bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonlinear Effects of Coexisting Surface and Atmospheric Forcing of Anthropogenic Absorbing Aerosols: Impact on the South Asian Monsoon Onset
Authors: Lee Shao-Yi , Shin Ho-Jeong , Wang Chien
Published: February 2013

The direct radiative effect of absorbing aerosols consists of absorption-induced atmospheric heating together with scattering- and absorption-induced surface cooling. It is thus important to understand whether some of the reported climate impacts of anthropogenic absorbing aerosols are mainly due to the coexistence of these two opposite effects and to what extent the nonlinearity raised from such coexistence would become a critical factor. To answer these questions specifically regarding the South Asia summer monsoon with focus on aerosol-induced changes in monsoon onset, a set of century-long simulations using the Community Earth System Model, version 1.0.3 (CESM 1.0.3), of NCAR with fully coupled atmosphere and ocean components was conducted. Prescribed direct heating to the atmosphere and cooling to the surface were applied in the simulations over the Indian subcontinent, either alone or combined, during the aerosol-laden months of May and June. Over many places in the Indian subcontinent, the nonlinear effect dominates in the changes of subcloud layer moist static energy, precipitation, and monsoon onset. The surface cooling effect of aerosols appears to shift anomalous precipitative cooling away from the aerosol-forcing region and hence turn the negative feedback to aerosol-induced atmospheric heating into a positive feedback on the monsoon circulation through latent heat release over the Himalayan foothills. Moisture processes form the critical chain mediating local aerosol direct effects and onset changes in the monsoon system.
Direct Measurements of the Luzon Undercurrent
Authors: Hu Dunxin , Hu Shijian , Wu Lixin , Li Lei , Zhang Linlin , Diao Xinyuan , Chen Zhaohui , Li Yuanlong , Wang Fan , Yuan Dongliang
Published: February 2013

The Luzon Undercurrent (LUC) was discovered about 20 years ago by geostrophic calculation from conductivity–temperature–depth (CTD) data. But it was not directly measured until 2010. From November 2010 to July 2011, the LUC was first directly measured by acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP) from a subsurface mooring at 18.0°N, 122.7°E to the east of Luzon Island. A number of new features of the LUC were identified from the measurements of the current. Its depth covers a range from 400 m to deeper than 700 m. The observed maximum velocity of the LUC, centered at about 650 m, could exceed 27.5 cm s−1, four times stronger than the one derived from previous geostrophic calculation with hydrographic data. According to the time series available, the seasonality of the LUC strength is in winter > summer > spring. Significant intraseasonal variability (ISV; 70–80 days) of the LUC is exposed. Evidence exists to suggest that a large portion of the intraseasonal variability in the LUC is related to the westward propagation of mesoscale eddies from the east of the mooring site.
A Hybrid MPI–OpenMP Parallel Algorithm and Performance Analysis for an Ensemble Square Root Filter Designed for Multiscale Observations
Authors: Wang Yunheng , Jung Youngsun , Supinie Timothy A. , Xue Ming
Published: February 2013

A hybrid parallel scheme for the ensemble square root filter (EnSRF) suitable for parallel assimilation of multiscale observations, including those from dense observational networks such as those of radar, is developed based on the domain decomposition strategy. The scheme handles internode communication through a message passing interface (MPI) and the communication within shared-memory nodes via Open Multiprocessing (OpenMP) threads. It also supports pure MPI and pure OpenMP modes. The parallel framework can accommodate high-volume remote-sensed radar (or satellite) observations as well as conventional observations that usually have larger covariance localization radii.

The performance of the parallel algorithm has been tested with simulated and real radar data. The parallel program shows good scalability in pure MPI and hybrid MPI–OpenMP modes, while pure OpenMP runs exhibit limited scalability on a symmetric shared-memory system. It is found that in MPI mode, better parallel performance is achieved with domain decomposition configurations in which the leading dimension of the state variable arrays is larger, because this configuration allows for more efficient memory access. Given a fixed amount of computing resources, the hybrid parallel mode is preferred to pure MPI mode on supercomputers with nodes containing shared-memory cores. The overall performance is also affected by factors such as the cache size, memory bandwidth, and the networking topology. Tests with a real data case with a large number of radars confirm that the parallel data assimilation can be done on a multicore supercomputer with a significant speedup compared to the serial data assimilation algorithm.
Violence at the Margins: Street Gangs, Globalized Conflict and Sri Lankan Tamil Battlefields in London, Toronto and Paris
Authors: Orjuela Camilla
Published: February 2013

