bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are We Aligned…Enough? The Effects of Perceptual Congruence Between Service Teams and Their Leaders on Team Performance
Authors: Benlian Alexander
Published: January 2014

Despite the widely acknowledged importance of concerted efforts between service teams and their leaders for increasing service quality, little is known about how and why congruent or divergent perceptions at the team-leader interface affect team performance. Drawing on theories from the field of sociocognitive psychology and from extant team literature, this study develops a research model that investigates crucial effect mechanisms of perceptual congruence between service teams and their leaders on team performance. Perceptual congruence is operationalized by examining agreement between teams and their leaders on three key team factors: service leadership, service commitment, and service systems. Analyzing leader, member, and customer survey responses from a large sample of service teams, we demonstrate that perceptual congruence between service teams and their leaders can, in and of itself, have an impact on team performance. Moreover, our results reveal the relevance of nonlinear effect mechanisms arising from perceptual congruence. These patterns illustrate the pervasive and intricate effects of perceptual congruence on team performance, highlighting the importance of developing awareness of the alignment of perceptions in the relationship between service teams and their leaders. Managers striving to encourage particular behaviors can use our results to direct customer-contact service teams more effectively.
Bringing values back in: The limitations of institutional logics and the relevance of dialectical phenomenology
Authors: Klein Vitor Hugo
Published: January 2014

Since the seminal essay of Friedland and Alford (1991), the institutional logics perspective has significantly influenced organizational research. Extant research understands logics as the assumptions, values, beliefs and rules that provide meaning for institutions and shape the action in organizational fields. However, by obliterating the role of values, organization scholars have confined variation and change to a schema of finite combinations, overshadowing the intrinsic and constitutive role of what Friedland has more recently called institutional substances. In this article, I present the philosophy of Cornelius Castoriadis with the aim of contributing to a deeper understanding of values in institutions. His dialectical phenomenology challenges the dominant view of logics among organization scholars because it underscores that meanings are not tantamount to logics, but rather the result of signifying acts around imaginary significations. That is, logics stem from imaginary institutions. The contribution of this article is two-fold. First, it presents a Castoridian framework for institutional analysis, whereby logics and the imaginary are interrelated though conceptually distinct. Second, it brings forth the concept of transubstantiation as a way of explicating how actors bring institutional substances into being within and through domains of practice while deferring such substances in discourse and potentially changing them.
Anti-feminist backlash: The role of system justification in the rejection of feminism
Authors: Yeung Amy W. Y. , Kay Aaron C. , Peach Jennifer M.
Published: January 2014

System justification theory (SJT) posits that people are motivated to believe that the social system they live in is fair, desirable, and how it should be, especially in contexts that heighten the system justification motive. Past researchers have suggested that opposition to feminists may be motivated by the threat that feminism presents to the legitimacy of the status quo, but this hypothesis has not been tested empirically. In this article, we present three studies that directly test the idea that antifeminist backlash can be motivated by system justification. Studies 1 and 2 experimentally manipulated the SJ motive and a female target’s feminist identification (feminist vs. nonfeminist). Study 3 tested the hypothesis by measuring participants’ SJ motivation via an individual difference measure. Participants disagreed more with identical statements about gender issues made by the feminist target than the nonfeminist target, but only when the system justification motive was heightened (Study 2) or chronically high (Study 3).
Social media and mobiles as political mobilization forces for young adults: Examining the moderating role of online political expression in political participation
Authors: Yamamoto Masahiro , Kushin Matthew J , Dalisay Francis
Published: January 2014

A web survey of college students was conducted to examine whether online political expression moderates the effects of political media use on political participation. Results showed that online political expression enhanced the effects of political mobile apps, traditional offline and online media, and social media on political participation. Implications are discussed for a mobilizing role of online media in the democratic process for young adults.
Biodegradable polyurethane adhesives based on polyols derived from renewable resources
Authors: Orgilés-Calpena E , Arán-Aís F , Torró-Palau AM , Orgilés-Barceló C
Published: January 2014

The design of polymers from renewable resources is subject to increasing interest, more specifically with regard to the development of biodegradable materials in order to reduce the dependence on petroleum and its negative impact on the environment. Thanks to the versatility of polyurethane adhesives, they can be formulated by designing their properties through the selection of their reagents. This work focused on the development of potentially biodegradable polyurethane adhesives containing polyols from renewable resources, such as soya-based vegetable oils. Moreover, they were synthesised with 1,4-butanediol as a chain extender and two diisocyanates were tested, an aromatic, 4,4′-diphenylmethane diisocyanate and an aliphatic, 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate, which is considered more biodegradable. The biodegradable polyurethane adhesives were characterised by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric tests, differential scanning calorimetry and gel permeation chromatography. Finally, the adhesion properties were measured in a T-peel test on leather/polyurethane adhesive/styrene butadiene rubber joints, in order to establish the amount of soya bean oil-based polyol that could be added to synthesise polyurethane adhesives satisfactorily and meet the quality requirements for footwear.
What prompts users to click and comment: A longitudinal study of online news
Authors: Tenenboim Ori , Cohen Akiba A
Published: January 2014

