bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing Evapotranspiration from Eddy Covariance Measurements, Water Budgets, Remote Sensing, and Land Surface Models over Canadaa,b
Authors: Wang Shusen , Pan Ming , Mu Qiaozhen , Shi Xiaoying , Mao Jiafu , Brümmer Christian , Jassal Rachhpal S. , Krishnan Praveena , Li Junhua , Black T. Andrew
Published: March 2015

This study compares six evapotranspiration ET products for Canada’s landmass, namely, eddy covariance EC measurements; surface water budget ET; remote sensing ET from MODIS; and land surface model (LSM) ET from the Community Land Model (CLM), the Ecological Assimilation of Land and Climate Observations (EALCO) model, and the Variable Infiltration Capacity model (VIC). The ET climatology over the Canadian landmass is characterized and the advantages and limitations of the datasets are discussed. The EC measurements have limited spatial coverage, making it difficult for model validations at the national scale. Water budget ET has the largest uncertainty because of data quality issues with precipitation in mountainous regions and in the north. MODIS ET shows relatively large uncertainty in cold seasons and sparsely vegetated regions. The LSM products cover the entire landmass and exhibit small differences in ET among them. Annual ET from the LSMs ranges from small negative values to over 600 mm across the landmass, with a countrywide average of 256 ± 15 mm. Seasonally, the countrywide average monthly ET varies from a low of about 3 mm in four winter months (November–February) to 67 ± 7 mm in July. The ET uncertainty is scale dependent. Larger regions tend to have smaller uncertainties because of the offset of positive and negative biases within the region. More observation networks and better quality controls are critical to improving ET estimates. Future techniques should also consider a hybrid approach that integrates strengths of the various ET products to help reduce uncertainties in ET estimation.
Submesoscale Water-Mass Spectra in the Sargasso Sea
Authors: Kunze E. , Klymak J. M. , Lien R.-C. , Ferrari R. , Lee C. M. , Sundermeyer M. A. , Goodman L.
Published: March 2015

Submesoscale stirring contributes to the cascade of tracer variance from large to small scales. Multiple nested surveys in the summer Sargasso Sea with tow-yo and autonomous platforms captured submesoscale water-mass variability in the seasonal pycnocline at 20–60-m depths. To filter out internal waves that dominate dynamic signals on these scales, spectra for salinity anomalies on isopycnals were formed. Salinity-gradient spectra are approximately flat with slopes of −0.2 ± 0.2 over horizontal wavelengths of 0.03–10 km. While the two to three realizations presented here might be biased, more representative measurements in the literature are consistent with a nearly flat submesoscale passive tracer gradient spectrum for horizontal wavelengths in excess of 1 km. A review of mechanisms that could be responsible for a flat passive tracer gradient spectrum rules out (i) quasigeostrophic eddy stirring, (ii) atmospheric forcing through a relict submesoscale winter mixed layer structure or nocturnal mixed layer deepening, (iii) a downscale vortical-mode cascade, and (iv) horizontal diffusion because of shear dispersion of diapycnal mixing. Internal-wave horizontal strain appears to be able to explain horizontal wavenumbers of 0.1–7 cycles per kilometer (cpkm) but not the highest resolved wavenumbers (7–30 cpkm). Submesoscale subduction cannot be ruled out at these depths, though previous observations observe a flat spectrum well below subduction depths, so this seems unlikely. Primitive equation numerical modeling suggests that nonquasigeostrophic subinertial horizontal stirring can produce a flat spectrum. The last need not be limited to mode-one interior or surface Rossby wavenumbers of quasigeostrophic theory but may have a broaderband spectrum extending to smaller horizontal scales associated with frontogenesis and frontal instabilities as well as internal waves.
High-Resolution Spectral Estimation of HF Radar Data for Current Measurement Applications
Authors: Wang Wei , Gill Eric
Published: March 2015

This paper presents a comparative study of high-resolution methods for high-frequency radar current mapping. A z-domain transformation and auxiliary z-domain manipulation of the autoregressive method is proposed for this comparison. A Weibull distribution test is recommended to justify the Rayleigh distribution of the sea clutter for quality control. Upon the power spectrum estimation, a conventional centroid method and a new symmetric-peak-sum method for the identification of current Doppler shift are proposed as another comparison. HF radar data were collected over the period from November 2012 to August 2013 at Placentia Bay, Newfoundland, Canada, and were compared with measurements from an acoustic Doppler current meter. This comparison is used to study the utility of high-resolution spectrum estimation and Bragg identification methods for surface current mapping. Results show promising use of these methods in different current scenarios and suggest combined applications to improve accuracy.
Intravenous iron in clinical concentrations does not impair haemoglobin measurement
Authors: O’Loughlin Edmond , Garnett Peter BJ , Falkner Nathalie M , Williams Robin
Published: March 2015

Background

Intravenous iron is commonly administered to anaemic patients to treat iron deficiency, but due to its ferric colouration, it may interfere with the spectrophotometric assessment of haemoglobin concentrations. This paper investigates the potential interference of three clinically used intravenous iron preparations on the measurement of haemoglobin.

