bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stability of Slow-Rusting Resistance toPuccinia asparagiand Managing Rust in Asparagus
Authors: Johnson Dennis A.
Published: February 2012

The stability of slow-rusting resistance to Puccinia asparagi in several asparagus cultivars was evaluated in two replicated field trials. Rust epidemics were monitored in each trial for 8 years spanning a period of 13 years (1983–1990 and 1987–1995). Inoculum of P. asparagi, an autoecious macrocyclic rust, originated each year as teliospores. In the first trial, the cultivars Jersey Titan, Jersey Centennial, Jersey Giant, Delmonte-361, and UC-157 had consistently lower area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) values than Wash T2 and WSU-1. Cultivar Mary Washington was intermediate between the two groups of resistant and susceptible cultivars in 6 of 8 years. Jersey Titan consistently ranked number 1 for resistance with the lowest AUDPC values all 8 years. In the second trial, Jersey Giant, Delmonte-361, and UC-157 had consistently lower AUDPC values than Larac, Gynlim, Cito, Largo 17-3, and Franklim in each of 8 years. Jersey Giant, Delmonte-361, and UC-157 always ranked low (1, 2, or 3) for AUDPC. A shift from rust-susceptible to rust-resistant asparagus cultivars began in central Washington around 1996. In 2011, resistant cultivars made up nearly 96% of the asparagus plantings. From 1996 to 2011, rust was not considered a problem in commercial fields with slow-rusting resistant cultivars. Use of durable, slow-rusting cultivars, along with sanitation practices that reduced levels of aecia in nonharvested nurseries and on volunteer asparagus plants and judicious irrigation management, has effectively managed asparagus rust in commercial fields for at least 29 years in south-central Washington.
Repair of Tessier No. 3 and No. 4 Craniofacial Clefts with Facial Unit and Muscle Repositioning by Midface Rotation Advancement without Z-Plasties
Authors: Chen Philip Kuo-Ting , Chang Frank Chun-Shin , Chan Fuan-Chiang , Chen Yu-Ray , Noordhoff M. Samuel
Published: February 2012

Background:

The accepted surgical correction of Tessier no. 3 and no. 4 craniofacial clefts is the use of interdigitating skin flaps along the line of the facial cleft, which frequently results in unsightly facial scars, poor skin color match, and an unnatural facial expression. The authors report their technique of midface rotation-advancement concept to repair these craniofacial clefts.

Methods:

Fourteen patients who had undergone Tessier no. 3 and no. 4 cleft repair over a 35-year period (1976 to 2010) at the craniofacial center in Chang Gung Memorial Hospital were retrospectively reviewed. Five patients (group 1) were operated on using Z-plasty principles. Nine (group 2) were operated on using the rotation-advancement technique; six of them had Tessier no. 3 clefts and three had Tessier no. 4 clefts. Seven of those nine patients were primary cases; the other two had secondary or tertiary revisions. Patient photographs were reviewed to assess outcomes.

Results:

Group 1 had a less overall satisfactory result in terms of scar quality, color matching, or natural facial expression. Overall, a much improved appearance with a higher satisfaction rate was demonstrated in group 2. Patients in group 2 who were surgically treated with the midface rotation advancement technique, though their medial canthus and alar base might not have been well repositioned, still had much better results.

Conclusions:

Midface rotation advancement avoided significant scarring with poor skin color matching and unnatural facial expressions. This technique is applicable to either the primary repair or secondary revision of Tessier no. 3 and no. 4 craniofacial clefts.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, III.
Brassicibacter mesophilus gen. nov., sp. nov., a strictly anaerobic bacterium isolated from food industry wastewater
Authors: Fang Ming-Xu , Zhang Wen-Wu , Zhang Yan-Zhou , Tan Hai-Qin , Zhang Xin-Qi , Wu Min , Zhu Xu-Fen
Published: February 2012

A novel mesophilic, strictly anaerobic bacterium, strain BMT, was isolated from food industry wastewater. The cells were motile, non-spore-forming rods and stained Gram-negative. Growth of strain BMT was observed at 16–44 °C (optimum 37 °C) and pH 6.0–9.0 (optimum pH 7.5). The NaCl concentration range for growth was 0–8 % (optimum 1.5 %, w/v). Strain BMT was chemo-organotrophic, using a few sugars and amino acids as sole carbon and energy sources. The fermentation products from peptone-yeast extract broth were propionate, formate, acetate, ethanol and isovalerate. Indole, NH3 and H2S were produced from peptone. No respiratory quinones could be detected. The major fatty acids were iso-C15 : 0 (39.3 %), iso-C15 : 0 dimethyl acetal (10.1 %), anteiso-C15 : 0 (7.6 %), C14 : 0 (6.1 %) and C16 : 0 (5.6 %). The major polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylglycerol and a number of unidentified aminoglycolipids, glycolipids and phospholipids. The DNA G+C content was 28.2 mol%. Phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence revealed that strain BMT was related to various genera of the family

