bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Lamellar Keratectomy and Intrastromal Injection of 0.2% Fluconazole on Fungal Keratitis
Authors: You Xinying , Li Jun , Li Suxia , Shi Weiyun
Published: May 2015

Purpose. To evaluate effects of lamellar keratectomy and intrastromal injection of 0.2% fluconazole (LKIIF) on fungal keratitis.Methods. Data for 54 eyes of consecutive patients with fungal keratitis treated with LKIIF were retrospectively analyzed. The lesions in these eyes did not heal or were aggravated after antifungal chemotherapy for 7 days. The maximum lesion diameters were ≤5 mm and maximum depth was not more than half of full corneal thickness. Cases were followed up for at least 90 days.Results. Forty-six eyes were cured (85.2%). The wound healing times were 3–16 days and were less than 7 days in 28 cases (51.9%). In cured eyes, uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were both 20/250–20/20. The UCVA improved in 38 eyes and was unchanged in seven eyes. BCVA improved in 44 eyes and was unchanged in two eyes. When followed up for more than 90 days, 89% (41 of 46 eyes) showed improvement in UCVA and 11% were unchanged. Regarding BCVA, 98% improved and one eye was unchanged. No other complications were observed except neovascularization in one eye and thinner corneas.Conclusions. LKIIF was quick and effective for small fungal keratitis confined to half of the corneal thickness.
Use of Cellulose and Oxidized Cellulose Nanocrystals from Olive Stones in Chitosan Bionanocomposites
Authors: Abou-Zeid Ragab E. , Hassan Enas A. , Bettaieb Fedia , Khiari Ramzi , Hassan Mohammad L.
Published: May 2015

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) and 2,2,6,6‐tetramethyl‐1‐piperidinyloxyl‐ (TEMPO‐) oxidized cellulose nanocrystals (CNC‐TEMPO) were prepared from olive stones. The prepared nanocrystals were characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and carboxylic groups content determination. The prepared nanocrystals were used as reinforcing elements in chitosan nanocomposites, which were characterized using X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and tensile strength properties. In addition, the bioactivity of the prepared chitosan nanocomposites was studied in vitro in simulated body fluid (SBF) using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and electron diffraction X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX). The results showed positive effect of the nanocrystals on tensile strength properties of chitosan and noticeable reduction in its rate of dissolution in SBF due to presence of cellulose nanocrystals. Chitosan nanocomposites containing CNC‐TEMPO showed higher tensile strength properties and higher rate of dissolution in SBF than those containing cellulose nanocrystals. Nanocomposites containing CNC or CNC‐TEMPO could not form significant amounts of hydroxyapatite (HAp) upon immersion in SBF for up to 4 weeks. Upon addition of nanohydroxyapatite to chitosan/cellulose nanocrystals films, formation of new hydroxyapatite depositions was observed. Presence of cellulose nanocrystals in chitosan/HAp resulted in formation and deposition of higher amounts of new HAp than in case of using chitosan/HAp without cellulose nanocrystals.
Novel 3′-Processing Integrase Activity Assay by Real-Time PCR for Screening and Identification of HIV-1 Integrase Inhibitors
Authors: Sakkhachornphop Supachai , Thongkum Weeraya , Tayapiwatana Chatchai
Published: May 2015

The 3′-end processing (3′P) of each viral long terminal repeat (LTR) during human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1) integration is a vital step in the HIV life cycle. Blocking the 3′P using 3′P inhibitor has recently become an attractive strategy for HIV-1 therapeutic intervention. Recently, we have developed a novel real-time PCR based assay for the detection of 3′P activityin vitro. The methodology usually involves biotinylated HIV-1 LTR, HIV-1 integrase (IN), and specific primers and probe. In this novel assay, we designed the HIV-1 LTR substrate based on a sequence with a homology to HIV-1 LTR labeled at its 3′ end with biotin on the sense strand. Two nucleotides at the 3′ end were subsequently removed by IN activity. Only two nucleotides labeled biotin were captured on an avidin-coated tube; therefore, inhibiting the binding of primers and probe results in late signals in the real-time PCR. This novel assay has successfully detected both the 3′P activity of HIV-1 IN and the anti-IN activity by Raltegravir and sodium azide agent. This real-time PCR assay has been shown to be effective and inexpensive for a high-throughput screening of novel IN inhibitors.
Quantifying Insufficient Coping Behavior under Chronic Stress: A Cross-Cultural Study of 1,303 Students from Italy, Spain and Argentina
Authors: Delfino Juan P. , Barragán Elena , Botella Cristina , Braun Silke , Bridler René , Camussi Elisabetta , Chafrat Verónica , Lott Petra , Mohr Christine , Moragrega Inés , Papagno Costanza , Sanchez Susana , Seifritz Erich , Soler Carla , Stassen Hans H.
Published: May 2015

