bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Administrative claims data analysis of nurse practitioner prescribing for older adults
Authors: Murphy Andrea L. , Martin‐Misener Ruth , Cooke Charmaine , Sketris Ingrid
Published: August 2009

Title.  Administrative claims data analysis of nurse practitioner prescribing for older adults.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study to identify the patterns of prescribing by primary health care nurse practitioners for a cohort of older adults.

Background.  The older adult population is known to receive complex pharmacotherapy. Monitoring prescribing to older adults can inform quality improvement initiatives. In comparison to other countries, research examining nurse practitioner prescribing in Canada is limited. Nurse practitioner prescribing for older adults is relatively unexplored in the international literature. Although commonly used to study physician prescribing, few studies have used claims data from drug insurance programmes to investigate nurse practitioner prescribing.

Method.  Drug claims for prescriptions written by nurse practitioners from fiscal years 2004/05 to 2006/07 for beneficiaries of the Nova Scotia Seniors’ Pharmacare programme were analysed. Data were retrieved and analysed in May 2008. Prescribing was described for each drug using the World Health Organization Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical code classification system by usage and costs for each fiscal year.

Results.  Antimicrobials and non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs consistently represented the top ranked groups for prescription volume and cost. Over the three fiscal years, antimicrobial prescription rates declined relative to rates of other groups of medications. Prescription volume per nurse doubled and cost per prescription increased by approximately 20%.

Conclusion.  Prescription claims data can be used to characterize the prescribing trends of nurse practitioners. Research linking patient characteristics, including diagnoses, to prescriptions is needed to assess prescribing quality. Some potential areas of improvement were identified with antimicrobial and non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory selection.
HIV/AIDS and universal precautions: knowledge and attitudes of Nepalese nursing students
Authors: Mahat Ganga , Eller Lucille Sanzero
Published: August 2009

Title.  HIV/AIDS and universal precautions: knowledge and attitudes of Nepalese nursing students.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study exploring Nepalese nursing students’ knowledge and attitudes about HIV/AIDS and universal precautions.

Background.  Nepal is facing an HIV epidemic, and nurses are primary caregivers for people living with HIV/AIDS. Insufficient knowledge and negative attitudes on the part of nursing students translate into fear, stigmatization and unwillingness to care for patients with HIV/AIDS.

Method.  Data were collected in 2005 for this cross‐sectional study in which we examined HIV/AIDS‐related knowledge, attitudes and universal precautions in three levels of Nepalese nursing students (N = 127). Instruments included the HIV/AIDS Knowledge Questionnaire, HIV/AIDS Attitudes Questionnaire, HIV/AIDS Transmission Attitudes Questionnaire and Universal Precautions Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and chi‐square analyses were employed to examine socio‐demographic data. One‐way anova, with level in school as the between‐groups factor, were calculated to examine students’ knowledge and attitudes.

Findings.  Nepalese nursing students have a large knowledge gap and negative attitudes, regardless of level of education. Their HIV/AIDS knowledge differed statistically significantly by group but there were no statistically significant group differences in general attitudes towards HIV/AIDS. Although knowledge of universal precaution improved with year of education, overall universal precautions knowledge was poor among all students, regardless of level of education.

Conclusion.  Nursing curricula must include adequate and culturally relevant content on HIV/AIDS, attitudes towards people living with AIDS, and universal precautions.
Evaluation of empathy measurement tools in nursing: systematic review
Authors: Yu Juping , Kirk Maggie
Published: August 2009

Title. Evaluation of empathy measurement tools in nursing: systematic review.

Aim. This paper is a report of a systematic review conducted to analyse, evaluate and synthesize the rigour of measures used in nursing research to assess empathy, in order to identify a ‘gold standard’ for application in future studies.

Background. Empathy is considered essential to the provision of quality care. We identified 20 different empathy measures used in nursing research. There are inconsistencies between tools, indicating both the inherent complexity of measuring empathy and the need to evaluate the rigour of the measures themselves.

Data sources. An extensive search was conducted for the period 1987 and 2007 using the Medline, CINAHL and PsycINFO databases and the keywords ‘empathy’, ‘tool’, ‘scale’, ‘measure’, ‘nurse’ and ‘nursing’. Twenty‐nine studies were identified as relevant, in which 20 different empathy measurement tools were used. Twelve tools met the inclusion criteria for this review.

Method. Twelve measures were critically reviewed and analysed. A 7‐criterion framework was developed to appraise the rigour of the empathy measures, with a score range of 0–14 for each measure.

Results. Quality scores obtained were low (2–8 of 14). Validity and reliability of data were commonly reported, but responsiveness to change was tested in only three measures. None of the measures were psychometrically robust or covered all the domains of empathy. User involvement was limited and only five were developed in nursing settings.

Conclusion. Most measures have undergone rigorous development and psychometric testing, although none is both psychometrically and conceptually satisfactory. Empathy measures need to cover all relevant domains reflecting users’ own perspectives and be tested with appropriate populations in relevant care settings.
Work sampling: a quantitative analysis of nursing activity in a neuro‐rehabilitation setting
Authors: Williams Heather , Harris Ruth , Turner‐Stokes Lynne
Published: August 2009

Title.  Work sampling: a quantitative analysis of nursing activity in a neuro‐rehabilitation setting.

