bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three-dimensional X-ray diffraction imaging of process-induced dislocation loops in silicon
Authors: Allen David , Wittge Jochen , Stopford Jennifer , Danilewsky Andreas , McNally Patrick
Published: May 2011

In the semiconductor industry, wafer handling introduces micro-cracks at the wafer edge and the causal relationship of these cracks to wafer breakage is a difficult task. By way of understanding the wafer breakage process, a series of nano-indents were introduced both into 20 × 20 mm (100) wafer pieces and into whole wafers as a means of introducing controlled strain. Visualization of the three-dimensional structure of crystal defects has been demonstrated. The silicon samples were then treated by various thermal anneal processes to initiate the formation of dislocation loops around the indents. This article reports the three-dimensional X-ray diffraction imaging and visualization of the structure of these dislocations. A series of X-ray section topographs of both the indents and the dislocation loops were taken at the ANKA Synchrotron, Karlsruhe, Germany. The topographs were recorded on a CCD system combined with a high-resolution scintillator crystal and were measured by repeated cycles of exposure and sample translation along a direction perpendicular to the beam. The resulting images were then rendered into three dimensions utilizing open-source three-dimensional medical tomography algorithms that show the dislocation loops formed. Furthermore this technique allows for the production of a video (avi) file showing the rotation of the rendered topographs around any defined axis. The software also has the capability of splitting the image along a segmentation line and viewing the internal structure of the strain fields.
Discriminating two races of Liobagrus marginatoides by cytogenetic analysis
Authors: Wang B. P. , Chen J. , Liu J. D. , Liu N. , Yu Q. X.
Published: May 2011

Although two kinds of Liobagrus marginatoides should belong to the same species according to the taxonomy of fish morphology, the results of cytogenetic analysis showed they are two different races.
Population status and human impact on the endangered Swayne’s hartebeest (Alcelaphus buselaphus swaynei) in Nechisar Plains, Nechisar National Park, Ethiopia
Authors: Datiko Demeke , Bekele Afework
Published: May 2011

The study on the population status and human impacts on the endemic and endangered Swayne’s hartebeest (Alcelaphus buselaphus swaynei) was carried out in Nechisar Plains, Nechisar National Park, between 2009 and 2010. Direct and total count methods were applied in the population census. Data collected since 1967 were also examined to indicate trends of Swayne’s hartebeest populations and their translocation status. In eight illegal Guji Oromo settlements, a total of 134 household samples were identified for group discussion and interview. A trend on livestock population was carried out. The total count of Swayne’s hartebeest was 12, 11 and 12 during the 1st, 2nd and 3rd counts, respectively. The population has been decreasing and nowadays only 12 individuals remain. Most respondents had a negative attitude towards conservation areas. The increase in livestock population from 1985 to 1996 was 47.8%. It also increased by 49.9% and 56.5% during 2006 and 2010, respectively. There were 12,531 heads of livestock that depended on the grass plains illegally. Overstocking rate of livestock, illegal resource exploitation and loss of wildlife habitat were the major problems encountered. Active measures have to be implemented to control the human impact and safeguard the future of Swayne’s hartebeest.
Thein vivoimmunomodulatory effect of recombinant tumour necrosis factor-alpha in guinea pigs vaccinated withMycobacterium bovisbacille Calmette–Guérin
Authors: Kramp J C , McMurray D N , Formichella C , Jeevan A
Published: May 2011

Previous studies from our laboratory demonstrated that treatment in vitro with recombinant guinea pig tumour necrosis factor TNF (rgpTNF)-α-enhanced T cell and macrophage functions. Similarly, injection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis-infected guinea pigs with anti-TNF-α altered splenic granuloma organization and caused inflammatory changes and reduced the cell-associated mycobacteria in the tuberculous pluritis model. In this study, rgpTNF-α was injected into bacille Calmette–Guérin (BCG)-vaccinated guinea pigs to modulate immune functions in vivo. Guinea pigs were vaccinated intradermally with BCG, 2 × 103 colony-forming units (CFU) and injected intraperitoneally with either rgpTNF-α (25 µg/animal) or 1% bovine serum albumin (BSA) for a total of 12 injections given every other day. Treatment with rgpTNF-α significantly enhanced the skin test response to purified protein derivative (PPD), reduced the number of CFUs and increased the PPD-induced proliferation in the lymph nodes at 6 weeks after vaccination. The levels of interleukin (IL)-12 mRNA were increased in the lymph node and spleen cells stimulated with PPD. TNF-α treatment induced a decrease in TNF-α, IL-12p40 and IL-10 mRNA levels in peritoneal cells following PPD stimulation while live M. tuberculosis caused an increase in TNF-α mRNA and a decrease in the IL-10 mRNA expression. TNF-α injection also induced an increase in the infiltration of mononuclear cells and in the proportions of CD3+ T cells in the lymph nodes. These results indicate that rgpTNF-α enhances some aspects of T cell immunity and promotes control of mycobacteria in the tissues. Future studies will address the role of TNF-α in BCG-vaccinated guinea pigs following low-dose pulmonary challenge with virulent M. tuberculosis.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GGandStreptococcus thermophilusinduce suppressor of cytokine signalling 3 (SOCS3) gene expression directly and indirectly via interleukin-10 in human primary macrophages
Authors: Latvala S , Miettinen M , Kekkonen R A , Korpela R , Julkunen I
Published: May 2011

