bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of intralocus recombinants for the mating loci of Lentinula edodes
Authors: Li An‐Zheng , Xu Xue‐Feng , Lin Fang‐Can
Published: August 2013

Mating type analysis was carried out for progeny of 13 strains of Lentinula edodes. Out of the 13 strains, one strain HL01 was found with an exceptional phenotype, in that the proportion of incompatibility to compatibility of 132 random pairings of monokaryons derived from the dikaryon was 82:50. This value differs significantly (Chi‐square = 11) from the expected 3:1 ratio. The mating types of 189 monokaryons derived from the same sporocarp of HL01 were identified using four standard tester strains. Of the 189 spore monokaryons, 161 monokaryons could be classified into one of four normal mating types (A1B1, A2B2, A1B2, and A2B1), and the other 28 monokaryons could be classified into another four groups. By crossing in all pairwise combinations, the mating types of the 28 monokaryons were further analyzed. The results indicated that intralocus recombination occurred in both A and B mating loci (matA and matB), at frequencies of 8.5 and 11.6%, respectively. The matA is composed of at least two subloci while the matB may be composed of more than two subloci. The subsequent fruiting test revealed that all compatible pairings which contained at least one of the recombinants had the ability to produce fruiting bodies.
Trophic stimulation of articular chondrocytes by late‐passage mesenchymal stem cells in coculture
Authors: Wang Miqi , Rahnama Ruyan , Cheng Tiffany , Grotkopp Eva , Jacobs Linsey , Limburg Sonja , Kim Hubert T. , Kuo Alfred C.
Published: August 2013

Coculture of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with articular chondrocytes (ACs) increases glycosaminoglycan (GAG) accumulation compared to monoculture. MSCs might (1) differentiate into ACs (progenitor role) and/or (2) stimulate AC matrix metabolism (trophic role). MSCs lose the ability to undergo chondrogenesis after extended passaging. We hypothesized that MSCs act predominantly as progenitors, and that late‐passage MSCs without chondrogenic potential would be unable to increase GAG in coculture. Early‐ and late‐passage human MSCs (hMSCs) were grown in pellet monoculture under chondrogenic conditions and in pellet coculture with bovine ACs. Chondrogenesis was assessed with GAG quantification, safranin‐O staining, and quantitative PCR (qPCR). Contributions of human and bovine cells were assessed with species‐specific qPCR and human‐specific immunostaining. Late‐passage hMSCs did not undergo chondrogenesis in monoculture with chondrogenic stimuli or in coculture with ACs. Early‐passage hMSCs underwent chondrogenesis only in response to chondrogenic stimuli. Coculture pellets in both cases accumulated as much GAG/DNA as monoculture AC pellets. Aggrecan transcription was not increased in coculture. Late‐passage hMSCs that do not undergo chondrogenesis are capable of stimulating GAG accumulation in coculture with ACs. This supports a trophic effect of hMSCs on ACs. hMSCs may have therapeutic utility even after prolonged passaging. Published 2013 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of the Orthopaedic Research Society. J Orthop Res 31:1936–1942, 2013
The contribution of risk prediction models to early detection of lung cancer
Authors: Field John K. , Chen Ying , Marcus Michael W. , Mcronald Fiona E. , Raji Olaide Y. , Duffy Stephen W.
Published: August 2013

Low‐dose computed tomography screening is a strategy for early diagnosis of lung cancer. The success of such screening will be dependent upon identifying populations at sufficient risk in order to maximise the benefit‐to‐harm ratio of the intervention. To facilitate this, the lung cancer risk prediction community has established several risk models with good predictive performance. This review focuses on current progress in risk modelling for lung cancer prediction, with some views on future development. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013 108:304–311. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effective photodynamic therapy against microbial populations in human deep tissue abscess aspirates
Authors: Haidaris Constantine G. , Foster Thomas H. , Waldman David L. , Mathes Edward J. , McNamara JoAnne , Curran Timothy
Published: August 2013

Background and Objective

The primary therapy for deep tissue abscesses is drainage accompanied by systemic antimicrobial treatment. However, the long antibiotic course required increases the probability of acquired resistance, and the high incidence of polymicrobial infections in abscesses complicates treatment choices. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is effective against multiple classes of organisms, including those displaying drug resistance, and may serve as a useful adjunct to the standard of care by reduction of abscess microbial burden following drainage.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Aspirates were obtained from 32 patients who underwent image‐guided percutaneous drainage of the abscess cavity. The majority of the specimens (24/32) were abdominal, with the remainder from liver and lung. Conventional microbiological techniques and nucleotide sequence analysis of rRNA gene fragments were used to characterize microbial populations from abscess aspirates. We evaluated the sensitivity of microorganisms to methylene blue‐sensitized PDT in vitro both within the context of an abscess aspirate and as individual isolates.

Results

Most isolates were bacterial, with the fungus Candida tropicalis also isolated from two specimens. We examined the sensitivity of these microorganisms to methylene blue‐PDT. Complete elimination of culturable microorganisms was achieved in three different aspirates, and significant killing (P < 0.0001) was observed in all individual microbial isolates tested compared to controls.