Clostridiaceae

, and its closest relatives were

Sporosalibacterium faouarense

SOL3f37T (94.3 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity),

Proteiniborus ethanoligenes

GWT (92.1 %) and

Clostridiisalibacter paucivorans

37HS60T (92.0 %). In recognition of its distinct phenotypic and genotypic characteristics, isolate BMT is proposed to represent a novel species of a new genus, Brassicibacter mesophilus gen. nov., sp. nov. The type strain of Brassicibacter mesophilus is BMT ( = JCM 16868T  = DSM 24659T).
Roseomonas riguiloci sp. nov., isolated from wetland freshwater
Authors: Baik Keun Sik , Park Seong Chan , Choe Han Na , Kim Se Na , Moon Jae-Hak , Seong Chi Nam
Published: February 2012

A non-motile, coccobacillus-shaped and pink pigmented bacterium, designated strain 03SU10-PT, was isolated from wetland freshwater (Woopo wetland, Republic of Korea). Cells were Gram reaction-negative and catalase- and oxidase-positive. The major fatty acids (>10 % of total) were C18 : 1ω7cand summed feature 3 (iso-C15 : 02-OH and/or C16 : 1ω7c). The predominant respiratory lipoquinone was Q-10. The DNA G+C content was 68 mol%. The major polar lipids were phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine and an unknown aminolipid. Spermidine, putrescine and 1,3-diaminopropane were the major polyamines. A phylogenetic tree based on 16S rRNA gene sequence comparisons showed that strain 03SU10-PTformed an evolutionary lineage within the radiation enclosing the members of the genusRoseomonas. The nearest neighbour to the novel strain wasRoseomonas stagniHS-69T(96.3 % gene sequence similarity). The evidence provided by the polyphasic taxonomic approach used in this study indicated that strain 03SU10-PTcould not be assigned to any recognized species; therefore a novel species is proposed,Roseomonas riguilocisp. nov., with 03SU10-PT( = KCTC 23339T = JCM 17520T) as the type strain.
Galenea microaerophila gen. nov., sp. nov., a mesophilic, microaerophilic, chemosynthetic, thiosulfate-oxidizing bacterium isolated from a shallow-water hydrothermal vent
Authors: Giovannelli Donato , Grosche Ashley , Starovoytov Valentin , Yakimov Michail , Manini Elena , Vetriani Costantino
Published: February 2012

A mesophilic, strictly microaerophilic, chemosynthetic bacterium, designated strain P2DT, was isolated from the sediment of an active shallow-water hydrothermal vent in Paleochori Bay, on the Greek island of Milos. The cells were Gram-staining-negative rods that measured approximately 0.8–1.3 µm in length and 0.4–0.5 µm in width. Strain P2DT grew at 20–50 °C (optimum 35 °C), with 1.0–5.0 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum 3.0 %), and at pH 4.5–8.0 (optimum pH 5.5). The generation time under optimal conditions was 1.1 h. Growth occurred under chemolithoautotrophic conditions with

S
2

O
3

2
-

and CO2 as the energy and carbon sources, respectively. Oxygen (5 %) was used as sole terminal electron acceptor. No growth was observed in the presence of acetate, formate, lactate, tryptone or peptone. Chemolithoheterotrophic growth occurred when d-glucose or sucrose were present as carbon sources. None of the organic compounds tested was used as an electron donor. The genomic DNA G+C content of the novel strain was 44.9 mol%. In a phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences, strain P2DT was found to be most closely related to

Thiomicrospira psychrophila

DSM 13453T (92.8% sequence similarity). Based on the phylogenetic, physiological and chemotaxonomic evidence, strain P2DT represents a novel species of a new genus within the class

Gammaproteobacteria

of the family

Piscirickettsiaceae

, for which the name Galenea microaerophila gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of the type species is P2DT ( = DSM 24963T = JCM 17795T).
Development of bearings for a small high speed cryogenic turboexpander
Authors: Ghosh Subrata , Mukherjee Parboti , Sarangi Sunil
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the development of aerodynamic thrust bearings and aerodynamic journal bearings applied to a small high speed cryogenic turboexpander in Indian conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

As a part of indigenous programme in the process of development, some input parameter was taken from the available literature and then dimensions were optimized and computed while taking care to minimize fabrication constraints.

Findings

A series of tests were conducted to confirm the findings. Detailed study of the effect of stability and vibration of bearings was taken up. The maximum rotational speed obtained was 200,000 rpm.

Practical implications

The outcome may help the designers, researchers and manufacturers of these components.

Originality/value

Although manufacturers design and develop the bearings of turboexpanders for their production, no academic literature has been available for this purpose until now.
Bioalternatives for four stroke motorcycle engine oils
Authors: Işler Aslı , Yakaboylu Onursal , Alyakut Tamer , Karaosmanoğlu Filiz
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate alternatives for four stroke 10w40 motorcycle engine oils. Today, mineral and synthetic‐based lubricants are widely used but because of ecological aspects, which are gaining in importance nowadays and limited resources of mineral oils, environmentally‐friendly biobased lubricants are gaining in importance. Biobased lubricants are also important for using national resources rather than importing crude oils which are limited. The main consumption of lubricant market is motor oils. In this study, starting from mineral, synthetic and biobased lubricants; mineral, synthetic, biomineral and biosynthetic based four stroke motorcycle engine oils (10w40) are prepared, then lubricity properties of the motor oils are determined.

