bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nitric oxide generated by the rice blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae drives plant infection
Authors: Samalova Marketa , Johnson Jasper , Illes Mary , Kelly Steven , Fricker Mark , Gurr Sarah
Published: October 2012

Plant‐derived nitric oxide (NO) triggers defence, priming the onset of the hypersensitive response and restricting pathogen ingress during incompatibility. However, little is known about the role of pathogen‐produced NO during pre‐infection development and infection. We sought evidence for NO production by the rice blast fungus during early infection.

NO production was measured using fluorescence of DAR‐4M and the role of NO assessed using NO scavengers. The synthesis of NO was investigated by targeted knockout of genes potentially involved in NO synthesis, including nitric oxide synthase‐like genes (NOL2 and NOL3) and nitrate (NIA1) and nitrite reductase (NII1), generating single and double Δnia1Δnii1, Δnia1Δnol3, and Δnol2Δnol3 mutants.

We demonstrate that Magnaporthe oryzae generates NO during germination and in early development. Removal of NO delays germling development and reduces disease lesion numbers. NO is not generated by the candidate proteins tested, nor by other arginine‐dependent NO systems, by polyamine oxidase activity or non‐enzymatically by low pH. Furthermore, we show that, while NIA1 and NII1 are essential for nitrate assimilation, NIA1, NII1, NOL2 and NOL3 are all dispensable for pathogenicity.

Development of M. oryzae and initiation of infection are critically dependent on fungal NO synthesis, but its mode of generation remains obscure.
Maternal risk factors for neonatal ischaemic stroke
Authors: GRUNT SEBASTIAN , STEINLIN MAJA
Published: October 2012

This commentary is on the original article by Mann et al. on pages 58–64 of this issue
Outcomes of spinal cord injuries in young children
Authors: BEHRMAN ANDREA L , TRIMBLE SHELLEY A
Published: October 2012

This commentary is on the original article by Schottler et al. on pages 1138–1143 of this issue.
Early identification and interventions for dyslexia: a contemporary view
Authors: Snowling Margaret J.
Published: October 2012

This paper reviews current proposals concerning the definition of dyslexia and contrasts it with reading comprehension impairment. We then discuss methods for early identification and review evidence that teacher assessments and ratings may be valid screening tools. Finally, we argue that interventions should be theoretically motivated and evidence based. We conclude that early identification of children at risk of dyslexia followed by the implementation of intervention is a realistic aim for practitioners and policy‐makers.
Pad dyeing of cellulose acetate nanofibres with disperse dyes
Authors: Khatri Zeeshan , Khatri Awais , Saleem Umaima , Mayakrishnan Gopiraman , Kim Byoung‐Suhk , Wei Kai , Kim Ick‐Soo
Published: October 2012

In addition to a number of applications of nanofibres in technical fields such as medical, filtration and biosensing, nanofibres are recently being widely explored in terms of apparel use. Past work has focused on the functional properties of nanofibres for apparel use. Coloured nanofibres were produced to investigate their aesthetic properties for the potential application to apparel. Webs of cellulose acetate nanofibre were electrospun and dyed with a high energy level CI Disperse Red 167:1 dye and a low energy level CI Disperse Blue 56 dye using the continuous pad–dry–bake method. Results revealed that the high energy level dye produced better colour yield than the lower energy level dye. The dyed cellulose acetate nanofibres produced acceptable colorimetric values, colour yield and colour fastness. Young’s modulus of dyed nanofibres increased by threefold in comparison to the undyed cellulose acetate nanofibres. Scanning electron microscopy images showed good morphology with the smooth surface of the dyed cellulose acetate nanofibres.
Restoration and Science: A Practitioner/Scientist's View from Rare Habitat Restoration at a Southern California Preserve
Authors: DeSimone Sandra A.
Published: October 2012

Researchers reexamining the relationship between restoration science and practice report a continuing scientist‐practitioner gap. As a land manager with scientific training, I offer my perspective of the chasm and describe a restoration practice infused with as much science as the realities of limited budget and time allow. The coastal sage scrub (CSS) restoration project at Starr Ranch, a 1,585 ha Audubon preserve in southern California, combines non‐chemical invasive species control, restoration, and applied research. Our practices evolve from modified scientific approaches and the scientific literature. Results from experiments with non‐optimum replication (on effects of seed rates, soil tamping, and timing of planting) nonetheless had value for management decisions. A critical practice came from academic research that encouraged cost‐effective passive restoration. Our passive restoration monitoring data showed 28–100% total native cover after 3–5 years. Another published study found that restoration success in semiarid regions is dependent on rainfall, a finding vital for understanding active restoration monitoring results that showed a range of 0–88% total native cover at the end of the first season. Work progresses through a combination of applied research, a watchful eye on the scientific literature, and “ecological intuition” informed by the scientific literature and our own findings. I suggest that it is less critical for academic scientists to address the basic questions on technique that are helpful to land managers but rather advocate practitioner training in methods to test alternative strategies and long‐term monitoring.
Snag Benchmarks and Treatment Options for Mixed‐Pine Forest Restoration in Eastern Upper Michigan
Authors: Corace R. Gregory , Stout Anna T. , Goebel P. Charles , Hix David M.
Published: October 2012

