bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermoelectric properties of p-type Bi0.5Sb1.5Te2.7Se0.3 fabricated by high pressure sintering method
Authors: Xu Gui-Ying , Niu Si-Tong , Wu Xiao-Feng
Published: October 2012

Bi0.5Sb1.5Te2.7Se0.3 doped with 4 wt. % Te was prepared by high pressure (1.89–5.98 GPa) sintering (HPS) method. The phase composition, crystal structure and morphology were analyzed by x-ray diffraction method and scanning electron microscopy. The dependences of thermoelectric properties and microstructures of the samples on high pressure and temperature were studied. The results show that high pressure sintering has a great effect on the crystal structure and the thermoelectric properties of the samples. The HPS can decrease the thermal conductivity by nanostructure and increase the figure of merit. The ZTmax is 1.16. It deserves our special attention that this nanostructure has good stability at high temperature. Besides, the conditions for the Seebeck coefficient is equal to zero or it increases with the electric conductivity synchronously were discussed.
Application of the dressed-bound-state molecular strong-field approximation to above-threshold ionization of heteronuclear molecules: NO vs. CO
Authors: Busuladžić M. , Hasović E. , Becker W. , Milošević D. B.
Published: October 2012

We theoretically investigate high-order above-threshold ionization (HATI) of heteronuclear diatomic molecules applying the molecular strong-field approximation which includes dressing of the molecular bound state. We consider HATI of nitrogen monoxide molecules, which are characterized by the π symmetry of their highest occupied molecular orbital. We show that the HATI spectra of NO exhibit characteristic interference structures. We analyze the differences and similarities of the HATI spectra of NO molecules and the spectra of CO (σ symmetry) and O2 (πg symmetry) molecules. The symmetry properties of the molecular HATI spectra governed by linearly and elliptically polarized fields are considered in detail. The yields of high-energy electrons, contributing to the plateau region of the photoelectron spectra, strongly depend on the employed ellipticity.
Broadband near-infrared emission from bismuth-doped multilayer films
Authors: Morimoto Satoshi , Fujii Minoru , Sun Hong-Tao , Miwa Yuji , Imakita Kenji , Qiu Jianrong , Hayashi Shinji
Published: October 2012

Multilayer structures consisting of bismuth (Bi)-doped silica thin films and different kinds of spacer, i.e., Si, silica, Si-rich silica, layers are grown and the luminescence properties are studied. When samples were annealed at a low temperature, Bi-related near infrared active centers (BRACs) were formed at interfaces between Bi-doped silica and Si-rich silica (or silicon) due to the reduction of Bi3+ to BRACs by silicon. On the other hand, films annealed at a high temperature showed similar emission behaviors to bulk glasses. The results demonstrated here establish a new strategy for the control of BRACs and building peculiar Bi activated film structures.
Optically pumped long external cavity InGaN/GaN surface-emitting laser with injection seeding from a planar microcavity
Authors: Zeng X. , Boïko D. L. , Cosendey G. , Glauser M. , Carlin J.-F. , Grandjean N.
Published: October 2012

Optically pumped InGaN/GaN quantum well vertical-external-cavity surface-emitting laser emitting at 420 nm has been realized. Lasing at external cavity lengths of up to 50 mm is demonstrated, making integration of practical sized intracavity elements possible. Spectral and beam profile measurements indicate best operation conditions in a semiconfocal cavity configuration. Lasing threshold of 20.9 W is achieved for a 49 mm long cavity with output beam quality parameter M2 not exceeding 1.1.
Cultural Diversity, Institutions, and Urban Economic Performance
Authors: Kemeny Thomas
Published: October 2012

Interactions between culturally diverse individuals can spur economic benefits by stimulating new ideas that raise urban residents' productivity. But diversity can also diminish economic well-being by making communication difficult, and by stimulating conflict. This paper investigates whether urban institutions—in particular residents' sense of generalized trust—determine when diversity is an economic asset and when it is a liability. To do so, data on trust, birthplace diversity, wages, and demographics in US metropolitan areas are combined. The evidence suggests that workers are much better able to harness the productivity-enhancing spillovers that arise from cultural diversity when they live in cities endowed with strong informal institutions.
Recognising the Time—Space Dimensions of Care: Caringscapes and Carescapes
Authors: Bowlby Sophie
Published: October 2012

This paper is concerned with the geographical analysis of care relationships. It argues that concern with space needs to be augmented by a more explicit attention to the importance of time to caring. The paper discusses the importance of time to social relationships of care, and reviews existing attempts to integrate time with space in geographical research. The paper reflects on and extends the ‘caringscapes/carescapes’ framework for research on informal care proposed in a recent book and earlier publications by myself and colleagues. It suggests that exploring the time—space links between the processes producing policies and services and those affecting individual behaviours is a promising avenue for future research.
Rhythms of the Night: Spatiotemporal Inequalities in the Nighttime Economy
Authors: Schwanen Tim , van Aalst Irina , Brands Jelle , Timan Tjerk
Published: October 2012

