bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of carbon nanotubes grown on the fibres on damage progression in woven carbon-epoxy composites
Authors: Karahan Mehmet , Godara Ajay
Published: February 2013

This study examined basic mechanical properties and damage development properties of composite plates produced with carbon nanotubes grown on 2 × 2 twill woven carbon fabric and compared the results with composite materials without carbon nanotubes. The results revealed that there were significant decreases in mechanical properties and characteristic strain values where damage initiation and progression of the composite samples produced from carbon nanotubes grown on fabrics. It was found that Young’s modulus values decreased by 15–17%. Characteristic strain values where damage threshold decreased by 36–53%.
Treatment Referral for Sex Offenders Based on Clinical Judgment Versus Actuarial Risk Assessment
Authors: Smid Wineke J. , Kamphuis Jan Henk , Wever Edwin C. , Van Beek Daan
Published: February 2013

The Risk Need Responsivity (RNR) principles (Andrews & Bonta, 2010) dictate that higher risk sex offenders should receive more intensive treatment. The present study investigates how clinically based treatment assignment relates to risk level in a sex offender sample from The Netherlands. Correlational analyses served to identify sources of mismatches: that is, variables differing significantly in their relation between treatment selection and risk level. Our study sample consisted of 194 convicted rapists and 214 convicted child molesters. All participants’ criminal files were retrospectively coded in terms of the items of the STATIC-99R, PCL: SV, and SVR-20. A low to moderate correlation was observed between clinical treatment selection and actuarial risk levels. A substantial part of the sex offenders, especially child molesters, received overly intensive treatment and another substantial part, especially rapists, received treatment of lesser intensity than indicated by their risk levels. General violent and antisocial risk factors seemed to be underemphasized in the clinical evaluation of sex offenders, especially rapists. A negative attitude toward intervention was negatively associated with clinical treatment selection. It is concluded that clinical treatment selection leads to an insufficient match between risk level and treatment level and systematic use of validated structured risk assessment instruments is necessary to ensure optimal adherence to the risk principle.
Development of a novel miniature high-pressure fuel pump with a low specific speed
Authors: Schiffer Jürgen , Benigni Helmut , Jaberg Helmut
Published: February 2013

Whenever a small amount of fluid has to be pumped against a high differential pressure, various types of piston pumps are typically used. However, the need for excellent suction behaviour, for the possibility of a dry run and for minimal manufacturing costs requires the development of alternative pump concepts. This paper presents the development of a novel miniature high-pressure fuel gear pump to replace the feed pump as well as the high-pressure pump in gasoline direct-injection fuel systems. It was found that the clearance between the housing and the rotating gears has to be reduced to a minimum in order to keep the internal leakage at a reasonable level. Based on theoretical predictions a radially and axially pressure-compensated pump concept was developed by incorporation of a floating sealing element able to minimize the tip and face leakages. The design of this sealing element was optimized in the course of experimental investigations. The experiments were carried out using a specifically developed test rig, and the obtained results prove that the optimized pump is able to generate the required differential pressure Δ p = 40–50 bar at a specific speed nq = 0.005–0.400 r/min. The measured Δ p–Q curves were almost vertical beyond a certain pressure level, yielding a nearly pressure-independent volumetric efficiency of approximately 75%. The developed pump concept finally offers outstanding performance characteristics in an operation range where conventional gear pump concepts usually lose importance owing to unacceptably high volumetric losses.
Grass páramo as hunter-gatherer landscape
Authors: White Stuart
Published: February 2013

Tussock grass páramo constitutes the dominant vegetation of the high tropical Andes and cordilleras of Costa Rica. Its distribution, composition and the location of the upper forest line are ascribed, by broad consensus, to climate. The zonal argument finds support in the altitudinal movements of páramo during the Pleistocene, clearly responding to changes in precipitation and temperature. I ask here, however, if the principal ecological variables driving post-Pleistocene páramos are circumscribed solely by climate. The combined pollen, charcoal and archaeological evidence generated in recent decades suggests a distinct Holocene etiology. Five principal conclusions emerge: (1) the sedimentary charcoal record establishes that grass páramo is a fired landscape, (2) natural sources of fire, specifically volcanoes and lightning, are incapable of generating the fire regime apparent in the sedimentary charcoal record, (3) burning at most sites intensified significantly between 13,000 and 11,000 cal. yr BP, and maintained heightened levels during the Holocene, (4) archaeological findings suggest that the original settlement of the Andes coincided with the sedimentary charcoal rise, and (5) the subsistence logic of hunter-gatherers argues strongly for firing the vegetation to increase resource productivity and reliability. From the pioneering mixed vegetation after deglaciation, anthropic fire selected in favor of tussocks and against woody species, generating a novel plant association. I propose, therefore, that Holocene grass páramo is not zonal vegetation, but rather a hunter-gatherer landscape.
Qualitative validation of the FACIT-Fatigue scale in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Kosinski M , Gajria K , Fernandes AW , Cella D
Published: February 2013

Objective

Fatigue in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is burdensome and must be assessed using validated scales. Although the psychometric properties of the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy–Fatigue (FACIT-Fatigue) scale in SLE have been evaluated previously, its content validity in this disease remains to be evaluated. The study objective was, therefore, to evaluate content validity of the FACIT-Fatigue in SLE.

