bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A psychophysiological comparison of on‐sight lead and top rope ascents in advanced rock climbers
Authors: Fryer S. , Dickson T. , Draper N. , Blackwell G. , Hillier S.
Published: February 2012

Research suggests that lead climbing is both physiologically and psychologically more stressful than top rope climbing for intermediate performers. This observation may not be true for advanced climbers, who train regularly on lead routes and are accustomed to leader falls. The aim of this study was to compare the psychophysiological stresses of lead and top rope on‐sight ascents in advanced rock climbers. Twenty‐one climbers (18 men and three women) ascended routes near or at the best of their ability (22 Ewbank). Psychological stress was measured preclimb using the Revised Comparative State Anxiety Inventory (CSAI‐2R). Plasma cortisol was sampled at six intervals. The volume of oxygen (VO2) and heart rate (Hr) were measured throughout the climbs. No significant differences were found in self‐confidence, somatic, or cognitive anxiety between the conditions lead and top rope. No significant differences in plasma cortisol concentration were found between any time points. No significant relationships were found between cortisol and any CSAI‐2R measures. No significant differences were found between conditions for VO2 or blood lactate concentration. During the lead climb, Hr was significantly elevated during the last part of the route. Findings suggest that advanced rock climbers do not find lead climbing to be more stressful than top rope climbing during an on‐sight ascent.
Atopic dermatitis and allergic rhinitis – do co‐effects in therapy exist?
Authors: Weller Karsten , Soost Stephanie , Worm Margitta , Maurer Marcus , Zuberbier Torsten
Published: February 2012

Summary  Atopic dermatitis and allergic rhinitis frequently appear together in the same patients. The pathogenesis of both disorders is complex and still incompletely understood. Nevertheless, pathophysiological overlaps suggest the existence of potential therapeutic co‐effects. While data pointing towards a positive effect of allergen elimination for both diseases is still limited, there is now increasing evidence showing beneficial effects of specific immunotherapy in patients suffering from atopic dermatitis and additional type I allergies. H1‐antihistamines were also found to exert moderate positive effects on the symptoms of atopic dermatitis in single studies. In summary, a limited therapeutic co‐effect of the above mentioned treatment options can be expected in case of the parallel existence of atopic dermatitis and allergic rhinitis in the same patient. More studies on this issue during the next years are desirable. In addition, a better understanding of the pathophysiology should have a positive impact on the treatment of atopic manifestations such as atopic dermatitis and allergic rhinitis.
The views of Nigerian teachers in public and private primary schools on the teaching of early literacy in English
Authors: Okebukola Foluso
Published: February 2012

Drawing on the bilingual policies and biliteracy programmes of African nations, this paper discusses the context of literacy education in Nigeria and examines Nigerian early literacy teachers’ attitudes to teaching literacy and literacy teaching practices as informed by the National Policy on Education, Primary English Language Curriculum and the teaching–learning milieu. The paper also reports the findings of a survey in which respondents to a questionnaire expressed their views and understanding of the primary English curriculum and their own relations and experiences with it, as well as their own competencies and self‐concept as literacy teachers. Results indicated the need to train Nigerian teachers to adopt a much wider perspective in literacy, which recognises the opportunities for developing the interrelated strands of literacy. Governments should also consider practising teachers’ professional identities and growth in decision‐making and curriculum development. This will enhance their understanding of ideologies in policy and practice.
“Poetry is happening but I don't exactly know how”: Literacy Subject Leaders’ perceptions of poetry in their primary schools
Authors: Lambirth Andrew , Smith Sarah , Steele Susanna
Published: February 2012

Evidence suggests (Ofsted, 2007) that the role of the Subject Leader is crucial in how well poetry is taught in schools. This paper attempts to provide some insights on “what it is like” to coordinate poetry teaching in a primary school. Some of the data confirm elements of the findings from earlier research on the state of poetry in schools, particularly concerning space in the curriculum, teacher subject knowledge and personal interest in poetry. However, we attempt to show that, much to the surprise of some of the Subject Leaders, where poetry teaching in the participants’ schools was perceived to be successful it was often nourished by the combined enthusiasm and ‘zeal’ of the teachers and children experiencing poetry together, which in turn was maintained by an empowering synergy of professional/personal pleasure and engagement with poetic texts experienced by some of the teachers while in school.
Unfolding lives in digital worlds: digikid teachers revisited
Authors: Graham Lynda
Published: February 2012

In this paper, I describe ongoing research exploring ways in which young teachers’ digital lives unfold inside and outside classrooms. I first interviewed teachers in 2006, and identified three different routes into digital worlds: serious solitary self‐taught, serious solitary school‐taught and playful social. A number of teachers agreed to be interviewed again in 2010. I outline ways in which I compare and contrast interviews over time, using analytic markers developed in ‘Inventing Adulthoods’, a Qualitative Longitudinal Research project. I also describe ways in which I set my analysis in Adam's concepts of time: ‘biographical time, generational time and historical time’. Case studies are outlined of three teachers, one serious solitary and two playful social. All three were language coordinators in 2006, and already experienced, innovative teachers of literacy. I argue that in 2010, the serious solitary teacher is able to bring new competences to the classroom, but fitting existing ways of teaching. In contrast, the playful social teachers bring new ways of knowing about digital worlds into classrooms, but these new ways are realised only if competences are recognised, communities are supportive and traditional ways of knowing about teaching and the curriculum do not block new ways of thinking.
Oxidative stress and metabolic syndrome in a Japanese female population
Authors: Kotani Kazuhiko , Yamada Toshiyuki
Published: February 2012

