bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thinking about the emotional labour of nursing – supporting nurses to care
Authors: Sawbridge Yvonne , Hewison Alistair
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The aim of this article is to report some of the work undertaken by a nursing “think tank”, focussed on examining the causes of poor nursing care in hospitals, and potential solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

A “think tank” was convened which incorporated widespread discussion with national, regional and local stakeholders, a critical literature review, and a focus group of senior nurses.

Findings

It was found that there are no widespread systems of staff support that help nurses working in hospitals to cope with the emotional component of their work. This is one element that contributes to nurses providing poor care. A number of approaches to staff support have been developed that warrant further study.

Practical implications

If episodes of poor care are to be prevented it is necessary for hospital boards to recognise the importance of supporting nurses in managing the emotional labour of caring. The introduction of routine systems of staff support should be considered.

Originality/value

In addition to highlighting and condemning poor care, it is important to seek solutions. This article offers a new perspective on an enduring problem and identifies approaches that can be part of the solution.
Fire variability, as well as frequency, can explain coexistence between seeder and resprouter life histories
Authors: Tucker Caroline M. , Cadotte Marc W.
Published: March 2013

Studies in fire‐prone Mediterranean ecosystems have repeatedly shown that the mean values of fire regimes (particularly frequency, but also size and intensity) are important for managing sensitive species and maintaining diversity. However, recent studies suggest that invariant fire regimes – that is, those with no variation about the mean value – may not be sufficient to maintain the coexistence mechanisms which could help explain the high levels of species diversity. However, there has been a little examination of the potential mechanisms by which variability in fire regimes might foster coexistence.

In these species‐diverse ecosystems, fluctuations in fire regimes promote the coexistence of competitively unequal species, thus providing a potential mechanism of coexistence. We examine the role of variability in the length of the interfire interval and ask whether this variability can allow a fluctuation‐dependent mechanism, namely the storage effect, to promote the coexistence of species. We focus on dominant trade‐offs in fire regeneration strategies (i.e. obligate resprouting vs. obligate seeding) common among Mediterranean plant species and use simulations to explore the inter‐relationship between variability in the time between fires and the coexistence of species.

Several empirical studies have found that variability in the length of the interfire interval improved diversity – our simulations suggested one mechanism that could explain this result. Variability can greatly increase the regions over which coexistence between two species – a fire obligate seeder and a resprouter – occurs.

Synthesis and applications. Mediterranean ecosystems tend to have high plant diversity, and yet the mechanisms maintaining this diversity are often incompletely understood, and thus management actions that aim to promote coexistence may be relying on imprecise information. In general, fire events drive the evolution and maintenance of diversity and are an important management tool. It is high likely that fluctuations or variability in fire are also important, and this suggests that invariant regimes of prescribed burning or fire suppression could be detrimental to the mechanisms that play a role in the maintenance of diversity in these Mediterranean ecosystems. As a result, attention should be paid to historical fire regimes and the variation in fire return times they displayed when developing prescribed burning regimes.
Hunting for fear: innovating management of human–wildlife conflicts
Authors: Cromsigt Joris P.G.M. , Kuijper Dries P.J. , Adam Marius , Beschta Robert L. , Churski Marcin , Eycott Amy , Kerley Graham I.H. , Mysterud Atle , Schmidt Krzysztof , West Kate
Published: March 2013

There is a growing theoretical basis for the role of predation risk as a driver of trophic interactions, conceptualized as the ‘ecology of fear’. However, current ungulate management ignores the role of nonlethal risk effects of predation.

We introduce the concept of ‘hunting for fear’ as an extension of the more classical ‘hunting to kill’ that is typically used in large herbivore management. Hunting for fear aims to induce a behavioural response in ungulates, for example, as a way of diverting them from areas where their impact is undesired.

Synthesis and applications. Hunting for fear asks for novel, potentially controversial, ways of hunting to induce strong enough risk effects, including more hunting on foot and with dogs, extended hunting seasons (ideally year‐round) and increased hunting of calves. Hunting for fear may offer novel opportunities to help manage the growing human–wildlife conflicts that we experience globally.
Drospirenone‐containing oral contraceptive pills and the risk of venous and arterial thrombosis: a systematic review
Authors: Wu CQ , Grandi SM , Filion KB , Abenhaim HA , Joseph L , Eisenberg MJ
Published: March 2013

Background

Previous studies have provided conflicting results regarding the effect of drospirenone‐containing oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) on the risk of venous and arterial thrombosis.

Objectives

To conduct a systematic review to assess the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), myocardial infarction (MI), and stroke in individuals taking drospirenone‐containing OCPs.

Search strategy

We systematically searched CINAHL, the Cochrane Library, Dissertation & Abstracts, EMBASE, HealthStar, Medline, and the Science Citation Index from inception to November 2012.

Selection criteria

We included all case reports, observational studies, and experimental studies assessing the risk of venous and arterial thrombosis of drospirenone‐containing OCPs.

Data collection and analysis

Data were collected independently by two reviewers.

