bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Judging Words by Their Covers and the Company They Keep: Probabilistic Cues Support Word Learning
Authors: Lany Jill
Published: December 2013

Statistical learning may be central to lexical and grammatical development. The phonological and distributional properties of words provide probabilistic cues to their grammatical and semantic properties. Infants can capitalize on such probabilistic cues to learn grammatical patterns in listening tasks. However, infants often struggle to learn labels when performance requires attending to less obvious cues, raising the question of whether probabilistic cues support word learning. The current experiment presented 22‐month‐olds with an artificial language containing probabilistic correlations between words' statistical and semantic properties. Only infants with higher levels of grammatical development capitalized on statistical cues to support learning word‐referent mappings. These findings suggest that infants' sensitivity to correlations between sounds and meanings may support both word learning and grammatical development.
The effects of beta‐alanine supplementation on physical working capacity at heart rate threshold
Authors: Smith‐Ryan Abbie E. , Woessner Mary N. , Melvin Malia N. , Wingfield Hailee L. , Hackney Anthony C.
Published: December 2013

Beta‐alanine (BA) supplementation has been shown to delay neuromuscular fatigue as a result of increased muscle carnosine concentrations. Carnosine has also been found in brain and cardiac tissue. The physical working capacity test at heart rate threshold (PWCHRT) is a global estimate of the onset of fatigue during exercise, influenced by central and peripheral factors. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of 28 days of BA supplementation on the PWCHRT. Thirty subjects (mean ± SD; age: 21·0 ± 2·1 years; body mass: 72·7 ± 14·5 kg; height: 170·1 ± 7·9 cm) were randomly assigned to BA (n = 15) or placebo (PL, n = 15) groups. Testing included eight to nine total visits: an enrolment day, physical screening, peak oxygen consumption (V·O2peak) and two PWCHRT assessments over 4 days. Significant differences existed between BA and PL for PWCHRT (P = 0·001; mean∆: BA∆ = +24·2 watts, PL∆ = +11·2 watts), but not for V·O2peak (P = 0·222), time to exhaustion (TTE; P = 0·562) or ventilatory threshold (VT; P = 0·134). Results suggest that BA may increase heart rate training threshold. These results, in combination with one previous study reporting a potential effect of BA on HR, suggest that future studies should evaluate both central and peripheral aspects of fatigue with BA intake.
Comparison of two multiplex PCR assays for the detection of respiratory viral infections
Authors: Kim Hanah , Hur Mina , Moon Hee‐Won , Yun Yeo‐Min , Cho Hyun Chan
Published: December 2013

Introduction

Respiratory viruses are the main causes of upper and lower respiratory tract diseases. Rapid and accurate detection of respiratory viruses is crucial for appropriate patient treatment and prevention of endemic spread.

Objectives

We compared two multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays for the detection of respiratory viral pathogens.

Methods

A total of 245 respiratory specimens (229 sputum samples, 14 bronchoalveolar lavage samples, 6 nasal swabs, 3 throat swabs, 7 unknown) were analyzed using two multiplex assays: One‐step RV real‐time PCR (BioSewoom, Seoul, Korea) and Seeplex RV 12 Detection kit (Seegene, Seoul, Korea). The results were further confirmed using sequencing as a reference.

Results

Among 245 samples (265 identifications including co‐infections), the identification of respiratory viruses was 44.9% (119/265), 44.2% (117/265) and 45.3% (120/265) by One‐step RV assay, Seeplex RV assay and sequencing, respectively. The concordance rate between One‐step RV assay and sequencing was 95.5% (253/265), and that between Seeplex RV assay and sequencing was 89.8% (238/265) (P = 0.0189). The sensitivities of One‐step RV and Seeplex RV assays were 94.1% [95% confidential interval (CI), 88.3%–97.6%] and 83.3% (95% CI, 75.4%–89.5%), respectively (P = 0.0002). The specificities of One‐step RV and Seeplex RV assays were 96.6% (95% CI, 92.2%–98.9%) and 95.2% (95% CI, 90.3%–98.0%), respectively.

Conclusion

Although the performances of One‐step RV and Seeplex RV assays were overall comparable, One‐step RV assay showed better sensitivity and concordance with sequencing. One‐step RV assay can be a useful option for respiratory virus testing in clinical laboratories.
Clinical features of three avian influenza H7N9 virus‐infected patients in Shanghai
Authors: Wang Xiao Fei , Shi Guo Chao , Wan Huan Ying , Hang Shao Guang , Chen Hong , Chen Wei , Qu Hong Ping , Han Bao Hui , Zhou Min
Published: December 2013

Introduction

Since February 2013, a novel reassortant H7N9 virus associated with human deaths, but no apparent outbreaks in poultry and wild birds has emerged in eastern China.

Objectives

The potential reemergence of H7N9 during next year's influenza season demand a further understanding of this important disease.

Methods

Between March 1 and April 30, 2013, we obtained and analyzed clinical, epidemiologic and radiologic features, and virologic data from three laboratory‐confirmed patients of A H7N9 infection admitted in Shanghai Ruijin Hospital.

Results

All patients were middle to old aged (mean age 62 years) and overweight (mean body mass index 31) patients. Two patients were exposed to poultry directly or indirectly in food market. They presented with fever and rapidly progressive pneumonia that did not respond to antibiotics. Time between onset of symptoms and onset of respiratory failure (days) were 7–11 days. Two patients presented secondary invasive bacterial infections. All patients died on day 7 to day 86 after the onset of symptoms.

