bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Progressive photon relaxation
Authors: Spencer Ben , Jones Mark W.
Published: February 2013

We introduce a novel algorithm for progressively removing noise from view-independent photon maps while simultaneously minimizing residual bias. Our method refines a primal set of photons using data from multiple successive passes to estimate the incident flux local to each photon. We show how this information can be used to guide a relaxation step with the goal of enforcing a constant, per-photon flux. Using a reformulation of the radiance estimate, we demonstrate how the resulting blue noise photon distribution yields a radiance reconstruction in which error is significantly reduced. Our approach has an open-ended runtime of the same order as unbiased and asymptotically consistent rendering methods, converging over time to a stable result. We demonstrate its effectiveness at storing caustic illumination within a view-independent framework and at a fidelity visually comparable to reference images rendered using progressive photon mapping.
Edge-aware point set resampling
Authors: Huang Hui , Wu Shihao , Gong Minglun , Cohen-Or Daniel , Ascher Uri , Zhang Hao (Richard)
Published: February 2013

Points acquired by laser scanners are not intrinsically equipped with normals, which are essential to surface reconstruction and point set rendering using surfels. Normal estimation is notoriously sensitive to noise. Near sharp features, the computation of noise-free normals becomes even more challenging due to the inherent undersampling problem at edge singularities. As a result, common edge-aware consolidation techniques such as bilateral smoothing may still produce erroneous normals near the edges. We propose a resampling approach to process a noisy and possibly outlier-ridden point set in an edge-aware manner. Our key idea is to first resample away from the edges so that reliable normals can be computed at the samples, and then based on reliable data, we progressively resample the point set while approaching the edge singularities. We demonstrate that our Edge-Aware Resampling (EAR) algorithm is capable of producing consolidated point sets with noise-free normals and clean preservation of sharp features. We also show that EAR leads to improved performance of edge-aware reconstruction methods and point set rendering techniques.
Numerical Investigation of the Steady State of a Driven Thin Film Equation
Authors: Hutchinson A. J. , Harley C. , Momoniat E.
Published: February 2013

A third-order ordinary differential equation with application in the flow of a thin liquid film is considered. The boundary conditions come from Tanner's problem for the surface tension driven flow of a thin film. Symmetric and nonsymmetric finite difference schemes are implemented in order to obtain steady state solutions. We show that a central difference approximation to the third derivative in the model equation produces a solution curve with oscillations. A difference scheme based on a combination of forward and backward differences produces a smooth accurate solution curve. The stability of these schemes is analysed through the use of a von Neumann stability analysis.
On Certain Subclass of Analytic Functions with Fixed Point
Authors: Al-Hawary T. , Frasin B. A. , Darus M.
Published: February 2013

A new certain differential operatorTα,β,δ,λmf(z)and a subclassSm,w*(α,β,γ,δ,λ)are introduced for functions of the formf(z)=(z−w)−∑n=2∞an(z−w)nwhich are univalent in the unit discU={z∈ℂ:|z|<1}. In this paper, we obtain coefficient inequalities, distortion theorem, closure theorems, and class preserving integral operators of functions belonging to the classSm,w*(α,β,γ,δ,λ).
Current Thoughts on Maternal Nutrition and Fetal Programming of the Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Brenseke Bonnie , Prater M. Renee , Bahamonde Javiera , Gutierrez J. Claudio
Published: February 2013

Chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease are the leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Although the metabolic syndrome has been defined in various ways, the ultimate importance of recognizing this combination of disorders is that it helps identify individuals at high risk for both type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Evidence from observational and experimental studies links adverse exposures in early life, particularly relating to nutrition, to chronic disease susceptibility in adulthood. Such studies provide the foundation and framework for the relatively new field of developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD). Although great strides have been made in identifying the putative concepts and mechanisms relating specific exposures in early life to the risk of developing chronic diseases in adulthood, a complete picture remains obscure. To date, the main focus of the field has been on perinatalundernutritionand specific nutrientdeficiencies;however, the current global health crisis of overweight and obesity demands that perinatalovernutritionand specific nutrientexcessesbe examined. This paper assembles current thoughts on the concepts and mechanisms behind the DOHaD as they relate to maternal nutrition, and highlights specific contributions made by macro- and micronutrients.
Task Allocation and Path Planning for Collaborative Autonomous Underwater Vehicles Operating through an Underwater Acoustic Network
Authors: Deng Yueyue , Beaujean Pierre-Philippe J. , An Edgar , Carlson Edward
Published: February 2013

