bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What Predicts Loneliness? Cultural Difference Between Individualistic and Collectivistic Societies in Europe
Authors: Lykes Valerie A. , Kemmelmeier Markus
Published: October 2013

Using two multilevel analyses of residents in 12 (1992 Eurobarometer; N = 3,902) and 22 (2006 European Social Survey, N = 38,867) European societies, respectively, we examined loneliness as a function of dominant cultural values. Levels of loneliness were higher in collectivistic compared with individualistic societies, but societies differed in terms of their predictors of loneliness. In collectivistic societies, the absence of interactions with family was more closely linked to loneliness than was the case in individualistic societies. Conversely, in individualistic societies, the absence of interactions with friends and having a confidant was more closely linked to loneliness than in collectivistic societies. Findings are consistent with the notion that autonomy and choice with regard to interaction partners have greater implications for well-being in individualistic societies whereas traditional social bonds are more potent in collectivistic societies.
Fatal hemothorax due to homicidal blunt trauma to carotid artery in the neck
Authors: Behera C , Krishna Karthik , Singh SR , Lalwani Sanjeev
Published: October 2013

A 30-year-old man was found dead in a pool of blood inside his office room in the morning. Autopsy revealed a small contusion at the lower anterior part of neck, laceration on the left common carotid artery, hemothorax and a laceration over the nose with underlying fracture. On investigation, it was found that on the previous night the victim had been assaulted by his domestic help with an iron rod over head and neck. The blunt trauma to the neck resulted in laceration on the left common carotid artery and subsequently bled, causing fatal hemothorax. The authors report this case owing to the rarity of such patterns of injury leading to fatal outcomes, which may be overlooked due to the simple nature of external injuries.
Low-cycle fatigue life estimation of steam turbine rotor steels at high temperature
Authors: Lv Fangming , Wang Kun , Huang Shuhong
Published: October 2013

Nine methods currently available for estimation of fatigue properties from simple tensile data are discussed in detail. The estimation accuracies of these methods were compared according to the test data of nine types of steam turbine rotor steels. The results showed that the values calculated using the nine methods resulted in unacceptable values. In double logarithmic coordinates, the nine method functions were linearly modified, where the predicted lives were all less than quadruple the observed lives, except for the mixed method. A new method that takes the temperature influence into account is presented, which is suitable for fatigue life estimation of steam turbine rotor steels at high temperature (400 °C–600 °C). The estimation results show that the new method can provide acceptable accuracy.
Inhibition of Chondrocyte and Synovial Cell Death After Exposure to Commonly Used Anesthetics
Authors: Rao Allison J. , Johnston Tyler R. , Harris Alex H.S. , Smith R. Lane , Costouros John G.
Published: October 2013

Background:

An intra-articular injection of local anesthetics is a common procedure for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. It has been shown that these agents are toxic to articular cartilage and synovial tissue in a dose- and time-dependent fashion, and in some cases, they may lead to postarthroscopic glenohumeral chondrolysis (PAGCL). However, the role of apoptosis in cell death is still unclear, and the potential role of apoptosis inhibition in minimizing chondrocyte and synovial cell death has not been reported.

Purpose:

(1) To quantify the degree of apoptotic cell death in chondrocytes and synovial cells exposed to local anesthetics, and (2) to determine whether caspase inhibition could reduce cell death.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Human chondrocytes and synovial cells were expanded in vitro and exposed to normal saline, 0.5% bupivacaine, 0.5% ropivacaine, 1% lidocaine, or 1:1000 epinephrine for 90 minutes. Apoptosis was then detected at 1, 3, 5, and 7 days after exposure using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT)–mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) and immunohistochemistry. Apoptosis was then inhibited using the pan-caspase inhibitor z-vad- fmk. Results were normalized to normal saline controls and analyzed by generalized regression models and pairwise confidence intervals.

Results:

Analysis of cumulative chondrocyte apoptosis relative to controls after anesthetic exposure demonstrated more than 60% cell death with 0.5% bupivacaine and 1:1000 epinephrine. The greatest chondroprotective effect of caspase inhibition occurred with 0.5% ropivacaine. Similarly, in synovial cells, epinephrine was also very cytotoxic; however, 1% lidocaine induced the most apoptosis. Synovial cells exposed to 0.5% ropivacaine were again most sensitive to protective caspase inhibition.

Conclusion:

Local anesthetics induce chondrocyte and synovial cell apoptosis in a time-dependent fashion, with peak apoptosis occurring 5 days after exposure. Both chondrocytes and synovial cells are most sensitive to caspase inhibition after exposure to 0.5% ropivacaine.