Methods

Three SLE focus groups ( n = 21) in the United States were conducted using semi-structured interviews. Participant comments were categorized by response type, and relative response strength was qualitatively assessed.

Results

Participants were mostly female (90%; n = 19), white (57%; n = 12) with a mean age of 43.7 years (range = 28–70). Most scale items were considered relevant with the exception of four items for which participant interpretations varied . Consistent with the scale’s measurement model, “listless” on item 3 (“ I feel listless (‘ washed out’)”) was interpreted as physical or mental impairment. Participant responses to item 8 (“ I am able to do my usual activities”) sometimes included influence of other health conditions, which is acceptable because it is difficult to separate disease-specific and general fatigue. Some participants found item 7 (“ I have energy”) irrelevant and most could not relate to item 10 (“ I am too tired to eat”). However, both items were intended to capture the extreme ends of fatigue (item 7, ceiling; item 10, floor).

Conclusions

From a content perspective, items of the FACIT-Fatigue scale were relevant for measuring fatigue in SLE.
Hearing and vestibular disorders in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Batuecas-Caletrío A , del Pino-Montes J , Cordero-Civantos C , Calle-Cabanillas MI , Lopez-Escamez JA
Published: February 2013

Objectives

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is associated with several comorbidities, including hearing and vestibular disorders. We recently described an increase of SLE prevalence in patients with Menierés disease (MD). The aim of this study is to explore if a subset of SLE patients may have a common inner ear disorder and determine the potential relationship with migraine.

Methods

Eighty-nine patients with SLE (according to the American College of Rheumatology criteria for the diagnosis of SLE) were evaluated for audiovestibular symptoms by a telephone interview carried out by two experienced otoneurologists. Twenty-one patients with SLE were referred to the otoneurology clinic for a detailed clinical history for criteria assessment for MD and a complete audiovestibular examination (audiogram, oculomotor, and caloric testing with video-oculography).

Results

Recurrent headache was found in 50/89 patients, and 26 of them had diagnostic criteria for migraine. Twenty-four percent of patients reported sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) or episodic vertigo. Among the eight patients (9%) with episodic vertigo, one had criteria for definite MD and another two patients had criteria for possible MD. SNHL was found to be associated with a history of episodic vertigo (Fisher’s test, p = 0.02), but not with headache or migraine. SLE and episodic vertigo were not associated with tinnitus, migraine, lupus nephritis, antinuclear antibodies or antiphospholipid syndrome.

Conclusions

Migraine, SNHL and episodic vertigo are comorbid conditions in patients with SLE, but migraine is not associated with SNHL or vertigo in these patients. However, SNHL and vertigo are associated conditions in SLE, suggesting a common audiovestibular dysfunction.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Chinese Virtues Questionnaire
Authors: Duan Wenjie , Ho Samuel M. Y. , Bai Yu , Tang Xiaoqing
Published: February 2013

Objectives: The present study examined the psychometric properties of the Chinese Virtues Questionnaire (CVQ). The reliability, factor structure, construct validity, and temporal stability of the inventory were examined. Method: A university student sample ( n = 878) and a working adult sample ( n = 153) were recruited. Participants were asked to complete the paper-and-pencil CVQ and a set of questionnaires to measure both their positive and negative psychological status. Results: The results supported the three-factor structure of the CVQ established earlier. Factorial invariants were found in different subsamples (students vs. workers; male vs. female). Each factor (interpersonal, vitality, and cautiousness) demonstrated satisfactory internal consistency (α = .87 to .92), test–retest reliability ( r = .70 to .76), convergent validity, discriminant validity, incremental validity, temporal stability, and theoretical significance. Conclusions: The questionnaire with good psychometric characteristics and solid cultural foundations can facilitate positive social work assessment and intervention.
Implementation of Do Not Attempt Resuscitate Orders in a Japanese Nursing Home
Authors: Asai Nobuhiro , Ohkuni Yoshihiro , Ashworth Lonny , Kaneko Norihiro
Published: February 2013

Objective:

To investigate whether do not attempt resuscitation (DNAR) orders can be implemented in a standard nursing home in Japan, where routine DNAR orders are not yet common in many facilities including hospitals.

Method:

Ninety-eight residents in a 100-bed nursing home were evaluated. All of the eligible residents and/or their family members were asked whether they wanted to receive resuscitation, including mechanical ventilation.

Result:

The residents were 54 to 101 years of age (mean 83.3), with 27 males and 71 females. After administering the questionnaire, 92 (94%) patients did not want resuscitation and mechanical ventilation.

