bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐Amplitude Pace Mapping Increases Safety of Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation of Parahisian Ectopic Foci
Authors: MAMCHUR SERGEY E. , KURILIN MIKHAIL Y.
Published: September 2012

Background:

The objective of the study is to assess the efficacy of high‐amplitude pace mapping in terms of the atrioventricular (AV) block risk after radiofrequency catheter ablation (RCA) of parahisian ectopic foci.

Methods:

Twenty patients aged 38 ± 14 years with no structural heart disease underwent RCA of parahisian ectopic foci. All the patients were randomized into two groups: Group I (n = 11) had RCA performed in the region defined as ectopic focus by electrophysiology study and Group II (n = 9) had high‐amplitude pacing performed in the region of “perfect” mapping. RCA was done only at the sites where high‐amplitude pacing revealed the absence of His bundle capture.

Results:

In group I, the efficacy of RCA was 54.5% and it was 100% in group II (P = 0.0195). Group II had no complications; in group I there were 27% of AV blocks (P = 0.0893). The late recurrence of ectopic activity was comparable in both groups: 3 (27%) and 2 (22%), respectively (P = 0.7953). In all the cases of recurrent ectopic activity and in all the cases of ineffective primary procedure, group I had effective reablation procedures performed using high‐amplitude pace mapping. The overall efficacy in terms of repeated procedures was 90%.

Conclusion:

High‐amplitude pace mapping increases primary and secondary efficacy of parahisian ectopic foci RCA and decreases the risk of AV block development. (PACE 2012;35:1458–1463)
Who's Coming to My Party? Peer Talk as a Bridge to Oral Language Proficiency
Authors: Farnsworth Megan
Published: September 2012

In this ethnographic study, I investigate heterogeneous‐language peer interactions in an English‐only kindergarten classroom. English Learners and English Proficient students co‐created language necessary to build an argument, one discourse valued in schools. Students developed complex oral language proficiency skills but were viewed as engaging in chitchat. Implications include the need for teachers to listen to peer talk, which has potential for social, cognitive, and linguistic development necessary in which to bridge academic discourse. [English‐language acquisition, special education, social development]
Voice and Meaning‐Making in Team Ethnography
Authors: Creese Angela , Blackledge Adrian
Published: September 2012

Drawing on research on complementary schools in the United Kingdom, this presentation considers some of the issues in the research method used in studying this after‐school community site. Processes of analysis employed by the ethnography team are disclosed so as to illuminate the dynamics of theory building in a large research team. [reflexive language, team ethnography, voice, representation].
The Mortality Benefit Threshold for Patients with Suspected Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Pines Jesse M. , Lessler Adam L. , Ward Michael J. , Mark Courtney D.
Published: September 2012

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2012; 19:1109–1113 © 2012 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine

Objectives:  The mortality benefit for pulmonary embolism (PE) is the difference in mortality between treated and untreated patients. The mortality benefit threshold is the mortality benefit above which testing for a condition should be initiated and below which it should not. To illustrate this concept, the authors developed a decision model to estimate the mortality benefit threshold at several pretest probabilities for low‐risk emergency department (ED) patients with possible PE and compare those thresholds with contemporary management of PE in the United States and what is known and not known about treatment benefits with anticoagulation.

Methods:  The authors built a decision model of a 25‐year‐old female with suspected PE. Model inputs were obtained from the literature or clinical judgment when data were unavailable. One‐way sensitivity analysis was used to derive the mortality benefit threshold at several fixed pretest probabilities, and two‐way sensitivity analysis was used to determine drivers of the mortality benefit threshold.

Results:  At a 15% pretest probability, the mortality benefit threshold was 3.7%; at 10% it was 5.2%; at 5% it was 9.8%; at 2% it was 23.5%; at 1% it was 46.3%; and at 0.5% it was 92.1%. In two‐way sensitivity analyses, D‐dimer specificity, CT angiography (CTA)/CT venography (CTV) sensitivity, annual cancer risk, probability of death from renal failure, and probability of major bleeding were major model drivers.

Conclusions:  The mortality benefit threshold for initiating PE testing is very high at low pretest probabilities of PE, which should be considered by clinicians in their diagnostic approach to PE in the ED. The mortality benefit threshold is a novel way of exploring the benefits and risks of ED‐based testing, particularly in situations like PE where testing (i.e., CT use) carries real risks and the benefits of treatment are uncertain.
Observational Study of Telephone Consults by Stroke Experts Supporting Community Tissue Plasminogen Activator Delivery
Authors: Majersik Jennifer J. , Meurer William J. , Frederiksen Shirley A. , Sandretto Amaria M. , Xu Zhenzhen , Goldman Edward B. , Scott Phillip A.
Published: September 2012

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2012; 19:1027–1034 © 2012 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine

Objectives:  Barriers to intravenous (IV) tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) use in ischemic stroke include limited treatment experience of community physicians. Models of acute stroke care have been designed to address these limitations by providing community support. These include support by telephone or televideo, with or without subsequent transport to tertiary care centers. The authors describe the frequency, characteristics, and effect of community phone consultations to a 24/7 stroke “hotline” staffed by stroke physicians at an academic stroke center using such a model.

