bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Communities of Practice Approach to the Synoptic Problem
Authors: Madrigal Ramón Anthony
Published: April 2012

Although the study of the Synoptic Problem has been the focus of scholarly attention for over two hundred years, the social learning theory known as Communities of Practice is a relatively recent phenomenon. This article describes a communities of practice approach to the study of the Synoptic Problem in an upper‐division undergraduate course at a private, liberal arts college. Students with little or no prior knowledge of the Synoptic Problem were introduced to the salient issues of the Synoptic Problem as well as a theoretical framework in which to interpret them. Data were collected using a variety of mixed methods, including pre‐ and post‐treatment tests, written survey questions, interviews, field notes, and focus group sessions. The results of this study suggest that a communities of practice approach can enhance students' knowledge of the Synoptic Problem and also foster an awareness of scholarly and personal presuppositions that influence the interpretation of the gospels.
REAL ALE MICROBREWING AND RELATIONS OF TRUST: A COMMODITY CHAIN PERSPECTIVE
Authors: MAYE DAMIAN
Published: April 2012

This paper examines the nature of supply chain linkages for microbrewing and contributes to existing geographical work on the specialist brewery industry. It argues that a commodity chain and, more specifically, a ‘whole chain’ approach, can be employed to examine such linkages and to contextualise economic relations. After outlining the main features of a whole chain methodology, the paper applies it to a case study of a real ale microbrewery in Northumberland in the North East of England. As well as examining the ‘upstream’ and ‘downstream’ nature of the microbrewer's own business supply chain, material from interviews with wholesalers, bottlers, pubs and other brewers is included to develop a locally sensitive cultural economy perspective. The paper reveals the complex nature of economic relationships and organisation for microbrewing, the different forms of trust that typify such supply chain relationships and tensions between difference and localness in relation to selling real ale.
An experimental analysis of psychometric functions in a threshold discrimination task with four response categories1
Authors: OKAMOTO YASUHARU
Published: April 2012

An experiment on a threshold discrimination task with four response categories was conducted to check the implicit assumptions of a threshold discrimination task with three response categories. Consideration of a task with three response categories, for example, “stronger,”“don't know,” and “weaker,” leads us to anticipate a relation between position parameters and that between the sizes of scale parameters of a model for a task with four response categories, such as, “stronger,”“probably stronger,”“probably weaker,” and “weaker.” That is, position parameters will be equidistant between adjacent categories and the middle scale parameter will be the largest. The results of the experiment on a four‐category task did not support these anticipated relation, and a possibility of biases in the estimation of point of subjective equality (PSE), using a three‐category task is pointed out. As an alternative to a three‐category task, a four‐category task is suggested when more than two categories are required.
Self‐oriented perfectionism and its relationship to selective attention: An experimental examination using social cognitive paradigm1
Authors: KOBORI OSAMU , TANNO YOSHIHIKO
Published: April 2012

The cognitive biases associated with perfectionism include a selective attention to failure and the discounting of success. The present study experimentally focused on the relation between self‐oriented perfectionism (SOP) and selective attention using the social cognitive paradigm. Forty undergraduate students who were identified as either high or low in SOP were asked to perform modified versions of the Stroop task. The results suggest that participants with high SOP did not take longer to respond to failure words than to neutral words, but their reaction time to failure words was longer than that of participants with low SOP. These findings provided the basis for cognitive behavioral biases for perfectionism.
Inner vane fringes of barn owl feathers reconsidered: morphometric data and functional aspects
Authors: Bachmann Thomas , Wagner Hermann , Tropea Cameron
Published: April 2012

It is a challenge to understand how barn owls (Tyto alba) reduce noise during flight to be able to hunt small mammals by audition. Several specializations of the wing and the wing feathers have been implicated in noise reduction. What has been overlooked so far are the fringes at the inner vanes of remiges. We demonstrated, by using precise imaging techniques combined with morphometric measurements and air‐flow studies, that these fringes merge into neighboring feather vanes by gliding into the grooves at the lower wing surface that are formed by parallel‐oriented barb shafts. The connection of adjacent feathers results in a smooth lower wing surface and thus reduces sharp and noisy edges. This finding sheds new light on the mechanisms underlying noise reduction of flying owls.
Annual Research Review: Re‐thinking the classification of autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Lord Catherine , Jones Rebecca M.
Published: April 2012

Background:  The nosology of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is at a critical point in history as the field seeks to better define dimensions of social‐communication deficits and restricted/repetitive behaviors on an individual level for both clinical and neurobiological purposes. These different dimensions also suggest an increasing need for quantitative measures that accurately map their differences, independent of developmental factors such as age, language level and IQ.

Method:  Psychometric measures, clinical observation as well as genetic, neurobiological and physiological research from toddlers, children and adults with ASD are reviewed.

Results:  The question of how to conceptualize ASDs along dimensions versus categories is discussed within the nosology of autism and the proposed changes to the DSM‐5 and ICD‐11. Differences across development are incorporated into the new classification frameworks.

