra‐agonist interaction indicated that both metabolites can bind the repressor, but the breach in the relative affinity of CraPP for F1P vs FBP is three orders of magnitude larger than the equivalent distance in the Escherichia coli protein. This assigns the Cra protein of P. putida the sole role of transducing the presence of fructose in the medium into a variety of direct and indirect physiological responses.
Renaissance of case research as a scientific method
Authors: Ketokivi Mikko , Choi Thomas
Published: April 2014

Since the seminal article by Eisenhardt (1989), scholarly interest in case research has mushroomed in operations management and organization sciences. Volumes of methodological texts are matched with a massive amount of empirical research that seeks to apply and further develop case research as a scientific method. What is missing from this literature is a treatment of the methodological diversity of case research. In this paper, we seek to unveil this heterogeneity by describing three distinct methodological accounts of case study: theory generation, theory testing, and theory elaboration. Each approach has its own idiosyncrasies, in particular when it comes to the interplay between theory and empirics. A typical case research incorporates both existing theories and empirical data to varying degrees. In light of this heterogeneity, we re‐interpret key aspects of extant contributions and discuss guidelines for future case research. We propose that ultimately, case research rigor is determined by attention to idiosyncrasy and transparency of reasoning. We conclude by arguing that we have witnessed in the past 25 years in organization research what amounts to the Renaissance of case research.
Numerical modeling of the Snowmass Creek paleoglacier, Colorado, and climate in the Rocky Mountains during the Bull Lake glaciation (MIS 6)
Authors: Leonard Eric M. , Plummer Mitchell A. , Carrara Paul E.
Published: April 2014

Well-preserved moraines from the penultimate, or Bull Lake, glaciation of Snowmass Creek Valley in the Elk Range of Colorado (USA) present an opportunity to examine the character of the high-altitude climate in the Rocky Mountains during Marine Oxygen Isotope Stage 6. This study employs a 2-D coupled mass/energy balance and flow model to assess the magnitudes of temperature and precipitation change that could have sustained the glacier in mass-balance equilibrium at its maximum extent during the Bull Lake glaciation. Variable substrate effects on glacier flow and ice thickness make the modeling somewhat more complex than in geologically simpler settings. Model results indicate that a temperature depression of about 6.7°C compared with the present (1971–2000 AD) would have been necessary to sustain the Snowmass Creek glacier in mass-balance equilibrium during the Bull Lake glaciation, assuming no change in precipitation amount or seasonality. A 50% increase or decrease from modern precipitation would have been coupled with 5.2°C and 9.1°C Bull Lake temperature depressions respectively. Uncertainty in these modeled temperature depressions is about 1°C.
A new species of Paracrenhydrosoma (Copepoda: Harpacticoida: Cletodidae) from a subtidal muddy bottom of southern Korea, with a key to the species of Acrenhydrosoma-complex
Authors: Song Sung Joon , Dahms Hans-Uwe , Lee Chang-Rae , Ryu Jongseong , Khim Jong Seong
Published: April 2014

A new species of Paracrenhydrosoma (Copepoda: Harpacticoida: Cletodidae) is described from samples taken from muddy bottoms in Jangmok, Geoje Island, Korea. The genus Paracrenhydrosoma is distinguished from other genera of the Acrenhydrosoma-complex (Acrenhydrosoma, Dyacrenhydrosoma and Neoacrenhydrosoma) by carrying an antennal exopod with two setae, P1 endopod with three setae, P3 endopod with two setae and P5 exopod with two setae. The new species differs from its congeners as follows: bifid rostrum on anterior margin, long caudal ramus, exceedingly long baseoendopodal mucroniform process of female P5 that reaches the end of the second free abdominal segment, and modified P3 endopod of male. A tabular key to aid in the identification of the Acrenhydrosoma-complex is provided. The worldwide distribution of the Acrenhydrosoma-complex is summarized and discussed.
Occurrence of Isarachnanthus (Cnidaria: Anthozoa: Ceriantharia) at Ascension Island: a test of hypothesis
Authors: Stampar Sérgio N. , Morandini André C.
Published: April 2014

