bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of perceived barriers of pain management in Iranian children: A qualitative study
Authors: Namnabati Mahboobeh , Abazari Parvaneh , Talakoub Sedigheh
Published: May 2012

Namnabati M, Abazari P, Talakoub S. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2012; 18: 221–225

Identification of perceived barriers of pain management in Iranian children: A qualitative study

Hospitalized children are often inadequately treated for their pain. Paediatric nurses experience these inadequacies more than other health‐care team members. This research was an attempt in the form of a phenomenological study to reveal some major barriers in children pain management as the nurses had perceived. Sixteen nurses were interviewed in the medical, surgical and infectious paediatric wards of a hospital in Iran. Data analysis were based on Colaizzi method that surfaced three main themes in different areas namely: organizational barriers, limitations relating to child's characteristics and barriers relating to the nature of disease and its treatments. The study results have shown organizational limitations added to the lack of authority for administering some medical intervention, inadequate equipment and utilities and unavailability of opioids as the main pain controlling and restricting factors. Additional factors that relate to the child specifications like age, temperament, behaviour, expression and gender affect the assessment and treatment of pain. The results revealed identified barriers in real context. It seems that some guidelines are needed to achieve optimal pain management.
Exploring the meaning of hypoglycaemia to community‐dwelling Singaporean Chinese adults living with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Tan Pamela Shu‐Xian , Chen Hui‐Chen , Taylor Beverley Joan , Hegney Desley Gail
Published: May 2012

Tan PS‐X, Chen H‐C, Taylor BJ, Hegney DG. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2012; 18: 252–259

Exploring the meaning of hypoglycaemia to community‐dwelling Singaporean Chinese adults living with type 2 diabetes mellitus

This study aimed to explore how community‐dwelling Singaporean Chinese adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus experience hypoglycaemia. A qualitative interpretive research design was employed. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with six participants from a Singaporean diabetes specialist outpatient clinic, transcribed verbatim and analysed using qualitative manual thematic analysis. Eight major themes emerged: experiencing symptoms, knowing hypoglycaemia is manageable, using acute measures, using preventative strategies; applying knowledge, identifying causes of hypoglycaemia, forming relationships and working with health‐care professionals. Participants underestimated the impact of hypoglycaemia mainly due to their experiencing mild and infrequent episodes, and knowledge deficits. Health‐care professionals' roles were limited to information providers, and they were perceived as detached and impersonal. Theimplications are that health‐care professionals need to provide more client‐focused education, and improve the quality of their interpersonal relationships to ensure shared decision‐making with their clients.
Australian registered and enrolled nurses: Is there a difference?
Authors: Jacob Elisabeth , Sellick Kenneth , McKenna Lisa
Published: May 2012

Jacob E, Sellick K, McKenna L. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2012; 18: 303–307

Australian registered and enrolled nurses: Is there a difference?

There are two categories of nurse registered to practise in Australia, the degree‐educated registered nurse and the certificate/diploma trained enrolled nurse (EN). While it is argued that the roles of the two categories of nurse in Australia are different, recent changes to the educational preparation and supervision requirements of ENs have narrowed these differences. This paper examines the existing literature to determine the perceived differences and similarities between registered and ENs in Australia. Differences identified included registration requirements, educational preparation, supervisory requirements and role expectation. Further research needs to be undertaken to examine the educational preparation of registered and ENs in order to obtain a greater understanding of role expectations on graduation. Supervision processes also require reviewing to demonstrate differences between indirect supervision and independent practice for ENs.
A structured telephonic counselling to promote the exclusive breastfeeding of healthy babies aged zero to six months: A pilot study
Authors: Simonetti Valentina , Palma Elisabetta , Giglio Antonella , Mohn Angelika , Cicolini Giancarlo
Published: May 2012

Simonetti V, Palma E, Giglio A, Mohn A, Cicolini G. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2012; 18: 289–294

A structured telephonic counselling to promote the exclusive breastfeeding of healthy babies aged zero to six months: A pilot study

This pilot study aimed to test the effectiveness of a structured telephonic counselling (STC) on exclusive breastfeeding (EB) on healthy babies. The study was carried out on 114 primiparous women from February to March 2009. After randomization, women were divided into two groups: 55 receiving STC and 59 receiving conventional counselling. At 1, 3 and 5 months after delivery, a nurse specialist evaluated the EB rates, the influence of mother's educational level and employment status on EB. Breastfeeding rates in STC were higher compared to conventional counselling (P < 0.01); resuming work was not an EB discouraging variable as 74.5% women in the STC resumed work vs. 54.2% of the conventional counselling. Breastfeeding promotion should start during pregnancy, advising women about benefits for the child in receiving human milk. STC should be used to improve EB in primiparous women.
Assessing undergraduate nursing and midwifery students' compliance with hand hygiene by self‐report
Authors: Gül Asiye , Üstündağ Hülya , Zengin Neriman
Published: May 2012

Gül A, Üstündağ H, Zengin N. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2012; 18: 275–280

Assessing undergraduate nursing and midwifery students' compliance with hand hygiene by self‐report