The question of how to quantify insufficient coping behavior under chronic stress is of major clinical relevance. In fact, chronic stress increasingly dominates modern work conditions and can affect nearly every system of the human body, as suggested by physical, cognitive, affective and behavioral symptoms. Since freshmen students experience constantly high levels of stress due to tight schedules and frequent examinations, we carried out a 3-center study of 1,303 students from Italy, Spain and Argentina in order to develop socioculturally independent means for quantifying coping behavior. The data analysis relied on 2 self-report questionnaires: the Coping Strategies Inventory (COPE) for the assessment of coping behavior and the Zurich Health Questionnaire which assesses consumption behavior and general health dimensions. A neural network approach was used to determine the structural properties inherent in the COPE instrument. Our analyses revealed 2 highly stable, socioculturally independent scales that reflected basic coping behavior in terms of the personality traits activity-passivity and defeatism-resilience. This replicated previous results based on Swiss and US-American data. The percentage of students exhibiting insufficient coping behavior was very similar across the study sites (11.5-18.0%). Given their stability and validity, the newly developed scales enable the quantification of basic coping behavior in a cost-efficient and reliable way, thus clearing the way for the early detection of subjects with insufficient coping skills under chronic stress who may be at risk of physical or mental health problems.
Vitamin D Receptor Genotype Modulates the Correlation between Vitamin D and Circulating Levels of let-7a/b and Vitamin D Intake in an Elderly Cohort
Authors: Beckett Emma Louise , Martin Charlotte , Duesing Konsta , Jones Patrice , Furst John , Yates Zoe , Veysey Martin , Lucock Mark
Published: May 2015

Background and Aims: Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) are linked to disease and are potential biomarkers. Vitamin D may modulate miRNA profiles, and vitamin D status has been linked to risk of disease, including cardiovascular disease and cancers. We hypothesise that genotypic variance influences these relationships. We examined the correlations between vitamin D intake and circulating levels of the miRNAs let-7a/b, and the involvement of two common vitamin D receptor (VDR) polymorphisms, BsmI and ApaI. Methods: Two hundred participants completed food frequency and supplement questionnaires, and were assayed for circulating let-7b expression by qPCR. Polymorphisms were detected using restriction fragment length polymorphism-PCR. Results: let-7b expression negatively correlated with vitamin D intake (rs = -0.20, p = 0.005). The magnitude and direction of correlation were maintained in the presence of the BsmI restriction site (rs = -0.27, p = 0.0005). However, in the absence of BsmI restriction site, the direction of the correlation was reversed (rs = +0.319, p = 0.0497). These correlations were significantly different (z-score = 2.64, p = 0.0085). The correlation between vitamin D intake and let-7a was only significant in those without the ApaI restriction site. Conclusions: The correlation between vitamin D intake and let-7a/b expression in this cohort varies with VDR genotype. This study highlights the importance of considering underlying genotypic variance in miRNA expression studies and in nutritional epigenetics generally.
Lung Disease and Hypertension
Authors: Imaizumi Yuki , Eguchi Kazuo , Kario Kazuomi
Published: May 2015

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients are at a high risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Airflow limitation is a predictor of future risks of hypertension and cardiovascular events. COPD is now understood as a systemic inflammatory disease, with the focus on inflammation of the lungs. An association between inflammation and sympathetic overactivity has also been reported. In this article, we review the association between chronic lung disease and the risks of hypertension, cardiovascular morbidity, the underlying mechanisms, and the therapeutic approach to hypertension and cardiovascular diseases in patients with lung diseases.
Maggot excretion products from the blowfly Lucilia sericata contain contact phase/intrinsic pathway-like proteases with procoagulant functions
Authors: Kahl Mareike , Gökçen Anke , Fischer Silvia , Bäumer Markus , Wiesner Jochen , Lochnit Günter , Wygrecka Malgorzata , Vilcinskas Andreas , Preissner Klaus
Published: May 2015

For centuries, maggots have been used for the treatment of wounds by a variety of ancient cultures, as part of their traditional medicine. With increasing appearance of antimicrobial resistance and in association with diabetic ulcers, maggot therapy was revisited in the 1980s. Three mechanisms by which sterile maggots of the green bottle fly Lucilia sericata may improve healing of chronic wounds have been proposed: Biosurgical debridement, disinfecting properties, and stimulation of the wound healing process. However, the influence of maggot excretion products (MEP) on blood coagulation as part of the wound healing process has not been studied in detail. Here, we demonstrate that specific MEP-derived serine proteases from Lucilia sericata induce clotting of human plasma and whole blood, particularly by activating contact phase proteins factor XII and kininogen as well as factor IX, thereby providing kallikrein-bypassing and factor XIa-like activities, both in plasma and in isolated systems. In plasma samples deficient in contact phase proteins, MEP restored full clotting activity, whereas in plasma deficient in either factor VII, IX, X or II no effect was seen. The observed procoagulant/intrinsic pathway-like activity was mediated by (chymo-) trypsin-like proteases in total MEP, which were significantly blocked by C1-esterase inhibitor or other contact phase-specific protease inhibitors. No significant influence of MEP on platelet activation or fibrinolysis was noted. Together, MEP provides contact phase bypassing procoagulant activity and thereby induces blood clotting in the context of wound healing. Further characterisation of the active serine protease(s) may offer new perspectives for biosurgical treatment of chronic wounds.
Significant excess of early deaths after prehospital ticagrelor: The ATLANTIC trial challenge
Authors: Cherepanov Vasily , Dukhanin Alexander , Serebruany Victor
Published: May 2015