Methods

Haemoglobin concentration was measured for neat and Hartmann’s solution-diluted iron polymaltose, carboxymaltose and sucrose solutions using bedside (Radiometer HemoCue®), point-of-care (Radiometer ABL800 Flex) and laboratory (Abbott CellDyne Sapphire™) devices. Haemoglobin concentration was then assessed with the same devices utilizing anaemic whole blood with the iron solutions added.

Results

Neat iron preparations registered clinically significant haemoglobin concentrations on bedside and laboratory measurements. When intravenous iron preparations were diluted to clinical concentrations, their effect on haemoglobin measurements, either in isolation or mixed with anaemic blood, was negligible.

Conclusion

Although neat preparations of intravenous iron do interfere with spectrophotometric analysis of haemoglobin, concentrations likely to be seen post iron infusion do not significantly interfere with haemoglobin measurement.
A cross-validation trial of an Internet-based prevention program for alcohol and cannabis: Preliminary results from a cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Champion Katrina E , Newton Nicola C , Stapinski Lexine , Slade Tim , Barrett Emma L , Teesson Maree
Published: March 2015

Objective:

Replication is an important step in evaluating evidence-based preventive interventions and is crucial for establishing the generalizability and wider impact of a program. Despite this, few replications have occurred in the prevention science field. This study aims to fill this gap by conducting a cross-validation trial of the Climate Schools: Alcohol and Cannabis course, an Internet-based prevention program, among a new cohort of Australian students.

Method:

A cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted among 1103 students ( Mage: 13.25 years) from 13 schools in Australia in 2012. Six schools received the Climate Schools course and 7 schools were randomized to a control group (health education as usual). All students completed a self-report survey at baseline and immediately post-intervention. Mixed-effects regressions were conducted for all outcome variables. Outcomes assessed included alcohol and cannabis use, knowledge and intentions to use these substances.

Results:

Compared to the control group, immediately post-intervention the intervention group reported significantly greater alcohol ( d = 0.67) and cannabis knowledge ( d = 0.72), were less likely to have consumed any alcohol (even a sip or taste) in the past 6 months (odds ratio = 0.69) and were less likely to intend on using alcohol in the future (odds ratio = 0.62). However, there were no effects for binge drinking, cannabis use or intentions to use cannabis.

Conclusion:

These preliminary results provide some support for the Internet-based Climate Schools: Alcohol and Cannabis course as a feasible way of delivering alcohol and cannabis prevention. Intervention effects for alcohol and cannabis knowledge were consistent with results from the original trial; however, analyses of longer-term follow-up data are needed to provide a clearer indication of the efficacy of the intervention, particularly in relation to behavioral changes.
Student usage of a learning management system at an open distance learning institute: A case study in electrical engineering
Authors: Swart Arthur James
Published: March 2015

Growth in student numbers and heavy teaching workloads may negatively influence the quality of teaching and learning in higher education. Various strategies have been introduced to try and address these concerns. One specific strategy involves the use of learning management systems to enhance the interaction between students and academics. The purpose of this article is to highlight student usage of a learning management system in electrical engineering at an open distance learning institute in South Africa, correlating it to the student’s academic achievement. The lack of 100% student engagement suggests that not all students have access to the Internet. A relationship was established between the pass rates of the modules and the student usage of the learning management system and student support given via the learning management system. Final grade results suggest that students who fully engaged with the learning management system are more likely to succeed in an open distance learning environment.
DSM-5: Do Psychologists Really Want an Alternative?
Authors: Raskin Jonathan D. , Gayle Michael C.
Published: March 2015

Only two published studies, both from the early 1980s, have specifically examined psychologist attitudes toward the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ( DSM). The current article rectifies this by presenting the results of a recent survey of attitudes toward the DSM-IV-TR and DSM-5. Though the DSM has changed over the years, psychologist attitudes toward it have remained remarkably consistent. Although more than 90% of psychologists report using the DSM, they are dissatisfied with numerous aspects of it and support developing alternatives to it—something that psychologists over 30 years ago supported, as well. The finding that almost all psychologists use the DSM despite serious concerns about it raises ethical issues because professionals are ethically bound to only use instruments in which they are scientifically confident.
In Tune or Out of Tune
Authors: Geringer John M. , MacLeod Rebecca B. , Sasanfar Justine K.
Published: March 2015

