bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Introduction to Theme “Genomics in Ecology, Evolution, and Systematics”
Authors: Shaffer H. Bradley , Purugganan Michael D.
Published: October 2013

The relationship between genomics and the core disciplines of ecology, evolution, and systematics is rapidly developing, computationally intensive, and changing the ways that our science asks and answers its most fundamental questions. As the six papers under this theme in this volume of AREES demonstrate, comparative and population genomics stand to fundamentally change how we study the nature of adaptation, the tempo and mode of evolution, and the history of life on Earth. Genomics is enabling our understanding of questions ranging from human historical demography to conservation biology of poorly known plants and animals, enhancing the role of organismal biology across basic and applied science.
Introgression of Crop Alleles into Wild or Weedy Populations
Authors: Ellstrand Norman C. , Meirmans Patrick , Rong Jun , Bartsch Detlef , Ghosh Atiyo , de Jong Tom J. , Haccou Patsy , Lu Bao-Rong , Snow Allison A. , Neal Stewart C. , Strasburg Jared L. , van Tienderen Peter H. , Vrieling Klaas , Hooftman Danny
Published: October 2013

The evolutionary significance of introgression has been discussed for decades. Questions about potential impacts of transgene flow into wild and weedy populations brought renewed attention to the introgression of crop alleles into those populations. In the past two decades, the field has advanced with considerable descriptive, experimental, and theoretical activity on the dynamics of crop gene introgression and its consequences. As illustrated by five case studies employing an array of different approaches, introgression of crop alleles has occurred for a wide array of species, sometimes without significant consequence, but on occasion leading to the evolution of increased weediness. A new theoretical context has emerged for analyzing empirical data, identifying factors that influence introgression, and predicting introgression's progress. With emerging molecular techniques and analyses, research on crop allele introgression into wild and weedy populations is positioned to make contributions to both transgene risk assessment and reticulate evolution.
Inspiratory muscle training improves antireflux barrier in GERD patients
Authors: Nobre e Souza Miguel Ângelo , Lima Maria Josire Vitorino , Martins Giovanni Bezerra , Nobre Rivianny Arrais , Souza Marcellus Henrique Loiola Ponte , Oliveira Ricardo Brandt de , Santos Armênio Aguiar dos
Published: October 2013

The crural diaphragm (CD) is an essential component of the esophagogastric junction (EGJ), and inspiratory exercises may modify its function. This study's goal is to verify if inspiratory muscle training (IMT) improves EGJ motility and gastroesophageal reflux (GER). Twelve GER disease [GERD; 7 males, 20–47 yr, 9 esophagitis, and 3 nonerosive reflex disease (NERD)] and 7 healthy volunteers (3 males, 20–41 yr) performed esophageal pH monitoring, manometry, and heart rate variability (HRV) studies. A 6-cm sleeve catheter measured average EGJ pressure during resting, peak inspiratory EGJ pressures during sinus arrhythmia maneuver (SAM) and inhalations under 17-, 35-, and 70-cmH2O loads (TH maneuvers), and along 1 h after a meal. GERD patients entered a 5-days-a-week IMT program. One author scored heartburn and regurgitation before and after IMT. IMT increased average EGJ pressure (19.7 ± 2.4 vs. 29.5 ± 2.1 mmHg; P < 0.001) and inspiratory EGJ pressure during SAM (89.6 ± 7.6 vs. 125.6 ± 13.3 mmHg; P = 0.001) and during TH maneuvers. The EGJ-pressure gain across 35- and 70-cmH2O loads was lower for GERD volunteers. The number and cumulative duration of the transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations decreased after IMT. Proximal progression of GER decreased after IMT but not the distal acid exposure. Low-frequency power increased after IMT and the higher its increment the lower the increment of supine acid exposure. IMT decreased heartburn and regurgitation scores. In conclusion, IMT improved EGJ pressure, reduced GER proximal progression, and reduced GERD symptoms. Some GERD patients have a CD failure, and IMT may prove beneficial as a GERD add-on treatment.
Chronic measurement of left ventricular pressure in freely moving rats
Authors: Stehlin Ellyce , Malpas Simon C. , Budgett David M. , Barrett Carolyn J. , McCormick Daniel , Whalley Gillian , Fu Fumin , Beil Michael , Rigel Dean F. , Guild Sarah-Jane
Published: October 2013

