bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can the introduction of a quality of life tool affect individual professional practice and the quality of care planning in a community mental health team?
Authors: MURPHY N. , CUTTS H.
Published: September 2009

Accessible summary

Audit should not be restricted to one form of methodology and should embrace mixing methods of data collection.

Use of a quality of life tool allows users more of a voice, enhancing the partnership with service providers and presenting an alternate view of risk.

Implementation of any change to practice needs to address local level barriers and engage the service providers in the process, therefore, avoiding the common perception of being given more work without negotiation and feelings of alienation.

This practice development paper demonstrates the scope for creativity in mixing audit and methods of investigation. It details the evolution of Quality of Life (QOL) perspectives and relates them to the practice of care planning. The process proved enlightening and affirming to practitioners and engaged them in considering value‐based practice (recovery‐orientated) from the perspective of the client. It was clear that subtle changes to care planning emerged, and the goal of giving responsibility for self determining issues was addressed.
Lipid body formation plays a central role in cell fate determination during developmental differentiation of Myxococcus xanthus
Authors: Hoiczyk Egbert , Ring Michael W. , McHugh Colleen A. , Schwär Gertrud , Bode Edna , Krug Daniel , Altmeyer Matthias O. , Lu Jeff Zhiqiang , Bode Helge B.
Published: September 2009

Cell differentiation is widespread during the development of multicellular organisms, but rarely observed in prokaryotes. One example of prokaryotic differentiation is the Gram‐negative bacterium Myxococcus xanthus. In response to starvation, this gliding bacterium initiates a complex developmental programme that results in the formation of spore‐filled fruiting bodies. How the cells metabolically support the necessary complex cellular differentiation from rod‐shaped vegetative cells into spherical spores is unknown. Here, we present evidence that intracellular lipid bodies provide the necessary metabolic fuel for the development of spores. Formed at the onset of starvation, these lipid bodies gradually disappear until they are completely used up by the time the cells have become mature spores. Moreover, it appears that lipid body formation in M. xanthus is an important initial step indicating cell fate during differentiation. Upon starvation, two subpopulations of cells occur: cells that form lipid bodies invariably develop into spores, while cells that do not form lipid bodies end up becoming peripheral rods, which are cells that lack signs of morphological differentiation and stay in a vegetative‐like state. These data indicate that lipid bodies not only fuel cellular differentiation but that their formation represents the first known morphological sign indicating cell fate during differentiation.
Genetic characterization of the Golovinomyces cichoracearum complex in Australia
Authors: Cunnington J. H. , Lawrie A. C. , Pascoe I. G.
Published: September 2009

To characterize the evolutionary lineages of the Golovinomyces cichoracearum complex on introduced plants in Australia, the rDNA ITS regions from 47 herbarium specimens were compared by RFLPs and sequencing. Six RFLP groups were found, each corresponding to a previously reported evolutionary lineage in the complex. The largest of these groups (Group 1) contained 15 specimens infecting a range of tribes in the Asteraceae, despite a previous report that this lineage is largely restricted to the Tribe Heliantheae (Asteraceae). This group contained the only specimens with ascomata. Curved foot cells were formed by two lineages; one (Groups 5 & 6) containing specimens from a range of host families including the Asteraceae (Tribe Lactucae only), the other (Groups 2 & 3) containing members of the Asteraceae (Tribe Anthemidae only). Group 5 may represent G. orontii sensu stricto, while Group 6 is currently unnamed. Golovinomyces cichoracearum sensu stricto (specimens from Scorzonera) formed a distinct group that did not contain any specimens from Australia. Suggestions are made for future species delimitation in the complex.
Alkali‐Degradation of Amyloid: An Ancient Method Useful for Making Monoclonal Antibodies Against Amyloid Fibril Proteins
Authors: Westermark G. T. , Sletten K. , Westermark P.
Published: September 2009

The systemic amyloidoses constitute a group of life‐threatening disorders at which one out of about 15 different proteins have polymerized into fibrils. Prognosis and treatment varies widely and depends on the biochemical type. Determination of this has usually to be performed by immunohistochemistry which is a challenge because of lack of monospecific antibodies that can be used on formaldehyde‐fixed tissue sections. We have here used an old method to create immunogenic fragments of AL‐amyloid fibrils by partial degradation and solubilization with sodium hydroxide. The mouse monoclonal antibody pwlam raised against this material, labelled AL‐amyloid deposits of lambda origin strongly and specifically in sections of formaldehyde‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded tissues.
Human γδ T Cells Produce the Protease Inhibitor and Antimicrobial Peptide Elafin
Authors: Marischen L. , Wesch D. , Schröder J.‐M. , Wiedow O. , Kabelitz D.
Published: September 2009