This study examined the relationship between two mechanisms of online participation – clicking and commenting – as well as the characteristics of heavily clicked versus highly commented-upon news items. Based on 15,431 items from a popular Israeli website, correlations between clicking and commenting were calculated for 12 separately analysed months from 2006 to 2011. In addition, overlap rates were determined, showing that 40–59% of the heavily clicked items in any given month were different from the highly commented-upon items. A subsequent content analysis indicated that while sensational topics and curiosity-arousing elements were more prominent among the heavily clicked items than among the highly commented-upon items, political/social topics and controversial elements were more prominent among the highly commented-upon items. The study contributes to deepening our understanding of the role of user comments in constructing social/group identity and offers a new perspective on a prolonged controversy surrounding audiences’ news preferences.
Compassionate and egalitarian: The charity paradox in two voluntary associations
Authors: Guinea-Martin Daniel
Published: January 2014

This article studies two charities. Their volunteers shared a feeling of compassion for the homeless and an egalitarian spirit, but compassion is a two-sided phenomenon with respect to equality: it can either underline the common humanity of the benefactor–unfortunate dyad or breed feelings of condescension and shame. Moreover, if and when volunteers successfully accomplish their good intentions, the fact that their gift expects no return could reinstate inequality – hence, the ‘charity paradox’. I show that one organization resolved the paradox by promoting situational equality in the volunteers’ conversations with the poor, while the other reduced interactions to a server–served relationship.
Domestic/Family Violence Death Reviews
Authors: Bugeja Lyndal , Dawson Myrna , McIntyre Sara-Jane , Walsh Carolyn
Published: January 2014

Domestic/Family Violence Death Reviews (D/FVDRs) have been established in a number of high-income countries since 1990 as a mechanism to inform prevention-focused interventions to reduce domestic/family violence. D/FVDRs differ in their structure, governance, case identification processes and inclusion criteria, review measures, and outputs. Outside of the United States, the extent of heterogeneity across and within countries has not been explored. This study comprised an international comparison of D/FVDRs and their core elements to inform the establishment of D/FVDRs in other developed countries, and potentially low- and middle-income countries where violence is a leading cause of death. Such a review is also a necessary foundation for any future evaluation D/FVDRs. The review identified 71 jurisdictions where a D/FVDRs had been established in the past two decades, 25 of which met the inclusion criteria. All D/FVDRs examined stated a reduction in deaths as a goal of the review process; however, none reported an actual reduction. The focus of the D/FVDRs examined was on intimate partner homicides; however, more recently established D/FVDRs include other familial relationships. Almost one third of the D/FVDRs examined reported changes to the domestic/family system that occurred as a result of recommendations made from the review process. While similar in many ways, D/FVDRs differ along a number of important dimensions that make it difficult to identify best practices for jurisdictions considering the establishment of such an initiative. To share knowledge, existing networks should be expanded nationally and internationally to include jurisdictions that may be considering this initiative.
Related Genes and Potential Biomarkers for Early Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Lin Hang , Zhang Tao , Wu Yuxian , Wang Yunxia , Wang Weiwen , Wang Qingsong
Published: January 2014

Aim:

The aim of this study is to extend our understanding of the molecular mechanism of Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

Methods:

We downloaded the gene expression profile GSE18309 from Gene Expression Omnibus database, which includes 3 genechips from patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), 3 genechips from patients with AD, and 3 genechips from normal controls (NC). Linear Models for Microarray Data package was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in MCI versus NC group and AD versus NC group. Then, we extracted the overlapping DEGs of 2 groups for functional and pathway enrichment analysis using FuncAssociate software accompanied by gene ontology and expressing analysis systematic explorer, respectively. Further, AutoDock4 (http://autodock.scripps.edu/) was used to predict the docking site between small molecule ligands and proteins of a key DEG.

Results:

A total of 60 DEGs were identified. Biological processes associated with nutrient response and muscle development were significantly dysregulated in AD and MCI. In addition, we identified 2 active binding sites (A5 and L30) on protein structure of cholecystokinin A receptor (CCKAR) for drug design.

Conclusion:

The DEGs including CCKAR might be used as biomarkers for early diagnosis of AD. However, further experimental studies are needed to confirm our results.
Exploring the Influence of Environment on the Spatial Behavior of Older Adults in a Purpose-Built Acute Care Dementia Unit
Authors: Mazzei Francesco , Gillan Roslyn , Cloutier Denise
Published: January 2014

Limited research explores the experience of individuals with dementia in acute care geriatric psychiatry units. This observational case study examines the influence of the physical environment on behavior (wandering, pacing, door testing, congregation and seclusions) among residents in a traditional geriatric psychiatry unit who were then relocated to a purpose-built acute care unit. Purpose-built environments should be well suited to the needs of residents with dementia. Observed trends revealed differences in spatial behaviors in the pre- and post- environments attributable to the physical environment. Person-centred modifications to the current environment including concerted efforts to know residents are meaningful in fostering quality of life. Color coded environments (rooms vs dining areas etc.) to improve wayfinding and opportunities to personalize rooms that address the `hominess' of the setting also have potential. Future research could also seek the opinions of staff about the impact of the environment on them as well as residents.
An Exploratory Study of Grief and Health-Related Quality of Life for Caregivers of People With Dementia
Authors: Shuter Patricia , Beattie Elizabeth , Edwards Helen
Published: January 2014