Conclusion:

In a nursing home, it was possible to obtain advance directives by which most residents/families rejected resuscitation and mechanical ventilation. This could avoid unnecessary and undesirable resuscitation procedures.
Integrating Massage Therapy Within the Palliative Care of Veterans With Advanced Illnesses
Authors: Mitchinson Allison , Fletcher Carol E. , Kim Hyungjin Myra , Montagnini Marcos , Hinshaw Daniel B.
Published: February 2013

Aims:

To describe the integration of massage therapy into a palliative care service and to examine the relationship between massage and symptoms in patients with advanced illnesses.

Methods:

Between April 1, 2009, and July 31, 2010, 153 patients received massage at the VA Ann Arbor Health Care System. Data on pain, anxiety, dyspnea, relaxation, and inner peace were collected pre and post massage. Diagnoses, chronic pain, and social support were also abstracted. Analysis of covariance was used to examine changes over time.

Results:

All short-term changes in symptoms showed improvement and all were statistically significant. Pain intensity decreased by 1.65 (0-10 scale, P < .001), anxiety decreased by 1.52 (0-10 scale, P < .001), patients’ sense of relaxation increased by 2.92 (0-10 scale, P < .001), and inner peace improved by 1.80 (0-10 scale, P < .001).

Conclusion:

Massage is a useful tool for improving symptom management and reducing suffering in palliative care patients.
Three-Dimensional, Digital, and Gross Anatomy of the Lisfranc Ligament
Authors: Panchbhavi Vinod K. , Molina Domingo , Villarreal Jaime , Curry Michael C. , Andersen Clark R.
Published: February 2013

Background:

There are inconsistencies in the descriptive anatomy of the Lisfranc ligament. No information is available on orientation of fibers or presence of bundles, nor are there 3-dimensional anatomic data on the ligaments or their attachments. This study assessed the 3-dimensional anatomy of the Lisfranc ligament and its attachment sites.

Methods:

A total of 37 cadaver feet were dissected to expose the ligament attachments at the Lisfranc joint. The Lisfranc ligament and plantar ligament attachments were outlined separately and then removed with the attachment outlines preserved. A 3-dimensional digitizer was used to digitize bony and articular surfaces, as well as ligament attachment sites, at approximately 1 mm intervals; the positional accuracy was 0.23 mm. The surface areas of the entire bone, articular regions, and Lisfranc and plantar ligament attachment regions were determined and anatomic details were noted.

Results:

The Lisfranc ligament had a single bundle in 73% of the specimens and 2 bundles in 27%. Both variations had a single attachment to the second metatarsal (M2; mean attachment surface area, 135 mm2). The single-bundle variation attached to the medial cuneiform (C1; mean attachment surface area, 140 mm2). The plantar ligament, C1-M2-M3, attached to the anterior plantar surface of the lateral aspect of C1 (mean attachment surface, 64 mm2) and had attachment sites at the bases of M2 and M3. Its fibers ran anteriorly and inferiorly, with attachments to the proximal inferomedial aspect of M2 (mean attachment surface, 63 mm2) and fibers extending to a smaller attachment at the plantar aspect of M3 (mean attachment surface area, 26 mm2).

Conclusion:

The Lisfranc ligament is variable in anatomy and can have a single- or double-bundle arrangement. Its area of attachment is larger than that of the plantar ligament.

Clinical Relevance:

Anatomic descriptions of location, dimensions, and variability in the position and surface area of the ligament attachment sites and of orientation of the bundles provide information for future attempts at repair or reconstruction of the Lisfranc ligament.
Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Lee Jae Young , Petratos Steven
Published: February 2013

Over the past decade, there has been substantial interest in the role of the integral myelin protein, Nogo-A, from fundamental neurobiological to clinical perspectives. It is now a well-known inhibitor of neurite outgrowth through its cognate receptor, Nogo receptor 1 (NgR1). Nogo-A can only signal through NgR1 upon heteromeric collaboration with p75NTR, TROY, and LINGO-1 to induce axonal retraction. Both Nogo-A and NgR1 are expressed in multiple sclerosis (MS) lesions, suggesting that Nogo signaling may play a pivotal role in disease progression. There are several approaches targeting Nogo signaling in animal models of MS, and these therapeutic effects are currently in debate. One of the points of contention arises from the localization of the aforementioned signaling molecules, considering that MS and its animal models of disease are governed by inflammatory infiltration of the central nervous system. Furthermore, an impressive list of ligands for NgR1 continues to be compiled, possibly leading to disparities in the results obtained from the various animal models. In this review, we systematically dissect the complexities of Nogo signaling, which may be relevant in the future directions of neuroprotective therapies for MS.
Nonclinical Assessment of Tumor Growth Enhancement Potential by B2A-Coated Ceramic Granules Used in Arthodesis
Authors: Zamora Paul O. , Lin Xinhua , Liu Yi , Guo Henry
Published: February 2013