Human γδ T cells rapidly secrete pro‐inflammatory cytokines in response to T cell receptor‐dependent recognition of pyrophosphates produced by many bacteria and parasites. In further support of an important role of γδ T cells in the immune defence against infection, human γδ T cells have been shown to produce the antimicrobial peptide LL37/cathelicidin. In this study, we have investigated whether γδ T cells can produce additional antimicrobial peptides. To this end, we have screened human γδ T cell clones by RT‐PCR for mRNA expression of a broad range of antimicrobial peptides. While α‐defensins were absent and β‐defensins (HBD1) present only in rare γδ T cell clones, elafin mRNA was induced by supernatant of Pseudomonas aeruginosa grown under static conditions. Elafin is a protease inhibitor that also displays antimicrobial activity. Constitutive intracellular expression of elafin was demonstrated by flow cytometry and Western blot analysis. Furthermore, trappin‐2 (pre‐elafin) could be immunoprecipitated in cell lysates but also in the supernatant of γδ T cells stimulated by Ps. aeruginosa supernatant. Taken together, our studies reveal a novel effector function of γδ T cells which might be important for local immune defence.
Neonatal Alloimmune Thrombocytopenia is Not What It was A Lesson Learned from a Large Prospective Screening and Intervention Program
Authors: Skogen B. , Husebekk A. , Killie M. K. , Kjeldsen‐Kragh J.
Published: September 2009

Controversies regarding the pathophysiology of neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (NAIT) has hampered the development of consensus about how to identify, follow up and treat the women and children with this serious complication. One reason for this is that knowledge about the condition derived from previous retrospective studies do not necessarily conform with data derived from prospective investigations. The main obstacle to introduction of general screening programs to identify the pregnancies to treat, have been lack of reliable risk factors, and an effective treatment. Now, several recent prospective screening programs including up to 100,000 pregnant women has changed the understanding of the NAIT‐pathology, and has shown that we are close to answering these critical questions.
Determinants of handwashing practices in Kenya: the role of media exposure, poverty and infrastructure
Authors: Schmidt Wolf‐Peter , Aunger Robert , Coombes Yolande , Maina Peninnah Mukiri , Matiko Carol Nkatha , Biran Adam , Curtis Val
Published: September 2009

Background  To explore how structural constraints such as lack of reliable water supply, sanitation, educational and other socio‐economic factors limit the adoption of better hygiene.

Methods  In preparation for the Kenya National Handwashing Campaign, we conducted a nationwide cross sectional survey in 800 households with two components: (i) direct structured observation of hygiene practices at key junctures (food handling, cleaning a child after defaecation, toilet use), followed by (ii) a structured interview addressing potential socio‐economic, water access and behavioural determinants of handwashing.

Results  We observed a total of 5182 critical opportunities for handwashing, and handwashing with soap at 25% of these. Handwashing with soap was more often practised after faecal contact (32%) than in connection with food handling (15%). In univariate and multivariate analysis, water access, level of education, media exposure and media ownership were associated with handwashing with soap. Only households with very poor access to water and sanitation, and with the lowest levels of education and media exposure, washed their hands markedly less than the majority of the households.

Conclusion  The results underscore that structural constraints can limit hygiene practices in the very disadvantaged sections of a population, thus jeopardizing the potential success of hygiene promotion campaigns in those most at risk of disease. Nevertheless, the strong association of handwashing with media ownership and exposure supports the view that mass media can play a role in hygiene promotion.
The multinational birth cohort of EuroPrevall: background, aims and methods
Authors: Keil T. , McBride D. , Grimshaw K. , Niggemann B. , Xepapadaki P. , Zannikos K. , Sigurdardottir S. T. , Clausen M. , Reche M. , Pascual C. , Stanczyk A. P. , Kowalski M. L. , Dubakiene R. , Drasutiene G. , Roberts G. , Schoemaker A.‐F. A. , Sprikkelman A. B. , Fiocchi A. , Martelli A. , Dufour S. , Hourihane J. , Kulig M. , Wjst M. , Yazdanbakhsh M. , Szépfalusi Z. , Van Ree R. , Willich S. N. , Wahn U. , Mills E. N. C. , Beyer K.
Published: September 2009

To cite this article: Keil T, McBride D, Grimshaw K, Niggemann B, Xepapadaki P, Zannikos K, Sigurdardottir ST, Clausen M, Reche M, Pascual C, Stanczyk AP, Kowalski ML, Dubakiene R, Drasutiene G, Roberts G, Schoemaker A‐FA, Sprikkelman AB, Fiocchi A, Martelli A, Dufour S, Hourihane J, Kulig M, Wjst M, Yazdanbakhsh M, Szépfalusi Z, van Ree R, Willich SN, Wahn U, Mills ENC, Beyer K. The multinational birth cohort of EuroPrevall: background, aims and methods. Allergy 2010; 65: 482–490.

Background/aim:  The true prevalence and risk factors of food allergies in children are not known because estimates were based predominantly on subjective assessments and skin or serum tests of allergic sensitization to food. The diagnostic gold standard, a double‐blind placebo‐controlled food provocation test, was not performed consistently to confirm suspected allergic reactions in previous population studies in children. This protocol describes the specific aims and diagnostic protocol of a birth cohort study examining prevalence patterns and influential factors of confirmed food allergies in European children from different regions.

