bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Romantic Relationships Conceptualized as a Judgment and Decision-Making Domain
Authors: Joel Samantha , MacDonald Geoff , Plaks Jason E.
Published: December 2013

We review the emerging evidence suggesting that the largely separate research areas of romantic relationships and judgment and decision making (JDM) can usefully inform each other. First, we present evidence that decisions in more traditional JDM domains (e.g., consumerism, economics) share important features with romantic-relationship decisions, including the use of formal decision strategies (e.g., the investment model), intuitive shortcuts (e.g., the availability heuristic), and anticipated emotions (e.g., affective forecasting). In turn, we present evidence suggesting that incorporating key concepts from the field of relationships (e.g., need to belong, attachment style) can enrich traditional JDM domains. These largely unrecognized overlaps between relationship decisions and decisions made in more traditional decision-making domains suggest that the fields of relationship science and JDM—each of which contains a wealth of existing theory, findings, and research tools—could be used to illuminate one another for mutual benefit.
Enhanced Emotional Memory
Authors: Talmi Deborah
Published: December 2013

Memory for emotional events is typically more vivid and accurate than memory for neutral ones. The modulation model focuses on the consolidation of memory traces to provide a partial account of enhanced emotional memory. Mediation theory focuses on encoding and retrieval to explain the selective enhancement of memory for emotional aspects of a complex event and why emotional memory also can be enhanced immediately after the experience, before consolidation has occurred. Mediation theory can therefore complement the modulation model, and together they may provide a more comprehensive account of human emotional memory.
The Benefits of Cognitive Disfluency
Authors: Alter Adam L.
Published: December 2013

People process new information along a continuum, from very fluently (with great ease) to very disfluently (with great difficulty). Researchers have long recognized that people prefer fluently processed stimuli across a broad range of dimensions. A more recent stream of research suggests that disfluency sometimes produces superior outcomes. In this review, I suggest that disfluency prompts people to process information more carefully, deeply, and abstractly, and mitigates the social problems of overdisclosure and reflexive xenophobia. I conclude by raising several remaining questions that warrant empirical attention.
Reporting and scrutiny of reported cases in four jurisdictions where assisted dying is lawful
Authors: Lewis Penney , Black Isra
Published: December 2013

This article examines the reporting requirements in four jurisdictions in which assisted dying (euthanasia and/or assisted suicide) is legally regulated: the Netherlands, Belgium, Oregon and Switzerland. These jurisdictions were chosen because each had a substantial amount of empirical evidence available. We assess the available empirical evidence on reporting and what it tells us about the effectiveness of such requirements in encouraging reporting. We also look at the nature of requirements on regulatory bodies to refer cases not meeting the legal criteria to either prosecutorial or disciplinary authorities. We assess the evidence available on the outcomes of reported cases, including the rate of referral and the ultimate disposition of referred cases.
The evolution of financial accounting in Portugal since the 1960s: A new institutional economics perspective
Authors: Caria Ana Alexandra , Rodrigues Lúcia Lima
Published: December 2013

Using a new institutional economics perspective, this article analyses the economic and political context that led to accounting standardisation in Portugal from 1977 onwards and to the recent adoption of the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). The process of accounting standardisation was related to the tax reform of 1963. Additionally, evidence was found that there were also political pressures related to the need to improve the national systems of accounts. The lack of development of the accounting profession and the emphasis on legality substantiated the need for enforcement in the law in 1977 of a standardised accounting plan that was similar to other plans in Europe, namely the French Plan. In a legalist country like Portugal, the modelling of national standards on the international ones and the definitive adoption of adapted IFRS in 2010 by unlisted companies had to be complemented by the enactment in law of the accounting regulations.
Assimilation and Americanisation in the Progressive Era: Price, Waterhouse & Company in the US, 1890–1914
Authors: Lee Thomas A
Published: December 2013

This article studies assimilation and Americanisation in a British-owned accountancy firm in the American Progressive Era. Due to shortages of competent American accountants, assimilation was a major task for Price, Waterhouse & Company in the US (PWCUS) between 1890 and 1914. The process is analysed by prior qualifications and experience, social class origins, and career tenure and locations associable with PWCUS personnel. Americanisation was a response by PWCUS to anti-immigrant nativism during the Progressive Era. The process is analysed through recruitment of American accountants, acquisition of American professional qualifications and citizenship, and involvement in American professional associations. By 1914, although PWCUS had assimilated numerous immigrants with potentially useful attributes, it had achieved only partial Americanisation. At this point, the firm’s personnel consisted of an immigrant majority and an American minority. The British identity of PWCUS was accentuated by its use of British accountancy standards in American business engagements. PWCUS remained an American firm with a British persona because of its ownership, personnel and practices.
Academic Achievement and School-Wide Positive Behavior Supports
Authors: Gage Nicholas A. , Sugai George , Lewis Timothy J. , Brzozowy Sarah
Published: December 2013