Conclusions

Cross species poultry‐to‐person transmission of this new reassortant avian influenza H7N9 virus can result in severe and fatal respiratory disease like acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in humans. Reduplicate chest imaging examination is suggested for risky patients with fever and dyspnea. Secondary invasive bacterial infections and pneumothorax can cause severe and fatal consequence. Old age, obesity and presence of comorbidity may be associated with increased mortality. Pulmonary fibrosis can be seen at late stage of the disease.
Primary ciliary dyskinesia complicated with diffuse panbronchiolitis: a case report and literature review
Authors: Chen Wei , Shao Changzhou , Song Yuanlin , Bai Chunxue
Published: December 2013

Background

Fifty percent of patients with primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) have situs inversus. Diffuse panbronchiolitis (DPB) might be one of the characteristic features of the lung in PCD.

Methods

We reported a case of PCD without situs inversus, yet complicated with DPB, and did literature review.

Results

A 34‐year‐old nonsmoking Chinese woman with 6‐year primary infertility suffered from recurrent episodes of respiratory tract infections since childhood. Lung auscultation revealed end‐inspiratory coarse crackles. Pulmonary function tests demonstrated mild obstructive ventilation functional impairment. Lung biopsy showed respiratory bronchiolitis. Nasal mucosa cilia showed the absence of both outer and inner dynein arms of the microtubules. Saccharin test was positive. Chest images showed bronchiectasis and bronchiolitis but no situs inversus. Paranasal sinus computed tomography (CT) showed maxillary sinusitis and ethmoid sinusitis. A culture of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was positive for Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Her conditions improved in clinical symptoms and CT images after 2 months of treatment with azithromycin. Literature review revealed that very rare patients were diagnosed as PCD complicated with diffuse DPB, and all of them had situs inversus.

Conclusions

The association of DPB might be one of the characteristic features of the lung in PCD. Further studies on the concurrence of these two diseases are suggested so as to elucidate the mechanism of both.
Ecology of Galaxias platei in a depauperate lake
Authors: Belk Mark C. , Habit Evelyn , Ortiz‐Sandoval Juan J. , Sobenes Catterina , Combs Elias A.
Published: December 2013

Galaxias platei is widespread and common in southern South America, but its ecology is poorly documented relative to other native species, especially those of commercial importance. Galaxias platei occurs across a large range of environmental conditions, including hydrologically isolated, high‐elevation lakes. Consequently, there were several lakes in the Patagonian region where it was the only native fish species. Introduction of salmonids into almost all lakes in Patagonia where G. platei occurs has potentially resulted in changes in its ecology and behaviour. Thompson Lake is a small, high‐elevation lake located in the Aysen River basin (Chile) where G. platei still occurs essentially in isolation. We collected G. platei from this lake to characterise the ecology of the species in the absence of other native and introduced fishes. We documented age and growth patterns from otolith analysis and characterised size‐ and age‐specific habitat use, diet and trophic niche. In Thompson Lake, G. platei is long‐lived and grows to comparatively large size (max. age = 18 years; max. TL = 348 mm). As it grows, it exhibits an ontogenetic niche shift in habitat use, diet and trophic niche. Large adults are piscivorous, and they occupy deep benthic habitats. Preservation of the last few remaining lakes where G. platei is found in isolation is an important priority for maintaining the full expression of ontogenetic niche variation in this species.
Acute effect of carbamazepine on corticothalamic 5–9‐Hz and thalamocortical spindle (10–16‐Hz) oscillations in the rat
Authors: Zheng Thomas W. , O'Brien Terence J. , Kulikova Sofya P. , Reid Christopher A. , Morris Margaret J. , Pinault Didier
Published: December 2013

A major side effect of carbamazepine (CBZ), a drug used to treat neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders, is drowsiness, a state characterized by increased slow‐wave oscillations with the emergence of sleep spindles in the electroencephalogram (EEG). We conducted cortical EEG and thalamic cellular recordings in freely moving or lightly anesthetized rats to explore the impact of CBZ within the intact corticothalamic (CT)–thalamocortical (TC) network, more specifically on CT 5–9‐Hz and TC spindle (10–16‐Hz) oscillations. Two to three successive 5–9‐Hz waves were followed by a spindle in the cortical EEG. A single systemic injection of CBZ (20 mg/kg) induced a significant increase in the power of EEG 5–9‐Hz oscillations and spindles. Intracellular recordings of glutamatergic TC neurons revealed 5–9‐Hz depolarizing wave–hyperpolarizing wave sequences prolonged by robust, rhythmic spindle‐frequency hyperpolarizing waves. This hybrid sequence occurred during a slow hyperpolarizing trough, and was at least 10 times more frequent under the CBZ condition than under the control condition. The hyperpolarizing waves reversed at approximately −70 mV, and became depolarizing when recorded with KCl‐filled intracellular micropipettes, indicating that they were GABAA receptor‐mediated potentials. In neurons of the GABAergic thalamic reticular nucleus, the principal source of TC GABAergic inputs, CBZ augmented both the number and the duration of sequences of rhythmic spindle‐frequency bursts of action potentials. This indicates that these GABAergic neurons are responsible for the generation of at least the spindle‐frequency hyperpolarizing waves in TC neurons. In conclusion, CBZ potentiates GABAA receptor‐mediated TC spindle oscillations. Furthermore, we propose that CT 5–9‐Hz waves can trigger TC spindles.
Quantifying Inner Experience?—Kant's Mathematical Principles in the Context of Empirical Psychology
Authors: Kraus Katharina Teresa
Published: December 2013

