bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The framing of scientific domains: about UNISIST, domain analysis and art history
Authors: Dam Christensen Hans
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– By using the UNISIST models this paper argues for the necessity of domain analysis in order to qualify scientific information seeking. The models allow better understanding of communication processes in a scientific domain and they embrace the point that domains are always both unstable over time, and changeable, according to the specific perspective. This understanding is even more important today as numerous digitally generated information tools as well as collaborative and interdisciplinary research are blurring the domain borders. Nevertheless, researchers navigate “intuitively” in “their” specific domains, and UNISIST helps understanding this navigation. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

– The UNISIST models are tentatively applied to the domain of art history at three stages, respectively two modern, partially overlapping domains, as well as an outline of an art historical domain anno c1820. The juxtapositions are discussed against the backdrop of, among others, poststructuralist concepts such as “power” and “anti-essentialism”

Findings

– The juxtapositions affirm the point already surfacing in the different versions of the UNISIST model, that is, structures of communication change over time as well as according to the agents that are charting them. As such, power in a Foucauldian sense is unavoidable in outlining a domain.

Originality/value

– The UNISIST models are applied to the domain of art history and the article discusses the instability of a scientific domain as well as, at the same time, the significance of framing a domain; an implication which is often neglected in scientific information seeking.
Introduction to the special issue: perspectives on research libraries
Authors: Hjørland Birger , Jørn Nielsen Hans , Høyrup Helene
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The aim of this article is to introduce the special issue of Journal of Documentation focusing on perspectives on research libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper outlines the theme of the issue and its underlying problems.

Findings

– The traditional services of research libraries may diffuse to other kinds of institutions. There is, however, a need for information specialists studying and improving research infrastructures. Future services probably need to be more focused, domain-specific and based on research in information science.

Originality/value

– The introduction is written to assist readers surveying the issue and to share the thoughts of the editors in planning the issue.
Saudi telecom: an example of accelerated internationalization
Authors: Suzanne Amine Lyn , Mostafa Khan Golam
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– A new case study of accelerated internationalization (AI) shows that in only two years, Saudi telecom (STC) entered markets across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. Managerial analysis identifies reasons for success while questioning strategic choices and their implications. Theory-driven analysis reviews STC's experience in light of selected theories and frameworks. This case is also intended for teaching purposes. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

– Responding to Welch et al.'s call, the authors use “interpretive sense-making” and “contextualized explanation” and highlight environmental context in the case study development. The authors review case-based research, explain data collection problems, present managerial and theoretical analyses of the case, discuss the findings relative to the literature, and suggest directions for research.

Findings

– Case analysis reveals STC's focus on global portfolio development as a driver of AI. Theoretical analysis confirms the psychic distance construct and its paradox, as well as the notion of epochs of internationalization while warning that the path and stages models of internationalization are at odds with AI. The authors call for a contingency view of the resource-based view as a function of context.

Research limitations/implications

– Limitations arise from the use of secondary data for case development because direct access to this Saudi company was not feasible.

Practical implications

– AI is popular among wealthy Gulf telecoms ambitious for growth. Regional competition in the Gulf is characterized by copycat and follow-the-leader strategies which preclude elaboration of unique, inimitable or non-substitutable assets, resources or capabilities.

Originality/value

– This innovative approach to case development provides a rich database for probing analyses of managerial and theoretical implications of AI in a Gulf-based company.
Schools and adolescent mental health: education providers or health care providers?
Authors: Hopkins Liza
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The issue of mental health amongst students in the senior years of secondary schooling is one which has recently gained traction in mainstream media and public discourse across Australia. The purpose of this paper is to uncover the ways in which schools and other education providers are responding to mental health issues amongst their students both proactively (for prevention) and reactively (for referral and treatment).

Design/methodology/approach

– The project took a qualitative research approach to gathering data from student support staff based in schools and out-of-school learning settings, through a focus group methodology.

