bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pursuit of medical knowledge: Charles Donovan (1863–1951) on kala-azar in India
Authors: Dutta Achintya Kumar
Published: June 2013

Kala-azar was a lethal disease in colonial India. Charles Donovan of the Indian Medical Service (IMS) in Madras discovered the parasite independently in 1903 while William Boog Leishman was carrying out his research in Great Britain. Donovan's discovery ended the confusion prevalent over the anomalous and puzzling cases of malarial fevers in India and proved they were not related to malaria. This added to the promotion of medical knowledge, initiated further research and created enthusiasm among medical scientists throughout the world. Donovan was the first person to see the kala-azar parasite in the peripheral blood and thus provided a clue to the carriage and transmission of the kala-azar parasite by the insect through peripheral blood. Donovan's research on kala-azar also convinced the government of its utility and the need for further investigation; he fell victim to professional rivalry.
Colin Fraser Brockington (1903–2004) and the Revolution in Nurse-Education
Authors: Hallett Christine E
Published: June 2013

Colin Fraser Brockington was Professor of Social and Preventive Medicine at the University of Manchester from 1952 to 1965. During that time he developed the Diploma in Community Nursing, the first pre-registration training course for nurses at a British University. This paper traces Brockington's education and career and explores his commitment to university-based nursing education which appears to have stemmed from his desire to enhance and broaden the role of the health visitor. It also considers the implications of the innovative course at Manchester and evaluates the way in which it influenced the gradual movement of nursing education into the university sector throughout the UK.
Sir Benjamin Collins Brodie (1783–1862)
Authors: Sheldrake John S
Published: June 2013

This article examines the life and work of the eminent surgeon Benjamin Collins Brodie. It details the progress of his career as surgeon including his training, contributions to surgery and final years, and examines in passing his contributions to the development of physiology and pathology.
Vincent van Gogh (1853–90): the plumbic artist
Authors: Weissman Edward
Published: June 2013

Following Vincent van Gogh's death in 1890, numerous physicians have offered diagnostic opinions regarding his still unverified illness. The discovery that he had ingested leaded oil paints prompted research that revealed his exposure to additional sources of lead and other toxic substances for 13 years before death. His complaints, derived from poignant letters to his brother, added compelling evidence that he had suffered neurotoxicity, encephalopathy and other consequences of lead. Vincent's suicide may have been precipitated by plumbism. Mankind has endured lead's presence for millennia, yet its destructive effects have been recognized sporadically. That symptoms of plumbism mimic other illnesses should prod a heightened index of suspicion. Had it not been for the financial and emotional support of Vincent by his brother, Theo, and the dedication of the latter's wife, Johanna, the artist's genius might never have been recognized. Widowed by the death of her husband six months after Vincent's demise, Johanna 1 remained the guardian of the painter's extraordinary artistic and literary output until critical acclaim established him as one of Europe's greatest artists. Her efforts, assisted by her son, in framing and exhibiting van Gogh's works, were crucial. She then translated and systematized his more than 750 letters to Theo, their sister, Willemien, their mother, fellow artists and others. 2
The medical history of Thomas Jefferson (1743–1826)
Authors: Schneeberg Norman G
Published: June 2013

Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the USA, was often the victim of a panoply of disorders including episodic headaches, dysentery, rheumatism, multiple bone fractures, malaria, possibly tuberculosis, dental problems, diabetes and urinary tract obstruction. Intermittently he experienced anxiety, depression and insomnia; he was an anxious, striving perfectionist, a compulsively controlled man.
Ilya Ilich Metchnikoff (1845–1915) and Paul Ehrlich (1854–1915): the Centennial of the 1908 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine
Authors: Schmalstieg Frank C , Goldman Armond S
Published: June 2013

Ilya Metchnikoff and Paul Ehrlich shared the 1908 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine – Metchnikoff for discovering the major types and functions of phagocytes and Ehrlich for discovering the types of blood leukocytes, helping to uncover how to generate and use antibodies to protect against bacterial toxins, and formulating the receptor concept of antibodies binding to antigens. In 1908 phagocytic and humoral defences were thought to be unrelated but it was realized much later that they influence one other. Thus, it is fitting that the 1908 Nobel Laureates in Physiology or Medicine remain closely connected in the minds of modern immunologists. Metchnikoff and Ehrlich shared qualities of natural curiosity and tenacity coupled with remarkable inductive-mechanistic thinking and a zest for experimentation. However, their approaches to and methods of research were decidedly different – Metchnikoff's by evolutionary biology and an approach to experimentation via microscopy and Ehrlich's by an imaginative side-chain theory and organic chemistry.
Telemedicine in Paediatric Patients with Poorly Controlled Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Choi Y Sammy , Berry-Cabán Cristóbal , Nance Julie
Published: June 2013

