bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adoption Is a Successful Natural Intervention Enhancing Adopted Children's IQ and School Performance
Authors: van IJzendoorn Marinus H. , Juffer Femmie
Published: February 2006

Is the cognitive development of adopted children different from that of (a) children who have remained in institutional care or in their birth families or (b) their current (environmental) nonadopted siblings or peers? We attempt to answer these questions on the basis of a meta-analysis of 62 studies including 17,767 adopted children. Compared to their nonadopted siblings or peers who stayed behind, adopted children scored substantially higher on IQ tests and they performed much better at school. Compared to their current nonadopted environmental peers or siblings, adopted children showed similar IQ scores but their school performance and language abilities lagged somewhat behind. Most importantly, we found a twofold increase in special-education referrals in adopted children compared to their nonadopted peers. Taken together, the findings document the positive impact of adoption on children's cognitive development and adopted children's remarkably normal cognitive competence but somewhat delayed school performance.
Where Do Social Norms Come From?
Authors: Kameda Tatsuya , Takezawa Masanori , Hastie Reid
Published: February 2006

Where do social norms come from? Part of the answer must surely lie in such norms' ability to support individual adaptive success in local ecologies. This theme is dominant in analyses of social behavior by economic game theorists and behavioral-ecology researchers, but it has been neglected by psychologists. An illustration of the methods and advantages of the adaptationist approach to understanding the emergence of social norms is provided. Some surprising behavioral results from modern industrial societies that reflect social-sharing norms of modern hunter-gatherer societies are consistent with our adaptive analysis.
Assessment of the validity of a population pharmacokinetic model for epirubicin
Authors: Ralph Lorraine D. , Sandstrom Marie , Twelves Chris , Dobbs Nicola A. , Thomson Alison H.
Published: February 2006

Aims

The aim of this study was to evaluate a population model for epirubicin clearance using internal and external validation techniques.

Methods

Jackknife samples were used to identify outliers in the population dataset and individuals influencing covariate selection. Sensitivity analyses were performed in which serum aspartate transaminase (AST) values (a covariate in the population model) or epirubicin concentrations were randomly changed by ±10%. Cross‐validation was performed five times, on each occasion using 80% of the data for model development and 20% to assess the performance of the model. External validation was conducted by assessing the ability of the population model to predict concentrations and clearances in a separate group of 79 patients.

Results

Structural parameter estimates from all jackknife samples were within 7.5% of the final population estimates and examination of log likelihood values indicated that the selection of AST in the final model was not due to the presence of outliers. Alteration of AST or epirubicin concentrations by ± 10% had a negligible effect on population parameter estimates and their precision. In the cross‐validation analysis, the precision of clearance estimates was better in patients with AST concentrations >150 U l−1. In the external validation, epirubicin concentrations were over‐predicted by 81.4% using the population model and clearance values were also poorly predicted (imprecision 43%).

Conclusions

The results of internal validation of population pharmacokinetic models should be interpreted with caution, especially when the dataset is relatively small.
Efficacy of needle‐free administration of recombinant human growth hormone in adults with growth hormone deficiency
Authors: Pereira Alberto M. , van der Klaauw Agatha A. , Koppeschaar Hans P. F. , Smit Jan W. A. , van Thiel Sjoerd W. , van Doorn Jaap , Biermasz Nienke R. , Roelfsema Ferdinand , Romijn Johannes A.
Published: February 2006

Aim

Needle‐free administration of recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) is effective in the treatment of growth hormone deficiency (GHD) in children, but has not been studied in adult patients. Therefore, we evaluated the efficacy of needle‐free administration of rhGH in adults with GHD.

Methods

Insulin‐like growth factor‐I (IGF‐I) concentrations were compared in newly diagnosed patients with GHD (n = 21) and in patients previously treated by subcutaneous injection of rhGH (switchers, n = 34), at baseline, 12 months and 24 months.

Results

In the new patients, IGF‐I standard deviation scores (SDS) increased from − 1.82 ± 0.46 to + 0.75 ± 0.33 at 12 months and to + 0.65 ± 0.41 at 24 months (P ≤ 0.001 vs. baseline). In switchers, IGF‐I SDS remained unchanged with values of + 0.98 ± 0.32 at baseline, + 0.87 ± 0.23 at 12 months and + 0.73 ± 0.29 at 24 months (P = 0.696 vs. baseline). In new patients, the rhGH dose was 0.46 ± 0.03 mg day−1 at 12 months and 0.47 ± 0.03 mg day−1 at 24 months. In switchers, the rhGH dose was 0.53 ± 0.04 mg day−1 at baseline (s.c. injection), 0.52 ± 0.03 mg day−1 at 12 months and 0.48 ± 0.03 mg day−1 at 24 months (NS between the different time points). There was no difference in the dose of rhGH at 12 and 24 months between the two groups. Side‐effects were generally minor and consisted of local tissue reactions.

