bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating Large Numbers
Authors: Landy David , Silbert Noah , Goldin Aleah
Published: March 2013

Despite their importance in public discourse, numbers in the range of 1 million to 1 trillion are notoriously difficult to understand. We examine magnitude estimation by adult Americans when placing large numbers on a number line and when qualitatively evaluating descriptions of imaginary geopolitical scenarios. Prior theoretical conceptions predict a log‐to‐linear shift: People will either place numbers linearly or will place numbers according to a compressive logarithmic or power‐shaped function (Barth & Paladino, ; Siegler & Opfer, ). While about half of people did estimate numbers linearly over this range, nearly all the remaining participants placed 1 million approximately halfway between 1 thousand and 1 billion, but placed numbers linearly across each half, as though they believed that the number words “thousand, million, billion, trillion” constitute a uniformly spaced count list. Participants in this group also tended to be optimistic in evaluations of largely ineffective political strategies, relative to linear number‐line placers. The results indicate that the surface structure of number words can heavily influence processes for dealing with numbers in this range, and it can amplify the possibility that analogous surface regularities are partially responsible for parallel phenomena in children. In addition, these results have direct implications for lawmakers and scientists hoping to communicate effectively with the public.
Expression of a lung developmental cassette in the adult and developing zebrafish swimbladder
Authors: Cass Amanda N. , Servetnick Marc D. , McCune Amy R.
Published: March 2013

The presence of an air‐filled organ (AO), either lungs or a swimbladder, is a defining character of the Osteichthyes (bony vertebrates, including tetrapods). Despite the functional and structural diversity of AOs, it was not previously known whether the same group of developmental regulatory genes are involved in the early development of both lungs and swimbladders. This study demonstrates that a suite of genes (Nkx2.1, FoxA2, Wnt7b, GATA6), previously reported to be co‐expressed only in the tetrapod lung, is also co‐expressed in the zebrafish swimbladder. We document the expression pattern of these genes in the adult and developing zebrafish swimbladder and compare the expression patterns to those in the mouse lung. Early‐acting genes involved in endoderm specification are expressed in the same relative location and stage of AO development in both taxa (FoxA2 and GATA6), but the order of onset and location of expression are not completely conserved for the later acting genes (Nkx2.1 and Wnt7b). Co‐expression of this suite of genes in both tetrapod lungs and swimbladders of ray‐finned fishes is more likely due to common ancestry than independent co‐option, because these genes are not known to be co‐expressed anywhere except in the AOs of Osteichthyes. Any conserved gene product interactions may comprise a character identity network (ChIN) for the osteichthyan AO.
Influence of volatile compounds from herbivore‐damaged soybean plants on searching behavior of the egg parasitoid Telenomus podisi
Authors: Michereff Mirian F. F. , Borges Miguel , Laumann Raúl A. , Diniz Ivone R. , Blassioli‐Moraes Maria Carolina
Published: March 2013

Parasitoids use herbivore‐induced plant volatiles (HIPVs) to locate their hosts. However, there are few studies in soybean showing the mechanisms involved in the attraction of natural enemies to their hosts and prey. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) of soybean, Glycine max (L.) Merr. (Fabaceae) (cv. Dowling), that were induced after injury caused by Euschistus heros (Fabricius) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), on the searching behavior of the egg parasitoid Telenomus podisi Ashmead (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae). Four HIPVs from soybean, (E,E)‐α‐farnesene, methyl salicylate, (Z)‐3‐hexenyl acetate, and (E)‐2‐octen‐1‐ol, were selected, prepared from standards at various concentrations (10−6 to 10−1 m), and tested individually and in combinations using a two‐choice olfactometer (type Y). Telenomus podisi displayed a preference only for (E,E)‐α‐farnesene at 10−5 m when tested individually and compared to hexane, but they did not respond to the other compounds tested individually at any concentration or when combinations of these compounds were tested. However, the parasitoids stayed longer in the olfactometer arm with the mixture of (E,E)‐α‐farnesene + methyl salicylate at 10−5 m than in the arm containing hexane. The results suggest that (E,E)‐α‐farnesene and methyl salicylate might help T. podisi to determine the presence of stink bugs on a plant. In addition, bioassays were conducted to compare (E,E)‐α‐farnesene vs. the volatiles emitted by undamaged and E. heros‐damaged plants, to evaluate whether (E,E)‐α‐farnesene was the main cue used by T. podisi or whether other minor compounds from the plants and/or the background might also be used to locate its host. The results suggest that minor volatile compounds from soybean plants or from its surroundings are involved in the host‐searching behavior of T. podisi.
Risk group assignment differs for children and adults 1–45 yr with acute lymphoblastic leukemia treated by the NOPHO ALL‐2008 protocol
Authors: Toft Nina , Birgens Henrik , Abrahamsson Jonas , Bernell Per , Griškevičius Laimonas , Hallböök Helene , Heyman Mats , Holm Mette Skov , Hulegårdh Erik , Klausen Tobias Wirenfeldt , Marquart Hanne V. , Jónsson Ólafur Gísli , Nielsen Ove Juul , Quist‐Paulsen Petter , Taskinen Mervi , Vaitkeviciene Goda , Vettenranta Kim , Åsberg Ann , Schmiegelow Kjeld
Published: March 2013

Background

The prognosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia is poorer in adults than in children. Studies have indicated that young adults benefit from pediatric treatment, although no upper age limit has been defined.