Conclusions

These results and the technical feasibility of advancing optical fibers through catheters at the time of drainage motivate further work on including PDT as a therapeutic option during abscess treatment. Lasers Surg. Med. 45:509–516, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Exploration of Deinococcus‐Thermus molecular diversity by novel group‐specific PCR primers
Authors: Theodorakopoulos Nicolas , Bachar Dipankar , Christen Richard , Alain Karine , Chapon Virginie
Published: August 2013

The deeply branching Deinococcus‐Thermus lineage is recognized as one of the most extremophilic phylum of bacteria. In previous studies, the presence of Deinococcus‐related bacteria in the hot arid Tunisian desert of Tataouine was demonstrated through combined molecular and culture‐based approaches. Similarly, Thermus‐related bacteria have been detected in Tunisian geothermal springs. The present work was conducted to explore the molecular diversity within the Deinococcus‐Thermus phylum in these extreme environments. A set of specific primers was designed in silico on the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequences, validated for the specific detection of reference strains, and used for the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of metagenomic DNA retrieved from the Tataouine desert sand and Tunisian hot spring water samples. These analyses have revealed the presence of previously undescribed Deinococcus‐Thermus bacterial sequences within these extreme environments. The primers designed in this study thus represent a powerful tool for the rapid detection of Deinococcus‐Thermus in environmental samples and could also be applicable to clarify the biogeography of the Deinococcus‐Thermus phylum.
Flavonoid–Metal Ion Complexes: A Novel Class of Therapeutic Agents
Authors: Selvaraj Stalin , Krishnaswamy Sridharan , Devashya Venkappayya , Sethuraman Swaminathan , Krishnan Uma Maheswari
Published: August 2013

Flavonoids are among the most investigated phytochemicals due to their pharmacological and therapeutic activities. Their ability to chelate with metal ions has resulted in the emergence of a new category of molecules with a broader spectrum of pharmacological activities. However, the biological significance of these flavonoid–metal ion complexes is yet to be completely explored. Moreover, no concerted efforts have been made to elucidate their molecular targets and mechanisms of action. This review attempts to provide a snapshot of the various biological activities reported for flavonoid–metal ion complexes and their potential as therapeutic agents. Understanding the mechanism of action and the influence of structure will provide a strong basis to design novel flavonoid–metal ion complexes of therapeutic significance.
Q‐ball imaging with PROPELLER EPI acquisition
Authors: Chou Ming‐Chung , Huang Teng‐Yi , Chung Hsiao‐Wen , Hsieh Tsyh‐Jyi , Chang Hing‐Chiu , Chen Cheng‐Yu
Published: August 2013

Q‐ball imaging (QBI) is an imaging technique that is capable of resolving intravoxel fiber crossings; however, the signal readout based on echo‐planar imaging (EPI) introduces geometric distortions in the presence of susceptibility gradients. This study proposes an imaging technique that reduces susceptibility distortions in QBI by short‐axis PROPELLER EPI acquisition. Conventional QBI and PROPELLER QBI data were acquired from two 3T MR scans of the brains of five healthy subjects. Prior to the PROPELLER reconstruction, residual distortions in single‐blade low‐resolution b0 and diffusion‐weighted images (DWIs) were minimized by linear affine and nonlinear diffeomorphic demon registrations. Subsequently, the PROPELLER keyhole reconstruction was applied to the corrected DWIs to obtain high‐resolution PROPELLER DWIs. The generalized fractional anisotropy and orientation distribution function maps contained fewer distortions in PROPELLER QBI than in conventional QBI, and the fiber tracts more closely matched the brain anatomy depicted by turbo spin‐echo (TSE) T2‐weighted imaging (T2WI). Furthermore, for fixed TE, PROPELLER QBI enabled a shorter scan time than conventional QBI. We conclude that PROPELLER QBI can reduce susceptibility distortions without lengthening the acquisition time and is suitable for tracing neuronal fiber tracts in the human brain. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A displacement‐based finite element formulation for general polyhedra using harmonic shape functions
Authors: Bishop J.E.
Published: August 2013

A displacement‐based continuous‐Galerkin finite element formulation for general polyhedra is presented for applications in nonlinear solid mechanics. The polyhedra can have an arbitrary number of vertices or faces. The faces of the polyhedra can have an arbitrary number of edges and can be nonplanar. The polyhedra can be nonconvex with only the mild restriction of star convexity with respect to the vertex‐averaged centroid. Conforming shape functions are constructed using harmonic functions defined on the undeformed configuration, thus requiring the use of a total‐Lagrangian finite element formulation in large deformation applications. For nonlinear applications with computationally intensive constitutive models, it is important to minimize the number of element quadrature points. For this reason, an integration scheme is adopted in which the number of quadrature points is equal to the number of vertices. As a first step toward verifying the element behavior in the general nonlinear setting, several linear verification examples are presented using both random Voronoi meshes and distorted hexahedral meshes. For the hexahedral meshes, results for the polyhedral formulation are compared to those of the standard trilinear hexahedral formulation. The element behavior in the nearly incompressible regime is also examined. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A nonsmooth generalized‐ α scheme for flexible multibody systems with unilateral constraints
Authors: Chen Qiong‐zhong , Acary Vincent , Virlez Geoffrey , Brüls Olivier
Published: August 2013