Aim.  The aim of this investigation was to establish the distribution and proportion of nursing activity represented by patient‐related care activities (direct and indirect), and other nursing activities (unit‐related and personal) within one inpatient neurological rehabilitation unit.

Background.  A set of tools has been developed for estimating the care/nursing hours required for direct hands‐on patient care in hospital rehabilitation settings. However, to apply this information to estimate the actual staffing requirements in relation to a given caseload, it is necessary to know the proportion of nursing workload assigned to other activities and how this may vary throughout the day.

Method.  A work sampling study was conducted during 2004. A snapshot of nursing activity was recorded at 5‐minute intervals from 06·00 to 23·55 spread over 2 weeks, with one session from 06·00 to 15·25 and the second from 15·30 to 23·55.

Results.  A total of 8883 nursing activities were observed and recorded over 126 hours and categorized as follows: 4060 (46%) direct patient care, 2218 (25%) indirect patient care, 874 (10%) unit‐related and 1731 (19%) personal time. The proportions of direct care fluctuated throughout the day, with direct care activities mainly concentrated in early mornings and to a lesser extent evenings.

Conclusion.  Direct patient care accounted for less than half of the nursing activity in a rehabilitation setting. Estimates of staffing requirement must also take account of the time required for indirect care and non‐patient related activity.
Being and doing politics: an outdated model or 21st century reality?
Authors: Carnegie Elaine , Kiger Alice
Published: August 2009

Title. Being and doing politics: an outdated model or 21st century reality?.

Aim. This paper presents a discussion of how critical social theory can be used as a tool for research, reflection and exploration of the political role of the nurse.

Background. Sociological theory can be used to examine ideologies within nursing systems in order to contribute to the future development of the profession. The importance of critical social theory has been identified in the literature as being directly relevant to holism which is central to the nature of nursing.

Data sources. Texts published in English were identified from 1990 to 2008 using the keywords critical social theory, community nursing, political advocacy, social justice, sociological theory, health inequalities, health democracy, equity and inequality.

Discussion. Critical social theory can be used as a tool to highlight ethical ways to practise nursing. One reason for examination of the community nurse’s political role is a shift in focus from the individual as patient to communities experiencing health inequalities. Nursing needs to decide whether the profession will work at the political level, and where advocacy and citizenship are located within a community role.

Conclusion. Nurse educators must prepare nurses for political participation, and nurse managers need to focus on national and local contexts in order to encourage policy analysis and community engagement within nursing practice. An understanding of critical social theory can aid decision‐making in relation to global and local policy, enable the nursing profession to respond to social injustice, and permit nurses to work with communities in the pursuit of community health.
The De‐Escalating Aggressive Behaviour Scale: development and psychometric testing
Authors: Nau Johannes , Halfens Ruud , Needham Ian , Dassen Theo
Published: August 2009

Title. The De‐Escalating Aggressive Behaviour Scale: development and psychometric testing.

Aim. This paper is a report of a study to develop and test the psychometric properties of a scale measuring nursing students’ performance in de‐escalation of aggressive behaviour.

Background. Successful training should lead not merely to more knowledge and amended attitudes but also to improved performance. However, the quality of de‐escalation performance is difficult to assess.

Method. Based on a qualitative investigation, seven topics pertaining to de‐escalating behaviour were identified and the wording of items tested. The properties of the items and the scale were investigated quantitatively. A total of 1748 performance evaluations by students (rater group 1) from a skills laboratory were used to check distribution and conduct a factor analysis. Likewise, 456 completed evaluations by de‐escalation experts (rater group 2) of videotaped performances at pre‐ and posttest were used to investigate internal consistency, interrater reliability, test–retest reliability, effect size and factor structure. Data were collected in 2007–2008 in German.

Findings. Factor analysis showed a unidimensional 7‐item scale with factor loadings ranging from 0·55 to 0·81 (rater group 1) and 0·48 to 0·88 (rater group 2). Cronbach’s alphas of 0·87 and 0·88 indicated good internal consistency irrespective of rater group. A Pearson’srof 0·80 confirmed acceptable test–retest reliability, and interrater reliability Intraclass Correlation 3 ranging from 0·77 to 0·93 also showed acceptable results. The effect sizerof 0·53 plus Cohen’sdof 1·25 indicates the capacity of the scale to detect changes in performance.

Conclusion. Further research is needed to test the English version of the scale and its validity.
Increasing syrphid fly diversity and density in sown flower strips within simple vs. complex landscapes
Authors: Haenke Sebastian , Scheid Barbara , Schaefer Matthias , Tscharntke Teja , Thies Carsten
Published: August 2009

1. The structural complexity of agricultural landscapes influences the local biodiversity and associated ecosystem services. Hence, developing effective biodiversity management requires a better understanding of the relative importance of local and landscape changes, especially for functionally important organisms such as hoverflies benefiting from flowering plants.

2. We examined hoverfly (Diptera: Syrphidae) communities in broad and narrow sown flower strips, in naturally developed grassy strips and in wheat fields (as a control). We also investigated the effects of these four habitat types on syrphid occurrence in the adjacent wheat fields.

3. The relative influence of local vs. landscape effects was tested by selecting study sites along a gradient of structural complexity from simple landscapes (∼100% arable land) to complex landscapes (up to 70% semi‐natural habitats such as fallows, field margins, hedges and grassland). Landscape complexity was assessed within landscape sectors of 0·5–4·0 km radius around strips.