The aim of the study was to assess undergraduate nursing and midwifery students' hand hygiene (HH) compliance. The questionnaire included questions about HH behaviours and compliance during patient care, and Fulkerson scale was used to relate HH to cleanliness of various activities. 57.4% of them reported that they used liquid soap for HH. 18.6% of them did not dry their hands after washing. 65.9% of them said that they performed HH when passing from one patient to another. HH rates were 80.7% after removing gloves. The first six activities on the Fulkerson scale were described as ‘clean’; most of the students assessed the third, fourth, fifth and sixth activities as ‘dirty’. Compliance with HH was high for all dirty and clean activities. Self‐report method indicates compliance with HH which was an easy and inexpensive way to provide the information on HH.
Pediatric surgery triage: Problems and improvements
Authors: Ukiyama Etsuji , Nirasawa Yuji , Watanabe Yoshiko , Makino Atsushi , Masuko Kentaro , Mochizuki Tomohiro , Ito Yasuo
Published: May 2012

Background:  The Canadian Paediatric Triage and Acuity Scale (P‐CTAS) is used and modified at hospitals as a triage tool for pediatric patients before they are seen in emergency rooms. Pediatric surgery patients account for very few of the many patients in emergency departments, but they should be triaged as emergency or urgent because they might be candidates for surgery. Problems with and improvements for triaging pediatric surgery patients using the P‐CTAS were studied.

Methods:  This retrospective study evaluated all patients <16 years old who visited the emergency department of Kyorin University Hospital during an approximately 4 year period between 1 May 2005, and 11 February 2009. Pediatric surgery patients were divided into two groups to evaluate the efficiency of P‐CTAS triage. Patients who needed emergency treatment were in group A, and the others were in group B.

Results:  Most group A patients were level I, II, or III (97%, 111/114). In contrast, 60% (71/119) of group B patients were level IV or greater. Some problems with and suggestions for the P‐CTAS were identified. Many patients with trauma were under 1 year of age, and many with a foreign body were under 2 years of age. Age categories should be added for patients with trauma or foreign body aspiration. Patients with abdominal pain, and without anal bleeding or vomiting who are >2 years old are triaged as level IV and they accounted for 12% of patients with possible intussusception in this study. A category of ‘possible intussusception’ should be made for level II. Most patients with acute scrotum, whether operated on or not, were level III. ‘Red or purple color of scrotal skin’ and/or ‘within 6 h from onset’ could be added to level II for patients with acute scrotum.

Conclusions:  P‐CTAS worked well for pediatric surgery patients, and it needs to be modified and improved for such patients based on these results.
Evidence‐Based Clinical Practice Guideline for Renal Cell Carcinoma: The Japanese Urological Association 2011 update
Authors: Fujioka Tomoaki , Obara Wataru ,   the Committee for Establishment of the Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Renal Cell Carcinoma and the Japanese Urological Association
Published: May 2012

Remarkable advances have been made in medical practice in relation to renal cell carcinoma in recent years, and a large amount of new evidence has been accumulated. In keeping with the plan at the time the first version of the “Evidence‐Based Clinical Practice Guideline for Renal Cell Carcinoma” compiled by the Japanese Urological Association was published in 2007, the Japanese Urological Association has just published a revised 2011 version. The main revisions regard the selection of treatment methods according to prognostic factors, reconsideration of treatment methods for small‐diameter renal cell carcinoma and selection criteria for medical treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma, including selection of neoadjuvant treatment with molecular targeted medicines. This Guideline presents clinical practice methods that are thought to be the most standard methods in Japan at the present time. In this English translation of a shortened version of the original Guideline, we cited particularly important clinical questions and references.
Nest‐site selection by crocodiles at a rocky site in the Australian tropics: Making the best of a bad lot
Authors: SOMAWEERA RUCHIRA , SHINE RICHARD
Published: May 2012

Most animals select nest sites non‐randomly, reflecting benefits of specific locations or incubation conditions for offspring viability as well as risks or costs to the reproducing adult. If few or no available nest sites offer suitable conditions, we expect animals to make the best of a bad lot, by selecting nest sites that provide the best conditions available. In tropical north‐western Australia, freshwater crocodiles (Crocodylus johnstoni: Crocodylidae) in a large artificial lake (Lake Argyle) experience this challenge: the types of nest sites used by this species in other parts of its range (moist, shaded sandy soils, far from the water's edge) are scarce. Measurements of 89 crocodile nests and 89 test holes (abandoned attempts at nesting) at Lake Argyle, and 28 nests on the nearby Ord River, show that most areas along the lakeshore are too steep and rocky for nesting. Crocodiles at the lake therefore are forced to nest at sites that are sun‐exposed, in dry gravelly substrates, and close to the water's edge. Comparisons of test holes and actual nests within such areas show that nesting crocodiles actively select sites that are less rocky, are suitable hydrically, and that provide stable thermal regimes. Those hydric and thermal attributes allow successful development of the offspring. The ability of freshwater crocodiles in Lake Argyle to flexibly modify their nest‐site selection criteria, under severe constraints enforced by this open rocky landscape, are critical to the species' success in exploiting the opportunity created by the dam's construction.
Visual and auditory cue integration for the generation of saccadic eye movements in monkeys and lever pressing in humans
Authors: Schiller Peter H. , Kwak Michelle C. , Slocum Warren M.
Published: May 2012

