bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complex interactions between the wind and ballistic seed dispersal in Impatiens glandulifera (Royle)
Authors: Chapman Daniel S. , Gray Alan
Published: April 2012

1. A mechanistic understanding of seed dispersal is important for understanding and predicting dispersal patterns and spatial population dynamics. We analysed a mechanistic model for the ballistic dispersal of the widespread invasive plant Impatiens glandulifera. The model deterministically simulates individual seed trajectories, including the interaction between seeds and atmospheric winds. It is fully specified using independently measured plant traits and wind velocities.

2. To parameterise the model, we conducted field surveys and analysed high‐speed video footage of seed release. We explicitly incorporated intraspecific variation in key biological parameters (seed size and mass, release height, velocity and direction), as well as variation in wind velocities. This parameter variation introduces process‐based stochasticity to the deterministic model, allowing the derivation of population‐level dispersal kernels.

3. Analysis of the parameterised model showed complex interactions between plant dispersal parameters and wind conditions. For example, the optimal seed launch angle in still wind is 32° above horizontal, but this rises in stronger tailwinds. In a headwind, it can be optimal to either launch the seed straight upwards or slightly below the horizontal. Headwinds also blow projected seeds back towards the source, initially decreasing but then increasing net dispersal distance, which can reverse the positive effect of seed release height on dispersal distance.

4. To validate the model, we performed a field experiment in which seeds were trapped up to 6 m from potted I. glandulifera plants. Seed dispersal was biased in the direction of the prevailing wind, which was only reproduced by simulations of the model that included the wind modification of ballistic trajectories. The correspondence between the model and the data was good (R2 = 0.882), but improved if seed release was biased to occur in more windy conditions (R2 = 0.945) as might occur through mechanical disturbance to the seed pods.

5. Synthesis. Our validated model provides a functional understanding of seed dispersal in I. glandulifera. The model reveals surprisingly complex interactions between the ballistic dispersal mechanism and the wind and shows how population‐level dispersal patterns emerge from intraspecific variation in dispersal traits.
Demographic fate of Arabidopsis thaliana cohorts of autumn‐ and spring‐germinated plants along an altitudinal gradient
Authors: Picó F. Xavier
Published: April 2012

1. Understanding how plants respond and adapt to varying environmental conditions has attracted the attention of plant ecologists for decades. To study this process, altitudinal gradients are used because of their inherent variation in environmental conditions. In the current scenario of global warming, altitudinal gradients may also represent a valuable resource to deepen our understanding about plant adaptive responses to predicted changes in environmental conditions.

2. Nowadays, the study of adaptive variation demands equal contributions from ecology and genetics. We need to assess the effects of selective pressures on phenotypic variation but also the genetic and molecular basis of phenotypic traits. The annual plant Arabidopsis thaliana represents a useful model system for investigating adaptive variation. Here, I characterized patterns of life cycle variation in natural A. thaliana populations along an altitudinal gradient to unravel how the species copes with different environmental conditions.

3. I periodically monitored thousands of plants from eight populations in NE Spain over 5 years (2007–2011) to estimate survival and fecundity schedules for autumn‐ and spring‐germinated plants. Data were used to estimate net reproductive rate for each life cycle type. Data were regressed against altitude to detect altitudinal climatic clines for life cycle variation.

4. Survival of spring‐germinated A. thaliana plants was significantly higher than that of winter‐germinated plants. Plants from both cohorts exhibited similar fecundity values. The net reproductive rate of spring‐germinated plants was fourfold higher than that of autumn‐germinated plants. The proportion of spring‐germinated plants increased significantly with altitude.

5. Synthesis. Arabidopsis thaliana can behave as a winter or spring annual plant. Nevertheless, the spring annual life cycle is clearly relevant to maintain A. thaliana populations, particularly at high‐elevation locations. It is suggested that germination timing represents one of the most relevant traits to focus our efforts to understand adaptive variation in A. thaliana. The results illustrate the potential of annual plants to adjust their life cycles to varying environmental conditions encountered along a climatic gradient, which could mitigate the effects of global warming on annual plant populations.
Large hepatitis delta antigen activates STAT‐3 and NF‐κB via oxidative stress
Authors: Williams V. , Brichler S. , Khan E. , Chami M. , Dény P. , Kremsdorf D. , Gordien E.
Published: April 2012

Summary.  Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) coinfection or superinfection in hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐infected patients results in a more aggressive liver disease, with more often fulminant forms and more rapid progression to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The mechanism(s) for this pejorative evolution remains unclear. To explore a specific HDV pathogenesis, we used a model of transient transfection of plasmids expressing the small (sHDAg or p24) or the large (LHDAg or p27) delta antigen in hepatocyte cell lines. We found that the production of reactive oxygen species was significantly higher in cells expressing p27. Consequently, p27 activated the signal transducer and activator of transcription‐3 (STAT‐3) and the nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) via the oxidative stress pathway. Moreover in the presence of antioxidants (PDTC, NAC) or calcium inhibitors (TMB‐8, BAPTA‐AM, Ruthenium Red), p27‐induced activation of STAT‐3 and NF‐κB was dramatically reduced. Similarly, using a mutated form of p27, where the cysteine 211‐isoprenylation residue was replaced by a serine, a significant reduction of STAT‐3 and NF‐κB activation was seen, suggesting the involvement of isoprenylation in this process. Additionally, we show that p27 is able to induce oxidative stress through activation of NADPH oxidase‐4. These results provide insight into the mechanisms by which p27 can alter intracellular events relevant to HDV‐related liver pathogenesis.
Health‐related quality of life in subjects with HCV/HIV coinfection: results from ACTG 5178 study
Authors: Kemmer N. , Hua L. , Andersen J. W. , Chung R. T. , Butt A. A. , Sherman K. E. ,   for the ACTG 5178 Study Team
Published: April 2012