Conclusions:  It is crucial to balance the needs of clinical practice in ASD diagnostic systems, with neurobiologically based theories that address the associations between social‐communication and restricted/repetitive dimensions in individuals. Clarifying terminology, improving description of the core features of ASD and other dimensions that interact with them and providing more valid and reliable ways to quantify them, both for research and clinical purposes, will move forward both practice and science.
‘An instruction in good citizenship’: scouting and the historical geographies of citizenship education
Authors: Mills Sarah
Published: April 2012

This paper examines informal citizenship training for youth and the historical geographies of education over time through analysing the Scout Movement in Britain and its activities in the first half of the twentieth century. In doing so, it highlights the complexity of youth citizenship and the significance of non‐school spaces in civil society to our understandings of young people’s positioning as citizen‐subjects. Drawing on archival research, I demonstrate how a specific youth citizenship project was constructed and maintained through the Scout Movement. I argue that various processes, strategies and regulations were involved in envisioning ‘citizen‐scout’ and developing both duty‐bound, self‐regulated individuals as well as a wider collective body of British youth. This analysis speaks to broader debates on citizenship, nationhood and youth, as well as highlighting how the historical geographies of citizenship education are an important area of study for geographers.
New distributional and host records for the parasitoid Gronotoma adachiae (Hymenoptera: Figitidae: Eucoilinae) in Asia
Authors: ABE Yoshihisa , KONISHI Kazuhiko
Published: April 2012

The parasitoid Gronotoma adachiae is reported from Vietnam for the first time. The vegetable leaf miner Liriomyza sativae (Diptera: Agromyzidae) is a new host record. The G. adachiae specimens collected in Yunnan Province are the second record of this parasitoid from China.
Familial Reactive Perforating Collagenosis in a Child: Response to Narrow‐Band UVB
Authors: Sehgal Virendra N. , Verma Prashant , Bhattacharya Sambit N. , Sharma Sonal
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  A favorable response to narrow‐band ultraviolet B light treatment, a novel option, is illustrated in familial reactive perforating collagenosis, and its use is recommended. Its probable mode of action is outlined.
Atopic Dermatitis in African American Children: Addressing Unmet Needs of a Common Disease
Authors: Vachiramon Vasanop , Tey Hong Liang , Thompson Amy E. , Yosipovitch Gil
Published: April 2012

Abstract  Recent published data suggest that the prevalence of atopic dermatitis (AD) in African American children is significantly higher than in Caucasians. There are certain characteristics in the presentation of AD in African Americans that seem to differ from those in other racial groups, but there is a paucity of information on this topic. In this review, we highlight the differences in pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and treatment of AD between African Americans and Caucasians. It is important for dermatologists to understand these differences in order to provide better care for African American children with AD.
A Case of Pemphigus Herpetiformis Occurring in a 9‐Year‐Old Boy
Authors: Leithauser Laurel A. , Mutasim Diya F.
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  Pemphigus herpetiformis (PH) is a rare autoimmune vesiculobullous disease. It clinically mimics dermatitis herpetiformis and has immunofluorescent findings typical of pemphigus. PH occurs in adults more commonly than children and is often effectively treated with dapsone. We report a case of PH occurring in a 9‐year‐old boy that was refractory to dapsone and to various other steroid‐sparing medications but resolved with methotrexate.
Dichotomous Long‐Term Response to Isotretinoin in Two Patients with Fordyce Spots
Authors: Mutizwa Misha M. , Berk David R.
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  Fordyce spots are benign, enlarged sebaceous glands that commonly present as tiny yellow papules on a variety of body surfaces, including the lips. Although these lesions are asymptomatic, in some patients, they are abundant and conspicuous, leading to concerns regarding their cosmetic appearance. The response of Fordyce spots to isotretinoin therapy is poorly documented in the literature, which contains only one case report of an affected patient treated with a short course of isotretinoin (35 mg/kg in total). Herein, we report dichotomous long‐term response to a standard course of isotretinoin in two patients with Fordyce spots of the lips and concomitant acne.
DIFFERENTIAL RESPONSES OF ANABAENA SP. PCC 7120 (CYANOPHYCEAE) CULTURED IN NITROGEN‐DEFICIENT AND NITROGEN‐ENRICHED MEDIA TO ULTRAVIOLET‐B RADIATION1
Authors: Qin Hongjie , Peng Chengrong , Liu Yongding , Li Dunhai
Published: April 2012

Stratospheric ozone depletion increases the amount of ultraviolet‐B radiation (UVBR) (280–320 nm) reaching the surface of the earth, potentially affecting phytoplankton. In this work, Anabaena sp. PCC 7120, a typically nitrogen (N)‐fixing filamentous bloom‐forming cyanobacterium in freshwater, was individually cultured in N‐deficient and N‐enriched media for long‐term acclimation before being subjected to ultraviolet‐B (UVB) exposure experiments. Results suggested that the extent of breakage in the filaments induced by UVBR increases with increasing intensity of UVB stress. In general, except for the 0.1 W · m−2 treatment, which showed a mild increase, UVB exposure inhibits photosynthesis as evidenced by the decrease in the chl fluorescence parameters maximum photochemical efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm) and maximum relative electron transport rate. Complementary chromatic acclimation was also observed in Anabaena under different intensities of UVB stress. Increased total carbohydrate and soluble protein may provide some protection for the culture against damaging UVB exposure. In addition, N‐deficient cultures with higher recovery capacity showed overcompensatory growth under low UVB (0.1 W · m−2) exposure during the recovery period. Significantly increased (∼830%) ATPase activity may provide enough energy to repair the damage caused by exposure to UVB.
A Cross‐Country Analysis of the Risk Factors for Depression at the Micro and Macro Levels
Authors: MELGAR NATALIA , ROSSI MÁXIMO
Published: April 2012