Methods:  Within the collaborative translational research project EuroPrevall, we started a multi‐center birth cohort study, recruiting a total of over 12 000 newborns in nine countries across Europe in 2005–2009. In addition to three telephone interviews during the first 30 months, parents were asked to immediately inform the centers about possible allergic reactions to food at any time during the follow‐up period.

Results:  All children with suspected food allergy symptoms were clinically evaluated including double‐blind placebo‐controlled food challenge tests. We assessed sensitization to different food allergens by measurements of specific serum immunoglobulin E and skin prick tests, collect blood, saliva or buccal swabs for genetic tests, breast milk for measurement of food proteins/cytokines, and evaluate quality‐of‐life and economic burden of families with food allergic children.

Conclusions:  This birth cohort provides unique data on prevalence, risk factors, quality‐of‐life, and costs of food allergies in Europe, leading to the development of more informed and integrated preventative and treatment strategies for children with food allergies.
Effects of chlorine and exercise on the unified airway in adolescent elite Scottish swimmers
Authors: Clearie K. L. , Vaidyanathan S. , Williamson P. A. , Goudie A. , Short P. , Schembri S. , Lipworth B. J.
Published: September 2009

To cite this article: Clearie KL, Vaidyanathan S, Williamson PA, Goudie A, Short P, Schembri S, Lipworth BJ. Effects of chlorine and exercise on the unified airway in adolescent elite Scottish swimmers.

Background:  Chlorine metabolites and high training load may produce exercise‐induced bronchospasm (EIB) in elite swimmers. The aim of this study was to assess the combined effects of chlorine and exercise on the unified airway of adolescent elite swimmers.

Methods:  The Scottish Midlands District squad were assessed during an indoor pool session at the National Swimming Academy. Athletes trained at least 8 h per week. Subjects underwent tidal (TNO) and nasal (NNO) exhaled NO and peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF) pre and post a 2 h session. A physiological exercise challenge assessed EIB in n = 36 swimmers (>10% fall in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1)).

Results:  Combined and free chlorine levels (mg/l) were 1.66 and 0.3 respectively. n = 36 swimmers (mean age 13.3 years) were assessed: n = 8 (22%) had known asthma; n = 13 (36%) had a positive physiological challenge; 18 (50%) complained of symptoms suggestive of EIB. n = 10/28 (36%) who did not have asthma were found to have a positive exercise challenge. There was no significant association between reported exercise symptoms and positive exercise test. There was no significant change in TNO or NNO for pre vs postexposure, irrespective of asthma diagnosis or AHR. n = 15 (42%) swimmers complained of worsening nasal symptoms postexposure, but only n = 7 (14%) had a demonstrable fall in PNIF (mean 33 l/min). No significant association was found between PNIF and symptoms.

Conclusions:  Combined exposure to chlorine and exercise did not affect surrogate markers of inflammation in the unified airway. There was a high prevalence of undiagnosed EIB.
Ratio of myeloid and plasmacytoid dendritic cells and TH2 skew in CRS with nasal polyps
Authors: Kirsche H. , Niederführ A. , Deutschle T. , Fuchs C. , Riechelmann H.
Published: September 2009

Background:  The role of myeloid and plasmacytoid dendritic cells and its consequences for the TH2 skew in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) with nasal polyps (CRSNP+) should be detailed.

Methods:  In 18 CRS patients without nasal polyps (CRSNP−), 35 CRSNP+ patients and 22 patients with nasal structural abnormalities without rhinosinusitis (controls), dendritic cells (DC) were differentiated into myeloid (mDC) and plasmacytoid (pDC) subtypes using an antibody cocktail including CD1c (BDCA‐1) and CD303 (BDCA‐2) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and single cell preparations of sinonasal mucosa by flow cytometry. Moreover, cells were analysed for expression of CD45, CD3, CD4, CXCR3 (TH1) and CCR4 (TH2) and IFN‐γ, IL‐5, TGF‐β1, TGF‐β2, ECP and total IgE in nasal secretions were determined. As a possible confounder, Staphylococcus aureus in nasal lavages was detected.

Results:  The tissue mDC/pDC‐ratio was 1.7 (1.0–2.4) in controls, 3.0 (1.8–4.0) in CRSNP− and 0.8 (0.6–1.0) in CRSNP+ (P < 0.01). In tissue samples, the TH1/TH2 ratio was 12.6 (6.4–16.0) in controls, 12.5 (6.9–21.2) in CRSNP− and 1.8 (1.3–3.6) in CRSNP+ (median and interquartile range, P < 0.001). Less pronounced differences were found in PBMC. S. aureus detection rates or TGF‐β levels did not differ between patient groups and S. aureus detection had no influence on the parameters investigated.

