bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new species of Passiflora (Passifloraceae) from Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
Authors: CERVI ARMANDO CARLOS , IMIG DANIELA CRISTINA
Published: May 2013

In this study we describe and illustrate Passiflora pottiae, a new species from Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Passiflora pottiae belongs to Passiflora subgenus Passiflora supersection Stipulata section Granadillastrum.
Shiraiaceae, new family of Pleosporales (Dothideomycetes, Ascomycota)
Authors: LIU YONG-XIANG , HYDE KEVIN D , ARIYAWANSA HIRAN A , LI WEN-JING , ZHOU DE-QUN , YANG YOU-LIAN , CHEN YI-MENG , LIU ZUO-YI
Published: May 2013

Shiraia bambusicola is an economically important medicinal fungus on bamboo. In this paper we re-describe the holotype and designate an epitype based on fresh specimens collected from Zhejiang Province in China. Morphological characters agree with those of the holotype and phylogenies based on combined partial LSU-rDNA, EF and RPB gene sequence data from the epitype, suggest that it is a new family of Pleosporales. The new family is introduced and the holotype and epitype are both illustrated.
Tornado Intensity Estimation: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Edwards Roger , LaDue James G. , Ferree John T. , Scharfenberg Kevin , Maier Chris , Coulbourne William L.
Published: May 2013

During the early to middle 2000s, in response to demand for more detail in wind damage surveying and recordkeeping, a team of atmospheric scientists and wind engineers developed the enhanced Fujita (EF) scale. The EF scale, codified officially into National Weather Service (NWS) use in February 2007, offers wind speed estimates for a range of degrees of damage (DoDs) across each of 28 damage indicators (DIs). In practice, this has increased precision of damage surveys for tornado and thunderstorm-wind events. Still, concerns remain about both the representativeness of DoDs and the sufficiency of DIs, including the following: How dependable are the wind speed ranges for certain DoDs? What other DIs can be included? How can recent advances in mapping and documentation tools be integrated into the surveying process and the storm records? What changes should be made to the existing scale: why, how, and by whom? What alternative methods may be included or adapted for estimating tornado intensity?

To begin coordinated discussion on these and related topics, interested scientists and engineers (including some involved in EF scale development) organized a national EF Scale Stakeholders' Meeting, held on 2–3 March 2010 in Norman, Oklahoma. This article presents more detailed background information, summarizes the meeting, presents possibilities for the future of the EF scale and damage surveys, and solicits ideas from the engineering and atmospheric science communities.
CHASER: An Innovative Satellite Mission Concept to Measure the Effects of Aerosols on Clouds and Climate
Authors: Rennó Nilton O. , Williams Earle , Rosenfeld Daniel , Fischer David G. , Fischer Jürgen , Kremic Tibor , Agrawal Arun , Andreae Meinrat O. , Bierbaum Rosina , Blakeslee Richard , Boerner Anko , Bowles Neil , Christian Hugh , Cox Ann , Dunion Jason , Horvath Akos , Huang Xianglei , Khain Alexander , Kinne Stefan , Lemos Maria C. , Penner Joyce E. , Pöschl Ulrich , Quaas Johannes , Seran Elena , Stevens Bjorn , Walati Thomas , Wagner Thomas
Published: May 2013

The formation of cloud droplets on aerosol particles, technically known as the activation of cloud condensation nuclei (CCN), is the fundamental process driving the interactions of aerosols with clouds and precipitation. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the Decadal Survey indicate that the uncertainty in how clouds adjust to aerosol perturbations dominates the uncertainty in the overall quantification of the radiative forcing attributable to human activities.

Measurements by current satellites allow the determination of crude profiles of cloud particle size, but not of the activated CCN that seed them. The Clouds, Hazards, and Aerosols Survey for Earth Researchers (CHASER) mission concept responds to the IPCC and Decadal Survey concerns, utilizing a new technique and high-heritage instruments to measure all the quantities necessary to produce the first global survey maps of activated CCN and the properties of the clouds associated with them. CHASER also determines the activated CCN concentration and cloud thermodynamic forcing simultaneously, allowing the effects of each to be distinguished.
Analogies of Ocean/Atmosphere Rotating Fluid Dynamics with Gyroscopes: Teaching Opportunities
Authors: Haine Thomas W. N. , Cherian Deepak A.
Published: May 2013