School-wide positive behavior supports (SWPBS) is designed to improve learning environments by increasing the (a) amount of time students are in school (e.g., decreased out-of-school suspensions), (b) proportion of minutes students are engaged in instruction, and (c) level of academic engagement of students during instruction. The underlying assumption is that by improving social behavior, schools have more time to deliver effective instruction. However, to date, this assumption has not been fully investigated. The goal of this study was to explicitly examine the impact of SWPBS on school-wide academic achievement. First, a comprehensive review of the SWPBS literature was conducted to determine the impact of SWPBS on academic achievement. Then, a longitudinal state-level analysis of schools implementing SWPBS and propensity score-matched control schools was conducted to identify differential effects. Results indicated little to no relationship between SWPBS alone and school-level academic achievement. Implications, considerations, and future directions are discussed.
Causal Effects of Inclusion on Postsecondary Education Outcomes of Individuals With High-Incidence Disabilities
Authors: Rojewski Jay W. , Lee In Heok , Gregg Noel
Published: December 2013

Using data from the National Longitudinal Transition Study–2 results of a propensity score analysis revealed significant causal effects for inclusive placement in high school on postsecondary education outcomes for adolescents with learning disabilities or emotional-behavior disorders 2 years after high school completion. Students earning 80% or more of their academic credits in general education settings (inclusive placement) were twice as likely to enroll and persist in postsecondary education when compared with students receiving fewer credits in inclusive classroom settings. These findings extend results of past descriptive and correlational studies by detecting a direct causal link between inclusion and postsecondary education.
Development of a Finnish Community of Game Scholars
Authors: Harviainen J. Tuomas , Lainema Timo , Suominen Jaakko , Soinila Erno
Published: December 2013

In this editorial, we describe the emergence of a thriving Finnish community of game and simulation/game studies scholars. Central elements in this development were the coaching review system of Simulation & Gaming, scholars’ intentional networking across traditional research paradigm lines, and a mentoring system that has helped beginning researchers hone their skills with the help of more experienced colleagues. As a result, Finland now hosts a vibrant simulation/game and game studies community, in which scholars from previously isolated paradigms work together.
Improving End-of-Life Care in Hospitals
Authors: Bussmann Sonja , Muders Pia , Zahrt-Omar Corinna Aruna , Escobar Pinzon Luis Carlos , Claus Matthias , Schildmann Jan , Weber Martin
Published: December 2013

Objectives:

To explore and document the experiences and expectancies of bereaved family members concerning the end-of-life (EOL) care of their deceased relative in a general hospital setting.

Methods:

Cross-sectional study using a questionnaire that included open-ended questions. Free-text answers were evaluated with qualitative content analysis. A total of 270 family members provided information about improvements in inpatient care.

Results:

Families described structural deficiencies. Furthermore, they requested a more holistic patient health care beyond medical treatment and expressed the wish for more professional support for families.

Discussion:

The view of bereaved families confirmed the need for improvement in general hospital EOL care. The results underline the importance of a more holistic EOL care. The application of communication skills training, structured family meetings, and integrated pathways is recommended.
The Benefits of Rehabilitation for Palliative Care Patients
Authors: Barawid Edward , Covarrubias Natalia , Tribuzio Bianca , Liao Solomon
Published: December 2013

Palliative care requires an interdisciplinary team approach to provide the best care for patients with life-threatening illnesses. Like palliative medicine, rehabilitation also uses an interdisciplinary approach to treating patients with chronic illnesses. This review article focuses on rehabilitation interventions that can be beneficial in patients with late stage illnesses. Rehabilitation may be useful in improving the quality of life by palliating function, mobility, activities of daily living, pain relief, endurance, and the psyche of a patient while helping to maintain as much independence as possible, leading to a decrease in burden on caregivers and family. Rehabilitative services are underutilized in the palliative care setting, and more research is needed to address how patients may benefit as they approach the end of their lives.
Using Computation Curriculum-Based Measurement Probes for Error Pattern Analysis
Authors: Dennis Minyi Shih , Calhoon Mary Beth , Olson Christopher L. , Williams Cara
Published: December 2013