The authors seek to extend the literature on inequalities and exclusion in the nighttime economy through a rhythmic analysis of visitor presence in public space in nightlife districts in the city centres of the Dutch cities of Groningen, Utrecht, and Rotterdam. Substantial inequalities in visitor presence, based on race/ethnicity and gender, are demonstrated. In the cities considered, racial/ethnic inequalities vary more in spatial terms, and gender inequalities fluctuate more heavily over the course of the night. Overall, however, the findings support the argument that exclusion from the nighttime economy needs to be understood in temporal—ecological terms. Multiple drivers, or pacemakers, of rhythmic inequalities rooted in race/ethnicity and gender are identified, including opening hours and revellers' collective habits. For advocates of greater diversity among nighttime-economy participants, the analysis suggests that neither a more varied supply of nightlife premises, nor more surveillance and policing, are straightforward solutions: a strong orientation of premises toward university students and urban professionals may promote gender-based inclusion, but deters nonwhite revellers, and more police on the street may empower women to move through a nightlife district unaccompanied yet reduce the inclination to do so among racial/ethnic minorities
Impact of mouse pregnancy on thymic T lymphocyte subsets
Authors: Cortina María E. , Litwin Silvana , Roux María E. , Miranda Silvia
Published: October 2012

It has been reported that fetal lymphoid progenitor cells are acquired during gestation and are able to develop in the maternal mouse thymus into functional T cells. Moreover, previous pregnancies increase the number of fetal cells in the mother. In the present study, we investigated whether mouse pregnancy induces changes in T lymphocyte subsets in the maternal thymus. We determined the T lymphocyte subsets in two allogeneic cross-breedings, namely CBA/J × BALB/c (normal) and CBA/J × DBA/2 (abortion prone), and investigated the effects of the age and parity of the female, as well as pregnancy outcome, on thymocyte populations. In addition, hormonal effects were evaluated in a syngeneic combination (CBA/J × CBA/J). We found that during pregnancy both hormonal and allogeneic stimuli induced a reduction in the CD4+CD8+ subset with an increase in the CD4+CD8– population. Only young females of the normal combination exhibited an increase in the CD4–CD8+ population. All young mice showed an increase in CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ T cells. Interestingly, the γδT thymus pool was increased in all females of the normal allogeneic pregnancy only, suggesting the participation of this pool in the observed beneficial effect of multiparity in this cross-breeding. Our results demonstrate that allogeneic pregnancies induce important variations in maternal thymocyte subpopulations depending on the age of the female and the male component of the cross-breeding.
Unravelling the needs of singly in vitro-produced bovine embryos: from cumulus cell co-culture to semi-defined, oil-free culture conditions
Authors: Goovaerts I. G. F. , Leroy J. L. M. R. , Langbeen A. , Jorssen E. P. A. , Bosmans E. , Bols P. E. J.
Published: October 2012

Producing bovine in vitro embryos individually is a challenge as it generally leads to impaired embryo development. Earlier research optimised a single embryo in vitro production (IVP) protocol using serum, cumulus cells and oil during culture. As some of these factors are undesirable in certain circumstances, the present study investigated their necessity and possible interactions, and defined their role during single-embryo culture. Although the cumulus cell monolayer produced progesterone, it appeared not to be a key factor in supporting single-embryo development. Because in vitro culture in large medium volumes was shown to impair single-embryo development, two new oil-free culture protocols were tested. Using a 30-µL droplet of medium in 96-well plates with a small surface area resulted in comparable blastocyst rates to those obtained under oil. When serum was used, co-culture with cumulus cells seems necessary, leading to consistently high blastocyst rates. Finally, a serum-free, oil-free culture system using insulin, transferrin, selenium and BSA resulted in embryos with similar total cell numbers and apoptotic cell ratios, but blastocyst rates did not equal those obtained with serum and co-culture. This research additionally stresses the fact that specific interaction mechanisms between somatic cells and a developing in vitro embryo are far from unravelled.
Globalization of food production and implications for nutrition.
Authors: Huneault L. , Raine K. , Tremblay A.
Published: October 2012

In this review, we propose that agricultural changes experienced in recent years can be explained by globalization, a contemporary reality that ultimately leads to changes in food consumption and negative implications for health. Our main hypothesis is that agricultural traditions, perverted by globalization, play an important part in the decline of food quality and natural environments, thereby resulting in short- and long-term nutritional implications, affecting consumption habits and influencing the health of individuals, particularly those already disadvantaged. While globalization affects many determinants of health, this review focuses on agricultural changes. We argue that altered farming practices, in particular, contribute to deteriorating population health.
The semantic specificity of gestures when verbal communication is not possible: The case of emergency evacuation
Authors: Prati Gabriele , Pietrantoni Luca ,   representatives of the Main School of Fire Service in Warsaw
Published: October 2012

