bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The political economy of public health expenditure and wait times in a public‐private mixed health care system
Authors: Mou Haizhen
Published: May 2014

Abstract This paper investigates the determinants of public health expenditure in a public‐private mixed health care system, where a longer wait time for public care is the major difference between public and private sectors. Voter preferences for health care vary according to their age and by income, and public policy choices are part of a multi‐dimensional, competitive political equilibrium. We show how equilibrium public health expenditure and wait times depend on demographics and explain why they are independent of the distributions of income and political influence. We also show that population aging may not always lead to more public health expenditure.
Risk adjustment and prevention
Authors: Eggleston Karen , Ellis Randall P. , Lu Mingshan
Published: May 2014

Abstract Widespread integration of market‐based incentives into healthcare systems calls for – and has elicited – increasing adoption of risk adjustment. By deterring selection, risk adjustment helps to assure fair and efficient payments among health insurers or capitated provider groups. However, since conventional risk adjustment allocates funds among regions or insurers according to current population health status, it does not reward – indeed, it penalizes – preventive efforts that improve population health. This prevention penalty of risk adjustment represents a hidden cost of unclear magnitude, undermining provider incentives for health promotion. We develop a theoretical model of selection and prevention demonstrating this problem with conventional risk adjustment and suggesting a simple alternative: risk adjustment should be linked to pay‐for‐performance for prevention.
Teach a man to fish? Education vs. optimal taxation
Authors: Stephens Eric
Published: May 2014

Abstract In models of redistribution, differences in human capital are often the relevant source of heterogeneity among individuals. Presumably, the distribution of human capital can be manipulated through education spending. This paper examines the use of education as a redistributive tool when there is a non‐linear tax system in place. The results show that taxation, whether under full or asymmetric information, substantially reduces the redistributive role of education spending in maximizing social welfare. This points to a conflict between the equalization of utility and human capital outcomes.
Bilateral exposures and systemic solvency risk
Authors: Gouriéroux C. , Héam J.‐C. , Monfort A.
Published: May 2014

Abstract By introducing a structure of the balance sheets of the banks, which takes into account their bilateral exposures in terms of stocks or lendings, we get a structural model for default analysis. This model allows us to distinguish the exogenous and endogenous default dependence. We prove the existence and uniqueness of the liquidation equilibrium, we study the consequences of exogenous shocks on the banking system and we measure contagion phenomena. This approach is illustrated by an application to the French banking system.
Core@dual‐Shell Nanoporous SiO2–TiO2 Composite Fibers with High Flexibility and Its Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Chen Weibo , Ma Zhijun , Pan Xuanzhao , Hu Zhongliang , Dong Guoping , Zhou Shifeng , Peng Mingying , Qiu Jianrong
Published: May 2014

Structural design is of great importance to the performance of photocatalysts in environmental remediation. Therefore, micro/nanofibrous morphology and nanoporous local structures have been found to be beneficial to improve the photocatalytic activity. In this investigation, we report the design and fabrication of flexible and thermal stable nanoporous SiO2–TiO2 composite fibers as efficient photocatalysts. Combining electrospinning and modified Stöber techniques, core‐shell and mesoporous SiO2 fibers with high flexibility were fabricated and employed as the scaffold for supporting TiO2 nanoparticles. A nanoporous shell of TiO2 nanoparticles was then muffled over the SiO2 fibers to form core@dual‐shell SiO2–TiO2 composite fibers with hierarchically porous structure, which were conveniently patterned into a nonwoven, recyclable film. This nonwoven film exhibits better photocatalytic activity for Rhodamine B degradation under UV irradiation compared with some other TiO2‐based materials reported in recent years.
A Single‐Phased Sr1−y‐3x/2Al2Si2O8: xCe3+, yMn2+ with Efficient Energy Transfer as a Potential Phosphor for White‐Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Dai Wubin
Published: May 2014

A series of Ce3+‐ and Mn2+‐(co‐)activated SrAl2Si2O8 phosphors have been prepared at 1350°C under a reducing atmosphere and their photoluminescence properties have been studied as a function of the (co‐)dopant ions concentrations. We have discovered that energy transfer (ET) not only from Ce3+ to Mn2+ but also from “defects” to Mn2+ by the facts that there is existing significant overlap between the emission spectrum of Ce3+ (“defects”) and the excitation spectrum of Mn2+. The source of the “defects” in the host lattice is originated from the different charge substitution between Ce3+ and Sr2+. By adopting the principle of ET, the material SrAl2Si2O8: Ce, Mn can act as a phosphor for white‐light ultraviolet light‐emitting diodes (UV‐LEDs) by tuning of the dopants contents.
Theoretical Investigations on the Structural, Electronic, Mechanical, and Thermal Properties of MP2O7 (M = Ti,Hf)
Authors: Xiang Huimin , Feng Zhihai , Zhou Yanchun
Published: May 2014