Clinical Relevance:

Apoptosis inhibition may be an effective strategy in minimizing chondrocyte and synovial cell death after exposure to anesthetics. Further investigation is clinically warranted.
An experimental investigation on surface morphology of machined brass reinforced epoxy composite
Authors: Ahmadi Naeim E , Ansari MNM , Zare Ali , Rao G Harii Krishna
Published: October 2013

This paper focuses on surface morphology of machined brass reinforced epoxy composite with different particle sizes in computer numerical control (CNC) milling process. Morphological studies in this research contain composite’s surface roughness and dispersion of brass particles. Surface roughness is a proper criterion for predicting the performance of machining parameters and the quality of products. In this experiment, cutting parameters evaluated are feedrate, spindle speed, and depth of cut. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and surface roughness measurement are carried out to study the major changes in texture of the machined surface and determine the optimal mixed-level array of cutting parameters. The results indicate that these parameters have significant effects on surface roughness. In the other word, a better surface quality can be obtained by varying the level of cutting parameters. In addition, it is concluded that a better surface roughness would be achieved by using the smallest size of brass particles.
Effects of macromolecular silane coupling agent on the mechanical properties of nano-SiO2/cyanate ester nanocomposites
Authors: Yan Hong-Xia , Zhang Meng-Meng , Feng Shu-Yao , Wang Qian-Qian , Zhang Jun-Ping
Published: October 2013

In this paper, a novel kind of high-performance composite was developed by blending 2, 2′-Bis(4-cyanatophenyl)isopropylidene with nano-silica (nano-SiO2), in which the nano-SiO2 was modified by a tri-copolymer of styrene, vinyltrimethoxysilane and methacrylate. The transmission electron microscopic and scanning electron microscopic micrographs indicated that the modified nano-SiO2 particles were dispersed in the 2′-Bis(4-cyanatophenyl)isopropylidene matrix homogeneously. Compared with pure 2′-Bis(4-cyanatophenyl)isopropylidene resin, the impact and flexural strengths of the nanocomposite materials were improved markedly with up to 58% and 40% increasing magnitude, respectively, and the storage modulus showed a 58% increase in the glassy state. Meanwhile, the glass transition temperature of the resulting composite was 310℃, which was 30℃ higher than that of pure 2′-Bis(4-cyanatophenyl)isopropylidene resin. It was found that the modified nano-SiO2 that possessed good dispersion in the 2′-Bis(4-cyanatophenyl)isopropylidene matrix had a significant influence on the mechanical and thermal properties of the 2′-Bis(4-cyanatophenyl)isopropylidene resin. All the improvements of properties could be attributed to the effect resulting from the changes of both interface adhesion and dispersibility of filler in matrix.
State Policy and Guidance for Identifying Learning Disabilities in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Students
Authors: Scott Amy N. , Hauerwas Laura Boynton , Brown Rachel D.
Published: October 2013

This study investigates how state Departments of Education address the needs of culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) students as they relate to the identification of students with a specific learning disability (SLD). A qualitative research design of directed content analysis was used to examine each state’s regulatory criteria for SLD, as well as state guidance documents on SLD, response to intervention, referral processes, and English Language Learners. States varied regarding the degree to which they provided legislation and/or guidance for practices of identifying SLD in CLD students. Findings were organized around four promising practices: (1) assessment, (2) personnel, (3) instruction and intervention, and (4) systemic integration of general education, special education, and English as a Second Language. Implications for policy, practice, and future research are discussed.
Computerized Silent Reading Rate and Strategy Instruction for Fourth Graders at Risk in Silent Reading Rate
Authors: Niedo Jasmin , Lee Yen-Ling , Breznitz Zvia , Berninger Virginia W.
Published: October 2013

Fourth graders whose silent word reading and/or sentence reading rate was, on average, two-thirds standard deviation below their oral reading of real and pseudowords and reading comprehension accuracy were randomly assigned to treatment ( n = 7) or wait-listed ( n = 7) control groups. Following nine sessions combining computerized rapid-accelerated-reading program (RAP), which individually tailors rate of written text presentation to comprehension criterion (80%), and self-regulated strategies for attending and engaging, the treated group significantly outperformed the wait-listed group before treatment on (a) a grade-normed, silent sentence reading rate task requiring lexical- and syntactic-level processing to decide which of three sentences makes sense and (b) RAP presentation rates yoked to comprehension accuracy level. Each group improved significantly on these same outcomes from before to after instruction. Attention ratings and working memory for written words predicted posttreatment accuracy, which correlated significantly with the silent sentence reading rate score. Implications are discussed for (a) preventing silent reading disabilities during the transition to increasing emphasis on silent reading, (b) evidence-based approaches for making accommodation of extra time on timed tests requiring silent reading, and (c) combining computerized instruction with strategies for self-regulation during silent reading.
Systematic Review of Nutrient Intake and Growth in Children with Multiple IgE‐Mediated Food Allergies
Authors: Sova Cassandra , Feuling Mary Beth , Baumler Megan , Gleason Linda , Tam Jonathan S. , Zafra Heidi , Goday Praveen S.
Published: October 2013

