bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enterprise resource planning, operations and management
Authors: Sundtoft Hald Kim , Mouritsen Jan
Published: August 2013

Purpose

This research aims to explore the enabling and constraining effects of enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems and speculate on how these can be linked to the four generic roles of operations management (OM) proposed by Slacket al.

Design/methodology/approach

This research understands ERP as boundary objects characterised by modularity, abstraction, accommodation, and standardization. An in‐depth cross‐disciplinary literature review and role synthesis is conducted.

Findings

Four enabling and three constraining effects of ERP are deduced from existing literature. ERP and OM are linked conceptually. Based on the identified effects of ERP, the paper speculates on the managerial tasks of the production and operations manager (POM) in an ERP environment and lists a set of central concerns of potential relevance to POM and to future research.

Research limitations/implications

The identified roles of ERP and their implications could be empirically tested using case based and survey research.

Practical implications

The results provide insights into how ERP has multiple and parallel roles, and how these roles are relevant to the function of OM. Such knowledge is valuable for practicing POMs in managing the implementation and design of ERP to support the different domains of OM.

Originality/value

Current studies of the effects of ERP and their link to the practice of OM tend to focus on one or a few roles of the emerging system. Such studies do not properly take into account the modularised and pluralistic nature of ERP. This research provides a platform from where future research on the effects, managerial dilemmas and implications of ERP can be reconciled across research communities.
An analysis of the contribution of leadership to organisational performance using complexity science
Authors: Nienaber Hester , Svensson Göran
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the leadership tasks at the different hierarchical levels in the organisation in terms of the teleological approaches to complexity science.

Design/methodology/approach

It is based upon a theoretical discussion linked to conceptual and managerial frameworks in conjunction with a conceptual analysis.

Findings

The introduced conceptual and managerial frameworks provide a foundation to the understanding of organisational performance. They also strive to offer a foundation of understanding to management and leadership and how they complement each other.

Research limitations/implications

It is not easy to empirically substantiate complexity in conceptual and managerial frameworks. The authors use teleological approaches of complexity science in an unorthodox way that need validation in a broader context offering opportunities for further research.

Practical implications

We need to think differently about organisational performance and how we present and reflect on information that appears to be “linear” although it is not necessarily the case.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to an alternative assessment organisational performance. It endeavours to reflect on the complexity of organisations and taking into account a pluralistic approach that synthesises a variety of perspectives, including a bottom‐up approach to problem solving.
Power, politics & learning: a social enactment of the SME owner/manager
Authors: Higgins David , Mirza Mohammed , Drozynska Anna
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The article aims to explore critically and contribute to the development of the social learning debate by providing a conceptual analysis of the influential and meditational role played by power and politics in the small and medium‐sized enterprise (referred to hereafter as SME) owner/manager's practice. One of the key influencing elements in the SME on the learning process is that of the owner/manager, having both the power and legitimacy to influence practice.

Design/methodology/approach

The article adopts a social constructionist perspective, which enables and recognises a participatory view of the world. Such a perspective enables one to draw attention to the situated, mediate and local nature of practice and learning.

Findings

The article's perspective is connected to the belief that learning stems from the participation of individuals in complex social activities, by recognising that power relations can directly mediate the interpretative ideologies within social interactions.

Practical implications

The article seeks to draw attention to the social conflicts that are experienced by SME owner/managers. The issue of power and politics has not featured strongly in current debates surrounding learning and the SME owner/manager; current writings have tended not to explore the relevance of these issues.

Originality/value

The article builds on and seeks to extend the recent writings surrounding learning and the SME owner/manager, the emphasis of which is social dynamic and emergent nature, by drawing on the mediated nature of social practice, revealing the influence of both power relations and politics that underpin learning in the social context of the SME owner/manager.
Understanding transitions in professional practice and learning
Authors: Fenwick Tara
Published: August 2013

Purpose

Much research to date on professional transitions has focused on predicting them and then preparing individual practitioners to navigate transitions as sites of struggle. The purpose of this paper is to critically examine, within the context of professional practice and learning, diverse theoretical approaches that are currently prominent in researching transitions and to propose future directions for research.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper begins by describing work contexts integral with professional transitions: regulation, governance and accountability; new work structures; and knowledge development. The discussion then examines transitions research in developmental psychology, lifecourse sociology, and career studies. These perspectives are compared critically in terms of questions and approaches, contributions to understanding professional transitions, and limitations.

Findings

The implications for educators are a series of critical questions about research and education directed to support transitions in professional learning and work. Future directions and questions for research in professional transitions are suggested in the final section, along with implications for supporting professional learning in these transitions.