Summary.  Although health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) is diminished in HCV/HIV, the relationship between virologic response and maintenance therapy with HRQOL in this population is unknown. ACTG 5178 was a phase 2, randomized trial, with three steps – Step 1: all subjects received pegylated interferon (PEG‐IFN)/ribavirin (P/R) for 12 weeks. Step 2: subjects who failed to achieve early viral response (EVR) were randomized to PEG‐IFN or observational control for an additional 72 weeks. Step 3: subjects with EVR from step 1 continued on P/R for a total of 72 weeks with 24 weeks follow‐up off‐therapy. HRQOL, symptom distress and depression levels were measured at multiple time points. In step 1 (n = 329), there was a significant decline in HRQOL in all dimensions. In step 3 (n = 169), the overall HRQOL and three of its eight dimensions (general health, role function and pain score) were increased, and achievement of sustained virologic response was associated with increased general health and cognitive function. In step 2 (n = 85), there was no significant change in HRQOL and no significant difference between groups (PEG‐IFN vs observational control). There was a significant decline in HRQOL during the initial 12 weeks of therapy. Thereafter, the HRQOL profile differed for subjects with EVR vs without EVR. Maintenance therapy with PEG‐IFN had no impact on the HRQOL.
Microbiome analysis among bats describes influences of host phylogeny, life history, physiology and geography
Authors: PHILLIPS CALEB D. , PHELAN GEORGINA , DOWD SCOT E. , McDONOUGH MOLLY M. , FERGUSON ADAM W. , DELTON HANSON J. , SILES LIZETTE , ORDÓÑEZ‐GARZA NICTÉ , SAN FRANCISCO MICHAEL , BAKER ROBERT J.
Published: April 2012

Metagenomic methods provide an experimental approach to inform the relationships between hosts and their microbial inhabitants. Previous studies have provided the conceptual realization that microbiomes are dynamic among hosts and the intimacy of relation between micro‐ and macroorganisms. Here, we present an intestinal microflora community analysis for members of the order Chiroptera and investigate the relative influence of variables in shaping observed microbiome relationships. The variables ranged from those considered to have ancient and long‐term influences (host phylogeny and life history) to the relatively transient variable of host reproductive condition. In addition, collection locality data, representing the geographic variable, were included in analyses. Results indicate a complex influence of variables in shaping sample relationships in which signal for host phylogeny is recovered at broad taxonomic levels (family), whereas intrafamilial analyses disclosed various degrees of resolution for the remaining variables. Although cumulative probabilities of assignment indicated both reproductive condition and geography influenced relationships, comparison of ecological measures among groups revealed statistical differences between most variable classifications. For example, ranked ecological diversity was associated with host phylogeny (deeper coalescences among families were associated with more microfloral diversity), dietary strategy (herbivory generally retained higher diversity than carnivory) and reproductive condition (reproductively active females displayed more diverse microflora than nonreproductive conditions). Overall, the results of this study describe a complex process shaping microflora communities of wildlife species as well as provide avenues for future research that will further inform the nature of symbiosis between microflora communities and hosts.
Gastroesophageal and laryngopharyngeal reflux profiles in patients with obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome as determined by combined multichannel intraluminal impedance–pH monitoring
Authors: Xiao Y.‐L. , Liu F.‐Q. , Li J. , Lv J.‐T. , Lin J.‐K. , Wen W.‐P. , Chen M.‐H.
Published: April 2012

Background  The profiles of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) in patients with obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) have never been explored. The aim of the study was to investigate the reflux profile in OSAHS patients.

Methods  Consecutive snoring out‐patients suspected with having OSAHS and 20 healthy volunteers were included. All subjects underwent simultaneous 24‐h combined multichannel intraluminal impedance–pH (MII–pH) monitoring and polysomnography. Obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome was defined when the apnea/hypopnea index was over 5. Stepwise multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the predictor for OSAHS.

Key Results  Fifty‐three patients were included, 37 with and 16 without OSAHS. The prevalence of reflux symptoms was similar between OSAHS (35.1%) and non‐OSHAS (37.5%) patients. More OSAHS patients, compared with non‐OSAHS patients and healthy volunteers, had pathologic acid GER, nocturnal acid GER, and prolonged acid clearance (P < 0.001). However, no difference in non‐acid reflux episodes was observed among the three groups. Laryngopharyngeal reflux was detected in 51.4%, 43.8%, and 35.0% of OSAHS, non‐OSAHS, and healthy volunteers, respectively (P = 0.034). In OSAHS patients, there was no difference in the sleep parameters between patients with and without LPR. Body mass index was the only predictor of OSAHS in the regression analysis.