We conducted a retrospective study of a telemedicine clinic for paediatric patients with poorly controlled type 1 diabetes. Thirty-one patients (mean age 12 years) were enrolled into the clinic. After an initial visit, a group messaging system was provided to allow communication with the diabetic team which consisted of a diabetic provider, diabetic educator, insulin pump trainer and dietician. Patients and parents were encouraged to make all contacts by electronic means. For urgent matters, direct paging access was provided to the diabetic team. Adjustments in insulin dosing were accomplished via automated web-based communication or email between patient and provider. Compared to baseline, the HbA1c levels were significantly lower at 3 months (9.1% vs. 11.1%, P < 0.05) and 6.5 months (9.5% vs. 11.1%, P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in HbA1c levels for different age categories, insulin delivery methods or number of telemedicine encounters. The study showed that while telemedicine was effective in lowering HbA1c levels, it did not achieve optimum control.
Successful treatment of patients with hepatitis C in rural and remote Western Australia via telehealth
Authors: Nazareth Saroja , Kontorinis Nickolas , Muwanwella Niroshan , Hamilton Alan , Leembruggen Nadine , Cheng Wendy Sc
Published: June 2013

Rural and remote patients at the Royal Perth Hospital were reviewed and treated for hepatitis C by a hepatologist and nurse practitioner using telehealth (videoconferencing). Over a four-year period, 50 patients were treated with pegylated interferon and ribavirin, and participated in a total of more than 500 telehealth sessions. Sustained virological response rates (SVRs) were compared to those in face-to-face (FTF) clinics to assess treatment outcomes. Treatment through telehealth was found to be non-inferior to FTF clinics. Telehealth patients with genotype 1 infection achieved a higher rate of SVR than those attending FTF clinics (73% versus 54%, respectively), although the difference was not significant. SVR rates for genotype 2 and 3 of 72% were similar in telehealth to FTF rates of 74%. A total of 35 telehealth patients completed a satisfaction questionnaire and most indicated that they were happy with the programme and would participate again in the future. The study confirmed that telehealth is an effective option for the treatment of hepatitis C in rural and remote areas.
Infection Control in the Ultrasound Department
Authors: Thiagarajah R , Creanor S , Gormally J , Gutteridge C , Dubbins P
Published: June 2013

Despite the great amount of publicity dedicated to infection control policies, many hospital staff are ‘uncertain’ and have ‘limited knowledge’ with regard to the practical details of policies and procedures for infection control. The aim of this audit was to evaluate current understanding among our ultrasound staff of Trust policies relating to the transfer of a patient where there is an identified infection risk. To this aim, brief questionnaires were distributed to all staff members in the ultrasound department, during one working day, based on five clinical scenarios. The questionnaires were designed to test staff knowledge of current hospital policy. Good practice dictates that all staff are aware of standard procedures and precautions, in accordance with the system of clinical governance set out by the Department of Health. Each of the five questions was used as a separate indicator for each clinical scenario. The questions were derived from clinical scenarios encountered within the previous six months and the set target was 100% understanding. The correct responses for each of the five scenarios ranged from 50% to 95%. The results were presented at a subsequent audit meeting attended by the Trust Infection Control Nurse, where the rationale for patient transfer policies was explained. Infection control policy forms part of annual statutory training. A review of the training programme content and presentation is recommended.
Standardization of Ultrasound Exposure Reporting for Bio-Effects and Safety Studies
Authors: Haar Gail ter
Published: June 2013

The safety committee of the British Medical Ultrasound Society has drawn up guidance that is intended to encourage best practice in determining and reporting the exposure conditions used in ultrasound bio-effect studies among researchers. The guidance addresses diagnostic and therapeutic applications of ultrasound, and is intended for bio-effects researchers, review boards of ethical and funding committees, and the editors and reviewers of scientific journals.
Ergonomically Auditing Your Scan Room
Authors: Robson James W , Wolstenhulme Stephen
Published: June 2013

The growing demand for ultrasound examinations is evident, as is the incidence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) incurred by ultrasound practitioners. This paper outlines a simple ergonomic audit that all operators can complete on their ultrasound room and equipment. As a result of this audit, areas of weaknesses in room/equipment design can be highlighted, with recommendations for more ergonomically designed equipment put forward to departmental managers, with the overall aim of reducing WRMSDs among ultrasound practitioners.
A Theoretical and Experimental Study of the Double Aorta Artefact in B-Mode Imaging
Authors: Bull V , Martin K
Published: June 2013

Artefacts arise in ultrasound B-mode images due to propagation effects and limitations in system performance. The ‘double aorta’ artefact has been described previously and ascribed to refraction through superficial tissues, such as the abdominal muscles, in which the speed of sound is significantly higher than values in the abdominal organs. A phantom was designed and constructed to model the abdominal muscles as a pair of lens-shaped sections of tissue mimicking material with speed of sound similar to that of muscle. Scanning a standard test object through these sections in a water bath resulted in double images of the various anechoic and filament structures within the test object. At a depth of 3 cm below the ‘muscle’ mimics, a 7-mm diameter cystic structure appeared as two overlapping objects with centres separated by 5.1 ± 1.8 mm. A theoretical model was established assuming straight line propagation, Snell's law and measured and quoted speeds of sound within the muscle mimic, water and the test object. Derived values for the separation agreed with experimental measurements to within the calculated uncertainties. These observations support the view that the double aorta artefact can be explained by refraction through the abdominal muscles.
Hemoptysis caused by a left subclavian pseudoaneurysm: endovascular solution for a challenging case
Authors: Bernal Lucas Ribé , Portero Juan Luis , Vila María , Ruiz Diego Fernando , Reparaz Luis Manuel
Published: June 2013