This paper shows why Kant's critique of empirical psychology should not be read as a scathing criticism of quantitative scientific psychology, but has valuable lessons to teach in support of it. By analysing Kant's alleged objections in the light of his critical theory of cognition, it provides a fresh look at the problem of quantifying first‐person experiences, such as emotions and sense‐perceptions. An in‐depth discussion of applying the mathematical principles, which are defined in the Critique of Pure Reason as the constitutive conditions for mathematical‐numerical experience in general, to inner sense will demonstrate why it is in principle possible to justify a quantitative structure of psychological judgments on the grounds of Kant's critical thinking. In conclusion, it will propose how Kant's critique could be used in a constructive way to develop first steps towards a transcendental foundation of psychological knowledge.
Benefits of the ballot box for species conservation
Authors: Kroetz Kailin , Sanchirico James N. , Armsworth Paul R. , Spencer Banzhaf H.
Published: December 2013

Recent estimates reaffirm that conservation funds are insufficient to meet biodiversity conservation goals. Organisations focused on biodiversity conservation therefore need to capitalise on investments that societies make in environmental protection that provide ancillary benefits to biodiversity. Here, we undertake the first assessment of the potential ancillary benefits from the ballot box in the United States, where citizens vote on referenda to conserve lands for reasons that may not include biodiversity directly but that indirectly might enhance biodiversity conservation. Our results suggest that referenda occur in counties with significantly greater biodiversity than counties chosen at random. We also demonstrate that large potential gains for conservation are possible if the past and likely future outcomes of these ballot box measures are directly incorporated into national‐scale conservation planning efforts. The possible synergies between ballot box measures and other biodiversity conservation efforts offer an under‐utilised resource for supporting conservation.
Diagnostic delays in children with early onset epilepsy: Impact, reasons, and opportunities to improve care
Authors: Berg Anne T. , Loddenkemper Tobias , Baca Christine B.
Published: December 2013

Purpose

Delayed diagnosis of early onset epilepsy is a potentially important and avoidable complication in epilepsy care. We examined the frequency of diagnostic delays in young children with newly presenting epilepsy, their developmental impact, and reasons for delays.

Methods

Children who developed epilepsy before their third birthday were identified in a prospective community‐based cohort. An interval ≥1 month from second seizure to diagnosis was considered a delay. Testing of development at baseline and for up to 3 years after and of intelligence quotient (IQ) 8–9 years later was performed. Detailed parental baseline interview accounts and medical records were reviewed to identify potential reasons for delays. Factors associated with delays included the parent, child, pediatrician, neurologist, and scheduling.

Results

Diagnostic delays occurred in 70 (41%) of 172 children. Delays occurred less often if children had received medical attention for the first seizure (p < 0.0001), previously had neonatal or febrile seizures (p = 0.02), had only convulsions before diagnosis (p = 0.005), or had a college‐educated parent (p = 0.01). A ≥1 month diagnostic delay was associated with an average 7.4 point drop (p = 0.02) in the Vineland Scales of Adaptive Behavior motor score. The effect was present at diagnosis, persisted for at least 3 years, and was also apparent inIQscores 8–9 years later, which were lower in association with a diagnostic delay by 8.4 points (p = 0.06) for processing speed up to 14.5 points (p = 0.004) for full scaleIQ, after adjustment for parental education and other epilepsy‐related clinical factors. Factors associated with delayed diagnosis included parents not recognizing events as seizures (N = 47), pediatricians missing or deferring diagnosis (N = 15), neurologists deferring diagnosis (N = 7), and scheduling problems (N = 11).

Significance

Diagnostic delays occur in many young children with epilepsy. They are associated with substantial decrements in development andIQlater in childhood. Several factors influence diagnostic delays and may represent opportunities for intervention and improved care.
Entrepreneurial Opportunities and Poverty Alleviation
Authors: Alvarez Sharon A. , Barney Jay B.
Published: December 2013

Entrepreneurial activity does not always lead to economic growth. While improvements have been made to human capital, property rights protection, and access to financial capital in abject poverty contexts with the assumption that they will increase entrepreneurial activity, the results have been mixed. More recently, many entrepreneurs interested in poverty alleviation are crossing borders to engage in initiatives aimed at reducing poverty internationally. These efforts have also had mixed results. This paper posits that one reason is that entrepreneurial opportunities and their wealth creation potential vary, and the impact of exploiting these opportunities on economic growth in poverty contexts can also vary. This paper identifies self–employment opportunities, often exploited in abject poverty, that do not lead to sustainable growth solutions. Alternatively, discovery and creation opportunities while difficult to exploit in poverty contexts hold the greatest potential for significant economic impact.
“Fake Happiness”: Counseling, Potentiality, and Psycho‐Politics in China
Authors: Yang Jie
Published: December 2013

