bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Don't Fuss, Focus: The Mediating Effect of On‐Task Thoughts on the Relationship between Error Approach Instructions and Task Performance
Authors: Dimitrova Nicoletta G. , van Dyck Cathy , van Hooft Edwin A.J. , Groenewegen Peter
Published: June 2014

People working on a task can make errors along the way. How people deal with an error, however, depends on the type of error approach they apply. One approach, error management, focuses on increasing the positive and decreasing the negative consequences of errors. A second approach, error prevention, focuses on working faultlessly. In two experiments, we manipulated error approach through task instructions and measured on‐task thoughts and off‐task thoughts. In Experiment 1 (N = 78), error management resulted in more on‐task thoughts, but no differences were found for off‐task thoughts. Experiment 2 (N = 76) replicated the findings of Experiment 1, and further demonstrated that error management resulted in better analogical and adaptive transfer performance, and that these effects were mediated by on‐task thoughts. Our findings point toward the benefits of error management instructions for people and organisations. Specifically, error management instructions make people more focused on the task during practice, as indicated by on‐task thoughts, which in turn results in higher performance after practice.
I'm Too Good for This Job: Narcissism's Role in the Experience of Overqualification
Authors: Maynard Douglas C. , Brondolo Elena M. , Connelly Catherine E. , Sauer Carrie E.
Published: June 2014

Using relative deprivation theory, we examined the role of narcissism in moderating the relationships between objective overqualification and perceived overqualification, job satisfaction, and career‐related work stress. Permanently employed participants (N = 292) completed an online survey, which included measures of narcissism, overqualification, and job attitudes. The exploitiveness/entitlement subscale of narcissism was positively associated with perceived overqualification, though only modestly (r = .13). Both exploitiveness/entitlement and perceived overqualification were associated with lower job satisfaction and higher career‐related work stress. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses revealed that, unlike non‐narcissistic employees, employees scoring high on exploitiveness/entitlement reported feeling overqualified even when they did not possess surplus education relative to job requirements. Surprisingly, while objective overqualification was positively associated with work stress for non‐entitled employees, highly entitled employees did not experience greater work stress when objectively overqualified. We explore possible explanations for this finding, and outline future directions for research on narcissism and overqualification.
Modulation of Imatinib Cytotoxicity by Selenite in HCT116 Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Abdel‐Aziz Amal Kamal , Azab Samar Saad Eldeen , Youssef Samar Samir , El‐Sayed Abeer Mostafa , El‐Demerdash Ebtehal , Shouman Samia
Published: June 2014

Imatinib is a principal therapeutic agent for targeting colorectal tumours. However, mono‐targeting by imatinib does not always achieve complete cancer eradication. Selenite, a well‐known chemopreventive agent, is commonly used in cancer patients. In this study, we aimed to explore whether selenite can modulate imatinib cytotoxicity in colorectal cancer cells. HCT116 cells were treated with different concentrations of imatinib and/or selenite for 24, 48 and 72 hr. Imatinib–selenite interaction was analysed using isobologram equation. As indicators of apoptosis, DNA fragmentation, caspase‐3 activity, Bcl‐2 expression were explored. Autophagic machinery was also checked by visualizing acidic vesicular organelles and measuring Beclin‐1 expression. Furthermore, reactive oxygen and nitrogen species were also examined. This study demonstrated that selenite synergistically augmented imatinib cytotoxicity in HCT116 cells as demonstrated by combination and dose reduction indices. Supranutritional dose of selenite when combined with imatinib induced apoptotic machinery by decreasing Bcl‐2 expression, increasing caspase‐3 activity and subsequently fragmenting DNA and blunted cytoprotective autophagy by decreasing Beclin‐1 expression and autophagosomes formation. Moreover, their combination induced cell cycle S‐phase block, increased total thiol content and reduced nitric oxide levels. In conclusion, selenite synergizes imatinib cytotoxicity through multi‐barrelled molecular targeting, providing a novel therapeutic approach for colorectal cancer.
Lenalidomide and dexamethasone for systemic AL amyloidosis following prior treatment with thalidomide or bortezomib regimens
Authors: Mahmood Shameem , Venner Christopher P. , Sachchithanantham Sajitha , Lane Thirusha , Rannigan Lisa , Foard Darren , Pinney Jenny H. , Gibbs Simon D. J. , Whelan Carol J. , Lachmann Helen J. , Gillmore Julian D. , Hawkins Philip N. , Wechalekar Ashutosh D.
Published: June 2014

The outcomes and responses to treatment remain poorly studied among patients with systemic AL amyloidosis who require further treatment following prior novel agent‐based therapy. We report here treatment with lenalidomide‐dexamethasone in 84 AL amyloidosis patients with relapsed/refractory clonal disease following prior treatment with thalidomide (76%) and/or bortezomib (68%). On an intention‐to‐treat (ITT) basis, the overall haematological response rate was 61%, including 20% complete responses. The median overall survival (OS) has not been reached; 2‐year OS and progression‐free survival (PFS) was 84% and 73%, respectively. Achieving a free light chain (FLC) response was an independent good prognostic factor for OS in multivariate analysis. There was no impact of prior thalidomide or bortezomib therapy on response rate, OS or PFS. 16% achieved an organ response at 6 months, with a marked improvement in organ responses in patients on long term therapy (median duration 11 months) and 55% achieving renal responses by 18 months. Lenalidomide/dexamethasone therapy achieves good haematological responses in patients with AL amyloidosis with relapsed/refractory clonal disease. The rate of renal responses among patients who received prolonged treatment was unexpectedly high, raising the possibility that immunomodulatory effects of lenalidomide therapy might enhance the otherwise slow natural regression of amyloid deposits.
A new one‐layer epididymovasostomy technique
Authors: Hussein Alayman
Published: June 2014

Objectives

To describe and evaluate the outcomes of a new epididymovasostomy technique.