We studied music majors’ perception of intonation in accompanied solo performances of trumpet, violin, and voice. We were interested in whether listeners would judge pitch deviations of equal magnitude in the three solo performances as equivalent in intonation. Participants were 150 graduate and undergraduate music majors drawn from two large music schools and included 50 students representing each of the following areas of applied music study: voice, wind instruments, and string instruments. Listeners heard solo trumpet, violin, and soprano performances of Ave Maria (Bach/Gounod) accompanied by piano. Pitch performances of the soloists were altered in four sections of the excerpt and deviated in either the sharp or flat direction within a section by 0, 10, 20, and 30 cents relative to the accompaniment. Listeners judged pitch deviations in the flat direction as more out of tune for the trumpet than equivalent alterations of violin and voice, especially for magnitudes of 20 and 30 cents. In sharp direction changes, violin and trumpet were heard similarly and as more out of tune than the vocal soloist. Additionally, differences in pitch judgments were found between listener groups representing different areas of applied study.
Preparation and characterization of thermally stable polyimide membranes by electrospinning for protective clothing applications
Authors: Serbezeanu Diana , Popa Ana Maria , Stelzig Timea , Sava Ion , Rossi René M , Fortunato Giuseppino
Published: March 2015

The aim of the present study was to obtain high-performance materials for heat and flame protective clothing. Therefore, hybrid membranes were prepared using Kevlar as support and aromatic polyimide nanofibers as a protective coating. The exceptional performances of the prepared membranes were highlighted by selected indicators: high thermal stability, fire resistance and improvement in air permeability without modifying drastically the water vapor transmission rate properties. Attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy were employed to confirm polyimide formation. The ability of polyimide to form fibers was investigated by rheological measurements and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. Thermal degradation was studied using thermogravimetric analysis and a microscale combustion calorimeter. The transport properties of the materials were examined by air permeability, water vapor transmission rate and water resistance. It was shown that transport properties of the modified Kevlar membranes could be controlled by varying the spinning time of polyimide solution. Moreover, by annealing the modified Kevlar weavings at 260℃, the structural integrity and transport properties were not affected, whereas a higher resistance to water was found.
The Social Construction of Nuclear Community
Authors: Hänninen Hannu , Yli-Kauhaluoma Sari
Published: March 2015

ONKALO, the world’s first repository for the final disposal of spent nuclear fuel, is being constructed in Eurajoki, Finland. We study how the constructor of this facility portrays it to the local community in order to influence lay understanding of the disposal risk, build trust, and gain public approval for the construction project. The study is based on a framing analysis of the newsletters published by the constructor of the facility in 2000-2014. The results suggest that the nuclear industry has developed increasing understanding of the social and communal aspects of public resistance to nuclear power. To create trust and to increase acceptance locally the industry is socially constructing a nuclear community around the repository. The gap between the nuclear experts and the local residents is narrowed and the repository is portrayed as being a shared project within the local community advancing the common interests of the industry and the residents. This may represent a new trend in pronuclear storytelling.
Nursing Science Leaders
Authors: Ortiz Mario R.
Published: March 2015

This introduces the guest author’s column on perspectives on the development of leaders in science. The need for leadership in science is discussed and a model for the development of science leaders in nursing is outlined.
Leadership in Science
Authors: Broome Marion E.
Published: March 2015

In this article, there is a leadership discussion related to the development of leaders in nursing science–a topic rarely discussed. Given the recent dramatic shifts in funding as well as changes in methods of inquiry and data models, there is a clear need for individuals in nursing science who can not only negotiate the turbulent waters of funding but can also lead teams of others, and the discipline, to generate and translate knowledge that will truly be useful to providers, patients, and families. This requires leaders in science who can challenge the prevailing views and traditional paths to excellence held sacred by some.
Living the Art of Humanbecoming with the Smith Family
Authors: Doucet Thomas J.
Published: March 2015

The author presents the humanbecoming family model with family living with dementia. A brief overview of the humanbecoming paradigm is presented followed by a discussion about the humanbecoming family model, true presence, and living the art of humanbecoming. A description of the Smith family living with dementia illustrates living the art of humanbecoming.
Indentation damage detection in glass/epoxy composite laminates with electrically tailored conductive nanofiller
Authors: Gungor Sila , Bakis Charles E
Published: March 2015

Laminated fiber-reinforced polymer composites are known for excellent in-plane strength and stiffness per unit density, but variable susceptibility to out-of-plane impact and indentation loading on account of their relatively low interlaminar strength. Methods of monitoring damage caused by out-of-plane loads are therefore sought. This investigation aims to demonstrate the two-dimensional electrical resistance mapping method using co-cured carbon fiber electrodes, a glass fiber-reinforced composite system, and electrically tailored carbon black filler networks for sensing indentation damage. It is shown that damage sensing accuracy is improved by increasing the electrical conductivity of the carbon black network in the through-thickness direction. The anisotropic tailoring of conductivity is accomplished by using alternating-current dielectrophoresis, which entails the application of an electric field to polarize and chain the carbon black particles preferentially through the thickness during liquid processing of the composite. Co-cured carbon fiber tows arranged in a perpendicular array on the top and bottom surfaces of the laminate provide a qualitative assessment of the size and severity of the indentation damage via a two-dimensional resistance change map.
Model-Based Concept of Operations Development Using Gaming Simulation
Authors: Korfiatis Peter , Cloutier Robert , Zigh Teresa
Published: March 2015

Background. Extensive research exists in the application of gaming simulation to education, experimentation and policy. Systems engineers have begun to utilize gaming simulation during design. However, such applications have not extended to early design activities and have provided little evidence of value to systems engineering.