Aim:  One of the methods to evaluate oxidative stress in clinical medical settings is the reactive oxygen metabolites (d‐ROMs) test. While metabolic syndrome (MetS) is considered an oxidative condition, the oxidative status in MetS has not been fully examined using this test. The aim of the present study was to investigate the possible association between oxidative stress as evaluated by the d‐ROMs test and the MetS component number, in a Japanese female population.

Methods:  The serum oxidant capacity (measured by the d‐ROMs test) was cross‐sectionally determined in cardiovascular disease‐free and non‐smoking women who were not taking medications (n= 180; mean age, 60 ± 10 (standard deviation) years). Their MetS state was determined by the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel recommendations with minor modifications for a Japanese population.

Results:  Patients with MetS (n= 60, 362 ± 53 CARR U) showed a significantly higher oxidant capacity by d‐ROMs than those without MetS (n= 120, 324 ± 55 CARR U, P < 0.01). Moreover, the significant increase in the oxidant capacity by d‐ROMs was closely associated with an increase in the MetS component number (trend P < 0.01).

Conclusions:  These results showed a significantly positive association between the oxidant capacity (by d‐ROMs) and the MetS component number in this population. Further studies are required to establish the clinical applications of this test to MetS practice and clarify the biological mechanisms of the observed relationships.
Mineralocorticoid Receptors Mediate Cardiac Remodelling in Morphine‐Dependent Rats
Authors: Mesripour Azadeh , Iyer Abishek , Brown Lindsay
Published: February 2012

Acute morphine administration decreases cardiac responses to ischaemic injury. This project has determined whether induction of morphine dependence in rats by gradually increasing morphine doses for 21 days induces structural and functional changes in the cardiovascular system because of mineralocorticoid receptor activation, as morphine increases plasma corticosterone concentrations. Morphine‐dependent rats showed ventricular hypertrophy, increased collagen deposition in the left ventricle together with an increased ventricular stiffness and increased plasma malondialdehyde concentrations without changes in systolic blood pressure or thoracic aortic responsiveness. These parameters were attenuated or normalised in morphine‐dependent rats treated with spironolactone (50 mg/kg/day) from days 14–21. These results suggest that morphine dependence induces ventricular remodelling and increased oxidative stress that can be prevented by the mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, spironolactone.
The Association of eNOS G894T Polymorphism with Metabolic Syndrome and Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Lee Yung-Chin , Huang Shu-Pin , Liu Chia-Chu , Yang Yi-Hsin , Yeh Hsin-Chih , Li Wei-Ming , Wu Wen-Jeng , Wang Chii-Jye , Juan Yung-Shun , Huang Chun-Nung , Hour Tzyh-Chyuan , Chang Chu-Fen , Huang Chun-Hsiung
Published: February 2012

Introduction

Accumulated evidences have outlined the potential relation between insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction. The impaired ability of endothelium to synthesize or release nitric oxide may provide a common pathophysiological mechanism in the development of metabolic syndrome (MtS) and erectile dysfunction (ED).

Aim

The aim of this article was to investigate the genetic susceptibility of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) G894T polymorphism underlying the development of both disorders.

Methods

A total of 590 subjects with a mean (standard deviation) age of 55.3 years (4.1) were enrolled during a free health screening. Complete clinical data and questionnaires were taken for all subjects. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine the independent predictors of MtS and ED. The eNOS G894T polymorphism was determined using a polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method.

Main Outcome Measures

The definition of MtS was according to the modified criteria developed by the Bureau of Health Promotion in Taiwan. Patients with ED were defined as those having a five-item International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) <21.

Results

Our results showed that the eNOS 894T allele carriers had significantly higher prevalence of MtS and ED (odds ratio [OR] = 1.64, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.05∼2.56, P = 0.02 and OR = 1.76, 95% CI = 1.11∼2.80, P = 0.01, respectively) after adjustment for each other and age. Also the T allele carriers had significantly lower IIEF-5 score and more MtS components than G allele carriers (P < 0.01 and P < 0.01, respectively), which were significantly associated with an increment of the T allele number (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The eNOS 894T allele carriers are at greater risk for both MtS and ED, suggesting that eNOS G894T gene polymorphism might play an implication as a common genetic susceptibility factor to develop both disorders.
The Impact of Childhood Sexual Abuse on Psychological Distress Among Women in New Zealand
Authors: Flett Ross A. , Kazantzis Nikolaos , Long Nigel R. , MacDonald Carol , Millar Michelle , Clark Bronwyn , Edwards Howard , Petrik Alexandra M.
Published: February 2012

PROBLEMS:  In order to better understand the long‐term impact of child sex abuse, this study examined the association between women's experience of abuse, health symptoms, and psychological distress in adulthood. There is limited information about child abuse outside the United States.