This is one of the first reports of a left subclavian pseudoaneurysm in a patient presenting with massive hemoptysis. We present a challenging case of a patient who consulted for hemoptysis. Imaging revealed a left subclavian artery pseudoaneurysm that caused a pulmonary parenchymal lesion. Treatment with a self-expanding thoracic stent-graft and a subclavian occluder was successful.
Successful endovascular treatment of a ruptured gigantic pseudoaneurysm of the common iliac artery secondarily complicated by infection
Authors: Georgakarakos Efstratios I , Nikolopoulos Evagelos S , Karanikas Michael A , Mantatzis Michalis , Lazarides Miltos K
Published: June 2013

We report our experience with a case of emergent endovascular treatment of a large ruptured pseudoaneurysm of the common iliac artery. A 65-year-old male was admitted to the surgical department in hypovolemic shock, due to active retroperitoneal bleeding. A computerized tomography scan with intravenous contrast revealed a ruptured gigantic pseudoaneurysm of the right common iliac artery, with a maximal diameter of 7 cm and retroperitoneal hematoma. An intraoperative angiogram revealed active extravasation through the neck of the pseudoaneurysm, which was successfully sealed with the placement of a stent graft (Medtronic Endurant®) limb component. Infection of the pseudoaneurysm sac after one month was successfully treated with catheter drainage. No short-term relapse occurred. Endovascular management should be part of the basic surgical armamentarium on emergent basis, since it provides a fast and safe solution, especially when a patient's co-morbitities preclude open management and hemodynamic and anatomical status allows endovascular treatment.
Analysis of the relationship of human capital and income levels in modern Russia
Authors: Гришина  , Grishina Svetlana
Published: May 2013

Questions of the application of analysis of the interrelation of the level of the accumulation of human capital with the income and other economic characteristics are examined. The use of a method on the basis of the Legendre orthogonal polynomials expansion of functions is proposed.
Saints and Sinners: Sir Harold Gillies
Authors: Morgan Brian
Published: June 2013

Sir Harold Gillies, commonly known as the 'father of plastic surgery', was certainly considered a saint by his many admirers in Britain, but this polymath also had some quirky traits that did not endear him to everyone. indeed, although he was responsible for founding plastic surgery as a specialty, in later years his preoccupation with the tube pedicle as the primary means of transferring large volumes of tissue may actually have held back the development of the axial pattern, muscle, fascia and microsurgical flaps that were crucial to the discipline.
Online Ratings and Reviews by Patients: Should Surgeons use Web-Based Feedback as an Outcome Metric?
Authors: Bacon Neil , O'Riordan Dermot
Published: June 2013

Patient experience (as distinct from patient-reported outcome metrics, or PrOMs) is known to be an accurate and sensitive metric of patient safety and clinical effectiveness 'for a wide range of disease areas, settings, outcomes measures and study designs' and there is a clear case for it being considered 'one of the central pillars of quality in healthcare'.
Some challenges of providing information on surgical outcomes
Authors: Cromwell David
Published: June 2013

In the recent Everyone Counts document, NHS England describes its role in helping commissioners to deliver innovation and increase productivity, as well as facilitating patient choice and empowering local clinicians to improve the outcomes of care. To achieve this, their board will oversee the expansion of publicly available information on the outcomes of healthcare. The NHS Outcomes Framework will be an important element of this, and commissioners and providers will be expected to make improvements across its various indicators.
Impact of SupervIsed TraInIng on the AcquIsItIon of SImulated LaparoscopIc SkIlls
Authors: Healy NA , Chang KH , Conneely JB , Malone C , Kerin MJ
Published: June 2013

Laparoscopy or minimally invasive surgery requires surgeons to attain proficiency in skills that are fundamentally different to those required for open surgery. As a result, it both challenges junior trainees and surgeons who are experienced in open surgery. Not surprisingly, the initial learning phase of laparoscopy has been associated with an increased incidence of serious complications. Owing to time constraints and the ethical and safety considerations of allowing novices to perform laparoscopic surgery on patients, alternative methods have been sought to train junior surgeons on the basics of laparoscopic surgery.
Improving the Quality of Operation Notes by Using a Mnemonic and Proforma
Authors: Bauer NJG , Wilson A , Grimer RJ
Published: June 2013