This article explores the global dimensions of violent conflict and the parallels and links between violence in the diaspora and the homeland. It does so by discussing Tamil street gangs in London, Toronto and Paris. The Tamil diaspora played a key role in the war between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), which raged between 1983 and 2009. In spite of being a marginal phenomenon in the Tamil diaspora, Tamil street gangs became part of a wider culture of fear within the Tamil community and possibly reinforced the LTTE’s dominance over and fundraising in the diaspora. Although some of the rivalling gangs have been cast as pro- and anti-LTTE, gang violence cannot be interpreted as a direct continuation of conflict from Sri Lanka but has to be understood in relation to marginalization and identification in the city of residence. In everyday life in the diaspora, ‘the gang’ has been a way for some young Tamil men to strive for respect, riches and heroism, employing a mixture of references to gang culture and the LTTE and building on both ethnic and geographical identifications. The larger Tamil community, on its part, has been eager to dissociate itself from the street gangs as they threaten the image of the Tamils as law-abiding and well-adjusted migrants.
Changing Dimensions of Turkey’s Foreign Policy
Authors: Hursoy Siret
Published: February 2013

Since the changes introduced in Turkey’s foreign policy during the 2000s, it has reached a stage that calls for an urgent review of its regional and global strategic choices. This article analyzes Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu’s foreign policy doctrine, examines its limitations and critically evaluates its relevance to current foreign policy-making. Recent events in the Middle East pose a challenge to the soft power, ‘zero conflict’ policy introduced by Davutoğlu. Consequently, Turkey’s foreign policy rhetoric over the past two years has hardened, triggered by uncertainties in Turkey-European Union (EU) relations, the deterioration in its relationship with Israel, and the Arab Spring events that have engulfed countries in its periphery. Since the EU plays an important role in terms of the democratic and economic transformation of Turkey, the country’s accession to the EU would be important in ensuring both the continuance of its soft power strategy and its security strategy in line with Davutoğlu’s ‘strategic depth’ doctrine.
Parenting in Caribbean Families
Authors: Griffith Shayl F. , Grolnick Wendy S.
Published: February 2013

There has been little research investigating parenting strategies and child outcomes in British Caribbean populations. This study examined the relations of parental control, structure, and autonomy support and children’s motivation and symptomatology in the Caribbean country of Barbados. Results indicated that parental structure was related to higher levels of child academic engagement, perceived competence, perceived control, and intrinsic and identified self-regulation. Parental control was negatively related to engagement, perceived competence, perceived control, and identified self-regulation, and positively related to depression. Autonomy support was, in general, positively related to these same outcomes, and negatively related to depression; however, autonomy support items tapping parents’ acknowledgment of the child and allowance of opinion exchange were related more strongly to positive outcomes than items tapping allowance of choice and independent decision making. Implications for understanding parenting in Caribbean families, and for future cross-cultural parenting research, are discussed.
Comorbidity, Complications, and Survival of Sinonasal Malignancies in Young and Elderly Treated by Surgery
Authors: Halmos Gyorgy B. , Peters Thomas T. A. , Roodenburg Jan L. N. , van Dijk Boukje A. C. , van der Laan Bernard F. A. M.
Published: February 2013

Objective

Sinonasal malignancies are uncommon neoplasms with several histological subtypes, most commonly treated with surgery and postoperative radiotherapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate complications and survival, focusing on differences between elderly and younger patients undergoing surgery.

Study Design

Historical cohort based on medical records.

Setting

Tertial referral center.

Subjects and Methods

Medical charts of 103 surgically treated patients (71 patients younger than 70 years and 32 patients aged 70 years and older) in a tertiary referral center with sinonasal malignancy were retrospectively analyzed. Comorbidity was scored according to the Adult Comorbidity Evaluation 27 system. Treatment outcomes were analyzed by collecting treatment‐related complications scores and survival data.

Results

Although comorbidity was more common in elderly patients, no significant differences were recorded in complications. In multivariate analysis, length of surgery was the only predictor for complication. Furthermore, no significant differences were seen in disease‐specific survival and recurrence in young and elderly patients. Young patients with malignant epithelial tumors and melanoma had worse overall survival than patients with other histological subtypes. However, in elderly patients, no significant differences were seen in survival between histological subtypes.

Conclusion

For complications, survival, and recurrence, no differences were seen between young and elderly patients. Based on this study, surgery can also be safely performed in elderly sinonasal cancer patients after careful preoperative evaluation and patient selection.
Assessment of nasal parameters in determination of olfactory dysfunction in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Kotan Dilcan , Tatar Arzu , Aygul Recep , Ulvi Hizir
Published: February 2013

Objectives

To assess nasal cycle, nasal mucosal pH and mucociliary clearance time in patients with Parkinson’s disease and healthy control subjects.

Methods

Patients with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease and healthy control subjects were recruited. Presence of the nasal cycle, nasal mucosa pH and mucociliary clearance time were investigated in all participants.

Results

The study included 27 patients and 24 control subjects. The nasal cycle was present in significantly fewer patients than controls. Nasal pH and mucociliary clearance time were significantly higher in patients than in controls.