Measurements of left ventricular pressure (LVP) in conscious freely moving animals are uncommon, yet could offer considerable opportunity for understanding cardiovascular disease progression and treatment. The aim of this study was to develop surgical methods and validate the measurements of a new high-fidelity, solid-state pressure-sensor telemetry device for chronically measuring LVP and dP/d t in rats. The pressure-sensor catheter tip (2-Fr) was inserted into the left ventricular chamber through the apex of the heart, and the telemeter body was implanted in the abdomen. Data were measured up to 85 days after implant. The average daytime dP/d t max was 9,444 ± 363 mmHg/s, ranging from 7,870 to 10,558 mmHg/s ( n = 7). A circadian variation in dP/d t max and heart rate (HR) was observed with an average increase during the night phase in dP/d t max of 918 ± 84 mmHg/s, and in HR of 38 ± 3 bpm. The β-adrenergic-agonist isoproterenol, β1-adrenergic agonist dobutamine, Ca2+channel blocker verapamil, and the calcium sensitizer levosimendan were administered throughout the implant period, inducing dose-dependent time course changes and absolute changes in dP/d t max of −6,000 to +13,000 mmHg/s. The surgical methods and new technologies demonstrated long-term stability, sensitivity to circadian variation, and the ability to measure large drug-induced changes, validating this new solution for chronic measurement of LVP in conscious rats.
Perspectives on the Use of Stem Cells for Autism Treatment
Authors: Siniscalco Dario , Bradstreet James Jeffrey , Sych Nataliia , Antonucci Nicola
Published: October 2013

Autism and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are complex neurodevelopmental disorders. ASDs are clinically defined by deficits in communication, social skills, and repetitive and/or restrictive interests and behaviours. With the prevalence rates for ASDs rapidly increasing, the need for effective therapies for autism is a priority for biomedical research. Currently available medications do not target the core symptoms, can have markedly adverse side-effects, and are mainly palliative for negative behaviours. The development of molecular and regenerative interventions is progressing rapidly, and medicine holds great expectations for stem cell therapies. Cells could be designed to target the observed molecular mechanisms of ASDs, that is, abnormal neurotransmitter regulation, activated microglia, mitochondrial dysfunction, blood-brain barrier disruptions, and chronic intestinal inflammation. Presently, the paracrine, secretome, and immunomodulatory effects of stem cells would appear to be the likely mechanisms of application for ASD therapeutics. This review will focus on the potential use of the various types of stem cells: embryonic, induced pluripotential, fetal, and adult stem cells as targets for ASD therapeutics.
The Role ofKlebsiellain Crohn’s Disease with a Potential for the Use of Antimicrobial Measures
Authors: Rashid Taha , Ebringer Alan , Wilson Clyde
Published: October 2013

There is a general consensus that Crohn’s disease (CD) develops as the result of immune-mediated tissue damage triggered by infections with intestinal microbial agents. Based on the results of existing microbiological, molecular, and immunological studies,Klebsiellamicrobe seems to have a key role in the initiation and perpetuation of the pathological damage involving the gut and joint tissues in patients with CD. Six different gastroenterology centres in the UK have reported elevated levels of antibodies toKlebsiellain CD patients. There is a relationship between high intake of starch-containing diet, enhanced growth of gut microbes, and the production of pullulanases byKlebsiella. It is proposed that eradication of these microbes by the use of antibiotics and low starch diet, in addition to the currently used treatment, could help in alleviating or halting the disease process in CD.
Shear Bond Strengths of Different Adhesive Systems to Biodentine
Authors: Odabaş Mesut Enes , Bani Mehmet , Tirali Resmiye Ebru
Published: October 2013

The aim of this study was to measure the shear bond strength of different adhesive systems to Biodentine with different time intervals. Eighty specimens of Biodentine were prepared and divided into 8 groups. After 12 minutes, 40 samples were randomly selected and divided into 4 groups of 10 each: group 1: (etch‐and‐rinse adhesive system) Prime & Bond NT; group 2: (2‐step self‐etch adhesive system) Clearfil SE Bond; group 3: (1‐step self‐etch adhesive systems) Clearfil S3 Bond; group 4: control (no adhesive). After the application of adhesive systems, composite resin was applied over Biodentine. This procedure was repeated 24 hours after mixing additional 40 samples, respectively. Shear bond strengths were measured using a universal testing machine, and the data were subjected to 1‐way analysis of variance and Scheffé post hoc test. No significant differences were found between all of the adhesive groups at the same time intervals (12 minutes and 24 hours) (P > .05). Among the two time intervals, the lowest value was obtained for group 1 (etch‐and‐rinse adhesive) at a 12‐minute period, and the highest was obtained for group 2 (two‐step self‐etch adhesive) at a 24‐hour period. The placement of composite resin used with self‐etch adhesive systems over Biodentine showed better shear bond strength.
A Time Slot Reservation in Modified TDMA-Based Ad Hoc Networks with Directional Antennas
Authors: Li Yuan , Sun Baolin , Luo Xing , Xiong Naixue
Published: October 2013

In this paper, we study the bandwidth reservation issue in wireless ad hoc networks with directional antennas. Providing Quality of Service (QoS) support in the wireless ad hoc networks is one of the topics that have received a lot of attention in recent years. QoS provisioning is needed to support multimedia and real-time application in wireless networks. In the Time Division Multiple Accesses (TDMA) frame, the bandwidth is measured by the number of the data time slots. Control slots in the traditional TDMA frame can be used for transmission of the control packets, rather than the transmission of the data packets. We focus on the problem of how to make full use of slots to transmit data packets and do not affect control packets transmission. The purpose is to improve the time slot utilization rate. Based on our proposed modified TDMA frame, a novel time slot reservation algorithm is presented to achieve maximal available path bandwidth. Directional antennas allow transmission energy to be concentrated on a narrow range along a particular direction, which can significantly increase the data rate. The performance of our scheme is analyzed and implemented. Simulation results show that the proposed scheme performs better.
Chemical Pretreatment Methods for the Production of Cellulosic Ethanol: Technologies and Innovations
Authors: Bensah Edem Cudjoe , Mensah Moses
Published: October 2013