Conclusions & Inferences  OSAHS patients have more pathologic acid GER and prolonged acid clearance than non‐OSAHS patients whereas non‐acid reflux was similar between the two groups. However, BMI, not GER, is the only independent predictor for OSAHS. Laryngopharyngeal reflux occurs in more than half of OSAHS patients despite no significant association with OSAHS.
The indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase (IDO) pathway controls allergy
Authors: von Bubnoff D. , Bieber T.
Published: April 2012

A series of recent studies have demonstrated that the immunoregulatory pathway of tryptophan catabolism, initiated by the enzyme indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase (IDO), is a critical participant in allergic inflammation. Originally known for its regulatory function during pregnancy and during chronic inflammation in tumorigenesis and infection, the activity of IDO seems to positively modify the inflammatory state of atopy or allergy. The tryptophan degradation pathway is important for tolerance induction during systemic allergen immunotherapy. Here, we focus on recent findings that establish the IDO pathway as central to allergic inflammation.
Organ donor screening using parallel nucleic acid testing allows assessment of transmission risk and assay results in real time
Authors: Baleriola C. , Tu E. , Johal H. , Gillis J. , Ison M.G. , Law M. , Coghlan P. , Rawlinson W.D.
Published: April 2012

Expansion of the donor pool may lead to utilization of donors with risk factors for viral infections. Donor laboratory screening relies on serological and nucleic acid testing (NAT). The increased sensitivity of NAT in low prevalence populations may result in false‐positive results (FPR) and may cause unnecessary discard of organs.We developed a screening algorithm to deal, in real time, with potential FPR. Three NAT assays: COBAS AmpliScreen assay (CAS), AmpliPrep Total Nucleic Acid Isolation/CAS, and AmpliPrep/TaqMan assays, were validated and used in parallel for prospective screening of increased‐risk donors (IRD), and the probability of FPR was calculated. The lower limit of detection of this algorithm was 9.79, 21.02, and 4.31 IU/mL for human immunodeficiency virus‐1, hepatitis C virus, and hepatitis B virus, respectively, with an average turn‐around‐time of 7.67 h from sample receipt to result reporting. The probability that a donor is potentially infectious with two NAT concordant results was >90%. NAT screening of 35 IRD within 18 months resulted in transplantation of 102 additional organs that without screening would either not be used or used with restrictions in Australia. Using a parallel testing algorithm, real‐time confirmation of seropositive donors allows use of organs from IRD and safer expansion of the donor pool.
Diagnostik von Aspergillusinfektionen in der Hämatologie und Onkologie
Authors: Aigner Maria , Mutschlechner Wolfgang , Lass‐Flörl Cornelia
Published: April 2012

Die histopathologische/mikroskopische Untersuchung sowie die Kultur insbesondere von Untersuchungsmaterial aus sterilen Körperregionen wie CT‐gesteuerten Biopsien und BAL stellen die Basis in der Pilzdiagnostik dar. Sind invasive Techniken aufgrund des kritischen Zustandes des Patienten nicht durchführbar oder besteht bei negativem Ergebnis ein anhaltender Verdacht auf eine invasive Pilzerkrankung, stehen ergänzend serologische Methoden wie der Galactomannan‐ und der β‐D‐Glucan‐Test sowie die PCR zur Verfügung. Ergebnisse indirekter Nachweisverfahren sollten stets kritisch hinterfragt und in Zusammenschau mit radiologischem und klinischem Erscheinungsbild interpretiert werden. Beim Galactomannan‐Test ist aufgrund der unterschiedlichen Sensitivitäten und der Möglichkeit falsch‐positiver Befunde unter Antibiotikatherapie auf die Auswahl des Patientenkollektives zu achten. Die PCR ist nach wie vor nicht standardisiert, eine Unterscheidung zwischen Kontamination, Kolonisation und Infektion ist bei isoliert positivem Befund nicht möglich.
Bildgebende Diagnostikverfahren und Therapieoptionen bei zerebralen Aspergillosen
Authors: Schwartz Stefan
Published: April 2012