B2A is a synthetic peptide that augments osteodifferentiation and improves bony fusion when delivered on ceramic granules during arthrodesis surgery. Nonclinical safety assessments, including genotoxicity, supported the use of B2A-coated granules as a combination medical device in pilot clinical studies. As a prelude to pivotal clinical studies, an assessment of the possibility that B2A-coated granules (and B2A) could enhance tumor growth was undertaken. B2A-coated granules demonstrated no evidence of genotoxicity. Cell culture studies with human tumor cell lines demonstrated that neither exposure of cells to B2A or B2A-coated granules increased cell proliferation or invasive capability relative to controls. In vivo, surgically implanted B2A-coated granules did not increase tumor growth (4 human tumor cell lines) or metastasis (1 cell line) relative to vehicle controls in immune-compromised rodents. Thus, traditional genotoxicity, as well as specially designed tumor growth enhancement studies, indicates that the possibility of tumor enhancement appears unlikely.
Accelerating collision detection for large-scale crowd simulation on multi-core and many-core architectures
Authors: Vigueras Guillermo , Orduña Juan M , Lozano Miguel , Cecilia José M , García José M
Published: February 2013

The computing capabilities of current multi-core and many-core architectures have been used in crowd simulations for both enhancing crowd rendering and simulating continuum crowds. However, improving the scalability of crowd simulation systems by exploiting the inherent parallelism of these architectures is still an open issue. In this paper, we propose different parallelization strategies for the collision check procedure that takes place in agent-based simulations. These strategies are designed for exploiting the parallelism in both multi-core and many-core architectures like graphic processing units (GPUs). As for the many-core implementations, we analyse the bottlenecks of a previous GPU version of the collision check algorithm, proposing a new GPU version that removes the bottlenecks detected. In order to fairly compare the GPU with the multi-core implementations, we propose a parallel CPU version that uses read--copy update (RCU), a new synchronization method which significantly improves performance. We perform a comparison study of these different implementations. On the one hand, the comparison study shows the first performance evaluation of RCU in a real user-space application with complex data structures. On the other hand, the comparison shows that the GPU greatly accelerates the collision test with respect to any other implementation optimized for multi-core CPUs. In addition, we analyse the efficiency of the different implementations taking into account the theoretical performance and power consumption of each platform. The evaluation results show that the GPU-based implementation consumes less energy and provides a minimum speedup of 45× with respect to any of the CPU-based implementations. Since interactivity is a hard constraint in crowd simulations, this acceleration of the collision check process represents a significant improvement in the overall system throughput and response time. Therefore, the simulations are significantly accelerated, and the system throughput and scalability are improved.
Would you credit it? Navigating the transitions between curricular and extra-curricular learning in university music departments
Authors: Pitts Stephanie E
Published: February 2013

Extra-curricular activities have for many years been a prominent and valuable feature of UK university music departments, but the current political and economic climate poses several significant threats to their survival, including uncertain funding, demands on students’ time (including the need to undertake paid employment), and, potentially, the reduction of music in the school curriculum, limiting the number of students equipped to study music in higher education. Amongst this uncertainty, articulating the value of extra-curricular music-making becomes ever more important. This article draws on an empirical investigation of current practice in extra-curricular music, and considers the ways in which staff and students negotiate the aims, experiences and roles that shape a department’s performing culture. The transitions of learner roles, increasing independence and musical identity inherent in these practices are considered here, and some conclusions drawn about the contribution of extra-curricular learning to university experience.
Predictors of Cognitive Decline in 85-Year-Old Patients Without Cognitive Impairment at Baseline
Authors: Formiga Francesc , Ferrer Assumpta , Chivite David , Alburquerque Jesus , Olmedo Claudia , Mora Jose Maria , Labori María , Pujol Ramón
Published: February 2013

Background/Rationale: To determine how many 85-year-old community-dwelling patients with good cognitive performance at baseline maintain this level at 2-year follow-up. Methods: We realized a longitudinal community-based study including 169 inhabitants. Patients who maintained scores >23 on the Spanish version of the Mini-Mental State Examination (MEC) were compared with the rest. Results: A total of 144 individuals (85.2%) were found maintaining a MEC score >23. Under the combined criteria 110 (65%) presented no new cognitive decline. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that maintaining a MEC score >23 was significantly associated with having a higher MEC score at baseline ( P < .001, odds ratio 1.280, 95% confidence interval 1.104-1.484). Conclusion: Most oldest-old patients with good cognitive function at baseline maintain this level at 2-year follow-up.
Acceptability of Oral versus Rectal HIV Preexposure Prophylaxis among Men Who Have Sex with Men and Transgender Women in Peru
Authors: Peinado Jesus , Lama Javier R. , Galea Jerome T. , Segura Patricia , Casapia Martin , Ortiz Abner , Montano Silvia M. , Kochel Tadeusz , Sánchez Jorge
Published: February 2013

Objective:

Oral preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with antiretrovirals (ARVs) is at the forefront of biomedical HIV prevention research, and ARVs are also being tested for rectal administration to target people practicing unprotected receptive anal intercourse (URAI) and at risk of HIV infection. This study assessed the acceptability of daily oral PrEP and rectal PrEP during URAI among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) in Peru.

Methods:

During the 2008 HIV sentinel surveillance survey conducted in 3 Peruvian cities (Lima, Iquitos, and Pucallpa), MSM and TGW reported being “versatile,” “most of the time receptive,” and “exclusively receptive” during anal sex behavior where surveyed on their acceptability of oral and rectal PrEP.

