bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining teacher inquiry in the context of new technology integration
Authors: Jones Anne
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore how a district initiative became a process for developing and enhancing teachers’ inquiry knowledge and practices. It captures and examines the process of classroom research and describes it, and the resultant learning, in the context of teachers’ classroom technology implementation and the inquiry process around that implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

– In this phenomenological case study I engaged teachers in conversations and surveyed them about why they made inquiry decisions.

Findings

– Being part of a network of peers was an essential aspect of this project and played a central role in individuals’ knowledge construction processes. It was clear while the teacher-grantees had an intellectual understanding about qualitative data, they clearly did not conceptualize qualitative data as data in the same way they understand quantitative data.

Practical implications

– The current culture around data in schools adds to this misunderstanding and distrust. The current focus on standardized testing and pre-and post-test assessments of students to place them on intervention scales or assess yearly progress leads teachers to believe that data only consist only of numerical evidence that they scale and compare to other numerical evidences. While overall the why of teacher-grantees’ choices during the inquiry cycle are individualized, the results of this study demonstrate the strong influence of school culture on teacher decision making.

Originality/value

– I anticipate this knowledge about “why” can inform other teachers, administrators, and researchers interested in the experience of engaging in technology innovation programs as well as enhance understanding of what exactly individual teachers learn by doing research, how that learning takes place, and why teachers make particular choices during the action research process.
Detecting uncertainty, predicting outcome for first year students
Authors: Sanders Lalage Dorothy , Mair Carolyn , James Rachael
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the use of two psychometric measures as predictors of end of year outcome for first year university students.

Design/methodology/approach

– New undergraduates (n=537) were recruited in two contrasting universities: one arts based, and one science, in different cities in the UK. At the start of the academic year, new undergraduates across 30 programmes in the two institutions were invited to complete a survey comprising two psychometric measures: Academic Behavioural Confidence scale and the Performance Expectation Ladder. Outcome data were collected from the examining boards the following summer distinguishing those who were able to progress to the next year of study without further assessment from those who were not.

Findings

– Two of the four Confidence subscales, Attendance and Studying, had significantly lower scores amongst students who were not able to progress the following June compared to those who did (p< 0.003). The Ladder data showed the less successful group to anticipate a poorer performance at graduation relative to their year group than did the other group (p< 0.05).

Originality/value

– The results suggest that these two psychometric measures could be instrumental in predicting those at risk of non-completion; such identification could enable the targeted use of limited resources to improve retention. Given the background of limited resources in which institutions are exhorted to improve retention rates, this approach, facilitating the early identification of those at risk of non-completion, could enable focused use of additional support to reduce attrition.
Work integrated learning model in relation to CDIO standards
Authors: Schedin Staffan , Hassan Osama A.B.
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to develop a practical model of work integrated learning for undergraduate engineering students in relation to Conceiving-Designing-Implementing-Operating standards 7 (Integrated Learning Experiences) and 8 (Active Learning). Moreover, it is discussed the role of cultural-social perspective and peer learning in enhancing the developed learning model from a pedagogical point of view.

Design/methodology/approach

– The model is based on an organized collaboration with the industrial partners in the surrounding geographic region. As a part of the collaboration, each participating student is guaranteed internships at a chosen company over the summer period. In the model, company-based projects are integrated with some of the study program courses. Moreover, the participating students are given a possibility to perform their final thesis at the chosen company.

Findings

– A number of positive effects have been observed and documented as follows: first, the integrated learning improves the learning process for the students, where learning, knowledge and practice are integrated into the engineering curricula; second, the general quality of the study programs in the faculty has been developed and improved based on the professional skills as required by modern industrial companies; and third, the obtained advantage for the industrial partners has been to establish professional contacts with the students as well as the possibility to be acquainted with potential future employees.

Research limitations/implications

– The feedback the authors received so far from the industrial partners has been positive. A detailed evaluation will be made at a later stage when more information is available.

Practical implications

– The developed learning model supports the expected learning outcomes, especially with regard to interpersonal skills, teamwork and communication. As a part of the collaboration, each participating student is guaranteed internships at a chosen company over the summer periods. The authors consider this collaboration as a “win-win situation” for the three parties involved in the learning model: the students, the university/faculty and the industrial partners.

Originality/value

– Case study based on observations and evaluation of a developed learning model.
Behavioral and psychological consequences of corporate social responsibility: need of the time
Authors: Islam Talat , Ahmed Ishfaq , Ali Ghulam , Sadiq Tahreem
Published: June 2016

Purpose

Although the concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR) has become an inspiring catch all in the eyes of researchers and practitioners, little from its psychological and behavioural consequences has been focused. This study aims to examine the relationship between CSR and organizational citizenship behaviour and the underlying mechanism between this relation using organizational identification and organizational commitment as mediating variables.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire-based survey was given to 486 Malaysian employees of the hotel industry.

Findings

First, instruments were checked regarding its unidimensionality by applying confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and then, structural equation modelling (SEM) was applied to test the model. SEM confirms that organizational commitment (OC) mediate the relationship between CSR and organizational citizenship behaviour (OCB), while organizational identification (OI) mediate the relationship between CSR and OC.