Methods:  Twelve intervention hospitals participating in the INcreasing Stroke Treatment through Interventional behavior Change Tactics (INSTINCT) trial were provided a single‐access number (“hotline”) for expert consultation on tPA use. Experts consisted of stroke‐trained physicians at an academic medical center. Hotline use was not mandated by the study protocol, nor was patient transfer required. Consultants were required to record all treatment questions in a Web‐based log. All patients discussed over the hotline and/or treated with tPA in an INSTINCT hospital underwent multilevel chart review by trained nurse coordinators. Cases were linked to logged hotline calls, based on the time of treatment and the initial treating hospital. Physician adjudicators assessed appropriateness of tPA treatment, presence of deviation from standard guidelines, and treatment complications (intracranial hemorrhage [ICH], systemic hemorrhage, or death).

Results:  Over 27 months, there were a total of 204 hotline calls regarding 116 patients. Ninety‐one percent of calls were between 8 a.m. and midnight, and 77% of questions explored issues of eligibility for IV tPA, particularly for minor stroke or improving stroke (26%). A total of 243 patients were treated with IV tPA at the 12 intervention hospitals, 54 of which were following hotline consult. Seventy‐six percent of hotline patients in whom tPA was recommended actually received tPA, while 2% of those in whom tPA was not recommended received the medication. There were no differences in protocol deviations (27.8% hotline group vs. 23.8% nonhotline group), incidence of symptomatic ICH (5.6% vs. 7.3%), or in‐hospital mortality (5.6% vs. 13.2%). No medico–legal issues have been reported for any case in the study.

Conclusions:  Providing tPA decision‐making support via telephone consult to community physicians is feasible and safe. Consultants may play a more prominent role in determining tPA ineligibility than acceptance. Future work should include a real‐time survey of physician providers to ascertain such potential qualitative benefits of a stroke hotline.
Predictors of post‐partum weight retention in a prospective longitudinal study
Authors: Martin Julia Elizabeth , Hure Alexis Jayne , Macdonald‐Wicks Lesley , Smith Roger , Collins Clare Elizabeth
Published: September 2012

Post‐partum weight retention (WR) occurs in 60–80% of women with some retaining ≥10 kg with contributing factors reported as pre‐pregnancy body mass index (BMI), gestational weight gain (GWG) and breastfeeding. A longitudinal study of pregnancy, with 12‐month post‐partum follow‐up was conducted to determine factors associated with WR. Pregnant women (n = 152) were recruited from the John Hunter Hospital antenatal clinic in New South Wales, Australia. Pre‐pregnancy weight was self‐reported; weight was measured four times during pregnancy (for GWG) and in the first 12 months post‐partum. Infant feeding data were obtained via questionnaires. Breastfeeding was categorised as exclusive, predominant, complementary or not breastfeeding. Linear mixed models tested the predictors of WR, with and without adjustment for potential confounders. Compared with pre‐pregnancy weight, 68% of women retained weight at 12 months, median (interquartile range) [4.5 kg (2.1–8.9)]. After adjustment, GWG was positively associated with WR (P < 0.01), but pre‐pregnancy weight did not predict WR. For each additional week of any breastfeeding, 0.04 kg less weight was retained. Compared with women who retained weight, those women who did retain had higher rates of exclusive breastfeeding at three months (P < 0.05), but the number of weeks of exclusive breastfeeding failed to predict WR for all women. WR following childbirth is common and associated with GWG, while the number of weeks of ‘any’ breastfeeding contributed to post‐partum weight loss. Whether these factors are modifiable strategies to optimise the weight status of women at this life stage requires further research.
The burden and consequences of inherited blood disorders among young children in western Kenya
Authors: Suchdev Parminder S. , Ruth Laird J. , Earley Marie , Macharia Alex , Williams Thomas N.
Published: September 2012

Although inherited blood disorders are common among children in many parts of Africa, limited data are available about their prevalence or contribution to childhood anaemia. We conducted a cross‐sectional survey of 858 children aged 6–35 months who were randomly selected from 60 villages in western Kenya. Haemoglobin (Hb), ferritin, malaria, C‐reactive protein (CRP) and retinol binding protein (RBP) were measured from capillary blood. Using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Hb type, −3.7 kb alpha‐globin chain deletion, glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) genotype and haptoglobin (Hp) genotype were determined. More than 2 out of 3 children had at least one measured blood disorder. Sickle cell trait (HbAS) and disease (HbSS) were found in 17.1% and 1.6% of children, respectively; 38.5% were heterozygotes and 9.6% were homozygotes for α+‐thalassaemia. The Hp 2‐2 genotype was found in 20.4% of children, whereas 8.2% of males and 6.8% of children overall had G6PD deficiency. There were no significant differences in the distribution of malaria by the measured blood disorders, except among males with G6PD deficiency who had a lower prevalence of clinical malaria than males of normal G6PD genotype (P = 0.005). After excluding children with malaria parasitaemia, inflammation (CRP > 5 mg L−1), iron deficiency (ferritin < 12 μg L−1) or vitamin A deficiency (RBP < 0.7 μg L−1), the prevalence of anaemia among those without α+‐thalassaemia (43.0%) remained significantly lower than that among children who were either heterozygotes (53.5%) or homozygotes (67.7%, P = 0.03). Inherited blood disorders are common among pre‐school children in western Kenya and are important contributors to anaemia.
Baseline sensitivity and efficacy of thifluzamide in Rhizoctonia solani
Authors: Chen Y. , Zhang A.‐F. , Wang W.‐X. , Zhang Y. , Gao T.‐C.
Published: September 2012

