bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender, difference and urban change: implications for the promotion of well-being?
Authors: Walker Julian , Frediani Alexandre Apsan , Trani Jean-François
Published: December 2012

This article examines the impacts of urban change on the well-being of women and men, and girls and boys living in cities, and explores how gender intersects with other social relations to differentiate these impacts. It then considers the implications of intersectionality for organizations aiming to promote the interests of specific social groups (such as women or people with disabilities) vis à vis urban change by looking at the experience of Leonard Cheshire’s Asha project, which works with girls and boys with disabilities in Mumbai. It concludes that organizations working to promote the interests of identity-based constituents should both base their strategies around research that recognizes the instersectional nature of social identities and also develop agendas for change that build platforms for social justice that unite, rather than fragment, identity-based claims.
Caring ethics and a Somali reproductive dilemma
Authors: Narruhn Robin , Schellenberg Ingra R
Published: December 2012

The use of traditional ethical methodologies is inadequate in addressing a constructed maternal–fetal rights conflict in a multicultural obstetrical setting. The use of caring ethics and a relational approach is better suited to address multicultural conceptualizations of autonomy and moral distress. The way power differentials, authoritative knowledge, and informed consent are intertwined in this dilemma will be illuminated by contrasting traditional bioethics and a caring ethics approach. Cultural safety is suggested as a way to develop a relational ontology. Using caring ethics and a relational approach can alleviate moral distress in health-care providers, while promoting collaboration and trust between providers and their patients and ultimately decreasing reproductive disparities. This article examines how a relational approach can be applied to a cross-cultural reproductive dilemma.
The Impact of Societal Vulnerability and Violent Values on Self-Control in a Belgium Sample of Youth
Authors: Gavray Claire , Vettenburg Nicole , Pauwels Lieven , Brondeel Ruben
Published: December 2012

The present study contributes to the study of self-control among adolescents by testing how self-control is affected by societal vulnerability and violent values and by investigating how (in)variant this relationship is for boys and girls. The Belgian International Self-Report Delinquency Study (ISRD-2) data were used to assess to what extent positive attitudes toward violence can be seen as mediators in the relationship between societal vulnerability and self-control. The findings suggest that violent values mediate the relationship between societal vulnerability and self-control. Despite results indicating higher self-control among females, when conducting the analyses separately by gender, we found that the relationship between societal vulnerability and self-control was very similar for boys and girls. It is concluded that societally vulnerable boys and girls are equally affected by the intermediate mechanism of violent values.
Exploring the Utility of Self-Control Theory for Risky Behavior and Minor Delinquency Among Chinese Adolescents
Authors: Lu Yi-Fen , Yu Yi-Chun , Ren Ling , Marshall Ineke Haen
Published: December 2012

Although scholarly interest in empirically assessing Gottfredson and Hirschi’s (1990) self-control theory continues to grow, there is little research available on evaluating its utility in China. The current study examines the power of self-control theory as an explanation of juvenile minor risky behavior as well as minor delinquent behaviors in China, while simultaneously considering the role of social bonds. The data were collected from a probability sample of 7th, 8th, and 9th graders in Hangzhou, China ( N = 1,043) using the second International Self-Report Delinquency (ISRD-2) survey instrument. The results from the logistic regression analyses show that self-control is associated with both measures of Chinese youth deviance in the expected direction, suggesting that the youth with low self-control have a higher likelihood to report minor risky and delinquent behavior. The effects of self-control remain when controlling for social bonding measures. Among the social bonding factors, beliefs (pro-violence attitude) and family bonding were found to be the significant predictors of risky behavior and minor delinquency, respectively.
Lamb wave–based quantitative crack detection using a focusing array algorithm
Authors: Yu Lingyu , Leckey Cara AC
Published: December 2012

Cracks are common defects in aluminum plate-like components that are in widespread use in aerospace, shipbuilding, and other industries. Ultrasonic detection using Lamb waves has proven to be an efficient method for crack detection and localization. However, quantitative information regarding crack size or orientation is of paramount importance for damage diagnosis and life prediction. In this article, employing a sparsely arranged piezoelectric sensor array, a quantitative crack detection and imaging approach using a Lamb wave–focusing array algorithm is developed and presented. Additionally, Lamb wave propagation on thin-wall plates and wave interaction with crack damage was studied using three-dimensional elastodynamic finite integration technique. The focusing array imaging algorithm was then developed and applied to both simulation and experimental data to generate intensity images of the structure under interrogation. Experimentally, wafer-type piezoelectric actuators/sensors are permanently installed on the testing structure to generate Lamb waves as well as to measure the waves propagating through the structures. Our results show that when applied to either experimental or simulated data, the focusing array algorithms yield images containing quantitative damage information. The results also demonstrate that three-dimensional elastodynamic finite integration technique can be used for future simulation-based investigations of sensing optimization for various damage scenarios.
Malaria “Diagnosis” and Diagnostics in Afghanistan
Authors: Reynolds Joanna , Wood Molly , Mikhail Amy , Ahmad Tamanna , Karimullah Karimullah , Motahed Mohibullah , Hazansai Anwar , Baktash Sayed Habib , Anwari Nadia , Kizito James , Mayan Ismail , Rowland Mark , Chandler Clare , Leslie Toby
Published: December 2012