Patients and Methods

Nine patients with obstructive azoospermia were treated at the Minia University Hospital using a new microsurgical bilateral epididymovasostomy technique. The technique involved the opening of a small window in the tunica of the epididymis, making an opening in the underneath epididymal tubule and keeping it open by fixing the edges of the epididymal opening to the edge of the epididymal tunica with four 10/0 nylon sutures. The abdominal cut end of the vas deferens was then anastomosed to the epididymal opening by suturing the epididymal tubule, fixed to its tunica in one layer, to the full thickness vas deferens. The main outcome measure was finding sperm in the ejaculate.

Results

Sperm was found in the ejaculate in six out of nine patients after our new, one‐layer, epididymovasostomy technique. Mean ± sd operating time was 176 ± 23 min.

Conclusions

This new, one‐layer, epididymovasostomy technique provides a simple alternative method of epididymovasostomy, with reasonable outcomes. More cases and follow‐up are needed to make meaningful comparisons with conventional epididymovasostomy.
The emerging use of Twitter by urological journals
Authors: Nason Gregory J. , O'Kelly Fardod , Kelly Michael E. , Phelan Nigel , Manecksha Rustom P. , Lawrentschuk Nathan , Murphy Declan G.
Published: June 2014

Objective

To assess the emerging use of Twitter by urological journals.

Methods

A search of the Journal of Citation Reports 2012 was performed to identify urological journals. These journals were then searched on Twitter.com. Each journal website was accessed for links to social media (SoMe). The number of ‘tweets’, followers and age of profile was determined. To evaluate the content, over a 6‐month period (November 2013 to April 2014), all tweets were scrutinised on the journals Twitter profiles. To assess SoMe influence, the Klout score of each journal was also calculated.

Results

In all, 33 urological journals were identified. Eight (24.2%) had Twitter profiles. The mean (range) number of tweets and followers was 557 (19–1809) and 1845 (82–3692), respectively. The mean (range) age of the twitter profiles was 952 (314–1758) days with an average 0.88 tweets/day. A Twitter profile was associated with a higher mean impact factor of the journal (mean [sd] 3.588 [3.05] vs 1.78 [0.99], P = 0.013). Over a 6‐month period, November 2013 to April 2014, the median (range) number of tweets per profile was 82 (2–415) and the median (range) number of articles linked to tweets was 73 (0–336). Of these 710 articles, 152 were Level 1 evidence‐based articles, 101 Level 2, 278 Level 3 and 179 Level 4. The median (range) Klout score was 47 (19–58). The Klout scores of major journals did not exactly mirror their impact factors.

Conclusion

SoMe is increasingly becoming an adjunct to traditional teaching methods, due to its convenient and user‐friendly platform. Recently, many of the leading urological journals have used Twitter to highlight significant articles of interest to readers.
Role of emergency ureteroscopy in the management of ureteric stones: analysis of 394 cases
Authors: Zargar‐Shoshtari Kamran , Anderson William , Rice Michael
Published: June 2014

Objective

To analyse the outcomes of emergency ureteroscopy (URS) cases performed in Auckland City Hospital.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of all emergency URS procedures performed at Auckland City Hospital between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2011. Data on patients, stones and procedures were collected and analysed. Emergency URS failure was defined as fragments >3 mm or the need for a repeat procedure.

Results

A total of 499 URS procedures were identified. Of these 394 (79%) were emergency procedures. The mean (sd; range) patient age was 48 (16; 13–88) years. In all, 83% of emergency URS cases had an American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score of 1 or 2, 25% of stones were >9 mm, with a mean (sd) size of 8 (4) mm, and 285 procedures (72%) were successful. These patients were younger (47 vs 51 years), were more likely to have an ASA score of 1 (103 patients in the successful treatment group vs 26 in the failed treatment group), had smaller stones (7 vs 9 mm) and were more likely to have distal stones (P < 0.05). A total of 20 complications (5%) were recorded including six false passages and three mucosal injuries, one of which required radiological intervention, and 50 patients (13%) re‐presented, for pain (76%), bleeding (10%) or infection (14%).

Conclusion

We showed that emergency URS is a feasible approach for the routine management of acute ureteric colic with a low complications rate. A subgroup of younger, healthier patients may benefit the most from the procedure.
Anti‐nociception mediated by a κ opioid receptor agonist is blocked by a δ receptor agonist
Authors: Taylor A M W , Roberts K W , Pradhan A A , Akbari H A , Walwyn W , Lutfy K , Carroll F I , Cahill C M , Evans C J
Published: June 2014

Background and Purpose

The opioid receptor family comprises four structurally homologous but functionally distinct sub‐groups, the μ (MOP), δ (DOP), κ (KOP) and nociceptin (NOP) receptors. As most opioid agonists are selective but not specific, a broad spectrum of behaviours due to activation of different opioid receptors is expected. In this study, we examine whether other opioid receptor systems influenced KOP‐mediated antinociception.