This study examined how effectively visual and auditory cues can be integrated in the brain for the generation of motor responses. The latencies with which saccadic eye movements are produced in humans and monkeys form, under certain conditions, a bimodal distribution, the first mode of which has been termed express saccades. In humans, a much higher percentage of express saccades is generated when both visual and auditory cues are provided compared with the single presentation of these cues [H. C. Hughes et al. (1994) J. Exp. Psychol. Hum. Percept. Perform., 20, 131–153]. In this study, we addressed two questions: first, do monkeys also integrate visual and auditory cues for express saccade generation as do humans and second, does such integration take place in humans when, instead of eye movements, the task is to press levers with fingers? Our results show that (i) in monkeys, as in humans, the combined visual and auditory cues generate a much higher percentage of express saccades than do singly presented cues and (ii) the latencies with which levers are pressed by humans are shorter when both visual and auditory cues are provided compared with the presentation of single cues, but the distribution in all cases is unimodal; response latencies in the express range seen in the execution of saccadic eye movements are not obtained with lever pressing.
Barron’s most respected companies
Authors: Filbeck Greg , Gorman Raymond , Zhao Xin
Published: May 2012

In this study, we investigate the performance of firms selected to Barron’s Most Respected Companies against the S&P 500 and a matched sample over a short‐term, long‐term and operational basis. The most respected companies exhibit a statistically significant announcement effect associated with their selection and outperform the S&P 500 over longer‐holding periods. The overall sample and those firms identified as top picks outperform a matched sample of firms. In addition, as measured by changes in the return on assets, the post‐selection operational performance of the most respected firms was better than that of the matched firms.
Identification of systemic responses in soybean nodulation by xylem sap feeding and complete transcriptome sequencing reveal a novel component of the autoregulation pathway
Authors: Reid Dugald E. , Hayashi Satomi , Lorenc Michal , Stiller Jiri , Edwards David , Gresshoff Peter M. , Ferguson Brett J.
Published: May 2012

Establishment of the nitrogen‐fixing nodulation symbiosis between legumes and rhizobia requires plant‐wide reprogramming to allow infection and development of nodules. Nodulation is regulated principally via a mechanism called autoregulation of nodulation (AON). AON is dependent on shoot and root factors and is maintained by the nodulation autoregulation receptor kinase (NARK) in soybean. We developed a bioassay to detect root‐derived signalling molecules in xylem sap of soybean plants which may function in AON. The bioassay involves feeding of xylem extracts via the cut hypocotyl of soybean seedlings and monitoring of molecular markers of AON in the leaf. Transcript abundance changes occurring in the leaf in response to feeding were used to determine the biological activity of the extracts. To identify transcript abundance changes that occur during AON, which may also be used in the bioassay, we used an RNA‐seq‐based transcriptomics approach. We identified changes in the leaves of bioassay plants fed with xylem extracts derived from eitherBradyrhizobium japonicum‐inoculated or uninoculated plants. Differential expression responses were detected for genes involved in jasmonic acid metabolism, pathogenesis and receptor kinase signalling. We identified an inoculation‐ and NARK‐dependent candidate gene (GmUFD1a) that responds in both the bioassay and intact, inoculated plants.GmUFD1ais a component of the ubiquitin‐dependent protein degradation pathway and provides new insight into the molecular responses occurring during AON. It may now also be used in our feeding bioassay as a molecular marker to assist in identifying the factors contributing to the systemic regulation of nodulation.
Enrichment of genomic DNA for polymorphism detection in a non‐model highly polyploid crop plant
Authors: Bundock Peter C. , Casu Rosanne E. , Henry Robert J.
Published: May 2012

Large polyploid genomes of non‐model species remain challenging targets for DNA polymorphism discovery despite the increasing throughput and continued reductions in cost of sequencing with new technologies. For these species especially, there remains a requirement to enrich genomic DNA to discover polymorphisms in regions of interest because of large genome size and to provide the sequence depth to enable estimation of copy number. Various methods of enriching DNA have been utilised, but some recent methods enable the efficient sampling of large regions (e.g. the exome). We have utilised one of these methods, solution‐based hybridization (Agilent SureSelect), to capture regions of the genome of two sugarcane genotypes (one Saccharum officinarum and one Saccharum hybrid) based mainly on gene sequences from the close relative Sorghum bicolor. The capture probes span approximately 5.8 megabases (Mb). The enrichment over whole‐genome shotgun sequencing was 10–11‐fold for the two genotypes tested. This level of enrichment has important consequences for detecting single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from a single lane of Illumina (Genome Analyzer) sequence reads. The detection of polymorphisms was enabled by the depth of sequence at or near probe sites and enabled the detection of 270 000–280 000 SNPs within each genotype from a single lane of sequence using stringent detection parameters. The SNPs were present in 13 000–16 000 targeted genes, which would enable mapping of a large number of these chosen genes. SNP validation from 454 sequencing and between‐genotype confirmations gave an 87%–91% validation rate.
Evaluation of “The Incredible Years” in Sweden: The transferability of an American parent‐training program to Sweden
Authors: AXBERG ULF , BROBERG ANDERS G.
Published: May 2012

Axberg, U. & Broberg, A. G. (2012). Evaluation of “The Incredible Years” in Sweden: The transferability of an American parent‐training program to Sweden. Scandinavian Journal of Psychology 53, 224–232.