4. Syrphid density and in particular, the density of aphidophagous species, was higher in narrow and broad sown flower strips compared to grassy strips and wheat–wheat boundary controls at the milk‐ripening stage of the wheat. In addition, species richness of aphidophagous syrphids within wheat fields adjacent to broad sown flower strips was higher at the wheat peak‐ripening stage. This indicates a spillover between habitats and a positive effect of these sown flower strips on potential biocontrol of cereal aphids. Flower densities and syrphid diversity and density, respectively, were closely related.

5. Species richness and abundance in the sown flower strips increased as the proportion of arable land in the surrounding landscape increased, suggesting that within structurally simple landscapes (at 0·5–1 km radius around the sites) syrphid flies concentrated on the most rewarding resources within the sown flower strips. Sown flower strips were more effective at increasing syrphid species richness and abundance in simple landscapes, presumably because the creation of flower resources made the greatest difference in such homogeneous, intensively managed arable landscapes.

6. Synthesis and applications.Agri‐environment schemes should take the surrounding landscape characteristics into account when considering using sown flower strips to enhance syrphid density and diversity, and their biocontrol function, in arable landscapes. Creating locally such flower strips is more effective in simple landscapes containing a high proportion of arable land, while in complex landscapes, keeping the overall diversity is important.
The youngest split in sympatric schizothoracine fish (Cyprinidae) is shaped by ecological adaptations in a Tibetan Plateau glacier lake
Authors: ZHAO KAI , DUAN ZI YUAN , PENG ZUO GANG , GUO SONG CHANG , LI JUN BING , HE SHUN PING , ZHAO XIN QUAN
Published: August 2009

Although new empirical evidence shows that sympatric speciation has occurred in some species, there are few indisputable model organisms for this process of speciation. The two subspecies (Gymnocypris eckloni eckloniandG.e.scoliostomus) of the schizothoracineGymnocyprisfish species complex from a small glacier lake in the Tibetan Plateau, Lake Sunmcuo, fit several of the key characteristics of the sympatric speciation model. We used combined mitochondrial control region sequences and the cytochromebgene (1894 bp) to address the phylogenetics and population genetics of 232 specimens ofG.e.eckloniandG.e.scoliostomus, as well as all of its closely related sister species. We found that: (i) a total of four old lineages were uncovered in the widespreadG.e.eckloni, of which only one was shown to be shared with allG.e.scoliostomusindividuals and (ii) the new subspecies (G.e.scoliostomus) evolved in Lake Sunmcuo from the ancestralG.e.ecklonipopulation within approximately 0.057 Ma. These two taxa of the species complex are morphologically distinct, and reproductive isolation is further suggested. Ecological disruptive selection based on morphological traits (e.g. mouth cleft characters) and food utilization may be a mechanism of incipient speciation of two sympatric populations within Lake Sunmcuo. This study provides the first genetic evidence for sympatric speciation in the schizothoracine fish.
Fine‐scale comparative phylogeography of a sympatric sister species triplet of subterranean diving beetles from a single calcrete aquifer in Western Australia
Authors: GUZIK M. T. , COOPER S. J. B. , HUMPHREYS W. F. , AUSTIN A. D.
Published: August 2009

Calcrete aquifers in the arid Yilgarn region of central Western Australia are a biodiversity hotspot for stygofauna. A distinct pattern of interspecific size class variation among subterranean dytiscid beetle species has been observed in 29 of these aquifers where either two or three small, medium and/or large sympatric species are found that are in some cases sister species. We used a 3.5 km2 grid of bores to sample dytiscids on a fine‐scale and employed a comparative phylogeographical and population genetic approach to investigate the origins of a sympatric sister species triplet of diving beetles from a single aquifer. Mitochondrial DNA sequence data from the Cytochrome oxidase c subunit I gene revealed that all three species have high levels of haplotype diversity with ancient (∼1 million years ago) intra‐specific coalescence of haplotypes, but low levels of nucleotide diversity. Population analyses provide evidence for multiple expansion events within each species. There was spatial heterogeneity in the distribution of genetic variation and abundance both within and among the three taxa. Population analyses revealed significant fine‐scale differentiation with isolation by distance for Paroster macrosturtensis and P. mesosturtensis, but not the smallest species P. microsturtensis. Haplotype network analyses provided limited or no evidence for past population fragmentation within the large and small species, but substantial historical divergence was observed in P. mesosturtensis that was not spatially structured. A patchy population structure with contemporaneous and historical isolation by distance in the three species is likely to have been a significant isolating and diversifying force, preventing us from ruling out a potential role for allopatric divergence during speciation of this beetle sister triplet.
Pleistocene refugia and polytopic replacement of diploids by tetraploids in the Patagonian and Subantarctic plantHypochaeris incana(Asteraceae, Cichorieae)
Authors: TREMETSBERGER KARIN , URTUBEY ESTRELLA , TERRAB ANASS , BAEZA CARLOS M. , ORTIZ MARÍA ÁNGELES , TALAVERA MARÍA , KÖNIG CHRISTIANE , TEMSCH EVA M. , KOHL GUDRUN , TALAVERA SALVADOR , STUESSY TOD F.
Published: August 2009