METHODS:  Nine hundred sixty‐one women participated in a structured interview.

RESULTS:  Participants who had experienced abuse (13%) were significantly more vulnerable to psychological distress in adulthood if they were younger, less satisfied with their standard of living, and resided in urban areas.

CONCLUSION:  Dissemination and evaluation of therapies for the treatment of sex abuse in the New Zealand context is warranted.
High‐performance work systems: what, why, how and for whom?
Authors: Boxall Peter
Published: February 2012

This article argues that there are two lines of analysis in the high‐performance work systems literature that are important for HR researchers and strategists. The first involves mapping the diversity that exists in work systems, and understanding which ones perform in which contexts and why. This line of analysis is most relevant where there are serious misfits between a firm's models of HRM and its strategic context. The second line of analysis can help to enhance performance in any firm. It involves analysing the chain of links inside the ‘black box’ of HRM, asking how managers envisage HRM, how they interpret and enact it, how it affects the psychological and social climates inside the organization, and for whom it performs. Following these lines of analysis, and improving our research methods, will make our discipline more relevant to the larger debate around economic and employee well‐being in our societies.
The Driving Forces of Agricultural Decline:A Panel‐Data Approach to the Italian Regional Growth
Authors: Esposti Roberto
Published: February 2012

This paper investigates the causes of the long‐run decline of agriculture during economic growth. Within a two‐sector model, agricultural decline is explained by three basic driving forces (relative price change, Rybczynski effect, and technological gap). In a dynamic (vector autoregression) specification the share of agriculture on gross domestic product the agricultural relative price and the capital intensity are simultaneously determined. The model allows for short‐run adjustments with respect to long‐run equilibrium and for cross‐sectional dependence taking into account interregional linkages. The approach is applied to the panel data set of 20 Italian regions over the period 1951–2002 of intense economic development but still persistent regional disparities. Regularities and differences of decline patterns across regions are investigated.

Le présent article examine les causes du déclin à long terme de l’agriculture en période de croissance économique. Dans un modèle à deux secteurs, trois éléments fondamentaux (le changement dans les prix relatifs, l’effet de Rybczynski et l’écart technologique) expliquent le déclin de l’agriculture. Dans une spécification dynamique (VAR), la part de l’agriculture dans le PIB, le prix relatif agricole et l’intensité du capital sont simultanément déterminés. Le modèle permet des ajustements à court terme par rapport à l’équilibre à long terme et permet une dépendance transversale qui tient compte des liens interrégionaux. Ce modèle a été appliquéà un ensemble de données de panel regroupant 20 régions de l’Italie, durant la période de développement économique intense de 1951 à 2002, qui présentait des disparités régionales persistantes. Nous avons examiné les similitudes et les différences des déclins observés à l’échelle des régions.
Sending Vietnamese Rice Farmers Back to School: Further Evidence on the Impacts of Farmer Field Schools
Authors: Rejesus Roderick M. , Mutuc Maria Erlinda M. , Yasar Mahmut , Lapitan Aileen V. , Palis Florencia G. , Chi Truong Thi Ngoc
Published: February 2012

This study evaluates the impact of farmer field schools (FFS) on knowledge, insecticide use, and yield using a nonconsecutive, two‐year panel data that allows one to control for nonrandom selection. Regression analysis using a difference‐in‐difference approach indicates FFS training did not result in statistically significant impacts on insecticide use and yield over the period of time examined. However, there is some evidence that FFS had an “initial” knowledge impact, but it was not sustained over time. Retraining FFS graduates may be an attractive option to help maintain knowledge and improve performance over time, but we do not find empirical evidence on the effectiveness of this strategy based on a small sample of retrained farmers.

La présente étude examine l’impact du programme Champ‐École‐Paysan (CEP) (Farmer Field Schools – FFS) sur l’acquisition des connaissances, l’utilisation d’insecticides et le rendement, à l’aide de données de panel non consécutives recueillies sur une période de deux ans et permettant de maîtriser la sélection non aléatoire. Une analyse de régression utilisant la méthode de différence de différences a révélé que la formation offerte dans le cadre du programme CEP n’a pas eu d’impact statistiquement significatif sur l’utilisation d’insecticides ni sur le rendement au cours de la période visée par l’étude. Toutefois, il semble que le programme CEP a eu un impact sur l’acquisition des connaissances au début, mais que cet impact n’a pas été soutenu au fil du temps. Le recyclage des participants au programme CEP peut constituer une option intéressante pour le maintien des connaissances et l’amélioration du rendement au fil du temps. Par contre, l’étude d’un petit échantillon de producteurs recyclés n’a pas fourni de preuve empirique permettant de croire à l’efficacité de cette stratégie.
The Effectiveness of Alternative Marketing Strategies for Ontario Corn and Soybean Producers
Authors: Vyn Richard J.
Published: February 2012

Marketing decisions can be some of the most difficult decisions facing grain and oilseed producers. There is a lack of information about the marketing strategies that are most effective, and there is also a lack of consensus in the literature about whether some types of marketing strategies can consistently perform better than others. This paper uses a simulation model based on daily cash and futures prices to compare returns and risk over time from specific marketing strategies for corn and soybean producers in Ontario. This paper also examines whether there are differences in the relative effectiveness of strategies between higher‐price years and lower‐price years. The results indicate that preharvest marketing strategies for both corn and soybeans tend to generate prices that are much higher than selling everything at harvest (the baseline strategy), particularly for the higher‐price years; however, these differences are not always statistically significant. Preharvest strategies are also found to reduce downside risk relative to the baseline.