Abstract1

Past research has provided evidence of the role of some personal characteristics (age, gender, religion) as risk factors for depression. However, few researchers have jointly examined the specific impact of each characteristic and whether country characteristics (economic performance and others environmental factors) change the probability of being depressed. In general, this is due to the use of single‐country databases. The aim of this article is to extend previous findings by employing a much larger dataset and including the above‐mentioned country effects. We estimate probit models with country effects (model I) and we also explore linkages between specific environmental factors and depression (model II includes variables such as per capita Gross Domestic Product and the GINI index). The dataset for this research comes from the 2007 GALLUP Public Opinion Poll that allows us to consider a large and widely heterogeneous set of micro‐data. Findings indicate that depression is positively related to being a woman, adulthood, divorce, widowhood, unemployment, and low income. Moreover, we provide evidence of the significant association between economic performance and depression. Inequality raises the probability of being depressed, specially for those living in urban areas. Finally, we find that some population characteristics such as age distribution and religious affiliation facilitate depression.
A genetic risk factor for low serum ferritin levels in Danish blood donors
Authors: Sørensen Erik , Grau Katrine , Berg Trine , Simonsen Anne Catrine , Magnussen Karin , Erikstrup Christian , Hansen Morten Bagge , Ullum Henrik
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: Iron deficiency is a frequent side effect of blood donation. In recent years, several studies have described genetic variants associated with iron concentrations. However, the impact of these variants on iron levels is unknown in blood donors. Knowledge of genetic variants that predispose donors to iron deficiency would allow bleeding frequency and iron supplementation to be tailored to the individual donor.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: The genotypes of five specific single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in three genes that have been previously associated with iron status and/or restless leg syndrome (RLS) were investigated in two groups of female blood donors. The first group had low iron stores (serum ferritin ≤ 12 µg/L, n = 657), and the second group had normal to high iron stores (serum ferritin > 30 µg/L, n = 645). Genotype distribution for each of the SNPs was compared between the two groups.

RESULTS: Homozygosity for the T‐allele of BTBD9 rs9296249 was associated with lower serum ferritin. The odds ratio for low serum ferritin was 1.35 (95% confidence interval, 1.02‐1.77; p = 0.03) when comparing donors with the TT genotype with donors with the CT genotype.

CONCLUSION: A frequent polymorphism in BTBD9 was significantly associated with serum ferritin. This polymorphism has previously been associated with RLS, but not low iron stores in blood donors.
Rituximab maintenance for relapsed refractory thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Bhagirath Vinai C. , Kelton John G. , Moore Jane , Arnold Donald M.
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: Rituximab, an anti‐CD20 chimeric monoclonal antibody, has been used successfully to treat patients with relapsed or refractory thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP); however, the optimal dose and frequency and the role of rituximab maintenance remain uncertain.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: We describe a 45‐year‐old woman with chronic relapsing immune thrombocytopenia who responded to rituximab retreatment administered in four doses over the course of 12 months. Previously, she had received four doses of rituximab and sustained a remission for 19 months. During her latest TTP relapse, multiple treatments were administered including rituximab retreatment. After the first dose (375 mg/m2), she developed serum sickness requiring further doses to be deferred. Three subsequent doses were administered at 4‐month intervals over the course of 12 months. ADAMTS13 activity was measured by von Willebrand factor (VWF) digestion. ADAMTS13 inhibition was measured by a modification of the VWF digestion assay and anti‐ADAMTS13 antibodies were measured by enzyme‐linked immunoassay (enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, American Diagnostica).

RESULTS: Clinical and laboratory remission were achieved after one dose of rituximab, with normalization of ADAMTS13 activity and disappearance of ADAMTS13 inhibitor. Three subsequent doses of rituximab were given without incident and the patient remained in remission after 3.5 years of follow‐up (2.5 years since her last dose of rituximab).

CONCLUSION: Maintenance dosing of rituximab should be considered in some patients with relapsing TTP.
Time Course and Prognostic Implications of QT Interval in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease Undergoing Coronary Bypass Surgery
Authors: KINOSHITA TAKESHI , ASAI TOHRU , SUZUKI TOMOAKI , MATSUBAYASHI KEIJI , HORIE MINORU
Published: April 2012

Course and Prognostic Implication of QT After CABG. Introduction: The aim of the present study was to determine the prognostic implication of preoperative QT interval in relation to overall death and sudden cardiac death after coronary bypass surgery and to investigate the course of QT interval after surgery.