Thifluzamide is a SDHI (succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor) fungicide, which interferes with succinate ubiquinone reductase in the mitochondrial electron transport chain of fungi. Presently, jinggangmycin is the major fungicide extensively used for the control of rice sheath blight caused by Rhizoctonia solani and resistance to jinggangmycin was first reported to occur in China. A total of 128 isolates of R. solani from Anhui Province of China were characterised for the baseline sensitivity to thifluzamide. The isolates were very sensitive to thifluzamide and the baseline sensitivity curve was unimodal with an average EC50 value of 0.058 ± 0.012 µg mL−1. However, EC50 values of boscalid (another SDHI fungicide) for inhibition of mycelial growth of 22 arbitrarily selected R. solani isolates ranged from 1.89 to 2.68 µg mL−1. Thifluzamide applied at 110 µg mL−1 exhibited excellent protective and curative activity against rice sheath blight and provided 81.1–91.0% protective or curative control efficacy. In field trials in 2010 and 2011, control efficacies of thifluzamide at 82 g.a.i ha−1 15 and 30 days after second application were 84.2% and 86.7%, respectively, suggesting excellent activity against sheath blight. There was a statistically significant difference in the efficacy between thifluzamide and boscalid or jinggangmycin. These results suggested that thifluzamide should be a good alternative fungicide to jinggangmycin for the control of rice sheath blight.
Online Tempercurve Analysis of Praline Products with the Objective of Cooling Process Optimization
Authors: Ehlers Daniel , Hanselmann William , Windhab Erich Josef
Published: September 2012

Parameter evaluation for cooling tunnel equipment as used for solidification of chocolate masses was realized by evaluation of online temperature curves (real‐time tempercurves). A praline system (dark chocolate shell, hazelnut filling) was cooled by variation of cooling temperature (12, 7, −10C) and air flow rate (1, 3, 6 m/s). By evaluation of real‐time tempercurves with respect to main crystallization events in different product layers and final fat bloom resistance a critical crystallization temperature of T = 18C was determined. In parallel, the significant potential of time reduction by cooling temperature decrease and air flow increase has been worked out by exemplification. Evaluation is based and discussed on cocoa butter crystallization within literature. Furthermore, this rather simple technique is capable of monitoring several details of local cooling situations in the black box cooling tunnel, such as relative cooling capacity, consistency of cooling temperature and effect of production shutdowns.

Practical Applications

The real‐time tempercurve technique is adaptable to a wide range of industrial molds and cooling equipment in the chocolate industry. It is so far developed for molded products only. For coated products, an alternative construction of surface analysis by infrared technique is conceivable. On the other hand, the operating experience with cooling tunnels of manufacturers is less detailed in comparison to other process units because it is a closed system (black box). With this approach, the producer is capable of monitoring the performance and continuance of his cooling equipment (air cooler) and is able to set up appropriate process parameters (temperature, air speed) for new or optimize them for existing products.
Stroke Care in Central Eastern Europe: Current Problems and Call for Action
Authors: Lenti Laura , Brainin Michael , Titianova Ekaterina , Morovic Sandra , Demarin Vida , Kalvach Pavel , Skoloudik David , Kobayashi Adam , Czlonkowska Anna , Muresanu Dafin F. , Shekhovtsova Ksenia , Skvortsova Veronica I. , Sternic Nadezda , Bumbasirevic Ljiljana Beslac , Svigelj Viktor , Turcani Peter , Bereczki Dániel , Csiba László
Published: September 2012

Stroke is a major medical problem and one of the leading causes of mortality and disability all over in Europe. However, there are significant East–West differences in stroke care as well as in stroke mortality and morbidity rates. Central and Eastern European countries that formerly had centralized and socialist health care systems have serious and similar problems in organizing health and stroke care 20 years after the political transition. In Central and Eastern Europe, stroke is more frequent, the mortality rate is higher, and the victims are younger than in Western Europe. High-risk patients live in worse environmental conditions, and the socioeconomic consequences of stroke further weaken the economic development of these countries. To address these issues, a round table conference was organized. The main aim of this conference was to discuss problems to be solved related to acute and chronic stroke care in Central and Eastern European countries, and also, to exchange ideas on possible solutions. In this article, the discussed problems and possible solutions will be summarized, and introduce ‘The Budapest Statement of Stroke Experts of Central and Eastern European countries’.
Time Dependence of Reliability of Noncontrast Computed Tomography in Comparison to Computed Tomography Angiography Source Image in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Bal Simerpreet , Bhatia Rohit , Menon Bijoy K. , Shobha Nandavar , Puetz Volker , Dzialowski Imanuel , Modi Jayesh , Goyal Mayank , Hill Michael D. , Smith Eric E. , Demchuk Andrew M.
Published: September 2012