The General Medical Council is assigned the role of safeguarding and maintaining the health and wellbeing of the public by the Medical Act 1983. All doctors and surgeons in the UK are bound by their professional standards and regulations. Surgeons have to abide by the standards set by The Royal College of Surgeons of England (RCS), which are deemed 'reasonable, assessable and achievable by all competent surgeons'. One of these standards is the overriding duty to ensure that 'all medical records are legible, complete and contemporaneous'. It is vital that all medical and surgical notes document each consultation or procedure that the patient has undergone during his or her stay in hospital.
Reducing the gap between educational research and second language teachers’ knowledge
Authors: Mady Callie
Published: June 2013

This paper reports on a project created with the view to improving second language teachers’ access to research. Following the steps provided in Lavis et al's (2003) knowledge transfer framework, this project provided second language teachers access to applied second language research and researchers. This paper reports on the teachers’ conceptual use of the research as collected by means of a pre/post intervention questionnaire. Findings reveal that even simple, short-term interventions have the potential to have an impact on knowledge.
Evidence for agile policy makers: the contribution of transformative realism
Authors: Room Graham
Published: June 2013

Advocates of evidence-based policy making (EBPM) are typically concerned with the impact of particular interventions. This implicit ontology of the policy world, as disaggregated into a variety of independent interventions, has been challenged by Pawson (2006), in terms of the contingencies that activate, inhibit or reshape the impact of any intervention. This critique does not, however, go far enough. The identity, potentialities and impact of an intervention are contingent on the synergies that it develops with other interventions. This ontology of evolutionary or transformative realism provides the vantage point for reconsidering the theory and practice of EBPM and systematic review.
Recent progress in research on stimuli-responsive circularly polarized luminescence based on π-conjugated molecules
Authors: Maeda Hiromitsu , Bando Yuya
Published: June 2013

This short review article summarizes recent progress in research on various stimuli-responsive circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) properties derived from π-conjugated molecules and related materials. As representative examples, assembled structures of chiral π-conjugated polymers and molecules showed tunable CPL resulting from the enhancement of chirality induction by aggregation. Fascinating CPL-active species, pyrrole-based anion-responsive π-conjugated molecules exhibiting CPL induced by anion binding and ion pairing, are also discussed.
MicroRNAs in the Atherosclerotic Plaque
Authors: Raitoharju Emma , Oksala Niku , Lehtimäki Terho
Published: June 2013

BACKGROUND

MicroRNAs (miRNA, miR) are noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression by hindering translation. miRNA expression profiles have been shown to differ in vivo and in vitro in many cellular processes associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The progression of CVDs has also been shown to alter the blood miRNA profile in humans.

CONTENT

We summarize the results of animal and cell experiments concerning the miRNA profile in the atherosclerotic process and the changes which occur in the blood miRNA profile of individuals with CVD. We also survey the relationship of these CVD-related miRNAs and their expression in the human advanced atherosclerotic plaque, thereby providing more insight into miRNA function in human atherosclerotic lesions. The miRNAs miR-126, -134, -145, -146a, -198, -210, -340*, and -92a were found to be expressed differently in the blood of individuals affected and unaffected by CVD. These differences paralleled those seen in tissue comparisons of miRNA expression in advanced atherosclerotic plaques and healthy arteries. Furthermore, several miRNAs associated with atherosclerosis in in vitro studies (such as miR-10a, -126, -145, -146a/b, -185, -210, and -326) were expressed in plaques in a similar pattern as was predicted by the in vitro experiments. The clinical implications of miRNAs in atherosclerosis as biomarkers and as possible drug targets are also reviewed.

miRNA profiles in in vitro and in vivo studies as well as in human peripheral blood are quite representative of the miRNA expression in human atherosclerotic plaques. miRNAs appear promising in terms of future clinical applications.
Are taxpayers, who pay their taxes, all cooperative citizens?
Authors: Lemoine Jérémy , Roland-Levy Christine
Published: June 2013

France does not have a classical withholding tax system; taxes are calculated on the basis of the previous year declaration of income. Moreover, France is, in terms of corruption (Transparency index, Corruption Perceptions Index, 2011), in the 25th row, behind many of the European countries,
which indicates a very high perception of corruption in France, compared to the other European countries. In this article, the focus is on the psychological effect of this system and its consequences in terms of tax compliance versus tax evasion, which can be seen in terms of cooperation versus
competition. This study, in line with E. Kirchler’s research on tax evasion, investigates the links between powers of authorities, trust in authorities, and tax compliance in the French context. Moreover, along with Kirchler et al.’s (2008) work, our goal was to test the ‘slippery
slope’ framework on tax compliance with a sample of French citizens. In order to test it, trust in authorities and power of authorities were manipulated with four different scenarios (high trust/high power; high trust/low power; low trust/high power; low trust/low power). French university
students in economics (320) were randomly assigned to one of the four conditions, in which they read one of the scenarios and had to answer a questionnaire composed of 24 items. In this article, tax compliance is approached in terms of cooperation versus competition; for this, we examined:
if citizens comply in a cooperative way; if they have a competitive attitude towards tax authorities, indicating that they try to evade taxes as much as possible, thus go against the collective goal because they have self-oriented motivations; or if they have a competitive attitude towards
authorities because they do not consent government’s policies. This study, which had two main facets, enabled identifying tax compliance in terms of trust in authorities and power of authorities, and allowed identifying cases in which conformity is voluntary, which implies cooperation;
or forced, which implies that authorities impose compliance. Based on our results, the article concludes that both an increase of trust in the authorities and an increase of power of the authorities create an increase of tax compliance, which tends to show that, based on distrust, fraud is
non-cooperative, and can be sometimes considered as competitive, as it is placing self-interest into the foreground instead of public interest.
Participatory citizenship in Europe: The effects of the economic crisis on policy, practice and citizen engagement across EU member states
Authors: Kerr David
Published: June 2013