Aim. The purpose of this research is to test the hypothesis that the use of gaming simulation will improve an artifact created early in the design process, the Concept of Operations (CONOPS). The aim of this article is to provide an update to work in progress towards testing this hypothesis.

Method. A gaming simulation was developed that allows system stakeholders to interact in an immersive environment and develop CONOPS.

Results. As the research has matured, informal free-form testing has been conducted. Debriefing has shown that players perceive value from this gaming simulation and yielded observations relative to fidelity, validity, and usability.

Conclusion. The conclusion of this article points to preliminary acceptance of the use of gaming simulation towards CONOPS development. Future work will validate this assertion using quantitative data collected from controlled experiments.
“I’m Not Waving, I’m Drowning”
Authors: Fixsen Alison M.
Published: March 2015

Benzodiazepines are group of drugs used mainly as sedatives, hypnotics, muscle relaxants, and anti-epileptics. Tapering off benzodiazepines is, for some users, a painful, traumatic, and protracted process. In this article, I use an autoethnographic approach, adopting the metaphor of water, to examine heuristically my experience of iatrogenic illness and recovery. I draw on personal journals and blog entries and former users’ narratives to consider the particular form of biographical disruption associated with benzodiazepines and the processes involved in identity reconstruction. I emphasize the role of the online community in providing benzodiazepine users such as myself with a co-cultural community through which to share a voice and make sense of our experiences. I explain how the success stories of former users provided me with the hope that I, the “medical victim,” could become the “victor” and in the process construct a new life and fresh identity.
Cytotoxicity of Chronic Exposure to 4 Cigarette Smoke Condensates in 2 Cell Lines
Authors: Wang Honggang , Word Beverly , Lyn-Cook Lascelles , Yang Maocheng , Hammons George , Lyn-Cook Beverly
Published: March 2015

Tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of death. The cytotoxicity of cigarette smoke condensate (CSC), the particulate fraction of cigarette smoke without the vapor phase, has mostly been tested in short-term in vitro studies lasting from a few hours to a few days. Here, we assessed the toxicity of CSCs from 2 reference cigarettes, 3R4F and CM6, using a primary human small airway epithelial (PSAE) cell line by quantifying adenosine 5′-triphosphate (ATP), 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxy-methoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium (MTS), total glutathione (reduced glutathione [GSH] + oxidized glutathione [GSSG]), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release over the course of 28 days. The CSCs, 0.3 to 10 μg/mL, promoted cell proliferation at 120 hours of exposure, but demonstrated cytotoxicity at days 14 and 28. Interestingly, CSCs, 0.3 to 3 μg/mL, showed a cell death effect at day 14 but induced cell proliferation at day 28. Consistently, transformation associated with morphological changes began by day 14 and the transformed cells grew dramatically at day 28. The LDH assay appeared to be sensitive for assessing early cell damage, whereas the ATP, MTS, and GSH assays were more suitable for determining later stage CSCs-induced cytotoxicity. The ATP assay showed greater sensitivity than the MTS and GSH assays. We also assessed the toxicity of CSCs in an human Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase (hTERT)-immortalized Barrett esophagus cell line (CP-C). The CP-C cells demonstrated dose- and time-dependent cytotoxicity over the course of 28 days but displayed higher resistance to CSCs than PSAE cells. This study demonstrates that CSCs cause cytotoxicity and induce transformation related to cell resistance and cell invasion properties.
Moving Beyond Arrest and Reconceptualizing Police Discretion
Authors: Schulenberg Jennifer L.
Published: March 2015

Research on police discretion largely focuses on explaining the arrest disposition, while little attention is directed to the range of nonarrest decisions within an encounter. The research objective is to contribute to the discourse on police behavior by exploring the factors affecting different types of discretionary outcomes, a reconceptualization of demeanor, and the role of offence seriousness in different contexts. Using field observational data from a mid-sized Canadian police service, logistic regression models investigate the factors affecting police action identified in prior discretion research on three measures: conversational requests and directives, police assistance, and laying a criminal charge. The results support demarcating demeanor into disrespect and noncompliance, as they have unique independent effects on the use of discretion. Contrary to expectations, offence seriousness is only a significant predictor of noncoercive actions, while situational factors are better predictors of the arrest or charge decision than nondispositional outcomes.
Application of response surface methodology in ball-cratering abrasive wear testing
Authors: Osuch-Słomka Edyta , Ruta Ryszard , Słomka Zbigniew
Published: March 2015

