bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased risk forCampylobacter jejuniandC. coliinfection of pet origin in dog owners and evidence for genetic association between strains causing infection in humans and their pets
Authors: GRAS L. MUGHINI , SMID J. H. , WAGENAAR J. A. , KOENE M. G. J. , HAVELAAR A. H. , FRIESEMA I. H. M. , FRENCH N. P. , FLEMMING C. , GALSON J. D. , GRAZIANI C. , BUSANI L. , VAN PELT W.
Published: February 2013

We comparedCampylobacter jejuni/colimultilocus sequence types (STs) from pets (dogs/cats) and their owners and investigated risk factors for pet-associated human campylobacteriosis using a combined source-attribution and case-control analysis. In total, 132/687 pet stools wereCampylobacter-positive, resulting in 499 strains isolated (320C. upsaliensis/helveticus, 100C. jejuni, 33C. hyointestinalis/fetus, 10C. lari, 4C. coli, 32 unidentified). There were 737 human and 104 petC. jejuni/colistrains assigned to 154 and 49 STs, respectively. Dog, particularly puppy, owners were at increased risk of infection with pet-associated STs. In 2/68 casesvs.0·134/68 expected by chance, a pet and its owner were infected with an identical ST (ST45, ST658). Although common sources of infection and directionality of transmission between pets and humans were unknown, dog ownership significantly increased the risk for pet-associated humanC. jejuni/coliinfection and isolation of identical strains in humans and their pets occurred significantly more often than expected.
Studien zur Verbesserung des Verständnisses von Lernschwierigkeiten bei Trisomie 21 – Bericht über die Ergebnisse einer Voruntersuchung
Authors: Zimpel André Frank
Published: February 2013

Bisher ging man davon aus, dass Personen mit Trisomie 21 bei Navon-Figuren eher die Gesamtgestalt wahrnehmen und Details übersehen ( Bellugi & George, 2001 , S. 62). Experimentell ergeben sich jedoch auch gegenteilige Befunde. Eine widerspruchsfreie Erklärung dieser Befunde wäre die Annahme: Eine Trisomie 21 gehe regelmäßig mit einer Simultandysgnosie einher. Damit ist eine Einengung des Aufmerksamkeitsumfangs auf weniger als vier Objekte zur selben Zeit gemeint. In einer Untersuchung mit Computer-Tachistoskopie bestätigte sich die Hypothese bei allen 19 Personen mit einer Trisomie 21. Diese Ergebnisse könnten ein erstes Indiz dafür sein, dass der anschauungsgebundene, kleinschrittige und Abstraktionen vermeidende Unterricht an Förderschulen den neuropsychologischen Besonderheiten von Menschen mit einer Trisomie 21 nur wenig Rechnung tragen kann.
Perkutane Behandlung der Mitralinsuffizienz
Authors: Pedrazzini Giovanni B. , Sürder Daniel , Faletra Franco , Moccetti Ticiano
Published: February 2013

Die Mitralinsuffizienz (MI) ist die häufigste Herzklappenerkrankung allgemein und nach der Aortenstenose, die zweithäufigste bei hospitalisierten Patienten. Die Therapie der Wahl, bei einer schweren, chronischen Mitralinsuffizienz, ist die chirurgische Rekonstruktion. Bei Patienten mit einem erhöhten Operationsrisiko sowie bei Patienten mit einer Mitralinsuffizienz im Rahmen einer linksventrikulären Funktionsstörung stellt heutzutage die perkutane, minimal-invasive Behandlung mittels MitraClip eine hoffnungsvolle und wirksame therapeutische Alternative dar. Ähnlich zu der chirurgischen edge-to-edge repair technique nach Alfieri, führt die MitraClip Behandlung zu einer Annäherung der beiden gegenüberliegenden Mitralsegel sodass ein sogenanntes double orifice entsteht. In über 85 % der behandelten Fälle kann so eine signifikante Reduktion der Mitralinsuffizienz herbeigeführt werden, und in über 80 % der Patienten eine langfristige Verbesserung der Symptomatik und des klinischen Zustandes. Die Indikationsstellung erfolgt durch ein interdisziplinäres Team («Heart Team»), die Intervention wird in Vollnarkose und unter zwei- und drei dimensionaler echokardiographischer und fluoroskopischer Kontrolle durchgeführt. Andere therapeutische Möglichkeiten, insbesondere die perkutane Anuloplastie, befinden sich noch in einer experimentellen Phase und sind noch nicht kommerziell verfügbar. Seit dem 19. Februar 2009, dem Datum der ersten MitraClip-Intervention, wurden in der Schweiz über 200 Patienten mittels perkutaner Mitralklappenrekonstruktion behandelt. Alle Fälle werden im Rahmen eines nationalen, prospektiven, multizentrischen Registers (MitraSwiss) erfasst.
Dyadic Coping and Marital Satisfaction of Older Spouses in Long-Term Marriage
Authors: Landis Marion , Peter-Wight Melanie , Martin Mike , Bodenmann Guy
Published: February 2013