Snags (dead‐standing trees) are biological legacies that remain after disturbances in forests. We enhanced the ecological underpinnings of snag management within the context of mixed‐pine forest restoration in the northern Lake States by quantifying characteristics of live trees and snags within eighty-five 500‐m2 plots at Seney National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in eastern Upper Michigan. Study plots represented reference conditions (i.e. no past harvesting, relatively unaltered fire regime) and altered (i.e. harvested, altered fire regime) conditions. We also compared three treatments for creating snags from live trees. Snags were found in 87% of the reference plots and 85% of the altered plots. The only snag variables that differed between plot types were mean snag basal area, which was greater in altered plots (Student's t‐test, p = 0.04), and mean percent total basal area of snags (greater in reference plots, p = 0.06). The composition of snags differed only in the 10‐ and 25‐cm diameter classes (Multi‐Response Permutation Procedure, p < 0.10). The percentage of snags that developed into the most advanced decay class (DC) differed among treatments after 4 years (χ2 = 16.49, p < 0.01), with 26% of girdled trees, 3% of prescribed fire trees, and zero topped trees reaching DC5. Logistic regression illustrated that the influence of predictor variables on DC development varied by species and treatment. The findings from this study, past studies, and ongoing projects at Seney NWR are directly applicable to innovative management of snags in mixed‐pine forests.
A Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study of Spatial Working Memory in Children with Prenatal Alcohol Exposure: Contribution of Familial History of Alcohol Use Disorders
Authors: Norman Andria L. , O'Brien Jessica W. , Spadoni Andrea D. , Tapert Susan F. , Jones Kenneth Lyons , Riley Edward P. , Mattson Sarah N.
Published: October 2012

Background

Heavy prenatal alcohol exposure leads to widespread cognitive deficits, including problems with spatial working memory (SWM). Neuroimaging studies report structural and functional abnormalities in fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), but interpretations may be complicated by the co‐occurrence of a family history of alcoholism. Since this history is also linked to cognitive deficits and brain abnormalities, it is difficult to determine the extent to which deficits are unique to prenatal alcohol exposure.

Methods

Age‐matched subjects selected from 2 neuroimaging studies underwent functional imaging while engaging in a task assessing memory for spatial locations relative to a vigilance condition assessing attention. Pairwise comparisons were made for the following 3 groups: children with histories of heavy prenatal alcohol exposure (ALC, n = 18); those with no prenatal alcohol exposure, but a confirmed family history of alcoholism (FHP, n = 18); and nonexposed, family history negative controls (CON, n = 17).

Results

Relative to CON and FHP, the ALC group showed increased blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) response in the left middle and superior frontal gyri for the SWM condition relative to the vigilance condition (SWM contrast). Additionally, the ALC group showed unique BOLD response increases in the left lingual gyrus and right middle frontal gyrus relative to CON, and left cuneus and precuneus relative to FHP. Both ALC and FHP showed greater activation compared to CON in the lentiform nucleus and insular region.

Conclusions

These results confirm previous studies suggesting SWM deficits in FASD. Differences between the ALC group and the CON and FHP groups suggest the left middle and superior frontal region may be specifically affected in alcohol‐exposed children. Conversely, differences from the CON group in the lentiform nucleus and insular region for the ALC and FHP groups may indicate this region is associated with family history of alcoholism rather than specifically with prenatal alcohol exposure.
Moderate Alcohol Consumption and Breast Cancer in Women: From Epidemiology to Mechanisms and Interventions
Authors: Brooks Philip J. , Zakhari Samir
Published: October 2012

Epidemiologic studies indicate that moderate alcohol consumption increases breast cancer risk in women. Understanding the mechanistic basis of this relationship has important implications for women's health and breast cancer prevention. In this commentary, we focus on some recent epidemiologic studies linking moderate alcohol consumption to breast cancer risk and place the results of those studies within the framework of our current understanding of the temporal and mechanistic basis of human carcinogenesis. This analysis supports the hypothesis that alcohol acts as a weak cumulative breast carcinogen and may also be a tumor promoter. We discuss the implications of these mechanisms for the prevention and treatment of alcohol‐related breast cancer and present some considerations for future studies. Moderate alcohol consumption has been shown to benefit cardiovascular health and recently been associated with healthy aging. Therefore, a better understanding of how moderate alcohol consumption impacts breast cancer risk will allow women to make better informed decisions about the risks and benefits of alcohol consumption in the context of their overall health and at different stages of their life. Such mechanistic information is also important for the development of rational clinical interventions to reduce ethanol‐related breast cancer mortality.
Guidelines for Neuropathic Pain Management in Patients with Cancer: A European Survey and Comparison
Authors: Piano Virginie , Schalkwijk Annelies , Burgers Jako , Verhagen Stans , Kress Hans , Hekster Yechiel , Lanteri‐Minet Michel , Engels Yvonne , Vissers Kris
Published: October 2012

Between 19% and 39% of patients with cancer pain suffer from neuropathic pain. Its diagnosis and treatment is still challenging. Yet, national clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) have been developed in several European countries to assist practitioners in managing these patients safely and legally. The aim of this study was to assess the quality of the development and reporting of these CPGs.