Conclusion:  A significant TH2 skew in CRSNP+ could be confirmed on the cellular level. It was driven by low myeloid dendritic cell numbers. The TH2 skew did not correlate with S. aureus detection. The data support the concept that CRSNP+ and CRSNP− are pathophysiologically distinct.
The definition and diagnostic testing of physical and cholinergic urticarias – EAACI/GA2LEN/EDF/UNEV consensus panel recommendations
Authors: Magerl M. , Borzova E. , Giménez‐Arnau A. , Grattan C. E. H. , Lawlor F. , Mathelier‐Fusade P. , Metz M. , Młynek A. , Maurer M.
Published: September 2009

The recommendations for the definition and diagnosis presented in this position paper are the result of a panel consensus meeting held in December 2008 in Berlin. This consensus meeting was a joint initiative of EAACI (European Academy of Allergology and Clinical Immunology) Dermatology Section, the EU‐funded network of excellence, GA2LEN (Global Allergy and Asthma European Network), the EDF (European Dermatology Forum) and UNEV (urticaria network e.V.). The aim of these recommendations is to improve the diagnosis and management of patients with physical urticaria or cholinergic urticaria and to promote research and a better understanding of these diseases. Our recommendations used the paper produced by a 1996 expert meeting (1) and they acknowledge the latest changes in our understanding of physical urticarias and cholinergic urticaria as well as the recent development of novel diagnostic tools. In addition, this consensus paper highlights areas of need for further research.
In vitro detection of cytotoxic T and NK cells in peripheral blood of patients with various drug‐induced skin diseases
Authors: Zawodniak A. , Lochmatter P. , Yerly D. , Kawabata T. , Lerch M. , Yawalkar N. , Pichler W. J.
Published: September 2009

To cite this article: Zawodniak A, Lochmatter P, Yerly D, Kawabata T, Lerch M, Yawalkar N, Pichler WJ. In vitro detection of cytotoxic T and NK cells in peripheral blood of patients with various drug‐induced skin diseases. Allergy 2010; 65: 376–384.

Background:  Cytotoxic cells are involved in most forms of drug‐induced skin diseases. Till now, no in vitro test addressed this aspect of drug‐allergic responses. Our report evaluates whether drug‐induced cytotoxic cells can be detected in peripheral blood of nonacute patients with different forms of drug hypersensitivity, and also whether in vitro detection of these cells could be helpful in drug‐allergy diagnosis.

Methods:  GranzymeB enzyme‐linked immunosorbent spot‐forming (ELISPOT) and cell surface expression of the degranulation marker CD107a were evaluated on peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 12 drug‐allergic patients in remission state and 16 drug‐exposed healthy controls.

Results:  In 10/12 allergic patients culprit but not irrelevant drug elicited granzymeB release after 48–72 h stimulation. It was clearly positive in patients with high proliferative response to the drug, measured in lymphocyte transformation tests. In patients, who showed moderate or low proliferation and low drug‐response in granzymeB ELISPOT, overnight preincubation with interleukin (IL)‐7/IL‐15 enhanced drug‐specific granzymeB release and allowed to clearly identify the offending agent. CD107a staining was positive on CD4+/CD3+, CD8+/CD3+ T cells as well as CD56+/CD3− natural killer cells. None of the drug‐exposed healthy donors reacted to the tested drugs and allergic patients reacted only to the offending, but not to tolerated drugs.

Conclusion:  GranzymeB ELISPOT is a highly specific in vitro method to detect drug‐reacting cytotoxic cells in peripheral blood of drug‐allergic patients even several years after disease manifestation. Together with IL‐7/IL‐15 preincubation, it may be helpful in indentifying the offending drug even in some patients with weak proliferative drug‐response.
Anaphylaxis to Patent Blue V. I. Clinical aspects
Authors: Hunting A. S. , Nopp A. , Johansson S. G. O. , Andersen F. , Wilhelmsen V. , Guttormsen A. B.
Published: September 2009

Background:  The dye Patent Blue V (PBV) is increasingly used for staging procedures in operable breast cancer, but is reported to cause adverse reactions. The aim of this study was to present the clinical features and the results of follow‐up examinations in patients with such reactions.

Methods:  We studied nine patients with hypersensitivity reactions to PBV between 1999 and 2006 who were identified through the Norwegian network for reporting and investigating allergic reactions during anesthesia.

Results:  We observed incidences of 0.5% (7/1418) for all kinds of PBV reactions and 0.4% (5/1418) for anaphylaxis. Typical clinical features included: (i) cardiovascular and/or cutaneous symptoms, (ii) a delay in symptoms, compared to the time of dye injection, (iii) poor response to ephedrine and intravenous fluid, and (iv) need for adrenaline administration, sometimes prolonged, for circulatory stabilization. Cutaneous manifestations were noted in five of the seven patients with anaphylaxis and two additional patients without circulatory instability. During anaphylactic reactions, serum tryptase was increased in six patients and normal in one. Serum tryptase was normal in one patient with skin symptoms only. Skin prick tests to PBV were positive in all eight patients tested, including the two with skin manifestations only.