The present study examines the association between coping behavior and their relationship satisfaction in older spousal dyads. We examined N = 132 couples (M age = 68 years) and found that their dyadic coping strategies – a prime indicator of functional adaptation to daily stress in marital context – were significantly linked to relationship satisfaction. Our findings suggest that the partners’ subjective perception of their spouses’ supportive behavior was more strongly linked to their relationship satisfaction than self-reported support. Furthermore, individual support perception was more important for marital satisfaction than coping congruency. Overall, the dyadic coping of older adults may serve as an effective tool to stabilize relationship satisfaction when facing the challenges of older age and long-term marriage.
Electronic states of monatomic layers of alkali and rare earth metals adsorbed on graphene surfaces
Authors: Alisultanov Z. Z.
Published: February 2013

The electronic states of ordered layers of alkali and rare earth metals adsorbed on graphene surfaces are examined using an Anderson model. The behavior of the density of states of these systems is analyzed. The case of an adsorbed metallic nanolayer with a discrete energy spectrum is discussed. A system whose electronic states can be controlled by an applied electric field is proposed and is of great practical interest. The qualitative difference between the existing theoretical approach to this problem and the present paper is that the former uses a "single adatom" formalism that does not deal with the band structure of the metallic adlayer. A way of describing the electronic states of an adsorbed layer of Gd and other metallic layers which form a fractal structure on a graphene surface is also examined.
Modeling the switching processes in the Josephson AND and OR logic gates
Authors: Tyhanskyi M. V. , Krysko R. R.
Published: February 2013

We propose a design principle of digital logic gates based on Josephson cryotrons. The operation mode of digital logic gates AND and OR based on tunnel junctions “superconductor–insulator–superconductor” was described. Mathematical models of the switching processes in the logic elements were developed, the transient characteristics during the logic state change were calculated, and the basic parameters of these models were determined. It was shown that digital logic gates “AND” and “OR” can be realized based on individual Josephson cryotrons and their logic state can be controlled by using current pulses as control inputs. Such logic gates satisfy all the requirements for digital logic elements and have switching time of about 2–3 ps.
Magnetoresonance properties of antiferromagnetic TbFe3(BO3)4 at low temperatures
Authors: Bedarev V. A. , Paschenko M. I. , Kobets M. I. , Dergachev K. G. , Paschenko V. A. , Bludov A. N. , Khatsko E. N. , Gnatchenko S. L. , Bezmaternykh L. N. , Temerov V. L.
Published: February 2013

The magnetic resonance and field dependence of magnetization were studied in a single crystal of TbFe3(BO3)4 at temperatures from 2 to 13 K and frequencies from 18 to 142 GHz. Two pairs of lines with different intensities were found in the EPR spectrum. The found lines can be assigned to two types of centers: the Tb3+ ions which neighbor with the Bi and Mo growth impurities. The initial splitting of the lowest quasi-doublet of such Tb3+ ions by the crystal field and exchange field acting on the rare-earth ions from the iron sublattices were determined. The amount of these centers was estimated.
Nanowire solar cells made efficient
Authors: Wilson R. Mark
Published: February 2013

An array of semiconducting nanowires can absorb nearly as much light as a thin film but at lower cost.
Internet startups look to reinvent higher education
Authors: Matthews Jermey N. A.
Published: February 2013

Massive open online courses promise a convenient, low-cost experience, but high dropout rates threaten to slow their growth.
Tighter security ahead for nuclear materials in health care
Authors: Kramer David
Published: February 2013

New requirements in 2014 will formalize the controls on radiological sources that have been implemented since the 11 September 2001 terrorist attacks.
What trapped atoms reveal about global groundwater
Authors: Lu Zheng-Tian
Published: February 2013

Atom-trap trace analysis can reliably detect age-revealing noble-gas isotopes whose isotopic abundances are as low as 1 part in 1016.
Onset Time of Binocular Rivalry and Duration of Inter-Dominance Periods as Psychophysical Markers of ADHD
Authors: Casanova J Antonio Aznar , Campos Juan Antonio Amador , Sánchez Manuel Moreno , Supèr Hans
Published: February 2013

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the main neurobiological disorders in young children. Despite its prevalence, current diagnosis is debated. In this study we tested whether measures of binocular rivalry (BR) can contribute to the diagnosis of ADHD. BR is a phenomenon that is produced when two different images are presented to the two eyes simultaneously. Under these conditions the image presented to one eye competes with that presented to the other eye in seeking to achieve perceptual dominance. This competition is resolved through the activation of a given percept coupled with the suppression of the percept that had predominated until that point. We assume that the difficulty with inhibiting responses of ADHD children also affects their ability to inhibit the dominant image in a BR context. We analyzed the time to rivalry onset and the inter-dominance periods as measures of the temporal cost of resolving how long it takes for the brain to select (or suppress) one percept over the other. Our results show that the time to onset of rivalry (the first dominance) was longer in the clinical groups (ADHD-C and ADHD-I) than in the control group. As regards the inter-dominance periods, these were longer in the ADHD-C group than among controls, with the shortest period corresponding to the ADHD-I group. This study shows that BR can be used as a tool to develop a behavioral indicator of ADHD.
Visual Search and Visual Discomfort
Authors: O'Hare Louise , Clarke Alasdair D , Hibbard Paul B
Published: February 2013