Results:

Among 532 individuals, high acceptance of either oral (96.2%) or rectal (91.7%) PrEP products was reported. If both products were efficacious/available, 28.6% would prefer a pill, 57.3% a rectal lubricant, and 14.1% either. A trend toward higher acceptance was observed as receptive anal sex behavior exclusivity rose ( P = .013). Being receptive most of the time (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 9.1, P = .01) and exclusively receptive (aOR: 7.5, P = .01), compared to being versatile, were independently associated with oral PrEP acceptability. A similar association was found with the acceptability of rectal formulations (aOR: 2.3, P = .07; and aOR: 2.5, P = .02; respectively).

Conclusions:

Oral and rectal PrEP were highly acceptable among Peruvian MSM and TGW, particularly among those at the highest HIV infection risk. These data can guide the implementation of PrEP programs in Peru and similar settings and populations.
Support staff leadership: Opportunities and challenges
Authors: Emira Mahmoud
Published: February 2013

This article argues that engaging support staff in leadership is likely to develop their role informally and complement teacher leadership. To this end, I examined the views of a group of teaching assistants (TAs) and higher level teaching assistants (HLTAs) in the English Midlands on leadership, the barriers to participation in leadership and the ways to improve their role. It also examines the extent to which their levels of experience should be taken into account when engaging support staff in leadership. Two methods of data collection generating quantitative and qualitative data were used: a survey and follow-up semi-structured interviews. The findings indicated that leadership, among other things, should focus on creating an atmosphere conducive to fostering collaboration and participation in decision-making. Although the participants aspired to collaborate with teachers in leading classrooms, they faced a number of barriers. A number of suggestions were made on how to improve their role.
The bright and dark sides of leadership: Transformational vs. non-transformational leadership in a non-Western context
Authors: Karakitapoğlu-Aygün Zahide , Gumusluoglu Lale
Published: February 2013

The present study aims to explore positive and negative leadership behaviours (i.e. transformational and non-transformational leadership) in a non-Western ‘change and transformation’ context through qualitative methods. Thirty-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with knowledge workers in Turkey. In addition to the original dimensions found in the literature, four categories of transformational leadership emerged: benevolent paternalism, implementation of the vision, employee participation and teamwork, and proactive behaviour. Among these categories, benevolent paternalism was identified to be the most frequently mentioned aspect of transformational leadership in the Turkish context, which implies that cultural context may influence the form and enactment of transformational leadership. Regarding non-transformational leadership, five categories emerged: destructive, closed, passive/ineffective, active-failed and a miscellaneous category. Among these, destructive leadership that includes authoritarian elements was identified as the most frequently mentioned form of non-transformational leadership. These findings imply that non-transformational leadership comes in many forms, supporting the numerous constructs on the destructive/unethical–ineffective/incompetent continuum found in the negative leadership literature. The findings are discussed with reference to the literature and to social change in Turkey.
Explaining the individual processes leading to adaptive comfort: Exploring physiological, behavioural and psychological reactions to thermal stimuli
Authors: Schweiker Marcel , Brasche Sabine , Bischof Wolfgang , Hawighorst Maren , Wagner Andreas
Published: February 2013

Behavioural, physiological and psychological adaptive processes are presumed reasons for the discrepancies between predicted mean vote and observed comfort votes during field studies. However, few are known about the individual portions of these processes. An experimental design was developed, which aims at identifying those portions and is meant for climate chambers with operable windows facing the exterior. This article looks in detail at behavioural and physiological reactions together with their effect on the perceived level of comfort. By means of multivariate regression analyses, these reactions are analysed in order to assess differences due to variations in indoor/outdoor conditions as well as the number of interactive opportunities. One of the results shows that the restriction to keep the window closed is counterbalanced by an increased amount of physiological reactions, such as an increased level of skin temperature, together with an increase of still permitted actions such as drinking. The results highlight the importance of detailed insights into single aspect of adaptive processes for a better understanding of the phenomenon called ‘adaptive comfort’. Such approach is novel and important because a detailed knowledge and quantification of the occupant’s comfort perception in naturally ventilated buildings permits a planning with less uncertainty.
Challenges and barriers in primary school education: The experiences of Traveller children and young people in Northern Ireland
Authors: Bloomer Fiona , Hamilton Jennifer , Potter Michael
Published: February 2013

Exclusion, discrimination and widespread disadvantage are issues common to the Traveller community. Children from the Traveller community are often seen as the most at risk within the education system in respect of attendance, attainment and bullying. In this article, we consider the views of Traveller children and parents with respect to primary level education in Northern Ireland and assess the level of support that exists to help Traveller children within the education system. The findings from the research are discussed with reference to institutional discrimination and the varying experiences of children and their families, including an identification of positive attitudes to education contrary to typical stereotypes.
Nationalism and preferences for domestic and foreign animation programmes in China
Authors: Ishii Kenichi
Published: February 2013

