bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenges for Research and Practices of Music Education
Authors: Olsson Bengt
Published: February 2013

This article discusses the challenges of a research-based music education. Despite the need for new research-based approaches and teacher-student roles, this does not mean that all current research or praxis is useless or not valuable. The challenge for researchers, music teachers, and students of all kinds is to find new ways to integrate research, teaching, and learning practices.
Dewey's Bastards: Music, Meaning, and Politics
Authors: Woodford Paul
Published: February 2013

This article discusses the early aesthetic education movement to illustrate how politics and social realities shaped philosophy and other scholarly work. It underscores the need for historians and philosophers to be more self-reflexive while locating their work within wider social, historical, and political contexts so that they and future teachers better appreciate the social, economic, and other forces shaping their own and the profession's thinking. It is further argued that scholars and teachers must closely examine the profession and its problems in order to identify previously obscure but important developments affecting music education.
The Work and Family Interface
Authors: Allen Tammy D.
Published: February 2013

Work and family constitute a contemporary topic within the field of industrial and organizational psychology that traverses disciplinary boundaries and has important implications for both individuals and organizations. As family structures have become more heterogeneous, interest in the topic has virtually exploded over the past several decades. The aim of this chapter is to review what we know about work and family interactions. The chapter is organized so that research is reviewed from various perspectives: individual, family, organization, and global. The chapter concludes with an agenda for future research.
Lifelong Learning
Authors: London Manuel
Published: February 2013

This chapter examines lifelong learning from the standpoint of organizational needs and expectations, the importance of learning and development for career growth, individual differences in propensity for continuous learning, and support and reinforcement for development. The chapter starts by examining alternative definitions of lifelong learning for skill development, discovery, and innovation. Trends driving continuous learning include pressures to maintain competitiveness and readiness to meet future needs. Learning is then viewed in relation to life stage and ongoing generativity. Foundational learning theories focus on individual differences affecting learning motivation, life stage models of development, and explanations for how people learn. Support for learning includes the corporate environment and culture, the emergence of learning organizations, empowerment for self-development, and formal and informal methods of development. Technological advances in development include online multisource feedback surveys, just-in-time coaching, and web-based training. The chapter concludes with an agenda for future research and practice, including new modes of education throughout the life cycle, assessments of learning outcomes, ways to meet individual and organizational needs for adaptive, generative, and transformative learning, and forces for future research and practice.
An Overview of Human Factors Psychology
Authors: Kirlik Alex
Published: February 2013

This chapter presents a contemporary overview of human factors psychology, including its origins, core problems, methodological approaches, and overviews of state-of-the-art research in three key areas likely to be relevant to industrial/organizational psychology. These include: human-automation interaction, or HAI; situation awareness, or SA; and distraction, multitasking, and interruption, or DMI. Each of these areas has arisen as a result of the increased challenges and opportunities provided by ever increasing levels of technological sophistication in the workplace. The chapter concludes by noting that human factors researchers are increasingly drawing on, and contributing to, social, in addition to cognitive, psychological research. This trend, motivated by both increasing levels of technological autonomy and opacity, as well as by the fact that social coordination and teamwork is increasingly mediated by information and communication technologies, bodes well for human factors and industrial/organizational psychology to have an even greater symbiotic and mutually informing relationship in the future.
Decision Making in Naturalistic Environments
Authors: Salas Eduardo , Rosen Michael A. , DiazGranados Deborah
Published: February 2013

Understanding how experts are able to manage the complexity of modern work environments can inform the strategies and tools used to develop and support effective performance. To that end, this chapter provides a comprehensive review of naturalistic decision making (NDM) research for industrial and organizational (I/O) psychologists. The community of NDM researchers focuses on understanding how experts use their experience to make good decisions in complex real-world situations characterized by stress and uncertainty. NDM and the study of expertise in real-world settings is a rich scientific and practically relevant research area that has yet to be integrated with the I/O field. This chapter is intended to facilitate this cross-fertilization of perspectives. In this chapter, six specific goals are addressed: (a) definitions of the core features of NDM as a field of inquiry as well as the fundamental issues in the domain are reviewed; (b) an introduction to the fundamental theoretical perspectives in NDM is provided; (c) perspectives on the methodological approaches employed in the process of understanding complex cognition in the real world are summarized; (d) NDM research findings are synthesized and presented as a set of performance mechanisms of expert individual and team decision making; (e) applications of NDM research to improving decision-making performance in organizations are reviewed with specific attention to training the expert decision maker; and (f) future directions for NDM as a field of inquiry are outlined.
Individual Differences: Challenging Our Assumptions
Authors: Ryan Ann Marie , Sackett Paul R.
Published: February 2013