Methods

In collaboration with the European Federation of IASP Chapters, a European inventory of CPGs was conducted. Inclusion criteria were at least one paragraph dedicated to the treatment of neuropathic pain in cancer. Using the Appraisal of Guidelines, Research and Evaluation II instrument, 2 appraisers independently assessed the quality of the development process of the included CPGs in 6 quality domains. Besides, CPGs developed by governmental organization were compared with those developed by professional societies using t‐tests.

Results

Mean scores of the domains “scope and purpose” (80%) and “clarity of presentation” (61%) were satisfactory, “stakeholder involvement” (58%), “rigor of development” (57%), and “editorial independence” (53%) were acceptable, and “applicability” was insufficient (39%). Governmental guidelines had higher quality scores than professional society guidelines for domain “stakeholder involvement” and “editorial independence” (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

The quality of the development process of the 9 included CPGs varied widely. CPGs should be developed within a structured guideline program, including methodological support. As developing a CPG is expensive and time‐consuming, we recommend more international cooperation to increase quality and lower the development costs.
The effectiveness and safety of fixed low‐dose prothrombin complex concentrates in patients requiring urgent reversal of warfarin (CME)
Authors: Varga Cindy , Al‐Touri Sultan , Papadoukakis Stella , Caplan Stephen , Kahn Susan , Blostein Mark
Published: October 2012

Background

A rapid method of reversal is required for patients on warfarin who suffer acute bleeding or require emergency surgery. Prothrombin complex concentrates (PCCs) have recently been recommended by the Canadian Blood Services for use at a fixed low dose of 1000 IU of Factor (F)IX activity. The main goal of this study was to investigate both the effectiveness and the safety of fixed low‐dose PCCs.

Study Design and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed charts from 103 patients who received PCCs for reversal of warfarin therapy.

Results

A total of 103 patients were treated with PCC at a single fixed dose of 1000 IU of F IX activity. Fifty patients (48.5%) had a final international normalized ratio (INR) response of not more than 1.5 and an additional 45 patients (43.7%) had a final INR response between 1.6 and 2.0. However, 86 patients (83.5%) had an excellent clinical response consisting of control of bleeding without the requirement of additional measures. In a multivariable model, patients who received fresh‐frozen plasma and patients who were given doses greater than 1000 IU of PCC were both identified as predictors of a poor clinical response (odds ratio [OR] 3.48, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.76‐15.89, p = 0.11; and OR 10.8, 95% CI 2.08‐56.28, 95% CI, p = 0.005, respectively). There were five adverse events up to 30 days after PCC use.

Conclusion

At a fixed dose of 1000 IU of F IX activity, PCC seems to be effective and safe but randomized controlled trials, specifically examining different doses of PCC, are required to confirm the above observations.
A patient‐oriented risk–benefit analysis of pathogen‐inactivated blood components: application to apheresis platelets in the United States
Authors: Kleinman Steven , Reed William , Stassinopoulos Adonis
Published: October 2012

We performed a risk–benefit analysis for implementation of pathogen‐inactivated (PI) apheresis platelets (APs) in the United States, focusing on the amotosalen/ultraviolet‐A system. Risks and benefits were quantified per patient assuming a mean of 6 AP units per treatment cycle and using available clinical data, mathematical modeling, and observational studies. Current risks associated with AP transfusion can be divided into known partially addressed risks, known well‐addressed risks, and unknown risks associated with acute or chronic emerging infectious agents (EIAs). Bacterial contamination dominates the first category, at a per‐patient rate of 1:250, which correlates with an estimated septic transfusion reaction rate of 1:1000. Quantitation of per‐patient EIA risk was modeled to be between 1:370 (acute) and 1:667 (chronic). Due to its broad range of action PI is expected to reduce or eliminate these infectious risks and also to reduce the rate of febrile transfusion reactions and possibly alloimmunization. These benefits are weighed against 1) concerns for excess bleeding, 2) an apparent increase in acute respiratory distress syndrome in the initial report of the SPRINT clinical trial, and 3) the possible toxicity associated with the introduction of a new chemical into platelet (PLT) units. However, transfusion of an estimated 100,000 patients with PI PLTs worldwide has occurred without reported serious adverse effects. We conclude that evidence indicates a favorable risk–benefit profile for the implementation of PLT PI and argues for a path forward toward US regulatory approval.
The JR blood group system (ISBT 032): molecular characterization of three new null alleles
Authors: Hue‐Roye Kim , Lomas‐Francis Christine , Coghlan Gail , Zelinski Teresa , Reid Marion E.
Published: October 2012

Background

Jra (ISBT 901005) is a high‐prevalence antigen unassigned to a blood group system. People lacking this antigen have been found in all populations studied but most commonly in Asians. Two recent reports established that ABCG2‐null alleles encode the Jr(a–) phenotype and these studies provided the impetus to study other Jr(a−) individuals.