Research limitations/implications

The study selected sample from Malaysia hotel industry, the results might be different if samples are taken from a geographically different area.

Practical implications

The study has theoretical and practical implications for hotel managers to enhance employees’ identification, commitment and extra-role behaviour.

Originality/value

The study revealed underlying mechanism between CSR and OCB by incorporating OC and OI as mediating variables.
Customer perception of CSR initiatives: its antecedents and consequences
Authors: Chaudary Samra , Zahid Zohad , Shahid Saad , Khan Shamila N. , Azar Sana
Published: June 2016

Purpose

This study aims to ascertain the impact of customer perception of CSR activities (philanthropic, environmental and ethical) conducted on various consumer and corporate related dimensions including; customer loyalty, consumer attachment, corporate performance and repurchase intention. The study also adds value by taking customer perception of CSR as a mediator between green image and performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Structural equation modelling is used after using different (valid and reliable) instruments to measure latent constructs. The study has a sample size of 250 “CSR Consumers”, who had some knowledge and awareness of CSR and green image being advertised and or labelled by the company (such as printing “Recycled” or other eco-friendly images/labels on shopping bag, fliers, outlets, etc.) and are consumers/customers of such firms. The respondent’s awareness was measured by randomly asking them to recall organizations that might have eco-friendly policies.

Findings

The key findings of the study are that perceived fit of culture along with CSR capability radically influences CSR perception within consumer minds and so, subsequently, customer attachment and overall performance of the corporation. The outcomes bestow significant ramifications for marketing and advertising philosophy combined with practice.

Practical implications

Stakeholders exist in the form of consumers other than employees. So consumer satisfaction must be imparted its fair share of importance. Managers must make sure that initiatives for societal benefit are well accepted and well recognized by consumers in a positive array of light. Corporations enthusiastically involved in initiating CSR activities and forecast a positive income. The study guides managers into not falling in this misconception and by recognizing that the fact is that the company managers must only expect higher performance levels once their CSR is in synchronization with the firm’s culture.

Originality/value

A number of studies have been conducted about CSR practices in the Indian context for example (Khan and Atkinson, 1987; Krishna, 1992; Arora and Puranik, 2004; Sood and Arora, 2006; Mishra and Suar, 2010); however, there is dearth of research in its neighbouring country Pakistan about CSR practices and consumer perceptions. Therefore, this research aims to fill this gap by examining CSR practices in Pakistan which has similar historical and colonial roots with India. In doing so, this study ascertains the impact of CSR activities conducted on various consumer and corporate related dimensions that incorporate customer loyalty, consumer attachment and corporate performance.
Exclusive corporate philanthropy: rethinking the nexus of CSR and corporate philanthropy
Authors: von Schnurbein Georg , Seele Peter , Lock Irina
Published: June 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to add to a better understanding of relationship of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and corporate philanthropy. The authors argue that corporate philanthropy is exclusive to CSR because of their different characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on a profound literature review and discusses the relationship of CSR and corporate philanthropy from a theoretical point of view. By conceptually combining the CSR pyramid and the triple bottom line approach, the authors show that corporate philanthropy has a special role outside of the classical CSR concept.

Findings

Four fundaments of corporate philanthropy – economic, motivational, creative and moral – are described that illustrate the importance and outstanding role of corporate philanthropy for today’s businesses. Based on these, the authors formulate three new forms of corporate giving, volunteering and foundations, which the authors subsume under the novel notion of “exclusive corporate philanthropy”.

Research limitations/implications

The main contribution of this paper for future research is to regard corporate philanthropy as exclusive to CSR. Future studies might, therefore, consider the different characteristics of corporate philanthropy and engage in an empirical investigation of this new type.

Practical implications

The model of exclusive corporate philanthropy presented in this paper provides practitioners with a better understanding of how corporate philanthropy can be rolled out today.

Originality/value

This paper offers a new perspective on the relationship of CSR and corporate philanthropy. Based on the economic, motivational, creative and moral characteristics of corporate philanthropy, the authors establish a clear distinction between the two concepts.
Intranasal immunization with a peptide conjugated to Salmonella flagellin induces both systemic and mucosal peptide‐specific antibody responses in mice
Authors: Qian Feng , Yin Jian , Li Mengmeng , Guo Aihua , Li Ting , Zhou Ling , Wu Xin , Xu Huji
Published: June 2016

In this study, the mucosal adjuvant activity of Salmonella flagellin as a carrier in a conjugate of EXP153–rFliC was investigated. EXP153–rFliC was made by conjugation of a synthetic B‐cell epitope peptide derived from Plasmodium falciparum exported protein‐1(EXP153) to recombinant phase 1 flagellin of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium expressed in Escherichia coli (rFliC), and used to immunize BALB/c mice via intranasal instillation. It was found that robust EXP153‐specific serum IgG antibodies were induced without additional adjuvant. EXP153‐specific sIgA antibodies were also induced, these being detected in bronchoalveolar, nasal, vaginal and intestinal washes. These observations demonstrate that Salmonella flagellin as a carrier is an effective mucosal adjuvant in that its conjugated peptide induces antibody responses.
Oral immunization of mice with engineered Lactobacillus gasseri NM713 strain expressing Streptococcus pyogenes M6 antigen
Authors: Mansour Nahla M. , Abdelaziz Sahar A.
Published: June 2016