We report the phylogeographic pattern of the Patagonian and Subantarctic plantHypochaeris incanaendemic to southeastern South America. We applied amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) and chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) analysis to 28 and 32 populations, respectively, throughout its distributional range and assessed ploidy levels using flow cytometry. While cpDNA data suggest repeated or simultaneous parallel colonization of Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego by several haplotypes and/or hybridization, AFLPs reveal three clusters corresponding to geographic regions. The central and northern Patagonian clusters (∼38–51° S), which are closer to the outgroup, contain mainly tetraploid, isolated and highly differentiated populations with low genetic diversity. To the contrary, the southern Patagonian and Fuegian cluster (∼51–55° S) contains mainly diploid populations with high genetic diversity and connected by high levels of gene flow. The data suggest thatH. incanaoriginated at the diploid level in central or northern Patagonia, from where it migrated south. All three areas, northern, central and southern, have similar levels of rare and private AFLP bands, suggesting that all three served as refugia forH. incanaduring glacial times. In southern Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego, the species seems to have expanded its populational system in postglacial times, when the climate became warmer and more humid. In central and northern Patagonia, the populations seem to have become restricted to favourable sites with increasing temperature and decreasing moisture and there was a parallel replacement of diploids by tetraploids in local populations.
Testing for local adaptation in Avena barbata: a classic example of ecotypic divergence
Authors: LATTA ROBERT G.
Published: August 2009

Forty years ago, Robert Allard and colleagues documented that the slender wild oat, Avena barbata, occurred in California as two multi‐locus allozyme genotypes, associated with mesic and xeric habitats. This is arguably the first example of ecotypes identified by molecular techniques. Despite widespread citation, however, the inference of local adaptation of these ecotypes rested primarily on the allozyme pattern. This study tests for local adaptation of these ecotypes using reciprocal transplant and quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping techniques. Both ecotypes and 188 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from a cross between them were grown in common garden plots established at two sites representative of the environments in which the ecotypes were first described. Across four growing seasons at each site, three observations consistently emerged. First, despite significant genotype by environment interaction, the mesic ecotype consistently showed higher lifetime reproductive success across all years and sites. Second, the RILs showed no evidence of a trade‐off in performance across sites or years, and fitness was positively correlated across environments. Third, at QTL affecting lifetime reproductive success, selection favoured the same allele in all environments. None of these observations are consistent with local adaptation but suggest that a single genotype is selectively favoured at both moist and dry sites. I propose an alternative hypothesis that A. barbata may be an example of contemporary evolution – whereby the favoured genotype is spreading and increasing in frequency – rather than local adaptation.
An external heat pulse method for measurement of sap flow through fruit pedicels, leaf petioles and other small‐diameter stems
Authors: CLEARWATER MICHAEL J. , LUO ZHIWEI , MAZZEO MARIAROSARIA , DICHIO BARTOLOMEO
Published: August 2009

The external heat ratio method is described for measurement of low rates of sap flow in both directions through stems and other plant organs, including fruit pedicels, with diameters up to 5 mm and flows less than 2 g h−1. Calibration was empirical, with heat pulse velocity (vh) compared to gravimetric measurements of sap flow. In the four stem types tested (Actinidia sp. fruit pedicels, Schefflera arboricola petioles, Pittosporum crassifolium stems and Fagus sylvatica stems), vh was linearly correlated with sap velocity (vs) up to a vs of approximately 0.007 cm s−1, equivalent to a flow of 1.8 g h−1 through a 3‐mm‐diameter stem. Minimum detectable vs was approximately 0.0001 cm s−1, equivalent to 0.025 g h−1 through a 3‐mm‐diameter stem. Sensitivity increased with bark removal. Girdling had no effect on short‐term measurements of in vivo sap flow, suggesting that phloem flows were too low to be separated from xylem flows. Fluctuating ambient temperatures increased variability in outdoor sap flow measurements. However, a consistent diurnal time‐course of fruit pedicel sap flow was obtained, with flows towards 75‐day‐old kiwifruit lagging behind evaporative demand and peaking at 0.3 g h−1 in the late afternoon.
Drought tolerance of two black poplar (Populus nigra L.) clones: contribution of carbohydrates and oxidative stress defence
Authors: REGIER NICOLE , STREB SEBASTIAN , COCOZZA CLAUDIA , SCHAUB MARCUS , CHERUBINI PAOLO , ZEEMAN SAMUEL C. , FREY BEAT
Published: August 2009

Drought is expected to become an increasingly important factor limiting tree growth caused by climate change. Two divergent clones of Populus nigra (58‐861 and Poli) originating from contrasting environments were subjected to water limitation (WL) to elucidate whether they differ in tolerance to drought, which mechanisms to avoid stress they exhibit and whether drought has an impact on the interactions between roots and shoots. Limiting water availability caused photosynthetic rate and total non‐structural carbohydrate (TNC) levels to decrease in 58‐861. However, starch‐degrading enzyme activity and gene expression were induced in roots, and soluble sugar levels were higher than in well‐watered (WW) plants. These data suggest that assimilation and partitioning of carbon to the roots are decreased, resulting in mobilization of stored starch. In contrast, the photosynthetic rate of Poli was reduced only late in the treatment, and carbohydrate levels in WL plants were higher than in WW plants. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and gene expression were higher in Poli than in 58‐861, even in WW plants, leading to a higher capacity to defend against oxidative stress.
Specific resistance to soybean stem canker conferred by the Rdm4 locus
Authors: Chiesa M. A. , Pioli R. N. , Morandi E. N.
Published: August 2009