The recently published Administration of Ticagrelor in the Cath Lab or in the Ambulance for New ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction to Open the Coronary Artery (ATLANTIC) trial concluded that prehospital administration of ticagrelor in patients with acute STEMI appeared to be safe but did not improve pre-PCI coronary reperfusion. The ATLANTIC data fully support the PLATO Angiographic Substudy denying early benefit of ticagrelor, and correspond well with lack of immediate clinical benefit including the early PCI “death paradox„ in PLATO-USA patients. Finally, there were significantly (p=0.043) more deaths in early ticagrelor ATLANTIC arm (odds ratio 3.18 (1.02–9.90) challenging stent thrombosis reduction. Indeed, ATLANTIC represents an important step for our better understanding of ticagrelor, although the confirmation of the PLATO mortality wonder in an adequately powered PEGASUS (TIMI-54) to be reported in 2015 will be vital for ticagrelor future.
Functional role of a polymorphism in the Pannexin1 gene in collageninduced platelet aggregation
Authors: Molica Filippo , Denis Jean-François , Bradfield Paul , Penuela Silvia , Zufferey Anne , Monyer Hannah , Imhof Beat , Chanson Marc , Laird Dale , Morel Sandrine , Meens Merlijn , Fontana Pierre , Kwak Brenda
Published: May 2015

Pannexin1 (Panx1) forms ATP channels that play a critical role in the immune response by reinforcing purinergic signal amplification in the immune synapse. Platelets express Panx1 and given the importance of ATP release in platelets, we investigated Panx1 function in platelet aggregation and the potential impact of genetic polymorphisms on Panx1 channels. We show here that Panx1 forms ATP release channels in human platelets and that inhibiting Panx1 channel function with probenecid, mefloquine or specific 10Panx1 peptides reduces collagen-induced platelet aggregation but not the response induced by arachidonic acid or ADP. These results were confirmed using Panx1-/-
platelets. Natural variations have been described in the human Panx1 gene, which are predicted to induce non-conservative amino acid substitutions in its coding sequence. Healthy subjects homozygous for Panx1–400C, display enhanced platelet reactivity in response to collagen compared with those bearing the Panx1–400A allele. Conversely, the frequency of Panx1–400C homozygotes was increased among cardiovascular patients with hyper-reactive platelets compared with patients with hypo-reactive platelets. Exogenous expression of polymorphic Panx1 channels in a Panx-deficient cell line revealed increased basal and stimulated ATP release from cells transfected with Panx1–400C channels compared with Panx1–400A expressing transfectants. In conclusion, we demonstrate a specific role for Panx1 channels in the signalling pathway leading to collagen-induced platelet aggregation. Our study further identifies for the first time an association between a Panx1–400A>C genetic polymorphism and collagen-induced platelet reactivity. The Panx1–400C variant encodes for a gain-of-function channel that may adversely affect atherothrombosis by specifically enhancing collagen-induced ATP release and platelet aggregation.
Post-operative arterial thrombosis with non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants after total hip or knee arthroplasty
Authors: Lussana Federico , Cattaneo Marco , Squizzato Alessandro
Published: May 2015

The incidence of post-operative arterial thrombosis (AT) (acute myocardial infarction [AMI] and ischaemic stroke) is increased in patients undergoing total hip replacement (THR) or total knee replacement (TKR). We compared the incidence of post-operative AT in non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs)-treated and enoxaparintreated patients, performing a systematic review of phase III randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis in THR and TKR. Studies were identified by electronic search of MEDLINE and EMBASE database until July 2014. Differences between NOACs and enoxaparin groups in the efficacy and safety outcomes were expressed as odds ratios (ORs) with pertinent 95 % confidence intervals (95 % CI). Statistical heterogeneity was assessed with the I2 statistic. Eleven phase III RCTs for a total of 31,319 patients were included. Patients underwent TKR in six studies and THR in five studies. The NOACs under study were dabigatran (four studies), apixaban (three studies) and rivaroxaban (four studies). AT occurred in 0.23 % of patients on NOACs and in 0.27 % of patients on enoxaparin: the OR at fixed-effect model was 0.86 (95 % CI 0.53–1.40; I2 11 %). No differences in AT incidence among the three NOACs were observed. The incidence of major and clinically relevant bleeding was similar in NOACs and enoxaparin groups (OR 1.03, 95 % CI 0.92–1.15; I2 38 %). In conclusion, in RCTs of pharmacological VTE prophylaxis in patients undergoing THR or TKR, there was no difference in the incidence of post-operative AT among patients treated with NOACs, compared to those treated with enoxaparin.