In the present study we have characterized T helper type 2 (Th2) [interleukin (IL)-10]/Th1 (IL-12) cytokine expression balance in human primary macrophages stimulated with multiple non-pathogenic Gram-positive bacteria used in the food industry and as probiotic substances. Bacteria representing Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Lactococcus, Leuconostoc, Propionibacterium and Streptococcus species induced anti-inflammatory IL-10 production, although quantitative differences between the bacteria were observed. S. thermophilus was able to induce IL-12 production, while the production of IL-12 induced by other bacteria remained at a low level. The highest anti-inflammatory potential was seen with bifidobacteria, as evidenced by high IL-10/IL-12 induction ratios. All studied non-pathogenic bacteria were able to stimulate the expression of suppressor of cytokine signalling (SOCS) 3 that controls the expression of proinflammatory cytokine genes. Lactobacillus and Streptococcus species induced SOCS3 mRNA expression directly in the absence of protein synthesis and indirectly via bacteria-induced IL-10 production, as demonstrated by experiments with cycloheximide (CHX) and anti-IL-10 antibodies, respectively. The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) p38 signalling pathway played a key role in bacteria-induced SOCS3 gene expression. Enhanced IL-10 production and SOCS3 gene expression induced by live non-pathogenic Lactobacillus and Streptococcus is also likely to contribute to their immunoregulatory effects in vivo.
Greenhouse gas fluxes from an Australian subtropical cropland under long‐term contrasting management regimes
Authors: WANG WEIJIN , DALAL RAM C. , REEVES STEVEN H. , BUTTERBACH‐BAHL KLAUS , KIESE RALF
Published: May 2011

The long‐term effects of conservation management practices on greenhouse gas fluxes from tropical/subtropical croplands remain to be uncertain. Using both manual and automatic sampling chambers, we measured N2O and CH4 fluxes at a long‐term experimental site (1968–present) in Queensland, Australia from 2006 to 2009. Annual net greenhouse gas fluxes (NGGF) were calculated from the 3‐year mean N2O and CH4 fluxes and the long‐term soil organic carbon changes. N2O emissions exhibited clear daily, seasonal and interannual variations, highlighting the importance of whole‐year measurement over multiple years for obtaining temporally representative annual emissions. Averaged over 3 years, annual N2O emissions from the unfertilized and fertilized soils (90 kg N ha−1 yr−1 as urea) amounted to 138 and 902 g N ha−1, respectively. The average annual N2O emissions from the fertilized soil were 388 g N ha−1 lower under no‐till (NT) than under conventional tillage (CT) and 259 g N ha−1 higher under stubble retention (SR) than under stubble burning (SB). Annual N2O emissions from the unfertilized soil were similar between the contrasting tillage and stubble management practices. The average emission factors of fertilizer N were 0.91%, 1.20%, 0.52% and 0.77% for the CT‐SB, CT‐SR, NT‐SB and NT‐SR treatments, respectively. Annual CH4 fluxes from the soil were very small (−200–300 g CH4 ha−1 yr−1) with no significant difference between treatments. The NGGF were 277–350 kg CO2‐e ha−1 yr−1 for the unfertilized treatments and 401–710 kg CO2‐e ha−1 yr−1 for the fertilized treatments. Among the fertilized treatments, N2O emissions accounted for 52–97% of NGGF and NT‐SR resulted in the lowest NGGF (401 kg CO2‐e ha−1 yr−1 or 140 kg CO2‐e t−1 grain). Therefore, NT‐SR with improved N fertilizer management practices was considered the most promising management regime for simultaneously achieving maximal yield and minimal NGGF.
Seasonal hysteresis of net ecosystem exchange in response to temperature change: patterns and causes
Authors: NIU SHULI , LUO YIQI , FEI SHENFENG , MONTAGNANI LEONARDO , BOHRER GIL , JANSSENS IVAN A. , GIELEN BERT , RAMBAL SERGE , MOORS EDDY , MATTEUCCI GIORGIO
Published: May 2011

Understanding how net ecosystem exchange (NEE) changes with temperature is central to the debate on climate change‐carbon cycle feedbacks, but still remains unclear. Here, we used eddy covariance measurements of NEE from 20 FLUXNET sites (203 site‐years of data) in mid‐ and high‐latitude forests to investigate the temperature response of NEE. Years were divided into two half thermal years (increasing temperature in spring and decreasing temperature in autumn) using the maximum daily mean temperature. We observed a parabolic‐like pattern of NEE in response to temperature change in both the spring and autumn half thermal years. However, at similar temperatures, NEE was considerably depressed during the decreasing temperature season as compared with the increasing temperature season, inducing a counter‐clockwise hysteresis pattern in the NEE–temperature relation at most sites. The magnitude of this hysteresis was attributable mostly (68%) to gross primary production (GPP) differences but little (8%) to ecosystem respiration (ER) differences between the two half thermal years. The main environmental factors contributing to the hysteresis responses of NEE and GPP were daily accumulated radiation. Soil water content (SWC) also contributed to the hysteresis response of GPP but only at some sites. Shorter day length, lower light intensity, lower SWC and reduced photosynthetic capacity may all have contributed to the depressed GPP and net carbon uptake during the decreasing temperature seasons. The resultant hysteresis loop is an important indicator of the existence of limiting factors. As such, the role of radiation, LAI and SWC should be considered when modeling the dynamics of carbon cycling in response to temperature change.
The protective effects of resilience and hope on quality of life of the families coping with the criminal traumatisation of one of its members
Authors: Wu Hui‐Ching
Published: May 2011