Design and methods

We analyzed 749 patients aged 1–45 yr treated by the NOPHO ALL‐2008 protocol. Minimal residual disease (MRD) on days 29 and 79, immunophenotype, white blood cell count (WBC), and cytogenetics were used to stratify patients to standard‐, intermediate‐, or high‐risk treatment with or without hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

Results

Adults aged 18–45 had significantly lower WBCs at diagnosis compared with children aged 1–9 and 10–17 yr, but significantly more adults were stratified to high‐risk chemotherapy (8%, 14%, 17%; P < 0.0001) or high‐risk chemotherapy with transplantation (4%, 13%, 19%; P < 0.0001). This age‐dependent skewing of risk grouping reflected more T‐ALL (11%, 27%, 33%, P < 0.0001), poorer MRD response day 29 (MRD < 0.1%: 75%, 61%, 52%; P < 0.0001), and more MLL gene rearrangements (3%, 3%, 10%; P = 0.005) in older patients.

Conclusions

Even if identical diagnostics, treatment, and risk stratification are implemented, more adults will be stratified to high‐risk therapy, which should be considered when comparing pediatric and adult outcomes.
Endovascular treatment of acute ischaemic stroke after 6 h of symptom onset: safe but is it efficacious?
Authors: Qureshi A. I.
Published: March 2013

Click here to view the accompanying paper in this issue.
Cognitive ability and dental fear and anxiety
Authors: Blomqvist My , Ek Ulla , Fernell Elisabeth , Holmberg Kirsten , Westerlund Joakim , Dahllöf Göran
Published: March 2013

Dental fear and anxiety (DFA), as well as dental behavior management problems, are common in children and adolescents. Several psychological factors in the child, and parental DFA, have been studied and found to correlate to the child's DFA. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between cognitive ability and DFA in a population‐based group of children with identified behavior and learning problems. In conjunction with a dental examination at 11 yr of age, 70 children were assessed with regard to DFA using the Children's Fear Survey Schedule Dental Subscale (CFSS‐DS), and their cognitive ability was assessed using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children. In addition, parental DFA was measured using the Corah Dental Anxiety Scale. The results revealed that DFA was significantly correlated to verbal intelligence quotient (IQ) but not to any other cognitive index. A significant correlation was found between parental DFA and child DFA. The results indicate that the child's verbal capacity may be one factor of importance in explaining dental fear in children.
CIITA rs4774 and rs6498122 polymorphisms are associated with oral lichen planus in Chinese people: a case–control study
Authors: Wu Dan , Wang Lifeng , Sun Mao , Wang Guoxia , Fu Shanmin , Dong Guangying , Wu Yuanming
Published: March 2013

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a common autoimmune inflammatory disorder that is difficult to cure, and its pathogenesis is still largely unknown. The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II transactivator (CIITA) gene has been reported to be an important candidate in some classical autoimmune diseases, and certain single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in CIITA have been confirmed to be associated with susceptibility to some autoimmune diseases. We conducted this research to investigate the existence of any correlation between OLP and SNPs in CIITA. A case–control study was performed to genotype 15 SNPs in the CIITA gene from 42 patients with OLP and from 86 controls; this was carried out by the PCR and then by a locus‐specific single‐base extension reaction. Allele detection was performed using matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight (MALDI‐TOF) mass spectrometry. The SNP rs4774 variant in exon 11 (+1614G/C, Gly500Ala) of CIITA is significantly associated with OLP in healthy persons, both in genotype frequency and in allele frequency. Another intronic SNP, rs6498122, showed significant differences only in allele frequency. In conclusion, our data show that the two SNPs rs4774 and rs6498122 are associated with OLP and could also indicate the autoimmune characteristics of OLP.
Basic treatment principles for psychotic disorders in patients with epilepsy
Authors: Adachi Naoto , Kanemoto Kousuke , de Toffol Bertrand , Akanuma Nozomi , Oshima Tomohiro , Mohan Adith , Sachdev Perminder
Published: March 2013