Background: Food allergies affect up to 8% of American children. The current recommended treatment for food allergies is strict elimination of the allergens from the diet. Dietary elimination of nutrient‐dense foods may result in inadequate nutrient intake and impaired growth. The purpose of this review was to critically analyze available research on the effect of an elimination diet on nutrient intake and growth in children with multiple food allergies. Methods: A systematic review of the literature was conducted and a workgroup was established to critically analyze each relevant article. The findings were summarized and a conclusion was generated. Results: Six studies were analyzed. One study found that children with food allergies are more likely to be malnourished than children without food allergies. Three studies found that children with multiple food allergies were shorter than children with 1 food allergy. Four studies assessed nutrient intake of children with multiple food allergies, but the inclusion and comparison criteria were different in each of the studies and the findings were conflicting. One study found that children with food allergies who did not receive nutrition counseling were more likely to have inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D. Conclusion: Children with multiple food allergies have a higher risk of impaired growth and may have a higher risk of inadequate nutrient intake than children without food allergies. Until more research is available, we recommend monitoring of nutrition and growth of children with multiple food allergies to prevent possible nutrient deficiencies and to optimize growth.
Maternal and Breast Pump Factors Associated with Breast Pump Problems and Injuries
Authors: Qi Youlin , Zhang Yuanting , Fein Sara , Wang Cunlin , Loyo-Berríos Nilsa
Published: October 2013

Background:

Benefits of using a breast pump are well documented, but pump-related problems and injuries and the associated risk factors have not been reported.

Objectives:

This study aimed to describe breast pump-related problems and injuries and identify factors associated with these problems and injuries.

Methods:

Data were from the Infant Feeding Practices Study II; mothers were recruited from a nationally distributed consumer opinion panel. Mothers were asked about breast pump use, problems, and injuries at infant ages 2, 5, and 7 months. Survival analysis was used to identify factors associated with pump-related problems and injuries.

Results:

The sample included 1844 mothers. About 62% and 15% of mothers reported pump-related problems and injuries, respectively. The most commonly reported problem was that the pump did not extract enough milk and the most commonly reported injury was sore nipples. Using a battery-operated pump and intending to breastfeed less than 12 months were associated with higher risks of pump-related problems and injury. Learning from a friend to use the pump was associated with lower risk of pump-related problems, and using a manual pump and renting a pump were associated with a higher risk of problems.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that problems and injuries associated with breast pump use can happen to mothers of all socioeconomic characteristics. Breastfeeding mothers may reduce their risks of problems and injury by not using battery-operated pumps and may reduce breast pump problems by not using manual pumps and by learning breast pump skills from a person rather than following written or video instructions.
Donor Human Milk Bank Data Collection in North America
Authors: Brownell Elizabeth A. , Lussier Mary M. , Herson Victor C. , Hagadorn James I. , Marinelli Kathleen A.
Published: October 2013

Background:

The Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA) is a nonprofit association that standardizes and facilitates the establishment and operation of donor human milk (DHM) banks in North America. Each HMBANA milk bank in the network collects data on the DHM it receives and distributes, but a centralized data repository does not yet exist. In 2010, the Food and Drug Administration recognized the need to collect and disseminate systematic, standardized DHM bank data and suggested that HMBANA develop a DHM data repository.

Objectives:

This study aimed to describe data currently collected by HMBANA DHM banks and evaluate feasibility and interest in participating in a centralized data repository.

Methods:

We conducted phone interviews with individuals in different HMBANA milk banks and summarized descriptive statistics.

Results:

Eight of 13 (61.5%) sites consented to participate. All respondents collected donor demographics, and half (50%; n = 4) rescreened donors after 6 months of continued donation. The definition of preterm milk varied between DHM banks (≤ 32 to ≤ 40 weeks). The specific computer program used to house the data also differed. Half (50%; n = 4) indicated that they would consider participation in a centralized repository.

Conclusions:

Without standardized data across all HMBANA sites, the creation of a centralized data repository is not yet feasible. Lack of standardization and transparency may deter implementation of donor milk programs in the neonatal intensive care unit setting and hinder benchmarking, research, and quality improvement initiatives.
Sustainable and green manufacturing and materials design through computations
Authors: Narayanan R Ganesh , Das Sumitesh
Published: October 2013

The main aim of the review is to address the importance of computations in the analyses of manufacturing processes during efficient materials design, tool design, and process design. Initially, the evolution of computations in manufacturing industries is highlighted. The applications of different computational approaches like numerical simulations, analytical modeling, soft computing, etc. in solving metal forming and joining problems are presented. Though there are several manufacturing processes, metal forming and joining applications are included in the present work. The later part of the review is about green manufacturing and sustainability, their relation with computations and manufacturing education. The green manufacturing and sustainability practices in different industries/fields (like automotive, machining, steel, food processing, computers, electronics) are tabulated. The significance of computations in green manufacturing and sustainability issues are described with a few examples from available literature. The last part of the work is about improving the awareness of green and sustainability concepts through manufacturing education. In this, the possible ways of modifying the present course content of ‘manufacturing technology’ in under-graduate education are suggested, by giving importance to green and sustainability concepts. The role of computations in manufacturing education is summarized finally.
Finite element and metallurgical study of properties of deformed pure copper by ECAE at various strain rates
Authors: Nemati J , Majzoobi GH , Sulaiman S , Baharudin BTHT , Hanim MA Azmah
Published: October 2013