Organizational psychologists often make assumptions regarding the variability and stability of individual differences (e.g., ability, personality, interests). In this chapter, we discuss the evidence regarding interindividual variability in individual differences in workplace contexts, intraindividual stability in individual differences across adult working years, and intraindividual variability across attributes (e.g., variability across a profile of ability or personality characteristics). We highlight the ways in which mistaken assumptions may affect conclusions regarding the predictive and explanatory power of individual differences, and we provide suggestions for research to enhance understanding of the variability and stability of commonly assessed individual differences.
Recruitment and Competitive Advantage: A Brand Equity Perspective
Authors: Yu Kang Yang Trevor , Cable Daniel M.
Published: February 2013

Leaders care about applicant reactions to their recruitment and hiring processes due to the profound effect on the organization's future composition and sustained competitive advantage. In addition to causing applicants to select into or out of the organization, recruitment experiences presocialize job seekers about what to expect from the organization (i.e., culture and values) and the job (i.e., required skills and abilities). In this chapter we take a strategic look at recruitment by applying a resource-based view. We argue that firms can use applicant reactions to recruitment and hiring processes to create and sustain competencies that are valuable, rare, and hard to imitate. Recruitment facilitates applicant self-selection because it communicates to them the unique attributes that characterize successful employees in the firm. Drawing upon ideas from person-environment fit, organizational image, and job design, our chapter covers the process and benefits of using the recruitment process to differentially attract a workforce that delivers a consistent and unique product to customers. In this way, recruitment can be a key component of the value creation process that drives a firm's competitive advantage.
Work Design: Creating Jobs and Roles That Promote Individual Effectiveness
Authors: Cordery John , Parker Sharon K.
Published: February 2013

In this chapter, our objective is to review existing knowledge relating to the psychological impact of work design (task, job, and work role characteristics) on individuals, and to set a clear, specific agenda for future research. Our starting point is an analysis of emergent trends in the characteristic nature of tasks and work roles within major contemporary and developing forms of work and occupation. This is necessary, as recent decades have witnessed dramatic shifts in how work is typically organized and performed within most occupations and industries, reflecting broader societal, environmental, technological, and economic changes. Following this analysis, we review key historical perspectives on work design before presenting an integrative theoretical model for considering the effects of work design on people. The chapter then moves to a consideration of the primary psychological processes and states, linking three broad categories of work design characteristics (task-related, relational, and contextual characteristics) to individual effectiveness outcomes. Our concern here is to update and expand theory relating to the effects of work design, integrating major recent bodies of research and theory, such as those dealing with motivational states and goal striving, self-determination, regulatory focus, work engagement, and social identity. The chapter concludes with a comprehensive research agenda for the years to come.
Organizational Culture and Climate
Authors: Zohar Dov , Hofmann David A.
Published: February 2013

Although there have been several attempts to address the conceptual ambiguities in the literature discussing organizational climate, organizational culture, and their interrelationship, there remains much confusion and a general lack of clarity about what these two constructs represent, as well as how they may interrelate. In order to provide some clarity, we provide a comprehensive review of both constructs and conclude with a model describing how organizational climate can be viewed as a bottom-up (i.e., flowing from employee perceptions) indicator of the underlying core values and assumptions that form the organization's culture. Recommendations for researchers seeking to investigate organizational climate and culture, as well as suggestions for future research, are discussed throughout the chapter.
Spreading dynamics on spatially constrained complex brain networks
Authors: O'Dea Reuben , Crofts Jonathan J. , Kaiser Marcus
Published: February 2013

The study of dynamical systems defined on complex networks provides a natural framework with which to investigate myriad features of neural dynamics and has been widely undertaken. Typically, however, networks employed in theoretical studies bear little relation to the spatial embedding or connectivity of the neural networks that they attempt to replicate. Here, we employ detailed neuroimaging data to define a network whose spatial embedding represents accurately the folded structure of the cortical surface of a rat brain and investigate the propagation of activity over this network under simple spreading and connectivity rules. By comparison with standard network models with the same coarse statistics, we show that the cortical geometry influences profoundly the speed of propagation of activation through the network. Our conclusions are of high relevance to the theoretical modelling of epileptic seizure events and indicate that such studies which omit physiological network structure risk simplifying the dynamics in a potentially significant way.
On energy and entropy influxes in the Green–Naghdi Type III theory of heat conduction
Authors: Bargmann Swantje , Favata Antonino , Podio-Guidugli Paolo
Published: February 2013

The energy-influx/entropy-influx relation in the Green–Naghdi Type III theory of heat conduction is examined within a thermodynamical framework
à la
Müller–Liu, where that relation is not specified
a priori
irrespectively of the constitutive class under attention. It is shown that the classical assumption, i.e. that the entropy influx and the energy influx are proportional via the absolute temperature, holds true if heat conduction is, in a sense that is made precise, isotropic. In addition, it is proved that influx proportionality cannot be postulated in general, because a counterexample can be given in the case of transversely isotropic conduction.
Genome-wide bimolecular fluorescence complementation analysis of SUMO interactome in yeast
Authors: Sung Min-Kyung , Lim Gyubum , Yi Dae-Gwan , Chang Yeon Ji , Yang Eun Bin , Lee KiYoung , Huh Won-Ki
Published: February 2013