In many malaria-endemic areas, including Afghanistan, overdiagnosis of malaria is common. Even when using parasite-based diagnostic tests prior to treatment, clinicians commonly prescribe antimalarial treatment following negative test results. This practice neglects alternative causes of fever, uses drugs unnecessarily, and might contribute to antimalarial drug resistance. We undertook a qualitative study among health workers using different malaria diagnostic methods in Afghanistan to explore perceptions of malaria diagnosis. Health workers valued diagnostic tests for their ability to confirm clinical suspicions of malaria via a positive result, but a negative result was commonly interpreted as an absence of diagnosis, legitimizing clinical diagnosis of malaria and prescription of antimalarial drugs. Prescribing decisions reflected uncertainty around tests and diagnosis, and were influenced by social- and health-system factors. Study findings emphasize the need for nuanced and context-specific guidance to change prescriber behavior and improve treatment of malarial and nonmalarial febrile illnesses.
Implications of the Virginia Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Mandate for Parental Vaccine Acceptance
Authors: Pitts Margaret Jane , Adams Tufts Kimberly
Published: December 2012

In 2009, Virginia became the first state in the United States to enact a school vaccine mandate for the human papillomavirus (HPV), putting it at the forefront of the national HPV vaccine mandate controversy. It is critical to explore the public response and sensemaking where the mandate has already been enacted. Thus, we conducted 8 focus group discussions among 33 Virginia parents to explore how they conceptualized the virus and vaccine and their responses to the mandate. Findings suggest that many parents are skeptical of and reluctant to follow a state-mandated vaccine requirement, choosing instead to opt out of the vaccine until they decide the time is right for their daughter and/or until they feel confident in their knowledge about the virus, vaccine, and the impetus for the mandate. Study results can inform future legislation among states considering HPV-related mandates and aid in the development of health-promotion materials within the context of a state mandate.
Comparing the Horizontal and Vertical Individualism and Collectivism Scale and the Auckland Individualism and Collectivism Scale in Two Cultures
Authors: Györkös Christina , Becker Jürgen , Massoudi Koorosh , Antonietti Jean-Philippe , Pocnet Cornelia , de Bruin Gideon P. , Rossier Jérôme
Published: December 2012

This study investigated the psychometric properties of the Horizontal and Vertical Individualism and Collectivism Scale (HVIC) and the Auckland Individualism and Collectivism Scale (AICS). The sample consisted of 1,403 working individuals from Switzerland ( N = 585) and from South Africa ( N = 818). Principal component factor analyses indicated that a two-factor structure replicated well across the two countries for both scales. In addition, the HVIC four-factor structure replicated well across countries, whereas the responsibility dimension of individualism of the AICS replicated poorly. Confirmatory factor analyses provided satisfactory support to the original theoretical models for both the HVIC and the AICS. Equivalence measurement indices indicated that the cross-cultural replicability properties of both instruments are generally acceptable. However, canonical correlations and correlations between the HVIC and AICS dimensions confirm that these two instruments differ in their underlying meaning of the individualism and collectivism constructs, suggesting that these two instruments assess individualism and collectivism differently.
Variational bounds for thermal fields in media with heterogeneous microstructure
Authors: Zohdi TI
Published: December 2012

This work develops a rigorous variational upper bound for the difference between thermal fields generated in uniform media and thermal fields generated in heterogeneous media, for the same external loading. The bound can be calculated in a simple manner, with knowledge only of the heterogeneous material properties and a relatively easy-to-compute thermal field associated with a uniform medium. In order to evaluate the bound, the difficult-to-compute thermal field, associated with the heterogeneous material, does not need to be calculated. Three-dimensional numerical examples are provided to illustrate the results.
Agent-Based Simulation Models in Organization Science
Authors: Fioretti Guido
Published: December 2012

Agent-based simulation models can reproduce the interactions between members of an organization or between different organizations in an artificial environment where “agents” make decisions and communicate with one another. This article discusses possible applications to core issues in organization science and provides an introductory guide to simulation platforms. Agent-based modeling requires writing computer code, a skill that, if properly mastered, may turn into a career opportunity.
Exact solutions of free vibration of simply supported functionally graded piezoelectric sandwich cylinders using a modified Pagano method
Authors: Wu Chih-Ping , Chen Hsuan
Published: December 2012