This article makes a contribution to the debate on the ‘cooperative, competitive citizen’ by detailing the outcomes of a recent study on the theory, policy and practices of participatory citizenship in Europe, commissioned by the European Commission (EC). It underlines the
discussion of how to balance citizen collaboration and competition needs to include the concept of participatory citizenship along with a European dimension. It provides strong evidence that the current economic crisis is distorting the interrelationship between participatory citizenship,
social cohesion and economic competitiveness in policy-making in EU member states with increasing emphasis on the latter (the competitive citizen) at the expense of the former (the collaborative citizen). It details how the impact of this policy shift is already clearly visible through evidence
of major funding cuts on projects and programmes that promote participatory citizenship. It also provides evidence that the current economic crisis has shaken the trust and confidence of citizens across Europe, including young people, in politicians and political institutions. Though people
continue to have a strong belief in the principle of democracy and in the values that underpin participatory citizenship, they increasingly lack trust in current politicians and political institutions. However, it also highlights a number of strategies, based on evidence, for strengthening
policy, practices and citizen engagement in participatory citizenship in Europe and also evidence of the value of promoting participatory citizenship in society. It shows how the key role of learning and education in building civic competence among people, particularly young people, and also
that involvement with volunteering enhances political engagement. Finally, in the context of a growth strategy (such as EU 2020) to alleviate the economic crisis, the Study also highlights that participatory citizenship, economic competitiveness and social cohesion are interrelated and mutually
reinforcing. Thus, countries with characteristics of being highly competitive also tend to be highly participatory with high levels of social cohesion, for example, the Nordic countries.
REVIEWS
Authors: Pressing Zsuzsanna , Gifford Dr Chris
Published: June 2013

TRUE COMPETITION: A GUIDE TO PURSUING EXCELLENCE IN SPORT AND SOCIETY, DAVID LIGHT SHIELDS AND BRENDA LIGHT BREDEMEIER (2009) Champaign: Human Kinetics, 239 pp., ISBN: 978-0-7360-7429-2, p/bk, £ 18.95

INTERNATIONAL SOCIOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION HANDBOOK IN CONTEMPORARY SOCIOLOGY:
CONFLICT, COMPETITION AND COOPERATION, ANN DENIS AND DEVORAH KALEKIN-FISHMAN (EDS) (2009) London: Sage Publications Ltd, ISBN 978-1-4129-3463-3, 504 pages, £103 Hardcover, ebook £123.60.
When and why do young people tend to cooperate?
Authors: Zalewska Anna Maria , Krzywosz-Rynkiewicz Beata
Published: June 2013

The study explored young people’s tendency for cooperation in different social conditions and explanations of behaviour given by them. Cooperation seems to be an important part of citizenship behaviour. Here, it is defined as a tendency to maximize common payoff. According to
the Homo economicus theory, people are egoistic entities and should make rational decisions based on maximizing personal payoffs. According to the conception of Homo reciprocans, people tend to be cooperative only if their perceive partners’ behaviour as fair. In the context of contemporary
research, both of these theories over-simplify behaviour, since tendency to cooperate depends on differences in culture and economic development, as well as on situational rules. In the present study, the Ultimatum Game was conducted to explore students’ cooperative behaviour (accepting
proposals) as a response to Selfish, Equal or Altruistic offers in three conditions – ‘face to face’, ‘town to town’ (long distance, with a partner from another town) or ‘country to country’ (with a partner from another country). This modification
of standard experiment procedure was unique and allowed to examine the role of situational context. Altogether 1013 students (aged 9–19) from Poland, Spain and the United Kingdom participated in the game as acceptors. Their cooperative behaviour depended on offers made by partners. However,
the patterns were moderated by game conditions: young people tended to cooperate mostly in response to equal offers and in the ‘face-to-face’ condition and to punish (not cooperate) partners with the same nationality (‘face-to-face’ or ‘town-to-town’ condition)
for Selfish offers and foreigners (‘country to country’ condition) for Altruistic offers.
Addiction and the adrenal cortex
Authors: Vinson Gavin P , Brennan Caroline H
Published: June 2013