This article describes how curriculum-based measurement–computation (CBM-C) mathematics probes can be used in combination with error pattern analysis (EPA) to pinpoint difficulties in basic computation skills for students who struggle with learning mathematics. Both assessment procedures provide ongoing assessment data affording teachers up-to-date information for modification of instructional methodology and individualization of instruction based specifically on students’ computation difficulties. Results from three action research projects demonstrate positive gains, with only 8 weeks of instruction, using CBM-C combined with EPA for middle school students who struggle with learning mathematics.
Transnational practices in communities of task and communities of learning
Authors: Hydle Katja M , Kvålshaugen Ragnhild , Breunig Karl Joachim
Published: December 2013

This article explores situated practices in communities that provide transnational services. Communities of practice generally focus on reinforcing local ties. Our study identifies two distinctive but interdependent communities of practice that are transnational and virtual: one community consists of employees who share work and tasks, labeled communities of task; the other consists of employees who jointly share and create knowledge, labeled communities of learning. We extend the existing community of practice literature by providing a heterogeneous understanding of the different types of situated practices, claiming that the situated practices of sharing work and sharing knowledge stem from the type of participation within the communities, either through service relays or virtual servicing. Empirical data in this study were collected from two transnational professional service firms. Our study shows that both types of communities benefit from managerial facilitation, even though one community type is more formal and the other is informal.
Intersectional discrimination in the European legal systems
Authors: Onufrio Maria Vittoria
Published: December 2013

In the past few years, the phenomenon of multi-grounded discrimination has been debated in the European legal and socio-logical arena under the term “intersectional discrimination”. Intersectional discrimination is referred to where an individual is discriminated against on several grounds at the same time and in such a way that these are mutually constitutive and inseparable. Over time, new manifestations of disadvantage at the intersections between gender, religion, race, and disability emerged in a multicultural Europe. Nevertheless, the European legislature seems to follow a single-axis approach banning only single-grounded discrimination. Although some European courts tried to deal with cases of intersectional discrimination and a number of non-governmental organizations and researchers have devoted considerable time and resources in addressing the effect of multiple forms of discrimination, there is an urgent need to ensure full and systematic recognition of intersectional discrimination at the legislative level. Part I of this paper will provide an overview and analysis of the European Union (EU) anti-discrimination Directives. Part II shows if and to what extent European countries acknowledge and address the phenomenon of intersectional discrimination. Part III will call for a more systematic legal response and propose a new EU Directive addressing intersectional discrimination.
Comparing convivialities: Dreams and realities of living-with-difference
Authors: Nowicka Magdalena , Vertovec Steven
Published: December 2013

Conviviality across a number of disciplines now conveys a deeper concern with the human condition and how we think about human modes of togetherness. This collection of essays illustrates some of the ways conviviality can be used as an analytical tool to ask and explore the ways and conditions for living together. This introduction surveys a number of key ideas and meanings of ‘conviviality’ across various disciplines providing the readers with an overview of usages and understandings of the term. It identifies gaps in the existing literature, proposes how a comparative perspective elucidates the concepts and shows how the articles within this Special Issue contribute analytically to our understanding of conviviality.
Composite meaning, flexible ranges, and multi-level conditions of conviviality: Exploring the polymorph
Authors: Morawska Ewa
Published: December 2013

In this article, I present, first, a composite definition of conviviality whose constitutive components are conceived in terms of degrees rather than as present-or-absent conditions. Next, I offer a preliminary list of macro-, micro- and individual-level circumstances which co-shape conviviality into different arrangements and intensities. Within the framework of the structuration theory which informs my discussion, I then identify the characteristics of cultures of conviviality as different from the orientations and practices of the individuals who (re)create them, and I propose a distinction between the conditions contributing to the emergence of cultures of conviviality and the circumstances responsible for their endurance over time. In the last part of the article, I identify different goals of case-based investigations and propose some strategies of comparative analysis of the contributing circumstances and different forms and ‘contents’ of conviviality, and I illustrate it with examples taken from my previous studies of ground-level multiculturalism in different locations.
Bolstering system-justifying beliefs in response to social exclusion
Authors: Hess Yanine D. , Ledgerwood Alison
Published: December 2013

Integrating research on social exclusion with the broader literature on system justification and flexible responses to threats, we propose a novel coping strategy that individuals may use in the face of social exclusion. In particular, we suggest that because exclusion often feels unexpected, it will lead individuals to bolster the system-justifying worldview that people get what they deserve, as excluded individuals attempt to cognitively cope with the threatened order and predictability of their world. Supporting our prediction, in Study 1, social exclusion (vs. inclusion) led participants to increasingly endorse descriptive meritocratic beliefs suggesting that hard work leads to success in society. This effect was mediated by the perceived unexpectedness of the interaction outcome, providing key evidence for our hypothesized process. Study 2 used individual differences in rejection sensitivity to provide further support for our unexpectedness account, demonstrating that exclusion heightens meritocratic beliefs only insofar as participants tend to find exclusions unexpected. The results expand our understanding of the cognitive mechanisms by which people cope with social exclusion and highlight the malleability of system-justifying ideologies in response to interpersonal factors.
Discourse architecture, ideology, and democratic norms in online political discussion
Authors: Freelon Deen
Published: December 2013