Aim.  This paper investigated the possible predictive and mediating determinates of quality of life in this often forgotten population, focusing specifically on the role of sociodemographics, mental impairments, coping mechanisms, resilience and hope on subjective quality of life.

Background.  The family members of survivors of man‐made trauma are sometimes severely traumatised themselves and may suffer from post‐traumatic stress disorder, depression and poor quality of life. Most studies focus on the victims and ignore the effect of the incidents on the victim’s family members.

Method.  Data were collected between October 2007–March 2008, a self‐report questionnaire incorporating seven scales was administrated to 175 family members of victims of man‐made trauma. One‐way anova was performed to compare the variance in the reported quality of life. The structural equation models of path analysis was used to evaluate the main effects and interactions and interrelations among variables.

Results.  Of the psychosocial factors, having a personal previous traumatic experience was found to significantly affect post‐traumatic stress disorder, depression and physical health. Post‐traumatic stress disorder and depression were found to directly and indirectly affect quality of life. Coping mechanism, resilience and a hope state mediated the effect of post‐traumatic stress disorder and depression making the three significant predictors of subjective quality of life.

Conclusion.  Based on these findings and the scores of the different scales, clinicians may be able to design treatment plans that encourage the poorly adapting family members of victims of trauma, especially those with symptoms of post‐traumatic stress disorder or depression, to accept changes as a part of life, nurture a positive view of the self, make connections for better social support and maintain or re‐create a hopeful outlook towards life goals.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Knowledge of the psychosocial factors associated with resistance to severe trauma can also help in the prevention and treatment of individuals at high risk for developing post‐traumatic stress disorder or depression.
Knowledge of using acetaminophen syrup and comprehension of written medication instruction among caregivers with febrile children
Authors: Chang Mei‐Chuan , Chen Yueh‐Chih , Chang Shu‐Chuan , Smith Graeme D
Published: May 2011

Aim.  This article aims to explore caregivers’ knowledge of acetaminophen and comprehension of written medication instructions about acetaminophen syrup when administered to febrile children.

Background.  Fever is one of the most common problems about which primary caregivers seek medical advice for their children. Administration of acetaminophen is the most common form of treatment for febrile children. Medication safety is of the upmost importance for medication administration in this patient group.

Design.  A cross‐sectional study design was used.

Methods.  The study included 102 caregivers with febrile children under six years old. A self‐designed questionnaire was used to solicit participants’ responses concerning: (1) approaches to fever management prior to hospital admission; and (2) knowledge and comprehension of antipyretic medication administration. Caregivers were asked to answer specific questions about the instructions provided with the medication.

Results.  Antipyretic by oral (66%) and antipyretic suppository (60%) were the most commonly used forms of fever management in febrile children. After reading the written medication instructions, one‐third of the participants had more than one misunderstanding of the instructions for medication with timing, time interval of administration and/or medication dosage. Almost two‐thirds of the participants misunderstood the side effects of acetaminophen. Participants with a poorer academic background were associated with poorer comprehension of the provided instructions.

Conclusion.  Administration of antipyretic medication is the most common approach taken to reduce children’s temperature. A significant percentage of primary caregivers appear to lack a thorough understanding of the instructions provided with antipyrexial medication.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Written medication instruction is a major source of information for primary caregivers. Clinical nurses have a potentially important role to play to provide caregivers with legible and understandable medication instructions and to ensure that caregivers fully comprehend this information.
Intentions and statins prescribing: can the Theory of Planned Behaviour explain physician behaviour in following guideline recommendations?
Authors: Rashidian Arash , Russell Ian
Published: May 2011

Objectives  Few studies have assessed the utility of the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) in explaining physicians' behaviour. This study uses the TPB for explaining physicians' implementation of guidelines' prescribing recommendations.

Methods  We developed the questionnaire via conducting qualitative interviews and pilot study. A random sample of 155 general practitioners (GPs) in England participated in the study. Prescribing and practice data were collected from routine sources. We analysed the data using regression methods.

Results  TPB explained 48% of variation in reported intentions to follow guidelines' prescribing recommendations. Attitude and perceived controls, but not subjective norms, were predictors of variation in intentions. TPB belief variables significantly explained variation in effective and efficient prescribing indicators (14% and 12% respectively). Normative, control and behavioural beliefs contributed to the models. Only for efficient prescribing, the TPB items retained their significance in presence of demographic variables. We found no significant relationship between intention and prescribing.