A theory that an ancient population of Isarachnanthus from the eastern Atlantic originated the current species is discussed. Based on analysis of DNA barcoding and cnidome it was possible to identify some specimens from Ascension Island. These specimens were identified as Isarachnanthus maderensis, since the divergence of DNA barcoding was very small and the cnidome data agreed with published data. This material permitted an enhanced discussion about the origin of this population.
Hegel and the ontological argument for the existence of God
Authors: REDDING PAUL , BUBBIO PAOLO DIEGO
Published: April 2014

We reconstruct Hegel's implicit version of the ontological argument in the light of his anti-representationalist idealist metaphysics. For Hegel, the ontological argument had been a peculiarly modern form of argument for the existence of God, presupposing a ‘representationalist’ account of the mind and its concepts. As such, it was susceptible to Kant's famous refutation, but Kant himself had provided a model for an alternative conception ofconcept, one developed by Fichte with his notion of the I=I. We reconstruct an Hegelian version of the ontological argument by considering the possibility of aFichteanversion, and then subjectingitto a critique based on Hegel's critical appropriation of Fichte's I=I.
Our Lady reconsidered: John Knox and the Virgin Mary
Authors: OP Gabriel Torretta
Published: April 2014

The cult of the Virgin Mary had a complicated history in Scotland during the sixteenth century, with historical, devotional and literary evidence indicating both widespread acceptance of the church's traditional practices and growing dissatisfaction with them, particularly in elite culture. Anti-Marian polemics entered Scottish Christianity through various sources, including the Lollards around Kyle, the prominent witness of Patrick Hamilton, the preaching of Thomas Guillaume and George Wishart, the theological climate at St Leonard's college in St Andrews, as well as a number of popular works.

John Knox (1514–72) incorporated many of his contemporaries’ concerns in his own treatment of the question, being trained at St Andrews University and heavily influenced by Guillaume and Wishart. Knox considered the cult of Mary using the same tool that he used to analyse the cult of the saints in general, the mass, and liturgical ritual, contending that they could not be reconciled with his stringent doctrine of sola scriptura, in particular as read through the lens of Deuteronomy 12:32.

Yet for all that Mary and her place in Christian life and devotion formed a major aspect of sixteenth-century Scottish religious praxis, Knox gave little attention to her, preferring to indicate her proper place in Christian theology by presenting a vision of Christianity which omitted her almost entirely. Knox does indirectly indicate what he considers to be the proper Christian attitude towards the Virgin, however, through his explication of sola scriptura and its implications for genuine religious practice as opposed to idolatry, and his understanding of 1 Timothy 2:5 and the unique mediation of Christ. Where Knox does directly address the Marian question, he expresses his rejection of her cult in far more restrained terms than readers of his polemics against the mass may expect; while he is firm and unequivocal in denying Mary's intercessory role and in uprooting Marian devotional practice, his rhetorical restraint points to the irreducible dignity of Mary in the scriptural texts.

This article analyses the theology of Mary which Knox reveals in occasional comments scattered through his writings and attempts to place his ideas in their historical and theological context. By explicating the precise nature of Knox's objection to the cult of Mary, the article attempts to open the door for future Reformed–Catholic dialogue on the person of Mary and her place in the church of Christ.
Content-based language teaching with functional grammar in the elementary school
Authors: Schleppegrell Mary J.
Published: April 2014

Today many second language (L2) teachers work with school-aged learners who need to be supported in their language development at the same time they learn school subjects. Applied linguists and researchers in second language acquisition (SLA) have much to contribute to those teachers, but to do so in more powerful ways calls for an orientation toward the goals of the content classroom. This plenary describes a project in which the theory of systemic functional linguistics is providing useful metalanguage for exploring language and meaning in curricular activities that also support disciplinary learning. It illustrates how language-based content teaching can provide the support children need.
Form-closure caging grasps of polygons with a parallel-jaw gripper
Authors: Su Jianhua , Ou Zhicai , Qiao Hong
Published: April 2014

Parallel-jaw gripper finds wide applications in various industrial sectors. In this paper, we mainly focus on the problem of form closure caging grasps of polygons with a parallel-jaw gripper equipped with four fingers. The form closure caging grasp is helpful for the fingers placements and contact region selections of a pneumatic gripper, as it is less sensitive to fingers misplacements.