The aim of this in vivo study was to evaluate the effects of a recombinant probiotic strain, Lactobacillus gasseri NM713, which expresses the conserved region of streptococcal M6 protein (CRR6), as an oral vaccine against Streptococcus pyogenes. A dose of 109 cells of the recombinant strain in 150 μL PBS buffer was administered orally to a group of mice. One control group received an equivalent dose of Lb. gasseri NM613 (containing the empty plasmid without insert) or and another control group received PBS buffer. Each group contained 30 mice. The immunization protocol was followed on three consecutive days, after which two booster doses were administered at two week intervals. Fecal and serum samples were collected from the mice on Days 18, 32, 46, 58 after the first immunization and Day 0 prior to immunization. Anti‐CRR6 IgA and IgG concentrations were measured by ELISA in fecal and sera samples, respectively, to assess immune responses. Vaccination with the recombinant Lb. gasseri NM713 strain induced significant protection after nasal challenge with S. pyogenes, only a small percentage of this group developing streptococcal infection (10%) or dying of it (3.3%) compared with the NM613 and PBS control groups, high percentages of which developed streptococcal infection (43.3% and 46.7%, respectively) and died of it (46.7% and 53%, respectively). These results indicate that recombinant Lb. gasseri NM713 has potential as an oral delivery vaccine against streptococcus group A.
Does Entrepreneurship Promote Economic Growth in Africa?
Authors: Adusei Michael
Published: June 2016

There seems to be a cloud of scepticism hanging over the value of entrepreneurship to the growth processes of developing economies. This haze of scepticism is fuelled by the reverberating mantra by a section of the extant literature that replicative entrepreneurship (entrepreneurship which is generally considered not to be growth‐supporting) is pervasive in developing economies including Africa. We take motivation from this postulation to investigate whether entrepreneurship is of any relevance to the growth processes of 12 African countries. The results show that entrepreneurship positively explains the variations in the growth of the study countries. It is, thus, reasonable to contend that entrepreneurship in developing economies including Africa even if replicative is instrumental to economic growth.
General practice trainees’ clinical experience of dermatology indicates a need for improved education: A cross‐sectional analysis from the Registrar Clinical Encounters in Training Study
Authors: Whiting Georgina , Magin Parker , Morgan Simon , Tapley Amanda , Henderson Kim , Oldmeadow Chris , Ball Jean , van Driel Mieke , Spike Neil , McArthur Lawrie , Scott John , Stocks Nigel
Published: June 2016

Background/Objectives

Skin conditions are commonly encountered in general practice but dermatology is underrepresented in undergraduate medical courses. Australian and international studies have shown that the dermatological diagnostic ability of general practitioners (GPs) is suboptimal, contributing to increased dermatology outpatient referrals. Dermatological experience in GP vocational training is thus of particular importance. We aimed to document the prevalence of skin disease presentations and the range of skin diseases encountered by GP trainees. We also sought to establish associations of GP trainee's skin disease experience, including their personal characteristics, consultation factors, and the actions arising from the consultation.

Methods

This study took place in the Registrars Clinical Encounters in Training (ReCEnT) study. ReCEnT is an ongoing, prospective, multi‐site cohort study of Australian GP trainees' consultations. A descriptive cross‐sectional analysis was performed on trainees' consultation data.

Results

In total, 645 individual trainees contributed data from 84 615 consultations. Altogether, 11% of all problems managed were skin problems. Infections, dermatitis, injury and wounds were the most common presentations. Associations of consultations for skin problems (compared with all other problems) included seeking in‐consultation advice, planning patient follow up and generating learning goals.

Conclusions

These findings suggest GP trainees find skin problems challenging and may indicate a need for more and better targeted undergraduate and GP trainee education.
Serum concentrations of soluble B7‐H4 in early pregnancy are elevated in women with preterm premature rupture of fetal membranes
Authors: Mach Pawel , Köninger Angela , Wicherek Lukasz , Kimmig Rainer , Kasimir‐Bauer Sabine , Birdir Cahit , Schmidt Börge , Gellhaus Alexandra
Published: June 2016

Problem

To determine the association between maternal soluble B7‐H4 (sB7‐H4) and the preterm premature rupture of the amniotic membranes (pPROM), the blood serum concentration levels of sB7‐H4 were studied.

Method of study

Maternal serum levels of sB7‐H4 were determined with enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in patients between 11 and 13 weeks’ gestation who later on in the pregnancy developed pPROM (n=21), premature rupture of the amniotic membranes at term (n=18), and in control group (n=27).