The aim of this qualitative study was to explore key positive and negative factors that impact on grief resolution and health outcomes of caregivers who were caring, or had cared, for a family member with dementia who had died. The study was a scoping study and involved face-to-face interviews with these family caregivers (N = 13). Results indicated a complex interaction of issues (many unique to dementia caregiving) which in different combinations acted as protective or risk factors for caregiver outcomes. Interaction of individual characteristics, role appraisal, value of intrinsic and extrinsic resources, and experiences with health professionals during the caregiving period and around the death of their relative were shown to have the most influence on caregiver outcomes. Psychological resilience and satisfaction with caregiving were protective against negative outcomes while unresolved grief was a risk factor. These findings highlight the potential benefits of multicomponent, holistic dementia caregiver interventions.
Interactive Effects of Apolipoprotein E4 and Diabetes Risk on Later Myelinating White Matter Regions in Neurologically Healthy Older Aged Adults
Authors: Foley Jessica M. , Salat David H. , Stricker Nikki H. , Zink Tyler A. , Grande Laura J. , McGlinchey Regina E. , Milberg William P. , Leritz Elizabeth C.
Published: January 2014

Possession of the apolipoprotein E4 (APOE4) allele and diabetes risk are independently related to reduced white matter (WM) integrity that may contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The purpose of this study is to examine the interactive effects of APOE4 and diabetes risk on later myelinating WM regions among healthy elderly individuals at risk of AD. A sample of 107 healthy elderly (80 APOE4−/27 APOE4+) individuals underwent structural magnetic resonance imaging/diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). Data were prepared using Tract-Based Spatial Statistics, and a priori regions of interest (ROIs) were extracted from T1-based WM parcellations. Regions of interest included later myelinating frontal/temporal/parietal WM regions and control regions measured by fractional anisotropy (FA). There were no APOE group differences in DTI for any ROI. Within the APOE4 group, we found negative relationships between hemoglobin A1c/fasting glucose and APOE4 on FA for all later myelinating WM regions but not for early/middle myelinating control regions. Results also showed APOE4/diabetes risk interactions for WM underlying supramarginal, superior temporal, precuneus, superior parietal, and superior frontal regions. Results suggest interactive effects of APOE4 and diabetes risk on later myelinating WM regions, which supports preclinical detection of AD among this particularly susceptible subgroup.
Laser-induced solution synthesis and deposition: A generic method to make metal chalcogenide nanotubes at high rate with high consistency
Authors: Liu Zhikun , Liu C. Richard
Published: January 2014

This article reports a new processing method for manufacturing nanotubes and possibly other nano entities with consistency at high rate. We show that this method can be applied for a wide range of materials, as demonstrated by a variety of metal chalcogenides. The proposed novel laser-induced solution synthesis and deposition method is a quantum jump for improving the consistency and manufacturing rate of chemical bath deposition and electroless deposition. We demonstrate the generic nature of this method by synthesizing nanocrystals of a number of arbitrarily selected metal chalcogenides, that is, tin oxide, iron oxide, manganese oxide and zinc sulfide, and depositing each of them in an ion-track polymer membrane for making uniform nanotubes. The mechanism of the tube formation is discussed. High consistency, fast growth rate, scalability and the ability of laser patterning are observed. Moreover, high-resolution transmission electron microcopy images indicate that the nanotubes made by this method, as demonstrated in SnO2, are coalesced by monodisperse ultrafine nanoparticles.
Modeling and analysis of weighted-k-out-of-n: G system consisting of two different types of components
Authors: Eryilmaz Serkan , Sarikaya Kadir
Published: January 2014

This article is concerned with the reliability analysis of a weighted- k-out-of- n:G system consisting of two types of components. The system is assumed to have [Formula: see text] components which are classified into two groups with respect to their weight and reliability, and it is assumed to operate if the total weight of all working components exceeds a prespecified threshold [Formula: see text]. The reliability properties of such a system are studied. The optimal values of the number of components in each group are also determined under a minimum required reliability by minimizing the total acquisition cost.
Treatment of Isolated Peroneus Longus Tears and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Arbab Dariusch , Tingart Markus , Frank Daniel , Abbara-Czardybon Mona , Waizy Hazibullah , Wingenfeld Carsten
Published: January 2014

Background. Isolated peroneus longus tendon tears are rare and represent a frequently overlooked source of lateral ankle pain and dysfunction. Only few cases of isolated peroneus longus tendon tears have been reported and a common treatment algorithm does not exist. The purpose of this study was to give an overview of the literature and to present our experience of 6 consecutive cases that have been treated successfully by operation and immobilizing cast. Methods. A comprehensive chart review was performed to compile each patient’s age, sex, onset of symptoms, time between first symptoms and diagnosis, surgical findings, surgical treatment, length of follow-up, and outcome. The average patient age was 48 years (range 20-63 years). Results. Acute tears occurred in 4 cases, and 2 patients reported about a chronic onset of symptoms. The cause for acute tears was an acute inversion ankle sprain in all cases. Diagnosis was made after an average of 11 months (range 0.75-24 months). There were 2 complete tears, and other 4 were incomplete. An os peroneum was present in 2 cases. In 5 of 6 cases, the results after surgical treatment were excellent or good after a mean follow-up of 28.6 months (range 12-78 months). Conclusion. This study indicates that lateral ankle pain may be due to isolated acute or chronic peroneus longus tendon tears. Thorough clinical and radiological diagnosis is necessary to detect this uncommon injury in time. Patients with acute onset of symptoms and short time between symptoms and diagnosis tend to fare better than the chronic tears and delayed diagnosis. Surgical intervention yields successful and predictable results.

