bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HEADPLAY Personal Cinema System Facilitates Intravenous Cannulation in Children: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lim Evangeline , Fabila Teddy , Sze Ying Thong , Tan Josephine
Published: June 2013

HEADPLAY personal cinema system (PCS) is a portable visual headset/visor through which movie clips may be viewed. We studied the use of HEADPLAY PCS as a distraction tool in facilitating intravenous cannulation in children undergoing anaesthesia. 60 children were enrolled into the study and randomized into 2 groups. EMLA local anaesthetic cream was used to reduce the pain associated with intravenous cannulation. Children in group 1 wore the HEADPLAY visor whereas children in group 2 were subject to conventional distraction therapy. Children were asked to rate their anxiety, pain, and satisfaction scores after intravenous cannulation. Periprocedural anxiety was also determined using the modified Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale (mYPAS). There were no statistically significant differences in terms of pain and anxiety scores between the 2 groups. Although the satisfaction score of the children in the HEADPLAY PCS group was marginally higher compared to the conventional group, this did not hit statistical significance. 86.6% of children in group 1 reported that they would want to use the visor again for their next intravenous cannulation. We conclude that HEADPLAY PCS is a distraction tool that is acceptable to most children and can contribute towards satisfaction of the intravenous cannulation process in children.
Modeling and Analysis of Injection Moulding Process Parameters for Plastic Gear Industry Application
Authors: Mehat Nik Mizamzul , Kamaruddin Shahrul , Othman Abdul Rahim
Published: June 2013

The performance of plastic gears in wide variety of power and motion transmission applications is rather limited due to weak mechanical properties and divergent mechanism of failures. A methodical simulation is carried out to analyze the gear performance with various gating system types, gate locations, and processing parameters via grey-based Taguchi optimization method. With the obtained optimum results in simulation stage, the flow patterns of polymer melt inside the mould during filling, packing, and cooling processes are studied and the plastic gear failures mechanism related to processing parameters are predicted. The output results in the future can be used as guidance in selecting the appropriate materials, improving part and mould design, and predicting the performance of the plastic gear before the real process of the part manufacturing takes place.
Characterization of the Stabilizing PID Controller Region for the Model-Free Time-Delay System
Authors: Ou Linlin , Su Yuan , Chen Xuanguang
Published: June 2013

For model-free time-delay systems, an analytical method is proposed to characterize the stabilizing PID region based on the frequency response data. Such characterization uses linear programming which is computationally efficient. The characteristic parameters of the controller are first extracted from the frequency response data. Subsequently, by employing an extended Hermite-Biehler theorem on quasipolynomials, the stabilizing polygon region with respect to the integral and derivative gains(kiandkd)is described for a given proportional gain(kp)in term of the frequency response data. Simultaneously, the allowable stabilizing range ofkpis derived such that the complete stabilizing set of the PID controller can be obtained easily. The proposed method avoids the complexity and inaccuracy of the model identification and thus provides a convenient approach for the design and tuning of the PID controller in practice. The advantage of the proposed algorithm lies in that the boundaries of the stabilizing region consist of several simple straight lines, the complete stabilizing set can be obtained efficiently, and it can be implemented automatically in computers.
Properties of a Class of -Harmonic Functions
Authors: Yaşar Elif , Yalçın Sibel
Published: June 2013

A times continuously differentiable complex-valued function in a domain is -harmonic if satisfies the -harmonic equation , where is a positive integer. By using the generalized Salagean differential operator, we introduce a class of -harmonic functions and investigate necessary and sufficient coefficient conditions, distortion bounds, extreme points, and convex combination of the class.
Diagnostic Applications of Next Generation Sequencing in Immunogenetics and Molecular Oncology
Authors: Grumbt Barbara , Eck Sebastian H. , Hinrichsen Tanja , Hirv Kaimo
Published: June 2013

With the introduction of the next generation sequencing (NGS) technologies, remarkable new diagnostic applications have been established in daily routine. Implementation of NGS is challenging in clinical diagnostics, but definite advantages and new diagnostic possibilities make the switch to the technology inevitable. In addition to the higher sequencing capacity, clonal sequencing of single molecules, multiplexing of samples, higher diagnostic sensitivity, workflow miniaturization, and cost benefits are some of the valuable features of the technology. After the recent advances, NGS emerged as a proven alternative for classical Sanger sequencing in the typing of human leukocyte antigens (HLA). By virtue of the clonal amplification of single DNA molecules ambiguous typing results can be avoided. Simultaneously, a higher sample throughput can be achieved by tagging of DNA molecules with multiplex identifiers and pooling of PCR products before sequencing. In our experience, up to 380 samples can be typed for HLA-A, -B, and -DRB1 in high-resolution during every sequencing run. In molecular oncology, NGS shows a markedly increased sensitivity in comparison to the conventional Sanger sequencing and is developing to the standard diagnostic tool in detection of somatic mutations in cancer cells with great impact on personalized treatment of patients.
Emerging Infectious Threats to the Blood Supply: Seroepidemiological Studies in Iran - a Review
Authors: Karimi Gharib , Gharehbaghian Ahmad , Fallah Tafti Mohammad , Vafaiyan Vida
Published: June 2013