A systematical ab initio analysis on MP2O7 (M = Ti, Hf) is presented in this work. Density functional theory (DFT) computations were performed for the electronic, mechanical, and thermal properties of MP2O7. Heterogeneous bonding nature of MP2O7 was revealed by examining the structural and electronic properties, M–O bonds were weaker than P–O bonds. The elastic constants and polycrystalline mechanical properties of MP2O7 were reported. Based on the low shear‐modulus‐to‐bulk‐modulus ratios and positive Cauchy pressure, MP2O7 ceramics were predicted to be “quasi‐ductile”. In addition, the minimum thermal conductivities were estimated to be 1.52 and 0.99 W·m−1·K−1 for TiP2O7 and HfP2O7, respectively. The ultra‐low thermal conductivities were contributed to the lattice phonon scattering due to the heterogeneous bonding nature. Our theoretical results emphasize the importance of weak M–O bonds in the determination of mechanical and thermal properties of MP2O7.
Nonlinear Absorption of Submicrometer Grain‐Size Cobalt‐Doped Magnesium Aluminate Transparent Ceramics
Authors: Wajler Anna , Kozłowska Anna , Nakielska Magdalena , Leśniewska‐Matys Kamila , Sidorowicz Agata , Podniesiński Dariusz , Putyra Piotr
Published: May 2014

Transparent cobalt‐doped magnesium aluminate spinel (Co:MgAl2O4) ceramics with a submicrometer grain size were prepared by spark plasma sintering. For the first time, the nonlinear absorption of Co:MgAl2O4 transparent ceramics was experimentally demonstrated. Both ground state absorption (σGSA) and excited state absorption (σESA) were estimated using the solid‐state slow saturable absorber model based on absorption saturation measurements performed at 1.535 μm. σGSA and σESA for 0.03 at.% Co:MgAl2O4 were found to be 4.1 × 10−19 cm2 and 4.0 × 10−20 cm2, respectively. In the case of 0.06 at.% Co:MgAl2O4 ceramics, σGSA = 2.6 × 10−19 cm2 and σESA= 5.3 × 10−20 cm2 were determined.
Determination of Heat Conductivity and Thermal Diffusivity of Waste Glass Melter Feed: Extension to High Temperatures
Authors: Rice Jarrett A. , Pokorny Richard , Schweiger Michael J. , Hrma Pavel
Published: May 2014

The heat conductivity (λ) and the thermal diffusivity (a) of reacting glass batch, or melter feed, control the heat flux into and within the cold cap, a layer of reacting material floating on the pool of molten glass in an all‐electric continuous waste glass melter. After previously estimating λ of melter feed at temperatures up to 680°C, we focus in this work on the λ(T) function at T > 680°C, at which the feed material becomes foamy. We used a customized experimental setup consisting of a large cylindrical crucible with an assembly of thermocouples, which monitored the evolution of the temperature field while the crucible with feed was heated at a constant rate from room temperature up to 1100°C. Approximating measured temperature profiles by polynomial functions, we used the energy equation to estimate the λ(T) approximation function, which we subsequently optimized using the finite‐volume method combined with least‐squares analysis. The heat conductivity increased as the temperature increased until the feed began to expand into foam, at which point the conductivity dropped. It began to increase again as the foam turned into a bubble‐free glassmelt. We discuss the implications of this behavior for the mathematical modeling of the cold cap.
Silica Activity Measurements in the Y2O3–SiO2 System and Applications to Modeling of Coating Volatility
Authors: Jacobson Nathan S.
Published: May 2014

Rare‐earth silicate compounds, such as those in the Y2O3–SiO2 system, are promising candidates for coatings of SiC‐based ceramics and ceramic matrix composites in combustion environments. The predicted lower activity of silica in these silicates will lead to less reactivity with the water vapor combustion products. A procedure for measuring silica activities in this system is discussed. Knudsen effusion mass spectrometry is used and the measured vapor pressure of SiO(g) is correlated to activity. Due to the low vapor pressure of SiO(g) in the temperature range of interest, a reducing agent is utilized to boost this vapor pressure without altering the solid‐state composition. In addition, corrections are made for nonequilibrium vaporization. The measured silica activities are: Y2O3 + Y2O3·SiO2 two phase field: log[a(SiO2)] = −5200.26(1/T) + 0.0567 (1532 < T(K) < 1670) Y2O3·SiO2 + Y2O3·2SiO2 two phase field: log[a(SiO2)] = 4.2252(1/T)−0.5531 (1628 < T(K) < 1747) It is shown how these results can be used to predict reduced volatilization rates of the coatings.
Templated Grain Growth in Macroporous Materials
Authors: Bouville Florian , Portuguez Etienne , Chang Yunfei , Messing Gary L. , Stevenson Adam J. , Maire Eric , Courtois Loic , Deville Sylvain
Published: May 2014

We demonstrate a facile method to produce crystallographically textured, macroporous materials using a combination of modified ice templating and templated grain growth (TGG). The process is demonstrated on alumina and the lead‐free piezoelectric material sodium potassium niobate. The method provides macroporous materials with aligned, lamellar ceramic walls which are made up of crystallographically aligned grains. Each method showed that the ceramic walls present a long‐range order over the entire sample dimensions and have crystallographic texture as a result of the TGG process. We also present a modification of the March–Dollase equation to better characterize the overall texture of materials with textured but slightly misaligned walls. The controlled crystallographic and morphologic orientation at two different length scales demonstrated here can be the basis of multifunctional materials.
Temperature and Composition‐Induced Structural Transitions in Bi1−xLa(Pr)xFeO3 Ceramics
Authors: Karpinsky Dmitry V. , Troyanchuk Igor O. , Tovar Michael , Sikolenko Vadim , Efimov Vadim , Efimova Ekaterina , Shur Vladimir Ya. , Kholkin Andrei L.
Published: May 2014