Pretreatment of lignocellulose has received considerable research globally due to its influence on the technical, economic and environmental sustainability of cellulosic ethanol production. Some of the most promising pretreatment methods require the application of chemicals such as acids, alkali, salts, oxidants, and solvents. Thus, advances in research have enabled the development and integration of chemical-based pretreatment into proprietary ethanol production technologies in several pilot and demonstration plants globally, with potential to scale-up to commercial levels. This paper reviews known and emerging chemical pretreatment methods, highlighting recent findings and process innovations developed to offset inherent challenges via a range of interventions, notably, the combination of chemical pretreatment with other methods to improve carbohydrate preservation, reduce formation of degradation products, achieve high sugar yields at mild reaction conditions, reduce solvent loads and enzyme dose, reduce waste generation, and improve recovery of biomass components in pure forms. The use of chemicals such as ionic liquids, NMMO, and sulphite are promising once challenges in solvent recovery are overcome. For developing countries, alkali-based methods are relatively easy to deploy in decentralized, low-tech systems owing to advantages such as the requirement of simple reactors and the ease of operation.
Dynamic Output-Feedback Passivity Control for Fuzzy Systems under Variable Sampling
Authors: Li Hongyi , Sun Xingjian , Karimi H. R. , Niu Ben
Published: October 2013

This paper concerns the problem of dynamic output-feedback control for a class of nonlinear systems with nonuniform uncertain sampling via Takagi-Sugeno (T-S) fuzzy control approach. The sampling is not required to be periodic, and the state variables are not required to be measurable. A new type fuzzy dynamic output-feedback sampled-data controller is constructed, and a novel time-dependent Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional is chosen for fuzzy systems under variable sampling. By using Lyapunov stability theory, a sufficient condition for very-strict passive analysis of fuzzy systems with nonuniform uncertain sampling is derived. Based on this condition, a novel fuzzy dynamic output-feedback controller is designed such that the closed-loop system is very-strictly passive. The existence condition of the controller can be solved by convex optimization approach. Finally, a numerical example is provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Interleukin 6 Stimulates Endothelial Binding and Transport of High-Density Lipoprotein Through Induction of Endothelial Lipase
Authors: Robert Jérôme , Lehner Marc , Frank Saša , Perisa Damir , von Eckardstein Arnold , Rohrer Lucia
Published: October 2013

Objective—

In the reverse cholesterol transport pathway, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) passes the endothelial cell barrier by mechanisms involving the scavenger receptor class B type I and the ATP-binding cassette G1. However, little is known on how inflammation influences this transendothelial transport.

Approach and Results—

On stimulation with interleukin-6, cultivated primary endothelial cells showed increased binding and transport of
125
I-HDL without changing the expression of scavenger receptor class B type I and ATP-binding cassette G1. Therefore, we analyzed the involvement of endothelial lipase (EL), a known HDL-binding protein expressed by endothelial cells. Here, we show an increased EL expression after interleukin-6 stimulation. Moreover, using pharmacological inhibitors or RNA interference against EL, we demonstrated its participation in HDL binding and transport through the endothelium. Furthermore, adenovirus-mediated transfection of endothelial cells with either catalytically active or nonactive EL revealed that EL facilitates the endothelial binding and transport by both bridging and lipolysis of HDL. EL was also found responsible for the reduction of HDL particle size occurring during the specific transport through a monolayer of endothelial cells. Finally, pharmacological inhibition of EL reversed the inducing effect of interleukin-6 on HDL binding and transport.

Conclusions—

Interleukin-6 stimulates the translocation of HDL through the endothelium, the first step in reverse cholesterol transport pathway, by enhancing EL expression. In addition, we demonstrated the role of EL in the transendothelial transport of HDL.
Crucial Role for Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress During Megakaryocyte Maturation
Authors: Lopez Jose J. , Palazzo Alberta , Chaabane Chiraz , Albarran Letizia , Polidano Evelyne , Lebozec Kristell , Dally Saoussen , Nurden Paquita , Enouf Jocelyne , Debili Najet , Bobe Régis
Published: October 2013

Objective—

Apoptotic-like phase is an essential step for the platelet formation from megakaryocytes. How controlled is this signaling pathway remained poorly understood. The aim of this study was to determine whether endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress–induced apoptosis occurs during thrombopoiesis.