Design/methodology/approach

The lubricity tests of the samples are done in a fixed forced lubricity test rig and the motorcycle motor oil preparation are conducted according to ASTM test methods.

Findings

The results show that 5 per cent of biobased lubricants will be suitable for preparing 10w40 motor oils in both mineral and synthetic based motor oils. Also improvements in the lubricity properties with the blend with biobased lubricants are seen.

Originality/value

The paper presents biomineral and biosynthetic 10w40 motor oils as alternative candidates for motorcycle motor oils.
On the elastohydrodynamic lubrication performance of crankshaft bearing based on the effect of whole engine block deformation
Authors: Sun Jun , Cai Xiaoxia , Liu Liping
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The elastic deformation of crankshaft bearing surface will be caused when acted by oil film pressure, which will affect the lubrication performance of crankshaft bearing. The model of the single bearing housing was usually used in the calculation of the elastic deformation of bearing surface. In actual internal combustion engine, the main bearing housing is combined together with engine block; deformation of the main bearing surface will be affected by deformation of the engine block. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of deformation of the whole engine block on the hydrodynamic lubrication performance of main bearings.

Design/methodology/approach

The loads of main bearings were calculated by the whole crankshaft beam‐element finite element method. The lubrication of crankshaft bearings was analyzed by dynamic method. The elastic deformations of bearing surface under oil film pressure were calculated by compliance matrix method. The compliance matrix was established by finite element analysis.

Findings

It may be not necessary to consider the effect of elastic deformation of bearing surface under film pressure in the lubrication analyses of main bearings for internal combustion engine when the very high calculating accuracy is not required.

Originality/value

The elastohydrodynamic lubrications of crankshaft bearings considering the deformation of engine block were analyzed for the main bearings of an engine. Till now, whether or not the complicated model of the whole cylinder block should be considered to calculate the elastic deformation of main bearing surface in the lubrication analyses of crankshaft main bearings has not been done.
Video lectures help enhance online information literacy course
Authors: Hahn Ed
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how a credit‐bearing information literacy course was enhanced through the use of video lectures to deliver course content. Students have a choice of how to access course materials: video lectures or reading material.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review shows that, previously, videos have been used largely to supplement face‐to‐face classes or one‐shot library instruction sessions. A description details the production of video lectures for one of the courses that satisfies the information literacy graduation requirement at Weber State University. For this course, a student survey was then used to measure the actual use and effectiveness of the video lectures.

Findings

Survey results indicate that a majority of students use the video lectures, at least partly, and find them helpful.

Research limitations/implications

Results also show that many students are comfortable reading course materials rather than viewing the lectures. As more courses incorporate video lectures, holdouts should become more comfortable with the format.

Practical implications

Video lectures are relatively easy to create, and can be used to enhance online information literacy classes. Students can view the video lectures at their convenience.

Originality/value

Video production tools such as Camtasia Studio are used for library instruction and other face‐to‐face classes, but are not widely used in online courses. Adding video lectures to an online course gives students options on how to access the course content.
Research skills development through collaborative virtual learning environments
Authors: Stagg Adrian , Kimmins Lindy
Published: February 2012

Purpose

Studying at university today is a complex undertaking. Not only have the characteristics of the student cohort changed significantly in recent years, but the exponential growth of technological innovation has also impacted markedly on the study environment. Issues such as student transition and retention are receiving considerable attention, and the quality of learning and teaching has become an important consideration. While support for students from outside the faculty is still seen as useful, it is recognised that contextualised support facilitates deeper learning. This case study aims to focus on a virtual learning environment (VLE) designed through collaboration between the Library, Learning and Teaching Support and the Faculty of Business and Law at the University of Southern Queensland.

Design/methodology/approach

The implementation of the VLE followed a design‐based research methodology focusing on an iterative approach which responded to student and staff feedback. An analysis of usage data, coupled with student feedback from reference interviews form the core of the information used to shape each evolutionary design cycle.

Findings

The results of two‐and‐a‐half years of usage data indicate that students from all disciplines within the Faculty of Business and Law used the screencasts embedded in the VLE as self‐directed, “just‐in‐time” learning resources. The qualitative comments reflect the advantages of presenting research skills tutorials in a visual format, with many commenting on a feeling of greater understanding and confidence with the research process.