The definition of protein–protein interactions (PPIs) in the natural cellular context is essential for properly understanding various biological processes. So far, however, most large-scale PPI analyses have not been performed in the natural cellular context. Here, we describe the construction of a Saccharomyces cerevisiae fusion library in which each endogenous gene is C-terminally tagged with the N-terminal fragment of Venus (VN) for a genome-wide bimolecular fluorescence complementation assay, a powerful technique for identifying PPIs in living cells. We illustrate the utility of the VN fusion library by systematically analyzing the interactome of the small ubiquitin-related modifier (SUMO) and provide previously unavailable information on the subcellular localization, types, and protease dependence of SUMO interactions. Our data set is highly complementary to the existing data sets and represents a useful resource for expanding the understanding of the physiological roles of SUMO. In addition, the VN fusion library provides a useful research tool that makes it feasible to systematically analyze PPIs in the natural cellular context.
CYCLIN-DEPENDENT KINASE G1 Is Associated with the Spliceosome to RegulateCALLOSE SYNTHASE5Splicing and Pollen Wall Formation inArabidopsis
Authors: Huang Xue-Yong , Niu Jin , Sun Ming-Xi , Zhu Jun , Gao Ju-Fang , Yang Jun , Zhou Que , Yang Zhong-Nan
Published: February 2013

Arabidopsis thaliana CYCLIN-DEPEDENT KINASE G1 (CDKG1) belongs to the family of cyclin-dependent protein kinases that were originally characterized as cell cycle regulators in eukaryotes. Here, we report that CDKG1 regulates pre-mRNA splicing of CALLOSE SYNTHASE5 (CalS5) and, therefore, pollen wall formation. The knockout mutant cdkg1 exhibits reduced male fertility with impaired callose synthesis and abnormal pollen wall formation. The sixth intron in CalS5 pre-mRNA, a rare type of intron with a GC 5′ splice site, is abnormally spliced in cdkg1. RNA immunoprecipitation analysis suggests that CDKG1 is associated with this intron. CDKG1 contains N-terminal Ser/Arg (RS) motifs and interacts with splicing factor Arginine/Serine-Rich Zinc Knuckle-Containing Protein33 (RSZ33) through its RS region to regulate proper splicing. CDKG1 and RS-containing Zinc Finger Protein22 (SRZ22), a splicing factor interacting with RSZ33 and U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle (snRNP) component U1-70k, colocalize in nuclear speckles and reside in the same complex. We propose that CDKG1 is recruited to U1 snRNP through RSZ33 to facilitate the splicing of the sixth intron of CalS5.
Experimental manipulation of flowers to determine the functional modes and fitness consequences of self‐fertilization: unexpected outcome reveals key assumptions
Authors: Dart Sara , Eckert Christopher G.
Published: February 2013

Reproductive assurance is often invoked to explain the repeated transition from outcrossing to selfing among plants. The most common experimental test of this hypothesis uses floral emasculation (anther removal) to manipulate the capacity of flowers for autogamous self‐pollination.

The coastal dune endemicCamissoniopsis cheiranthifoliaexhibits striking variation in floral morphology and the mating system across its geographic range inCalifornia, and reproductive assurance is likely to have played a role in the transition from large flowers and predominant outcrossing to small flowers and predominant selfing. To compare variation in the timing of self‐pollination and the extent to which it provides reproductive assurance in large‐ vs. small‐flowered populations, we emasculated flowers at different times during anthesis and measured the effects on both seed production and the proportion of seeds self‐fertilized vs. outcrossed estimated using marker genes. We also manipulated large‐ vs. small‐flowered phenotypes within two morphologically variable populations.

As predicted from floral development, small‐flowered plants self‐pollinated before flowers open, whereas large‐flowered phenotypes did not. Comparing flowers that were emasculated before closing suggested that a seemingly well‐developed mechanism for delayed selfing (anthers contacting the stigma when flowers close) does not increase seed production.

Using emasculation to manipulate selfing assumes that removing anthers from flowers does not compromise outcrossing. However, while not affecting the capacity of flowers to produce seed, emasculation shortened floral longevity, thereby reducing opportunities for outcrossing. Genetic estimation of the mating system revealed a negative effect of emasculation on the proportion of seed outcrossed, even in small‐flowered populations, further suggesting that flowers lacking anthers are unattractive to pollinators. These side effects of emasculation prevent a clear interpretation of the reproductive assurance value of selfing.

