bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Socio-economic influences on health information searching in the USA: the case of diabetes
Authors: Janeice Morgan Allison , M. Trauth Eileen
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to consider the effect of demographic differences on the motivations and abilities of individuals with diabetes in their search for health information online. Using data gathered from a qualitative study of 30 individuals, the paper examined instances of user-based health motivation and abilities using the lens of demographic differences to identify the influence on health information searching and potential health outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper utilized an interpretive, mixed methodology research design. The paper was composed of a user “experience” that served as a critical incident to the paper, where each participant was prompted to do online searching for health and nutrition information. This was followed by open-ended interviews to gain a deeper understanding of each participants’ online searching experience.

Findings

– The theoretical model used was the Integrated Model of E-Health Use by Dutta-Bergman (2006) which frames the influence of group and individual-level differences on health information search and e-health use and subsequently health outcomes. The paper found that experiences among diabetic patients who have an assumed intrinsic motivation to search have differential searching behaviors due to a number of factors including access to health care provider or resources, searching success, and significant people in the individuals’ lives. Assumptions about race and socio-economic status are challenged because of the geographic location in which people live and work.

Research limitations/implications

– This research on intersectionality and the health information consumer contributes to a better understanding of health information searching behavior. Implications from this research for practice are that search technology in the domain of health should be made customizable, that a variety of user perspectives should be incorporated in the e-health systems development process, and that a comprehensive view of the user in system development should be utilized. In addition, those with diabetes or other chronic illnesses should seek out a variety of resources to enhance their health outcomes.

Originality/value

– The examination constitutes one of the few investigations into health information consumer characteristics that might influence the person-technology-information interaction in the context of health care provision. This type of examination into health care consumer characteristics and information behavior is necessary because it has bearing on the success of health care information systems implementation and impact.
The role of branding capability for innovative companies
Authors: Lei Xinghui , Ye Tingting , Abimbola Temi
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– This paper is devoted to describe how innovation should be branded and bridge the gap between branding and innovation, where the role of branding capability is crucial. The study aims to discuss the link between branding and innovation, both theoretically and empirically.

Design/methodology/approach

– On the basis of current resource-based theory and dynamic capabilities theory and brand management, the research explores the role of branding capability for innovative companies. For the empirical part, an event study is first used to calculate the abnormal returns from new product announcement. Second, different regression models are analyzed to check the effect of branding capability on the stock market reaction to new product announcements made by those innovative companies.

Findings

– The stock market response to new product announcements is related to branding capability, but negatively. The reason could be that the more famous the brand is, the higher expectations the investors would hold with its new products.

Research limitations/implications

– The empirical study is based on the computer/electronics industry, and the pooled sample consists of those strong brands in the marketplace, which is not representative for the innovative companies as a whole. Thus, this paper has limited scope to generalize the results.

Practical implications

– With the development of wireless communication technologies, the new offerings from innovative companies would not be simply categorized by tangible devices or intangible services. Moreover, the brand alliance strategy in the tablet and handset market, or even PCs and netbook market, is much more complicated than simply choosing partners.

Originality/value

– The main contribution of this paper is to extend the prior researches in branded innovation and fill in the gap between innovation and brand.
The effect of culturally-determined entry mode on firm performance in the global retail industry
Authors: Roh Taewoo , Cho Dong-Sung , Moon Hwy-Chang , Lee Yun-Cheol
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– The aim of this study is to examine the entry mode that retail firms correctly choose when culture is simultaneously considered has a positive effect on firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

– This study relies on the two-step analysis originally derived from Heckman and applied into multinational enterprises (MNEs) entry mode by Shaver. To figure out the probability of entry mode in the first step, the paper uses the logit regression that independent variable is four culture dimensions and dependent variable is the entry mode (joint venture vs wholly owned subsidiary). Since the selection bias is relatively reduced by adding lambda calculated in the first step to the second step that verifies the degree of fit, the safety for interpretation of subsequent models is secured.

Findings

– This study collected 96 entries of top global retail firms and found out the relationship between culturally determined entry mode and firm performance is positively significant. While existing literatures dealing with manufacturing firms' international entries showed that wholly owned subsidiary is favored over joint venture when the cultural distance is high, this study focusing on retail firms in the service sector indicates that those firms are more likely to enter the global market with joint venture. Finally, firms that appropriately understand cultural distance demonstrated higher performance in the target country.

Originality/value

– This study focuses on the relationship between culturally determined entry mode and firm performance in the service sector, whereas extant literatures heavily depend on the one in the manufacturing sector. Moreover, the two-step analysis is exquisitely adopted to confirm the hypotheses.
Airport service quality drivers of passenger satisfaction
Authors: Bogicevic Vanja , Yang Wan , Bilgihan Anil , Bujisic Milos
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– Considering the complexity of the airport industry service palette, it is important to identify which air travel factors are distractors and which factors are enhancers of passenger satisfaction. Building on Herzberg's two-factor motivation theory, this study aims to explore most frequently mentioned attributes of airport service quality and distinguish key drivers for passenger satisfaction/dissatisfaction in the airport context.

