bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sedation and restraint in the ED
Authors: Johnson Anna , Cantle Fleur , Aw-Yong Meng
Published: June 2015

This chapter provides a discussion of the challenges facing the emergency physician dealing with an agitated patient in the emergency department. The differential diagnosis of a patient with agitation is presented and the challenges differentiating between primary and secondary psychosis highlighted. Section 136 and ‘a place of safety’ are discussed.

It examines the evidence base for three key clinical questions;physical restraint in a patient on a section 136; examination of the different agents used for pharmacological sedation; and the concept of ‘medically clearing’ a patient who is thought to have a primary psychiatric diagnosis.
Haemorrhagic rashes in children
Authors: Al-Rawi Harith , Cantle Fleur , Frampton Anne
Published: June 2015

This chapter provides a discussion of the specific challenges facing the emergency physician when dealing with a child presenting to the emergency department with a purpuric rash. Scoring systems which may assist in ruling out serious illness in children are presented.

It examines the evidence base for three key clinical questions:consideration of the significance of a rash distributed over the superior vena cava territory; the usefulness of blood tests in excluding meningococcal disease; and the length of observation for such children.
Facial palsy
Authors: Forrest-Hay Anna , Graham Colin A
Published: June 2015

This chapter provides a discussion of the specific challenges facing the emergency physician when dealing with a patient with unilateral facial weakness. The importance of a comprehensive clinical examination including a full ENT examination is discussed. Red flag signs are presented that would suggest a serious central cause.

It examines the evidence base for three key clinical questions; the use of steroids in facial palsy; the use of anti-viral agents in facial palsy; and methods to reduce damage to the eye in facial palsy.
Genetic background of atherosclerosis and its risk factors
Authors: Holdt Lesca M. , Teupser Daniel
Published: June 2015

This chapter is concerned with how atherosclerosis risk is modulated by a complex interplay between genetic and environmental risk factors. The contribution of genetics to the variability of atherosclerosis risk is estimated as 50%. Recent genome-wide association studies have led to the identification of over 50 gene variants which modulate atherogenesis. Risk factors for atherosclerosis are also partly genetically determined and some of the variants which play a role in atherogenesis overlap with those modulating its risk factors. However, the current relevance of these findings for clinical practice is limited, mainly due to the small effect sizes of identified risk variants with insufficient discriminatory power, and a large portion of the genetic contribution to atherosclerosis is still unknown. The major promise therefore lies in understanding the pathophysiology of newly identified genes with the perspective of novel therapeutic approaches.
Behaviour and motivation
Authors: Albus Christian , Herrmann-Lingen Christoph
Published: June 2015

Changing one’s lifestyle is difficult and adherence to medication in people at high cardiovascular risk and established cardiovascular disease is low. Lifestyle is usually based on longstanding patterns and is highly determined by social environment and socioeconomic status. Additional factors such as chronic stress, cognitive impairment, and negative emotions (e.g. depression, anxiety) further impede the ability to adopt a healthy lifestyle, as does complex or confusing advice by medical caregivers. In clinical practice, increased awareness of these factors will facilitate empathetic counselling and the provision of simple and explicit advice. Established cognitive-behavioural strategies are important tools to help with behaviour change and medication adherence. Specialized healthcare professionals (e.g. nurses, dieticians, psychologists) should be involved whenever necessary and feasible. Reducing dosage demands to the lowest applicable level is the single most effective means for enhancing adherence to medication.
General remarks
Authors: Giannuzzi Pantaleo
Published: June 2015

Cardiac patients should be advised about and have the opportunity to access a comprehensive cardiovascular prevention and rehabilitation programme, addressing all aspects of lifestyle—smoking cessation, healthy eating, and being physically active—together with more effective management of blood pressure, lipids, and glucose. To achieve the clinical benefits of a multidisciplinary and multifactorial prevention programme we need to integrate professional lifestyle interventions with effective risk factor management and evidence-based drug therapies, appropriately adapted to the medical, cultural, and economic setting of a country. The challenge is to engage and motivate cardiologists, physicians, and health professionals to routinely practise high-quality preventive cardiology and promote a healthcare system which invests in prevention.
Hospital-based rehabilitation units
Authors: Völler Heinz , Reibis Rona , Schwaab Bernhard , Schmid Jean-Paul
Published: June 2015

Inpatient rehabilitation is a transition phase and a component of integrated healthcare for high-risk patients with different cardiovascular diseases. Therefore its main focus is on functional and structural evaluation and risk stratification for the rehabilitation process and post-discharge period. Exercise electrocardiogram, transthoracic echocardiography, and a 6-minute walk test should be considered in all patients, at admission and at discharge. Particular attention should be given to specific conditions such as, myocarditis, patients with cardiac devices, and/or after heart valve interventions as well as concomitant disorders (for example diabetes mellitus or chronic kidney disease). Variables of frailty should be considered, particularly in the elderly. Because cognitive decline complicates early recovery after heart interventions, a cognition test may be needed.
The Neurology of Eye Movements
Authors: Leigh R. John , Zee David S.
Published: June 2015