In China, an emerging psycho‐politics seeks to extract value from and to govern the potential of individual citizens. The party state attempts to preempt social unrest by encouraging the poor and the unemployed to engage in psychological self‐help to unlock their positive potential. Television counseling programs promoting the cultivation of happiness are part of these attempts. These programs showcase marginalized people who appear happy despite their limited life circumstances. Expert counselors glorify individuals who have actualized their potential through happiness to become entrepreneurs and role models. However, critics argue that these programs promote “fake happiness” and divert people's attention from structural forces that negatively affect their lives. This article advances these critiques by illustrating how happiness promotion in China taps into the resources of the victims of socioeconomic dislocation to effect economic advancement and political equilibrium. This article contributes to the growing anthropological literature on happiness by engaging happiness as a governing technology based on psychologization and as a force for both the government and underprivileged people to rally resources for their respective causes.
Tiller size/density compensation in temperate climate grasses grown in monoculture or in intercropping systems under intermittent grazing
Authors: Duchini P. G. , Guzatti G. C. , Ribeiro Filho H. M. N. , Sbrissia A. F.
Published: December 2013

Oat and ryegrass intercropping in pastures is widely used in regions with subtropical climates. The aim of this study was to evaluate the tiller size/density compensation mechanisms in monoculture and intercropping swards of black oats (Avena strigosa Schreb cv. IAPAR 61) and annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam. cv common) under intermittent grazing. Treatments (black oat, annual ryegrass and their mixture) were assigned according to a complete randomized block design with four replicates. Ryegrass, oat and intercropped pastures were grazed when the swards reached a height of 17, 25 and 23 cm, respectively, and with a level of defoliation of 40%. The aerial biomass was determined with a rising plate meter, and the tiller population density (TPD) was estimated by counting tillers in three 10 cm diameter PVC rings per paddock. The mass per tiller was estimated based on the aerial biomass and the TPD of each paddock. Total herbage production did not differ among treatments, with values around 7400 kg DM ha−1. TPD decreased and mass per tiller increased linearly in the monoculture treatments. Tiller size/density compensation was observed in the three plant communities (treatments) according to the self‐thinning rule. In addition, no relationships were found when each species was analysed individually in the intercrop treatment. The results suggest that species in grass mixed swards adjust their population to keep a relatively constant leaf area index (LAI) over the grazing seasons, and that would help pastures to stabilize herbage production.
Serum levels of interleukin‐22 and hepatitis B core‐related antigen are associated with treatment response to entecavir therapy in chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Okuhara Sadahisa , Umemura Takeji , Joshita Satoru , Shibata Soichiro , Kimura Takefumi , Morita Susumu , Komatsu Michiharu , Matsumoto Akihiro , Yoshizawa Kaname , Katsuyama Yoshihiko , Ota Masao , Tanaka Eiji
Published: December 2013

Aim

We sought to clarify the associations between serum cytokines and chemokines, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), hepatitis B core‐related antigen (HBcrAg), and hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA and response to entecavir therapy in chronic hepatitis B.

Methods

We analyzed six cytokines (interleukin [IL]‐2, IL‐6, IL‐10, IL‐12p70, IL‐21 and IL‐22) and five chemokines (CCL2, CCL3, CXCL9, CXCL10 and CXCL11) before and at 6, 12 and 24 months during entecavir therapy in 48 chronic hepatitis B patients. Quantitative measurement of HBsAg, HBcrAg and HBV DNA was performed. A virological response (VR) was defined as serum HBV DNA of less than 2.1 log copies/mL by treatment month 24.

Results

Thirty‐nine patients (81%) achieved a VR. Serum IL‐6 (P = 0.031), CXCL‐9 (P = 0.002), and CXCL‐10 (P = 0.001) were high in chronic HBV and correlated positively with transaminases and bilirubin. Before treatment, elevated IL‐22 (P = 0.031) and lower HBsAg (P = 0.001) and HBcrAg (P < 0.001), but not HBV DNA, were associated with a favorable treatment outcome. In multivariate analysis, high IL‐22 (hazard ratio = 13.67, P = 0.046) and low HBcrAg (hazard ratio = 10.88, P = 0.048) were independently associated with a VR. The levels of IL‐22 (P < 0.001), HBsAg (P < 0.001), and HBcrAg (P < 0.001) all decreased from baseline to 24 months of treatment in virological responders.

Conclusion

Serum IL‐22 and HBcrAg are predictive markers of a VR to entecavir therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis B.
Paxillin and carbonic anhydrase IX are prognostic markers in gallbladder squamous cell/adenosquamous carcinomas and adenocarcinomas
Authors: Liu Ziru , Yang Zhulin , Jiang Song , Zou Qiong , Yuan Yuan , Li Jinghe , Li Daiqiang , Liang Lufeng , Chen Meigui , Chen Senlin
Published: December 2013

Aims

Squamous cell/adenosquamous carcinomas (SC/ASC) are rare subtypes of gallbladder cancers (GBCs). Clinical characteristics of SC/ASC have not been well documented, and no biological markers of GBC carcinogenesis, progression and prognosis are available.

Methods and results

We measured paxillin and CAIX expression in 46 SC/ASCs and 80 adenocarcinomas (ACs) with immunohistochemistry and correlated these data with clinicopathological characteristics. Both paxillin expression and CAIX expression were associated significantly with larger tumours, a higher tumour‐node‐metastasis (TNM) stage, lymph node metastasis and invasiveness of SC/ASC and AC. Univariate Kaplan–Meier analysis confirmed that paxillin and CAIX expression were associated closely with decreased overall survival in SC/ASC (both P < 0.001) and AC (both P < 0.001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis confirmed that paxillin expression and CAIX expression both independently predicted poor prognosis in SC/ASC and AC patients. We also noted correlations with survival and tumour differentiation, tumour size, TNM stage, lymph node metastasis, tumour invasiveness and sample procurement methods.