In patients with epilepsy, coexisting psychoses, either interictal (IIP) or postictal (PIP), are associated with serious disturbance in psychosocial function and well‐being, and often require the care of a specialist. Unfortunately, evidence‐based treatment systems for psychosis in patients with epilepsy have not yet been established. This article aims to propose concise and practical treatment procedures for IIP and PIP based on currently available data and international consensus statements, and primarily targeting nonpsychiatrist epileptologists who are often the first to be involved in the management of these complex patients. Accurate and early diagnosis of IIP and PIP and their staging in terms of acuity and severity form the essential first step in management. It is important to suspect the presence of psychosis whenever patients manifest unusual behavior. Knowledge of psychopathology and both individual and epilepsy‐related vulnerabilities relevant to IIP and PIP facilitate early diagnosis. Treatment for IIP involves (1) obtaining consent to psychiatric treatment from the patient, whenever possible, (2) optimization of antiepileptic drugs, and (3) initiation of antipsychotic pharmacotherapy in line with symptom severity and severity of behavioral and functional disturbance. Basic psychosocial interventions will help reinforce adherence to treatment and should be made available. Due consideration must be given to patients’ ability to provide informed consent to treatment in the short term, with the issue being revisited regularly over time. Given the often prolonged and recurrent nature of IIP, treatment frequently needs to be long‐term. Treatment of PIP consists of two aspects, that is, acute protective measures and preventive procedures in repetitive episodes. Protective measures prioritize the management of risk in the early stages, and may involve sedation with or without the use of antipsychotic drugs, and the judicious application of local mental health legislation if appropriate. As for preventative procedures, optimizing seizure control by adjusting antiepileptic drugs or by surgical treatment is necessary.
Treatment of behavioral problems in intellectually disabled adult patients with epilepsy
Authors: Kerr Michael , Gil‐Nagel Antonio , Glynn Michael , Mula Marco , Thompson Rose , Zuberi Sameer M.
Published: March 2013

Behavioral disorders are common in people with epilepsy and intellectual disability. Although in some genetic disorders behavioral problems are part of the established phenotype, they may also be a manifestation of underlying physical or mental illness, or may be unrecognized seizure activity. In light of this, assessment of behavioral disorders should take into account person factors such as the physical health and mental state of the person and environmental factors such as the quality of their interactions with carers and their living conditions. Video–electroencephalography ( EEG) is recommended where possible. We review potential pharmacologic and behavioral management strategies for behavioral disorders in people with intellectual disability.
Remembered Parental Rejection and Postpartum Declines in Marital Satisfaction: Moderated Dyadic Links
Authors: Parade Stephanie H. , Leerkes Esther M. , Helms Heather M.
Published: March 2013

Utilizing a sample of 80 married couples, the current study employed a dyadic approach to examine links between remembered parental rejection during childhood and change in marital satisfaction across the transition to parenthood. Partner remembered parental rejection, parenting efficacy, and infant temperamental reactivity (frustration and fear reactivity) were examined as moderator variables. Spouses' own remembered parental rejection was linked with declines in marital satisfaction among spouses whose partners recalled more rejection from their parents in childhood, among spouses who felt less efficacious in the parenting role, and among spouses who reported high infant frustration. Partner remembered parental rejection was linked with declines in marital satisfaction among spouses who reported that they were less efficacious in the parenting role. Results support the perspective that family‐of‐origin experiences are best understood in conjunction with other domains of family life. Applied implications are discussed.
Relational Well‐being: An Indigenous Perspective and Measure
Authors: McCubbin Laurie D. , McCubbin Hamilton I. , Zhang Wei , Kehl Lisa , Strom Ida
Published: March 2013

Extant measures of well‐being, guided by western European values and beliefs, reveal a scientific commitment to develop and test indices to monitor the social, psychological, familial, and economic status of populations. The limitations of these measures to ethnic populations are addressed in this study. Relational Well‐being (RWB II), an indigenous, culture‐based 14‐item measure rooted in beliefs and values emphasizing family, ancestors, culture, and harmony with nature, was developed and tested with a sample (N = 810) of indigenous Hawaiians in Hawaii. Exploratory factor analysis (n = 408), confirmatory factor analysis (n  = 402), test of invariance, and tests of reliability and validity confirmed the psychometric quality of RWB II. The applicability of the composite index of Relational Well‐being II as well as its six underlying factors (Resilience, Community Involvement, Financial Stability, Cultural Practice, Family Commitment, and Health Care) to family theory of resilience, research, and education are discussed.
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 directly regulates human ORMDL3 expression
Authors: Qiu Rongfang , Yang Yang , Zhao Hailing , Li Jiangxia , Xin Qian , Shan Shan , Liu Yongchao , Dang Jie , Yu Xiao , Gong Yaoqin , Liu Qiji
Published: March 2013

Orosomucoid‐like 3 (ORMDL3) has been associated with asthma and a series of autoimmune disorders, and is involved in endoplasmic reticulum‐mediated inflammatory responses. However, its clinical significance and the molecular mechanism underlying its expression are still largely unclear. To elucidate the mechanisms of human ORMDL3 transcriptional regulation, we cloned a 1.5 kb genomic DNA fragment containing the putative promoter region and evaluated its transcriptional activity in a luciferase reporter system by deletion analysis. We identified a 68 bp region that functions as a minimal promoter. Bioinformatics analysis predicted that the −64 to −56 bp region contained a signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6) binding site. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation demonstrated that STAT6 bound to its binding site within the ORMDL3 promoter. STAT6 over‐expression or knockdown trans‐activated or trans‐inhibited, respectively, the ORMDL3 promoter containing the STAT6‐binding motif. Treatment with interleukins 4 or 13 increased ORMDL3 promoter activity as well as endogenous ORMDL3 expression. Immunoprecipitation and ChIP/Re‐ChIP assays revealed that STAT6 and p300 exist in the same protein complex that binds to the ORMDL3 promoter. Our study confirmed that STAT6 plays important roles in regulating the expression of human ORMDL3 by directly binding to the promoter region, which may shed light on a possible role in various human diseases.