We firstly prove that there is always a path from a cage to a form closure grasp of the object that never breaks the cage, as long as the attractive region constructed in the configuration space has a local minimum. If such a minimum cannot be found, we further adjust the fingers arrangements to produce the form closure grasp. Meanwhile, we also develop an algorithm to compute the initial cage of the form closure grasp. Simulations of the grasping process witness the effectiveness of the above analysis results.
A 94-GHz planar orthogonal mode transducer
Authors: Attari Jawad , Djerafi Tarek , Wu Ke
Published: April 2014

The orthogonal LSM10and TE10modes that are supported by the image SINRD (iSINRD) guide andsubstrate integrated waveguide(SIW) is exploited to develop a planar millimeter-wave hybrid orthogonal-mode transducer (OMT) within the same dielectric substrate. The two output arms are iSINRD guide and an SIW. The proposed co-layered planar OMT belongs to a narrowband acute angle class. The design process is explained and measurements at 94 GHz are presented. No septa or step changes in thickness are required. Both modes are excited using WR10 transitions, where the transition of one mode is orthogonal to the other. Therefore, the OMT is fabricated as a back-to-back 4-port OMT; two inputs and two outputs for each mode respectively. The lateral dimensions of all guiding arms are 0.6 × 0.635 mm2. An insertion loss of around 1.2 dB is obtained for both LSM10and TE10modes, while isolation better than 17 dB is obtained for both modes (30 dB for the LSM10mode).
IdentifyingJus CogensNorms: The Interaction of Scholars and International Judges
Authors: SAUL Matthew
Published: April 2014

In this paper I address the justifications and methods adopted by scholars and international judges for the identification ofjus cogensnorms. More specifically, I examine how the approaches taken by these two subsidiary sources of international law relate. In so doing, I seek to highlight and develop a clearer understanding of why, in spite of considerable scholarly and judicial attention, more progress on the doctrine ofjus cogensidentification has not been made. The analysis covers assessment of the practice of interaction, but also its underpinnings, which include the implications ofjus cogensidentification for the legitimacy of international courts. I argue that scholars have focused on justificatory theory at the expense of methodological considerations and that this has limited the scope for the development of a useful discourse with international judicial bodies on matters ofjus cogensidentification.
Yearning to Be Heard
Authors: Montross Thomas Lori P. , Palinkas Lawrence A. , Meier Emily A. , Iglewicz Alana , Kirkland Tabitha , Zisook Sidney
Published: April 2014

Background: Patients with serious mental illness can be at higher risk for suicide. Most research has focused on determining the risk factors for suicide-related events using quantitative methodologies and psychological autopsies. However, fewer studies have examined patients’ perspectives regarding the experience of suicidal events. Aims: To better understand suicide experiences from the perspective of patients diagnosed with serious mental illness. Method: This study purposively sampled and qualitatively interviewed 23 patients within the Veterans Affairs Hospital who were diagnosed with serious mental illness and who had attempted suicide. Using a phenomenological design, hermeneutic interviews included questions about the precursors, characteristics, and treatment of the suicide events, as well as patients’ recommendations for care. Results: Loneliness, isolation, depression, and hopelessness were commonly described as emotional precursors to the suicide events for all patients, while command hallucinations were reported among patients with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders. When evaluating whether treatments were effective, patients focused primarily on the level of empathy and compassion shown by their providers. Conclusion: The most common recommendation for the improvement of care was to increase clinicians’ empathy, compassion, and listening skills. Additionally, efforts to bolster social supports were highlighted as a means to diminish suicide events.
Stability-indicating thin-layer chromatographic method for determination of darunavir in complex darunavir–β-cyclodextrin in the presence of its degradation products
Authors: Kogawa Ana Carolina , Mendonça Jaqueline Nakau , Lopes Norberto Peporine , Nunes Salgado Hérida Regina
Published: April 2014

A method was developed to identify degradation products of the complex darunavir–β-cyclodextrin.
Quartz crystal microbalance based biosensor for rapid and sensitive detection of maize chlorotic mottle virus
Authors: Huang Xin , Xu Jianmin , Ji Hai-Feng , Li Guifen , Chen Hongjun
Published: April 2014

In this work, we report a biosensor based on a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) for the selective and sensitive detection of maize chlorotic mottle virus (MCMV).
Speciation analysis of urine iodine by ion-pair reversed-phase liquid chromatography and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry
Authors: Han Chao , Sun Jiannan , Cheng Heyong , Liu Jinhua , Xu Zigang
Published: April 2014