Les décisions commerciales peuvent représenter certaines des décisions les plus difficiles auxquelles les producteurs de céréales et d’oléagineux sont confrontés. Il existe un manque d’information sur les stratégies commerciales les plus efficaces et un manque de consensus dans la littérature quant à l’existence ou non de stratégies commerciales capables de donner régulièrement de meilleurs résultats que d’autres. Dans le présent article, nous avons utilisé un modèle de simulation fondé sur les prix au comptant et les prix à terme quotidiens afin de comparer, au fil du temps, les rendements et les risques des stratégies commerciales qui sont spécifiques aux producteurs de maïs et de soja de l’Ontario. Nous avons aussi tenté de déterminer s’il existe ou non des écarts d’efficacité relative des stratégies entre les années où les prix sont élevés et les années où les prix sont faibles. Nos résultats indiquent que, dans le cas du maïs et du soja, la stratégie commerciale qui consiste à vendre la production avant la récolte tend à dégager des prix plus élevés que la stratégie commerciale qui consiste à vendre toute la production au moment de la récolte (stratégie de base), particulièrement dans le cas des années où les prix sont élevés. Cependant, ces écarts ne sont pas toujours statistiquement significatifs. Les stratégies de vente avant récolte contribueraient également à réduire le risque de perte en cas de baisse comparativement à la stratégie de base.
Computational and Biological Evaluation of Quinazolinone Prodrug for Targeting Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Pospisil Pavel , Korideck Houari , Wang Ketai , Yang Yongliang , Iyer Lakshmanan K. , Kassis Amin I.
Published: February 2012

Our concept of enzyme‐mediated cancer imaging and therapy aims to use radiolabeled compounds to target hydrolases over‐expressed on the extracellular surface of solid tumors. A data mining approach identified extracellular sulfatase 1 (SULF1) as an enzyme expressed on the surface of pancreatic cancer cells. We designed, synthesized, and characterized 2‐(2′‐sulfooxyphenyl)‐6‐iodo‐4‐(3H)‐quinazolinone (IQ2‐S) as well as its radioiodinated form (125IQ2‐S) as a prodrug with potential for hydrolysis by SULF1. IQ2‐S was successfully docked in silico into three enzymes – homolog of SULF1, alkaline phosphatase, and prostatic acid phosphatase. The incubation of 125IQ2‐S and 125IQ2‐P with the three enzymes in solution confirms the docking results and enzyme selectivity for the analogs. The hydrolysis of both radioactive compounds produces the water‐insoluble, fluorescent product 2‐(2′‐hydroxyphenyl)‐6‐[125I]iodo‐4‐(3H)‐quinazolinone (125IQ2‐OH). The in vitro incubation of 127IQ2‐S and 127IQ2‐P with pancreatic, ovarian, and prostate cancer cells expressing studied hydrolases also results in their hydrolysis and the precipitation of 127IQ2‐OH fluorescent crystals on the cell surface. To our knowledge, these findings are the first to report the targeting of a radioactive substrate to SULF1 and that this prodrug may be potentially useful in the imaging (123I/124I/131I) and radiotherapy (131I) of pancreatic cancer.
3D‐QSAR Studies on the Inhibitory Activity of Trimethoprim Analogues against Escherichia coli Dihydrofolate Reductase
Authors: Vijayaraj Ramadoss , Lakshmi Vasavi Devi Mekapothula , Subramanian Venkatesan , Chattaraj Pratim Kumar
Published: February 2012

Three‐dimensional quantitative structure activity relationship (3D‐QSAR) study has been carried out on the Escherichia coli DHFR inhibitors 2,4‐diamino‐5‐(substituted‐benzyl)pyrimidine derivatives to understand the structural features responsible for the improved potency. To construct highly predictive 3D‐QSAR models, comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA) and comparative molecular similarity indices analysis (CoMSIA) methods were used. The predicted models show statistically significant cross‐validated and non‐cross‐validated correlation coefficient of and , respectively. The final 3D‐QSAR models were validated using structurally diverse test set compounds. Analysis of the contour maps generated from CoMFA and CoMSIA methods reveals that the substitution of electronegative groups at the first and second position along with electropositive group at the third position of R2 substitution significantly increases the potency of the derivatives. The results obtained from the CoMFA and CoMSIA study delineate the substituents on the trimethoprim analogues responsible for the enhanced potency and also provide valuable directions for the design of new trimethorpim analogues with improved affinity.
Synthesis and Anticonvulsant Activity of 1‐(2‐(8‐(benzyloxy)quinolin‐2‐yl)‐1‐butyrylcyclopropyl)‐3‐Substituted Urea Derivatives
Authors: He Xianran , Zhong Min , Yang Jin , Wu Zhongyuan , Xiao Yuling , Guo Hao , Hu Xianming
Published: February 2012