The Rdm4 gene from soybean cv. Hutcheson has been extensively used to incorporate resistance to soybean stem canker (SSC), caused by Diaporthe phaseolorum var. meridionalis (Dpm), into soybean commercial cultivars. The objective of this work was to characterize the inheritance of the Rdm4 locus in different populations derived from the cross: J77‐339 (rdm/rdm, susceptible) × Hutcheson (Rdm4/Rdm4, resistant) in independent interactions with two local isolates of Dpm. Four F2 populations were obtained and two were advanced to the F3 generation as separate F2:3 families to perform progeny tests. Each population was inoculated with the CE109 and/or CE112 isolates of Dpm. Within each plant–pathogen interaction, the resistance gene segregated as completely dominant. However, cross resistance, or opposite disease reactions, to CE109 and CE112 isolates of Dpm were observed in four F2:3 families, indicating an intergenic recombination event between two nonallelic genes interacting specifically with each isolate of Dpm. The distance between them, estimated as the recombination fraction, was 29%, suggesting that both genes were not tightly linked, but close enough to segregate together in most crosses. Results indicated the existence of a genomic region in cv. Hutcheson composed of race‐specific resistance loci with at least two Rdm genes: the previously recognized Rdm4 and a novel gene, tentatively named Rdm5, conferring specific resistance to Dpm isolates CE109 and CE112.
Studies on the host range of the barley strain of Wheat dwarf virus using an agroinfectious viral clone
Authors: Ramsell J. N. E. , Boulton M. I. , Martin D. P. , Valkonen J. P. T. , Kvarnheden A.
Published: August 2009

Comparative analysis of the host ranges of the barley and wheat strains of Wheat dwarf virus (WDV; family Geminiviridae; genus Mastrevirus) in Europe has been severely hampered by the lack of an infectious clone of the barley strain. To remedy this situation an agroinfectious clone of a Hungarian isolate of the barley strain (WDV‐Bar[HU]) was constructed and its virulence tested in barley (Hordeum vulgare), wheat (Triticum aestivum), rye (Secale cereale) and oat (Avena sativa) by agroinoculation. Although all four species could be systemically infected by the isolate, infections were asymptomatic in the rye and oat cultivars tested. WDV‐Bar[HU] induced chlorosis and stunting symptoms typical of WDV in barley, while in wheat low infection rates but high mortality of infected seedlings were observed. In contrast, a much higher percentage of wheat plants agroinoculated with a wheat‐strain isolate (WDV‐[Enk1]) became systemically infected. WDV‐[Enk1] in wheat caused symptoms similar to those caused by WDV‐Bar[HU] in barley. WDV‐Bar[HU] was leafhopper‐transmissible to barley seedlings, in which it caused typical WDV symptoms; geminate virus particles were isolated from the infected leaves. Comparison of the genomic sequences of 11 barley strain isolates from Europe and Turkey revealed that whereas WDV‐Bar[HU] represents a typical barley‐strain isolate that is not detectably recombinant, the Turkish barley isolate (WDV‐Bar[TR]) is probably a recombinant between a barley‐strain isolate and an as‐yet‐undescribed WDV‐like mastrevirus species.
MCAD mutations identified in newborn screening cause different levels of enzymatic dysfunction
Authors: Ehrnhoefer DE
Published: August 2009

Protein misfolding is the molecular mechanism underlying MCADD identified in newborn screening

Maier et al. (2009)

Human Molecular Genetics 18: 1612–1623
IFRD1 modulates disease severity in cystic fibrosis through the regulation of neutrophil effector function
Authors: Ehrnhoefer DE
Published: August 2009

Identification of IFRD1 as a modifier gene for cystic fibrosis lung disease

Gu et al. (2009)

Nature 458: 1039–1044
Anterior cingulate volumes associated with trait impulsivity in individuals with bipolar disorder
Authors: Matsuo Koji , Nicoletti Mark A , Peluso Marco A M , Hatch John P , Nemoto Kiyotaka , Watanabe Yoshifumi , Nery Fabiano G , Monkul E Serap , Zunta‐Soares Giovana B , Bowden Charles L , Soares Jair C
Published: August 2009

Objective:  Impulsivity is associated with the clinical outcome and likelihood of risky behaviors among bipolar disorder (BD) patients. Our previous study showed an inverse relationship between impulsivity and orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) volume in healthy subjects. We hypothesized that BD patients would show an inverse relationship between impulsivity and volumes of the OFC, anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), medial prefrontal cortex, and amygdala, which have been implicated in the pathophysiology of BD.

Methods:  Sixty‐three BD patients were studied (mean ± SD age = 38.2 ± 11.5 years; 79% female). The Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS), version 11A, was used to assess trait impulsivity. Images were processed using SPM2 and an optimized voxel‐based morphometry protocol. We examined the correlations between BIS scores and the gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM) volumes of the prespecified regions.