Conclusion

Administration of rhGH by needle‐free, transdermal injection is effective in maintaining IGF‐I concentrations in the normal range for age in adults with GHD, and is as effective as traditional subcutaneous injection of rhGH.
Quantitative prediction ofin vivoinhibitory interactions involving glucuronidated drugs fromin vitrodata: the effect of fluconazole on zidovudine glucuronidation
Authors: Uchaipichat Verawan , Winner Leanne K. , Mackenzie Peter I. , Elliot David J. , Williams J Andrew , Miners John O.
Published: February 2006

Aims

Using the fluconazole–zidovudine (AZT) interaction as a model, to determine whether inhibition of UDP–glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) catalysed drug metabolismin vivocould be predicted quantitatively fromin vitrokinetic data generated in the presence and absence bovine serum albumin (BSA).

Methods

Kinetic constants for AZT glucuronidation were generated using human liver microsomes (HLM) and recombinant UGT2B7, the principal enzyme responsible for AZT glucuronidation, as the enzyme sources with and without fluconazole.Kivalues were used to estimate the decrease in AZT clearancein vivo.

Results

Addition of BSA (2%) to incubations decreased theKmvalues for AZT glucuronidation by 85–90% for the HLM (923 ± 357 to 91 ± 9 µm) and UGT2B7 (478–70 µm) catalysed reactions, with little effect onVmax. Fluconazole, which was shown to be a selective inhibitor of UGT2B7, competitively inhibited AZT glucuronidation by HLM and UGT2B7. Like theKm, BSA caused an 87% reduction in theKifor fluconazole inhibition of AZT glucuronidation by HLM (1133 ± 403 to 145 ± 36 µm) and UGT2B7 (529 to 73 µm).Kivalues determined for fluconazole using HLM and UGT2B7 in the presence (but not absence) of BSA predicted an interactionin vivo. The predicted magnitude of the interaction ranged from 41% to 217% of the reported AUC increase in patients, depending on the value of thein vivofluconazole concentration employed in calculations.

Conclusions

Kivalues determined under certain experimental conditions may quantitatively predict inhibition of UGT catalysed drug glucuronidationin vivo.
The role of pharmacogenetics in cancer therapeutics
Authors: Yong Wei Peng , Innocenti Federico , Ratain Mark J.
Published: February 2006

The variability in treatment responses and narrow therapeutic index of anticancer drugs are some of the key challenges oncologists face. The knowledge of pharmacogenetics can potentially aid in the discovery, development and ultimately individualization of anticancer drugs. The identification of genetic variations that predict for drug response is the first step towards the translation of pharmacogenetics into clinical practice. This review provides an update on the results of studies assessing the effects of germline polymorphisms and somatic mutations on therapeutic outcomes and highlights the potential applications and future challenges in pharmacogenetic research pertaining to cancer therapeutics.
An ex vivo evaluation of a new root canal irrigation technique with intracanal aspiration
Authors: Fukumoto Y. , Kikuchi I. , Yoshioka T. , Kobayashi C. , Suda H.
Published: February 2006

Aim  To evaluate the effectiveness of a new root canal irrigation technique with intracanal aspiration in removing the smear layer and to assess irrigant extrusion ex vivo.

Methodology  Thirty‐five instrumented canals of extracted human canine teeth that had been resected apically by removing 3 mm of the root tip were divided into one control and four experimental groups of seven teeth each. The roots were fixed in a plastic case and surrounded with normal saline agar coloured with 1% acid red. No irrigation was performed in the control teeth. Each root canal in the experimental groups was irrigated with 9 mL of 14% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid for 3 min, and then with 6 mL of 6% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) for 2 min. In the intracanal aspiration technique, the irrigant was delivered from the tip of an injection needle placed 12 mm from the apical root‐end and an aspiration needle that was connected to a Root ZXTM® apex locator placed 2 and 3 mm short of the apical root‐end in groups 1 and 2, respectively. In the conventional method, the tip of an injection needle used for delivery of the irrigant and as an active electrode was placed 2 and 3 mm short of the apical root‐end in groups 3 and 4, respectively, the tip of the aspiration needle was placed 12 mm from the apical root‐end in these groups. The readings of the Root ZXTM® during irrigation were recorded. The cleanliness of the canal was evaluated by scoring smear layer from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of the canal. Extrusion of NaOCl was detected by measuring the discoloured area of the agar around the apical root‐end. The data obtained were statistically analysed by one‐way anova, the Kruskal–Wallis test and Friedman's test.

Results  In the SEM study, the canals in groups 1–3 were significantly cleaner than those in the control and group 4 (P < 0.05). The mean Root ZXTM® readings in groups 1–3 were approximately ‘0.5’. The discoloured area in group 3 was significantly larger than the other groups (P < 0.05).

Conclusions  Irrigation using the intracanal aspiration technique allowed more effective removal of the smear layer than that performed by the conventional method in an apically resected canine tooth. The intracanal aspiration technique produced limited extrusion of the irrigant beyond the apical foramen.
Longitudinal study of periapical and endodontic status in a Danish population
Authors: Kirkevang L.‐L. , Væth M. , Hörsted‐Bindslev P. , Wenzel A.
Published: February 2006

Aim  To describe and discuss changes in periapical and endodontic status in a general Danish population.