The article presents an original use of experimental methods for the identification of the regression function in the form of a surface response to the optimization of parameters of ball-cratering method. This article suggests a methodology to determine the parameters' values (load, speed of rotation, minimum and maximum distance) for the ball-cratering method developed for determining the abrasive wear coefficient K c evaluating resistance of the tested coating to abrasion. The paper presents an experimental identification system, developed according to the central composition plan enabling the identification of the regression function in the form of a quadratic form. The objects of identification were the functions of the maximum relative error for diameters of craters' wear and the thickness of the wear ring, based on the values of the ball-cratering method. Analysis of the results of identification experiments were shown. Moreover, the construction and evaluation of the regression function and the use of the utility function to optimize parameters of the ball-cratering method were described. The verification of the developed methodology was performed based on the example of the selection of parameters for the ball-cratering method for a coating with high resistance to heat (AlTiCrN) which was deposited with the use of the physical vapor deposition method. To verify the obtained optimal parameter values in relation to the selected anti-wear coating, wear tests were performed according to the set parameters and were subjected to empirical verification confirming the obtained results. Application of response surface optimization method allows for the adaptation of the method to evaluate various types of coatings. Shortening the testing time is a significant achievement for the researchers.
A comparative investigation into the effects of party-system variables on party switching using individual-level data
Authors: Dejaeghere Yves , Dassonneville Ruth
Published: March 2015

Previous comparative electoral studies using aggregate data indicate the importance of party-system variables, such as polarization and the number of parties, with regard to the level of volatility between two elections. Research using individual level data has shown elements, such as political knowledge, political disaffection and party identification, that explain why voters remained faithful to their party or not. Until now, no study has investigated these variables simultaneously on individual level data using a large set of elections. This study fills that important gap in the literature using data from 29,591 voters in 33 elections. We find polarization influences party-switching at the individual level, rather than the sheer number of parties, as aggregate-level analyses suggest.
Mistakes and the continuity test
Authors: Lazenby Hugh
Published: March 2015

In a series of recent articles, Matthew Clayton, Andrew Williams and Rasmus Sommer Hansen and Soren Flinch Midtgaard argue that a key virtue of Ronald Dworkin’s account of distributive justice, Equality of Resources, is that it provides a distribution that is continuous with the evaluations of the individuals whom it ranges over. The idea of continuity, or as Williams calls it the ‘continuity test’, limits distributive claims in at least one important way: one person cannot claim compensation from another when she does not believe she is worse off than him. In this article, I challenge whether an account of distributive justice should be continuous with the evaluations of the individuals whom it ranges over. My argument is that continuity competes with another consideration, namely, correctness. An account of distributive justice should track who actually is disadvantaged, not whether individuals believe they are disadvantaged. In addition, I offer an account of how we can get closer to a correct account of who is disadvantaged based on two sources of evidence.
Optimized Retroperitoneoscopic Excision of Large (>25 cm) Adult Polycystic Kidneys Using 3-Dimensional Image Reconstruction and Preresection Ultrasound-Guided Aspiration
Authors: Li Chunhui , Kennedy Chris , Nabi Ghulam
Published: March 2015

Background. Laparoscopic excision of large polycystic kidneys remains a challenging procedure. Most of the literature describes transperitoneal approaches. Alterations in anatomy due to size of kidneys can make vascular and hilar control difficult. Retroperitoneal access with direct control of pedicle avoids risks without dissection for structures anterior to the kidneys. The technique of retroperitoneoscopic excision of massively enlarged kidneys is described with early outcomes. Methods. Patient DICOM images of kidneys were segmented and reconstructed for 3-dimensional visualization before surgery. Total excision of large polycystic kidneys was performed in 10 patients (11 procedures). After creation of retroperitoneal space, renal pedicle dissection was started with the incision of thinned out Gerota’s fascia. Occasionally aspiration of large cysts using ultrasound assistance created space for precise dissection. Following control of vascular pedicle under laparoscopic vision, further aspiration of cysts was accomplished with the help of 3-dimensional reconstructed kidney. Postaspiration, remaining renal specimen was extracted through a small incision using an endobag or as an intact specimen. Results. The operative time was between 180 and 240 minutes (median 200 minutes). Intraoperative blood loss was 100 to 300 mL (median 175 mL). Median time to control pedicle was 12 minutes (range 10-25 minutes). The postoperative periods were uneventful, except for blockage of arteriovenous fistula in 1 patient. Mean hospital stay was 7 days (range 6-14 days). Conclusions. The retroperitoneasocopic approach to large polycystic kidneys under the guidance of 3-dimensional image reconstruction, occasionally with the assistance of ultrasound aspiration is technically feasible, safe, with good perioperative outcomes. It facilitates early control of vascular pedicle with minimal risk of intraoperative bleeding.
Improving Echo-Guided Procedures Using an Ultrasound-CT Image Fusion System
Authors: Diana Michele , Halvax Peter , Mertz Damien , Legner Andras , Brulé Jean-Marcel , Robinet Eric , Mutter Didier , Pessaux Patrick , Marescaux Jacques
Published: March 2015