Methods and Results: Of 812 consecutive patients undergoing isolated off‐pump coronary surgery, 656 were retrospectively analyzed after excluding the 48 patients who were taking QT prolonging drugs and the 108 patients who had any of the following electrocardiographic findings: atrial fibrillation, pacemaker, QRS of >120 milliseconds, bundle branch block. QT intervals were corrected for heart rate (QTc) using Bazett's formula. Prolonged QTc was defined as QTc of ≥450 milliseconds in men (n = 144) and ≥470 milliseconds in women (n = 36). The 5‐year cumulative rate of sudden cardiac death in patients with prolonged QTc was 25% against 4% for those with normal QTc (P = 0.01). The risk‐adjusted hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) for the association between preoperative QTc and overall death was 1.47 (1.21–1.74) per 1‐SD increase in QTc; and 2.38 (1.50–3.45) for prolonged versus normal QT. For sudden cardiac death, the respective ratios were 1.63 (1.32–2.25) per 1‐SD increase in QTc; and 3.32 (2.14–4.23). QTc interval did not change during the first year after surgery, but increased significantly during the subsequent years. Patients with prolonged QTc before surgery had consistently longer QTc even after revascularization than those with normal QTc.

Conclusion: Preoperative QT interval was an independent predictor of overall death and sudden cardiac death after isolated coronary bypass surgery. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23, pp. 645–649, June 2012)
Two Versus One Repeat Freeze–Thaw Cycle(s) After Cryoballoon Pulmonary Vein Isolation: The ALSTER EXTRA Pilot Study
Authors: CHUN KYOUNG RYUL JULIAN , FÜRNKRANZ ALEXANDER , KÖSTER ILKA , METZNER ANDREAS , TÖNNIS TOBIAS , WOHLMUTH PETER , WISSNER ERIK , SCHMIDT BORIS , OUYANG FEIFAN , KUCK KARL HEINZ
Published: April 2012

Two versus One Repeat Freeze–Thaw Cycle(s). Background: Repeated freezing (bonus applications) during cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) has been suggested to improve lesion durability. However, the long‐term clinical effects of repeated freezing have not been investigated.

Methods and Results: A total of 51 patients (pts) with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) underwent PVI using the single big (28 mm) cryoballoon technique. One (27 pts, group I) or 2 bonus applications (24 pts, group II) were performed at all PVs subsequent to PVI. Clinical follow‐up consisted of continuous rhythm monitoring by an implantable cardiac monitor (ICM, 24 pts) and serial 7‐day Holter‐ECG recording (7DH, 27 pts). The primary endpoint was defined as recurrent AF or atrial tachycardia.

Acute PVI of all PVs was obtained in 50/51 pts (98%). The median (Q1;Q3) follow‐up duration in this study was 384 (213;638) days. The primary endpoint occurred in 48% (group I, 15 pts ICM, 12 pts 7DH) and 46% (group II, 9 pts ICM, 15 pts 7DH), P = 0.84. Procedure‐ and fluoroscopy‐time for group I versus group II was 193 ± 56 minutes versus 207 ± 27 and 33 ± 13 minutes versus 34 ± 11 minutes, respectively. Right phrenic nerve palsy (PNP) occurred in 3 pts (all group II, time to resolution: 128 ± 112 days). In 2 of these pts, PNP occurred during the second bonus application.

Conclusion: Application of 2 when compared to 1 freeze–thaw cycle(s) following cryoballoon PVI did not result in improved clinical success but was associated with a higher complication rate. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23, pp. 814‐819, August 2012)
Clinic Value of Two‐Dimensional Speckle Tracking Combined with Adenosine Stress Echocardiography for Assessment of Myocardial Viability
Authors: Ran Hong , Zhang Ping‐Yang , Fang Ling‐Ling , Ma Xiao‐Wu , Wu Wen‐Fang , Feng Wang‐Fei
Published: April 2012

Background: To evaluate whether myocardial strain under adenosine stress calculated from two‐dimensional echocardiography by automatic frame‐by‐frame tracking of natural acoustic markers enables objective description of myocardial viability in clinic. Methods and Results: Two‐dimensional echocardiography and two‐dimensional speckle tracking imaging (2D STI) at rest were performed first and once again after adenosine was infused at 140 ug/kg/min over a period of 6 minutes in 36 stable patients with previous myocardial infarction. Then radionuclide myocardial perfusion/metabolic imaging served as the “gold standard” to define myocardial viability was given in all patients within 1 day. Two‐dimensional speckle tracking images were acquired at rest and after adenosine administration. An automatic frame‐by‐frame tracking system of natural acoustic echocardiographic markers was used to calculate 2D strain variables including peak‐systolic circumferential strain (CSpeak‐sys), radial strain (RSpeak‐sys), and longitudinal strain (LSpeak‐sys). Those segments with abnormal motion from visual assessment of two‐dimensional echocardiography were selected for further study. As a result, 126 regions were viable whereas 194 were nonviable among 320 abnormal motion segments in 36 patients according to radionuclide imaging. At rest, there were no significant changes of 2D strain between the viable and nonviable myocardium. After adenosine administration (140 ug/kg/min), CSpeak‐sys had a little change of the viable myocardium while RSpeak‐sys and LSpeak‐sys increased significantly compared with those at rest. In nonviable group, CSpeak‐sys, RSpeak‐sys, and LSpeak‐sys had no significant changes during adenosine administration. After adenosine administration, RSpeak‐sys and LSpeak‐sys in viable group increased significantly compared with nonviable group. Obtained strain data were highly reproducible and affected in small intraobserver and interobserver variabilities. A change of radial strain more than 9.5% has a sensitivity of 83.9% and a specificity of 81.4% for viable whereas a change of longitudinal strain more than 14.6% allowed a sensitivity of 86.7% and a specificity of 90.2%. Conclusions: 2D STI combined with adenosine stress echocardiography could provide a new and reliable method to identify myocardium viability. (Echocardiography 2012;29:688‐694)
Three‐Dimensional Echocardiographic Imaging of Biventricular False Tendons Mimicking Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Kucuk Ugur , Demirkol Sait , Celik Turgay , Balta Sevket , Yokusoglu Mehmet
Published: April 2012