Zerebrale Infektionen mit Aspergillus‐Spezies zeigten in der Vergangenheit eine ausgesprochen ungünstige Prognose mit einer Letalität von nahezu 100 %. Um die Diagnose einer zerebralen Aspergillose zweifelsfrei zu belegen, ist meist eine Hirnbiopsie erforderlich. Weiterentwickelte Diagnostikverfahren, insbesondere die Magnetresonanztomografie mit Diffusionswichtung und der Nachweis von Aspergillus‐spezifischer DNS mittels PCR, haben in den letzten Jahren die Qualität der indirekten Diagnostik wesentlich verbessert. Ein wesentlicher Grund für die sehr ungünstige Prognose der zerebralen Aspergillose in der Vergangenheit dürfte die nur unzureichende Penetration der meisten verfügbaren Antimykotika gewesen sein. Im Gegensatz zu Amphotericin B, den Echinocandinen und den Azolen Itraconazol und Posaconazol weist Voriconazol bei einem sehr geringen Molekulargewicht eine vergleichsweise sehr gute ZNS‐Penetration auf. In der bisher umfangreichsten Studie zur zerebralen Aspergillose führte eine Therapie mit Voriconazol bei 81 Patienten zu einer Ansprechrate von 35 % und einer Überlebensrate von 31 %. Zusätzliche neurochirurgische Interventionen waren in dieser Studie sowie in einer erweiterten Analyse von 120 Patienten mit einer signifikant besseren Überlebenswahrscheinlichkeit assoziiert. Aufgrund der Vielzahl der unterschiedlichen neurochirurgischen Eingriffe ist derzeit jedoch unklar, welches Verfahren für welche klinische Situation am besten geeignet ist.
β‐Lactam pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in critically ill patients and strategies for dose optimization: A structured review
Authors: Sinnollareddy Mahipal G , Roberts Michael S , Lipman Jeffrey , Roberts Jason A
Published: April 2012

Infections and related sepsis are two of the most prevalent issues in the care of critically ill patients, with mortality as high as 70%. Appropriate antibiotic selection, as well as adequate dosing, is important to improve the clinical outcome for these patients.

β‐Lactams are the most common antibiotic class used in critically ill sepsis patients because of their broad spectrum of activity and high tolerability. β‐Lactams exhibit time‐dependent antibacterial activity. Therefore, concentrations need to be maintained above the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of pathogenic bacteria. β‐Lactams are hydrophilic antibiotics with small distribution volumes similar to extracellular water and are predominantly excreted through the renal system.

Critically ill patients experience a myriad of physiological changes that result in changes in the pharmacokinetics (PK) of hydrophilic drugs such as β‐lactams. A different approach to dosing with β‐lactams may increase the likelihood of positive outcomes considering the pharmacodynamics (PD) of β‐lactams, as well as the changes in PK in critically ill patients.

The present review describes the strategies for dose optimization of β‐lactams in critically ill patients in line with the PK and PD of these drugs.
Regulation of oxidative stress in long‐lived lipopolysaccharide‐activated microglia
Authors: Kaneko Yoko S , Ota Akira , Nakashima Akira , Mori Keiji , Nagatsu Ikuko , Nagatsu Toshiharu
Published: April 2012

Previously, we reported that an optimal dose of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) markedly extends the life span of mouse primary‐cultured microglia by suppressing apoptotic and autophagic cell death pathways. The aim of the present study was to assess how these cells protect themselves against reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by LPS treatment.

The study was conducted in microglia obtained from murine neonate brain, which are destined to die within a few days under ordinary culture conditions.

The generation of ROS was maximal after 15 h LPS treatment (1 ng/mL LPS and 100 ng/mL LPS). The expression of inducible nitric oxide (NO) synthase protein was significantly increased by Day 1 of LPS treatment and was followed by the production of NO. The expression of either Cu/Zn‐ or Mn‐superoxide dismutase protein (SOD) was also increased by 16 h and Day 1 of LPS treatment. LPS did not affect the expression of Cu/Zn‐ and Mn‐SOD proteins, nor did it extend the life span of microglia that had mutated Toll‐like receptor (TLR) 4.

The findings of the present study suggest that SODs function as a potent barrier to overcome ROS generated in primary‐cultured microglia following LPS treatment and that TLR4 may be significantly involved in inducing these proteins. The microglia may be able to protect themselves against oxidative stress, allowing them to live for more than 1 month. Because long‐lived microglia may play a critical role in the exacerbation of neurodegeneration, bringing activated microglia back to their resting stage could be a new and promising strategy to inhibit the deterioration underlying neurodegenerative disorders.
Detection of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in the microbial flora from the conjunctiva of healthy donkeys from Sicily (Italy)
Authors: Foti Maria , Fisichella Vittorio , Giacopello Cristina
Published: April 2012

Objective  To describe the bacterial flora present in the normal conjunctiva of donkeys from Sicily (Italy).

Animals studied  A total of 46 healthy donkeys housed in 3 locations within the territory of Palermo (Sicily, Italy) were studied. Donkeys ranged from 2 to 13 years of age, with a median age of 6 years.

Procedures  Forty‐six conjunctival swabs were obtained from both eyes of each animal, and specimens were cultured for aerobic bacteria. Furthermore, the antimicrobial activity of methicillin (1 μg) and oxacillin (5 μg) on Staphylococcus spp. isolates was evaluated, and a specific PCR assay, which allows the detection of mecA gene specific for methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains, was performed.

Results  Forty of 46 (86.9%) donkeys were positive for bacteria. Eighty bacterial isolates, representing 9 bacteria genera, were successfully cultured. The most frequently recovered bacterial genus was Staphylococcus (52/80 isolates; 65%). Several strains (20/80 isolates; 25%) belonging to the Enterobacteriaceae family were also isolated, among which the most frequently isolated genus was Enterobacter (eight isolates). Of the 52 Staphylococcus spp. isolates, 14 (26.9%) strains were oxacillin/methicillin resistant. The mecA gene was detected in 6/52 (11.5%) strains.