The risk of transfusion-transmitted infections has been greatly reduced by improvements in donor screening and testing. However, newly recognized blood-borne infectious agents can be threats to blood safety. In order to evaluate the prevalence some of these agents in blood donors, a systematic review was conducted. Data were obtained from published papers related to HGV, Torque Teno virus (TTV), HTLV, West Nile virus (WNV) and SEN virus (SEN-V). Based on these studies, the prevalence of HGV varied from 1 to 8.6% for anti-E2 and from 0 to 4.8% for HGV RNA. The prevalence of TTV DNA and HTLV-I varied from 2.7 to 79.5% and from 0.013 to 2.3%, respectively. The WNV-specific IgM antibody and WNV RNA are negative in blood donors. Prevalence rates of SEN-V in Iranian blood donors range from 23 to 90.8%. Consequences of these infectious agents for blood safety are different. Thus, the need to perform laboratory screening as well as effectiveness and efficiency of laboratory tests depend on pathogenicity level and epidemiological conditions of emerging infections. However, being prepared based on the current level of risk and interventions to reduce the risk can be effective in reducing the potential threat for blood supply.
RHD PCR of D-Negative Blood Donors
Authors: Wagner Franz F.
Published: June 2013

RHD PCR of blood donors may be used to reveal weak D, partial D, DEL and chimeric D+/D- donors among presumed D-negative blood donors. Units donated by such donors pose a definite yet low risk for anti-D immunization of transfusion recipients. The frequency of DEL donors among D-negative donors is 1:350 to 1:2,000 in Europe and up to 1:5 in Asian countries. Different strategies for RHD PCR of blood donors have been used. Probably, the most cost-efficient implementation is replacement of sensitive D antigen testing with the indirect antiglobulin test by RHD PCR in pools which might even reduce total testing cost.
Evidence-Based Policy and Practice Leads to Changes in the Criteria for MSM to Donate Blood
Authors: Slowther Anne , Watkins Nicholas A. , Kelly Deirdre
Published: June 2013

On November 7, 2011, the permanent deferral from blood donation of men who have sex with men (MSM) changed in England, Scotland and Wales, to a 12-month deferral since last relevant sexual contact. This change was made following an evidence-based policy review by the Advisory Committee on the Safety of Blood, Tissues and Organs (SaBTO). The review concluded that the available evidence supported the introduction of a 12-month fixed period deferral and that the risks associated with a 12-month deferral of MSM were equivalent to a permanent deferral. The permanent deferral for MSM was introduced in 1985 in response to the spread of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) caused by HIV. The change was supported by new data on the level of compliance with the permanent deferral, advances in the testing and processing of donated blood, changes in the epidemiology of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and improved scientific knowledge. This review discusses how the decision to change the deferral period was reached and highlights some of the remaining issues relating to this contentious matter.
A Case of Malignancy-Associated Cryoglobulinemia
Authors: Kennedy C. , Doyle R. , Mayer N. , Clarkson M.
Published: June 2013

We present a case of type 1 cryoglobulinemia with an underlying hematological malignancy. Unusually, the entire unifying diagnosis was made on the basis of the renal biopsy. Initially, serum cryoglobulin was not identified; repeat samples were positive. It is important to note that there is a significant false-negative rate with laboratory testing for cryoglobulin, due, at least in part, to the specific conditions required for collection and processing. With that in mind, in all cases with strong clinical or histological evidence of cryoglobulin but negative testing, carefully repeated samples should be sent.
A Novel Immunomodulator, FTY-720 Reverses Existing Cardiac Hypertrophy and Fibrosis From Pressure Overload by Targeting NFAT (Nuclear Factor of Activated T-cells) Signaling and Periostin
Authors: Liu Wei , Zi Min , Tsui Hoyee , Chowdhury Sanjoy K. , Zeef Leo , Meng Qing-Jun , Travis Mark , Prehar Sukhpal , Berry Andrew , Hanley Neil A. , Neyses Ludwig , Xiao Rui-Ping , Oceandy Delvac , Ke Yunbo , Solaro R. John , Cartwright Elizabeth J. , Lei Ming , Wang Xin
Published: June 2013

Background—

Hypertension or aortic stenosis causes pressure overload, which evokes hypertrophic myocardial growth. Sustained cardiac hypertrophy eventually progresses to heart failure. Growing evidence indicates that restraining hypertrophy could be beneficial; here, we discovered that FTY-720, an immunomodulator for treating multiple sclerosis, can reverse existing cardiac hypertrophy/fibrosis.

Methods and Results—

Male C57/Bl6 mice underwent transverse aortic constriction (TAC) for 1 week followed by FTY-720 treatment for 2 weeks under continuing TAC. Compared with vehicle-treated TAC hearts, FTY-720 significantly reduced ventricular mass, ameliorated fibrosis, and improved cardiac performance. Mechanistic studies led us to discover that FTY-720 appreciably inhibited nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NFAT) activity. Moreover, we found that in primary cardiomyocytes (rat and human) pertussis toxin (G
i
-coupled receptor inhibitor) substantially blocked the antihypertrophic effect of FTY-720. This observation was confirmed in a mouse model of pressure overload. Interestingly, gene array analysis of TAC hearts revealed that FTY-720 profoundly decreased gene expression of a group of matricellular proteins, of which periostin was prominent. Analysis of periostin protein expression in TAC-myocardium, as well as in rat and human cardiac fibroblasts, confirmed the array data. Moreover, we found that FTY-720 treatment or knockdown of periostin protein was able to inhibit transforming growth factor-β responsiveness and decrease collagen expression.