Approach and Results—

Investigation of ER stress and maturation markers in different models of human thrombopoiesis (CHRF, DAMI, MEG-01 cell lines, and hematopoietic stem cells: CD34
+
) as well as in immature pathological platelets clearly indicated that ER stress occurs transiently during thrombopoiesis. Direct ER stress induction by tunicamycin, an inhibitor of N-glycosylation, or by sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+
ATPase type 3b overexpression, which interferes with reticular calcium, leads to some degree of maturation in megakaryocytic cell lines. On the contrary, exposure to salubrinal, a phosphatase inhibitor that prevents eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α-P dephosphorylation and inhibits ER stress–induced apoptosis, decreased both expression of maturation markers in MEG-01 and CD34
+
cells as well as numbers of mature megakaryocytes and proplatelet formation in cultured CD34
+
cells.

Conclusions—

Taken as a whole, our research suggests that transient ER stress activation triggers the apoptotic-like phase of the thrombopoiesis process.
Morphological variability in second-stage juveniles and males of Meloidogyne chitwoodi
Authors: Humphreys-Pereira Danny A. , Elling Axel A.
Published: October 2013

The morphology ofMeloidogyne chitwoodiis relatively poorly characterised. In a recent study, morphological variation in adult females ofM. chitwoodiwas analysed. However, comparable data are lacking for adult males and second-stage juveniles (J2). Therefore, our studies of fourM. chitwoodiisolates from the western USA, representing all currently known races and pathotypes, were designed to characterise intraspecific morphological variability in J2 and males and to compare it to variability found in adult females. Multivariate analysis of variance indicated statistically significant variation among isolates for both J2 and males. Moreover, for adult males, canonical discriminant analysis grouped races with their respective pathotypes. In addition, we analysed two morphological features that were previously uncharacterised forM. chitwoodi,i.e., stylet knob width and distance from secretory-excretory pore to anterior end. Both of these characters may be useful in distinguishingM. chitwoodifrom closely related species. SEM clearly showed the presence of areolations along the bodies of J2, thereby separatingM. chitwoodifromM. fallaxandM. minor. In summary, this study indicates thatM. chitwoodiJ2 and adult males show substantially more intraspecific morphological variability than previously known. Consequences for diagnostics are discussed.
Converting and Not Converting “Strangers” in Early Modern London
Authors: Dimmock Matthew
Published: October 2013

Abstract

The baptism of strangers in early modern England is often imagined as a “protocolonial” enterprise. This article explores the structure, contexts, and language of a number of “stranger” baptisms in this period to challenge such a reading. The improvisatory nature of these baptisms, a consequence of the lack of a specific service until 1662, is explored, with particular attention paid to language and structure, and the role of a Calvinist-influenced conception of religious and cultural difference. The article is also concerned with subaltern voices and silence. It concludes with a close examination of the circumstance of the baptizing of a “Turk” (initially named Chinano, then William) in London in 1586, considering the unique structure created for this specific occasion, and arguing that the occasion depends upon Chinano’s articulation of the reasons for his conversion before the community of believers to which he seeks access.
Securidaca marajoara (Polygalaceae), a new species from the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Silva da Costa Christiane , Andrade de Aguiar-Dias Ana Cristina , Olmos Simões André
Published: October 2013

A new species of the Polygalaceae from the Brazilian eastern Amazon, Securidaca marajoara, is described and illustrated herein. The species is morphologically similar to S. bialata but distinct on the large, conspicuous bracts persistent at flower anthesis, long inflorescences, ovate to elliptic leaves and short internodes.
An Interhemispheric Tropical Sea Level Seesaw due to El Niño Taimasa
Authors: Widlansky Matthew J. , Timmermann Axel , McGregor Shayne , Stuecker Malte F. , Cai Wenju
Published: October 2013

During strong El Niño events, sea level drops around some tropical western Pacific islands by up to 20–30 cm. Such events (referred to as taimasa in Samoa) expose shallow reefs, thereby causing severe damage to associated coral ecosystems and contributing to the formation of microatolls. During the termination of strong El Niño events, a southward movement of weak trade winds and the development of an anomalous anticyclone in the Philippine Sea are shown to force an interhemispheric sea level seesaw in the tropical Pacific that enhances and prolongs extreme low sea levels in the southwestern Pacific. Spectral features, in addition to wind-forced linear shallow water ocean model experiments, identify a nonlinear interaction between El Niño and the annual cycle as the main cause of these sea level anomalies.
Horizontal Stratification during Deep Convection in the Labrador Sea
Authors: Frajka-Williams Eleanor , Rhines Peter B. , Eriksen Charles C.
Published: October 2013

Deep convection—the process by which surface waters are mixed down to 1000 m or deeper—forms the primary downwelling of the meridional overturning circulation in the Northern Hemisphere. High-resolution hydrographic measurements from Seagliders indicate that during deep convection—though water is well mixed vertically—there is substantial horizontal variation in density over short distances (tens of kilometers). This horizontal density variability present in winter (January–February) contains sufficient buoyancy to restratify the convecting region to observed levels 2.5 months later, as estimated from Argo floating platforms. These results highlight the importance of small-scale heterogeneities in the ocean that are typically poorly represented in climate models, potentially contributing to the difficulty climate models have in representing deep convection.
Climatological Characteristics of Atmospheric Rivers and Their Inland Penetration over the Western United States
Authors: Rutz Jonathan J. , Steenburgh W. James , Ralph F. Martin
Published: October 2013