Originality/value

The use of discipline‐specific screencasts offers location‐independent asynchronous learning support that can be dynamically created in response to student needs. Furthermore, it suggests that this type of reference support is more successful when produced through cross‐faculty and divisional collaboration. This VLE is accessible to all USQ Faculty of Business and Law students, but it represents a transferable, achievable model for other institutions with distance learning cohorts.
Caste and religious diversity on formation of social capital
Authors: Sengupta Jhumur , Sarkar Debnarayan
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address the impact of caste and religious diversity on individual‐level social capital.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the World Bank's field tested assessment tools, SOCAT, the field survey of the authors' study considers data related to most of the indicators of social capital. This study considers stratified random sampling method. The selection of four municipalities was done by purposive method and the data include information on 440 households from four municipal wards chosen from four municipalities of West Bengal. Out of four municipalities, two are most homogenous (Serampore) and most heterogeneous (Ashoke Nagar Kalyan Garh) along caste dimension and the other two are most homogenous (Purulia) and most heterogeneous (Santipur) religion based municipalities. Caste and religious heterogeneity are measured by an index of ethnic fractionalization, ETHNIC; the index calculates the probability that two randomly‐chosen individuals will not belong to the same group.

Findings

Using different measures of social capital, results of the analysis strongly support adverse effect of ethnicity on individual non‐structural social capital. The data set and results imply that for every dimension, the formation of social capital for each individual is higher among same (homogeneous) individuals along caste and religious dimensions in their social sphere. Moreover the level of structural social capital in the form of associations and cognitive form are lower than individual form of non‐structural social capital for each individual, irrespective of interactions between same or different (heterogeneous) types.

Originality/value

The study is important in that it tries to explore the impact of diversity along caste and religious dimensions on the non‐structural individual social capital, in an Indian context; whereas all the previous literature focuses on diversity along ethno‐linguistic and racial lines and most of these studies consider social capital at aggregative level.
Viable or vital? Evaluation of IM services from patrons' perspectives
Authors: Chang Jung‐Jung , Yang Chyan
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The goal of this study is to gather information from library patrons to answer the questions of whether real‐time reference services (instant messaging, IM) are beneficial to patrons and how valuable they are to fulfilling their task needs. The study was designed to elicit information about how patrons were dealing with the rapidly changing technological environment, and how helpful they felt IM reference services were to them.

Design/methodology/approach

The investigation uses the technology acceptance model (TAM) as the basic framework and extends it by the variable of perceived relevance (PR) which intends to extend understanding of the adoption of IM services. The sample consisted of three university libraries' patrons on the basis of convenience, and 323 usable responses were obtained.

Findings

This research found general support for TAM. Specifically, the findings show that perceived ease of use of IM services is the key factor for the patrons' attitudes about the IM service. Overall, the model explained 58 percent of the variance in behaviour intention. Thus, the results show that the proposed model does satisfactorily explain the adoption of the IM service.

Originality/value

The findings of this research provide some useful insights into a patron's behavioural intention toward adoption of an IM service which will stimulate thought about real‐time reference services that could be offered by other libraries. And it will be valuable for better understanding of factors affecting the determinants of IM acceptance, which allows libraries to devise more effective approaches to improving the patrons' perceptions of a target system and thereby boost subsequent acceptance of the system.
Advanced surface protection for improved reliability PCB systems (ASPIS)
Authors: Ballantyne Andy , Forrest Greg , Goosey Martin , Griguceviciene Asta , Juodkazyte Jurga , Kellner Rod , Kosenko Aleksandr , Ramanauskas Rimantas , Ryder Karl , Selskis Algirdas , Tarozaite Rima , Veninga Erik
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to detail progress on the European Commission supported FP7 ASPIS project that is undertaking a multi‐faceted approach to develop novel and improved nickel‐gold (ENIG) solderable finish chemistries and processes in order to overcome issues such as “black pad” that are known to cause reliability issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The ASPIS project has four key and discrete approaches; research into “black pad” formation mechanisms, development of new aqueous chemical deposition methods, formulation of new processes based on ionic liquids and the development of prognostic screening tools to enable early prediction of reliability issues.

Findings

Key factors influencing “black pad” formation include immersion gold bath pH value, concentration of citrate and thickness of the immersion gold layer. In addition, copper substrate preparation is also important. Work to develop new metal deposition processes using ionic liquids has also been demonstrated and may provide a viable alternative to more conventional aqueous based chemistries, thereby enabling some of the conditions that lead to “black pad” to be avoided.

Research limitations/implications

This paper summarises the work carried out in the first year of a three‐year project and so the outputs to date are relatively limited. The project is continuing for another two years, when further progress will be made. It is hoped to report this progress in a future update paper.

Originality/value

The ASPIS project has undertaken multiple approaches to the development of new high reliability nickel gold finishes and this combination of approaches should offer synergies over more discrete traditional methodologies. As well as undertaking a detailed analysis of the mechanisms causing reliability problems, radical new formulation and prognostic approaches are also being developed.
Marketing as an applied science: lessons from other business disciplines
Authors: Hughes Tim , Bence David , Grisoni Louise , O'Regan Nicholas , Wornham David
Published: February 2012

Purpose

This paper seeks to investigate what the marketing field can learn, with regard to the academic/practitioner divide, from other management disciplines that have a range of different relationships with their respective practitioners.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors carried out 68 interviews of academics, practitioners and experts/consultants involved in academic/practitioner engagement from the marketing, accountancy, strategic management and organisation studies disciplines.