Conclusions—

FTY-720 alleviates existing cardiac hypertrophy/fibrosis through mechanisms involving negative regulation of NFAT activity in cardiomyocytes and reduction of periostin expression allowing for a more homeostatic extracellular compartment milieu. Together, FTY-720 or its analogues could be a promising new approach for treating hypertrophic/fibrotic heart disease.
Interactions of Enhanced Urocortin 2 and Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonism in Experimental Heart Failure
Authors: Rademaker Miriam T. , Charles Christopher J. , Nicholls M. Gary , Richards A. Mark
Published: June 2013

Background—

Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) have become established therapy in heart failure (HF). Urocortin 2 (Ucn2) is a novel peptide with potential in the treatment of this disease. The present study investigated the interactions of acute administration of Ucn2 and an MRA in experimental HF.

Methods and Results—

Ucn2 and an MRA (canrenoic acid [CA]) were infused for 4 hours, both singly and together, in 8 sheeps with pacing-induced HF. Ucn2, when administered as an adjunct to CA, further improved hemodynamic indices relative to that achieved by CA alone, producing additional increases in cardiac output and decreases in left atrial pressure and peripheral resistance but without eliciting a supplementary reduction in arterial pressure. Ucn2 cotreatment reversed CA-induced rises in circulating aldosterone levels, and also significantly reduced plasma renin activity, angiotensin II, and vasopressin concentrations. Although both CA and Ucn2 infusion produced a diuresis and natriuresis, responses with Ucn2 and Ucn+CA were 2- to 3-fold greater than that elicited by separate CA. Ucn2 cotherapy additionally increased urine potassium and creatinine excretion. In contrast to the rise in plasma potassium induced by CA, Ucn2 cotreatment reduced potassium concentrations.

Conclusions—

Ucn2 cotreatment with an MRA in HF further improved hemodynamics relative to that achieved by CA alone, while also reducing plasma renin activity, angiotensin II, aldosterone and vasopressin levels, and enhancing renal function. Importantly, Ucn2 prevented CA-induced rises in plasma potassium. These data demonstrate a favorable profile of effects with short-term adjunct Ucn2 therapy and an MRA in HF.
Activation of Neuronal Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1 Channel Underlies 20-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic Acid–Induced Vasoactivity
Authors: Bubb Kristen J. , Wen Hairuo , Panayiotou Catherine M. , Finsterbusch Michaela , Khan Faiza J. , Chan Melissa V. , Priestley John V. , Baker Mark D. , Ahluwalia Amrita
Published: June 2013

A rise in intraluminal pressure triggers vasoconstriction in resistance arteries, which is associated with local generation of the vasoconstrictor 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE). Importantly, dysregulation of 20-HETE synthesis and activity has been implicated in several cardiovascular disease states, including ischemic disease, hypertension, and stroke; however, the exact molecular pathways involved in mediating 20-HETE bioactivity are uncertain. We investigated whether 20-HETE activates the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) and thereby regulates vascular function and blood pressure. We demonstrate that 20-HETE causes dose-dependent increases in blood pressure, coronary perfusion pressure (isolated Langendorff), and pressure-induced constriction of resistance arteries (perfusion myography) that is substantially attenuated in TRPV1 knockout mice and by treatment with the neurokinin 1 receptor antagonist RP67580. Furthermore, we show that both channel activation (via patch-clamping of dorsal root ganglion neurons) and vessel constriction are enhanced under inflammatory conditions, and our findings indicate a predominant role for protein kinase A–mediated sensitization of TRPV1 in these phenomena. Finally, we identify a prominence of these pathway in males compared with females, an effect we relate to reduced protein kinase A–induced phosphorylation of TRPV1. 20-HETE–induced activation of TRPV1, in part, mediates pressure-induced myogenic constriction and underlies 20-HETE–induced elevations in blood pressure and coronary resistance. Our findings identify a novel vasoconstrictor 20-HETE/TRPV1 pathway that may offer potential for therapeutic targeting in cardiovascular diseases associated with elevated 20-HETE implicated in dysregulated organ blood flow, such as stroke or hypertension.
P2Y1 Receptors Expressed by C1 Neurons Determine Peripheral Chemoreceptor Modulation of Breathing, Sympathetic Activity, and Blood Pressure
Authors: Wenker Ian C. , Sobrinho Cleyton R. , Takakura Ana C. , Mulkey Daniel K. , Moreira Thiago S.
Published: June 2013