Studies of political discussions online have been dominated by approaches that focus exclusively on deliberation, ignoring other equally relevant communication norms. This study conducts a normative assessment of discussion spaces in two prominent web platforms—Twitter hashtags and newspaper comment sections devoted to particular political issues—applying the norms of communitarianism, liberal individualism, and deliberation. The platforms’ distinct design features and users’ left/right issue stances emerge as significant predictors of normative differences.
Challenges to public service news programmes in Spain: Professionals and viewers’ discourses wavering between institutional reform and counter-reform
Authors: García de Madariaga José M , Lamuedra Graván María , Tucho Fernández Fernando
Published: December 2013

This article presents the results of a study analysing the perceptions held by both Spanish public service television (TVE) news professionals and viewers as regards the main challenges faced by Spanish public service broadcasting (PSB), some of which are also common to European PSB. The global changes of the last decade have created a new social, economic, political and technological context to which PBS channels must adapt. Achieving the pluralism demanded by public institutions, differentiating themselves from commercial channels and forging a closer relationship with their audiences are three of the chief hurdles that must be overcome. PSB channels in the Mediterranean region are faced with a further obstacle: maintaining their independence from government, an issue that has led TVE to implement a number of reforms and counter-reforms in the period from 2006–2012. Regarded as a symbol of the public service duty of state-owned broadcasters, news programmes are central to achieving these goals. Therefore, this work intends to contribute to a research agenda, linking audience research to production studies and analysing the broader media policy context (Livingstone, 1998: 2–5), by approaching the complex dynamics between communication policies and specific interpretations of media discourses in Europe. In the case of Spain, this analysis shows that in the period from 2006–2011, PSB news professionals highly valued their new-found independence. However, the seemingly modest increase in viewers’ support does not bode well for the healthy development of PSB in Spain in a scenario in which institutional support is weak.
Journalism-as-a-conversation: An experimental test of socio-psychological/technological dimensions in journalist-citizen collaborations
Authors: Marchionni Doreen
Published: December 2013

References to the concept journalism-as-a-conversation abound in audience-centered literatures. Largely missing, though, are clear operational definitions. This exploratory study sought to help close that gap by finding a way to measure conversational journalism in terms of key socio-psychological and technological dimensions, then to test it on perceived credibility and expertise in newspaper sites. Findings suggest conversational journalism is powerful but nuanced. Conversation features most predictive of credibility and expertise were audience members’ perceived similarity to a journalist and that journalist’s online interactivity with the audience.
The effects of perceived stigma on quality of life outcomes in persons with early-stage dementia: Longitudinal findings: Part 2
Authors: Burgener Sandy C , Buckwalter Kathleen , Perkhounkova Yelena , Liu Megan F
Published: December 2013

This article is the second report from a study examining perceived stigma in persons with dementia with findings regarding the association between stigma and quality of life outcomes being reported here. Fifty persons with dementia and 47 family caregivers were sampled, with data being collected at baseline and six, 12, and 18 months. The modified Stigma Impact Scale measured perceived stigma. Quality of life outcomes included: depression, anxiety, behavioral symptoms, personal control, physical health, self-esteem, social support, and activity participation. Linear mixed model or generalized linear mixed model (for depression) analyses revealed that some aspect of perceived stigma was associated with each outcome. Social rejection was associated with anxiety, behavioral symptoms, health, and activity participation. Internalized shame was associated with anxiety, personal control, health, self-esteem, social support understanding and assistance, and activity participation. Finally, social isolation was associated with depression, anxiety, personal control, health, self-esteem, social support understanding, and activity participation. The complexity of relationships between perceived stigma and quality of life outcomes is evident from these findings.
‘What I want to do is get half a dozen of them and go and see Simon Cowell’: Reflecting on participation and outcomes for people with dementia taking part in a creative musical project
Authors: McCabe Louise , Greasley-Adams Corinne , Goodson Katy
Published: December 2013

This paper presents the findings from an evaluation of a creative musical project led by Scottish Opera. The project included people with dementia and their carers in the development, writing, design and performance of a musical production about their experiences of love. The project involved professional singers, artists and choreographers from the opera company. Activities involved practice sessions and performances. People with dementia and their carers reflected on positive outcomes from the project including improved confidence; being part of a group; improved physical strength and people seeing them in a new way. Within the evaluation framework they also reported on how the project had been run and gave ideas for future development. Key elements in the success of this project were the involvement of professionals, the kudos of working with a national organisation and the performances that, while daunting, provided unique and rewarding experiences.
The social positioning of older people living with Alzheimer’s disease who scream in long-term care homes
Authors: Bourbonnais Anne , Ducharme Francine
Published: December 2013