Conclusions

Paxillin expression and CAIX expression are both related to clinical/biological behaviour and poor prognosis of GBC.
Hepatocellular carcinoma with steatohepatitic features: a clinicopathological study of Japanese patients
Authors: Shibahara Junji , Ando Sumiyo , Sakamoto Yoshihiro , Kokudo Norihiro , Fukayama Masashi
Published: December 2013

Aims

The aim of this study was to investigate the clinicopathological significance of steatohepatitic features in hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) using a large‐scale analysis.

Methods and results

Retrospective clinicopathological analysis was performed on HCCs treated surgically at the University of Tokyo Hospital between 2005 and 2010. The diagnosis of HCC with steatohepatitic features (SH‐HCC) was made if the tumour fulfilled four of the following five criteria: steatosis (>5% tumour cells), ballooning or Mallory–Denk body formation, interstitial fibrosis and inflammatory infiltrates. There were 120 HCCs (31.4%) from 106 patients (36.3%) that met the criteria of SH‐HCC. Patients with SH‐HCC were characterized by a higher frequency of diabetes mellitus and hypertension, along with higher serum levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, than those with conventional HCC (P < 0.01). The background liver of SH‐HCC patients showed steatosis and steatohepatitis more frequently (P < 0.01). SH‐HCCs were smaller, relatively more differentiated and had a higher frequency of bile duct invasion (P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis failed to show prognostic significance of steatohepatitic features in HCCs.

Conclusions

SH‐HCC is a subcategory of HCC associated with the patient's metabolic condition and the presence of steatosis or steatohepatitis in the background liver. Steatohepatitic features were not a significant prognostic factor for HCCs.
When the Border is “Everywhere”: State-level Variation in Migration Control and Changing Settlement Patterns of the Unauthorized Immigrant Population in the United States
Authors: Leerkes Arjen , Bachmeier James D. , Leach Mark A.
Published: December 2013

Governments increasingly exclude unauthorized migrants from labor markets and public provisions and apprehend those who have settled in the territory. In the U.S., recent increases in interior control coincided with a reduction in (the growth of) the estimated unauthorized population. This study describes the mechanisms through which interior control may impact migration patterns and analyzes whether interior control has been responsible for the changing settlement patterns. We find that when the effects of labor markets and internal dynamics of migration processes are controlled, policy has a (moderate) negative effect on estimated levels of unauthorized residence, both in individual states and the U.S. as a whole.
Immigration, Repatriation, and Deportation: The Mexican-Origin Population in the United States, 1920–1950
Authors: Gratton Brian , Merchant Emily
Published: December 2013

Scholars conventionally assert that government authorities forcibly expelled 500,000 persons of Mexican origin from the U.S. in the 1930s, with more than half of those removed U.S. citizens. Estimates using census data indicate substantially lower numbers, limited governmental involvement, fewer citizens, and considerable voluntary departure. Voluntary decisions fit the repatriation strategy that had been common among young Mexican immigrants in the 1920s. Ironically, the 1940s Bracero Program, designed by Mexico and the U.S. to replicate the 1920s pattern of circular migration, led instead to massive illegal immigration and unprecedented levels of deportation.
Nurses' job satisfaction and attitudes towards people living with HIV/AIDS in Russia
Authors: Hamama L. , Tartakovsky E. , Eroshina K. , Patrakov E. , Golubkova A. , Bogushevich J. , Shardina L.
Published: December 2013

Background

Previous studies internationally have highlighted that working with people living with HIV/AIDS may lead to nurses' stress and burnout. However, this topic has not been well explored in Russia, a country with an exponential growth in HIV/AIDS.

Aim

This study focused on nurses' job satisfaction and their attitudes towards people living with HIV/AIDS in centres where nurses regularly treat such patients, and in a general hospital where nurses rarely treat such patients.

Method

We distributed three self‐report questionnaires: demographics, job satisfaction and attitudes towards people living with HIV/AIDS to nurses working in six HIV/AIDS centres and the largest general hospital in Ekaterinburg, Russia. Sixty‐nine nurses from the HIV/AIDS centres and 66 from the general hospital (about 90% of those approached) completed these.

Results

Nurses who regularly treated people with HIV/AIDS were significantly younger and a greater number held master degrees than those who rarely treated such patients. No significant differences between the two settings emerged for job satisfaction but what did emerge were differences in nurses' attitudes: nurses in HIV/AIDS centres reported less avoidance than nurses in the general hospital. Regarding empathetic attitudes, no significant differences emerged, but empathetic attitudes contributed to the explained variance of job satisfaction.

Conclusion

Although our sample was small, the associations found between avoidant attitudes and job satisfaction highlight the need for stigma‐reduction strategies and increased disease knowledge. Healthcare managers should consider attitudes towards people living with HIV/AIDS as an important factor in ensuring adequate care for them and initiate education programmes for nurses, especially programmes dealing with HIV/AIDS in general hospitals.

Implications for nursing and health policy

Support and supervision can be used as a strategy, for empowering nurses to meet the challenges of working with HIV/AIDS patients.
Depression, self‐esteem and anger expression patterns of Korean nursing students
Authors: Cha N.H. , Sok S.R.
Published: December 2013

Background

According to previous studies, nursing students' anger expression patterns, depression and self‐esteem significantly affected the physical and mental well‐being of patients. It is of utmost importance that the relationship among them is thoroughly investigated in this study.