Catecholaminergic C1 cells of the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) are key determinants of the sympathoexcitatory response to peripheral chemoreceptor activation. Overactivation of this reflex is thought to contribute to increased sympathetic activity and hypertension; however, molecular mechanisms linking peripheral chemoreceptor drive to hypertension remain poorly understood. We have recently determined that activation of P2Y1 receptors in the RVLM mimicked effects of peripheral chemoreceptor activation. Therefore, we hypothesize that P2Y1 receptors regulate peripheral chemoreceptor drive in this region. Here, we determine whether P2Y1 receptors are expressed by C1 neurons in the RVLM and contribute to peripheral chemoreceptor control of breathing, sympathetic activity, and blood pressure. We found that injection of a specific P2Y1 receptor agonist (MRS2365) into the RVLM of anesthetized adult rats increased phrenic nerve activity (≈55%), sympathetic nerve activity (38±6%), and blood pressure (23±1 mm Hg), whereas application of a specific P2Y1 receptor antagonist (MRS2179) decreased peripheral chemoreceptor–mediated activation of phrenic nerve activity, sympathetic nerve activity, and blood pressure. To establish that P2Y1 receptors are expressed by C1 cells, we determine in the brain slice preparation using cell-attached recording techniques that cells responsive to MRS2365 are immunoreactive for tyrosine hydroxylase (a marker of C1 cells), and we determine in vivo that C1-lesioned animals do not respond to RVLM injection of MRS2365. These data identify P2Y1 receptors as key determinants of peripheral chemoreceptor regulation of breathing, sympathetic nerve activity, and blood pressure.
Antihypertensive Drug Class Interactions and Risk for Incident Diabetes: A Nested Case–Control Study
Authors: Cooper‐DeHoff Rhonda M. , Bird Steven T. , Nichols Gregory A. , Delaney Joseph A. , Winterstein Almut G.
Published: June 2013

Background

We aimed to determine how single and combination antihypertensive therapy alters risk for diabetes mellitus (
DM
).Thiazide diuretics (
TD
), β blockers (
BB
), and renin–angiotensin system blockers (
RASB
) impact
DM
risk while calcium channel blockers (
CCB
) are neutral.
DM
risk associated with combinations is unclear.

Methods and Results

We enrolled nondiabetic patients from
K
aiser
P
ermanente
N
orthwest with a fasting plasma glucose (
FPG
) <126 mg/dL between 1997 and 2010.
DM
cases were defined by a
FPG
≥126 mg/dL, random plasma glucose ≥200 mg/dL, HbA
1c
≥7.0%, or new
DM
prescription (index date). We used incidence density sampling to match 10 controls per case on the date of follow‐up glucose test (to reduce detection bias), in addition to age and date of cohort entry. Exposure to antihypertensive class was assessed during the 30 days prior to index date. Our cohort contained 134 967 patients and had 412 604 glucose tests eligible for matching. A total of 9097
DM
cases were matched to 90 495 controls (median age 51 years). Exposure to
TD
(
OR
1.54, 95%
CI
1.41 to 1.68) or
BB
(
OR
1.19, 95%
CI
1.11 to 1.28) was associated with an increased
DM
risk, while
CCB
and
RASB
exposure was not.
TD
+
BB
combination resulted in the fully combined diabetogenic risk of both agents (
OR
1.99, 95%
CI
1.80 to 2.20; interaction
OR
1.09, 95%
CI
0.97 to 1.22). In contrast, combination of
RASB
with either
TD
or
BB
showed significant negative interactions, resulting in a smaller
DM
risk than
TD
or
BB
monotherapy.

Conclusions

Diabetogenic potential of combination therapy should be considered when prescribing antihypertensive therapy.
Casey’s conundrum, a review of the genus Semanotus Mulsant (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae: Cerambycinae: Callidiini) in North America
Authors: HAMMOND H. E. JAMES , WILLIAMS DARYL J.
Published: June 2013

The North American species of Semanotus Mulsant, 1839 are reviewed. Semanotus ligneus (Fabricius, 1787), Semanotus amplus amplus (Casey, 1912) new status, S. amplus basalis (Casey, 1924) new status, Semanotus amplus sequoiae Van Dyke, 1923 new status, Semanotus conformis Casey, 1924 new status, Semanotus terminatus Casey, 1912 new status, Semanotus amethystinus (LeConte, 1853), Semanotus juniperi (Fisher, 1915), and Semanotus litigiosus (Casey, 1891) are recognized as valid. A key to the North American fauna, as well as to Semanotus japonicus Lacordaire, 1869 and Seman-otus australis Giesbert, 1993 is included. A morphometric study was conducted using 37 measured characters from adults of S. litigiosus. Data were examined using stepwise discriminant analysis to determine which characters aid in the diag-nosis of taxa, and their amounts of resolving power using canonical variates analysis. Morphometrics revealed significant sexual dimorphism among taxa and suggested that three taxa were present, however, only two taxa could be reasonably separated using observable characters. Phylogenetic analysis using a hypothetical ancestor as out-group returned a single most parsimonious tree for North American Semanotus.
On hypogean Roncocreagris (Arachnida: Pseudoscorpiones: Neobisiidae) from Portugal, with descriptions of three new species
Authors: REBOLEIRA ANA SOFIA P.S. , ZARAGOZA JUAN A. , GONÇALVES FERNANDO , OROMÍ PEDRO
Published: June 2013