In this work, annealed pure copper is deformed by equal channel angular extrusion (ECAE) for a maximum of eight passes. Mechanical properties of the extruded material are obtained at tension velocities of 0.5 mm/min, 200 mm/min and 8 m/s. It is found that the maximum increase of ultimate strength occurs after the second pass for the V = 200 mm/min. The total increase of ultimate strength after eight passes is around 100%. Hardness increases to a maximum of 36% after eight passes. The elongation decreases for the second and fourth passes but increases after sixth and eighth passes. The reason is believed to be due to the formation of equiaxed grains and gradual decrease in dislocation density at the same time after the sixth pass. As the number of equiaxed grains increases, a high rate of dynamic recovery gives rise to further decrease in dislocation density or in other word to decrease in strain hardening. Therefore, after the sixth pass, elongation continues to increase. At the same time, tensile strength also keeps increasing but at a slower rate. Fracture mechanism of extruded specimens was studied at strain rates to a maximum of 4 × 103 s−1. Fractography of specimens shows that fracture mechanism is strain rate independent. ECAE process is simulated using the DEFORM-3D software through a three-dimensional analysis. Grain refinement is simulated by forcing the element size to zero. It is found that for a very fine mesh, the PEEQ converges to 1.51. The value of predicted PEEQs is not rate sensitive and is almost the same for all punch speeds considered in the simulations.
DNA Methylation as a Biomarker for Preeclampsia
Authors: Anderson Cindy M. , Ralph Jody L. , Wright Michelle L. , Linggi Bryan , Ohm Joyce E.
Published: October 2013

Background:

Preeclampsia contributes significantly to pregnancy-associated morbidity and mortality as well as future risk of cardiovascular disease in mother and offspring, and preeclampsia in offspring. The lack of reliable methods for early detection limits the opportunities for prevention, diagnosis, and timely treatment.

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to explore distinct DNA methylation patterns associated with preeclampsia in both maternal cells and fetal-derived tissue that represent potential biomarkers to predict future preeclampsia and inheritance in children.

Method:

A convenience sample of nulliparous women ( N = 55) in the first trimester of pregnancy was recruited for this prospective study. Genome-wide DNA methylation was quantified in first-trimester maternal peripheral white blood cells and placental chorionic tissue from normotensive women and those with preeclampsia ( n = 6/group).

Results:

Late-onset preeclampsia developed in 12.7% of women. Significant differences in DNA methylation were identified in 207 individual linked cytosine and guanine (CpG) sites in maternal white blood cells collected in the first trimester (132 sites with gain and 75 sites with loss of methylation), which were common to approximately 75% of the differentially methylated CpG sites identified in chorionic tissue of fetal origin.

Conclusion:

This study is the first to identify maternal epigenetic targets and common targets in fetal-derived tissue that represent putative biomarkers for early detection and heritable risk of preeclampsia. Findings may pave the way for diagnosis of preeclampsia prior to its clinical presentation and acute damaging effects, and the potential for prevention of the detrimental long-term sequelae.
Ear playing and aural development in the instrumental lesson: Results from a “case-control” experiment
Authors: Baker David , Green Lucy
Published: October 2013

This article reports on a case-control experiment that was conducted in 2012 as part of the Ear Playing Project (EPP) at the Institute of Education, University of London. The EPP developed from the “informal learning” strand of Musical Futures and engaged instrumental students in the UK in learning from specially-created audio recordings without notation. Sixteen matched pairs of instrumental students (age 10–14 years) were divided into a “control” and an “experimental” group, with pupils taught using traditional instrumental teaching methods (without ear playing) in the former and with ear playing in the latter. The instrumentalists in both groups underwent aural tests prepared by the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM), which required played responses. Pre- and post-test scores were appraised for both groups for criteria including “Pitch,” “Rhythm,” “Contour,” “Tempo,” and “Closure,” as well as a holistic mark. With the “experimental” students surpassing the “control” group in every criterion assessed at the post-test stage, results suggest that playing by ear from a recording may be beneficial for children’s aural development.
Co-occurrence and coaction of stress management with other health risk behaviors
Authors: Lipschitz Jessica M , Paiva Andrea L , Redding Colleen A , Butterworth Susan , Prochaska James O
Published: October 2013

This study provides a preliminary investigation of the role of stress management in multiple behavior change. Risk status on stress management and five health behaviors (healthy eating, exercise, alcohol, smoking, and depression management) was assessed before and after a multiple behavior change intervention. Findings suggested a link between stress management and a worse health risk behavior profile at baseline. Results also showed relationships between improved stress management over 6 months and heightened odds of improving on specific behaviors as well as improving one’s overall behavioral risk profile. Particularly strong links between stress management and energy balance and other affective behaviors were observed.
Optimization of mechanical properties of polyester hybrid composite laminate using Taguchi methodology – Part 1
Authors: Trehan Rupen , Singh Satnam , Garg Manish
Published: October 2013