Certain visual stimuli evoke perceptions of discomfort in non-clinical populations. We investigated the impact of stimuli previously judged as uncomfortable by non-clinical populations on a visual search task. One stimulus that has been shown to affect discomfort judgments is noise that has been filtered to have particular statistical properties (Juricevic et al, 2010 Perception39 884–899). A second type of stimulus associated with visual discomfort is striped patterns (Wilkins et al, 1984 Brain107 989–1017). These stimuli were used as backgrounds in a visual search task, to determine their influence on search performance. Results showed that, while striped backgrounds did have an impact on visual search performance, this depended on the similarity between the target and background in orientation and spatial frequency. We found no evidence for a more generalised effect of discomfort on performance.
Effects of Subtle Stimulus Strength on the Attentional Blink
Authors: Joo Sung Jun , Chong Sang Chul
Published: February 2013

The attentional blink refers to a type of impairment in detecting a second target (T2) after detecting a first target (T1) in rapid serial visual presentation (RSVP). Until recently, the role of T1 and how it is related to limitations in postperceptual processing such as selective attention and memory have been intensively studied. Here, we focus on the role of T2 and investigate whether an unnoticeable difference in the stimulus strength of T2, as indexed by the contrast of stimuli, can still influence this postperceptual process. We found that T2 performance was modulated by subtle T2 strength differences, although the T2 strength difference was not perceptually noticeable within the RSVP stream. These results suggest that T2 strength is important in the postperceptual stages of T2 processing-consolidation.
Morpho-physiological plasticity contributes to tolerance of Calluna vulgaris in an active geothermal field
Authors: Bartoli G. , Bottega S. , Forino L. M. C. , Castiglione M. Ruffini , Tagliasacchi A. M. , Grilli I. , Spanò C.
Published: February 2013

Geothermal alteration fields are very prohibitive environments, limiting vegetation establishment and growth. In the present study, the ecological specialisation of the pioneer plant Calluna vulgaris (L.) Hull was investigated, assuming that its ability to survive in geothermal habitats derives from a fine regulation of morpho-physiological traits. Mature leaves of C. vulgaris were sampled from plants close to a fumarole (near), and from plants living at a distance of some metres (intermediate) or ~1 km (distant) from a fumarole. Along the sampling sites, a gradient of soil-pH and temperature values occurred, with near plants facing the highest soil temperature and the lowest soil pH. A regulation of constitutive morpho-anatomical and physiological traits in response to different stress levels occurred. A progressive reduction of leaf exposed surface and hair density and mucilages, combined with a gradual increase of oxidative stress levels, of phenols and ascorbate, was observed from distant to near plants. Near plants showed an increase in stomatal density and in lignin and cuticle thickness, and the highest activity of ascorbate peroxidase. Except for high glutathione concentrations, in distant plants antioxidant machinery was consistently less active. The apparent morphological and physiological plasticity demonstrated in the present research contributed to the capability of these plants to tolerate the prohibitive, highly changing environmental conditions of the geothermal field.
Facing an uncertain future: curricula of dualities
Authors: Anderson Charles , McCune Velda
Published: February 2013

This article considers how best to conceptualise higher education curricula in a world marked by uncertainty, where knowledge and the foundations of knowledge are strongly contested. We then draw on conceptions of agency that derive from socio‐cultural theorising to consider what ‘tools' for thinking and practising individuals may need to deploy if they are to engage with a fast‐changing world. The article highlights the large challenges that students may face in developing the forms of being and the orientations to knowledge associated with an age of supercomplexity. The concluding section, Curricula of dualities, addresses the question of how best to achieve curricula and pedagogic practices in higher education that may enable students to embark on an open‐ended journey from their present ways of knowing and being. We contend that curricula for an age of uncertainty can be productively conceptualised in terms of pairs of contrasting elements that are in creative tension, e.g. play and discipline, support and challenge. Conceptualising curricula in such a way allows students' present circumstances and orientations and their possible futures to stay in central focus.
An analogue-sensitive approach identifies basal body rotation and flagellum attachment zone elongation as key functions of PLK inTrypanosoma brucei
Authors: Lozano-Núñez Ana , Ikeda Kyojiro N. , Sauer Thomas , de Graffenried Christopher L.
Published: February 2013

Polo-like kinases are important regulators of cell division, playing diverse roles in mitosis and cytoskeletal inheritance. In the parasite Trypanosoma brucei, the single PLK homologue TbPLK is necessary for the assembly of a series of essential organelles that position and adhere the flagellum to the cell surface. Previous work relied on RNA interference or inhibitors of undefined specificity to inhibit TbPLK, both of which have significant experimental limitations. Here we use an analogue-sensitive approach to selectively and acutely inhibit TbPLK. T. brucei cells expressing only analogue-sensitive TbPLK (TbPLKas) grow normally, but upon treatment with inhibitor develop defects in flagellar attachment and cytokinesis. TbPLK cannot migrate effectively when inhibited and remains trapped in the posterior of the cell throughout the cell cycle. Using synchronized cells, we show that active TbPLK is a direct requirement for the assembly and extension of the flagellum attachment zone, which adheres the flagellum to the cell surface, and for the rotation of the duplicated basal bodies, which positions the new flagellum so that it can extend without impinging on the old flagellum. This approach should be applicable to the many kinases found in the T. brucei genome that lack an ascribed function.
Time-resolved X-ray PIV technique for diagnosing opaque biofluid flow with insufficient X-ray fluxes
Authors: Jung Sung Yong , Park Han Wook , Kim Bo Heum , Lee Sang Joon
Published: February 2013