Experimental Approach

We used a tail withdrawal assay in C57Bl/6 mice to assay the antinociceptive effect of systemically administered opioid agonists with varying selectivity at KOP receptors. Pharmacological and genetic approaches were used to analyse the interactions of the other opioid receptors in modulating KOP‐mediated antinociception.

Key Results

Etorphine, a potent agonist at all four opioid receptors, was not anti‐nociceptive in MOP knockout (KO) mice, although etorphine is an efficacious KOP receptor agonist and specific KOP receptor agonists remain analgesic in MOP KO mice. As KOP receptor agonists are aversive, we considered KOP‐mediated antinociception might be a form of stress‐induced analgesia that is blocked by the anxiolytic effects of DOP receptor agonists. In support of this hypothesis, pretreatment with the DOP antagonist, naltrindole (10 mg·kg−1), unmasked etorphine (3 mg·kg−1) antinociception in MOP KO mice. Further, in wild‐type mice, KOP‐mediated antinociception by systemic U50,488H (10 mg·kg−1) was blocked by pretreatment with the DOP agonist SNC80 (5 mg·kg−1) and diazepam (1 mg·kg−1).

Conclusions and Implications

Systemic DOP receptor agonists blocked systemic KOP antinociception, and these results identify DOP receptor agonists as potential agents for reversing stress‐driven addictive and depressive behaviours mediated through KOP receptor activation.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Opioids: New Pathways to Functional Selectivity. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2015.172.issue-2
Pharmacologically distinct phenotypes of α1B‐adrenoceptors: variation in binding and functional affinities for antagonists
Authors: Yoshiki Hatsumi , Uwada Junsuke , Anisuzzaman Abu Syed Md , Umada Hidenori , Hayashi Ryoji , Kainoh Mie , Masuoka Takayoshi , Nishio Matomo , Muramatsu Ikunobu
Published: June 2014

Background and Purpose

The pharmacological properties of particular receptors have recently been suggested to vary under different conditions. We compared the pharmacological properties of the α1B‐adrenoceptor subtype in various tissue preparations and under various conditions.

Experimental Approach

[3H]‐prazosin binding to α1B‐adrenoceptors in rat liver (segments, dispersed hepatocytes and homogenates) was assessed and the pharmacological profiles were compared with the functional and binding profiles in rat carotid artery and recombinant α1B‐adrenoceptors.

Key Results

In association and saturation‐binding experiments with rat liver, binding affinity for [3H]‐prazosin varied significantly between preparations (KD value approximately ten times higher in segments than in homogenates). The binding profile for various drugs in liver segments also deviated from the representative α1B‐adrenoceptor profile observed in liver homogenates and recombinant receptors. L‐765,314 and ALS‐77, selective antagonists of α1B‐adrenoceptors, showed high binding and antagonist affinities in liver homogenates and recombinant α1B‐adrenoceptors. However, binding affinities for both ligands in the segments of rat liver and carotid artery were 10 times lower, and the antagonist potencies in α1B‐adrenoceptor‐mediated contractions of carotid artery were more than 100 times lower than the representative α1B‐adrenoceptor profile.

Conclusions and Implications

In contrast to the consistent profile of recombinant α1B‐adrenoceptors, the pharmacological profile of native α1B‐adrenoceptors of rat liver and carotid artery varied markedly under various receptor environments, showing significantly different binding properties between intact tissues and homogenates, and dissociation between functional and binding affinities. In addition to conventional ‘subtype’ characterization, ‘phenotype’ pharmacology must be considered in native receptor evaluations in vivo and in future pharmacotherapy.
Multiple roles of the PGE2‐EP receptor signal in vascular permeability
Authors: Omori K , Kida T , Hori M , Ozaki H , Murata T
Published: June 2014

Background and Purpose

PGE2 is a major prostanoid that regulates inflammation by stimulating EP1–4 receptors. However, how PGE2 induces an initial inflammatory response to vascular hyper‐permeability remains unknown. Here we investigated the role of the PGE2‐EP receptor signal in modulating vascular permeability both in vivo and in vitro.

Experimental Approach

We used a modified Miles assay and intravital microscopy to examine vascular permeability in vivo. Endothelial barrier property was assessed by measuring transendothelial electrical resistance (TER) in vitro.

Key Results

Local administration of PGE2, an EP2 or EP4 receptor agonist into FVB/NJcl mouse ear skin caused vascular leakage, indicated by dye extravasation. Intravital microscopy and laser Doppler blood‐flow imaging revealed that these treatments dilated peripheral vessels and increased local blood flow. Pretreatment with the vasoconstrictor phenylephrine inhibited the PGE2‐induced blood flow increase and vascular leakage. In contrast to the EP2 and EP4 receptor agonists, administration of an EP3 receptor agonist suppressed vascular leakage without altering vascular diameter or blood flow. In isolated HUVECs, the EP3 receptor agonist elevated TER and blocked thrombin‐induced dextran passage. Inhibiting PKA restored the hypo‐permeability induced by the EP3 receptor agonist.