Note: An abstract of this paper has been accepted as oral presentation at the XXIII Congress of SISET, Italian Society of Thrombosis and Haemostasis, 6–9 November 2014, Milan (Italy).
An Artificial Bioindicator System for Network Intrusion Detection
Authors: Blum Christian , Lozano José A. , Davidson Pedro Pinacho
Published: May 2015

An artificial bioindicator system is developed in order to solve a network intrusion detection problem. The system, inspired by an ecological approach to biological immune systems, evolves a population of agents that learn to survive in their environment. An adaptation process allows the transformation of the agent population into a bioindicator that is capable of reacting to system anomalies. Two characteristics stand out in our proposal. On the one hand, it is able to discover new, previously unseen attacks, and on the other hand, contrary to most of the existing systems for network intrusion detection, it does not need any previous training. We experimentally compare our proposal with three state-of-the-art algorithms and show that it outperforms the competing approaches on widely used benchmark data.
The Impact of Politics on the Minnan Buddhist Institute: sanmin zhuyi and aiguo zhuyi in the Context of Sangha Education
Authors: Travagnin Stefania
Published: May 2015

政治对闽南佛学院的影响：僧伽教育中的三民主义与爱国主义

摘要

本文分析二十世纪中国政治对僧伽教育的影响。我的研究对象是闽南佛学院，主要关注其历史上三个重要时期，即 1927 年到 1933 年的成立期、1985的重建期、以及 1997 年以来的新时期。本文着重分析政治意识形态，即三民主义与爱国主义，是如何影响佛学院课程的。最后，本文以闽南佛学院作为两岸交流的案例，通过分析两岸佛教共享的价值观念，来刻画不同政治环境下成长起来的佛教教育之间的交流。
Taxonomic revision and molecular phylogeny of Gymnocorymbus Eigenmann, 1908 (Teleostei, Characiformes, Characidae)
Authors: BENINE RICARDO C. , MELO BRUNO F. , CASTRO RICARDO M. C. , OLIVEIRA CLAUDIO
Published: May 2015

Characidae, one of the most diverse families of Characiformes and one of the largest clades of fishes in the world, has a complex taxonomic background, with one issue being the placement of various genera, including Gymnocorymbus. Herein, we generate the first molecular phylogeny for the genus using three nuclear and two mitochondrial loci and review the systematics of Gymnocorymbus. This genus includes the black tetra, a well-known and popular species among aquarists. Molecular phylogeny strongly supports the monophyly of Gymnocorymbus, with this hypothesis corroborated by the presence of three morphological synapomorphies. Of the six previously known nominal species of Gymnocorymbus, three are considered valid herein: Gymnocorymbus bondi from the Río Orinoco basin, Gymnocorymbus ternetzi from the Rio Paraguay basin, and Gymnocorymbus thayeri from the Corantijn and Amazon basin and rivers of northeastern Brazil. A fourth species, Gymnocorymbus flaviolimai sp. n., is described from the Rio Madeira, Amazon basin. Lectotypes are designated for G. ternetzi and G. thayeri. Our results support previous hypotheses of the alignment of Gymnocorymbus close to the subfamily Stethaprioninae and also support the sister relationship between G. ternetzi and G. thayeri, and of that clade as sister to G. bondi.
Description and biology of Euborellia arcanum sp. nov., an alien earwig occupying greenhouses in Germany and Austria (Dermaptera: Anisolabididae)
Authors: MATZKE DANILO , KOCAREK PETR
Published: May 2015

Greenhouses in botanical or zoological gardens are home to dozens of species of invertebrates that were introduced alongside plants or potting soil. Our study presents the description of an alien species of earwig, Euborellia arcanum sp. nov., found in tropical greenhouses in Leipzig and Potsdam (Germany) and in Vienna (Austria), including information about its biology in breeding culture. The species was most likely introduced into Europe by way of plants or plant matter from Florida, but the region of its natural habitat is unknown. The sequence of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) was also evaluated and added to GenBank as a DNA barcode for further identification.
Description of a new species of Fannia Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830 (Diptera:
Fanniidae) and distribution records of the genus from the Caucasus Mountains
Authors: PONT ADRIAN C.
Published: May 2015

A new species, Fannia caucasica sp. nov., is described from localities in Georgia and Armenia between 1600 and 2200 m. In addition, previous literature on the genus Fannia Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830 in the Caucasus Mountains is reviewed, and records are given for 15 species from Armenia and Georgia, of which nine are new records for Armenia and seven are new records for Georgia.
Multiple Goals in a Hong Kong Chinese Educational Context: An Investigation of Developmental Trends and Learning Outcomes
Authors: Watkins David , Hattie John
Published: May 2015

Social goals have also been proposed as important additions to mastery and performance goals in educational contexts, particularly in non-Western cultures but no study has yet tested the possibility that such goals can also combine with mastery and performance goals leading to superior learning outcomes. Longitudinal studies are also rare in this area. The effect of changing motivational groups has also seldom been examined. This study examines the academic achievement, learning strategies and self-attributes at two points of time of students from multiple motivational groups: mastery, performance and social. The findings demonstrate that the usual grouping of mastery and performance is incomplete as the impact of goals on achievement cannot be properly understood unless social goals are included, although about a third of students had none of these goals at all. Those in the higher groups for all three goals had higher sense of purpose, but only those in high mastery and performance (and thus not social) had a higher sense of self-reliance and intellectual self. It is likely that the various dimensions of social goals may be related importantly to various desirable outcomes.
A normative approach to contemporary Turkish foreign policy: The cosmopolitanism–communitarianism divide
Authors: Dal Emel Parlar
Published: May 2015