The three-dimensional free vibration analysis of simply supported, functionally graded piezoelectric material sandwich circular hollow cylinders with different surface conditions is presented. The material properties of each functionally graded piezoelectric material layer are regarded as heterogeneous through the thickness coordinate, and obey an exponent-law dependent on this. Pagano’s method is modified to be feasible for this study of functionally graded piezoelectric material sandwich cylinders, in which a displacement-based formulation is replaced by a mixed one; a set of the complex-valued solutions of the system equations is transferred to the corresponding set of real-valued solutions using Euler’s formula; a successive approximation method is adopted to approximately transform each functionally graded piezoelectric material layer into homogeneous piezoelectric layers with an equal and small thickness for each layer in comparison with the mid-surface radius, and with the homogeneous material properties determined in an average thickness sense; and a transfer matrix method is developed so that the general solutions of system equations can be obtained layer-by-layer, which is significantly less time-consuming than usual. A parametric study of the influence of the mid-surface radius-to-thickness ratio, open- and closed-circuit surface conditions, the thickness ratio of each layer, and the material-property gradient index on the natural frequencies of functionally graded piezoelectric material sandwich cylinders is carried out.
Euro-scepticism and radical right-wing voting in Europe, 2002–2008: Social cleavages, socio-political attitudes and contextual characteristics determining voting for the radical right
Authors: Werts Han , Scheepers Peer , Lubbers Marcel
Published: December 2012

In this contribution, we focus on the role of euro-scepticism on radical right-wing voting in national elections in 18 European countries between 2002 and 2008. We do so with multilevel modelling taking advantage of high-quality cross-national European data. First, we focus on social cleavages related to voting, e.g. social class and religiosity. Second, we examine the effects of several contextual characteristics, of which some are classical and others new. Third, we take diverse socio-political attitudes into account. We test whether euro-scepticism affects voting for the radical right, over and beyond other determinants that have previously been proposed to determine radical right-wing voting. We find evidence that euro-scepticism indeed contributes to the explanation of voting for the radical right beyond perceived ethnic threat and political distrust. At the same time euro-scepticism is much less relevant than perceived ethnic threat in explaining why particular social categories, i.e. lower educated people, manual workers, unemployed people and non-churchgoers are more likely to vote for the radical right.
Connecting children’s worlds: Creating a multilingual syncretic curriculum through partnership between complementary and mainstream schools
Authors: Kenner Charmian , Ruby Mahera
Published: December 2012

Children from minority-language backgrounds have multiple sites of learning: home, community, mainstream school, and in some cases complementary school where they study their mother tongue after school or at weekends. However, due to the institutional constraints of an education system based on monolingual principles, mainstream teachers are often unaware of the contribution that complementary classes make to children’s learning, or unsure of how to draw on their pupils’ linguistic knowledge in the curriculum. Children’s multilingual identities and their other worlds of learning therefore remain invisible in mainstream school. This paper describes an action research study with teachers from complementary and mainstream schools in East London, in which they jointly planned lessons around topics that were then taught in both settings. The complementary teachers brought a holistic perspective based in the linguistic and cultural knowledge of their communities, which enabled these resources to be brought into mainstream learning, thus creating a syncretic curriculum that led to an increase in agency of children and their families as well as teachers themselves. We argue that collaboration between complementary and mainstream teacher colleagues can play a crucial role in constructing a space for multilingual learning in a monolingualizing society.
How a creative storytelling intervention can improve medical student attitude towards persons with dementia: A mixed methods study
Authors: George Daniel R , Stuckey Heather L , Whitehead Megan M
Published: December 2012

Background

The creative arts can integrate humanistic experiences into geriatric education. This experiential learning case study evaluated whether medical student participation in TimeSlips, a creative storytelling program with persons affected by dementia, would improve attitudes towards this patient population.

Methods

Twenty-two fourth-year medical students participated in TimeSlips for one month. The authors analyzed pre- and post-program scores of items, sub-domains for comfort and knowledge, and overall scale from the Dementia Attitudes Scale using paired t-tests or Wilcoxon Signed-rank tests to evaluate mean change in students' self-reported attitudes towards persons with dementia. A case study approach using student reflective writing and focus group data was used to explain quantitative results.

Results

Twelve of the 20 items, the two sub-domains, and the overall Dementia Attitudes Scale showed significant improvement post-intervention. Qualitative analysis identified four themes that added insight to quantitative results: (a) expressions of fear and discomfort felt before storytelling, (b) comfort experienced during storytelling, (c) creativity and openness achieved through storytelling, and (d) humanistic perspectives developed during storytelling can influence future patient care.

Conclusions

This study provides preliminary evidence that participation in a creative storytelling program improves medical student attitudes towards persons with dementia, and suggests mechanisms for why attitudinal changes occurred.
A Systematic Qualitative Review of Risk and Protective Factors for Sexual Violence Perpetration
Authors: Tharp Andra Teten , DeGue Sarah , Valle Linda Anne , Brookmeyer Kathryn A. , Massetti Greta M. , Matjasko Jennifer L.
Published: December 2012