Three new hypogean species of the Iberian genus Roncocreagris Mahnert, 1974 are described from mainland Portugal: R. borgesi sp. nov. and R. gepesi sp. nov. from caves in the Sicó massif, and R. occidentalis sp. nov. from caves in the Mon-tejunto and Cesaredas karst plateau. This brings to nine the number of known hypogean species of the mostly Iberian ge-nus Roncocreagris: five from Portugal and four from Spain. Ecological comments and new localities for some of the previously known species are also included.
Description and Ecology of A New Cavernicolous, Arachnophilous Thread-legged Bug (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Emesini) from Kartchner Caverns, Cochise County, Arizona
Authors: PAPE ROBERT B.
Published: June 2013

A new cavernicolous, arachnophilous thread-legged bug (Phasmatocoris labyrinthicus sp. nov.; Reduviidae: Emesini) is described from Kartchner Caverns, a limestone cavern in Kartchner Caverns State Park near Benson, Arizona, USA. Cavernicolous emesines are recorded from caves in many parts of the world and are distributed across several genera, but are generally uncommon. P. labyrinthicus shows no obvious troglomorphy but ecological evidence suggests it is, at minimum, a cave-limited troglophile. The species seems to be low-humidity intolerant, due to its occurrence in a cave within a desert region, effectively confines the population to the cave, and the species may thus actually be troglobitic by default. Arachnophily in emesines is more common, including in Phasmatocoris Breddin, but has been previously documented in only a single cavernicolous species, Bagauda cavernicola Paiva, reported from India, Malaysia and Sri Lanka. However, unlike P. labyrinthicus, B. cavernicola is apparently not morphologically adapted for its arachnophilous association. P. labyrinthicus is the only known troglophilic emesine that is also a morphologically adapted and behaviorally functional arachnophile. The only other known cavernicolous Phasmatocoris (P. xavieri Gil- Santana, Alves, Barrett and Costa) is recorded from a sandstone cave in Brazil. P. xavieri exhibits morphological features indicative of a potentially arachnophilous habit, but its ecology has not been studied. Adults of P. labyrinthicus share characteristics with the species Phasmatocoris praecellens Bergroth, P. minor McAtee and Malloch, P. xavieri, P. spectrum Breddin, and P. rapax McAtee and Malloch. Phasmatocoris is primarily a Neotropical genus and the discovery of P. labyrinthicus represents a significant range extension for the genus, being the first Nearctic species identified, with its geographically nearest relative an undescribed species from Mazatlan, Mexico, over 1,000 km to the south.
A new barbeled goby from south China (Teleostei: Gobiidae)
Authors: CUI RONGFENG , PAN YASHU , YANG XINMING , WANG YINGYONG
Published: June 2013

A new goby species Tridentiger radiatus sp. nov. is described from Zhuhai, Guangdong Province of China. The new spe-cies, found in sympatry with a widely distributed barbeled congener Tridentiger barbatus (Günther, 1861), is one of the only two Tridentiger species known to possess mandibular and cheek barbels. Tridentiger radiatus is diagnosed by having higher longitudinal and transverse scale counts, less developed barbels, unmottled colouration compared to T. barbatus, and 3 dusky radiating infraorbital bands. Partial 12s rDNA sequence data obtained from 5 individuals of T. radiatus and 2 individuals of T. barbatus, together with published sequence data of other congeners confirmed validity of the new spe-cies. The divergence between T. radiatus and T. barbatus well exceeds the divergence of other sister taxa in the same ge-nus. Monophyly of the two barbeled species is supported.
Putative type specimens of Satyrichthys (Scorpaeniformes: Peristediidae) in the Bleeker collection of the Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
Authors: VAN OIJEN MARTIEN J.P. , KAWAI TOSHIO , LOOTS INEKE
Published: June 2013

The presumed type status of the two remaining specimens of Peristedion moluccense Bleeker 1850 in the collection the Naturalis Biodiversity Center was examined by comparing them to descriptions in two Bleeker papers and an unpublished manuscript by Bleeker written for the Atlas Ichthyologique. Latin, French and Dutch parts of these papers were translated into English. The Dutch description of P. laticeps Schlegel 1852 was also translated. In the course of this study it became clear why Bleeker considered P. laticeps, a as a synonym of P. moluccense.
A review of Neotropical species in Thienemanniella Kieffer (Diptera, Chironomidae)
Authors: WIEDENBRUG SOFIA , LAMAS CARLOS E. , TRIVINHO-STRIXINO SUSANA
Published: June 2013

Three species previously described from the neotropical region are revised and four new species are described: Thienemanniellabiobio sp. n. and T. manihuales sp. n. as males and pupae from Chile, T. sancticaroli sp. n. and T. ubatuba sp.n. as males, females and immature stages from Brazil. The new Thienemanniella spreta species group is delimited consistingof T. spreta (Roback) sensu Sublette & Sasa, T. sanctivincenta Saether, T. liae Paggi, T. sancticaroli sp. n. and T.ubatuba sp. n. Keys to the known Neotropical males, pupae and larvae are presented.
Redescription of Anomala eucoma Bates, 1888 and a description of three new species from Costa Rica (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Rutelinae)
Authors: FILIPPINI VALENTINA , MICÓ ESTEFANIA , GALANTE EDUARDO
Published: June 2013

Anomala eucoma Bates, 1888 is redescribed and a lectotype from Guatemala is designated. Three new species from Costa Rica, A. flavacoma new species, A. megaparamera new species, and A. pseudoeucoma new species, are described, and a distribution map is given. The internal sac (endophallus) of the species covered is illustrated, and its use in separating closely related species in this region is discussed. An identification key for morphologically similar species from the Neo-tropical region is provided.
The Polyphonic Orchestration of Barack Obama, 2004 to 2012
Authors: Sheckels Theodore F.
Published: June 2013