Given that much of what we know about reproductive assurance in natural populations comes from emasculation experiments, our results suggest that the assumptions of this approach, which are rarely verified, require much more serious consideration.
Stature Estimation from Various Foot Dimensions Among Slovak Population
Authors: Uhrová Petra , Beňuš Radoslav , Masnicová Soňa
Published: February 2013

The foot measurements are important in forensic field as they can be used as body height predictors for an individual. The morphology of human feet shows the variations and therefore the aim of this study was to find the relation between stature and foot measurements and to generate population‐specific equations. We measured the stature and bilateral foot measurements of 71 volunteers ranging in age between 18 and 27 years using standard measurements technique. The results revealed nonsignificant bilateral differences in all sex groups (p < 0.05). Sex differences were found to be significant in all foot measurements (p < 0.001). The highest significant and positive correlation coefficients with stature were observed for foot length in males (r = 0.759), in females (r = 0.722), and in the sex‐mixed group (r = 0.865). According to the nonsignificant sex effects on the relation between stature and foot dimensions, the regression equations were computed only for the pooled mixed‐sex group. Our study provides equations that can help to estimate stature from foot measurements among Slovaks.
Legal, Technical, and Interpretational Considerations in the Forensic Analysis of Viruses
Authors: Wilson Mark R. , Weaver Scott C. , Winegar Richard A.
Published: February 2013

The forensic evaluation of viruses presents new challenges to the forensic science community. Although many criminal cases have been adjudicated involving the deliberate transmission of viruses, especially HIV, this review provides a general approach to viral forensics, especially in light of significant biodefense challenges. Newly emerging techniques of nucleic acid sequencing are discussed in a forensic context. Human mitochondrial DNA analysis, wherein mixed profiles are routinely assessed in a forensic context, provides the groundwork for an interpretational approach to the issue of mixed DNA sequences. The importance of phylogenetic classification is discussed as both providing an integrated graphical depiction of the structure of viral nucleic acid variation as well as offering a tool that can be used to assess the relatedness of complex populations of nucleic acids.
Integrating resource selection information with spatial capture–recapture
Authors: Royle J. Andrew , Chandler Richard B. , Sun Catherine C. , Fuller Angela K.
Published: February 2013

Understanding space usage and resource selection is a primary focus of many studies of animal populations. Usually, such studies are based on location data obtained from telemetry, and resource selection functions (RSFs) are used for inference. Another important focus of wildlife research is estimation and modeling population size and density. Recently developed spatial capture–recapture (SCR) models accomplish this objective using individual encounter history data with auxiliary spatial information on location of capture. SCR models include encounter probability functions that are intuitively related to RSFs, but to date, no one has extended SCR models to allow for explicit inference about space usage and resource selection.

In this paper we develop the first statistical framework for jointly modeling space usage, resource selection, and population density by integrating SCR data, such as from camera traps, mist‐nets, or conventional catch traps, with resource selection data from telemetered individuals. We provide a framework for estimation based on marginal likelihood, wherein we estimate simultaneously the parameters of the SCR and RSF models.

Our method leads to increases in precision for estimating parameters of ordinary SCR models. Importantly, we also find that SCR models alone can estimate parameters of RSFs and, as such, SCR methods can be used as the sole source for studying space‐usage; however, precision will be higher when telemetry data are available.

Finally, we find that SCR models using standard symmetric and stationary encounter probability models may not fully explain variation in encounter probability due to space usage, and therefore produce biased estimates of density when animal space usage is related to resource selection. Consequently, it is important that space usage be taken into consideration, if possible, in studies focused on estimating density using capture–recapture methods.
Critical Appraisal of Emergency Medicine Educational Research: The Best Publications of 2011
Authors: Fisher Jonathan , Lin Michelle , Coates Wendy C. , Kuhn Gloria J. , Farrell Susan E. , Maggio Lauren A. , Shayne Philip
Published: February 2013

Objectives

The objective was to critically appraise and highlight medical education research studies published in 2011 that were methodologically superior and whose outcomes were pertinent to teaching and education in emergency medicine (EM).

Methods

A search of the English language literature in 2011 querying PubMed, Scopus, Education Resources Information Center (ERIC), and PsychInfo identified EM studies that used hypothesis‐testing or observational investigations of educational interventions. Six reviewers independently ranked all publications based on 10 criteria, including four related to methodology, that were chosen a priori to standardize evaluation by reviewers. This method was used previously to appraise medical education published in 2008, 2009, and 2010.

Results

Forty‐eight educational research papers were identified. Comparing the literature of 2011 to that of 2008 through 2010, the number of published educational research papers meeting the criteria increased over time from 30, to 36, to 41, and now to 48. Five medical education research studies met the a priori criteria for inclusion as exemplary and are reviewed and summarized in this article. The number of funded studies remained fairly stable over the past 3 years, at 13 (2008), 16 (2009), 9 (2010), and 13 (2011). As in past years, research involving the use of technology accounted for almost half (n = 22) of the publications. Observational study designs accounted for 28 of the papers, while nine studies featured an experimental design.

Conclusions

Forty‐eight EM educational studies published in 2011 and meeting the criteria were identified. This critical appraisal reviews and highlights five studies that met a priori quality indicators. Current trends and common methodologic pitfalls in the 2011 papers are noted.
Common Hand Sanitizer May Distort Readings of Breathalyzer Tests in the Absence of Acute Intoxication
Authors: Ali Syed S. , Wilson Michael P. , Castillo Edward M. , Witucki Peter , Simmons Todd T. , Vilke Gary M.
Published: February 2013

Objectives

The use of alcohol‐based hand sanitizers has recently become widespread. To the authors' knowledge, no previous study has examined whether application of ethanol‐based hand sanitizers by the person operating a common breathalyzer machine will affect the accuracy of the readings. This was a prospective study investigating whether the use of hand sanitizer applied according to manufacturer's recommendations (Group I), applied improperly at standard doses (Group II), or applied improperly at high doses (Group III) had an effect on breathalyzer readings of individuals who had not ingested alcohol.