Study Design and Methods

Blood samples were part of our rare donor‐patient collection. DNA was isolated and analyzed by standard techniques.

Results

In samples from 13 Jr(a–) study subjects, we found six alleles with nonsense nucleotide changes, three (c.784T, c.1591T, and c.337T) were novel. Twelve of the samples were homozygous for nonsense single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs): eight were c.376T, two were c.706T, one was c.784T, and one was c.1591T. Each of these alleles predicts a truncated ABCG2 product, Gln126Stop, Arg236Stop, Gly262Stop, and Gln531Stop, respectively. One study subject was heterozygous for two nonsense SNPs: c.337C/T (Arg113Stop) and c.736C/T (Arg246Stop).

Conclusions

Jra is the sole antigen in the newly established JR blood group system (ISBT 032001). The previous ISBT designation (901005) is now obsolete. Since ABCG2null alleles define the Jr(a–) phenotype, an explanation for why no antithetical low‐prevalence antigen to Jra has been found, and also why anti‐Jra made by people with any of these JRnull alleles are mutually compatible has been determined. Based on our findings DNA‐based genotyping can be developed to replace the serologic methods that are currently used to identify Jr(a–) blood donors.
Jackfruit and Its Many Functional Components as Related to Human Health: A Review
Authors: Swami Shrikant Baslingappa , Thakor N. J. , Haldankar P. M. , Kalse S. B.
Published: October 2012

Abstract:  Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.) is an ancient fruit that is widely consumed as a fresh fruit. The use of jackfruit bulbs and its parts has also been reported since ancient times for their therapeutic qualities. The beneficial physiological effects may also have preventive application in a variety of pathologies. The health benefits of jackfruit have been attributed to its wide range of physicochemical applications. This review presents an overview of the functional, medicinal, and physiological properties of this fruit.
Multi‐generational long‐distance migration of insects: studying the painted lady butterfly in the Western Palaearctic
Authors: Stefanescu Constantí , Páramo Ferran , Åkesson Susanne , Alarcón Marta , Ávila Anna , Brereton Tom , Carnicer Jofre , Cassar Louis F. , Fox Richard , Heliölä Janne , Hill Jane K. , Hirneisen Norbert , Kjellén Nils , Kühn Elisabeth , Kuussaari Mikko , Leskinen Matti , Liechti Felix , Musche Martin , Regan Eugenie C. , Reynolds Don R. , Roy David B. , Ryrholm Nils , Schmaljohann Heiko , Settele Josef , Thomas Chris D. , van Swaay Chris , Chapman Jason W.
Published: October 2012

Long‐range, seasonal migration is a widespread phenomenon among insects, allowing them to track and exploit abundant but ephemeral resources over vast geographical areas. However, the basic patterns of how species shift across multiple locations and seasons are unknown in most cases, even though migrant species comprise an important component of the temperate‐zone biota. The painted lady butterflyVanessa carduiis such an example; a cosmopolitan continuously‐brooded species which migrates each year between Africa and Europe, sometimes in enormous numbers. The migration of 2009 was one of the most impressive recorded, and thousands of observations were collected through citizen science programmes and systematic entomological surveys, such as high altitude insect‐monitoring radar and ground‐based butterfly monitoring schemes. Here we useV. carduias a model species to better understand insect migration in the Western Palaearctic, and we capitalise on the complementary data sources available for this iconic butterfly. The migratory cycle in this species involves six generations, encompassing a latitudinal shift of thousands of kilometres (up to 60 degrees of latitude). The cycle comprises an annual poleward advance of the populations in spring followed by an equatorward return movement in autumn, with returning individuals potentially flying thousands of kilometres. We show that many long‐distance migrants take advantage of favourable winds, moving downwind at high elevation (from some tens of metres from the ground to altitudes over 1000 m), pointing at strong similarities in the flight strategies used byV. carduiand other migrant Lepidoptera. Our results reveal the highly successful strategy that has evolved in these insects, and provide a useful framework for a better understanding of long‐distance seasonal migration in the temperate regions worldwide.
Effect of hydroxyapatite film formed by powder jet deposition on dentin permeability
Authors: Akatsuka Ryo , Ishihata Hiroshi , Noji Miyoko , Matsumura Ken , Kuriyagawa Tsunemoto , Sasaki Keiichi
Published: October 2012

A powder jet deposition (PJD) process can be used to create a thick hydroxyapatite (HA) film on the surface of a human tooth. This study aimed to investigate in vitro the ability of an HA film, applied using PJD, to diminish dentin permeability. Discs of human coronal dentin were cut perpendicular to the tooth axis and the smear layer was removed by EDTA treatment. The HA film was created by accelerating HA particles, calcinated at 1200°C, onto the dentin discs at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. The surfaces and cross‐sections of the HA PJD‐treated samples were observed using scanning electron microscopy. Their permeability was indirectly recorded with a split‐chamber device utilizing a chemiluminescence technique. MS‐coat, a commercial dentin‐desensitizing agent, was also evaluated for its effect on reducing liquid flow through the dentin. The scanning electron microscopy images showed that the HA particles were successfully deposited onto the dentin and solidly into the dentin tubules. The permeability of dentin after application of the HA films was significantly lower than that following application of MS‐coat. This study showed the potential clinical application of PJD techniques in desensitizing dentin hypersensitivity.
The war on cartels and the social meaning of deterrence
Authors: Parker Christine
Published: October 2012