Since China implemented animation control policies in 2004, foreign animation programmes have almost disappeared from Chinese television. At the same time, the Chinese government has invested enormous amounts of money in developing the animation industry as a creative industry. A questionnaire survey was conducted to explore how the Chinese audience views domestic and foreign animation programmes. The results indicate that pirated Japanese animation is widely viewed via the Internet by adolescents; on the other hand, domestic animation is popular only among children. Preferences for domestic animation correlate positively with age and patriotism but negatively with Internet use, while preferences for Japanese animation correlate negatively with age and patriotism but positively with Internet use. These results show that nationalistic sentiments are associated with preferences for either domestic or foreign animation programmes. However, preferences for Japanese animation are not significantly associated with anti-government attitudes.
The western perspective in Yahoo! News and Google News
Authors: Watanabe Kohei
Published: February 2013

A large-scale quantitative analysis of geographic news coverage of Yahoo! News and Google News was conducted in the US and India using a content-analysis program to examine overrepresentation of developed countries in the US-based news portal sites. The results of the analysis show an absence of difference in the news coverage patterns of Yahoo! News and Google News between the US and India, which was predicted by the cultural imperialism thesis. However, it was found that Yahoo! News relies on western news agencies for news feeds, so it represents more developed countries; Google News has hundreds of news sources across the world, but its news coverage is highly concentrated and volatile. These findings can be explained by two ways by which western news agencies exercise their global influence on online news: news provision and agenda-setting.
Too close and too far
Authors: Kara Nurten , Atabey Melek
Published: February 2013

International news, especially when it is about war and terror, is often reflected through a local angle especially by those countries which have an interest in or expectation from one of the parties at war. Cyprus is geographically and politically located in a very sensitive part of the world. It represents one of the most problematic areas in the world, and the peace plans related to the island are mostly developed by western powers. The central concern of this study is to examine the main frames and discourses on war through the ways in which the North Cypriot press presented images of the US and European during two wars in the Middle East since the US and Europe were deeply involved in the peace process for the island. The study examines the Iraq War between 20 March and 1 May 2003 and the Lebanon War between 14 July and 18 August 2006 as reported in Kıbrıs and Afrika, two of the most important newspapers in North Cyprus. This study revolves around the argument that although much foreign news coverage depends heavily on news agencies for copy, newspapers connect their readers to these events by inserting local perspectives and angles to the story. The coverage, orientation and framing of news by the mass media of a specific society, when dealing with international subject material, are conditioned by the circumstances that are prevalent within that society. As a country that has historically suffered from colonialism, imperialism, war and conflicts, North Cyprus reads and interprets distant conflicts and wars through its own experience.
News as propaganda
Authors: Jang Won Yong
Published: February 2013

This study presents a comparative content analysis of the overall framing in the news and editorial content of the Six-Party Talks on nuclear issues from three international news media for the years 2003 and 2007. The findings of the study lend support to the idea that international news can be interpreted through a combined view, in which propaganda influences on the media coverage are interconnected with the relationship of the media system and national interests within the framework of the dominant ideology.
Tibialis Anterior Tendon Entrapment After Ankle Tightrope Insertion for Acute Syndesmosis Injury
Authors: Welck Matthew James , Ray Pinak
Published: February 2013

Ankle syndesmotic injuries often require anatomic reduction and fixation. Syndesmosis screw fixation is commonly used; however, this prevents physiological motion at the joint, often requires a second operation for screw removal, and may limit postoperative weight bearing. The Ankle Tightrope (Arthrex, Naples, FL) was introduced to allow physiological tibiofibular micromotion, early ankle range of motion, and weight bearing, and did not require a second operation for removal. For Maisonneuve injuries, or more severe syndesmosis instability, a second tightrope is required. This is advised to be placed 1 cm above the first with axial divergence in the coronal plane to increase rotational stability. Initial series have shown the main complications of tightrope fixation to be knot prominence or wound complications. Other documented complications include erosion of the buttons into bone, synostosis, and diastasis. This is the first report of tendon entrapment from the medial button. Reasons for this are discussed with suggestions for surgical technique.

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV
Social Dominance in Context and in Individuals
Authors: Pratto Felicia , Çidam Atilla , Stewart Andrew L. , Zeineddine Fouad Bou , Aranda María , Aiello Antonio , Chryssochoou Xenia , Cichocka Aleksandra , Cohrs J. Christopher , Durrheim Kevin , Eicher Véronique , Foels Rob , Górska Paulina , Lee I-Ching , Licata Laurent , Liu James H. , Li Liu , Meyer Ines , Morselli Davide , Muldoon Orla , Muluk Hamdi , Papastamou Stamos , Petrovic Igor , Petrovic Nebojsa , Prodromitis Gerasimos , Prati Francesca , Rubini Monica , Saab Rim , Stekelenburg Jacquelien van , Sweetman Joseph , Zheng Wenwen , Henkel Kristen E.
Published: February 2013