Introduction. Image fusion between ultrasound (US) and computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance can increase operator accuracy in targeting liver lesions, particularly when those are undetectable with US alone. We have developed a modular gel to simulate hepatic solid lesions for educational purposes in imaging and minimally invasive ablation techniques. We aimed to assess the impact of image fusion in targeting artificial hepatic lesions during the hands-on part of 2 courses (basic and advanced) in hepatobiliary surgery. Materials and methods. Under US guidance, 10 fake tumors of various sizes were created in the livers of 2 pigs, by percutaneous injection of a biocompatible gel engineered to be hyperdense on CT scanning and barely detectable on US. A CT scan was obtained and a CT-US image fusion was performed using the ACUSON S3000 US system (Siemens Healthcare, Germany). A total of 12 blinded course attendants, were asked in turn to perform a 10-minute liver scan with US alone followed by a 10-minute scan using image fusion. Results. Using US alone, the expert managed to identify all lesions successfully. The true positive rate for course attendants with US alone was 14/36 and 2/24 in the advanced and basic courses, respectively. The total number of false positives identified was 26. With image fusion, the rate of true positives significantly increased to 31/36 ( P < .001) in the advanced group and 16/24 in the basic group ( P < .001). The total number of false positives, considering all participants, decreased to 4 ( P < .001). Conclusions. Image fusion significantly increases accuracy in targeting hepatic lesions and might improve echo-guided procedures.
Ethical dilemmas in research in relation to ethical review: An empirical study
Authors: Colnerud Gunnel
Published: March 2015

The aim of the present article is to contribute empirically derived knowledge about Swedish researchers’ experience of ethical problems, conflicts and dilemmas in their research practice in relation to the ethical vetting legislation and procedure. The study has been carried out using the critical incident technique, with researchers from various disciplines providing examples from their own research practice of problems relating to research ethics. The analysis of the researchers’ responses indicates three phenomena, partly in line with similar studies in other countries: (i) the law of ethical vetting puts limits on the relevant research ethical questions; (ii) it is not possible to anticipate all questions of research ethics; and (iii) there are consequences to the fact that the boards for ethical vetting ignore problems that fall outside the law.
Does science need bioethicists? Ethics and science collaboration in biomedical research
Authors: Kerasidou Angeliki , Parker Michael
Published: March 2015

Biomedical research is an increasingly multidisciplinary activity bringing together a range of different academic fields and forms of expertise to investigate diseases that are increasingly understood to be complex and multifactorial. Recently the discipline of ethics has been starting to find a place in large-scale biomedical collaborations. In this article we draw from our experience of working with the Malaria Genomic Epidemiology Network (MalariaGEN) and other research projects to reflect upon the integration of ethics into biomedical research. We examine the way in which ethics input may be valuable to research, the forms it tends to take, and also the problems and limitations of such collaborations.
Pregnancy outcomes in cystic fibrosis: a 10-year experience from a UK centre
Authors: Renton M , Priestley L , Bennett L , Mackillop L , Chapman SJ
Published: March 2015

Background

Cystic fibrosis manifests as a multisystem disease, despite this female fertility is relatively preserved with levels approaching that of the non-cystic fibrosis population. We reviewed pregnancies in cystic fibrosis patients over a 10-year period from a UK adult cystic fibrosis centre by considering maternal and fetal outcomes.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective case-note review of pregnancies during 2003–2013 using respiratory and obstetric records.

Results

We observed moderate falls in lung function immediately after delivery, which persisted at 12 months postpartum. We found that a decline in lung function at delivery was a marker for further decline in function during the subsequent postpartum period. We found baseline lung function was predictive of gestational age at delivery. We observed a high incidence of haemoptysis.

Conclusion

Consistent with current guidance we found pregnancy is feasible and well tolerated in the majority of patients with cystic fibrosis. There was a high incidence of haemoptysis, which warrants further study.
Endoscopic management of iatrogenic perforations during endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for colorectal polyps: a case series
Authors: Pissas Dimitrios , Ypsilantis Efthymios , Papagrigoriadis Savvas , Hayee Bu’Hussain , Haji Amyn
Published: March 2015

Background:

Iatrogenic perforation during therapeutic colonoscopy, reported in up to 1% of endoscopic mucosal resections (EMRs) and up to 14% of endoscopic submucosal dissections (ESDs), has conventionally been an indication for surgery.

Aims:

We present a case series of successful endoscopic management of iatrogenic colorectal perforation during EMR and ESD, demonstrating the feasibility and safety of the method.

Methods:

Retrospective analysis of a database of patients undergoing EMR and ESD for colorectal polyps in a tertiary referral centre in the United Kingdom.

Results:

Four cases of perforation were identified (two EMRs and two ESDs) in a series of 218 procedures (1.8%), all detected at the time of endoscopy and managed with endoscopic clips. Patients were observed in hospital and treated with antibiotics. Their median length of stay was 3 days (range 2–6 days), with no mortality or need for surgery.