There is no consensus on how the reliability and predictive ability of noncontrast computed tomography (NCCT) and computed tomography angiography source image (CTASI) change over time from acute ischemic stroke onset. We hypothesized that the reliability for detecting early ischemic changes (EIC) would be lower in early time periods and that changes identified on CTASI would be more reliable across examiners than changes identified on NCCT. To address this, we compared the relationships between CTASI, NCCT, and final infarct in patients with initial computed tomography (CT) imaging at different time points after stroke onset. Patients with acute ischemic stroke with proximal anterior circulation occlusions (internal carotid artery, middle carotid artery M1, proximal M2) from Calgary CT Angiography (CTA) database were studied. The cohort was categorized in four groups based on time from stroke onset to baseline NCCT/CTA: 0–90 mins ( n = 69), 91–180 mins ( n = 88), 181–360 mins ( n = 46), and >360 mins ( n = 58). Median scores of NCCT-Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS), CTASI ASPECTS, and follow-up ASPECTS among different time categories were compared. To determine reliability, a subsample of NCCT brain and CTASI were interpreted at separate sessions weeks apart by two neuroradiologists and two stroke neurologists in random order. Median and mean ASPECTS ratings on NCCT and CTASI were higher than final ASPECTS in each time category ( P < 0·001 for all comparisons). CTASI ASPECTS was lower than NCCT ASPECTS in each time category, and differences were significant at 0–90 mins and 91–180 mins ( P < 0·001). The least agreement among readers was in detection of EIC on NCCT brain in the ultra-early phase (<90 mins) [intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) = 0·48. By contrast, there was excellent agreement on EIC on CTASI regardless of time period (ICC = 0·87–0·96). Using ASPECTS methodology, CTASI is more reliable than NCCT at predicting final infarct extent particularly in the early time windows.
Reduced Risk of Poststroke Pneumonia in Thrombolyzed Stroke Patients with Continued Statin Treatment
Authors: Scheitz Jan F. , Endres Matthias , Heuschmann Peter U. , Audebert Heinrich J. , Nolte Christian H.
Published: September 2012

Background

Pneumonia is a frequent complication after stroke with strong impact on clinical outcome. Statins have pleiotropic immunmodulatory properties and were recently shown to exert beneficial effects on the development and clinical course of pneumonia.

Aims

We aimed to investigate whether statin use is associated with a reduced risk of poststroke pneumonia in acute ischemic stroke patients treated with tissue plasminogen activator within 4·5hours.

Methods

Data was extracted from a local register including all consecutive stroke patients who received thrombolysis at our institution. Prior statin use was identified retrospectively from clinical records and had to be continued after hospital admission. Poststroke pneumonia was diagnosed according to standardized criteria of US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Mortality and functional outcome at three-months were further assessed.

Results

Overall, 481 ischemic stroke patients were analyzed. Continued statin use was documented in 17% of the patients. Frequency of pneumonia was 11%. Patients with statin use were less likely to develop poststroke pneumonia (5% vs. 13%, P = 0·04). After multivariable adjustment for known risk factors for poststroke pneumonia (age, stroke severity, dysphagia, male sex and diabetes), statin treatment was negatively associated with pneumonia (OR 0·31; 95% CI 0·10–0·94). Occurrence of pneumonia independently predicted three-month mortality and functional outcome.

Conclusions

Use of statins in acute ischemic stroke patients who receive thrombolysis might reduce the risk of post-stroke pneumonia. Further studies are warranted to validate this finding.
Postthrombolysis Intracranial Hemorrhage Risk of Cerebral Microbleeds in Acute Stroke Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shoamanesh Ashkan , Kwok Chun Shing , Lim Patricia Annabelle , Benavente Oscar R.
Published: September 2012