This new edition comprises a modern synthesis of the anatomical, physiological, and pharmacological substrate for eye movements, including current views on the reflexive and voluntary control of gaze. This synthesis is based on electrophysiological and inactivation studies in macaque, and behavioural studies in humans that incorporate functional imaging and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in normals, and clinicopathological studies in patients with neurological, visual, or vestibular disorders. Sophisticated experimental paradigms have been applied to both species to explore aspects of cognition, memory, volition, and reward. This large body of research has demonstrated the power of eye movements as experimental tools. The second part of this online resource applies this synthesis to the clinical and laboratory evaluation of patients with abnormal eye movements due to a broad range of disorders - from muscular dystrophy, and genetic disorders, to dementia, including visual and vestibular conditions.
The Ocular Motor Periphery
Authors: Leigh R. John , Zee David S.
Published: June 2015

This chapter reviews contributions of orbital tissues and extraocular
muscles (EOM) to the control of eye movements. The anatomy of the
orbit, fascia, fibromuscular pulleys, and EOM are described and
related to the kinematics of 3-D eye rotations. Current concepts of
the embryology of the EOM and their unique and diverse characteristics
are described, suggesting why they are more vulnerable to certain
neuromuscular disorders and less susceptible to others, compared with
skeletal muscles. Electrophysiological properties of different EOM
fiber types (and their motor neuron innervation) are contrasted,
describing new models that attempt to account for nonlinear mechanical
properties of the orbit. The substrate and roles of extraocular
proprioception in the control of eye movements are summarized and
related to clinical disorders affecting EOM. The anatomy of the
cranial nerves supplying the EOM is summarized, diagrammed and
highlighted to aid diagnosis of common palsies of the oculomotor,
trochlear, and abducens nerves.
Gaze Holding and the Neural Integrator
Authors: Leigh R. John , Zee David S.
Published: June 2015

This chapter reviews the neural network that temporally integrates
premotor, velocity-coded signals to achieve tonic contraction of the
extraocular muscles to hold the eyes at an eccentric position in the
orbits. The mechanical properties of the eye and its supporting
tissues are quantified and related to the pulse-slide-step neural
command for a saccadic change in eye position. The anatomical
substrate and neuropharmacology of the neural integrator is reviewed,
including nucleus prepositus hypoglossi, interstitial nucleus of Cajal
and cerebellum. Mathematical and animal models for the neural
integrator are discussed, addressing points about how a leaky or
unstable integrator may arise. Clinical and laboratory evaluation of
gaze holding is summarized. Effects of experimentally inactivating the
neural integrator are compared with clinical disorders affecting gaze
holding, including a discussion of the pathogenesis of gaze-evoked
nystagmus and Alexander’s law. Compensatory mechanisms for a leaky
neural integrator are discussed, including centripetal, rebound, and
gaze-evoked nystagmus.
Diagnosis of Nystagmus and Saccadic Intrusions
Authors: Leigh R. John , Zee David S.
Published: June 2015

This chapter reviews the approach to the patient with nystagmus or
saccadic intrusions and their clinical features (with illustrative
video cases), etiology, pathophysiology, and management. Nystagmus
caused by peripheral vestibular disorders; downbeat, upbeat, and
torsional nystagmus; periodic alternating nystagmus, seesaw and
hemi-seesaw nystagmus; gaze-evoked nystagmus; Bruns nystagmus;
centripetal and rebound nystagmus; nystagmus occurring in association
with disease of the visual system; acquired pendular nystagmus with
multiple sclerosis; oculopalatal tremor; convergence-retraction
nystagmus; infantile nystagmus syndrome; fusional maldevelopment
nystagmus syndrome and latent nystagmus; spasmus nutans syndrome; and
lid nystagmus are discussed. Saccadic intrusions and oscillations and
the clinical features, etiology, pathophysiology, and management of
square-wave jerks, macrosaccadic oscillations, saccadic pulses, ocular
flutter, opsoclonus, and voluntary saccadic oscillations are
summarized. Treatments for nystagmus and saccadic intrusions are
summarized, including pharmacological treatments, optical treatments,
procedures to weaken the extraocular muscles (e.g.,
Kestenbaum-Anderson procedure), and measures such as biofeedback and
vibration.
Diagnosis and Management of Vestibular Disorders
Authors: Leigh R. John , Zee David S.
Published: June 2015

This chapter reviews clinical features of eye movement disorders
associated with vestibular disorders. The clinical history and
examination are reviewed, pointing our key symptoms and signs (with
illustrative video cases), for example, in distinguishing vertigo due
to stroke from peripheral vestibular disease. Acute vertigo is
discussed, including forms due to infections, trauma, and toxins as
well as Tullio phenomenon, fistula, canal dehiscence. Recurrent
vertigo is reviewed, including Ménière’s syndrome, otosclerosis,
inflammatory disorders, migraine, vascular disorders, and epilepsy.
The mechanism of hyperventilation-induced vertigo and nystagmus is
discussed. Posturally induced vertigo is reviewed, detailing features
and treatment of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), and
central causes of positional vertigo. The symptom of oscillopsia is
reviewed, whether due to an abnormal vestibulo-ocular reflex or
paresis of extraocular muscles, or due to nystagmus and other abnormal
eye movements. Finally, the topological diagnosis and pathogenesis of
skew deviation and the ocular tilt reaction are discussed.
Phomopsis Stem Canker: A Reemerging Threat to Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) in the United States
Authors: Mathew Febina M. , Alananbeh Kholoud M. , Jordahl James G. , Meyer Scott M. , Castlebury Lisa A. , Gulya Thomas J. , Markell Samuel G.
Published: June 2015