Mini‐Abstract:

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is characterized by hypertrophy of the left ventricle, with variable clinical manifestations and morphologic and hemodynamic abnormalities. False tendons (FTs) are discrete, fibromuscular structures of varying length and thickness that tranverse either left and right ventricular cavities. Left and right ventricular FTs were giving a false impression of HCM. Misdiagnosis of HCM can lead to undue anxiety, unnecessary medication, and further evaluation. Three‐dimensional (3D) transthoracic echocardiography is additive to conventional two‐dimensional imaging in these patients in terms of 3D perspective and anatomically correct examination. We present a 32‐year‐old male who was misdiagnosed as asymetrical septal hypertrophy.
Effect of FeOt Content and CaO/SiO2 Ratio on Hydrogen Dissolution in CaF2–CaO–SiO2‐Based Welding Fluxes
Authors: Park Jun‐Yong , Park Seo‐Jung , Chang Woong‐Seong , Sohn Il
Published: April 2012

The solubility of hydrogen in the CaF2–CaO–SiO2–FeOt slag system was studied to characterize the dependence of hydrogen dissolution behavior on the CaO/SiO2 ratio and the Fe3+/Fe2+ redox equilibrium at 1823 K. In an acidic slag composition, the dissolved hydrogen seems to exist as an incorporated hydroxyl, where the supplied water vapor reacts with the bridged oxygen (Oo) of the slag network. In a basic slag composition, hydrogen dissolves as a free hydroxyl in the molten slag by reacting with the free oxygen (O2−). Using FTIR (Fourier transform infrared) and Raman spectroscopy, the addition of FeOt depolymerized the slag structure in an acidic slag system, but polymerized the slag structure in a basic slag system as the FeOt content increased. Furthermore, the formation of γ‐ and δ‐FeO(OH) was controlled by the amount of Fe2O3 present in the flux and increased at higher concentrations of Fe2O3. At a fixed Fe2O3 content and with CaO/SiO2 ratios varying from 0.7 to 1.3, the hydrogen solubility curve was parabolic as a function of CaO/SiO2, with a minimum near the CaO/SiO2 ratio of 1.0 and rapidly increasing at CaO/SiO2 ratios above 1.0.
Peri‐implant bone formation and surface characteristics of rough surface zirconia implants manufactured by powder injection molding technique in rabbit tibiae
Authors: Park Young‐Seok , Chung Shin‐Hye , Shon Won‐Jun
Published: April 2012

Objective

To evaluate osseointegration in rabbit tibiae and to investigate surface characteristics of novel zirconia implants made by powder injection molding (PIM) technique, using molds with and without roughened inner surfaces.

Material and methods

A total of 20 rabbits received three types of external hex implants with identical geometry on the tibiae: machined titanium implants, PIM zirconia implants without mold etching, and PIM zirconia implants with mold etching. Surface characteristics of the three types of implant were evaluated. Removal torque tests and histomorphometric analyses were performed.

Results

The roughness of PIM zirconia implants was higher than that of machined titanium implants. The PIM zirconia implants exhibited significantly higher bone–implant contact and removal torque values than the machined titanium implants (P < 0.001). The PIM zirconia implants using roughened mold showed significantly higher removal torque values than PIM zirconia implants without using roughened mold (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

It is concluded that the osseointegration of PIM zirconia implant is promising and PIM using roughened mold etching technique can produce substantially rough surfaces on zirconia implants.
Ecological determinants of parasite acquisition by exotic fish species
Authors: Paterson Rachel A. , Townsend Colin R. , Tompkins Daniel M. , Poulin Robert
Published: April 2012

Disease‐mediated threats posed by exotic species to native counterparts are not limited to introduced parasites alone, since exotic hosts frequently acquire native parasites with possible consequences for infection patterns in native hosts. Several biological and geographical factors are thought to explain both the richness of parasites in native hosts, and the invasion success of free‐living exotic species. However, the determinants of native parasite acquisition by exotic hosts remain unknown. Here, we investigated native parasite communities of exotic freshwater fish to determine which traits influence acquisition of native parasites by exotic hosts. Model selection suggested that five factors (total body length, time since introduction, phylogenetic relatedness to the native fish fauna, trophic level and native fish species richness) may be linked to native parasite acquisition by exotic fish, but 95% confidence intervals of coefficient estimates indicated these explained little of the variance in parasite richness. Based on R2‐values, weak positive relationships may exist only between the number of parasites acquired and either host size or time since introduction. Whilst our results suggest that factors influencing parasite richness in native host communities may be less important for exotic species, it seems that analyses of general ecological factors currently fail to adequately incorporate the physiological and immunological complexity of whether a given animal species will become a host for a new parasite.
Overcoming the Doping Legacy: Can London's Winners Outperform the Drugs of 1988?
Authors: Stefani Ray
Published: April 2012