The dynamics of the rotating shallow-water (RSW) system include geostrophic f low and inertial oscillation. These classes of motion are ubiquitous in the ocean and atmosphere. They are often surprising to people at first because intuition about rotating f luids is uncommon, especially the counterintuitive effects of the Coriolis force. The gyroscope, or toy top, is a simple device whose dynamics are also surprising. It seems to defy gravity by not falling over, as long as it spins fast enough. The links and similarities between rotating rigid bodies, like gyroscopes, and rotating fluids are rarely considered or emphasized. In fact, the dynamics of the RSW system and the gyroscope are related in specific ways and they exhibit analogous motions. As such, gyroscopes provide important pedagogical opportunities for instruction, comparison, contrast, and demonstration. Gyroscopic precession is analogous to geostrophic flow and nutation is analogous to inertial oscillation. The geostrophic adjustment process in rotating fluids can be illustrated using a gyroscope that undergoes transient adjustment to steady precession from rest. The controlling role of the Rossby number on RSW dynamics is reflected in a corresponding nondimensional number for the gyroscope. The gyroscope can thus be used to illustrate RSW dynamics by providing a tangible system that behaves like rotating fluids do, such as the large-scale ocean and atmosphere. These relationships are explored for their potential use in educational settings to highlight the instruction, comparison, contrast, and demonstration of important fluid dynamics principles.
Baroclinic Instability of the Silk Road Pattern Induced by Thermal Damping
Authors: Chen Guosen , Huang Ronghui , Zhou Liantong
Published: May 2013

In this paper, the internal dynamics of the Silk Road pattern has been studied. Since observation indicates that the Silk Road pattern could be considered as stationary external Rossby waves, the quasigeostrophic three-layer model has been used to study the dynamics of external Rossby waves. The three-layer model well captures the essential dynamical features of stationary external Rossby waves in accordance with the observations. Theoretical analysis indicates that the quasi-stationary external modes could be destabilized by the weak thermal damping. For destabilization to occur, the vertical structures of the external modes must have a warm ridge and a cold trough from the lower to middle layers. The effect of thermal damping could be considered as modifying the eddy streamfunction in such way that the eddy streamfunction has a vertical phase tilt, so the eddy could feed on the basic zonal flow by extracting the potential energy. The implications for this baroclinic instability on the self-maintenance of the Silk Road pattern are discussed. The observations imply that this dissipative destabilization mechanism could explain the self-maintenance of the Silk Road pattern.
Influence of Ice Particle Surface Roughening on the Global Cloud Radiative Effect
Authors: Yi Bingqi , Yang Ping , Baum Bryan A. , L'Ecuyer Tristan , Oreopoulos Lazaros , Mlawer Eli J. , Heymsfield Andrew J. , Liou Kuo-Nan
Published: May 2013

Ice clouds influence the climate system by changing the radiation budget and large-scale circulation. Therefore, climate models need to have an accurate representation of ice clouds and their radiative effects. In this paper, new broadband parameterizations for ice cloud bulk scattering properties are developed for severely roughened ice particles. The parameterizations are based on a general habit mixture that includes nine habits (droxtals, hollow/solid columns, plates, solid/hollow bullet rosettes, aggregate of solid columns, and small/large aggregates of plates). The scattering properties for these individual habits incorporate recent advances in light-scattering computations. The influence of ice particle surface roughness on the ice cloud radiative effect is determined through simulations with the Fu–Liou and the GCM version of the Rapid Radiative Transfer Model (RRTMG) codes and the National Center for Atmospheric Research Community Atmosphere Model (CAM, version 5.1). The differences in shortwave (SW) and longwave (LW) radiative effect at both the top of the atmosphere and the surface are determined for smooth and severely roughened ice particles. While the influence of particle roughening on the single-scattering properties is negligible in the LW, the results indicate that ice crystal roughness can change the SW forcing locally by more than 10 W m−2 over a range of effective diameters. The global-averaged SW cloud radiative effect due to ice particle surface roughness is estimated to be roughly 1–2 W m−2. The CAM results indicate that ice particle roughening can result in a large regional SW radiative effect and a small but nonnegligible increase in the global LW cloud radiative effect.
Probabilistic Weather Prediction with an Analog Ensemble
Authors: Delle Monache Luca , Eckel F. Anthony , Rife Daran L. , Nagarajan Badrinath , Searight Keith
Published: May 2013

This study explores an analog-based method to generate an ensemble [analog ensemble (AnEn)] in which the probability distribution of the future state of the atmosphere is estimated with a set of past observations that correspond to the best analogs of a deterministic numerical weather prediction (NWP). An analog for a given location and forecast lead time is defined as a past prediction, from the same model, that has similar values for selected features of the current model forecast. The AnEn is evaluated for 0–48-h probabilistic predictions of 10-m wind speed and 2-m temperature over the contiguous United States and against observations provided by 550 surface stations, over the 23 April–31 July 2011 period. The AnEn is generated from the Environment Canada (EC) deterministic Global Environmental Multiscale (GEM) model and a 12–15-month-long training period of forecasts and observations. The skill and value of AnEn predictions are compared with forecasts from a state-of-the-science NWP ensemble system, the 21-member Regional Ensemble Prediction System (REPS). The AnEn exhibits high statistical consistency and reliability and the ability to capture the flow-dependent behavior of errors, and it has equal or superior skill and value compared to forecasts generated via logistic regression (LR) applied to both the deterministic GEM (as in AnEn) and REPS [ensemble model output statistics (EMOS)]. The real-time computational cost of AnEn and LR is lower than EMOS.
Preparation of novel polytetrafluoroethylene/copper-matrix self-lubricating composite materials
Authors: Chen Suiyuan , An Di , Bi Yuning , Liang Jing , Liu Changsheng
Published: May 2013