The global war on cartels has had much success in introducing tough sanctions for cartel conduct, such as price fixing and market sharing. The policy rhetoric justifying criminalization assumes that compliance can be induced through deterrence. This, in turn, assumes that business people know about the law, believe that they are likely to be caught and face enforcement action and jail if they break the law, and calculate that they should comply. This paper problematizes these policy assumptions using evidence from a survey of a random sample of Australian business people and in‐depth interviews with 25 cartelists. This paper argues that business people's knowledge about the law is less important than their relationship with (or distance from) the law. Corporate elites see themselves as intimate with the law and, therefore, able to strategically “play” the law; while small business people and managers lower down the corporate hierarchy see themselves as “innocent” of any knowledge of the law. The impact of a policy of increased sanctions for misconduct cannot be understood solely in terms of marginal difference in aggregate levels of deterrence. It must also be understood in terms of how it interacts with people's experience of the law to create and maintain or contest and destabilize social segmentation and inequality.
A theory of delegated search for the best alternative
Authors: Lewis Tracy R.
Published: October 2012

Searching for the best worker, a reliable supply alternative, or the most profitable investment is frequently delegated to an agent. This article develops a theory of delegated search. We show that the principal’s ability to delegate depends on the agent’s luck, her initial resources, and the contract that governs her search. With moral hazard, the optimal contract is characterized by performance deadlines with bonuses for early completion. If performance cannot be specified, the optimal search is implemented by an option‐to‐buy contract for the principal. If performance is partially specified, the optimal contract is a standard pay‐for‐performance arrangement.
Risk allocation and the costs and benefits of public‐‐private partnerships
Authors: Iossa Elisabetta , Martimort David
Published: October 2012

We study the agency costs of delegated public service provision, focusing on the link between organizational forms and uncertainty at project implementation. We consider a dynamic multitask moral hazard environment where the mapping between effort and performance is ex ante uncertain but new information may arise during operations. Our analysis highlights the costs and benefits that bundling planning and implementation—as under public‐‐private partnerships—can bring in terms of project design and operational costs under various scenarios, possibly allowing for asymmetric information, moral hazard and renegotiation. It also shows that relying on private finance enhances the benefits of bundling only if lenders have enough expertise to assess project risks.
Product markets and industry‐specific training
Authors: Gersbach Hans , Schmutzler Armin
Published: October 2012

We develop a product market theory to explain why firms provide their workers with skills that are also useful to their competitors. Firms first decide whether to invest in industry‐specific training, then make wage offers for each others’ trained employees and finally engage in imperfect product market competition. Equilibria with and without training can emerge. If competition is soft, firms invest in training if others do. Thereby, they avoid having to pay high wages for trained workers. Furthermore, we draw welfare conclusions from the analysis. Finally, we discuss how our ideas apply to supplier relationships and to general training.
Colluding through suppliers
Authors: Piccolo Salvatore , Miklós‐Thal Jeanine
Published: October 2012

This article investigates downstream firms’ ability to collude in a repeated game of competition between supply chains. We show that downstream firms with buyer power can collude more easily in the output market if they also collude on their input supply contracts. More specifically, an implicit agreement on input supply contracts with above‐cost wholesale prices and negative fixed fees (that is, slotting fees) facilitates collusion on downstream prices. Banning information exchange about wholesale prices decreases the scope for collusion. Moreover, high downstream prices are more difficult to sustain if upstream rather than downstream firms make contract offers.
Payoff uncertainty, bargaining power, and the strategic sequencing of bilateral negotiations
Authors: Krasteva Silvana , Yildirim Huseyin
Published: October 2012

This article investigates the sequencing choice of a buyer who negotiates with the sellers of two complementary objects with uncertain payoffs. The possibility of inefficient trade may generate strict sequencing preference. The buyer begins with the weaker seller if the sellers have diverse bargaining powers and with the stronger one if both sellers are strong bargainers. This sequencing is likely to increase the social surplus. Moreover, the buyer may find it optimal to raise her own acquisition cost by committing to a minimum purchase price or outsourcing. The first‐ and second‐mover advantages for the sellers are also identified.
Endogenous market segmentation for lemons
Authors: Kim Kyungmin
Published: October 2012