Originality/value

The paper is not intended to be comprehensive, but to identify issues for the reader's consideration in thinking about various forms of transition being experienced by professions and professionals. The discussion is theory‐based, exploratory, and indicative, rather than definitive.
Window Dressing 2.0: Constituency-Level Web Campaigns in the 2010 UK General Election
Authors: Lee Benjamin
Published: August 2013

This article explores the use of Web 2.0 tools in constituency-level campaigns in the UK 2010 general election. Specifically it examines whether Web 2.0 use was undertaken with a goal of promoting interaction with voters or was simply a ‘window-dressing’ exercise. It does so using data from a nationwide survey of election agents, content analysis of a subset of campaign websites, and information collected through interviews with candidates. The results show that while campaigns are keen to adopt Web 2.0 technology, they have largely eschewed the interactive potential of Web 2.0, replicating previous UK web campaigns that have demonstrated limited interactivity.
Efficacy of Series Double Continuous Hemodiafiltration Using Two Polymethyl Methacrylate Membrane Hemofilters for Patients With Hypercytokinemia
Authors: Ooishi Yoshihide , Ishii Takanori , Takahata Tomohiro , Inagaki Nobuhiro , Akizuki Noboru , Isakozawa Yutaka , Takesawa Shingo , Hirasawa Hiroyuki
Published: August 2013

Continuous hemodiafiltration using a hemofilter made from a membrane with cytokine adsorption properties is thought to be effective to remove cytokines in septic patients. In order to enhance cytokine removal capacity by increasing adsorption area, we devised a double polymethyl methacrylate continuous hemodiafiltration method, which involves serial connection of two polymethyl methacrylate membrane hemofilters, and we report clinical efficacy with this method. Of 74 patients who underwent continuous hemodiafiltration and had interleukin‐6 blood levels measured during their ICU stay between March 2010 and June 2012, 13 patients with hypercytokinemia (interleukin‐6 blood level >900 pg/mL) underwent series double continuous hemodiafiltration to be treated for hypercytokinemia. Cytokine reduction rate and clinical efficacy were compared between those 13 patients and those with a similar pathological condition who underwent continuous hemodiafiltration using the single polymethyl methacrylate membrane hemofilter. Interleukin‐6 blood levels 6 h after continuous hemodiafiltration initiation increased in the single continuous hemodiafiltration group from 17040 ± 33660 pg/mL to 26290 ± 66250 pg/mL; however, interleukin‐6 blood level significantly decreased in the series double continuous hemodiafiltration group from 20220 ± 29120 pg/mL to 6790 ± 10820 pg/mL. Interleukin‐6 reduction rate during the period between initiation and 6 h after initiation of continuous hemodiafiltration was significantly higher in the series double continuous hemodiafiltration group(63.5 ± 38.9%) compared to that of the single continuous hemodiafiltration group (–342 ± 1306%)(P = 0.039). Series double continuous hemodiafiltration using two polymethyl methacrylate hemofilters with cytokine adsorbing capacity is effective to remove cytokine in hypercytokinemic septic patients.
Optimal Design of the Hydrodynamic Multi‐Arc Bearing in a Centrifugal Blood Pump for the Improvement of Bearing Stiffness and Hemolysis Level
Authors: Yasui Kazuya , Kosaka Ryo , Nishida Masahiro , Maruyama Osamu , Kawaguchi Yasuo , Yamane Takashi
Published: August 2013

The purpose of the present study is to establish an optimal design of the multi‐arc hydrodynamic bearing in a centrifugal blood pump for the improvement of bearing stiffness and hemolysis level. The multi‐arc bearing was designed to fulfill the required specifications: (i) ensuring the uniform bearing stiffness for various bearing angles; (ii) ensuring a higher bearing stiffness than the centrifugal force to prevent impeller whirl; and (iii) adjusting the bearing clearance as much as possible to reduce hemolysis. First, a numerical analysis was performed to optimize three design parameters of the multi‐arc bearing: number of arcs N, bearing clearance C, and groove depth H. To validate the accuracy of the numerical analysis, the impeller trajectories for six pump models were measured. Finally, an in vitro hemolysis test was conducted to evaluate the hemolytic property of the multi‐arc bearing. As a result of the numerical analysis, the optimal parameter combination was determined as follows: N = 4, C = 100 μm, and H ≥ 100 μm. In the measurements of the impeller trajectory, the optimal parameter combination was found to be as follows: N = 4, C = 90 μm, and H = 100 μm. This result demonstrated the high reliability of the numerical analysis. In the hemolysis test, the parameter combination that achieved the smallest hemolysis was obtained as follows: N = 4, C = 90 μm, and H = 100 μm. In conclusion, the multi‐arc bearing could be optimized for the improvement of bearing stiffness and hemolysis level.
Differences Between Blood and a Newtonian Fluid on the Performance of a Hydrodynamic Bearing for Rotary Blood Pumps
Authors: Amaral Felipe , Egger Christina , Steinseifer Ulrich , Schmitz‐Rode Thomas
Published: August 2013