We tested the internal reliability and predictive validity of a new 4-item Short Social Dominance Orientation (SSDO) scale among adults in 20 countries, using 15 languages ( N = 2,130). Low scores indicate preferring group inclusion and equality to dominance. As expected, cross-nationally, the lower people were on SSDO, the more they endorsed more women in leadership positions, protecting minorities, and aid to the poor. Multilevel moderation models showed that each effect was stronger in nations where a relevant kind of group power differentiation was more salient. Distributions of SSDO were positively skewed, despite use of an extended response scale; results show rejecting group hierarchy is normative. The short scale is effective. Challenges regarding translations, use of short scales, and intersections between individual and collective levels in social dominance theory are discussed.
Incidental Findings on Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Ultrasonography
Authors: Sotoudehmanesh Rasoul , Arab Payman , Ali-Asgari Ali
Published: February 2013

Objective:

The aim of this prospective study was to assess the frequency and clinical significance of incidental findings on upper gastrointestinal endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS).

Methods:

Patients referred for upper gastrointestinal EUS were consecutively enrolled into this prospective study. Any coincidental abnormality found during standard EUS was considered an incidental finding. Significant incidental findings were defined as abnormalities that required further medical, surgical, or endoscopic intervention, including surveillance.

Results:

In 552 patients who underwent EUS, 41 incidental findings were detected in 39 patients (7.1%). Twenty-one abnormalities had clinical significance. The frequency of incidental findings increased significantly with increasing age ( P = .001). The most frequent incidental findings were gallstones, subepithelial lesions, and pancreatic lesions.

Conclusions:

Incidental findings on EUS are not uncommon in clinical practice and might be a clue to a significant pathology. The appropriate extent of evaluation of incidental findings noted during a standard EUS procedure warrants further research yet to be defined.
Evolution of a horizontally acquired legume gene, albumin 1, in the parasitic plant Phelipanche aegyptiaca and related species
Authors: Zhang Yeting , Fernandez-Aparicio Monica , Wafula Eric K , Das Malay , Jiao Yuannian , Wickett Norman J , Honaas Loren A , Ralph Paula E , Wojciechowski Martin F , Timko Michael P , Yoder John I , Westwood James H , dePamphilis Claude W
Published: February 2013

Background

Parasitic plants, represented by several thousand species of angiosperms, use modified structures known as haustoria to tap into photosynthetic host plants and extract nutrients and water. As a result of their direct plant-plant connections with their host plant, parasitic plants have special opportunities for horizontal gene transfer, the nonsexual transmission of genetic material across species boundaries. There is increasing evidence that parasitic plants have served as recipients and donors of horizontal gene transfer (HGT), but the long-term impacts of eukaryotic HGT in parasitic plants are largely unknown.

Results

Here we show that a gene encoding albumin 1 KNOTTIN-like protein, closely related to the albumin 1 genes only known from papilionoid legumes, where they serve dual roles as food storage and insect toxin, was found in Phelipanche aegyptiaca and related parasitic species of family Orobanchaceae, and was likely acquired by a Phelipanche ancestor via HGT from a legume host based on phylogenetic analyses. The KNOTTINs are well known for their unique “disulfide through disulfide knot” structure and have been extensively studied in various contexts, including drug design. Genomic sequences from nine related parasite species were obtained, and 3D protein structure simulation tests and evolutionary constraint analyses were performed. The parasite gene we identified here retains the intron structure, six highly conserved cysteine residues necessary to form a KNOTTIN protein, and displays levels of purifying selection like those seen in legumes. The albumin 1 xenogene has evolved through >150 speciation events over ca. 16 million years, forming a small family of differentially expressed genes that may confer novel functions in the parasites. Moreover, further data show that a distantly related parasitic plant, Cuscuta, obtained two copies of albumin 1 KNOTTIN-like genes from legumes through a separate HGT event, suggesting that legume KNOTTIN structures have been repeatedly co-opted by parasitic plants.

Conclusions

The HGT-derived albumins in Phelipanche represent a novel example of how plants can acquire genes from other plants via HGT that then go on to duplicate, evolve, and retain the specialized features required to perform a unique host-derived function.
Change of urinary fluoride and bone metabolism indicators in the endemic fluorosis areas of southern china after supplying low fluoride public water
Authors: Chen Shaoxian , Li Boling , Lin Shao , Huang Yixiang , Zhao Xinhua , Zhang Min , Xia Yuan , Fang Xiaoheng , Wang Junyi , Hwang Syni-An , Yu Shouyi
Published: February 2013

Background

Few studies have evaluated health impacts, especially biomarker changes, following implementation of a new environmental policy. This study examined changes in water fluoride, urinary fluoride (UF), and bone metabolism indicators in children after supplying low fluoride public water in endemic fluorosis areas of Southern China. We also assessed the relationship between UF and serum osteocalcin (BGP), calcitonin (CT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and bone mineral density to identify the most sensitive bone metabolism indicators related to fluoride exposure.