Conclusions  This study contributes to the knowledge about normal ocular flora and MRSA occurrence in donkey farms in Sicily.
Do we need to obtain consent for penile shortening as a complication of treatment for organ‐confined prostate cancer?
Authors: Eylert Maike F. , Bahl Amit , Persad Raj
Published: April 2012

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Penile shortening after total prostatectomy has been consistently reported, but most studies are small. BAUS has incorporated penile shortening into their patient information leaflets, but claims it is attributable to an anatomical alteration alone. No other organization even mentions penile shortening in their advice.

Our study shows that a true, and at least partially reversible, penile shortening occurs in a significant proportion of patients after total prostatectomy. The cause of the shortening is largely physiological and interlinked with the processes leading to erectile dysfunction.

OBJECTIVE

To establish an evidence base to guide consenting for treatment of organ‐confined prostate cancer with regard to penile shortening.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed literature searches using the EMBASE, MEDLINE, AHMED and PsycINFO databases up to October 2011, looking for articles relating to surgical treatment of prostate cancer and penile shortening and articles relating to radiotherapy for prostate cancer and penile shortening. We also looked at further references in the papers identified.

RESULTS

We found 16 original papers and three review articles with measurements of penile shortening after total prostatectomy (TP).

Penile shortening was generally considered in conjunction with erectile dysfunction (ED).

Three further articles address psychological and consent issues.

We found two articles regarding penile shortening after radiotherapy for prostate cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

There is no doubt that TP leads to penile shortening in some patients, but the mechanism remains debatable.

Given current evidence, it is likely that several factors contribute and early penile rehabilitation for ED, by any method, appears to positively influence the changes leading to penile shortening.

We advise explicit mentioning of penile shortening in the consent process for TP and potentially also for radiotherapy for prostate cancer. We also advise early penile rehabilitation to improve the patient's own body image and, in turn, quality of life, even in patients who do not seek treatment specifically for ED. The choice of treatment method should be left to the patient.
Evaluation of online training for the provision of opioid substitution treatment by community pharmacists in New Zealand
Authors: WALTERS CARINA , RAYMONT ANTONY , GALEA SUSANNA , WHEELER AMANDA
Published: April 2012

Introduction and Aims. The role of community pharmacists in the provision of opioid substitution treatment (OST) is pivotal and integral to addiction treatment. An online training program for pharmacists in OST management was piloted in New Zealand in 2010, following recognition of the difficulty in recruitment and retention of community pharmacists to provide OST services. Our aim was to evaluate the OST online training that was made available for any community pharmacist in New Zealand and to establish the feasibility and acceptability of this format of training for community pharmacists. The evaluation explored participants' attitudes, skills and knowledge both pre‐ and post‐training in OST.

Design and Methods. All pharmacists registering to participate in the training program were asked to complete an evaluation questionnaire immediately before (pre) and immediately after (post) completing the training. Participants were also invited to participate in a brief 10 min structured telephone interview about their training experience.

Results. In the first 4 months 190 pharmacists commenced the training; 101 completed both evaluations. Improvements in the confidence and skills of pharmacists were demonstrated through both the quantitative and qualitative analyses. Statistically significant changes in attitudes were also demonstrated. Overall the OST training was well received and the online format was feasible and highly acceptable.

Discussion and Conclusion. Online training is an appropriate and economical method of improving pharmacists' clinical skills with respect to this client group, and has the potential to reach a wider audience of pharmacists. Further research is required to investigate OST client experiences in community pharmacy.[Walters C, Raymont A, Galea S, Wheeler A. Evaluation of online training for the provision of opioid substitution treatment by community pharmacists in New Zealand. Drug Alcohol Rev 2012;31:903–910]
Use of MRI and CT for fat imaging in children and youth: what have we learned about obesity, fat distribution and metabolic disease risk?
Authors: Samara A. , Ventura E. E. , Alfadda A. A. , Goran M. I.
Published: April 2012

Childhood obesity is a matter of great concern for public health. Efforts have been made to understand its impact on health through advanced imaging techniques. An increasing number of studies focus on fat distribution and its associations with metabolic risk, in interaction with genetics, environment and ethnicity, in children. The present review is a qualitative synthesis of the existing literature on visceral and subcutaneous abdominal, intrahepatic and intramuscular fat. Our search revealed 80 original articles. Abdominal as well as ectopic fat depots are prevalent already in childhood and contribute to abnormal metabolic parameters, starting early in life. Visceral, hepatic and intramuscular fat seem to be interrelated but their patterns as well as their independent contribution on metabolic risk are not clear. Some ethnic‐specific characteristics are also prevalent. These results encourage further research in childhood obesity by using imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography. These imaging methods can provide a better understanding of fat distribution and its relationships with metabolic risk, compared to less detailed fat and obesity assessment. However, studies on bigger samples and with a prospective character are warranted.
The Home Insulation Program: An Example of Australian Government Failure
Authors: Kortt Michael A. , Dollery Brian
Published: April 2012