Main results

A total of 22 studies [six case reports, three case series (including 26 cases), and 13 comparative studies] were included in our systematic review. The 32 identified cases suggest a possible link between drospirenone‐containing OCPs and venous and arterial thrombosis. Incidence rates of VTE among drospirenone‐containing OCP users ranged from 23.0 to 136.7 per 100 000 woman‐years, whereas those among levonorgestrel‐containing OCP users ranged from 6.64 to 92.1 per 100 000 woman‐years. The rate ratio for VTE among drospirenone‐containing OCP users ranged from 4.0 to 6.3 compared with non‐users of OCPs, and from 1.0 to 3.3 compared with levonorgestrel‐containing OCP users. The arterial effects of drospirenone‐containing OCPs were inconclusive.

Author's conclusions

Our systematic review suggests that drospirenone‐containing OCP use is associated with a higher risk for VTE than both no OCP use and levonorgestrel‐containing OCP use.
The risk of congenital malformations, perinatal mortality and neonatal hospitalisation among pregnant women with asthma: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Murphy VE , Wang G , Namazy JA , Powell H , Gibson PG , Chambers C , Schatz M
Published: March 2013

Background

There is conflicting literature on the effect of maternal asthma on congenital malformations and neonatal outcomes.

Objectives

This review and meta‐analysis sought to determine if maternal asthma is associated with an increased risk of adverse neonatal outcomes.

Search strategy

We searched electronic databases for: (asthma or wheeze) and (pregnan* or perinat* or obstet*).

Selection criteria

Cohort studies published between 1975 and March 2012 reporting at least one perinatal outcome of interest (congenital malformations, neonatal complications, perinatal mortality).

Data collection and analysis

In all, 21 studies met inclusion criteria in pregnant women with and without asthma. Further analysis was conducted on 16 studies where asthmatic women were stratified by exacerbation history, corticosteroid use, bronchodilator use or asthma severity.

Main results

Maternal asthma was associated with a significantly increased risk of congenital malformations (relative risk [RR] 1.11, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.02–1.21, I2 = 59.5%), cleft lip with or without cleft palate (RR 1.30, 95% CI 1.01–1.68, I2 = 65.6%), neonatal death (RR 1.49, 95% CI 1.11–2.00, I2 = 0%), and neonatal hospitalisation (RR 1.50, 95% CI 1.03–2.20, I2 = 64.5%). There was no significant effect of asthma on major malformations (RR 1.31, 95% CI 0.57–3.02, I2 = 70.9%) or stillbirth (RR 1.06, 95% CI 0.9–1.25, I2 = 35%). Exacerbations and use of bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids were not associated with congenital malformation risk.

Authors’ conclusions

Despite limitations related to the observational nature of the primary studies, this review demonstrates a small increased risk of neonatal complications among pregnant women with asthma. Further investigations into mechanisms and potential preventive interventions to improve infant outcomes are required.
Comparison of positron emission tomography/CT and bremsstrahlung imaging following Y‐90 radiation synovectomy
Authors: Barber Thomas W. , Yap Kenneth S. K. , Cherk Martin H. , Powell Anne , Kalff Victor
Published: March 2013

Introduction

The aim of this study is to compare the results of positron emission tomography (PET)/CT with bremsstrahlung imaging following Y‐90 radiation synovectomy.

Methods

All patients referred to our institution for Y‐90 radiation synovectomy between July 2011 and February 2012 underwent both PET/CT and bremsstrahlung planar (± single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) or SPECT/CT) imaging at 4 or 24 h following administration of Y‐90 silicate colloid. PET image acquisition was performed for between 15 and 20 min. In patients who underwent SPECT, side‐by‐side comparison with PET was performed and image quality/resolution scored using a five‐point scale. The distribution pattern of Y‐90 on PET and bremsstrahlung imaging was compared with the intra‐ or extra‐articular location of Y‐90 activity on fused PET/CT.

Results

Thirteen joints (11 knees and two ankles) were imaged with both PET/CT and planar bremsstrahlung imaging with 12 joints also imaged with bremsstrahlung SPECT. Of the 12 joints imaged with SPECT, PET image quality/resolution was superior in 11 and inferior in one. PET demonstrated a concordant distribution pattern compared with bremsstrahlung imaging in all scans, with the pattern classified as diffuse in 12 and predominantly focal in one. In all 12 diffuse scans, PET/CT confirmed the Y‐90 activity to be located intra‐articularly. In the one predominantly focal scan, the fused PET/CT images localised the Y‐90 activity to mostly lie in the extra‐articular space of the knee.

Conclusion

PET/CT can provide superior image quality compared with bremsstrahlung imaging and may enable reliable detection of extra‐articular Y‐90 activity when there are focal patterns on planar bremsstrahlung imaging.
phyloGenerator: an automated phylogeny generation tool for ecologists
Authors: Pearse William D. , Purvis Andy
Published: March 2013

Ecologists increasingly wish to use phylogenies, but are hampered by the technical challenge of phylogeny estimation.

We present phyloGenerator, an open‐source, stand‐alone Python program, that makes use of pre‐existing sequence data and taxonomic information to largely automate the estimation of phylogenies.

phyloGenerator allows nonspecialists to quickly and easily produce robust, repeatable, and defensible phylogenies without requiring an extensive knowledge of phylogenetics. Experienced phylogeneticists may also find it useful as a tool to conduct exploratory analyses.

phyloGenerator performs a number of ‘sanity checks’ on users' output, but users should still check their outputs carefully; we give some advice on how to do so.