This study focuses on the processing, analysis and optimization of parameters for mechanical properties (flexural and tensile) of multiphase hybrid composite consisting of bi-axial glass and jute mats reinforced polyester composites. An attempt is made to identify the main factors that affect the responses. The seven factors considered were presence of silicon carbide, percentage of NaOH used for alkali treatment of jute fibers, oven curing time for composites, stacking sequence of jute and glass fibers mat, hardener percentage in 50 mL resin, oven temperature and mixing time. The test specimens were prepared and tested according to ASTM standards. Taguchi design was used for design of experiments and experimental results were analyzed using ANOVA. The results revealed that for flexural strength the significant factors were stacking sequence and silicon carbide with p-values of 0.002 and 0.005 for mean analysis, respectively. Stacking sequence, silicon carbide and hardener percentage in 50 mL resin were found as significant factors with p-values of 0.010, 0.014 and 0.017 for tensile strength, respectively. These responses were further optimized for 95% confidence level. Further confirmatory test were carried out with optimum level parameters and results obtained were compared with estimated S/N ratio, which were within ±5%.
Delusional Misidentification Syndromes and Dementia
Authors: Cipriani Gabriele , Vedovello Marcella , Ulivi Martina , Lucetti Claudio , Di Fiorino Andrea , Nuti Angelo
Published: October 2013

The delusional misidentification syndromes (DMSs) are psychopathologic phenomena in which a patient consistently misidentifies persons, places, objects, or events. Although often described in relation to psychotic states including schzofrenia, it is, nevertheless, widely considered that these syndromes have an anatomical basis because of their frequent association with organic brain disease; studies have pointed to the presence of identifiable lesions, especially in the right frontal lobe and adjacent regions, in a considerable proportion of patients. The purpose of this article is to examine the phenomenon in people with dementia. We searched the electronic databases for original research and review articles on DMS in patients with dementia using the search terms “Delusional Misidentification Syndrome, Capgras syndrome, Fregoli syndrome, reduplicative paramnesia, and dementia.” The DMSs are a frequent problem in dementia. The violence and dangerousness in patients with dementia having these syndromes are well documented, and forensic aspects are highlighted. Pathogenetic viewpoint and management are considered.
The Indian Spice Turmeric Delays and Mitigates Radiation-Induced Oral Mucositis in Patients Undergoing Treatment for Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Rao Suresh , Dinkar Chetana , Vaishnav Lalit Kumar , Rao Pratima , Rai Manoj Ponadka , Fayad Raja , Baliga Manjeshwar Shrinath
Published: October 2013

Purpose. Radiation-induced oral mucositis is an acute morbidity seen in patients undergoing treatment for head and neck cancers. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of turmeric in preventing radiation-induced mucositis. Methods. This was a single-blinded, randomized, controlled clinical trial and was conducted with head and neck cancer patients requiring 70 Gy of radiation or chemoradiotherapy (daily radiotherapy plus carboplatin once a week). Eligible patients (n = 80) were randomly assigned to receive either turmeric gargle (n = 40) or povidone-iodine ([n = 40] active comparator condition) during chemo/radiotherapy during the period of treatment. Oral mucositis was assessed using the RTOG (Radiation Therapy Oncology Group) grading system before the start, during, and at the end of the treatment by an investigator unaware of the treatment. The primary endpoint of this study was the incidence of mucositis every week during the 7-week period. The secondary endpoint was the effect of turmeric gargle on the incidence of treatment breaks, loss of scheduled treatment days, and decrease in body weight at the end of the treatment. Results. This study clearly suggests that when compared with the cohorts using povidone-iodine gargle, the group using turmeric as a mouthwash had delayed and reduced the levels of radiation-induced oral mucositis and was statistically significant at all time points ( P < 0.001 to P < 0.0001). Additionally, the cohorts using turmeric had decreased intolerable mucositis ( P < 0.001) and lesser incidence of treatment breaks in the first half of the treatment schedule before 4 weeks ( P < 0.01) and reduced change in body weight ( P < 0.001). Conclusions. Gargling with turmeric by head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy provided significant benefit by delaying and reducing the severity of mucositis. Turmeric is readily available, relatively inexpensive, and highly accepted making it useful in cancer treatment.
The health role of local area coordinators in Scotland
Authors: Brown Michael , Karatzias Thanos , O’Leary Lisa
Published: October 2013

The study set out to explore whether local area coordinators (LACs) and their managers view the health role of LACs as an essential component of their work and identify the health-related activities undertaken by LACs in Scotland. A mixed methods cross-sectional phenomenological study involving local authority service managers ( n = 25) and LACs ( n = 40) was adopted. Quantitative data from LACs were obtained using online and postal questionnaires. Qualitative data from local authority service managers and LACs were collected using one-to-one interviews and focus groups. Thematic analysis was undertaken of the qualitative data. The results indicate that there is a need to develop further the wider public health role of LACs to incorporate health-related activities focused on broader community-based outcomes such as empowerment and community integration. By adopting a public health role, LACs will be able to contribute to the reduction of health inequalities in people with learning disabilities.
Developing Rivers
Authors: Chakraborty Abhik
Published: October 2013