Structured parent training has been proven to be effective in reducing disruptive behavior problems (DBP) in children. Most of the programs that are used in Sweden have their origin in North America, and there is an ongoing debate over the transferability to Sweden of manual‐based programs developed in other contexts. The goal of the present study was to study effectiveness of the Incredible Years parent‐training program (IY), developed in the US, in regular clinical work in Sweden, using a randomized controlled design. Parents of 62 four to eight‐year‐old children diagnosed with Oppositional Defiant Disorder participated in the study. Parents of 38 children were assigned to parent training (PT) and 24 to a waiting list (WL). The results indicate that the IYS retains the positive effects on children’s disruptive behavior problems when translated and transferred to Swedish. There was a statistically significant difference in reduction of DBP in children between the groups in favor of the PT. The improvement in the PT group was sustained at the one‐year follow‐up. The improvement also, at least to some extent, generalized over time to the school context. There was also a statistically significant difference in mothers’ report of pre to post change in parenting alliance between the PT and WL groups. The IYS program was appreciated and well received by the participating mothers.
Outliers and Patterns of Outliers in Contingency Tables with Algebraic Statistics
Authors: RAPALLO FABIO
Published: May 2012

Abstract.  In this paper, we provide a definition of pattern of outliers in contingency tables within a model‐based framework. In particular, we make use of log‐linear models and exact goodness‐of‐fit tests to specify the notions of outlier and pattern of outliers. The language and some techniques from Algebraic Statistics are essential tools to make the definition clear and easily applicable. We also analyse several numerical examples to show how to use our definitions.
The Higher Education White Paper: The Good, the Bad, the Unspeakable – and the Next White Paper1
Authors: Barr Nicholas
Published: May 2012

This article argues that reforms of higher education finance for undergraduates in England introduced by the Blair government in 2006 provided a progressive strategy for achieving the central objectives of higher education of quality (better), access (wider) and size (larger). Reforms in 2012 are a not a strategy but a collection of ad hoc arrangements. They include the good (a higher fees cap, a higher interest rate on student loans, better information and improved support for part‐time study), the bad (abolishing most taxpayer support for teaching in the arts and humanities and the social sciences, and raising excessively the threshold at which loan repayments start) and the unspeakable (abolishing Education Maintenance Allowances and AimHigher). The reforms are fiscally costly and hence perpetuate the central problem of capped student numbers, and will not stand the test of time. The concluding section outlines the next White Paper.
Governing Interest Groups and Rent Dissipation
Authors: EPSTEIN GIL S. , MEALEM YOSEF
Published: May 2012

In a contest of group‐specific public goods we consider the effect that managing an interest group has on the rent dissipation and the total expected payoffs of the contest. While in the first group there is a central planner determining its members’ expenditure in the contest, in the second group there are two different possibilities: either all the members are governed by a central planner or they are not. We consider both types of contests: an all‐pay auction and a Logit contest success function. We show that while governing an interest group decreases free‐riding, it may as well decrease the rent dissipation; at the same time the expected payoffs of the groups may also decrease.
Fluorescent and ultraviolet sexual dichromatism in the blue‐winged parrotlet
Authors: Barreira A. S. , Lagorio M. G. , Lijtmaer D. A. , Lougheed S. C. , Tubaro P. L.
Published: May 2012

The presence of sexual differences in plumage coloration (sexual dichromatism) is frequent in birds. However, in many cases, humans cannot detect colour differences that are discernible to birds and it is therefore necessary to employ objective methods that contemplate the characteristics of the avian visual system for the study of plumage coloration. An understudied property of feather coloration is the occurrence of fluorescence, which has been described almost exclusively in parrots from the Eastern Hemisphere using non‐objective methods and has been attributed to yellow pigments that are only present in psittacids. In this study, we explore fluorescence and sexual dichromatism through objective and quantitative methods in the plumage of a Neotropical species, the blue‐winged parrotlet Forpus xanthopterygius. We measured plumage reflectance and fluorescence emission on museum skins using spectrophotometry and spectrofluorometry, respectively. The reflectance analysis revealed the presence of ultraviolet sexual dichromatism that adds to the differences in the visible range of wavelengths that are detectable by humans. The spectrofluorometric analysis showed that fluorescence is indeed present in this species, both in green plumage patches, where fluorescent pigments are presumably located, and in the blue rump of males, where colour is considered to be purely structurally based. The sexes differed in the intensity and wavelength of their fluorescence emission, representing the first finding of fluorescence sexual dichromatism in birds.
Factors influencing the timing of spring migration in common toads (Bufo bufo)
Authors: Arnfield H. , Grant R. , Monk C. , Uller T.
Published: May 2012