This article describes the social positioning of older people living with Alzheimer’s disease who scream in a long-term care home. Few studies have focused on the social positions taken by older people, their family and formal caregivers during interaction and their effects on screams. A secondary data analysis was conducted using Harré and Van Langenhove’s positioning theory. The results show that older people are capable of positioning and repositioning themselves in relational patterns. Family and formal caregivers position older people who scream according to their beliefs about their lived experience. They also react emotionally to older people and try to influence their behaviors. Understanding the social positioning of older people with Alzheimer’s disease brought out their capacities and their caregivers’ concerns for their well-being. Interventions should focus on these strengths and on promoting healthy relations in the triads to enhance quality of care in long-term care homes.
Long-Lasting Effects of a New Memory Self-efficacy Training for Stroke Patients
Authors: Aben Laurien , Heijenbrok-Kal Majanka H. , Ponds Rudolf W. H. M. , Busschbach Jan J. V. , Ribbers Gerard M.
Published: December 2013

Background and purpose. This study aims to determine the long-term effects of a new Memory Self-efficacy (MSE) training program for stroke patients on MSE, depression, and quality of life. Methods. In a randomized controlled trial, patients were allocated to a MSE training or a peer support group. Outcome measures were MSE, depression, and quality of life, measured with the Metamemory-In-Adulthood questionnaire, Center for Epidemiological Studies–Depression Scale (CES-D), and the Who-Qol Bref questionnaire, respectively. We used linear mixed models to compare the outcomes of both groups immediately after training, after 6 months, and after 12 months, adjusted for baseline. Results. In total, 153 former inpatients from 2 rehabilitation centers were randomized—77 to the experimental and 76 to the control group. MSE increased significantly more in the experimental group and remained significantly higher than in the control group after 6 and 12 months (B = 0.42; P = .010). Psychological quality of life also increased more in the experimental group but not significantly (B = 0.09; P = .077). However, in the younger subgroup of patients (<65 years old), psychological quality of life significantly improved in the experimental group compared to the control group and remained significantly higher over time (B = 0.14; P = .030). Other outcome measures were not significantly different between both groups. Conclusions. An MSE training program improved MSE and psychological quality of life in stroke patients aged <65 years. These effects persisted during 12 months of follow-up.
Experiences of hypoglycaemia unawareness amongst people with Type 1 diabetes: A qualitative investigation
Authors: Rankin D , Elliott J , Heller S , Amiel S , Rogers H , DeZoysa N , Lawton J
Published: December 2013

Objectives

To explore the experiences of people who have hypoglycaemia unawareness and its impact on their everyday lives.

Methods

In-depth interviews with 38 people with Type 1 diabetes who have hypoglycaemia unawareness. Data analysis used an inductive, thematic approach.

Results

Participants reported imposed and self-imposed changes to their lives following onset of hypoglycaemia unawareness including: leaving employment, curtailing pastimes and spending more time at home or being supervised by others. However, some reported getting on with life by downplaying the significance and impact of their condition, which could put their health and safety at risk. Many relied on frequent self-monitoring of blood glucose and/or prompting from others to detect hypoglycaemia. Some expressed concerns about becoming a burden on family and/or responding in irrational and aggressive ways to others’ suggestions to test for and treat hypoglycaemia. Participants reported responding best to composed and directive prompts from family. Health professionals mainly advised on clinical aspects, and did not enquire about the emotional and psychosocial impact of hypoglycaemia unawareness.

Discussion

Hypoglycaemia unawareness can have a profound impact on people’s confidence, careers and personal relationships. Healthcare professionals should pay more attention during consultations to the emotional and social aspects of living with hypoglycaemia unawareness.
Embryology of familial (non-syndromic) brachydactyly of the hand
Authors: Al-Qattan M. M.
Published: December 2013

Isolated familial non-syndromic brachydactyly is interesting from the embryological point of view because the phenotypes of isolated brachydactyly are frequently overlapping, yet they are caused by different gene mutations and the ring finger is frequently relatively preserved. We review the embryology of isolated familial brachydactyly with special attention to these two features.
Homodigital artery flap reconstruction for fingertip amputation: a comparative study of the oblique triangular neurovascular advancement flap and the reverse digital artery island flap
Authors: Usami S. , Kawahara S. , Yamaguchi Y. , Hirase T.
Published: December 2013