Level of Evidence: Level III: Retrospective comparative study
Talonavicular Joint Fixation
Authors: Granata Jaymes D. , Berlet Gregory C. , Ghotge Rahul , Li Yuan , Kelly Brian , DiAngelo Denis
Published: January 2014

Background: Fusion of the talonavicular (TN) joint is an effective treatment for hindfoot pain and deformity. Nonunion in hindfoot fusion procedures is most common in the TN joint. The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the mechanical stability of 2 different forms of fixation for isolated fusion of the TN joint. Materials and methods: 13 fresh-frozen cadaver foot and ankles were procured and mounted vertically in a robotic biomechanical testing platform and tested before and after operative fixation; 7 specimens received 2 retrograde lag screws (2S), and 6 specimens received a locked compression plate with 1 retrograde lag screw (PS). A constant Achilles tendon load was initially applied followed by internal or external rotation (ER) of the foot and axial compression through the tibia. The relative motion of the talus and navicular bones was tracked using 3-dimensional optoelectric targets. Motion data were recorded in the traditional anatomical reference frame and then transformed into the TN joint frame. Results: In the TN joint frame, relative to the intact (preoperative) state, the plate fixation group PS showed a significant reduction in separation along the long axis of the talus in 3 out of the 4 loading scenarios (P values = .007, .02, and .05). The PS construct also significantly restricted the flexion-extension motion at the joint compared with the 2S construct, during the ER tests (P values = .002 and .001). Conclusions: In our simulated weight-bearing model, a dorsal locked compression plate with 1 retrograde screw was more effective at limiting the 3D motion across the TN joint compared with the traditional construct of 2 retrograde screws.

Level of Evidence: III
Personality Traits Moderate Attribute Framing Effects
Authors: Gamliel Eyal , Zohar Ada H. , Kreiner Hamutal
Published: January 2014

Previous research on attribute framing effects focused on context-specific variables that moderate it. This research examined whether two personality traits, namely agreeableness and conscientiousness, moderate the effect of attribute framing on the perceived fairness of allocation criteria. Two experiments showed that attribute framing affected the perceived fairness of allocation criteria for participants who score high on these personality traits. In contrast, participants who score low on these personality traits were relatively immune to attribute framing effect. Critically, these personality traits did not moderate the effect of attribute framing on evaluations in a nondistributive justice scenario. These findings are consistent with the possibility that highly agreeable and highly conscientious people are more sensitive to social issues, and, consequently, are more susceptible to attribute framing in scenarios that involve distributive justice. Theoretical implications are discussed and future research is suggested.
Self-Growth in the College Years
Authors: Hope Nora H. , Milyavskaya Marina , Holding Anne C. , Koestner Richard
Published: January 2014

Could a shift in values over time drive resolution of identity and intimacy in young adulthood? In the present study, we found support for our hypothesis that increased prioritization of intrinsic values over an academic year predicts university students’ resolution of the Eriksonian stages of identity and intimacy, and that stage resolution would mediate the relationship between value change and enhanced well-being. Among the 196 students followed from September to April, we found that increased prioritization of intrinsic relative to extrinsic values over the year related to greater resolution of both identity and intimacy, controlling for stage resolution at T1, and that increased resolution positively predicted enhanced subjective well-being and psychological well-being over time.
A phase 1 study evaluating the safety and tolerability of otlertuzumab, an anti-CD37 mono-specific ADAPTIR therapeutic protein in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Byrd John C. , Pagel John M. , Awan Farrukh T. , Forero Andres , Flinn Ian W. , Deauna-Limayo Delva P. , Spurgeon Stephen E. , Andritsos Leslie A. , Gopal Ajay K. , Leonard John P. , Eisenfeld Amy J. , Bannink Jeannette E. , Stromatt Scott C. , Furman Richard R.
Published: January 2014

Key Points

Otlertuzumab (formerly TRU-016) has modest single-agent activity in symptomatic treated and untreated CLL. Otlertuzumab demonstrates an acceptable safety profile, providing rationale for combination with other effective CLL therapies.
Haploinsufficiency of del(5q) genes, Egr1 and Apc, cooperate with Tp53 loss to induce acute myeloid leukemia in mice
Authors: Stoddart Angela , Fernald Anthony A. , Wang Jianghong , Davis Elizabeth M. , Karrison Theodore , Anastasi John , Le Beau Michelle M.
Published: January 2014