The aim of the present study was to examine the comprehension of gesture in a situation in which the communicator cannot (or can only with difficulty) use verbal communication. Based on theoretical considerations, we expected to obtain higher semantic comprehension for emblems (gestures with a direct verbal definition or translation that is well known by all members of a group, or culture) compared to illustrators (gestures regarded as spontaneous and idiosyncratic and that do not have a conventional definition). Based on the extant literature, we predicted higher semantic specificity associated with arbitrarily coded and iconically coded emblems compared to intrinsically coded illustrators. Using a scenario of emergency evacuation, we tested the difference in semantic specificity between different categories of gestures. 138 participants saw 10 videos each illustrating a gesture performed by a firefighter. They were requested to imagine themselves in a dangerous situation and to report the meaning associated with each gesture. The results showed that intrinsically coded illustrators were more successfully understood than arbitrarily coded emblems, probably because the meaning of intrinsically coded illustrators is immediately comprehensible without recourse to symbolic interpretation. Furthermore, there was no significant difference between the comprehension of iconically coded emblems and that of both arbitrarily coded emblems and intrinsically coded illustrators. It seems that the difference between the latter two types of gestures was supported by their difference in semantic specificity, although in a direction opposite to that predicted. These results are in line with those of Hadar and Pinchas‐Zamir (2004), which showed that iconic gestures have higher semantic specificity than conventional gestures.
Empirical Antimicrobial Prescriptions in Patients withClostridium difficileInfection at Hospital Admission and Impact on Clinical Outcome
Authors: Pop-Vicas Aurora , Shaban Eman , Letourneau Cecile , Pechie Angel
Published: October 2012

Objective.

To determine, among patients withClostridium difficileinfection (CDI) at hospital admission, the impact of concurrent use of systemic, non-CDI-related antimicrobials on clinical outcomes and the risk factors associated with unnecessary antimicrobial prescribing.

Design.

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting.

University-affiliated community hospital.

Methods.

We reviewed computerized medical records for all patients with CDI at hospital admission during a 24-month period (January 1, 2008, through December 31, 2009). Colectomy, discharge to hospice, and in-hospital mortality were considered to be adverse outcomes. Antimicrobial use was considered unnecessary in the absence of physical signs and laboratory or radiological findings suggestive of an infection other than CDI or in the absence of antimicrobial activity against the organism(s) recovered from clinical cultures.

Results.

Among the 94 patients with CDI at hospital admission, 62% received at least one non-CDI-related antimicrobial during their hospitalization for CDI. Severe complicated CDI (odds ratio [OR], 7.1 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 1.8–28.5];P= .005), duration of non-CDI-related antimicrobial exposure (OR, 1.2 [95% CI, 1.03–1.36];P= .016), and age (OR, 1.1 [95% CI, 1.0–1.1];P= .043) were independent risk factors for adverse clinical outcomes. One-third of the patients received unnecessary antimicrobial therapy. Sepsis at hospital admission (OR, 5.3 [95% CI, 1.8–15.8];P= .003) and clinical suspicion of urinary tract infection (OR, 9.7 [95% CI, 2.9–32.3];P< .001) were independently associated with unnecessary antimicrobial prescriptions.

Conclusions.

Empirical use of non-CDI-related antimicrobials was common. Prolonged exposure to non-CDI-related antimicrobials was associated with adverse clinical outcomes, including increased in-hospital mortality. Minimizing non-CDI-related antimicrobial exposure in patients with CDI seems warranted.
Effect of Hospital-Wide Chlorhexidine Patient Bathing on Healthcare-Associated Infections
Authors: Rupp Mark E. , Cavalieri R. Jennifer , Lyden Elizabeth , Kucera Jennifer , Martin MaryAnn , Fitzgerald Teresa , Tyner Kate , Anderson James R. , VanSchooneveld Trevor C.
Published: October 2012

Background.

Chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) bathing has been used primarily in critical care to prevent central line-associated bloodstream infections and infections due to multidrug-resistant organisms. The objective was to determine the effect of hospital-wide CHG patient bathing on healthcare-associated infections (HAIs).

Design.

Quasi-experimental, staged, dose-escalation study for 19 months followed by a 4-month washout period, in 3 cohorts.

Setting.

Academic medical center.

Patients.

All patients except neonates and infants.

Intervention and Measurements.

CHG bathing in the form of bed basin baths or showers administered 3 days per week or daily. CHG bathing compliance was monitored, and the rate of HAIs was measured.

Results.

Over 188,859 patient-days, 68,302 CHG baths were administered. Adherence to CHG bathing in the adult critical care units (90%) was better than that observed in other units (57.7%, P< .001). A significant decrease in infections due to Clostridium difficile was observed in all cohorts of patients during the intervention period, followed by a significant rise during the washout period. For all cohorts, the relative risk of C. difficile infection compared to baseline was 0.71 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.57–0.89; P = .003) for 3-days-per-week CHG bathing and 0.41 (95% CI, 0.29–0.59; P < .001) for daily CHG bathing. During the washout period, the relative risk of infection was 1.85 (95% CI, 1.38–2.53; P =< .001), compared to that with daily CHG bathing. A consistent effect of CHG bathing on other HAIs was not observed. No adverse events related to CHG bathing were reported.

Conclusions.