This fingertip reconstruction study retrospectively compared sensory recovery and active range of motion outcomes in neurovascular island advancement and reverse digital artery island flaps. Seventeen oblique triangular flaps and 14 reverse digital artery island flaps were performed for nail bed level fingertip amputations (Ishikawa subzone II). There was no significant difference between the two procedures in the Semmes–Weinstein monofilament test and range of motion results. For static and moving two-point discrimination tests, however, those with a reverse digital artery island flap required a longer period for sensory recovery compared to those with an oblique triangular advancement flap. This trend equilibrated at 12 months after surgery showing no significant difference in both static and moving two-point discrimination tests between the procedures.
Knowledge regarding assessment of sepsis among Greek nurses
Authors: Stamataki P , Papazafiropoulou A , Kalaitzi S , Sarafis P , Kagialari M , Adamou E , Diplou A , Stravopodis G , Papadimitriou A , Giamarellou E , Karaiskou A ,   on behalf of the Hellenic Sepsis Study Group
Published: December 2013

The aim of the present survey was to evaluate nurses’ knowledge regarding sepsis in Greece. A total of 835 registered nurses (125 males/710 females) from tertiary hospitals in Greece were interviewed from April 2008 to December 2009. All participants completed a self-completed questionnaire about assessment of sepsis (see Figure 1). Basic demographic information was recorded. The protocol and questionnaire were approved by the Ethics Committees of participating hospitals. The majority of the participants answered correctly regarding awareness of systemic inflammation – 83.5% regarding the role of temperature in the definition of systemic inflammation; 81.3% regarding the importance of white blood cell count; and 49.9% and 46.3% regarding the role of tachycardia and tachypnoea, respectively. The same pattern was observed regarding the answers about the assessment of sepsis – 79.4% of the nurses answered correctly about the role of blood pressure; 70.9% about the role of urine volume; and 43.5% about the importance of oxygen saturation. Finally, 57.2% of the participants confirmed that in practice they followed the current guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of patients with sepsis. The study has established baseline data with which future studies can be compared.
The Anthropocene Review: Its significance, implications and the rationale for a new transdisciplinary journal
Authors: Oldfield Frank , Barnosky Anthony D , Dearing John , Fischer-Kowalski Marina , McNeill John , Steffen Will , Zalasiewicz Jan
Published: December 2013

Human activities now play a major, integral and ever-increasing role in the functioning of the Earth System. This fact lies at the heart of the notion of the Anthropocene. Documenting, understanding and responding to the present and future challenges posed by the recent, dramatic changes in the relationship between humans and their environment thus becomes an imperative for human society. This editorial presents the rationale for engaging with the Anthropocene across a wide range of disciplines from engineering and environmental science to the social sciences and humanities. This essentially transdisciplinary engagement requires the establishment of a new journal, The Anthropocene Review, the scope of which is outlined in this editorial.
Understanding Residential Polarization in a Globalizing City
Authors: Aliu Ibrahim Rotimi , Ajala Olayinka A.
Published: December 2013

This study examines the spatial polarization that characterizes the dwellings in the African leading megacity of Lagos. Data were collected through an extensive housing survey carried out on 1,485 household residences in 56 wards within 12 administrative units in Lagos megacity. The spatial dimension of residential density in the city generates three unique residential patterns which are low residential density (LRD), medium residential density (MRD), and high residential density (HRD) areas. Descriptive and multivariate inferential statistics were used to render explanations for the spatial variations in the residential quality variables in the study area. Findings indicated that a clear difference exists in the residential quality within the three residential density areas of Lagos. High correlations exist among the residential quality indicators and housing type. The principal component analysis shows that residential polarizations that occur in the LRD, MRD, and HRD are based on the location, dwelling facility, interior and exterior quality, neighborhood integrity, social bond, barrier to entry, and security. The practical implications of residential polarizations along the residential density areas are explicitly expressed.
Circular cone convexity and some inequalities associated with circular cones
Authors: Zhou Jinchuan , Chen Jein-Shan , Hung Hao-Feng
Published: December 2013

The study of this paper consists of two aspects. One is characterizing the so-called circular cone convexity offby exploiting the second-order differentiability offLθ; the other is introducing the concepts of determinant and trace associated with circular cone and establishing their basic inequalities. These results show the essential role played by the angleθ, which gives us a new insight when looking into properties about circular cone.