Design/methodology/approach

– A content analysis of 1,095 traveler comments posted between 2010 and 2013 on an airport review web site was performed in order to identify satisfiers/dissatisfiers. The web spider randomly selected consumer comments related to 33 popular destinations.

Findings

– The study results indicated key satisfiers in the airport context such as cleanliness and pleasant environment to spend time in. On the other side, security-check, confusing signage and poor dining offer are recognized as major dissatisfiers in the airport setting.

Practical implications

– The study findings provide insight on predominant satisfiers, dissastisfiers and performance factors of airport service quality from passengers' perspectives. Airport management teams may use the study results to renovate airport facility and improve service quality.

Originality/value

– To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study is the first to utilize the visual data mining techniques in examining airport users' experience. Visualization produced summaries of qualitative comments in the form of tag clouds, word networks, and word tree images that help discover the most emerging themes of travelers' complaints and compliments.
Conceptualising Ideational Novelty: A Relational Approach
Authors: Carstensen Martin B.
Published: October 2013

Research Highlights and Abstract

This article

Gives clearer conceptualisation of what an idea is. Provides clearer conceptualisation of how ideas may change over time. Uses central arguments from relational sociology and conceptual analysis in discursive institutionalism. Provides new theoretical perspectives on ideational change in wake of the recent financial- and economic crisis.

How can we conceptualise the emergence of new political ideas? Demonstrating that the discursive institutionalist literature is silent on this question, the article links this theoretical lacuna to the problem of ideational infinite regress, i.e. that if we try to identify the absolute origin of an idea, we find that the relations to other ideational elements develop ad infinitum and the end or beginning of the idea never appears. Ideas do not emerge from an absolute origin but instead are created when a set of ideational elements are yoked together by political actors. Three ways that ideational change occurs is suggested: a change in the relations in the idea (recasting the idea), the replacement of at least one of the existing ideational elements with ideational elements hitherto not part of the idea (renewing the idea) and finally a wholesale change of ideational elements in the idea (revolutionising the idea).
Transnational Veto Players and the Practice of Financial Reform
Authors: Tsingou Eleni
Published: October 2013

Research Highlights and Abstract

Concepts from domestic and comparative politics can be applied in a transnational context; the article develops the notion of ‘transnational veto players'to explain the practice of financial reform. Understanding the nature of constituency in a transnational context is important for explanations of actor preferences and the mode of policy that ensues. While actors involved in global standard-setting in finance have formal defined constituencies, when operating in a transnational setting their interactions render their constituencies diffuse, including peers and other interlocutors. In transnational settings, actors act as veto players by defining and delimiting the pool of ideas available for reform. ‘Too big to fail’ has been highlighted as an important target for reform but the resulting changes in the regulatory treatment of large financial institutions do not alter their core functions.

Policy processes in transnational settings are shaped by actors whose approval and consent are required for reform to take place. These ‘transnational veto players'frame and delimit policy options. The concept of ‘transnational veto players’ is developed through an empirical analysis of global reforms in the regulatory treatment of large financial institutions deemed ‘too big to fail’. Actors debating and developing policy on ‘too big to fail’ may have formal defined constituencies, as regulators, academics or lobbying organisations, but in their transnational interactions they are also informed by a diffuse constituency of peers through their multiple associations within policy communities. These interactions determine which policy ideas are permissible and how they are adopted. The ‘too big to fail’ case shows how reform activity to curtail the risks posed by large financial institutions may also inadvertently strengthen their position as transnational veto players.
Structural Models of Ligand‐Gated Ion Channels: Sites of Action for Anesthetics and Ethanol
Authors: Olsen Richard W. , Li Guo‐Dong , Wallner Martin , Trudell James R. , Bertaccini Edward J. , Lindahl Erik , Miller Keith W. , Alkana Ronald L. , Davies Daryl L.
Published: October 2013