Bi1−xLaxFeO3 and Bi1−xPrxFeO3 ceramics of the compositions near the morphotropic phase boundary have been studied by X‐ray and neutron diffraction techniques and differential thermal analysis. The structural phases characterized by the long‐range polar, antipolar, and nonpolar ordering as well as the phase coexistence regions have been identified using the diffraction data depending on the dopant concentration and temperature. As a result of these studies the three phase region has been observed for the Pr‐doped compounds and the phase diagrams have been constructed. The detailed evolution of the structural parameters permitted to itemize the factors affecting the structural phase transitions and clarify the origin of the enhanced electromechanical properties in these materials. The performed structural analysis disclosed different character of the chemical bonds in the La‐ and Pr‐doped BiFeO3 compounds. Further, the role of the rare‐earth ions in the covalency of the chemical bonds is discussed.
Synthesis and Persistent Luminescence Mechanism of a Novel Orange Emitting Persistent Phosphor Sr5(BO3)3Cl:Eu2+
Authors: Jin Yahong , Hu Yihua , Chen Li , Wang Xiaojuan
Published: May 2014

A series of Eu2+‐doped Sr5(BO3)3Cl phosphors were prepared successfully using a conventional solid‐state reaction method. The luminescent properties were studied systematically by utilizing photoluminescence spectra, decay curves, persistent luminescence spectra, and thermoluminescence glow curves. Energy transfer from host to emission center Eu2+ was affirmed. The orange persistent luminescence emission was observed for the first time. The optimal doping concentration of Eu2+ for persistent luminescence was experimentally to be approximately 0.5% and the orange persistent luminescence duration can persist about 15 min. On the basis of the experimental results, a model was constructed and the relevant mechanism of persistent luminescence was illustrated in detail. Two different ways of trapping the charge carriers were also discussed.
Effect of Texture on Temperature‐Dependent Properties of K0.5Na0.5NbO3 Modified Bi1/2Na1/2TiO3–xBaTiO3
Authors: Fancher Chris M. , Jo Wook , Rödel Jürgen , Blendell John E. , Bowman Keith J.
Published: May 2014

Textured (1−x−y)Bi1/2Na1/2TiO3–xBaTiO3–yK0.5Na0.5NbO3 (BNT–100xBT–100yKNN) ceramics with a {001} pseudocubic (pc) orientation were fabricated by templated grain growth using Bi1/2Na1/2TiO3 templates. Temperature‐dependent electromechanical results demonstrate that the strain response of templated BNT–xBT–yKNN ceramics is stable from room temperature (RT) to 125°C. The temperature‐dependent strain and polarization response are compared to randomly oriented ceramics, for BNT–100xBT–2KNN (0.05 ≤ x ≤ 0.07). Textured BNT–7BT–2KNN reached a maximum 0.47% strain response at 5 kV/mm, an almost 50% increase compared to randomly oriented BNT–7BT–2KNN. Over the temperature range RT–125°C, the strain response of templated BNT–6BT–2KNN degraded from 0.38% to 0.22% (−42.1%) compared to 0.37% to 0.18% (−51.4%) for randomly oriented ceramics. The temperature‐dependent strain response suggests that templated BNT–100xBT–100yKNN ceramics are well suited for elevated temperature applications.
Prevention of involuntary admission through Family Group Conferencing: a qualitative case study in community mental health nursing
Authors: de Jong Gideon , Schout Gert , Abma Tineke
Published: May 2014

Aim

To understand whether and how Family Group Conferencing might contribute to the social embedding of clients with mental illness.

Background

Ensuring the social integration of psychiatric clients is a key aspect of community mental health nursing. Family Group Conferencing has potency to create conditions for clients' social embedding and subsequently can prevent coercive measures.

Design

A naturalistic qualitative case study on the process of one conference that was part of 41 conferences that had been organized and studied from January 2011–September 2013 in a public mental health care setting in the north of the Netherlands.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews (N = 20) were conducted with four stakeholder groups (N = 13) involved in a conference on liveability problems in a local neighbourhood wherein a man with schizophrenia resides.

Findings

To prevent an involuntary admission to a psychiatric ward of a man with schizophrenia, neighbourhood residents requested a family group conference between themselves, the sister of the man and the mental health organization. As a possible conference aggravated psychotic problems, it was decided to organize it without the client. Nine months after the conference, liveability problems in the neighbourhood had been reduced and coercive measures adverted. The conference strengthened the community and resulted in a plan countering liveability problems.

Conclusion

The case indicates that social embedding of clients with severe psychiatric problems can be strengthened by Family Group Conferencing and that hence coercive measures can be prevented. A shift is required from working with the individual client to a community driven approach.
Diseases of captive yellow seahorse Hippocampus kuda Bleeker, pot‐bellied seahorse Hippocampus abdominalis Lesson and weedy seadragon Phyllopteryx taeniolatus (Lacépède)
Authors: LePage V , Young J , Dutton C J , Crawshaw G , Paré J A , Kummrow M , McLelland D J , Huber P , Young K , Russell S , Al‐Hussinee L , Lumsden J S
Published: May 2014

Seahorses, pipefish and seadragons are fish of the Family Syngnathidae. From 1998 to 2010, 172 syngnathid cases from the Toronto Zoo were submitted for post‐mortem diagnostics and retrospectively examined. Among the submitted species were yellow seahorses Hippocampus kuda Bleeker (n = 133), pot‐bellied seahorses Hippocampus abdominalis Lesson (n = 35) and weedy seadragons Phyllopteryx taeniolatus (Lacépède; n = 4). The three most common causes of morbidity and mortality in this population were bacterial dermatitis, bilaterally symmetrical myopathy and mycobacteriosis, accounting for 24%, 17% and 15% of cases, respectively. Inflammatory processes were the most common diagnoses, present in 117 cases. Seven neoplasms were diagnosed, environmental aetiologies were identified in 46 cases, and two congenital defects were identified.
Pain Characteristics Associated with the Onset of Disability in Older Adults: The Maintenance of Balance, Independent Living, Intellect, and Zest in the Elderly Boston Study
Authors: Eggermont Laura H. P. , Leveille Suzanne G. , Shi Ling , Kiely Dan K. , Shmerling Robert H. , Jones Rich N. , Guralnik Jack M. , Bean Jonathan F.
Published: May 2014

Objectives

To determine the effects of chronic pain on the development of disability and decline in physical performance over time in older adults.