663-tin bronze, Ni, W, nano-Al2O3 and Ni-coated graphite mixed as the fundamental alloy powder was added in concentrations of 5 vol.%, 7 vol.%, 9 vol.%, 11 vol.% and 13 vol.% NH4HCO3 respectively to prepare composite powders. Powder metallurgy method was applied to prepare porous materials with these composite powders. Polytetrafluoroethylene was hot-dipped into the pores of the materials to prepare novel polytetrafluoroethylene/copper-matrix self-lubricating composite materials. It was observed that the mechanical properties of the porous materials first increase and then decline with the increase of the added volume fraction of the pore-forming material (NH4HCO3) from 5% to 13%. When the added volume fraction of NH4HCO3 was 9%, the mechanical properties of the sample reached the maximum: its density was – 5.52 g/cm3, hardness – 35.5 HV and crushing strength – 148 MPa. The samples containing 9% (volume fraction) NH4HCO3 were hot-dipped with polytetrafluoroethylene in the water bath at 50℃, 60℃, 70℃, 80℃ and 90℃ respectively for 1.5 h, as a result of which the content of polytetrafluoroethylene in the samples first increased and then declined with the rise of temperature. When the temperature was 60℃, the content of polytetrafluoroethylene in the sample reached the maximum, indicating that the frictional performance obviously improved by the polytetrafluoroethylene: the wear loss was 6 mg and friction coefficient was 0.08, which proved that the novel polytetrafluoroethylene/copper-matrix composite material had excellent self-lubricating properties.
Regulatory Toxicology in Controversy
Authors: Demortain David
Published: May 2013

This article examines the way in which public controversies affect regulatory science. It describes the controversy that unfolded in Europe around the use of the ninety-day rat-feeding tests for the risk assessment of genetically modified (GM) plants. This type of test had been criticized for almost two decades by toxicologists, nongovernmental organizations, and industry alike for its inability to capture the specific health effects of GM plants. But GM risk assessment experts showed great reluctance to move toward a more systematic use of other tests, such as chronic two-year studies or toxicogenomic techniques, and made sure that official guidance continues to recommend the use of the ninety-day rat-feeding study. The article shows that these tactics of standardization are a defining feature of regulatory science, and a resource for toxicity experts to defend their authority and credibility against competing expertises that arise during controversies.
The Affective Structure of Stereotype Content
Authors: Rogers Kimberly B. , Schröder Tobias , Scholl Wolfgang
Published: May 2013

Affect control theory and the stereotype content model share explanatory goals and employ compatible measurement strategies but have developed in largely separate literatures. The present article examines the models’ commensurability and discusses new insights that can be gained by comparing theories. We first demonstrate that the unique measurement dimensions used by each theory (evaluation/potency/activity vs. warmth/competence) describe much of the same semantic content. We then show how simulation techniques developed by affect control theorists can be applied to the study of interactions with stereotyped groups. These simulations indicate broad consistencies between the theories’ predictions but highlight three distinctive emphases of affect control theory. Specifically, affect control models predict that actors are motivated to behave in ways that (1) are consistent with self-meanings, (2) maintain cultural norms about the suitability of behaviors and emotions to role relations, and (3) account for behavior and emotion in prior interactions.
The Embedded Self
Authors: Walker Mark H. , Lynn Freda B.
Published: May 2013

Despite the fact that key sociological theories of self and identity view the self as fundamentally rooted in networks of interpersonal relationships, empirical research investigating how personal network structure influences the self is conspicuously lacking. To address this gap, we examine links between network structure and role identity salience. We identify two features of personal networks that potentially affect how social ties shape identity salience: (1) proportion and strength of ties to role-based others (RBOs) and (2) embeddedness of RBOs, or the breadth of access that a role-based group has to the rest of an individual’s network. Across three role identities (student, religious, and work), we find that our measure of embeddedness predicts role identity salience but that the proportion and strength of ties do not. Thus, our study does not support the proposition that identity salience is a product of an individual’s social and emotional attachment to role-based groups. Rather, our findings suggest that a role identity becomes more salient as role-based others become more tightly woven into an individual’s social fabric.
First- and second-order campaigning: Evidence from Germany
Authors: Tenscher Jens
Published: May 2013