By linking a number of tools in a common framework, phyloGenerator is a step towards an open, reproducible phylogenetic workflow.

Bundled downloads for Windows and Mac OSX, along with the source code and an install script for Linux, can be found athttp://willpearse.github.io/phyloGenerator(note the capital ‘G’).
Effects of age on minimum effective volume of local anesthetic for ultrasound‐guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block
Authors: PAVIČIĆ ŠARIĆ JADRANKA , VIDJAK VINKO , TOMULIĆ KATARINA , ZENKO JELENA
Published: March 2013

Background

Involutional changes of peripheral nervous system occur with aging. The aim of the study was to determine the minimum effective volume of local anesthetic required to offer an effective ultrasound‐guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block in 50% of middle‐aged (< 50 years) and elderly (> 65 years) patients. We hypothesized reduced minimum effective volume of local anesthetic in elderly patients.

Methods

Middle‐aged (n = 22) and elderly (n = 22) patients undergoing upper limb surgery received an ultrasound‐guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block. Structural analysis of the brachial plexus in supraclavicular region was obtained by measuring the cross‐sectional area. The prospective, observer‐blinded study method is a previously validated step‐up/step‐down sequence model where the local anesthetic volume for the next patient is determined by the outcome of the previous block. The starting volume was 30 ml (50 : 50 mixture, 0.5%wt/vol levobupivacaine, 2%wt/vol lidocaine). The minimum effective volume of local anesthetic was determined using Dixon and Masey method.

Results

The minimum effective local anesthetic volume significantly differed between middle‐aged and elderly [23.0 ml, 95% confidence interval (CI) 13.7–32.3 vs. 11.9 ml, 95% CI 9.3–14.6; 95% CI of the difference 1.6–20.6, P = 0.027]. The cross‐sectional area of brachial plexus was 0.95 ± 0.15 in middle‐aged and 0.51 ± 0.06 cm2 in elderly patients (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Within the present study, we report a reduced minimum effective anesthetic volume for ultrasound‐guided supraclavicular block in elderly patients. Additionally, smaller cross‐sectional surface area of brachial plexus in the supraclavicular region was observed.
Using molecular markers for pedigree reconstruction of the greater amberjack (Seriola dumerili) in the absence of parental information
Authors: Rodriguez‐Barreto D. , Consuegra S. , Jerez S. , Cejas J. R. , Martín V. , Lorenzo A.
Published: March 2013

Ensuring appropriate levels of genetic diversity in captive populations is essential to avoid inbreeding and loss of rare alleles by genetic drift. Pedigree reconstruction and parentage analysis in the absence of parental genotypes can be a challenging task that relies in the assignment of sibship relationships among the offspring. Here, we used eight highly variable microsatellite markers and three different assignment methods to reconstruct the most likely genotypes of a parental group of wild Seriola dumerili fish based on the genotypes of six cohorts of their offspring, to assess their relative contributions to the offspring. We found that a combination of the four most variable microsatellites was enough to identify the number of parents and their contribution to the offspring, suggesting that the variability of the markers can be more critical than the number of markers. Estimated effective population sizes were lower than the number of breeders and variable among years. The results suggest unequal parental contribution that should be accounted for breeding programs in the future.
Expanding Western Definitions of Shamanism: A Conversation with Stephan Beyer, Stanley Krippner, and Hillary S. Webb
Authors: Webb Hillary S.
Published: March 2013

Where has the Western attraction to the study and practice of shamanic techniques brought us? Where might it take us? In what ways have our Western biases and philosophical underpinnings influenced and changed how shamanism is practiced, both in the West and in the traditional cultures out of which they emerged? Is it time to stop using the umbrella term “shamanism” to refer to such diverse cross‐cultural practices? What are our responsibilities, both as researchers and as spiritual seekers? In this conversation, researcher‐authors Stephan Beyer, Stanley Krippner, and Hillary S. Webb discuss their work in field and consider some of the ramifications of the Western world's intellectual and spiritual fascination with shamanic practices. Special attention is paid to the language used to describe these techniques and their practitioners, the developing relationship between researchers and cultural participants, and the ethical implications of merging what are often very distinct worldviews.
Triceps Split and Snip approach to the elbow: surgical technique and biomechanical evaluation
Authors: Poon Peter C. , Foliaki Supileo , Young Simon W. , Eisenhauer David
Published: March 2013

Background

A number of posterior approaches to the elbow have been described, which vary in the quality of the exposure and morbidity to the triceps mechanism. We describe an adapted technique, the Triceps Split and Snip, which may offer improved surgical exposure during posterior approach to the elbow. We aimed to compare the strength of the triceps repair in this approach to a more traditional approach described by Bryan and Morrey.

Methods

Sixteen pairs of cadaveric elbows were randomized by surgical group and operative side. The Triceps Split and Snip and Bryan‐Morrey approaches were each performed on eight specimens, followed by repair of the triceps; the contralateral elbow served as the control. The specimens were then mounted on a material testing system and a constant velocity elongation was applied.

Results

The mean load to failure for the Bryan‐Morrey group was 421N (range 349–536N). While the Triceps Split and Snip group was 388N (range 267–550N). The percentage ultimate strength loss was 40% for both groups. No significant difference was found in comparing the mean load to failure between the Triceps Split and Snip approach and the Bryan‐Morrey approach.