Findings

The most interesting aspects relate to two areas: exclusive engagement (as exemplified in accountancy) versus inclusive engagement (as exemplified in strategic management), and the practices associated with participative research (as exemplified in organisation studies). The appropriate approach to engagement will depend on the nature of the relationship between the academic field and its particular community of practitioners.

Research limitations/implications

The research is limited to academics, practitioners and experts/consultants operating from the UK. However, the findings on the challenges of engagement are consistent with those reported in the extant literature.

Practical implications

The first implication relates to defining what we mean when we talk about “practice”. The literature is often vague with regard to this. Does it relate to functional professionals or a far wider group of non‐specialists? A useful starting point might be to conduct an audit to clarify where aspects of marketing theory are relevant. The second implication relates to what needs to be done to engage with non‐inclusive groups of practitioners. Some conditions required for success are outlined.

Originality/value

The paper explores a knowledge gap in relation to the practice of engagement. It identifies why it is important to debate the nature of the practitioner community, and provides some guidelines for effective engagement.
Foreign women in Japanese television advertising
Authors: Martin Drew
Published: February 2012

Purpose

Acculturation theory shows how foreign actors have evolved in Japanese television commercials. If advertising mirrors culture, foreign businesses trying to advertise products in Japan need to be aware of societal changes and tailor their messages to the preferences of the local population. This paper aims to address these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

Content analysis explores the changing role of foreign female actors in Japanese television advertising for the years 1992 and 2002. Advertisements' setting, roles, appeals, and verbal and nonverbal communications are tested by chi‐square analysis.

Findings

Ads from the 2002 data set show increases in both traditional and modern themes in regards to the location of the ads, roles foreign females play, the advertising appeals, and the use of Japanese communication modalities. The findings suggest that advertisers are consciously or unconsciously incorporating cultural assimilation when ads include foreign actors.

Research limitations/implications

Acculturation theory is useful for explaining cultural shifts to develop more effective advertising messages. Differences in portrayals of foreign people in advertising reflect changes in cultural values that appear to be changing more rapidly due to global trade and communication technology innovations.

Practical implications

Recognizing shifts in cultural norms allows marketers to more effectively communicate with target audiences. Advertisers employing foreign actors may find their messages more effective if local cultural assimilation is used.

Originality/value

This paper identifies and examines changes in communication modalities to show foreign actors displaying Japanese mannerisms. The evidence suggests cultural norms evolve sometimes quickly over time. Even advertisers using a localized approach must carefully monitor changes in cultural norms to assure message effectiveness.
Sustainable value chain analysis – a case study of Oxford Landing from “vine to dine”
Authors: Soosay Claudine , Fearne Andrew , Dent Benjamin
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The paper shows how sustainable value chain analysis (SVCA) can be used as a diagnostic tool to identify misalignment between resource allocation and consumer preferences, using a case study of the Oxford Landing wine chain, from South Australia to the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

The study incorporates a combination of value chain analysis (VCA) and life cycle analysis (LCA) in a single methodology to determine which activities, at each stage in the supply chain, create value (in the eyes of consumers) and the contribution of these activities to greenhouse gas emissions.

Findings

The case study demonstrates the value of comparing the consumer value associated with a particular activity with the emissions associated with that activity, as this draws the attention of managers, at each stage of the supply chain, to the potential trade‐offs that exist and the danger of focusing on either one (adding value or reducing emissions) in isolation.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation of the research methodology is that the study focuses on a single product (Oxford Landing) and a single chain to a single country (UK). Thus, it is difficult to generalise from the results of this single case study to the (South Australian) wine industry in general, without further information from other wineries and consumer perceptions of their brands in different parts of the world.

Practical implications

The case study highlights the importance of taking a holistic view when considering the sustainability of a product, process or chain – trade‐offs between environmental benefits and consumer perceptions of value can have significant commercial implications. It also illustrates the potential for SVCA to be used as a guide for the allocation of research and development expenditure (public and private) in pursuit of sustainable competitive advantage.

Originality/value

The study is the first to combine LCA with VCA in a context that allows researchers, practitioners and policymakers to identify areas for improvement, in what they do and how they do it.
Treating sexual offenders with intellectual limitations in the community
Authors: Craig Leam A. , Stringer Ian , Sanders Cheryl E.
Published: February 2012

Purpose

This study summarises the results of a cognitive‐behavioural treatment group for sexual offenders (n=14) with intellectual limitations in the community.

Design/methodology/approach

All participants were convicted sex offenders serving probation orders or prison licences who attended a 14‐month treatment programme designed for sex offenders with intellectual limitations. The programme comprised of five main components: sex education; cognitive distortions; offending cycle; victim empathy; and relapse prevention. All participants completed psychometric measures specifically designed for people with intellectual limitations before and immediately after completing the treatment programme. The four core measures include: Victim Empathy; Sexual Attitudes and Knowledge Assessment (SAK); Questionnaire on Attitudes Consistent with Sexual Offenders (QACSO); and Sex Offences Self‐Appraisal Scale (SOSAS).