Assuming that blood has a constant viscosity is a common practice when designing rotary blood pumps (RBPs), where shear stresses are generally higher than in the human body. This eases the design and allows numerical simulations and bench top experiments to be performed with Newtonian fluids. However, specific flow conditions may cause a change in cell distribution leading to an apparent lower blood viscosity. It has been observed that decreasing the vessel diameters and increasing flow velocities contribute to this effect. Because a hydrodynamic bearing operates under flow conditions following this pattern, it is important to verify whether this effect also takes place when this type of bearing is applied to a RBP. Because the operation of a hydrodynamic bearing depends directly on the fluid viscosity, a local change in cell distribution in the bearing gap can be reflected in changes in the bearing performance. In this work, a spiral groove hydrodynamic bearing was tested with porcine blood in a specially built test rig. The generated suspension force, cross flow, and bearing torque were recorded and compared with the reference response when using a solution of water and glycerol. Experiments with porcine blood yielded lower suspension forces, lower flows, and lower bearing torques than when using the glycerol solution. An explanation could be a lower apparent viscosity due to inhomogeneity of blood cell concentrations. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the effective blood viscosity when designing hydrodynamic bearings for RBPs and performing experiments.
Meta‐Analysis of Dark Side Personality Characteristics and Critical Work Behaviors among Leaders across the Globe: Findings and Implications for Leadership Development and Executive Coaching
Authors: Gaddis Blaine H. , Foster Jeff L.
Published: August 2013

This paper concerns critical work behaviors for leaders across the globe and how scores on dark side personality measures predict those behaviors. Using a global archive of job analytic data, we first identify the work behaviors most critical for performance in managerial jobs across organisations, industry sectors, and countries. Next, we identify criterion‐related validation research studies including dark side personality measures and performance ratings for at least one of these critical work behaviors. Based on meta‐analytic results, we examine relations between scores on dark side personality measures and critical leader work behaviors. Also, we examine evidence of potential moderators of these relationships. Finally, we consider the implications of our results for I/O professionals engaged in using personality assessment for leadership development and executive coaching.
Computed tomographic anatomy of the nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses and tympanic cavity of the koala
Authors: Hemsley S , Palmer H , Canfield RB , Stewart MEB , Krockenberger MB , Malik R
Published: August 2013

Objective

To use cross‐sectional imaging (helical computed tomography (CT)) combined with conventional anatomical dissection to define the normal anatomy of the nasal cavity and bony cavitations of the koala skull.

Methods

Helical CT scans of the heads of nine adult animals were obtained using a multislice scanner acquiring thin slices reconstructed in the transverse, sagittal and dorsal planes. Subsequent anatomical dissection permitted confirmation of correct identification and further delineation of bony and air‐filled structures visible in axial and multiplanar reformatted CT images.

Results

The nasal cavity was relatively simple, with little scrolling of nasal conchae, but bony cavitations were complex and extensive. A rostral maxillary recess and ventral conchal, caudal maxillary, frontal and sphenoidal paranasal sinuses were identified and characterised. Extensive temporal bone cavitation was shown to be related to a large epitympanic recess.

Conclusions

The detailed anatomical data provided are applicable to future functional and comparative anatomical studies, as well as providing a preliminary atlas for clinical investigation of conditions such as cryptococcal rhinosinusitis, a condition more common in the koala than in many other species.
Diagnosis, pathogenesis and treatment of myositis: recent advances
Authors: Carstens P -O , Schmidt J
Published: August 2013

Dermatomyositis (DM), polymyositis (PM), necrotizing myopathy (NM) and inclusion body myositis (IBM) are four distinct subtypes of idiopathic inflammatory myopathies – in short myositis. Recent studies have shed some light on the unique pathogenesis of each entity. Some of the clinical features are distinct, but muscle biopsy is indispensable for making a reliable diagnosis. The use of magnetic resonance imaging of skeletal muscles and detection of myositis-specific autoantibodies have become useful additions to our diagnostic repertoire. Only few controlled trials are available to substantiate current treatment approaches for myositis and hopes are high that novel modalities will become available within the next few years. In this review we provide an up-to-date overview of the pathogenesis and diagnostic approach of myositis. We aim to present a guide towards therapeutic and general management.
Modified Implant Surface with Slower and Less Initial Biofilm Formation
Authors: John Gordon , Becker Jürgen , Schwarz Frank
Published: August 2013

Background

Peri‐implant mucositis and peri‐implantitis are a raising issue in dental implantology. Peri‐implant infections are mainly caused by the formation of biofilm. Different surface textures exhibit various conditions for biofilm formation resulting in several speed of maturation and development.

Materials and Methods

On three different titanium implant surfaces, machined‐surface (M), sandblasted large grit, and acid‐etched surface (SLA) and machined‐modified acid‐etched surface (mod MA) initial biofilms were collected. Plaque formation was investigated by erythrosine staining and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX). For testing the biocompatibility of these plaque‐settled surfaces, autoclaved specimens were settled with human gingival fibroblasts, and cell viability was tested.