This article explores the reasons behind the continuation of contentious dam projects in Japanese river basins. Though the River Law of the country was reformed in 1997, and subsequent sociopolitical developments raised hopes that river governance would progress toward a more environment-oriented and bottom-up model, basin governance in Japan remains primarily based on a utilitarian vision that sees rivers as waterways. This article reviews the Achilles heel of the 1997 River Law by examining some most contentious river valley projects, and concludes that a myth of vulnerability to flooding, short-sightedness of river engineers, and bureaucratic inertia combine to place basin governance in a time warp: as projects planned during postwar reconstruction and economic growth continue to be top priorities in policymaking circles while concerns over environment remain largely unaddressed.
Genetic diversity of natural orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerataL.) populations in three regions in Europe
Authors: Last Luisa , Widmer Franco , Fjellstad Wendy , Stoyanova Siyka , Kölliker Roland
Published: October 2013

Background

Dactylis glomerata (orchardgrass or cocksfoot) is a forage crop of agronomic importance comprising high phenotypic plasticity and variability. Although the genus Dactylis has been studied quite well within the past century, little is known about the genetic diversity and population patterns of natural populations from geographically distinct grassland regions in Europe. The objectives of this study were to test the ploidy level of 59 natural and semi-natural populations of D. glomerata, to investigate genetic diversity, differentiation patterns within and among the three geographic regions, and to evaluate selected populations for their value as genetic resources.

Results

Among 1861 plants from 20 Swiss, 20 Bulgarian and 19 Norwegian populations of D. glomerata, exclusively tetraploid individuals were identified based on 29 SSR markers. The average expected heterozygosity (HE,C) ranged from 0.44 to 0.59 and was highest in the Norwegian region. The total number of rare alleles was high, accounting for 59.9% of the amplified alleles. 80.82% of the investigated individuals could be assigned to their respective geographic region based on allele frequencies. Average genetic distances were low despite large geographic distances and ranged from D = 0.09 to 0.29 among populations.

Conclusions

All three case study regions revealed high genetic variability of tetraploid D. glomerata within selected populations and numerous rare and localized alleles which were geographically unique. The large, permanent grassland patches in Bulgaria provided a high genetic diversity, while fragmented, semi-natural grassland in the Norwegian region provided a high amount of rare, localized alleles, which have to be considered in conservation and breeding strategies. Therefore, the selected grassland populations investigated conserve a large pool of genetic resources and provide valuable sources for forage crop breeding programs.
Do transgenesis and marker-assisted backcross breeding produce substantially equivalent plants? - A comparative study of transgenic and backcross rice carrying bacterial blight resistant gene Xa21
Authors: Gao Lifen , Cao Yinghao , Xia Zhihui , Jiang Guanghuai , Liu Guozhen , Zhang Weixiong , Zhai Wenxue
Published: October 2013

Background

The potential impact of genetically modified (GM) plants on human health has attracted much attention worldwide, and the issue remains controversial. This is in sharp contrast to the broad acceptance of plants produced by breeding through Marker Assisted Backcrossing (MAB).

Results

Focusing on transcriptome variation and perturbation to signaling pathways, we assessed the molecular and biological aspects of substantial equivalence, a general principle for food safety endorsed by the Food and Agricultural Organization and the World Health Organization, between a transgenic crop and a plant from MAB breeding. We compared a transgenic rice line (DXT) and a MAB rice line (DXB), both of which contain the gene Xa21 providing resistance to bacterial leaf blight. By using Next-Generation sequencing data of DXT, DXB and their parental line (D62B), we compared the transcriptome variation of DXT and DXB. Remarkably, DXT had 43% fewer differentially expressed genes (DEGs) than DXB. The genes exclusively expressed in DXT and in DXB have pathogen and stress defense functions. Functional categories of DEGs in DXT were comparable to that in DXB, and seven of the eleven pathways significantly affected by transgenesis were also perturbed by MAB breeding.

Conclusions

These results indicated that the transgenic rice and rice from MAB breeding are substantial equivalent at the transcriptome level, and paved a way for further study of transgenic rice, e.g., understanding the chemical and nutritional properties of the DEGs identified in the current study.
Enterohepatic bacterial infections dysregulate the FGF15-FGFR4 endocrine axis
Authors: Romain Guillaume , Tremblay Sarah , Arena Ellen T , Antunes L Caetano M , Covey Scott , Chow Michael T , Finlay B Brett , Menendez Alfredo
Published: October 2013

Background

Enterohepatic bacterial infections have the potential to affect multiple physiological processes of the body. Fibroblast growth factor 15/19 (FGF15 in mice, FGF19 in humans) is a hormone that functions as a central regulator of glucose, lipid and bile acid metabolism. FGF15/19 is produced in the intestine and exert its actions on the liver by signaling through the FGFR4-βKlotho receptor complex. Here, we examined thein vivoeffects of enterohepatic bacterial infection over the FGF15 endocrine axis.

Results

Infection triggered significant reductions in the intestinal expression ofFgf15and its hepatic receptor components (Fgfr4andKlb(βKlotho)). Infection also resulted in alterations of the expression pattern of genes involved in hepatobiliary function, marked reduction in gallbladder bile volumes and accumulation of hepatic cholesterol and triglycerides. The decrease in ilealFgf15expression was associated with liver bacterial colonization and hepatobiliary pathophysiology rather than with direct intestinal bacterial pathogenesis.