CHG bathing was well tolerated and was associated with a significant decrease in C. difficile infections in hospitalized patients.
What Is Nosocomial? Large Variation in Hospital Choice of Numerators and Denominators Affects Rates of Hospital-Onset Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Datta Rupak , King Melissa Kuo , Kim Diane , Nguyen Christopher , Elkins Kristen , Gombosev Adrijana , Avery Taliser R. , Meyers Hildy , Cheung Michele , Huang Susan S.
Published: October 2012

We calculated hospital-onset methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (HO-MRSA) rates for Orange County, California, hospitals using survey and state data. Numerators were variably defined as HO-MRSA occurring more than 48 hours (37%), more than 2 days (30%), and more than 3 days (33%) postadmission. Survey-reported denominators differed from state-reported patient-days. Numerator and denominator choices substantially impacted HO-MRSA rates.
The Epidemiology of Methicillin-ResistantStaphylococcus aureuson a Burn Trauma Unit
Authors: Schweizer Marin , Ward Melissa , Cobb Sandra , McDanel Jennifer , Leder Laurie , Wibbenmeyer Lucy , Latenser Barbara , Diekema Daniel , Herwaldt Loreen
Published: October 2012

Objective.

We assessed the frequency and relatedness of methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA) isolates to determine whether healthcare workers, the environment, or admitted patients could be a reservoir for MRSA on a burn trauma unit (BTU). We also assessed risk factors for MRSA colonization among BTU patients.

Design.

Prospective cohort study and surveillance for MRSA carriage.

Setting.

BTU of a Midwestern academic medical center.

Patients and Participants.

Patients admitted to a BTU from February 2009 through January 2010 and healthcare workers on this unit during the same time period.

Methods.

Samples for MRSA culture were collected on admission from the nares and wounds of all BTU patients. We also had collected culture samples from the throat, axilla, antecubital fossa, groin, and perianal area of 12 patients per month. Samples collected from healthcare workers' nares and from environmental sites were cultured quarterly. MRSA isolates were typed by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis.

Results.

Of 144 patients, 24 (17%) carried MRSA in their nares on admission. Male sex (odds ratio [OR], 5.51; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.25–24.30), admission for necrotizing fasciitis (OR, 7.66; 95% CI, 1.64–35.81), and MRSA colonization of a site other than the nares (OR, 23.40; 95% CI, 6.93–79.01) were independent predictors of MRSA nasal carriage. Cultures of samples collected from 4 healthcare workers and 4 environmental cultures had positive results. Two patients were colonized with strains that were indistinguishable from strains collected from a healthcare worker or the environment.

Conclusions.

Patients were a major reservoir for MRSA. Infection control efforts should focus on preventing transmission of MRSA from patients who are MRSA carriers to other patients on the unit.
Needlestick Injuries among Employees at a Nationwide Retail Pharmacy Chain, 2000–2011
Authors: de Perio Marie A.
Published: October 2012

We reviewed a nationwide retail pharmacy chain's centralized needlestick injury reports. From 2000 to 2011, 33 needlestick injuries were reported by 31 different pharmacy locations and were likely preventable. The annual incidence of needlestick injuries ranged from 0 to 3.62 per 100,000 vaccinations and ranged from 0 to 5.65 per 1,000 immunizing pharmacists.
Reputation with Analogical Reasoning*
Authors: Jehiel Philippe , Samuelson Larry
Published: October 2012

We consider a repeated interaction between a long-run player and a sequence of short-run players, in which the long-run player may either be rational or may be a mechanical type who plays the same (possibly mixed) action in every stage game. We depart from the classical model in assuming that the short-run players make inferences by analogical reasoning, meaning that they correctly identify the average strategy of each type of long-run player, but do not recognize how this play varies across histories. Concentrating on 2 × 2 games, we provide a characterization of equilibrium payoffs, establishing a payoff bound for the rational long-run player that can be strictly larger than the familiar “Stackelberg” bound. We also provide a characterization of equilibrium behavior, showing that play begins with either a reputation-building or a reputation-spending stage (depending on parameters), followed by a reputation-manipulation stage.
BILATERAL DIFFUSE UVEAL MELANOCYTIC PROLIFERATION ASSOCIATED WITH RENAL CELL CARCINOMA
Authors: Verdaguer Juan , Oporto Jorge
Published: October 2012

Purpose:

To report a case of bilateral diffuse uveal melanocytic proliferation associated with an asymptomatic renal cell carcinoma.

Design:

Clinical case report.

Methods:

A 70-year-old man presented with a 7-month history of bilateral visual loss. Ophthalmoscopic examination, fluorescein angiography, ocular coherence tomography, and a search for underlying systemic malignancy were performed.

Results:

Examination revealed multiple melanocytic uveal proliferations in both eyes. Fluorescein angiography revealed a pattern of multiple areas of early hyperfluorescence, and ocular coherence tomography showed serous detachment of the central retina. Abdominal computerized tomography scans showed a large tumor in the left kidney and nodular involvement in the right kidney. Pathologic examination revealed a clear cell carcinoma of the kidney.