Conclusion:  The clinical features and the results of follow‐up studies strongly suggest that these reactions are IgE mediated.
Kidney dysfunction induced by protein overload nephropathy reduces serum sulfatide levels in mice
Authors: LI GANG , HU RUI , KAMIJO YUJI , NAKAJIMA TAKERO , AOYAMA TOSHIFUMI , EHARA TAKASHI , SHIGEMATSU HIDEKAZU , KANNAGI REIJI , KYOGASHIMA MAMORU , HARA ATSUSHI
Published: September 2009

We recently proposed serum sulfatides as a novel biomarker for cardiovascular disease in patients with end‐stage renal failure (ESRF), based on the possible antithrombotic properties of this molecule. In this earlier study, the level of serum sulfatides was gradually decreased in parallel with kidney dysfunction; however the precise mechanism underlying this decrease was unknown. The aim of the present study was to investigate the mechanism underlying the decrease in serum sulfatide levels caused by kidney dysfunction in an experimental animal model. To produce a kidney dysfunction animal model, we prepared a mouse model of protein overload nephropathy. Using high‐throughput analysis combined with matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionisation time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry, we measured the levels of sulfatides in the sera, livers, small intestines and kidneys of protein overload nephropathy mice. As the disease progressed, the levels of sulfatides in sera decreased. Also, the levels in livers and small intestines decreased in a similar manner to those in sera, to approximately 60% of the original levels. On the contrary, those in kidneys increased by approximately 1.4‐fold. Our results indicate that kidney dysfunction affects the levels of sulfatides in lipoprotein‐producing organs, such as livers and small intestines, and lowers the levels of sulfatides in sera.
Cultural adaptation and validation of the Filipino version of Kidney Disease Quality of Life – Short Form (KDQOL‐SF version 1.3)
Authors: BATACLAN ROMMEL P , DIAL MA ANTONIETTA D
Published: September 2009

Aim:  Chronic kidney disease is the 10th leading cause of death among Filipinos. Those with chronic kidney disease are exposed to stressors which effect their daily lives. Therefore, assessment of health‐related quality of life is important in these patients. The objective of the present study was to translate the Kidney Disease Quality of Life – Short Form version 1.3 (KDQOL‐SF ver. 1.3) into Filipino and measure its validity and reliability.

Methods:  Translation and cultural adaptation began with two translations into Filipino, with reconciliation of the forward translators. Pretesting with 10 renal patients, review by experts (nephrologist, translator and dialysis nurse) and back‐translation was also done. The final questionnaire was administered to 80 patients with chronic renal disease undergoing haemodialysis for at least 3 months, who could understand Filipino, and were without life‐threatening or terminal conditions at the time of the test. A convenience sample of 30 patients from the group had a repeat test 10–14 days after to determine test–retest reliability. Test–retest reliability was assessed by intraclass correlation coefficient and internal consistency reliability was measured by determining the Cronbach's α value. Validity was measured using Pearson's correlation between the overall health rating scale and the items from the questionnaire.

Results:  All of the items showed good test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient >0.40), ranging from 0.58 (social interaction) to 0.98 (role – emotional). Internal consistency reliability values were acceptable, with Cronbach's α ranging from 0.60 (cognitive function) to 0.80 (physical functioning and role – physical). Regarding construct validity, overall health rating in kidney disease‐targeted scales was significantly correlated with symptoms/problems, effects of kidney disease and burden of kidney disease. All items in the SF 36 scales had significant correlation with overall health rating (P < 0.05) except for role – emotional.

Conclusion:  The Filipino version of the Kidney Disease Quality of Life – Short Form can be used to evaluate the health‐related quality of life of Filipinos with chronic renal disease on haemodialysis.
Estimating demographic models for the range dynamics of plant species
Authors: Cabral Juliano S. , Schurr Frank M.
Published: September 2009

Aims  To better understand how demographic processes shape the range dynamics of woody plants (in this case, Proteaceae), we introduce a likelihood framework for fitting process‐based models of range dynamics to spatial abundance data.

Location  The fire‐prone Fynbos biome (Cape Floristic Region, South Africa).

Methods  Our process‐based models have a spatially explicit demographic submodel (describing dispersal, reproduction, mortality and local extinction) as well as an observation submodel (describing imperfect detection of individuals), and are constrained by species‐specific predictions of habitat distribution models and process‐based models for seed dispersal by wind. Free model parameters were varied to find parameter sets with the highest likelihood. After testing this approach with simulated data, we applied it to eight Proteaceae species that differ in breeding system (monoecy versus dioecy) and adult fire survival. We assess the importance of Allee effects and negative density dependence for range dynamics, by using the Akaike information criterion to select between alternative models fitted for the same species.

Results  The best model for all dioecious study species included Allee effects, whereas this was true for only one of four monoecious species. As expected, sprouters (in which adults survive fire) were estimated to have lower rates of reproduction and catastrophic population extinction than related non‐sprouters. Overcompensatory population dynamics seem important for three of four non‐sprouters. We also found good quantitative agreement between independent data and most estimates of reproduction, carrying capacity and extinction probability.