Methodology  In 1997, 616 randomly selected individuals had a full‐mouth radiographic survey taken. In 2003, 77% of the participants attended for a new full‐mouth radiographic examination. Information on endodontic treatment and periapical status was obtained. The periapical index (PAI) was used to assess apical periodontitis (AP).

Results  More participants had root filling(s) and AP in 2003 than in 1997. More teeth had AP and/or root fillings in 2003. Fewer of the root‐filled teeth (RFT) had AP in 2003. Less than 3% of the teeth without root fillings (NRFT) that in 1997 had no AP, developed AP and/or received a root filling. Of the NRFT which in 1997 had AP, more than 35% still had AP and no root filling in 2003. Approximately, 30% of the NRFT with AP in 1997 received a root filling. Of the teeth that received a root filling, 40% had healed, whereas 60% had not. Approximately, 25% of the NRFT that in 1997 had AP had been extracted. In 1997 there were 618 RFT, 314 of the RFT had no AP in 1997. Almost 20% of the RFT that in 1997 were periapically sound, developed AP. Of the 304 RFT with AP in 1997, approximately 30% had healed, in 60% AP persisted, and 10% were extracted.

Conclusions  The present study indicates that caution must be exercised when statements on the outcome of root canal treatment are made based on the cross‐sectional studies.
A simple mounting model for consistent determination of the accuracy and repeatability of apex locators
Authors: ElAyouti A. , Löst C.
Published: February 2006

Aim  To develop a precise and simple mounting model (MM) for evaluating apex locators and to compare the repeatability of the MM with a conventional visual method (VM).

Methodology  Electronic working length determination was performed in 32 maxillary central incisors using two methods: (i) the MM method and (ii) a conventional VM. The MM utilizes a micrometer to determine the distance travelled by the measuring file during working length determination. In the VM, the length of the measuring file (representing the working length) is determined visually using a caliper and a microscope at 6× magnification. Each measurement was repeated once. The repeatability of each method was evaluated by calculating the coefficient of repeatability.

Results  The coefficient of repeatability, which includes 95% of the differences between repeated measurements, was 0.04 mm for MM compared with 0.9 mm for VM. The measurement error of MM was significantly lower than VM (0.02 and 0.4 mm respectively). There was a statistically significant difference between the means of absolute difference in repeated measurements: MM 0.01 mm (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.01; 0.02 mm) compared with VM 0.4 mm (95% CI: 0.3; 0.5 mm).

Conclusion  The new MM had superior repeatability in comparison with the conventional method where visual interpretation is a source of inaccurate measurement.
Reinforcement effect of polyethylene fibre in root‐filled teeth: comparison of two restoration techniques
Authors: Belli S. , Erdemir A. , Yildirim C
Published: February 2006

Aim  To compare in vitro two different fibre placement techniques on reinforcement of root‐filled molar teeth with mesio‐occluso‐distal (MOD) cavities.

Methodology  Fifty sound extracted human mandibular molars were used (n = 10). Group 1 served as control. From group 2–5, endodontic access and standard MOD cavities were prepared. Following root canal treatment, group 2 was kept unrestored. In groups 3 and 4, the teeth were restored with composite resin (AP‐X; Kuraray, Japan). A groove was prepared on occlusal surface of the finished restorations in group 4 from buccal to lingual direction. Polyethylene woven fibre (Ribbond; Seattle, WA, USA) was inserted in the groove in combination with flowable resin that was cured for 20 s and covered with composite resin. Cavity surfaces were covered with flowable resin in group 5, and polyethylene fibre was placed into the bed of resin in a buccal to lingual direction before the composite restoration was placed. All specimens were stored in 100% humidity at 37 °C for 24 h. Compressive loading of the teeth was performed by a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm min−1 until failure. The data were recorded in Newton and submitted to anova and Tukey post hoc test.

Results  The mean load necessary to fracture the samples in each group was: G1: 1671.57 ± 131.54a; G2: 375.21 ± 34.30b; G3: 749.47 ± 124.54c; G4: 1224.36 ± 132.17d; G5: 926.88 ± 118.28e. Different superscript letters demonstrate significant difference between groups.

Conclusions  Polyethylene fibre use over or under MOD composite restorations significantly increased fracture strength. However, when the fibre was placed on the occlusal surface of the restoration in buccal to lingual direction, significantly higher fracture resistance was observed.
Effectiveness of hand and rotary instrumentation for removing a new synthetic polymer‐based root canal obturation material (Epiphany) during retreatment
Authors: Schirrmeister J. F. , Meyer K. M. , Hermanns P. , Altenburger M. J. , Wrbas K.‐T.
Published: February 2006

Aim  To evaluate the effectiveness of hand and rotary instrumentation for removal of vertically compacted Epiphany and gutta‐percha during retreatment.

Methodology  Sixty extracted single‐rooted maxillary central incisors were enlarged to size 40 using FlexMaster instruments. The teeth were randomly divided into four groups of 15 specimens each. The canals of two groups were obturated using vertically compacted Epiphany. The others were filled with vertically compacted gutta‐percha and AH Plus sealer. One Epiphany group and one gutta‐percha group was reinstrumented with Gates Glidden burs and Hedström files. In the other two groups, obturation material was removed using Gates Glidden burs and RaCe rotary instruments. After clearing the roots, the area of remaining obturation material on the root canal wall was measured using a computer image analysis program. Statistical analysis was performed using Repeated Measures Analysis of Variance and anova.