In the present study on the development of new anticonvulsants, 16 new1‐(2‐(8‐(benzyloxy)quinolin‐2‐yl)‐1‐butyrylcyclopropyl)‐3‐substituted urea derivatives were synthesized and tested for anticonvulsant activity using the maximal electroshock seizure, subcutaneous pentylenetetrazole screens, which are the most widely employed seizure models for early identification of candidate anticonvulsants. Their neurotoxicity was determined by applying the rotorod test. Three compounds 7a, 7e, and 7m showed promising anticonvulsant activities in both models employed for anticonvulsant evaluation. The most active compound 7e showed the maximal electroshock seizure‐induced seizures with ED50 value of 14.3 mg/kg and TD50 value of 434 mg/kg after intraperitoneal injection to mice, which provided compound 7e with a protective index (TD50/ED50) of 30.3 in the maximal electroshock seizure test.
Description of a new Homidia species (Collembola, Entomobryidae) from Korea
Authors: KANG Sangkyu , PARK Kyung‐Hwa
Published: February 2012

A new species, Homidia pseudoformosana from Korea is described in the present paper. The new species is characterized by labral papillae, ciliated labial seta L1 and dorsal chaetotaxy of abdominal segment IV. The detailed differences between similar Homidia species are provided.
Mouse models for studying genetic influences on factors determining smoking cessation success in humans
Authors: Hall F. Scott , Markou Athina , Levin Edward D. , Uhl George R.
Published: February 2012

Humans differ in their ability to quit using addictive substances, including nicotine, the major psychoactive ingredient in tobacco. For tobacco smoking, a substantial body of evidence, largely derived from twin studies, indicates that approximately half of these individual differences in ability to quit are heritable genetic influences that likely overlap with those for other addictive substances. Both twin and molecular genetic studies support overlapping influences on nicotine addiction vulnerability and smoking cessation success, although there is little formal analysis of the twin data that support this important point. None of the current datasets provides clarity concerning which heritable factors might provide robust dimensions around which individuals differ in ability to quit smoking. One approach to this problem is to test mice with genetic variations in genes that contain human variants that alter quit success. This review considers which features of quit success should be included in a comprehensive approach to elucidate the genetics of quit success, and how those features may be modeled in mice.
Teams Are Changing: Are Research and Practice Evolving Fast Enough?
Authors: Tannenbaum Scott I. , Mathieu John E. , Salas Eduardo , Cohen Debra
Published: February 2012

In the past, there was a fairly strong alignment between what teams experienced, the topics that team researchers were studying, and the practices that organizations used to manage their teams. However, the nature of teams and the environment in which they operate has changed, and as a result, new needs have emerged. Although there have been some innovative advancements, research and practice have not always adjusted to remain aligned with emerging needs. We highlight 3 significant change themes that are affecting teams: (a) dynamic composition, (b) technology and distance, and (c) empowerment and delayering. For each theme, we share our observations, review the related science and identify future research needs, and specify challenges and recommendations for employing effective team-based practices in applied settings. We conclude with thoughts about the future and suggest that new theories, research methods, and analyses may be needed to study the new team dynamics.
From Possible to Probable: The Psychology of Competitive Advantage
Authors: Ployhart Robert E.
Published: February 2012

This article responds to and extends the commentaries on the psychology of competitive advantage focal article. In general, the commentaries stressed that (a) the connection between industrial–organizational (I–O) psychology and strategy should go beyond resource-based theory and competitive advantage, (b) there are some existing examples of strategic I–O research, and (c) practitioners are already integrating I–O psychology with strategy. In this article, I use these commentaries as a means of generating actionable steps (e.g., research studies) to make the strategic adjacent possibility a reality. I conclude by arguing that understanding the psychology underlying firm competitiveness is the defining question of our time, and perhaps even the future of I–O psychology.
Applying “Children Defined Daily Dose” to assess appropriate dose in pediatrics
Authors: Zhang Lingli , Li Youping , Zeng Linan , Wang Zheng
Published: February 2012

Objective: Inappropriate drug dosage is a serious problem in pediatrics, mainly due to the lack of clinical evidence in children, suitable preparation formulation, and standardized methods for dose adjustment. A method for evaluating and monitoring appropriate dosage in pediatrics is urgently needed. The drug utilization index (DUI) based on the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical/Defined Daily Dose (ATC/DDD) has been widely used in the assessment of appropriate dosage in adults. We explored possible methods for assessing appropriate dosage in children.

Methods: Based on our previous studies, we discuss cDUI in the assessment of appropriate dosage in children as follows: the meaning of cDDD, the establishment of a standardized system, and the classified evaluation of dosage in pediatrics.