Obama’s ceremonial (i.e. convention speeches and inaugurals) discourse from 2004 to 2012 constitutes an evolving polyphony. The voices of the polyphony shift from offering the Biblically-rich, personal story of Obama as an African-American to the rather partisan story of Obama as a public policy leader. Obama remains the hero in the story the polyphony presents; however, the opposition shifts from being those who doubt the dream to those who oppose policy initiatives. The voices sustain Obama’s inspiring story throughout the discourse; however, the personal fades and is replaced by an emphasis on the people he is trying to serve, the policies he is advocating on their behalf, and the partisan turmoil those policies have become entangled in. Grounded in the theoretical work of Mikhail Bakhtin, the account treats Obama’s discourse as a non-finalizable orchestration of voices.
Is calibration the cause of variation in liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry testosterone measurement?
Authors: Owen L J , MacDonald P R , Keevil B G
Published: June 2013

Background

Testosterone measurement by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) is well accepted as the preferred technique for the analysis of testosterone. Variation is seen between assays and this may be due to differences in calibration as commercial calibrators for this assay are not readily available. We investigated the effects calibration in routine clinical LC-MS/MS assays.

Methods

All LC-MS/MS users that were registered with the UKNEQAS external quality assurance scheme for testosterone were invited to take part in the study. A set of seven serum samples and serum-based calibrators were sent to all laboratories that expressed an interest. The laboratories were instructed to analyse all samples using there own calibrators and return the results and a method questionnaire for analysis.

Results

Fifteen laboratories took part in the study. There was no consensus on supplier of testosterone or matrix for the preparation of calibrators and all were prepared in-house. Also, a wide variety of mass spectrometers, internal standards, chromatography conditions and sample extractions were used. The variation in results did not improve when the results were corrected with a common calibrator.

Conclusions

The variation in results obtained could not be attributed to variations in calibrators. The differences in methodologies between laboratories must be the reason for this variation.
A Delayed-Control Trial Examining the Impact of Body Mass Index Recognition on Obesity-Related Counseling
Authors: Rhee Kyung E. , Phan Thao-Ly , Barnes Richard F. , Benun Jacques , Wing Rena R.
Published: June 2013

Background. Rates of body mass index (BMI) calculation and plotting remain low. We examined whether providing a BMI wheel and brief education to pediatric residents and attendings would increase rates of “BMI recognition” and obesity-related counseling. Methods. A delayed-control design was used to evaluate a 20-minute intervention. A total of 1640 records of well-child visits were reviewed to determine the proportion of records in which BMI was calculated and plotted and counseling provided. Results. In clinic A, there was a significant increase in the proportion of records in which BMI was recognized from pre- to postintervention ( P < .01). No changes in clinic B occurred until after the delayed intervention. Obesity-related counseling was more likely to occur if BMI was recognized. Conclusion. Brief education and BMI wheel increased rates of BMI recognition. BMI recognition was associated with increased obesity management. Additional efforts should be incorporated to further increase BMI recognition and assist providers in treating these children.
Children, Family and the State: Revisiting Public and Private Realms
Authors: Wyness Michael
Published: June 2013

The state is often viewed as part of the impersonal public sphere in opposition to the private family as a locus of warmth and intimacy. In recent years this modernist dichotomy has been challenged by theoretical and institutional trends which have altered the relationship between state and family. This article explores changes to both elements of the dichotomy that challenge this relationship: a more fragmented family structure and more individualised and networked support for children. It will also examine two new elements that further disrupt any clear mapping between state/family and public/private dichotomies: the third-party role of the child in family/state affairs, and children’s application of virtual technology that locates the private within new cultural and social spaces. The article concludes by examining the rise of the ‘individual child’ hitherto hidden within the family/state dichotomy and the implications this has for intergenerational relations at personal and institutional levels.
The emergence of symmetries and asymmetries in performance appraisal interviews: An interactional perspective
Authors: Asmuß Birte
Published: June 2013

Performance appraisal interviews (PAI) are in a Scandinavian context supposed to be dialogues between equal partners. This implies a focus on the superior and subordinate as conducting a conversation more than an interview, and a focus on development instead of performance. The article seeks to investigate how these ideals are lived up to in the practice of conducting a PAI. On the basis of a corpus of 30 hours of videotaped PAIs and applying a conversation analytical approach, the study shows that interactional symmetries and asymmetries can arise as a consequence of interactional practices that are dynamically negotiated between and agreed upon by the co-participants on a turn-by-turn basis. These symmetries and asymmetries emerge due to the participants’ orientations to institutional and social norms that can intertwine and overlap, thus impeding, postponing or supporting the ideals of PAIs as being dialogues between equal partners.
Arming the citizen-consumer: The invention of ‘media literacy’ within UK communications policy
Authors: Wallis Richard , Buckingham David
Published: June 2013