Structured digital abstract

p300 physically interacts with STAT6 by anti bait coimmunoprecipitation (View Interaction: 1, 2)
Canopy‐scale relationships between stomatal conductance and photosynthesis in irrigated rice
Authors: Ono Keisuke , Maruyama Atsushi , Kuwagata Tsuneo , Mano Masayoshi , Takimoto Takahiro , Hayashi Kentaro , Hasegawa Toshihiro , Miyata Akira
Published: March 2013

Modeling stomatal behavior is critical in research on land–atmosphere interactions and climate change. The most common model uses an existing relationship between photosynthesis and stomatal conductance. However, its parameters have been determined using infrequent and leaf‐scale gas‐exchange measurements and may not be representative of the whole canopy in time and space. In this study, we used a top‐down approach based on a double‐source canopy model and eddy flux measurements throughout the growing season. Using this approach, we quantified the canopy‐scale relationship between gross photosynthesis and stomatal conductance for 3 years and their relationships with leaf nitrogen content throughout each growing season above a paddy rice canopy in Japan. The canopy‐averaged stomatal conductance (gsc) increased with increasing gross photosynthesis per unit green leaf area (Ag), as was the case with leaf‐scale measurements, and 41–90% of its variation was explained by variations in Ag adjusted to account for the leaf‐to‐air vapor‐pressure deficit and CO2 concentration using the Leuning model. The slope (m) in this model (gsc versus the adjusted Ag) was almost constant within a 15‐day period, but changed seasonally. The m values determined using an ensemble dataset for two mid‐growing‐season 15‐day periods were 30.8 (SE = 0.5), 29.9 (SE = 0.7), and 29.9 (SE = 0.6) in 2004, 2005, and 2006, respectively; the overall mid‐season value was 30.3 and did not greatly differ among the 3 years. However, m appeared to be higher during the early and late growing seasons. The ontogenic changes in leaf nitrogen content strongly affected Ag and thus gsc. In addition, we have discussed the agronomic impacts of the interactions between leaf nitrogen content and gsc. Despite limitations in the observations and modeling, our canopy‐scale results emphasize the importance of continuous, season‐long estimates of stomatal model parameters for crops using top‐down approaches.
Implications of biofuel policy‐driven land cover change for rainfall erosivity and soil erosion in the United States
Authors: Khanal Sami , Anex Robert P. , Anderson Christopher J. , Herzmann Daryl E. , Jha Manoj K.
Published: March 2013

Large‐scale conversion of traditional agricultural cropping systems to biofuel cropping systems is predicted to have significant impact on the hydrologic cycle. Changes in the hydrologic cycle lead to changes in rainfall and its erosive power, and consequently soil erosion that will have onsite impacts on soil quality and crop productivity, and offsite impacts on water quality and quantity. We examine regional change in rainfall erosivity and soil erosion resulting from biofuel policy‐induced land use/land cover (LULC) change. Regional climate is simulated under current and biofuel LULC scenarios for the period 1979–2004 using the Weather Research Forecast (WRF) model coupled to the NOAH land surface model. The magnitude of change in rainfall erosivity under the biofuel scenario is 1.5–3 times higher than the change in total annual rainfall. Over most of the conterminous United States (~56%), the magnitude of the change in erosivity is between −2.5% and +2.5%. A decrease in erosivity of magnitude 2.5–10% is predicted over 23% of the area, whereas an increase of the same magnitude is predicted over 14% of the area. Corresponding to the changes in rainfall erosivity and crop cover, a decrease in soil loss is predicted over 60% of the area under the biofuel scenario. In Kansas and Oklahoma, the states in which a large fraction of land area is planted with switchgrass under the biofuel scenario, soil loss is estimated to decrease 12% relative to the baseline. This reduction in soil loss is due more to changes in the crop cover factor than changes in rainfall or rainfall erosivity. This indicates that the changes in LULC, due to future cellulosic biofuel feedstock production, can have significant implications for regional soil and water resources in the United States and we recommend detailed investigation of the trade‐offs between land use and management options.
The Roles of Population, Place, and Institution in Student Diversity in American Higher Education
Authors: Franklin Rachel S.
Published: March 2013

Student racial and ethnic diversity in higher education is an important and timely topic, as institutions, policy makers, and economists increasingly recognize the value that accrues at many levels of having a skilled and diverse student body and workforce. Students benefit from learning in a diverse environment; firms may benefit from a diverse workforce; and more demographically diverse regions may experience higher rates of economic growth. However, the forces governing institution‐level student diversity are poorly understood, as little prior research on the topic exists. This paper uses school enrollment data to parse out the contribution of institutional characteristics, geographical setting, and local demographic characteristics to student body diversity at each level of study. Results indicate that geographical location and local demographic composition play a role in student body diversity, as do the type and orientation of the institution. Institutional characteristics explain a lot of the variation in student body diversity and actual location of schools matters less than the demographic composition of young people around that location. Two broad conclusions emerge with regard to schools seeking to increase their student diversity. First, some may find their efforts hampered by circumstances outside their control (e.g., location). Second, the influence of public/private status and even school size suggests further research on the ways in which these factors influence student diversity so that eventual policy action can be more effective.
Correlation of hepatitis B surface antigen level with response to telbivudine in naive patients with chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Li Xuefen , Wang Yiyin , Han Dongsheng , Zhang Wen , Zhang Zike , Ye Xianfei , Tian Li , Dong Yuejiao , Zhu Qiaoyun , Chen Yu
Published: March 2013

Aim

Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) has become a marker to judge immunological response to hepatitis B therapy. Quantified serum HBsAg levels can predict the response to pegylated interferon and entecavir. In this study, we aimed to explore the correlation of serum HBsAg levels with response to telbivudine (LdT) treatment in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB).