Conclusions

The Triceps Split and Snip approach is a technically simple approach to perform and repair, and provides excellent exposure of the elbow and distal humerus. The tensile strength of the triceps repair following this approach is equivalent to that of the Bryan‐Morrey approach.
Medical student participation in a surgical outpatient clinic: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Azher Hinna , Lay Jennifer , Stupart Douglas A. , Guest Glenn D. , Watters David A. K.
Published: March 2013

Background

To determine the patient, doctor and student perceptions with different styles of student participation in a surgical outpatient clinic.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial was conducted in surgical outpatients. Participants included patients scheduled to see one of four specialist general surgeons, the surgeons themselves and third‐year medical students undertaking their general surgery rotation at the Geelong Hospital. A total of 151 consultations were randomized to one of three consultation styles between August 2011 and August 2012. (i) ‘No Student’, consultation without a student being present, (ii) ‘Student with Doctor’, consultation where the student accompanied the doctor throughout the consultation and (iii) ‘Student before Doctor’, consultation where the student interviewed the patient before the doctor and examined the patient in the doctor's presence. Participants' perceptions and experience of each of the consultations was assessed in the form of written questionnaires.

Results

There was no difference in overall patient satisfaction with different styles of student participation (P = 0.080). Students showed a clear preference for the ‘Student before Doctor’ consultation style (P = 0.023). There were no differences in consultation outcomes from the doctor's perspective (P = 0.88), except time (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

This study supports a style of consultation where students are actively involved in patient care as it has no adverse effects on patient satisfaction and it is the preferred participation style from the student's perspective. Doctors do not feel that active student involvement interferes with their ability to deliver healthcare except that it prolongs consultation time.
Design Thinking: Past, Present and Possible Futures
Authors: Johansson‐Sköldberg Ulla , Woodilla Jill , Çetinkaya Mehves
Published: March 2013

This paper takes a critical look at the design thinking discourse, one that has different meanings depending on its context. Within the managerial realm, design thinking has been described as the best way to be creative and innovate, while within the design realm, design thinking may be partly ignored and taken for granted, despite a long history of academic development and debate. In the design area, we find five different discourses of ‘designerly thinking’, or ways to describe what designers do in practice, that have distinctly different epistemological roots. These different discourses do not stand in competition with each other but could be developed in parallel. We also observe that the management discourse has three distinct origins, but in general has a more superficial and popular character and is less academically anchored than the designerly one. Also, the management design thinking discourse seldom refers to designerly thinking and thereby hinders cumulative knowledge construction. We suggest further research to link the discourses.
A Competence Portfolio for Professionals in the Creative Industries
Authors: Mietzner Dana , Kamprath Martin
Published: March 2013

Within the last decade, the role of the Creative Industries has grown to become an important part of the economic system. The increasing acceleration of new developments in media andICTtechnologies greatly affected the Creative Industries' dynamic with a direct impact on the people working in this sector. Since only a few studies focus on competences needs, more or less isolated from the trends within the industry, we address the topic of individual competence shifts in the turbulent environment of the Creative Industries. We investigated the trends regarding competence shifts and their implications as well as the competences which are essential for creative professionals. We conducted a broad literature review as well as a qualitative study, which includes interviews and workshops with industry experts on trends within the Creative Industries and corresponding dimensions and demands for competences. We present four requirements that call for shifts in the education of competences. Based on the discussion of requirements, we present a competence portfolio for the Creative Industries along the dimensions of professional, methodological and personal‐social competences. The portfolio clearly indicates which competences should be taken into consideration for the development of curricula and study programmes in the education of creative professionals. A generalization of these findings suggests new challenges for companies relying on creative professionals.
Design, Synthesis, Biological Evaluation, and Docking Studies of (S)‐Phenylalanine Derivatives with a 2‐Cyanopyrrolidine Moiety as Potent Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitors
Authors: Liu Yang , Wu Yizhe , Wu Haoshu , Tang Li , Wu Peng , Liu Tao , Hu Yongzhou
Published: March 2013

A novel series of (S)‐phenylalanine derivatives with a 2‐cyanopyrrolidine moiety were designed and synthesized through a rational drug design strategy. Biological evaluation revealed that most tested compounds were potent dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP‐4) inhibitors; among them, the cyclopropyl‐substituted phenylalanine derivative 11h displayed the most potent DPP‐4 inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 0.247 μm. In addition, molecular docking analysis of the representative compounds 11h, 11k, and 15a were performed, which not only revealed the impact of binding modes on DPP‐4 inhibitory activity but also provided additional methodological values for design and optimization.
Diet‐induced weight loss in obese children with asthma: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jensen M. E. , Gibson P. G. , Collins C. E. , Hilton J. M. , Wood L. G.
Published: March 2013

Background

Obesity is highly prevalent in asthmatic children and associated with worse clinical outcomes. Energy restriction to induce weight loss in asthmatic children has not been investigated in a randomized controlled trial (RCT).

Objective

To assess if (1) weight loss can be achieved in obese asthmatic children using a dietary intervention; and (2) changes in asthma outcomes occur following diet‐induced weight loss.