Mechanical systems are usually subjected not only to bilateral constraints, but also to unilateral constraints. Inspired by the generalized‐ α time integration method for smooth flexible multibody dynamics, this paper presents a nonsmooth generalized‐ α method, which allows a consistent treatment of the nonsmooth phenomena induced by unilateral constraints and an accurate description of the structural vibrations during free motions. Both the algorithm and the implementation are illustrated in detail. Numerical example tests are given in the scope of both rigid and flexible body models, taking account for both linear and nonlinear systems and comprising both unilateral and bilateral constraints. The extended nonsmooth generalized‐ α method is verified through comparison to the traditional Moreau–Jean method and the fully implicit Newmark method. Results show that the nonsmooth generalized‐ α method benefits from the accuracy and stability property of the classical generalized‐ α method with controllable numerical damping. In particular, when it comes to the analysis of flexible systems, the nonsmooth generalized‐ α method shows much better accuracy property than the other two methods. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transition of neck appearance in polyethylene and effect of the associated strain rate on the damage generation
Authors: Ben Jar P.‐Y.
Published: August 2013

By reducing tensile test speeds over four orders of magnitude, from 5 to 0.001 mm/min (corresponding to the initial strain rate of 4 × 10−3 to 8 × 10−7 s−1), color of polyethylene (PE) specimens remains translucent during the necking process, no longer changing to opaque white. Since changing the color to opaque white indicates the presence of cavities, the unchanged color suggests that such cavitation process is avoided by reducing the crosshead speed. With this discovery, the study proceeds to investigate the mechanical behavior of PE specimen shown at two crosshead speeds, 1 and 0.001 mm/min, before neck is developed; the former crosshead speed leads to opaque white neck but the latter translucent. The results show that at 1 mm/min, a stretch corresponding to a strain smaller than 4% can cause degradation of mechanical properties. Since this level of deformation is close to that allowed in service, the study recommends the consideration of in‐service loading rate for evaluation of the mechanical properties, especially for long‐term applications such as plastic pipes for natural gas transportation. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 54:1871–1878, 2014. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
A reaction order functional relationship with the Williams–Landel–Ferry equation in curing kinetics
Authors: López‐Serrano F. , Puig J.E. , Mendizábal E.
Published: August 2013

A methodology is presented to obtain a kinetic model for curing reactions, from conversion against time and the glass‐transition temperature versus conversion data. Isothermal runs for a cyanate ester resin from 140 to 190°C, reported previously, were evaluated. The approach utilizes the conversion measurement time derivatives that allow following the estimated parameters' trends: the rate constant and the reaction order, in this case. An autocatalytic model was found, and the rate constants were truly constant along the experiments; thus, their Arrhenius parameters were evaluated. The methodology allowed constructing a master curve relating the variable reaction order with a temperature difference (reaction and glass transition) explained by the Williams–Landel–Ferry (WLF) equation. Four parameters describing the reaction order variation, two related to an exponential‐like behavior and two required by the WLF equation, allowed describing the whole experimental set accurately. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 54:1900–1908, 2014. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
The ability of informal primary caregivers to accurately report cancer patients' difficulties
Authors: Libert Yves , Merckaert Isabelle , Slachmuylder Jean‐Louis , Razavi Darius
Published: August 2013

Background

In cancer care, informal primary caregivers provide healthcare professionals with key information regarding patient difficulties. The aim of this study was to assess their ability to report cancer patients' physical, psychological, and social difficulties.

Methods

We recruited 208 consecutive patients and their informal primary caregivers in 10 oncology units. Patients reported their difficulties on the CAncer Rehabilitation Evaluation System (CARES‐P), whereas caregivers reported their perception of patient difficulties on an adapted CARES questionnaire (CARES‐C). On the basis of CARES‐P and CARES‐C questionnaire answers, correct report rates were defined by the percentage of difficulties reported at least ‘a little’ by patients and by caregivers. False report rates were defined by the percentage of difficulties not reported at least ‘a little’ by patients and reported by caregivers. Patients and their caregivers also provided their distress levels (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) and coping strategies.

Results

Caregivers correctly reported 67% of physical, 69% of psychological, and 40% of social difficulties experienced in patients. Caregivers falsely reported 28% of physical, 37% of psychological, and 22% of social difficulties not experienced by patients. Significant correlations were found between all correct and false reported rates. Patient and caregiver characteristics were weakly associated with caregivers' correct and false reports.