Design

Longitudinal cohort study with 18 months of follow‐up.

Setting

Urban and suburban communities.

Participants

Community‐dwelling older adults aged 65 and older (N = 634).

Measurements

Chronic pain assessment consisted of musculoskeletal pain locations and pain severity and pain interference according to the subscales of the Brief Pain Inventory. Disability was self‐reported as any difficulty in mobility and basic and instrumental activities of daily living (ADLs, IADLs). Mobility performance was measured using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Relationships between baseline pain and incident disability in 18 months were determined using risk ratios (RRs) from multivariable Poisson regression models.

Results

Almost 65% of participants reported chronic musculoskeletal pain at baseline. New onset of mobility difficulty at 18 months was strongly associated with baseline pain distribution: 7% (no sites), 18% (1 site), 24% (multisite), and 39% (widespread pain, P‐value for trend < .001). Similar graded effects were found for other disability measures. Elderly adults with multisite or widespread pain had at a risk of onset of mobility difficulty at least three times as great as that of their peers without pain after adjusting for disability risk factors (multisite pain: risk ratio (RR) = 2.95, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.58–5.50; widespread pain: RR = 3.57, 95% CI = 1.71–7.48). Widespread pain contributed to decline in mobility performance (1‐point decline in SPPB, RR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.08–2.01). Similar associations were found for baseline pain interference predicting subsequent mobility decline and ADL and IADL disability. Weaker and less‐consistent associations were observed with pain severity.

Conclusion

Older community‐dwelling adults living with chronic pain in multiple musculoskeletal locations have a substantially greater risk for developing disability over time and for clinically meaningful decline in mobility performance than those without pain.
Energy and Carbon Management Systems
Authors: Melville Nigel P. , Whisnant Ryan
Published: May 2014

This article examines an important class of information system that serves as the foundation for corporate energy and greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting: energy and carbon management systems (ECMS). Investors, regulators, customers, and employees increasingly demand that organizations provide information about their organizational energy use and GHG emissions. However, there is little transparency about how organizations use ECMS to meet such demands. To shed light on ECMS implementation and application, we collected extensive qualitative interview data from two service‐sector organizations: one that uses a spreadsheet‐based ECMS and another that implemented an ECMS provided by a third‐party vendor. Our analysis of collected data revealed numerous challenges in the areas of business processes, managerial capabilities, data capture and integration, and data quality. Though our study is built on only two organizations and requires confirmation in large‐sample surveys, we provide several recommendations for organizations regarding ECMS. We also provide suggestions for future studies to build on our tentative results.
GM1 ganglioside enhances Ret signaling in striatum
Authors: Newburn Erin N. , Duchemin Anne‐Marie , Neff Norton H. , Hadjiconstantinou Maria
Published: May 2014

It has been proposed that GM1 ganglioside promotes neuronal growth, phenotypic expression, and survival by modulating tyrosine kinase receptors for neurotrophic factors. Our studies tested the hypothesis that GM1 exerts its neurotrophic action on dopaminergic neurons, in part, by interacting with the GDNF (glia cell‐derived neurotrophic factor) receptor complex, Ret tyrosine kinase and GFRα1 co‐receptor. GM1 addition to striatal slices in situ increased Ret activity in a concentration‐ and time‐dependent manner. GM1‐induced Ret activation required the whole GM1 molecule and was inhibited by the kinase inhibitors PP2 and PP1. Ret activation was followed by Tyr1062 phosphorylation and PI3 kinase/Akt recruitment. The Src kinase was associated with Ret and GM1 enhanced its phosphorylation. GM1 responses required the presence of GFRα1, and there was a GM1 concentration‐dependent increase in the binding of endogenous GDNF which paralleled that of Ret activation. Neutralization of the released GDNF did not influence the Ret response to GM1, and GM1 had no effect on GDNF release. Our in situ studies suggest that GM1 via GFRα1 modulates Ret activation and phosphorylation in the striatum and provide a putative mechanism for its effects on dopaminergic neurons. Indeed, chronic GM1 treatment enhanced Ret activity and phosphorylation in the striatum of the MPTP‐mouse and kinase activation was associated with recovery of dopamine and DOPAC deficits.

image

It has been proposed that the ganglioside GM1 promotes neuronal growth, phenotypic expression, and survival by modulating tyrosine kinase receptors for neurotrophic factors. We provide evidence that the GM1 enhances the activity of Ret tyrosine kinase receptor for glia cell‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) in the striatum in situ and in vivo, and propose that this might be a mechanism for GM1's neurotrophic actions on dopaminergic neurons. Ret activation is followed by Tyr1062 and Tyr981 phosphorylation and recruitment of PI3‐K/Akt, Erk, and Src signaling. GM1 apparently acts by increasing the binding of endogenous GDNF to GFRα1 co‐receptor, which is required for the GM1 effect on Ret.
The influence of intestinal lymphatic transport on the systemic exposure and brain deposition of a novel highly lipophilic compound with structural similarity to cholesterol
Authors: Caliph Suzanne M , Faassen Fried W , Porter Christopher J H
Published: May 2014

Objectives

To assess the role of intestinal lymphatic transport in the oral bioavailability and brain deposition of a highly lipophilic, centrally acting drug candidate (Org 49209) in comparison to cholesterol, a close structural analogue.