Conclusion:

A literature review revealed a total of 40 cases of bilateral diffuse uveal melanocytic proliferation. To our knowledge, this is the first case to be associated with renal cell carcinoma.
PUB-NChIP—“in vivo biotinylation” approach to study chromatin in proximity to a protein of interest
Authors: Shoaib Muhammad , Kulyyassov Arman , Robin Chloé , Winczura Kinga , Tarlykov Pavel , Despas Emmanuelle , Kannouche Patricia , Ramanculov Erlan , Lipinski Marc , Ogryzko Vasily
Published: October 2012

We have developed an approach termed PUB-NChIP (proximity utilizing biotinylation with native ChIP) to purify and study the protein composition of chromatin in proximity to a nuclear protein of interest. It is based on coexpression of (1) a protein of interest, fused with the bacterial biotin ligase BirA, together with (2) a histone fused to a biotin acceptor peptide (BAP), which is specifically biotinylated by BirA-fusion in the proximity of the protein of interest. Using the RAD18 protein as a model, we demonstrate that the RAD18-proximal chromatin is enriched in some H4 acetylated species. Moreover, the RAD18-proximal chromatin containing a replacement histone H2AZ has a different pattern of H4 acetylation. Finally, biotin pulse-chase experiments show that the H4 acetylation pattern starts to resemble the acetylation pattern of total H4 after the proximity of chromatin to RAD18 has been lost.
The Cell Wall of the Arabidopsis Pollen Tube—Spatial Distribution, Recycling, and Network Formation of Polysaccharides
Authors: Chebli Youssef , Kaneda Minako , Zerzour Rabah , Geitmann Anja
Published: October 2012

The pollen tube is a cellular protuberance formed by the pollen grain, or male gametophyte, in flowering plants. Its principal metabolic activity is the synthesis and assembly of cell wall material, which must be precisely coordinated to sustain the characteristic rapid growth rate and to ensure geometrically correct and efficient cellular morphogenesis. Unlike other model species, the cell wall of the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) pollen tube has not been described in detail. We used immunohistochemistry and quantitative image analysis to provide a detailed profile of the spatial distribution of the major cell wall polymers composing the Arabidopsis pollen tube cell wall. Comparison with predictions made by a mechanical model for pollen tube growth revealed the importance of pectin deesterification in determining the cell diameter. Scanning electron microscopy demonstrated that cellulose microfibrils are oriented in near longitudinal orientation in the Arabidopsis pollen tube cell wall, consistent with a linear arrangement of cellulose synthase CESA6 in the plasma membrane. The cellulose label was also found inside cytoplasmic vesicles and might originate from an early activation of cellulose synthases prior to their insertion into the plasma membrane or from recycling of short cellulose polymers by endocytosis. A series of strategic enzymatic treatments also suggests that pectins, cellulose, and callose are highly cross linked to each other.
Anbar Abstracts Issue
Authors: Sandelands Eric
Published: October 2012

This special “Anbar Abstracts” issue of the Industrial and Commercial Training is split into six sections covering abstracts under the following headings:Education/Graduates/Students; Training/Learning Techniques; Skills Training; Management Development;
Career/Human Resources Development; Training Technology.
Strategic issues for training
Authors: Fojt Martin
Published: October 2012

It is widely accepted that improvements in the management of employees can contribute to the competitive advantage of companies. Indeed, human resource management (HRM) holds that the success of business strategy hinges on the development of a more strategic approach to the management of labour. Training is an element which is central to any assessment of the effectiveness of HRM strategies, and it is linked to HRM in three major ways: (1) Companies become dependent on the external labour market for their skills supply if they neglect it. (2) It creates an incentive to develop complementary aspects of HRM in order to protect the company’s investment. (3)Training has a symbolic value in so far as it demonstrates to employees the value the company places on them and can thus contribute to motivation.
Anbar Abstracts Issue
Authors: Sandelands Eric
Published: October 2012

This special “Anbar Abstracts” issue of Employee Relations is split into seven sections covering abstracts under the following headings:
Design of Work; Performance, Productivity and Motivation; Patterns of Work; Pay, Incentives and Pensions; Career/Manpower Planning; Industrial Relations and Participation; Health and Safety.
A special issue of abstracted articles on European and international management issues
Authors: Fojt Martin
Published: October 2012

This special “Anbar Abstracts” issue of the European Business Review is split into six sections covering abstracts under the following headings: Top management issues; Marketing and distribution; Personnel and training; Information management and technology; Operations and production management; Accounting and finance.
Endocarditis prophylaxis and congenital heart defects in the Norwegian Public Dental Service
Authors: Sivertsen Tine B , Åstrøm Anne N , Greve Gottfried , Aßmus Jörg , Skeie Marit S
Published: October 2012

Aims

The aims of this study are (i) to assess how dental health workers of the Public Dental Service, PDS, carry out endocarditis prophylaxis related to dental treatment for children and adolescents with congenital heart defects (CHD) and to identify factors influencing their appropriate use of guidelines and (ii) to assess how dental health workers perceive any characteristics of patients with CHD.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was based on self‐administered questionnaires mailed to all dentists and hygienists in the PDS in three Norwegian counties.