Phomopsis stem canker causes yield reductions on sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) on several continents, including Australia, Europe, and North America. In the United States, Phomopsis stem canker incidence has increased 16-fold in the Northern Great Plains between 2001 and 2012. Although Diaporthe helianthi was assumed to be the sole causal agent in the United States, a newly described species, D. gulyae, was found to be the primary cause of Phomopsis stem canker in Australia. To determine the identity of Diaporthe spp. causing Phomopsis stem canker in the Northern Great Plains, 275 infected stems were collected between 2010 and 2012. Phylogenetic analyses of sequences of the ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer region, elongation factor subunit 1-α, and actin gene regions of representative isolates, in comparison with those of type specimens, confirmed two species (D. helianthi and D. gulyae) in the United States. Differences in aggressiveness between the two species were determined using the stem-wound method in the greenhouse; overall, D. helianthi and D. gulyae did not vary significantly (P ≤ 0.05) in their aggressiveness at 10 and 14 days after inoculation. These findings indicate that both Diaporthe spp. have emerged as sunflower pathogens in the United States, and have implications on the management of this disease.
On the relationship between financial and non-financial factors
Authors: Purves Nigel , Niblock Scott James , Sloan Keith
Published: June 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship of non-financial and financial factors to firm survival, provide evidence of factors related to financial success and distress for prominent Australian agricultural firms, and improve the predictive capacity of financial failure models.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper utilizes mixed method exploratory case studies across four Australian agricultural firms (two successful and two failed) listed on the Australian Securities Exchange.

Findings

– The authors found that the use of an Integrated Multi-Measured approach provided a higher classification rate for the failed group than those provided by an individual measure. We also discovered that non-financial factors associated with the agricultural organizations studied impacted their success or failure. These factors included managements’ involvement in organizational strategy and the composition of the board of directors. It was also apparent that management decision-making approaches may become frozen, or at best restricted, in the face of impending failure, dependent upon the stress level within the organization and the management skill base.

Practical implications

– The cases studied indicated that non-financial factors of failure occurred prior to any financial predictors, intuitively indicating a relationship between non-financial and financial factors in Australian agricultural firms.

Originality/value

– The identification of financial and non-financial factors and sound internal processes which distinguish successful and failing firms can be utilized for the development of an early warning predictor of organizational success or failure.
The plethora of yields in property investment and finance: a summary
Authors: French Nick , Patrick Michael
Published: June 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to provide a summary, with examples, of the various types of yields that are used as benchmarks in the UK for property and finance.

Design/methodology/approach

– Simple examples explain the differences between the various benchmarks used for different assets.

Findings

– The paper highlights the differences between the various benchmarks for different assets.

Research limitations/implications

– This is an Education Briefing.

Originality/value

– The paper provides a summary of the various types of yields that are used as benchmarks in the UK for property and finance.
Resource-efficient construction: rethinking construction towards sustainability
Authors: Sfakianaki Eleni
Published: June 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the topic of sustainable construction and provide an adequate discussion of the current thinking. Achieving a balance between economic, social and ecological aims is a challenge. Managing and implementing sustainability requires the commitment of all stakeholders and new ways of working, thinking and learning.

Design/methodology/approach

– The methodology of this study consists of a literature review in the research field of sustainable construction and its associated impacts upon the climate, waste production and energy, materials and water usage. The aim is not to provide an in-depth, detailed analysis of specific processes and cases in the construction sector, but to present the need for rethinking sustainable construction in comprehensive terms.

Findings

– The paper provides insights about the importance of sustainable construction. It suggests that all stakeholders at all stages should commit to sustainability to enable change in perception to start with.

Research limitations/implications

– Further investigation on methods and techniques and interviews to construction companies will suggest a consistent framework for implementation “real-time”.

Practical implications

– The paper highlights the importance of a coordinated supply chain action in the construction sector and emphasizes the need for construction companies to train and invest in resource- efficient building methods and practices. This will manage the balance between stability and change.

Originality/value

– This paper demonstrates the need to study further how resources efficiency can be adopted in the construction sector to further enable sustainability.
The multiple identities of sustainability
Authors: Ratiu Catalin , Anderson Beverlee B.
Published: June 2015

Purpose

– Sustainability is one of the most complex composite constructs to have emerged in the last decades. Having a clear understanding of its meanings is critical as actions based on these understandings impact all walks of life. The purpose of this paper is to track the conceptualizations and measurements of sustainable development in the areas of government, business, education, and the trades.