Conclusions  TPB helped understanding of GPs prescribing behaviour and their intentions to implement a clinical guideline. Beliefs (e.g. normative beliefs) were better predictors of behaviour than the composite scores for their corresponding higher‐level construct (e.g. indirect subjective norm). TPB models should be tested alongside randomized trials to test the assumption of causality that change in beliefs ultimately results in change in behaviour.
Corrosion patterns of seep‐carbonates from the eastern Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Himmler Tobias , Brinkmann Florian , Bohrmann Gerhard , Peckmann Jörn
Published: May 2011

Terra Nova, 23, 206–212, 2011

Porous seep‐carbonates are exposed at mud volcanoes in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. The 13C‐depleted aragonitic carbonates formed as a consequence of the anaerobic oxidation of methane in a shallow sub‐surface environment. Besides the macroscopically visible cavernous fabric, extensive carbonate corrosion was revealed by detailed analysis. After erosion of the background sediments, the carbonates became exposed to oxygenated bottom waters that are periodically influenced by the release of methane and upward diffusion of hydrogen sulphide. We suggest that carbonate corrosion resulted from acidity locally produced by aerobic oxidation of methane and hydrogen sulphide in the otherwise, with respect to aragonite, oversaturated bottom waters. Although it remains to be tested whether the mechanisms of carbonate dissolution suggested herein are valid, this study reveals that a better estimate of the significance of corrosion is required to assess the amount of methane‐derived carbon that is permanently fixed in seep‐carbonates.
Lithospheric characterization of the Central Pyrenees based on new magnetotelluric data
Authors: Campanyà Joan , Ledo Juanjo , Queralt Pilar , Marcuello Alex , Liesa Montserrat , Muñoz Josep A.
Published: May 2011

Terra Nova, 23, 213–219, 2011

The Pyrenees resulted from the continent–continent collision between the Iberian and European plates during the Alpine orogeny. Although the subduction of the Iberian lower crust is currently accepted, the physical processes that occur at the boundary between the plates are still a topic of open discussion today, as illustrated by the debate about the presence or absence of partial melting in the Iberian Subducted Lower Crust. Long Period Magnetotelluric data acquired for the first time in the Central Pyrenees constrain the low electrical resistivity structure in the Iberian Subducted Lower Crust better than previous studies, plotting their upper limit 9 km deeper. This new upper limit reinforces the hypothesis of partial melting. Additionally, Long Period Magnetotelluric data constrain the lithosphere–asthenosphere boundary at 90 and 130 km deep below the Iberian and European plates, respectively, and are compatible with electrical resistivity values between 10 and 18 ohm·m for the asthenosphere.
Do Indonesian community pharmacy workers respond to antibiotics requests appropriately?
Authors: Puspitasari H. P. , Faturrohmah A. , Hermansyah A.
Published: May 2011

Objective  To quantify antibiotics sales without a prescription and to explore provision of patient assessment and medicine information related to antibiotics requested with or without a prescription in Surabaya community pharmacies.

Methods  Scenarios of specific product requests (ciprofloxacin tablets and tetracycline capsules) and a request of amoxicillin dry syrups based on a new prescription were presented by simulated patients to 105 purposively selected pharmacies. Data were recorded by simulated patients after their purchase of each product. They documented the questions asked in patient assessment, the content of information given, recommendations provided and pharmacy workers’ characteristics.

Results  Antibiotics requested without a prescription were sold in 80 (91%) pharmacies. Information related to ciprofloxacin tablets and tetracycline capsules was only provided when requested by the simulated patient in 69% and 68% of pharmacies for the two scenarios, respectively. Very few pharmacies assessed patients. Medicine information on indication, dosing, duration and direction for use was provided more frequently in all cases. Medicine information was more likely to be given when a new prescription of amoxicillin dry syrups being presented. Overall, the majority of sampled pharmacies responded antibiotics requests inappropriately.

Conclusion  Inappropriate responses to antibiotic requests with or without a prescription remain an issue in Indonesia with pharmacy workers often failing to adequately assess patients. The illegality of delivering antibiotics without a prescription is of a considerable concern. Therefore, strategies to control antibiotics dispensing in community pharmacies should be seriously considered.
Adverse events in 50 cats with allergic dermatitis receiving ciclosporin
Authors: Heinrich Nicole A. , McKeever Patrick J. , Eisenschenk Melissa C.
Published: May 2011

Ciclosporin is an immunosuppressive drug that has been used to treat allergies and other immune‐mediated diseases in cats, dogs and humans. Information about the adverse effects of ciclosporin in cats has been limited to smaller studies and case reports. Adverse effects in dogs are mainly gastrointestinal in nature, but humans can also experience hypertension and altered renal function. The aim of this retrospective case series study was to document the occurrence and clinical appearance of adverse events in cats receiving ciclosporin to treat allergic skin disease. The medical records of 50 cats with allergic dermatitis treated with oral ciclosporin (1.9–7.3 mg/kg/day) were reviewed. Adverse events occurred in 66% (33 cats). Adverse events likely to be associated with ciclosporin included the following: vomiting or diarrhoea within 1–8 weeks of receiving ciclosporin (24%), weight loss (16%), anorexia and subsequent hepatic lipidosis (2%) and gingival hyperplasia (2%). Other adverse events less likely to be associated with ciclosporin therapy included the following: weight gain (14%), dental tartar and gingivitis (10%), otitis (4%), chronic diarrhoea (4%), inflammatory bowel disease with indolent gastrointestinal lymphoma (2%), urinary tract infection (2%), cataract (2%), elevated liver enzymes (2%), hyperthyroidism and renal failure (2%) and transient inappropriate urination (2%). Some cats experienced multiple adverse events. Case–control studies are needed to prove cause and effect of ciclosporin with regard to these adverse events.
Comparison of point‐of‐care testing (POCT): i‐STAT® international normalized ratio (INR) vs reference laboratory INR in pediatric patients undergoing major surgery
Authors: Spielmann Nelly , Mauch Jacqueline Y. , Madjdpour Caveh , Schmugge Markus , Albisetti Manuela , Weiss Markus , Haas Thorsten
Published: May 2011