Results

The highest serum levels of sB7‐H4 were found in patients who developed pPROM. An OR of 1.39 (95%‐CI: 1.17–1.77; P=.002) per ng/mL sB7‐H4 indicated an increased risk for developing pPROM, with some predictive ability to discriminate between pPROM cases and controls (AUC=.81).

Conclusion

Increased serum levels of sB7‐H4 in early pregnancy in pPROM cases may indicate the dynamics of the immune response at the feto‐maternal interface and, thus, may serve as a predictive marker for this pregnancy complication.
Advances in implantable bionic devices for blindness: a review
Authors: Lewis Philip M. , Ayton Lauren N. , Guymer Robyn H. , Lowery Arthur J. , Blamey Peter J. , Allen Penelope J. , Luu Chi D. , Rosenfeld Jeffrey V.
Published: June 2016

Since the 1950s, vision researchers have been working towards the ambitious goal of restoring a functional level of vision to the blind via electrical stimulation of the visual pathways. Groups based in Australia, USA, Germany, France and Japan report progress in the translation of retinal visual prosthetics from the experimental to clinical domains, with two retinal visual prostheses having recently received regulatory approval for clinical use. Regulatory approval for cortical visual prostheses is yet to be obtained; however, several groups report plans to conduct clinical trials in the near future, building upon the seminal clinical studies of Brindley and Dobelle. In this review, we discuss the general principles of visual prostheses employing electrical stimulation of the visual pathways, focusing on the retina and visual cortex as the two most extensively studied stimulation sites. We also discuss the surgical and functional outcomes reported to date for retinal and cortical prostheses, concluding with a brief discussion of novel developments in this field and an outlook for the future.
Anatomy of hepatic lymphatics and its implications in hepatic malignancies
Authors: Yong Tuck Leong , Houli Nezor , Christophi Chris
Published: June 2016

Hepatic malignancy with regional lymph node involvement is generally associated with poor prognosis. Lymphatic drainage from the liver to extrahepatic lymph nodes follows a complex and unpredictable pathway. To add to the complexity of management of regional lymph nodes in hepatic malignancies, not all liver cancers have the same propensity to metastasize through lymphatics. Lymphadenectomy has had mixed results in terms of improving patient survival. Other therapies especially anti‐lymphogenic agents might play a role in the near future.
Does Size Matter? Comparing Medium‐Term Cost‐Effectiveness of Group Homes with Institutional Care in South Korea
Authors: Nho Choong Rai , Woo Seokjin , Kang Hyunah , Chun JongSerl , Chung Ick‐Joong
Published: June 2016

Using unique 5‐year longitudinal data on Korean children in group homes and those under institutional care, this paper compared the medium‐term cost‐effectiveness of group homes and that of institutional care facilities in terms of developmental outcomes. Results from propensity score matching estimation show that children in group homes tend to have more desirable positive outcomes and fewer behavioral problems in the medium term to a statistically significant margin. The cost‐effectiveness ratio of being placed in a group home is consistently higher than placement in an institutional care facility. That is, for one dollar spent on an out‐of‐home care service, we anticipate the children in group homes have more desirable outcomes in the medium term than their counterparts in institutional care facilities.
How does prescribing for antihypertensive products stack up against guideline recommendations? An Australian population‐based study (2006–2014)
Authors: Schaffer Andrea L. , Pearson Sallie‐Anne , Buckley Nicholas A.
Published: June 2016

Aims

We describe choice of first‐line antihypertensive drug therapy and uptake of fixed‐dose combinations (FDCs) in Australia, and investigate the impact of initiation on FDCs and other non‐recommended first‐line therapies on treatment discontinuation.

Method

This was a population‐based retrospective cohort study using a random 10% sample of persons dispensed an Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme listed medicine from 1 July 2005 to 30 June 2014. The primary outcomes were adherence to Australian recommendations at initiation of antihypertensive therapy, discontinuation of initial therapy and discontinuation of any therapy in the first year after initiation.

Results

In our sample of 55 937 persons initiating therapy, 42.0% did so outside Australian recommendations, including not initiating on recommended monotherapy (26.3%) and not initiating on the lowest recommended dose (30.6%). Only 1.7% of individuals who were dispensed an FDC established therapy on the free combination regimen (as recommended) prior to switching. After adjusting for covariates, persons initiating on non‐recommended monotherapy (OR = 2.64, 95% CI 2.47–2.83) or FDCs of two or more antihypertensives (OR = 1.42, 95% CI 1.30–1.55), were more likely to discontinue all antihypertensive drug treatment in the first year compared to persons initiating on recommended monotherapy.