It has been questioned whether patients with cerebral microbleeds are at a greater risk for the development of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage following thrombolytic therapy in the management of acute ischemic stroke. Thus far, observational studies have not shown a statistically significant increased risk; however, these have been limited by small sample size. The aim is to better quantify the risk of postthrombolysis intracerebral hemorrhage in patients with acute ischemic stroke and cerebral microbleeds on magnetic resonance imaging. A systematic review of controlled studies investigating the presence of microbleeds on magnetic resonance imaging as a risk factor for intracerebral hemorrhage following thrombolysis in acute stroke patients was conducted. A random effects model meta-analysis was performed. In pooled analysis of five studies totaling 790 participants, the prevalence of microbleeds was 17%. The presence of microbleeds revealed a trend toward an increased risk of postthrombolysis symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage [odds ratio: 1·98 (95% confidence interval, 0·90 to 4·35; P = 0·09), I2 = 0%]. Adjusted analysis minimizing potential bias resulted in an increased absolute risk of 4·6% for the development of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage in patients with cerebral microbleeds [odds ratio: 2·29 (95% confidence interval, 1·01 to 5·17), I2 = 0%] reaching borderline significance ( P = 0·05). A significant relationship between increasing microbleed burden and symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage ( P = 0·0015) was observed. Isolated analysis of studies using exclusively intravenous tissue plasminogen activator was insignificant. Our data suggest that patients with cerebral microbleeds are at increased risk for symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage following thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke. However, current data are insufficient to justify withholding thrombolytic therapy from acute ischemic stroke patients solely of the basis of cerebral microbleed presence.
Trypsin Inhibitory Activity and Gel‐Enhancing Effect of Sarcoplasmic Proteins from Common Carp
Authors: Siriangkanakun Siriphon , Yongsawatdigul Jirawat
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  Proteinase inhibitory activity of sarcoplasmic protein (SP) extracted from common carp (Cyprinus carpio) muscle and its gel‐improving ability were investigated. SPs displayed 89% and 54% inhibitory activity toward trypsin at 40 and 65 °C, respectively. Protein bands with molecular mass of 69, 50, 44, 41, and 35 kDa appeared on trypsin inhibitory activity staining under nonreducing condition when incubated at 40 °C, while 2 protein bands at 54 and 35 kDa were observed at 65 °C. Addition of SP at 0.18 g protein/100 g increased textural properties of threadfin bream surimi gel. However, when SP was added in combination with various CaCl2 concentrations (0.1% to 0.5%) it did not further improve textural properties as compared to the addition of SP alone. Retention of myosin heavy chain of threadfin bream surimi was greater with the addition of SP. These results indicated that the gel‐enhancing effect of common carp SP was due to the inhibitory activity toward endogenous trypsin‐like proteinases in threadfin bream surimi.

Practical Application:  Sarcoplasmic protein from common carp muscle could be used as a functional protein ingredient that minimizes muscle proteolysis and improves textural properties of surimi containing trypsin‐like endogenous proteinases.
What is DIstinctive about Mediation? Experience and Expertise in Media
Authors: Ross Philippe
Published: September 2012

If great material resources and specialist technical knowledge are no longer required for individuals to act as mass communicators, what resources are required? This paper reviews social theories of production that can help to shed light on the matter. It explores the nature of knowledge required in the production of content meant for a mass audience, and the manner of its validation. The paper progressively conceptualizes mass communication or mediation in terms of ‘media experience and expertise.’ It begins by framing the discussion of media production in terms of mediation and symbolic/media power, and teasing out knowledge and competence as problems that merit special attention. It then draws on two parallel areas of scholarship to think through the blurring of formerly neat boundaries between interpersonal and mass communication; producer and audience; and expert and layperson. First, the renewed interest in the lived experience of professional producers that is spurred by media production ethnographers. Second, ongoing debates in Science and Technology Studies (STS) around knowledge production and public participation. The paper concludes with a discussion of outstanding issues with respect to media theory and proposals for future work.
Responsive Persistence Part I: Therapist Influence in Postmodern Practice
Authors: Sutherland Olga , Turner Jean , Dienhart Anna
Published: September 2012

Feminist and social constructionist developments in family therapy highlighted the importance of attending to therapist–client power relations and incorporating clients' understandings and preferences as a part of therapy. Significantly, less attention has been given to how postmodern therapists do use their power and influence. This is an important topic because it is therapists who have the major responsibility for guiding the interaction with clients and persisting in this so that change is facilitated. Therapist persistence in various forms and across dimensions of therapy process is examined to expand understanding of therapist influence in postmodern and collaborative work. An analysis of responsive persistence in a session with Karl Tomm as the therapist is presented to illustrate this conceptual framing.
Livestock grazing ingestion suppressed the dominant species population (Stipa aliena) germination: a laboratory experiment
Authors: Chen Ao , Huang Hai‐Zhou , Zhang Zhi‐Nan , Wu Gao‐Lin , Liu Zhen‐Heng
Published: September 2012

Grazing has an important effect on population dynamics in grassland vegetation. This paper aims at providing information on the impact of livestock ingestion on seed germination in a Tibetan meadow. We conducted a laboratory germination experiment in which Stipa aliena seeds were treated by yak and Tibetan sheep rumen fluids and yak dung extract with undiluted, 1‐fold and 10‐fold diluted solutions. The results showed that seed germinability was restrained in all these treatments. In the control treatment, 66.2% of the seeds germinated, while there was almost no S. aliena germination in the undiluted and 1‐fold diluted solutions of both yak and Tibetan sheep rumen fluids. Yak dung extract had relatively less effect on seed germination. Additionally, the primary effect of rumen fluid seems to be that it kills part of the seeds rather than delaying germination. Seed death may be due to the acidity of the fluid or/and due to the effect of microorganisms in the fluid. The negative effects of livestock digestive juices on S. aliena germination may constitute a mechanism explaining the population dynamics in alpine meadows of the Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau.
Interim report: A randomized controlled trial comparing postoperative pain in single‐incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy and conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Authors: Chang Stephen Kin Yong , Wang Yi Liang , Shen Liang , Iyer Shridhar Ganpathi , Shaik Ahmad Bin Syed Buhari , Lomanto Davide
Published: September 2012

Introduction

Single‐incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) is increasingly practiced, but there have been no well‐powered randomized trials investigating the technique. This non‐inferiority trial aims to compare SILC with conventional four‐port laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) with postoperative pain as the primary endpoint.