Main conclusions  This study shows that process‐based models can quantitatively describe how large‐scale abundance distributions arise from the movement and interaction of individuals. It stresses links between the life history, demography and range dynamics of Proteaceae: dioecious species seem more susceptible to Allee effects which reduce migration ability and increase local extinction risk, and sprouters seem to have high persistence of established populations, but their low reproduction limits habitat colonization and migration.
Niche shifts during the global invasion of the Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus Skuse (Culicidae), revealed by reciprocal distribution models
Authors: Medley Kim A.
Published: September 2009

Aim  Niche‐based distribution models are often used to predict the spread of invasive species. These models assume niche conservation during invasion, but invasive species can have different requirements from populations in their native range for many reasons, including niche evolution. I used distribution modelling to investigate niche conservatism for the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus Skuse) during its invasion of three continents. I also used this approach to predict areas at risk of invasion from propagules originating from invasive populations.

Location  Models were created for Southeast Asia, North and South America, and Europe.

Methods  I used maximum entropy (Maxent) to create distribution models using occurrence data and 18 environmental datasets. One native model was created for Southeast Asia; this model was projected onto North America, South America and Europe. Three models were created independently for the non‐native ranges and projected onto the native range. Niche overlap between native and non‐native predictions was evaluated by comparing probability surfaces between models using real data and random models generated using a permutation approach.

Results  The native model failed to predict an entire region of occurrences in South America, approximately 20% of occurrences in North America and nearly all Italian occurrences of A. albopictus. Non‐native models poorly predict the native range, but predict additional areas at risk for invasion globally. Niche overlap metrics indicate that non‐native distributions are more similar to the native niche than a random prediction, but they are not equivalent. Multivariate analyses support modelled differences in niche characteristics among continents, and reveal important variables explaining these differences.

Main conclusions  The niche of A. albopictus has shifted on invaded continents relative to its native range (Southeast Asia). Statistical comparisons reveal that the niche for introduced distributions is not equivalent to the native niche. Furthermore, reciprocal models highlight the importance of controlling bi‐directional dispersal between native and non‐native distributions.
Performance Implications of Ties to the Government and SOEs: A Political Embeddedness Perspective
Authors: Okhmatovskiy Ilya
Published: September 2009

abstract

In many countries governments not only regulate business activities, but also become involved in the corporate governance of individual firms through ownership and board ties. While existing studies usually focus either on benefits of political connections or on costs of government influence, a political embeddedness perspective helps us consider both advantages and constraints associated with ties to the government. In particular, firms with direct ties to the government will experience significant costs associated with government officials' involvement in the corporate governance process. In contrast, firms with ties to state‐owned enterprises (SOEs) are connected to the government indirectly and thus, while getting access to state‐owned resources, avoid costs associated with the government's interventions. This study compares the performance consequences of board and ownership ties to the government with the consequences of board and ownership ties to SOEs. I find that ties to SOEs are associated with higher profitability, while no significant differences are discovered for firms with direct ties to the government.
Quality Meets Structure: Generalized Reciprocity and Firm‐Level Advantage in Strategic Networks
Authors: Wincent Joakim , Anokhin Sergey , Örtqvist Daniel , Autio Erkko
Published: September 2009

abstract

In this paper we extend previous research by combining network structural and network process approaches. Specifically, in a six‐year, three‐wave study of 41 firms in two strategic networks, we found that the interaction between generalized reciprocity among a focal firm's partners and network tie intensity and betweenness centrality improved firm performance. No influences were observed for the interaction involving degree centrality and generalized reciprocity. Our research suggests that managers in strategic networks may need to consider the balance between relationship‐extensive and relationship‐intensive strategies.
Executive function and the development of belief–desire psychology
Authors: Rakoczy Hannes
Published: September 2009

In two studies children’s performance on tasks requiring the ascription of beliefs and desires was investigated in relation to their executive function. Study 1 (n = 80) showed that 3‐ and 4‐year‐olds were more proficient at ascribing subjective, mutually incompatible desires and desire‐dependent emotions to two persons than they were at ascribing analogous subjective false beliefs. Replicating previous findings, executive function was correlated with false‐belief ascription. However, executive function was also correlated with performance on tasks requiring subjective desire understanding. Study 2 (n = 54) replicated these results, and showed that the correlations hold even if age, vocabulary and working memory are controlled for. The results are discussed with regard to the role of executive function and conceptual change in theory of mind development.
Perceived quality of maternal care in childhood and structure and function of mothers' brain
Authors: Kim Pilyoung , Leckman James F. , Mayes Linda C. , Newman Michal‐Ann , Feldman Ruth , Swain James E.
Published: September 2009