Methods

Seventy‐three treatment‐naive CHB patients were recruited and received LdT monotherapy for 52 weeks and serial HBsAg levels were measured at five protocol time points. According to therapeutic efficacy at week 52, three subgroups of patients were identified, including complete responders (CR), partial responders (PR) and non‐responders (NR).

Results

After 52 weeks of treatment, CR, PR and NR represented 19 (26%), 33 (45%) and 21 (29%) patients in the sample of 73, respectively. The median values of baseline HBsAg (log10 IU/mL) were 4.05, 4.50 and 5.03 for CR, PR and NR, respectively. There was a distinct decline of HBsAg at week 52; median log10 HBsAg levels (IU/mL) were 3.61 (CR), 3.86 (PR) and 4.31 (NR). Positive correlation between HBsAg levels and HBV DNA loads was observed in the group of NR and early antiviral treatment of PR, but not in CR.

Conclusion

Initial HBsAg level was closely correlated with the efficacy of LdT. Patients with low HBsAg levels presented satisfactory responses. Therefore, initial level and correlation with HBV DNA of the serum HBsAg levels could predict responsiveness in CHB patients receiving LdT.
Recent Approaches to Cultural History: American Photography, Film, and Music
Authors: Marcus Kenneth H.
Published: March 2013

Recent work in American cultural history reveals a strong interest in the methodologies of other disciplines as well as developing transnational interpretations of American history. This article considers work that examines photography, film, and music. The use of visual and oral sources has long offered scholars alternative ways of viewing the past – both in their research and in the classroom. Today not only are cultural historians placing these sources within their appropriate historical and cultural contexts (with subjects as diverse as Mexican American murals, immigration photography, film noir, and African American music), they are increasingly employing sensory studies, especially in terms of sound, which enable us to approach our research and teaching with new eyes and ears.
Risk Management in the Correctional System of Canada: A Problematic Model
Authors: Bérard F. , Vacheret M. , Lemire G.
Published: March 2013

Since 1992, interventions within the Canadian correctional system have been guided by the Risk Management Model (RMM). This article presents a critical analysis of that model. In the view of the authors, the RMM does not focus on rehabilitating offenders, but rather on ensuring their social compliance. Moreover, the Model is not clinical or professional in nature; it is essentially a techno‐bureaucratic model. From an empirical perspective, the authors bring into question several aspects implied by the Model, specifically those having to do with human qualities, rationality, relevance, effectiveness and efficiency. In conclusion, they wonder what could explain that such a model continues to prevail.
Active application of liquid etching agent improves adhesion of fibre posts to intraradicular dentine
Authors: Scotti N. , Scansetti M. , Rota R. , Breschi L. , Mazzoni A. , Pasqualini D. , Berutti E.
Published: March 2013

Aim

To assess the effectiveness of an active application of liquid etching, compared with the standard gel formulation on smear layer removal from post space walls and push‐out bond strength of luted fibre posts.

Methodology

Human extracted teeth were collected and root filled. After post space preparation and cleaning with 10% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid for 30 s, teeth were assigned to four groups (n = 11) according to etching procedure: (i) 37% phosphoric acid (H3PO4) gel; (ii) 37% H3PO4 liquid applied with an endodontic needle; (iii) 37% H3PO4 liquid applied with an Endovac; (iv) no etching procedure (control group). Three teeth per group were sectioned longitudinally and prepared for SEM examination to evaluate the presence of smear layer, debris, sealer/gutta‐percha remnants, and the number of open tubules. Eight teeth per group were bonded with an etch‐and‐rinse adhesive, and fibre posts were luted with a resin‐based cement. After cutting, specimens were prepared for a push‐out test. Data were analysed by anova and post hoc tests (P < 0.05).

Results

Improved smear layer removal was obtained in Group 2, followed by Group 1, Group 3, and the control group (P < 0.05). The mean values for the bond strength of the push‐out test were: Group 1, 8.3 ± 2.9 MPa (coronal); 7.7 ± 3.0 (middle); 3.3 ±1.9 MPa (apical); Group 2, 7.8 ± 2.1 MPa (coronal); 6.9 ± 3.9 MPa (middle); 3.7 ± 1.3 MPa (apical); Group 3, 9.7 ± 2.8 MPa (coronal); 8.6 ± 2.1 MPa (middle); 6.9 ± 2.3 MPa (apical); and Group 4, 2.9 ± 3.0 MPa (coronal); 2.6 ± 2.0 MPa (middle); 1.1 ± 2.0 MPa (apical).