Dynamic and unstructured multiple cooperative autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) missions are highly complex operations, and task allocation and path planning are made significantly more challenging under realistic underwater acoustic communication constraints. This paper presents a solution for the task allocation and path planning for multiple AUVs under marginal acoustic communication conditions: a location-aided task allocation framework (LAAF) algorithm for multitarget task assignment and the grid-based multiobjective optimal programming (GMOOP) mathematical model for finding an optimal vehicle command decision given a set of objectives and constraints. Both the LAAF and GMOOP algorithms are well suited in poor acoustic network condition and dynamic environment. Our research is based on an existing mobile ad hoc network underwater acoustic simulator and blind flooding routing protocol. Simulation results demonstrate that the location-aided auction strategy performs significantly better than the well-accepted auction algorithm developed by Bertsekas in terms of task-allocation time and network bandwidth consumption. We also demonstrate that the GMOOP path-planning technique provides an efficient method for executing multiobjective tasks by cooperative agents with limited communication capabilities. This is in contrast to existing multiobjective action selection methods that are limited to networks where constant, reliable communication is assumed to be available.
Application of the Multistep Generalized Differential Transform Method to Solve a Time-Fractional Enzyme Kinetics
Authors: Alawneh Ahmed
Published: February 2013

The multistep differential transform method is first employed to solve a time-fractional enzyme kinetics. This enzyme-substrate reaction is formed by a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations of fractional order. The fractional derivatives are described in the Caputo sense. A comparative study between the new algorithm and the classical Runge-Kutta method is presented in the case of integer-order derivatives. The results demonstrate reliability and efficiency of the algorithm developed.
The Physical and Magnetic Properties of Electrodeposited Co‐Fe Nanocoating with Different Deposition Times
Authors: Mei Hyie Koay , Abdullah Wan Normimi Roslini , Resali Nor Azrina , Chong W. T. , Salleh Z. , Ghani M. A. A.
Published: February 2013

Using the electrodeposition process, cobalt‐iron (Co‐Fe) nanocrystalline coatings were successfully synthesized onto stainless steel in deposition times of 30, 60, and 90 minutes. The temperature used throughout the process was 50°C in an acidic environment of pH 3. By changing the deposition time, physical properties such as phase and crystallographic structure, surface morphology, grain size, microhardness, and magnetic properties of Co‐Fe coatings were examined. FESEM micrographs showed that the grain sizes of the coatings were in the range from 57.9 nm to 70.2 nm. Dendrite and irregular shapes were found in the microstructure of Co‐Fe nanocoating. The Co‐Fe nanocrystalline coating prepared in a deposition time of 90 minutes achieved the highest microhardness of 339 HVN. The magnetic properties associated with Co‐Fe nanocoating at longer deposition times show greater coercivity, Hc, and saturation magnetization, Ms, values of 56.43 Oe and 70.45 eμ/g, respectively. The M‐H curves for all the Co‐Fe coatings exhibited soft ferromagnetic behaviour with narrow hysteresis loops. It was found that increasing the deposition time also improved the microhardness and magnetic properties of Co‐Fe nanocoating, which is much needed for long‐life high‐coercivity magnetic strip card applications.
Recent Advances in Computational Mechanics of the Human Knee Joint
Authors: Kazemi M. , Dabiri Y. , Li L. P.
Published: February 2013

Computational mechanics has been advanced in every area of orthopedic biomechanics. The objective of this paper is to provide a general review of the computational models used in the analysis of the mechanical function of the knee joint in different loading and pathological conditions. Major review articles published in related areas are summarized first. The constitutive models for soft tissues of the knee are briefly discussed to facilitate understanding the joint modeling. A detailed review of the tibiofemoral joint models is presented thereafter. The geometry reconstruction procedures as well as some critical issues in finite element modeling are also discussed. Computational modeling can be a reliable and effective method for the study of mechanical behavior of the knee joint, if the model is constructed correctly. Single-phase material models have been used to predict the instantaneous load response for the healthy knees and repaired joints, such as total and partial meniscectomies, ACL and PCL reconstructions, and joint replacements. Recently, poromechanical models accounting for fluid pressurization in soft tissues have been proposed to study the viscoelastic response of the healthy and impaired knee joints. While the constitutive modeling has been considerably advanced at the tissue level, many challenges still exist in applying a good material model to three-dimensional joint simulations. A complete model validation at the joint level seems impossible presently, because only simple data can be obtained experimentally. Therefore, model validation may be concentrated on the constitutive laws using multiple mechanical tests of the tissues. Extensive model verifications at the joint level are still crucial for the accuracy of the modeling.
A 7-Level Single DC Source Cascaded H-Bridge Multilevel Inverter with a Modified DTC Scheme for Induction Motor-Based Electric Vehicle Propulsion
Authors: Khoucha Farid , Marouani Khoudir , Benbouzid Mohamed , Kheloui Abdelaziz , Mamoune Abdeslam
Published: February 2013