The 1988 Olympics were followed by anti-doping measures. Performances then diminished. Ray Stefani examines the rate of improvement in various events to see whether clean athletes can overcome the barriers set by suspect records of the past. He also predicts the number of medals that Britain will win in 2012.
How Usain Bolt Can Run Faster – Effortlessly
Authors: Barrow John D.
Published: April 2012

Can Usain Bolt cover 100 metres even quicker than his world record? Yes, says John D. Barrow; and he doesn't even have to improve his sprinting ability to do it.
Olympic Swimming Gold: The Suit or the Swimmer in the Suit?
Authors: Stefani Ray
Published: April 2012

Mark Spitz won seven gold medals wearing briefs. Michael Phelps won 14 gold medals in Athens and Beijing in a high-tech all-over bodysuit. In 2010 high-technology swimsuits were banned from competition, as significantly improving performance. But do they really make a difference? Ray Stefani evaluates them, beginning with an evocative photo from the 1924 Olympics.
Men's Records and Women's: Are the Women Better Already?
Authors: Kovalchik Stephanie
Published: April 2012

Women's record times and distances may always lag behind men's. But, asks Stephanie Kovalchik, is this because we are measuring the wrong things? She looks forward to an Olympics that rewards achievement as well as luck of the genes – where determination as much as talent could earn an athlete gold…
Is the Marathon Likely to Kill You?
Authors: Cheah Benjamin
Published: April 2012

Inspired by the Olympics, more and more people are taking up long-distance running. But reports of people suddenly dying of cardiac arrest during marathons spark fears. How dangerous is a marathon for an amateur? Benjamin Cheah, statistician and occasional half-marathon runner, seeks reassurance.
Piano Virtuosos and the Four-Minute Mile
Authors: Wainer Howard
Published: April 2012

Roger Bannister ran a four-minute mile and the world was astonished. Now most national-class milers can do it. Concert pianists today are breathtakingly good. Their technique far surpasses the virtuosos of the past. What is the connection? Why are hard things becoming so much more commonly achieved? Howard Wainer explains.
Mark Israney
Authors: Champkin Julian
Published: April 2012

What are the odds of an Olympic gold, in football, or archery, or canoe slalom? Julian Champkin meets the man who taps algorithms and the wisdom – and the occasional madness – of crowds.
Distribution assessment comparing continuous and periodic wound instillation in conjunction with negative pressure wound therapy using an agar‐based model
Authors: Rycerz Anthony M , Slack Paul , McNulty Amy K
Published: April 2012

Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is a widely accepted and effective treatment for various wound types, including complex wounds. Negative pressure with instillation was initially used as a gravity‐fed system whereby reticulated, open‐cell foam in the wound bed was periodically exposed to cycles of soaking with instillation solution followed by NPWT. Recent publications have alluded to positive outcomes with continuous instillation, where fluid is delivered simultaneously with negative pressure. To evaluate the distribution of instillation solutions to wound beds in conjunction with negative pressure, agar‐based models were developed and exposed to coloured instillation solutions to identify exposure intensity via agar staining. This model allowed comparison of continuous‐ versus periodic‐instillation therapy with negative pressure. Continuous instillation at a rate of 30 cc/hour with negative pressure showed isolated exposure of instillation fluid to wound beds in agar wound models with and without undermining and tunnelling. In contrast, periodic instillation illustrated uniform exposure of the additive to the entire wound bed including undermined and tunnel areas, with increased staining with each instillation cycle. These findings suggest that periodic instillation facilitates more uniform exposure throughout the wound, including tunnels and undermining, to instillation solutions, thereby providing therapy consistent with the clinician‐ordered treatment.
Welfare means relationality, virtue and altruism
Authors: Herring Jonathan , Foster Charles
Published: April 2012

This paper examines the nature of welfare and best interests as used in medical and family law. It argues that these are commonly presented in individualistic terms, requiring the court to promote the interests of a child or incompetent adult without reference to the interests of others. However, this paper argues that, properly understood, best interests and welfare should be taken as concepts which recognise the importance of relational interests, the performance of obligations, and the virtue of altruism.
Chinese Stylized Sterilization: The Cost‐sharing Mechanism and Financial Repression
Authors: Zhang Ming
Published: April 2012

This paper attempts to explain why sterilized intervention was so successful and sustainable in China during the first decade of the 21st century. We argue that the Chinese Government established a sterilization cost‐sharing mechanism among the People's Bank of China, commercial banks and the household sector. On the one hand, Chinese commercial banks have to assume some of the sterilization costs by purchasing low yield central bank bills and maintaining high levels of required reserves. On the other hand, Chinese households assume some of the sterilization costs by bearing negative real deposit interest rates. The cost‐sharing mechanism under financial repression prevents a huge quasi‐fiscal loss by the People's Bank of China as well as high inflation. However, Chinese households have become victims of this financial repression. Faced with the pressure of changing the growth model from investment‐driven to domestic consumption‐driven, the interest rate will have to be liberalized eventually, which will, in turn, make sterilized intervention unsustainable.
A Comparison of Criterion Standard Methods to Diagnose Acute Heart Failure
Authors: Collins Sean P. , Lindsell Christopher J. , Yealy Donald M. , Maron David J. , Naftilan Allen J. , McPherson John A. , Storrow Alan B.
Published: April 2012

©2012 Wiley Periodicals Inc.