Methods

In a 10‐week pilot RCT, obese asthmatic children, aged 8–17 years, were randomized to a wait‐list control (WLC) (n = 15) or dietary‐intervention group (DIG) (n = 13). Lung function, Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) score, and sputum and systemic inflammation were assessed at baseline and post‐intervention. (Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12610000955011).

Results

Body mass index (BMI) z‐score reduced significantly in the DIG vs. the WLC (−0.2 [−0.4, −0.1] vs. 0.0 [−0.1, 0.0], P = 0.014). Expiratory reserve volume (ERV) increased significantly within the DIG, but not compared to the WLC (0.7 [0.0, 1.0] L vs. 0.3 [0.0, 0.8] L, P = 0.355). ACQ improved significantly in the DIG, compared to the WLC (−0.4 [−0.7, 0.0] vs. 0.1 [0.0, 0.6], P = 0.004). Airway and systemic inflammation did not change within the DIG. In comparison, C‐Reactive Protein (CRP) increased significantly in the WLC (−0.4 [−0.5, 0.4] vs. 0.7 [−0.1, 1.9], P = 0.037). Change (∆) in BMI z‐score correlated with ∆CRP (r = 0.47, P = 0.012) and ∆exhaled nitric oxide (eNO) (r = 0.46, P = 0.034), and ∆ACQ was associated with ∆CRP (r = 0.43, P = 0.029).

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

Dietary intervention can induce acute weight loss in obese asthmatic children with subsequent improvements in static lung function and asthma control. Systemic and airway inflammation did not change following weight loss. However, changes in BMI z‐score were associated with changes in airway and systemic inflammation and this requires further investigation in a larger RCT. This is the first weight loss RCT conducted in obese asthmatic children. Diet‐induced weight loss can achieve significant improvements in clinical outcomes for obese children with asthma.
Increased IL‐17A secreting CD4+ T cells, serum IL‐17 levels and exhaled nitric oxide are correlated with childhood asthma severity
Authors: Chien J.‐W. , Lin C.‐Y. , Yang K. D. , Lin C.‐H. , Kao J.‐K. , Tsai Y.‐G.
Published: March 2013

Background

Measuring fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) is a simple and non‐invasive method for assessing airway inflammation. IL‐17 plays an important role in T cell‐dependent inflammatory response that occurs in allergic asthma, it could act as a potent activator of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) to amplify FeNO levels.

Objectives

To evaluate the differences in the CD4+IL‐17A+ T cell counts, serum IL‐17 levels, and FeNO levels in children with mild intermittent to moderate to severe persistent asthma classified by using the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA).

Methods

One hundred and twenty asthmatic children divided into the mild intermittent (n = 42), mild persistent (n = 42), and moderate to severe persistent (n = 36) groups, and 20 healthy controls were recruited for the study. Information obtained at visits included the assessment of asthma severity according to GINA guidelines and C‐ACT, lung function parameters, FeNO levels, CD4+IL‐17A+ T cells counts from PBMCs, iNOS production by sputum cells and serum IL‐17 levels.

Results

Serum IL‐17 and FeNO levels were significantly higher in mild to severe persistent asthmatic patients than in intermittent asthmatics or healthy controls (P < 0.05). The percentage of CD4+IL‐17A+ T cells was higher in moderate to severe persistent asthmatics than in mild asthmatics (P < 0.01). Moderate to severe asthmatics (n = 5) exhibited greater iNOS production in sputum cells than mild cases (n = 5). Decreased iNOS expression in sputum cells was noted in all subjects after IL‐17 neutralizing antibody (P < 0.05). Serum IL‐17 levels were positively correlated with FeNO (rho = 0.74; P < 0.01), negatively correlated with C‐ACT (rho = −0.63; P < 0.01) in asthmatics.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

CD4+ IL‐17A+ T cells counts and serum IL‐17 levels in conjunction with augmented FeNO levels are systemic markers of childhood asthma, using these markers, prediction and potential therapeutics for persistent asthmatics may be developed.
Understanding the Role of Representations of Human–Leopard Conflict in Mumbai through Media‐Content Analysis
Authors: BHATIA SALONI , ATHREYA VIDYA , GRENYER RICHARD , MACDONALD DAVID W.
Published: March 2013

Attempts to minimize the effects of human–wildlife conflict (HWC) on conservation goals require an understanding of the mechanisms by which such conflicts are caused and sustained. This necessitates looking beyond the natural sciences to the human dimensions of wildlife management. Public dissemination of information regarding HWC occurs largely through the mass media. We conducted a content analysis of print media articles on human–leopard conflict in Mumbai, India. We sought to understand the framing of HWC and the changes in media coverage over a 10‐year period (2001–2011) during which a large number of attacks on people prior to 2005 were followed by a program of trapping and relocation. After 2005, when there was a decrease in the level of conflict, the tone of English‐language media reports changed. The perpetrator framing was over 5 times more likely before 2005, whereas a neutral framing was twice as likely after 2005. English‐language and non‐English‐language print media differed significantly in their framing of HWC and in the kinds of solutions advocated. Our results also suggest the print mass media in Mumbai could be an influential conduit for content that diminishes HWC. These media outlets seem attentive to human–leopard conflict, capable of correcting erroneous perceptions and facilitating mitigation and effective management. We believe better contact and mutual understanding between conservation professionals and the mass media could be an important component of managing HWC. We further suggest that in such interactions conservation professionals need to be aware of cultural and linguistic differences in reporting within the country.