This paper presents a new hybrid cascaded H-bridge multilevel inverter motor drive DTC scheme for electric vehicles where each phase of the inverter can be implemented using a single DC source. Traditionally, each phase of the inverter requires DC source for output voltage levels. In this paper, a scheme is proposed that allows the use of a single DC source as the first DC source which would be available from batteries or fuel cells, with the remaining () DC sources being capacitors. This scheme can simultaneously maintain the capacitors of DC voltage level and produce a nearly sinusoidal output voltage due to its high number of output levels. In this context, high performances and efficient torque and flux control are obtained, enabling a DTC solution for hybrid multilevel inverter powered induction motor drives intended for electric vehicle propulsion. Simulations and experiments show that the proposed multilevel inverter and control scheme are effective and very attractive for embedded systems such as automotive applications.
Epigenetics in Friedreich's Ataxia: Challenges and Opportunities for Therapy
Authors: Sandi Chiranjeevi , Al-Mahdawi Sahar , Pook Mark A.
Published: February 2013

Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA) is an autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disorder caused by homozygous expansion of a GAA·TTC trinucleotide repeat within the first intron of theFXNgene, leading to reducedFXNtranscription and decreased levels of frataxin protein. Recent advances in FRDA research have revealed the presence of several epigenetic modifications that are either directly or indirectly involved in thisFXNgene silencing. Although epigenetic marks may be inherited from one generation to the next, modifications of DNA and histones can be reversed, indicating that they are suitable targets for epigenetic-based therapy. Unlike other trinucleotide repeat disorders, such as Huntington disease, the large expansions of GAA·TTC repeats in FRDA do not produce a change in the frataxin amino acid sequence, but they produce reduced levels of normal frataxin. Therefore, transcriptional reactivation of theFXNgene provides a good therapeutic option. The present paper will initially focus on the epigenetic changes seen in FRDA patients and their role in the silencing ofFXNgene and will be concluded by considering the potential epigenetic therapies.
Short-Term Effect of Standard Automated Perimetry Testing on Intraocular Pressure in Patients with Open-Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Lee Chang Mok , Yoo Young Cheol
Published: February 2013

Purpose. To evaluate the short-term effect of standard automated perimetry (SAP) testing on intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG). Methods. We tested 45 patients (71 eyes) with OAG that had stable IOP under medical treatment. IOP was measured four times using an iCare rebound tonometer (RBT) immediately before, immediately after, 10 minutes after, and 20 minutes after SAP testing. Logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the relationships among SAP test duration, mean deviation of the SAP result, type of glaucoma medications, patient age, and significant IOP change (exceeding 2 mmHg) from baseline IOP. Results. The mean baseline IOP was 13.29 ± 3.06 mmHg. Although IOP changes immediately and 20 minutes after SAP testing were not statistically significant, the IOP change 10 minutes after SAP testing (−0.57 ± 1.84 mmHg) was statistically significant. However, the changes were within the margin of error of the RBT. Test duration, mean deviation, patient age, and type of glaucoma medications did not have a significant influence on IOP change (all ). Conclusions. IOP measured by RBT did not vary significantly after SAP testing in patients with OAG. It may be not necessary to reject IOP measured after SAP testing in patients with OAG.
The Gap in the Current Research on the Link between Health Locus of Control and Multiple Sclerosis: Lessons and Insights from a Systematic Review
Authors: Bragazzi Nicola Luigi
Published: February 2013

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease whose etiology has not been fully understood yet in detail. Empirical findings show how psychosocial symptoms are very important features of the clinical presentation of MS, having a deep impact on patient's quality of life, and thus psychological coping strategies may play a central role in reducing the burden of the disease and improving patient's satisfaction of life. MS progression and relapses/exacerbations are unpredictable and may depend on factors such as stressor chronicity, frequency, severity, type, and individual patient characteristics such as depression, personality, locus of control (LOC), optimism, and perceived social support. Due to its importance for health-care delivery, rehabilitation, and nursing, here, we make a systematic review on the current state-of-the-art studies concerning the relationship between LOC and MS, according to the PRISMA guidelines, and we assess the quality and the completeness of the studies using the CONSORT instrument, underpinning their limitations, and suggesting how to fill the gap in this research field.
A Case-Crossover Analysis of Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest and Air Pollution
Authors: Ensor Katherine B. , Raun Loren H. , Persse David
Published: February 2013

Background—

Evidence of an association between the exposure to air pollution and overall cardiovascular morbidity and mortality is increasingly found in the literature. However, results from studies of the association between acute air pollution exposure and risk of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) are inconsistent for fine particulate matter, and, although pathophysiological evidence indicates a plausible link between OHCA and ozone, none has been reported. Approximately 300 000 persons in the United States experience an OHCA each year, of which >90% die. Understanding the association provides important information to protect public health.

Methods and Results—

The association between OHCA and air pollution concentrations hours and days before onset was assessed by using a time-stratified case-crossover design using 11 677 emergency medical service–logged OHCA events between 2004 and 2011 in Houston, Texas. Air pollution concentrations were obtained from an extensive area monitor network. An average increase of 6 µg/m
3
in fine particulate matter 2 days before onset was associated with an increased risk of OHCA (1.046; 95% confidence interval, 1.012–1.082). A 20-ppb ozone increase for the 8-hour average daily maximum was associated with an increased risk of OHCA on the day of the event (1.039; 95% confidence interval, 1.005–1.073). Each 20-ppb increase in ozone in the previous 1 to 3 hours was associated with an increased risk of OHCA (1.044; 95% confidence interval, 1.004–1.085). Relative risk estimates were higher for men, blacks, or those aged >65 years.