Results  Retreatment of specimens obturated with gutta‐percha showed significantly more remaining obturation material than specimens filled with Epiphany (P < 0.05). No difference was found between the removal with Hedström files and with RaCe instruments (P > 0.05). Regarding the mean time of retreatment and time required for reaching the working length, Hedström files were significantly faster than RaCe instruments (P < 0.05). The times did not depend on the kind of obturation material (P > 0.05).

Conclusions  Vertically compacted Epiphany in combination with Epiphany Root Canal Sealant was removed more effectively than gutta‐percha and AH Plus sealer. Hedström files were more rapid than RaCe rotary instruments.
Palatal mucosa necrosis because of accidental sodium hypochlorite injection instead of anaesthetic solution
Authors: Gursoy U. K. , Bostancı V. , Kosger H. H.
Published: February 2006

Aim  A case is reported in which sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) was inadvertently injected into the palatal mucosa instead of local anaesthetic solution.

Summary  An adult male was referred to the University clinic 15 days after an inadvertent NaOCl injection into the palatal mucosa. Soft tissue necrosis was evident, without obvious bony involvement. Tissues healed without scarring within 30 days. No surgical intervention was required.

Key learning points  • NaOCl is highly irritant when extruded into vital tissues

• Dentists should be careful to avoid the misuse of NaOCl, and should check the nature of any agent before injecting it into patients

• NaOCl should not be dispensed in a way that could allow it to be mistaken for local anaesthetic solutions

• The well‐perfused tissues of the oral cavity have considerable healing ability
C‐shaped root canal in a maxillary first molar: a case report
Authors: Yılmaz Z. , Tuncel B. , Serper A. , Calt S.
Published: February 2006

Aim  This case report presents an unusual C‐shaped root canal system in a maxillary first molar tooth.

Summary  Although C‐shaped root canals are most frequently seen in the mandibular second molar, they may also appear in maxillary molars. A literature search revealed only a few case reports of C‐shaped root canal systems in maxillary molars. The present case describes a C‐shaped canal in the buccal root of a maxillary first molar. The endodontic access cavity displayed two canal orifices, one leading to the canal system in the buccal root, the other into the palatal root canal system. In the buccal root, what appeared to be the mesial and distal canals joined to form a single C‐shaped canal.

Key learning points  • Careful examination of radiographs and the internal anatomy of teeth is essential.

• The location and morphology of root canals should be identified at high magnification under the microscope.
The Influence of Flowing Water on the Resource Pursuit‐Risk Avoidance Tradeoff in the CrayfishOrconectes virilis
Authors: Pecor Keith W. , Hazlett Brian A.
Published: February 2006

The influence of hydrodynamics on chemically mediated behavioral tradeoffs has received little attention. We tested the hypothesis that individuals of the crayfishOrconectes viriliswould be more sensitive to chemical cues in flowing water than in still water.Orconectes virilisis a good subject for this test, because it is found in both still water (e.g. ponds), and flowing water (e.g. rivers). A factorial design was used, with two stimulus treatments and two habitat types. Crayfish were exposed to either food cue or food + alarm cue in either still water or flowing water in an artificial stream arena. Habitat use and activity were significantly influenced by stimulus treatment, with more time spent away from the stimulus source and less activity in the food + alarm treatment than in the food treatment. Neither habitat type nor the interaction of stimulus treatment and habitat type had a significant effect on the response variables. Given the natural history ofO. virilis, we suggest that selection has favored the ability to equally utilize chemical cues in both still and flowing water. We acknowledge that different flow conditions may influence chemical ecology in this species and caution against the view that tests in flowing waters necessarily provide a more accurate approximation of natural responses.
Life History Effects Upon Contest Behaviour: Age as a Predictor of Territorial Contest Dynamics in Two Populations of the Speckled Wood Butterfly, Pararge aegeria L.
Authors: Kemp Darrell J. , Wiklund Christer , Gotthard Karl
Published: February 2006

Although empirical studies of life history effects upon sexually selected phenomena have largely overlooked contest behaviour, recent research suggests that territorial contest participation in butterflies may be mediated by ageing per se. Verbal and mathematical arguments predict lifetime increases in the expression of risky male reproductive behaviours, such as fighting, under a range of ecological conditions. Here we explored the relevance of ageing per se to contest dynamics in two phenologically distinct populations of the speckled wood butterfly, Pararge aegeria. We established 160 experimental like‐population contests among naïve south Swedish and Madeiran dyads, 112 of which we varied the age difference between combatants by 3–4 d. Although this age asymmetry did not influence contest outcome in either population, we found weak positive covariance between the loser's age and contest duration amongst Madeiran males. This is consistent with a slight lifetime increase in aggression because the duration of these aerial persistence contests is a sensitive measure of the losing male's level of aggressive intent. However, the size of this effect (semi‐partial correlation = 0.281) suggests age is not as strongly relevant to contest behaviour in P. aegeria as in other territorial butterflies. We discuss the ways in which ecological differences between butterfly species, particularly with respect to predation risk, may have influenced the evolution of lifetime aggressive strategies in this group.
Do I Know You? Species Recognition Operates Within and Between the Sexes in a Unisexual–Bisexual Species Complex of Mollies
Authors: Gumm J. M. , Gonzalez R. , Aspbury A. S. , Gabor C. R.
Published: February 2006