The public concern surrounding the Australian Government Home Insulation Program (HIP) continues despite the abrupt termination of the program in the light of its deleterious safety consequences and fiscally wasteful management. This enduring unease has been reflected in a variety of official inquiries and reports including the Hawke Review (2010), an inquiry by the Senate Environment, Communications and the Arts References Committee (2010), a performance audit by the Commonwealth Auditor‐General (2010) and two Departmental annual reports (DCCEE 2010; DEWHA 2010). Taking into account this body of evidence, we argue that the HIP represents an example of government failure, which, in turn, led to a range of unintended ‘human costs’ including the tragic deaths of four young installation workers. Moreover it is also argued that, in future, programs like the HIP are best administered by state/territory and local governments which are often best placed to deliver ‘on the ground’ services.
PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT USING ADAPTIVE LEARNING ITINERARIES
Authors: Vazquez Jose Manuel Marquez , Gonzalez‐Abril Luis , Morente Francisco Velasco , Ramirez Juan Antonio Ortega
Published: April 2012

In this paper, Bayesian‐Networks (BN) and Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) techniques are combined to find the best path through a graph representing all available itineraries to acquire a professional competence. The combination of these methods allows us to design a dynamic learning path, useful in a rapidly changing world. One of the most important advances in this work is that the amount of pheromones released is variable. This amount is calculated by taking into account the results acquired in the last completed course in relation to the minimum score required.

By using ACO and BN, a fitness function, responsible of automatically selecting the next course in the learning graph, is defined. This is done by generating a path that maximizes the probability of each user's success in the course. Therefore, the path can change to improve learners’ average performance, taking into account the pedagogical weight of each learning unit and the social behavior of the system. Furthermore, a discrete dynamical system is obtained and its stability is studied. How to wrap an existing Learning Management System is also described in this work. Finally, an experiment compares this approach with the old on‐line learning system being used previously.
TALKING THE WALK AND WALKING THE TALK: Stanley Hauerwas's Contribution to Theological Ethics
Authors: Werpehowski William
Published: April 2012

Stanley Hauerwas's contribution to the study of Christian ethics is analyzed in the course of offering an overview of his work, including (1) his early reflections on “vision,”“narrative,” and moral agency; (2) his continuing focus on Christian virtues and practices in contrast to the ethos of moral and political liberalism; and (3) his specific attention to the meaning of peaceableness and the rejection of violence. The essay concludes by considering Hauerwas's legacy as a postliberal theologian, a critical participant in American Protestant ethics, and a conversation partner with Roman Catholics.
EVERYONE AT THE TABLE: Religious Activism and Health Care Reform in Massachusetts
Authors: Craig David M.
Published: April 2012

Using interviews with activists and Lisa Sowle Cahill's concept of participatory discourse, this article examines how the Greater Boston Interfaith Organization (GBIO) built solidarity for the 2006 Massachusetts health care reform law. The analysis explores the morally formative connections between GBIO's activist strategies and its public liturgy for reform. The solidarity generated through this interfaith coalition's activities and religious arguments contrasts with two standard types of policy discourse, economics and liberalism. Arguments for health care reform based on economic efficiency or positive rights are hampered by the lack of solidarity in U.S. political culture. GBIO's congregation‐based organizing offers a performative model of public argumentation for religious groups committed to achieving affordable, quality health care for all Americans.
The bidirectional relationship between headache and chronic musculoskeletal complaints: an 11‐year follow‐up in the Nord‐Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT)
Authors: Hagen K. , Linde M. , Steiner T. J. , Zwart J.‐A. , Stovner L. J.
Published: April 2012

Background and purpose

Chronic daily headache (CDH) and chronic musculoskeletal complaints (CMSCs) are associated disorders, but whether there is a causal relationship between them is unclear.

Objective

To determine whether CMSCs are associated with the subsequent development of CDH and vice versa.

Methods

This longitudinal population‐based cohort study used data from two consecutive surveys in the Nord‐Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT 2 and 3) performed in 1995–1997 and 2006–2008. Amongst the 51 383 participants aged ≥ 20 years at baseline, 41 766 were eligible approximately 11 years later. Of these, 26 197 (63%) completed the questions regarding headache and CMSCs in HUNT 3.

Results

A bidirectional relationship was found between headache and CMSCs. In the multivariate analyses adjusting for known potential confounders, a nearly two fold risk (OR 1.8; 95% CI 1.5–2.3) for developing CDH was found for those with CMSCs at baseline. Vice versa, a similarly elevated risk of CMSCs (OR 1.8; 95% CI 1.2–2.6), and even higher risk of chronic widespread MSCs (OR 2.7; 95% CI 1.6–4.7), was found at follow‐up amongst those with CDH at baseline.