Narrow corridors of water vapor transport known as atmospheric rivers (ARs) contribute to extreme precipitation and flooding along the West Coast of the United States, but knowledge of their influence over the interior is limited. Here, the authors use Interim European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) Re-Analysis (ERA-Interim) data, Climate Prediction Center (CPC) precipitation analyses, and Snowpack Telemetry (SNOTEL) observations to describe the characteristics of cool-season (November–April) ARs over the western United States. It is shown that AR frequency and duration exhibit a maximum along the Oregon–Washington coast, a strong transition zone upwind (west) of and over the Cascade–Sierra ranges, and a broad minimum that extends from the “high” Sierra south of Lake Tahoe eastward across the central Great Basin and into the deep interior. East of the Cascade–Sierra ranges, AR frequency and duration are largest over the interior northwest, while AR duration is large compared to AR frequency over the interior southwest. The fractions of cool-season precipitation and top-decile 24-h precipitation events attributable to ARs are largest over and west of the Cascade–Sierra ranges. Farther east, these fractions are largest over the northwest and southwest interior, with distinctly different large-scale patterns and AR orientations enabling AR penetration into each of these regions. In contrast, AR-related precipitation over the Great Basin east of the high Sierra is rare. These results indicate that water vapor depletion over major topographic barriers is a key contributor to AR decay, with ARs playing a more prominent role in the inland precipitation climatology where lower or less continuous topography facilitates the inland penetration of ARs.
The Bright Side of Bad Times
Authors: Bianchi Emily C.
Published: October 2013

This paper examines whether earning a college or graduate degree in a recession or an economic boom has lasting effects on job satisfaction. Across three studies, well-educated graduates who entered the workforce during economic downturns were more satisfied with their current jobs than those who entered during more prosperous economic times. Study 1 showed that economic conditions at college graduation predicted later job satisfaction even after accounting for different industry and occupational choices. Study 2 replicated these results and found that recession-era graduates were more satisfied with their jobs both early and later in their careers and even when they earned less money. A third cross-sectional study showed that people who entered the workforce in bad economies were less likely to entertain upward counterfactuals, or thoughts about how they might have done better, and more likely to feel grateful for their jobs, both of which mediated the relationship between economic conditions at workforce entry and job satisfaction. While past research on job satisfaction has focused largely on situational and dispositional antecedents, these results suggest that early workforce conditions also can have lasting implications for how people affectively evaluate their jobs.
Integrating Research into Dental Student Training
Authors: Emrick J.J. , Gullard A.
Published: October 2013

The integration of research into dental education is necessary to ensure that evidence-based practice reaches the clinical setting and that dentistry remains a scientifically driven health profession. Consequently, dental accreditation standards in the United States and Canada require dental schools to integrate research components into curricula. Organizations ( e.g., NIDCR, ADEA, AADR, IADR, and NSRG) provide some opportunities for dental students to experience research. Assessment of the integration of research into dental curricula suggests that US students are interested in learning and utilizing evidence-based practice, but lack adequate time for research participation. Records show limited student involvement in research organizations internationally ( i.e., AADR and IADR). Vague accreditation standards and limited research opportunities outside of dental schools may be barriers. We lack an understanding of the status of integration of research into dental curricula internationally, but predict that similar issues exist. We propose that dental institutions consider implementing the following: (1) curriculum components to assess the use of evidence-based practice, (2) faculty and student seminars for discussing evidence-based practice, (3) subsidization of student membership in dental research organizations ( e.g., AADR and IADR), and (4) sponsorship of students as institutional representatives at annual research meetings ( e.g., IADR, AADR, ADA, and ADEA meetings), with subsequent school-wide dissemination of knowledge attained from attendance.
Traffic Congestion’s Economic Impacts: Evidence from US Metropolitan Regions
Authors: Sweet Matthias
Published: October 2013

Traffic congestion alleviation has long been a common core transport policy objective, but it remains unclear under which conditions this universal byproduct of urban life also impedes the economy. Using panel data for 88 US metropolitan statistical areas, this study estimates congestion’s drag on employment growth (1993 to 2008) and productivity growth per worker (2001 to 2007). Using instrumental variables, results suggest that congestion slows job growth above thresholds of approximately 4.5 minutes of delay per one-way auto commute and 11,000 average daily traffic (ADT) per lane on average across the regional freeway network. While higher ADT per freeway lane appears to slow productivity growth, there is no evidence of congestion-induced travel delay impeding productivity growth. Results suggest that the strict policy focus on travel time savings may be misplaced and, instead, better outlooks for managing congestion’s economic drag lie in prioritising the economically most important trips (perhaps through road pricing) or in providing alternative travel capacity to enable access despite congestion.
Interaction Pretext: Experiences of Community in the Urban Neighbourhood
Authors: Henriksen Ida Marie , Tjora Aksel
Published: October 2013