Substantial evidence shows that the hypophyseal–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis and corticosteroids are involved in the process of addiction to a variety of agents, and the adrenal cortex has a key role. In general, plasma concentrations of cortisol (or corticosterone in rats or mice) increase on drug withdrawal in a manner that suggests correlation with the behavioural and symptomatic sequelae both in man and in experimental animals. Corticosteroid levels fall back to normal values in resumption of drug intake. The possible interactions between brain corticotrophin releasing hormone (CRH) and proopiomelanocortin (POMC) products and the systemic HPA, and additionally with the local CRH–POMC system in the adrenal gland itself, are complex. Nevertheless, the evidence increasingly suggests that all may be interlinked and that CRH in the brain and brain POMC products interact with the blood-borne HPA directly or indirectly. Corticosteroids themselves are known to affect mood profoundly and may themselves be addictive. Additionally, there is a heightened susceptibility for addicted subjects to relapse in conditions that are associated with change in HPA activity, such as in stress, or at different times of the day. Recent studies give compelling evidence that a significant part of the array of addictive symptoms is directly attributable to the secretory activity of the adrenal cortex and the actions of corticosteroids. Additionally, sex differences in addiction may also be attributable to adrenocortical function: in humans, males may be protected through higher secretion of DHEA (and DHEAS), and in rats, females may be more susceptible because of higher corticosterone secretion.
Genomics of Squamous Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Rooney Melissa , Devarakonda Siddhartha , Govindan Ramaswamy
Published: June 2013

Learning Objectives

Describe important molecular aberrations associated with squamous cell carcinoma. Identify molecular aberrations that may have therapeutic implications.
Soil strength characterisation using free-falling penetrometers
Authors: CHOW S.H. , AIREY D.W.
Published: June 2013

Free-falling penetrometers (FFPs) are rapid and cost-effective tools that can be used in seabed strength characterisation. To date, FFPs have not been widely used, because of the lack of reliable interpretation methods and well-controlled experimental studies. This paper presents an interpretation method for a thin-shafted FFP based on the results of extensive laboratory model FFP tests and triaxial compression tests on normally consolidated kaolin. In the model tests, a thin-shafted FFP with circular plate tip has been dropped into claybeds with a range of undrained shear strengths at various impact velocities. The FFP has also been pushed into the claybeds at slow constant-penetration rate to provide a comparison between the static and dynamic penetration resistances. Triaxial compression tests have been conducted to provide the critical state parameters, and to study the rate-dependence behaviour of the kaolin. Using these test results, an empirical model is proposed to estimate the undrained shear strength from a thin-shafted FFP test in clay. The applicability of the proposed model is compared with existing methods and numerical solutions.
Nanoscale heterostructures for photoelectrochemical water splitting and photodegradation of pollutants
Authors: Shi Wenwu , Chopra Nitin
Published: June 2013

Rapid depletion of fossil fuels, surging demands for energy and concerns for environment have inspired the exploration of renewable energy sources including solar energy. Efficient utilization of solar energy mainly relies on the discovery of materials with superior electronic and optical properties for effective light–matter interaction. These materials should have suitable band gap energies for visible light absorption and appropriate band edge locations for generation, rapid transfer and suppressed recombination of charge carriers. Heterostructuring of multiple materials with controlled interfaces and spatial configuration is critical to meet these requirements and holds potential for applications such as photoelectrochemical water splitting. This review article focuses on fundamentals of nanoscale heterostructures and four types of charge transfer/separation mechanisms: charge dissipation through conductive path, charge separation through plasmonic nanoparticles, sensitization of wide band gap semiconductors and charge separation through staggered band gap. Other aspects such as large surface area and multifunctionality from heterostructuring are also discussed. Finally, characterization techniques for understanding photocatalytic activity, charge transfer and band gap energy of the nanoscale heterostructures are described.
A brief review of surface-functionalized cotton fabrics
Authors: Cortese Barbara , Caschera Daniela , Padeletti Giuseppina , Ingo Gabriel M. , Gigli Giuseppe
Published: June 2013

Surface modification of textiles with desired functionalities can be engineered by a considerable number of techniques ranging from traditional treatments to multifunctional approaches. Textiles, in fact, offer a challenging platform for functional modifications in order to meet additional strategic requirements for a large variety of applications. This article reviews recent developments involving modification of cotton textiles using physical methods (corona discharge, plasma) and chemical methods (vapor-phase atomic layer deposition treatment, surface grafting, enzymatic modification, cationic modification with nanoparticles, sol-gel technique, method and treatment with different reagents) and their characterization. The authors will present how the controlled wettability has been integrated into traditional materials to improve their performances and to extend their practical applications by developing new functionalities. The authors give a brief background on applications of cotton-modified surfaces and the development of novel innovative production techniques used to modify the surface materials and to improve the product quality.
Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes and Sexual Violence Among Female Sex Workers Who Inject Drugs on the United States–Mexico Border
Authors: McDougal Lotus , Strathdee Steffanie A. , Rangel Gudelia , Martinez Gustavo , Vera Alicia , Sirotin Nicole , Stockman Jamila K. , Ulibarri Monica D. , Raj Anita
Published: June 2013