Findings

– The project found that despite policy rhetoric and research evidence supporting pro-active, curriculum integrated, early intervention to prevent and avoid mental illness and mental distress amongst secondary school students, most schools still take a reactive, piecemeal approach to prevention of mental illness and provision of mental health care. Individual schools and learning providers are responding to issues in a variety of ways, along a continuum of care.

Research limitations/implications

– The project had a small sample size and restricted geographic area. The divergence in findings between staff from schools in this area and staff from other education providers suggests much more work needs to be done in establishing the implications of bureaucratic sector and school governance on health and wellbeing outcomes.

Originality/value

– This paper begins to explore an under-researched area of school and other education provider responses to rising concern about student mental health.
The workload of a psychiatric clinic at a general hospital in a post conflict area: a model from Iraq
Authors: Younis Maha , Kareem Al Obaidi Abdul , Al-Nuaimi Ahmed
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how a psychiatric clinic in a general hospital can function in conflict-ridden Iraq through the easing of patient access to services.

Design/methodology/approach

– The workload of psychiatrists was analyzed for one year (2010) at the psychiatry consultation clinic located in the campus of the Medical City Hospital in Central Baghdad which is also a training center.

Findings

– A total of 2,997 consultations (both adults and children) occurred in 2010. In total, 96 percent were self or family referrals. Patient services were provided by five consulting psychiatrists for a variety of psychiatric disorders. The main therapeutic intervention was the prescription of psychotropics.

Research limitations/implications

– Despite the turbulent circumstances and limited mental health resources in Iraq, this clinic was established as a model to attract patients for consultation and triage management to reduce appointment defaults and delayed care.

Practical implications

– The data can contribute to the planning and development of mental health services in Iraq, contributing to the current body of literature and serving as a model for other conflict areas.

Originality/value

– To best of the understanding this study is the first in the country.
Individual and professional development in the digital age
Authors: Koles Bernadett , Nagy Peter
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The current paper aims to embrace an interdisciplinary approach to illustrate some of the ways in which virtual worlds expanded upon the individual, social and professional options of employees in organizational settings.

Design/methodology/approach

– Through an extensive literature review, the paper compiles the latest and most fundamental research capturing relevant concepts from the fields of psychology, pedagogy, management and human-computer interaction.

Findings

– The current conceptual model incorporates individual- and group-level outcomes associated with virtual world participation, along three primary dimensions, namely self-reference, role experimentation and social capital, accounting for potential variation based on the extent of organizational engagement.

Practical implications

– The three proposed dimensions elaborated in the current model, including reflexivity/transference, role playing/role identification, and group collaboration/virtual teams, enable organizations to understand the likely outcomes of their virtual presence from the perspective of their structural and social attributes.

Originality/value

– The proposed conceptual model offers a theoretical base for academics and practitioners to expand upon and develop concrete practical examples and cases.
Long‐pulsed 1064‐nm neodymium:yttrium–aluminum–garnet laser treatment for refractory warts on hands and feet
Authors: Kimura Utako , Takeuchi Kaori , Kinoshita Ayako , Takamori Kenji , Suga Yasushi
Published: February 2014

Common warts (verruca vulgaris) are the most commonly seen benign cutaneous tumors. However, warts in the hands and feet regions often respond poorly to treatment, some are resistant to more than 6 months of treatment with currently available modalities, including cryotherapy, being defined as refractory warts. We investigated the usefulness of long‐pulsed neodymium:yttrium–aluminum–garnet (LP‐Nd:YAG) treatment for refractory warts. The clinical trial was conducted on 20 subjects (11 male, nine female) with a total of 34 lesions (periungual/subungual areas, plantar areas, fingers and/or toes). All the subjects suffered from refractory warts despite conventional treatments for more than 6 months. The patients were administrated up to six sessions of treatment, at intervals of 4 weeks between sessions, with anLP‐Nd:YAGat a spot size of 5 mm, pulse duration of 15 msec and fluence of 150–185 J/cm2. Evaluation of the treatment results at 24 weeks after the initial treatment showed complete clearance of the refractory warts in 56% of the patients. Histological evaluation showed separation of the dermis and epidermis at the basement membrane with coagulated necrosis of the wart tissue in the lower epidermis, as well as coagulation and destruction of the blood vessels in the papillary dermis following the laser irradiation. No scarring, post‐hyperpigmentary changes or serious adverse events were documented. Our preliminary results show thatLP‐Nd:YAGtreatments are safe and effective for refractory warts of hands and feet, causing minimal discomfort, and is a viable treatment alternative.
Root endophytes enhance stress‐tolerance of Cicuta virosa L. growing in a mining pond of eastern Japan
Authors: Nagata Satoshi , Yamaji Keiko , Nomura Nobuhiko , Ishimoto Hiroshi
Published: February 2014