In recent years, political parties have reacted to some far-reaching transformations in their media and sociocultural environment. Respective changes and adaptations, often summarized under the catchword of ‘professionalization’, become most vivid during election campaigns. However, parties’ election campaign professionalism has seldom been ‘measured’, and it has mostly been exemplified in single case studies so far. Against this backdrop, the article presents an empirical test of the party-centered theory of professionalization. It is an intertemporal comparison of political parties’ campaign structures and strategies on the occasion of the two most recent European and national parliamentary elections in Germany. The analyses provide empirical evidence for professionalization-related changes. Plus, it is demonstrated that transformations take place at two different campaign levels, the first-order national and the second-order European level. These exemplary results should be taken into account in future empirical analyses that might reflect our methodological approach, too.
The differential role of the media as an agent of political socialization in Europe
Authors: Moeller Judith , de Vreese Claes
Published: May 2013

Declining political involvement of adolescents in western society has caused widespread concerns about the health of democracy in the future. This study investigates the role of the media in the formation of political attitudes and political mobilization of adolescents. Based on a secondary data analysis of the European Social Survey ( N = 5657), the influence of exposure to news and entertainment content on political trust, signing petitions and consumer politics is assessed in a multi-level regression analysis. Additionally, the impact of the political and educational system on political attitude formation and civic engagement of adolescents is investigated. The results show a higher level of engagement in countries with a well-functioning democracy. At the individual level, news media exposure is positively related to engagement in consumer politics, whereas exposure to entertainment is negatively related to mobilization.
Gender Differences in Patterns of Experienced Sexual Coercion and Associated Vulnerability Factors Among Young People in The Netherlands
Authors: Kuyper Lisette , de Wit John , Smolenski Derek , Adam Philippe , Woertman Liesbeth , van Berlo Willy
Published: May 2013

The development of effective policies and programs to prevent sexual coercion among young people requires thorough understanding of the diversity of coercive sexual experiences, patterns in such types of experiences, and similarities and differences between subgroups, especially by gender, in patterns of coercive sexual experiences and associations with potential vulnerability factors. The present online self-report study assessed a wide range of coercive sexual experiences and potential vulnerability factors among a sociodemographically diverse sample of 1,319 young people (16-25 years old) in The Netherlands. Findings confirm that sexual coercion comprises a diversity of experiences, with rates differing substantially across types of coercion. Latent class analysis revealed distinct patterns of coercive sexual experiences for young women and young men. Among young men, three patterns of experiences were found: no coercive sexual experiences, experience with verbal pressure, and experience with verbal pressure as well as coercion related to alcohol intoxication. Among young women, four patterns of coercive experiences were identified. In addition to the three patterns observed among young men, a fourth pattern encompassed experiences with verbal pressure as well as the use of force or violence. Higher numbers of sexual partners, lower levels of sexual refusal skills, and higher levels of token resistance were consistently associated with increased vulnerability. Findings illustrate the importance of communication skills and suggest that sexual communication training should be an integral part of sexuality education.
Harnessing Complex Emergent Metaphors for Effective Communication in Palliative Care
Authors: Arnold Bruce L. , Lloyd Linda S.
Published: May 2013

Terminally ill patients can have unexpected, enigmatic, and profound cognitive shifts that significantly alter their perception of themselves, thereby eliminating their fear of death and dying. However, there are no systematic studies into these remarkable yet ineffable transcendence experiences. They therefore remain easily overlooked or viewed as isolated anomalies and therefore excluded from quality-of-life patient considerations. We use a multimodal methodology for identifying the prevalence and thematic properties of complex emergent metaphors patients use to report these experiences. Although previous research has pioneered the importance of understanding conventional or primary metaphors at the end of life, our findings indicate the considerable potential of more complex metaphors for reducing barriers to effective communication in palliative care.
Caregiver Evaluation of the ACTIVE Intervention
Authors: Oliver Debra Parker , Albright David L. , Kruse Robin L. , Wittenberg-Lyles Elaine , Washington Karla , Demiris George
Published: May 2013

Central to the hospice philosophy is the belief that the patient/family owns the plan of care. However, barriers prevent the majority of hospice patients/families from participating in the meetings where plans are created and revised. This study evaluates the participant experience of the ACTIVE (assessing caregivers for team intervention via video encounters) intervention, designed to use web conferencing technology to overcome the barriers of participation in development and review of individual care plans. Interviews were done with hospice caregivers following the death of their loved one. Caregivers involved in the intervention reported positive relationships with the hospice staff, felt involved in decision making, and got answers to their questions. Furthermore they reported staff was responsive to their needs and that participation increased their confidence, trust in the team, and provided a feeling of not being alone if they needed help. Challenges included issues with the technology, a feeling of being rushed and a frustration when they did not feel included or involved. Suggestions for improving the intervention included a more frequent meeting time, a need for to train hospice staff how to conduct web-based interactions, and suggestions for additional information for caregivers.
Family Support Is Associated With Behavioral Strategies for Healthy Eating Among Latinas
Authors: Schmied Emily A. , Parada Humberto , Horton Lucy A. , Madanat Hala , Ayala Guadalupe X.
Published: May 2013