Key Points

Egr1 haploinsufficiency in cooperation with reduced Tp53 activity accelerates the development of hematologic disease in mice. Loss of 1 copy of Egr1 and Apc in hematopoietic stem cells, in cooperation with Tp53 loss, results in myeloid neoplasms.
Temporal mismatch between pain behaviour, skin Nerve Growth Factor and intra-epidermal nerve fibre density in trigeminal neuropathic pain
Authors: Evans Laura J , Loescher Alison R , Boissonade Fiona M , Whawell Simon A , Robinson Peter P , Andrew David
Published: January 2014

Background

The neurotrophin Nerve Growth factor (NGF) is known to influence the phenotype of mature nociceptors, for example by altering synthesis of neuropeptides, and changes in NGF levels have been implicated in the pathophysiology of chronic pain conditions such as neuropathic pain. We have tested the hypothesis that after partial nerve injury, NGF accumulates within the skin and causes ‘pro-nociceptive’ phenotypic changes in the remaining population of sensory nerve fibres, which could underpin the development of neuropathic pain.

Results

Eleven days after chronic constriction injury of the rat mental nerve the intra-epidermal nerve fibre density of the chin skin from had reduced from 11.6 ± 4.9 fibres/mm to 1.0 ± 0.4 fibres/mm; this slowly recovered to 2.4 ± 2.0 fibres/mm on day 14 and 4.0 ± 0.8 fibres/mm on day 21. Cold hyperalgesia in the ipsilateral lower lip was detectable 11 days after chronic constriction injury, although at this time skin [NGF] did not differ between sides. At 14 days post-injury, there was a significantly greater [NGF] ipsilaterally compared to contralaterally (ipsilateral = 111 ± 23 pg/mg, contralateral = 69 ± 13 pg/mg), but there was no behavioural evidence of neuropathic pain at this time-point. By 21 days post-injury, skin [NGF] was elevated bilaterally and there was a significant increase in the proportion of TrkA-positive (the high-affinity NGF receptor) intra-epidermal nerve fibres that were immunolabelled for the neuropeptide Calcitonin Gene-related peptide.

Conclusions

The temporal mismatch in behaviour, skin [NGF] and phenotypic changes in sensory nerve fibres indicate that increased [NGF] does not cause hyperalgesia after partial mental nerve injury, although it may contribute to the altered neurochemistry of cutaneous nerve fibres.
Mechanism of cystogenesis in nephrotic kidneys: a histopathological study
Authors: Saraga Marijan , Vukojević Katarina , Krželj Vjekoslav , Puretić Zvonimir , Bočina Ivana , Durdov Merica Glavina , Weber Stefanie , Dworniczak Bernd , Ljubanović Danica Galešić , Saraga-Babić Mirna
Published: January 2014

Background

Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is pathological condition characterized by heavy proteinuria. Our study investigates hypothesis that change in cell proliferation of proximal tubules influences primary cilia structure and function and promotes cystogenesis in congenital nephrotic syndrome of the Finnish type (CNF) and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS).

Methods

CNF kidneys were analyzed genetically. Proliferation (Ki-67), apoptosis (caspase-3), and primary cilia (α-tubulin) length and structure were analyzed immunohistochemically and ultrastructurally in healthy, CNF and FSGS kidneys. Cyst diameters were measured and correlated with proliferation index.

Results

Proximal tubules cells of healthy kidneys did not proliferate. In nephrotic kidneys, tubules with apparently normal diameter covered by cuboidal/columnar epithelium (PTNC) contained 81.54% of proliferating cells in CNF and 36.18% in FSGS, while cysts covered with columnar epithelium (CC) contained 37.52% of proliferating cells in CNF and 45.23% in FSGS. The largest cysts, covered with squamous epithelium (CS) had 11.54% of proliferating cells in CNF and 13.76% in FSGS. Increase in cysts diameter correlated with changes in proliferation index, tubular cells shape, primary cilia formation and appearance of apoptotic cells.

Conclusions

We present a novel histopathological data on the structure and possible changes in function of tubular cell in NS kidneys during cystogenesis. We suggest existence of common principles of cystogenesis in CNF and FSGS kidneys, including serious disturbances of tubular cells proliferation and apoptosis, and faulty primary cilia signaling leading to deterioration of proteinuria in NS kidneys.
Prepare dispersed CIS nano-scale particles and spray coating CIS absorber layers using nano-scale precursors
Authors: Liou Jian-Chiun , Diao Chien-Chen , Lin Jing-Jenn , Chen Yen-Lin , Yang Cheng-Fu
Published: January 2014

In this study, the Mo-electrode thin films were deposited by a two-stepped process, and the high-purity copper indium selenide-based powder (CuInSe2, CIS) was fabricated by hydrothermal process by Nanowin Technology Co. Ltd. From the X-ray pattern of the CIS precursor, the mainly crystalline phase was CIS, and the almost undetectable CuSe phase was observed. Because the CIS powder was aggregated into micro-scale particles and the average particle sizes were approximately 3 to 8 μm, the CIS power was ground into nano-scale particles, then the 6 wt.% CIS particles were dispersed into isopropyl alcohol to get the solution for spray coating method. Then, 0.1 ml CIS solution was sprayed on the 20 mm × 10 mm Mo/glass substrates, and the heat treatment for the nano-scale CIS solution under various parameters was carried out in a selenization furnace. The annealing temperature was set at 550°C, and the annealing time was changed from 5 to 30 min, without extra Se content was added in the furnace. The influences of annealing time on the densification, crystallization, resistivity (ρ), hall mobility (μ), and carrier concentration of the CIS absorber layers were well investigated in this study.
Mixed type iteration for total asymptotically nonexpansive mappings in hyperbolic spaces
Authors: Zhao Liang-cai , Chang Shih-sen , Kim Jong Kyu
Published: January 2014