Male sailfin mollies (Poecilia latipinna) can be sexually parasitized by closely related, unisexual, gynogenetic Amazon mollies (Poecilia formosa). This study examined possible cues used by male P. latipinna to distinguish between conspecific females and sympatric, heterospecific P. formosa. Digital photos were used to create models to test male P. latipinna preference for model female P. latipinna and P. formosa with a full suite of traits and altered models of P. latipinna and P. formosa. Male P. latipinna significantly preferred models of either species over no stimulus, demonstrating that models elicit a male response. Males also significantly preferred female P. latipinna models over P. formosa models. We also examined species recognition by female sailfin mollies using the same models, and found that female sailfin mollies significantly preferred to associate with female P. latipinna over P. formosa. These results taken together suggest that the use of fish models yield results similar to those studies using live stimuli. Male preference was then tested for unaltered vs. altered models in the following combinations: (i) P. formosa vs. P. formosa with a female P. latipinna fin; (ii) P. formosa vs. P. formosa with a female P. latipinna lateral spot pattern; (iii) P. formosa vs. P. latipinna with a P. formosa fin and their spotless lateral pattern. Males did not significantly prefer models with any isolated traits over the unaltered P. formosa models. Thus, males may be using traits other than the ones isolated for species recognition or males may be using a suite of multiple traits to recognize conspecific females.
Firefly Courtship: Behavioral and Morphological Predictors of Male Mating Success in Photinus greeni
Authors: Demary Kristian , Michaelidis Constantinos I. , Lewis Sara M.
Published: February 2006

Differences in male mating success can generate selection on male morphological traits and courtship behaviors involved in male–male competition or female mate choice. In Photinus fireflies (Coleoptera: Lampyridae), courtship is based on bioluminescent flash signals produced by both sexes. We conducted field observations of Photinus greeni fireflies engaged in competitive courtships, in which females are able to simultaneously assess several males, to identify male morphological traits and courtship behaviors that might predict male mating success. Male morphological traits did not differ between males that successfully mated compared with unsuccessful males (dialoging males that did not mate). However, courtship behavioral interactions differed: successful males tended to have higher flash pattern rates (number of flash patterns per minute), and their courtship flashes were more likely to be answered by females. We also examined how the risk of predation by Photuris fireflies altered courtship behavior of their Photinus prey. When predatory Photuris fireflies were present, P. greeni females were less likely to mate, and showed decreased flash responses to most males. However, P. greeni males that did successfully mate in spite of Photuris presence were males that maintained high flash pattern rates that elicited female responses. These results suggest that both female mate choice and Photuris predation exert strong selective pressures on the evolution of courtship signals in Photinus fireflies.
Nest Sanitation in Social Spider Mites: Interspecific Differences in Defecation Behavior
Authors: Sato Yukie , Saito Yutaka
Published: February 2006

Nest sanitation behavior is an important adaptation in nest‐building animals. The social spider mite Stigmaeopsis miscanthi (Saito) constructs woven nests on the leaf undersurface of perennial pampas grass (Miscanthus sinensis Anderss) and lives in the nests in large groups. Nest members of this species defecate at only one site inside the nest for nest sanitation, and the waste management is maintained by volatile chemical and tactile cues. Other members of the genus Stigmaeopsis Banks also construct woven nests, live in groups, and manage their fecal wastes, but the species differ in nest and group size, host plant, and social behavior. We investigated the details of waste management in four Stigmaeopsis spp. and found differences in the location of the defecation site and in the way each species recognizes this site. Like S. miscanthi, Stigmaeopsis longus defecates at only one site and uses volatile chemical and tactile cues, whereas Stigmaeopsis takahashii and Stigmaeopsis saharai both defecate at two sites and use only tactile cues. We discuss the reasons for the waste management differences within the genus, and the relationship between the means of waste management, nest and group size.
Impact of Environmental Disturbance on the Stability and Benefits of Individual Status within Dominance Hierarchies
Authors: Sneddon Lynne U. , Hawkesworth Sophie , Braithwaite Victoria A. , Yerbury Julia
Published: February 2006