Conclusion

CMSCs predispose to CDH and CDH predisposes to CMSCs 11 years later. This may have relevance to understanding the pathophysiology of these disorders. CMSCs should be treated not only to relieve them but also to prevent the development of CDH, and vice versa.
Increased incidence of Guillain–Barré syndrome after surgery
Authors: Gensicke H. , Datta A. N. , Dill P. , Schindler C. , Fischer D.
Published: April 2012

Background and purpose

Antecedent surgery has been described to trigger Guillain/x96Barré syndrome (GBS), but its evidence is poor and based on case reports only.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of 63 patients with GBS admitted to the University Hospital Basel and University Children's Hospital Basel from January 2005 to December 2010. We calculated and compared the incidences of post‐surgical and non‐exposed patients with GBS in the study population and those reported previously in literature.

Results

Six of 63 (9.5%) GBS cases had had a surgery within 6 weeks prior to GBS. The relative risk of developing GBS during the 6‐week period after surgery is 13.1 times higher than the normal incidence in the study population (95% confidence interval: 5.68, 30.3; P ≤ 0.0001), suggesting an attributable risk of 4.1 cases per 100 000 surgeries. In addition, the incidence of post‐surgical GBS is significantly higher than influenza vaccine‐associated GBS in the study population (P = 0.01) as well as in comparison with previous reported vaccine‐associated GBS (P ≤ 0.0001) and background incidences (P ≤ 0.0001).

Conclusion

Surgery must be considered to be a potential risk factor for developing GBS.
Institutions and Employment Relations: The State of the Art
Authors: WILKINSON ADRIAN , WOOD GEOFFREY
Published: April 2012

While the marginalization of unions and the hegemony of neo‐liberalism in many of the advanced societies challenged the raison d’etre of industrial relations (IR), the revival of institutional approaches to political economy has underscored the relevance of a field of study where institutions have always been central. While generated through failures in market regulation, the recent economic crisis has ironically led to both pressures for a further paring back of governmental capabilities for regulation and enforcement, and a renewed interest in the possibilities for meaningful institutional redesign. This paper highlights main currents in contemporary institutionalist thinking and their relevance for the study of IR. It locates the subsequent articles in this collection in the context of broader debates, and the relevance of their differing perspectives for advancing institutional analysis within and beyond IR.
Varieties of Capitalism and Investments in Human Capital
Authors: GOERGEN MARC , BREWSTER CHRIS , WOOD GEOFFREY , WILKINSON ADRIAN
Published: April 2012

This paper explores the relationship between national institutional archetypes and investments in training and development. A recent trend within the literature on comparative capitalism has been to explore the nature and extent of heterogeneity within the coordinated market economies (CMEs) of Europe. Based on a review of the existing comparative literature on training and development, and comparative firm‐level survey evidence of differences in training and development practices, we both support and critique existing country clusters and argue for a more nuanced and flexible categorization.
Gender, Race, and the New (Merit‐Based) Employment Relationship
Authors: CASTILLA EMILIO J.
Published: April 2012

Recent research has focused attention on the ways institutions and work practices have transformed the employment relationship. While there has been growing interest in how key employer practices have changed the organization of work, the gender and racial implications of such practices remain less well understood. Using unique longitudinal personnel data from one large organization, this study takes a comprehensive sequential approach to identify at which stages of a widespread contemporary practice—the use of merit‐based reward programs to evaluate and reward workers—gender and racial disparities may exist. The analyses show that there are significant gender and racial differences at theperformance evaluation, salary,andcareer setting stages, even after implementing these merit‐based work practices. I conclude by discussing the implications for how and where current organizational practices and work arrangements may affect the careers of women and racial minorities in the contemporary workplace.
Using the results of a satisfaction survey to demonstrate the impact of a new library service model
Authors: Powelson Susan E. , Reaume Renee D.
Published: April 2012

Background:  In 2005, the University of Calgary entered into a contract to provide library services to the staff and physicians of Alberta Health Services Calgary Zone (AHS CZ), creating the Health Information Network Calgary (HINC).

Objectives:  A user satisfaction survey was contractually required to determine whether the new library service model created through the agreement with the University of Calgary was successful. Our additional objective was to determine whether information and resources provided through the HINC were making an impact on patient care.

Methods:  A user satisfaction survey of 18 questions was created in collaboration with AHS CZ contract partners and distributed using the snowball or convenience sample method.

Results:  Six hundred and ninety‐four surveys were returned. Of respondents, 75% use the HINC library services. More importantly, 43% of respondents indicated that search results provided by library staff had a direct impact on patient care decisions.

Conclusions:  Alberta Health Services Calgary Zone staff are satisfied with the new service delivery model, they are taking advantage of the services offered, and using library provided information to improve patient care.
Are zooplankton invasions in constructed waters facilitated by simple communities?
Authors: Parkes Samantha M. , Duggan Ian C.
Published: April 2012

Aim

Constructed water bodies (e.g. water supply and hydroelectricity dams, ornamental ponds) are invaded at faster rates than natural waters, but the mechanisms that lead to this pattern are uncertain. We aimed to determine whether constructed lakes have lower zooplankton species richness or differ in species composition relative to natural waters, which might allow them to be invaded more readily.

Location

North Island, New Zealand.