We analysed 12 years of data on the spring migration of the common toad Bufo bufo L. to breeding ponds across 25 locations in Derbyshire, UK, to determine factors influencing the number of toads active per night. We also tested whether the timing of spring migration is predicted by annual variation in temperature or precipitation. More toads migrate in warmer temperatures and as the moon waxes, whereas precipitation did not have a significant effect on toad activity. Across years, spring migration begins earlier in warmer years, but the main migration of toads was not predicted by air temperatures before the onset of the breeding season. Contrary to the majority of studies of amphibian breeding phenology, there has been a temporal shift towards later timing of breeding over the past 12 years. Overall, comparison of our results with that of previous studies suggests that it can be difficult to generalize about the factors that influence breeding phenology, even within species. However, as more studies accumulate, it should be possible to address whether variation in breeding phenology is consistently linked to geographic variation in abiotic conditions or species biology, which will help to evaluate its consequences under climate change.
(Re)framing identity claims: European and state institutions as opportunity windows for group reinforcement
Authors: Dembinska Magdalena
Published: May 2012

How do we account for the reinforcement of identity particularisms despite transnational integration? This paper addresses the question by comparing two ethnolinguistic groups, Silesians and Kashubs in Poland. It is argued that in order to obtain state protection and tools to develop and survive, ethnic entrepreneurs adjust to institutions and discourses. Census politics, state laws' elaboration, transnational institutions represent openings to which groups adjust by reframing identity claims. In doing so, they re‐imagine and reinforce their communities. Following Rogers Brubaker, group‐making is presented as an eventful process where ethnic elites invest identity categories with groupness by taking advantage of opportunity windows at hand. Further, tracing changing political opportunities, strategic adjustments and groups' boomerang effect bid, the paper embeds identity groups within the social movement literature.
Fracture Behaviour Investigation into a Polymer‐Bonded Explosive
Authors: Jun‐Ling L. I. , Hua F. U. , Duo‐Wang T. A. N. , Fang‐Yun L. U. , Rong C. H. E. N.
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  Polymer‐bonded explosive (PBX) is used widely in weapon systems. Failure of PBX caused by mechanical damage is one of the sources of accidental ignitions. A brittle crack of PBX produces local heating, creating a ‘hot spot’ finally. Investigation into the tensile fracture behaviour of PBX is one of the main works to determine the failure mechanism. Although many researchers have carried out the quasi‐static Brazilian test to understand the damage evolution of PBX, the fracture feature of PBX under dynamic impact is rarely reported. In this article, dynamic Brazilian tests were conducted. A single‐pulse loading apparatus was used to ensure that specimen was loaded only once during a dynamic Brazilian test. High‐speed camera, digital image correlation and micro‐observation techniques were adopted for strain measurement and microfracture observation. All the dynamic tensile crack exhibits transgranular fracture, which indicates more heat would released by the propagation of crack and more friction between fractured crystal surfaces. On the basis of the theories of interface debonding and transgranular fracture, larger crystals are more prone to crack, whereas smaller crystals simply debond with neighbouring binders. Discrete element method simulation results show that specimen with interface debonding microcracks was able to sustain additional load until transgranular fracture begins.
The effect of low vision rehabilitation in diabetic eye disease: a randomised controlled trial protocol
Authors: Dunbar Hannah MP , Crossland Michael D , Bunce Catey , Egan Catherine , Rubin Gary S
Published: May 2012

Citation information: Dunbar HMP, Crossland MD, Bunce C, Egan C & Rubin GS. The effect of low vision rehabilitation in diabetic eye disease: a randomised controlled trial protocol. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2012, 32, 282–293. doi: 10.1111/j.1475‐1313.2012.00914.x

Purpose:  Current research highlights a rising incidence of diabetes and its complications. Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness within the working‐age population of the United Kingdom. Increasing severity of retinopathy is associated with reduced visual function and participation in daily living. Only 8% of those referred to Moorfields Eye Hospital’s low vision clinic have diabetic eye disease, a value less than prevalence figures for diabetes would predict. The lack of evidence for effectiveness of low vision intervention in this patient group could be responsible. Therefore, in line with CONSORT guidance, we present the methodology of the first randomised controlled trial to quantify the effect of low vision rehabilitation on people with diabetic eye disease.

Methods:  One hundred participants were recruited into four retinopathy severity groups based on their diagnosis according to the English National Screening Programme Grading Protocol. Participants were randomised to either immediate intervention (1–2 weeks after enrolment) or delayed (control) intervention (3 months after enrolment). Intervention was a standard low vision assessment performed in a hospital clinic. The Activity Inventory (AI), was administered to all participants by telephone within 1 week of enrolment (before any intervention) and repeated at 3 and 6 months.

Results:  One hundred participants (Type 1: 28, Type 2: 72; male: 62, female 38) have been recruited. Median habitual distance acuity was 0.19 logMAR (6/9, 20/30), with an interquartile range of 0.06–0.30 logMAR (6/7.5–6/12, 20/25–20/40). AI responses were scored by Rasch analysis, providing a measure of visual ability. Median baseline visual ability was 1.64 logits, with an interquartile range of 0.60–3.75 logits. Difference in mean change in visual ability between intervention groups will be assessed 3 months (primary outcome) and 6 months (secondary outcome) after enrolment.