Conclusions and Implications

Activation of the PGE2‐EP2 or ‐EP4 receptor signal induces vasodilatation in mural cells, resulting in increased local blood flow and hyper‐permeability. In contrast, activation of the PGE2‐EP3 receptor signal induces a cAMP‐dependent enhancement of the endothelial barrier, leading to hypo‐permeability. We provide the first evidence that endothelial cells and mural cells cooperate to modulate vascular permeability.
Definitions of sleeplessness in children with attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): implications for mothers' mental state, daytime sleepiness and sleep‐related cognitions
Authors: Montgomery P. , Wiggs L.
Published: June 2014

Background

Sleep disturbances are common in children with attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Sleeplessness is frequently reported although results are inconsistent perhaps because different definitions for it are applied. This study looked at maternal functioning and child objective sleep patterns in relation to different definitions of sleeplessness in children withADHD.

Methods

The study included 45 children (aged 3–14 years) withADHDand their mothers. Sleeplessness was defined according to: (i) yes/no report of whether mothers thought their children had a problem with sleeplessness (Maternal definitionMD) and (ii) mothers' responses to a quantitative standardized questionnaire (Quantitative definitionQD) designed to detect the frequency and duration of parent‐reported problems with settling, night waking and early waking. Objective sleep patterns were also assessed by means of actigraphy. Maternal mental health, daytime sleepiness and cognitions related to child sleep were assessed by questionnaire.

Results

Both definitions appeared to tap similar although slightly different constructs. There were no group differences in objective sleep patterns. Maternal mental health was found to be significantly worse in the mothers who considered their child to be sleepless (MD) (P< 0.025), but not in those mothers whose child was found to be sleepless according to the standardized criteria (QD). Maternal sleepiness did not differ between groups. For both categories of sleepless children (MDandQD), the mothers had significantly more doubts about their competency as a parent (P< 0.01 andP< 0.025, respectively) compared to mothers of children without sleeplessness.

Conclusions

Two different maternal assessments of child sleeplessness in children withADHDmay assess subtly different constructs, but both may provide useful information about potential problems across the family.
Long‐term evaluation of orbital rhabdomyosarcoma in children
Authors: Boutroux Helene , Levy Christine , Mosseri Véronique , Desjardins Laurence , Plancher Corine , Helfre Sylvie , Freneaux Paul , Cellier Cecile , Orbach Daniel
Published: June 2014

Background

Orbital rhabdomyosarcoma (ORMS) is associated with an excellent survival rate greater than 85%, and is considered to be a favourable site for this tumour. Treatment is based on combination chemotherapy together with best local therapy, sometimes surgery but more often radiation therapy. Local therapy is associated with frequent and potentially severe late sequelae.

Design

Retrospective hospital single‐centre analysis.

Participants

Eighty‐two patients treated in Institut Curie, Paris.

Methods

To define long‐term status of survivors after localized ORMS, patients treated between 1975 and 2010 were analysed.

Main Outcome Measures

Clinical structural and functional orbital, and general sequelae.

Results

Median age at diagnosis was 6 years (range: 8 months–19 years), and median follow up was 8.5 years (range: 7 months–24 years). The 5‐year globe conservation rate was 90.4%. Ophthalmic dysfunction was present in 79% of patients. Impaired visual acuity (VA), was present in 62% of patients; 38% of them had severe visual disability with VA < 6/60. Late effects on orbitofacial structure were present in 39.8% of patients. Ocular or palpebral sequelae were present in 79% of survivors, mainly cataract (42%), ocular surface lesions such as keratoconjunctivitis (40%) and eyelid abnormalities (29%). General late effects were rare.

Conclusions

These data suggest that ocular and orbital late effects are frequent after treatment of ORMS, indicating the need for systematic long‐term ophthalmologic follow up of these patients. Radiation therapy is an important part of the total burden of therapy.
Exemplar‐Based Portrait Photograph Enhancement as Informed by Portrait Paintings
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyan , Constable Martin , Chan Kap Luk
Published: June 2014

This paper proposes an approach to enhance the regional contrasts in snap‐shot style portrait photographs by using pre‐modern portrait paintings as aesthetic exemplars. The example portrait painting is selected based on a comparison of the existing contrast properties of the painting with those of the photograph. The contrast organization in the selected example painting is transferred to the photograph by mapping the inter‐ and intra‐regional contrasts of the regions, such as the face and skin areas of the foreground figure, the non‐face/skin part of the foreground and the background region. A piecewise non‐linear transformation curve is used to achieve the contrast mapping. Finally, the transition boundary between regions is smoothed to achieve the final results. The experimental results and user study demonstrate that, by using this proposed approach, the visual appeal of the portrait photographs is effectively improved, and the face and the figure become more salient.
POY version 5: phylogenetic analysis using dynamic homologies under multiple optimality criteria
Authors: Wheeler Ward C. , Lucaroni Nicholas , Hong Lin , Crowley Louise M. , Varón Andrés
Published: June 2014

We present POY version 5, an open source program for the phylogenetic analysis of diverse data types including qualitative, aligned sequences, unaligned sequences, genomic data, and user‐defined sequences. In addition to the maximum‐parsimony optimality criterion supported by POY4, POY5 supports several types of maximum likelihood as well as posterior probability. To make these analyses feasible, new heuristic search algorithms and parallelization options have been implemented for all criteria.
Injection laryngoplasty in the outpatient clinic under local anaesthetic: a case series of sixty‐eight patients
Authors: Powell J. , Carding P. , Birdi R. , Wilson J.A.
Published: June 2014

Objectives

We aimed to assess self‐report and perceptual voice outcomes in patients undergoing local anaesthetic injection laryngoplasty in our outpatient clinic.