Methods

The participants of the prospective study were divided into three groups to assess the effect of hand sanitizer on breathalyzer readings. Group I used one pump (1.5 mL) of hand sanitizer (Purell), allowing the hands to dry per manufacturer's recommendations; Group II used one pump (1.5 mL), without allowing the hands to dry; and Group III used two pumps (3 mL), without allowing the hands to dry. Breathalyzer measures for each group are presented as medians with interquartile ranges (IQR) and ranges. Differences between each sequential group (I vs. II and II vs. III) were assessed using a Mann‐Whitney U‐test (p < 0.05 significant).

Results

There were 25 study participants in each group for a total of 75 participants. The initial breathalyzer readings of all study participants were 0.000 g/dL. The median breathalyzer reading was 0.004 g/dL in Group I (IQR = 0.001 to 0.008 g/dL), 0.051 g/dL in Group II (IQR = 0.043 to 0.064 g/dL), and 0.119 g/dL in Group III (IQR = 0.089 to 0.134 g/dL). Measures between each subsequent group were all statistically different (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The use of common alcohol‐based hand sanitizer may cause false‐positive readings with a standard hospital breathalyzer when the operator uses the hand sanitizer correctly. The breathalyzer readings are further elevated if more sanitizer is used or if it is not allowed to dry appropriately.
Fear of Discovery Among Latino Immigrants Presenting to the Emergency Department
Authors: Maldonado Cynthia Z. , Rodriguez Robert M. , Torres Jesus R. , Flores Yvette S. , Lovato Luis M.
Published: February 2013

Objectives

Recent legislation mandating reporting of undocumented immigrants may instill fear of discovery when they access emergency department (ED) services. The objectives of this study were to: 1) characterize the knowledge and beliefs of undocumented Latino immigrants (UDLI) about health care workers' reporting (or nonreporting) of illegal immigrants in the ED, 2) determine whether UDLI fear discovery when presenting to the ED, and 3) determine the nature and sources of this fear.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study of UDLI and two comparison groups conducted in two California county EDs, from November 2009 to August 2010. The authors interviewed a convenience sample of adult UDLI, Latino legal residents (LLR), and non‐Latino legal residents (NLLR) using a structured instrument in their native language. The main outcome was fear of discovery among UDLI and the sources of that fear.

Results

Of 1,224 patients approached, 1,007 (82.3%) were interviewed: 314 UDLI, 373 LLR, and 320 NLLR. The median age was 43 years (interquartile range [IQR] = 31 to 55 years), and 51% were male. UDLIs were less likely to speak English (14%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 10% to 18%), have health insurance (39%, 95% CI 32% to 44%), or have a regular primary care provider (PCP; 39%, 95% CI = 34% to 45%), compared to LLR (English 56%, 95% CI = 51% to 61%; health insurance 50%, 95% CI = 45% to 55%; regular PCP 51%, 95% = CI 46% to 57%) and NLLR (English 95%, 95% CI = 92% to 97%; health insurance 49%, 95% CI = 43% to 54%; regular PCP 51%, 95% CI = 45% to 56%). Of the 16% of UDLI who stated that nurses and doctors treat undocumented immigrant patients differently than citizens, 41% (95% CI = 29% to 54%) reported less respect given to UDLI by staff. Thirty‐two percent of UDLI had heard of Proposition 187, 13% believed hospital staff reported UDLI to immigration authorities, and 9% said they were asked about their citizenship status. Fear of coming to the hospital because of discovery was expressed by 12% (95% CI = 9% to 16%) of UDLI, with 42% (95% CI = 28% to 58%) citing discussions with friends/family, 32% (95% CI = 19% to 47%) citing media and 16% (95% CI = 7% to 30%) citing both as sources of this fear.

Conclusions

One in eight of UDLI presenting to the ED express fear of discovery and consequent deportation. Belief that medical staff report UDLI and recent immigration are risk factors for this fear. Family, friends, and media are the primary sources of these concerns.
Does Stage of Change Predict Improved Intimate Partner Violence Outcomes Following an Emergency Department Intervention?
Authors: Schrager Justin D. , Smith L. Shakiyla , Heron Sheryl L. , Houry Debra
Published: February 2013