Conclusion

More than half of antihypertensive initiators conformed to Australian guidelines. Initiation on FDCs and other non‐recommended treatments was associated with lower persistence on antihypertensive therapy in the first year. Long‐term effectiveness and outcomes may be enhanced by initiating with low dose monotherapy.
CYP2C19 and CYP2D6 genotypes in Pacific peoples
Authors: Helsby Nuala A.
Published: June 2016

The study of pharmacogenetic variants in populations which reside in Oceania has been focused mainly on CYP2C19 and CYP2D6. Statements about the high prevalence of CYP2C19 no function genotype in ‘Pacific Islanders’ can be found in the literature. This review article summarizes the published information about these pharmacogenes in this geographical region and highlights the differences observed between Melanesian and Polynesian populations. It is not appropriate to combine the prevalence data of pharmacogenetic variants, particularly CYP2C19, across this region. Indeed, apocryphal assumptions about CYP2C19 no function alleles and possible effect on the therapeutic activity of clopidogrel are unhelpful and reiterate the importance of assessing the individual patient rather than relying on inappropriate ethnicity‐based assumptions for drug dosing decisions.
Blocking inhibition of prothrombinase by tissue factor pathway inhibitor alpha: a procoagulant property of heparins
Authors: Wood Jeremy P. , Baumann Kreuziger Lisa M. , Desai Umesh R. , Mast Alan E.
Published: June 2016

Unfractionated heparin (UFH) has procoagulant activity in antithrombin/heparin cofactor II (HCII)‐depleted plasma. UFH prevents tissue factor pathway inhibitor alpha (TFPIα) from inhibiting the procoagulant enzyme complex, prothrombinase, providing a possible mechanism for its procoagulant activity. The procoagulant potential of UFH and various low molecular weight heparins (LMWHs) were characterized for TFPIα dependence, using thrombin generation assays performed with antithrombin/HCII‐depleted plasma. UFH, the LMWHs enoxaparin and dalteparin, and the low anticoagulant LMWH 2‐O, 3‐O desulphated heparin (ODSH) all promoted thrombin generation, but fondaparinux did not, and this activity was blocked by a TFPIα antibody. UFH, enoxaparin, and dalteparin were anticoagulant in reactions containing 1–2% normal plasma. In prothrombinase activity assays, UFH, enoxaparin, dalteparin and ODSH blocked prothrombinase inhibition by TFPIα, while again fondaparinux did not. In both the plasma and purified assays, LMWHs displayed greater procoagulant potential than UFH, even when normalized to saccharide concentration. These biochemical data reveal that UFH and LMWHs, but not fondaparinux, block prothrombinase inhibition by TFPIα, thereby producing their paradoxical procoagulant activity observed in the absence of antithrombin/HCII. The findings may help to understand the complex pathophysiology and treatment of patients that are simultaneously bleeding and clotting, such as those with disseminated intravascular coagulation.
A detailed post‐IR IRSL dating study of the Niuyangzigou loess site in northeastern China
Authors: Yi Shuangwen , Buylaert Jan‐Pieter , Murray Andrew S. , Lu Huayu , Thiel Christine , Zeng Lin
Published: June 2016

In this study, we report standard quartz SAR OSL and post‐IR infrared (IR) stimulated luminescence (post‐IR IRSL; pIRIR290) measurements made on sand‐sized quartz and K‐feldspar extracts from the loess‐palaeosol sequence at Niuyangzigou in northeastern China. The quartz OSL characteristics are satisfactory. Extensive pIRIR50,290 dose recovery tests were performed by adding doses on top of the natural dose. We found that dose recovery ratios improve significantly when the test dose ranges between ~15 and ~80% of the total dose, and good dose recovery (within ±5% of unity) can be obtained up to ∼800 Gy. Otherwise, the dose recovery ratio deviates from unity. The De values also depend on the test dose size and so we conclude that the effect of test dose size should be routinely considered in pIRIR dating. First IR stimulation plateau pIRIR290 results are compared with multiple elevated temperature ‐pIRIR (MET‐pIRIR) data. It appears that the low temperature MET‐pIRIR data are strongly affected by poor dose recovery, but this is not the case for the pIRIR290 results. Natural signal measurements at the highest (first IR) stimulation temperature on a sample expected to be in field saturation suggest that ~10% signal loss occurs in pIRIR signals. Long‐term laboratory bleaching experiments (>80 days) show that a constant (or very difficult to bleach) residual pIRIR290 signal is reached after ~300 h, corresponding to a dose of 6.2±0.7 Gy. Quartz OSL and feldspar pIRIR50,290 ages are in good agreement at least back to c. 70 ka. Beyond this the quartz ages begin to underestimate but the feldspar ages are in agreement with the expected Last Interglacial age palaeosol.
Innovations in Practice: Identifying young people at ultra‐high risk of psychosis in a Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service
Authors: Ulhaq Sophia , Thevan Kumaran , Adams Rebecca
Published: June 2016

Background

The Psychosis Pathway was introduced in a London Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) with an aim to identify and manage those at ultra‐high risk of psychosis (UHR).

Method

A service evaluation was conducted to review the clinical impact of this arm of the Psychosis Pathway over a 2‐year period.

Results

We found decreased time for psychiatric review, reduction in DUP with reduced inpatient admissions and therefore reduction in morbidity. Transition rate from UHR to psychotic illness was 56% in 2 years.