This study explores the cosmopolitanism–communitarianism divide in normative international relations (IR) theory with a special focus on the apparent increasing weight of ethics and morality in Turkish foreign policy. First, it outlines the current debates in normative IR theory with a special focus on the divide between cosmopolitanism and communitarianism. Second, it asks whether Turkey’s foreign policy tradition, both in its discourse and its ethics, leans more toward cosmopolitanism or communitarianism. Then, it examines the slow rise of cosmopolitanism in Turkish foreign policy in the 2000s, with particular reference to the ruling political party in Turkey, the AKP (the Justice and Development Party). Finally, it examines the cosmopolitan/communitarian dilemma that the AKP government faces in the context of the Arab Spring, and specifically the Syrian civil war.
Women’s social movements and social development: Opportunities for social work in Tanzania
Authors: Manzanera-Ruiz Roser , Lizárraga Carmen
Published: May 2015

Social work in Africa faces major challenges due to factors such as lack of resources, insufficient training schools and adequate curricula. In this situation, the actions of women’s social movements can be defined as social development, more in line with the needs of the local population. This article presents, through Tanzania’s case, how the actions of women’s social movements, where the discipline of social work is weakened, follow different models of social development. Their actions should be reckoned as an opportunity to overcome some of the challenges of the professional education and practice of social work in the continent.
Values and Spirituality: Enriching Curriculum Development and Teaching/Learning Processes for a New Millennium
Authors: Wallace Tom
Published: May 2015

Tom counted it a privilege to begin to work closely with Brian Hill from 1992, having been aware of his writing over some years, and having Brian as an examiner for his Ph.D. dissertation. They both contributed to the Values in Education Project (1994–96), and have worked together on the Religious Studies Committee of the Churches Education Commission and through the Australian Association of Religious Education. Tom comments. “I have greatly appreciated Brian's enormous scholarship and I know his contributions [in the different projects] have been valued and highly-respected.”
Morals without Religion
Authors: Fallding Harold
Published: May 2015

Morality is possible without religion, as Margaret Knight asserted. However such a position is based on experiencing perfect love from perfect parents. The further question arises: are people as moral as they ought to be? Standards of morality are determined by how correctly people know the natural environment, society, history, culture and their Maker. Non-religious moral standards tend to shrink to in-group loyalties, whereas Christian moral standards are universalized, and are applied even to enemies. Christianity embraces bringing our own conduct under review (repentance); cancelling offences (forgiveness); and imagination on behalf of others (love). Further, Christian morality provides strength for what it requires. Its enabling grace is God's love through Jesus Christ.
Further Considerations in Forming a Theology of Childhood and Adolescence
Authors: Maple Grant
Published: May 2015

This article questions whether Christian teachers are sufficiently aware of how theology relates to professional practice. In focusing on our understanding of the child or adolescent as a learner, it argues for a critical awareness of how we develop and apply theology. It shows how various interactions of theology with culture produce quite different approaches to education. It then outlines the Bible's teaching on the nature and potential of the pre-adult human person. It concludes with a call for Christian teachers, particularly those serving in Christian schools, to deepen their understanding of biblical theology and its application to their professional practice.
The Relevance of Comenius' Philosophy of Education for Christian Education Today
Authors: Thompson Livingstone A
Published: May 2015

Jan Komensky, or John Amos Comenius, was one of the more brilliant minds of Europe in the 17th Century. At the invitation of leading politicians and clergymen he arrived in England in 1641 to address the parliament on his pansophic ideas, which had been widely circulated and for which he had become renowned. The political turmoil that overtook the country prevented him from addressing the parliament, which had turned its attention to more pressing issues of national security. The invitation, however, provided Comenius with the opportunity to reflect more deeply on his philosophical ideas in the publication Via Lucis, or the Way of Light, which he dedicated to the parliament. In it he outlined his philosophical ideas for the overcoming of ignorance and disunity in the world. These philosophical ideas are the foundations of his education philosophy. In this paper I will look briefly at his philosophy of education and indicate some challenges for how we approach the task of education today.
Amen, Awareness and Action: Catholic Service-Learning and Critical Consciousness
Authors: Stewart Trae
Published: May 2015

The current study examines the meaning that students enrolled in a diverse, urban Catholic high school made of their four-year participation in a mandatory service-learning program. Framed by liberation theology and Paulo Freire's typology of critical consciousness, inquiries look specifically at whether students understood their participation and experiences simply as religiously charitable obligations, or as learning experiences for the development of their social awareness and future civic engagement for social change.
Reproducing Leaders through Mentoring
Authors: Payne Ian
Published: May 2015

This article proposes that theological educational institutions can play a significant part in producing the leaders the Church needs by mentoring their students more effectively. Mentoring new leaders is a necessary and exciting task for theological and developmental reasons, and theological educators must know and use the power of mentoring, as an essential element of transformative education, if their students are to be transformed. A mentoring model is preferred over ‘an academically-distant superior lecturer’ or an unmodified ‘guru-shishya’ model of relationship in order to give young leaders the support, challenge and mutuality in discipleship that they and the Church need.
‘Commonness’, Diversity and Disequilibrium in Christian Higher Education: Narratives of and in Institutional Worldviews
Authors: Belcher Christina , Parr Graham
Published: May 2015