Conclusions—

The findings confirm the link between OHCA and fine particulate matter and introduce evidence of a similar link with ozone.
Anthropophagy in São Paulo's Cold War
Authors: Jones Caroline A.
Published: February 2013

The first biennial founded outside Venice opened in São Paulo Brazil in 1951, providing a fulcrum between “dependency” and “developmentalism” (to use economic terms). In terms of art history, it presents a useful anomaly in which an international style (“concrete abstraction,” a European import) was used simultaneously to eradicate local difference and to declare a cosmopolitan, up-to-date Brasilidade (Brazilianness). More crucially, I argue that the São Paulo Bienal was the precondition for the newly rigorous conceptualism that followed, as Brazilian artists in the late ′60s rejected “Concretismo” to craft a new world picture, radically transforming margin and center through the profoundly theoretical practice of antropofagia — cultural cannibalism.
Effects of recent movement, starting distance and other risk factors on escape behaviour by two phrynosomatid lizards
Authors: Cooper William E. , Sherbrooke Wade C.
Published: February 2013

Cost–benefit models of escape behaviour predict that flight initiation distance (FID, predator-prey distance when the prey starts to flee from an approaching predator) increases as the cost of not fleeing (risk) increases. This prediction has been verified for many risk factors and prey species. The same predictions may apply to other aspects of escape, but testing has been much less extensive. For the lizards Callisaurus draconoides and Sceloporus magister, we tested several such predictions and examined the effect of a previously unstudied risk factor, recent movement by prey. Starting distance (predator-prey distance when approach begins) was unrelated to FID in C. draconoides, as in previously studied ambush foragers. Because movement increases probability of being detected, we predicted that FID would be greater for prey that had moved immediately before being approached than those that had been immobile. FID and distance fled (DF) were longer for lizards that had moved recently. In C. draconoides DF and probability of entering refuge were greater for the second of two approaches, as predicted from greater threat posed by a persistent predator. Callisaurus draconoides had shorter FID and shorter DF, and fewer entered refuge where lizards were habituated than unhabituated to human presence. In S. magister FID increased as distance to refuge increased, FID and DF were longer for fast than slow approaches; probability of fleeing and FID were larger for direct than indirect approach. Effects of these risk factors on FID are consistent across studies, but approach speed has affected DF in only half of studies, perhaps due to constraints by refuge entry and variable distance to refuge. Similarities in effects of risk factors across escape variables, types of predator-prey encounters, and latency to emerge from refuge suggest that similar risk assessment mechanism are used for all variables and settings.
The Flesh Cannot See the Word: ‘Nestorianising’ Chalcedonians in the Seventh to Ninth Centuries AD
Authors: Krausmüller Dirk
Published: February 2013

Abstract

Towards the end of the eighth century the Nestorian Patriarch Timothy convened a council, which condemned several mystics for having held the belief that Christ’s humanity could see his divinity. This article draws attention to a Chalcedonian sermon on the Annunciation whose author shared Patriarch Timothy’s views. Through comparison with the Questions and Answers of Pseudo-Athanasius and with Theodore of Stoudios’ sermon on the Angels it shows that the author of the sermon on the Annunciation participated in a wider Chalcedonian debate about the ability of human beings to see God and the equally invisible angels and souls. Having presented the evidence it makes the case that as regards this topic the Eastern Christian religious discourse had not yet fragmented along sectarian and political boundaries and that throughout the East Christians were experiencing the same anxieties and responding to them in remarkably similar ways.
Likely Ranges of Climate Change in Bolivia
Authors: Seiler Christian , Hutjes Ronald W. A. , Kabat Pavel
Published: February 2013

Bolivia is facing numerous climate-related threats, ranging from water scarcity due to rapidly retreating glaciers in the Andes to a partial loss of the Amazon forest in the lowlands. To assess what changes in climate may be expected in the future, 35 global circulation models (GCMs) from the third and fifth phases of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP3/5) were analyzed for the Bolivian case. GCMs were validated against observed surface air temperature, precipitation, and incoming shortwave (SW) radiation for the period 1961–90. Weighted ensembles were developed, and climate change projections for five emission scenarios were assessed for 2070–99. GCMs revealed an overall cold, wet, and positive-SW-radiation bias and showed no substantial improvement from the CMIP3 to the CMIP5 ensemble for the Bolivian case. Models projected an increase in temperature (2.5°–5.9°C) and SW radiation (1%–5%), with seasonal and regional differences. In the lowlands, changes in annual rainfall remained uncertain for CMIP3 whereas CMIP5 GCMs were more inclined to project decreases (−9%). This pattern also applied to most of the Amazon basin, suggesting a higher risk of partial biomass loss for the CMIP5 ensemble. Both ensembles agreed on less rainfall (−19%) during drier months (June–August and September–November), with significant changes in interannual rainfall variability, but disagreed on changes during wetter months (January–March). In the Andes, CMIP3 GCMs tended toward less rainfall (−9%) whereas CMIP5 tended toward more (+20%) rainfall during parts of the wet season. The findings presented here may provide inputs for studies of climate change impact that assess how resilient human and natural systems are under different climate change scenarios.
A Comparison of in Situ, Reanalysis, and Satellite Water Budgets over the Upper Colorado River Basin
Authors: Smith Rebecca A. , Kummerow Christian D.
Published: February 2013