The purpose of this paper is to introduce the concept of total asymptotically nonexpansive mappings and to prove some Δ-convergence theorems of the mixed type iteration process to approximating a common fixed point for two asymptotically nonexpansive mappings and two total asymptotically nonexpansive mappings in hyperbolic spaces. The results presented in the paper extend and improve some recent results announced in the current literature.

MSC:47H09, 47H10.
Lentiviral Nef suppresses iron uptake in a strain specific manner through inhibition of Transferrin endocytosis
Authors: Koppensteiner Herwig , Höhne Kristin , Gondim Marcos Vinicius , Gobert Francois-Xavier , Widder Miriam , Gundlach Swantje , Heigele Anke , Kirchhoff Frank , Winkler Michael , Benaroch Philippe , Schindler Michael
Published: January 2014

Background

Increased cellular iron levels are associated with high mortality in HIV-1 infection. Moreover iron is an important cofactor for viral replication, raising the question whether highly divergent lentiviruses actively modulate iron homeostasis. Here, we evaluated the effect on cellular iron uptake upon expression of the accessory protein Nef from different lentiviral strains.

Results

Surface Transferrin receptor (TfR) levels are unaffected by Nef proteins of HIV-1 and its simian precursors but elevated in cells expressing Nefs from most other primate lentiviruses due to reduced TfR internalization. The SIV Nef-mediated reduction of TfR endocytosis is dependent on an N-terminal AP2 binding motif that is not required for downmodulation of CD4, CD28, CD3 or MHCI. Importantly, SIV Nef-induced inhibition of TfR endocytosis leads to the reduction of Transferrin uptake and intracellular iron concentration and is accompanied by attenuated lentiviral replication in macrophages.

Conclusion

Inhibition of Transferrin and thereby iron uptake by SIV Nef might limit viral replication in myeloid cells. Furthermore, this new SIV Nef function could represent a virus-host adaptation that evolved in natural SIV-infected monkeys.
In vitro determinants of asbestos fiber toxicity: effect on the relative toxicity of Libby amphibole in primary human airway epithelial cells
Authors: Duncan Kelly E , Cook Philip M , Gavett Stephen H , Dailey Lisa A , Mahoney Ron K , Ghio Andrew J , Roggli Victor L , Devlin Robert B
Published: January 2014

Background

An abnormally high incidence of lung disease has been observed in the residents of Libby, Montana, which has been attributed to occupational and environmental exposure to fibrous amphiboles originating from a nearby contaminated vermiculite mine. The composition of Libby amphibole (LA) is complex and minimal toxicity data are available. In this study, we conduct a comparative particle toxicity analysis of LA compared with standard reference asbestiform amphibole samples.

Methods

Primary human airway epithelial cells (HAEC) were exposed to two different LA samples as well as standard amphibole reference samples. Analysis of the samples included a complete particle size distribution analysis, calculation of surface area by electron microscopy and by gas adsorption and quantification of surface-conjugated iron and hydroxyl radical production by the fibers. Interleukin-8 mRNA levels were quantified by qRT-PCR to measure relative pro-inflammatory response induced in HAEC in response to amphibole fiber exposure. The relative contribution of key physicochemical determinants on the observed pro-inflammatory response were also evaluated.

Results

The RTI amosite reference sample contained the longest fibers and demonstrated the greatest potency at increasing IL-8 transcript levels when evaluated on an equal mass basis. The two LA samples and the UICC amosite reference sample consisted of similar particle numbers per milligram as well as similar particle size distributions and induced comparable levels of IL-8 mRNA. A strong correlation was observed between the elongated particle (aspect ratio ≥3:1) dose metrics of length and external surface area. Expression of the IL-8 data with respect to either of these metrics eliminated the differential response between the RTI amosite sample and the other samples that was observed when HAEC were exposed on an equal mass basis.

Conclusions

On an equal mass basis, LA is as potent as the UICC amosite reference sample at inducing a pro-inflammatory response in HAEC but is less potent than the RTI amosite sample. The results of this study show that the particle length and particle surface area are highly correlated metrics that contribute significantly to the toxicological potential of these amphibole samples with respect to the inflammogenic response induced in airway epithelial cells.
The auditory roles of the gas bladder and suprabranchial chamber in walking catfish (Clarias batrachus)
Authors: Shao Yi Ta , Chen I-Shiung , Yan Hong Young
Published: January 2014

Background

The enhanced auditory abilities of certain fish are dependent on specialized hearing structures. Several gas-holding structures, including the suprabranchial chamber, otic gas bladder, and Weberian apparatus-linked gas bladder, have been demonstrated to improve the hearing ability of fish. The walking catfish (Clarias batrachus), a benthic species, is unique in that it has both a suprabranchial chamber (SC) and a Weberian apparatus-linked, encapsulated gas bladder (WGB). This study aimed to investigate the respective roles of these two structures in contributing to the overall hearing ability of walking catfish.