The current review summarized results of 191 published empirical studies that examined the risk and protective factors for sexual violence perpetration. Studies in the review examined factors for perpetration by and against adolescents and adults, by male and female perpetrators, and by those who offended against individuals of the same sex or opposite sex. Factors associated with child sexual abuse (CSA) perpetration were not included. In all, 2 societal and community factors, 23 relationship factors, and 42 individual-level factors were identified. Of these 67 factors, consistent significant support for their association with SV was found for 35, nonsignificant effects were found for 10, 7 factors had limited or sample-specific evidence that they were associated with SV but were in need of further study, and 15 demonstrated mixed results. The factors identified in the review underscore the need for comprehensive prevention programs that target multiple risk and protective factors as well as factors that occur across the social ecology. Moreover, we identified two domains of factors—the presence and acceptance of violence and unhealthy sexual behaviors, experiences, or attitudes—that had consistent significant associations with SV but are not typically addressed in prevention programs. Therefore, SV prevention may also benefit from learning from effective strategies in other areas of public health, namely sexual health and youth violence prevention.
Development of a test equipment for pesticide protective fabric evaluation and studies on simple cotton woven fabrics
Authors: Abirami Ramanan , Selvakumar N
Published: December 2012

In this study, efforts were taken to identify the most suitable cotton fabric with commonly used structure to be used as protective fabric by the pesticide applicators in the tropical regions, specifically at the time of spraying in the field. As the situation demanded the generation and use of pesticide-borne air for the evaluation of cotton fabrics considered in the study, a test equipment with appropriate features was developed and used. The study revealed that twill fabrics of medium weight construction provide better protection than plain fabrics, especially when they are produced with coarser yarns to achieve the required fabric weight. They are found to give enhanced protection when they are subjected to raising operation. Fabric raised on both the sides performs better than the face side raised fabric. On the contrary, these fabrics in raised or unraised state are found to slightly go down in their performance when they are wet and their performance decreases with increase in wetness. Hence, it is suggested that use of raised fabrics may be avoided for the preparation of pesticide protective clothing as the pesticide applicators are bound to sweat at the time of spraying. As the unraised fabrics give comparatively lower performance reduction on wetting, it can be recommended for the pesticide applicators with the instruction to change the clothing when it become wet to ensure protection.
Development and characterization of cactus–dextrin– recombinant human epidermal growth factor based silk scaffold for wound dressing applications
Authors: Sukumar N , Ramachandran T , Lakshmikantha CB
Published: December 2012

Silk fibroin (SF), a naturally occurring protein polymer, has several unique properties such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, minimal inflammatory reaction, and endowed with excellent mechanical properties and process ability. The existing scaffolds used in medical industry lack the degradation and/or slow in healing practice, so clinically there is a need for the development of efficient and reliable biomaterial scaffolds for wound healing. Silk fibroin has shown greater potential for tissue engineering applications. This work is focused on designing biomaterial with silk as raw material and wound healing effect of SF scaffolds were also tested. The silk blended scaffolds were prepared by using SF as a vehicle with dextrin, other healing agent of cactus and epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) are used as the drug releasing model. Scanning electronic microscope (SEM) was used to observe the morphology of prepared scaffolds for process versatility and the highly specific surface area. The structure was studied by Fourier transform infrared. The SF was treated at different concentrations of cactus and rhEGF, to investigate the growth inhibition effect of bacterial growth. The SF scaffolds show favorable stability by their structural integrity, morphology, mechanical properties, and powerful antibacterial efficacy up to 100% to Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus epidermidis significantly intended to provide improved environments for the zone of incubation when compared with normal scaffolds without rhEGF. Therefore, the results give the evidence for the application of SF blended scaffolds in the treatment of wound.
Treating Violent Impulses
Authors: Wright Stephanie A. , Russell Mark C.
Published: December 2012

The growing attention to acts of interpersonal violence and misconduct among military members has accompanied a host of research investigating the nature and causes associated with these behaviors. As such, a robust body of literature exists lending insight into risk factors and clinical presentations associated with anger and aggression; however, such factors are multidimensional and complex, particularly for those suffering with war stress injuries. Furthermore, mental health stigma and treatment compliance with exposure and cognitive-based models, particularly in clients with aggressive presentations, can impact successful outcomes. One active-duty marine was referred to an outpatient mental health clinic for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Four sessions of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) were used to significantly reduce obsessive violent impulses, traumatic grief, and depression. The benefit of EMDR therapy as a treatment for violent impulses is explored. The results are promising, but more research is needed.
Endovascular Aneurysm Repair of Tuberculous Mycotic Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm on a Patient With Renal Transplant
Authors: Kuhan Ganesh , Abisi S. , Chandrasekar S. N. , MacSweeney S. T.
Published: December 2012

The case report describes a gentleman with renal transplant who presented with pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) and mycotic aneurysm of abdominal aorta. The aneurysm was successfully treated with endovascular aneurysm repair. A multidisciplinary approach with renal physicians and infectious diseases unit was necessary to treat TB and maintain immunosuppression. The technique used for deployment of the stent graft in the presence of infection and a transplanted kidney is described. The satisfactory outcome at 5 years follow-up indicates that endovascular option for TB mycotic aneurysm is durable and safe option particularly when major open surgery is associated with significant mortality and morbidity.
Reversed Sequence Arch Debranching for Treatment of a Ruptured Juxta-Innominate Artery Saccular Aneurysm
Authors: Malgor Rafael D. , Bilfinger Thomas V. , Tassiopoulos Apostolos K.
Published: December 2012

Purpose:

To describe a hybrid approach for the treatment of a ruptured juxta-innominate artery saccular aneurysm.