Aim

The purpose of this study was to examine the degrees of anger expression patterns, depression and self‐esteem of Korean nursing students and to examine the correlations among them.

Methods

This was a descriptive cross‐sectional study. The subjects consisted of 320 Korean nursing students at colleges in S and G city, Korea. The measurements were based on the Korean standard STAXI (State‐Trait Anger Expression Inventory), SCL‐90‐R (Symptom Checklist‐90‐Revision) and SLCS‐R (Self‐Liking/Self‐Competence Scale‐Revised Version).

Results

In the analysis of the degrees of variances, the subjects showed lower anger repression, anger expression, control of anger and depression. The degree of self‐esteem revealed a higher than the median value. There were significant correlations among anger expression patterns (anger repression, anger expression and anger control), depression and self‐esteem.

Limitations

The study limitations were the degree of representativeness of the setting and sample, and its generalizability.

Conclusion

Based on the findings of this study, interventions are needed for Korean nursing students in order to promote anger management and improved self‐esteem.

Implications for nursing and health policy

The development of an anger control programme for nursing students should focus on lowering depression and enhancing self‐esteem. One of the policy issues focused on providing anger management programmes for lowering depression and enhancing self‐esteem. This study will enable nursing students to recognize the importance of controlling their anger, enhancing their self‐esteem, establishing positive emotions and improving their overall well‐being as future professional nurses.
Impact of traumatic dental injuries among adolescents on family's quality of life: a population‐based study
Authors: Bendo Cristiane B. , Paiva Saul M. , Abreu Mauro H. , Figueiredo Lícian D. , Vale Miriam P.
Published: December 2013

Aim

To evaluate the impact of traumatic dental injury (TDI) among Brazilian adolescents on their families' quality of life (QoL).

Design

A cross‐sectional study was carried out with a population‐based sample of 1122 schoolchildren aged 11–14 years selected using a multistage sampling procedure. Parents/caregivers answered the Brazilian version of the 14‐item Family Impact Scale (B‐FIS) to assess the impact on family's QoL. The main independent variable was TDI, which was diagnosed using the Andreasen classification. Malocclusion, dental caries, gender and socio‐economic classification were the other independent variables. Poisson regression analyses were carried out (P < 0.05).

Results

The prevalence of TDI was 14.8%. The multivariate model demonstrated that families of adolescents diagnosed with fracture involving the dentine or dentine/pulp were more likely to report a negative impact on the overall B‐FIS score [rate ratio (RR) = 1.44; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.10–1.88] as well on the Parental/Family Activity (RR = 1.45; 95% CI: 1.09–1.94), Parental Emotions (RR=1.45; 95% CI: 1.03‐2.04) and Family Conflict (RR = 1.46; 95% CI: 1.01–2.11) subscales in comparison with those who had no signs of TDI.

Conclusions

Families of adolescents with more severe TDI were more likely to report a negative impact on QoL, affecting family activities and emotions, which can result in family conflicts.
SQUARING THE CIRCLE
Authors: Crainer Stuart
Published: December 2013

The circular economy provides a compelling counter to traditional, linear economic and business thinking. Stuart Crainer examines the theory and the fledgling best practice
CROWD MONOGAMY
Authors: Dushnitsky Gary , Marom Dan
Published: December 2013

Gary Dushnitsky explores the realities of crowdfunding – from its four common forms to the continuing importance of friends, family and followers – with Dan Marom, co‐author of The Crowdfunding Revolution
OFFICE SPACE
Authors: Crainer Stuart
Published: December 2013

Entrepreneur and investor Hussein Kanji provides a guide to his London office
Women Inc.
Authors: Eckhart‐Queenan Jeri , Allen Jacob , Behringer Chase
Published: December 2013

A global push is unlocking the potential of women entrepreneurs – and investing in women boosts prosperity, benefiting their families and communities, say Jeri Eckhart‐Queenan, Jacob Allen and Chase Behringer
BANKING ON CURIOSITY
Authors: van Steenis Huw
Published: December 2013

Huw van Steenis, head of European financial services research at investment bank Morgan Stanley, has won plaudits for his forecasting as the global financial crisis unfolded. He explains his worldview to Stuart Crainer
CLASS FACTS
Authors: Scott Andrew
Published: December 2013

Andrew Scott makes sense of the new technology‐enhanced educational landscape
HOW TO BE YOUR OWN CUSTOMER
Authors: Hashemi Sahar
Published: December 2013

Business is personal and even more so for many entrepreneurs, says Sahar Hashemi
Distribution and diversity of palms in a tropical biodiversity hotspot (Thailand) assessed by species distribution modeling
Authors: Tovaranonte Jantrararuk , Blach‐Overgaard Anne , Pongsattayapipat Ratchada , Svenning Jens‐Christian , Barfod Anders S.
Published: December 2013

Species distribution modeling has been widely used to address questions related to ecology, biogeography and species conservation on global and regional scales. Here, we study palms (Arecaceae) in a tropical biodiversity hotspot (Thailand) using species distribution modeling to assess range‐limiting factors and estimate distribution and diversity patterns based on a comprehensive compilation of occurrence records. We focused on palms as a model group due to their key‐stone importance for ecosystem functioning and socio‐economics. Different combinations of climatic, non‐climatic environmental and spatial predictors were used. The most accurate models as indicated by the ‘area under the receiver operating characteristic curve’ (AUC) statistic were those that combined all predictors. The four strongest single predictors of palm species distributions were, in decreasing order of importance, 1) latitude, 2) precipitation of driest quarter, 3) annual precipitation, and 4) minimum temperature of the coldest month, suggesting rainfall patterns and latitudinal spatial constraints as the main range determinants. Overlaying the predicted distributions revealed that potential palm hotspots are situated in the provinces of Satun and Yala in southern Thailand where vast areas remain relatively open to the discovery of new palm records and perhaps even new species.
Gymnosporia thyrsiflora comb. nov. (Celastraceae), a correct name to replace G. graciliramula from southwest China
Authors: Yu Wen‐Bin , Wang Hong , Li De‐Zhu
Published: December 2013