The molecular mechanism(s) of action of anesthetic, and especially, intoxicating doses of alcohol (ethanol [EtOH]) have been of interest even before the advent of the Research Society on Alcoholism. Recent physiological, genetic, and biochemical studies have pin‐pointed molecular targets for anesthetics and EtOH in the brain as ligand‐gated ion channel (LGIC) membrane proteins, especially the pentameric (5 subunit) Cys‐loop superfamily of neurotransmitter receptors including nicotinic acetylcholine (nAChRs), GABAA (GABAARs), and glycine receptors (GlyRs). The ability to demonstrate molecular and structural elements of these proteins critical for the behavioral effects of these drugs on animals and humans provides convincing evidence for their role in the drugs' actions. Amino acid residues necessary for pharmacologically relevant allosteric modulation of LGIC function by anesthetics and EtOH have been identified in these channel proteins. Site‐directed mutagenesis revealed potential allosteric modulatory sites in both the trans‐membrane domain (TMD) and extracellular domain (ECD). Potential sites of action and binding have been deduced from homology modeling of other LGICs with structures known from crystallography and cryo‐electron microscopy studies. Direct information about ligand binding in the TMD has been obtained by photoaffinity labeling, especially in GABAARs. Recent structural information from crystallized procaryotic (ELIC and GLIC) and eukaryotic (GluCl) LGICs allows refinement of the structural models including evaluation of possible sites of EtOH action.
Is excess male infant mortality from sudden infant death syndrome and other respiratory diseases X‐linked?
Authors: Mage David T , Donner E Maria
Published: October 2013

Aim

Male excess infant mortality is well known but unexplained. In 2004, we reported sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and other infant respiratory deaths showed a ~50% male excess in the United States between 1979 and 2002. This study analyses expanded US data from 1968 to 2010 to see whether infant respiratory deaths still show similar ~50% male excess and may be X‐linked.

Methods

The analysis compared infant mortality data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1968–2010, with 11 World Health Organization International Classification of Diseases (ICD) rubric groups for respiratory deaths by accidents, congenital anomalies, respiratory diseases and causes unknown.

Results

The 11 ICD groupings presented male excesses of ~50% and combining the 453 953 US cases produced a male fraction of 0.6034, a 52.1% male excess. A further 72 380 non‐US respiratory cases showed a similar 0.6055 male fraction, a 53.5% male excess.

Conclusion

The constant ~50% male excess for quite different causes of respiratory death suggests they all have a common terminal event and that is acute anoxic encephalopathy. We hypothesise that this constant male excess phenomenon must be caused by a single X‐linked gene, with a recessive condition, leading to a predisposition to succumb to acute anoxic encephalopathy.
2 Territoriality and Politics in the Prehistoric and Classical Aegean
Authors: Bintliff John L.
Published: October 2013

Classical archaeologists are familiar with boundaries, because in Greco Roman society they are itemized in historical sources and inscriptions, as well as visible through stone boundary markers. I examine evidence for formal territoriality (emphasizing restricted access to parts of the landscape) in earlier and later periods of ancient Greece to determine how far back in time political territoriality (the exercise of power over the landscape) began and to examine how it changed following the Classical era. [prehistoric Greece, ancient Greece, territory, boundaries]
Therapeutic Targeting of the JAK/STAT Pathway
Authors: Aittomäki Saara , Pesu Marko
Published: October 2013

Antibodies that block cytokine function provide a powerful therapeutic tool especially for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Cytokines are a group of small hydrophilic glycoproteins that bind their receptors on the cell surface and subsequently activate intracellular signalling cascades, such as the JAK/STAT pathway. A bulk of evidence has demonstrated that genetic mutations in signalling molecules can cause immunodeficiencies and malignant cell growth. As a result, several drug companies have begun to develop therapeutics that inhibit the function of JAK tyrosine kinases. Currently, two JAK inhibitors, tofacitinib and ruxolitinib, are used in the clinic for treating rheumatoid arthritis and myeloproliferative diseases, respectively. Inhibiting JAK function has been shown to efficiently prevent the uncontrolled growth of cancerous cells and to harness overly active immune cells. In the future, other small molecule compounds are likely to come into clinical use, and intense work is ongoing to develop inhibitors that specifically target the constitutively active mutant JAKs. This MiniReview will summarize the basic features of the JAK/STAT pathway, its role in human disease and the therapeutic potential of JAK/STAT inhibitors.
Importance of Crown Height Ratios in Dental Implants on the Fracture Strength of Different Connection Designs: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Gehrke Sergio Alexandre
Published: October 2013

Purpose

The aim of the present in vitro study was to assess the resistance to static fatigue of implants with different connections at various crown heights.

Materials and Methods

Sixty conical implants and 60 abutments were used with the smallest diameters available for each model. Three groups (n = 20) were established based on the implant connections: Morse taper Ø3.50 mm (group 1), external hexagon Ø3.50 mm (group 2), and internal hexagon Ø3.50 mm (group 3). Four crown heights were tested: h1 = 8 mm, h2 = 10 mm, h3 = 12 mm, and h4 = 14 mm. All groups were subjected to quasi‐static loading at a 30° angle to the implant axis in a universal testing machine.

Results

The mean fracture strengths for group 1 were 1524 N (h1), 1469 N (h2), 750 N (h3), and 729 N (h4). Those for group 2 were 1504 N (h1), 814 N (h2), 491 N (h3), and 325 N (h4). Those for group 3 were 1543 N (h1), 672 N (h2), 403 N (h3), and 390 N (h4).