Results:  Left rostral ACC GM volume was inversely correlated with the BIS total score (t = 3.95, pcorrected = 0.003) and the BIS motor score (t = 5.22, pcorrected < 0.001). In contrast to our hypothesis, OFC volumes were not significantly associated with impulsivity in BD. No WM volume of any structure was significantly correlated with impulsivity. No statistical association between any clinical variable and the rostral ACC GM volumes reached significance.

Conclusions:  Based on our previous findings and the current results, impulsivity may have a different neural representation in BD and healthy subjects, and the ACC may be involved in the pathophysiology of abnormal impulsivity regulation in BD patients.
The International Society for Bipolar Disorders (ISBD) consensus guidelines for the safety monitoring of bipolar disorder treatments
Authors: Ng Felicity , Mammen Oommen K , Wilting Ingeborg , Sachs Gary S , Ferrier I Nicol , Cassidy Frederick , Beaulieu Serge , Yatham Lakshmi N , Berk Michael
Published: August 2009

Objectives: Safety monitoring is an important aspect of bipolar disorder treatment, as mood‐stabilising medications have potentially serious side effects, some of which may also aggravate existing medical comorbidities. This paper sets out the International Society for Bipolar Disorders (ISBD) guidelines for the safety monitoring of widely used agents in the treatment of bipolar disorder. These guidelines aim to provide recommendations that take into consideration the balance between safety and cost‐effectiveness, to highlight iatrogenic and preventive clinical issues, and to facilitate the broad implementation of therapeutic safety monitoring as a standard component of treatment for bipolar disorder.

Methods: These guidelines were developed by an ISBD workgroup, headed by the senior author (MB), through an iterative process of serial consensus‐based revisions. After this, feedback from a multidisciplinary group of health professionals on the applicability of these guidelines was sought to develop the final recommendations.

Results: General safety monitoring recommendations for all bipolar disorder patients receiving treatment and specific monitoring recommendations for individual agents are outlined.

Conclusions: These guidelines are derived from evolving and often indirect data, with minimal empirical cost‐effectiveness data available to provide guidance. These guidelines will therefore need to be modified to adapt to different clinical settings and health resources. Clinical acumen and vigilance remain critical ingredients for safe treatment practice.
Nebulized hypertonic saline/salbutamol solution treatment in hospitalized children with mild to moderate bronchiolitis
Authors: Luo Zhengxiu , Liu Enmei , Luo Jian , Li Subi , Zeng Fengqiong , Yang Xiqiang , Fu Zhou
Published: August 2009

Background:  The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy and safety of nebulized 3% hypertonic saline solution and salbutamol in the treatment of mild to moderate bronchiolitis.

Methods:  In a randomized controlled trial, 93 infants with mild to moderate bronchiolitis were divided into two groups. The infants received inhalation of 2.5 mg (0.5 mL) salbutamol dissolved in either 4.0 mL normal (0.9%) saline (control group, n= 43) or 4.0 mL hypertonic (3%) saline (treatment group, n= 50). The therapy was repeated three times daily until discharge. Cough, wheezing, pulmonary physical signs, and the length of hospital stay were recorded.

Results:  Wheezing remission time was 3.8 ± 1.1 days in the control group and 2.7 ± 0.9 days in the treatment group (P < 0.01). Cough remission time was 6.3 ± 0.9 days in the control group and 5.3 ± 0.8 days in the treatment group (P < 0.01). The moist crackles disappeared at 5.4 ± 0.8 days in the treatment group versus 6.2 ± 0.9 days in the control group (P < 0.01). Furthermore, the average length of hospital stay decreased from 7.4 ± 1.5 days in the control group to 6.0 ± 1.2 days in the treatment group (P < 0.01). No obvious adverse effects were observed.

Conclusions:  Inhalation of nebulized 3% hypertonic saline solution and salbutamol is a safe and effective therapy for patients with mild to moderate bronchiolitis.
Early postpartum discharge and breastfeeding: An observational study from France
Authors: Cambonie Gilles , Rey Valérie , Sabarros Sophie , Baum Thierry‐Pascal , Fournier‐Favre Sébastien , Mazurier Evelyne , Boulot Pierre , Picaud Jean‐Charles
Published: August 2009

Background:  Early postpartum discharge is a recent practice in France, but the influence of a shortened hospital stay on subsequent breastfeeding is unknown. The objective of the present study was to compare the breastfeeding mode after early discharge (ED) and conventional discharge (CD) from a hospital maternity unit.

Methods:  An observational study was conducted in a French university hospital among 135 breastfeeding mothers, who delivered between 1 January and 31 July 2006. Forty‐five ED mothers were matched with 90 CD mothers on 13 criteria. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data regarding feeding practices at 10 weeks postpartum, the period corresponding to paid maternity leave.

Results:  Exclusive breast‐, mixed, and bottle feedings were reported by, respectively, 35 (77.8%), three (6.7%) and seven (15.5%) ED mothers and 64 (71.1%), 12 (13.3%) and 14 (15.6%) CD mothers (no significant differences). Satisfaction with support for breastfeeding and reasons for switching to mixed or bottle feeding were comparable in the two groups. Multivariate analysis indicated that only the planned duration of breastfeeding and the mother's dissatisfaction with help significantly influenced breastfeeding prevalence.