Conclusions

Liquid phosphoric acid applied with an endodontic needle yielded better canal wall smear layer removal and higher bond strength values when an etch‐and‐rinse system was used.
Differentiation and activation of equine monocyte‐derived dendritic cells are not correlated with CD206 or CD83 expression
Authors: Moyo Nathifa A. , Marchi Emanuele , Steinbach Falko
Published: March 2013

Dendritic cells (DC) are the main immune mediators inducing primary immune responses. DC generated from monocytes (MoDC) are a model system to study the biology of DC in vitro, as they represent inflammatory DC in vivo. Previous studies on the generation of MoDC in horses indicated that there was no distinct difference between immature and mature DC and that the expression profile was distinctly different from humans, where CD206 is expressed on immature MoDC whereas CD83 is expressed on mature MoDC. Here we describe the kinetics of equine MoDC differentiation and activation, analysing both phenotypic and functional characteristics. Blood monocytes were first differentiated with equine granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor and interleukin‐4 generating immature DC (iMoDC). These cells were further activated with a cocktail of cytokines including interferon‐γ) but not CD40 ligand to obtain mature DC (mMoDC). To determine the expression of a broad range of markers for which no monoclonal antibodies were available to analyse the protein expression, microarray and quantitative PCR analysis were performed to carry out gene expression analysis. This study demonstrates that equine iMoDC and mMoDC can be distinguished both phenotypically and functionally but the expression pattern of some markers including CD206 and CD83 is dissimilar to the human system.
Successful treatment of complex traumatic and surgical wounds with a foetal bovine dermal matrix
Authors: Hayn Ernesto
Published: March 2013

A foetal bovine dermal repair scaffold (PriMatrix, TEI Biosciences) was used to treat complex surgical or traumatic wounds where the clinical need was to avoid skin flaps and to build new tissue in the wound that could be reepithelialised from the wound margins or closed with a subsequent application of a split‐thickness skin graft (STSG). Forty‐three consecutive cases were reviewed having an average size of 79·3 cm2, 50% of which had exposed tendon and/or bone. In a subset of wounds (44·7%), the implantation of the foetal dermal collagen scaffold was also augmented with negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT). Complete wound healing was documented in over 80% of the wounds treated, whether the wound was treated with the foetal bovine dermal scaffold alone (95·2%) or when supplemented with NPWT (82·4%). The scaffold successfully incorporated into wounds with exposed tendon and/or bone to build vascularised, dermal‐like tissue. The new tissue in the wound supported STSGs however, in the majority of the cases (88·3%); wound closure was achieved through reepithelialisation of the incorporated dermal scaffold by endogenous wound keratinocytes. The foetal bovine dermal repair scaffold was found to offer an effective alternative treatment strategy for definitive closure of challenging traumatic or surgical wounds on patients who were not suitable candidates for tissue flaps.
Upgrading of Gleason score and prostate volume: a clinicopathological analysis
Authors: Kim Kwang Hyun , Lim Sey Kiat , Shin Tae‐Young , Lee Joo Yong , Chung Byung Ha , Rha Koon Ho , Hong Sung Joon
Published: March 2013

Objective

To more clearly elucidate the association between prostate volume and Gleason score (GS) upgrading.

Patient and Methods

We reviewed 451 patients with prostate cancer with a GS of 6 on biopsy, who underwent radical prostatectomy without neoadjuvant treatment.

As a preoperative variable, we assessed the independent effect of prostate volume on GS upgrading.

To evaluate the association between prostate volume and GS upgrading, we developed multivariate models with volumetric pathological variables, including postoperative tumour volume and percent tumour volume (tumour volume as a percentage of prostate volume).

Results

GS upgrading was observed in 194 patients (43.0%).

As a preoperative variable, smaller prostate volume was an independent predictor of GS upgrading.

In regression analysis, prostate volume and postoperative tumour volume were inversely correlated.

On multivariate analysis including volumetric pathological variables, tumour volume was a strong independent factor influencing GS upgrading, and prostate volume lost statistical significance after adjusting for tumour volume.

Percent tumour volume was inversely correlated with GS upgrading after adjusting for tumour volume.

Conclusions

Smaller prostate volume was an independent predictor of GS upgrading as a preoperative variable.

The inverse relationship between prostate volume and GS upgrading seems to be attributable to cancer biology, which was represented by tumour volume in our study. Percent tumour volume was also inversely associated with GS upgrading.

These results suggest that biological factors and sampling error both play important roles in GS upgrading.
Forecasting the decline of excess soil phosphorus in agricultural catchments
Authors: Wall D. P. , Jordan P. , Melland A. R. , Mellander P.‐E. , Mechan S. , Shortle G.
Published: March 2013