Conclusions

Resistance to loading decreases significantly with increasing crown height, and the connection design can affect the performance.
Conserving potential coral reef refuges at high latitudes
Authors: Beger Maria , Sommer Brigitte , Harrison Peter L. , Smith Stephen D.A. , Pandolfi John M.
Published: October 2013

Aim

High‐latitude coral reef communities composed of tropical, subtropical and temperate species are heralded as climate change refuges for vulnerable tropical coral reef species, giving them high, but as yet unrealized, conservation priority. We review the ecology of subtropical reefs in the context of climate change and evaluate management strategies ensuring both their own continuity and their potential to act as refuges for tropical species.

Location

Global high‐latitude coral reef environments.

Methods

We review the literature about refuges management, high‐latitude reefs, climate change effects on reef organisms and the conservation of reefs.

Results

High‐latitude coral reef systems are functionally different from their tropical counterparts, characterized by unique biogeographical overlap of taxa at their range margins, endemic species and strong seasonality in species composition. They are shaped by marginal environmental conditions, which are predicted to undergo greater changes than reefs at lower latitudes, resulting in community re‐assembly through range shifts, altered dispersal patterns, survivorship and habitat loss. The combined impact of these changes, however, is difficult to assess, as some effects may be antagonistic. Climate change conservation options include passive management strategies such as no‐take reserves that aim to minimize local disturbances, and active strategies such as relocating populations to refuge sites. Success of active intervention relies on the long‐term persistence of relocated populations, which is unlikely for high‐latitude populations once source tropical populations at lower latitudes are locally extinct.

Main conclusion

High‐latitude reefs are poised for rapid modification under climate change. Management should anticipate these changes by setting up no‐take reserves on suitable subtropical reefs now to foster ecosystem resilience through reduced anthropogenic impacts. Given the uncertainty over which species will arrive or depart and lack of knowledge about the history of most subtropical reef development, active management is presently not the best use of management resources.
A review of evidence about behavioural and psychological aspects of chronic joint pain among people with haemophilia
Authors: Elander J.
Published: October 2013

Joint pain related to haemophilia affects large numbers of people and has a significant impact on their quality of life. This article reviews evidence about behavioural and psychological aspects of joint pain in haemophilia, and considers that evidence in the context of research on other chronic pain conditions. The aim is to inform initiatives to improve pain self‐management among people with haemophilia (PWH). Reduced pain intensity predicts better physical quality of life, so better pain management should lead to improved physical quality of life. Increased pain acceptance predicts better mental quality of life, so acceptance‐based approaches to self‐management could potentially be adapted for PWH. Pain self‐management interventions could include elements designed to: improve assessment of pain; increase understanding of the difference between acute and chronic pain; improve adherence to clotting factor treatment; improve knowledge and understanding about the benefits and costs of using pain medications; improve judgements about what is excessive use of pain medication; increase motivation to self‐manage pain; reduce negative emotional thinking about pain; and increase pain acceptance. The influence of behavioural and psychological factors related to pain are similar in haemophilia and other chronic pain conditions, so there should be scope for self‐management approaches and interventions developed for other chronic pain conditions to be adapted for haemophilia, provided that careful account is taken of the need to respond promptly to acute bleeding pain by administering clotting factor.
Genome‐Wide‐Associated Variants in Migraine Susceptibility: A Replication Study From North India
Authors: Ghosh Jayashri , Pradhan Sunil , Mittal Balraj
Published: October 2013

Objective

Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) have identified various migraine susceptibility variants. We aim to replicate 5 GWAS‐associated polymorphisms (rs1835740, LRP1 rs11172113, TRPM8 rs10166942, PRDM16 rs2651899, and TGFBR2 rs7640453) in the North Indian population. Furthermore, we checked the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in strong linkage disequilibrium (LD) with the selected variants. We also undertook to predict the functional effect (in silico) of the variants.

Design

The study included 340 migraineurs and 200 controls. Genotyping was performed by polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP), amplification‐refractory mutation system (ARMS)‐PCR, and Taqman. Logistic regression was used for association analysis. LD plot was prepared using genotyping data retrieved from ENCODE and HapMart. Functional effect was predicted by functional SNP (F‐SNP)and FastSNP.

Results

We did not observe any significant effect of the variant genotype or allele of the first migraine GWAS associated marker, rs1835740. However, significance was observed in case of heterozygous genotype for total migraineurs and migraine without aura (MO). We suggest potential protective effect of LRP1 rs11172113 polymorphism in migraine susceptibility. PRDM16 rs2651899 variant genotype and allele showed a protective effect on migraine and MO susceptibility. On the other hand, TRPM8 rs10166942 and TGFBR2 rs7640543 variants did not have significant influence on migraine susceptibility in the North Indian population. Most of the selected SNPs (except LRP1 rs11172113) and some of the SNPs in strong LD were predicted to affect transcriptional regulation. Functional effect of LRP1 rs11172113 variant could not be predicted, but another SNP in the same LD block was found to affect transcription factor binding sites.