Design/methodology/approach

– Through a multi-method design, the authors explore what stakeholders in these groups value in sustainability by observing where they develop initiatives, invest funds, and report progress.

Findings

– What emerges is a picture of diverse views and multiple identities, driven by distinct logics and motives.

Originality/value

– Based on these findings, the authors propose that, instead of reconciling these diverse perspectives, the authors might focus on constructing shared understandings around critical values.
Spiritual life in homes shared by older people
Authors: Kartupelis Jenny
Published: June 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to describe a series of surveys undertaken for The Abbeyfield Society to assess the nature of spiritual needs and care in its homes, and outlines their findings in relation to practical and policy implications.

Design/methodology/approach

– Over the course of ten months, 35 homes representing a variety of sizes and locations were visited, and 100 interviews of approximately one hour each were undertaken with residents, managers, care workers and volunteers. These were guided by a semi-structured questionnaire, and included observations on the accommodation and facilities. An analysis of the transcriptions resulted in four reports with consolidated recommendations.

Findings

– The analyses indicated that the factors contributing to spiritual wellbeing can be described in “clusters” relating to family, friendship, memory, time, listening, resilience and sense of self and place; but the common factor underlying all is the nature of the relationships formed in the home. It is almost impossible to separate out spiritual flourishing from physical or mental welfare, and therefore important to observe the interplay between them.

Practical implications

– An environment in which the key contributing factors are nurtured, can be defined and described in concrete terms, and these can then be taken into account when forward planning.

Social implications

– While national policy on care of the elderly is subject to a range of drivers, of which holistic health is only one, this study does challenge some assumptions on which current policy is based.

Originality/value

– The purpose and methodology of the surveys enabled a very wide range of views and experiences to be synthesised, providing information and insights firmly located in the voices of people who are directly affected by practice and policy.
Faith and spirituality in older people – a Jewish perspective
Authors: Douek Sonia
Published: June 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore the role that faith and spirituality play for Jewish people as they age and examine how this is expressed and supported by a health and social care environment.

Design/methodology/approach

– This is a case study based on work at Jewish Care and supported by other Jewish networks. It also builds on qualitative research on Ageing Well carried out in 2012.

Findings

– As people age they have a need to connect with their community. Faith-based communities are ready made and often the first point of call for Jewish people. The way in which people express their faith or spirituality may not manifest itself in practice but be more about inclusion and connection. Life circumstances will determine people’s faith, identity and approach to spirituality – e.g. Holocaust survivors. There is a feeling that religious affiliation and the way it is expressed has polarised in the community which means that older people often do not connect with current ways of expressing or connecting to their faith.

Research limitations/implications

– This is not a systematic research but examines through practice different approaches to supporting people as they age via a faith-based provision.

Practical implications

– The approach could be replicated by other faith-based providers but also the approach and lessons should be considered by more generalist providers so that they ensure they meet the needs of the individual receiving their services. The inclusion principle reminds the author that care in a vacuum will not support the emotional and psychological needs of people.

Social implications

– Divisions within a faith group opportunities for younger people to learn from their older peers reminder of more established values around faith.

Originality/value

– Identifying the way in which faith is often an expression and connection to community and can reduce social isolation. The role that faith-based communities play in connecting and valuing people as they age. The reminder that ritual can be not only reassuring to people as they age but provide structure and purpose to a person’s life.
Dementia: good living in our churches
Authors: Farr Emma-Dawn , Bute Jennifer
Published: June 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper, “Dementia – good living in our churches” co-authored with Dr Bute who is a retired GP living with dementia, is to encourage the Church of England to do more for people with dementia living within their parishes.

Design/methodology/approach

– This document was put together using a case study and a literature review.

Findings

– As the age range of the country increases there are an increased number of people attending churches who have diagnosed (or undiagnosed) dementia. This document has found that there are a number of areas that the Church of England needs to work on to help people become enveloped within the churches that many of them knew and have grown up with.

Originality/value

– New case study and up to date research.
Clinical and histological aspect of erythema dyschromicum perstans in Korea: A review of 68 cases
Authors: Chang Sung Eun , Kim Hyun Woo , Shin Jae Min , Lee Ji Hyun , Na Jung Im , Roh Mi Ryung , Lee Jong Hee , Lee Ga Young , Ko Joo Yeon
Published: June 2015

Erythema dyschromicum perstans (EDP) is a hypermelanotic disorder of the idiopathic variety characterized by blue‐gray macules in healthy individuals. It has been described mainly in patients from tropical areas of Central and South America. Our aim was to evaluate EDP in Korea through the analysis of retrospective case series with EDP and to describe the clinical and histopathological features. It was a retrospective study (2002–2012) of EDP confirmed by review of clinical photographs and biopsy specimens. The files of 68 patients with EDP from six tertiary medical centers in Korea were included in this study. Of the 68 patients, 29 were male and 39 female. The age of patients ranged 3–76 years (mean, 33.9). Clinically, the majority of patients had lesions on the trunk (n = 47, 69.1%); the neck was affected in 27 cases, the upper extremities in 26, the face in 22 and the lower extremities in 16. Peripheral erythematous borders were observed in 12 patients (17.6%) and 11 patients had itching sensation at the lesion. Histopathologically, dermal melanophages and pigment incontinence were the most common findings. A follow up of more than 1 year was obtained in 51 patients. Of these, only one patient experienced complete clearance without recurrence. Our study illustrates the clinical and histopathological findings of EDP in Koreans. Our multicenter data may contribute to the understanding of EDP.
Quantitative estimation of water storage and residence time in the epikarst with time‐lapse refraction seismic
Authors: Galibert Pierre‐Yves
Published: June 2015