Case report:

A 68-year-old smoker male with poor exercise tolerance sustained a contained ruptured saccular aneurysm at the origin of the innominate artery. Although under the femoral-axillary bypass to allow direct brain perfusion, a 36 × 110 mm thoracic endograft was successfully deployed with total coverage of the distal ascending and aortic arch. A sternotomy was performed and an aorto-innominate and left common carotid artery bypass was done. At 1-month follow-up, a type 2 endoleak at the innominate artery stump was noted and successfully treated with coil embolization. The patient remains neurologically intact 1 year after the surgery.

Conclusion:

Juxta-innominate artery saccular aneurysms are rare. A hybrid open-endovascular repair using a reversed sequence arch debranching after endovascular repair is feasible and may be an alternative to deep hypothermic circulatory arrest particularly in frail patients.
Spontaneous Rupture of a Rare Adrenal Artery Aneurysm Mimicking a Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Wiseman Daniele , Harris Ken , Ehmann Jonathan
Published: December 2012

Spontaneous adrenal artery aneurysm rupture is an exceedingly rare but life-threatening condition that requires emergent treatment. We report on an 80-year-old male who underwent an emergent exploratory laparotomy and repair of a ruptured adrenal artery aneurysm and highlight the role of both vascular surgery and interventional radiology in the management of this scenario.
Guide Wire Entrapment in a Vena Cava Filter
Authors: Abdel-Aal Ahmed K. , Saddekni Souheil , Hamed Maysoon F.
Published: December 2012

Entrapment of a central venous catheter (CVC) guide wire in an inferior vena cava (IVC) filter is a rare, but reported complication during CVC placement. With the increasing use of IVC filters, this number will most likely continue to grow. The consequences of this complication can be serious, as continued traction upon the guide wire may result in filter dislodgement and migration, filter fracture, or injury to the IVC. In this article, we review the various preferred techniques reported in the literature for removal of the entrapped guide wire in particular situations, along with their indications, advantages, and disadvantages. We present simple useful recommendations to prevent this complication.
Innovative Sandwich Technique in Treating a Symptomatic Saccular Suprarenal Aneurysm Involving the Celiac Trunk
Authors: Zhang Yong-Xue , Lu Qing-Sheng , Jing Zai-Ping
Published: December 2012

Purpose:

To describe a new technique that combines traditional stent graft and multiple overlapping uncovered stents to form a sandwich-like structure in the management of a wide-necked saccular suprarenal aneurysm.

Case report:

An 83-year-old woman was admitted to the hospital with a large symptomatic aortic aneurysm that involved celiac trunk. Traditional stent graft and coiling were precluded due to the anatomical complexity of the aneurysm. A novel combination of multiple overlapping stents and grafted stents was utilized in this patient in order to maximally reduce the blood flow into the sac and to preserve visceral branches. At 3-month follow-up, patent celiac artery and superior mesenteric artery along with complete shrinkage of aneurismal sac were documented.

Conclusion:

The combination of grafted stents and uncovered stents can effectively reduce velocity and volume of blood flow into the aneurismal sac, which induces thrombosis within the sac, while all the branches could be preserved.
An Experimental Study to Evaluate the Fluobeam 800 Imaging System for Fluorescence-Guided Lymphatic Imaging and Sentinel Node Biopsy
Authors: Hirche Christoph , Engel Holger , Kolios Leila , Cognie Juliette , Hünerbein Michael , Lehnhardt Marcus , Kremer Thomas
Published: December 2012

Background. Visualization of the lymphatic system is challenging. Lymphatic imaging is a crucial diagnostic tool for benign and malignant lymphatic pathologies. Fluorescence-guided imaging allows selective lymphatic mapping and sentinel lymph node (SLN) identification. There are a few fluorescence systems, but some drawbacks remain due to technical and ergonomic aspects. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of the new Fluobeam 800 imaging system. Methods. After approval by the ethics committee, the system was evaluated for lymphography and SLN biopsy in an animal model. Five pigs each with 4 lymph node (LN) stations (n = 20 LN stations) were subjected to lymphatic imaging using indocyanine green (ICG). Additionally, the use of ICG was compared with ICG adsorbed to human serum albumin (ICG–HSA). Lymphatic vessels and SLN identification rates were measured. Results. After injection, a clear fluorescence signal of the lymphatic vessels was visualized leading to the LN station. Overall, ICG fluorescence imaging identified a mean of 2.0 lymphatic vessels and 1.1 (range = 1-2) SLN in 20 of 20 LN stations. Reverse lymphography was feasible. A clinical difference in resolution was not detected between use of ICG–HSA and ICG. Conclusion. This is the first study analyzing the feasibility of the Fluobeam 800 imaging system allowing transcutaneous real-time imaging. It enables detection of the SLN by fluorescence retention with increased detection depth and resolution. After fixation to the ceiling, the ergonomics advanced for simultaneous field navigation and dissection. The new system can be applied for lymphatic imaging for lympatico-reconstructive surgery and SLN biopsy.
Human–Systems Integration Design Process of the Air Traffic Control Tower Flight Data Manager
Authors: Davison Reynolds Hayley J. , Lokhande Kiran , Kuffner Maria , Yenson Sarah
Published: December 2012