Conclusion

We report significant influence of rs1835740, LRP1 rs11172113 and PRDM16 rs2651899 polymorphisms on migraine susceptibility in the North Indian population. Finally, we present the first replication study of GWAS‐associated polymorphisms in a population other than European.
Utilization of carboxymethyl chitosan in cosmetics
Authors: Jimtaisong A. , Saewan N.
Published: October 2013

Synopsis

Carboxymethyl chitosan is a chitosan derivative of the most intensively investigated due to its water solubility in wider pH range compared with the parent compound, thus extended its use in various applications. In this review, different preparation conditions, which resulting in the N‐ and O‐carboxylated chitosan, diverse degree of substitution and water solubility are recapitulated. Five important features of carboxymethyl chitosan from recent studies, which are moisture absorption–retention, anti‐microbial properties, antioxidant capacities, delivery system and emulsion stabilization, have been centred and emphasized for cosmetic utilization. Additionally, cytotoxicity information has been inclusively incorporated to ensure its safety in application.
Vitamin B12 and folate deficiency: should we use a different cutoff value for hematologic disorders?
Authors: Toprak B. , Yalcın H. Z. , Colak A.
Published: October 2013

Introduction

Anemia and macrocytosis are well‐defined expected hematologic findings of vitamin B12 and folate deficiency; however, some previous studies did not show a significant association of subnormal B12 with anemia and macrocytosis.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 17 713 laboratory patient records to evaluate vitamin B12 and folate levels in relation to anemia and macrocytosis.

Results

In an age‐ and sex‐adjusted logistic regression model, low B12 status but not marginal B12 status was significantly associated with anemia [ORs respectively, 1.291 (95% CI, 1.182–1.410), 1.022 (95% CI, 0.943–1.108)] and macrocytosis [ORs, respectively, 3.853 (95% CI, 3.121–4.756), 1.031 (95% CI, 0.770–1.381)]. Also low folate status but not marginal folate status was significantly associated with anemia [adjusted ORs, respectively, 1.819 (95% CI, 1.372–2.411), 1.101 (95% CI, 0.931–1.301)] and macrocytosis [adjusted ORs, respectively, 2.945 (95% CI, 1.747–4.965), 1.228 (95% CI, 0.795–1.898)].

Conclusion

Our results show that increased anemia and macrocytosis are observed at values below commonly used B12 lower‐reference thresholds. Determining a hematologic cutoff value may help physicians in clinical practice.
Feminists who flaunt it: exploring the enjoyment of sexualization among young feminist women
Authors: Erchull Mindy J. , Liss Miriam
Published: October 2013

The phenomenon of women enjoying sexualized male attention has recently been operationalized and found to be related to primarily traditional and sexist beliefs, but some argue that enjoying sexiness can be a feminist act. This study assessed the extent to which 326 self‐identified heterosexual feminist women reported that they enjoyed sexualization and how this related to beliefs about the need for social change. Results indicated that enjoying sexualization was related to a mix of feminist and traditional beliefs. Paradoxically, feminists who enjoyed sexualization felt empowered but were less likely to notice personal social injustice or continued gender inequity. Whether embracing empowered sexuality is related to a more general gender empowerment is discussed.
The Political Economy of State Capture in Central Europe
Authors: Innes Abby
Published: October 2013

This article demonstrates that most new EU Member States experience serious problems of state capture. It argues that central European states cluster around two dominant modes of party competition. In the first, predominantly ideologically committed elites (Poland, Hungary, Estonia, Slovenia and Estonia) established relatively ‘electoral professional’ party competitions, only to face deepening fiscal constraints on mainstream ideological competition. Following the collapse of the social democratic left, both Hungary and Poland experienced attempts to reassert political monopoly, i.e., ‘party state capture’. In the second group (Czech Republic, Slovakia, Romania, Bulgaria and Latvia), more entrepreneurial political elites established ‘brokerage’ party systems, in which public policy remains a side‐product of an essentially economic competition. All five states show high levels of ‘corporate state capture’ in which public power is exercised primarily for private gain. These findings contest the more optimistic expectations of the institutionalist literature on state‐building and democratic consolidation.
Post‐Accession Policy‐Making in Bulgaria and Romania: Can Non‐state Actors Use EU Rules to Promote Better Governance?
Authors: Dimitrova Antoaneta , Buzogány Aron
Published: October 2013