Animal studies indicate that early maternal care has long‐term effects on brain areas related to social attachment and parenting, whereas neglectful mothering is linked with heightened stress reactivity in the hippocampus across the lifespan. The present study explores the possibility, using magnetic resonance imaging, that perceived quality of maternal care in childhood is associated with brain structure and functional responses to salient infant stimuli among human mothers in the first postpartum month. Mothers who reported higher maternal care in childhood showed larger grey matter volumes in the superior and middle frontal gyri, orbital gyrus, superior temporal gyrus and fusiform gyrus. In response to infant cries, these mothers exhibited higher activations in the middle frontal gyrus, superior temporal gyrus and fusiform gyrus, whereas mothers reporting lower maternal care showed increased hippocampal activations. These findings suggest that maternal care in childhood may be associated with anatomy and functions in brain regions implicated in appropriate responsivity to infant stimuli in human mothers.
Evidence of physical activity participation among men and women in the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council: a review
Authors: Mabry R. M. , Reeves M. M. , Eakin E. G. , Owen N.
Published: September 2009

Rapid socioeconomic development in the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has resulted in demographic and epidemiological transitions, with obesity, diabetes and other chronic diseases becoming the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. This emerging disease pattern is often attributed to physically inactive lifestyles. Given that there is no consolidated evidence on physical activity participation, we reviewed studies to examine prevalence and gender differences among GCC adults. PubMed, CINAHL and reference list searches identified eight relevant studies. Based on the best‐available data, the prevalence of adults being physically active for at least 150 min week−1 (based on the international standard definition) ranged from 39.0% to 42.1% for men and 26.3% to 28.4% for women. Men were significantly more active than were women. Prevalence estimates for participation in physical activity in the GCC States are considerably lower than those for many developed countries. Studies using standardized methodologies with nationally representative samples are urgently required. Identifying prevalence and gender variations provides the basis for understanding the unique socio‐cultural and environmental factors contributing to physical inactivity among adults in the countries of the GCC. This understanding must then inform population‐health strategies to address the rising prevalence of obesity, type 2 diabetes and other chronic diseases.
HOW TO CONNECT BIOETHICS AND ENVIRONMENTAL ETHICS: HEALTH, SUSTAINABILITY, AND JUSTICE
Authors: DWYER JAMES
Published: September 2009

In this paper, I explore one way to bring bioethics and environmental ethics closer together. I focus on a question at the interface of health, sustainability, and justice: How well does a society promote health with the use of no more than a just share of environmental capacity? To address this question, I propose and discuss a mode of assessment that combines a measurement of population health, an estimate of environmental sustainability, and an assumption about what constitutes a fair or just share. This mode of assessment provides an estimate of the just and sustainable life expectancy of a population. It could be used to monitor how well a particular society promotes health within just environmental limits. It could also serve as a source of information that stakeholders use when they deliberate about programs, policies, and technologies. The purpose of this work is to focus attention on an ethical task: the need to fashion institutions and forms of life that promote health in ways that recognize the claims of sustainability and justice.
THE WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY: DECISION THEORY AND THE TIMING OF PROGNOSTIC TESTS FOR NEWBORN INFANTS
Authors: WILKINSON DOMINIC
Published: September 2009

In many forms of severe acute brain injury there is an early phase when prognosis is uncertain, followed later by physiological recovery and the possibility of more certain predictions of future impairment. There may be a window of opportunity for withdrawal of life support early, but if decisions are delayed there is the risk that the patient will survive with severe impairment.

In this paper I focus on the example of neonatal encephalopathy and the question of the timing of prognostic tests and decisions to continue or to withdraw life‐sustaining treatment. Should testing be performed early or later; and how should parents decide what to do given the conflicting values at stake? I apply decision theory to the problem, using sensitivity analysis to assess how different features of the tests or different values would affect a decision to perform early or late prognostic testing. I draw some general conclusions from this model for decisions about the timing of testing in neonatal encephalopathy. Finally I consider possible solutions to the problem posed by the window of opportunity.

Decision theory highlights the costs of uncertainty. This may prompt further research into improving prognostic tests. But it may also prompt us to reconsider our current attitudes towards the palliative care of newborn infants predicted to be severely impaired.
The ‘Family Wage’ as a Class-Rational Strategy
Authors: Creighton Colin
Published: September 2009

This paper re-examines the debate about the class rationality of the working-class demand for a family wage and argues that this issue cannot be resolved without considering the feasibility of alternative strategies. Existing accounts are criticized for their unrealistic treatment of these alternatives and the constraints upon them and particularly for their neglect of the influence of the policies of employers and the state upon working-class strategies. The argument is supported by discussion of the economic and political context of the family wage demand in Britain up to the First World War and concludes that the strategy was more rational than many writers have suggested.
Whom Can You Trust? The Politics of ‘Grassing’ on an Inner City Housing Estate
Authors: Evans Karen , Fraser Penny , Walklate Sandra
Published: September 2009

This paper derives from an ongoing research project concerned to explore how people living in, going to work in, attending school in, high crime areas manage their routine daily lives. It focuses on one of our research areas in which we argue that the question of the ‘fear of crime’ is much better understood through an appreciation of how the question of trust manifests itself in that community. In other words, whom you trust, when, and by how much, mediate the way in which people living in this area manage their routine daily lives and within that their sense of security.
Working on the Front-Line: Risk Culture and Nursing in the New NHS
Authors: Annandale Ellen
Published: September 2009