Conclusions:  This is the first randomised controlled trial investigating the effectiveness of low vision rehabilitation for people with diabetic eye disease. With recruitment already complete, it is hoped this work will be the first step in guiding referral criteria for those with diabetic eye disease into the low vision service.
Occurrence of the Non‐Native Annual Bluegrass on the Antarctic Mainland and Its Negative Effects on Native Plants
Authors: MOLINA‐MONTENEGRO MARCO A. , CARRASCO‐URRA FERNANDO , RODRIGO CRISTIAN , CONVEY PETER , VALLADARES FERNANDO , GIANOLI ERNESTO
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  Few non‐native species have colonized Antarctica, although increased human activity and accelerated climate change may increase their number, distributional range, and effects on native species on the continent. We searched 13 sites on the maritime Antarctic islands and 12 sites on the Antarctic Peninsula for annual bluegrass (Poa annua), a non‐native flowering plant. We also evaluated the possible effects of competition between P. annua and 2 vascular plants native to Antarctica, Antarctic pearlwort (Colobanthus quitensis) and Antarctic hairgrass (Deschampsia antarctica). We grew the native species in experimental plots with and without annual bluegrass under conditions that mimicked the Antarctic environment. After 5 months, we measured photosynthetic performance on the basis of chlorophyll fluorescence and determined total biomass of both native species. We found individual specimens of annual bluegrass at 3 different sites on the Antarctic Peninsula during the 2007–2008 and 2009–2010 austral summers. The presence of bluegrass was associated with a statistically significant reduction in biomass of pearlwort and hairgrass, whereas the decrease in biomass of bluegrass was not statistically significant. Similarly, the presence of bluegrass significantly reduced the photosynthetic performance of the 2 native species. Sites where bluegrass occurred were close to major maritime routes of scientific expeditions and of tourist cruises to Antarctica. We believe that if current levels of human activity and regional warming persist, more non‐native plant species are likely to colonize the Antarctic and may affect native species.
Acoustically Detected Year‐Round Presence of Right Whales in an Urbanized Migration Corridor
Authors: MORANO JANELLE L. , RICE AARON N. , TIELENS JAMEY T. , ESTABROOK BOBBI J. , MURRAY ANITA , ROBERTS BETHANY L. , CLARK CHRISTOPHER W.
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  Species' conservation relies on understanding their seasonal habitats and migration routes. North Atlantic right whales (Eubalaena glacialis), listed as endangered under the U.S. Endangered Species Act, migrate from the southeastern U.S. coast to Cape Cod Bay, Massachusetts, a federally designated critical habitat, from February through May to feed. The whales then continue north across the Gulf of Maine to northern waters (e.g., Bay of Fundy). To enter Cape Cod Bay, right whales must traverse an area of dense shipping and fishing activity in Massachusetts Bay, where there are no mandatory regulations for the protection of right whales or management of their habitat. We used passive acoustic recordings of right whales collected in Massachusetts Bay from May 2007 through October 2010 to determine the annual spatial and temporal distribution of the whales and their calling activity. We detected right whales in the bay throughout the year, in contrast to results from visual surveys. Right whales were detected on at least 24% of days in each month, with the exception of June 2007, in which there were no detections. Averaged over all years, right whale calls were most abundant from February through May. During this period, calls were most frequent between 17:00 and 20:00 local time; no diel pattern was apparent in other months. The spatial distribution of the approximate locations of calling whales suggests they may use Massachusetts Bay as a conduit to Cape Cod Bay in the spring and as they move between the Gulf of Maine and waters to the south in September through December. Although it is unclear how dependent right whales are on the bay, the discovery of their widespread presence in Massachusetts Bay throughout the year suggests this region may need to be managed to reduce the probability of collisions with ships and entanglement in fishing gear.
Comparison of ultrasound echo‐tracking technology and pulse wave velocity for measuring carotid elasticity among hemodialysis patients
Authors: Yu Ze‐Xing , Wang Xiang‐Zhu , Guo Rui‐Jun , Zhong Zao‐Xia , Zhou Yi‐Lun
Published: May 2012

This study aims to investigate the correlation between carotid elasticity in hemodialysis patients as evaluated by ultrasound echo‐tracking technology and aortic pulse wave velocity. A total of 103 patients with end‐stage renal disease who underwent stable hemodialysis were enrolled. An ultrasonic echo‐tracking method was used to evaluate the elastic modulus and the stiffness index (β), which were compared with pulse wave velocity (PWV). Blood glucose, blood lipids, and serum creatinine were also tested. These indices were analyzed to determine the independent factor for arterial elasticity. The carotid elastic modulus and β were in good correlation with PWV among hemodialysis patients (P = 0.000). Diabetes and age are independent risk factors for arterial elasticity among hemodialysis patients. Ultrasound echo‐tracking technology is a sensitive and accurate method for evaluating arterial elasticity and is a good alternative to traditional PWV.
Cuba's “Equity without Growth” Dilemma and the 2011 Lineamientos
Authors: Corrales Javier
Published: May 2012