X-ray imaging is used to visualize the biofluid flow phenomena in a nondestructive manner. A technique currently used for quantitative visualization is X-ray particle image velocimetry (PIV). Although this technique provides a high spatial resolution (less than 10 µm), significant hemodynamic parameters are difficult to obtain under actual physiological conditions because of the limited temporal resolution of the technique, which in turn is due to the relatively long exposure time (∼10 ms) involved in X-ray imaging. This study combines an image intensifier with a high-speed camera to reduce exposure time, thereby improving temporal resolution. The image intensifier amplifies light flux by emitting secondary electrons in the micro-channel plate. The increased incident light flux greatly reduces the exposure time (below 200 µs). The proposed X-ray PIV system was applied to high-speed blood flows in a tube, and the velocity field information was successfully obtained. The time-resolved X-ray PIV system can be employed to investigate blood flows at beamlines with insufficient X-ray fluxes under specific physiological conditions. This method facilitates understanding of the basic hemodynamic characteristics and pathological mechanism of cardiovascular diseases.
Interference effects in the UV(VUV)-excited luminescence spectroscopy of thin dielectric films
Authors: Buntov Evgeny , Zatsepin Anatoly
Published: February 2013

The problem of exciting UV and VUV light interference affecting experimental photoluminescence excitation spectra is analysed for the case of thin transparent films containing arbitrarily distributed emission centres. A numerical technique and supplied software aimed at modelling the phenomenon and correcting the distorted spectra are proposed. Successful restoration results of the experimental synchrotron data for ion-implanted silica films show that the suggested method has high potential.
Understanding the motives for SMEs entry choice of international entry mode
Authors: Nisar Shaista , Boateng Agyenim , Wu Junjie , Leung Mary
Published: February 2013

Purpose

What drives small to medium‐sized enterprises’ (SMEs’) internationalisation strategy remains a significant issue in international business research, despite the huge research efforts on this subject over the past three decades. The purpose of this paper is to investigate and compare the motives behind the equity modes of foreign market entry in Norway.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing a cross sectional survey, a sample of 146 firms consisting of 42 international equity joint ventures (IJVs), 53 cross‐border mergers & acquisitions (CBM&As) and 51 wholly owned subsidiaries (FWOS) from Norway was collected and analysed.

Findings

It was found that whereas market development and power influence the choice of IJVs and CBM&As, the need to access resources and control resources appear to be the most important motives behind FWOS as an entry mode choice. Moreover, the regression results indicate that market development and power, technology development, location advantage and synergistic gains appear to have a significant bearing on different entry mode choice in Norway.

Research limitations/implications

The paper examines the motivation for the choice of foreign entry mode from the point of view of senior managers in Norway. Future research should accommodate multiple perspectives simultaneously from the parent companies and subsidiaries in a single paper to significantly advance the field.

Practical implications

The paper discovers that the motives behind the choice of cooperative modes of entry tend to be more linked with market development, technological development while FWOS are motivated by the need to control proprietary resources. The implication for the Norwegian government is that its financial incentives do not affect the mode choice of entry.

Original/value

The paper finds that different motives and theories influence the choice of foreign market entry by SMEs in Norway and provides insights for senior managers on the factors taken into account in making choice decisions in Norway.
Selection of celebrity endorsers
Authors: Hollensen Svend , Schimmelpfennig Christian
Published: February 2013

Purpose

This paper aims at shedding some light on the various avenues marketers can undertake until finally an endorsement contract is signed. The focus of the study lies on verifying the generally held assumption that endorser selection is usually taken care of by creative agencies, vetting several candidates by means of subtle evaluation procedures.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study research has been carried out among companies experienced in celebrity endorsements to learn more about the endorser selection process in practise. Based on these cases theory is inductively developed.

Findings

The research suggests that the generally held assumption that endorsers being selected and thoroughly vetted by a creative agency may not be universally valid. A normative model to illustrate the continuum of the selection process in practise is suggested and the two polar case studies (Swiss brand Lindt and Austrian Vitatherm) are presented in depth.

Research limitations/implications

As the results of the study suggest, generally held assumptions towards the endorser selection process may be challenged. Consequently, this affects the necessary accuracy of models to evaluate the brand‐endorser matchup.

Practical implications

Conducted case studies indicate that there are various avenues how brands come to their endorser. This paper could not find evidence of a best practice strategy.