This article investigates whether EU accession can help Bulgaria and Romania limit state capture and the undue influence of business actors on the policy process. Particularly vulnerable to such influence, Bulgarian and Romanian institutions are monitored through the EU's co‐operation and verification mechanism and the Commission and ECJ infringement procedures. We argue that, under certain conditions, these tools can improve the quality of democracy in both countries. The key conditions are the presence of domestic actors able to use the EU and carry over procedural policy requirements from the acquis to other policy‐making. Analysing policy‐making processes in the forestry sector, we find NGOs able to use EU links and governments sensitive to naming and shaming can result in a positive influence of EU rules on the policy process and quality of democracy. This is true even in least likely cases, such as non‐acquis policy areas in Bulgaria and Romania.
Pharmacokinetics of drugs in mutant Nagase analbuminemic rats and responses to select diuretics
Authors: Lee Joo Hyun , Lee Young-Joo , Oh Euichaul
Published: October 2013

Objectives

To report (1) the pharmacokinetics of drugs that are mainly metabolized via hepatic cytochrome P450s (CYPs) or mainly excreted via the urine and bile, (2) the mechanism for the urinary excretion of drugs (such as glomerular filtration or renal active secretion or re-absorption), and (3) the diuretic effect of some loop diuretics in mutant Nagase analbuminaemic rats (NARs), an animal model for human familial analbuminaemia based on the pharmacokinetics of drugs reported in the literatures.

Key findings

In NARs, the changes in the time-averaged non-renal clearances (CLNRs) of drugs that are mainly metabolized via CYPs were explained in terms of changes in the hepatic intrinsic clearance (mainly because of changes in CYPs), free (unbound) fractions of drugs in the plasma (fp) and hepatic blood-flow rate (QH) depending on the hepatic excretion ratios of drugs.

The CLNR changes of drugs mainly metabolized via hepatic CYPs can be sufficiently explained by the three earlier mentioned factors. The plasma albumin (furosemide) or globulin (azosemide, bumetanide and torasemide) binding affects their diuretic effects.
The Competitive Advantages Arising from Different Environmental Conditions in Seabream, Sparus aurata, Production in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Llorente Ignacio , Luna Ladislao
Published: October 2013

The economic performance of gilthead seabream, Sparus aurata, aquaculture in Mediterranean countries is not homogeneous despite the availability of a universalized technology and the absence of trade barriers. Differences in competitiveness among aquaculture facilities result, in part, from economic and environmental factors, which are conditioned by the geographical location of the facility. This article aims to identify and analyze the competitive advantages derived from the different environmental conditions in which seabream production has been developed along the Mediterranean Sea. A particle swarm optimization algorithm based on a seabream bioeconomic model was applied to the economic optimization of multibatch aquaculture production. The analysis involved hypothetical fattening farms located in the major areas in which this species is cultured. The water temperature was the only parameter that varied among locations. The average water temperatures in these locations were below the optimum growth temperature, around which growth progressively diminishes. The results of the study showed that the locations with higher average water temperatures and less variable water temperatures allowed the cultivation process to be more economically efficient. The seabream farms located in Greece and Turkey had a competitive advantage in terms of productivity and operating profitability because of more favorable environmental conditions.
Effects of Different Dietary Lipid Sources on Growth Performance, Fatty Acid Composition, and Antioxidant Enzyme Activity of Juvenile Rockfish, Sebastes schlegeli
Authors: Aminikhoei Zahra , Choi Jin , Lee Sang‐Min , Kim Kyoung‐Duck
Published: October 2013

This study was carried out to investigate and compare the effects of various dietary lipid sources on growth performance, body composition, fatty acid profiles, and hepatic and plasma antioxidant enzyme activities of juvenile rockfish, Sebastes schlegeli. Three replicate groups of fish (initial mean weight, 1.7 ± 0.04 g) were fed four isonitrogenous and isolipidic diets containing either fish oil (FO), soybean oil (SO), linseed oil (LO), or a mixture of SO and LO (SO + LO) for 8 wk. There were no significant differences in survival, weight gain, feed efficiency, and protein efficiency ratios of fish fed the diets containing different lipid sources (P > 0.05). The fatty acids compositions of the liver and muscle tissues reflected the dietary fatty acid compositions. Liver and muscle of fish fed the SO diet had high concentration of linoleic acid, whereas those of fish fed the LO diet were rich in linolenic acid. Liver and muscle of fish fed the FO diet had significantly (P < 0.05) higher levels of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid than those of fish fed the SO and LO diets. Dietary lipid source had no significant effect on the hepatic and plasma enzyme activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase. The results of this study suggest that SO and LO can be used as a replacement for FO in the diets of juvenile rockfish without incurring any negative effects on growth, feed utilization, and antioxidant enzyme activity, when the dietary essential fatty acid requirements are satisfied for rockfish.
The neonatal lung – physiology and ventilation
Authors: Neumann Roland P. , von Ungern‐Sternberg Britta S.
Published: October 2013