Conclusion

There is much utility in identifying and managing those at UHR in a CAMHS settings.
How economics can further the success of ecological restoration
Authors: Iftekhar Md Sayed , Polyakov Maksym , Ansell Dean , Gibson Fiona , Kay Geoffrey M.
Published: June 2016

Restoration scientists and practitioners have recently begun to include economic and social aspects in the design and investment decisions for restoration projects. With few exceptions, ecological restoration studies that include economics focus solely on evaluating costs of restoration projects. However, economic principles, tools, and instruments can be applied to a range of other factors that affect project success. We considered the relevance of applying economics to address 4 key challenges of ecological restoration: assessing social and economic benefits, estimating overall costs, project prioritization and selection, and long‐term financing of restoration programs. We found it is uncommon to consider all types of benefits (such as nonmarket values) and costs (such as transaction costs) in restoration programs. Total benefit of a restoration project can be estimated using market prices and various nonmarket valuation techniques. Total cost of a project can be estimated using methods based on property or land‐sale prices, such as hedonic pricing method and organizational surveys. Securing continuous (or long‐term) funding is also vital to accomplishing restoration goals and can be achieved by establishing synergy with existing programs, public–private partnerships, and financing through taxation.
Secondary syphilis in HIV positive individuals: correlation with histopathologic findings, CD4 counts, and quantity of treponemes in microscopic sections
Authors: Rosa Gabriela , Procop Gary W. , Schold Jesse D. , Piliang Melissa P.
Published: June 2016

Background

Although syphilis is uncommon, infection rates are much higher in HIV‐infected individuals than the general population. A proposed explanation is impaired cellular immunity with HIV infection.

Methods

A search of one institution yielded 10 patients with a diagnosis of secondary syphilis on skin biopsy, positive syphilis serology and available CD4 counts. We evaluated 11 biopsies from the 10 patients. We correlated the patients' CD4 counts with the histologic findings and with the number of treponemes on skin biopsies, highlighted by immunohistochemistry (IHC). We also compared the detection of spirochetes in silver stained sections (e.g. Warthin–Starry) with T. pallidum IHC. All biopsies were assessed for various histologic features.

Results

The sensitivity of IHC to detect treponemes was 64% and of silver stain was 9% (p‐value 0.04). The number of treponemes on the biopsies was determined by IHC. High numbers of spirochetes (i.e. >100 per 10 hpf) were only seen in patients with CD4 counts less than 250 cells/ml.

Conclusion

The most consistent histologic finding was a moderate to severe lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate. Although the study is small, it appears that a higher number of spirochetes is associated with CD4 counts less than 250 cell/ml. The T. pallidum IHC stain was vastly superior to the Warthin–Starry stain.
Autistic regression and central nervous system autoimmunity
Authors: Dale Russell C
Published: June 2016

This commentary is on the case report by Hacohen et al. on pages 1092–1094 of this issue.
ENGLISH PROFICIENCY AND LABOR MARKET PERFORMANCE: EVIDENCE FROM THE ECONOMICS PROFESSION
Authors: Olney William W.
Published: June 2016

This article investigates whether the global spread of the English language provides an inherent advantage to native English speakers. This question is studied within the context of the economics profession, where the impact of being a native English speaker on future publishing success is examined. English speakers may have an advantage because they are writing in their native language, the quality of writing is a crucial determinant of publishing success, and all the top economics journals are published in English. Using a ranking of the world's top 2.5% of economists, this article confirms that native English speakers are ranked 100 spots higher (better) than similar non‐native English speakers. A variety of extensions examine and dispel many other potential explanations. (JEL A11, J44, F66)
Prey Luring Coloration of A Nocturnal Semi‐Aquatic Predator
Authors: Tso I‐Min , Zhang Shichang , Tan Wei‐Li , Peng Po , Blamires Sean J.
Published: June 2016

Body coloration serves a variety of purposes in animals. Diurnal and nocturnal predators such as spiders may use their body coloration to lure prey. We predicted here that the white patches on the forelegs on females of the nocturnal semi‐aquatic spider Dolomedes raptor lure prey, explaining why they are primarily displayed when the spider forages along the water edge. To test our prediction, we developed a color vision model assessing whether the patches are visible to pygmy grasshoppers, the spider's primary prey. We conducted a field experiment using cardboard dummies that resemble D. raptor in size, shape, and color, but with half of them lacking leg patches, and we staged interactions between pygmy grasshoppers and D. raptor with and without leg patches in a greenhouse. We found the white patches to be visible to grasshoppers. The dummies with white patches attracted more grasshopper prey than the dummies without the patches. Moreover, grasshoppers were more attracted to spiders when their white patches were present. Our results supported the hypothesis that the white patches of D. raptor lure prey. Our findings, nevertheless, could not be explained as the spider's body coloration acting as a sensory trap but it should not be ruled out. More studies on a wider range of predators and prey will give more meaningful insights into the co‐evolution of predatory lures and prey sensory modalities.
Marginal Models Via GLS: A Convenient Yet Neglected Tool for the Analysis of Correlated Data in the Behavioural Sciences
Authors: Pekár Stano , Brabec Marek
Published: June 2016