Background:  The aim of the study was to compare international normalized ratio (INR) results obtained by point‐of‐care testing (i‐STAT® device) with the reference laboratory INR in children undergoing major surgery with expected significant blood loss.

Methods:  Pediatric patients undergoing craniofacial, spine, hip, or cancer surgery were included. Blood samples for coagulation testing were tested at several intraoperative time points and generally withdrawn from the arterial catheter, if accessible. A volume of 1.4 ml citrated blood was used for the reference laboratory INR test, and 0.1 ml of blood was taken for the whole blood INR test using the i‐STAT® device. Blood samples for both tests were withdrawn at the same time and immediately analyzed with both devices.

Results:  A total of 169 paired blood samples were taken intraoperatively from 44 pediatric patients [IQR 0.9–10.7 years (median 3.3)]. Reference laboratory INR ranged from 0.96 to 3.43 (mean 1.40; sd 0.32) and INR of i‐STAT® from 0.95 to 2.29 (mean 1.26; sd 0.22). The correlation coefficient was 0.83 (P < 0.001), and the bias values were 0.12 and 0.55 at the medical decision level of ≤2.0 and >2.0, respectively.

Conclusions:  In the perioperative setting, point‐of‐care INR testing in children using the i‐STAT® device is a reliable and easy‐to‐handle method for INR values ≤2.0, while INR values >2.0 might be underestimated.
Reducing harm from injecting pharmaceutical tablet or capsule material by injecting drug users
Authors: ROUX PERRINE , CARRIERI M. PATRIZIA , KEIJZER LENNEKE , DASGUPTA NABARUN
Published: May 2011

Background. It has long been known that drug users may use a variety of pharmaceutical preparations by injection, many of which are not intended for intravenous administration (e.g. buprenorphine, methylphenidate, oxycodone). The introduction of tablet fillers such as talc or starch, in the blood circulation may cause, besides local injection site complications, pulmonary emboli. To reduce the harmful consequences of injecting such solutions, drug users have been encouraged to use filters. This research studied the effectiveness of an injection drug user syringe filter (IDUSF) in eliminating these particles.

Methods. Generic buprenorphine and methylphenidate (Ritaline®), both containing talc, are frequently diverted for use by injection in France. The aim of our laboratory‐based study was to compare the effectiveness of an IDUSF (Sterifilt®, filter pore size = 10 µm) versus no filtration, at reducing the number of particles in solutions of dissolved generic buprenorphine and Ritaline®.

Results. Compared with a non‐filtered solution drawn up through a 30G needle, filtering of the generic buprenorphine solution eliminated approximately 85% of all particles between 1 and 5 µm in diameter and 97% of particles between 5 and 18 µm. In the Ritaline® solution, these values were two‐thirds and 95%, respectively.

Conclusion. Preliminary results indicate that IDUSF are effective in significantly filtering out large particles, which are responsible for major harms like pulmonary emboli. One strategy for alleviating these consequences is to promote the implementation of IDUSF in harm reduction programs, accompanied by training of social workers, peers and drug users.[Roux P, Carrieri MP, Keijzer L, Dasgupta N. Reducing harm from injecting pharmaceutical tablet or capsule material by injecting drug users. Drug Alcohol Rev 2011;30:287–290]
The availability, diversion and injection of pharmaceutical opioids in South Asia
Authors: LARANCE BRIONY , AMBEKAR ATUL , AZIM TASNIM , MURTHY PRATIMA , PANDA SAMIRAN , DEGENHARDT LOUISA , MATHERS BRADLEY
Published: May 2011

Aims. To provide an overview of the availability of pharmaceutical opioids and the evidence on the extent of diversion and injection in South Asia.

Methods. This paper reviews existing peer‐reviewed and ‘grey’ literature on the extramedical use and injection of pharmaceutical opioids in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

Results. Reports indicate that prescribing for all types of pain is inadequate. There is a paucity of empirical data across South Asia regarding the mechanisms and extent of the diversion and misuse of pharmaceutical opioids, although the problem is widely acknowledged. India is believed to account for significant large‐scale diversion within the region and further afield through poor regulation of licit opioid production and pharmacies. A recent decline in use of natural opiates has been accompanied by an increase in pharmaceutical opioid misuse and increasingly, injection, particularly in Bangladesh, India, Nepal and Pakistan. The medications are typically buprenorphine preparations and/or other lower potency opioids, such as codeine, nalbuphine and dextropropoxyphene. Opioid substitution treatment and needle‐syringe programs are available in some countries, but better coverage is needed. Studies identify a lack of comprehensive knowledge regarding HIV and high prevalence of risk behaviours among at‐risk populations in the region.