Changes in environmental conditions affect social interactions and thus may modify an individual's competitive ability within a social group. We subjected three‐spined sticklebacks, Gasterosteus aculeatus, housed in groups of four individuals, to environmental perturbations to assess the impact on dominance hierarchy stability. Hierarchy stability decreased during increased turbulence or lowered water levels (‘simulated drought’) whereas control hierarchies became more stable in a constant environment. The dominant individual either became more aggressive and remained dominant during the environmental manipulation or was usurped by a lower rank member. Only simulated drought affected rates of aggression where levels of aggression were higher after the water level was dropped which may be the result of an increased encounter rate in these conditions. When there were large size differences between the group members, the dominant individual performed the greatest amount of aggression and ate the largest proportion of food and there was little aggressive behaviour from the lower ranks. In groups of similar‐sized individuals, aggression was much higher. The benefit of being dominant was to gain weight over the experimental period whereas ranks 2 and 3 lost weight. The lowest rank, 4, actually gained weight over the experimental period. This study suggests that it would benefit an individual to be dominant, highly aggressive and gain weight or be submissive, avoid aggressive interactions and, by sneakily obtaining access to food, also gain weight. Altering environmental conditions has a profound effect on social behaviour in this study.
Liver biopsy in the diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis
Authors: Artan Reha , Yilmaz Aygen , Akçam Mustafa , Aksoy Nazif Hikmet
Published: February 2006

Aim:  To determine whether liver biopsy might be useful in the diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis when bone marrow examination and serologic tests are inconclusive.

Methods:  Over a 10‐year period, liver biopsy was performed in five children with suspected visceral leishmaniasis when indirect hemagglutination tests and bone marrow aspirations were not diagnostic.

Results:  Leishmania amastigotes were seen in Kupffer cells in all patients. The accompanying liver histopathological findings were ischemic necrosis in two children, macrovesicular steatosis in two children, portal inflammatory inflammation in two children, and piecemeal necrosis in one child. During the study period, 32 additional pediatric visceral leishmaniasis cases were diagnosed by bone marrow examination.

Conclusion:  Liver biopsy can be recommended for diagnosing suspected visceral leishmaniasis in children when serology and bone marrow aspiration are inconclusive.
Self‐efficacy in Infant Care Scale: Development and psychometric testing
Authors: Prasopkittikun Tassanee , Tilokskulchai Fongcum , Sinsuksai Nittaya , Sitthimongkol Yajai
Published: February 2006

Abstract The Self‐Efficacy in Infant Care Scale (SICS) is a self‐administered measure to assess maternal judgments about the ability to care for the baby during the first year of life. The SICS was initially composed of 67 items and was tested on 397 Thai mothers with infants < 12 months old. The test demonstrated adequate internal consistency and test‐retest reliability. Factor analysis yielded 42 items with five dimensions of self‐efficacy in infant care. With an acceptable model fit using confirmatory factor analysis, a final version of the SICS contained 40 items with four dimensions of self‐efficacy in infant care: developmental promotion, general health care, safety, and diet. This preliminary test for the psychometric properties revealed that the SICS has potential uses for both research and clinical purposes. However, the model selected must be viewed as tentative; further refinement is suggested.
Iranian staff nurses’ views of their productivity and management factors improving and impeding it: a qualitative study
Authors: Dehghan Nayeri Nahid , Nazari Ali Akbar , Salsali Mahvash , Ahmadi Fazlollah , Adib Hajbaghery Mohsen
Published: February 2006

Abstract  As the biggest proportion of hospital personnel, Iranian nurses have a major role in providing quality care to patients. Nursing managers and nurses no longer feel that nurses’ work is valued and they are concerned about their productivity. Nurses’ views about productivity and management factors affecting it have been identified as the most important aspects affecting productivity. Thus, this study assesses productivity from the nurse's view. A grounded theory approach was used for this research. Purposive sampling and semistructured interviews were used. The data were analyzed using constant comparative analysis. Most participants felt that the qualitative nature (effectiveness) of productivity is very important. Also, participants indicated that management is the most important factor that can promote or impede their productivity. They suggested that managers’ performance and their skill level are the factors influencing productivity. Effective management can improve nurses’ productivity and the quality of care that nurses provide.
Irukandji Syndrome: What nurses need to know
Authors: Greenland Pauline , Hutchinson Di , Park Tanya
Published: February 2006

Abstract  Irukandji Syndrome can be frightening for the patient and make care delivery difficult for the nurse. Nurses’ knowledge of Irukandji Syndrome has been limited to information provided by marine biologists, doctors, and tropical medicine specialists. This paper proposes to assist with the evolution of nursing knowledge for the care of the patient with Irukandji Syndrome. An algorithm of nursing management is presented that has been derived from the continuing debate among scientists about the etiology of signs, symptoms, and treatment rationales. Community safety and education surrounding Irukandji Syndrome requires concurrent progression of nursing knowledge and scientific inquiry.
Concept analysis of coping with arthritic pain by South Korean older adults: Development of a hybrid model
Authors: Seomun Gyeong‐Ae , Chang Sung Ok , Lee Pyoung Sook , Lee Sook Ja , Shin Hyun Jeong
Published: February 2006

Abstract This study was conducted to clarify and conceptualize the phenomenon of coping with arthritic pain by older adults. The Hybrid Model of concept development was applied to develop a conceptual structure of coping with arthritic pain by older adults. A refined definition of coping with arthritic pain by older adults emerged that identified the attributes and structure of the concept. This study reveals the characteristics of the ways that older adults cope with arthritic pain, such as how they experience themselves, how pain affects their daily life, and how they perceive the meaning of coping with arthritic pain. These characteristics indicate the complexity of the concept regarding the coping of older adults with arthritic pain. This area needs to be clarified when nursing staff assess coping with pain and plan pain management for older adults.
The art of professional development and caring in cancer nursing
Authors: Wengström Yvonne , Ekedahl Marieanne
Published: February 2006