MSC:26A27, 26B05, 26B35, 49J52, 90C33, 65K05.
Status quo of annotation of human disease variants
Authors: Venselaar Hanka , Camilli Franscesca , Gholizadeh Shima , Snelleman Marlou , Brunner Han G , Vriend Gert
Published: December 2013

Background

The ever on-going technical developments in Next Generation Sequencing have led to an increase in detected disease related mutations. Many bioinformatics approaches exist to analyse these variants, and of those the methods that use 3D structure information generally outperform those that do not use this information. 3D structure information today is available for about twenty percent of the human exome, and homology modelling can double that fraction. This percentage is rapidly increasing so that we can expect to analyse the majority of all human exome variants in the near future using protein structure information.

Results

We collected a test dataset of well-described mutations in proteins for which 3D-structure information is available. This test dataset was used to analyse the possibilities and the limitations of methods based on sequence information alone, hybrid methods, machine learning based methods, and structure based methods.

Conclusions

Our analysis shows that the use of structural features improves the classification of mutations. This study suggests strategies for future analyses of disease causing mutations, and it suggests which bioinformatics approaches should be developed to make progress in this field.
The Clostridium small RNome that responds to stress: the paradigm and importance of toxic metabolite stress in C. acetobutylicum
Authors: Venkataramanan Keerthi P , Jones Shawn W , McCormick Kevin P , Kunjeti Sridhara G , Ralston Matthew T , Meyers Blake C , Papoutsakis Eleftherios T
Published: December 2013

Background

Small non-coding RNAs (sRNA) are emerging as major components of the cell’s regulatory network, several possessing their own regulons. A few sRNAs have been reported as being involved in general or toxic-metabolite stress, mostly in Gram-prokaryotes, but hardly any in Gram+prokaryotes. Significantly, the role of sRNAs in the stress response remains poorly understood at the genome-scale level. It was previously shown that toxic-metabolite stress is one of the most comprehensive and encompassing stress responses in the cell, engaging both the general stress (or heat-shock protein, HSP) response as well as specialized metabolic programs.

Results

Using RNA deep sequencing (RNA-seq) we examined the sRNome ofC. acetobutylicumin response to the native but toxic metabolites, butanol and butyrate. 7.5% of the RNA-seq reads mapped to genome outside annotated ORFs, thus demonstrating the richness and importance of the small RNome. We used comparative expression analysis of 113 sRNAs we had previously computationally predicted, and of annotated mRNAs to set metrics for reliably identifying sRNAs from RNA-seq data, thus discovering 46 additional sRNAs. Under metabolite stress, these 159 sRNAs displayed distinct expression patterns, a select number of which was verified by Northern analysis. We identified stress-related expression of sRNAs affecting transcriptional (6S, S-box &solB) and translational (tmRNA & SRP-RNA) processes, and 65 likely targets of the RNA chaperone Hfq.

Conclusions

Our results support an important role for sRNAs for understanding the complexity of the regulatory network that underlies the stress response inClostridiumorganisms, whether related to normophysiology, pathogenesis or biotechnological applications.
Three types of dermal grafts in rats: the importance of mechanical property and structural design
Authors: You Chuangang , Wang Xingang , Zheng Yurong , Han Chunmao
Published: December 2013

Background

To determine how the mechanical property and micro structure affect tissue regeneration and angiogenesis, three types of scaffolds were studied. Acellular dermal matrices (ADM), produced from human skin by removing the epidermis and cells, has been widely used in wound healing because of its high mechanical strength. Collagen scaffolds (CS) incorporated with poly(glycolide-co-L-lactide) (PLGA) mesh forms a well-supported hybrid dermal equivalent poly(glycolide-co-L-lactide) mesh/collagen scaffolds (PMCS). We designed this scaffold to enhance the CS mechanical property. These three different dermal substitutes—ADM, CS and PMCSs are different in the tensile properties and microstructure.

Methods

Several basic physical characteristics of dermal substitutes were investigated in vitro. To characterize the angiogenesis and tissue regeneration, the materials were embedded subcutaneously in Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats. At weeks 1, 2, 4 and 8 post-surgery, the tissue specimens were harvested for histology, immunohistochemistry and real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR).

Results

In vitro studies demonstrated ADM had a higher Young’s modulus (6.94 MPa) rather than CS (0.19 MPa) and PMCS (3.33 MPa) groups in the wet state. Compared with ADMs and CSs, PMCSs with three-dimensional porous structures resembling skin and moderate mechanical properties can promote tissue ingrowth more quickly after implantation. In addition, the vascularization of the PMCS group is more obvious than that of the other two groups. The incorporation of a PLGA knitted mesh in CSs can improve the mechanical properties with little influence on the three-dimensional porous microstructure. After implantation, PMCSs can resist the contraction and promote cell infiltration, neotissue formation and blood vessel ingrowth, especially from the mesh side. Although ADM has high mechanical strength, its vascularization is poor because the pore size is too small. In conclusion, the mechanical properties of scaffolds are important for maintaining the three-dimensional microarchitecture of constructs used to induce tissue regeneration and vascularization.