Entendiendo el Papel de las Representaciones del Conflicto Humano–Leopardo en Mumbai A Través del Análisis de Contenido de Medios
Equivalency of Galápagos Giant Tortoises Used as Ecological Replacement Species to Restore Ecosystem Functions
Authors: HUNTER ELIZABETH A. , GIBBS JAMES P. , CAYOT LINDA J. , TAPIA WASHINGTON
Published: March 2013

Loss of key plant–animal interactions (e.g., disturbance, seed dispersal, and herbivory) due to extinctions of large herbivores has diminished ecosystem functioning nearly worldwide. Mitigating for the ecological consequences of large herbivore losses through the use of ecological replacements to fill extinct species’ niches and thereby replicate missing ecological functions has been proposed. It is unknown how different morphologically and ecologically a replacement can be from the extinct species and still provide similar functions. We studied niche equivalency between 2 phenotypes of Galápagos giant tortoises (domed and saddlebacked) that were translocated to Pinta Island in the Galápagos Archipelago as ecological replacements for the extinct saddlebacked giant tortoise (Chelonoidis abingdonii). Thirty‐nine adult, nonreproductive tortoises were introduced to Pinta Island in May 2010, and we observed tortoise resource use in relation to phenotype during the first year following release. Domed tortoises settled in higher, moister elevations than saddlebacked tortoises, which favored lower elevation arid zones. The areas where the tortoises settled are consistent with the ecological conditions each phenotype occupies in its native range. Saddlebacked tortoises selected areas with high densities of the arboreal prickly pear cactus (Opuntia galapageia) and mostly foraged on the cactus, which likely relied on the extinct saddlebacked Pinta tortoise for seed dispersal. In contrast, domed tortoises did not select areas with cactus and therefore would not provide the same seed‐dispersal functions for the cactus as the introduced or the original, now extinct, saddlebacked tortoises. Interchangeability of extant megaherbivores as replacements for extinct forms therefore should be scrutinized given the lack of equivalency we observed in closely related forms of giant tortoises. Our results also demonstrate the value of trial introductions of sterilized individuals to test niche equivalency among candidate analog species.

Equivalencia de Tortugas Gigantes de las Galápagos Utilizadas como Especie de Reemplazo Ecológico para Restaurar las Funciones de los Ecosistemas
Edge‐Effect Interactions in Fragmented and Patchy Landscapes
Authors: PORENSKY LAUREN M. , YOUNG TRUMAN P.
Published: March 2013

Ecological edges are increasingly recognized as drivers of landscape patterns and ecosystem processes. In fragmented and patchy landscapes (e.g., a fragmented forest or a savanna with scattered termite mounds), edges can become so numerous that their effects pervade the entire landscape. Results of recent studies in such landscapes show that edge effects can be altered by the presence or proximity of other nearby edges. We considered the theoretical significance of edge‐effect interactions, illustrated various landscape configurations that support them and reviewed existing research on this topic. Results of studies from a variety of locations and ecosystem types show that edge‐effect interactions can have significant consequences for ecosystems and conservation, including higher tree mortality rates in tropical rainforest fragments, reduced bird densities in grassland fragments, and bush encroachment and reduced wildlife densities in a tropical savanna. To clarify this underappreciated concept and synthesize existing work, we devised a conceptual framework for edge‐effect interactions. We first worked to reduce terminological confusion by clarifying differences among terms such as edge intersection and edge interaction. For cases in which nearby edge effects interact, we proposed three possible forms of interaction: strengthening (presence of a second edge causes stronger edge effects), weakening (presence of a second edge causes weaker edge effects), and emergent (edge effects change completely in the presence of a second edge). By clarifying terms and concepts, this framework enables more precise descriptions of edge‐effect interactions and facilitates comparisons of results among disparate study systems and response variables. A better understanding of edge‐effect interactions will pave the way for more appropriate modeling, conservation, and management in complex landscapes.

Interacciones del Efecto de Borde en Paisajes Fragmentados
Preparation and characterisation of novel phospholipid cationic liposomes to improve the alkaline hydrolysis and dyeability of polyester fabric
Authors: El‐Zawahry Manal M , Abdelghaffar Fatma
Published: March 2013

Three novel cationic liposomes were prepared from commercial soybean lecithin (neutral liposome) and stearylamine (cationic liposome) as a catalyst or accelerating agent for the alkaline hydrolysis of polyester fabric. The formation of 1:1, 1:6 and 1:12 cationic liposomes was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy, nitrogen content and Fourier Transform‐infrared spectroscopy. Factors affecting the alkaline hydrolysis performance of polyester fabric in the presence and absence of cationic liposomes were investigated. Size measurements of the three cationic liposomes showed that the vesicle size was 27.88 nm for the 1:1 cationic liposome, 15.57 nm for 1:6 and 10 nm for 1:12, in comparison with 50 nm for neutral liposome. The results showed that alkaline hydrolysis in the presence of cationic liposomes improves the hydrophilicity and dyeability of polyester fabric and creates more carboxylic groups on the fabric. The silky polyester fabric was characterised by scanning electron microscopy, tensile strength, elongation at break, crease recovery angle and surface roughness to prove the success of the cationic liposomes as accelerating agents in the alkaline hydrolysis process. The results also indicate that the colour strength of hydrolysed polyester fabric in the presence of cationic liposomes dyed with disperse dye was slightly higher than that obtained in the absence of cationic liposomes and with unhydrolysed fabric. Furthermore, the fastness properties of hydrolysed polyester in the absence and presence of cationic liposomes do not vary.
Intermediate‐term outcome of single kidney grafts from pediatric donors weighing 10–14 kg in adult recipients
Authors: Gröschl Isabel , Wolff Thomas , Gürke Lorenz , Eugster Thomas , Hopfer Helmut , Steiger Jürg , Schaub Stefan , Burkhalter Felix
Published: March 2013