Originality/value

A normative model for the celebrity endorser selection process is suggested.
Elections in Hybrid Regimes: Conceptual Stretching Revived
Authors: Morgenbesser Lee
Published: February 2013

This article challenges the use of diminished subtypes as a strategy for avoiding conceptual stretching in the conceptual construction of hybrid regimes. The popular adoption of this strategy is based on its perceived ability to increase analytical differentiation and, more relevantly, avoid conceptual stretching by making a more modest claim about the extent of authoritarianism and democracy. Using this strategy, regimes are classified according to any additional or missing properties they contain vis-à-vis these two root concepts. This is demonstrated by an influential body of scholarship using elections as the defining property (e.g., ‘competitive authoritarianism’ and ‘pseudodemocracy’). The problem, however, is that the creation of these subtypes is premised on a ‘true’ democratic definition of elections: a method for selecting and empowering political representatives through a competition for people's votes (albeit without freedom and fairness). This article argues that in attempting to avoid stretching the meaning of authoritarianism and democracy, scholars have inadvertently displaced concept stretching by assuming that the meaning of democratic elections is applicable to hybrid regimes. Instead, it is proposed that elections in hybrid regimes can have at least three alternatives roles: legitimation, patronage and elite management. This article concludes by discussing the implications of this finding for the field of comparative studies and proposes three solutions to help guard against conceptual stretching in the future.
The effect of adding whey protein particles as inert filler on thermophysical properties of fat‐reduced semihard cheese type Gouda
Authors: Schenkel Philipp , Samudrala Ravi , Hinrichs Jörg
Published: February 2013

The effect of added microparticulated whey protein (Simplesse®) on textural and thermophysical properties of fat‐reduced semihard cheese type Gouda was investigated. Full‐fat, reduced‐fat and low‐fat cheeses were manufactured of comparable moisture content, each made of control milk and milk systems containing 1% Simplesse®, respectively. Whey protein particles improved textural properties of reduced‐fat and low‐fat cheese. Meltability and flowability were significantly enhanced by an increased fat level, Simplesse® addition and ripening time. The results emphasise the role of microparticulated whey proteins acting as an inert filler within the composite cheese matrix and allow textural and thermophysical properties of fat‐reduced cheeses to be adjusted towards cheese with higher fat content.
Retrospective study of surgical resection in the treatment of limited stage small cell lung cancer
Authors: Zheng Qingfeng , Li Shaolei , Zhang Lijian , Wu Nan , Chen Jinfeng , Wang Yuzhao , Yan Shi , Zhao Bingtian , Yao Yuanshan , Pei Yuquan , Ma Yuanyuan , Yang Yue
Published: February 2013

Background

Patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) are mainly treated by chemotherapy/radiotherapy, either alone or combined. Surgical resection is an optional treatment for few SCLC patients. The efficacy of surgical intervention for SCLC remains controversial. This study evaluates the validity of surgery for patients with limited stage SCLC.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of 59 patients with limited stage SCLC who received trimodal therapy from 2004 to 2011. Progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were calculated using the statistic methods of Kaplan‐Meier and the log‐rank test.

Results

Among the 59 limited stage SCLC patients, 54 patients with stage I–III SCLC received surgical treatment with curative intent, and 42.6% (23/54) patients received preoperative chemotherapy. The radical resection rate of the group of preoperative chemotherapy and the group of initial surgical resection were 82.6% (19/23) and 54.8% (17/31), respectively. The corresponding five‐year survival rates were 59% and 22% with significant differences (P = 0.032 and 0.041, respectively). In total, 36 (66.7%) patients underwent radical surgery with resection of the primary mass and mediastinal lymph nodes. In the radical surgery series, five‐year survival, according to stage I–III categories, were 59%, 53%, and 26%, respectively. For the 30 stage III patients, the five‐year survival of the radical group of 26% was lower than the non‐radical group of 67%, and PFS analysis showed similar tendencies.

Conclusion

Preoperative chemotherapy is the most favorable initial treatment for patients with limited disease SCLC. Complete surgical resection is considered for patients with stage I and II. Surgical resection remains of no benefit for stage III SCLC patients with persistent N2/N3 after chemotherapy.
Embryos, The Principle of Proportionality, and the Shaky Ground of Moral Respect
Authors: Pugh Jonathan
Published: February 2013

The debate concerning the moral permissibility of using human embryos in human embryonic stem cell (hESC) research has long centred on the question of the embryo's supposed right to life. However, in focussing only on this question, many opponents to hESC research have escaped rigorous scrutiny by making vague and unfounded appeals to the concept of moral respect in order to justify their opposition to certain hESC practices. In this paper, I offer a critical analysis of the concept of moral respect, and its use to support the intuitively appealing principle of proportionality in hESC research. I argue that if proponents of this principle are to justify its adoption by appealing to the concept of moral respect, they must explain two things concerning the nature of the moral respect owed to embryos. First, they must explain which particular aspect of the embryo is morally relevant, and why. Second, they must explain why some uses of embryos in research fail to acknowledge what is morally relevant about the embryo, and thereby involve a violation of the moral respect that they are due. I shall show that providing such explanations may be more difficult than it first appears.
A method of Reflexive Balancing in a Pragmatic, Interdisciplinary and Reflexive Bioethics
Authors: Ives Jonathan
Published: February 2013

In recent years there has been a wealth of literature arguing the need for empirical and interdisciplinary approaches to bioethics, based on the premise that an empirically informed ethical analysis is more grounded, contextually sensitive and therefore more relevant to clinical practice than an ‘abstract’ philosophical analysis. Bioethics has (arguably) always been an interdisciplinary field, and the rise of ‘empirical’ (bio)ethics need not be seen as an attempt to give a new name to the longstanding practice of interdisciplinary collaboration, but can perhaps best be understood as a substantive attempt to engage with the nature of that interdisciplinarity and to articulate the relationship between the many different disciplines (some of them empirical) that contribute to the field. It can also be described as an endeavour to explain how different disciplinary approaches can be integrated to effectively answer normative questions in bioethics, and fundamental to that endeavour is the need to think about how a robust methodology can be articulated that successfully marries apparently divergent epistemological and metaethical perspectives with method.