Background. Healthy eating is important for obesity control. Dietary interventions target the adoption of behavioral strategies to increase fiber and decrease fat consumption. However, little is known about the contributions of psychosocial factors to the use of these strategies. Purpose. This study examined psychosocial correlates of behavioral strategies for healthy eating among Latinas. Method. Participants included 361 Latino mothers living along the U.S.–Mexico border in California. Data included measures of sociodemographics, acculturation, and psychosocial determinants of healthy eating. A 30-item dietary behavioral strategies scale assessed strategies to increase fiber and decrease fat consumption. Results. Family interactions regarding dietary habits (β = .224, p < .001) and financial status (β = .148, p = .029) were associated with the use of strategies to decrease fat consumption. Positive family interactions regarding dietary habits (β = .226, p < .001), fewer barriers to obtaining fruits and vegetables (β = −.207, p < .001), and more family support for vegetable purchasing (β = .070, p = .047) were associated with use of strategies to increase fiber consumption. Conclusions. Future interventions would benefit from improving family systems associated with healthy eating.
Does substance matter? A model of qualitative portfolio allocation and application to German state governments between 1990 and 2010
Authors: Raabe Johannes , Linhart Eric
Published: May 2013

Gamson’s Law of office distribution tells us approximately how many ministries each member of a coalition will receive. However, the question of which ministries are allocated to which parties according to a more general party motivation remains largely open. In a model-theoretic investigation of portfolio allocation we focus on the characteristics of the distributional process concerning the qualitative differences of ministries: which motivation drives parties to choose or disregard certain ministries? Applying the technical framework of divisor methods for our model and estimating party preferences according to their election manifestos, we find that substance indeed does matter. Parties seek to obtain ministries in those policy fields which they mention more intensively in their electoral manifestos and at the same time spread their ministerial control broadly. Furthermore, we find that bigger parties are not qualitatively repaid for their usually observable quantitative loss.
The personalization of politics in Australia
Authors: McAllister Ian
Published: May 2013

While national election campaigns have become increasingly personalized, it is unclear to what extent this trend has been replicated at the constituency level. Using surveys of Australian election candidates conducted from 1996 to 2010, this article tests the personalization hypothesis at the local constituency level. Three areas that may be affected by personalization are examined: constituency service; geographic proximity between candidates and potential voters; and local election campaigning. Among MPs, constituency service has grown in importance at the expense of local party engagement. However, among the broader group of candidates standing in the election, the results show that party-related activities deliver more votes than personal ones.
Primary consequences
Authors: Indriðason Indriði H , Kristinsson Gunnar Helgi
Published: May 2013

Are the effects of candidate selection through party primaries largely disruptive for political parties or do they have some redeeming features? Icelandic parties have used inclusive nomination procedures since the early 1970s on a scale that is without parallel in other parliamentary democracies. The Icelandic primaries thus offer a unique opportunity to study the effects of primaries in a context that is quite distinct from the most studied primary election system, i.e. the United States, which is characterized by federalism, presidential government and two-party competition. Our findings indicate that, despite four decades of primaries, the Icelandic parties remain strong and cohesive organizations, suffering almost none of the ailments predicted by critics of primary elections. We are careful to point out, however, that context matters and the way parties have adapted also plays a role.
Preaching to the converted? Christian Democratic voting in six west European countries
Authors: Duncan Fraser
Published: May 2013

The electoral success of many West European Christian Democratic parties as prototypical people’s parties has been threatened in recent years by growing secularization and economic trends. In the light of these challenges, this article analyses the importance of social and attitudinal variables in predicting support for seven Christian Democratic parties at the individual level using data from the European Social Survey. The results highlight the continuing centrality of religion in Christian Democratic voting. Regular attendance at church, particularly among Catholics, raises the probability of supporting Christian Democracy at the ballot box substantially. Class, by contrast, offers a weak guide as to the likelihood of a Christian Democratic vote. The importance of religion is such that expectations about other potentially important independent variables (character of domicile, age) are generally not met. Yet the reliable support of religious voters is increasingly an ambiguous electoral asset with clear signs that this partisan constituency is in decline throughout Western Europe.
Comparative symptomatology of burnout and depression
Authors: Bianchi Renzo , Boffy Claire , Hingray Coraline , Truchot Didier , Laurent Eric
Published: May 2013

The link between burnout and depression remains unclear. In this study, we compared depressive symptoms in 46 burned-out workers, 46 outpatients experiencing a major depressive episode, and 453 burnout-free workers to test the distinctiveness of burnout as a clinical entity. Participants with burnout and major depressive episode reported similar, severe levels of overall depressive symptoms. The between-syndrome overlap was further verified for eight of the nine major depressive episode diagnostic criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed., text rev.). Our findings do not support the view hypothesizing that burnout and depression are separate entities and question the nosological added value of the burnout construct.
Appointment reminder systems and patient preferences: Patient technology usage and familiarity with other service providers as predictive variables
Authors: Finkelstein Stacey R , Liu Nan , Jani Beena , Rosenthal David , Poghosyan Lusine
Published: May 2013