Results

The mean initial plaque surface was detected in the following descending order: M > SLA > mod MA. The differences between these groups were significant. The highest cell viability was detected in the M groups, whereas mod MA and SLA showed comparable results. The results of initial biofilm formation were proved by EDX.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this study, conclusion can be made that mod MA surface shows significant slower initial biofilm formation which could be an advantage in initial transgingival healing process and also an easement for oral hygiene of patients because maturation of plaque is retarded, and immature biofilms are easier to remove.
Testing the phylogenetic position of Cambrian pancrustacean larval fossils by coding ontogenetic stages
Authors: Wolfe Joanna M. , Hegna Thomas A.
Published: August 2013

The study of ontogeny as an integral part of understanding the pattern of evolution dates back over 200 years, but only recently have ontogenetic data been explicitly incorporated into phylogenetic analyses. Pancrustaceans undergo radical ontogenetic changes. The spectacular upper Cambrian “Orsten” fauna preserves phosphatized fossil larvae, including putative crown‐group pancrustaceans with amazingly complete developmental sequences. The putative presence and nature of adult stages remains a source of debate, causing spurious placements in a traditional morphological analysis. We introduce a new coding method where each semaphoront (discrete larval or adult stage) is considered an operational taxonomic unit. This avoids a priori assumptions of heterochrony. Characters and their states are defined to identify changes in morphology throughout ontogeny. Phylogenetic analyses of semaphoronts produced possible relationships of each Orsten fossil to the crown‐group clade expected from morphology shared with extant larvae. Bredocaris is a member of the stem lineage of Thecostraca or (Thecostraca + Copepoda), and Yicaris and Rehbachiella are probably members of the stem lineage of Cephalocarida. These placements rely directly on comparisons between extant and fossil larval character states. The position of Phosphatocopina remains unresolved. This method may have broader applications to other phylogenetic problems which may rely on ontogenetically variable homology statements.
Omental pedicle flaps following proctectomy: a systematic review
Authors: Killeen S. , Devaney A. , Mannion M. , Martin S. T. , Winter D. C.
Published: August 2013

Aim

Abdominoperineal excision (APR) for cancer carries significant morbidity of the perineal wound. An omental pedicle graft has been used to fill the pelvis and limit attendant complications after radical extirpation of the anorectum. A review of the literature was conducted to determine whether omentoplasty following APR reduces perineal wound complications.

Method

Three major databases (PubMed, MEDLINE and the Cochrane Library) were searched. The review included original articles reporting outcomes after APR and omentoplasty from January 1950 to July 2012.

Results

Fourteen studies involving 891 patients (mean age 61 years, 59.8% men) were included. Median follow‐up was 13.5 months. A variety of omentoplasty techniques added a median of 20 min to the operating time. The mean rate of primary wound healing was 66.8%, time to wound healing 24 days and weighted mean wound infection rate 14.4% with omentoplasty compared with 50.1%, 79 days and 18.5% in patients having no omentoplasty.

Conclusion

Omental mobilization, transfer and buttressing of primary perineal repair following proctectomy reduces perineal wound morbidity with minimal additional operating time or flap‐associated morbidity.
760. RETAMA SPHAEROCARPA
Authors: Cullen James , Lewis Gwilym
Published: August 2013

Retama sphaerocarpa (L.) Boiss., (Leguminosae) a yellow‐flowered shrub from the Iberian Peninsula and North Africa, is described and illustrated.
Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided tissue acquisition
Authors: Varadarajulu Shyam , Hasan Muhammad K. , Bang Ji Young , Hebert‐Magee Shantel , Hawes Robert H.
Published: August 2013

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is an indispensable tool for tissue acquisition in patients with gastrointestinal tumors. While fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) has been routinely carried out for establishing tissue diagnosis, the emerging concept of tailoring chemotherapeutic agents based on molecular markers has increased the demand for core tissue procurement by means of EUS‐guided fine‐needle biopsy (EUS‐FNB). In addition, FNB may offset the limitations of FNA wherein the diagnostic sensitivity is incumbent on the availability of an onsite cytopathologist. Given the increasing number of procedures being done, developing a unit‐specific algorithmic approach for needle selection isimportant to improve the procedural efficiency and utilization of resources. Finally, the best outcomes can be attained only by practicing evidence‐based techniques, procuring adequate quantity of sample for ancillary studies and processing the specimens appropriately.
Inflammatory bowel disease and novel endoscopic technologies
Authors: Naganuma Makoto , Hosoe Naoki , Ogata Haruhiko
Published: August 2013

Conventional ileocolonoscopy and barium small bowel follow‐through are useful techniques for assessing the extension and severity of disease in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). More recently, novel techniques to enable IBD diagnosis have been developed, such as capsule endoscopy (CE), balloon enteroscopy (BE), computed tomography enterography (CTE) and magnetic resonance enterography (MRE). The advantages of CE and BE are that they enable mucosal assessment directly whereas the usefulness of CTE/MRE is in its ability to enable detection of transmural inflammation, stenosis, and extraintestinal lesions including abscesses and fistulas. In ulcerative colitis (UC), colitis‐associated dysplasia/cancer is one of the criticalcomplications in patients with chronic disease. Detection of colitis‐associated cancer is difficult in cases with inflammation. Magnification colonoscopy has been used to detect dysplasia in patients with chronic UC. Furthermore, colon CE and endocytoscopy have also developed and these might be used for selected patients in the near future.
Family function and its relationship to injury severity and psychiatric outcome in children with acquired brain injury: a systematized review
Authors: Lax Pericall Maria Teresa , Taylor Eric
Published: August 2013

Aim

The psychological and psychiatric outcome of children with acquired brain injury is influenced by many variables. A review was undertaken to clarify the contribution of family function, how it relates to injury severity, and what particular aspects of family function influence psychological outcome in this group.