Objectives

The objective was to assess the effect of an emergency department (ED)‐based computer screening and referral intervention on the safety‐seeking behaviors of female intimate partner violence (IPV) victims at differing stages of change. The study also aimed to determine which personal and behavioral characteristics were associated with a positive change in safety‐seeking behavior. The hypothesis was that women who were in contemplation or action stages of change would be more likely to endorse safety behaviors during follow‐up.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study of female IPV victims at three urban EDs, using a computer kiosk to deliver targeted education about IPV to provide referrals to local resources. All noncritically ill adult English‐speaking women triaged to the ED waiting room during study hours were eligible to participate. Women were screened for IPV using the validated Universal Violence Prevention Screening Protocol (UVPSP), and all IPV‐positive women further responded to validated questionnaires for alcohol and drug abuse, depression, and IPV severity. The women were assigned a baseline stage of change using the University of Rhode Island Change Assessment (URICA) scale for readiness to change their IPV behaviors. Study participants were contacted at 1 week and 3 months to assess a variety of predetermined safety behaviors to prevent further IPV during that period. Descriptive analyses were performed to determine if stage of change at enrollment and a variety of specific sociodemographic characteristics were associated with taking protective action during follow‐up.

Results

A total of 1,474 women were screened for IPV; 154 (10.4%) disclosed IPV and completed the full survey. Approximately half (47.4%) of the IPV victims were in the precontemplation stage of change, and 50.0% were in the contemplation stage. A total of 110 women returned at 1 week of follow‐up (71.4%), and 63 (40.9%) women returned for the 3‐month follow‐up. Fifty‐five percent of those who returned at 1 week and 73% of those who returned at 3 months took protective action against further IPV. Stage of change at enrollment was not significantly associated with taking protective action during follow‐up. There was no association between demographic characteristics and taking protective action at 1 week or 3 months.

Conclusions

Emergency department–based kiosk screening and health information delivery is a feasible method of health information dissemination for women experiencing IPV and was associated with a high proportion of study participants taking protective action. Stage of change was not associated with actual IPV protective measures.
Indolizine Derivatives as HIV‐1 VIF–ElonginC Interaction Inhibitors
Authors: Huang Wenlin , Zuo Tao , Luo Xiao , Jin Hongwei , Liu Zhenming , Yang Zhenjun , Yu Xianghui , Zhang Liangren , Zhang Lihe
Published: February 2013

Compound 1 (VEC‐5) was identified as a potent small‐molecular HIV‐1 viron infectivity factor inhibitor that targets the viron infectivity factor–ElonginC interaction. A structure–activity relationship study was carried out to develop compounds with improved efficacy against HIV‐1 and 49 indolizine derivatives of three categories were designed and synthesized. We found that five compounds exhibited promising anti‐HIV‐1 activity, and the most active compound 2g had an IC50 value of 11.0 μm. These results provide new information to develop highly potent small‐molecule HIV‐1 viron infectivity factor inhibitors.
Low serum potassium level is associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and its related metabolic disorders
Authors: Sun Kan , Lu Jieli , Jiang Yiran , Xu Min , Xu Yu , Zhang Jie , Xu Baihui , Sun Jichao , Sun Wanwan , Ren Chenxi , Liu Jianmin , Wang Weiqing , Bi Yufang , Ning Guang
Published: February 2013

Context

Subjects with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) have a high risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Low serum potassium concentration or low dietary potassium intake can result in metabolic disorders.

Objective

Our objective was to evaluate the association between low serum potassium level and prevalence of NAFLD in a Chinese population.

Design

A population‐based cross‐sectional study.

Patients

We conducted a community‐based study in 8592 subjects to investigate the association of serum potassium with the risk of prevalent NAFLD. NAFLD was diagnosed by hepatic ultrasonography.

Results

The prevalence rate of NAFLD was 30·3% in this population and gradually decreased across serum potassium quartiles. With the reduction in serum potassium level, participants have larger waist circumference (WC) and more severe insulin resistance. The correlations hold also in multivariate linear regression analysis. In logistic regression analysis, compared with subjects in the highest quartile of serum potassium level, the adjusted odds ratios (ORs) in the lowest quartile was 1·33 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1·11–1·60] for NAFLD, 1·81 (95% CI, 1·49–2·19) for insulin resistance and 1·58 (95% CI, 1·30–1·93) for central obesity. In subgroup analysis after multiple adjustments, significant relation between serum potassium level and prevalent NAFLD was detected in women, younger subjects, those with insulin resistance and those with central obesity, respectively.

Conclusion

Low serum potassium level significantly associated with prevalence of NAFLD in middle‐aged and elderly Chinese.
A randomized placebo controlled trial of preoperative carbohydrate drinks and early postoperative nutritional supplement drinks in colorectal surgery
Authors: Lidder P. , Thomas S. , Fleming S. , Hosie K. , Shaw S. , Lewis S.
Published: February 2013

Aim

There is evidence that preoperative carbohydrate drinks and postoperative nutritional supplements improve the outcome of colorectal surgery. There is little information on their individual contribution.

Method

A prospective four‐arm double‐blind controlled trial was carried out in which patients were randomized to carbohydrate or placebo drinks preoperatively and a polymeric supplement or placebo drink postoperatively. The primary outcome was insulin resistance (using the short insulin tolerance test and HOMA‐IR). Secondary outcomes included handgrip strength, pulmonary function, intestinal permeability and postoperative complications.