This work proposed a green method for fast separation of seven iodinated forms within 7 min under the gradient elution using three aqueous mobile phases, which was highly efficient, environment-friendly and ICP-MS-compatible.
Sequential polymerization of ethylene oxide, ε-caprolactone and l-lactide: a one-pot metal-free route to tri- and pentablock terpolymers
Authors: Zhao Junpeng , Pahovnik David , Gnanou Yves , Hadjichristidis Nikos
Published: April 2014

Triblock and pentablock terpolymers are prepared via one-pot sequential polymerization of ethylene oxide, ε-caprolactone and l-lactide using a mild phosphazene base as an organic catalyst and monoalcohol or water as an initiator.
Understanding the solar-driven reduction of CO2 on doped ceria
Authors: Ramos-Fernandez Enrique V. , Shiju N. Raveendran , Rothenberg Gadi
Published: April 2014

Surface kinetics and dopant ion migration play a crucial role in the thermocatalytic pathways for converting CO2 to CO in high-temperature solar-driven reactors using doped cerias.
Illuminating HIV gp120-ligand recognition through computationally-driven optimization of antibody-recruiting molecules
Authors: Parker Christopher G. , Dahlgren Markus K. , Tao Ran N. , Li Don T. , Douglass Eugene F. , Shoda Takuji , Jawanda Navneet , Spasov Krasimir A. , Lee Sangil , Zhou Nannan , Domaoal Robert A. , Sutton Richard E. , Anderson Karen S. , Krystal Mark , Jorgensen William L. , Spiegel David A.
Published: April 2014

Antibody recruiting molecules targeting HIV (ARM-H's) reveal small-molecule gp120 ligands can adopt multiple unique binding modes.
Parents' Perceptions of Communication Patterns and Effectiveness of Use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication Systems by Their Children With Angelman Syndrome
Authors: Calculator Stephen N.
Published: April 2014

Purpose

The author describes communication patterns and outcomes of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) intervention for individuals with Angelman syndrome.

Method

Parents self-administered a web-based survey using Qualtrics software. A series of rating scales and closed questions were used to gather information about individuals' current methods of communication, including AAC devices they were using. Individuals' uses of their single most advanced AAC devices were further explored in terms of associated importance, usefulness, success, acceptance, and functional outcomes.

Results

Nonsymbolic methods of communication proved to be very important to individuals, as did electronic AAC devices, although to a lesser extent. Individuals tended to have access to more than one electronic device concurrently. Although numerous devices were cited, mobile technologies, particularly iPads, were especially prevalent. This represented a significant change from a previous investigation. Overall, device use was perceived to be frequently important, accepted, successful, and useful in relation to 8 different factors, although ratings across a series of 19 functional outcomes varied. Differences were noted on several measures when individuals' ages and educational placements were considered.

Conclusion

Results suggest a changing landscape in terms of types of devices used, particularly with respect to mobile technologies, and show clear evidence that device use is often, although not uniformly, associated with positive outcomes.
Electron paramagnetic resonance study of paramagnetic centers in carbon-fumed silica adsorbent
Authors: Savchenko D. V. , Shanina B. D. , Kalabukhova E. N. , Sitnikov A. A. , Lysenko V. S. , Tertykh V. A.
Published: April 2014

Fumed silica A-300 was carbonized by means of pyrolysis of CH2Cl2. The obtained initial SiO2:C nanopowders of black color, with an average diameter of 14–16 nm and carbon (C) concentration 7 wt. %, subjected to the oxidation and passivation treatment were studied by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) in the temperature range 4–400 K. Two EPR signals of Lorentzian lineshape with nearly equal g-factors and different linewidth were observed in the initial, oxidized, and passivated SiO2:C nanopowders. The two-component EPR spectrum was explained by the presence of C in two electronic states. The intensive narrow EPR signal, which has a temperature-dependent intensity, linewidth, and resonance field position, was attributed to the carbon-related defect with non-localized electron hopping between neighboring C-dangling bonds. The striking effect is that the temperature dependence of the EPR linewidth demonstrates the motional narrowing of the EPR signal at very low temperatures from 4 K to 20 K, which is not typically for nonmetallic materials and was explained by the quantum character of C layer conductivity in the SiO2:C. The observed peaks in the temperature dependence of the conduction electron EPR signal integral intensity in the high-temperature range 200–440 K was explained by the presence of the C nanodots at the surface of SiO2 nanoparticles and the ejection of electrons from the confinement energy levels of C quantum dot when the temperature becomes comparable to the confinement energy.
Measurement of OH (X2Σ) in immediate vicinity of dielectric surface under pulsed dielectric barrier discharge at atmospheric pressure using two geometries of laser-induced fluorescence
Authors: Teramoto Yoshiyuki , Kim Hyun-Ha , Ogata Atsushi , Negishi Nobuaki
Published: April 2014