Design

Prospective case series.

Setting

Department of Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgery, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle‐upon‐Tyne, UK.

Participants

Sixty‐eight patients underwent local anaesthetic injection laryngoplasty in the outpatient clinic over the 2‐year study period.

Main outcome measure

Voice Performance Questionnaire (patient‐rated), and perceptual voice analysis (observer‐rated) Grade, Roughness, Breathiness, Aesthenia and Strain scores were recorded before and 2 weeks after injection laryngoplasty.

Results

Fifty‐seven patients had sufficient pre‐ and post‐procedure data to be included in the analysis. These included 32 men and 25 women, age range 26–97 years. Of the remaining patients, they were excluded due to failed procedure (n = 3), too unwell to proceed (n = 1), died before follow‐up was complete (n = 3) and incomplete data (n = 4). The median Voice Performance Questionnaire score improved from 42 to 21; (P < 0.0001). Significant improvements were seen in all parameters of Grade, Roughness, Breathiness, Aesthenia, Strain.

Conclusion

Injection laryngoplasty under local anaesthetic in the outpatient clinic generates improvements in subjective and perceptual voice outcomes similar to those obtained in the operating room under general anaesthetic or sedation. Complication rates between these procedures were also comparable. Injection laryngoplasty under local anaesthetic is timely, cost‐effective and obviates need for general anaesthesia in patients, many of whom have comorbidities and diminished life expectancy.
Pre‐transplant immune state defined by serum markers and alloreactivity predicts acute rejection after living donor kidney transplantation
Authors: Vondran Florian W.R. , Timrott Kai , Kollrich Sonja , Steinhoff Ann‐Kristin , Kaltenborn Alexander , Schrem Harald , Klempnauer Juergen , Lehner Frank , Schwinzer Reinhard
Published: June 2014

Acute rejection (AR) remains a major cause for long‐term kidney allograft failure. Reliable immunological parameters suitable to define the pre‐transplant immune state and hence the individual risk of graft rejection are highly desired to preferably adapt the immunosuppressive regimen in advance. Donor and third party alloreactivities were determined by mixed lymphocyte cultures. Soluble forms of CD25, CD30, and CD44 were detected in patients' serum by ELISA. Various lymphocyte subpopulations were measured using flow cytometry. All patients received triple immunosuppression (tacrolimus/mycophenolate mofetil/steroids) and were grouped according to biopsy results within the first year: rejection‐free (RF, n = 13), borderline (BL, n = 5), or acute rejection (AR, n = 7). Patients with AR showed the highest pre‐transplant alloreactivities and serum levels (sCD25/sCD30/sCD44) according to the pattern RF < BL < AR. Relying on serum analysis only, multivariate logistic regression (logit link function) yielded a prognostic score for prediction of rejection with 75.0% sensitivity and 69.2% specificity. Patients with rejection showed markedly higher pre‐transplant frequencies of CD4+/CD8+ T cells lacking CD28, but lower numbers of CD8+CD161bright T cells and NK cells than RF individuals. Pre‐transplant immune state defined by alloreactivity, serum markers, and particular lymphocyte subsets seems to correlate with occurrence of graft rejection after kidney transplantation. A prognostic score based on pre‐transplant serum levels has shown great potential for prediction of rejection episodes and should be further evaluated.
Evolutionary Approaches to Privatisation
Authors: Ormerod Paul
Published: June 2014

There is considerable scope for further privatisation, with the particular aim of sharply reducing public sector claims on national output. However, survey evidence indicates considerable opposition to further privatisations, particularly those taking the form of creating dividend‐paying joint stock companies. The paper considers the value of surveys when compared with the economic concept of stable, revealed preferences, and the potential endogeneity of preferences as discussed by Hayek (1949). Consideration is also given to the implications of making concessions to survey opinion by carrying out privatisations under alternative corporate structures.
Economic Concentration in the Start‐Up Nation: Is Privatisation to Blame?
Authors: Gazit Yarden , Sauer Robert M.
Published: June 2014

In this paper we examine the underlying sources of economic concentration in Israel, which is unusually high for a developed and innovative economy. After a brief review of Israel's economic history since the start of the British Mandate, we describe the level of economic concentration, privatisation policy and other public policies that potentially contributed to the creation and persistence of the concentration problem. We argue that privatisation is not likely to be a causal factor, mainly because concentration was present and substantial at least two decades before modern privatisation policies were adopted. It is more plausible to argue that other economic policies, such as R&D subsidies, tax breaks for capital investment, export subsidies, tariffs, stringent regulations and barriers to competition played a major role in the emergence and persistence of economic concentration.
Privatising The Swedish Welfare State
Authors: Svanborg‐Sjövall Karin
Published: June 2014