Conclusions

Family primary caregivers correctly reported approximately two thirds of physical and psychological patients' difficulties; however, they had less accurate reports of patients' social difficulties. Correct report rates increased the probability of false report rates. Healthcare professionals should carefully evaluate the accuracy of a primary informal caregiver's report in regards to patient experiences. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modulation of Interparticle Interactions and Specific Absorption Rate in Magnetomicelles through Changes in the Molecular Weight of the Hydrophobic Polymer Block
Authors: Olayo‐Valles Roberto , Rinaldi Carlos
Published: August 2013

Magnetomicelles are amphiphilic block copolymer micelles, which contain magnetic nanoparticles in the core. Magnetomicelles have been proposed as magnetic fluid hyperthermia agents for cancer treatment. Magnetic interactions between nanoparticles within a micelle affect the amount of heat that they dissipate. Here, magnetomicelles are prepared varying the molecular weight of the core‐forming polymer block. The magnetomicelles are magnetically characterized in liquid suspensions and embedded in a polymer matrix. The results show that as the molecular weight of the core‐forming polymer block increases, both the interparticle magnetic interactions and specific absorption rate decrease. This is probably due to mixing between the polymer and the magnetic nanoparticles, which increases the interparticle distance.
Postmortem lung volume/body weight standards for term and preterm infants
Authors: De Paepe Monique E. , Shapiro Svetlana , Hansen Katrine , Gündoğan Füsun
Published: August 2013

Assessment of lung growth is a critical component of the perinatal autopsy. Increased lung liquid content may lead to overestimation of lung growth based on (wet) lung weight. In contrast, lung volume is not influenced by intraalveolar lung liquid. Our aim was to establish age‐specific reference values for postmortem lung volume/BW in preterm and term infants. We performed a retrospective analysis of fetuses/infants (16–41 weeks' gestation) without (N = 134) or with (N = 79) risk factors for pulmonary hypoplasia. Lungs were inflated at standardized pressure and volumes determined by water immersion method. Lung volume increased 11‐fold between 16 and 41 weeks' gestation, concomitant with a 16‐fold increase in BW. Mean lung volume/BW remained constant at 33–34 ml/kg between 16 and 31 weeks' gestation and decreased to 23.4 ml/kg at term. Lung volume/BW of infants with severe risk factors (renal anomalies, diaphragmatic hernia) was significantly lower than age‐matched standards. In this group, all fetuses/infants diagnosed as having lung hypoplasia by lung volume/BW also had lung hypoplasia LW/BW standards. However, in infants with “softer” risk factors (rupture of membranes, chromosomal anomalies), 5/26 cases diagnosed with lung hypoplasia based on lung volume/BW had normal LW/BW ratios. In these discrepant cases, lung sections showed significant inflammation and edema, likely accounting for increased wet lung weight. In conclusion, we determined age‐specific lung volume/BW reference values for preterm and term infants. In selected situations assessment of lung volume/BW may represent a useful complementary tool to LW/BW for postmortem evaluation of lung size. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2014; 49:60–66. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Harvesting piezoelectric potential from zinc oxide nanoflowers grown on textile fabric substrate
Authors: Khan Azam , Abbasi Mazhar Ali , Wissting Jonas , Nur Omer , Willander Magnus
Published: August 2013

ZnO nanoflowers were synthesized on conductive flexible textile fabric substrate by using the simple low‐temperature aqueous chemical growth method and were used for piezoelectric energy harvesting source. Structural characterization of ZnO nanoflowers was carried out by using surface scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction. The ZnO nanoflowers are uniformly grown over the entire sample. They are composed of needle‐like nanorods, which have hexagonal wurtzite structure with good crystalline quality. The current–voltage characteristics showed good rectifying Schottky behaviour. Contact‐mode atomic force microscopy was used for measuring the piezoelectric output potential. The maximum output potential was found to be more than 600 mV and the corresponding current also recorded was near ∼650 nA. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Idealized simulations of the effect of Taiwan and Philippines topographies on tropical cyclone tracks
Authors: Tang Chi Kit , Chan Johnny C. L.
Published: August 2013

The effects of topography on tropical cyclone (TC) tracks are investigated using the Weather Research and Forecasting model running on a beta plane with actual topography. Two sets of experiments are performed, one focusing on Taiwan topography and the other on the Philippines. In each set, different parts of the terrain are set to be either present or absent and the TCs are inserted at a location southeast of the mountain so that landfall occurs at the central part of the mountain in the no‐terrain (control) cases. Relative to the control case, a pair of terrain‐induced gyres is found in all with‐terrain experiments. This pair of gyres rotates cyclonically around the TC and the gyre‐associated flow near the TC centre causes a northward deflection of the TC track prior to landfall. An examination of the potential vorticity tendencies (PVTs) suggests that, in addition to the PVT produced by this flow, the PVT from diabatic heating cannot be ignored in explaining the TC track during landfall. The asymmetric diabatic heating is significant, which tends to retard the fast displacement of the TC caused by horizontal advection. This diabatic heating distribution results from three different mechanisms: an incursion of dry air from the mountain, low‐level convergence induced by the terrain‐altered wind field in the southwestern part of the TC and the development of convergence cyclonically inward from the eastern side of the mountain to the TC core. However, the first two mechanisms are apparently missing in the Philippine experiments because of the lower height and the moister air over the mountains on Luzon Island.
A proposed baroclinic wave test case for deep‐ and shallow‐atmosphere dynamical cores
Authors: Ullrich Paul A. , Melvin Thomas , Jablonowski Christiane , Staniforth Andrew
Published: August 2013

Idealised studies of key dynamical features of the atmosphere provide insight into the behaviour of atmospheric models. A very important, well understood, aspect of midlatitude dynamics is baroclinic instability. This can be idealised by perturbing a vertically sheared basic state in geostrophic and hydrostatic balance. An unstable wave mode then results with exponential growth (due to linear dynamics) in time until, eventually, nonlinear effects dominate and the wave breaks.