Conclusion:

Surgery is no longer the first choice in the management of iatrogenic perforations during EMR and ESD for colorectal polyps; in selected patients with small perforations and minimal extraluminal contamination, conservative management with application of endoscopic clips, antibiotics and close patient monitoring constitute a safe and effective treatment option, avoiding the morbidity of major surgery.
Myopia and daylight in schools: a neglected aspect of public health?
Authors: Hobday Richard
Published: March 2015

A century ago, it was widely believed that high levels of daylight in classrooms could prevent myopia, and as such, education departments built schools with large windows to try to stop children becoming short-sighted. This practice continued until the 1960s, from which time myopia was believed to be an inherited condition. In the years that followed, less emphasis was placed on preventing myopia. It has since become more common, reaching epidemic levels in east Asia. Recent research strongly suggests that the amount of light children get as they grow determines whether they will develop short sight; however, evidence that daylight in classrooms prevents myopia is lacking. Given the rapid increase in prevalence among school children worldwide, this should be investigated.
Grassroots volunteers in context: rewarding and adverse experiences of local women working on HIV and AIDS in Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Authors: Corbin J. Hope , Mittelmark Maurice B. , Lie Gro T.
Published: March 2015

Many nongovernmental organizations in Africa rely on grassroots volunteers to provide critical health services. Considering context and the interplay of individual, organizational, and societal influences on the experience of volunteers, this paper addresses three questions: What do grassroots volunteers contribute? What organizational processes promote volunteer engagement? What are the positive and negative consequences of volunteering? Eighteen members and staff of the Tanzanian HIV and AIDS NGO, KIWAKKUKI, were selected from 6000+ women volunteers to be interviewed. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed for themes. Within KIWAKKUKI, volunteers contributed time and local knowledge, leading to an indigenous educational approach building on local norms and customs. Volunteers’ engagement was motivated by the desire to support family members, reverse stigma, and work/socialize with other women. Benefits to volunteers included skills acquisition and community recognition; yet some volunteers also reported negative experiences including burnout, conferred stigma, and domestic violence. Positive organizational processes built on cultural practices such as collective decision-making and singing. The findings point to important considerations about context, including the synergistic effect training can have on local traditions of caring, complications of gender inequity, and how community health planning processes may need to be modified in extremely poor settings. This research also suggests good utility of the research framework (the Bergen Model of Collaborative Functioning) that was used to analyze volunteer engagement for service delivery in sub-Saharan contexts.
Minimal and Massive! Politicians’ Views on the Media’s Political Agenda-Setting Power Revisited
Authors: Vesa Juho , Blomberg Helena , Kroll Christian
Published: March 2015

Different methods have yielded different results regarding the media’s political agenda-setting power: Time-series studies comparing agendas in the media and politics have pointed to a minimal and surveys of politicians to massive media influence. Inspired by these findings and the suggested explanations for them, this article studies in detail politicians’ views on the media’s political agenda-setting power: How do politicians assess media’s power over different types of agendas, do they distinguish between different forms of media power, and does their individual political power position or trust in the media affect how they perceive the media’s power? A survey of Finnish members of parliament (MPs) shows that politicians perceive the media’s power to be massive regarding symbolic but minimal or moderate regarding substantial political agendas. However, many politicians do not clearly distinguish between the media’s political agenda-setting power and its political framing power. Neither experiences of being a minister nor the tendency to use the media as a scapegoat affect politicians’ views on media power in politics. The findings improve empirical knowledge on the media’s power in politics, strengthen the foundations for interpreting existing survey results, and provide a basis for further improving future surveys on media power.
Macronutrients in Human Milk
Authors: Sever Orna , Mandel Dror , Mimouni Francis B. , Marom Ronella , Cohen Shlomi , Lubetzky Ronit
Published: March 2015

Aim. To study longitudinal macronutrient concentrations of colostrum and mature human milk (HM) and test the hypothesis that colostrum concentration of a given macronutrient might predict the concentration of this macronutrient in mature milk. Methods. We collected samples of expressed HM obtained from mothers of full-term infants. Each mother contributed 2 samples of HM—the first during 72 hours after labor (colostrum) and the second after 14 days. Macronutrient contents of the samples were measured using infrared transmission spectroscopy. Results. In all, 57 women were recruited. Only 44 of them gave both colostrum and 14-day samples. The energy, fat, and carbohydrate content of mature milk was significantly higher than that in colostrum, whereas the opposite was found for protein content. There was no significant relationship between maternal weight for height and protein, fat, or lactose content at any stage. Energy, fat, and protein content in colostrum did not correlate with values in mature milk. In contrast, the lactose content in mature milk was highly correlated with that of colostrum (R2 = 0.47, P < .0001). Conclusion. Energy, fat, and protein content in colostrum do not predict values in mature milk. In contrast, lactose content in mature milk is highly correlated with that in colostrum.
Cellular and Acellular Approaches for Cartilage Repair
Authors: Brittberg Mats
Published: March 2015