The behavior of the ground state OH radical was studied in humid air using pulsed surface dielectric barrier discharge. The validity of OH measurement in immediate vicinity of the dielectric surface was discussed using two geometries of laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) measurement, and surface distribution and temporal profiles of OH were examined. A comparison of parallel- and perpendicular-LIF techniques for OH measurement revealed that OH was mostly produced in a region several tens of μm above the dielectric surface. The surface distribution profile of OH agreed well with that of N2(C), and in both cases, the total production generated by a discharge pulse was proportional to the discharge energy. The OH local density in surface streamer channels was estimated to be 1.3 × 1015 cm−3 according to the decay rate of OH, which was similar to that in corona discharge. Additionally, the local density of OH remained constant regardless of discharge energies. These results indicate that the yield of OH increased with the discharge energy owing to expansion of the surface streamer region, increase in streamer radius or thickness or the number of branches, whereas the local density of OH in the streamer channel remained constant regardless of discharge energy.
Photosynthesis–nitrogen relationships in tropical forest tree species as affected by soil phosphorus availability: a controlled environment study
Authors: Bloomfield Keith J. , Farquhar Graham D. , Lloyd Jon
Published: April 2014

Tropical soils are often characterised by low phosphorus availability and tropical forest trees typically exhibit lower area-based rates of photosynthesis (Aa) for a given area-based leaf nitrogen concentration ([N]a) compared with plants growing in higher-latitude, N-limited ecosystems. Nevertheless, to date, very few studies have assessed the effects of P deprivation per se on Aa ↔ [N]a relationships in tropical trees. Our study investigated the effect of reduced soil P availability on light-saturated Aa and related leaf traits of seven Australian tropical tree species. We addressed the following questions: (1) Do contrasting species exhibit inherent differences in nutrient partitioning and morphology? (2) Does P deprivation lead to a change in the nature of the Aa ↔ [N]a relationship? (3) Does P deprivation lead to an alteration in leaf nitrogen levels or N allocation within the leaf? Applying a mixed effects model, we found that for these Australian tropical tree species, removal of P from the nutrient solution decreased area-based photosynthetic capacity (Amax,a) by 18% and reduced the slope of the Amax,a ↔ [N]a relationship and differences among species accounted for around 30% of response variation. Despite greater N allocation to chlorophyll, photosynthetic N use efficiency was significantly reduced in low-P plants. Collectively, our results support the view that low soil P availability can alter photosynthesis–nitrogen relationships in tropical trees.
Determinants of Occupational Safety for Agribusiness Workers
Authors: Risch Corey C. , Boland Michael A. , Crespi John M. , Leinweber Martin
Published: April 2014

Increases in crop yields and changing cropping patterns have placed stress on agribusiness handling and storage facilities. The objective of this research is to gain insight into the relationship between safety culture and safety performance, and to identify the determinants of safety culture in agribusinesses. The research suggests that investments in labor inputs such as increased training, consistent discipline, and recognition of safety achievements all increase safety culture. Furthermore, improvements in employee perceptions of safety culture have a positive impact on reducing employee injuries. Congress has recently funded nine centers to work on occupational health and safety research in agriculture, fisheries, and forestry.
Decreasing salinity improves the feeding conditions of the Baltic herring (Clupea harengus membras) during spring in the Bothnian Sea, northern Baltic
Authors: Rajasilta M. , Hänninen J. , Vuorinen I.
Published: April 2014

The stomach contents of the herring (Clupea harengus membras L.) from the Bothnian Sea, northern Baltic, were analysed during spring 2011 and 2013. The stomachs were full of Limnocalanus macrurus in May and June, and an improvement in the condition of herring was observed when fish started to feed on this prey. The analyses showed that Limnocalanus is currently an important link between lower trophic levels and Baltic herring in the Bothnian Sea.
Neuronal Mechanisms of Spatial Attention in Visual Cerebral Cortex
Authors: Cohen Marlene R. , Maunsell John H.R.
Published: April 2014