Nursing and midwifery are increasingly marked by risk and uncertainty under the dual impact of patient consumerism and organisational accountability. The omnipresent character of risk in health work means that it is particularly difficult to manage. Since the practice decisions of today may only be known as problems in the future, risk can never really be forestalled. This means that it is very difficult to close-off risk, but nonetheless imperative to try. Drawing on research conducted in two hospital trusts, this paper explores the strategies that nurses and midwives use in an attempt to colonise the future and protect themselves in the risk culture of the new NHS. It will suggest that although the self-protective strategies that emerge may enhance quality of patient care, they can also generate defensive practices which are in the interests of neither nurses and midwives nor patients.
The Theoretical Underpinnings of Chicago Sociology in the 1920s and 30s
Authors: Burns Tony
Published: September 2009

This paper looks at the work of the Chicago School in the 1920s and 1930s from the standpoint of the debate between positivism and its critics within the discipline of sociology. It is argued that, despite appearances to the contrary, Chicago sociology at this time is based on a rejection of the principles of positivism. It is an attempt to apply the principles of interpretative understanding to the practical problems of empirical research.
The Domestic Basis for the Managerial Career
Authors: Wajcman Judy
Published: September 2009

Although there are now many studies of managers, there has been little research on how gender relations in the private sphere are lived to accommodate the managerial career. The organisation of domestic life and the household division of labour has largely been neglected. This article examines the domestic basis of the managerial career. The data are drawn from a larger study of women and men senior managers in five multinational companies. The analysis reveals that the domestic arrangements necessary to sustain the life of a senior manager are very different for men and women, giving the lie to the myth that equality has been achieved. My argument is that for all the company initiatives designed to promote equal opportunities, the managerial career is still largely dependent upon the services of a wife at home, or a housewife substitute in the form of paid domestic services.
‘Staying on’: The Effects of Recent Changes in Educational Participation for 17–19 Year-Olds in Norway and Scotland
Authors: Hammer Torild , Furlong Andy
Published: September 2009

In this paper we consider some of the implications of the growth of educational participation for the labour market integration of young people between the ages of 17 and 19 in Norway and Scotland. In particular, we focus on the experiences of disadvantaged youth and assess the extent to which they benefit from participation in post-compulsory schooling. We argue that in terms of success on the labour market, post-compulsory secondary education is only beneficial to those intending to continue into Higher Education. We demonstrate the existence of persistent inequalities among ‘non-traditional stayers’, and show that despite greater access to post-compulsory education, young people from middle class families still retain important advantages in both Norway and Scotland. However, we argue that in Scotland, females and those from less advantaged social positions are more disadvantaged than their Norwegian counterparts.
Resisting Sex/Gender Conflation: A Rejoinder to John Hood-Williams
Authors: Archer Robert
Published: September 2009

The irony of the rejection of the sex/gender distinction is that it renders sociology per se an impossible enterprise. For it is my submission that, contra Hood-Williams (1996) and others, the biological and the social constitute distinct, irreducible levels of reality: to conflate (in a ‘downwards’ or ‘upwards’ direction) the two levels is immediately to render analysis of their relative interplay at best intractable. It is indeed arguable that Hood-Williams is not so much concerned with (rightly) rejecting the so-called ‘additive’ approach to the biological and the social where the biological base is seen a priori as immutable, but more fundamentally with rejecting the necessary dualism of nature and culture (ie the biological and the social). In contradistinction, a realist defence of the sex/gender distinction will be made, involving critical reference to various major writers in the field and offering a brief but tentative discussion of the provenance of gender.
PRESENTISM AND PERSISTENCE
Authors: BENOVSKY JIRI
Published: September 2009

In this paper, I examine various theories of persistence through time under presentism. In Part I, I argue that both perdurantist views (namely, the worm view and the stage view) suffer, in combination with presentism, from serious difficulties and should be rejected. In Part II, I discuss the presentist endurantist view, to see that it does avoid the difficulties of the perdurantist views, and consequently that it does work, but at a price that some may consider as being very high: its ontological commitments to platonic universals and to the substratum theory, that as we shall see follow from the combination of endurantism with presentism, will perhaps not be to everyone's taste.
How Important is Study Mode in Student University Choice?
Authors: Hagel Pauline , Shaw Robin N.
Published: September 2009

Conjoint analysis was used to model the importance of study mode in students' choice of university. Study mode was proposed as a key choice attribute as universities have diversified their means of delivering education and increased the use of online delivery. Results are reported for two conjoint experiments. The first investigated how undergraduate students made trade‐offs between study mode, university and tuition fees. The second examined similar trade‐offs made by current and prospective postgraduates. Findings confirmed the importance of study mode to both groups and suggest two main reasons for its influence on university choice: it affects students' experiences of learning and socialising at university, and their time and place flexibility. The most preferred study modes for undergraduates and postgraduates were face‐to‐face study and print‐based study, respectively. Given the trend towards online delivery, the findings have relevance to universities across national systems and reputational markets.