There are several choices of cells to use for cartilage repair. Cells are used as internal or external sources and sometimes in combination. In this article, an analysis of the different cell choices and their use and potential is provided. Embryonic cartilage formation is of importance when finding more about how to be able to perfect cartilage repair. Some suggestions for near future research based on up-to-date knowledge on chondrogenic cells are given to hopefully stimulate more studies on the final goal of cartilage regeneration.
Self-Control Moderates the Effectiveness of Influence Attempts Highlighting Injunctive Social Norms
Authors: Jacobson Ryan P. , Mortensen Chad R. , Jacobson Kathryn J. L. , Cialdini Robert B.
Published: March 2015

Across three experiments involving different target behaviors, the trait of impulsivity reduced the effectiveness of persuasive messages framed using injunctive norms. In two of the three experiments, the trait of impulse restraint heightened the effectiveness of these same injunctive norm messages. No evidence was obtained for these traits as moderators when descriptive norms were used to frame messages or when no-norm control conditions were used. Taken together, these results are consistent with past evidence that effortful self-control processes are involved in the process of following injunctive social norms. Results also provide converging support for a theoretical perspective, suggesting that injunctive norms are associated with a specialized set of response tendencies that encourage group-oriented behavior.
Ethnonationalism in post-war Bosnia-Herzegovina and Kosovo The effects of local violence and ethnic composition
Authors: Dyrstad Karin , Ellingsen Tanja , Rød Jan Ketil
Published: March 2015

In this article we examine attitudes of ethnonationalism in two countries that have experienced ethnic civil war: Bosnia-Herzegovina and Kosovo. We analyse the strength of attitudes of ethnonationalism on the individual level, and how ethnonationalism is related to local ethnic settlement patterns and previous experiences of local inter-ethnic violence. We combine data at the municipality level with data from the South-East European Social Survey Program from 2003 and conduct a multilevel analysis for each case. In both cases, ethnonationalism dominates, but it is stronger in Kosovo than in Bosnia-Herzegovina. We find a clear difference between members of local majorities and minorities, but the effect in Bosnia-Herzegovina is the opposite of the effect in Kosovo. In Bosnia-Herzegovina, members of both minority and majority groups tend to be more ethnonationalist the larger their group. Contrary to our initial expectations, people express less ethnonationalism in municipalities that were more severely hit by violence, whereas in Kosovo no effect of local violence can be found. The more recent conflict and less consolidated institutions in Kosovo may help explain these divergent results. Still, the lack of consistent findings makes it hard to infer beyond the two cases examined.
Lower Extremity Kinematics During a Drop Jump in Individuals With Patellar Tendinopathy
Authors: Rosen Adam B. , Ko Jupil , Simpson Kathy J. , Kim Seock-Ho , Brown Cathleen N.
Published: March 2015

Background:

Patellar tendinopathy (PT) is a common degenerative condition in physically active populations. Knowledge regarding the biomechanics of landing in populations with symptomatic PT is limited, but altered mechanics may play a role in the development or perpetuation of PT.

Purpose:

To identify whether study participants with PT exhibited different landing kinematics compared with healthy controls.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Sixty recreationally active participants took part in this study; 30 had current signs and symptoms of PT, including self-reported pain within the patellar tendon during loading activities for at least 3 months and ≤80 on the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment Scale–Patella (VISA-P). Thirty healthy participants with no history of PT or other knee joint pathology were matched by sex, age, height, and weight. Participants completed 5 trials of a 40-cm, 2-legged drop jump followed immediately by a 50% maximum vertical jump. Dependent variables of interest included hip, knee, and ankle joint angles at initial ground contact, peak angles, and maximum angular displacements during the landing phase in 3 planes. Independent-samples t tests ( P ≤ .05) were utilized to compare the joint angles and angular displacements between PT and control participants.

Results:

Individuals with PT displayed significantly decreased peak hip (PT, 59.2° ± 14.6°; control, 67.2° ± 13.9°; P = .03) and knee flexion angles (PT, 74.8° ± 13.2°; control, 82.5° ± 9.0°; P = .01) compared with control subjects. The PT group displayed decreased maximum angular displacement in the sagittal plane at the hip (PT, 49.3° ± 10.8°; control, 55.2° ± 11.4°; P = .04) and knee (PT, 71.6° ± 8.4°; control, 79.7° ± 8.3°; P < .001) compared with the control group.

Conclusion:

Participants with PT displayed decreased maximum flexion and angular displacement in the sagittal plane, at both the knee and the hip. The altered movement patterns in those with PT may be perpetuating symptoms associated with PT and could be due to the contributions of the rectus femoris during dynamic movement.

Clinical Relevance:

Based on kinematic alterations in symptomatic participants, rehabilitation efforts may benefit from focusing on both the knee and the hip to treat symptoms associated with PT.