Background

Kidneys from pediatric donors weighing <10 kg are preferably transplanted en bloc, while kidneys from donors weighing >15 kg can be safely transplanted as single kidneys. However, single kidney transplantation from donors weighing 10–14 kg is controversial and has not been well investigated.

Methods

We analyzed the outcome of 15 recipients of single kidneys from donors weighing 10–14 kg (study group) with 40 recipients receiving an allograft from ideal deceased donors (control group).

Results

After a follow‐up of three yr, death‐censored graft survival was 100% in both groups. The calculated creatinine clearance was lower in the study group at six months (53 vs. 71 mL/min; p = 0.01) and similar at 12 months (68 vs. 68 mL/min; p = 0.48), 24 months (81 vs. 70 mL/min; p = 0.58), and 36 months (74 vs. 69 mL/min; p = 0.59). Urinary albumin/creatinine ratios were comparable between the two groups up to two yr. At three yr, urinary albumin/creatinine ratios were higher in the study group than the control group (10.5 vs. 0.9 mg/mmol; p = 0.007). Surveillance biopsies at three and six months post‐transplant revealed no evidence for focal segmental glomerulosclerosis in the study group.

Conclusions

Transplantation of single pediatric kidneys from donors weighing 10–14 kg into adult recipients provides excellent intermediate‐term outcomes. Low‐grade albuminuria, three yr post‐transplant, might indicate late‐onset hyperfiltration injury.
Alogliptin versus glipizide monotherapy in elderly type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with mild hyperglycaemia: a prospective, double‐blind, randomized, 1‐year study
Authors: Rosenstock J. , Wilson C. , Fleck P.
Published: March 2013

Aim

To prospectively evaluate the efficacy and safety of alogliptin versus glipizide in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) over 1 year of treatment.

Methods

This was a randomized, double‐blind, active‐controlled study of elderly T2DM patients (aged 65–90 years) with mild hyperglycaemia on diet/exercise therapy alone [glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) 6.5–9.0%] or plus oral antidiabetic monotherapy (HbA1c 6.5–8.0%). Patients were randomized to once‐daily alogliptin 25 mg or glipizide 5 mg titrated to 10 mg, if needed. Hypoglycaemic episodes were systematically captured under predefined criteria.

Results

In the primary analysis, HbA1c mean changes from a baseline of 7.5% were −0.14% with alogliptin (n = 222) and −0.09% with glipizide (n = 219) at the end of the study, demonstrating non‐inferiority of alogliptin to glipizide [least squares (LS) mean difference = −0.05%; one‐sided 97.5% confidence interval (CI): −∞, 0.13%]. More clinically relevant HbA1c reductions occurred among patients who completed the study: −0.42 and −0.33% with alogliptin and glipizide, with non‐inferiority again confirmed (LS mean difference = −0.09%; one‐sided 97.5% CI: −∞, 0.07%). Overall, alogliptin was safe and well tolerated, with notably fewer hypoglycaemic episodes than glipizide [5.4% (31 episodes) vs. 26.0% (232 episodes), respectively]; three patients experienced severe hypoglycaemia, all with glipizide. Alogliptin also resulted in favourable weight changes versus glipizide (−0.62 vs. 0.60 kg at week 52; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Alogliptin monotherapy maintained glycaemic control comparable to that of glipizide in elderly patients with T2DM over 1 year of treatment, with substantially lower risk of hypoglycaemia and without weight gain.
Identifying inter‐ and intra‐guild feeding activity of an arthropod predator assemblage
Authors: HAGLER JAMES R. , BLACKMER FELISA
Published: March 2013

Understanding predator–prey interactions of the arthropod community in any given ecosystem is essential in pinpointing the biological control services provided by natural enemies.

Hence, four prey‐specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays were developed to analyse the gut contents of the cotton predator community. The four targeted prey included a herbivore/pest, omnivore/pest, omnivore/beneficial, and carnivore/beneficial.

First, prey retention tests were conducted to determine how long a prey item of each target species could be detected in a predator after ingestion. The assays yielded highly variable inter‐assay and intra‐assay prey detection efficiencies.

Then, a multifaceted field study was conducted to quantify the population dynamics of the cotton predator assemblage and to assess the frequencies of predation that each predator species exhibited on the targeted prey. In total, 1794 predators, representing 17 arthropod families, were collected over two seasons using both sweep net and whole plant sampling procedures.