Method

A systematized review of the literature of studies published between 1970 and 2012 fromOvidMedline,PsychoInfo,PsycARTICLES, andCochrane was undertaken focusing on family function, injury severity, and psychiatric outcome.

Results

Thirty‐six papers met the inclusion criteria. Injury severity was linked to the development of organic personality change. Family function before injury, measured by theFamilyAssessmentDevice or theClinicalRatingScale, had a statistically significant effect on general psychological functioning in six out of eight studies. Family function had a significant effect for oppositional defiant disorder and secondary attention‐deficit–hyperactivity disorder. The effects of family function may differ depending on the age of the child and the severity of the injury. Some styles of parenting moderated recovery. After injury, family function was related to the child's contemporaneous psychiatric symptoms. The level of evidence for these papers was 3 or 4 (OxfordCentre forEvidence‐basedMedicine criteria).

Interpretation

Screening for some aspects of family functioning before injury and family function during the rehabilitation phase may identify children at risk of psychiatric disorders.
The dynamics of wage determination in Romania
Authors: Christou Costas
Published: August 2013

This article examines wage developments in Romania over the last 20 years, discusses the evolving role of government wage policy and structural labour market changes, and analyses the dynamics of the wage determination process. It finds that government wage policy has had a significant demonstration effect on private sector wages, driven mainly by policy decisions over the past few years. The article also finds strong causality from private sector wages to wages in state‐owned enterprises (SOEs) and government. No causality was found for changes in government wages to wages in SOEs or from SOE wages to private sector wages.
Communication between plants: induced resistance in poplar seedlings following herbivore infestation, mechanical wounding, and volatile treatment of the neighbors
Authors: Tang Fang , Zhao Wen‐Liang , Gao Xi‐Wu
Published: August 2013

The possibility of communication between plants was proposed over 25 years ago, although previous demonstrations have suffered from methodological problems and have not been widely accepted. Micromelalopha troglodyta (Graeser) and Clostera anastomosis (L.) (both Lepidoptera: Notodontidae) are important leaf‐feeding insects on poplars (Populus spp.; Salicaceae). There is no report of M. troglodyta‐ or C. anastomosis‐induced plant–plant communication up to now. To understand the regulatory mechanism of poplar defense responses, the specific activities of the presumed anti‐herbivore enzymes phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL), lipoxygenase (LOX), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), and peroxidase (POD) were determined in poplar seedlings treated with herbivore infestation and volatiles, artificially damaged seedlings, and intact healthy poplar seedlings growing nearby. The expression levels of PPO, POD, PAL, and LOX were elevated in poplar seedlings treated by herbivore infestation, mechanical wounding, methyl jasmonate, methyl salicylate, or benzothiazole. Furthermore, plants neighboring the treated poplar seedlings also showed increased expression levels of PPO, POD, PAL, and LOX relative to the control. These induced responses against feeding injury, mechanical wounding, and volatile treatment in expression levels of PPO, POD, PAL, and LOX suggest interplant communication between poplar seedlings.
Could Reliability Naturally Imply Safety?
Authors: Palermos Spyridon Orestis
Published: August 2013

The aim of the present paper is to argue that robust virtue epistemology is correct. That is, a complete account of knowledge is not in need for an additional modal criterion in order to account for knowledge‐undermining epistemic luck. I begin by presenting the problems facing robust virtue epistemology by examining two prominent counterexamples—the Barney and ‘epistemic twin earth’ cases. After proposing a way in which virtue epistemology can explain away these two problematic cases, thereby, implying that cognitive abilities are also safe, I offer a naturalistic explanation in support of this last claim, inspired by evolutionary epistemology. Finally, I argue that naturalized epistemology should not be thought of as being exclusively descriptive. On the contrary, the evolutionary story I offer in support of the claim that reliability implies safety can provide us with a plausible epistemic norm.
Forest bolsters bird abundance, pest control and coffee yield
Authors: Karp Daniel S. , Mendenhall Chase D. , Sandí Randi Figueroa , Chaumont Nicolas , Ehrlich Paul R. , Hadly Elizabeth A. , Daily Gretchen C.
Published: August 2013

Efforts to maximise crop yields are fuelling agricultural intensification, exacerbating the biodiversity crisis. Low‐intensity agricultural practices, however, may not sacrifice yields if they support biodiversity‐driven ecosystem services. We quantified the value native predators provide to farmers by consuming coffee's most damaging insect pest, the coffee berry borer beetle (Hypothenemus hampei). Our experiments in Costa Rica showed birds reduced infestation by ~ 50%, bats played a marginal role, and farmland forest cover increased pest removal. We identified borer‐consuming bird species by assaying faeces for borer DNA and found higher borer‐predator abundances on more forested plantations. Our coarse estimate is that forest patches doubled pest control over 230 km2 by providing habitat for ~ 55 000 borer‐consuming birds. These pest‐control services prevented US$75–US$310 ha‐year−1 in damage, a benefit per plantation on par with the average annual income of a Costa Rican citizen. Retaining forest and accounting for pest control demonstrates a win–win for biodiversity and coffee farmers.
Clinical dissection of early onset absence epilepsy in children and prognostic implications
Authors: Agostinelli Sergio , Accorsi Patrizia , Beccaria Francesca , Belcastro Vincenzo , Canevini Maria Paola , Capovilla Giuseppe , Cappanera Silvia , Bernardina Bernardo Dalla , Darra Francesca , Gaudio Luigi Del , Elia Maurizio , Falsaperla Raffaele , Giordano Lucio , Gobbi Giuseppe , Minetti Carlo , Nicita Francesco , Parisi Pasquale , Pavone Piero , Pezzella Marianna , Sesta Michela , Spalice Alberto , Striano Salvatore , Tozzi Elisabetta , Traverso Monica , Vari Stella , Vignoli Aglaia , Zamponi Nelia , Zara Federico , Striano Pasquale , Verrotti Alberto ,   on behalf of the SINP (Società Italiana Neurologia Pediatrica) Collaborative Working Group
Published: August 2013