This review article focuses on neonatal respiratory physiology, mechanical ventilation of the neonate and changes induced by anesthesia and surgery. Optimal ventilation techniques for preterm and term neonates are discussed. In summary, neonates are at high risk for respiratory complications during anesthesia, which can be explained by their characteristic respiratory physiology. Especially the delicate balance between closing volume and functional residual capacity can be easily disturbed by anesthetic and surgical interventions resulting in respiratory deterioration. Ventilatory strategies should ideally include application of an ‘open lung strategy’ as well avoidance of inappropriately high VT and excessive oxygen administration. In critically ill and unstable neonates, for example, extremely low‐birthweight infants surgery in the neonatal intensive care unit might be an appropriate alternative to the operating theater. Best respiratory management of neonates during anesthesia is a team effort that should involve a joint multidisciplinary approach of anesthetists, pediatric surgeons, cardiologists, and neonatologists to reduce complications and optimize outcomes in this vulnerable population.
Melatonin's protective effect against UV radiation: a systematic review of clinical and experimental studies
Authors: Scheuer Cecilie , Pommergaard Hans‐Christian , Rosenberg Jacob , Gögenur Ismail
Published: October 2013

Background

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the main etiologic factor for skin cancer. The endogenous hormone melatonin has been proposed to have protective effects against sunlight.

Aim

The aim of this review was to evaluate melatonin's protective effects against UV radiation and to clarify the cellular mechanisms behind this effect.

Method

Medline, Embase and Cinahl were searched up to January 2013 to identify studies evaluating melatonin's protective effect against UV radiation (UVR)‐induced skin erythema in humans and damage on a cellular level.

Results

Four human studies have investigated melatonin's protective effect on UVR‐induced skin damage. Melatonin was shown to have protective effects when applied before UVR, but no effect if applied after exposure. A total of 16 experimental studies evaluated melatonin's protective effect against UVR‐induced damage to cellular structures and pathways.

Discussion/Conclusion

The protection against UVR‐induced skin damage was conducted by melatonin acting directly as an antioxidant, and indirectly by regulating gene expression and inducing a DNA stabilizing effect. As these results were obtained using artificial UVR and without investigating possible side effects, studies using natural sunlight and evaluating possible side effects of topical melatonin administration are warranted.
The Health Care Safety Net and the Affordable Care Act: Implications for Hispanic Immigrants
Authors: Liebert Saltanat , Ameringer Carl F.
Published: October 2013

There are currently more than 11 million undocumented immigrants in the United States; the majority of them are of Hispanic origin. This article shows that Hispanic immigrants in the Greater Richmond, Virginia, area rely heavily on free clinics for basic health care services. Free clinics do not receive any public funding and thus face reduced government regulation. As a result, these clinics typically present fewer barriers to undocumented immigrants seeking care. Although free clinics function outside the mainstream of government funding for health care services, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) of 2010 is so broad and far‐reaching in its scope and potential application that free clinics cannot escape its grasp once the new law is fully implemented. Because the ACA does not provide insurance coverage to undocumented immigrants, free clinics will remain their primary sources of care and treatment. Consequently, those responsible for implementing the ACA should consider the impact on free clinics.
Impact of Human Capital Endowments on Inequality of Outcomes in Cameroon
Authors: Baye Francis Menjo , Epo Boniface Ngah
Published: October 2013

This paper evaluates the impact of human capital endowments on measured inequality in Cameroon. We first estimate determinants of household economic well‐being (HEW) in which human capital endowments are considered as endogenous effort‐related regressors, while controlling for exogenous circumstance‐related variables. Second, we simulate alternative counterfactual distributions of HEW: one in which human capital endowments are equalized; and the other in which variations are entirely attributable to the unobservable terms. Finally we compare inequality in the factual distribution of household well‐being with inequality in each of the simulated distributions. Direct and indirect exogenous opportunity‐inducing circumstances are inequality‐augmenting, whereas human capital endowments are inequality‐reducing in the actual distribution. Education and health interventions will ameliorate well‐being and mitigate inequality. Thus, leveling the playing ground for individuals to have equitable exposure to education, health and labor market participation is required for a low‐income country like Cameroon to enhance equity and sustainable household economic growth.
Redox signaling mediates the expression of a sulfate‐deprivation‐inducible microRNA395 in Arabidopsis
Authors: Jagadeeswaran Guru , Li Yong‐Fang , Sunkar Ramanjulu
Published: October 2013