A new, unified, idealised baroclinic instability test case is proposed. This improves on previous ones in three ways. First, it is suitable for both deep‐ and shallow‐atmosphere models. Second, the constant surface pressure and zero surface geopotential of the basic state makes it particularly well‐suited for models employing a pressure‐ or height‐based vertical coordinate. Third, the wave triggering mechanism selectively perturbs the rotational component of the flow; this, together with a vertical tapering, significantly improves dynamic balance.
Evaluation of ECMWF medium‐range ensemble forecasts of precipitation for river basins
Authors: Ye J. , He Y. , Pappenberger F. , Cloke H. L. , Manful D. Y. , Li Z.
Published: August 2013

Providing probabilistic forecasts using Ensemble Prediction Systems has become increasingly popular in both the meteorological and hydrological communities. Compared to conventional deterministic forecasts, probabilistic forecasts may provide more reliable forecasts of a few hours to a number of days ahead, and hence are regarded as better tools for taking uncertainties into consideration and hedging against weather risks. It is essential to evaluate performance of raw ensemble forecasts and their potential values in forecasting extreme hydro‐meteorological events. This study evaluates ECMWF's medium‐range ensemble forecasts of precipitation over the period 1 January 2008 to 30 September 2012 on a selected midlatitude large‐scale river basin, the Huai river basin (ca. 270 000 km2) in central‐east China. The evaluation unit is sub‐basin in order to consider forecast performance in a hydrologically relevant way. The study finds that forecast performance varies with sub‐basin properties, between flooding and non‐flooding seasons, and with the forecast properties of aggregated time steps and lead times. Although the study does not evaluate any hydrological applications of the ensemble precipitation forecasts, its results have direct implications in hydrological forecasts should these ensemble precipitation forecasts be employed in hydrology.
Comparison of an autumn biomass harvest with a spring prescribed burn in restored native grass fields
Authors: Rave David P. , Fieberg John , Kotts Kevin
Published: August 2013

Wildlife managers use spring prescribed burns to set back succession in managed grasslands throughout the prairie pothole region. Yet, prescribed burns are expensive and weather dependent. Autumn biomass harvest of native prairie plants may also simulate natural disturbances and help prevent the invasion of woody species. As such, biomass harvest can be an attractive management option that can augment, and in some cases, replace spring burning programs. We compared vegetation characteristics (vegetation ht and density, and residual litter depth) and changes to the plant community (e.g., species richness, relative abundance of native and exotic plant species) in restored native grasslands of Minnesota, during 2007–2009, in response to spring prescribed burns and autumn biomass harvest. We used a randomized block design to control for site‐to‐site variability, and compared treatments using mixed models that accounted for this source of variation as well as within‐plot repeated measures. This framework also allowed us to consider additional variables (e.g., Julian date, yr effects) thought to influence response patterns, and also additional fields that were treated with an autumn biomass harvest during the same time period. Vegetation characteristics exhibited substantial site‐to‐site and temporal variability, but, with the exception of litter depths, vegetation characteristics were largely similar in biomass harvest and burned subplots. We conclude that autumn biomass harvests deserve more consideration as a potential grassland management tool. © 2013 The Wildlife Society.
The Dublin SURGE Project: geochemical baseline for heavy metals in topsoils and spatial correlation with historical industry in Dublin, Ireland
Authors: Glennon M. M. , Harris P. , Ottesen R. T. , Scanlon R. P. , O’Connor P. J.
Published: August 2013

The Dublin SURGE (Soil Urban Geochemistry) Project is Dublin’s first baseline survey of heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants in topsoils and is part of a Europe-wide initiative to map urban geochemical baselines in ten cities. 1,058 samples were collected as part of a stratified random sampling programme in the greater Dublin area to give an overview of baseline conditions in the city. Samples were analysed for 31 inorganic elements including heavy metals. Analysis of results indicates that the concentrations of lead, copper, zinc and mercury are strongly influenced by human activities, with elevated concentrations in the city docklands, inner city and heavy industry areas. Sources of heavy metals in these areas may include historical industry, coal burning, re-use of contaminated soil, modern traffic and leaded paint and petrol. Concentrations of other inorganic elements in topsoil show patterns which are strongly related to regional bedrock parent material. The spatial distributions of heavy metals, in particular Pb and As, are explored in detail with respect to regional geology and the influence of historical industry on soil quality. Exploratory data, geostatistical and correlation analyses suggest that the concentrations of heavy metals tend to increase as the intensity of historical industrial activity increases. In particular, drinks production, power generation, oil/gas/coal, metals and textile historical industries appear to be the contamination source for several heavy metals. The data provide a geochemical baseline relevant to the protection of human health, compliance with environmental legislation, land use planning and urban regeneration.
Predictive Genetic Testing of a Bone Marrow Recipient–Ethical Issues Involving Unexpected Results, Gender Issues, Test Accuracy, and Implications for the Donor
Authors: Sexton A. , Rawlings L. , Jenkins M. , Winship I.
Published: August 2013