This paper explores the role of narratives in promoting a worldview in one Institute of Christian Higher Education (CHE), and examines how narratives function in institutional life. The authors report on a reflexive, ethnographic study into one institution of Christian Higher Education (called OC in this paper), which explores narratives of 32 participants across a 35 year span. From questionnaires, texts, interviews and participant dialogue, the authors construct a multi-leveled account of institutional life at OC, over several generations. They develop an understanding of the significance of narratives to worldview discourses in academic institutional life, and they propose some critical frameworks that enable an embodied and robust worldview which leaves scope for rich praxis rather than mere rule following by members of the institution (cf. Kemmis and Smith, 2008).
Religion, Politics, Science and Bureaucracy: An Australian Science Curriculum?
Authors: O'Toole John Mitchell
Published: May 2015

This paper was written as the Australian Science Curriculum settled into use in smaller Australian states, was being interpreted in different ways by statutory curriculum authorities in the larger ones and was forming the basis of adaptations of existing state-based resources by educational publishers.

The paper takes the role of science educators of Christian commitment as its starting point. Such people operate at both secondary and tertiary levels and all face the challenges implicit in teaching a subject that is popularly supposed to conflict with their faith. What do the churning flows of influence, authority and power that characterise the contemporary Australian educational scene mean for such people?

The article considers the constitutional framework within which this churn occurs and the impact that nominally Christian institutions have had on its interpretation. How did we come to this? It considers the tensions that characterise the present situation. What constraints are being applied and how much room will we have to move? The paper considers the possibilities those tensions open up. How may we best be true to the gospel we profess and the families we serve?
Is Formation Education?
Authors: Ghiloni Aaron J.
Published: May 2015

When theological educators refer to formation what do they mean? This article explores the important but sometimes ambiguous idea of formation by engaging with educational theory, particularly the work of John Dewey, Paulo Freire, and Paul Tillich.
Free Flap Reconstruction Experience and Outcomes at a Low‐Volume Institution over 20 Years
Authors: Klosterman Tristan , Siu Eric , Tatum Sherard
Published: May 2015

Objective

Assess the efficacy of free flap reconstruction performed at a low‐volume program and evaluate how volume and outcomes have changed over 20 years.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary academic medical center.

Subjects and Methods

A retrospective chart review was performed at a tertiary care academic program on all free tissue flaps from the primary reconstructive surgeon over 20 years (1993‐2013). In total, 136 procedures were obtained from operative notes, billing codes, and chart databases. Outcome variables included procedure success and complications. Patients stayed in general intensive care unit and hospital floor units.

Results

Flap success was 92.6% of all cases. In the past 13 years, 70 flaps were performed with 3 failures (96% success rate). Take‐back rate was 16% of total cases with a flap recovery rate of 60%. Postoperative failure occurred after 72 hours in 60% of cases. Nearly 60% of patients experienced a complication of any type or severity. Twenty percent had a flap complication while maintaining viability, with half of these being partial dehiscence. Systemic complications affected 20% of all cases. The average hospital stay for noncomplicated patients was 13 days. There was 1 postoperative mortality. Fibula and radial forearm were the most common flaps at 44% and 26%, respectively.

Conclusion

Free flap reconstruction of the head and neck can be performed by appropriately skilled surgeons with acceptable outcomes in low‐volume settings. Success rate appears to increase as clinical experience is gained.
Applied music studio teachers in higher education: Exploring the impact of identification and talent on career satisfaction
Authors: Parkes Kelly A. , Daniel Ryan , West Tore , Gaunt Helena
Published: May 2015

The purpose of this study was to explore how highly trained performing musicians, currently working in higher education conservatoires or universities, understand, categorize, and reflect on their identification as a studio music teacher. Using an online survey involving participants ( N = 173) across nine western countries, respondents identified how they saw themselves, as performer, teacher, or both. Quantitative items illustrated their beliefs in regard to talent (self-concept) and identification with two domains (teaching and performing), as well as levels of satisfaction in both roles. Results showed that participants held two identities as both teachers and performers, that they felt slightly more talented at teaching, and that they were more satisfied with performing than with teaching. Using regression, the authors documented that identification with being a teacher predicted 41% of the variance in whether studio teachers were satisfied with being a teacher. Performing talent predicted 26% of their satisfaction with being a performer. The findings are significant to music educators because they demonstrate the complexities associated with the interplay between identification with teaching and with performing. Institutional leaders who recruit and employ advanced musicians to teach in the studio should explore this interplay or balance and, where appropriate, put in place mechanisms to support individuals as they navigate through these domains.
Cerebral oxygen saturation during pulsatile and non-pulsatile cardiopulmonary bypass in patients with carotid stenosis
Authors: Tovedal T , Thelin S , Lennmyr F
Published: May 2015

Pulsatile and non-pulsatile cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) flows may have different impact on cerebral oxygen saturation in patients with restricted cerebral arterial blood supply. Twenty patients, ten diagnosed with carotid stenosis (CS, n = 10) and ten without known carotid disease (Controls, n = 10), were subjected to one period of pulsatile and one period of non-pulsatile flow (6-8 min each) during CPB at 32°C. Cerebral oxygen saturation was registered by near-infrared light spectroscopy (NIRS).