Results

A total of 120 patients were randomized to four demographically well matched groups. Patients who received preoperative and postoperative supplements had better glucose homeostasis (P = 0.004), peak expiratory flow rate (P = 0.035), handgrip strength (P = 0.002) and less insulin resistance (P = 0.001) compared with those who only received placebo drinks.

Conclusion

Oral nutritional supplements given preoperatively and postoperatively improve postoperative handgrip strength, pulmonary function and insulin resistance. A weaker effect was seen in patients who received supplements either preoperatively or postoperatively. Oral nutritional supplements should be given both preoperatively and postoperatively.
Evaluation of long‐term function, complications, quality of life and health status after restorative proctocolectomy with ileo neo rectal and with ileal pouch anal anastomosis for ulcerative colitis
Authors: Heikens J. T. , de Vries J. , de Jong D. J. , den Oudsten B. L. , Hopman W. , Groenewoud J. M. M. , van der Kolk M. B. , Gooszen H. G. , van Laarhoven C. J. H. M.
Published: February 2013

Aim

Restorative surgery after (procto)colectomy with ileo‐neorectal anastomosis (INRA) or restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch anal anastomosis (RPC) combines cure of ulcerative colitis (UC) with restoration of intestinal continuity. This study aimed to evaluate these two operations.

Method

Patients having INRA and RPC were matched according to sex, age at onset of UC, age at restorative surgery and duration of follow‐up. Patients were included if they were over 18 years of age, had UC confirmed histopathologically and had undergone either operation. Long‐term function, anal and neorectal physiology, complications, quality of life (QoL) and health status (HS) were determined.

Results

Seventy‐one consecutive patients underwent surgery with the intention of having an INRA procedure. This was successfully carried out in 50, and 21 underwent intra‐operative conversion to RPC. Median defaecation frequency was 6/24 h. In 11/71 patients reservoir failure occurred and 13/71 developed pouchitis. QoL and HS were comparable to the healthy population. Median follow‐up was 6.2 years. These patients were matched with 71 patients who underwent RPC. RPC was successful in all patients. Median defaecation frequency was 8/24 h. Failure occurred in 7/71 patients and 13/71 developed pouchitis. QoL and HS were comparable with the healthy population. Median follow‐up was 6.9 years.

Conclusion

Comparison of INRA and RPC on an intention to treat basis was not considered to be realistic due to the high intra‐operative conversion rate and the failures in the INRA group. RPC remains the procedure of choice for restoring intestinal continuity after proctocolectomy for UC.
Post anterior rectal resection syndrome – a retrospective multicentre study
Authors: Ziv Y. , Gimelfarb Y. , Igov I.
Published: February 2013

Aim

The long‐term effects of surgical and non‐surgical factors on increased stool frequency and incontinence following anterior resection have been variably reported. We investigated the effects of surgical characteristics on symptoms at 1 month and more than 1 year postoperatively following anterior resection of the rectum.

Method

In this retrospective study of patients who underwent anterior resection of the rectum during 2002–2006, patients were interviewed regarding symptoms at 1 month and more than 1 year postoperatively. Anterior resection of the rectum syndrome (ARRS) is more simply defined as incontinence and/or frequent bowel movements after surgery and graded as severe, moderate or mild.

Results

Of the 165 patients who underwent anterior resection for rectal cancer during the study period, 106 were included in the analysis. The median follow‐up period was 3.4 years (range 13–72 months). ARRS had a high prevalence 1 month postoperatively (55.6%) but abated in over half the cases at 1 year postoperatively. The likelihood of development of early but not late ARRS was associated with the anastomotic level suggesting adaptation. ARRS and continence were unaffected by total mesorectal excision, the use of adjuvant radiation or chemotherapy, patient age or disease stage.

Conclusion

The level of anastomosis in anterior resection of the rectum had a significant effect on the prevalence of ARRS using a new simpler definition 1 month after surgery but not 1 year or more postoperatively. Further data on neorectal reservoir reconstruction using the simpler ARRS definition are required.
Isolation of bovine corneal keratan sulfate and its growth factor and morphogen binding
Authors: Weyers Amanda , Yang Bo , Solakyildirim Kemal , Yee Vienna , Li Lingyun , Zhang Fuming , Linhardt Robert J.
Published: February 2013

Keratan sulfate (KS) is an important glycosaminoglycan that is found in cartilage, reproductive tissues, and neural tissues. Corneal KS glycosaminoglycan is found N‐linked to lumican, keratocan and mimecan proteoglycans, and has been widely studied by investigators interested in corneal development and diseases. Recently, the availability of corneal KS has become severely limited, owing to restrictions on the shipment of bovine central nervous system byproducts across international borders in an effort to prevent additional cases of mad cow disease. We report a simple method for the purification of multi‐milligram quantities of bovine corneal KS, and characterize its structural properties. We also examined its protein‐binding properties, and discovered that corneal KS bound with high affinity to fibroblast growth factor‐2 and sonic hedgehog, a growth factor and a morphogen involved in corneal development and healing.
Rangeland management in highly variable environments: Resource variations across the landscape mediate the impact of grazing on vegetation in Mongolia
Authors: Kakinuma Kaoru , Okayasu Tomoo , Sasaki Takehiro , Jamsaran Undarmaa , Okuro Toshiya , Takeuchi Kazuhiko
Published: February 2013