This paper proposes ‘Reflexive Bioethics’ (RB) as a methodology for interdisciplinary and empirical bioethics, which utilizes a method of ‘Reflexive Balancing’ (RBL). RBL has been developed in response to criticisms of various forms of reflective equilibrium, and is built upon a pragmatic characterization of Bioethics and a ‘quasi‐moral foundationalism’, which allows RBL to avoid some of the difficulties associated with RE and yet retain the flexible egalitarianism that makes it intuitively appealing to many.
Paediatricians' decision making about prescribing stimulant medications for children with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Chow S‐J. , Sciberras E. , Gillam L. H. , Green J. , Efron D.
Published: February 2013

Background

Attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is now the most common reason for a child to present to a paediatrician in Australia. Stimulant medications are commonly prescribed for children with ADHD, to reduce symptoms and improve function. In this study we investigated the factors that influence paediatricians' decisions about prescribing stimulant medications.

Method

In‐depth, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with paediatricians (n = 13) who were purposively recruited so as to sample a broad demographic of paediatricians working in diverse clinical settings. Paediatricians were recruited from public outpatient and private paediatrician clinics in Victoria, Australia. The interviews were audio‐recorded and transcribed verbatim for thematic analysis. Paediatricians also completed a questionnaire describing their demographic and practice characteristics.

Results

Our findings showed that the decision to prescribe is a dynamic process involving two key domains: (1) weighing up clinical factors; and (2) interacting with parents and the patient along the journey to prescribing. Five themes relating to this process emerged from data analysis: comprehensive assessments that include history, examination and information from others; influencing factors such as functional impairment and social inclusion; previous success; facilitating parental understanding including addressing myths and parental confusion; and decision‐making model.

Conclusions

Paediatricians' decisions to prescribe stimulant medications are influenced by multiple factors that operate concurrently and interdependently. Paediatricians do not make decisions about prescribing in isolation; rather, they actively involve parents, teachers and patients, to arrive at a collective, well‐informed decision.
The macroinvertebrate seedbank promotes community persistence in temporary rivers across climate zones
Authors: Stubbington Rachel , Datry Thibault
Published: February 2013

Aquatic macroinvertebrates inhabiting temporary rivers are typically described as having low resistance to riverbed drying. However, little research has examined the ‘seedbank’ within dry riverbed sediments, which comprises aquatic life stages that survive in dewatered sediments and from which active organisms may develop only after surface water returns.

We synthesised published and unpublished data from studies that had experimentally rehydrated sediments collected from dry riverbeds, to establish the importance of the seedbank in promoting macroinvertebrate community resistance. Studies from across climate zones were included, to examine seedbank importance in relation to environmental harshness and, in particular, sediment moisture. We also assessed the importance of the seedbank relative to alternative habitats promoting persistence of the flowing river (FR) assemblage. We predicted that the proportion of the FR assemblage present in rehydrated sediments (RS) would decrease with environmental harshness, due to conditions within the sediments becoming less conducive to the survival of biota.

A negative relationship between the proportion of FR taxa present in RS and harshness was observed, and this contributed to a reduction in the compositional similarity of FR and RS assemblages as harshness increased. Significant positive correlations were identified between sediment moisture content and macroinvertebrate community metrics (density and taxon richness) in some systems.

Habitats external to the dry reach, which contribute to community resilience, were invariably inhabited by a greater number of FR taxa than rehydrated sediments. However, rehydrated sediments included several FR taxa that were not found in any other habitats during the dry phase, including families of Coleoptera and Diptera.

Our results indicate the importance of the seedbank as a resistance mechanism for temporary river macroinvertebrates. With climate change scenarios predicting an increase in riverbed drying, maintaining habitats that facilitate the persistence of instream communities during dry phases is an increasing priority. We identified strong relationships between sediment moisture and taxon richness, and river management and rehabilitation activities should therefore aim to retain moisture in drying sediments, by manipulating parameters such as riparian shading.
Climate‐change effects and adaptation options for temperate pasture‐based dairy farming systems: a review
Authors: Lee J. M. , Clark A. J. , Roche J. R.
Published: February 2013

Temperate pasture‐based dairy farming systems with low input of supplementary feed are vulnerable to changes in climate through alterations in feed supply and nutritive value. Although current systems inNewZealand (NZ) and southeastAustralia have been successful in adapting to variable weather conditions, they will need to undergo further changes to continue to profit in the future. This review describes predicted changes in climate inNZand southeastAustralia, likely effects on the feedbase used in the pasture‐based dairy industry and the flow‐on effect on milk‐solids production and profitability. Potential adaptation options that will allow farmers to take advantage of new opportunities and minimize any negative impacts of climate change are also identified. For example, in many regions, annual pasture production is predicted to increase due to carbon dioxide fertilization and warmer temperatures during winter/spring. Production may decline, however, in regions with either reduced rainfall or severe flooding. Should this occur, farmers could strategically use supplementary feed, reduce stocking rates, irrigate or sow alternative plant species with greater drought tolerance. Pasture‐based dairy systems have high levels of adaptive capacity, and there are opportunities to continue to improve production efficiencies particularly where rainfall change is small. Further investigation into possible adaptation options is required to determine their impact on milk‐solids production and profitability, as well as to identify additional options.
Measurement of the normal/tangential fracture compliance ratio (ZN/ZT) during hydraulic fracture stimulation using S‐wave splitting data
Authors: Verdon James P. , Wüstefeld Andreas
Published: February 2013