Behavioural research often produces data that have a complicated structure. For instance, data can represent repeated observations of the same individual and suffer from heteroscedasticity as well as other technical snags. The regression analysis of such data is often complicated by the fact that the observations (response variables) are mutually correlated. The correlation structure can be quite complex and might or might not be of direct interest to the user. In any case, one needs to take correlations into account (e.g. by means of random‐effect specification) in order to arrive at correct statistical inference (e.g. for construction of the appropriate test or confidence intervals). Over the last decade, such data have been more and more frequently analysed using repeated‐measuresANOVAand mixed‐effects models. Some researchers invoke the heavy machinery of mixed‐effects modelling to obtain the desired population‐level (marginal) inference, which can be achieved by using simpler tools – namely marginal models. This paper highlights marginal modelling (using generalized least squares [GLS] regression) as an alternative method. In various concrete situations, such marginal models can be based on fewer assumptions and directly generate estimates (population‐level parameters) which are of immediate interest to the behavioural researcher (such as population mean). Sometimes, they might be not only easier to interpret but also easier to specify than their competitors (e.g. mixed‐effects models). Using five examples from behavioural research, we demonstrate the use, advantages, limits and pitfalls of marginal and mixed‐effects models implemented within the functions of the ‘nlme’ package in R.
Does Schwann cell dedifferentiation originate dermal neurofibromas?
Authors: Iribar Haizea , Jaka Ane , Ormaechea Nerea , Tuneu Anna , Izeta Ander , Gutiérrez‐Rivera Araika
Published: June 2016

Dermal neurofibromas are characteristic of neurofibromatosis type one (NF1), and their developmental origin still unsolved. Although NF1 loss is required for neurofibroma initiation, some features of these benign tumors resemble a skin injury state and cutaneous trauma or other insults might support tumor development. Since adult terminal Schwann cells ensheathing nerve endings are able to dedifferentiate into a progenitor‐like state in response to nerve crushing, we hypothesized that dedifferentiation of NF1−/− Schwann cells could be at the origin of human dermal neurofibromas. In support of this, here we show that CDH19 (a marker specific of Schwann cell precursors) and Schwann cell dedifferentiation marker SOX2 are significantly upregulated in NF1 tumors. We posit that onset of nerve regeneration might have a role in dermal neurofibroma initiation via dedifferentiation of NF1−/− Schwann cells.
Thymic stromal lymphopoietin regulates eosinophil migration via phosphorylation of l‐plastin in atopic dermatitis
Authors: Noh Ji Yeon , Shin Jung U , Park Chang Ook , Lee Nara , Jin Shan , Kim Seo Hyeong , Kim Ji Hye , Min Arim , Shin Myeong Heon , Lee Kwang Hoon
Published: June 2016

Infiltration of eosinophils in atopic dermatitis (AD), which contains inflammatory molecules and cytokines, recruits more inflammatory cells and causes further skin damage. Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) is an epithelial cytokine that induces the proinflammatory Th2 immune response and plays an important role in allergic disease. In this study, we aimed to identify a novel protein that regulates TSLP in eosinophils to further understand the role of eosinophils in atopic dermatitis. Using a proteomics approach, we identified the TSLP‐inducible protein l‐plastin and confirmed upregulation of l‐plastin and p‐l‐plastin in TSLP‐treated human eosinophilic leukaemic (EoL‐1) cells and in eosinophils from AD patients. Migration assays showed that migration of eosinophils increased when cells were treated with TSLP and when cells were treated with TSLP and an additional cytokine such as interleukin (IL)‐3, IL‐4, IL‐5 or IL‐13, when compared to migration of untreated eosinophils. We also confirmed a positive correlation between phosphorylation of l‐plastin and an increase in migration of TSLP and cytokine‐treated eosinophils. In addition, phosphorylation of l‐plastin was sensitive to PKCβII inhibition. Our results suggest that TSLP‐induced phosphorylation of l‐plastin affects eosinophil migration, which may be mediated by the protein kinase C signalling pathway in atopic dermatitis, thus suggesting p‐l‐plastin as a potential drug target for eosinophil‐targeted allergy therapy.
Pressure pain threshold is higher in hypertensive compared with normotensive older adults: A case–control study
Authors: Nascimento Rebelatto Marcelo , Alburquerque‐Sendín Francisco , Guimarães João Flavio , Salvini Tania Fatima
Published: June 2016

Aim

To establish whether there are differences in pain sensitivity between hypertensive and normotensive older adults.

Methods

A cross‐sectional case control study was carried out. A total of 72 older adults, 36 normotensive and 36 hypertensive, participated in the study. The pressure pain threshold (PPT) was assessed on seven points bilaterally in both groups by means of pressure algometry. Two‐factor analysis of variance (anova) – group and sex – was carried out, and the magnitude of the differences was calculated using Cohen's index.

Results

The PPT values were higher in the group of hypertensive older adults compared with the normotensive older adults; that difference was significant (P < 0.05) for the following points: right and left trochanters, left trapezium, left L3/L4 and left anterior tibialis muscle, with both trochanter and left L3/L4 PPT showing moderate magnitude of the differences. The correlations shown among the PPT were stronger in the group of hypertensive older adults. Thus, hypoalgesia was more generalized among the hypertensive older adults compared with the normotensive older adults. Sex did not influence that difference, although the magnitude of the difference was greater among men compared with women.