Methods

The intestinal lymphatic transport of Org 49209 and cholesterol was assessed in lymph-cannulated anaesthetised rats and total bioavailability evaluated in non-lymph-cannulated animals. Parallel groups were employed to examine the brain deposition of Org 49209 after intraduodenal and intraperitoneal administrations.

Key findings

The contribution of intestinal lymphatic transport to total bioavailability was similar for Org 49209 and cholesterol (approximately 40% of the absorbed dose). However, the oral bioavailability of Org 49209 was significantly (fourfold) lower than cholesterol. Brain deposition of Org 49209 was similar after intraduodenal and intraperitoneal administration. Systemic exposure, however, was higher after intraduodenal administration and brain-to-plasma ratios were therefore reduced.

Conclusion

The oral bioavailability of Org 49209 was significantly lower than that of its structural analogue cholesterol; however, intestinal lymphatic transport played a similar role in oral bioavailability for both compounds. Brain to plasma ratios were lower after intraduodenal versus intraperitoneal administration, suggesting that drug association with intestinal lymph lipoproteins may limit central nervous system access for highly lipophilic drugs.
Intensive Interventions in Reading for Students with Reading Disabilities: Meaningful Impacts
Authors: Vaughn Sharon , Wanzek Jeanne
Published: May 2014

We use three data sources to build a rationale for why intensive interventions are necessary for students with pervasive reading disabilities: current data on the performance of students with disabilities on reading achievement measures over time, observation studies on students with reading disabilities in general and special education classrooms, and findings from intensive intervention studies for students with reading disabilities. Results of these data sources indicate that students with disabilities are not making progress in reading at the same rate as students without disabilities, reading instruction for students with reading disabilities is comprised of excessive amounts of low level tasks, and findings from intensive intervention studies suggest positive impacts for students with reading disabilities. We argue that students with reading disabilities require ongoing intensive interventions that are likely to require schools to change the contexts and practices for these students.
Treatable chorea associated with polycythemia vera
Authors: Miyagawa Toji , Ueda Koki , Ohtomo Ryo , Sasaki Takuya , Takahashi Miwako , Momose Toshimitsu , Kurokawa Mineo , Tsuji Shoji
Published: May 2014

We report a case of a 70‐year‐old woman with polycythemia vera and 5 years of persistent generalized chorea. Despite the long duration of the choreic condition, it completely resolved after the normalization of the hematocrit by serial phlebotomies. Diffuse cerebral hypoperfusion evaluated by 99mTc‐hexamethyl‐propylene amine oxime (HMPAO) single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) improved in accordance with the intensive hematocrit control. We recommend an increased awareness of this rare, but treatable cause of chorea in elderly patients.
A temporal dimension to the stress gradient hypothesis for intraspecific interactions
Authors: Biswas Shekhar R. , Wagner Helene H.
Published: May 2014

Space and time are the two fundamental drivers of ecological dynamics. Studies exploring the Stress gradient hypothesis (SGH) – which predicts that the patterns of interspecific interactions shift from negative to positive with increasing environmental severity – conceptualize environmental severity predominantly from a spatial perspective. Here, from a temporal perspective and for intraspecific interactions, we asked: do the predictions of the SGH at the intraspecific level apply to seasonal change in environmental severity? We conducted a field experiment, which was complemented by a two‐year field survey of natural populations of the non‐native biennial forb Alliaria petiolata at the Koffler Scientific Reserve, Ontario, Canada. In both experiment and field survey studies we found statistically significant negative density‐dependent survival in the productive summer period and positive density‐dependent survival over the severe winter period. Effects were stronger in the field experiment than in the survey of natural populations. We suggest that the SGH at the intraspecific level may be applicable to seasonal variation in environmental severity, though our ability to detect its effect in natural communities may depend on other factors such as species dominance and environmental heterogeneity.
Thrombotic complications in children from short‐term percutaneous central venous catheters: What can we do?
Authors: Latham Gregory J. , Thompson Douglas R.
Published: May 2014

The reported incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in children has increased dramatically over the past decade, and the primary risk factor for VTE in neonates and infants is the presence of a central venous catheter (CVC). Although the associated morbidity and mortality are significant, very few trials have been conducted in children to guide clinicians in the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of CVC‐related VTE. Furthermore, pediatric guidelines for prophylaxis and management of VTE are largely extrapolated from adult data. How then should the anesthesiologist approach central access in children of different ages to lessen the risk of CVC‐related VTE or in children with prior thrombosis and vessel occlusion? A comprehensive review of the pediatric and adult literature is presented with the goal of assisting anesthesiologists with point‐of‐care decision‐making regarding the risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment of CVC‐related VTE. Illustrative cases are also provided to highlight decision‐making in varying situations. The only risk factor strongly associated with CVC‐related VTE formation in children is the duration of the indwelling CVC. Several other factors show a trend toward altering the incidence of CVC‐related VTE formation and may be under the control of the anesthesiologist placing and managing the catheter. In particular, because children with VTE may live decades with its sequelae and chronic vein thrombosis, careful consideration of lessening the risk of VTE is warranted in every child. Further studies are needed to form a clearer understanding of the risk factors, prophylaxis, and management of CVC‐related VTE in children and to guide the anesthesiologist in lessening the risk of VTE.
Noninvasive cardiac output measurement using bioreactance in postoperative pediatric patients
Authors: Vergnaud Estelle , Vidal Charles , Montmayeur Verchere Juliette , Taright Hanna , Meyer Philippe G. , Carli Pierre A. , Orliaguet Gilles A.
Published: May 2014

Background

Thoracic bioreactance is a noninvasive and continuous method of cardiac output (CO) measurement that is being developed in adult patients. Very little information is available on thoracic bioreactance use in children.