Information asymmetry between sellers and buyers often prevents socially desirable trade. This article presents a new mechanism that mitigates the inefficiencies caused by information asymmetry. I consider decentralized markets under adverse selection and show that such markets can be endogenously segmented in a way that improves social welfare. Endogenous segmentation is driven by low‐quality sellers’ incentive to attract more buyers by separating from high‐quality sellers. The mechanism helps us understand the roles of several real‐world institutions, such as multiple marketplaces, costless advertisements, and nonbinding list prices.
Public Internet Forums: Can They Enhance Argumentative Writing Skills of Second Language Learners?
Authors: Ritchie Mathy , Black Catherine
Published: October 2012

Improving university students’ writing skills is always a challenge. In a third‐year French composition course, the researchers introduced the use of public Internet discussion forums to see if that would help achieve the argumentative writing skills goals that were set for this study. The results show that participation in the forums had a positive influence on students’ argumentative skills. The forums forced them to choose a topic, read about it, obtain different points of view, and develop their own, therefore entering a community of practice where language accuracy was important. Students felt that it was beneficial to their intercultural competence and that it had a positive impact on their confidence to use their second language because they were able to interact with native speakers.
Increasing Self‐Regulated Learning Through the LinguaFolio
Authors: Ziegler Nicholas A. , Moeller Aleidine J.
Published: October 2012

Within foreign language classrooms, one intervention gaining recognition is LinguaFolio, a portfolio‐based formative assessment designed to increase self‐regulated learning. The question emerges whether such an intervention impacts student motivation, learning, and achievement. Researchers conducted a classroom‐based, quasi‐experimental, one‐semester quantitative study with first‐year French and ­Spanish classes at a Midwestern university. Students (N = 168) completed a pre‐ and ­post‐questionnaire. Accuracy in self‐assessment was investigated by comparing data from LinguaFolio to student performance on unit tests. The impact of instructor beliefs on LinguaFolio use was analyzed via questionnaires. The results indicate that LinguaFolio use is linked to increased student intrinsic motivation, increased task‐value, and more accurate self‐assessment of learning. This study supports LinguaFolio as an ­effective approach to increase self‐regulated learning in students.
Identifying appropriate spatial scales of predictors in species distribution models with the random forest algorithm
Authors: Bradter Ute , Kunin William E. , Altringham John D. , Thom Tim J. , Benton Tim G.
Published: October 2012

Including predictors in species distribution models at inappropriate spatial scales can decrease the variance explained, add residual spatial autocorrelation (RSA) and lead to the wrong conclusions. Some studies have measured predictors within different buffer sizes (scales) around sample locations, regressed each predictor against the response at each scale and selected the scale with the best model fit as the appropriate scale for this predictor. However, a predictor can influence a species at several scales or show several scales with good model fit due to a bias caused by RSA. This makes the evaluation of all scales with good model fit necessary. With potentially several scales per predictor and multiple predictors to evaluate, the number of predictors can be large relative to the number of data points, potentially impeding variable selection with traditional statistical techniques, such as logistic regression.

We trialled a variable selection process using the random forest algorithm, which allows the simultaneous evaluation of several scales of multiple predictors. Using simulated responses, we compared the performance of models resulting from this approach with models using the known predictors at arbitrary and at the known spatial scales. We also apply the proposed approach to a real data set of curlew (Numenius arquata).

AIC, AUC and Naglekerke's pseudo R2 of the models resulting from the proposed variable selection were often very similar to the models with the known predictors at known spatial scales. Only two of nine models required the addition of spatial eigenvectors to account for RSA. Arbitrary scale models always required the addition of spatial eigenvectors. 75% (50–100%) of the known predictors were selected at scales similar to the known scale (within 3 km). In the curlew model, predictors at large, medium and small spatial scales were selected, suggesting that for appropriate landscape‐scale models multiple scales need to be evaluated.

The proposed approach selected several of the correct predictors at appropriate spatial scales out of 544 possible predictors. Thus, it facilitates the evaluation of multiple spatial scales of multiple predictors against each other in landscape‐scale models.
A fractal‐based sampling design for ecological surveys quantifying β‐diversity
Authors: Marsh Charles J. , Ewers Robert M.
Published: October 2012

Species turnover, β‐diversity, underpins a number of ecological processes that define patterns of diversity. Estimates of β‐diversity are dependent upon the spatial scale investigated, and patterns may vary across spatial scales. This presents us with a logistical problem of how to sample sufficiently at fine, local scales through to broad, landscape scales to provide accurate estimates of β‐diversity at all spatial scales.

Here, we present a scalable sampling design based on fractal geometry that is designed to explicitly address questions about β‐diversity. Using simulated communities, we assessed the efficacy of the fractal design, along with two further designs representing subsamples of the fractal design and several classical ecological sampling designs (grids and transects) to estimate β‐diversity across multiple spatial scales using two measures of β‐diversity: community dissimilarity modelled against geographic distance and additive partitioning.

All designs successfully modelled dissimilarity against distance, with the exception of grid sets and transects that were found to be unsuitable. When diversity was partitioned into multiple spatial scales, all sampling designs overestimated large‐scale β‐diversity.