Cicuta virosa L. plants can grow in a pond subjected to heavy‐metal inputs at the Hitachi mine, eastern Japan. They accumulate heavy‐metal elements, especially high concentrations of zinc (Zn), in their roots. We focused on the role that root bacterial endophytes play in the heavy‐metal uptake of plants and the provision of heavy‐metal tolerance within plants. Our purpose was to clarify the effects of endophytes on: (i) Zn accumulation in C. virosa roots; (ii) growth of C. virosa seedlings; and (iii) heavy‐metal tolerance of C. virosa plants. Root endophytic Pseudomonas putida and Rhodopseudomonas sp., which induced the high production of Zn‐chelating compounds, were selected for the seedling inoculation test. The results of the inoculation test demonstrated that both strains of endophytes increased Zn accumulation in C. virosa roots by solubilizing Zn in the sediment. Both strains also increased the growth of seedlings by possible production of indole‐3‐acetic acid in the plant. The heavy‐metal tolerance of C. virosa seedlings was likely promoted by producing metal‐chelating compounds that detoxify the metals in the plant tissues, and by decreasing the heavy‐metal contents in the tissues via rapid seedling growth. Thus, such mutualistic interactions between plants and bacteria contribute to the persistence of C. virosa in this severe environment.
Identification of sex‐specific molecular markers using restriction site‐associated DNA sequencing
Authors: Gamble Tony , Zarkower David
Published: February 2014

A major barrier to evolutionary studies of sex determination and sex chromosomes has been a lack of information on the types of sex‐determining mechanisms that occur among different species. This is particularly problematic in groups where most species lack visually heteromorphic sex chromosomes, such as fish, amphibians and reptiles, because cytogenetic analyses will fail to identify the sex chromosomes in these species. We describe the use of restriction site‐associated DNA (RAD) sequencing, or RAD‐seq, to identify sex‐specific molecular markers and subsequently determine whether a species has male or female heterogamety. To test the accuracy of this technique, we examined the lizard Anolis carolinensis. We performed RAD‐seq on seven male and ten female A. carolinensis and found one male‐specific molecular marker. Anolis carolinensis has previously been shown to possess male heterogamety and the recently published A. carolinensis genome facilitated the characterization of the sex‐specific RAD‐seq marker. We validated the male specificity of the new marker using PCR on additional individuals and also found that it is conserved in some other Anolis species. We discuss the utility of using RAD‐seq to identify sex‐determining mechanisms in other species with cryptic or homomorphic sex chromosomes and the implications for the evolution of male heterogamety in Anolis.
Ultrasound for Routine Lumbar Puncture
Authors: Peterson Michael A. , Pisupati Deepti , Heyming Theodore W. , Abele Jennifer A. , Lewis Roger J.
Published: February 2014

Objectives

The objective was to determine if use of ultrasound (US) by emergency physicians (EPs) to localize spinal landmarks improves the performance of lumbar puncture (LP).

Methods

This was a prospective, randomized, controlled study conducted in a county teaching hospital. Subjects, adults 18 years of age or older who were to receive LPs for routine clinical care in the emergency department (ED), were randomized either to undergo US localization of the puncture site or to have the puncture site determined by palpation of spinal landmarks. Primary outcomes were the number of needle insertion attempts and success of the procedure. Secondary outcomes were pain associated with the procedure, time to perform the procedure, number of traumatic taps, and patient satisfaction with the procedure.