Attention is associated with improved performance on perceptual tasks and changes in the way that neurons in the visual system respond to sensory stimuli. While we now have a greater understanding of the way different behavioural and stimulus conditions modulate the responses of neurons in different cortical areas, it has proven difficult to identify the neuronal mechanisms responsible for these changes and establish a strong link between attention-related modulation of sensory responses and changes in perception. Recent conceptual and technological advances have enabled progress and hold promise for the future. This chapter focuses on newly established links between attention-related modulation of visual responses and bottom-up sensory processing, how attention relates to interactions between neurons, insights from simultaneous recordings from groups of cells, and how this knowledge might lead to greater understanding of the link between the effects of attention on sensory neurons and perception.
Attentional Functions of the Superior Colliculus
Authors: Krauzlis Richard J.
Published: April 2014

The superior colliculus (SC) plays an important role in both overt and covert attention. In primates, the SC is well known to be a central component of the motor pathways that orient the eyes and head to important objects in the environment. Accordingly, neurons in the SC show enhanced responses that will be the target of orienting movements, compared to stimuli that will be ignored. Single-neuron recordings in the SC have revealed a variety of attention-related effects, including changes in activity related to bottom-up and top-down attention, attention capture, and inhibition of return. These findings support the view of the SC as a priority map that represents the location of important objects in the visual environment. Manipulation of SC activity by electrical microstimulation and chemical inactivation shows that the SC is not simply a recipient of attention-related effects, but plays a causal role in these processes. In particular, activity in the SC plays a major role in the selection of targets for saccades, and also for pursuit eye movements and movements of the hand. Moreover, activity in the SC is important not only for the control of overt attention, but also plays a crucial role in covert attention—the processing of visual signals for perceptual judgements even in the absence of orienting movements. The mechanisms mediating the role of the SC in the control of covert attention are not yet known, but current models emphasize interactions between the SC and areas of the cerebral cortex.
Neuronal Mechanisms of Attentional Control
Authors: Gottlieb Jacqueline
Published: April 2014

Damage to the human inferior parietal lobe produces an attentional disturbance known as contralateral neglect, and neurophysiological studies in monkeys have begun to unravel the cellular basis of this function. Converging evidence suggests that LIP encodes a sparse topographic map of the visual world that highlights attention-worthy objects or locations. LIP cells may facilitate sensory attentional modulations, and ultimately the transient improvement in perceptual thresholds that is the behavioural signature of visual attention. In addition, LIP projects to oculomotor centres where it can prime the production of a rapid eye movement (saccade). Importantly, LIP cells can select visual targets without triggering saccades, showing that they implement an internal (covert) form of selection that can be flexibly linked with action by virtue of additional, independent mechanisms. The target selection response in LIP is modulated by bottom-up factors and by multiple task-related factors. These modulations are likely to arise through learning and may reflect a multitude of computations through which the brain decides when and to what to attend.
The Role of Brain Oscillations in the Temporal Limits of Attention
Authors: Shapiro Kimron , Hanslmayr Simon
Published: April 2014

Attention is the ubiquitous construct referring to the ability of the brain to focus resources on a subset of perceptual input which it is trying to process for a response. Attention has for a long time been studied with reference to its distribution across space where, for example, visual input from an attentionally monitored location is given preference over non-monitored (i.e. attended) locations. More recently, attention has been studied for its ability to select targets from among rapidly, sequentially presented non-targets at a fixed location, e.g. in visual space. The present chapter explores this latter function of attention for its relevance to behaviour. In so doing, it highlights what is becoming one of the most popular approaches to studying communication across the brain—oscillations—at various frequency ranges. In particular the authors discuss the alpha frequency band (8–12 Hz), where recent evidence points to an important role in the switching between processing external vs. internal events.
Notification that new names of prokaryotes, new combinations and new taxonomic opinions have appeared in volume 64, part 1, of the IJSEM
Authors: Oren Aharon , Garrity George M.
Published: April 2014

This listing of names of prokaryotes published in a previous issue of the IJSEM is provided as a service to bacteriology to assist in the recognition of new names and new combinations. This procedure was proposed by the Judicial Commission [Minute 11(ii), Int J Syst Bacteriol
41 (1991), p. 185]. The names given herein are listed according to the Rules of priority (i.e. page number and order of valid publication of names in the original articles).