Conclusions

Hypoalgesia, as assessed by means of PPT, showed a relationship with arterial hypertension in older adults. The influence of sex on hypoalgesia shown by hypertensive individuals is controversial. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 967–972.
M‐COPA, a novel Golgi system disruptor, suppresses apoptosis induced by Shiga toxin
Authors: Hattori Takayuki , Watanabe‐Takahashi Miho , Shiina Isamu , Ohashi Yoshimi , Dan Shingo , Nishikawa Kiyotaka , Yamori Takao , Naito Mikihiko
Published: June 2016

Shiga toxin (Stx) is a main virulence factor of Stx‐producing Escherichia coli (STEC) that contributes to diarrhea and hemorrhagic colitis and occasionally to fatal systemic complications. Therefore, the development of an antidote to neutralize Stx toxicity is urgently needed. After internalization into cells, Stx is transferred to the Golgi apparatus via a retrograde vesicular transport system. We report here that 2‐methylcoprophilinamide (M‐COPA), a compound that induces disassembly of the Golgi apparatus by inactivating ADP‐ribosylation factor 1 (Arf1), suppresses Stx‐induced apoptosis. M‐COPA inhibited transport of Stx from the plasma membrane to the Golgi apparatus and suppressed degradation of anti‐apoptotic proteins and the activation of caspases. These findings suggest that inhibition of Stx retrograde transport by M‐COPA could be a novel approach to suppress Stx toxicity.
Mexican-American Educational Stagnation
Authors: Turner Richard Neil , Thiede Brian
Published: June 2016

High school dropout rates among Mexican Americans decline markedly between the first and second immigrant generations and, consequently, move closer to non-Hispanic white levels. However, the third generation makes little progress in closing the remaining gap with whites despite their parents having more schooling on average than those of the second generation. Utilizing 2007–2013 Current Population Survey data, we examine whether an inter-generational shift away from two-parent families contributes to this educational stagnation. We also consider the effect of changes in sibship size. The analysis involves performing a partial regression decomposition of differences between second- and third-generation Mexican-American adolescents (aged 16–17 years) in the likelihood of having dropped out. We find that Mexican third-generation teens are close to nine percentage points less likely than second-generation peers to live with two parents. The decomposition results suggest that this change in family structure offsets a substantial portion of the negative influence of rising parental education on third-generation dropout risk.
Life Satisfaction of Cross-Border Marriage Migrants in South Korea: Exploring the Social Network Effects
Authors: Yu Sojin , Chen Feinian
Published: June 2016

This study examines the recent phenomenon of “cross-border marriage” in South Korea: foreign brides migrating into Korea to get married to Korean bachelors. Using data from the National Survey of Multicultural Families 2009, one of the biggest data sets on marriage migrants, we analyze how the difference in migrants’ initial methods of entry affects the level of their life satisfaction. The findings show greater life satisfaction for those who used personal social networks, when compared with those who used commercial brokers as a method of entry. The analyses also reveal the importance of current social networks and their role in moderating the effect of the initial methods of entry after a prolonged period of residence.
Activity and migratory flights of individual free‐flying songbirds throughout the annual cycle: method and first case study
Authors: Bäckman Johan , Andersson Arne , Alerstam Thomas , Pedersen Lykke , Sjöberg Sissel , Thorup Kasper , Tøttrup Anders P.
Published: June 2016

We describe a method and device (< 1.2 g) for recording, processing and storing data about activity and location of individuals of free‐living songbirds throughout the annual cycle.

Activity level was determined every five minutes from five 100 ms samples of accelerometer data with 5 s between the sampling events. Activity levels were stored on an hourly basis throughout the annual cycle, allowing periods of resting/sleep, continuous flight and intermediate activity (foraging, breeding) to be distinguished. Measurements from a light sensor were stored from preprogrammed key stationary periods during the year to provide control information about geographic location.

Successful results, including annual actogram, were obtained for a red‐backed shrikeLanius colluriocarrying out its annual loop migration between northern Europe and southern Africa. The shrike completed its annual migration by performing > 66 (max. 73) nocturnal migratory flights (29 flights in autumn and > 37, max. 44, in spring) adding up to a total of > 434 (max. 495) flight hours. Migratory flights lasted on average 6.6 h with maximum 15.9 h. These flights were aggregated into eight travel episodes (periods of 4–11 nights when flights took place on the majority of nights). Daytime resting levels were much higher during the winter period compared to breeding and final part of spring migration. Daytime resting showed peaks during days between successive nocturnal flights across Sahara, continental Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, indicating that the bird was mostly sleeping between these long migratory flights.

Annual activity and flight data for free‐living songbirds will open up many new research possibilities. Main topics that can be addressed are e.g. migratory flight performance (total flight investment, numbers and characteristics of flights), timing of stationary periods, activity patterns (resting/sleep, activity level) in different phases of the annual cycle and variability in the annual activity patterns between and within individuals.