Purpose

To investigate whether patients with typical absence seizures (TAS) starting in the first 3 years of life, conformed to Panayiotopoulos's definition of childhood absence epilepsy (CAE), show different electroclinical course than those not fulfillingCAEcriteria.

Methods

In this multicenter retrospective study, we choose a fixed duration follow‐up of 36 months to examine the electroclinical course of epilepsy in all children withTASstarting before 3 years of age. The probands who fulfilled Panayiotopoulos's criteria forCAEwere classified as having pure early onset absence epilepsy (P‐EOAE), whereas those who did not as nonpureEOAE(NP‐EOAE). In addition, these two groups of patients were further stratified according to the number of antiepileptic drugs taken to obtain initial seizure control (mono‐, bi‐, and tritherapy).

Key Findings

Patients with P‐EOAE(n = 111) showed earlier initial seizure control (p = 0.030) and better seizure‐free survival curve (p = 0.004) than those withNP‐EOAE(n = 77). No mutation inSLC2A1gene or abnormal neuroimaging was observed in P‐EOAE. Among patients withNP‐EOAE, those receiving tritherapy showed increased risk of structural brain abnormalities (p = 0.001) orSLC2A1mutations (p = 0.001) but fewer myoclonic features (p = 0.031) and worse seizure‐free survival curve (p = 0.047) than those treated with mono‐ and bitherapy. Children withNP‐EOAEhad 2.134 the odds of having relapse during the follow‐up compare to those with P‐EOAE.

Significance

Children with early onsetTASwho did meet Panayiotopoulos's criteria showed a favorable course of epilepsy, whereas patients not fulfilling Panayiotopoulos's criteria showed increased risk of relapse at long‐term follow‐up.
Dimensions of Animal Personalities in Guinea Pigs
Authors: Zipser Benjamin , Kaiser Sylvia , Sachser Norbert
Published: August 2013

Behavioural phenotypes can be studied from a variety of perspectives. Recent developments have focused on the individual, seeking patterns of behaviour that are stable over time and/or across different contexts (animal personalities). This study applied this method of understanding individual behavioural variability to domestic guinea pigs. Two behavioural domains were investigated: emotionality and social behaviour. Additionally, individual cortisol–stress reactivity and dominance status were examined. Adult male domestic guinea pigs living in large mixed‐sex colonies were subjected to a series of behavioural and physiological tests twice with an intertest interval of 8 wk. Individual consistency over time was found regarding social behaviour, cortisol reactivity and dominance status, whereas no stability regarding emotional behaviour was detected. Furthermore, no stability over contexts was found. Our results suggest that the concept of animal personality is applicable to domestic guinea pigs. The ecological relevance of these data is underscored by the fact that they were obtained in animals from a very rich, socially complex scenario. Moreover, our study highlights that behaviour alone is not sufficient to describe individual phenotypic consistency. Physiological parameters such as stress reactivity should be included in animal personality research. Furthermore dominance – a relative measure which is not an absolute attribute of individuals – proved to be stable over time and thus also shed light on individuality.
Board Structure and Intragroup Propping: Evidence from Family Business Groups in Hong Kong
Authors: Cheung Yan‐Leung , Haw In‐Mu , Tan Weiqiang , Wang Wenming
Published: August 2013

Using earnings announcement events made by group member firms in Hong Kong, this study examines the governance role of boards of directors in curbing propping activities within family business groups. We find that earnings released by group member firms affect the stock prices of their nonannouncing group peers in a manner consistent with intragroup propping. More importantly, this effect is less pronounced when the announcing firms have a larger board or a board with a higher proportion of independent directors, but more pronounced when they have an executive director from their controlling families acting as board chairperson. Furthermore, the monitoring effect of boards of directors is strengthened for firms subject to new regulations increasing board power. Our results suggest that board oversight can mitigate propping activities.
Impact evaluation of spear fishing on fish communities in an urban area of São Miguel Island (Azores Archipelago)
Authors: Diogo H. M. C. , Pereira J. G.
Published: August 2013