The hydrodynamic characterization of the epikarst, the shallow part of the unsaturated zone in karstic systems, has always been challenging for geophysical methods. This work investigates the feasibility of coupling time‐lapse refraction seismic data with petrophysical and hydrologic models for the quantitative determination of water storage and residence time at shallow depth in carbonate rocks. The Biot–Gassmann fluid substitution model describing the seismic velocity variations with water saturation at low frequencies needs to be modified for this lithology. I propose to include a saturation‐dependent rock‐frame weakening to take into account water–rock interactions. A Bayesian inversion workflow is presented to estimate the water content from seismic velocities measured at variable saturations. The procedure is tested first with already published laboratory measurements on core samples, and the results show that it is possible to estimate the water content and its uncertainty. The validated procedure is then applied to a time‐lapse seismic study to locate and quantify seasonal water storage at shallow depth along a seismic profile. The residence time of the water in the shallow layers is estimated by coupling the time‐lapse seismic measurements with rainfall chronicles, simple flow equations, and the petrophysical model. The daily water input computed from the chronicles is used to constraint the inversion of seismic velocities for the daily saturation state and the hydrodynamic parameters of the flow model. The workflow is applied to a real monitoring case, and the results show that the average residence time of the water in the epikarst is generally around three months, but it is only 18 days near an infiltration pathway. During the winter season, the residence times are three times shorter in response to the increase in the effective rainfall.
Trait‐related responses to habitat fragmentation in Amazonian bats
Authors: Farneda Fábio Z. , Rocha Ricardo , López‐Baucells Adrià , Groenenberg Milou , Silva Inês , Palmeirim Jorge M. , Bobrowiec Paulo E. D. , Meyer Christoph F. J.
Published: June 2015

Understanding how interspecific variation in functional traits influences species’ capacity to persist in fragments and use patches in fragmented landscapes is fundamental for the creation of effective conservation plans. This study uses phylogenetic comparative methods to investigate which functional traits of bat species are correlated with their vulnerability to fragmentation in a tropical landscape with low fragment–matrix contrast.

Bats were captured over two years in eight forest fragments, nine control sites in continuous forest, and in the secondary forest matrix at the Biological Dynamics of Forest Fragments Project, Central Amazon, Brazil. We tested the hypothesis that there is a significant relationship between species functional traits, environmental gradients (continuous forest and fragment interiors, edges and matrix) and patterns of species distribution using phylogenetic generalized least squares (PGLS) models, as well as a combination of RLQ and fourth‐corner analyses.

Mobility, body mass, wing morphology, and trophic level were the most important traits linked to fragmentation sensitivity based on the PGLS analysis, while body mass and trophic level emerged as the best predictors in the fourth‐corner analysis. These last two traits were correlated with the loss of continuous forest characteristics, such as high‐stature trees and forest cover.

Many animalivorous bat species rarely persist in small fragments (<100 ha) and in the secondary forest matrix, reflecting strong effects of trait‐mediated environmental filters that selectively benefit the smaller and phytophagous species.

Synthesis and applications. Functional traits of species and environmental variables jointly predict local variation in patterns of bat occupancy and abundance in fragmented tropical landscapes. To minimize local extinctions, we recommend increasing habitat availability and enhancing structural and functional connectivity at the landscape scale through the creation, restoration and maintenance of corridors and stepping stones. These measures should be coupled with improving matrix quality by promoting secondary forest regeneration and persistence to effectively reduce fragment–matrix contrast.
The neutral metallopeptidase NMP1 of Trichoderma guizhouense is required for mycotrophy and self‐defence
Authors: Zhang Jian , Bayram Akcapinar Gunseli , Atanasova Lea , Rahimi Mohammad Javad , Przylucka Agnieszka , Yang Dongqing , Kubicek Christian P. , Zhang Ruifu , Shen Qirong , Druzhinina Irina S.
Published: June 2015