Abstract  The impetus for this qualitative study was the premise expressed by lay people that nursing terminally ill cancer patients must be depressing and difficult to cope with. Its focus was nurses’ stress and coping strategies, both secular and religious. Data was collected using a narrative life‐story approach, and then Lazaruz and Folkman's coping theory and Pargament's theory on the psychology of religion were used during the analysis of the data. Several factors were identified, related to the individual and group levels, that influence a nurse's identity and professional development. A person's life orientation was suggested as a first concept for developing a professional paradigm that includes caritas as a main orienting factor. Directed by the nurse's secular and religious orientation, competence develops, making it possible to understand, analyze, manage, and appreciate the significance of the professional work of caring.
Comparison of knowledge, attitudes, experience, and opinions between teachers and guardians regarding the emergency contraceptive pill in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Authors: Sripichyakan Kasara , Tangmunkongvorakul Arunrat
Published: February 2006

Abstract  Teachers and guardians (parents or authorized persons) are expected to collaborate in educating female students about emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) but it is unknown whether they have similar perspectives on ECPs. This study aimed to compare their knowledge, attitudes, experience, and opinions regarding ECPs. Questionnaires were distributed to 720 female teachers and guardians of eight randomly selected high schools and vocational schools in Chiang Mai, Thailand. There were significantly more teachers who knew about the existence of ECPs than guardians. More guardians reported some accurate information regarding ECPs than did teachers. More teachers than guardians believed that the use of ECPs was not morally wrong. Both teachers and guardians had similar experience with ECP use and similar agreement in teaching female adolescents about ECPs. The teachers and guardians had some different opinions on teaching barriers. It is suggested that both teachers and guardians are suited to teach female adolescents about ECPs, but they need preparation in different aspects.
Development and validation of the Human Activity Profile into Chinese language: Lessons in determining equivalence
Authors: Bonner Ann , Wellard Sally , Kenrick Marita
Published: February 2006

Abstract  The Human Activity Profile (HAP), and associated Dyspnea Scale, is a self‐report instrument for assessing levels of human activity. Although it has been used in studies examining the levels of activity in people, it is limited to people who are only able to understand English. However, many countries are multicultural with significant numbers of people whose native language is not English. This study sought to demonstrate the equivalence between the Chinese and English versions of the HAP and Dyspnea scales. Thirty‐five bilingual university students completed both the Chinese and English versions of each questionnaire. There was 89% and 85% agreement between items across the HAP and Dyspnea Scale questionnaires, respectively. Although the psychometric evaluations suggested there was equivalence between the Chinese and English versions of both the HAP and Dyspnea Scale, lessons have been learnt regarding the different written forms of Chinese.
Diagnostic practise in nursing: A critical review of the literature
Authors: Lee Joseph , Chan Alfred C. M. , Phillips David R.
Published: February 2006

Abstract The purpose of this article is to critically review and synthesize the literature related to the general concepts and the process of diagnosing the client's condition, and the possible variables which influence diagnostic practise in nursing. It is suggested that statistical theories are capable of capturing the diagnostic process and offer an effective means to predict diagnostic decisions. Studies underpinned by information‐processing theory argue that diagnosing a patient's condition follows a hypothetico‐deductive model that consists of specific stages. Those who hold a phenomenological perspective remark that there is yet another form of diagnostic practise: intuitive reasoning, which plays an important role in diagnosing the patient's clinical condition. Other related studies suggest that diagnostic practise is contingent on some personal, psychosocial, and structural variables. Regrettably, these studies offer no conclusive explanation to delineate diagnostic practise in nursing. Based on the literature reviewed, a conceptual framework is suggested to help articulate the underlying structures and processes of diagnostic practise in nursing.
A Firm‐Specific Analysis of the Exchange‐Rate Exposure of Dutch Firms
Authors: de Jong Abe , Ligterink Jeroen , Macrae Victor
Published: February 2006

We examine the relationship between exchange‐rate changes and stock returns for a sample of Dutch firms over 1994–1998. We find that over 50 per cent of the firms are significantly exposed to exchange‐rate risk. Furthermore, all firms with significant exchange‐rate exposure benefit from a depreciation of the Dutch guilder relative to a trade‐weighted currency index. This result confirms that firms in open economies, such as the Netherlands, exhibit significant exchange‐rate exposure. We collect unique information on the most relevant individual currencies for each firm with respect to their influence on firm value. Our results indicate that the use of a trade‐weighted currency index and the use of individual exchange rates are complements. We also measure the determinants of exchange‐rate exposure. As expected, we find that firm size and the foreign sales ratio are significantly and positively related to exchange‐rate exposure. In contrast with our hypothesis, off‐balance hedging using derivatives has no significant effects. Finally, in line with theory, we find that exposure is significantly reduced through on‐balance sheet hedging, i.e., through foreign loans and by producing in factories abroad.
Corporate Value, Managerial Stockholdings and Investments of Japanese Firms
Authors: Chen Carl R. , Guo Weiyu , Mande Vivek
Published: February 2006