Results

The response rates among dentists (n = 130) and dental hygienists (n = 54) were, respectively, 63% and 68%. The findings revealed an over‐prescription of endocarditis antibiotics to patients with CHD. Most of the background variables investigated did not influence the responders' prescription decision for appropriate use of the current guidelines on the topic. The only significant factor was whether or not the respondent considered that the endocarditis prophylaxis guidelines were consistent and easy to follow. Compared with healthy children, dental healthcare workers felt less confident when providing dental treatment to children with CHD.

Conclusion

There is room for improved education about children with CHD in dentistry and dental education.
Building Social Work Education and the Profession in a Transition Country: Case of Nepal
Authors: Nikku Bala Raju
Published: October 2012

Drawing on interviews and personal accounts of the author working in Nepal for the last 7 years, this paper discusses the evolution of social work education and challenges for its growth in Nepal, a country that is going through a series of transitions and is emerging from a recent decade‐long armed conflict. Due to a lack of formal recognition and commitment from state and non‐state actors, the future of social work in Nepal is in the hands of university‐affiliated colleges and the few social work graduates and educators. Their commitment, strategies, and passion are crucial to the survival and growth of social work in conflict‐stricken, transition Nepal in South Asia.
The Effect of Socioeconomic Status and Family Structure on Parental Warmth and Parental Control in aChinese Context: Implications for Social Work Practice
Authors: Ma Joyce L.C. , Wong Timothy K.Y. , Lau Yuk K. , Lai Lok Y.
Published: October 2012

We report the results of a telephone survey conducted in 2008 inHongKong, which aimed to identifyChinese parents' parental warmth and parental control (guan) and to explore their relationship with the sociodemographic characteristics of the parents. The respondents perceived themselves to be warm (mean = 3.44) and educating their child (mean = 3.46). The results of multiple regression analysis showed that the five sociodemographic characteristics explained 15.8% and 8.2% of the variance in parental warmth andguanrespectively. The mothers were warmer than the fathers; parents with higher monthly household income, higher educational attainment and with their smallest child young in age were warmer than parents of lower household income, lower educational attainment and with their smallest child older in age. However, parentalguandid not vary among the five sociodemographic characteristics except educational attainment. Implications of the study for social work practice are discussed.
HMMC‐1, a human monoclonal antibody to fucosylated core 1 O‐glycan, suppresses growth of uterine endometrial cancer cells
Authors: Oikawa Fumiko , Kojima‐Aikawa Kyoko , Inoue Fumika , Suzuki Atsushi , Tanaka Kyoko , Tominaga Eiichiro , Aoki Daisuke
Published: October 2012

HMMC‐1 is a human monoclonal antibody that reacts with a fucosylated and extended core 1 O‐glycan, Fucα1‐2Galβ1‐4GlcNAcβ1‐3Galβ1‐3GalNAc‐Ser/Thr, as an epitope. In the present study, we examined the effects of HMMC‐1 on cell proliferation of two human uterine endometrial cancer cell lines, HEC8 and HEC9, to investigate the role of glycoproteins bearing the HMMC‐1 epitope in cancer progression. HEC9 cells expressed high levels of the HMMC‐1 epitope, but HMMC‐1 reactivity was hardly detected in HEC8 cells. In a mouse model of lymph node metastasis using orthotopic implantation, HEC8 and HEC9 showed low (10%) and high (80%) metastatic potency, respectively. Growth of HEC9, but not HEC8, was remarkably inhibited by addition of HMMC‐1 to the culture medium. Cell cycle analysis and expression analysis showed that HMMC‐1 treatment increased the G1 phase population of HEC9 cells and induced cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitors p16 and p21. Two glycoproteins, 97 and 137 kDa, with a strong reactivity to HMMC‐1 were purified, and the 97‐kDa glycoprotein was identified as CD166, an immunoglobulin superfamily cell adhesion molecule assumed to be involved in cancer metastasis. CD166 gene‐silencing dramatically reduced HMMC‐1 epitope expression and growth in HEC9 cells, indicating that CD166 is the primary glycoprotein presenting the HMMC‐1 epitope in HEC9 cells. Collectively, HMMC‐1 might arrest the cell cycle in the G1 phase by binding to O‐glycans on the CD166 expressed in HEC9 cells, raising the possibility that HMMC‐1 extensively inhibits invasive growth of HMMC‐1 epitope‐positive uterine endometrial cancer cells by targeting the cancer‐associated form of CD166. (Cancer Sci 2013; 104: 62–69)
Structure‐Based Design and Synthesis of Benzothiazole Phosphonate Analogues with Inhibitors of Human ABAD‐Aβ for Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Valasani Koteswara R. , Hu Gang , Chaney Michael O. , Yan Shirley S.
Published: October 2012