This article explores the emergence of the concept of ‘media literacy’ within UK communications policy, focusing particularly on the period leading up to the 2003 Communications Act. While broadly deregulatory in intention, the Act gave the new media regulator, Ofcom, a duty to ‘promote media literacy’. This article explores the origins of this theme, the different discourses and definitions in play, and the roles of the various agents involved. It argues that there were some significant strategic shifts in the debates around media literacy, which reflect broader tensions between neoliberal and social-democratic tendencies within New Labour’s communications policy. The article suggests that this resulted in a lack of clarity about the definition of media literacy, the scope and nature of Ofcom’s role, and the means by which the policy might be implemented – problems that partly account for the subsequent demise (or significant redefinition) of media literacy as a theme within communications policy towards the end of the decade.
Passive filter design supporting a star-like joint-connector-based topology in high-speed controller area networks
Authors: Lim Hansang , Jung Joo Myung , Kim Jung-Rea , Song Woo Seung , Kwon Hae-Yun , Park Jun Seo , Park Dong-Il
Published: June 2013

In this paper, a passive filter is proposed to support a star-like topology in a high-speed controller area network and to extend the length of the stubs. A high-speed controller area network requires a linear wiring topology, while an actual network may be configured as a star-like structure using joint connectors owing to productivity and cost concerns. This joint-connector-based controller area network configuration is likely to suffer from increased signal distortions caused by a larger transient voltage and impedance mismatch. Here, a passive filter for reducing these signal distortions in a joint-connector-based controller area network structure is proposed, which allows a star-like topology with extended stubs. The proposed passive filter is composed of a resistor and bead in series, which is easily inserted in a joint connector. With the proposed filter, the induced transient voltage and settling time in transition to a recessive state were reduced by 37% and 66% respectively. Thus, the proposed filter has the effect of improving the reliability of communication in the same wiring dimension or, equivalently, lengthening the stubs with the same reliability.
Comparing barriers to colorectal cancer screening with barriers to breast and cervical screening: a population-based survey of screening-age women in Great Britain
Authors: Lo Siu Hing , Waller Jo , Wardle Jane , von Wagner Christian
Published: June 2013

Objective

Uptake of cancer screening tends to be lower for colorectal cancer (CRC) than cervical or breast cancer. Dislike of the test itself has often been identified as a barrier to CRC screening with the Faecal Occult Blood (FOB) test, but there have been no head-to-head comparisons of the three tests.

Methods

Women aged 50–80 ( n = 890) were recruited in spring 2012 as part of a population-based TNS Research International survey in Great Britain. Those in the eligible age range were asked if they had ever participated in breast, cervical or CRC screening. For each screening test, women who had never participated were asked for their ‘main reason’ using a checklist of barriers.

Results

Among eligible women, 67%, 83% and 90% reported ever having been screened for CRC, cervical and breast cancer respectively. More socioeconomically deprived women were less likely to report any screening, and single women were less likely to report CRC or breast screening than married women. Age was not associated with participation. Overall there were few differences between tests in the reported barriers, but dislike of the test was endorsed more often for CRC screening.

Conclusion

This was the first study to compare barriers to participation in organised screening programmes for CRC, breast and cervical cancer. Cancer screening tests share many barriers, but dislike of the test appears to be a stronger barrier to CRC screening. Women who are non-participants in more than one programme may have more global barriers to screening, such as cancer fatalism. The findings suggest that uptake of CRC screening could be improved by targeting the unpleasantness of stool sampling.
In the Light of Experience: An Indian Cameraman
Authors: Pandian Anand
Published: June 2013

Light invites an epic scale of imagination. Focusing on the thought and work of a contemporary Indian cameraman, this article explores experience of light in cinema. I examine practical struggles to engage light’s movement and potency, in relation to cinematographic problems of composition, effect, and aesthetics. Relying most closely on ethnographic fieldwork with a studio set constructed for a 2010 Tamil feature film, the article devotes sustained attention to the interplay between luminescent philosophy and practice—to interrelated forms of thinking and working with light.
Image analysis and green tea color change kinetics during thin-layer drying
Authors: Shahabi Mohammad , Rafiee Shahin , Mohtasebi Seyed Saeid , Hosseinpour Soleiman
Published: June 2013

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of air temperature and air flow velocity on kinetics of color parameter changes during hot-air drying of green tea, to obtain the best model for hot-air drying of green tea, to apply a computer vision system and to study the color changes during drying. In the proposed computer vision system system, at first RGB values of the images were converted into XYZ values and then to Commission International d’Eclairage L* a* b* color coordinates. The obtained color parameters of L*, a* and b* were calibrated with Hunter-Lab colorimeter. These values were also used for calculation of the color difference, chroma, hue angle and browning index. The values of L* and b* decreased, while the values of a* and color difference (Δ E*ab) increased during hot-air drying. Drying data were ﬁtted to three kinetic models. Zero, ﬁrst-order and fractional conversion models were utilized to describe the color changes of green tea. The suitability of fitness was determined using the coefficient of determination ( R2) and root-mean-square error. Results showed that the fraction conversion model had more acceptable fitness than the other two models in most of color parameters.
Harnessing the Potential of Constructive Develop-mental Pedagogy to Achieve Transformative Learning in Social Work Education
Authors: McCusker Pearse
Published: June 2013