Conclusions. It is imperative for the region to rapidly facilitate access to opioids for the treatment of pain and opioid dependence, ensuring effective systems that maintain quality care, regulate and monitor retail pharmacies, and minimise diversion. Prevention of HIV among people who inject pharmaceutical opioids is essential.[Larance B, Ambekar A, Azim T, Murthy P, Panda S, Degenhardt L, Mathers B. The availability, diversion and injection of pharmaceutical opioids in South Asia. Drug Alcohol Rev 2011;30:246–254]
Benzodiazepines, opioids and driving: An overview of the experimental research
Authors: LEUNG STEFANIE Y.
Published: May 2011

Issues. Road crashes contribute significantly to the total burden of injury in Australia, with the risk of injury being associated with the presence of drugs and/or alcohol in the driver's blood. Increasingly, some of the most commonly detected drugs include prescription medicines, the most notable of these being benzodiazepines and opioids. However, there is a paucity of experimental research into the effects of prescribed psychoactive drugs on driving behaviours.

Approach. This paper provides an overview of experimental studies investigating the effects of prescribed doses of benzodiazepines and opioids on driving ability, and points to future directions for research.

Key Findings. There is growing epidemiological evidence linking the therapeutic use of benzodiazepines and opioids to an increased crash risk. However, the current experimental literature remains unclear. Limitations to study methodologies have resulted in inconsistent findings.

Implications. Limited experimental evidence exists to inform policy and guidelines regarding fitness‐to‐drive for patients taking prescribed benzodiazepines and opioids.

Conclusion. Further experimental research is required to elucidate the effects of these medications on driving, under varying conditions and in different medical contexts. This will ensure that doctors prescribing benzodiazepines and opioids are well informed, and can appropriately advise patients of the risks associated with driving whilst taking these medications. [Leung SY. Benzodiazepines, opioids and driving: An overview of the experimental research. Drug Alcohol Rev 2011;30:281–286]
Climate, competition and connectivity affect future migration and ranges of European trees
Authors: Meier Eliane S. , Lischke Heike , Schmatz Dirk R. , Zimmermann Niklaus E.
Published: May 2011

Aim  Species ranges have adapted during the Holocene to altering climate conditions, but it remains unclear if species will be able to keep pace with recent and future climate change. The goal of our study is to assess the influence of changing macroclimate, competition and habitat connectivity on the migration rates of 14 tree species. We also compare the projections of range shifts from species distribution models (SDMs) that incorporate realistic migration rates with classical models that assume no or unlimited migration.

Location  Europe.

Methods  We calibrated SDMs with species abundance data from 5768 forest plots from ICP Forest Level 1 in relation to climate, topography, soil and land‐use data to predict current and future tree distributions. To predict future species ranges from these models, we applied three migration scenarios: no migration, unlimited migration and realistic migration. The migration rates for the SDMs incorporating realistic migration were estimated according to macroclimate, inter‐specific competition and habitat connectivity from simulation experiments with a spatially explicit process model (TreeMig). From these relationships, we then developed a migration cost surface to constrain the predicted distributions of the SDMs.

Results  The distributions of early‐successional species during the 21st century predicted by SDMs that incorporate realistic migration matched quite well with the unlimited migration assumption (mean migration rate over Europe for A1fi/GRAS climate and land‐use change scenario 156.7 ± 79.1 m year−1 and for B1/SEDG 164.3 ± 84.2 m year−1). The predicted distributions of mid‐ to late‐successional species matched better with the no migration assumption (A1fi/GRAS, 15.2 ± 24.5 m year−1 and B1/SEDG, 16.0 ± 25.6 m year−1). Inter‐specific competition, which is higher under favourable growing conditions, reduced range shift velocity more than did adverse macroclimatic conditions (i.e. very cold or dry climate). Habitat fragmentation also led to considerable time lags in range shifts.

Main conclusions  Migration rates depend on species traits, competition, spatial habitat configuration and climatic conditions. As a result, re‐adjustments of species ranges to climate and land‐use change are complex and very individualistic, yet still quite predictable. Early‐successional species track climate change almost instantaneously while mid‐ to late‐ successional species were predicted to migrate very slowly.
A NEW E‐LEARNING ACHIEVEMENT EVALUATION MODEL BASED ON ROUGH SET AND SIMILARITY FILTER
Authors: Cheng Ching‐Hsue , Wei Liang‐Ying , Chen Yao‐Hsien
Published: May 2011