A user-friendly system that yields operational benefit results from data-driven prototype evaluations and benefits analyses that iteratively feed back into the prototype design and development. In this study, initial requirements development and field evaluations were conducted using a shadow operations technique at the center tower backup Dallas–Fort Worth International Airport air traffic control tower (ATCT). Results are discussed in reference to the design process of the Tower Flight Data Manager (TFDM) prototype. Nonintrusive measures for quantitatively validating human–systems design issues were identified for this study, including visual gaze analysis and verbal command sequence analysis. Behavioral validation of design issues simplifies the process to prioritize beneficial design changes. The iterative process used resulted in an interim TFDM prototype that was rated by active air traffic controllers as both beneficial and usable in an operational ATCT environment.
Cell separation: Terminology and practical considerations
Authors: Tomlinson Matthew J , Tomlinson Sophie , Yang Xuebin B , Kirkham Jennifer
Published: December 2012

Cell separation is a powerful tool in biological research. Increasing usage, particularly within the tissue engineering and regenerative medicine communities, means that researchers from a diverse range of backgrounds are utilising cell separation technologies. This review aims to offer potential solutions to cell sorting problems and to clarify common ambiguities in terminology and experimental design. The frequently used cell separation terms of ‘purity’, ‘recovery’ and ‘viability’ are discussed, and attempts are made to reach a consensus view of their sometimes ambiguous meanings. The importance of appropriate experimental design is considered, with aspects such as marker expression, tissue isolation and original cell population analysis discussed. Finally, specific technical issues such as cell clustering, dead cell removal and non-specific antibody binding are considered and potential solutions offered. The solutions offered may provide a starting point to improve the quality of cell separations achieved by both the novice and experienced researcher alike.
Sonography of Portal Vein Tumor Thrombus Associated With HCC
Authors: Matuzak Amber R.
Published: December 2012

Portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT) is a complication of liver disease, specifically hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It occurs secondary to direct invasion of tumor into the portal venous system. PVTT is associated with a poor prognosis, therefore identification and differentiation of malignant from benign thrombus is very important in the treatment of the patient. Sonography can be a useful tool in the detection of malignant thrombus.
The Case of the Wandering Spleen
Authors: Jones Brandy , Callahan Jodi , Cole Alisa , Hawking Nancy , Diment David , Browning Piper
Published: December 2012

Wandering spleen is a condition that describes the movement of the spleen to an ectopic location inside the abdomen/pelvis as a result of weakened peritoneal ligaments. Wandering spleens are rare, with a less than 0.2% incidence being reported. Diagnosing a wandering spleen can be challenging because of the wide range of findings and the oftentimes vagueness of the patient’s symptoms. The most common ectopic location of the spleen is the left mid-abdomen. The most frequent treatment for wandering spleen includes splenopexy or splenectomy, depending on the complications associated with the condition.
Detection of a Unilateral Mucinous Borderline Ovarian Tumor With Sonography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Hennessey Arin
Published: December 2012

Various modalities of diagnostic imaging have been proven to be adequate in the characterization and diagnosis of ovarian neoplasms. This case study investigates a unique form of mucinous borderline ovarian tumor consisting of both intestinal and Müllerian types. Borderline tumors are considered an intermediate form of neoplasm between the benign and malignant form. Shortly after sonographic and magnetic resonance imaging, the large tumor was removed and the patient was determined to have an excellent prognosis. The utilization of sonography in diagnosing this tumor is discussed, demonstrating the significance of the technology.
Standardised classification of pre-release development in male-brooding pipefish, seahorses, and seadragons (Family Syngnathidae)
Authors: Sommer Stefan , Whittington Camilla M , Wilson Anthony B
Published: December 2012

Background

Members of the family Syngnathidae share a unique reproductive mode termed male pregnancy. Males carry eggs in specialised brooding structures for several weeks and release free-swimming offspring. Here we describe a systematic investigation of pre-release development in syngnathid fishes, reviewing available data for 17 species distributed across the family. This work is complemented by in-depth examinations of the straight-nosed pipefish Nerophis ophidion, the black-striped pipefish Syngnathus abaster, and the potbellied seahorse Hippocampus abdominalis.

Results

We propose a standardised classification of early syngnathid development that extends from the activation of the egg to the release of newborn. The classification consists of four developmental periods – early embryogenesis, eye development, snout formation, and juvenile – which are further divided into 11 stages. Stages are characterised by morphological traits that are easily visible in live and preserved specimens using incident-light microscopy.