Conclusion

The results illustrated that tissue regeneration requires the proper pore size and an appropriate mechanical property like PMCS which could satisfy these conditions to sustain growth.
Cost-effectiveness of health-related lifestyle advice delivered by peer or lay advisors: synthesis of evidence from a systematic review
Authors: Pennington Mark , Visram Shelina , Donaldson Cam , White Martin , Lhussier Monique , Deane Katherine , Forster Natalie , Carr Susan M
Published: December 2013

Background

Development of new peer or lay health-related lifestyle advisor (HRLA) roles is one response to the need to enhance public engagement in, and improve cost-effectiveness of, health improvement interventions. This article synthesises evidence on the cost-effectiveness of HRLA interventions aimed at adults in developed countries, derived from the first systematic review of the effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, equity and acceptability of different types of HRLA role.

Methods

The best available evidence on the cost-effectiveness of HRLA interventions was obtained using systematic searches of 20 electronic databases and key journals, as well as searches of the grey literature and the internet. Interventions were classified according to the primary health behaviour targeted and intervention costs were estimated where necessary. Lifetime health gains were estimated (in quality-adjusted life years, where possible), based on evidence of effectiveness of HRLAs in combination with published estimates of the lifetime health gains resulting from lifestyle changes, and assumptions over relapse. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios are reported.

Results

Evidence of the cost-effectiveness of HRLAs was identified from 24 trials included in the systematic review. The interventions were grouped into eight areas. We found little evidence of effectiveness of HRLAs for promotion of exercise/improved diets. Where HRLAs were effective cost-effectiveness varied considerably: Incremental Cost effectiveness Ratios were estimated at £6,000 for smoking cessation; £14,000 for a telephone based type 2 diabetes management; and £250,000 or greater for promotion of mammography attendance and for HIV prevention amongst drug users. We lacked sufficient evidence to estimate ICERs for breastfeeding promotion and mental health promotion, or to assess the impact of HRLAs on health inequalities.

Conclusions

Overall, there is limited evidence suggesting that HRLAs are cost-effective in terms of changing health-related knowledge, behaviours or health outcomes. The evidence that does exist indicates that HRLAs are only cost-effective when they target behaviours likely to have a large impact on overall health-related quality of life. Further development of HRLA interventions needs to target specific population health needs where potential exists for significant improvement, and include rigorous evaluation to ensure that HRLAs provide sufficient value for money.
Influence of lateral cephalometric radiographs on extraction decision in skeletal class I patients
Authors: Dinçer Banu , Yetkiner Enver , Aras Isil , Attin Thomas , Attin Rengin
Published: December 2013

Background

Radiographic examination is considered ‘justified’ only when detection of a condition that would change the mechanisms and timing of treatment is possible. Radiographic safety guidelines have restricted the indication of lateral cephalometric radiographs (LCRs) to presence of distinct skeletal Class II or Class III. However, they are taken routinely in clinical practice and considered to be part of the ‘gold’ standard for orthodontic diagnosis. Therefore, the aim of this study was to test the null hypothesis that lateral cephalometric radiograph (LCR) evaluation would not alter the extraction/non-extraction decision in orthodontic treatment planning of skeletal Class I patients.

Materials and methods

Intraoral and extraoral photographs, dental casts and extraoral radiographs of 60 skeletal Class I patients were prepared digitally for assessment using a presentation software. One experienced (EO) and inexperienced orthodontist (IO) was asked to decide on extraction or non-extraction on a Likert-type linear scale for treatment planning. This procedure was repeated 4 weeks later with a mixed order of patients and the LCRs being omitted. Kappa, Weighted Kappa (WK) and McNemar scores were computed to test decision consistency and Bland-Altman plots together with 95% limits of agreement were used to determine measurement accuracy and presence of systematic bias.

Results

Both EO (WK = 0.67) and IO (WK = 0.64) had good level of decision agreement with and without LCR evaluation. EO did not present a shift towards extraction nor non-extraction with LCR evaluation (McNemar = 0.999) whereas IO showed a tendency to extraction (McNemar = 0.07) with LCR data. Including LCR evaluation created a systematic inconsistency between EO and IO (Line of equality = 0.8, Confidence interval = 0.307-0.707).

Conclusions

Lateral cephalometric radiograph evaluation did not influence the extraction decision in treatment planning of skeletal Class I patients. Reconsidering the necessity of lateral cephalograms in orthodontic treatment of skeletal Class I patients may reduce the amount of ionizing radiation. Key words: Lateral cephalometric radiograph, extraction, treatment planning, skeletal Class I.