Conclusions

Parkinson’s disease is associated with alterations in nasal cycle, nasal mucosa pH and mucociliary clearance time. Measurements of these nasal parameters may be useful for the early diagnosis of autonomic and olfactory dysfunction in Parkinson’s disease.
Isolated Anterior Talofibular Ligament Broström Repair for Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability
Authors: Maffulli Nicola , Del Buono Angelo , Maffulli Gayle D. , Oliva Francesco , Testa Vittorino , Capasso Giovanni , Denaro Vincenzo
Published: February 2013

Background:

Lateral ankle sprains may result in pain and disability in the short term, decreased sport activity and early retirement from sports in the mid term, and secondary injuries and development of early osteoarthritis to the ankle in the long term.

Hypothesis:

This combined approach to chronic lateral instability and intra-articular lesions of the ankle is safe and in the long term maintains mechanical stability, functional ability, and a good level of sport activity.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

We present the long-term outcomes of 42 athletes who underwent ankle arthroscopy and anterior talofibular Broström repair for management of chronic lateral ankle instability. We assessed in all patients preoperative and postoperative anterior drawer test and side-to-side differences, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, and Kaikkonen grading scales. Patients were asked about return to sport and level of activity. Patients were also assessed for development of degenerative changes to the ankle, and preoperative versus postoperative findings were compared.

Results:

Thirty-eight patients were reviewed at an average of 8.7 years (range, 5-13 years) after surgery; 4 patients were lost to follow-up. At the last follow-up, patients were significantly improved for ankle laxity, AOFAS scores, and Kaikkonen scales. The mean AOFAS score improved from 51 (range, 32-71) to 90 (range, 67-100), and the mean Kaikkonen score improved from 45 (range, 30-70) to 90 (range, 65-100). According to outcome criteria set preoperatively, there were 8 failures by the AOFAS score and 9 by the Kaikkonen score. Twenty-two (58%) patients practiced sport at the preinjury level, 6 (16%) had changed to lower levels but were still active in less demanding sports (cycling and tennis), and 10 (26%) had abandoned active sport participation although they still were physically active. Six of these patients did not feel safe with their ankle because of the occurrence of new episodes of ankle instability. Of the 27 patients who had no evidence of degenerative changes preoperatively, 8 patients (30%) had radiographic signs of degenerative changes (5 grade I and 3 grade II) of the ankle; 4 of the 11 patients (11%) with preexisting grade I changes remained unchanged, and 7 patients (18%) had progressed to grade II. No correlation was found between osteoarthritis and status of sport activity ( P = .72).

Conclusion:

Combined Broström repair and ankle arthroscopy are safe and allow most patients to return to preinjury daily and sport activities.
SNAP II Index
Authors: Nievas I. Federico Fernandez , Spentzas Thomas , Bogue Clifford W.
Published: February 2013

Sedation monitoring is essential in pediatric patients on ventilatory support to achieve comfort and safety. The COMFORT scale was designed and validated to assess the level of sedation in intubated pediatric patients. However, it remains unreliable in pharmacologically paralyzed patients. The SNAP II index is calculated using an algorithm that incorporates high-frequency (80-420 Hz) electroencephalogram (EEG) components, known to be useful in discriminating between awake and unconscious states, unlike other measurements that only include low-frequency EEG segments such as the bispectral index score. Previous studies suggested that the SNAP II index is a reliable and sensitive indicator of the level of consciousness in adult patients. Despite its potential, no data are currently available in the pediatric critically ill population on ventilatory support. This is the first pilot study assessing the potential application of the SNAP II index in critically ill pediatric patients by comparing it to the commonly used COMFORT scale.
Effect of accelerated weathering and termite attack on the tensile properties and aesthetics of recycled HDPE-pinewood composites
Authors: López-Naranjo Edgar J , Alzate-Gaviria Liliana M , Hernández-Zárate Galdy , Reyes-Trujeque Javier , Cruz-Estrada Ricardo H
Published: February 2013

Although wood–plastic composites (WPCs) are materials widely used in the construction industry, their durability constitutes a serious issue especially when used for outdoor applications. Therefore, this work gives account on the effect of biotic and abiotic degradation agents on two different WPCs prepared from recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and pinewood residues. Two aspects were evaluated, namely mechanical properties and aesthetics. Compression-molded samples obtained from two different formulations based on 40% of wood and 60% of HDPE, containing 0 and 5% of coupling agent with respect to wood content, were subjected to 0, 1000 and 2000 h of accelerated weathering (AW), using an ultraviolet-type accelerated tester equipped with UVA-340 fluorescent lamps. Afterward, the aged specimens were exposed to attack by termites (TA) of the species Nasutitermes nigriceps for 15 and 30 days. Tensile properties after AW and TA were assessed using an Instron 5500R (1125) universal tester. Similarly, the aesthetic aspect was studied to evaluate the color changes on the specimens’ surfaces using a Minolta CR-200 Chroma Meter. The results of this work show drops in the mechanical properties of both composites that were not significant, even after being exposed to 2000 h of AW in combination with 30 days of TA. However, their aesthetics was seriously affected by both degradation agents, as reflected by the variations registered on the total color change and relative lightness of the tested samples.
Building Nonprofit Financial Capacity
Authors: Chikoto Grace L. , Neely Daniel Gordon
Published: February 2013