We develop a method to invert S‐wave splitting (SWS) observations, measured on microseismic event data, for the ratio of normal to tangential compliance (ZN/ZT) of sets of aligned fractures. We demonstrate this method by inverting for ZN/ZT using SWS measurements made during hydraulic fracture stimulation of the Cotton Valley tight gas reservoir, Texas. When the full SWS data set is inverted, we find that ZN/ZT= 0.74 ± 0.04. Windowing the data by time, we were able to observe variations in ZN/ZT as the fracture stimulation progresses. Most notably, we observe an increase in ZN/ZT contemporaneous with proppant injection. Rock physics models and laboratory observations have shown that ZN/ZT can be sensitive to (1) the stiffness of the fluid filling the fracture, (2) the extent to which this fluid can flow in and out of the fracture during the passage of a seismic wave and (3) the internal architecture of the fracture, including the roughness of the fracture surfaces, the number and size of any asperities and the presence of material filling the fracture. These factors have direct implications for modelling the fluid‐flow properties of fractures. Consequently, the ability to image ZN/ZT using SWS will provide useful information about fractured rocks and allow additional constraints to be placed on reservoir behaviour.
Effects of Nb2O5 Doping on the Microwave Dielectric Properties and Microstructures of Bi2Mo2O9 Ceramics
Authors: Lee Ying‐Chieh , Chiu Jam‐Da , Chen Yu Hong
Published: February 2013

This study investigated the effects of the addition of Nb2O5 and sintering temperature on the properties of Bi2Mo2O9 ceramics. The ceramics were sintered in air at temperatures ranging from 620°C to 680°C. The addition of small amounts of Nb2O5 as a dopant significantly affected the crystalline phase and the microwave dielectric properties of the Bi2Mo2O9 ceramics. The secondary phase, γ‐Bi2MoO6, was observed when Nb2O5 was added. However, unlike the Bi2Mo2O9 ceramic without Nb2O5 sintered above 645°C, the ceramics with 3 mol% Nb2O5 contained no γ‐Bi2MoO6 when sintered at 660°C. The Q × f value and τf of the Bi2Mo2O9 ceramics were improved by Nb2O5 doping. The Bi2Mo2O9 ceramics doped with 2 mol% Nb2O5 exhibited the best microwave dielectric properties, with a permittivity of 36.5, a Q × f value (f = resonant frequency, Q = 1/dielectric loss at f) of 14100 GHz and τf of +5.5 ppm/°C after sintering at 620°C.
Structure and Characterization of Sulfated Chitosan Superplasticizer
Authors: Lv Shenghua , Cao Qiang , Zhou Qingfang , Lai Shuili , Gao Futang
Published: February 2013

A new sulfated chitosan superplasticizer (SCS) was synthesized by sulfation chitosan. The chemical structure and molecular weight of SCS were characterized by FTIR and gel permeation chromatography (GPC). The application performances of SCS in cement paste and concrete were investigated in the views of fluidity, slump, setting time, porosity as well as compressive strength. The results indicated that the SCS has better applied performance compared with polycarboxylate superplasticizer (PCs). A notable feature is that SCS has better maintenance for cement paste fluidity and concrete slump. The action mechanism behind this behavior was further revealed by zeta‐potential and adsorption amount. Meanwhile, SCS comes from renewable source and has biodegradability. This research work provides not only a new superplasticizer but also a method for preparing superplasticizer from the renewable biopolymer.
Influence of Crystallization on the Conversion of Sm3+→Sm2+ in SrO–Bi2O3–K2O–B2O3 Glass‐Ceramics
Authors: Wei Donglei , Yuan Beiling , Huang Yanlin , Tsuboi Taiju , Seo Hyo Jin
Published: February 2013

Sm3+‐doped glass 13SrO–2Bi2O3–5K2O–80B2O3 was fabricated by the conventional melt‐quenching technique. The glass‐ceramics were obtained by heating the as‐prepared glasses in air atmosphere at selected temperatures 550°C, 600°C, 615°C, and 650°C, respectively. The luminescence spectra of both Sm3+ and Sm2+ were detected in the ceramic heated at 650°C where crystalline phase is formed. The as‐prepared glass and the ceramics heated at 550°C, 600°C, and 615°C show only the emission due to Sm3+. In the sample heated at 650°C in air atmosphere, however, part of Sm3+ ions was converted to Sm2+, giving rise to sharp emission lines which are characteristic of Sm2+ in crystalline state. It is suggested that Sm2+ ions are located at Sr2+ site in the ceramic while Sm3+ ions are located at Bi3+ sites. The Sm2+‐doped glass‐ceramic has a high optical stability because the fluorescence intensity decreases by only about 8% of its initial value upon excitation at 488 nm Ar+ laser.
First‐Principles Study on Site Preference of Aluminum Vacancy and Nitrogen Atoms in γ–Alon
Authors: Tu Bingtian , Wang Hao , Liu Xiao , Wang Weimin , Fu Zhengyi
Published: February 2013