The accuracy of distance‐decay estimates were primarily determined by the spatial configuration of sampling points. By contrast, the accuracy of diversity partitioning estimates was also influenced by sampling effort, with insufficient sampling effort and unsuitable sampling point configuration causing overestimates of β‐diversity at larger spatial scales. We recommend that studies investigating β‐diversity use a cluster‐based configuration of sampling points, such as the fractal‐based design presented here, to ensure accurate and comparable estimates at multiple spatial scales. Furthermore, when comparing results between studies, care should be taken to account for differences in sampling grain, sampling effort and the configuration of sampling points.
An Integrated, Ethically Driven Environmental Model of Clinical Decision Making in Emergency Settings
Authors: Wolf Lisa
Published: October 2012

PURPOSE:  To explore the relationship between multiple variables within a model of critical thinking and moral reasoning.

METHODS:  A quantitative descriptive correlational design using a purposive sample of 200 emergency nurses. Measured variables were accuracy in clinical decision‐making, moral reasoning, perceived care environment, and demographics. Analysis was by bivariate correlation using Pearson's product‐moment correlation coefficients, chi square and multiple linear regression analysis.

FINDINGS:  The elements as identified in the integrated ethically‐driven environmental model of clinical decision‐making (IEDEM‐CD) corrected depict moral reasoning and environment of care as factors significantly affecting accuracy in decision‐making.

CONCLUSIONS:  The integrated, ethically driven environmental model of clinical decision making is a framework useful for predicting clinical decision making accuracy for emergency nurses in practice, with further implications in education, research and policy.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS:  A diagnostic and therapeutic framework for identifying and remediating individual and environmental challenges to accurate clinical decision making.
Brazilian Validation of the Nursing Outcomes for Acute Pain
Authors: de Fátima Lucena Amália , Holsbach Ilesca , Pruinelli Lisiane , Serdotte Freitas Cardoso Adriana , Schroeder Mello Bruna
Published: October 2012

PURPOSE:  Validate the outcomes from the Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC) for the Acute Pain nursing diagnosis.

METHODS:  The content validation of the seven NOC outcomes and their respective indicators was performed using an adaptation of Fehring's model and was analyzed by descriptive statistics.

FINDINGS:  Six were classified as critical and one was classified as supplemental. From the total of 118 indicators, 103 were validated. Of these, 27 were classified as critical and 76 as supplemental.

CONCLUSIONS:  The use of the NOC is a viable alternative for the assessment and identification of best practices in nursing care.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE:  Validation studies of nursing classifications corroborate the use of the component elements of these instruments in a variety of care settings.
Bright Upconversion Emission, Increased Tc, Enhanced Ferroelectric and Piezoelectric Properties in Er‐Doped CaBi4Ti4O15 Multifunctional Ferroelectric Oxides
Authors: Peng Dengfeng , Wang Xusheng , Xu Chaonan , Yao Xi , Lin Jian , Sun Tiantuo
Published: October 2012

Er3+‐doped CaBi4Ti4O15 (CBT) bismuth layer structured ferroelectric ceramics were synthesized by the solid state method. Photoluminescence (UC), dielectric, ferroelectric, and piezoelectric properties were systematically studied for the first time. The Er3+‐doped CBT sample showed a bright up‐conversion UC while simultaneously obtaining an increased Curie temperature (Tc), enhanced ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties. The UC properties of Er3+‐doped CBT were investigated as a function of Er3+ concentration and incident pump power. A bright green (556 nm) and a weak red (674 nm) emission bands were obtained under excitation (980 nm) at room temperature, which correspond to the transitions from 4S3/2, and 4F9/2 to 4I15/2, respectively. The dependence of UC emission intensity on pumping power indicated that three‐photon and two‐photon processes are involved in the green and red UC emission, respectively. Studies on dielectric properties indicated that the introduction of Er increased the Tc with relatively smaller values of dielectric loss of CBT, thus making this ceramic suitable for sensor applications at higher temperatures. Ferroelectric and piezoelectric measurements showed that the Er3+‐doped ceramics showed an increase in remnant polarization and piezoelectric constant. As a multifunctional material, Er‐doped CBT ferroelectric oxide showed great potential in sensor, optical‐electro integration, and coupling device applications.
Dip‐Pen Lithography of BiFeO3 Nanodots
Authors: Jung Inhwa , Son Jong Yeog
Published: October 2012

We demonstrate the dip‐pen nanolithography (DPN) process of BiFeO3 nanodots forming a nanodot at any desired position. The BiFeO3 nanodots exhibited a size increment from 30 to 180 nm for the deposition time between 0.1 and 10 s. This position‐controlled DPN using a silicon nitride cantilever produced an array of the ferroelectric nanodots with a minimum lateral dimension of about 30 nm on a Nb‐doped SrTiO3 substrate. We further confirmed canonical ferroelectric responses of the minimum‐sized nanodot using piezoelectric force microscopy.
The Tungsten Carbide Involving the Nano Metal Cobalt Domains Synthesized by Carburizing the Cobalt Supersaturated‐Tungsten Powder with CO Gas
Authors: Morishita Masao , Yamamoto Hiroaki , Okahira Tokitake , Yoshioka Motohide , Fukumuro Naoki , Matsuda Hitoshi , Ikebe Masaaki , Iwasaki Masahiro , Yanagita Hidefumi , Nishimaki Hiroshi
Published: October 2012