Building on the impressive body of research on issues of nonprofit revenue choice and mix, this research empirically tests Foster and Fine’s claim that revenue concentration contributes to the growth of nonprofit organizations. Using National Center for Charitable Statistics (NCCS) digitized data (1998-2003), the authors test whether revenue concentration is a viable revenue-generating strategy that can help bolster a nonprofit’s financial capacity. Overall, study findings refute the mythology of revenue diversification; the authors find that implementing a revenue concentration strategy generates a positive growth in one’s financial capacity—in particular, a growth in one’s total revenue, over time. Contrary to the prevalent charges laid at the door of high administrative and fundraising efforts by some, the authors find that in order to support financial capacity growth, nonprofits must make positive investments in favor of administrative and fundraising support but not in the form of high executive salaries.
The DSM and its lure of legitimacy
Authors: Lafrance Michelle N , McKenzie-Mohr Suzanne
Published: February 2013

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) offers a biomedical framing of people’s experiences of distress and impairment, and despite decades of criticism, it remains the dominant approach. This dominance is maintained not only by powerful corporate interests such as the pharmaceutical industry, but also through the everyday talk of people as they attempt to make meaning of themselves and their experiences. This paper explores how and why the DSM holds such cultural currency for individual speakers, and unpacks what is being accomplished in their taking up the language of psychiatric diagnosis. In particular, we argue that a biomedical construction of distress offers the lure, or promise, of validating persons’ pain and legitimizing their identities. However, we also argue that the very assumptions of biomedicine ensure that this promise can never entirely be fulfilled and, despite its lure, a biomedical construction of ‘mental illness’ all too frequently fails to protect individuals from delegitimation and stigma.
European migrants in Ireland: Pathways to integration
Authors: Gilmartin Mary , Migge Bettina
Published: February 2013

Within the EU, efforts in relation to integration are generally directed towards migrants from outside the EU. However, there is evidence that intra-EU migrants face similar obstacles to integration to those of non-EU citizens. Since Ireland has a large EU migrant population, this paper critically explores EU migrants’ integration in Ireland. Drawing on awider longitudinal study, the paper focuses on the lived experiences of 39 migrants from EU Member States living in Ireland. Focusing on domains of integration, we explore the different pathways by which EU migrants move to Ireland and become part of Irish society. Cultural and social pathways – including language, study, adventure and social relationships – are important as the original motivation for migration. Contrary to popular perception, economic factors such as employment were mostly seen as enabling social and cultural interests. However, economic but also social pathways came to the fore during the recession, when securing one’s livelihood and networks took on a new importance. We show that migrants developed various tactics to intensify their contact with Irish society and to develop feelings of being ‘at home’, despite a deteriorating economic situation. Despite these individual efforts, EU migrants continue to face obstacles to integration in Ireland: obstacles that need to be acknowledged at addressed within Ireland and across the EU more broadly.
Analyzing the Factors for VMI Implementation: A Framework
Authors: Singh Rajesh K.
Published: February 2013

Vendor-managed inventory (VMI) is a collaborative strategy between a buyer and supplier to optimize the availability of products at minimal cost. Overall, inventory management cost plays a significant role in reducing supply chain cost. Specifically in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, inventory–turnover ratio needs to be very high to compete in the global market. Throughout the supply chain, VMI is used to cut inventory-related costs and keep inventory levels low. VMI helps organizations to reduce the inventory-associated costs by shifting the responsibility of managing and replenishing inventory to vendors. In this article, various critical factors of VMI are identified from the literature review and experts’ opinions. The interpretive structural modelling (ISM) approach has been employed to develop the structural relationship among different factors of VMI to improve the performance of the supply chain.

 The article also defines the levels of different factors for VMI on the basis of their driving or dependence power and their mutual relationships. These factors have been further categorized according to their driving and dependence power. The insight from this model will help supply chain managers in implementing VMI to improve the overall performance of the supply chain.
Self-Administered Intervention for Caregivers of Persons With Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Duggleby Wendy , Swindle Jennifer , Peacock Shelley
Published: February 2013

The purpose of this article is to describe the development and feasibility testing of a Transition Toolkit to support caregivers of persons with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in dealing with transitions. Using the Medical Research Council (MRC; UK) guidelines for complex intervention development, Step 1 was to develop a theoretical understanding of the likely processes of change, by reviewing existing evidence and theory, and conducting new primary research. Based on Step 1, the intervention was developed with the Alzheimer’s Society experts (Step 2), followed by concept mapping of the critical inputs of the intervention with the theoretical understanding (Step 3).   A feasibility study was then conducted with 20 caregivers of persons with AD (Step 4) using a mixed methods concurrent design. The preliminary findings of the pilot study were positive with the participants describing the Transition Toolkit as acceptable, easy to use, and having the potential to help deal with transitions.
What nervous systems do: early evolution, input–output, and the skin brain thesis
Authors: Keijzer Fred , van Duijn Marc , Lyon Pamela
Published: February 2013