Using in situ, reanalysis, and satellite-derived datasets, surface and atmospheric water budgets of the Upper Colorado River basin are analyzed. All datasets capture the seasonal cycle for each water budget component. For precipitation, all products capture the interannual variability, though reanalyses tend to overestimate in situ while satellite-derived precipitation underestimates. Most products capture the interannual variability of evapotranspiration (ET), though magnitudes differ among the products. Variability and magnitude among storage volume change products widely vary. With regards to the surface water budget, the strongest connections exist among precipitation, ET, and soil moisture, while snow water equivalent (SWE) is best correlated with runoff. Using in situ precipitation estimates, the Max Planck Institute (MPI) ET estimates, and accumulated runoff, changes in storage are calculated and compare well with estimated changes in storage calculated using SWE, reservoir, and the Climate Prediction Center’s soil moisture. Using in situ precipitation estimates, MPI ET estimates, and atmospheric divergence estimates from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts Interim Re-Analysis (ERA-Interim) results in a long-term atmospheric storage change estimate of −73 mm. Long-term surface storage estimates combined with long-term runoff come close to balancing with long-term atmospheric convergence from ERA-Interim. Increasing the MPI ET by 5% leads to a better balance between surface storage changes, runoff, and atmospheric convergence. It also brings long-term atmospheric storage changes to a better balance at +13 mm.
Pandemic Management in a Pediatric Hospital
Authors: Ratnapalan Savithiri , Martimianakis Maria Athina (Tina) , Cohen-Silver Justine H. , Minnes Bruce , MacGregor Daune , Allen Upton , Richardson Susan E. , Friedman Jeremy N. , Bruce-Barrett Cindy , Haj-Assaad Lutfi , Noordermeer Judy , Daneman Denis
Published: February 2013

Objectives. To describe our experiences in the management of the second wave of influenza A H1N1 (pH1N1) pandemic in a tertiary-care children’s hospital. Methods. An autoethnographic study of the pandemic planning and management committee members involved in managing the second wave of pH1N1 was conducted. Results. Staffing, surge capacity, communications and emergency operations planning by adding leaders of frontline workers and other key operational roles to the incident management team, and creating a tactical response team emerged as important factors in pandemic management in our hospital. The emergency department visits increased by 50%, necessitating increased staffing of the emergency department. Communications using existing chains of command had to be used to reach frontline staff during the pandemic. Conclusions. Incident management teams managing pandemics and other disasters have to be dynamic and create tactical teams to ensure implementation and facilitate bidirectional communication with frontline workers.
A comparison of experimental data with multicontinuum failure simulations of composite laminates subjected to tri-axial stresses
Authors: Hansen Andrew C , Nelson Emmett E , Kenik Douglas J
Published: February 2013

This article presents progressive failure predictions, and comparisons against experimental data, for a variety of continuous fiber composite laminates subjected to multiaxial stress states. The work is part of a broader effort known as the Second World-Wide Failure Exercise. The emphasis of Second World-Wide Failure Exercise is a study of the influence of hydrostatic compressive stress on the stress–strain response and ultimate failure of the composite laminates studied. Polymers tend to exhibit significant increases in ultimate strength in the presence of hydrostatic compressive stresses. Nonlinear stress–strain behavior is also commonly observed. The complex material behavior of polymers presents several challenges in the analysis of composite materials where polymer resins are used as the matrix constituent. Failure simulations presented are multiscale in nature, consisting of a nonlinear finite element formulation with resolution extending down to the lamina level. The finite element analysis is further coupled to a multicontinuum theory where fiber and matrix constituents are treated as separate but linked continua. In general, the results of the multicontinuum theory failure simulations are in excellent agreement with the experimental data. The simulations were able to capture a variety of interesting material behaviors that are illuminated by the unique constituent level information provided in a multicontinuum theory analysis.
Effects of cultural conditions on the hemp (Cannabis sativa) phloem fibres: Biological development and mechanical properties
Authors: Abot Audrey , Bonnafous Claire , Touchard Fabienne , Thibault Florence , Chocinski-Arnault Laurence , Lemoine Rémi , Dédaldéchamp Fabienne
Published: February 2013