Cuba faces a development dilemma: it promotes equity and human capital while failing to deliver economic growth. For the government, the country's equity and human capital achievements are a source of pride, a sign that its priorities are right. This essay argues instead that this “equity without growth” dilemma is a sign of malaise. Theory and evidence suggest that high levels of equity and human capital should produce high levels of economic growth. Because growth is often weak or negative, some onerous barriers to development must be present. These barriers, it is argued, are restrictions on property and political rights. By comparing Cuba and China across two sectors, the bicycle industry and Internet access, this article shows how these restrictions have hindered growth. It also assesses how Cuba's latest economic reforms, the so-calledLineamientos, will address Cuba's development dilemma. The impact may be minimal, but perhaps more lasting than previous reforms.
Phylogeny of the Order Tintinnida (Ciliophora, Spirotrichea) Inferred from Small‐ and Large‐Subunit rRNA Genes
Authors: Santoferrara Luciana F. , McManus George B. , Alder Viviana A.
Published: May 2012

Concatenated sequences of small‐ and large‐subunit rRNA genes were used to infer the phylogeny of 29 species in six genera of Tintinnida. We confirmed previous results on the positions of major clusters and the grouping of various genera, including Stenosemella, the paraphyletic Tintinnopsis, the newly investigated Helicostomella, and some species of the polyphyletic Favella. Tintinnidium and Eutintinnus were found to be monophyletic. This study contributes to tintinnid phylogenetic reconstruction by increasing both the number of species and the range of genetic markers analyzed.
Anxiety as a marker of severity in acute mania
Authors: González‐Pinto A. , Galán J. , Martín‐Carrasco M. , Ballesteros J. , Maurino J. , Vieta E.
Published: May 2012

González‐Pinto A, Galán J, Martín‐Carrasco M, Ballesteros J, Maurino J, Vieta E. Anxiety as a marker of severity in acute mania.

Objective:  Anxiety has scarcely been studied in acute mania. The aim of this study was to assess anxiety symptoms during manic episodes and their impact on clinical outcomes.

Method:  Observational, cross‐sectional multicentre study. Anxiety was measured using the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS). Bivariate and multiple linear regression analyses were performed using the HARS score as the dependent variable.

Results:  Two hundred and forty‐two patients admitted with a diagnosis of acute manic episode according to DSM‐IV TR criteria and a Young Mania Rating Scale >20 were analysed. Mean age was 43 years (SD = 11.9) and 57% were women. Forty‐six per cent of patients (n = 104) presented moderate to severe anxiety symptoms (HARS score >14). Anxiety was significantly associated with severity of manic symptoms (P < 0.0001). Patients with anxiety had 20% longer hospitalizations (mean 21 days, CI95% 19.7–23.7).

Conclusion:  An association of anxiety symptoms with greater severity in acute mania was demonstrated. The close relationship between anxiety and manic symptoms highlights the need for greater clinical attention to anxiety in this population. Further studies are necessary to determine whether effective treatment of anxiety symptoms could improve clinical and care outcomes.
Diagnostic accuracy in virtual dermatopathology
Authors: Mooney Ellen , Kempf Werner , Jemec Gregor B. E. , Koch Laine , Hood Antoinette
Published: May 2012

Background

Virtual microscopy is used for teaching medical students and residents and for in‐training and certification examinations in the United States. However, no existing studies compare diagnostic accuracy using virtual slides and photomicrographs. The objective of this study was to compare diagnostic accuracy of dermatopathologists and pathologists using photomicrographs vs. digitized images, through a self‐assessment examination, and to elucidate assessment of virtual dermatopathology.

Methods

Forty‐five dermatopathologists and pathologists received a randomized combination of 15 virtual slides and photomicrographs with corresponding clinical photographs and information in a self‐assessment examination format. Descriptive data analysis and comparison of groups were performed using a chi‐square test.

Results

Diagnostic accuracy in dermatopathology using virtual dermatopathology or photomicrographs was similar: 0.70 vs. 0.73 respectively, p = 0.465. Order of administration of virtual dermatopathology and photomicrographs did not affect diagnostic accuracy. The vast majority (93%) of the participants felt the virtual slides were adequate for diagnosis and that virtual dermatopathology represented a useful tool for learning; 90% felt that virtual dermatopathology is useful tool for teaching dermatopathology.

Conclusion

No significant difference was observed in diagnostic accuracy using virtual dermatopathology compared to photomicrographs. Most participants felt virtual dermatopathology was adequate for diagnostic purposes and a useful tool for learning and teaching dermatopathology.
Low‐risk identification in multiple myeloma using a new 14‐gene model
Authors: Chen Tiehua , Berno Tamara , Zangari Maurizio
Published: May 2012