Nervous systems are standardly interpreted as information processing input–output devices. They receive environmental information from their sensors as input, subsequently process or adjust this information, and use the result to control effectors, providing output. Through-conducting activity is here the key organizational feature of nervous systems. In this paper, we argue that this input–output interpretation is not the most fundamental feature of nervous system organization. Building on biological work on the early evolution of nervous systems, we provide an alternative proposal: the skin brain thesis (SBT). The SBT postulates that early nervous systems evolved to organize a new multicellular effector: muscle tissue, the primary source of animal motility. Early nervous systems provided a new way of inducing and coordinating self-organized contractile activity across an extensive muscle surface underneath the skin. The main connectivity in such nervous systems runs across a spread out effector and is transverse to sensor-effector signaling. The SBT therefore constitutes a fundamental conceptual shift in understanding both nervous system operation and what nervous systems are. Nervous systems are foremost spatial organizers that turn large multi-cellular animal bodies into dynamic self-moving units. At the end, we briefly discuss some theoretical connections to central issues within the behavioral, cognitive and neurosciences.
An Empirical Investigation Into Justice, Grace, and Forgiveness
Authors: Patrick Shawn , Beckenbach John , Sells Jim , Reardon Robert F.
Published: February 2013

This study measured components of the relationship conflict and restoration model developed by Sells, Beckenbach, and Patrick. Data were gathered from 242 participants who completed a series of instruments used to measure constructs of relationship restoration. The authors proposed that the demonstration of grace, justice, empathy, trust, and forgiveness lead to relationship satisfaction. The path analysis confirmed the relationships between most variables. However, the path also indicated that trust was not an antecedent to forgiveness but instead emerged as an outcome variable, along with relational satisfaction, subsequent to forgiveness. Implications and suggestions for future research are made.
Career Decision Making, Stability, and Actualization of Career Intentions
Authors: Hirschi Andreas
Published: February 2013

Career counselors are often concerned with stability and likelihood of implementation of clients’ career intentions. It is often assumed that the status in career decision making (CDM) is one likely indicator; yet, empirical support for this assumption is sparse. The present study focused on entrepreneurial career intentions (EI) and showed that German university students ( N = 1,221), with high EI can be found in very different empirically derived CDM statuses that range from preconcern to mature decidedness. Longitudinal analyses ( n = 561) showed that career choice foreclosure (high decidedness/low exploration) related to more EI stability and that mature decidedness (high decidedness/high exploration) amplified effects of EI on opportunity identification, a form of EI actualization. The results imply that CDM statuses are useful to estimate stability and actualization of career intentions.
Safety Area for Proximal Metatarsal Procedures
Authors: Chuckpaiwong Bavornrit , Korwutthikulrangsri Ekkapoj
Published: February 2013

Background:

Forefoot and tarsometatarsal surgery may be performed on the first and second metatarsal through the intermetatarsal space. However, no study has identified the safety area of the proximal metatarsal bone to avoid vascular injury.

Methods:

One hundred and twenty-two uninjured embalmed feet of 31 female and 33 male cadavers aged 15 to 91 years (mean, 69.9 years) were studied. The dorsalis pedis artery was identified and dissected from its origin to the deep plantar artery. The distances from the artery to the dorsomedial aspect of first metatarsal bone, from the artery to the first tarsometatarsal joint, and from dorsalis pedis artery to the most plantar surface of second metatarsal bone were measured.

Results:

The distance from the artery to the first tarsometatarsal joint averaged 23.1 mm (range, 12-31 mm) and the distance from the artery to the most plantar surface of the second metatarsal bone averaged 6.3 mm (range, 3-13 mm).

Conclusions:

The safety area for proximal metatarsal procedure is about a 69-mm2 triangular area (23 mm from first tarsometatarsal joint and 6 mm from the most plantar surface of the second metatarsal bone).

Clinical Relevance:

The study provides information of normal location and variation of deep plantar artery is which related to medial midfoot complex. This information may be used during proximal metatarsal procedures.
Comparison of Thrombin Generation Assay With Conventional Coagulation Tests in Evaluation of Bleeding Risk in Patients With Rare Bleeding Disorders
Authors: Zekavat Omid R. , Haghpanah Sezaneh , Dehghani Javad , Afrasiabi Abdolreza , Peyvandi Flora , Karimi Mehran
Published: February 2013