Methods

Four fluorosis-endemic villages (intervention villages) in Guangdong, China were randomly selected to receive low-fluoride water. One non-endemic fluorosis village with similar socio-economic status, living conditions, and health care access, was selected as the control group. 120 children aged 6-12 years old were randomly chosen from local schools in each village for the study. Water and urinary fluoride content as well as serum BGP, CT, ALP and bone mineral density were measured by the standard methods and compared between the children residing in the intervention villages and the control village. Benchmark dose (BMD) and benchmark dose lower limit (BMDL) were calculated for each bone damage indicator.

Results

Our study found that after water source change, fluoride concentrations in drinking water in all intervention villages (A-D) were significantly reduced to 0.11 mg/l, similar to that in the control village (E). Except for Village A where water change has only been taken place for 6 years, urinary fluoride concentrations in children of the intervention villages were lower or comparable to those in the control village after 10 years of supplying new public water. The values of almost all bone indicators in children living in Villages B-D and ALP in Village A were either lower or similar to those in the control village after the intervention. CT and BGP are sensitive bone metabolism indicators related to UF. While assessing the temporal trend of different abnormal bone indicators after the intervention, bone mineral density showed the most stable and the lowest abnormal rates over time.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that supplying low fluoride public water in Southern China is successful as measured by the reduction of fluoride in water and urine, and changes in various bone indicators to normal levels. A comparison of four bone indicators showed CT and BGP to be the most sensitive indicators.
Development of neurodevelopmental disorders: a regulatory mechanism involving bromodomain-containing proteins
Authors: Li Junlin , Zhao Guifang , Gao Xiaocai
Published: February 2013

Neurodevelopmental disorders are classified as diseases that cause abnormal functions of the brain or central nervous system. Children with neurodevelopmental disorders show impaired language and speech abilities, learning and memory damage, and poor motor skills. However, we still know very little about the molecular etiology of these disorders. Recent evidence implicates the bromodomain-containing proteins (BCPs) in the initiation and development of neurodevelopmental disorders. BCPs have a particular domain, the bromodomain (Brd), which was originally identified as specifically binding acetyl-lysine residues at the N-terminus of histone proteinsin vitroandin vivo. Other domains of BCPs are responsible for binding partner proteins to form regulatory complexes. Once these complexes are assembled, BCPs alter chromosomal states and regulate gene expression. Some BCP complexes bind nucleosomes, are involved in basal transcription regulation, and influence the transcription of many genes. However, most BCPs are involved in targeting. For example, some BCPs function as a recruitment platform or scaffold through their Brds-binding targeting sites. Others are recruited to form a complex to bind the targeting sites of their partners. The regulation mediated by these proteins is especially critical during normal and abnormal development. Mutant BCPs or dysfunctional BCP-containing complexes are implicated in the initiation and development of neurodevelopmental disorders. However, the pathogenic molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. In this review, we focus on the roles of regulatory BCPs associated with neurodevelopmental disorders, including mental retardation, Fragile X syndrome (FRX), Williams syndrome (WS), Rett syndrome and Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome (RTS). A better understanding of the molecular pathogenesis, based upon the roles of BCPs, will lead to screening of targets for the treatment of neurodevelopmental disorders.
Seismic Behavior and Shaking Direction Influence on Adobe Wall Structures Reinforced with Geogrid
Authors: Bossio Stefano , Blondet Marcial , Rihal Satwant
Published: February 2013

The aim of this work was to assess and validate the construction technology proposed in the manual published by the Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú (PUCP), Building Hygienic and Earthquake-Resistant Adobe Houses Using Geomesh Reinforcement. In order to validate the proposed technology, two full-scale adobe wall house models were built and subjected to dynamic tests on the PUCP's unidirectional shaking table. Geogrid was used as reinforcement for the adobe walls. One of the models was aligned with the direction of shaking, so that its longitudinal walls were subjected to in-plane forces and its transverse walls to out-of-plane forces. The other model was turned 45° with respect to the direction of shaking in order to have all the walls subjected to both in-plane and out-of-plane forces. The results of both tests were also compared to those obtained during previous tests of an unreinforced adobe model.
A High- and Low-Noise Model for High-Quality Strong-Motion Accelerometer Stations
Authors: Cauzzi Carlo , Clinton John
Published: February 2013

We present reference noise models for high-quality strong-motion accelerometer installations. We use continuous accelerometer data to derive very broadband (50 Hz–100 s) high- and low-noise models. The proposed noise models are compared (1) to the broadband seismometer Peterson (1993) noise models; (2) the datalogger self-noise and background noise levels at existing Swiss and Southern California strong-motion stations; and (3) typical earthquake signals recorded in Switzerland and worldwide. The accelerometer low-noise model (ALNM) is dominated by instrument noise from the sensor and datalogger. The accelerometer high-noise model (AHNM) reflects (1) at high frequencies the acceptable site noise in urban areas, (2) at mid-periods the microseismal peaks and (3) at long periods the maximum noise observed from well-insulated sensor/datalogger systems placed in vault quality sites. This study also provides confirmation of the remarkable capability of modern strong-motion accelerometers to record low-amplitude ground motions with seismic observation quality over a broad frequency range.