The trend of utilizing information and Internet technologies as teaching and learning tools is rapidly expanding into education. E‐learning is one of the most popular learning environments in the information era. The Internet enables students to learn without limitations of space and time. Furthermore, the learners can repeatedly review the context of a course without the barrier of distance. Recently, student‐centered instruction has become the primary trend in education, and the e‐learning system, which is considered with regard to of personalization and adaptability, is more and more popular. By means of e‐learning systems, teachers can adjust the learning schedule instantly for each learner according to a student's achievements and build more adaptive learning environments. Sometimes, teachers give biased assessments of students’ achievements under uncontrollable conditions (i.e., tiredness, preference) and are in dire need of overcoming this predicament. To solve the drawback mentioned, a new model to evaluate learning achievements based on rough set and similarity filter is proposed. The proposed model includes four facets: (1) select important features (attributes) to enhance classification performance by feature selection methods; (2) utilize minimal entropy principle approach (MEPA) to fuzzify the quantitative data; (3) select linguistic values for each feature and delete inconsistent data using the similarity threshold (similarity filter); and (4) generate rules based on rough set theory (RST). The practical e‐learning achievement data sets are collected by an e‐learning online examination system from a university in Taiwan. To verify our model, the performances of the proposed model are compared with the listing models. Results of this study demonstrate that the proposed model outperforms the listing models.
Exploring Distributed Leadership in the Small Business Context
Authors: Cope Jason , Kempster Steve , Parry Ken
Published: May 2011

Entrepreneurial ventures are often established, controlled and led through the commitment of individuals. This article problematizes the nature of the form of leadership relevant for the small business as it matures. In this way, it explores the temporal dimension to the appropriateness of distributed leadership in the context of the entrepreneurial business. The authors critique the opportunity that distributed leadership can bring to the maturing business. They illuminate a dilemma for entrepreneurs as to whether they should give up control for a broader distributed process of leading or continue a practice of leading that resonates with their essence of being entrepreneurial – independent, controlling responsive and opportunity driven. This dilemma is addressed by suggesting the contextualization of distributed leadership may offer the maturing business. The article concludes by reviewing development approaches that contextualize intervention and suggests a research agenda to contribute to a greater understanding of how leadership can become distributed in the maturing business.
Application of impedance threshold devices during cardiopulmonary cerebral resuscitation
Authors: Seekins Megan B. , Reiss Adam J.
Published: May 2011

Objective
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To review the use of impedance threshold devices (ITD) during CPCR, their proposed mechanism of action, and their application in veterinary medicine.

Data Sources
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Data sources include scientific reviews and original research publications using the PubMed search engine with the following keywords: ‘impedance threshold device’ and ‘resuscitation’ and the Veterinary Information Network search function using the keywords ‘impedance threshold device.’

Human Data Synthesis
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Studies in human medicine have demonstrated that the use of an ITD during CPCR in patients during out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest improves coronary perfusion pressure and cerebral perfusion pressure. This improvement in vital organ blood flow results in increased cardiac output and faster return of spontaneous circulation. The use of an ITD has been studied in people and currently holds a class IIb level of recommendation according to the 2010 American Heart Association Guidelines for CPR and Emergency Cardiovascular Care. This device is recommended as a way to improve hemodynamics during CPCR by enhancing venous return and avoiding hyperventilation, thereby increasing the likelihood of a successful resuscitation.

Veterinary Data Synthesis
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Multiple controlled studies using pigs with ventricular fibrillation induced cardiopulmonary arrest have demonstrated increased myocardial and cerebral perfusion with the use of an ITD. These studies have emphasized the importance of decreasing intrathoracic pressures during the decompression phase of CPCR and avoiding hyperventilation in order to maximize vital organ blood flow.

Conclusions
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Use of an ITD during CPCR in human and animal studies has demonstrated improved vital organ perfusion and faster return of spontaneous circulation. However, the majority of these studies have been carried out in people during out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest and ventricular fibrillation cardiopulmonary arrest pig models. Further studies evaluating the use of an ITD during CPCR in the veterinary hospital setting are warranted.
Optimal Experimental Design Strategies for Detecting Hormesis
Authors: Dette Holger , Pepelyshev Andrey , Wong Weng Kee
Published: May 2011

Hormesis is a widely observed phenomenon in many branches of life sciences, ranging from toxicology studies to agronomy, with obvious public health and risk assessment implications. We address optimal experimental design strategies for determining the presence of hormesis in a controlled environment using the recently proposed Hunt‐Bowman model. We propose alternative models that have an implicit hormetic threshold, discuss their advantages over current models, and construct and study properties of optimal designs for (i) estimating model parameters, (ii) estimating the threshold dose, and (iii) testing for the presence of hormesis. We also determine maximin optimal designs that maximize the minimum of the design efficiencies when we have multiple design criteria or there is model uncertainty where we have a few plausible models of interest. We apply these optimal design strategies to a teratology study and show that the proposed designs outperform the implemented design by a wide margin for many situations.
Transseptal Left Heart Catheterization and the Incidence of Persistent Iatrogenic Atrial Septal Defects
Authors: MCGINTY PATRICK M. , SMITH THOMAS W. , ROGERS JASON H.
Published: May 2011

Introduction:
 Access to the left atrium for invasive and interventional cardiac procedures requires a transseptal (TS) puncture that creates an iatrogenic atrial septal defect (iASD). The utilization of TS access is increasing in cardiology, and the frequency of iASD is, therefore, likely to increase as well. Here, we discuss the TS technique, review existing series of iASD with regard to incidence and clinical significance of residual iASD, and present emerging techniques utilizing TS access where iASD may result.