Based on the premise that the capacity of plasma to generate thrombin in vitro is a comprehensive and precise functional test of the clotting system, we designed a cross-sectional, single-center study involving 83 patients with rare bleeding disorders (RBDs) to compare the usefulness of the thrombin generation (TG) assay versus conventional tests including prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) in predicting bleeding risk in patients with RBD in southern Iran. The TG parameters consisted of endogenous thrombin potential, lag time, peak, time to peak (ttPeak), and start tail. The area under the receiver–operating characteristic (ROC) curve showed statistically significant associations between bleeding risk and lag time, ttPeak, and start tail. We determined cutoff values for these 3 TG parameters and obtained a negative predictive value of 86% to 90% in patients with RBD who had a bleeding score (BS) ≤13. The ROC curves for the association of PT and aPTT with BS did not indicate any significant association. Correlation analysis supported the results of ROC curve analysis, only lag time, ttPeak, and start tail showed significant positive correlations with BS ( P < .05). Disease severity based on plasma factor activity was significantly associated with prolonged lag time and ttPeak and with prolonged PT ( P <.05). We suggest that TG assay is a potentially more useful tool for predicting the bleeding risk in patients with RBD. However, the small sample size in different RBD subgroups precluded subgroup analysis. Prospective multicenter studies with larger numbers of patients are therefore advisable.
Renin–angiotensin system genetic polymorphisms: Lack of association with CRP levels in patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Bahramali Ehsan , Firouzabadi Negar , Jonaidi-Jafari Nematollah , Shafiei Massoumeh
Published: February 2013

Angiotensin (Ang) II is believed to be a potential pro-inflammatory factor. The capability of Ang II to stimulate C-reactive protein (CRP) production has recently been described. Genetic polymorphisms of renin angiotensin system (RAS) components have been described to be associated with the development of coronary artery disease (CAD). This study investigated the association between six different genetic polymorphisms of RAS and serum CRP levels in a sample of CAD patients. Genotyping of RAS genes polymorphisms in 176 patients with documented CAD was performed by a modified polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. Measurement of high-sensitivity (hs)-CRP was performed using standard immunoturbidimetric methods. Results show no significant differences in serum CRP regarding different variants of the six polymorphisms studied (p = 0.41, 0.24, 0.25, 0.19, 0.29, and 0.05 for Ang-converting enzyme (ACE) insertion/deletion (I/D), A-240T and A2350G, angiotensinogen M235T, AT1 receptor A1166C, and AT2 receptor C3123A polymorphisms, respectively). In conclusion, genetic polymorphisms of RAS are not associated with increased serum CRP in CAD. Compensation of an increased activity of ACE through counter-regulation and the secretion of CRP under the influence of Ang II in the vessel being local could explain the lack of association between the studied polymorphisms and CRP levels in CAD patients.
Thromboembolic Complications After Endovascular Repair of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm With Neck Thrombus
Authors: Shintani Tsunehiro , Mitsuoka Hiroshi , Atsuta Kouji , Saitou Takaaki , Higashi Shigeki
Published: February 2013

Objective:

To evaluate outcomes after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) with neck thrombus.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent EVAR for AAA at our institution from 2007 to 2011. Patients with ruptured AAA, chronic renal failure, or hostile neck characteristics other than thrombus were excluded. Patients were divided into 2 groups: group T (with neck thrombus) and group N (without neck thrombus). We compared complications and mid-term outcomes.

Results:

There were no differences in success rates between the groups, but there were higher rates of thromboembolic complications such as distal embolization (20% vs 0%, P = .02) and renal dysfunction (36.8% vs 11.1%, P = .03) in group T than in group N. Suprarenal thrombus and suprarenal fixation in the presence of suprarenal thrombus were associated with postoperative renal dysfunction ( P = .01).

Conclusion:

The EVAR for AAA with neck thrombus is associated with thromboembolic complications.
Reduction of Bradykinesia of Finger Movements by a Single Session of Action Observation in Parkinson Disease
Authors: Pelosin Elisa , Bove Marco , Ruggeri Piero , Avanzino Laura , Abbruzzese Giovanni
Published: February 2013

Background. Action observation influences motor performance in healthy subjects and persons with motor impairments. Objective. To understand the effects of action observation on the spontaneous rate of finger movements in patients with Parkinson disease (PD). Methods. Participants, 20 with PD and 14 healthy controls, were randomly divided into 2 groups. Those in the VIDEO group watched video clips showing repetitive finger movements paced at 3 Hz, whereas those in the ACOUSTIC group listened to an acoustic cue paced at 3 Hz. All participants performed a finger sequence at their spontaneous pace at different intervals (before, at the end of, 45 minutes after, and 2 days after training); 8 participants with PD were recruited for a sham intervention, watching a 6-minute video representing a static hand. Finally, 10 patients participated in the same protocol used for the VIDEO group but were tested in the on and off medication states. Results. Both VIDEO and ACOUSTIC training increased the spontaneous rate in all participants. VIDEO intervention showed a greater effect over time, improving the spontaneous rate and reducing the intertapping interval to a larger extent than ACOUSTIC 45 minutes and 2 days after training. Action observation significantly influenced movement rate in on and off conditions, but 45 minutes after training, the effect was still present only in the on condition. No effect was observed after sham intervention. Conclusions. These findings suggest that the dopaminergic state contributes to the effects of action observation, and this training may be a promising approach in the rehabilitation of bradykinesia in PD.
Leading at the Coal-face
Authors: Holt Dale , Cohen Lynne , Campbell-Evans Glenda , Chang Paul , Macdonald Ian , McDonald Jacquie
Published: February 2013