Natural fibres such as hemp are extensively used in new composite materials. This article deals with biological and mechanical aspects of hemp phloem fibres. The effects of different cultural parameters on some characteristics of hemp fibres were studied: variety, soil drought during plant cultivation and water-retting process. Results showed that there was no significant influence on studied properties of the hemp variety and of water-retting. Under water-limited conditions, results showed that plant growth was reduced and the maturation of phloem fibres was delayed. Secondary cell wall was synthesised later in comparison with water-controlled conditions and cell protoplast remains longer. These biological aspects can be related to the higher Young’s modulus and maximal stress values measured on fibre strands from plants grown under water-stressed conditions. These results are promising, by considering the extent and degree of drought conditions in the world.
Persuasive Writing and Self-Regulation Training for Writers With Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Asaro-Saddler Kristie , Bak Nicole
Published: February 2013

In this single-subject study, we examined the effects of a persuasive writing and self-regulation strategy on the writing of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Six children with ASD worked in pairs to learn a mnemonic-based strategy for planning and writing a persuasive essay using the self-regulated strategy development (SRSD) approach. Postintervention analysis revealed increases for all students in number of essay elements and holistic quality. Evidence of planning and self-regulation behaviors was also noted. Results support the assertion that utilizing a peer component to teach strategy instruction coupled with self-regulation procedures can positively affect the writing of children with ASD.
Dispersed Constituency Democracy
Authors: Ciepley David
Published: February 2013

In multiethnic and multi-religious democracies, the chronic danger is that candidates will engage in “identity politics,” appealing to one locally preponderant ethnic group against other groups. The usual formulas for composing multiethnic democracies—ethnic federalism and/or proportional representation—often exacerbate the problem, ethnicizing political campaigns and carving up the national legislature into ethnic blocs, each beholden only to its own group. An alternative approach—what I call “dispersed constituency democracy”—is to match each legislative seat with a constituency that reflects the overall ethnic composition of the society in question, so as to encourage candidates to reach across ethnic divisions rather than play to locally preponderant ones. I propose a simple way to do this, and explore the likely consequences for national electoral campaigns and legislative dynamics over a range of demographic circumstances. I also consider supplemental devices for protecting minority rights that would be made possible by the proposed constituency system.
The Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Interventions for Supporting People With Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Harper Sarah K. , Webb Thomas L. , Rayner Kelly
Published: February 2013

A number of studies have used mindfulness-based interventions to influence the behavior of people with intellectual disabilities, to improve their quality of life, and to reduce challenging behavior. The present review critically evaluates 18 studies and assesses the clinical and academic impact of their findings. Strengths identified included replicable methodological approaches, use of multiple baseline designs, strong construct and criterion validity, and consideration of the mechanisms by which mindfulness influences behavior change. Limitations included a lack of randomized controlled trials, inclusion of qualitative data without structured analysis, limited use of statistical analyses, and problems with sampling leading to difficulties generalizing findings. There was also a paucity of research investigating the impact of “Dialectical Behavior Therapy” and “Acceptance and Commitment Therapy” and the role of mindfulness within these approaches. Further research is warranted in this regard.
What Organization Theorists and Public Policy Researchers Can Learn from One Another: Publicness Theory as a Case-in-Point
Authors: Bozeman Barry
Published: February 2013

I argue that organization theory and public policy studies, two field that share many common origins, have had surprisingly little cross-fertilization and that this state of affairs is both injurious and correctable. This paper (1) considers the costs and the foregone opportunities resulting from this mutual intellectual disregard, (2) presents an illustrative case to show the possibility of cross-fertilizing public policy and organization studies, and (3) suggests some general strategies to promote cross-fertilization between these two apparently related fields of inquiry. I provide a detailed illustration of the cross-fertilization of public policy and organization studies by recounting the history of “dimensional publicness theory,” a theory lens that, uncommonly, has been employed by both organization theorists and public policy scholars. I conclude with suggestions for promoting cross-fertilization between public policy studies and organization theory.
Bringing International Organization In: Global Institutions as Adaptive Hybrids
Authors: Schemeil Yves
Published: February 2013

How can an international organization be made adaptable? Having been designed to fulfil a specific mandate, international organizations should disappear from the world stage once .the initial conditions that led to their establishment no longer exist: their constituents (governments or activists) will not support them when their mandate becomes obsolete or their added value is reduced. Nonetheless, they survive external shocks, resource traps, and even the growing indifference of their founding fathers. The explanation lies in their successful resistance to constituents’ control; counter-intuitive adaptation to external change; unplanned expansion through mandate enlargement; and a snowballing albeit unintentional trend to build up networks. Overall, the relative success of international organizations can be measured as a global balance between performance and resilience, exploitation and exploration, autonomy and cooperation. To reach that balanced stage they must be altogether dualistic (coupling the technical with the political); adaptive (converting slack into innovation); organic and ambidextrous (setting new challenges while pursuing current activity). Since they combine components that come from local, national, regional and transnational recipes for survival and performance, they are complex hybrids made up of public agencies, private firms, third sector associations, and expert, activist, or lobbying interest groups.
Combined NK1 antagonism and serotonin reuptake inhibition: effects on emotional processing in humans
Authors: Harmer Catherine J , Dawson Gerry R , Dourish Colin T , Favaron Elisa , Parsons Elizabeth , Fiore Monica , Zucchetto Mauro , Bifone Angelo , Poggesi Italo , Fernandes Sofia , Alexander Robert C , Goodwin Guy M
Published: February 2013

Background:

Synergistic effects of NK1 receptor antagonism combined with serotonin reuptake inhibition have been reported in preclinical models. GSK424887 is a selective competitive antagonist of the human NK1 receptor and inhibitor of the serotonin transporter. However, its actions in human models of depression have not been assessed.