It has been suggested that community, social cohesion and territorial ties in neighbourhoods may be characterised by three directions: the lost, the saved and the transformed. On the basis of a number of case studies in a Norwegian city, it is found that these three trends exist together, on the basis of various local interactive practices. The concept of an interaction pretext is developed to answer in a more nuanced way how various forms of social ties are developed, maintained and/or altered. By combining this concept with local activity, four community types are specified that may characterise different neighbourhoods and that may also exist in parallel at one place: the passing-by community, the tight community, the weak community, and the split community. Demonstrating the potential of a more detailed empirical approach to the community question, the paper warns against too analytically shallow suggestions about their development. By understanding how neighbourhoods develop socially in different ways, it may be possible to increase the probability of better community planning.
Physical Objects as Vehicles of Cultural Transmission
Authors: Ishii Keiko , Miyamoto Yuri , Rule Nicholas O. , Toriyama Rie
Published: October 2013

We examined how cultural values of harmony and uniqueness are represented and maintained through physical media (i.e., colorings of geometric patterns) and how individuals play an active role in selecting and maintaining such cultural values. We found that colorings produced by European American adults and children were judged as more unique, whereas colorings produced by Japanese adults and children were judged as more harmonious, reflecting cultural differences in values. Harmony undergirded Japanese participants’ preferences for colorings, whereas uniqueness undergirded European American participants’ preferences for colorings. These cultural differences led participants to prefer own-culture colorings over other-culture colorings. Moreover, bicultural participants’ preferences acculturated according to their identification with their host culture. Furthermore, child rearers in Japan and Canada gave feedback about the children’s colorings that were consistent with their culture’s values. These findings suggest that simple geometric patterns can embody cultural values that are socialized and reinforced from an early age.
Energy Estimation and Measurement in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Fraipont Vincent , Preiser Jean‐Charles
Published: October 2013

The estimation of caloric needs of critically ill patients is usually based on energy expenditure (EE), while current recommendations for caloric intake most often rely on a fixed amount of calories. In fact, during the early phase of critical illness, caloric needs are probably lower than EE, as a substantial proportion of EE is covered by the non‐inhibitable endogenous glucose production. Hence, the risk of overfeeding is higher during the early phase than the late phase, while the risk of underfeeding is higher during the late phase of critical illness. Therefore, an accurate measurement of EE can be helpful to prevent early overfeeding and late underfeeding. Available techniques to assess EE include predictive equations, calorimetry, and doubly labeled water, the reference method. The available predictive equations are often inaccurate, while indirect calorimetry is difficult to perform for several reasons, including a shortage of reliable devices and technical limitations. In this review, the authors intend to discuss the different techniques and the influence of the method used on the interpretation of the results of clinical studies.
Assessment of the internal construct validity of the revised High-Level Mobility Assessment Tool for traumatic orthopaedic injuries
Authors: Hill Bridget , Kahn Michelle , Pallant Julie , Williams Gavin
Published: October 2013

Objective:

To determine whether the revised High-Level Mobility Assessment Tool (HiMAT) was valid for measuring mobility for people with multi-trauma orthopaedic lower limb injuries.

Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Subjects:

Participants with lower limb multi-trauma orthopaedic injuries.

Methods:

One complete revised HiMAT was obtained for 106 people within 12 weeks of being allowed to fully weight bear. Rasch analysis was used to assess the overall fit of the model for individuals and items, differential item functioning, local dependency, targeting of items and dimensionality.

Results:

The mean revised HiMAT score was 10.5 (SD = 6.8) with a range of 5–30. Rasch analysis of revised HiMAT showed adequate overall fit to the model ( P = 0.29) with no misfitting items (fit residual SD = 0.69) or persons (fit residual SD = 0.62). The scale showed good internal consistency (Person Separation Index = 0.91). One item (hopping) demonstrated disordered thresholds, however this item had good fit to the model in all other aspects. The revised HiMAT was unidimensional, and no differential item functioning was detected for gender or age. The revised HiMAT was well targeted for this group with a range of items across all ability levels.

Conclusion:

The results of this study support the internal construct validity of the revised HiMAT as a well-targeted, unidimensional measure of high-level mobility with no ceiling or floor effect for males and females recovering from multi-trauma orthopaedic lower limb injuries.
Impact of fatigue on health-related quality of life in patients with Parkinson’s disease: a prospective study
Authors: Elbers Roy G , van Wegen Erwin EH , Verhoef John , Kwakkel Gert
Published: October 2013

Objective:

To investigate the longitudinal association between the impact of fatigue and health-related quality of life and to determine if potential confounders distorted this association.

Design:

Baseline, 3-, 6- and 12-week assessments of a randomized clinical trial were used.

Setting:

Outpatient rehabilitation centre.

Subjects:

Patients with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease.

Methods:

Quality of life was assessed with the Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire-39 and the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory was used to assess fatigue. Time-independent and time-dependent factors were investigated for their bivariate association with quality of life by applying random coefficient analysis. Candidate confounders were successively added to the longitudinal association model to determine if the relationship between quality of life and fatigue was distorted. A change beyond 15% of found regression coefficient of the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory was considered significant.