This study was conducted in São Miguel Island (Azores archipelago) providing the first evidence from Macaronesia of spear fishing impacts on fish communities. The shoreline was monitored during 10 months by access point surveys where 220 fishers were interviewed and 27 target fish species were identified. Mean sizes of top predators and highly vulnerable species were generally less than the respective minimum first maturation length. Species intrinsic vulnerability was moderate with an average of 46.7 (max. 100). There are indications that spear fishers, in the absence of high trophic level and larger species, target smaller and lower trophic level fish, atypical of a highly selective fishery. Daily bag limits were not respected in 36.9% of spear fishing operations and 59% of the catch from the area was illegally sold, a practice likely to have negative consequences for the commercial sector.
A Geochemical Approach to Determine Sources and Movement of Saline Groundwater in a Coastal Aquifer
Authors: Anders Robert , Mendez Gregory O. , Futa Kiyoto , Danskin Wesley R.
Published: August 2013

Geochemical evaluation of the sources and movement of saline groundwater in coastal aquifers can aid in the initial mapping of the subsurface when geological information is unavailable. Chloride concentrations of groundwater in a coastal aquifer near San Diego, California, range from about 57 to 39,400 mg/L. On the basis of relative proportions of major‐ions, the chemical composition is classified as Na‐Ca‐Cl‐SO4, Na‐Cl, or Na‐Ca‐Cl type water. δ2H and δ18O values range from −47.7‰ to −12.8‰ and from −7.0‰ to −1.2‰, respectively. The isotopically depleted groundwater occurs in the deeper part of the coastal aquifer, and the isotopically enriched groundwater occurs in zones of sea water intrusion. 87Sr/86Sr ratios range from about 0.7050 to 0.7090, and differ between shallower and deeper flow paths in the coastal aquifer. 3H and 14C analyses indicate that most of the groundwater was recharged many thousands of years ago. The analysis of multiple chemical and isotopic tracers indicates that the sources and movement of saline groundwater in the San Diego coastal aquifer are dominated by: (1) recharge of local precipitation in relatively shallow parts of the flow system; (2) regional flow of recharge of higher‐elevation precipitation along deep flow paths that freshen a previously saline aquifer; and (3) intrusion of sea water that entered the aquifer primarily during premodern times. Two northwest‐to‐southeast trending sections show the spatial distribution of the different geochemical groups and suggest the subsurface in the coastal aquifer can be separated into two predominant hydrostratigraphic layers.
The evolving classification of soft tissue tumours – an update based on the new 2013 WHO classification
Authors: Fletcher Christopher D M
Published: August 2013

The new World Health Organization (WHO) classification of soft tissue tumours was published in early 2013, almost 11 years after the previous edition. While the number of newly recognized entities included for the first time is fewer than that in 2002, there have instead been substantial steps forward in molecular genetic and cytogenetic characterization of this family of tumours, leading to more reproducible diagnosis, a more meaningful classification scheme and providing new insights regarding pathogenesis, which previously has been obscure in most of these lesions. This brief overview summarizes changes in the classification in each of the broad categories of soft tissue tumour (adipocytic, fibroblastic, etc.) and also provides a short summary of newer genetic data which have been incorporated in the WHO classification.
Attitudes to rapid HIV testing among Spanish General Practitioners
Authors: Agustí C , Fernàndez‐López L , Mascort J , Carrillo R , Aguado C , Montoliu A , Puigdangolas X , De la Poza M , Rifà B , Casabona J
Published: August 2013

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to investigate the acceptability of rapid HIV testing among general practitioners in Spain and to identify perceived barriers and needs in order to implement rapid testing in primary care settings.

Methods

An anonymous questionnaire was distributed online to all members of the two largest Spanish scientific medical societies for family and community medicine. The study took place between 15th June and 31st October 2010.

Results

Completed questionnaires were returned by 1308 participants. The majority (90.8%) of respondents were General Practitioners (GP). Among all respondents, 70.4% were aware of the existence of rapid tests for the diagnosis of HIV but they did not know how to use them. Nearly 80% of participants would be willing to offer rapid HIV testing in their practices and 74.7% would be confident of the results obtained by these tests. The barriers most commonly identified by respondents were a lack of time and a need for training, both in the use of rapid tests (44.3% and 56.4%, respectively) and required pre‐ and post‐test counselling (59.2% and 34.5%, respectively).

Conclusions

This study reveals a high level of acceptance and willingness on the part of GPs to offer rapid HIV testing in their practices. Nevertheless, the implementation of rapid HIV testing in primary care will not be possible without moving from comprehensive pre‐test counselling towards brief pre‐test information and improving training in the use of rapid tests.
Feasibility and acceptability of HIV screening through the use of rapid tests by general practitioners in a Brussels area with a substantial African community
Authors: Gennotte A‐F , Semaille P , Ellis C , Necsoi C , Abdulatif M , Chellum N , Evaldre C , Laporte F , Mernier M , Ounchif K , Gidiuta D , Schellens M‐J , Clumeck N
Published: August 2013

Objectives

To assess:1) if HIV screening with rapid tests in neighbourhoods with a substantial African community is feasible and acceptable among GPs and patients; 2) HIV seroprevalence.