This article is based on nationally funded research into the role, capabilities, challenges and professional development needs of subject coordinators in Australian higher education. The second of three data collection phases involved a multi-institutional survey of staff in the role of subject coordinator with the aim of understanding the role through the experiences of those who undertake it. In particular the conceptualization of this lowest level in academe as one of ‘leadership’, and as being the first rung on the academic leadership ladder, formed the underpinning logic for data collection. Results allow for a contemporary picture of leadership responsibilities to be drawn and also highlights some of the challenges which confront staff in this role. The vast majority of staff consider themselves as demonstrating leadership, although they have varying views about how others higher in the management hierarchy understand and appreciate their role. Most see themselves as performing effectively with the key challenges they face highlighted in the article. Outcomes suggest the need to undertake substantial capacity building of leadership for new and incumbent subject coordinators in response to the ever-changing nature of the higher education environment.
Redefining youth activism through digital technology in Singapore
Authors: Zhang Weiyu
Published: February 2013

This article examines the relationship between youth, digital technology and civic engagement, within the context of the authoritarian democracy of Singapore. In-depth interviews with 23 young activists were conducted to provide information regarding the emergence of digital activism. The findings are presented in three parts. First, the article explains how activism has been understood in the Singaporean context, and how young activists understand, appropriate or reject this concept. Through this exercise of (re)defining activism, we are able to see how ICT goes beyond its function as a tool, and for young activists becomes an important component of their political lexicon. Second, the article examines generational shift through the young activists’ own accounts of their parents and seniors, including how the prominence of ICT differs between older and younger activists. Third, it explores current use of ICT in activism, examining different types of technology and their advantages and shortcomings.
Exposure of the Medial Talar Dome
Authors: Granata Jaymes D. , DeCarbo William T. , Hyer Christopher F. , Granata Angela M. , Berlet Gregory C.
Published: February 2013

Open surgical exposure of the medial aspect of the talus is primarily indicated for osteochondral lesions of the talus and talar body fractures. Secondary to the difficulty of access, a variety of techniques have been described. The surgical techniques described in the literature include transmalleolar access windows, medial and anterior tibial osteotomies, and resection osteotomies (plafondoplasty). The purpose of this article is to describe the surgical technique for the bi-planar chevron osteotomy of the medial malleolus. This osteotomy can provide full exposure to the entire medial aspect of the talus. The orientation of the osteotomy allows for perpendicular placement of instrumentation on the medial half of the talus and is particularly useful for cartilage transplant procedures. The technique is reproducible and has a low complication rate when performed correctly.
Imperial Names for ‘Practical Cats’: Establishing a Distinctly British Pride in Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats
Authors: Robbins Dorothy Dodge
Published: February 2013

AbstractT. S. Eliot provides three categories — the familial, the particular, and the secretive — to delineate the naming of cats in Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats; however, the poet’s categories fail to explain completely his onomastic decisions. Instead, Eliot’s naming process reflects the Anglophile’s acquired British tastes. London, a city of Anglican churches and secular theatres, is home to Eliot’s fictional cats and an influence upon many of his name choices. Literary sources, in particular British Nonsense poets, provide additional inspiration for the 54 cat names mentioned in Eliot’s volume.
Selective List of Recent Dress Exhibitions
Authors: Stewart Imogen
Published: February 2013

This list includes temporary exhibitions and new permanent displays mounted in UK museums and galleries during 2012. Each display contained at least some items of dress or dress fabrics, fashion plates or fashion photography.
Low-level HLA antibodies do not predict platelet transfusion failure in TRAP study participants
Authors: Jackman Rachael P. , Deng Xutao , Bolgiano Douglas , Lebedeva Mila , Heitman John W. , Busch Michael P. , Slichter Sherrill J. , Norris Philip J.
Published: February 2013

Key Points

High, but not low to moderate, HLA antibody levels are associated with platelet refractoriness.
The interpretation of disease phenotypes to identify TSE strains in mice: characterisation of BSE using PrPSc distribution patterns in the brain
Authors: Corda Erica , Beck Katy E , Sallis Rosemary E , Vickery Christopher M , Denyer Margaret , Webb Paul R , Bellworthy Susan J , Spencer Yvonne I , Simmons Marion M , Spiropoulos John
Published: February 2013