Methods and Results:
 A PubMed search for “iatrogenic atrial septal defects” was performed to identify prospective series addressing the incidence of iASDs after TS procedures. We identified 10 series with primary attention to iASD. Cases involving TS access included electrophysiology ablation procedures, atrial appendage closure, and percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty. Immediate postprocedural incidence of iASD was as high as 87%, with decreased incidence of residual iASD detected over time. At 18 months of follow‐up, up to 15% of iASD cases persisted. Residual iASDs were not associated with clinical sequelae of embolism, cyanosis, or right heart failure.

Conclusions:
 iASDs are frequent following TS access and a majority resolve over time. Available evidence suggests iASDs are well tolerated but late term follow‐up is limited. With the increased utilization of TS transcatheter procedures, the frequency and size of iASDs may rise. Understanding the rare but serious clinical implications of iASD and the need for systematic surveillance in the future is warranted. (J Interven Cardiol 2011;24:254–263)
Proliferation and differentiation potential of human adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells isolated from elderly patients with osteoporotic fractures
Authors: Chen Hui‐Ting , Lee Mon‐Juan , Chen Chung‐Hwan , Chuang Shu‐Chun , Chang Li‐Fu , Ho Mei‐Ling , Hung Shao‐Hung , Fu Yin‐Chih , Wang Yan‐Hsiung , Wang Hsin‐I , Wang Gwo‐Jaw , Kang Lin , Chang Je‐Ken
Published: May 2011

Aging has less effect on adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) than on bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), but whether the fact holds true in stem cells from elderly patients with osteoporotic fractures is unknown. In this study, ADSCs and BMSCs of the same donor were harvested and divided into two age groups. Group A consisted of 14 young patients (36.4 ± 11.8 years old), and group B consisted of eight elderly patients (71.4 ± 3.6 years old) with osteoporotic fractures. We found that the doubling time of ADSCs from both age groups was maintained below 70 hrs, while that of BMSCs increased significantly with the number of passage. When ADSCs and BMSCs from the same patient were compared, there was a significant increase in the doubling time of BMSCs in each individual from passages 3 to 6. On osteogenic induction, the level of matrix mineralization of ADSCs from group B was comparable to that of ADSCs from group A, whereas BMSCs from group B produced least amount of mineral deposits and had a lower expression level of osteogenic genes. The p21 gene expression and senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase activity were lower in ADSCs compared to BMSCs, which may be partly responsible for the greater proliferation and differentiation potential of ADSCs. It is concluded that the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of ADSCs were less affected by age and multiple passage than BMSCs, suggesting that ADSCs may become a potentially effective therapeutic option for cell‐based therapy, especially in elderly patients with osteoporosis.
The effect of smoking on survival and bone loss of implants with a fluoride‐modified surface: a 2‐year retrospective analysis of 1106 implants placed in daily practice
Authors: Vervaeke Stijn , Collaert Bruno , Vandeweghe Stefan , Cosyn Jan , Deschepper Ellen , De Bruyn Hugo
Published: May 2011

Aim: To compare the survival and peri‐implant bone loss of implants with a fluoride‐modified surface in smokers and nonsmokers.

Materials and methods: Patient files of all patients referred for implant treatment from November 2004 to 2007 were scrutinized. All implants were placed by the same experienced surgeon (B. C.). The only inclusion criterion was a follow‐up time of at least 2 years. Implant survival and bone loss were assessed by an external calibrated examiner (S. V.) comparing digital peri‐apical radiographs taken during recall visits with the post‐operative ones. Implant success was determined according to the international success criteria (Albrektsson et al. 1986). Survival of implants installed in smokers and nonsmokers was compared using the log‐rank test. Both nonparametric tests and fixed model analysis were adopted to evaluate bone loss in smokers and nonsmokers.

Results: One‐thousand one‐hundred and six implants in 300 patients (186 females; 114 males) with a mean follow‐up of 31 months (SD 7.15; range 24–58) were included. Nineteen implants in 17 patients failed, resulting in an overall survival rate of 98.3% at the implant level and 94.6% at the patient level. After a follow‐up period of 2 years, the cumulative survival rates was 96.7% and 99.1% with the patient and implant as the statistical unit, respectively. Implant survival was significantly higher for nonsmokers compared with smokers (implant level P=0.025; patient level P=0.017). The overall mean bone loss was 0.34 mm (n=1076; SD 0.65; range 0–7.1). Smokers lost significantly more bone compared with nonsmokers in the maxilla (0.74 mm; SD 1.07 vs. 0.33 mm; SD 0.65; P<0.001), but not in the mandible (0.25 mm; SD 0.65 vs. 0.22 mm; SD 0.5; P=0.298).

Conclusion: The present study is the first to compare peri‐implant bone loss in smokers and nonsmokers from the time of implant insertion (baseline) to at least 2 years of follow‐up. Implants with a fluoride‐modified surface demonstrated a high survival rate and limited bone loss. However, smokers are at a higher risk of experiencing implant failure and more prone to show peri‐implant bone loss in the maxilla. Whether this bone loss is predicting future biological complications remains to be evaluated.