Objective

The aim of the study was to evaluate the ability of a bioreactance device (NICOM®; Cheetah Medical, Tel Aviv, Israel) to estimate CO and to track changes in CO induced by volume expansion (VE) in children.

Methods

Cardiac output values obtained using the NICOM® device (CONICOM) and measured by trans‐thoracic echocardiography (COTTE) were compared in pediatric neurosurgical patients during the postoperative period.

Results

Seventy‐three pairs of measurements of CO obtained in 30 children were available for analysis. The bias (lower and upper limits of agreement) between CONICOM and COTTE was −0.11 (−1.4 to 1.2) l·min−1. The percentage error (PE) was 55%. The precision of the NICOM® device was 45%. A significant correlation was observed between the CO values obtained using the two methods (r = 0.89, <0.001). The concordance percentage between changes in COTTE and CONicom induced by VE was 84% following exclusion of patients with changes in CO <15% (n = 5).

Conclusions

The PE observed is too large, and the limits of agreement too wide, to enable us to comment on the equivalence of the two techniques of CO measurements. However, the NICOM® device performs well in tracking changes in CO following VE.
Postoperative analgesia using diclofenac and acetaminophen in children
Authors: Hannam Jacqueline A. , Anderson Brian J. , Mahadevan Murali , Holford Nick H. G.
Published: May 2014

Background

Diclofenac dosing in children for analgesia is currently extrapolated from adult data. Oral diclofenac 1.0 mg·kg−1 is recommended for children aged 1–12 years. Analgesic effect from combination diclofenac/acetaminophen is unknown.

Methods

Children (n = 151) undergoing tonsillectomy (c. 1995) were randomized to receive acetaminophen elixir 40 mg·kg−1 before surgery and 20 mg·kg−1 rectally at the end of surgery with diclofenac suspension 0.1 mg·kg−1, 0.5 mg·kg−1, or 2.0 mg·kg−1 before surgery or placebo. A further 93 children were randomized to receive diclofenac 0.1 mg·kg−1, 0.5 mg·kg−1, or 2.0 mg·kg−1 only. Postoperative pain was assessed (visual analogue score, VAS 0–10) at half‐hourly intervals from waking until discharge. Data were pooled with those from a further 222 children and 30 adults. One‐compartment models with first‐order absorption and elimination described the pharmacokinetics of both medicines. Combined drug effects were described using a modified EMAX model with an interaction term. An interval‐censored model described the hazard of study dropout.

Results

Analgesia onset had an equilibration half‐time of 0.496 h for acetaminophen and 0.23 h for diclofenac. The maximum effect (EMAX) was 4.9. The concentration resulting in 50% of EMAX (C50) was 1.23 mg·l−1 for diclofenac and 13.3 mg·l−1 for acetaminophen. A peak placebo effect of 6.8 occurred at 4 h. Drug effects were additive. The hazard of dropping out was related to pain (hazard ratio of 1.35 per unit change in pain). Diclofenac 1.0 mg·kg−1 with acetaminophen 15 mg·kg−1 achieves equivalent analgesia to acetaminophen 30 mg·kg−1.

Conclusions

Combination therapy can be used to achieve similar analgesia with lower doses of both drugs.
Evaluation of the auditory evoked potentials derived aepEX™ as a measure of hypnotic depth in pediatric patients receiving sevoflurane–remifentanil anesthesia
Authors: Cheung Yuen M. , Scoones Gail P. , Stolker Robert J. , Weber Frank
Published: May 2014

Background

The aepEX is a measure of depth of hypnosis (DoH), derived from processed mid‐latency auditory evoked potentials.

Objectives

To evaluate the aepEX as a measure of DoH in children receiving sevoflurane–remifentanil anesthesia.

Methods

aepEX and bispectral index (BIS) were recorded simultaneously in 75 children, (1–3, 3–6, and 6–18 years), receiving sevoflurane at endtidal concentrations (ETsevo) between 1.5 and 0.5 MAC. The ETsevo at which the aepEX and BIS had a value of 50 (EC50aepEX and EC50BIS) was calculated by nonlinear regression analysis. The accuracy of aepEX and BIS to predict the DoH was assessed by prediction probability (Pk) and receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis.

Results

Seventy‐four children were included for analysis. The EC50aepEX (2.68%) and EC50BIS (2.10%) were comparable; the same accounts for the EC50aepEX of the different age groups and the EC50aepEX and EC50BIS of corresponding age groups. The EC50BIS in children aged 1–3 years was lower than in the older age groups (P < 0.05). Pk values of the aepEX (0.32, CI 95% 0.08–0.56) and BIS (0.47, CI 95% 0.19–0.75) were comparable. The area under the ROC curve was 0.72 (CI 95%: 0.62–0.82) and 0.67 (CI95%: 0.56–0.77) for the aepEX and BIS, respectively (P = 0.54). Optimal cutoff values were >60 (aepEX) and >68 (BIS), with corresponding specificities 91%, CI 95%: 80–97% (aepEX) and 66%, CI 95%: 52–77% (BIS).