Measures within the European Union Nitrates Directive National Action Programmes in many member states aim to reduce soil phosphorus (P) levels from excessive to agronomically optimum. This is to reduce the risk of diffuse P losses to water and ultimately help achieve the Water Framework Directive targets of good water quality status. In this study, a ‘Soil P Decline’ model was used to evaluate this expectation for soils in four intensive agricultural catchments. Realistic annual P‐balance scenario deficits (−30, −15, −7 kg P/ha) were used to estimate the average time required for soils to decline to optimum levels in two predominantly arable and two grassland catchments with excessive soil test P (STP). Depending on the STP concentration and total P reserves, for the smallest field P deficit scenario (−7 kg P/ha), the model predictions were for an average of between 5 and 20 yr for agronomically optimum levels to be reached. Under the largest P deficit scenario (−30 kg P/ha), it was forecast to take between 2 and 10 yr. These predictions highlight the likely time lag that exists between implementation of soil P mitigation regulations and the desired outcome of few or no fields with excessive soil P. Expectations for water quality improvement through diffuse P source mitigation must also factor in additional time for P decline model uncertainty, land management variability and time for P sources to transfer to and within river networks.
Rapid redistribution of P to deeper soil layers in P saturated acid sandy soils
Authors: De Bolle S. , De Neve S. , Hofman G.
Published: March 2013

Problems of excessive soil phosphorus (P) levels as a result of intensive agriculture are found in many regions in Western Europe, USA, Canada and New Zealand. This may lead to phosphorus leaching in soils with low P binding capacity. However, little is known about the changes in P saturation degree (PSD) of such soils with time. Between 1995 and 2005, an intensive inventory of the PSD status of acid sandy soils in Flanders was conducted, the results of which were used to enforce strict rules on P fertilizer inputs on P saturated soils. A new smaller survey on a selection of these fields was undertaken in 2009 and 2010. Comparison of the survey results shows that the mean PSD increased significantly from 46 to 59% over this period. We found evidence for a strong shift of the PSD from the upper to lower layers. The PSD level in the top layer (0–30 cm) generally increased significantly (P < 0.01) from 83 to 91%. The average increase in the PSD level of the 30–60 and 60–90 cm layers was even greater, from 33 to 55% and from 14 to 25%, respectively (P < 0.01). Current limits on P fertilizer application have not yet resulted in P mining in these soils and will thus need to be further restricted. The very clear increase in PSD movement in deeper layers from both increased Pox, and reduced Feox concentrations show that these high PSD soils pose a very serious and direct threat to groundwater quality.
Low‐income, Pregnant, African American Women's Views on Physical Activity and Diet
Authors: Groth Susan W. , Morrison‐Beedy Dianne
Published: March 2013

Introduction

This research was conducted to gain insight into how low‐income, pregnant, African American women viewed physical activity and approached nutrition during pregnancy.

Methods

Three focus groups with a total of 26 women were conducted utilizing open‐ended questions related to physical activity and diet during pregnancy. Content analysis was used to analyze the verbatim transcripts. Groups were compared and contrasted at the within‐group and between‐group levels to identify themes.

Results

Two themes that related to physical activity during pregnancy were identified: 1) fatigue and low energy dictate activity and 2) motivation to exercise is not there. Three themes were identified that related to diet: 1) despite best intentions, appetite, taste, and cravings drive eating behavior; 2) I'll decide for myself what to eat; and 3) eating out is a way of life.

Discussion

Women reported that being physically active and improving their diets was not easy. Women indicated that their levels of physical activity had decreased since becoming pregnant. Attempts at improving their diets were undermined by frequenting fast food restaurants and cravings for highly dense, palatable foods. Women ceded to the physical aspects of pregnancy, often choosing to ignore the advice of others. A combination of low levels of physical activity and calorie‐dense diets increased the risk of excessive gestational weight gain in this sample of women, consequently increasing the risk for weight retention after pregnancy. Health care providers can promote healthy eating and physical activity by building on women's being “in tune with and listening to” their bodies. They can query women about their beliefs regarding physical activity and diet and offer information to ensure understanding of what contributes to healthy pregnancy outcomes. Intervention can focus on factors such as cravings and what tastes good, suggesting ways to manage pregnancy effects within a healthy diet.
Body Image and Gestational Weight Gain: A Prospective Study
Authors: Hill Briony , Skouteris Helen , McCabe Marita , Fuller‐Tyszkiewicz Matthew
Published: March 2013

Introduction

Approximately 50% of Australian adult women of childbearing age are overweight or obese, and, when pregnant, the majority gain excessive weight; this is also the case in the United States and other developed nations. High gestational weight gain (GWG) is the strongest predictor of maternal overweight/obesity postbirth and is also associated with an increased risk of childhood obesity. Understanding factors that contribute to excessive GWG is vital in combating obesity. The aim of the current study was to examine whether body image attitudes (eg, feeling fat, attractive, or strong and fit, and salience of weight and shape) predict GWG.

Methods

Pregnant women, recruited through advertisements on pregnancy online forums and parenting magazines, completed questionnaires assessing body image, demographic variables, and GWG. The Body Attitudes Questionnaire assessed body image in early‐to‐middle, middle, and late pregnancy (mean of 16.8, 24.7, and 33.0 weeks’ gestation, respectively). Total GWG was calculated by subtracting self‐reported pre pregnancy weight from self‐reported weight at 36.8 weeks’ gestation.

Results

A total of 150 pregnant women responded to the study's advertisements, and 72% (n = 108) took part. After controlling for pre pregnancy body mass index (BMI), lower attractiveness in early‐to‐middle pregnancy was associated with higher GWG. In late pregnancy, women who had the lowest feelings of fatness had greater GWG. Body image attitudes earlier in pregnancy did not predict whether GWG recommendations were exceeded. Women of higher BMI were more likely to gain excessive weight.