The WC involving the nano metal cobalt domains has been prepared by a gas‐solid reaction between the cobalt nonequilibrium supersaturated‐tungsten powder and carbon mono‐oxide gas (CO). The metal Co domains formed in the WC were found to be spherical with a diameter of approximately 60 nm by observing the microstructure with a high‐resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM). The 88.36 mass% WC – 11.64 mass% Co hard metal was prepared by liquid‐phase sintering at 1623 K from the powder compact which was mixture of the WC involving the Co domains and the cobalt powder as binder phase. A nano‐scale fine structure composed of the WC with average diameter, dAv, of approximately 500 nm was obtained. Its Vickers hardness was found to be Hv 1663 ± 43, being nearly equal to the 95.5 mass% WC–4.5 mass% Co with 1–2 μm WC grains. That is, reduction of 7 mass% WC was accomplished. The WC involving the Co domains is expected to be used as raw materials to form the nano‐scale microstructure in the hard metals, resulting in reduction in W components.
Do larger frugivores move seeds further? Body size, seed dispersal distance, and a case study of a large, sedentary pigeon
Authors: Wotton Debra M. , Kelly Dave
Published: October 2012

Aim

World‐wide declines in large‐bodied frugivores may change seed deposition patterns dramatically if body mass influences seed dispersal‐related traits, such as dispersal distance. We quantified movement patterns and seed dispersal distances by Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae (kereru), the fifth‐largest surviving pigeon world‐wide. We then reviewed how body mass affects seed dispersal distance among fruit‐eating birds globally.

Location

Taranaki and Canterbury, New Zealand.

Methods

We radio‐tracked 24 kereru, following each bird continuously for up to 8.5 h, for a total of 43 tracking‐days during the peak fruiting season (February–April). We estimated seed dispersal distances for three fleshy‐fruited species using a mechanistic model based on kereru movements and seed retention times. We analysed global data for volant avian frugivores to determine the effect of body mass on time spent in fruiting trees, seed retention time, and dispersal distance.

Results

Kereru were highly sedentary, with an average of 32 ± 39 (mean ± SD) minutes and maximum of 315 minutes between flights. Kereru flew a mean of 77 ± 159 m and maximum of 1457 m in a single flight. They dispersed 66–87% of ingested seeds away from the parent plant. Mean seed dispersal distances for Beilschmiedia tawa, Vitex lucens and Pseudopanax arboreus were 95, 98 and 61 m, respectively, with all species dispersed up to 1469 m. For all three species, 79–88% of seeds were dispersed < 100 m and < 1% were dispersed > 1 km from the parent plant. Globally, both the mean time spent in fruiting trees and seed retention time increased with increasing frugivore body mass. However, retention time increased faster, and therefore the dispersal distance and percentage of seeds moved away from the parent increased with body mass.

Main conclusions

Despite sedentary behaviour, kereru disperse many seeds away from the parent plant due to their even longer gut passage time, a function of their large size. Large‐bodied frugivores are disproportionately important as dispersers not only because they can swallow larger fruits, but also because they are more likely to deposit seeds away from the parent plant and at greater distances.
Submammary Device Implantation in Women: A Step‐by‐Step Approach
Authors: GIUDICI MICHAEL C. , MEIERBACHTOL CYNTHIA J. , PAUL DEBORAH L. , KRUPA ROSELYN K. , VAZQUEZ LAUREN D. , SERGE BAROLD S.
Published: October 2012

Submammary Device Implantation in Women. Introduction: The frequency of device implantation is increasing in younger patients as our ability to diagnose long‐QT syndrome, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, Brugada Syndrome, and other life‐threatening disorders earlier has improved. Similarly, use of cardiac resynchronization therapy and ICD therapies has increased in cardiomyopathy patients.

Methods and Results: Device implantation in young women has unique considerations. Standard pectoral implants lead to excessive scar formation due to skin tension and interfere with purse straps, bra straps, and seat belts. There are also privacy and body image concerns as the subclavian region is exposed with many contemporary fashions.

Results: Over an 11‐year period, we implanted pacemakers, implantable converter‐defibrillators (ICDs) and cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) devices (defibrillators or pacemakers) in 60 women, aged 13–70 years, using a 2‐incision submammary approach. Follow‐up surveys were performed using the Florida Patient Acceptance Survey (FPAS). Women with submammary device placement reported significantly greater device acceptance (M = 92.41, SD = 6.46) than women with standard implant technique (M = 70.29, SD = 17.85); t (54) =–6.08, P < 0.001, on the FPAS. Across subscales on the FPAS, women with submammary device placement also reported significantly less body image concern (P < 0.001), less device‐related emotional distress (P < 0.001), and greater confidence in returning to life appropriately (P = 0.01) than women with standard device placement.

Conclusion: We present here our technique for submammary device implantation. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 24, pp. 476‐479, April 2013)