Trichoderma guizhouense NJAU 4742 (Harzianum clade) can suppress the causative agent of banana wild disease Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense 4 (Foc4). To identify genes involved in this trait, we used T‐DNA insertional mutagenesis and isolated one mutant that was unable to overgrow Foc4 and had reduced antifungal ability. Using the high‐efficiency thermal asymmetric interlaced‐PCR, the T‐DNA was located in the terminator of a neutral metalloprotease gene (encoding a MEROPS family M35 protease), which was named nmp1. The antifungal activity of the mutant was recovered by retransformation with wild‐type nmp1 gene. The purified NMP1 (overexpressed in Pichia pastoris) did not inhibit the growth and germination of other fungi in vitro. Its addition, however, partly recovered the antifungal activity of the mutant strain against some fungi. The expression of nmp1 is induced by the presence of fungi and by dead fungal biomass, but the time‐course of transcript accumulation following the physical contact depends on mode of interaction: it increases in cases of long‐lasting parasitism and decreases if the prey fungus is dead shortly after or even before the contact (predation). We thus conclude that NMP1 protein of T. guizhouense has major importance for mycotrophic interactions and defence against other fungi.
Price Discrimination in Russian Wheat Exports: Evidence from Firm‐level Data
Authors: Uhl Kerstin , Perekhozhuk Oleksandr , Glauben Thomas
Published: June 2015

Russia emerged as an important wheat exporter in recent years raising the question of how this will affect international wheat markets. In particular developing countries – the main destination of Russian wheat exports – could be harmed by aggressive pricing behaviour. This article analyses the exertion of price discrimination by Russian wheat exporting firms based on Krugman's pricing‐to‐market hypothesis. We apply Knetter's panel model to a firm‐level dataset and find evidence for price‐discriminating behaviour by Russian firms in 25 out of 61 destination countries over the period 2002–2011.
Position Statement on the management of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII): The Italian Lazio experience
Authors: Maurizi Anna R. , Suraci Concetta , Pitocco Dario , Schiaffini Riccardo , Tubili Claudio , Morviducci Lelio , Giordano Renato , Manfrini Silvia , Lauro Davide , Frontoni Simona , Pozzilli Paolo , Buzzetti Raffaella ,   C.S.I.I. Study Group of Lazio Region Italy
Published: June 2015

This document has been developed by a group of Italian diabetologists with extensive experience in continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) therapy to provide indications for the clinical management of CSII in diabetic patients (both type 1 and type 2) based on delivery mode operating in Italy. Although the potential benefits of pump therapy in achieving glycemic goals is now accepted, such results cannot be obtained without specific knowledge and skills being conveyed to patients during ad hoc educational training. To ensure that these new technologies reach their full effectiveness, as demonstrated theoretically and clinically, a careful assessment of the overall therapeutic and educational process is required, in both qualitative and quantitative terms. Therefore, to ensure the cost‐effectiveness of insulin pump therapy and to justify reimbursement of therapy costs by the National Health System in Italy, in this article we present a model for diabetes and healthcare centers to follow that provides for different levels of expertise in the field of CSII therapy. This model will guarantee the provision of excellent care during insulin pump therapies, thus representing the basis for a successful outcome and expansion of this form of insulin treatment in patients with diabetes while also keeping costs under control.
β‐Guanidinopropionic acid extends the lifespan of Drosophila melanogaster via an AMP‐activated protein kinase‐dependent increase in autophagy
Authors: Yang Si , Long Li‐Hong , Li Di , Zhang Jian‐Kang , Jin Shan , Wang Fang , Chen Jian‐Guo
Published: June 2015

Previous studies have demonstrated that AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) controls autophagy through the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and Unc‐51 like kinase 1 (ULK1/Atg1) signaling, which augments the quality of cellular housekeeping, and that β‐guanidinopropionic acid (β‐GPA), a creatine analog, leads to a chronic activation of AMPK. However, the relationship between β‐GPA and aging remains elusive. In this study, we hypothesized that feeding β‐GPA to adult Drosophila produces the lifespan extension via activation of AMPK‐dependent autophagy. It was found that dietary administration of β‐GPA at a concentration higher than 900 mm induced a significant extension of the lifespan of Drosophila melanogaster in repeated experiments. Furthermore, we found that Atg8 protein, the homolog of microtubule‐associated protein 1A/1B‐light chain 3 (LC3) and a biomarker of autophagy in Drosophila, was significantly upregulated by β‐GPA treatment, indicating that autophagic activity plays a role in the effect of β‐GPA. On the other hand, when the expression of Atg5 protein, an essential protein for autophagy, was reduced by RNA interference (RNAi), the effect of β‐GPA on lifespan extension was abolished. Moreover, we found that AMPK was also involved in this process. β‐GPA treatment significantly elevated the expression of phospho‐T172‐AMPK levels, while inhibition of AMPK by either AMPK‐RNAi or compound C significantly attenuated the expression of autophagy‐related proteins and lifespan extension in Drosophila. Taken together, our results suggest that β‐GPA can induce an extension of the lifespan of Drosophila via AMPK‐Atg1‐autophagy signaling pathway.
Early second‐hand smoke exposure and child and adolescent mental health: evidence from Hong Kong's ‘Children of 1997’ birth cohort
Authors: Leung Cherry Y. , Leung Gabriel M. , Schooling C. Mary
Published: June 2015

Background and Aims

Second‐hand smoke (SHS) exposure is associated negatively with childhood behavioural problems in western settings. In a developed non‐western setting, we estimated the associations of early SHS exposure during the prenatal and postnatal periods with several aspects of adolescent mental health.