This study had two aims: to measure patient preferences for medical appointment reminder systems and to assess the predictive value of patient usage and familiarity with other service providers contacting them on responsiveness to appointment reminder systems. We used a cross-sectional design wherein patients’ at an urban, primary-care clinic ranked various reminder systems and indicated their usage of technology and familiarity with other service providers contacting them over text messages and e-mails. We assessed the impact of patient usage of text messages and e-mails and patient familiarity with other service providers contacting them over text messages and e-mails on effectiveness of and responsiveness to appointment reminder systems. We found that patient usage of text messages or e-mails and familiarity with other service providers contacting them are the best predictors of perceived effectiveness and responsiveness to text message and e-mail reminders. When these variables are accounted for, age and other demographic variables do not predict responsiveness to reminder systems.
Time-scheduled delivery of computer health animations: “Installing” healthy habits of computer use
Authors: Wang Sy-Chyi , Chern Jin-Yuan
Published: May 2013

The development of modern technology brings convenience to our lives but removes physical activity from our daily routines, thereby putting our lives at risk. Extended computer use may contribute to symptoms such as visual impairment and musculoskeletal disorders. To help reduce the risk of physical inactivity and promote healthier computer use, this study developed a time-scheduled delivery of health-related animations for users sitting in front of computers for prolonged periods. In addition, we examined the effects that the program had on the computer-related health behavior intentions and actions of participants. Two waves of questionnaires were implemented for data collection before and after intervention. The results showed that the animation program indeed had a positive effect on participants’ healthy computer use actions in terms of breathtaking, body massages, and body stretches. It also helped to bridge the intention–action gap of the health behaviors. The development and evaluation were documented, and users’ experiences/suggestions were discussed at the end.
Linking cancer registry and hospital discharge data for treatment surveillance
Authors: Lin Ge , Ma Jihyun , Zhang Lei , Qu Ming
Published: May 2013

Cancer registry data often lack complete chemotherapy and radiation therapy information. To conduct treatment disparity surveillance, we linked 2005–2009 Nebraska Cancer Registry data with Nebraska hospital discharge data. Due to the high quality of both datasets and the proposed linkage procedure, we had a linkage rate of 97 percent. We demonstrate the utilization of the linked dataset in case finding, treatment update, and treatment surveillance. The results show that the linked dataset is likely to identify up to 5 percent of potential missed cases. We investigated the use of radiation therapy in treating colorectal and breast cancers as case-finding examples. The linked dataset found 12 percent and 14 percent more treatment cases for colorectal and breast cancer patients, respectively.
When materiality counts: The social and political importance of activist magazines in Europe
Authors: Barassi Veronica
Published: May 2013

This study examines the social and political importance of printed magazines at a time of social and mobile media. It draws on a cross-cultural ethnographic research amongst two different political organisations in Britain and Spain. Although differing in political cultures and strategies, both organisations invest their few economic resources in the production of printed activist magazines, as well as in the development of web platforms. This study investigates why for these political groups’ materiality matters. It argues that looking at why people – and especially grassroots political organisations – remain attached to material forms of communication, whilst at the same time developing online ones, can raise critical questions on the connection between subjectivity, political association and new technologies, as well as on the difference between individualised and collective forms of communication.
Sensemaking and emotion in organizations
Authors: Maitlis Sally , Vogus Timothy J. , Lawrence Thomas B.
Published: May 2013

Emotion is a critical but relatively unexplored dimension of sensemaking in organizations. Existing models of sensemaking tend to ignore the role of emotion or portray it as an impediment. To address this problem, we explore the role that felt emotion plays in three stages of individual sensemaking in organizations. First, we examine emotion’s role in mediating the relationship between unexpected events and the onset of sensemaking processes. We argue that emotion signals the need for and provides the energy that fuels sensemaking, and that different kinds of emotions are more and less likely to play these roles. Second, we explore the role of emotion in shaping sensemaking processes, focusing on how emotions make sensemaking a more solitary or more interpersonal process, and a more generative or more integrative process. Third, we argue that sensemakers’ felt emotion plays an important role in concluding sensemaking, particularly through its effect on the plausibility of sensemaking accounts.
Genomic analysis of the native European Solanum species, S. dulcamara
Authors: D’Agostino Nunzio , Golas Tomek , van de Geest Henri , Bombarely Aureliano , Dawood Thikra , Zethof Jan , Driedonks Nicky , Wijnker Erik , Bargsten Joachim , Nap Jan-Peter , Mariani Celestina , Rieu Ivo
Published: May 2013

Background

Solanum dulcamara (bittersweet, climbing nightshade) is one of the few species of the Solanaceae family native to Europe. As a common weed it is adapted to a wide range of ecological niches and it has long been recognized as one of the alternative hosts for pathogens and pests responsible for many important diseases in potato, such as Phytophthora. At the same time, it may represent an alternative source of resistance genes against these diseases. Despite its unique ecology and potential as a genetic resource, genomic research tools are lacking for S. dulcamara. We have taken advantage of next-generation sequencing to speed up research on and use of this non-model species.