The mean arterial pressure (MAP) was significantly lowered by pulsatile CPB flow. The NIRS tissue oxygenation index (TOI) tended to decrease in the CS group and increase in the Controls during pulsatile flow compared with non-pulsatile; however, the changes were not statistically significant.

No significant correlations were seen between the changes in MAP and TOI across the observation periods.

In conclusion, pulsatile CPB flow caused slightly decreased mean arterial pressure while the effect on cerebral oxygenation was unclear. Pulsatile flow was not found superior to non-pulsatile flow in patients with or without carotid stenosis.
Exploring emerging occupational therapy identity and the development of graduate attributes among occupational therapy students
Authors: Boehm Jackie , Tanner Bronwyn , Lowrie Daniel , Bonassi Marianne , Brown Nicole , Thomas Yvonne , Cordier Reinie
Published: May 2015

Introduction

Strong professional identity allows for appropriate representation and promotion of occupational therapy. Academic education assists in the development of occupational therapy identity. This study aims to explore the development of occupational therapy identity and graduate attributes in occupational therapy students after the first year of a revised curriculum.

Method

Occupational therapy students ( n = 58) were surveyed at the commencement of the second year. Data analysis used descriptive statistics and inferential statistics (χ2 for trend).

Results

A total of 54 students (93.1%) completed the survey. Students progressively developed occupational therapy identity over time. There were no significant associations between main factors influencing the original decision to study occupational therapy and when occupational therapy identity developed. However, there were significant associations between main factors influencing students' decision to continue studying and when identity developed. Most students agreed the curriculum equipped them to develop graduate attributes, although this was not significantly associated with factors that either influenced students to study, or continue studying, occupational therapy. There was significant association between development of graduate attributes and occupational therapy identity over time.

Conclusion

This study showed an emergence of occupational therapy identity and graduate attributes in students, demonstrating the importance of first year curriculum in the development of these factors.
An evaluation of the effectiveness of Value-at-Risk (VaR) models for Australian banks under Basel III
Authors: Uylangco Katherine , Li Siqiwen
Published: May 2015

This study compares Value-at-Risk (VaR) measures for Australian banks over a period that includes the Global Financial Crisis (GFC) to determine whether the methodology and parameter selection are important for capital adequacy holdings that will ultimately support a bank in a crisis period. VaR methodology promoted under Basel II was largely criticised during the GFC for its failure to capture downside risk. However, results from this study indicate that 1-year parametric and historical models produce better measures of VaR than models with longer time frames. VaR estimates produced using Monte Carlo simulations show a high percentage of violations but with lower average magnitude of a violation when they occur. VaR estimates produced by the ARMA GARCH model also show a relatively high percentage of violations, however, the average magnitude of a violation is quite low. Our findings support the design of the revised Basel II VaR methodology which has also been adopted under Basel III.
Silicone–acetylene hybrid resin and composite
Authors: Xu Zhifei , Zhou Quan
Published: May 2015

A novel glass fiber-reinforced composite was prepared by silicone–acetylene hybrid polymer, poly(diacetylene–benzene–silane), terminated with aminophenylacetylene (APSA) as the matrix resin. Thermosetting structural changes of the matrix resin were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. It was inferred that APSA possibly launched four main kinds of cross-linking reactions under the condition of heating. The curing behavior of APSA was investigated using differential scanning calorimetry and rotational rheometer. The thermal stability of the thermoset was evaluated by thermogravimetric analysis, where the temperature of 5% weight loss and residue at 1000°C (nitrogen atmosphere) were 611°C and 85.4%, respectively. Dynamic mechanical analysis and compressive tests were conducted to evaluate the mechanical properties of the composite. The results showed that the glass transition temperature of the virgin composite was above 400°C and the composite was heat treated at 900°C for 7 min still exhibited excellent mechanical properties, with bending strength reaching 191 MPa.
Modeling and control of a high-precision tendon-based magnetic resonance imaging–compatible surgical robot
Authors: Jiang Shan , Lou Jinlong , Sun Fude , Yang Zhiyong , Dai Jiansheng
Published: May 2015

This article mainly includes the developing, dynamical modeling and control of a tendon-based robot system. First, a 5-degree-of-freedom tendon-based magnetic resonance imaging–compatible robot for prostate needle insertion surgery is introduced briefly. What follows is the dynamical modeling of the robot system, where a mechanical dynamic model is established using the Lagrange method, and a lumped parameter tendon model is used to identify the nonlinear gain of the actuator. Based on the dynamical model, a fuzzy sliding mode control algorithm is proposed for accurate position control of the robot. Through simulations using different sinusoidal input signals, we observed that the sinusoidal tracking error at 1/2π Hz is 0.2 mm and the needle tip positional precision of tracking a spatial arched curve remains less than 0.3 mm. Finally, experiments on tendon-sheath transmission and robot position tracking are conducted, which shows that the insertion precision is 0.67 mm in laboratory environment.
Marx’s Doctrine of Use Value Compared with Mill’s Theoretic Utilitarianism
Authors: Brunger Jeremy
Published: May 2015