The introduction of private competition and choice in the Swedish welfare sector has attracted widespread attention in recent years. This paper sets out the factors that helped make this development possible, and explains why the influence of the organisational theory of New Public Management (NPM) has ensured that while market economy elements have increased in welfare services, the scope of the state and the public sector has continued to grow. The result is the emergence of welfare quasi‐markets, which are increasingly subject to input‐related regulation and control.
Privatisation in the EU Energy Sector: The Never‐Ending Story
Authors: Stagnaro Carlo
Published: June 2014

Following the wave of privatisation that started in Britain's energy sectors in the early 1980s, much progress has been made but the results still fall short of the potential benefits. In this paper both the theoretical arguments and the existing empirical evidence on privatisation in the energy sector are examined, with particular reference to European experience. The paper also presents some additional empirical analysis on the effect of privatisation on competition in the electricity market. Although not fully satisfactory, the analysis seems to be consistent with theoretical arguments. In particular, ‘mostly privatised’ industries tend to be associated with incumbents having lower market shares.
The Privatisation of the UK Railway Industry: An Experiment in Railway Structure
Authors: Wellings Richard
Published: June 2014

The British rail network was privatised in the mid‐ to late 1990s. However, the sector was heavily regulated and not permitted to evolve according to market processes. Indeed, the government imposed a complex and fragmented structure on the industry which ran counter to traditional railway practices. As a consequence, economies of scale and scope were lost, while transaction costs were increased. There was a negative impact on costs and safety. Given the disappointing outcomes, there is a strong case for reforming the sector by facilitating the development of a privately owned and vertically integrated rail system.
Privatisation failure and failure to privatise: the slovene example
Authors: Stojan Jure
Published: June 2014

This paper discusses theSlovene experience of privatisation, which is marked by two defects: privatisation failure and failure to privatise. Definitions of privatisation failure fall into four main categories: failure in outcomes, failure in method, failure in regulation, and failure in process. The paper suggests that privatisation failure and failure to privatise are interrelated and proposes a new metric for both.
Search Frictions, Credit Market Liquidity and Net Interest Margin Cyclicality
Authors: Beaubrun‐Diant Kevin E. , Tripier Fabien
Published: June 2014

This paper contributes to the body of knowledge on search frictions in credit markets by demonstrating their ability to explain why the net interest margins of banks behave countercyclically. During periods of expansion, a fall in the net interest margin proceeds from two mechanisms: (i) lenders accept that they must finance entrepreneurs who have lower productivity; (ii) the liquidity of the credit market rises, which simplifies access to loans for entrepreneurs and thereby reinforces their threat point when bargaining the interest rate of the loan.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Cardiac Function and Detection of Myocardial Infarction Based on a Semi‐Automated Analysis Using Full‐Volume Real Time Three‐Dimensional Echocardiography
Authors: Streiff Cole , Zhu Meihua , Panosian Jill , Sahn David J. , Ashraf Muhammad
Published: June 2014

Objective

Quantitative left ventricular mass (LVM) as well as regional strain values may be obtained from full‐volume real time 3D echocardiography data via semi‐automated feature tracking and represent indices of heart function, both in health and disease.

Methods

Fresh adult porcine and ovine hearts were passively pumped to simulate normal cardiac motion at stroke volumes (SVs) varying from 30 to 70 mL. A 3V‐D Matrix probe, interfaced with a GE Vivid E9 ultrasound system, was used to image each heart at baseline conditions and after simulated myocardial infarction (MI). The 4D LV quantification function of EchoPAC PC was used to quantify the LVM and longitudinal and circumferential strain (LS & CS) of LV segments at each SV prior and subsequent to simulated MI. LVM was validated by volumetric displacement, while LS and CS values were compared to sonomicrometry‐based strain.

Results

Linear regression analyses show excellent correlations in LVM, LS, and CS between the 4D echo and volumetric/sonomicrometric displacement with R2 values of 0.99, 0.88, and 0.67, respectively. Bland–Altman analyses for all variables validate the compatibility of both methods. It was also determined that EchoPAC PC was able to detect a decrease in LS and CS in the relevant segments between pre‐ and post‐MI at all SVs (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

EchoPAC PC is a robust utility with the ability to accurately obtain quantitative LVM, LS, and CS values from 4D echo volumes and has the potential to improve the yield of clinical studies in cases of suspected MI.
Left Atrial Asynchrony and Mechanical Function in Patients with Mitral Stenosis before and Immediately after Percutaneous Balloon Mitral Valvuloplasty: A Real Time Three‐Dimensional Echocardiography Study
Authors: Deng Yan , Guo Sheng‐lan , Su Hong‐yue , Wang Qian , Tan Zhen , Wu Ji , Zhang Di
Published: June 2014

Objective

This study evaluated the feasibility of assessing left atrium (LA) function and asynchrony in patients with rheumatic mitral stenosis (MS) before and immediately after percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty (PBMV) by real time three‐dimensional echocardiography (RT3DE).