Methods

We aim to randomize 100 patients into equal arms of SILC or LC. Exclusion criteria were: (i) acute cholecystitis; (ii) an ASA score of 3 or above; (iii) bleeding disorders; or (iv) previous upper abdominal surgery. Patients and postoperative assessors were blinded to the procedure received. The site and severity of pain was compared based on the visual analogue scale at 4 hours, 24 hours and 14 days postoperatively; non‐inferiority was assumed when the lower boundary of the 95% confidence interval of the difference was above −1, and superiority when P ≤ 0.05.

Results

We recruited 24 SILC and 26 LC patients. There were no conversions to open cholecystectomy or from SILC to LC. SILC was non‐inferior for pain at umbilical sites at rest and at extra‐umbilical sites at all times. At 24 hours postoperatively, SILC was associated with significantly less pain at extra‐umbilical sites (rest: P = 0.002; movement: P = 0.004). There were no incidents of biliary injury or retained gallstones. Of the 24 SILC patients, 12.5% had postoperative complications (vomiting, mild fluid overload, wound infection) compared with 0% of LC patients (P = 0.110); all complications resolved with conservative management. Operating time, analgesic use, return to function, and overall satisfaction did not differ significantly between the two groups.

Conclusion

SILC is associated with reduced pain and is feasible in routine surgical practice.
On Selection of Superannuation Fund: Impact of Choice and Information*
Authors: Parrish Tahlia , Delpachitra Sarath
Published: September 2012

Australia superannuation industry is an essential part of the three pillar retirement income policy with the first two pillars comprising of mandatory contributions and voluntary contributions. The contributors to superannuation schemes have significant control over their retirement assets with most having the choice of selecting a fund and their preferred investment option(s). However, many Australians remain disengaged from their superannuation plans and seem unaware of how their funds are performing. This study examined the best ways to present financial information to help young Australians make optimal decisions regarding their superannuation. Surveys were employed to present financial information on superannuation using four different models, experimenting with the display of fee, risk and return information. The overall results of the study highlight a number of interesting findings. First, where fee information was displayed affected fund selection as well as the reason for choosing the fund. Second, risk labels such as "medium risk" or "high risk" seemed to be more commonly relied upon than risk expressed as years of negative returns (risk probabilities). Third, employers appeared to be highly influential in fund selection. Finally, age seemed not to influence the fund or investment option selection. These findings have implications for regulators, fund managers, employers and superannuation fund members.
The Worker Activities of Australian Employees
Authors: Esposto Alexis , Garing Andrea
Published: September 2012

This study analyses changes in the labour market in terms of the specific activities that workers perform in Australia. The analysis uses an interface of the United States Government’s Occupational Information Network (O*NET) Generalised Worker Activities (GWA) taxonomy and Australian census employment data to provide an understanding of how the labour market has changed in terms of nine areas of work, such as physical activities and administering. Findings suggest that the intensity of worker activities in Australia has increased substantially for the whole of the labour force over a thirty‐five‐year period; however, these trends differ for different types of jobs, namely full‐time and part‐time work for men and women. When the worker activities are disaggregated into O*NET’s nine areas of work, the results show marked increases in worker activities requiring interaction and mental processes and declines in areas that require physical activities. Implications for the labour market include the necessity for a continuing policy to improve methods to train and retrain the Australian labour force and the need for continued investment in the education sector well into the future.
Inbound Cross‐border Mergers and Acquisitions in Australian Agrifood Manufacturing: Macro and Industry Determinants
Authors: Phillips Shauna , Ahmadi‐Esfahani Fredoun Z.
Published: September 2012

In this study, determinants of cross‐border mergers and acquisitions in Australian agrifood are empirically investigated. No evidence in support of exchange rate‐FDI linkages is found, but significance of relative tax rates when brand assets are transferred is apparent. Wave‐like patterns in merger and acquisition activity at the sector and industry level emerge as determining factors, with sector waves dominant.
Effects of Variation in the Grains Sector Response to Climate Change: An Integrated Assessment*
Authors: Scealy Robert , Newth David , Gunasekera Don , Finnigan John
Published: September 2012

We examine the effects of a one degree Celsius warming globally by 2030 on the distribution of grains sector productivity responses in several major economies. An integrated assessment modelling framework, the Global Integrated Assessment Model is used in our analysis. Our results highlight that at the tails of the distribution of climate change impacts simulated in this study, there is some variation in self‐sufficiency and export availability of grains products reported for specific economies. These variations could widen further if distortionary trade policies are added to the current analysis.
Prediction of a favorable clinical course in hepatitis C virus carriers with persistently normal serum alanine aminotransferase levels: A long‐term follow‐up study
Authors: Nishimura Takeshi , Yamaguchi Kanji , Fujii Hideki , Okada Yorihisa , Yokomizo Chihiro , Niimi Toshihisa , Sumida Yoshio , Yasui Kohichiroh , Mitsuyoshi Hironori , Minami Masahito , Umemura Atsushi , Shima Toshihide , Okanoue Takeshi , Itoh Yoshito
Published: September 2012

Aim

This study examined serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels at first visit and their relationship with long‐term normal serum ALT levels in hepatitis C virus (HCV) carriers with persistently normal ALT (PNALT).