This project starts with the contention that social work education must challenge students to reframe their knowledge and assumptions to prepare them for working with oppressed groups and develop emancipatory practice. Using transformative learning theory, constructive developmental pedagogy and related approaches, it explored the extent to which students achieved transformative learning in the context of a communication skills module. The learning and teaching components were changed in three ways: by introducing critical reflection seminars; by encouraging students to discuss their assumptions about practice within lectures; and by making immediate use of student observations about their learning needs to reconstruct the pedagogy as the module progressed. Data were gathered using semi-structured questionnaires, a self-efficacy rating scale, and a focus group. The findings highlight problems in measuring and determining causality for transformative learning but indicate that for a majority of students transformative learning in relation to knowledge and assumptions occurred.
Exploring Dimensions of Critical Reflection in Activist–Facilitator Practice
Authors: Hanson Cindy
Published: June 2013

This article explores how 14 diverse, Canadian activist–facilitators working in international development experience and understand critical reflection as a component of participatory methodologies in facilitation practices. The findings, based on my doctoral study, demonstrate that although critical reflection is often discussed as integral to participatory approaches of facilitation using critical pedagogies, understandings and experiences of what that means in practice vary. For example, study participants often expressed practicing critical reflection through technical-rational approaches and seldom distinguished between critical reflection, reflexivity, and reflection. The findings illustrate three main challenges to applying critical reflection in practice: (1) time and value given to critical reflection; (2) institutional requirements; and (3) personal vulnerability. The results have implications for critical feminist pedagogies, including the development of critically reflective practices that challenge dominant ideologies and hierarchical power structures. The study demonstrates lessons for deepening pedagogical practices around critical reflection and reflexivity.
Transforming Leadership Identity in a Virtual Environment
Authors: Rusch Edith A. , Brunner C. Cryss
Published: June 2013

Schein contends that “unless leaders become learners themselves … acknowledg[ing] vulnerabilities and uncertainties—then transformational learning will never take that leads to transformative learning, the authors engaged educational leadership doctoral students in an Experimental Simulation, using masked identities in a virtual environment. In order for students to fully examine the how of their knowing—to let go of a set of well practiced good student behaviors and risk personal discomfort required for reflection and transformation, the instruction included the Interactive Learning Model.©” The learning experience offered clear evidence that when individuals engage in experiential learning that disrupts a carefully crafted student identity and that experience is supported by enhanced knowledge of the learning self, facilitated reflection can lead to a marked shift in both learner and leader identity.
Empowering Providers to Meet Patient Information Needs
Authors: Semchuk William
Published: June 2013

Recent studies on the effectiveness of patient information tools and methods confirm that what patients want and what they get are sometimes widely at odds. As the paternalistic notion of “compliance” is evolving into the patient-centred concept of “adherence,” new data and guidelines may help us to address our patients' wants and needs for medication information. This in turn supports patients in their own health and medication management.
Fashioning Alexandra: A Royal Approach to Style 1863–1910
Authors: Strasdin Kate
Published: June 2013

For some sixty years Alexandra, Princess of Wales (1844–1925), later Queen Consort, lived at the heart of the British monarchy. Feted by her public and peers, she negotiated a careful and successful sartorial path through the many civic and social commitments of her long career. Her style was admired and copied by women, sometimes entering mainstream fashion, although her clothing choices were often informed by other considerations. This article explores Alexandra’s fashionability and how factors, such as her attitude to money and a need to mask physical imperfections also influenced the way she dressed. An examination of Alexandra’s surviving clothing and related documentary evidence can reveal not only what lay behind the creation of Alexandra’s regal, fashioned body but also cast new light on her biographical story.
‘Comfort and Freedom’: The Duke of Windsor’s Wardrobe
Authors: Dawson Elizabeth
Published: June 2013

Clothing belonging to the late Duke of Windsor (1894–1972), which remained in his Paris home until it was dispersed in 1998, provides an insight into both his taste and character. As the young and popular Prince of Wales in the 1920s, he courted notions of modernity, celebrity and informality, rejecting the stiff conventions of his father’s dress and court. His innovative sense of style was emulated on both sides of the Atlantic. Throughout his life he remained loyal to the tailors and haberdashers who helped to craft his image and provide the comfort and freedom he craved in his clothes. This paper considers how some of the surviving garments in his wardrobe can help to define the man who was Prince of Wales, King Edward VIII and Duke of Windsor.
Scalable and number-controlled synthesis of carbon nanotubes by nanostencil lithography
Authors: Choi Jungwook , Koh Kisik , Kim Jongbaeg
Published: June 2013

Controlled synthesis and integration of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) remain important areas of study to develop practical carbon-based nanodevices. A method of controlling the number of CNTs synthesized depending on the size of the catalyst was characterized using nanostencil lithography, and the critical dimension for the nanoaperture produced on a stencil mask used for growing individual CNTs was studied. The stencil mask was fabricated as a nanoaperture array down to 40 nm in diameter on a low-stress silicon nitride membrane. An iron catalyst used to synthesize CNTs was deposited through submicron patterns in the stencil mask onto a silicon substrate, and the profile of the patterned iron catalyst was analyzed using atomic force microscopy. The feasibility toward a scalable, number-, and location-controlled synthesis of CNTs was experimentally demonstrated based on the diameter and geometry of the apertures in the stencil mask.