Methods

Thirty patients with rheumatic MS who underwent PBMV and 30 controls were enrolled. RT3DE was used to measure LA volume and function, the standard deviation of time to the minimal systolic volume divided into 16 segments, 12 segments, or 6 segments (Tmsv 16‐SD, Tmsv 12‐SD, Tmsv 6‐SD), and the maximum differences (Tmsv 16‐Dif, 12‐Dif, 6‐Dif) in RT3DE derived values in MS patients before and 2 days after PBMV were obtained and compared with those of normal controls. The associations between the LA asynchrony and heart volume, function, mitral valve area (MVA), maximum mitral valve gradient (MVGmax), mean mitral valve gradient (MVGmean), and mean LA pressure (MLAP) were investigated.

Results

Left atrium asynchrony indexes were significantly larger, and LA function parameters were significantly lower in the MS group than in the controls (P < 0.05 for all). Of all the LA asynchrony indexes, LA Tmsv16‐SD was most significantly correlated with the LA volume and function parameters, MVGmax, MVGmean, and MLAP (P < 0.05 for all). LA asynchrony indexes and LA volume significantly deceased, and LA function significantly increased post‐PBMV (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Real time three‐dimensional echocardiography is a reliable and reproducible method to quantify LA function and asynchrony. RT3DE revealed a significant, early improvement in LA function and asynchrony in MS patients after PBMV.
Phytoplasma associated with Chinese tallow tree yellowing disease in China represents a new 16SrIII subgroup
Authors: Gao Y. , Liu A. X. , Li G. , Zhao L. M. , Sun G. Z. , Zhu X. P.
Published: June 2014

Recently, samples of the Chinese tallow tree (Sapium sebiferum) displaying yellowing symptoms were collected from a grove in Tai'an, Shandong Province, China. The association of phytoplasma with yellowing disease was ascertained using nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of the 16S rRNA gene by using the phytoplasma‐specific universal primer pair P1/P7, followed by R16F2n/R16R2 as nested primers, and rp genes primed using rpL2F3/rp(I)R1A followed by rp(III)‐FN/rp(I)R1A. The sequence and phylogenetic analyses of the 16S rRNA gene and rp genes revealed that the phytoplasma associated with the Chinese tallow tree belonged to the 16SrIII group (the X‐disease group). Computer‐simulated and gel‐based restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analyses revealed that the RFLP patterns were different from the reference patterns of all previously established 16SrIII subgroups, with the maximum similarity coefficient exceeding the threshold for delineation of a new subgroup RFLP pattern type within the 16SrIII group. Thus, the phytoplasma associated with the Chinese tallow tree yellowing disease, designated as ‘CTTY’, represents a new subgroup (16SrIII‐Y). This study shows the Chinese tallow tree as a new host of phytoplasma belonging to the 16SrIII group in China and worldwide.
Nurturing Creativity in Education
Authors: Collard Paul , Looney Janet
Published: June 2014

Across continents, creativity is a priority for education and is central to the discourse on 21st century learning. In this article, we explore how a greater focus on ‘everyday creativity’ in schools changes the dynamics of teaching and learning. We look briefly at the main concepts in the literature on creativity in education. We then focus on examples from the Centre for Creative Education's creative partnerships, which bring together educators, learners and creative professionals. This is followed by a discussion on how teachers assess learners’ creative dispositions, as well as the quality of creative processes and products. We conclude with recommendations for school‐level strategies and policy and research to support learner and teacher creativity.
Prolonged ampakine exposure prunes dendritic spines and increases presynaptic release probability for enhanced long‐term potentiation in the hippocampus
Authors: Chang Philip K.‐Y. , Prenosil George A. , Verbich David , Gill Raminder , McKinney R. Anne
Published: June 2014

CX 546, an allosteric positive modulator of α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid‐type ionotropic glutamate receptors (AMPARs), belongs to a drug class called ampakines. These compounds have been shown to enhance long‐term potentiation (LTP), a cellular model of learning and memory, and improve animal learning task performance, and have augmented cognition in neurodegenerative patients. However, the chronic effect of CX546 on synaptic structures has not been examined. The structure and integrity of dendritic spines are thought to play a role in learning and memory, and their abnormalities have been implicated in cognitive disorders. In addition, their structural plasticity has been shown to be important for cognitive function, such that dendritic spine remodeling has been proposed as the morphological correlate for LTP. Here, we tested the effect of CX546 on dendritic spine remodeling following long‐term treatment. We found that, with prolonged CX546 treatment, organotypic hippocampal slice cultures showed a significant reduction in CA3–CA1 excitatory synapse and spine density. Electrophysiological approaches revealed that the CA3–CA1 circuitry compensates for this synapse loss by increasing synaptic efficacy through enhancement of presynaptic release probability. CX546‐treated slices showed prolonged and enhanced potentiation upon LTP induction. Furthermore, structural plasticity, namely spine head enlargement, was also more pronounced after CX546 treatment. Our results suggest a concordance of functional and structural changes that is enhanced with prolonged CX546 exposure. Thus, the improved cognitive ability of patients receiving ampakine treatment may result from the priming of synapses through increases in the structural plasticity and functional reliability of hippocampal synapses.
A mean field model for competition: from neutral ecology to the Red Queen
Authors: O'Dwyer James P. , Chisholm Ryan
Published: June 2014