This study examines the prevalence of miscarriage/stillbirth among female sex workers who inject drugs (FSW-IDUs) and measures its associations with physical and sexual violence. Baseline data from 582 FSW-IDUs enrolled in an HIV intervention study in Tijuana and Ciudad Juárez, Mexico were used for current analyses. 30% of participants had experienced at least one miscarriage/stillbirth, 51% had experienced sexual violence, and 49% had experienced physical violence. History of miscarriage/stillbirth was associated with sexual violence (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.7, p = .02) but not physical violence. Additional reproductive risks associated with miscarriage/stillbirth included high numbers of male clients in the previous month (aOR = 1.1 per 30 clients, p = 0.04), history of abortion (aOR = 3.7, p < .001), and higher number of pregnancies (aOR = 1.4 per additional pregnancy, p < .001). Programs and research with this population should integrate reproductive health and consider gender-based violence.
Impulsivity and Sexual Assault in College Men
Authors: Mouilso Emily R. , Calhoun Karen S. , Rosenbloom Thomas G.
Published: June 2013

Although impulsivity has been consistently linked to perpetration of sexual aggression, results lack clarity because they do not account for the substantial heterogeneity associated with the construct. The UPPS-P model (Lynam, Smith, Whiteside, & Cyders, 2006), which was proposed to clarify the multidimensional nature of impulsivity, has yet to be applied to sexual aggression. We measured UPPS-P Impulsivity in a sample of male college students who also self-reported on perpetration of sexual aggression. As predicted, impulsivity distinguished perpetrators from nonperpetrators. Perpetrators scored higher than nonperpetrators on Negative Urgency, Positive Urgency, and lack of Premeditation. Results suggest that the impulsivity traits most relevant to sexual aggression are the tendency to act impulsively when experiencing intense emotions (Positive and Negative Urgency) and lack of forethought and planning (lack of Premeditation).
Risk Factors for Domestic Violence During Pregnancy: A Meta-Analytic Review
Authors: James Lois , Brody David , Hamilton Zachary
Published: June 2013

This article presents the results of a meta-analysis of the existing research literature, in an effort to increase our understanding of the prevalence of domestic violence (DV) among pregnant women, and of risk factors associated with DV during pregnancy. Across 92 independent studies, the average reported prevalence of emotional abuse was 28.4%, physical abuse was 13.8%, and sexual abuse was 8.0%. Composite odds ratio effect sizes were calculated for the demographic, behavioral, and social risk factors identified by 55 independent studies. Both victimization and perpetration risk factors were analyzed. Abuse before pregnancy and lower education level were found to be strong predictors of abuse during pregnancy. Pregnancy being unintended by either the victim or the perpetrator, lower socioeconomic status, and being unmarried were found to be moderate predictors of abuse during pregnancy.
Chemical Extraction of Microorganisms from Water‐Saturated, Packed Sediment
Authors: Ugolini Fabio , Schroth Martin H. , Bürgmann Helmut , Hammes Frederik , Zeyer Josef
Published: June 2013

Microbial characterization of aquifers should combine collection of suspended and attached microorganisms (biofilms). This study investigated chemical extraction of microorganisms from water‐saturated, packed sediment containing established biofilms. It compares the use of different detachment‐promoting agent (DPA) solutions with tap water as eluent in column experiments. Extraction efficiency was determined from cell concentrations in the column effluent. Adenosine triphosphate concentrations were measured to confirm cell extraction and as an indicator of cell membrane integrity. Quality of extracted bacterial communities was assessed by comparing their terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism profiles with destructively sampled sediment‐community profiles. Extraction efficiency increased more than 8‐fold when deionized water, D‐amino acids, or enzymes were used as a DPA. Community profiles recovered by individual DPA solutions showed more pronounced differences at the level of rare microbial groups, whereas abundant groups appeared ubiquitous across treatments. These results suggest that comparison of communities extracted by different DPAs can provide improved information on the occurrence of rare microbial groups in biofilms.
Simultaneous Removal of NH4+ and PO43‐ at Low Concentrations from Aqueous Solution by Modified Converter Slag
Authors: Duan Jinming , Fang Hongda , Lin Jinmei , Lin Jianqing , Huang Zhiyong
Published: June 2013

In this study, modified converter slag (CS) was characterized in relation to its physicochemical structure, and used for the simultaneous removal of NH4+ and PO43‐ at low concentrations from aqueous solutions. The effects of contact time, pH, adsorbent dosage, and temperature on the adsorption process were studied in batch experiments. The results showed that the adsorption capacity of modified converter slag was found to sharply increase as a result of modification. The optimum pH is 5‐8. The adsorption process was able to reach equilibrium in 90 minutes. Kinetic data were best described by the pseudo‐second‐order model. The sorption isotherms were a good fit with the Langmuir model. The maximum adsorption capacities of modified converter slag for NH4+ and PO43‐ were 2.59mg/g and 1.185 mg/g, respectively. Thermodynamic studies indicated that the adsorption was a spontaneous and endothermic process. The calculated values of enthalpy change indicated that ligand exchange, chemical reactions, and precipitation are dominating mechanisms of PO43‐ removal, while physisorption and ion‐exchange are major mechanisms of NH4+ removal.
Role of Gas Vesicles and Intra‐Colony Spaces During the Process of Algal Bloom Formation
Authors: Yongsheng Zhang , Binghui Zheng , Xia Jiang , Hao Zheng
Published: June 2013