This article looks at the similarities and differences between Karl Marx’s theory of value and J.S. Mill’s theory of value, where value is synonymous with ‘utility’. It explores how the authors treated the spheres of use and exchange; possibilities of revolutionary social praxis under each of their philosophies; and their respective ability to endure in relevance for the contemporary social world. This article also analyzes their methodologies for achieving utility, focusing on the humanistic and mechanistic aspects of both Marxism and utilitarianism. Connections between their logical aims are also made in the field of ethics. Epistemic considerations are taken into account when making a value judgement on their works, in that materialist philosophy sometimes melds with idealist philosophy in the works of both authors. Finally, an idea will be given as to who was the ‘better philosopher’ judging by consistency of means and ends.
Human Development Index—Revisited: Integration of Human Values
Authors: Sharma Hemant , Sharma Dhirendra
Published: May 2015

In the present article, the concept of Human Development Index (HDI) has been revisited so as to integrate the human values using the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) measured by Transparency International, for different countries, as a simple generalization within the framework of existing Anand and Sen’s (1994) and Haq’s (1990) prescription. In this framework, a geometrical average of three indices corresponding to three dimensions, namely, the life expectancy, years of schooling and standard of living (gross national income per capita), was taken. In order to have HDI in broader perspective, one has to integrate another important dimension known as human values. The main hypotheses of this article are: (a) human values play an important role in human development; (b) CPI has a strong correlation with HDI; and (c) CPI is intimately linked with the outcome of human values. The important finding of this article is the successful establishment of these hypotheses which brought appreciable changes in the HDI when human values are integrated with it. As a result, most of the countries showed a vast decline in HDI (up to 30 per cent), affecting the respective ranking of different countries. Such a value-based HDI (VHDI) is supposed to motivate even the richer countries to improve their HDI ranking in future.
Moving from regional to international publishing in accounting history: Pressures, issues, strategies and implications
Authors: Gomes Delfina , Giovannoni Elena , Gutiérrez-Hidalgo Fernando , Zimnovitch Henri
Published: May 2015

As an extension of the Panel session held at the seventh Accounting History International Conference (7 AHIC) in Seville in September 2013, the pressures, issues, strategies and implications of the movement from regional to international in terms of publishing in accounting history are presented. These dimensions are analysed from the point of view of four European countries: France, Italy, Portugal and Spain. Although these four countries have languages well disseminated around the globe, and/or possess a long history and tradition of discoveries and were strong players in commercial trade for centuries, academic publishing internationally is dominated by Anglo-Saxon countries and journals. Therefore, English is the main language and different challenges and hindrances are faced by researchers whose native language is other than English. More than arguing for a radical move from the regional to the international, a call is made for a more cooperative environment within international accounting history research which takes into account the cultural differences and embraces those differences.
From Molecular Circuit Dysfunction to Disease
Authors: Dulla Chris G. , Coulter Douglas A. , Ziburkus Jokubas
Published: May 2015

Complex circuitry with feed-forward and feed-back systems regulate neuronal activity throughout the brain. Cell biological, electrical, and neurotransmitter systems enable neural networks to process and drive the entire spectrum of cognitive, behavioral, and motor functions. Simultaneous orchestration of distinct cells and interconnected neural circuits relies on hundreds, if not thousands, of unique molecular interactions. Even single molecule dysfunctions can be disrupting to neural circuit activity, leading to neurological pathology. Here, we sample our current understanding of how molecular aberrations lead to disruptions in networks using three neurological pathologies as exemplars: epilepsy, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Epilepsy provides a window into how total destabilization of network balance can occur. TBI is an abrupt physical disruption that manifests in both acute and chronic neurological deficits. Last, in AD progressive cell loss leads to devastating cognitive consequences. Interestingly, all three of these neurological diseases are interrelated. The goal of this review, therefore, is to identify molecular changes that may lead to network dysfunction, elaborate on how altered network activity and circuit structure can contribute to neurological disease, and suggest common threads that may lie at the heart of molecular circuit dysfunction.
“Knowledge Is Power”
Authors: Fogg-Rogers Laura , Bay Jacquie L. , Burgess Hannah , Purdy Suzanne C.
Published: May 2015

Science festivals enable scientists to engage with publics, but format design reflecting different engagement models is contested. This study gathered mixed-methods data over 3 years (2011-2013) from on-site surveys ( N = 661) of a health science festival, exploring audience preferences for dissemination or dialogue formats (lectures, discussions, community expo, lab experiments, and day out). Irrespective of time, age–group, or gender, lectures were significantly ranked the main attraction (76.8%), most highly attended (89.1%), and most useful format (83.8%). Thematic analysis revealed five themes exploring nonformal learning motivations for audiences, highlighting that knowledge/understanding acquisition is perceived as empowering greater health literacy.