Conclusions

Bacterial pathogens of the enterohepatic system can disturb the homeostasis of the FGF15/19-FGFR4 endocrine axis. These results open up a possible link between FGF15/19-FGFR4 disruptions and the metabolic and nutritional disorders observed in infectious diseases.
Segmental arterial mediolysis of left gastric artery: a case report and review of pathology
Authors: Tabassum Azra , Sasani Sanaz , Majid Adeeb J , Henderson Christopher , Merrett Neil D
Published: October 2013

Background

Segmental arterial mediolysis (SAM) is a rare non inflammatory vascular disease that can present with massive haemorrhage, which may lead to death without prompt surgical intervention.

Case presentation

A 60 years old Aboriginal female presented with life threatening, spontaneous intra-abdominal bleeding requiring an emergency laparotomy. The source of bleeding was found to be ruptured left gastric artery. A total gastrectomy was performed as a damage control procedure. A staged Roux-en-Y oesophago-jejunostomy with Hunt Lawrence pouch reconstruction was undertaken thirty six hours later. Histopathological findings revealed evidence of non-inflammatory segmental vascular damage with microaneurysm, consistent with segmental arterial mediolysis.

Conclusion

Prompt resuscitation and surgical intervention can decrease the morbidity and mortality in this rare clinical entity.
Death after percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy: a systematic review and analysis of risk factors
Authors: Simon Marcel , Metschke Maria , Braune Stephan A , Püschel Klaus , Kluge Stefan
Published: October 2013

Introduction

Since the introduction and widespread acceptance of percutaneous techniques in the intensive care unit (ICU) setting, the number of critically ill patients undergoing tracheostomy has steadily increased. However, this procedure can be associated with major complications, including death. The purpose of this study is to estimate the incidence and analyze the causes of lethal complications due to percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy (PDT).

Methods

We analyzed cases of lethal outcome due to complications from PDT including cases published between 1985 and April 2013. A systematic literature search was performed and unpublished cases from our own departmental records were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

A total of 71 cases of lethal outcome following PDT were identified including 68 published cases and 3 of our own patients. The incidence of lethal complications was calculated to be 0.17%. Of the fatal complications, 31.0% occurred during the procedure and 49.3% within seven days of the procedure. The main causes of death were: hemorrhage (38.0%), airway complications (29.6%), tracheal perforation (15.5%), and pneumothorax (5.6%). We found specific risk factors for complications in 73.2% of patients, 25.4% of patients had more than one risk factor. Bronchoscopic guidance was used in only 46.5% of cases.

Conclusions

According to this analysis, PDT-related death occurs in 1 out of 600 patients receiving a PDT. Careful patient selection, bronchoscopic guidance, and securing the tracheal cannula with sutures are likely to reduce complication rates.
Seismic Rehabilitation of Existing Reinforced Concrete Buildings with Seismic Isolation: A Case Study
Authors: Cardone Donatello , Gesualdi Giuseppe
Published: October 2013

The use of seismic isolation for the seismic rehabilitation of existing buildings is very attractive but often very tricky due to several aspects related to its implementation. In this paper, a case study of seismic rehabilitation of a high-rise residential building with seismic isolation is presented. The building under consideration is located in southern Italy and it is placed next to another building from which it is separated by a gap of 400 mm. In the paper, all the steps of the seismic rehabilitation process are described. First, the target objective of the seismic rehabilitation and the choice of isolation system type and location are discussed. The design of the isolation system, carried out following a direct displacement-based approach, is then examined. Finally, the main phases followed in the installation of the isolation system are described. Some comments on costs and time needed to complete the intervention are also reported.
Plasticity of lung development in the amphibian, Xenopus laevis
Authors: Rose Christopher S. , James Brandon
Published: October 2013

Contrary to previous studies, we found that Xenopus laevis tadpoles raised in normoxic water without access to air can routinely complete metamorphosis with lungs that are either severely stunted and uninflated or absent altogether. This is the first demonstration that lung development in a tetrapod can be inhibited by environmental factors and that a tetrapod that relies significantly on lung respiration under unstressed conditions can be raised to forego this function without adverse effects. This study compared lung development in untreated, air-deprived (AD) and air-restored (AR) tadpoles and frogs using whole mounts, histology, BrdU labeling of cell division and antibody staining of smooth muscle actin. We also examined the relationship of swimming and breathing behaviors to lung recovery in AR animals. Inhibition and recovery of lung development occurred at the stage of lung inflation. Lung recovery in AR tadpoles occurred at a predictable and rapid rate and correlated with changes in swimming and breathing behavior. It thus presents a new experimental model for investigating the role of mechanical forces in lung development. Lung recovery in AR frogs was unpredictable and did not correlate with behavioral changes. Its low frequency of occurrence could be attributed to developmental, physical and behavioral changes, the effects of which increase with size and age. Plasticity of lung inflation at tadpole stages and loss of plasticity at postmetamorphic stages offer new insights into the role of developmental plasticity in amphibian lung loss and life history evolution.
Effects of low pH and raised temperature on egg production, hatching and metabolic rates of a Mediterranean copepod species (Acartia clausi) under oligotrophic conditions
Authors: ZERVOUDAKI S. , FRANGOULIS C. , GIANNOUDI L. , KRASAKOPOULOU E.
Published: October 2013