We use a simultaneous equation model which treats firm value, investments and management ownership as endogenous to the firm. Our results show a feedback relation between corporate value and management ownership, i.e., corporate value is positively impacted by management ownership, which in turn is positively impacted by corporate value. Corporate value also affects investments made by the firm. We also find that the effect of the main bank on corporate value is positive but only up to a certain point; then, it turns negative. Supporting the argument that keiretsu firms have lower agency cost, we find that firms belonging to a keiretsu have higher valuations during the sample period. Finally, we find that management ownership increases as the ownership of the main bank, ownership of institutional holders and cross‐holdings decreases, suggesting a substitution effect among these monitoring forces. Our results indicate that ignoring the web of these relationships leads to incorrect inferences.
The Multijurisdictional Disclosure System and Value of Equity Offerings
Authors: Mittoo Usha R.
Published: February 2006

The Canada and US multijurisdictional disclosure system (MJDS) implemented in 1991 lowered the indirect barriers for investors and issuers by easing reporting and disclosure requirements for cross‐border issues. This paper examines the impact of the MJDS and related regulatory changes on Canada–US equity market segmentation using a sample of Canadian seasoned equity offerings in the 1991–1998 period. We find that the number of cross‐border issues by Canadian firms increased, and the typical negative stock price reaction that accompanies seasoned equity issues declined over time, supporting increased integration between the two markets after the MJDS. We also document that cross‐border issues experience about 1.4 per cent lower negative stock price reaction compared with domestic issues, consistent with Canada–US market segmentation. We find mixed support for Merton's (1987) investor recognition hypothesis. While Canadian firms cross‐listed in the US experience a less adverse price reaction to their cross‐border offerings compared with their non‐US‐listed peers, there is no significant difference between the two groups in the case of purely domestic issues.
Frontier Technology and Absorptive Capacity: Evidence from OECD Manufacturing Industries*
Authors: Kneller Richard , Stevens Philip Andrew
Published: February 2006

In this paper, we examine the three facets of technology: its creation, dispersion and absorption. We investigate whether differences in absorptive capacity help to explain cross‐country differences in the level of productivity. We utilize stochastic frontier analysis to investigate two potential sources of this inefficiency – differences in human capital and R&D – for nine industries in 12 Organization for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD) countries over the period 1973–91. We find that inefficiency in production does indeed exist and it depends upon the level of human capital of the country's workforce. Evidence that the amount of R&D an industry undertakes is also important is less robust.
Occupational Labour Demand and the Sources of Non‐neutral Technical Change*
Authors: Chan Wing H. , Rich Daniel P.
Published: February 2006

This article introduces a two‐step empirical approach for examining both the nature and sources of non‐neutral technical change across multiple occupations. First, conventional labour‐demand parameter estimates and unbiased tests for neutrality are obtained in the context of a flexible cost system. The resulting input‐specific indices of technical change, unconstrained with respect to time path, facilitate subsequent evaluation of proposed sources. In our application to employment decisions of airline firms, we find labour‐saving technical change that is non‐neutral across occupations. We also document occupation‐specific responses to aircraft technology adoption, route system developments and an unprecedented range of technical change elements.

Would it not be sensible to start by trying to identify the form which the growth of conventional input efficiency has taken and then proceed to tackle the intriguing, but quite distinct, question of the sources of such growth? As it is now, the typical modus operandi implicitly involves an effort to dispose of both issues by a single stroke.

David and van de Klundert (1965)
Whatever Happened to Goldilocks? The Role of Expectations in Estimates of the NAIRU in the US and the UK*
Authors: Driver Rebecca L. , Greenslade Jennifer V. , Pierse Richard G.
Published: February 2006

During the second half of the 1990s the US economy was characterized as the Goldilocks economy: not too hot, nor too cold, but just right. It was argued that this represented a new paradigm, enabling unemployment to remain low without igniting inflationary pressure. We examine the evidence for a change in the relationship between inflation and unemployment for the US and UK using Phillips curve models. The impact of including explicit inflation expectations is also considered. Inflation expectations are found to play an important role, particularly in the US. When expectations are included there is still evidence that the non‐accelerating inflation rate of unemployment (NAIRU) steadily declined during the late 1990s, although this decline in the US NAIRU is not found solely in the 1990s.
Consumption and Aggregate Constraints: International Evidence*
Authors: Dejuan Joseph P. , Luengo‐Prado Maria Jose
Published: February 2006

This paper documents that region‐level consumption exhibits excess sensitivity to lagged region‐level income in Italy, Japan, Spain, the UK and West Germany. However, region‐specific consumption exhibits substantially less sensitivity to lagged region‐specific income. Moreover, excess sensitivity is inversely related to standard measures of openness and credit market integration and for most countries, it has decreased over time. These findings are consistent with the results reported by Ostergaard et al. [Journal of Political Economy (2002) Vol. 110, pp. 634–645] for US states and Canadian provinces, and provide empirical support for the hypothesis that closed‐economy constraints may partly be responsible for the excess sensitivity phenomenon in aggregate data.