Results

The auditory evoked potentials method was used to measure hearing thresholds in intact fish and fish with a deflated WGB and/or SC. Gas removal from the WGB increased auditory thresholds at all frequencies tested (0.4 to 5.0 kHz), whereas injection of water into the SC shifted the threshold only at frequencies below 3.0 kHz. However, such a correlation was not observed for the SC at 4.0 and 5.0 kHz.

Conclusions

The findings indicated that both the encapsulated WGB and the SC had an accessory auditory role. However, WGB enhanced hearing abilities in the whole frequency range, whereas SC did not.
Specialist ‘restoration mortars’ for stone elements: a comparison of the physical properties of two stone repair materials
Authors: Torney Clare , Forster Alan M , Szadurski Ewan M
Published: January 2014

Background

The perceived increasing use of ‘restoration mortars’ for the conservation of historic masonry is often viewed as controversial due to the long-standing contention associated with ‘plastic’ repairs in the heritage sector. Almost innumerable traditionally built sandstone structures exist worldwide and the wide scale use of restoration mortars for their repair is evident on a national and international level. Use of largely incompatible, impermeable and/or highly cementitious materials in the past is the cause of many problems, particularly associated with moisture entrapment. These issues, that continue several decades after a material’s use, raise the question of whether similar problems are likely to arise in the future due to the use of restoration mortars.

Results

The chemical and physical characteristics of two restoration mortars are determined by laboratory testing. This work revealed significant differences in the physical properties of two restoration mortar materials, but also between these and the physical properties of two natural sandstones. Material characterisation reveals differences between the composition of the binders and aggregates in the two restoration mortars tested. Significant differences in their strength and water diffusion properties were noted.

Conclusions

The results provide an indication of material performance and a platform for objective decision-making on the suitability and specification of these materials. This work is of particular importance in the heritage sector, but its applicability is not limited to historic buildings. Comparison of the materials properties presented in this paper with the characteristics of representative sandstone substrates can give an indication of material compatibility. This research is aimed at stimulating further testing into the interactions of these materials within the context of historic masonry substrates.
Accuracy of verbal self-reported blood glucose in teenagers with type I diabetes at diabetes ski camp
Authors: Chae Matthew , Reith David M , Tomlinson Paul A , Rayns Jenny , Wheeler Benjamin J
Published: January 2014

Background

While there have been considerable advances in diabetes management, self-monitoring of blood glucose remains vital. A number of studies, predominantly in adults, have confirmed that logbook entries are prone to a number of common errors. To date, no studies in either adults or children have looked at the accuracy of verbally reported self-monitored blood glucose levels (SMBG). Our aim was to determine the accuracy of verbally reported SMBG levels in adolescents at a diabetes camp.

Methods

Dual Data (verbally reported and meter-downloaded values) were obtained as part of camp safety monitoring from 20 adolescents (aged 13–18 years) attending a 3 day diabetes winter camp. Blood glucose values were classified as: accurate, absent/phantom, or modified - verbally reported value > / < meter downloaded value. No participant had prior awareness of the planned meter data download at camp conclusion.

Results

Discrepancies between verbally reported and meter downloaded values were observed in 14/20 (70%) participants and in 53/394 (13.5%) instances of testing. Absent/Phantom readings were the most common error at 30/394 (7.6%). Errors relating to hypoglycaemia were seen in 8/47 (17%) hypoglycaemia-related incidents of testing. No relationship with HbA1c was found between those with reporting errors and those without (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

While 70% of adolescents had errors, the overall error rate at 13.5% is lower than that previously reported for logbook studies. While this rate is lower than expected, misreporting remains a concern, particularly in the context of diabetes camp and exercise induced hypoglycaemia.
Association between individual quadriceps muscle volume/enthesis and patello femoral joint cartilage morphology
Authors: Toumi Hechmi , Best Thomas M , Mazor Marija , Coursier Raphael , Pinti Antonio , Lespessailles Eric
Published: January 2014

Introduction

The aim of this study was to determine the association between individual quadriceps muscle volumes and the quadriceps enthesis structures and cartilage morphology at the patellofemoral joint (PFJ).

Methods

We studied 12 cadavers (age 75 ± 5 years). For both legs, individual quadriceps muscles (vastus lateralis (VL), rectus femoris (RF), vastus intermedialis (VI) and vastus medialis (VM)) were dissected and their volumes measured. Cartilage areas at the PFJ were classified using the International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) score. Histological sections were evaluated at the quadriceps tendon enthesis (laterally, centrally and medially). Several variables were calculated on the binary images based on two-dimensional analysis. These were apparent bone area (BA) and apparent trabecular thickness (TH). A Spearman rank test was used to determine the strength of correlation between individual quadriceps muscles volume, the structure of the quadriceps tendon enthesis and the ICRS score.