Methods:

This study explored the effects of acute administration of GSK424887 compared to placebo in healthy male volunteers. The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) citalopram was used as a positive control. A battery of emotional processing tasks was given at the peak time of drug effect.

Results:

GSK424887 enhanced attentional vigilance in the dot-probe task to both positive and negative stimuli. By contrast, citalopram enhanced perception of angry, sad and happy facial expressions and increased positive bias in the facial expression recognition task. Neither drug significantly affected emotion potentiated startle responses or emotional memory.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that acute administration of GSK424887 modulated some aspects of emotional processing but these effects were not similar to those seen previously with antidepressant agents. This was the first use of the battery of emotional processing tasks in a Phase 1 study. Repeated administration of the test and active control drugs may be needed to reliably characterise their effects.
Protective role of L-carnitine and vitamin E on the testis of atherosclerotic rats
Authors: Salama Afrah F , Kasem Safwat M , Tousson Ehab , Elsisy Mohammed KH
Published: February 2013

Atherosclerosis is a condition caused by lipid build-up and inflammation in the arteries, so hyperlipidemia is the major reason for atherosclerosis. Testis was found to be negatively affected by hyperlipidemia which leads to its impaired functions. Vitamin E and l-carnitine have well-known lipid-lowering and antioxidative activities. Triton WR 1339 is a non-ionic detergent, which induces severe hyperlipidemia by inhibition of lipoprotein lipase. The present study evaluates the protective role of vitamin E and l-carnitine on the testis in atherosclerosis and detects the most effective choice for protection against atherosclerosis; vitamin E, l-carnitine or a combination of both. A total of 80 albino male rats were divided into eight groups (10 rats for each group): control (G1), triton (G2), l-carnitine (G3), triton + l-carnitine (G4), vitamin E (G5), triton + vitamin E (G6), l-carnitine + vitamin E (G7) and triton + l-carnitine + vitamin E (G8). Data showed a significant increase in the levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), 17 beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17 β HSD), testicular catalase and malondialdehyde (MDA) in G2 when compared with G1, whereas high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), serum testosterone, testicular 17 ketosteroid reductase (17 KSR), total thiol and glutathione- S-transferase (GST) data showed a significant decrease in G2 when compared with G1. Treatment with l-carnitine or/and vitamin E helps in improving the adverse effect of triton; also the histological changes confirm this finding. So the present study recommends all people to include l-carnitine and vitamin E in their diet to be protected against atherosclerosis.
Exposure to lambda-cyhalothrin, a synthetic pyrethroid, increases reactive oxygen species production and induces genotoxicity in rat peripheral blood
Authors: Fetoui Hamadi , Feki Ameni , Salah Ghada Ben , Kamoun Hassen , Fakhfakh Feiza , Gdoura Radhouane
Published: February 2013

Lambda-cyhalothrin (LTC) is a synthetic pyrethroid with a broad spectrum of insecticidal and acaricidal activities used to control a wide range of insect pests in a variety of applications. However, there is little known about its adverse effects, in particular those related to its genotoxicity in humans. To elucidate the genotoxicity mechanisms of LTC, the micronuclei (MN) frequencies, the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), erythrocyte osmotic fragility, nitrite (NO) formation, protein carbonyl (PCO) levels and malondialdehyde (MDA) production were evaluated for a period of 7, 14 and 21 days. Our results show that exposure rat to LTC (1/10DL50 = 6.23 mg/kg) for a period of 7, 14 and 21 days induced a noticeable genotoxic effect in rat peripheral blood evidenced by a significant increase in the frequency of MN only at day 21 of treatment. Significant differences between the two groups were observed in erythrocyte osmotic fragility. Further, a significant ( p < 0.01) increase in ROS contents, NO formation, PCO levels and lipid peroxidation in erythrocytes were observed at different times of treatments, suggesting the implication of oxidative stress in its toxicity. These results confirm the genotoxic and the pro-oxidant effects of LTC in rat peripheral blood.
Evaluation of diazinon-induced hepatotoxicity and protective effects of crocin
Authors: Lari Parisa , Abnous Khalil , Imenshahidi Mohsen , Rashedinia Marzieh , Razavi Marjan , Hosseinzadeh Hossein
Published: February 2013