Design

Multivariable linear regression was used to estimate the adjusted associations of pre‐ and postnatal SHS exposure with adolescent mental health.

Setting

Hong Kong.

Participants

Population‐representative “Children of 1997” birth cohort. Behavioural problems at ~11 years were available for 5598, self‐esteem at ~11 years for 6937 and depressive symptoms at ~13 years for 5797.

Measurements

SHS was categorized as no SHS exposure, occasional prenatal SHS exposure from non‐parental sources, daily prenatal SHS exposure from non‐parental sources, postnatal SHS exposure from non‐parental sources, prenatal and postnatal SHS exposure from non‐parental sources, occasional paternal smoking, daily paternal smoking and any maternal smoking. Behavioural problems were assessed from parent‐reported Rutter score, self‐esteem from self‐reported Culture‐Free Self‐Esteem Inventory score and depressive symptoms from self‐reported Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 score.

Findings

Prenatal SHS exposure from non‐parental sources was associated with behavioural problems at ~11 years (1.24, 95% confidence interval 0.20–2.28) adjusted for sex, age of assessment, survey mode (for depressive symptoms only), socio‐economic position (SEP), mother's birthplace, gestational age and parity; paternal smoking and maternal smoking were associated with more mental health problems but also with lower SEP.

Conclusions

In Hong Kong, prenatal second‐hand tobacco smoke exposure appears to be a risk factor for behavioural problems at age 11 years independent of socio‐economic position.
Energy price reform and food markets: the case of bread supply chain in Iran
Authors: Mosavi Seyed Habibollah
Published: June 2015

Reforming energy price is the core of Iranian economic reform plan during 2010–2014. However, increasing price of energy may have adverse effects on the agricultural and food markets. This study was conducted to address these problems in the most important food of Iranian people “bread” by developing a spatial supply chain model. Results show that consumers’ welfare would experience a sharp decrease though the impacts on farmers are trivial. Also, results indicate that the key to success the reform without political backlash in the short‐run is the cash transfer program under which the government redistributes part of the reform's benefits among consumers. Per capita compensation payments would be equal to 51.50 and 46.09 US$ per year for a typical rural and urban person, respectively. Moreover, the results provide more detailed information about the market characteristics and the payments both in nationwide and regional scale as well as in different income groups.
Polycystic ovary syndrome: cardiovascular risk factors according to specific phenotypes
Authors: Aziz Mubeena , Sidelmann Johannes J. , Faber Jens , Wissing Marie‐Louise. M. , Naver Klara V. , Mikkelsen Anne‐Lis , Nilas Lisbeth , Skouby Sven O.
Published: June 2015

Introduction

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with obesity and insulin resistance. The objective of this cross‐sectional study was to investigate the impact of insulin resistance and body mass index (BMI) on inflammatory and hemostatic variables associated with long‐term risk of cardiovascular disease in women with PCOS.

Material and methods

149 premenopausal women with PCOS were recruited consecutively from April 2010 to February 2012 at three Danish University Hospitals. The study was conducted at the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Herlev University Hospital, Denmark. PCOS was diagnosed in accordance with the Rotterdam criteria and the women were classified into four phenotypes according to BMI and insulin resistance measured by the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance index. Body composition was determined by dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry. Main outcome measures were the biomarkers C‐reactive protein (CRP), plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1), and von Willebrand factor antigen.

Results

Normal weight insulin‐resistant PCOS women were characterized by abdominal obesity and elevated levels of plasma PAI‐1. Overweight/obese insulin‐resistant PCOS women had increased levels of both PAI‐1 and CRP. Of the three Rotterdam criteria, only hyperandrogenemia was significantly associated with the hemostatic risk marker of long‐term cardiovascular disease risk.

Conclusions

Surrogate risk markers for cardiovascular disease are elevated in women with PCOS, especially insulin‐resistant and overweight/obese women.
Novel association between serum pentraxin‐2 levels and advanced fibrosis in well‐characterised patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Verna E. C. , Patel J. , Bettencourt R. , Nguyen P. , Hernandez C. , Valasek M. A. , Kisselva T. , Brenner D. A. , Loomba R.
Published: June 2015

Background

Pentraxin‐2 (PTX‐2), a serum protein, inhibits inflammation and fibrosis, and recombinant PTX‐2 is being tested as an anti‐fibrotic agent.

Aim

To evaluate the association between serum PTX‐2 levels and fibrosis stage in patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Methods

Serum pentraxin‐2 levels were compared between four groups of well‐characterised patients including NAFLD with no fibrosis, NAFLD with mild‐moderate fibrosis (stage 1–2), NAFLD with advanced fibrosis (stage 3–4), and age‐sex matched non‐NAFLD controls.