This study includes the first information on the combined effect of low pH and raised temperature on egg production rate (EP), hatching success (HS), excretion and respiration of the Mediterranean copepod Acartia clausi. Adult individuals of A. clausi and fresh surface seawater were collected at a coastal station in Saronikos Gulf during April 2012. Four different conditions were applied: two different pH levels (present: 8.09 and future: 7.83) at two temperature values (present: 16°C and present+4 °C= 20°C). EP and HS success decreased significantly over the duration of exposure at future pH at both temperature conditions. However, the analysis of the combined effect of pH, T, chlorophyll α and the duration of the experiments on EP and HS revealed that ocean acidification had no discernible effect, whereas warming; food and the duration of exposure were more significant for the reproductive output of A. clausi. Temperature appeared to have a positive effect on respiration and excretion. Acidification had no clear effect on respiration, but a negative effect on the A. clausi excretion was observed. Acidification and warming resulted in the increase of the excretion rate and the increase was higher than that observed by warming only. Our findings showed that a direct effect of ocean acidification on copepod’s vital rates was not obvious, except maybe in the case of excretion. Therefore, the combination of acidification with the ambient oligotrophic conditions and the warming could result in species being less able to allocate resources for coping with multiple stressors.
Samræmi laga og stjórnarskrár: Afstaða íslenskra fræðimanna til úrskurðarvalds dómstóla
Authors: Jónsdóttir Svandís Nína
Published: October 2013

Í þessari ritgerð er sjónum beint að umræðum íslenskra fræðimanna um úrskurðarvald Hæstaréttar um efnislegt samræmi laga og stjórnarskrár (e. judicial review) eins og þær birtast í útgefnum tímaritum, bókum og kandídatsritgerðum um efnið. Megináhersla ritgerðarinnar er einkum tvíþætt: 1) að lýsa því hvernig umræður fræðimanna um efnið hafa þróast yfir tíma og 2) hvort hægt sé að greina þessar umræður niður í aðgreindar fylkingar. Fyrst verður þó gerð stutt grein fyrir úrskurðarvaldinu, inntaki þess og þýðingu. Í gegnum tíðina hafa allmargar tilraunir verið gerðar til þess að finna viðeigandi heiti á þetta vald dómstóla sem hér um ræðir. Dóra Guðmundsdóttir (1990) tekur saman helstu heitin í kandídatsritgerð sinni árið 1990. Þar koma fram hugtökin íslenskur reynsluréttur, lagaprófunarvald og lagaprófunarréttur. Einnig er talað um úrlausnarvald dómstóla um gildi laga og dómstólaeftirlit og úrskurðarvald. Að sögn Dóru henta þessi heiti ekkert sérstaklega vel og kýs hún að styðjast við hugtakið endurskoðunarvald dómstóla í rannsóknum sínum. Ástæðan er sú að heitið er stutt og laggott en vísar samt til þessa valdsviðs dómstóla sem hér um ræðir.[1] Endurskoðunarvald dómstóla er nýrra hugtak en mörg önnur og er sennilega tilraun til þess að lýsa inntaki enska hugtaksins judicial review. Þó er oftar vísað til heitisins úrskurðarvald dómstóla í fræðilegum greinum og bókum um efnið. Þar má nefna allar útgáfur af Stjórnskipun Íslands eftir Ólaf Jóhannesson og allar útgáfur af Stjórnskipunarrétti Gunnars G. Schram. Jafnframt hafa Ragnhildur Helgadóttir og Davíð Oddson, fyrrverandi forsætisráðherra, stuðst við hugtakið úrskurðarvald dómstóla. Í þessari ritgerð verður því heitið úrskurðarvald dómstóla á samræmi laga og stjórnarskrár notað til þess að lýsa fyrirbærinu en vegna lengdar orðasambandsins er oft einungis vísað í úrskurðarvald eða úrskurðarvald dómstóla.
Electoral instability in Iceland 1931-95: The impact of aggregate electoral volatility and block volatility on the Icelandic party system
Authors: Pétursson Sigtryggur
Published: October 2013

This article examines electoral volatility in Iceland. The impact of aggregate and block volatility on the cleavage structure of the Icelandic party system is studied and compared with the situation applying to a group of west European democracies. The Icelandic parties are divided into blocks according to their stand on the socio-economic issue dimension. This gives an opportunity to see whether the high increase in electoral volatility at the aggregate level was followed by similar increase across the cleavage line, with the party system therefore becoming less and less frozen into place, as the upsurge in electoral volatility at the aggregate level seems to suggest. The main reason for the increase in volatility across the cleavage line is traced to party splitting. The main conclusion drawn is that this has not occurred in the case of Iceland. Most of the increase in volatility has occurred within the blocks and therefore the stability of the cleavage structure of the Icelandic party system has not evidenced an overall decline.