Identifying the best gene expression pattern associated with low‐risk disease in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM) is important to direct clinical treatments. The MM Survival Index14 (MMSI14) was developed from GEP data sets of 22 normal plasma cells (NPC), 5 MM cell lines (MMCL), 44 monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), and 351 newly diagnosed MM patients. R/bioconductor and siggenes package were used to obtain heatmap, boxplot and histogram whose results were then analyzed by Kaplan–Meier analysis. Fourteen genes associated with low‐risk disease in MM were identified. We validated the disease prognostic power of MMSI14 with an independent data set of other 214 newly diagnosed MM patients and also compared our model with the 70‐gene, the 8‐subgroup, IFM15, and HMCLs7 models. Survival analysis showed that a low MMSI14 signature was associated with longer survival. Applying MMSI14 to independent data sets, we were able to classify 39% of patients as low‐risk, with a survival probability of more than 90% at 60 months. Multiple clinical parameters confirmed significant correlation between low‐ and high‐risk subgroups defined by MMSI14. Comparing previously published models to the same data sets the MMSI14 model retained the best prognostic value. We have developed a new gene model (MMSI14) for defining low‐risk, newly diagnosed MM. The multivariate comparative analysis confirmed that MMSI14 is the best available model to predict clinical outcome in MM patients.
Influence of chemical peeling on the skin stress response system
Authors: Kimura Ayako , Kanazawa Nobuo , Li Hong‐Jin , Yonei Nozomi , Yamamoto Yuki , Furukawa Fukumi
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  Skin stress response system (SSRS) involves corticotropin‐releasing hormone (CRH) and proopiomelanocortin (POMC)‐derived peptides, such as adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), a‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone (MSH) and b‐endorphin that are locally generated in response to locally provided stressors or proinflammatory cytokines. This system would restrict tissue damage and restore local homoeostasis. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is one of the most widely used peeling agents and applied for cosmetic treatment of photodamaged skin. However, the biological mechanism responsible for TCA peeling has yet to be fully determined. While our investigation focused on the inflammation and wound healing pathways, in the recent study, we have examined involvement of the SSRS as the third pathway. Mostly depending on our findings that TCA peeling activates the SSRS by inducing the POMC expression of keratinocytes in the CRH‐independent manner, together with the results reported by other researchers, we can say that the biological effect of POMC seems to be responsible for the TCA‐induced epidermal SSRS activation.
Ultraviolet light‐induced changes of lymphatic and blood vasculature in skin and their molecular mechanisms
Authors: Sawane Mika , Kajiya Kentaro
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  Ultraviolet light in the 290‐ to 320‐nm wavelength range (UVB) induces angiogenesis and lymphatic dysfunction in skin. This review deals with UVB‐induced alterations to the blood and lymphatic systems in skin and the molecular mechanisms involved. We also discuss potential strategies to block photoageing of skin by inhibiting angiogenesis and/or promoting lymphatic vascular function.
Introduction to Special Issue: Toward Greater Interdisciplinarity in Research on the Legitimacy of Global Governance
Authors: Von Staden Andreas
Published: May 2012

Abstract: The legitimacy of global governance arrangements remains a major focus of scholarly interest across the social sciences. To maximize the potential insights of such research, a closer cooperation of scholars across the relevant disciplines and the creation of a genuinely interdisciplinary research program promises significant rewards. The normative blueprints for more democratically legitimate forms of global governance developed by political theorists in particular would benefit, I argue, from a closer linkage with political science, with the latter providing critical insights into the causal factors and mechanisms that determine outcomes in international politics, insights that are indispensable for studying and assessing the feasibility of implementing abstractly attractive normative designs. The contributions in this Special Issue begin to cross the “normative‐positive divide” each in its own way and collectively point the way toward more integrated future research.
How Citizens’ Education, Occupation, Personal Economic Expectations and National Identity Interact with One Another to Sway Public Opinion on the EU
Authors: Balestrini Pierre P.
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  This article examines the pattern of interactions between education, occupation, personal economic expectations and feelings of national identity and how these interactions affect public support for the EU. Using Eurobarometer data from 1993 to 2006, the results in this paper demonstrate that occupation mediates the relationship between EU support and education. It is also found that the sway of citizens’ personal financial expectations on EU support is not conditioned by education and occupation. Finally citizens’ personal economic expectations are not found to condition the relationship between EU support and feelings of national identity. In the light of these findings the paper draws implications.
Wound healing by topical application of antioxidant iron chelators: kojic acid and deferiprone
Authors: Mohammadpour Mehrdad , Behjati Mohaddeseh , Sadeghi Amir , Fassihi Afshin
Published: May 2012

Kojic acid and deferiprone are iron chelators used for skin lightening and iron‐overload treatment, respectively. As iron chelation and free radical scavenging are principal factors for wound healing, it was hypothesised that the local application of these compounds might accelerate wound healing in rats. Ointments of 3%, 6% and 9% of deferiprone and kojic acid were prepared and topical treatment was performed on in vivo wound models for 12 days twice in day for test and control groups. Topical treatment with 3%, 6% and 9% showed significant improvement in wound healing after 4 days (P < 0·001). Topical application of 3% and 6% deferiprone enhanced wound healing after 8 days (P < 0·026 and P < 0·001, respectively). Accelerated wound healing was seen using 3% and 6% deferiprone after 12 days (P = 0·003 and P < 0·001, respectively). DPPH scavenging assay was also performed to compare the antioxidant potencies of kojic acid and deferiprone. Deferiprone had more free radical scavenging power than kojic acid. Generally, deferiprone topical treatment, accelerated wound healing more than kojic acid because of its higher antioxidant and iron chelation abilities.