In ‘Flora of China’, the combination ‘Gymnosporia graciliramula (S. J. Pei & Y. H. Li) Q. R. Liu & Funston’ was proposed, but this name was not validly published in 2008 because the presumed basionym Maytenus graciliramula S. J. Pei & Y. H. Li was not published in 1979 as stated, but in 1981, contrary to Article 33.4 of ICBN. Meanwhile, two older names, M. thyrsiflora S. J. Pei & Y. H. Li and M. pseudoracemosa S. J. Pei & Y. H. Li, were listed as synonyms in conflict with article 52.3 of ICBN. In this article, we propose a new combination G. thyrsiflora (S. J. Pei & Y. H. Li) W. B. Yu & D. Z. Li that is the correct name when G. thyrsiflora, M. pseudoracemosa and M. graciliramula are treated as a single species in Gymnosporia.
A Comprehensive Study of the Carbon Contamination in Tellurite Glasses and Glass‐Ceramics Sintered by Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS)
Authors: Bertrand Anthony , Carreaud Julie , Delaizir Gaëlle , Duclère Jean‐René , Colas Maggy , Cornette Julie , Vandenhende Marion , Couderc Vincent , Thomas Philippe
Published: December 2013

Highly transparent tellurite glasses and glass‐ceramics based on the 85TeO2–15WO3 composition (mol%) were produced by spark plasma sintering (SPS) from powders previously prepared by the conventional melt‐quenching technique and then grinded. We report a study based on the understanding of carbon contamination that is commonly observed by this nonconventional sintering technique and which constitutes a drawback for optical applications. First, the influence of the particle size of the initial amorphous powders as well as an additional pressureless sintering step prior to SPS experiments and the use of a physical carbon diffusion barrier have been investigated to reduce the carbon contamination in glass bulks. Second, once reducing the carbon contamination, glass‐ceramics were obtained by varying the SPS conditions. The noncentrosymmetric γ‐TeO2 phase crystallized within the bulk volume while maintaining good optical transparency and led to the generation of second harmonic. This approach paves the way to further applications in the domain of linear and nonlinear optics.
Energetics and Structure of Polymer‐Derived Si–(B–)O–C Glasses: Effect of the Boron Content and Pyrolysis Temperature
Authors: Tavakoli Amir H. , Campostrini Renzo , Gervais Christel , Babonneau Florence , Bill Joachim , Sorarù Gian D. , Navrotsky Alexandra
Published: December 2013

The structure and properties of polymer‐derived Si–(B–)O–C glasses have been shown to be significantly influenced by the boron content and pyrolysis temperature. This work determined the impact of these two parameters on the thermodynamic stability of these glasses. High‐temperature oxide melt solution calorimetry was performed on a series of amorphous samples, with varying boron contents (0–7.7 at.%), obtained by pyrolysis of precursors made by a sol–gel technique. Thermodynamic analysis of the calorimetric results demonstrated that at a constant pyrolysis temperature, adding boron makes the materials energetically less stable. While the B‐containing glasses pyrolyzed at 1000°C were energetically less stable than the competitive crystalline components, increasing the pyrolysis temperature to 1200°C led to their enthalpic stability. 29Si and 11B MAS nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy measurements on selected samples confirmed a decrease in the concentrations of mixed Si‐centered SOiC4−i and B‐centered BOjC3−j bonds at the expense of formation of SiO4 and B(OSi)3 species (indicating a tendency toward phase separation) when the boron content and pyrolysis temperature increased. In light of the findings from calorimetry and NMR spectroscopy, we propose a structure–energetic relationship in Si–(B–)O–C glasses.
Quality of doctoral nursing education in the United Kingdom: exploring the views of doctoral students and staff based on a cross‐sectional questionnaire survey
Authors: McKenna Hugh , Keeney Sinead , Kim Mi Ja , Park Chang Gi
Published: December 2013

Aim

To evaluate the quality of doctoral education in nursing in the United Kingdom.

Background

In recent decades, doctoral education programmes in nursing are increasing worldwide. There are many reasons for this and concerns have been raised regarding the quality of provision in and across countries. To date, the quality of doctoral education on a global level has not been reported in the literature. This United Kingdom study is part of a seven country investigation into the quality of doctoral education in nursing (Australia, Japan, Korea, South Africa, Thailand, United Kingdom and United States of America).

Design

A quantitative study using a cross‐sectional comparative survey design.

Method

An online survey was administered to collect the views of doctoral students and staff members on four domains: programme, faculty/staff, resource and evaluation. The study was carried out between 2010–2012.

Results

In most cases, staff perceived these more positively than students and the differences in perception were often statistically significant. Interestingly, many students rated the quality of supervision as excellent, whereas no staff member rated supervision this highly. The crucial importance of resources was confirmed in the path analysis of the four Quality of Doctoral Nursing Education domains. This demonstrates that investment in resources is much more cost‐effective than investment in the other domains in relation to improving the overall quality of doctoral education in nursing.