Conclusions:  Early postpartum hospital discharge organized by skilled professionals is compatible with a satisfactory rate of exclusive breastfeeding up to the return to work. Formalized programs of instruction for perinatal professionals would help to reduce early abandonment.
Current status of ureteroscopic treatment for urolithiasis
Authors: Skolarikos Andreas A , Papatsoris Athanasios G , Mitsogiannis Iraklis C , Chatzidarellis Lefteris , Liakouras Christos , Deliveliotis Charalambos
Published: August 2009

Intracorporeal treatment of urolithiasis is characterized by continuous technological evolution. In this review we present updated data upon the use of ureteroscopy for the management of urolithiasis. Novel digital flexible ureteroscopes are used in clinical practice. Ureteroscopic working tools are revolutionized resulting in safer and more efficient procedures. Special categories of stone patients such as pregnant women, children and patients on anticoagulation medication can now undergo uneventful ureteroscopy. Routine insertion of stents and access sheaths as well as bilateral ureteroscopy is still a controversial issue. Future perspectives include smaller and better instruments to visualize and treat a stone, while robotic ureteroscopy is becoming a fascinating reality.
Mechanisms of after‐hyperpolarization following activation of fly visual motion‐sensitive neurons
Authors: Kurtz Rafael , Beckers Ulrich , Hundsdörfer Benjamin , Egelhaaf Martin
Published: August 2009

In many neurons, strong excitatory stimulation causes an after‐hyperpolarization (AHP) at stimulus offset, which might give rise to activity‐dependent adaptation. Graded‐potential visual motion‐sensitive neurons of the fly Calliphora vicina respond with depolarization and hyperpolarization during motion in their preferred direction and their anti‐preferred direction, respectively. A prominent after‐response, opposite in sign to the response during motion, is selectively expressed after stimulation with preferred‐direction motion. Previous findings suggested that this AHP is generated in the motion‐sensitive neurons themselves rather than in presynaptic processing layers. However, it remained unknown whether the AHP is caused by membrane depolarization itself or by another process, e.g. a signaling cascade triggered by activity of excitatory input channels. Here we showed by current injections and voltage clamp that the AHP and a corresponding current are generated directly by depolarization. To test whether the generation of an AHP is linked to depolarization via a Ca2+‐dependent mechanism, we used photoactivation of a high‐affinity Ca2+ buffer. In accordance with previous findings the AHP was insensitive to manipulation of cytosolic Ca2+. We propose that membrane depolarization presents a more direction‐selective mechanism for the control of AHP than other potential control parameters.
Enhanced dense core granule function and adrenal hypersecretion in a mouse model of Rett syndrome
Authors: Ladas Thomas , Chan Shyue‐An , Ogier Michael , Smith Corey , Katz David M.
Published: August 2009

Rett syndrome (RTT) is a progressive developmental disorder resulting from loss‐of‐function mutations in the gene encoding methyl‐CpG‐binding protein 2 (MeCP2), a transcription regulatory protein. The RTT phenotype is complex and includes severe cardiorespiratory abnormalities, dysautonomia and behavioral symptoms of elevated stress. These findings have been attributed to an apparent hyperactivity of the sympathetic nervous system due to defects in brainstem development; however, the possibility that the peripheral sympathoadrenal axis itself is abnormal has not been explored. The present study demonstrates that the adrenal medulla and sympathetic ganglia of Mecp2 null mice exhibit markedly reduced catecholamine content compared with wild‐type controls. Despite this, null animals exhibit significantly higher plasma epinephrine levels, suggesting enhanced secretory granule function in adrenal chromaffin cells. Indeed, we find that Mecp2 null chromaffin cells exhibit a cell autonomous hypersecretory phenotype characterized by significant increases in the speed and size of individual secretory granule fusion events in response to electrical stimulation. These findings appear to indicate accelerated formation and enhanced dilation of the secretory granule fusion pore, resulting in elevated catecholamine release. Our data therefore highlight abnormal catecholamine function in the sympathoadrenal axis as a potential source of autonomic dysfunction in RTT. These findings may help to explain the apparent ‘overactivity’ of the sympathetic nervous system reported in patients with RTT.
Deep cox1 divergence and hyperdiversity of Trigonopterus weevils in a New Guinea mountain range (Coleoptera, Curculionidae)
Authors: Riedel Alexander , Daawia Daawia , Balke Michael
Published: August 2009

Riedel, A., Daawia, D. & Balke, M. (2009). Deep cox1 divergence and hyperdiversity of Trigonopterus weevils in a New Guinea mountain range (Coleoptera, Curculionidae).—Zoologica Scripta, 39, 63–74.