Results:

One hundred and fifty-three patients were included. Impact of fatigue was significantly associated with poorer quality of life (β = 0.24, 95% confidence interval = 0.18 to 0.30). This association was significantly distorted by depression (30.0%) and anxiety (24.1%). No distortion was found for other factors. After controlling for confounders, fatigue remained significantly associated with quality of life (β = 0.12, 95% confidence interval = 0.06 to 0.18, r2 = 2.3%).

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that patients who experience fatigue tend to report lower levels of quality of life. However, this longitudinal relationship is confounded by depression and anxiety and suggests that the unique contribution of fatigue to overall quality of life is rather small.
Reflections on Recruiting, Supporting, Retaining, Graduating, and Obtaining Employment for Doctoral Students From Diverse Backgrounds
Authors: Dieker Lisa , Wienke Wilfred , Straub Carrie , Finnegan Lisa
Published: October 2013

In this article, the authors provide a summary of the current techniques being used to recruit, retain, and support a diverse range of scholars, including students with disabilities, in a doctoral program. The manuscript provides a summary of the current need for leadership personnel who are scholars with knowledge in special education, general education content, research, and advanced technologies, while staying true to the mission of our field to serve students with disabilities and their families. This article provides the current success of this doctoral program in preparing scholars for higher education, the techniques used to build and support a very diverse population of scholars, and case-based examples. In addition, lessons learned over a decade are provided to inform the field of special education about recruiting, retaining, preparing, and employing doctoral-level scholars in special education who are ready to enter the profession with a balance related to innovation and preparation of highly qualified teachers in our field.
Fibre laser cutting of carbon fibre–reinforced polymeric composites
Authors: Negarestani Reza , Li Lin
Published: October 2013

Owing to the increasing industrial demand for carbon fibre–reinforced polymer composite materials, the interest in effective machining technology grows. The current carbon fibre–reinforced polymer machining technique is dominated by mechanical milling, which often results in high tooling cost and some defects in the machined materials. The exploration of alternative machining techniques is becoming more important. Laser machining as an advanced non-contact technique can potentially improve the machining of carbon fibre–reinforced polymers. However, thermal damages to the machined materials owing to the inhomogeneous, anisotropic and heterogeneous features of these materials have been prohibiting the application of laser machining in industrial scale for carbon fibre–reinforced polymers. In this article, an investigation on the basic characteristics of high-power single-mode ytterbium-doped fibre laser machining of carbon fibre–reinforced polymer is reported. Statistical analysis was performed for the optimisation of the process parameters in single-pass cutting. Furthermore, quality improvement was achieved by the use of multiple-pass cutting technique, which was found to be effective to minimise delamination at low power level and high scanning speeds.
Gonococcemia mimicking a lupus flare in a young woman
Authors: Dutertre M , Tomasevic D , Guillermin Y , Durupt S , Grange C , Debarbieux S , Martin E , Durieu I
Published: October 2013

Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted infection, which can present as the ‘arthritis-dermatitis syndrome’. Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus often develop disseminated neisserial infections, because of inherited and acquired complement deficiencies. Neisserial infection, and particularly gonococcemia, can mimic a lupus flare. We report one case of gonococcemia presenting as acral papulo-vesiculous lesions of the digits in a young woman with lupus.
Training of child and adolescent psychiatry fellows in autism and intellectual disability
Authors: Marrus Natasha , Veenstra-VanderWeele Jeremy , Hellings Jessica A , Stigler Kimberly A , Szymanski Ludwik , King Bryan H , Carlisle L Lee , Cook Edwin H ,   The American Academy of Child Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) Autism and Intellectual Disability Committee, Pruett John R
Published: October 2013

Patients with autism spectrum disorders and intellectual disability can be clinically complex and often have limited access to psychiatric care. Because little is known about post-graduate clinical education in autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability, we surveyed training directors of child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship programs. On average, child and adolescent psychiatry directors reported lectures of 3 and 4 h per year in autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability, respectively. Training directors commonly reported that trainees see 1–5 patients with autism spectrum disorder or intellectual disability per year for outpatient pharmacological management and inpatient treatment. Overall, 43% of directors endorsed the need for additional resources for training in autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability, which, coupled with low didactic and clinical exposure, suggests that current training is inadequate.
Maternal verbal responses to communication of infants at low and heightened risk of autism
Authors: Leezenbaum Nina B , Campbell Susan B , Butler Derrecka , Iverson Jana M
Published: October 2013

This study investigates mothers’ responses to infant communication among infants at heightened genetic risk (high risk) of autism spectrum disorder compared to infants with no such risk (low risk). A total of 26 infants, 12 of whom had an older sibling with autism spectrum disorder, were observed during naturalistic in-home interaction and semistructured play with their mothers at 13 and 18 months of age. Results indicate that overall, mothers of low-risk and high-risk infants were highly and similarly responsive to their infants’ communicative behaviors. However, examination of infant vocal and gestural communication development together with maternal verbal responses and translations (i.e. verbally labeling a gesture referent) suggests that delays in early communication development observed among high-risk infants may alter the input that these infants receive; this in turn may have cascading effects on the subsequent development of communication and language.
Assistive technologies to maximise independence in people with dementia
Authors: Newton Lisa , Robinson Louise
Published: October 2013