Diazinon (DZN) is one of the most widely used insecticides in agricultural pest control. Previous studies have shown that DZN may induce hepatotoxicity. Reactive oxygen species and apoptosis pathways are involved in the toxicity of DZN. Crocin, a constituent of saffron, has hepatoprotective effects due to its antioxidant activity. In this study, we examined the effects of subacute DZN exposure and ameliorating effect of crocin on lipid peroxidation and pathological changes in rat liver. Moreover, protein levels of activated and total caspases-3 and -9 and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio were measured. Five groups of rats were used in the experiment. Corn oil (control), DZN (15 mg/kg per day, orally) and crocin (12.5, 25 and 50 mg/kg per day, intraperitoneally in combination with DZN) were given to male Wistar rats ( n = 6) for 4 weeks. The level of malondialdehyde (MDA) increased significantly in DZN group compared with the control group ( p < 0.05). MDA level decreased significantly in the group that received DZN plus 25 mg crocin ( p < 0.001). No gross or histological evidence of treatment-related damage to the liver after oral exposure to DZN was observed. DZN also induced apoptosis through activation of caspases-9 and -3 and increasing Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. Crocin attenuated the activation of caspases and reduced the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. It is concluded that subacute exposure to DZN induces oxidative stress-mediated apoptosis and crocin may reduce DZN-induced hepatotoxicity.
Local and Regional Governance Structures
Authors: Kim Jae Hong , Jurey Nathan
Published: February 2013

This article explores the complex, multidimensional implications of decentralized local and regional governance structures with an emphasis on the following four major aspects: (1) fiscal outcomes, (2) regional economic implications, (3) social equity issues, and (4) environmental consequences. It is contended that a holistic approach, covering various aspects of the implications and revealing the context-specific trade-offs, is required to better understand the nature of the governance systems. A comprehensive view may also be essential for facilitating a more salient dialogue on potential system reforms and spurring meaningful efforts to improve the quality of the systems from the bottom up.
The Manipulation of Fear in Carjacking
Authors: Jacobs Bruce
Published: February 2013

Although prior studies on robbery decision making have explored how offenders manipulate fear in the coercive process, research has paid little attention to the issue as it relates to carjacking. The gap is significant given that carjacking requires offenders to neutralize victims who are inherently mobile and who can use their vehicles as both weapons and shields. Based on qualitative interviews with 24 active carjackers, the present paper explores this issue and the data’s grounded-theoretic significance for coercive decision making in predatory social exchange. In particular, the article examines fear as an essential intervening variable that links threat to compliance. It also explores how offenders manipulate the “severity” dimension of threat to influence the certainty and celerity of compliance. The approach taken here offers an advancement in the study of coercion and a refinement of the compliance generation process itself.
Screening for Anxiety Symptoms in Parkinson Disease
Authors: Stefanova Elka , Ziropadja Ljubomir , Petrović Mirjana , Stojković Tanja , Kostić Vladimir
Published: February 2013

Background:

A limited number of studies examined anxiety in Parkinson disease (PD). Questionable validity of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (Fourth Edition) defined anxiety disorders in PD population as well as a lack of validated rating scales hampered the investigation in this field.

Objective:

To screen for prevalence of anxiety symptoms and their associated demographic and clinical features in an outpatient-based cohort with PD.

Patients and methods:

A consecutive series of 360 patients with PD underwent investigation with the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS), the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, Neuropsychiatric Inventory, section E (anxiety), motor scoring with Hoehn and Yahr staging, the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale, and cognitive screening with the Mini-Mental State Examination.

Results:

In all, 136 (37.8%) patients with PD of our cohort had anxiety symptoms, whereas both depression and anxiety were recorded in 5.6% of the patients, while in 56.7% neither anxiety nor depression was present. Female gender, motor disability, and core depression symptoms were the main markers of anxiety in patients with PD. The severity of anxiety symptoms was not associated with asymmetry of motor symptoms. Education, disease duration, and levodopa dose were poor predictors in the model. The HARS had a satisfactory inter-item correlation, convergent validity, and factorial structure.

Conclusions:

Anxiety may be present as an isolated symptom, with specific demographic and clinical markers, and not only as a feature of depression in PD population. This highlighted the importance of identifying anxiety symptoms when treating patients with PD.
Accuracy, Coherence, and Discrepancy in Self- and Other-Reports
Authors: Croucher Stephen M. , Kassing Jeffrey W. , Diers-Lawson Audra R.
Published: February 2013

The purpose of this study was twofold and involved examining the viability of using the Organizational Dissent Scale as an other-report instrument, and developing additional perceptual data related to dissent expression. A sample of 291 people completed survey questionnaire measures of organizational dissent. Equal-sized groups ( n = 97) completed either a self-report, a workplace colleague other-report, or an organizational outsider other-report. Results indicated the Organizational Dissent Scale performed reliably as an other-report, but it showed some tendency for social desirability. In addition, findings suggested that certain indicators of proximity to the dissenter reduced discrepancy between self- and other-reports for upward dissent, but not lateral dissent. By comparison, lateral dissent produced the most discrepant reports of dissent expression, while displaced dissent produced the most coherent reports.