Discussion

The findings suggest that the type and timing of pregnancy, body attitudes, and the time of pregnancy when they are noted, predict GWG. However, more research in the area is needed, including assessment of the relationship between body image concerns, GWG, and other psychosocial factors. We recommend that midwives monitor body image concerns in pregnancy to help address factors affecting GWG in at‐risk women.
Using track changes and word processor to provide corrective feedback to learners in writing
Authors: AbuSeileek A.F.
Published: March 2013

This study investigated the effect of computer‐mediated corrective feedback types in an English as a foreign language (EFL) intact class over time. The participants were 64 English majors who were assigned randomly into three treatment conditions that gave and received computer‐mediated corrective feedback while writing (track changes, word processor, and track changes and word processor) and one control group that neither gave nor received writing corrective feedback. Students sat to a pre‐test (week 1), immediate post‐test (week 8) and delayed post‐test (week 12) in writing. Results showed decrease in mean error and mean feedback in students' writing performance related to correcting 11 major error types on immediate and delayed post‐tests, indicating that there was a significant effect for feedback type in favour of the group that used a combination of track changes and word processor. There was also a significant effect for the computer‐mediated corrective feedback over the control group. Moreover, results showed that both mean error and mean feedback decreased significantly from pre‐test to post‐test (week 1–week 8), indicating that overall, there was a significant change over time.
Virtual environments and autism: a developmental psychopathological approach
Authors: Rajendran G.
Published: March 2013

Individuals with autism spectrum disorders supposedly have an affinity with information and communication technology (ICT), making it an ideally suited media for this population. Virtual environments (VEs) – both two‐dimensional and immersive – represent a particular kind of ICT that might be of special benefit. Specifically, this paper discusses the importance of psychological theory for VE designed for this population. I describe the contribution that different theories of autism (e.g., theory of mind, executive function, weak central coherence theory) have made and can make, as well as the potential of other non‐autism‐specific theories (e.g., embodied cognition). These technologies not only illuminate our understanding of autism, but they can also be used to develop new technologies for people without autism. So, as well as being an area of specialism, I argue that VE research in autism has extended – and will go onto – the boundaries of human–computer interaction more generally. This is because autism provides a unique window into human social communication and learning. Further, this field offers a chance for better inclusivity for individuals with autism within a digital society.
Is it a tool suitable for learning? A critical review of the literature on Facebook as a technology‐enhanced learning environment
Authors: Manca S. , Ranieri M.
Published: March 2013

Despite its continuing popularity as the social network site par excellence, the educational value of Facebook has not been fully determined, and results from the mainstream educational paradigms are contradictory, with some scholars emphasizing its pedagogical affordances (e.g., widening context of learning, mixing information and learning resources, hybridization of expertise) and others cautioning against its use for educational purposes. Moreover, systematic reviews about documented educational usage of Facebook as a learning environment are lacking. This article attempts to provide a critical overview of current studies focusing on the use of Facebook as a technology‐enhanced learning environment, with the aim of exploring the extent to which its pedagogical potential is actually translated into practice. Only empirical studies published in peer‐reviewed academic journals with a specific focus on Facebook as a learning environment have been considered for the review. The authors conducted a comprehensive literature search that identified 23 relevant articles that were subsequently analysed according to a simplified list of guidelines. These articles were further analysed and recoded through a set of emerging categories. The results show that pedagogical affordances of Facebook have only been partially implemented and that there are still many obstacles that may prevent a full adoption of Facebook as a learning environment such as implicit institutional, teacher and student pedagogies, and cultural issues. Finally, a broad observation on the implications of the study is developed with some suggestions for future research.
Psychosocial Health of Infertile Ghanaian Women and Their Infertility Beliefs
Authors: Naab Florence , Brown Roger , Heidrich Susan
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to describe infertile women's psychosocial health problems and their infertility‐related beliefs and examine the relationships between their beliefs about infertility and psychosocial health problems.

Design

The study was a descriptive correlational cross‐sectional survey. Women (N = 203) who were receiving treatment for fertility problems in two public hospitals in Ghana were recruited.

Methods

Participants completed a Fertility Belief Questionnaire; measures of infertility‐related stress, anxiety, social isolation, perceived stigma, and depressive symptoms; and sociodemographic and infertility‐related health questions. Descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlations, and hierarchical regression analyses were performed.

Findings

The women reported high levels of infertility‐related stress, low levels of anxiety, some social isolation, low levels of perceived stigma, and high levels of depressive symptoms. Beliefs that infertility has negative consequences and that one has a poor understanding of infertility were significantly related to infertility‐related stress, social isolation, and depressive symptoms. Belief that infertility could be managed by personal control was significantly related to lower levels of anxiety and perceived stigma. Beliefs about consequences, illness coherence, and personal control explained significant proportions of the variances in anxiety, stress, social isolation, perceived stigma, and depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

Infertile women in Ghana have psychosocial health problems that are associated with their beliefs about infertility.

Clinical Relevance

Findings have implications for nursing care of infertile women in Ghana.