Results: Although the definition of cDDD draws on the concept of defined daily dose (DDD), the meaning of cDDD is different from that of the latter. Specifically, the purpose of cDDD is to evaluate appropriate pediatric dose, while DDD is a unit of measurement. cDDD could be used to assess dose rationality for common and serious pediatric diseases, and would be refined over time. A single cDDD should be assigned per drug and indication and given per drug and route of administration. The influence of age, weight, diagnosis, and administration route on the dosage should be considered. Classified evaluation should be used and weight should be given to the above mentioned factors in order to evaluate the appropriate dose objectively and comprehensively.

Conclusions: Dosage regulation in pediatrics has an important role in improving medical quality and protecting the safety, effectiveness, and economy of medical therapy in children. The establishment of a cDUI system is a good try in pediatric dosage evaluation. Although there are still defects within this proposed system and methodology, the principle seems feasible.
Efficacy and safety of human urinary kallidinogenase injection for acute ischemic stroke: A systematic review
Authors: Zhang Canfei , Tao Wendan , Liu Ming , Wang Deren
Published: February 2012

Objective: To assess the efficacy and safety of human urinary kallidinogenase injection (HUK) in treating patients with acute ischemic stroke.

Methods: We searched the Chinese Stroke Trials Register, the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials Register, CENTRAL, Medline, EMBASE, the China Biological Medicine Database(CBM), and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), which were all last searched October 2010.

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) about HUK for patients with acute ischemic stroke were included. The quality of each trial was assessed using the Cochrane Reviewers’ Handbook 5.0.2.

Results: Twenty‐four trials involving 2433 patients were included. Only two trials reported death or dependence at the end of three months follow up. In those trials, HUK reduced death or dependency comparing to the control group (relative ratio (RR) = 0.69, 95% CI 0.55 to 0.86). Twenty trials (2117 patients) reported the proportion of patients with marked neurological improvement after treatment. Meta analysis showed the HUK‐treated group had more neurological improvement than did the control group (RR = 1.56, 95% CI 1.44 to 1.70). Fifteen trials reported adverse events, of which transient hypotension was most common (1.5%–5.1%). Non‐fatal intracerebral hemorrhage was detected in seven patients, but the difference between the treatment and control groups was not significant (RR = 1.82, 95% CI 0.34 to 9.61). Deaths occurred in both the HUK group (0.4%) and the control group (1.1%), with no significant difference for this outcome (RR = 0.6, 95% CI 0.09 to 3.92). No trial assessed quality of life.

Conclusions: Available evidence suggests that HUK injection reduces neurological impairment after acute ischemic stroke and improves long‐term outcomes, though a few patients suffered from transient hypotension. Further high‐quality, large scale randomized trials are needed to confirm these results.
Does Mandatory IFRS Adoption Improve the Information Environment?*
Authors: Horton Joanne , Serafeim George , Serafeim Ioanna
Published: February 2012

More than 120 countries require or permit the use of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) by publicly listed companies on the basis of higher information quality and accounting comparability from IFRS application. However, the empirical evidence about these presumed benefits is often conflicting and fails to distinguish between information quality and comparability. In this paper we examine the effect of mandatory IFRS adoption on firms’ information environment. We find that after mandatory IFRS adoption consensus forecast errors decrease for firms that mandatorily adopt IFRS relative to forecast errors of other firms. We also find decreasing forecast errors for voluntary adopters, but this effect is smaller and not robust. Moreover, we show that the magnitude of the forecast error decrease is associated with the firm‐specific differences between local GAAP and IFRS. This finding suggests that it is IFRS adoption rather than a correlated unobservable factor that is causing forecast errors to decrease. Exploiting individual analyst level data and isolating settings where analysts would benefit more from either increased comparability or higher quality information, we document that the improvement in the information environment is driven both by information and comparability effects. These results suggest that mandatory IFRS adoption has improved the quality of information intermediation in capital markets, and as a result firms’ information environment, by increasing both information quality and accounting comparability.
Radical Scepticism Without Epistemic Closure
Authors: ROSENKRANZ SVEN
Published: February 2012

This paper contributes to the current debate about radical scepticism and the structure of warrant. After a presentation of the standard version of the radical sceptic’s challenge, both in its barest and its more refined form, three anti‐sceptical responses, and their respective commitments, are being identified: the Dogmatist response, the Conservativist response and the Dretskean response. It is then argued that both the Dretskean and the Conservativist are right that the anti‐sceptical hypothesis cannot inherit any perceptual warrants from ordinary propositions about the environment—and so the Dogmatist response founders. However, if this is so Epistemic Closure lacks any clear rationale. There is therefore good reason to agree with both the Dretskean and the Dogmatist that perceptual warrants for ordinary propositions about the environment are enough in order for those propositions to enjoy a positive epistemic status—and so the Conservativist response founders. However, the Conservativist is nonetheless right that a warrant for the anti‐sceptical hypothesis is needed. For contrary to what much of the recent literature suggests, the radical sceptic need not appeal to Epistemic Closure in order to cast doubt on the legitimacy of our beliefs in ordinary propositions about the environment: there is a Pyrrhonian version of scepticism that, though equally radical, is consistent with failure of Epistemic Closure. For this reason, the Dretskean response is insufficient to answer scepticism.
Algebraic Algorithm for the Kinematic Analysis of Slider-Crank/Rocker Mechanisms
Authors: Figliolini Giorgio , Conte Marco , Rea Pierluigi
Published: February 2012