Results

In this work, we present the first large-scale characterization of the S. dulcamara transcriptome. Through comparison of RNAseq reads from two different accessions, we were able to predict transcript-based SNP and SSR markers. Using the SNP markers in combination with genomic AFLP and CAPS markers, the first genome-wide genetic linkage map of bittersweet was generated. Based on gene orthology, the markers were anchored to the genome of related Solanum species (tomato, potato and eggplant), revealing both conserved and novel chromosomal rearrangements. This allowed a better estimation of the evolutionary moment of rearrangements in a number of cases and showed that chromosomal breakpoints are regularly re-used.

Conclusion

Knowledge and tools developed as part of this study pave the way for future genomic research and exploitation of this wild Solanum species. The transcriptome assembly represents a resource for functional analysis of genes underlying interesting biological and agronomical traits and, in the absence of the full genome, provides a reference for RNAseq gene expression profiling aimed at understanding the unique biology of S. dulcamara. Cross-species orthology-based marker selection is shown to be a powerful tool to quickly generate a comparative genetic map, which may speed up gene mapping and contribute to the understanding of genome evolution within the Solanaceae family.
Diversity of Mycoplasma hominis clinical isolates from Bordeaux, France, as assessed by multiple-locus variable-number tandem repeat analysis
Authors: Férandon Cyril , Peuchant Olivia , Renaudin Hélène , Bébéar Cécile
Published: May 2013

Background

Mycoplasma hominis is an opportunistic human mycoplasma species that can cause various urogenital infections and, less frequently, extragenital infections. The objective of this work was to study the genetic diversity of this species using a molecular typing method based on multiple-locus variable-number tandem repeat (VNTR) analysis (MLVA).

Results

The genome content of M. hominis PG21 was analysed for tandem repeats (TRs), and five of the 130 TRs identified were selected for use in an MLVA assay. The method was based on GeneScan analysis of VNTR loci using multiplex PCR with fluorescent dyes and resolution by capillary electrophoresis. This approach was used on a collection of 210 urogenital and extragenital French clinical isolates collected between 1987 and 2009. Forty MLVA types were found. The discriminatory index of our MLVA scheme was 0.924. Using this new typing tool, persistent infection was suggested for six patients and new infection for one patient. Furthermore, mother-to-child transmission was confirmed in the two cases studied. Application of MLVA to a wide range of M. hominis isolates revealed high genotypic diversity and no obvious link between the MLVA type and the isolate year of collection, the patient’s age or sex, the anatomical origin of the isolates or resistance to antibiotics was found.

Conclusions

Our MLVA scheme highlights the high genetic heterogeneity of the M. hominis species. It seems too discriminatory to be used for large epidemiological studies but has proven its usefulness for molecular studies at the individual level.
MiR-145 inhibits oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cell growth by targeting c-Myc and Cdk6
Authors: Shao Yuan , Qu Yiping , Dang Siwen , Yao Bowen , Ji Meiju
Published: May 2013

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a large group of negative gene regulators that potentially play a critical role in tumorigenesis. Increasing evidences indicate that miR-145 acts a tumor suppressor in numerous human cancers. However, its role in oral carcinogenesis remains poorly defined. The aim of this study is to determine expression levels of miR-145 in oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCCs) and normal mucosa tissues, and explore its biological functions in OSCCs.

Methods

Reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) assay was used to evaluate expression levels of miR-145. The biological functions of miR-145 were determined by cell proliferation and colony formation, cell cycle and apoptosis, as well as cell invasion assay.

Results

MiR-145 was frequently down-regulated in OSCCs compared with normal mucosa tissues. Restoring miR-145 expression in OSCC cells dramatically suppressed cell proliferation and colony formation, and induced G1 phase arrest and cell apoptosis. Importantly, our data showed that miR-145 downregulated the expression of c-Myc and Cdk6, which have previously been identified as two direct targets of miR-145.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that miR-145 exerts its tumor suppressor function by targeting c-Myc and Cdk6, leading to the inhibition of OSCC cell growth. MiR-145 rescue may thus be a rational for diagnostic and therapeutic applications in OSCC.
Social support from teachers mediates physical activity behavior change in children participating in the Fit-4-Fun intervention
Authors: Eather Narelle , Morgan Philip J , Lubans David R
Published: May 2013

Background

Few studies have examined the mediators of behavior change in successful school-based physical activity interventions. The aim of this study was to explore potential mediators of physical activity in the Fit-4-Fun program for primary school children.

Design

Group randomized controlled trial.