In individual animals affected by transmissible spongiform encephalopathies, different disease phenotypes can be identified which are attributed to different strains of the agent. In the absence of reliable technology to fully characterise the agent, classification of disease phenotype has been used as a strain typing tool which can be applied in any host. This approach uses standardised data on biological parameters, established for a single host, to allow comparison of different prion sources. Traditionally prion strain characterisation in wild type mice is based on incubation periods and lesion profiles after the stabilisation of the agent into the new host which requires serial passages. Such analysis can take many years, due to prolonged incubation periods. The current study demonstrates that the PrPSc patterns produced by one serial passage in wild type mice of bovine or ovine BSE were consistent, stable and showed minimal and predictable differences from mouse-stabilised reference strains. This biological property makes PrPSc deposition pattern mapping a powerful tool in the identification and definition of TSE strains on primary isolation, making the process of characterisation faster and cheaper than a serial passage protocol. It can be applied to individual mice and therefore it is better suited to identify strain diversity within single inocula in case of co-infections or identify strains in cases where insufficient mice succumb to disease for robust lesion profiles to be constructed. The detailed description presented in this study provides a reference document for identifying BSE in wild type mice.
A bioinformatic analysis of ribonucleotide reductase genes in phage genomes and metagenomes
Authors: Dwivedi Bhakti , Xue Bingjie , Lundin Daniel , Edwards Robert A , Breitbart Mya
Published: February 2013

Background

Ribonucleotide reductase (RNR), the enzyme responsible for the formation of deoxyribonucleotides from ribonucleotides, is found in all domains of life and many viral genomes. RNRs are also amongst the most abundant genes identified in environmental metagenomes. This study focused on understanding the distribution, diversity, and evolution of RNRs in phages (viruses that infect bacteria). Hidden Markov Model profiles were used to analyze the proteins encoded by 685 completely sequenced double-stranded DNA phages and 22 environmental viral metagenomes to identify RNR homologs in cultured phages and uncultured viral communities, respectively.

Results

RNRs were identified in 128 phage genomes, nearly tripling the number of phages known to encode RNRs. Class I RNR was the most common RNR class observed in phages (70%), followed by class II (29%) and class III (28%). Twenty-eight percent of the phages contained genes belonging to multiple RNR classes. RNR class distribution varied according to phage type, isolation environment, and the host’s ability to utilize oxygen. The majority of the phages containing RNRs are Myoviridae (65%), followed by Siphoviridae (30%) and Podoviridae (3%). The phylogeny and genomic organization of phage and host RNRs reveal several distinct evolutionary scenarios involving horizontal gene transfer, co-evolution, and differential selection pressure. Several putative split RNR genes interrupted by self-splicing introns or inteins were identified, providing further evidence for the role of frequent genetic exchange. Finally, viral metagenomic data indicate that RNRs are prevalent and highly dynamic in uncultured viral communities, necessitating future research to determine the environmental conditions under which RNRs provide a selective advantage.

Conclusions

This comprehensive study describes the distribution, diversity, and evolution of RNRs in phage genomes and environmental viral metagenomes. The distinct distributions of specific RNR classes amongst phages, combined with the various evolutionary scenarios predicted from RNR phylogenies suggest multiple inheritance sources and different selective forces for RNRs in phages. This study significantly improves our understanding of phage RNRs, providing insight into the diversity and evolution of this important auxiliary metabolic gene as well as the evolution of phages in response to their bacterial hosts and environments.
Genome-wide analysis in chicken reveals that local levels of genetic diversity are mainly governed by the rate of recombination
Authors: Mugal Carina F , Nabholz Benoit , Ellegren Hans
Published: February 2013

Background

Polymorphism is key to the evolutionary potential of populations. Understanding which factors shape levels of genetic diversity within genomes forms a central question in evolutionary genomics and is of importance for the possibility to infer episodes of adaptive evolution from signs of reduced diversity. There is an on-going debate on the relative role of mutation and selection in governing diversity levels. This question is also related to the role of recombination because recombination is expected to indirectly affect polymorphism via the efficacy of selection. Moreover, recombination might itself be mutagenic and thereby assert a direct effect on diversity levels.

Results

We used whole-genome re-sequencing data from domestic chicken (broiler and layer breeds) and its wild ancestor (the red jungle fowl) to study the relationship between genetic diversity and several genomic parameters. We found that recombination rate had the largest effect on local levels of nucleotide diversity. The fact that divergence (a proxy for mutation rate) and recombination rate were negatively correlated argues against a mutagenic role of recombination. Furthermore, divergence had limited influence on polymorphism.

Conclusions

Overall, our results are consistent with a selection model, in which regions within a short distance from loci under selection show reduced polymorphism levels. This conclusion lends further support from the observations of strong correlations between intergenic levels of diversity and diversity at synonymous as well as non-synonymous sites. Our results also demonstrate differences between the two domestic breeds and red jungle fowl, where the domestic breeds show a stronger relationship between intergenic diversity levels and diversity at synonymous and non-synonymous sites. This finding, together with overall lower diversity levels in domesticates compared to red jungle fowl, seem attributable to artificial selection during domestication.