Findings

Post assessment results reveal significant improvements in sexual offence related attitudes; reductions in attitudes relating to cognitive distortions and pro‐sexual assault beliefs; and significant improvements in victim empathy.

Research limitations/implications

Although none of the participants have been reconvicted for committing new sexual offences during the follow‐up period, given that the follow‐up was restricted to 12 months post‐treatment, it is not possible to conclude this intervention was successful in reducing risk of sexual recidivism.

Originality/value

The results from this study support the use of cognitive‐behavioural approaches in demonstrating positive cognitive shift (reconstructing cognitive distortions and attitudes to victim empathy) for sexual offenders with intellectual limitations.
Second‐level hospital health professionals’ attitudes to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parents seeking health for their children
Authors: Chapman Rose , Watkins Rochelle , Zappia Tess , Combs Shane , Shields Linda
Published: February 2012

Aim. The aim of the study was to assess health professionals’ knowledge, attitudes and beliefs regarding lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parents accessing health care for their children.

Background. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parents can be reluctant to reveal their sexual orientation to health professionals, and consequently, they may not receive adequate or timely provision of health care. Currently, there is little research in this area.

Design. Descriptive, comparative study of 86 health professionals using a cross‐sectional survey design with a set of validated, anonymous questionnaires.

Method. Associations between variables were assessed using chi‐squared tests of independence, and differences between groups were assessed using the Mann–WhitneyU‐test or the Kruskal–Wallis one‐way analysis of variance test. Content analysis was used to examine responses to open‐ended questions.

Results. Knowledge and attitude scores were significantly associated with race, religious beliefs, frequency of attendance at religious services and having a friend who is openly lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender.

Conclusions. Information gained from this study will assist clinicians and hospital management to develop policies and practices that ensure lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender families receive equitable, high‐quality and holistic health care.

Relevance to clinical practice. Properly implemented family‐centred care is an ideal model to provide care for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender families. However, the benefits of family‐centred care can only be realised fully if health professionals delivering that care are sensitive to the context, functions and constructs of all the families they encounter.
Natural outbreak of Streptococcus agalactiae (GBS) infection in wild giant Queensland grouper, Epinephelus lanceolatus (Bloch), and other wild fish in northern Queensland, Australia
Authors: Bowater R O , Forbes‐Faulkner J , Anderson I G , Condon K , Robinson B , Kong F , Gilbert G L , Reynolds A , Hyland S , McPherson G , Brien J O’ , Blyde D
Published: February 2012

Ninety‐three giant Queensland grouper, Epinephelus lanceolatus (Bloch), were found dead in Queensland, Australia, from 2007 to 2011. Most dead fish occurred in northern Queensland, with a peak of mortalities in Cairns in June 2008. In 2009, sick wild fish including giant sea catfish, Arius thalassinus (Rüppell), and javelin grunter, Pomadasys kaakan (Cuvier), also occurred in Cairns. In 2009 and 2010, two disease epizootics involving wild stingrays occurred at Sea World marine aquarium. Necropsy, histopathology, bacteriology and PCR determined that the cause of deaths of 12 giant Queensland grouper, three wild fish, six estuary rays, Dasyatis fluviorum (Ogilby), one mangrove whipray, Himantura granulata (Macleay), and one eastern shovelnose ray, Aptychotrema rostrata (Shaw), was Streptococcus agalactiae septicaemia. Biochemical testing of 34 S. agalactiae isolates from giant Queensland grouper, wild fish and stingrays showed all had identical biochemical profiles. The 16S rRNA gene sequences of isolates confirmed all isolates were S. agalactiae; genotyping of selected S. agalactiae isolates showed the isolates from giant Queensland grouper were serotype Ib, whereas isolates from wild fish and stingrays closely resembled serotype II. This is the first report of S. agalactiae from wild giant Queensland grouper and other wild tropical fish and stingray species in Queensland, Australia.
Oral DNA vaccination of rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum), against infectious haematopoietic necrosis virus using PLGA [Poly(D,L‐Lactic‐Co‐Glycolic Acid)] nanoparticles
Authors: Adomako M , St‐Hilaire S , Zheng Y , Eley J , Marcum R D , Sealey W , Donahower B C , LaPatra S , Sheridan P P
Published: February 2012