We present a case where an apparently straightforward Lynch syndrome predictive genetic test of DNA from a blood sample from a woman yielded an unexpected result of X/Y chromosome imbalance. Furthermore, it demonstrates the complexities of genetic testing in people who have had bone marrow transplants. This highlights the potential for multiple ethical and counselling challenges, including the inadvertent testing of the donor. Good communication between clinics and laboratories is essential to overcome such challenges and to minimise the provision of false results.
Spatial pattern of habitat quality modulates population persistence in fragmented landscapes
Authors: Ye Xinping , Wang Tiejun , Skidmore Andrew K.
Published: August 2013

Habitat quality is one of the important factors determining population dynamics and persistence, yet few studies have examined the effects of spatial heterogeneity in within‐patch habitat quality. In this paper, we use a spatially explicit agent‐based model to investigate how habitat fragmentation and spatial pattern of within‐patch habitat quality affect population dynamics and long‐term persistence. We simulate three levels of habitat fragmentation (ranges from continuous to highly fragmented) and three types of spatial patterns in habitat quality within patches (i.e., negatively autocorrelated, randomly distributed, and positively autocorrelated). Hypothetical species differ in their niche specialization. The results demonstrate explicitly that the spatial pattern of within‐patch habitat quality plays an important role in modulating the effects of habitat fragmentation on populations. Populations become less variable in size, and experience lower probability of extinction in landscapes with positively autocorrelated within‐patch habitat quality. Specifically, specialized species are more vulnerable to habitat fragmentation, but this vulnerability is greatly mitigated by positively autocorrelated habitat quality within patches, in other words, exhibiting higher resistance to habitat fragmentation. The findings of this study suggest that managing habitat quality in existing habitat remnants is important to preserve species in habitats undergoing fragmentation, particularly for those with specialized habitat requirements.
Management of spinal deformity in cerebral palsy: Conservative treatment
Authors: Rutz Erich , Brunner Reinald
Published: August 2013

Introduction

The incidence of scoliosis in Cerebral Palsy (CP) is directly related to the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level. The natural history of untreated scoliosis in patients with CP is one of progression and factors implicated in deterioration include type of involvement (quadriplegia), poor functional status (nonambulatory, GMFCS levels IV and V), and curve location (thoracolumbar). The generally accepted incidence in the overall CP population is 20–25 %.

Materials and methods

We recently published our short term results for 31 children treated with a short lumbar brace. In cases of a “positive hands up test” we recommend a short lumbar brace, and in patients with scoliosis with a Cobb angle >20° a double shelled brace.

Results

In our study, there was a correction of 37 % for the lumbar Cobb angle and 39 % for the thoracic Cobb angle at a mean follow-up of 28 months.

Conclusion

The incidence of scoliosis in the overall CP population is 20–25 % and is directly related to the GMFCS level. Therefore, we recommend early treatment and prescribe a short lumbar brace in patients with dynamic instability of the trunk, and in scoliosis with a Cobb angle >20° a double shelled brace.
Assessing the Quality of Central Venous Catheter and Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter Videos on the YouTube Video-Sharing Web site
Authors: Carr Peter J. , Alexandrou Evan , Jackson Gavin M. , Spencer Timothy R.
Published: August 2013

Background: Video sharing networks such as YouTube have revolutionized communication. Whilst access is freely available uploaded videos can contain non peer-reviewed information. This has consequences for the scientific and health care community, when the challenge in teaching is to present clinical procedures that follow empirical methods.

Objective: To review 50 central venous catheter and peripherally inserted central catheter videos posted on YouTube. The aim was to appraise these videos using current evidenced-based guidelines.

Methods: We searched YouTube using the key words central venous cannulation and peripherally inserted central catheter insertion on September 21, 2012. We consecutively reviewed 50 videos for both procedures.

Results: There was poor adherence to evidence-based guidelines in the critiqued videos. There was a difference in adherence with the use of appropriate skin antisepsis in the 2 groups (18% for central venous catheters vs 52% for peripherally inserted central catheters; p = 0.009). And a large proportion in both groups compromised aseptic technique (37% for central venous catheters vs 38% for peripherally inserted central catheter; p = 0.940). The use of ultrasound guidance during procedures was also different between the 2 groups (33% for central venous catheters vs 85% for peripherally inserted central catheters; p = 0.017).