Methods

HCV carriers with PNALT were identified as those patients with positivity of serum HCV RNA, ALT levels of 30 IU/L or less over a 12‐month period on at least three different occasions, platelet count of more than 15 × 104 μl/mL and body mass index of 30 kg/m2 or less. Outcome was retrospectively studied in 49 HCV carriers with PNALT, who were followed up for more than 10 years.

Results

During the mean follow‐up period of 14.7 ± 2.5 years, ALT levels of 30 IU/L or less were preserved in only eight patients (8/49; 16.3%). Among the 17 patients with initial ALT levels of 19 IU/L or less, nine patients remained with ALT levels of 30 IU/L or less after 10 years (9/17; 52.9%). The probability of ALT levels in PNALT being maintained at 30 IU/L or less was significantly higher (P = 0.001) in these patients than in those with initial ALT levels of 20 IU/L or more (n = 32). Abnormal ALT levels were more common in female PNALT patients aged 45–55 years, which is usually the time of menopause onset.

Conclusion

Because antiviral therapy in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C is rapidly advancing, waiting for more effective and safer treatments may be an option. The results of this study provide an important insight into this issue.
Oral Histories in Meteoritics and Planetary Science—XIX: Klaus Keil
Authors: SEARS Derek W. G.
Published: September 2012

Abstract–  Klaus Keil (Fig. 1) grew up in Jena and became interested in meteorites as a student of Fritz Heide. His research for his Dr. rer. nat. became known to Hans Suess who––with some difficulty––arranged for him to move to La Jolla, via Mainz, 6 months before the borders of East Germany were closed. In La Jolla, Klaus became familiar with the electron microprobe, which has remained a central tool in his research and, with Kurt Fredriksson, he confirmed the existence of Urey and Craig’s chemical H and L chondrite groups, and added a third group, the LL chondrites. Klaus then moved to NASA Ames where he established a microprobe laboratory, published his definitive paper on enstatite chondrites, and led in the development of the Si(Li) detector and the EDS method of analysis. After 5 years at Ames, Klaus became director of the Institute of Meteoritics at the University of New Mexico where he built up one of the leading meteorite research groups while working on a wide variety of projects, including chondrite groups, chondrules, differentiated meteorites, lunar samples, and Hawai’ian basalts. The basalt studies led to a love of Hawai’i and a move to the University of Hawai’i in 1990, where he has continued a wide variety of meteorite projects, notably the role of volcanism on asteroids. Klaus Keil has received honorary doctorates from Friedrich‐Schiller University, Jena, and the University of New Mexico, Albuquerque. He was President of the Meteoritical Society in 1969–1970 and was awarded the Leonard Medal in 1988.

 Klaus Keil at the University of Hawai’i at Manoa, 2007.

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Affective well‐being and within‐day beliefs about job demands' influence on work performance: An experience sampling study
Authors: Daniels Kevin , Wimalasiri Varuni , Beesley Nick , Cheyne Alistair
Published: September 2012

Affective well‐being is influenced by individuals' momentary beliefs concerning events' impact on goals. We examined within‐day beliefs concerning problem‐solving demands' adverse impact on an important work goal (work performance). Participants (N = 68) provided data up to four times per day for one working week. Hourly beliefs about problem‐solving demands' adverse impact on performance were associated with end‐of‐hour anxious affect and inversely associated with end‐of‐hour motivated pleasant affect.

Practitioner Points

Jobs cannot be treated as static entities with fixed characteristics that are interpreted in the same way by all people all of the time.

In addition to environmental factors, job redesign interventions to enhance psychological well‐being need to integrate information about dynamic, cognitive processes internal to the person and within‐day temporal processes.
A randomized controlled trial undertaken to test a nurse‐led weight management and exercise intervention designed for people with serious mental illness who take second generation antipsychotics
Authors: Usher Kim , Park Tanya , Foster Kim , Buettner Petra
Published: September 2012

Aim

To test the effect of a nurse‐led intervention on weight gain in people with serious mental illness prescribed and taking second generation antipsychotic medication.

Background

Weight gain and obesity has reached epidemic proportions in the general population with the prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome reaching 20–25% of the global population. People with serious mental illness are at even higher risk, particularly those taking second generation antipsychotic medication.

Design

An experimental randomized controlled trial was undertaken.