A DNA vaccine against infectious haematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV) is effective at protecting rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss, against disease, but intramuscular injection is required and makes the vaccine impractical for use in the freshwater rainbow trout farming industry. Poly (D,L‐lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) is a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved polymer that can be used to deliver DNA vaccines. We evaluated the in vivo absorption of PLGA nanoparticles containing coumarin‐6 when added to a fish food pellet. We demonstrated that rainbow trout will eat PLGA nanoparticle coated feed and that these nanoparticles can be detected in the epithelial cells of the lower intestine within 96 h after feeding. We also detected low levels of gene expression and anti‐IHNV neutralizing antibodies when fish were fed or intubated with PLGA nanoparticles containing IHNV G gene plasmid. A virus challenge evaluation suggested a slight increase in survival at 6 weeks post‐vaccination in fish that received a high dose of the oral vaccine, but there was no difference when additional fish were challenged at 10 weeks post‐vaccination. The results of this study suggest that it is possible to induce an immune response using an orally delivered DNA vaccine, but the current system needs improvement.
Mathematical review of the energy transduction stoichiometries of C4 leaf photosynthesis under limiting light
Authors: YIN XINYOU , STRUIK PAUL C.
Published: February 2012

A generalized model for electron (e‐) transport limited C4 photosynthesis of NAD–malic enzyme and NADP–malic enzyme subtypes is presented. The model is used to review the thylakoid stoichiometries in vivo under strictly limiting light conditions, using published data on photosynthetic quantum yield and on photochemical efficiencies of photosystems (PS). Model review showed that cyclic e‐ transport (CET), rather than direct O2 photoreduction, most likely contributed significantly to the production of extra ATP required for the C4 cycle. Estimated CET, and non‐cyclic e‐ transport supporting processes like nitrogen reduction, accounted for ca. 45 and 7% of total photosystem I (PSI) e‐ fluxes, respectively. The factor for excitation partitioning to photosystem II (PSII) was ca. 0.4. Further model analysis, in terms of the balanced NADPH : ATP ratio required for metabolism, indicated that: (1) the Q‐cycle is obligatory; (2) the proton : ATP ratio is 4; and (3) the efficiency of proton pumping per e‐ transferred through the cytochrome b6/f complex is the same for CET and non‐cyclic pathways. The analysis also gave an approach to theoretically assess CO2 leakiness from bundle‐sheath cells, and projected a leakiness of 0.07–0.16. Compared with C3 photosynthesis, the most striking C4 stoichiometry is its high fraction of CET.
Double heterozygous mutations of MITF and PAX3 result in Waardenburg syndrome with increased penetrance in pigmentary defects
Authors: Yang T , Li X , Huang Q , Li L , Chai Y , Sun L , Wang X , Zhu Y , Wang Z , Huang Z , Li Y , Wu H
Published: February 2012

Yang T, Li X, Huang Q, Li L, Chai Y, Sun L, Wang X, Zhu Y, Wang Z, Huang Z, Li Y, Wu H. Double heterozygous mutations of MITF and PAX3 result in Waardenburg syndrome with increased penetrance in pigmentary defects.

Waardenburg syndrome (WS) is characterized by sensorineural hearing loss and pigmentary defects of the hair, skin, and iris. Heterozygous mutations of MITF and its transactivator gene PAX3 are associated with Waardenburg syndrome type II (WS2) and type I (WS1), respectively. Most patients with MITF or PAX3 mutations, however, show variable penetrance of WS‐associated phenotypes even within families segregating the same mutation, possibly mediated by genetic background or specific modifiers. In this study, we reported a rare Waardenburg syndrome simplex family in which a pair of WS parents gave birth to a child with double heterozygous mutations of MITF and PAX3. Compared to his parents who carried a single mutation in either MITF or PAX3, this child showed increased penetrance of pigmentary defects including white forelock, white eyebrows and eyelashes, and patchy facial depigmentation. This observation suggested that the expression level of MITF is closely correlated to the penetrance of WS, and variants in transcription regulator genes of MITF may modify the relevant clinical phenotypes.
Pulmonary hypertension before first and second lung transplantation
Authors: Tonelli Adriano R. , Timofte Irina , Minai Omar A. , Baz Maher , Akindipe Olufemi
Published: February 2012

Tonelli AR, Timofte I, Minai OA, Baz M, Akindipe O. Pulmonary hypertension before first and second lung transplantation.

Abstract:  Background:  Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is frequently encountered in patients with advanced lung disease before the first and second lung transplantation. We sought to determine whether there is any relationship between pulmonary hemodynamics obtained before first and second lung transplantation. We also assessed whether PH has prognostic implications in lung transplant patients going for second transplantation.

Methods:  We included consecutive adult (16‐yr‐old or older) patients who underwent lung re‐transplantation, between 1997 and 2009, and had right heart catheterization before their first and second lung transplantation.

Results:  Eighteen patients were included in the study. Age at first transplantation was 50.4 (SD 10.4) yr, and bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS) in the transplanted lung was the only indication for re‐transplantation. PH was observed in 39% of the patients before the first lung transplant and in 56% of the subjects before re‐transplantation (p = 0.91). Pre‐capillary PH was present in 28% (n = 5) and 33% (n = 6) of the patients before first and second lung transplantation, respectively. None of the hemodynamic variables obtained before the first transplant predicted the development of PH before re‐transplantation. PH before re‐transplantation did not predict survival or development of BOS after re‐transplantation.