The authors sought to compare and contrast the clinical criterion standards currently used in a cohort of emergency department (ED) patients to diagnose acute heart failure syndromes (AHFS). In a prospective observational study of patients with signs and symptoms of AHFS, 3 criterion standards were examined: (1) the treating ED physician’s diagnosis; (2) the hospital discharge diagnosis; and (3) a diagnosis based on medical record review by a panel of cardiologists. Using Cohen’s kappa (κ) coefficient, the authors assessed agreement and then compared the different standards by repeatedly setting one as the criterion standard and the other two as index tests. A total of 483 patients were enrolled. Across all criterion standards, patients with AHFS were more likely to have a history of AHFS, congestion on physical examination and chest radiography, and elevated natriuretic peptide levels than those without AHFS. The standards agreed well (cardiology review vs hospital discharge diagnosis, κ=0.74; cardiology review vs ED diagnosis, κ=0.66; ED diagnosis vs hospital discharge diagnosis κ=0.59). Each method had similar sensitivity but differing specificities. Different criterion standards identify different patients from among those being evaluated for AHFS. Researchers should consider this when choosing between the various criterion standard approaches when evaluating new index tests.
Factors controlling flooding at the Tonalá river mouth (Mexico)
Authors: Pedrozo‐Acuña A. , Ruiz de Alegria‐Arzaburu A. , Mariño‐Tapia I. , Enriquez C. , González Villareal F.J.
Published: April 2012

This investigation presents an integrated study for the identification of coastal and fluvial forcing, in the generation of flood events in the lower area of the Tonalá River. The methodology is designed to reduce some of the uncertainties in the results and is comprised by high‐quality field measurements, a two‐dimensional numerical model and light ranging and detection data. Under typical conditions, results show good agreement between numerical and measured data. Investigation of mesh resolution effects and roughness parameterisation along the floodplain demonstrates the grid independence of the results and enabled the selection of a realistic roughness value for the floodplain. Results imply a sensitivity of the region to the combined river and coastal forcing. This study demonstrates that a good description of the terrain elevation, acquisition of high‐quality bathymetric data and proper calibration of the roughness parameters provide the adequate set‐up for the identification of vulnerable areas to flood events generated by river discharges and storm surges. The combined scenarios of high discharges and storm surges showed a delicate balance between river and coastal fluxes within this system. The approach could be useful for both, the generation of flood management strategies and the understanding of the role of driving physical processes.
Update on the keratoconus genetics
Authors: Nielsen Kim , Hjortdal Jesper , Pihlmann Maria , Corydon Thomas J.
Published: April 2012

Keratoconus (KC) is one of the leading causes for keratoplasty. While the genetic aetiology of more and more corneal dystrophies is revealed, KC falls behind. And it is not because of lack of effort. The diversity in the many published results from over two decades is discussed in relation to the present knowledge in molecular biology. Results that at first appear to be in conflict with each other make sense when placed in the right context. Ophthalmologists often refer to KC as a heterogeneous disease. This review demonstrates that it truly is a multifactorial disease. Despite the many attempts to reveal the aetiology of KC, the pathological mechanism(s) still remain to be solved.
Location of main occluding areas and masticatory ability in patients with implant‐supported prostheses
Authors: Tanigawa Y , Kasahara T , Yamashita S
Published: April 2012

Background:  The purpose of this study was to locate the main occluding area when the reduced posterior occlusal support was treated with an implant‐supported prosthesis and to evaluate the subsequent improvement in the masticatory ability as compared with removable partial dentures.

Methods:  Twenty‐six patients with implant prostheses and 24 patients with removable partial dentures were recruited for this study. All patients had partially lost their posterior occlusal support. The first molar region in any quadrant was always included in the prosthetic region. Each subject was instructed to clench a piece of temporary stopping as a test food on the occluding area that was preferably used during mastication. The main occluding area was judged by locating the tooth on which the temporary stopping rested during clenching. Subjective masticatory ability was self‐assessed by means of a questionnaire.

Results:  The main occluding area of the subjects in the implant group was located more posterior compared with the removable partial denture group. The level of masticatory ability in the implant group was the same as that in the control group.

Conclusions:  The location of the main occluding area and the masticatory ability of the subjects with implants were equivalent to those with healthy natural dentition.
Characteristics of premaxillary supernumerary teeth in primary and mixed dentitions: a retrospective analysis of 212 cases
Authors: Shekhar Madiraju G.
Published: April 2012

Abstract Aim:  To investigate the characteristics and distribution of premaxillary supernumerary teeth affecting primary and mixed dentitions in Indian children.