The predator gut assays showed that there was substantial inter‐guild predation occurring on the herbivore/pest, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius); moderate intra‐guild predation on the omnivore/pest, Lygus spp. (Lygus lineolaris (Palisot de Beauvois), L. hesperus Knight, and L. elisus Van Duzee) and the omnivore/beneficial, Geocoris spp. (Geocoris punctipes (Say), and G. pallens Stål); and very little intra‐guild predation on the carnivore/beneficial, Collops vittatus (Say).

The gut assays also revealed that DNA of the targeted pests, B. tabaci and Lygus spp., were found more frequently in insect predators than spiders; whereas there were no significant differences in predation between the predatory insects and spiders for the beneficial insects, Geocoris spp. and C. vittatus.

Finally, there was a significantly higher frequency of predation events recorded for B. tabaci, Lygus spp., and Geocoris spp. in the sweep net samples. This indicates that the method of collection might influence the interpretation of the gut assay results.
Parathyroid hormone ablation alters erythrocyte parameters that are rescued by calcium‐sensing receptor gene deletion
Authors: Romero Jose R. , Youte Rodeler , Brown Edward M. , Pollak Martin R. , Goltzman David , Karaplis Andrew , Pong Lie‐Chin , Chien Lawrence , Chattopadhyay Naibedya , Rivera Alicia
Published: March 2013

The mechanisms by which parathyroid hormone (PTH) produces anemia are unclear. Parathyroid hormone secretion is regulated by the extracellular Ca2+‐sensing receptor. We investigated the effects of ablating PTH on hematological indices and erythrocytes volume regulation in wild‐type, PTH‐null, and Ca2+‐sensing receptor‐null/PTH‐null mice. The erythrocyte parameters were measured in whole mouse blood, and volume regulatory systems were determined by plasma membrane K+ fluxes, and osmotic fragility was measured by hemoglobin determination at varying osmolarities. We observed that the absence of PTH significantly increases mean erythrocyte volume and reticulocyte counts, while decreasing erythrocyte counts, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration. These changes were accompanied by increases in erythrocyte cation content, a denser cell population, and increased K+ permeability, which were in part mediated by activation of the K+/Cl− cotransporter and Gardos channel. In addition we observed that erythrocyte osmotic fragility in PTH‐null compared with wild‐type mice was enhanced. When Ca2+‐sensing receptor gene was deleted on the background of PTH‐null mice, we observed that several of the alterations in erythrocyte parameters of PTH‐null mice were largely rescued, particularly those related to erythrocyte volume, K+ fluxes and osmotic fragility, and became similar to those observed in wild‐type mice. Our results demonstrate that Ca2+‐sensing receptor and parathyroid hormone are functionally coupled to maintain erythrocyte homeostasis.
The Philosophical Aspects of IRT Equating: Modeling Drift to Evaluate Cohort Growth in Large‐Scale Assessments
Authors: Taherbhai Husein , Seo Daeryong
Published: March 2013

Calibration and equating is the quintessential necessity for most large‐scale educational assessments. However, there are instances when no consideration is given to the equating process in terms of context and substantive realization, and the methods used in its execution.

In the view of the authors, equating is not merely an exhibit of the statistical methodology, but it is also a reflection of the thought process undertaken in its execution. For example, there is hardly any discussion in literature of the ideological differences in the selection of an equating method. Furthermore, there is little evidence of modeling cohort growth through an identification and use of construct‐relevant linking items’ drift, using the common item nonequivalent group equating design. In this article, the authors philosophically justify the use of Huynh's statistical method for the identification of construct‐relevant outliers in the linking pool. The article also dispels the perception of scale instability associated with the inclusion of construct‐relevant outliers in the linking item pool and concludes that an appreciation of the rationale used in the selection of the equating method, together with the use of linking items in modeling cohort growth, can be beneficial to the practitioners.
Proactiveness, Stakeholder–Firm Power Difference, and Product Safety and Quality of Chinese SMEs
Authors: Tang Jintong , Tang Zhi , Katz Jerome A.
Published: March 2013

Despite an abundance of research on entrepreneurial orientation and various dimensions of firm financial performance, very little is known about the specific influence of proactiveness on performance. In the current research, we explore the role of proactiveness in firms’ interaction with the external environment. In particular, we examine the influence of proactiveness in stakeholder–firm power difference. Further, we investigate the extent to which stakeholder–firm power difference affects product safety and quality. Using a sample of 144 Chinese small– and medium–sized enterprises (SMEs), we found that proactiveness can decrease government– and media–firm power differences. Government–firm power difference reduces product concerns, yet media–firm power difference deteriorates the purported product strengths for Chinese SMEs.
The Social Construction of Legitimacy through Signaling Social Capital: Exploring the Conditional Value of Alliances and Underwriters at IPO
Authors: Khoury Theodore A. , Junkunc Marc , Deeds David L.
Published: March 2013

Focusing on a firm's signaling of social capital through their alliances, we explore how socially constructed signals convey legitimacy and enable greater initial public offering (IPO) proceeds. We examine the concepts of absolute and relative social capital signals with a sample of 266 biotechnology IPOs from 1980 through 2006. Leveraging a dynamic framework, we uncover that the interpretations of quality signals vary over time and are nonadditive; rather, affiliating with prestigious underwriters limits the positive reward of signaling alliance–based social capital. These relationships vary according to whether social capital is evaluated relative to the industry norms and according to the alliance's vertical position.