Results

Sixty subjects were included in the study. The mean age was 58.9 years, 68% were male and 58% were Caucasian. In univariate analysis, serum PTX‐2 levels significantly decreased from non‐NAFLD controls to mild NAFLD with no fibrosis, to NAFLD with mild‐moderate fibrosis and were lowest in patients with NAFLD and advanced fibrosis, in a dose‐dependent manner (P < 0.0001). In multivariable‐adjusted analyses controlling for age, sex, albumin, and CRP, the results remained consistent and statistically significant. Serum PTX‐2 level had an AUROC of 0.84 (95% CI: 0.71–0.97) for the diagnosis of NAFLD, and an AUROC of 0.77 (95% CI: 0.65–0.90) for the diagnosis of advanced fibrosis in NAFLD. Serum PTX‐2 levels also decreased with increasing liver stiffness as estimated by magnetic resonance elastography (r = −0.31, P = 0.02).

Conclusions

PTX‐2 levels are significantly lower in patients with NAFLD compared to non‐NAFLD controls, and decline further in patients with advanced fibrosis. PTX‐2 may therefore be both a biomarker of disease and a potential target for anti‐fibrotic therapy with the recombinant pentraxin‐2.
Developing a Competency‐based Curriculum in Basic and Clinical Pharmacology – A Delphi Study among Physicians
Authors: Midlöv Patrik , Höglund Peter , Eriksson Tommy , Diehl Annika , Edgren Gudrun
Published: June 2015

A new curriculum is planned for the medical school at Lund University, Sweden. Pharmacology, in a broad sense, has been identified as a subject that needs to be strengthened based on needs in the healthcare system. The aim was to identify the competencies in basic and clinical pharmacology that a newly qualified physician needs. Using a modified three‐round Delphi technique, 31 physicians were invited to list necessary competencies (round 1). After content analysis, these panel members classified the list by importance on two occasions (rounds 2 and 3) using a 4‐point scale (4 = necessary, 3 = desirable, 2 = useful, 1 = not necessary). Competencies with the highest ranks based on necessity were retained. Thirty physicians accepted the invitation and 25 (83%) of them completed all three rounds. Round 1 resulted in 258 suggestions, which were subsequently reduced to 95 competencies. Of these 95 competencies, 40 were considered necessary by at least 75% of the panel members. The degree of consensus increased between round 2 and round 3. Using a modified Delphi technique, we identified 40 competencies that could be transferred to learning outcomes for a new curriculum in basic and clinical pharmacology at medical school.
Intraspecific Food‐Robbing and Neighborhood Competition: Consequences for Anti‐Robber Vigilance and Colony Productivity
Authors: Jandt Jennifer M. , Hunt Elizabeth M. , McGlynn Terrence P.
Published: June 2015

Most social animals have mechanisms to distinguish group members from outsiders, in part to prevent the exploitation of resources reserved for members of the group. Nevertheless, specialized thieves of the Neotropical ant, Ectatomma ruidum, also known as the ‘thieving ant’, regularly enter and steal resources from distinct, neighboring colonies. Here, we examine the mechanisms and consequences of thievery in a population of E. ruidum. We show that (1) individuals from nearby colonies were accepted more often than those from farther colonies; (2) rejection rates decreased as individuals interacted more with non‐nestmates from the same source colony; and (3) colonies that were experimentally treated to reduce thievery rates had improved productivity. The boost in productivity with thievery reduction was greater in low density populations than in high density populations. We conclude that, as in other species, thievery has negative fitness costs to E. ruidum. However, greater acceptance of neighbors than non‐neighbors and increased acceptance after habituation to non‐nestmates suggest a proximate explanation for the presence of thievery. Moreover, lower fitness costs of thievery at high nesting density, combined with observations of extraordinarily high densities of E. ruidum throughout its range, suggest there is little selection pressure among these ants to guard against thieves, thus providing an ultimate explanation why thievery persists among litter‐foraging ants.
Weathering the Storm: Family Ownership, Governance, and Performance Through the Financial and Economic Crisis
Authors: Minichilli Alessandro , Brogi Marina , Calabrò Andrea
Published: June 2015

Manuscript Type

Empirical

Research Question/Issue

Considering the recent financial and economic crisis as a unique exogenous shock, our study investigates the financial performance of family‐controlled firms in “steady‐state” conditions as opposed to situations of severe economic distress. In addition, we focus our attentionwithinfamily firms in order to tease out the leadership (family or non‐family CEO) and family ownership (family ownership concentration or dispersion) conditions that allow some governance arrangements to perform better than others during an economic downturn.

Research Findings/Insights

Examining the entire population of Italian industrial family and non‐family publicly listed companies over the period 2002–2012, we observe a significantly and consistently better performance of family‐controlled firms during the financial and economic crisis, a finding that proves to be robust to several analytical specifications, as well as to different performance measures (ROA, ROE). Then, focusing on family firms only, we find that mixed configurations (family CEOs with relatively lower family ownership concentration) produce better performance in the face of an external hazard.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

Our study confirms the pivotal assumption of the socioemotional wealth perspective that the advantages of family firms show up exactly when ownership is at stake. Our results also add to the growing literature on the resilience of family firms, showing that they are more able than others to absorb exogenous shocks.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

Our findings suggest the importance of crafting governance structures well in advance of a crisis. Our research speaks to policymakers, indicating the importance of family firms for national economies, and the political opportunity to sustain their growth and managerial development.