Results

One‐hundred patients were enrolled in the study, with 50 in each study group. There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of age, sex, body mass index (BMI), indication for LP, or ease of palpation of landmarks. For both primary outcomes and secondary outcomes there were no significant differences between those undergoing US localization and those with palpation alone.

Conclusions

These data do not suggest any advantage to the routine use of US localization for LP insertion, although further study may be warranted to look for benefit in the difficult to palpate or obese patient subgroups.
Validation of the Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit in Older Emergency Department Patients
Authors: Han Jin H. , Wilson Amanda , Graves Amy J. , Shintani Ayumi , Schnelle John F. , Dittus Robert S. , Powers James S. , Vernon John , Storrow Alan B. , Ely E. Wesley
Published: February 2014

Objectives

In the emergency department (ED), health care providers miss delirium approximately 75% of the time, because they do not routinely screen for this syndrome. The Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit (CAM‐ICU) is a brief (<1 minute) delirium assessment that may be feasible for use in the ED. The study objective was to determine its validity and reliability in older ED patients.

Methods

In this prospective observational cohort study, patients aged 65 years or older were enrolled at an academic, tertiary care ED from July 2009 to February 2012. An emergency physician (EP) and research assistants (RAs) performed the CAM‐ICU. The reference standard for delirium was a comprehensive (~30 minutes) psychiatrist assessment using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision criteria. All assessments were blinded to each other and were conducted within 3 hours. Sensitivities, specificities, and likelihood ratios were calculated for both the EP and the RAs using the psychiatrist's assessment as the reference standard. Kappa values between the EP and RAs were also calculated to measure reliability.

Results

Of 406 patients enrolled, 50 (12.3%) had delirium. The median age was 73.5 years old (interquartile range [IQR] = 69 to 80 years), 202 (49.8%) were female, and 57 (14.0%) were nonwhite. The CAM‐ICU's sensitivities were 72.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 58.3% to 82.5%) and 68.0% (95% CI = 54.2% to 79.2%) in the EP and RAs, respectively. The CAM‐ICU's specificity was 98.6% (95% CI = 96.8% to 99.4%) for both raters. The negative likelihood ratios (LR–) were 0.28 (95% CI = 0.18 to 0.44) and 0.32 (95% CI = 0.22 to 0.49) in the EP and RAs, respectively. The positive likelihood ratios (LR+) were 51.3 (95% CI = 21.1 to 124.5) and 48.4 (95% CI = 19.9 to 118.0), respectively. The kappa between the EP and RAs was 0.92 (95% CI = 0.85 to 0.98), indicating excellent interobserver reliability.

Conclusions

In older ED patients, the CAM‐ICU is highly specific, and a positive test is nearly diagnostic for delirium when used by both the EP and RAs. However, the CAM‐ICU's sensitivity was modest, and a negative test decreased the likelihood of delirium by a small amount. The consequences of a false‐negative CAM‐ICU are unknown and deserve further study.
Does Numeracy Correlate With Measures of Health Literacy in the Emergency Department?
Authors: Griffey Richard T. , Melson Andrew T. , Lin Margaret J. , Carpenter Christopher R. , Goodman Melody S. , Kaphingst Kimberly A.
Published: February 2014

Objectives

The objective was to quantify the correlation between general numeracy and health literacy in an emergency department (ED) setting.

Methods

This was a prospective cross‐sectional convenience sample study of adult patients in an urban, academic ED with 97,000 annual visits. General numeracy was evaluated using four validated questions and health literacy using three commonly used validated screening tools (Short Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults [S‐TOFHLA], Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine‐Revised [REALM‐R], and the Newest Vital Sign [NVS]). Scores were dichotomized for health literacy tests to limited (low or marginal) versus adequate health literacy, and the proportion of patients answering all numeracy questions correctly was calculated with the mean proportion of correct responses in these groups. The correlation between numeracy scores and scores on the health literacy screening tools was evaluated using Spearman's correlation.