Assessment of grazing‐induced degradation of arid and semiarid rangelands with stochastic rainfall regimes is challenging. To assess grazing impacts on vegetation under highly variable environments, we focused on resource variations in relation to the scale of local rangeland use. Specifically, we tested the hypothesis that grazing impacts on resources were greater in areas heavily used during drought (i.e. key resource areas) than elsewhere. Near Mandalgobi, Mongolia, we established study sites in four typical vegetation communities (Caragana, Allium, Achnatherum and Reaumuria) according to landscape type. First, we interviewed key informants about the four community types to examine how local pastoralists used these communities during normal and drought summers. Second, we compared dung pellets numbers among communities to quantify the different grazing impacts on each community. Finally, to determine grazing impacts on vegetation in each community, we performed vegetation surveys in grazing and non‐grazing plots at each site. According to respondents, during normal summers all types of community were used, but during drought, the main community used was Achnatherum community. The number of dung pellets was highest in the Achnatherum community. Species composition was significantly more affected by grazing in the Achnatherum and Reaumuria community than in the other communities. These results suggested that the Achnathrum community would have a role of key resource in study sites and grazing impacts affected key resource areas. If rangeland management is focused only on maintaining resource accessibility, then grazing‐induced degradation of key resource areas could occur even on highly variable rangelands.
Thunderclap Headaches: A Focus on Etiology and Diagnostic Evaluation
Authors: Schwedt Todd J.
Published: February 2013

“Thunderclap headaches” are severe intensity headaches that reach maximum intensity in less than 1 minute. There are numerous etiologies of thunderclap headache, some associated with substantial morbidity and mortality and others with benign outcomes. Evaluation of the patient with thunderclap headache must occur urgently in order to assess for dangerous etiologies such as subarachnoid hemorrhage. When a cause for thunderclap headache is not identified after initial testing that includes brain computed tomography and cerebrospinal fluid evaluation, additional testing is typically indicated to determine the etiology. “Primary thunderclap headache” is diagnosed when a complete evaluation fails to identify a specific cause for thunderclap headache.
Intracranial Hypotension Caused by Anterior Cervical CSF Alleviated by an Epidural Blood Patch
Authors: Gulur Padma , Buonanno Ferdinando S.
Published: February 2013

We present a case in which a thoracocervical epidural blood patch was used to treat an anteriorly situated cerebrospinal fluid leak following 2 failed blood patches in the lumbar region. The challenge in identifying the source of the leak, deteriorating health of the patient, and risks from the procedure, contributes to the uniqueness of this case.
A polymorphism in randomly amplified DNA that differentiates the Y chromosomes of Bos indicus and Bos taurus
Authors: Teale A J , Wambugu J , Gwakisa P S , Stranzinger G , Bradley D , Kemp S J
Published: February 2013

A small number of west African Bos taurus cattle breeds, including the N'Dama, constitute a valuable genetic resource by virtue of their ability to remain productive under trypanosomiasis challenge. However, introgression of Bos indicus genes into the trypanotolerant breeds, particularly by introduction of zebu bulls, is a threat to this resource. This work describes the characterization and cloning of a bovine randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) that is generated in polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with the 10 base primer ILO1065 from Bos indicus male templates, but not from B. taurus male templates or female templates of either type. Male‐specific sequences with homology to the RAPD also occur in B. taurus breeds. This suggests that the polymorphism may be due to base substitution(s) in an ILO1065 priming site, or insertion/deletion events either affecting priming sites or occurring between sites on the cattle Y chromosome. We have shown that cattle, whether of B. indicus or B. taurus phenotype, which possess a typically B. indicus metaphase Y chromosome on the basis of QFQ banding, have a B. indicus ILO1065‐generated genotype. The ILO1065‐primed RAPD can be used in a simple dot blot assay as a probe of RAPD‐PCR products, to provide a convenient, reliable and effective means of detecting introgression of zebu genes in B. taurus cattle populations.
Wave Packet Defocusing Due to a Highly Disordered Bathymetry
Authors: Luz Ana Maria , Nachbin André
Published: February 2013

Slowly modulated water waves are considered in the presence of a strongly disordered bathymetry. Previous work is extended to the case where the random bottom irregularities are not smooth and are allowed to be of large amplitude. Through the combination of a conformal mapping and a multiple‐scales asymptotic analysis it is shown that large variations of a disordered bathymetry can affect the nonlinearity coefficient of the resulting damped nonlinear Schrödinger equations. In particular it is shown that as the bathymetry fluctuation level increases the critical point (separating the focusing from the defocusing region) moves to the right, hence enlarging the region where the dynamics is of a defocusing character.