There are about 750 000 people living with dementia in the UK, and this is expected to double in the next 30 years. Dementia care currently costs the UK economy £21 billion per year. The National Dementia Strategy 2009 highlighted dementia as a national priority. It also emphasised the potential for assistive technologies to support people with dementia to live independently, while possibly reducing cost of care through delaying residential care admissions. Assistive technologies cover a wide range of technological solutions to problems encountered by patients with dementia, from tracking devices to simple sink plugs designed to prevent flooding. This article aims to discuss the range of assistive technologies available in dementia care, and their benefits, enabling readers to better signpost patients and their carers to appropriate resources.
New advances in erectile technology
Authors: Stein Marshall J. , Lin Haocheng , Wang Run
Published: October 2013

New discoveries and technological advances in medicine are rapid. The role of technology in the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) will be widened and more options will be available in the years to come. These erectile technologies include external penile support devices, penile vibrators, low intensity extracorporeal shockwave, tissue engineering, nanotechnology and endovascular technology. Even for matured treatment modalities for ED, such as vacuum erectile devices and penile implants, there is new scientific information and novel technology available to improve their usage and to stimulate new ideas. We anticipate that erectile technologies may revolutionize ED treatment and in the very near future ED may become a curable condition.
Reconstitution of bone-like matrix in osteogenically differentiated mesenchymal stem cell–collagen constructs: A three-dimensional in vitro model to study hematopoietic stem cell niche
Authors: Lai WY , Li YY , Mak SK , Ho FC , Chow ST , Chooi WH , Chow CH , Leung AY , Chan BP
Published: October 2013

Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) and osteoblasts are important niche cells for hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) in bone marrow osteoblastic niche. Here, we aim to partially reconstitute the bone marrow HSC niche in vitro using collagen microencapsulation for investigation of the interactions between HSCs and MSCs. Mouse MSCs (mMSCs) microencapsulated in collagen were osteogenically differentiated to derive a bone-like matrix consisting of osteocalcin, osteopontin, and calcium deposits and secreted bone morphogenic protein 2 (BMP2). Decellularized bone-like matrix was seeded with fluorescence-labeled human MSCs and HSCs. Comparing with pure collagen scaffold, significantly more HSCs and HSC–MSC pairs per unit area were found in the decellularized bone-like matrix. Moreover, incubation with excess neutralizing antibody of BMP2 resulted in a significantly higher number of HSC per unit area than that without in the decellularized matrix. This work suggests that the osteogenic differentiated MSC–collagen microsphere is a valuable three-dimensional in vitro model to elucidate cell–cell and cell–matrix interactions in HSC niche.
Evaluating the Efficiency of Banking Systems During a Pre-Crisis and Crisis Period by Using Cluster Analysis (2004-2009)
Authors: Reverchuk Serhiy , Lobozynska Sophia , Megits Nikolay
Published: October 2013

The proposed study, by using cluster analysis, presents the unique methodology for determining the level of efficiency of banking systems in terms of crisis. It identifies a cause and relationship of various derivatives when applying the specialized tools to regulate the level of stability of the banking system. The proposed methodology assists in applying the presented studies to track the trends of governmental strategies in regulating the banking market applying the financial and performance indicators. Furthermore, this article presents the innovative methodology when assessing the level of effectiveness of national banking systems in relation to other countries, by carrying out the evaluation of the efficiency of governmental regulations compared with various international banking systems during the period of 2004-2009, and the implementation of the results by received economic interpretations.
Tuberculosis transmission between foreign- and native-born populations in the EU/EEA: a systematic review
Authors: Sandgren Andreas , Sañé Schepisi Monica , Sotgiu Giovanni , Huitric Emma , Migliori Giovanni Battista , Manissero Davide , van der Werf Marieke J. , Girardi Enrico
Published: October 2013

Tuberculosis (TB) control programmes of many low TB incidence countries of the European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA) perceive challenges in controlling TB due to high numbers of TB in migrants from high-incidence countries.

To assess the extent of TB transmission from the foreign-born to the native-born population, we quantitatively investigated the dynamics of TB transmission between these populations in the EU/EEA, using published molecular epidemiological studies. We searched PubMed and EMBASE databases from 1990 to August 2012.

We identified 15 studies performed during 1992–2007 covering 12,366 cases, of which median (range) 49.2% (17.7%–86.4%) were foreign-born. The proportion of clustered isolates ranged between 8.5% and 49.1% of the total number of TB cases genotyped and among these, foreign-born cases were equally or more likely to have unique isolates compared to native-born cases. One third of the clusters were “mixed”,i.e.composed of foreign- and native-born cases, involving 0–34.2% of all genotyped cases. Cross-transmission among foreign and native populations was bidirectional, with wide differences across studies.

This systematic review provides evidence that TB in a foreign-born population does not have a significant influence on TB in the native population in EU/EEA.