Conclusions

In this study with children receiving sevoflurane anesthesia, the aepEX outperformed the BIS in distinguishing unconsciousness from consciousness. Both indices performed equally bad in differentiating different levels of DoH.
Arabidopsis AtSUC2 and AtSUC4, encoding sucrose transporters, are required for abiotic stress tolerance in an ABA‐dependent pathway
Authors: Gong Xue , Liu Mingli , Zhang Lijun , Ruan Yanye , Ding Rui , Ji Yuqi , Zhang Ning , Zhang Shaobin , Farmer John , Wang Che
Published: May 2014

Sucrose transporters (SUCs or SUTs) play a central role, as they orchestrate sucrose allocation both intracellularly and at the whole plant level. Previously, we found AtSUC4 mutants changing sucrose distribution under drought and salt stresses. Here, we systematically examined the role of Arabidopsis AtSUC2 and AtSUC4 in response to abiotic stress. The results showed significant induction of AtSUC2 and AtSUC4 in salt, osmotic, low temperature and exogenous abscisic acid (ABA) treatments by public microarray data and real‐time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) analyses. The loss‐of‐function mutation of AtSUC2 and AtSUC4 led to hypersensitive responses to abiotic stress and ABA treatment in seed germination and seedling growth. These mutants also showed higher sucrose content in shoots and lower sucrose content in roots, as compared with that in wild‐type plants, and inhibited the ABA‐induced expression of many stress‐ and ABA‐responsive genes, especially ABFs and ABF‐downstream and upstream genes. The loss‐of‐function mutant of AtSUC3, a unique putative sucrose sensor, reduced the expression of AtSUC2 and AtSUC4 in response to abiotic stresses and ABA. These findings confirmed that AtSUC2 and AtSUC4 are important regulators in plant abiotic stress tolerance that use an ABA signaling pathway, which may be crossed with sucrose signaling.
Adaptation to Externally Driven Change: The Impact of Political Change on Job Satisfaction in the Public Sector
Authors: Tabvuma Vurain , Bui Hong T. M. , Homberg Fabian
Published: May 2014

This article uses a quasi‐natural experiment to investigate the adaptation of job satisfaction to externally driven political change in the public sector. This is important because democratic government bureaucracies often experience changes in leadership after elections. The analyses are based on data drawn from a large longitudinal data set, the British Household Panel Survey. Findings indicate that the impact of political elections is largely weak and temporary and is only present for men. For women, the internal processes of the organization tend to be more important. These findings suggest that changes in political leadership may not be associated with fundamental changes in policy.
A Flexible Neuro‐Fuzzy Approach for Improvement of Seasonal Housing Price Estimation in Uncertain and Non‐Linear Environments
Authors: Azadeh Ali , Sheikhalishahi Mohammad , Boostani Ali
Published: May 2014

Changes in housing price affect both individuals and government since they have substantial influence on the socio‐economic conditions. Valuations of housing are necessary in order to assess the benefits and liabilities in housing sector. This study presents a flexible meta‐modelling approach for improvement of housing price estimation in ambiguous and complex environments. It is composed of artificial neural network (ANN) and fuzzy linear regression (FLR). Seven FLR models are considered to cover latest approaches and viewpoints. Also, ANN is applied to data sets. The preferred FLR model is selected via mean absolute percentage of error (MAPE) for further considerations, and then the preferred FLR model and the best structure of ANN are applied to the data set. Finally, the preferred model is selected based on MAPE. The intelligent approach of this study is applied for estimation and forecasting housing price in Iran. The housing price in Iran mainly is based on eight economic indices including currency, oil income, general index, house service pricing index, rate of informal market, gross domestic production in basic price, added value of oil group and construction materials price. FLR is identified as the preferred model with lowest MAPE for housing price forecasting in Iran. This shows that the housing market of Iran is associated with severe environmental fuzziness and ambiguity. This is the first study that introduces a flexible neuro‐fuzzy approach for improved estimation and forecasting of housing price in noisy, complex and uncertain environments.
Empirical Analyses of Extreme Value Models for the South African Mining Index
Authors: Chinhamu Knowledge , Huang Chun‐Kai , Huang Chun‐Sung , Hammujuddy Jahvaid
Published: May 2014

While the classical normality assumption is simple to implement, it is well known to underestimate the leptokurtic behaviour demonstrated in most financial data. After examining properties of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange Mining Index returns, we propose two extreme value models to fit its negative tail with a higher degree of accuracy. The generalised extreme value distribution (GEVD) is fitted using the block maxima approach, while the generalised Pareto distribution (GPD) is fitted using the peaks‐over‐threshold method. Numerical assessment of value‐at‐risk (VaR) estimates indicates that both GEVD and GPD increasingly outperform the normal distribution as we move further into the lower tail. In addition, GEVD produces lower estimates relative to that of the historical VaR, and GPD provides slightly more conservative estimates for adequate capitalisation.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder among inmates in Bergen Prison
Authors: Stokkeland Lisa , Fasmer Ole Bernt , Waage Leif , Hansen Anita L.
Published: May 2014