Conclusions: This critique of instructional videos related to the insertion of central venous catheters and peripherally inserted central catheters uploaded to YouTube has highlighted poor adherence to current evidence-based guidelines. This lack of adherence to empirical guidelines can pose risks to clinical learning and ultimately to patient safety.
Teaching a balanced view of Germany to K-6 teacher candidates: Dispelling negative stereotypes and internationalizing the curriculum
Authors: Hubbard Janie D. , Maloley Karen Larsen
Published: August 2013

National character stereotyping often hinders teachers’ responses to an important 21st century educational theme, global awareness. While recognizing that educators have a responsibility to teach history, in remembrance of the people and events of the past and to help prevent societies from making the mistakes of their predecessors, it is also essential that teachers prepare our new generation of young students for global citizenship in a 21st century world. This research studied 114 teacher candidates in K-6 social studies methods classes at two universities. Qualitative methods were used to measure and describe teacher candidates’ knowledge and beliefs about the country and people of Germany before and after experiencing a curricular intervention workshop focused on modern aspects of Germany. Pre-study data showed outdated or stereotypical views of Germany, frequently related to WWII and the Cold War. After the intervention, approximately 83% stated that their conceptions of Germany had changed, and about 12% admitted that they had actually replaced negative impressions. Teachers must adopt the pedagogies necessary to eradicate ignorance and dispel harmful national stereotypes that threaten cultural understanding and safe learning environments for all students, thus this research adds to the ongoing conversation concerning the preparation of teacher candidates in the area of global awareness.
Three Academics’ Narratives in Transforming Curriculum for Education for Sustainable Development
Authors: Wahr Fiona , Underwood Jenny , Adams Luise , Prideaux Verity
Published: August 2013

The expectation is that higher education curricula which purports to incorporate education for sustainable development (ESD) supports university graduates in becoming more sustainable. It would then follow that if academics are to offer such curricula they need to be adequately equipped with the motivations, knowledge and skills to teach it. However, the extent to which ESD has resulted in genuine higher education curriculum change, and academic readiness for it, is debatable. As such, this article presents the academic experiences of three of the authors involved in a curriculum change process to embed ESD within a Bachelor of Arts (Textile Design) degree program. Individual post-project narratives of our experiences are summarised and thematically analysed. The analysis reveals these experiences as disorienting, yet subsequently transformative. The findings suggest promoting academics’ transformative learning should be a focus of ESD curriculum change efforts. The findings support commitment to long-term, facilitated professional development to achieve transformative change; an often espoused, yet under-reported initiative.
American Higher Education and Dramatic Literature in(to) English
Authors: Chansky Dorothy
Published: August 2013

In 2011 and 2012, I undertook a two-part survey to answer some large questions about the use of plays in translation in the higher education drama classroom in Anglophone North America and to test my ideas regarding the simultaneous ubiquity and invisibility of translation there. My project here is to report on that survey and to make clear why translation studies is ready to take a prominent role in theatre studies. U.S. colleges and universities constitute one of the largest single markets in the world for drama translated into English. Most U.S. theatre history classes include plays from the world canon, and many specialized classes in theatre departments focus on plays from non-Anglophone cultures. In English departments, where other genres in translation (e.g., the novel) may be approached with caution, drama seems to be offered a “pass” because the notion of being dramaturgically literate depends on some knowledge of a sizable canon of non-Anglophone plays. Yet despite its ubiquity, translation is often so normalized as to be invisible to those who depend on it. As Laurence Senelick notes, “For most students, a work exists wholly in its translated form, spontaneously generated.” Translation, as the survey confirmed, is part of the DNA of theatre studies. As such, I argue, it needs to be brought to the foreground of the field. In saying this, I am not unaware of the rich work undertaken by scholars, editors, and practitioners who are enmeshed in the difficult issues involved with translating plays, which include pressing for greater attention to cultural sensitivity and literacy. My focus here is on the academy and the classroom, where, for better or worse, the vast majority of future dramaturgs and audience members will cut their teeth on a critical mass of plays and where no single language or production entity or publisher can claim pride of place.
How is freedom distributed across the earth?
Authors: Allik Jüri , Realo Anu
Published: August 2013

Although Van de Vliert presented an entertaining story containing several original observations, an implicit assumption that climate affects human society identically through the history is not realistic. If almost everything is explained by cold winters or hot summers, then nothing is explained. Ignoring rival explanations does not make the proposed theory more convincing.
Frontier migration fosters ethos of independence: Deconstructing the climato-economic theory of human culture
Authors: de Oliveira Chen Stephanie , Kitayama Shinobu
Published: August 2013

Evidence Van de Vliert draws on is more consistent with the idea that settlement in the frontier encourages independent mentality and individualistic social institutions. This cultural system can sometimes flourish, generating both wealth and power, but clearly not always. In our view, wealth is, for the most part, a measure of success of any given cultural group, and climate is important to the extent that it plays a role in creating rugged lands of frontier.
Unsurprising, in a good way
Authors: Hrotic Steven
Published: August 2013

Van de Vliert associates a greater difference between upper- and lower-class freedoms under less favorable environmental conditions. This pattern is similar to models of the emergence of state-level hierarchies. I argue that Van de Vliert has provided a supportive strand to the history of ancient Near East religion.
What is freedom–and does wealth cause it?
Authors: Iyer Ravi , Motyl Matt , Graham Jesse
Published: August 2013

The target article's climato-economic theory will benefit by allowing for bidirectional effects and the heterogeneity of types of freedom, in order to more fully capture the coevolution of societal wealth and freedom. We also suggest alternative methods of testing climato-economic theory, such as longitudinal analyses of these countries' histories and micro-level experiments of each of the theory's hypotheses.
The need for psychological needs: A role for social capital
Authors: Locke John L. , Flanagan Catherine M.
Published: August 2013