Results

The thickness of calcified fibrocartilage tissue was significantly greater in the central part of the enthesis than both medially (P = 0.03) and laterally (P = 0.04). Uncalcified fibrocartilage was significantly thicker laterally (P = 0.04) and centrally (P = 0.02) than medially. Muscle volume was highest (P <0.05) for the VL, followed by the VI, VM and RF. There was no association between total and individual muscle volumes and ICRS or BA. However, there was a strong positive correlation (r = 0.81) between the VL/VM volume ratio and BA ratio (bone volume at the lateral part divided by bone volume at the medial part). There was a moderate positive correlation between VL/VM and ICRS (r = 0.65) and between ICRS and BA ratio (lateral/medial; r = 0.74).

Conclusions

Individual and total quadriceps volumes were not correlated with cartilage loss at the PFJ or fibrocartilage thickness. However, both VL/VM and BA ratio (lateral/medial) were positively correlated with ICRS scoring and therefore could be a tool for predicting degree of PFJ osteoarthritis severity.
Psychiatry and the dark side: eugenics, Nazi and Soviet psychiatry
Authors: Luty Jason
Published: January 2014

Psychiatrist Thomas Szasz fought coercion (compulsory detention) and denied that mental illness existed. Although he was regarded as a maverick, his ideas are much more plausible when one discovers that between 1939 and 1941, up to 100 000 mentally ill people, including 5000 children, were killed in Nazi Germany. In the course of the Nazi regime, over 400 000 forced sterilisations took place, mainly of people with mental illnesses. Other countries, including Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland, had active forced sterilisation programmes and eugenics laws. Similar laws were implemented in the USA, with up to 25 000 forced sterilisations. These atrocities were enabled and facilitated by psychiatrists of the time and are only one example of the dark side of the profession. This article reviews some of these aspects of the history of psychiatry, including Germany's eugenics programme and the former USSR's detention of dissidents under the guise of psychiatric treatment.
Cognitive–behavioural therapy for the symptoms of schizophrenia: systematic review and meta-analysis with examination of potential bias
Authors: Jauhar S. , McKenna P. J. , Radua J. , Fung E. , Salvador R. , Laws K. R.
Published: January 2014

Background

Cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) is considered to be effective for the symptoms of schizophrenia. However, this view is based mainly on meta-analysis, whose findings can be influenced by failure to consider sources of bias.

Aims

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the effectiveness of CBT for schizophrenic symptoms that includes an examination of potential sources of bias.

Method

Data were pooled from randomised trials providing end-of-study data on overall, positive and negative symptoms. The moderating effects of randomisation, masking of outcome assessments, incompleteness of outcome data and use of a control intervention were examined. Publication bias was also investigated.

Results

Pooled effect sizes were −0.33 (95% CI −0.47 to −0.19) in 34 studies of overall symptoms, −0.25 (95% CI −0.37 to −0.13) in 33 studies of positive symptoms and −0.13 (95% CI −0.25 to −0.01) in 34 studies of negative symptoms. Masking significantly moderated effect size in the meta-analyses of overall symptoms (effect sizes −0.62 (95% CI −0.88 to −0.35) v. −0.15 (95% CI −0.27 to −0.03), P = 0.001) and positive symptoms (effect sizes −0.57 (95% CI −0.76 to −0.39) v. −0.08 (95% CI −0.18 to 0.03), P<0.001). Use of a control intervention did not moderate effect size in any of the analyses. There was no consistent evidence of publication bias across different analyses.

Conclusions

Cognitive–behavioural therapy has a therapeutic effect on schizophrenic symptoms in the ‘small’ range. This reduces further when sources of bias, particularly masking, are controlled for.
Effectiveness of psychotherapy for severe somatoform disorder: meta-analysis
Authors: Koelen Jurrijn A. , Houtveen Jan H. , Abbass Allan , Luyten Patrick , Eurelings-Bontekoe Elisabeth H. M. , Van Broeckhuysen-Kloth Saskia A. M. , Bühring Martina E. F. , Geenen Rinie
Published: January 2014

Background

Patients with severe somatoform disorder (in secondary and tertiary care) typically experience functional impairment associated with physical symptoms and mental distress. Although psychotherapy is the preferred treatment, its effectiveness remains to be demonstrated.

Aims

To examine the effectiveness of psychotherapy for severe somatoform disorder in secondary and tertiary care compared with treatment as usual (TAU) but not waiting-list conditions.

Method

Main inclusion criteria were presence of a somatoform disorder according to established diagnostic criteria and receiving psychotherapy for somatoform disorder in secondary and tertiary care. Both randomised and non-randomised trials were included. The evaluated outcome domains were physical symptoms, psychological symptoms (depression, anxiety, anger, general symptoms) and functional impairment (health, life satisfaction, interpersonal problems, maladaptive cognitions and behaviour).

Results

Ten randomised and six non-randomised trials were included, comprising 890 patients receiving psychotherapy and 548 patients receiving TAU. Psychotherapy was more effective than TAU for physical symptoms (d= 0.80v.d= 0.31,P<0.05) and functional impairment (d= 0.45v.d= 0.15,P<0.01), but not for psychological symptoms (d= 0.75v.d= 0.51,P= 0.21). These effects were maintained at follow-up.

Conclusions

Overall findings suggest that psychotherapy is effective in severe somatoform disorder. Future randomised controlled studies should examine specific interventions and mechanisms of change.