Methods

Four primary schools were recruited in April, 2011 and randomized by school into intervention or control conditions. Participants included 213 children (mean age = 10.7 years ± 0.6; 52.2% female) with the treatment group (n = 118) completing the 8-week multi-component Fit-4-Fun program. Participants were assessed at baseline, 3- and 6-months. Physical activity was measured using Yamax SW700 pedometers (mean steps/day) and questionnaires were used to assess constructs from Social Cognitive Theory and Competence Motivation Theory. Hypothesized mediators measured included social support from peers, parents and teachers; physical activity self-efficacy (barrier and task); enjoyment; and perceived school physical environment. Mediation was assessed using Preacher and Hayes’ multiple mediation regression SPSS macro. Action theory (A), conceptual theory (B) and the significance of the product of coefficients (AB) are reported.

Results

The intervention had a significant effect on physical activity (p<0.001). The action theory test results revealed significant treatment effects at 3-months for perceived school environment (A=0.28, p<0.001); and at 6-month follow-up for perceived school environment (A=0.058, p<0.001), teacher social support (A=0.54, p<0.05) and enjoyment (A=-0.23, p<0.05). The conceptual theory test revealed a significant relationship between changes in teacher social support and changes in physical activity at 6-month follow-up (B=828, P<0.05). Teacher social support was shown to have a significant mediating effect on physical activity (AB = 445, CI = 77-1068 steps, proportion= 13%), and perceived school environment approached significance (AB = 434, CI= -415 to 1507 steps, proportion= 13%).

Conclusions

The Fit-4-Fun program successfully targeted social support for physical activity provided by classroom teachers which contributed to improved physical activity in children. These results demonstrate that classroom teachers play a key role in influencing physical activity behavior outcomes in children.

Trial Registration No: ACTRN12611000976987
Mothers’ reports of the difficulties that their children experience in taking methotrexate for Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis and how these impact on quality of life
Authors: Mulligan Kathleen , Kassoumeri Laura , Etheridge Angela , Moncrieffe Halima , Wedderburn Lucy R , Newman Stanton
Published: May 2013

Background

Children who take methotrexate for juvenile idiopathic arthritis may experience side effects, including nausea and vomiting, leading to anticipatory nausea in some children, and fear of injections or blood tests. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence and extent of these difficulties and their impact on quality of life.

Methods

Participants were mothers of children with JIA who were currently taking methotrexate (MTX). Mothers completed a questionnaire about MTX that was developed for the study, two questions from the treatment subscale of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) Rheumatology scale to assess needle-related problems and the Child Health Questionnaire 50-item parent version (CHQ-PF50) to assess health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

Results

171 mothers participated in the study. More than half of children were reported to have experienced one or more of: nausea or vomiting after taking MTX, anticipatory nausea, fear of blood tests or fear of injections. There was no significant difference in reported rates of sickness or needle-related problems between MTX responders (ACR70 or above), partial responders (ACR30 or ACR50) and non-responders. In multivariate analyses, variables that were significant independent predictors of one or more MTX-related difficulties included younger age, taking MTX subcutaneously and having a larger number of currently active joints. Feeling sick after taking MTX was a significant independent predictor of poorer scores on the physical summary scale of the CHQ-PF50. Anxiety about injections and feeling sick after taking MTX were significant independent predictors of poorer scores on the psychosocial summary scale.

Conclusions

Difficulties in taking MTX are experienced by a significant proportion of children with JIA and these may have an adverse impact on HRQoL. Approaches to help minimize these difficulties are required.
P6 acupoint stimulation for prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing craniotomy: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lv Jian-qin , Feng Rui-zhi , Li Ning
Published: May 2013

Background

The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is 50 to 79% after neurosurgery. Our study is designed to evaluate the efficacy of pericardium 6 (P6; also known as Neiguan) acupoint stimulation versus placebo, and versus routine antiemetic for the prevention of PONV after craniotomy, as well as to compare the efficacy of invasive acupuncture with non-invasive transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) on P6.

Methods/design

This is a single-center, prospective, double-blind, five-arm, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial (RCT). All groups will be given routine intravenous ondansetron 8 mg administered before skin closure. Upon regaining consciousness from general anaesthesia, patients will receive one of five interventions: 1) P6 acupuncture bilaterally for 30 minutes, stimulated every 10 minutes to keep de qi sensation; 2) sham acupuncture bilaterally for 30 minutes with no stimulation; 3) P6 stimulation via active TENS electrodes bilaterally for 30 minutes, with stimulation frequency and intensity set to when de qi sensation is felt; 4) sham P6 stimulation via inactive TENS electrode bilaterally for 30 minutes; and 5) usual practice of pharmacological emesis prevention. The incidence of postoperative vomiting during the first 24 hours is the main outcome. Secondary outcomes include: complete response rate, severity of nausea, total rescue metoclopramide dose used and patient satisfaction with PONV management.

Discussion

The results from this study could potentially confirm that P6 acupoint stimulation is an effective adjunct to standard antiemetic drug therapy for the prevention of PONV in patients undergoing craniotomy. Our study may also confirm that conventional acupuncture is more effective than TENS.

Trial registration

This study is registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR-TRC-13003026.