Methods

Sediment cores were collected from 23 natural and 23 constructed lakes, ponds and reservoirs. Zooplankton diapausing eggs were hatched from sediments to assess species composition and richness.

Results

Average species richness between natural and constructed water bodies was not significantly different. Stepwise linear regression indicated latitude and maximum depth were significant predictors of species richness in natural waters (P = 0.002 and 0.016, respectively). No significant predictors were elucidated for constructed waters. Species in natural waters consisted mainly of planktonic species, while assemblages in constructed waters were more varied, comprising of more littoral and benthic species, and included many species recorded from only single water bodies. Canonical correspondence analysis indicated that trophic state explained the greatest proportion of variation in species composition of natural waters (P = 0.002). Distance to nearest water body and number of water bodies within a 20 km radius (i.e. opportunity) explained the greatest proportion in constructed waters (P = 0.040 and 0.038, respectively).

Main conclusions

Natural and constructed waters had similar species richness per water body, but community composition varied between them. The core group of species found in natural waters are better adapted to pelagic conditions, and may therefore be better at reducing establishment rates of new arrivals than assemblages in constructed water bodies, which had more varied assemblages. Our study suggests that manipulating new water bodies, so that they develop mature communities faster, may reduce establishment rates of non‐indigenous species.
A Nonparametric Statistical Method That Improves Physician Cost of Care Analysis
Authors: Metfessel Brent A. , Greene Robert A.
Published: April 2012

Objective

To develop a compositing method that demonstrates improved performance compared with commonly used tests for statistical analysis of physician cost of care data.

Data Source

Commercial preferred provider organization (PPO) claims data for internists from a large metropolitan area.

Study Design

We created a nonparametric composite performance metric that maintains risk adjustment using the Wilcoxon rank‐sum (WRS) test. We compared the resulting algorithm to the parametric observed‐to‐expected ratio, with and without a statistical test, for stability of physician cost ratings among different outlier trimming methods and across two partially overlapping time periods.

Principal Findings

The WRS algorithm showed significantly greater within‐physician stability among several typical outlier trimming and capping methods. The algorithm also showed significantly greater within‐physician stability when the same physicians were analyzed across time periods.

Conclusions

The nonparametric algorithm described is a more robust and more stable methodology for evaluating physician cost of care than commonly used observed‐to‐expected ratio techniques. Use of such an algorithm can improve physician cost assessment for important current applications such as public reporting, pay for performance, and tiered benefit design.
Facing Nuclear Risks: Lessons from the Fukushima Nuclear Disaster
Authors: HASEGAWA KOICHI
Published: April 2012

This paper discusses the sociological lessons learnt from the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant accident that occurred on 11 March 2011. This disaster is the second largest nuclear accident after the Chernobyl accident. Meltdown and explosions occurred because of the hydrogen released from the damaged core. A large amount of radioactive materials has been released. Many people, around 150 000, are still in evacuation by government order or by their own choice. The incident has several characteristics. First, it is the first severe accident of a nuclear power station, the complex disaster being triggered by a large earthquake and tsunami. Second, the four reactors were simultaneously endangered. Third, the uncontrolled situation of the melted‐down reactors has continued for more than 9 months. Fourth, it is the first severe accident of a nuclear power plant on the coast. Scientists are worried about serious contamination of seawater and damages to the ecosystem. This accident is a human disaster which an electric company and the national government are very much responsible for due to a series of “underestimates,” such as that of the height of a possible tsunami, the possibility of a “station blackout” and lengthy periods of no AC power. A lot of confusing and misleading information, along with the deliberate concealment of information and delay in information disclosure occurred. Located in the background of all of this is the “Atomic Circle,” a very closed relationship between politicians, government, academics, industry and the media. We should try and learn from all of this in building a post‐nuclear East Asia. This would be the greatest lesson from the tragic Fukushima disaster and the greatest message to East Asia, the world and future generations.
Trust and Subjective Well‐being after the Great East Japan Earthquake, Tsunami and Nuclear Meltdown: Preliminary Results
Authors: HOMMERICH CAROLA
Published: April 2012

This paper presents preliminary results of an analysis of trust in governmental institutions and social networks after the disaster of 11 March 2011, as well as an investigation of the implication of such trust resources for subjective well‐being. Using data from a postal survey carried out in the Tōhoku and Kanto region in September 2011, differences in trust resources are explored by regional proximity to the disaster area as well as by personal affliction. Levels of social trust prove to be generally high, whilst trust in governmental institutions is low, especially when personally affected by the disaster. Trust resources are shown to contribute positively to subjective well‐being and thus to constitute an important asset in the process of coping with disaster.
How Does the Restoration of Tōhoku Society Begin? Center and Periphery in the Great East Japan Earthquake
Authors: YAMASHITA YUSUKE
Published: April 2012

What can we learn from the Great East Japan Earthquake? In this article, I examine the effects of the overarching physical and social system that has developed in Japanese society for the last half century. I use the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident as an example. I will also look to the meaning of kuni (the Japanese word for country, state or nation), and emphasize the urgent need to advance sociological comparative analysis of different forms of nation, state and country in times of emergency.