Methods

Multicenter prospective study with 10 trained physicians. Use of HIV standard test and INSTI Ultrarapid test. Inclusion criteria: MSM, sex worker, multiple sexual partners, having returned or coming from a country with high HIV prevalence, IVDU, Indicator conditions as defined by HIV Indicator Diseases across Europe Study, having an AIDS‐defining illness, having had a recent pregnancy or abortion; or presenting other risks.

Results

From August 2010 to August 2011, 10 trained GPs offered an HIV test to 224 patients: 51% ♀, 48% ♂, 43% Caucasians, 45% Africans. Inclusion criteria: 32% ”high risk group”, 9% returning from an endemic country, 29% with an indicator condition; 12 patients (6%) refused the standard test. The INSTI was offered to 217(97%), 197 performed with 2 reactive rapid tests confirmed. The seroprevalence according to ethnic origin was 0% among Caucasians and 2.2% among Africans and was 1.5% among patients with an indicator condition. 1087 consecutive consultations of the same GPs were recorded: 42% patients had ≥1 inclusion criteria among which 41% of offered tests, that is to say 59% of “missed opportunities”. The reasons for not offering the test as recorded for 55% of patients:“not indicated” 44.5%, “no time” 33%, “impossible to propose” 15%, test completed previously 11%, known HIV‐positive 4%.

Conclusions

Standard and rapid tests are well received by patients but were usually not offered by doctors who have been trained.
Acute kidney injury caused by tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and diclofenac co‐administration
Authors: Bickel M , Khaykin P , Stephan C , Schmidt K , Buettner M , Amann K , Lutz T , Gute P , Haberl A , Geiger H , Brodt HR , Jung O
Published: August 2013

Objectives

The renal elimination of tenofovir (TFV) may be subject to renal drug−drug interactions that may increase the risk of kidney injury. Case reports indicated that diclofenac might increase TFV‐associated nephrotoxicity via a drug−drug interaction, leading to an increased intracellular TFV concentration in proximal tubular cells.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of data for all patients from the Frankfurt HIV Cohort (FHC) who had diclofenac prescriptions between January 2008 and June 2012 was carried out.

Results

Among 89 patients with diclofenac use, 61 patients (68.5%) were treated with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) and 28 patients (31.5%) were treated with TDF‐sparing combination antiretroviral therapy (cART). Thirteen patients (14.6%) developed acute kidney injury (AKI) shortly after initiating diclofenac treatment. AKI occurred exclusively in TDF‐treated patients, although all had previously stable renal function. All cases were accompanied by new onset of at least two parameters indicating proximal tubular damage, such as normoglycaemic‐glucosuria and hypophosphataemia. TFV‐associated nephrotoxicity was demonstrated by renal biopsy in four cases. Additionally, 11.5% of patients on TDF treatment developed new‐onset proximal tubular damage, while having a preserved glomerular filtration rate. In contrast, diclofenac did not affect renal function in patients with TDF‐sparing cART, as only one case of isolated hypophataemia was observed in these patients. In univariate analysis, risk factors for AKI were TDF‐containing cART (P = 0.0076) and pre‐existing hypophosphataemia (P = 0.0086).

Conclusions

Drug−drug interaction caused by diclofenac could exacerbate TFV‐associated nephrotoxicity. Diclofenac should be used with caution in patients on TDF therapy, especially in those with hypophosphataemia. Our findings need to be confirmed in larger studies.
An inter‐laboratory evaluation of OD‐3 zircon for use as a secondary U–Pb dating standard
Authors: Iwano Hideki , Orihashi Yuji , Hirata Takafumi , Ogasawara Masatsugu , Danhara Tohru , Horie Kenji , Hasebe Noriko , Sueoka Shigeru , Tamura Akihiro , Hayasaka Yasutaka , Katsube Aya , Ito Hisatoshi , Tani Kenichiro , Kimura Jun‐Ichi , Chang Qing , Kouchi Yoshikazu , Haruta Yasuhiro , Yamamoto Koshi
Published: August 2013

Zircon OD‐3 from the Paleogene Kawamoto Granodiorite (Mihara body) in Japan has been identified as a potential multi‐grain secondary standard for U–Pb dating. We have carried out an inter‐laboratory evaluation in order to evaluate possible heterogeneity amongst the OD‐3 zircon grains. U–Pb ages were obtained using two analytical techniques (a sensitive high‐resolution ion microprobe and a laser ablation–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry) in eight laboratories. All the 238U–206Pb ages show good agreement, with an overall weighted average 238U–206Pb age of 33.0 ± 0.1 Ma (2σ). The U–Pb age results revealed no significant variation or heterogeneity in the U–Pb ages of the OD‐3 grains. Twelve fission‐track (FT) ages from three laboratories are also reported, and have a weighted average of 32.6 ± 0.6 Ma (2σ). Despite the different closure and annealing temperatures of the U–Pb and FT chronometers, respectively, the FT age is in good agreement with the U–Pb age. This suggests that the OD‐3 zircon had a relatively fast cooling history and has not experienced later thermal annealing. The chronological dataset reported here clearly demonstrates that the OD‐3 zircon could be a useful and reliable secondary standard for use during U–Pb dating studies of Cenozoic zircons.