This paper deals with the formulation and validation of a comprehensive algebraic algorithm for the kinematic analysis of slider-crank/rocker mechanisms, which is based on the use of geometric loci, as the fixed and moving centrodes, along with their evolutes, the cubic of stationary curvature and the inflection circle. In particular, both centrodes are formulated in implicit and explicit algebraic forms by using the complex algebra. Moreover, the algebraic curves representing the moving centrodes are recognized and proven to be Jeřábek’s curves for the first time. Then, the cubic of stationary curvature along with the inflection circle are expressed in algebraic form by using the instantaneous geometric invariants. Finally, the proposed algorithm has been implemented in a MATLAB code and significant numerical and graphical results are shown, along with the particular cases in which these geometric loci degenerate in lines and circles or give cycloidal positions.
Singularity Free Revolute–Prismatic–Revolute and Spherical–Prismatic–Spherical Chains for Actuating Planar and Spherical Single Degree of Freedom Mechanisms
Authors: Perkins David A. , Murray Andrew P.
Published: February 2012

Given a single degree of freedom mechanism, a moving reference frame attached to any link has a motion that can be described with a single parameter. A point relative to this moving frame is sought such that it either continually increases or decreases in distance from a point in the fixed frame over the entire motion. These points can be used to define a revolute–prismatic–revolute (RPR) chain for a planar mechanism or a spherical–prismatic–spherical (SPS) chain for a spherical mechanism capable of actuating the device over its entire range of motion. Moreover, the singularities relative to the joints in the original mechanism are not a concern and the dimensional synthesis can focus on creating the set of circuit-defect free solutions. From this analysis, a unique fixed point is determined in the planar case relative to two positions and their velocities with the following characteristic. All points in the moving reference frame that are moving away from it in the first position are approaching it in the second position, and vice versa. This point is as critical to the identification of singularity-free driving chains as the centrodes or the poles.
Position and Force Analysis of a Planar Tensegrity-Based Compliant Mechanism
Authors: Moon Youngjin , Crane Carl D. , Roberts Rodney G.
Published: February 2012

This paper presents an analysis of a planar tensegrity-based mechanism. In this study, a moving body is joined to ground by four compliant leg connectors. Each leg connector is comprised of a spring in series with an adjustable length piston. Two problems are solved in this paper. In the first, the values of the four spring constants and free lengths are given and the lengths of the four pistons are determined such that (1) the top body is positioned and oriented at a desired pose, (2) the top body is at equilibrium while a specified external wrench is applied, and (3) the total potential energy stored in the four springs equals some desired value. In the second problem, the values for the four spring free lengths are given and the values for the four spring constants and the lengths of the four pistons are determined such that conditions (1) and (2) from above are met and also the instantaneous stiffness matrix of the top body equals a specified set of matrix values. The paper formulates the solutions of these two problems. Numerical examples are presented.
ER Cargo Properties Specify a Requirement for COPII Coat Rigidity Mediated by Sec13p
Authors: Čopič Alenka , Latham Catherine F. , Horlbeck Max A. , D’Arcangelo Jennifer G. , Miller Elizabeth A.
Published: February 2012

A Fair COP

During eukaryotic intracellular membrane traffic, how is membrane curvature imparted by the cytoplasmic proteins that form the COPII coat, which mediates vesicle budding from the endoplasmic reticulum?

Čopič
et al.

(p.
1359
, published online 2 February; see the Perspective by

Silvius

) dissected this process by exploiting yeast bypass-of-sec-thirteen (
bst
) mutants, which can survive without the otherwise essential COPII coat protein. These
bst
mutants appear to create a locally altered membrane that is more amenable to deformation by a Sec13-free coat.
Depersonalised doctors: a cross-sectional study of 564 doctors, 760 consultations and 1876 patient reports in UK general practice
Authors: Orton Peter , Orton Christopher , Pereira Gray Denis
Published: February 2012

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to assess burnout in a sample of general practitioners (GPs), to determine factors associated with depersonalisation and to investigate its impact on doctors' consultations with patients.

Design

Cross-sectional, postal survey of GPs using the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI). Patient survey and tape-recording of consultations for a subsample of respondents stratified by their MBI scores, gender and duration of General Medical Council registration.

Setting

UK general practice.

Participants

GPs within NHS Essex.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Scores on MBI subscales (depersonalisation, emotional exhaustion, personal accomplishment); scores on Doctors' Interpersonal Skills Questionnaire and patient-centredness scores attributed to tape-recorded consultations by independent observers.