Trigonopterus is a little‐known genus of flightless tropical weevils. A survey in one locality, the Cyclops Mountains of West New Guinea, yielded 51 species, at least 48 of them undescribed. In this study, we show that mtDNA sequencing, or DNA barcoding, is an effective and useful tool for rapid discovery and identification of these species, most of them morphologically very difficult to distinguish even for expert taxonomists. The genus is hyperdiverse in New Guinea and different species occur on foliage and in the litter layer. Morphological characters for its diagnosis are provided. Despite their external similarity, the genetic divergence between the species is high (smallest interspecific divergence 16%, mean 20%). We show that Trigonopterus are locally hyperdiverse and genetically very strongly structured. Their potential for rapid local biodiversity assessment surveys in Melanesia is outlined (α‐diversity); providing a regional perspective on Trigonopterus diversity and biogeography is the next challenge (β‐diversity).
The Ties That Bind: Multiculturalism and Secularism Reconsidered
Authors: Bhandar Brenna
Published: August 2009

The article examines contemporary controversies over the rights of Muslim women to wear various forms of the veil, in both France and the United Kingdom and argues that despite their apparent differences as political ideologies, both multiculturalism and secularism are deployed as techniques to govern difference. It traces a common philosophical lineage of these two ideologies, and their shared genealogical relationship to the subject of Enlightenment and post‐Enlightenment thought. Drawing on Marx and Hegel, it argues that at the core of secularism and multiculturalism there lies the germ of a subject and law formed through a concept of culture that was to a great degree indivisible from religion. While secularism ostensibly decouples culture from religion to produce a common political culture, and multiculturalism purports to accommodate a diverse range of cultural and religious practices, both fail to accommodate difference that stretches the bounds of a citizen‐subject defined according to Anglo‐European norms of culture, which implicitly includes Christianity.
RESEARCH SECTION: Sexually inappropriate or abusive behaviour among pupils in special schools
Authors: Fyson Rachel
Published: August 2009

In this article, Rachel Fyson of the Centre for Social Work in the School of Sociology and Social Policy at the University of Nottingham reports the findings of a study into sexually inappropriate or abusive behaviour occurring between pupils in special schools in four local authorities in England. The behaviours identified ranged from relatively minor misconduct, such as exposure of genitals and use of sexualised language, through to serious acts of sexual abuse, including rape. Although the majority (88%) of special schools had noted sexualised behaviours of some kind on a regular basis, only a minority (19%) had specific policies in place to guide staff responses to such incidents. It was apparent that responses to sexual behaviour, and policy decisions about whether or when to refer to outside agencies, varied widely both within and between schools. The implications of these findings for the well‐being of all pupils are discussed.
RESEARCH SECTION: Reactions to a diagnosis of dyslexia among students entering further education: development of the ‘resistance–accommodation’ model
Authors: Armstrong David , Humphrey Neil
Published: August 2009

Research into the psychological consequences of receiving a diagnosis of dyslexia during adolescence is a newly emerging field. In this article, David Armstrong, senior lecturer in education at Edge Hill University, and Neil Humphrey, senior lecturer in the psychology of Education at the University of Manchester, report on a qualitative study which explored this issue with a group of 20 students with dyslexia in a large college of further education in the north‐west of England. Drawing on the outcomes of individual interviews and focus groups, analysis of student responses led to the development of a provisional ‘resistance–accommodation’ model that seeks to explain the psycho‐social processes involved in ‘living with the label’ of dyslexia, and how such processes might impact upon later outcomes. The ‘resistance–accommodation’ model and the data contained in this study are discussed in the light of wider aspects of psychological theory and research. The authors also take account of recent literature exploring how students with dyslexia assess self in relation to the label.
Eighteen-Month-Old Infants Show Increased Helping Following Priming with Affiliation
Authors: Over Harriet , Carpenter Malinda
Published: August 2009

We show that the mere hint of affiliation dramatically increases prosocial behavior in infants. Eighteen-month-old infants helped a person in need more often, and more spontaneously, when primed with photographs evoking affiliation than when primed with photographs evoking individuality. This study demonstrates that social primes can have an influence on infant behavior, and so opens up a wealth of possibilities for future research. In addition, these data have wide-ranging practical implications, suggesting that subtle changes to the social environment can promote prosocial behavior in children.
Choosing to Enter or Avoid Diagnostic Social Situations
Authors: Beck Lindsey A. , Clark Margaret S.
Published: August 2009

Three studies suggest that people control the nature of their relationships, in part, by choosing to enter (or avoid) situations providing feedback about other people's social interest. In Study 1, chronically avoidant individuals (but not others) preferred social options that would provide no information about other people's evaluations of them over social options that would, but did not prefer nondiagnostic situations more generally. In Study 2, chronically avoidant students (but not others) in a methods class preferred to have their teacher assign them to working groups (a nondiagnostic situation) over forming their own groups (a diagnostic situation). In Study 3, individuals experimentally primed to feel avoidant were less likely than those primed to feel secure to choose to receive feedback about how another person felt about them. Overall, the research suggests that choices of socially diagnostic versus socially nondiagnostic situations play an important role in guiding people's social relationships.
Dishonesty in the Name of Equity
Authors: Gino Francesca , Pierce Lamar
Published: August 2009

Under what conditions do people act dishonestly to help or hurt others? We addressed this question by examining the influence of a previously overlooked factor—the beneficiary or victim of dishonest acts. In two experiments, we randomly paired participants and manipulated their wealth levels through an initial lottery. We then observed how inequity between partners influenced the likelihood of one dishonestly helping or hurting the other, while varying the financial incentives for dishonest behavior. The results show that financial self-interest cannot fully explain people's tendency to dishonestly help or hurt others. Rather, such dishonesty is influenced by emotional reactions to wealth-based inequity, even when the dishonesty bears a personal financial cost. Envy evoked by negative inequity led to hurting behavior, whereas guilt induced by positive inequity motivated helping behavior. Finally, inequity between the partner and third parties triggered dishonest helping through empathy with the partner.