MicroRNA395 (miR395) is a conserved miRNA that targets a low‐affinity sulfate transporter (AST68) and three ATP sulfurylases (APS1, APS3 and APS4) in higher plants. In this study, At2g28780 was confirmed as another target of miR395 in Arabidopsis. Interestingly, several dicots contained genes homologous to At2g28780 and a cognate miR395 complementary site but possess a gradient of mismatches at the target site. It is well established that miR395 is induced during S deprivation in Arabidopsis; however, the signaling pathways that mediate this regulation are unknown. Several findings in the present study demonstrate that redox signaling plays an important role in induction of miR395 during S deprivation. These include the following results: (i) glutathione (GSH) supplementation suppressed miR395 induction in S‐deprived plants (ii) miR395 is induced in Arabidopsis seedlings exposed to Arsenate or Cu2+, which induces oxidative stress (iii), S deprivation‐induced oxidative stress, and (iv) compromised induction of miR395 during S deprivation in cad2 mutant (deficient in GSH biosynthesis) that is defective in glutaredoxin‐dependent redox signaling and ntra/ntrb (defective in thioredoxin reductases a and b) double mutants that are defective in thioredoxin‐dependent redox signaling. Collectively, these findings strongly support the involvement of redox signaling in inducing the expression of miR395 during S deprivation in Arabidopsis.
Comparison summary: Various countries’ standards for classroom acoustics
Authors: Evans Jack B.
Published: October 2013

A comparative summary presentation of many countries’ national acoustical standards for classroom acoustics will be presented. Facility renovation or new construction is subject to standards or regulations that control reverberation decay time, sound isolation between interior spaces, intrusive noise from the exterior environment, background noise from building systems and/or user installed classroom equipment. Child learner physical conditions are reviewed, based on many researchers’ published results in North America and Europe, in regard to the special building acoustical requirements needed to achieve good classroom environments. In response to the authors’ solicitations, colleagues from many nations provided facts, opinions, and reference for their own countries’ standards, which are presented in categorical matrix format, including ANSI S12.60-2002, the relatively new American classroom acoustics standard. Summary results from I-INCE TC4 working group study on international standards are also incorporated. [This presentation is derived from the international classroom standards portion (only) of a paper originally written for the 11th International Meeting on Low Frequency Noise and Vibration and its Control, Maastricht, The Netherlands in 2004 with recent updates.]
Harmonizing the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) sound level meter specification standards
Authors: Brooks Bennett M.
Published: October 2013

It has been over 20 years since the last major revision of the American National Standard Specification for Sound Level Meters, S1.4-1983 (R2002). This is the most extensively referenced ANSI acoustical standard, with wide application to architectural acoustics, soundscapes, environmental noise, and hearing conservation. A new revision is proposed that conforms as closely as possible to the recently developed International Electrotechnical Commission Standard for Electroacoustics-Sound Level Meters Part 1: Specifications, IEC 61672-1 (2002-05). This proposed revision represents an improvement over ANSI S1.4-1983, particularly in its frequency response tolerance limits at high frequencies, and impulse (toneburst) response. Also, it incorporates the high-frequency electrical design goals and tolerance limits for A-weighted response that were specified in Amendment S1.4A-1985, and it maintains the more restrictive low-frequency tolerance limits of the earlier (1983) specification, compared to IEC 61672-1. The proposed revision maintains the laboratory precision Type 0 specification, which is absent in IEC 61672-1, while incorporating the specifications for integrating-averaging sound level meters previously given in ANSI S1.43-1997. Sound level meters which meet the Type 1 and Type 2 specification requirements, respectively, in this S1.4 revision will also meet the Class 1 and Class 2 specification requirements of 61672-1.
Transmission loss assessments of sandwich structures by using a combination of finite element and boundary element methods
Authors: Li Shan , Wang Tongan , Nutt Steven R.
Published: October 2013

In this work, formulation of a 2D fully-coupled finite element method (FEM)/boundary element method (BEM) to simulate the measurements of sound transmission loss of sandwich panels is presented. Specifically, the structural behavior of the sandwich panels, based on a consistent higher-order theory, is implemented using finite element method (FEM), and the reverberant/anechoic chambers are accessed by boundary element method (BEM). The coupling between the structure and the acoustic medium is achieved by assuming the continuity of the normal velocities at the interface. The absorption of the receiving anechoic chamber is calibrated by comparing the numerically-predicted sound pressure level difference between the two chambers with the Sewell’s expression for the forced transmission. The obtained correction factors are then used without any modification to predict transmission loss of other sandwich panels with different dimensions and material properties. Numerical examples are presented to validate the numerical procedure. Compared with traditional finite element approach, the proposed hybrid method provides more computation efficiency, and, hence, can be used to study acoustic behavior of sandwich panels at higher frequencies.
Lessons learned from the Maryland environmental noise program
Authors: Luz George , Jarinko David
Published: October 2013

With more than 5 million people on about 6 million acres, Maryland is the fifth most-densely populated state in the U.S. By 2050, the population is expected to be denser than for all but two European nations: Belgium and The Netherlands. Thus, it comes as a surprise that funding for the noise control program was cancelled in April 2005. This paper discusses possible reasons that there is not an active constituency for the program. These include a scattered constituency, a ‘‘one size fits all’’ standard, exemption of some major noise sources, and the lack of noise planning at the county level. Potential solutions include encouraging communication among the scattered constituency, encouraging county noise planning and adopting the Illinois model of facilitating noise litigation in State courts.