Amyloid binding alcohol dehydrogenase, a mitochondrial protein, is a cofactor facilitating amyloid‐β peptide (Aß) induced cell stress. Antagonizing Aß‐ABAD interaction protects against aberrant mitochondrial and neuronal function and improves learning memory in the Alzheimer’s disease mouse model. Therefore, it offers a potential target for Alzheimer’s drug design, by identifying potential inhibitors of Aβ‐ABAD interaction. 2D QSAR methods were applied to novel compounds with known IC50 values, which formed a training set. A correlation analysis was carried out comparing the statistics of the measured IC50 with predicted values. These selectivity‐determining descriptors were interpreted graphically in terms of principle component analyses, which are highly informative for the lead optimization process with respect to activity enhancement. A 3D pharmacophore model also was created. The 2D QSAR and 3D pharmacophore models will assist in high‐throughput screening. In addition, ADME descriptors were also determined to study their pharmacokinetic properties. Finally, amyloid binding alcohol dehydrogenase molecular docking study of these novel molecules was undertaken to determine whether these compounds exhibit significant binding affinity with the binding site. We have synthesized only the compounds that have shown the best drug‐like properties as candidates for further studies.
XMetA, an allosteric monoclonal antibody to the insulin receptor, improves glycaemic control in mice with diet‐induced obesity
Authors: Bhaskar V. , Lau A. , Goldfine I. D. , Narasimha A. J. , Gross L. M. , Wong S. , Cheung B. , White M. L. , Corbin J. A.
Published: October 2012

XMetA, a high‐affinity, fully human monoclonal antibody, allosterically binds to and activates the insulin receptor (INSR). Previously, we found that XMetA normalized fasting glucose and glucose tolerance in insulinopenic mice. To determine whether XMetA is also beneficial for reducing hyperglycaemia due to the insulin resistance of obesity, we have now evaluated XMetA in hyperinsulinemic mice with diet‐induced obesity. XMetA treatment of these mice normalized fasting glucose for 4 weeks without contributing to weight gain. XMetA also corrected glucose tolerance and improved non‐high density lipoprotein cholesterol. These studies indicate, therefore, that monoclonal antibodies that allosterically activate the INSR, such as XMetA, have the potential to be novel agents for the treatment of hyperglycaemia in conditions associated with the insulin resistance of obesity.
Development of a fuzzy decision support framework for complex multi‐attribute decision problems: A case study for the selection of skilful basketball players
Authors: Ballı Serkan , Korukoğlu Serdar
Published: October 2012

The selection of skilful players is a complicated process due to the problem criteria consisting of both qualitative and quantitative attributes as well as vague linguistic terms. This study seeks to develop a decision support framework for the selection of candidates eligible to become basketball players through the use of a fuzzy multi‐attribute decision making (MADM) algorithm. The proposed model is based on fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) and Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) methods. The model was employed in the Youth and Sports Center of Mugla, Turkey, with the participation of seven junior basketball players aged between 7 and 14. In the present study, physical fitness measurement values and observation values of technical skills were utilized. FAHP was used to determine the weights of the criteria and the observation values of technical skills by decision makers. Physical fitness measurement values were converted to fuzzy values by using a fuzzy set approach. Subsequently, the overall ranking of the candidate players was determined by the TOPSIS method. Results were compared with human experts’ opinions. It is observed that the developed model is more reliable to be used in decision making. The model architecture and experimental results along with illustrative examples are further demonstrated in the study.
Climate change and rates of vagrancy of Siberian bird species to Europe
Authors: Jiguet Frédéric , Barbet‐Massin Morgane
Published: October 2012

To assess whether increasing numbers of Siberian vagrants observed in Europe in recent autumns can be linked to climate change, we predicted changes in the climatic suitability of the breeding ranges of 46 Siberian bird species known to show vagrancy to Europe and compared these predictions with observed changes in recorded rates of autumn vagrancy across eight European countries during the last three decades. There was a positive correlation between predicted increase in breeding range and vagrancy rates. A positive impact of climate change on range and population size could promote vagrancy, while the increasing use of such alternative migration flyways could provide adaptive advantages in a changing environment.
Future pharmacological treatments for substance use disorders
Authors: Forray Ariadna , Sofuoglu Mehmet
Published: October 2012

Substance use disorders represent a serious public health and social issue worldwide. Recent advances in our understanding of the neurobiological basis of the addictive processes have led to the development of a growing number of pharmacological agents to treat addictions. Despite this progress, there are no approved pharmacological treatments for cocaine, methamphetamine and cannabis addiction. Moving treatment development to the next stage will require novel ways of approaching substance use disorders. One such novel approach is to target individual vulnerabilities, such as cognitive function, sex differences and psychiatric comorbidities. This review provides a summary of promising pharmacotherapies for alcohol, opiate, stimulant and nicotine addictions. Many medications that target positive and negative reinforcement of drugs, as well as individual vulnerabilities to addiction, are in different phases of development. Clinical trials testing the efficacy of these medications for substance use disorder are warranted.
Climate change exacerbates interspecific interactions in sympatric coastal fishes
Authors: Milazzo Marco , Mirto Simone , Domenici Paolo , Gristina Michele
Published: October 2012

Biological responses to warming are presently based on the assumption that species will remain within their bioclimatic envelope as environmental conditions change. As a result, changes in the relative abundance of several marine species have been documented over the last decades. This suggests that warming may drive novel interspecific interactions to occur (i.e. invasive vs. native species) or may intensify the strength of pre‐existing ones (i.e. warm vs. cold adapted). For mobile species, habitat relocation is a viable solution to track tolerable conditions and reduce competitive costs, resulting in ‘winner’ species dominating the best quality habitat at the expense of ‘loser’ species.