Methods:  This retrospective analysis included 11 200 children, aged 3–12 years, who attended a pediatric dental clinic for dental care during the period 2007–2010. The children were divided into group I (aged 3–6 years) and group II (aged 7–12 years), and data regarding maxillary anterior supernumerary teeth, diagnosed both as isolated and/or as unexpected findings during routine clinical and radiological examinations, were gathered. Pearson’s χ2‐test, with a 0.05 level of significance, was used for the analysis.

Results:  The overall prevalence of premaxillary supernumerary teeth in primary and mixed dentitions was 1.9%. Single supernumerary teeth (84.9%) and conical morphology (68.7%) were commonly seen in both groups. The most common sagittal position was palatal (92.3%) among both erupted and impacted maxillary anterior supernumerary teeth.

Conclusion:  The prevalence of premaxillary supernumerary teeth in Indian children found in this study was 1.9%, with an overall male to female ratio of 1.7:1. Single supernumerary teeth, conical morphology, and erupted supernumerary teeth were the most commonly seen. Supernumerary teeth associated with clinical complications were relatively low (48%), and axial rotation or displacement of maxillary incisors was the most common sequelae.
Concerning the Telling of Painful Tales: The Case of Masks of the Sacred Bush
Authors: Yellis Ken
Published: April 2012

Abstract   The public seems more likely to take issue with what history museums say than with what art, anthropology, and natural history museums say. In part, this is because these disciplines are understood to be challenging, not least because of the often opaque language and methods designed to impart psychic distance from their content. Exhibitions in these disciplines work by equipping and requiring us to step back before we step in, thereby making it easier to process difficult subjects. One such exhibition which was potentially emotionally charged did not provoke controversy. Did the disciplines through which the story was approached remove the story temporarily from the highly charged slave narrative and place it in a different, less contested—because more reified—context, a different kind of narrative? If so, was that a constructive contribution or a missed opportunity?
Culture Ants Project
Authors: Parlak Meltem
Published: April 2012

Abstract   Culture Ants Project is an original, unique educational model, which aims to raise children’s awareness of and sensitivity to cultural heritage. Specially trained Culture Volunteers show children historical sites of the city and provide information about the city’s historical heritage in an educating and entertaining fashion that addresses their emotional intelligence (EI) and elicits their fondness for historical sites. The model is based on a teaching technique that involves “seeing, perceiving, sensing, and acquiring first‐hand experience.” Visiting cultural sites helps introduce children and youth to cultural values.
A New 3D Mechanism for Modeling the Passive Motion of the Tibia–Fibula–Ankle Complex
Authors: Baldisserri Benedetta , Parenti-Castelli Vincenzo
Published: April 2012

A great number of kinematic, kinetostatic, and dynamic models of human diarthrodial joints, such as the hip, the knee, and the ankle, have been presented in the literature. On the contrary, comprehensive models of the lower limb are lacking and often oversimplify its anatomical structures by considering only 2D motion. This paper will focus on the 3D kinematic model of the articulation that involves four bones: the tibia, fibula, talus, and calcaneus. In particular, a new spatial equivalent mechanism with one degree of freedom is proposed for the passive motion simulation of this anatomical complex. The geometry of the mechanism is based on the main anatomical structures, namely the talus, the tibia, and the fibula bones at their interface, on the main ligaments of the ankle joint, and on the interosseus membrane of the leg. An iterative refinement process is presented, that provides the optimal geometry of the mechanism which allows the best fitting of simulation versus measurement data. Simulation results show the efficiency of the proposed mechanism that is believed to play an important role for future developments of models of the whole human lower limb.
Rotary Contact Method for 5-Axis Tool Positioning
Authors: Fan Wengang , Wang Xiaochun , Cai Yonglin , Jiang Hong
Published: April 2012

In this paper, a new 5-axis tool positioning algorithm called the rotary contact method (RCM) for open concave surface machining using the toroidal cutter is developed. The RCM comes from the reverse thinking of multipoint machining (MPM) method and apparently distinguishes the traditional tool positioning principles, as it determines the optimal tool positions based on the offset surface instead of the design surface. The basic idea of the RCM is to determine the initial tool location first and then rotate the tool for required contact. The RCM can not only guarantee gouge-free tool positions without the additional local gouge checking and correction process but also effectively produce big machined strip width for open form surface machining just like the MPM. Besides, this new method is simple to implement. Machining simulation was performed to verify the validity of the RCM.
Source Contribution Evaluation of Mechanical Vibration Signals via Enhanced Independent Component Analysis
Authors: Cheng Wei , Zhang Zhousuo , Lee Seungchul , He Zhengjia
Published: April 2012

Extraction of effective information from measured vibration signals is a fundamental task for the machinery condition monitoring and fault diagnosis. As a typical blind source separation (BSS) method, independent component analysis (ICA) is known to be able to effectively extract the latent information in complex signals even when the mixing mode and sources are unknown. In this paper, we propose a novel approach to overcome two major drawbacks of the traditional ICA algorithm: lack of robustness and source contribution evaluation. The enhanced ICA algorithm is established to escalate the separation performance and robustness of ICA algorithm. This algorithm repeatedly separates the mixed signals multiple times with different initial parameters and evaluates the optimal separated components by the clustering evaluation method. Furthermore, the source contributions to the mixed signals can also be evaluated. The effectiveness of the proposed method is validated through the numerical simulation and experiment studies.