Conclusions

Our classification is derived from examinations of species representing the full range of brooding-structure complexity found in the Syngnathidae, including tail-brooding as well as trunk-brooding species, which represent independent evolutionary lineages. We chose conspicuous common traits as diagnostic features of stages to allow for rapid and consistent staging of embryos and larvae across the entire family. In view of the growing interest in the biology of the Syngnathidae, we believe that the classification proposed here will prove useful for a wide range of studies on the unique reproductive biology of these male-brooding fish.
Deep divergences and extensive phylogeographic structure in a clade of lowland tropical salamanders
Authors: Rovito Sean M , Parra-Olea Gabriela , Vásquez-Almazán Carlos R , Luna-Reyes Roberto , Wake David B
Published: December 2012

Background

The complex geological history of Mesoamerica provides the opportunity to study the impact of multiple biogeographic barriers on population differentiation. We examine phylogeographic patterns in a clade of lowland salamanders (BolitoglossasubgenusNanotriton) using two mitochondrial genes and one nuclear gene. We use several phylogeographic analyses to infer the history of this clade and test hypotheses regarding the geographic origin of species and location of genetic breaks within species. We compare our results to those for other taxa to determine if historical events impacted different species in a similar manner.

Results

Deep genetic divergence between species indicates that they are relatively old, and two of the three widespread species show strong phylogeographic structure. Comparison of mtDNA and nuclear gene trees shows no evidence of hybridization or introgression between species. Isolated populations ofBolitoglossa rufescensfrom Los Tuxtlas region constitute a separate lineage based on molecular data and morphology, and divergence between Los Tuxtlas and other areas appears to predate the arrival ofB. rufescensin other areas west of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. The Isthmus appears responsible for Pliocene vicariance withinB. rufescens, as has been shown for other taxa. The Motagua-Polochic fault system does not appear to have caused population vicariance, unlike in other systems.

Conclusions

Species ofNanotritonhave responded to some major geological events in the same manner as other taxa, particularly in the case of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. The deep divergence of the Los Tuxtlas populations ofB. rufescensfrom other populations highlights the contribution of this volcanic system to patterns of regional endemism, and morphological differences observed in the Los Tuxtlas populations suggests that they may represent an undescribed species ofBolitoglossa. The absence of phylogeographic structure inB. nympha, in contrast to the other widespread species in the subgenus, may be due to historical forest contraction and more recent range expansion in the region. Phylogeographic data provide substantial insight into the evolutionary history of these morphologically similar species of salamanders, and contribute to our understanding of factors that have generated the high biodiversity of Mesoamerica.
Diversification of the expanded teleost-specific toll-like receptor family in Atlantic cod, Gadus morhua
Authors: Sundaram Arvind YM , Kiron Viswanath , Dopazo Joaquín , Fernandes Jorge MO
Published: December 2012

Background

Toll-like receptors (Tlrs) are major molecular pattern recognition receptors of the innate immune system. Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) is the first vertebrate known to have lost most of the mammalian Tlr orthologues, particularly all bacterial recognising and other cell surface Tlrs. On the other hand, its genome encodes a unique repertoire of teleost-specific Tlrs. The aim of this study was to investigate if these duplicate Tlrs have been retained through adaptive evolution to compensate for the lack of other cell surface Tlrs in the cod genome.

Results

In this study, onetlr21, 12tlr22and twotlr23genes representing the teleost-specific Tlr family have been cloned and characterised in cod. Phylogenetic analysis grouped alltlr22genes under a single clade, indicating that the multiple cod paralogues have arisen through lineage-specific duplications. Alltlrs examined were transcribed in immune-related tissues as well as in stomach, gut and gonads of adult cod and were differentially expressed during early development. Thesetlrs were also differentially regulated following immune challenge by immersion withVibrio anguillarum, indicating their role in the immune response. An increase in water temperature from 4 to 12°C was associated with a 5.5-fold down-regulation oftlr22dtranscript levels in spleen. Maximum likelihood analysis with different evolution models revealed thattlr22genes are under positive selection. A total of 24 codons were found to be positively selected, of which 19 are in the ligand binding region of ectodomain.

Conclusion

Positive selection pressure coupled with experimental evidence of differential expression strongly support the hypothesis that teleost-specifictlrparalogues in cod are undergoing neofunctionalisation and can recognise bacterial pathogen-associated molecular patterns to compensate for the lack of other cell surface Tlrs.
Functional α7β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors expressed in hippocampal interneurons exhibit high sensitivity to pathological level of amyloid β peptides
Authors: Liu Qiang , Huang Yao , Shen Jianxin , Steffensen Scott , Wu Jie
Published: December 2012

Background

β-amyloid (Aβ) accumulation is described as a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Aβ perturbs a number of synaptic components including nicotinic acetylcholine receptors containing α7 subunits (α7-nAChRs), which are abundantly expressed in the hippocampus and found on GABAergic interneurons. We have previously demonstrated the existence of a novel, heteromeric α7β2-nAChR in basal forebrain cholinergic neurons that exhibits high sensitivity to acute Aβ exposure. To extend our previous work, we evaluated the expression and pharmacology of α7β2-nAChRs in hippocampal interneurons and their sensitivity to Aβ.