Van de Vliert embraces a “supply side” model of human needs, underplaying a “demand” model whereby individuals, motivated by psychological needs, develop coping strategies that help them meet their personal goals and collectively exert an influence on social and economic systems. Undesirable climates may inflate the value of financial capital, but they also boost the value of social capital.
Toward an integrated, causal, and psychological model of climato-economics
Authors: Loughnan Steve , Bratanova Boyka , Kuppens Peter
Published: August 2013

Van de Vliert puts forward a model of how climate and economics interact to shape human needs, stresses, and freedoms. Although we applaud the construction of this model, we suggest that more needs to be done. Specifically, by adopting a multi-level and experimental approach, we can develop an integrated, causal, and psychological model of climato-economics.
Contextual freedom: Absoluteness versus relativity of freedom
Authors: Pahlavan Farzaneh , Amirrezvani Ali
Published: August 2013

Our commentary is focused on the idea that “freedom” takes on its full significance whenever its relativistic nature, in the short- and long terms, is taken into account. Given the transformations brought about by “globalization,” application of a general model of freedom based on ecological-economic factors clearly seems to be rather untimely. We examine this idea through egocentric and ethnocentric views of the social and environmental analyses of “freedom.”
Fundamental freedoms and the psychology of threat, bargaining, and inequality
Authors: Sparks Adam , Mishra Sandeep , Barclay Pat
Published: August 2013

Van de Vliert's findings may be explained by the psychology of threat and bargaining. Poor people facing extreme threats must cope by surrendering individual freedom in service of shared group needs. Wealthier people are more able to flee from threats and/or resist authoritarianism, so their leaders must concede greater freedom. Incorporating these factors (plus inequality) can sharpen researchers' predictions.
Subtle variation in ambient room temperature influences the expression of social cognition
Authors: Vigil Jacob M. , Swartz Tyler J. , Rowell Lauren N.
Published: August 2013

Social signaling models predict that subtle variation in climatic temperature induces systematic changes in expressed cognition. An experiment showed that perceived room temperature was associated with variability in self-descriptions, social reactions of others, and desiring differing types of social networks. The findings reflect the tendency to inflate capacity demonstrations in warmer climates as a result of the social networking opportunities they enable.
Fashioning a Scottish Operative:Black Watchand Banal Theatrical Nationalism on Tour in the US
Authors: ZERDY JOANNE
Published: August 2013

This essay examines the US tours (2007–13) ofBlack Watch, a docudrama about the eponymous military unit, produced by the National Theatre of Scotland (NTS). I argue that the production manifests a ‘banal theatrical nationalism’ when theatrical national signifiers meet quotidian acts of soldiering and the mundane labour required to remount the production at each tour venue. I focus attention on the regimental history recounted through ‘Fashion’, the play's central military uniform dressing sequence, and introduce into my analysis a New York City fashion show, Dressed to Kilt, to interrogate the stakes of fashion, cultural production and visibility.Black Watchmaterializes what I am calling a ‘Scottish operative’ that acts on behalf of the NTS in securing international attention and potential investment. In order to query the sociopolitical stakes of this production's US success, I identify political, cultural and military links between the US and Scotland.
A Neurodynamics Control Strategy for Real-Time Tracking Control of Autonomous Underwater Vehicles
Authors: Zhu Daqi , Hua Xun , Sun Bing
Published: August 2013

A biologically inspired neurodynamics-based tracking controller of underactuated Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUV) is proposed in this paper. The proposed control strategy includes a velocity controller with biological neurons and an adaptive sliding mode controller. The biological neurons are embedded into the backstepping velocity controller to eliminate the sharp speed jumps commonly existing in vehicles due to tracking errors changing suddenly. The outputs of the velocity controller are used as the command inputs of the sliding mode controller, and the thruster control constraints problems that are commonly seen in the backstepping control of AUV are solved by the proposed controller. Simulation results show that the control strategy achieved success in smoothly tracking AUV position and velocity.
Rückenschmerzen im Notfall
Authors: Weber Marcel
Published: August 2013

Auch wenn das Symptom „Kreuzschmerzen“ alltäglich und oft „banal“ ist (zweithäufigster Grund für eine Arztkonsultation [1], 3.15 % aller Personen in amerikanischen Notfallstationen [2]), dürfen konsequenzenreiche Differenzialdiagnosen nicht übersehen werden. Das Hauptaugenmerk liegt dabei, neben dem Wissen um diese Differenzialdiagnosen, auf dem genauen Zuhören und einigen Zusatzfragen zur Abrundung einer präzisen Anamnese. Die klinische Untersuchung wird die vermuteten Diagnosen erhärten und mögliche Differenzialdiagnosen ausschließen. Zusatzuntersuchungen sind selten notwendig, können aber bei begründetem Verdacht, beispielsweise auf eine Spondylodiszitis oder eine Arteriendissektion, lebensrettend sein. Therapeutisch steht die Motivation zu Alltagsaktivitäten und die hausärztliche Führung im Vordergrund.