Aggregation morphology, vertical distribution, and algal density were analyzed during the algal cell floating process in three environments. The role of gas vesicles and intra‐colony spaces was distinguished by algal blooms treated with ultrasonic waves and high pressure. Results demonstrated that the two buoyancy providers jointly provide buoyancy for floating algal cells. The results were also confirmed by force analysis. In the simulation experiment, the buoyancy acting on algal cells was greater than its gravity at sample ports 2 and 3 of a columnar‐cultivated cell vessel, and intra‐colony spaces were not detected. In Taihu Lake, gas vesicle buoyancy was notably less than total algal cell gravity. Buoyancy provided by intra‐colony spaces exceeded total algal cell gravity at the water surface, but not at other water depths. In the Daning River, total buoyancies provided by the two buoyancy providers were less than total algal cell gravity at different water depths.
Elsie Ray and the Founding of STC
Authors: Malone Edward A.
Published: June 2013

Elsie Ray, a research librarian at Anaconda Copper Mining Company, was the prime mover in the effort to organize the Association of Technical Writers and Editors (TWE), one of the organizations that eventually became the Society for Technical Communication (STC). This article seeks to recover Ray's professional contributions and memorialize her as a significant figure in the history of the technical communication profession.
A “Virtual Fieldtrip”: Service Learning in Distance Education Technical Writing Courses
Authors: Soria Krista M. , Weiner Brad
Published: June 2013

This mixed-methods experimental study examined the effect of service learning in a distance education technical writing course. Quantitative analysis of data found evidence for a positive relationship between participation in service learning and technical writing learning outcomes. Additionally, qualitative analysis suggests that service learning in online technical writing courses helps students to make connections to the “real world,” encourages students to connect with their audience(s) and develop a sense of purpose for writing tasks, connects students to future employment, and develops deep learning with course materials. It is hypothesized that these factors support the development of learning outcomes in distance education students.
Moving towards Ethnorelativism: A Framework for Measuring and Meeting Students' Needs in Cross-Cultural Business and Technical Communication
Authors: Wang Junhua
Published: June 2013

Scholars in business and technical communication have continuously made efforts to look for effective teaching approaches for cross-cultural business and technical communication; however, little research has been conducted to study the process by which students develop intercultural competence; fewer studies have been conducted to assess learners' needs for gaining intercultural competence in the globalization age. To assess students' level of intercultural competence and understand whether they are likely to change in response to teaching, I first introduce a two-part framework for teaching and learning intercultural business and technical communication: the DMIS model—Developmental Model of Intercultural Sensitivity, and the related instrument to assess intercultural sensitivity—the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI). Then I report the results of using the framework to assess and develop students' intercultural competence, and conclude the study by emphasizing the significance of the current empirical research and discuss the framework's limitations.
Method for distortion correction of multi-layered surface reconstruction using time-gated wavefront sensing approach
Authors: Tan C. S. , Wang X. , Ng Y. H. , Lim W. K. , Chai T. Y.
Published: June 2013

In order to estimate the multi-layer surface profile and to detect the inter-layer surfaces defects, gated wavefront sensing approach has been proposed in the previous works [1, 2]. However, the proposed methodology measures the wavefront that has been distorted by its prior surfaces (reflected wavefront) or post surfaces (transmitted wavefront). Analysis has to be performed to estimate the multi-layer wavefront sensing by taking into consideration the multi-layer surfaces condition. For reflected wavefront, the bottom layer(s) wavefront is (are) being distorted twice via separate interface points while traveling back to the lenslet arrays through our observation for the slope and phase measurement. The subsequent reconstructed surfaces are not accurate and corrected. Thus, a discrete layer correction technique for the surface reconstruction has been proposed to enhance the reconstruction accuracy by using the upper/top layer’s wavefront information. This paper discusses on the case of 2-layer system, where the reflected wavefront from the bottom layer has been distorted and its surface reconstruction has been corrected. The results show that the distortion is significant and the correction is deemed necessary for industrial application such as in wafer warpage inter-layer profile estimation.
Assessing the Use of Aggregate Data in the Evaluation of School-Based Interventions
Authors: Jacob Robin T. , Goddard Roger D. , Kim Eun Sook
Published: June 2013

It is often difficult and costly to obtain individual-level student achievement data, yet, researchers are frequently reluctant to use school-level achievement data that are widely available from state websites. We argue that public-use aggregate school-level achievement data are, in fact, sufficient to address a wide range of evaluation questions and the use of this data is more appropriate than commonly thought. Specifically, we explore (a) when point estimates and standard errors differ between models that use individual student-level data and those that use aggregate school-level data, (b) the potential for conducting subgroup and nonexperimental analyses with aggregate data, and (c) the metrics that are currently available in state public-use data sets and the implications these have for analyses.