Method

The control group received a 12‐week healthy lifestyle booklet. In addition to the booklet, the intervention group received weekly nutrition and exercise education, exercise sessions, and nurse support. Participants (n = 101) were assessed at baseline and 12 weeks. Data were collected between March 2008–December 2010. Seven outcome measures were used: body measurements included girth (cm), weight (kg), height (cm), and body mass index (kg/m2); questionnaires included the medication compliance questionnaire, the Drug Attitude Inventory, the Liverpool University Neuroleptic Side Effect Rating Scale, and the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36. Differences in primary outcome measures between baseline and 12 weeks follow‐up were compared between intervention and control groups using standard bi‐variate statistical tests. The study was conducted between 2008–2010.

Results

The analysis of outcome measures for the control group (n = 50) and intervention group (n = 51) was not statistically significant. There was a mean weight change of −0·74 kg at 12 weeks for the intervention group (n = 51), while the control group (n = 50) had a mean weight change of −0·17 kg at 12 weeks.

Conclusion

The results were not statistically significant.
Alternative oxidase impacts the plant response to biotic stress by influencing the mitochondrial generation of reactive oxygen species
Authors: CVETKOVSKA MARINA , VANLERBERGHE GREG C.
Published: September 2012

Previously, we showed that inoculation of tobacco with Pseudomonas syringae incompatible pv. maculicola results in a rapid and persistent burst of superoxide (O2‐) from mitochondria, no change in amount of mitochondrial alternative oxidase (AOX) and induction of the hypersensitive response (HR). However, inoculation with incompatible pv. phaseolicola resulted in increased AOX, no O2‐ burst and no HR. Here, we show that in transgenic plants unable to induce AOX in response to pv. phaseolicola, there is now a strong mitochondrial O2‐ burst, similar to that normally seen only with pv. maculicola. This interaction did not however result in a HR. This indicates that AOX amount is a key determinant of the mitochondrial O2‐ burst but also that the burst itself is not sufficient to induce the HR. Surprisingly, the O2‐ burst normally seen towards pv. maculicola is delayed in plants lacking AOX. This delay is associated with a delayed HR, suggesting that the burst does promote the HR. A O2‐ burst can also be induced by the complex III inhibitor antimycin A (AA), but is again delayed in plants lacking AOX. The similar mitochondrial response induced by pv. maculicola and AA suggests that electron transport is a target during HR‐inducing biotic interactions.
Can reputation biases influence the outcome and process of making competence judgments of a coach?
Authors: Thelwell R. C. , Page J. L. , Lush A. , Greenlees I. A. , Manley A. J.
Published: September 2012

The present studies explored the effect of reputational biases on judgments made of coach competence and the visual search patterns adopted by individuals when generating initial impressions and expectations of a target. In study 1, participants (n = 326) observed footage of two coaches prior to making competence judgments of them. All participants viewed similar footage for the first coach (control) but reputational information was manipulated for the second coach (target). In study 2, participants (n = 22) followed the same procedure as study 1 but also wore a head‐mounted eye‐tracking system to enable visual search data to be collected. Study 1 broadly reported coaches with a “professional” reputation to be judged as being significantly more competent across varying competence measures compared to coaches with either an “in‐training” reputation or “no reputation.” Study 2 indicated limited differences across the reputational conditions in relation to visual fixations. The data indicate that expectations of coach competence can be influenced, and largely controlled, by the reputational information provided to athletes. While there were limited differences in visual search strategies across reputation conditions, suggestions for research are made to enable a fuller insight to the interpersonal interactions that may facilitate the working association between athletes and coaches.
Simultaneous Fault Detection and Control Design for Switched Linear Systems: A Linear Matrix Inequality Approach
Authors: Davoodi M. R. , Golabi A. , Talebi H. A. , Momeni H. R.
Published: September 2012

In this paper, the problem of simultaneous fault detection and control (SFDC) for linear switched systems in discrete- and continuous-time cases under a mixed H−/H∞ framework is considered. In essence, a single unit called detector/controller is designed, where the detector is an observer and the controller is an observer-based controller. The conventional mixed H−/H∞ problem is a conservative approach due to the selection of equal Lyapunov matrices. Extended linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) characterizations are used to reduce the conservativeness by the introduction of additional matrix variables, so as to eliminate the coupling of Lyapunov matrices with the system matrices. Indeed, the idea presented in this paper is based on the average dwell time (ADT) and conservatism reduction approaches, which lead to some sufficient conditions for solving the problem in terms of LMI feasibility conditions. Two examples are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Determination of Flow Rate Characteristics for Pneumatic Components During Isothermal Discharge by Integral Algorithm
Authors: Wang Tao , Zhao Ling , Zhao Tong , Fan Wei , Kagawa Toshiharu
Published: September 2012

In this paper, we proposed a method to determine the flow rate characteristic parameters directly by using an integral algorithm which is not needed to calculate the flow rate. In the isothermal discharge method discussed by ISO, the flow rate characteristics of pneumatic components can be obtained by pressure response and flow rate. The pressure response is measured in an isothermal tank and the flow rate can be given by differentiating the measured pressure response. Because of using the differential algorithm, calculation precision for measurement error and distribution is much poorer. By integrating pressure experimental result with least error method, characteristics can be obtained easily with Excel tool. Some experimental results are given to show that the proposed calculation method in this paper is more effective than the conversational method by using pressure sensors with different precision.