The aim of this study was to investigate whether clinical findings are consistent with research indicating a high prevalence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) among prison inmates. Forty‐three male inmates who were referred for ADHD assessment at the health service in Bergen prison participated. Although most of them reported symptoms in accordance with ADHD both in childhood and adulthood, only 35% of the referred inmates fulfilled the criteria for ADHD when a comprehensive assessment was conducted. The results emphasize the importance of a comprehensive assessment when diagnosing ADHD among prison inmates.
Self‐Efficacy to Avoid Suicidal Action: Factor Structure and Convergent Validity among Adults in Substance Use Disorder Treatment
Authors: Czyz Ewa K. , Bohnert Amy S. B. , King Cheryl A. , Price Amanda M. , Kleinberg Felicia , Ilgen Mark A.
Published: May 2014

Individuals with substance use disorders (SUDs) are at high risk of suicidal behaviors, highlighting the need for an improved understanding of potentially influential factors. One such domain is self‐efficacy to manage suicidal thoughts and impulses. Psychometric data about the Self‐Efficacy to Avoid Suicidal Action (SEASA) Scale within a sample of adults seeking SUD treatment (N = 464) is provided. Exploratory factor analysis supported a single self‐efficacy construct. Lower SEASA scores, or lower self‐efficacy, were reported in those with more severe suicidal ideation and those with more suicide attempts, providing evidence for convergent validity. Implications of measuring self‐efficacy in the context of suicide risk assessment are discussed.
The Associations of Race/Ethnicity and Suicidal Ideation among College Students: A Latent Class Analysis Examining Precipitating Events and Disclosure Patterns
Authors: De Luca Susan , Yan Yueqi , Lytle Megan , Brownson Chris
Published: May 2014

The aim of this paper was to examine precipitating events for suicidal ideation and how these experiences relate to disclosure in a diverse sample of college students were examined. Among non‐Hispanic White students, relationship/academic problems were most associated with ideation. A romantic break‐up increased the odds of getting help. Among racial/ethnic minority students, family/academic problems were most associated with ideation and students who reported multiple events were less likely to get help compared with those not reporting events. Future research should examine the reasons for interpersonal conflict among this high‐risk group and their attitudes about help‐seeking, and identify cultural norms associated with disclosure.
Beyond the Glockenspiel: Teaching Race and Gender in Mozart's Zauberflöte
Authors: Howards Alyssa
Published: May 2014

Die Zauberflöte is simultaneously one of Mozart's most accessible and most complex operas. Yet while this duality makes it a potentially valuable cultural artifact for the language classroom, students' unfamiliarity with both its operatic genre and Enlightenment context can pose a challenge to teachers. This article functions as a historical backdrop and teaching guide, offering a focused look at the opera's treatment of two of its central themes that remain relevant today: gender and race. By comparing the treatment of these social issues seen in Der Zauberflöte and with contemporary German pop songs, we can help students peer beyond the surface‐level entertainment of the opera, giving them both a richer understanding of its Enlightenment context while adding a new layer with which to understand contemporary German and U.S. culture.
The 5‐lipoxygenase inhibitor tepoxalin induces oxidative damage and altered PTEN status prior to apoptosis in canine osteosarcoma cell lines
Authors: Loftus J. P. , Cavatorta D. , Bushey J. J. , Levine C. B. , Sevier C. S. , Wakshlag J. J.
Published: May 2014

The 5‐lipoxygenase (5‐LOX) inhibitor tepoxalin has been shown to slow canine osteosarcoma (OSA) tumour xenografts growth, yet the mechanisms are poorly elucidated. Further examination of tepoxalin in canine OSA cell lines shows that tepoxalin treated cells undergo apoptosis through caspase‐3 activation and annexin staining. Interestingly, apoptosis is superseded by an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), as measured by activation of dihydrorhodamine 123 and mitosox. This increase in ROS appears to be related to the 5‐LOX inhibitor regardless of cellular 5‐LOX status, and was not observed after treatment with the tepoxalin metabolite RWJ20142. Additionally, 5‐LOX inhibition by tepoxalin appears to increase phosphatase and tensin (PTEN) homolog activity by preventing its alkylation or oxidation. PTEN modification or inhibition allows phosphoinositide‐3 (PI3) kinase activity thereby heightening activation of protein kinase B (AKT) phosphorylation. Our data suggest that off target oxidation and LOX inhibition play roles in the apoptotic response.
Who Are the Champions? Using a Multilevel Model to Examine Perceptions of Employee Support for LGBT Inclusion in Sport Organizations
Authors: Melton E. Nicole , Cunningham George B.
Published: May 2014

Sport employees who champion LGBT inclusion efforts represent key elements in creating accepting environments within college athletic departments. The purpose of this study, therefore, was to examine the concept of champions and how they support LGBT individuals within heterosexist sport environments. Drawing from divergent literatures, including that related to organizational inclusion and championing behaviors, we explore how a combination of factors from multiple levels may influence sport employees’ attitude and behaviors related to LGBT inclusion, and determine how supportive behaviors influence sexual minorities working within a college athletic department. Results indicate that various macro- (i.e., culture of sport, athletic boosters, university and community values, exposure to diverse cultures) meso- (organizational culture, presence of other champions), and micro- (demographics, open-mindedness, experiences with sexual minorities) level factors influenced the level of employee support for LGBT inclusive policies. Furthermore, power meaningfully influenced these dynamics, such that employees who did not resemble prototypically sport employees (i.e., White, heterosexual, male) were hesitant to show support for LGBT equality. However, those who did champion LGBT inclusive initiatives successfully modeled supportive behaviors and positive attitudes toward LGBT individuals, vocally opposed discriminatory treatment, and provided sexual minorities with a safe space within sport. The authors discuss implications and future directions.