Results

GABAergic interneurons in the CA1 subregion of the hippocampus expressed functional α7β2-nAChRs, which were characterized by relatively slow whole-cell current kinetics, pharmacological sensitivity to dihydro-β-erythroidine (DHβE), a nAChR β2* subunit selective blocker, and α7 and β2 subunit interaction using immunoprecipitation assay. In addition, α7β2-nAChRs were sensitive to 1 nM oligomeric Aβ. Similar effects were observed in identified hippocampal interneurons prepared from GFP-GAD mice.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that Aβ modulation of cholinergic signaling in hippocampal GABAergic interneurons via α7β2-nAChRs could be an early and critical event in Aβ-induced functional abnormalities of hippocampal function, which may be relevant to learning and memory deficits in AD.
OPTIMAS-DW: A comprehensive transcriptomics, metabolomics, ionomics, proteomics and phenomics data resource for maize
Authors: Colmsee Christian , Mascher Martin , Czauderna Tobias , Hartmann Anja , Schlüter Urte , Zellerhoff Nina , Schmitz Jessica , Bräutigam Andrea , Pick Thea R , Alter Philipp , Gahrtz Manfred , Witt Sandra , Fernie Alisdair R , Börnke Frederik , Fahnenstich Holger , Bucher Marcel , Dresselhaus Thomas , Weber Andreas PM , Schreiber Falk , Scholz Uwe , Sonnewald Uwe
Published: December 2012

Background

Maize is a major crop plant, grown for human and animal nutrition, as well as a renewable resource for bioenergy. When looking at the problems of limited fossil fuels, the growth of the world’s population or the world’s climate change, it is important to find ways to increase the yield and biomass of maize and to study how it reacts to specific abiotic and biotic stress situations. Within the OPTIMAS systems biology project maize plants were grown under a large set of controlled stress conditions, phenotypically characterised and plant material was harvested to analyse the effect of specific environmental conditions or developmental stages. Transcriptomic, metabolomic, ionomic and proteomic parameters were measured from the same plant material allowing the comparison of results across different omics domains. A data warehouse was developed to store experimental data as well as analysis results of the performed experiments.

Description

The OPTIMAS Data Warehouse (OPTIMAS-DW) is a comprehensive data collection for maize and integrates data from different data domains such as transcriptomics, metabolomics, ionomics, proteomics and phenomics. Within the OPTIMAS project, a 44K oligo chip was designed and annotated to describe the functions of the selected unigenes. Several treatment- and plant growth stage experiments were performed and measured data were filled into data templates and imported into the data warehouse by a Java based import tool. A web interface allows users to browse through all stored experiment data in OPTIMAS-DW including all data domains. Furthermore, the user can filter the data to extract information of particular interest. All data can be exported into different file formats for further data analysis and visualisation. The data analysis integrates data from different data domains and enables the user to find answers to different systems biology questions. Finally, maize specific pathway information is provided.

Conclusions

With OPTIMAS-DW a data warehouse for maize was established, which is able to handle different data domains, comprises several analysis results that will support researchers within their work and supports systems biological research in particular. The system is available at http://www.optimas-bioenergy.org/optimas_dw.
Search strategies to identify reports on “off-label” drug use in EMBASE
Authors: Mesgarpour Bita , Müller Markus , Herkner Harald
Published: December 2012

Background

Medications are frequently prescribed outside their regulatory approval (off-label) by physicians particularly where appropriate therapies are not available. However, the risk/benefit ratio of drugs in off-label use needs to be critically appraised because it may differ from approved on-label usage. Therefore, an extensive exploration of current evidence on clinical data is well-advised. The objective of this study was to develop a search strategy that facilitates detection of the off-label drug use documents in EMBASE via OvidSP.

Methods

We constructed two sets of gold standards from relevant records to off-label drug use by a sensitive search of MEDLINE and EMBASE. Search queries, including search words and strings, were conceived based on definition of off-label use of medications as well as text analysis of 500 randomly selected relevant documents. The selected terms were searched in EMBASE (from 1988 to 2011) and their retrieval performance was compared with the gold standards. We developed a sensitivity-maximizing, and a sensitivity- and precision-maximizing search strategy.

Results

From 4067 records relevant to off-label drug use in our full gold standard set, 3846 records were retrievable from EMBASE. “off label*.af.” was the most sensitive single term (overall sensitivity 77.5%, sensitivity within EMBASE 81.9%, precision 88.1%). The highest sensitive search strategy was achieved by combining 36 search queries with overall sensitivity of 94.0% and precision of 69.5%. An optimal sensitive and precise search strategy was yielded precision 87.4% at the expense of decreasing overall sensitivity to 89.4%.

Conclusion

We developed highly sensitive search strategies to enhance the retrieval of studies on off-label drug use in OvidSP EMBASE.