The disorder in γ–alon is caused by random arrangement of nitrogen atoms and aluminum vacancies. To understand the properties and electronic structure of γ–alon by theoretical methods, the most reasonable structure model is needed. We examined the site preference of nitrogen atoms and aluminum vacancies by first‐principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations on Al24O24N8 and Al23O27N5. The calculated results for Al24O24N8 with the lowest total energy indicated that nitrogen atoms prefer to be far away from each other, rather than in a completely random arrangement. The further investigation on Al23O27N5 shows that the aluminum vacancies tend to possess octahedral sites and coordinate only with oxygen atoms. Evaluated by lattice variances (Da and Dθ) and simulated XRD pattern, the most reasonable structure model of Al23O27N5 has little deviation from the experimental results. The calculated bulk modulus of 200.9 GPa in Al23O27N5 is slightly lower than the experimental value. The electronic structure reveals that the bonds of Al–N and Al–O have partially covalent and ionic characterization, while the covalent bond strength of Al–N is stronger than that of Al–O. The calculated band gap is 3.99 eV, which is much closer to the experimental 4.56 eV than previous suggestions.
Effect of Magnesium Doping on Hydration Morphology and Mechanical Property of Calcium Phosphate Cement Under Non‐Calcined Synthesis Condition
Authors: Yu Tao , Ye Jiandong , Zhang Ming
Published: February 2013

In this study, magnesium (Mg) was doped into the non‐calcined amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) via mechanochemical route, and the as‐prepared non‐calcined ACP was used to form a novel hydration system. In this novel hydration system, the effects of Mg doping on the hydration reaction and mechanical property of cement were studied. The incorporation of Mg into the hydration product was confirmed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The results showed that Mg doping had a significant influence on the nucleation and subsequent growth of apatite crystals. With the Mg doping, the size of hydration crystals was refined, and induced a denser curing body after setting. With the increasing density, the mechanical property of cement was improved effectively. This work explored the inhibiting effect of Mg ions on the nucleation and subsequent growth of apatite under the non‐calcined condition.
Evidence for progressive reduction and loss of telocytes in the dermal cellular network of systemic sclerosis
Authors: Manetti Mirko , Guiducci Serena , Ruffo Martina , Rosa Irene , Faussone‐Pellegrini Maria Simonetta , Matucci‐Cerinic Marco , Ibba‐Manneschi Lidia
Published: February 2013

Telocytes, a peculiar type of stromal cells, have been recently identified in a variety of tissues and organs, including human skin. Systemic sclerosis (SSc, scleroderma) is a complex connective tissue disease characterized by fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. We presently investigated telocyte distribution and features in the skin of SSc patients compared with normal skin. By an integrated immunohistochemical and transmission electron microscopy approach, we confirmed that telocytes were present in human dermis, where they were mainly recognizable by their typical ultrastructural features and were immunophenotypically characterized by CD34 expression. Our findings also showed that dermal telocytes were immunophenotypically negative for CD31/PECAM‐1 (endothelial cells), α‐SMA (myofibroblasts, pericytes, vascular smooth muscle cells), CD11c (dendritic cells, macrophages), CD90/Thy‐1 (fibroblasts) and c‐kit/CD117 (mast cells). In normal skin, telocytes were organized to form three‐dimensional networks distributed among collagen bundles and elastic fibres, and surrounded microvessels, nerves and skin adnexa (hair follicles, sebaceous and sweat glands). Telocytes displayed severe ultrastructural damages (swollen mitochondria, cytoplasmic vacuolization, lipofuscinic bodies) suggestive of ischaemia‐induced cell degeneration and were progressively lost from the clinically affected skin of SSc patients. Telocyte damage and loss evolved differently according to SSc subsets and stages, being more rapid and severe in diffuse SSc. Briefly, in human skin telocytes are a distinct stromal cell population. In SSc skin, the progressive loss of telocytes might (i) contribute to the altered three‐dimensional organization of the extracellular matrix, (ii) reduce the control of fibroblast, myofibroblast and mast cell activity, and (iii) impair skin regeneration and/or repair.
Viruses: are they really culprits for periodontal disease? A critical review
Authors: Ambili Ranjith , Preeja Chandran , Archana Vilasan , Nisha Krishnavilasam Jayakumary , Seba Abraham , Reejamol Mohammed Khasim
Published: February 2013

Periodontal diseases are multifactorial, and many etiological agents are suggested to play a role in their etiopathogenesis. Various risk factors are also suggested to influence the progression of periodontal disease. Until recently, specific bacteria were considered the major pathogens for the disease. However, the occurrence of periodontal disease in some patient groups is still poorly understood, and the role of other initiating agents is being investigated. Evidence strongly suggests the presence of many strains of viruses in the periodontal environment, and possible mechanisms have also been suggested. Periodontal disease as a risk factor for other systemic diseases can also be better explained based on this viral etiology. In this review, we critically analyze the role of viruses in different periodontal diseases, and provide a categorical description of the underlying mechanisms. Clinical implications and future directions are also discussed. Evidence of a causal role of herpes viruses in periodontitis might revolutionize existing strategies to diagnose, prevent, and treat the disease.