Results

In the postal survey, 564/789 (71%) GPs completed the MBI. High levels of emotional exhaustion (261/564 doctors, 46%) and depersonalisation (237 doctors, 42%) and low levels of personal accomplishment (190 doctors, 34%) were reported. Depersonalisation scores were related to characteristics of the doctor and the practice. Male doctors reported significantly higher (p<0.001) depersonalisation than female doctors. Doctors registered with the General Medical Council under 20 years had significantly higher (p=0.005) depersonalisation scores than those registered for longer. Doctors in group practices had significantly higher (p=0.001) depersonalisation scores than single-handed practitioners. Thirty-eight doctors agreed to complete the patient survey (n=1876 patients) and audio-record consultations (n=760 consultations). Depersonalised doctors were significantly more likely (p=0.03) to consult with patients who reported seeing their ‘usual doctor’. There were no significant associations between doctors' depersonalisation and their patient-rated interpersonal skills or observed patient-centredness.

Conclusions

This is the largest number of doctors completing the MBI with the highest levels of depersonalisation reported. Despite experiencing substantial depersonalisation, doctors' feelings of burnout were not detected by patients or independent observers. Such levels of burnout are, however, worrying and imply a need for action by doctors themselves, their medical colleagues, professional bodies, healthcare organisations and the Department of Health.
Generally specialized or especially general? Habitat selection by Snapping Turtles (Chelydra serpentina) in central Ontario
Authors: Paterson J.E. , Steinberg B.D. , Litzgus J.D.
Published: February 2012

Habitat selection is the disproportionate use of habitat compared with availability. Many studies have focused on specialists, but few have considered habitat selection in populations that are generalists, which can be composed of generalist individuals or individuals that specialize on different habitats. We tested habitat selection and individual specialization in a northern population of a supposed generalist, the Snapping Turtle ( Chelydra serpentina (L., 1758)), during the active season and winter using telemetry. Habitat selection was tested at two spatial scales by comparing random points to home ranges and turtle locations using Euclidean distances. Turtles selected home ranges from the habitats available in the population range. However, at the population level, all aquatic habitats were equally preferred, and the population behaved as a generalist owing to individuals specialized on different habitats. Over half of the individuals showed evidence of individual specialization on different habitat types. Turtles did not select habitat within home ranges during the active season, but overwintering turtles chose locations that were colder than haphazard stations in the same habitats, likely to reduce metabolic costs and the risk of acidosis. These findings have implications for the management of this species at risk and for understanding the evolution of resource generalization.
Relationships between yolk androgens and nest density, laying date, and laying order in Western Burrowing Owls (Athene cunicularia hypugaea)
Authors: Welty J.L. , Belthoff J.R. , Egbert J. , Schwabl H.
Published: February 2012

Increases in yolk androgens within and among avian clutches have been correlated with decreased incubation time, increased aggression within a nest, increased begging behaviour, decreased immune response, and decreased life span. Although the mechanisms that lead to variability in yolk androgens within and between clutches are not completely known, yolk androgens can be a function of both social and environmental conditions. We were interested in if and how nesting density, laying date, and laying order influenced yolk androgens in Western Burrowing Owls ( Athene cunicularia hypugaea (Bonaparte, 1825)) in which nest density varies considerably. In 2006 and 2007, we used radioimmunoassay to quantify the concentrations of testosterone, 5α-dihydrotestosterone, and androstenedione in the egg yolks from one early and one late-laid egg in 47 nests of Burrowing Owls located in the Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area in southern Idaho. Nesting density had no detectable effect on yolk androgens. Yolk androgens varied temporally and peaked in the middle of the laying season while being low before and after this time period. Within nests, late-laid eggs had higher testosterone and dihydrotestosterone than early-laid eggs; adrostendione exhibited a similar pattern in one but not both years of our study. It is possible that the seasonal pattern in yolk androgens that we observed is related to aspects of mate quality for females or declining chances of fledging success for later nesting females, whereas rises in egg androgens between early and late eggs within clutches could reflect a mechanism to assist nestlings from late-laid eggs that hatch one to several days after their siblings to better compete for resources within the nest or promote survival in the presence of larger siblings.
Multiple factors limit use of local sites by Elliot’s short-tailed shrews (Blarina hylophaga) in tallgrass prairie
Authors: Kaufman G.A. , Matlack R.S. , Kaufman D.W. , Higgins J.J.
Published: February 2012

Spatial variation in abundance has been attributed to habitat heterogeneity and patchiness. Our goal in this research was to understand what factors were associated with spatial patterns of habitat use by Elliot’s short-tailed shrews ( Blarina hylophaga Elliot, 1899) in tallgrass prairie. Our modeling efforts were based on 20 years (1981–2000) of presence–absence data for shrews at each of 20 stations (local site) along 14 permanent traplines on Konza Prairie Biological Station, Kansas, USA. A logistic model accurately predicted the presence of short-tailed shrews at a local site. Probability of shrew occurrence decreased as amount of precipitation decreased, slope steepness increased, grazing increased, or burned area within 500 m of a local site increased. However, when amount of precipitation was low, area burned was high, or grazing occurred, shrews were uncommon and responded little to the other variables. Numbers of shrews were negatively related only to numbers of deer mice ( Peromyscus maniculatus (Wagner, 1845)), a mouse that selects burned and grazed habitats that shrews avoid. Our observations suggest that multiple environmental factors limit use of local sites, whereas competition with other species does not. Our results can inform decisions related to conservation of biodiversity given management practices in this endangered ecosystem.