Individual species are distributed inhomogeneously over space and time, yet, within large communities of species, aggregated patterns of biodiversity seem to display nearly universal behaviour. Neutral models assume that an individual's demographic prospects are independent of its species identity. They have successfully predicted certain static, time‐independent patterns. But they have generally failed to predict temporal patterns, such as species ages or population dynamics. We construct a new, multispecies framework incorporating competitive differences between species, and assess the impact of this competition on static and dynamic patterns of biodiversity. We solve this model exactly for the special case of a Red Queen hypothesis, where fitter species are continually arising. The model predicts more realistic species ages than neutral models, without greatly changing predictions for static species abundance distributions. Our modelling approach may allow users to incorporate a broad range of ecological mechanisms.
Perennial rhizomatous grasses as bioenergy feedstock inSWAT: parameter development and model improvement
Authors: Trybula Elizabeth M. , Cibin Raj , Burks Jennifer L. , Chaubey Indrajeet , Brouder Sylvie M. , Volenec Jeffrey J.
Published: June 2014

The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) is increasingly used to quantify hydrologic and water quality impacts of bioenergy production, but crop‐growth parameters for candidate perennial rhizomatous grasses (PRG)Miscanthus × giganteusand upland ecotypes ofPanicum virgatum(switchgrass) are limited by the availability of field data. Crop‐growth parameter ranges and suggested values were developed in this study using agronomic and weather data collected at the Purdue University Water Quality Field Station in northwestern Indiana. During the process of parameterization, the comparison of measured data with conceptual representation ofPRGgrowth in the model led to three changes in theSWAT2009 code: the harvest algorithm was modified to maintain belowground biomass over winter, plant respiration was extended via modified‐DLAIto better reflect maturity and leaf senescence, and nutrient uptake algorithms were revised to respond to temperature, water, and nutrient stress. Parameter values and changes to the model resulted in simulated biomass yield and leaf area index consistent with reported values for the region. Code changes in theSWATmodel improved nutrient storage during dormancy period and nitrogen and phosphorus uptake by both switchgrass andMiscanthus.
Source and character of syntaxial hydrothermal calcite veins in Paleoproterozoic crystalline rocks revealed by fine‐scale investigations
Authors: Maskenskaya O. M. , Drake H. , Broman C. , Hogmalm J. K. , Czuppon G. , Åström M. E.
Published: June 2014

Calcite veins in Paleoproterozoic granitoids on the Baltic Shield are the focus of this study. These veins are distinguished by their monomineralic character, unusual thickness and closeness to Neoproterozoic dolerite dykes and therefore have drawn attention. The aim of this study was to define the source of these veins and to unravel their isotopic and chemical nature by carrying out fine‐scale studies. Seven calcite veins covering a depth interval of 50–420 m below the ground surface and composed of breccias or crack‐sealed fillings typically expressing syntaxial growth were sampled and analysed for a variety of physicochemical variables: homogenization temperature (Th) and salinity of fluid inclusions, and stable isotopes (87Sr/86Sr, 13C/12C, 18O/16O), trace‐element concentrations (Fe, Mn, Mg, Sr, rare earth elements) and cathodoluminescence (CL) of the solid phase. The fluid‐inclusion data show that the calcites were precipitated mainly from relatively low‐temperature (Th = 73–106°C) brines (13.4–24.5 wt.% CaCl2), and the 87Sr/86Sr is more radiogenic than expected for Rb‐poor minerals precipitated from Neoproterozoic fluids. These features, together with the distribution of δ13C and δ18O values, provide evidence that the calcite veins are not genetic with the nearby Neoproterozoic dolerite dykes, but are of Paleozoic age and were precipitated from warm brines expressing a rather large variability in salinity. Whereas the isotopic and chemical variables express rather constant average values among the individual veins, they vary considerably on fine‐scale across individual veins. This has implications for understanding processes causing calcite‐rich veins to form and capture trace metals in crystalline bedrock settings.
Managing Haemophilia for Life: 4th Haemophilia Global Summit
Authors: Astermark J. , Dolan G. , Hilberg T. , Jiménez‐Yuste V. , Laffan M. , Lassila R. , Lobet S. , Martinoli C. , Perno C.‐F.
Published: June 2014

The 4th Haemophilia Global Summit was held in Potsdam, Germany, in September 2013 and brought together an international faculty of haemophilia experts and delegates from multidisciplinary backgrounds. The programme was designed by an independent Scientific Steering Committee of haemophilia experts and explored global perspectives in haemophilia care, discussing practical approaches to the optimal management of haemophilia now and in the future. The topics outlined in this supplement were selected by the Scientific Steering Committee for their relevance and potential to influence haemophilia care globally. In this supplement from the meeting, Jan Astermark reviews current understanding of risk factors for the development of inhibitory antibodies and discusses whether this risk can be modulated and minimized. Factors key to the improvement of joint health in people with haemophilia are explored, with Carlo Martinoli and Víctor Jiménez‐Yuste discussing the utility of ultrasound for the early detection of haemophilic arthropathy. Other aspects of care necessary for the prevention and management of joint disease in people with haemophilia are outlined by Thomas Hilberg and Sébastian Lobet, who highlight the therapeutic benefits of physiotherapy and sports therapy. Riitta Lassila and Carlo‐Federico Perno describe current knowledge surrounding the risk of transmission of infectious agents via clotting factor concentrates. Finally, different types of extended half‐life technology are evaluated by Mike Laffan, with a focus on the practicalities and challenges associated with these products.