Conclusions:  PH before initial lung transplantation did not predict the development of PH before the second transplantation. In our cohort, PH before second lung transplantation did not predict outcomes after re‐transplantation.
Post‐transplant lymphoproliferative diseases in Asian solid organ transplant recipients: late onset and favorable response to treatment
Authors: Chan Thomas S.Y. , Hwang Yu‐Yan , Gill Harinder , Au Wing‐Yan , Leung Anskar Y.H. , Tse Eric , Chim Chor‐Sang , Loong Florence , Kwong Yok‐Lam
Published: February 2012

Chan TSY, Hwang Y‐Y, Gill H, Au W‐Y, Leung AYH, Tse E, Chim C‐S, Loong F, Kwong Y‐L. Post‐transplant lymphoproliferative diseases in Asian solid organ transplant recipients: late onset and favorable response to treatment.

Abstract:  Nineteen consecutive patients with post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorders (PTLD) in an Asian population were reviewed. The histopathologic diagnoses were monomorphic (CD20‐positive diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma, n = 14); plasmacytic (n = 1); Burkitt‐like (n = 1); natural killer cell lymphoma (n = 1); lymphomatoid papulosis (n = 1); and classical Hodgkin lymphoma (n = 1). Early‐onset (<one yr post‐transplantation) PTLD constituted only 10% of cases, and all were Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) positive. EBV‐negative cases (n = 6) developed at a median of 92 (19–170) months, whereas EBV‐positive cases occurred later at 128 (7–230) months. With reduction of immunosuppression followed by local therapy, treatment with the anti‐CD20 antibody rituximab with or without combination chemotherapy, complete remission was achieved in 17/19 (90%) of cases. Lactate dehydrogenase level, stage, extranodal involvement, EBV status, and International Prognostic Index had no impact on treatment outcome. EBV‐positive PTLD occurred much later in Asian patients. Treatment results of PTLD were favorable.
TESTIMONY AND SINCERITY
Authors: Simpson Thomas W.
Published: February 2012

Is there a justified presumption that a speaker is testifying sincerely? Anti‐reductionism about testimony claims that there is, absent reasons to the contrary. Yet why believe this, given the actuality and prevalence of lies and deception? I examine one argument that may be appropriated to meet this challenge, David Lewis's claim that truthfulness is a convention. I argue that it fails, and that the supposition that there is a presumption of sincerity remains unsupported. The failure of Lewis's argument is instructive, however, for it shows us a better way of approaching language use than the standard anti‐reductionist treatment. As speech is an intentional action, so a presumption of the sincerity or otherwise of others' testimony must be explicable in the terms we normally use to explain action.
Oxidative stress index may play a key role in patients with pemphigus vulgaris
Authors: Yesilova Y. , Ucmak D. , Selek S. , Dertlioğlu S.B. , Sula B. , Bozkus F. , Turan E.
Published: February 2012

Background  Increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation are seen in many dermatologic disorders, including atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, vitiligo, acne vulgaris, pemphigus vulgaris (PV), lichen planus and alopecia areata. In PV, the increased production of ROS from activated neutrophils reduces the concentrations of antioxidant vitamins and enzymes.

Objective  The present study aims to determine the oxidative stress index (OSI) by studying serum total oxidant capacity (TOC), lipid hydroperoxide (LOOH) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in PV patients.

Methods  The study included 27 PV patients and a control group consisting of 24 healthy volunteers. Serum TOC, LOOH and TAC levels were examined and OSI was measured in the PV patients and the control group.

Results  TOC (P = 0.001) and LOOH (P = 0.001) levels as well as OSI (P = 0.001) were found higher in the PV patients, relative to the control group. Serum TAS (P = 0.221) did not differ between groups. Serum TOC, LOOH and TAC levels and OSI in PV patients with mucosal involvement were not different than those in mucocutaneous PV patients.

Conclusion  Serum TOC and LOOH levels and OSI were higher in the PV patients, in comparison with the control group. Serum TAC level was not different.
Denied ethnicism: on the Walloon movement in Belgium
Authors: van Ginderachter Maarten , Leerssen Joep
Published: February 2012

The Walloon movement is the lesser‐known counterpart to the Flemish movement in Belgium. In contemporary political debate it presents itself, and is usually perceived, as a civic and voluntaristic movement predicated on the values of democracy, freedom, openness and anti‐nationalism. As such it is contrasted against its Flemish counterpart, which accordingly is characterised as tending towards an ethnic exclusivist form of nationalism hinging on descent, culture and language. However, the historical record behind these representations shows that the Walloon movement is rooted in ethno‐cultural as much as social politics, and that it has always contained both civic and ethnic elements to varying degrees. This article highlights the Walloon movement in order to analyse the language and national stereotypes in which national movements are characterised both in political rhetoric and in scholarly analysis. The case is particularly relevant for the problematic usage of the ‘civic–ethnic’ opposition, slipping between the discourses of antagonism and analysis; one type of such slippage is here identified as ‘denied ethnicism’.