Here, we focus on the importance of warming in exacerbating interspecific interactions between two sympatric fishes. We assessed the relocation response of the cool‐water fish Coris julis (a potential ‘loser’ species in warming scenarios) at increasing relative dominance of the warm‐water fish Thalassoma pavo (a ‘winner’ species). These wrasses are widespread in the Mediterranean nearshore waters. C. julis tolerates cooler waters and is found throughout the basin. T. pavo is common along southern coasts, although the species range is expanding northwards as the Mediterranean warms.

We surveyed habitat patterns along a thermo‐latitudinal gradient in the Western Mediterranean Sea and manipulated seawater temperature under two scenarios (present day vs. projected) in outdoor arenas. Our results show that the cool‐water species relocates to a less‐preferred seagrass habitat and undergoes lower behavioural performance in warmer environments, provided the relative dominance of its warm‐water antagonist is high.

The results suggest that expected warming will act synergistically with increased relative dominance of a warm‐water species to cause a cool‐water fish to relocate in a less‐preferred habitat within the same thermal environment.

Our study highlights the complexity of climate change effects and has broad implications for predictive models of responses to warming. To achieve more accurate predictions, further consideration is needed of the pervasive importance of species interactions. We believe these fundamental issues to be addressed to understand the biotic consequences of climate change.
Assembly history alters alpha and beta diversity, exotic–native proportions and functioning of restored prairie plant communities
Authors: Martin Leanne M. , Wilsey Brian J.
Published: October 2012

Restorations provide a test of community assembly history theory, and practitioners require information on how assembly history might help to restore diverse native species communities. Variation in community assembly history (historical order of species arrival) is hypothesized to generate beta diversity by producing alternate states, but restorations are hindered because there have been few tests using long‐term field experiments.

We experimentally altered assembly history of native species into formerly exotic‐dominated grassland sites while simultaneously removing dispersal limitation to test whether alternate states or a single equilibrium would develop and whether alternate states would generate varying ecosystem‐level effects. Assembly history was altered by varying the identity of early‐emerging species, timing of seed additions after disturbance (early‐emerging species added in spring or summer) and priority effects (common 30‐species seed mixture added either at the same time or after an early‐emerging species canopy developed). The experiment was conducted at two sites that differed in productivity.

Altering timing and priority effects during assembly history had large effects on species composition and diversity. On average, diversity was highest, and the proportion of exotic species was lowest in plots seeded in spring and without priority effects. Identity of early‐emerging species did not significantly affect community structure.

Differences in species composition affected fuel mass, fire temperatures and peak above‐ground primary productivity, key ecosystem processes in tallgrass prairie.

Synthesis and applications. Our results indicate that grassland communities can reach alternate exotic‐ or native‐dominated states in uniform environments when perennial exotic species are present. These states were strongly affected by timing of native species arrival and priority effects. Thus, assembly history is a key process that can give rise to beta diversity, and our results suggest that native species should be established early in the restoration process before exotics become fully established.
The effectiveness of classical biological control of invasive plants
Authors: Clewley Gary D. , Eschen René , Shaw Richard H. , Wright Denis J.
Published: October 2012

Invasive alien plants have serious economic and ecological impacts, for example, by displacing native plants and invertebrates, and their management is often costly and ineffective in the long term. Classical biological control using specialized, coevolved natural enemies from the native region of the invader is often advocated as a preferred alternative to chemical and mechanical control, but there is a lack of quantitative assessment of control of the target species and subsequent establishment of native vegetation and invertebrates.

Meta‐analyses were carried out combining the results of 61 published studies (2000–2011) that quantified the impact of classical biocontrol at the level of individual target plants, target populations or non‐target vegetation. Factors associated with the control programmes (invasive region, native region, plant growth form, target longevity, control agent guild, taxonomy and study duration) were analysed to identify patterns in control success.

On average, biocontrol agents significantly reduced plant size (28 ± 4%), plant mass (37 ± 4%), flower and seed production (35 ± 13% and 42 ± 9%, respectively) and target plant density (56 ± 7%). Beetles in the Chrysomelidae and Curculionidae families were more effective at reducing plant size than other groups.

Non‐target plant diversity significantly increased by 88 ± 31% at sites where biocontrol agents were released, but it was largely unclear whether the replacement plant species were native or invasive.

Synthesis and applications. The number of studies that provide quantitative indications of the effectiveness of biocontrol and the response of non‐target taxa has increased over the past decade, but remains small compared to the total number of publications on the classical biocontrol of invasive plants. Nonetheless, this study demonstrates the positive impacts of classical biocontrol and the re‐establishment of native plants in a broad range of systems and establishes the value of classical biocontrol for the control of invasive alien plants. The Chrysomelidae and Curculionidae families were the most effective agents and we recommend these be prioritized in cases where potential agents of different taxa have also been identified. In addition, data on the recovery of native plant species and the invertebrate community remain sparse and it is recommended that future studies report the identity of plant species that replace target species as well as invertebrate community responses.