Conclusion

This study has wide‐ranging implications for how the quality of doctoral education is monitored and enhanced.
Positive correlations between hCAP18/LL‐37 and chondroitin sulphate levels in chronic periodontitis
Authors: Makeudom Anupong , Kulpawaropas Samakorn , Montreekachon Pattanin , Khongkhunthian Sakornrat , Sastraruji Thanapat , Pothacharoen Peraphan , Kongtawelert Prachya , Krisanaprakornkit Suttichai
Published: December 2013

Aim

To measure the levels of hCAP18/LL‐37 in gingival crevicular fluid from patients with periodontal diseases compared with healthy controls and to determine the correlation between hCAP18/LL‐37 and chondroitin sulphate (CS) levels in patients with periodontitis.

Material and Methods

Gingival crevicular fluid samples from 51 patients and 25 healthy volunteers were analysed for the hCAP18/LL‐37 levels by immunoblotting and were determined for the CS levels by the competitive enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Tris buffer pH 9.85 was selected to recover hCAP18/LL‐37 from Periopaper strips, in which the percentages of recovery were around 70%. The median levels of hCAP18/LL‐37 in the aggressive and the chronic periodontitis (CP) groups were significantly greater than those in the gingivitis and the healthy groups (p < 0.05). Significant correlations between the unprocessed 18‐kDa fragment and CS levels (r = 0.650; p < 0.001) and between the mature 4.6‐kDa fragment and CS levels (r = 0.502; p < 0.001) were observed only in the CP group.

Conclusion

The significant correlations between the hCAP18/LL‐37 and the CS levels were found in CP, but not in aggressive periodontitis. The presence versus absence of such correlations may be clinically applicable to help clinicians distinguish between two distinct types of periodontitis.
Effect of Infusion Time and Temperature on Decaffeination of Tea Using Liquid–Liquid Extraction Technique
Authors: Sharif Rabia , Ahmad Syed Waqas , Anjum Hirra , Ramzan Naveed , Malik Shahid Raza
Published: December 2013

Pure caffeine was dissolved in four different solvents, i.e., distilled water, ethyl acetate, chloroform and dichloromethane; further, molar decadic absorption coefficient of each solvent was determined with the help of Beer–Lambert law. It was observed that dichloromethane was the best for decaffeination as compared with the other three solvents (i.e., distilled water, chloroform and ethyl acetate). Caffeine was extracted using dichloromethane from five famous tea brands, namely Alokozay, Lipton, Tapal, Tetley and PG TIPS. The amount of extracted caffeine was quantified by employing UV‐vis spectrophotometric technique. The concentration of the caffeine in the tea solution was determined at different brewing time (2, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 min) and temperature (90 and 30C). The caffeine contents in the commercial brands (i.e., Alokozay, Lipton, Tapal, Tetley and PG TIPS) were found in the range between 1 and 5%.

Practical Applications

Caffeine becomes an important issue because of its utilization in pharmaceuticals. It is also an eminent fact that excessive amount of caffeine can be dangerous to human health. In addition, tea is one of the main sources of caffeine for human body. So, the present experimental studies are mainly focused to quantify and reduce the caffeine contents using a cost‐effective, accurate and precise way. For this purpose, an analytical technique, i.e., UV‐vis spectrophotometry, used to determine the caffeine contents and solvent extraction process was employed to extract the caffeine from its tea aqueous solution.
Chemical Composition Analysis and Antibacterial Mode of Action of Taxus Cuspidata Leaf Essential Oil against Foodborne Pathogens
Authors: Bajpai Vivek K. , Sharma Ajay , Moon Bokyung , Baek Kwang‐Hyun
Published: December 2013

This study examined the antibacterial mode of action of Taxus cuspidata leaf essential oil (TCEO) against foodborne pathogenic bacteria. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis of microwave‐extracted TCEO resulted in examination of 34 different compounds, representing 81.63% of the total oil. The TCEO (1,000 μg per disc) showed antibacterial effect against Bacillus cereus ATCC 13061, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 12600, Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7644, Salmonella typhimurium ATCC 43174 and Escherichia coli ATCC 43889 as diameters of inhibition zones (22.0 ± 0.4 to 34.0 ± 1.2 mm). The minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration values of TCEO against the tested pathogens were found in the range of 250–1,000 μg/mL. Also, the TCEO had potential inhibitory effect on the viable counts of test pathogens. The TCEO revealed its mode of action on membrane integrity as confirmed by marked release of extracellular adenosine triphosphate, 260 nm absorbing materials and potassium ion efflux. The scanning electron microscopy analysis using TCEO further confirmed severe morphological alterations on the cell membrane of test pathogens.

Practical Applications

Because of frequent foodborne outbreaks and rising concern of consumers on the use of chemical preservatives in foods, the food industry is emphasizing the use of natural antibacterial agents from plant origin as safe food preservatives. Some selected plant materials are used as natural antimicrobials in food systems to prevent the growth of foodborne pathogens, resulting in the extension of shelf life of processed foods. Taxus cuspidata leaf essential oil (TCEO) is shown by this study to elicit its antibacterial action against foodborne pathogens through membrane permeabilization and can be used to control the growth of several foodborne pathogens. Hence, it is anticipated that TCEO may have greater potential for its practical application as an affective food preservative.