Results

A total of 446 patients were enrolled. Performance on questions evaluating general numeracy was universally poor. Only 18 patients (4%) answered all numeracy questions correctly, 88 patients (20%) answered zero questions correctly, and overall the median number of correct answers was one (interquartile range [IQR] = 1 to 2). Among patients with limited health literacy (LHL) by any of the three screening tools used, the mean number of correct numeracy answers was approximately half that of patients with adequate health literacy. However, even among those with adequate health literacy, the average number of correct answers to numeracy questions ranged from 1.6 to 2.4 depending on the screening test used. When dichotomized into those who answered ≤50% versus >50% of numeracy questions correctly, there was a significant difference between those with LHL and those who scored ≤50% on numeracy. Health literacy screening results were correlated with general numeracy in the low to moderate range: S‐TOFHLA rs = 0.428 (p < 0.0001); REALM, rs = 0.400 (p < 0.0001); and NVS, rs = 0.498 (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Correlations between measures of general numeracy and measures of health literacy are in the low to moderate range. Performance on numeracy testing was nearly universally poor, even among patients performing well on health literacy screens, with a substantial proportion of the latter patients unable to answer half of the numeracy items correctly. Insofar as numeracy is considered a subset of health literacy, these results suggest that commonly used health literacy screening tools in ED‐based studies inadequately evaluate and overestimate numeracy. This suggests the potential need for separate numeracy screening when these skills are important for health outcomes of interest. Providers should be sensitive to potential numeracy deficits among those who may otherwise have normal health literacy.
Feasibility and Diagnostic Accuracy of Brief Health Literacy and Numeracy Screening Instruments in an Urban Emergency Department
Authors: Carpenter Christopher R. , Kaphingst Kimberly A. , Goodman Melody S. , Lin Margaret J. , Melson Andrew T. , Griffey Richard T.
Published: February 2014

Objectives

The objective was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of five health literacy screening instruments in emergency department (ED) patients: the Rapid Evaluation of Adult Literacy in Medicine‐Revised (REALM‐R), the Newest Vital Sign (NVS), Single Item Literacy Screens (SILS), health numeracy, and physician gestalt. A secondary objective was to evaluate the feasibility of these instruments as measured by administration time, time on task, and interruptions during test administration.

Methods

This was a prospective observational cross‐sectional study of a convenience sampling of adult patients presenting during March 2011 and February 2012 to one urban university‐affiliated ED. Subjects were consenting non–critically ill, English‐speaking patients over the age of 18 years without aphasia, dementia, mental retardation, or inability to communicate. The diagnostic test characteristics of the REALM‐R, NVS, SILS, health numeracy, and physician gestalt were quantitatively assessed by using the short Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults (S‐TOFHLA). A score of 22 or less was the criterion standard for limited health literacy (LHL).

Results

A total of 435 participants were enrolled, with a mean (±SD) age of 45 (±15.7) years, and 18% had less than a high school education. As defined by an S‐TOFHLA score of 22 or less, the prevalence of LHL was 23.9%. In contrast, the NVS, REALM‐R, and physician gestalt identified 64.8, 48.5, and 35% of participants as LHL, respectively. A normal NVS screen was the most useful test to exclude LHL, with a negative likelihood ratio of 0.04 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.01 to 0.17). When abnormal, none of the screening instruments, including physician gestalt, significantly increased the posttest probability of LHL. The NVS and REALM‐R require 3 and 5 minutes less time to administer than the S‐TOFHLA. Administration of the REALM‐R is associated with fewer test interruptions.

Conclusions

One‐quarter of these ED patients had marginal or inadequate health literacy. Among the brief screening instruments evaluated, a normal NVS result accurately reduced the probability of LHL, although it will identify two‐thirds of ED patients as high risk for LHL. None of the brief screening instruments significantly increases the probability of LHL when abnormal.
Biology of the bark beetleIps grandicollis Eichhoff (Coleoptera:Scolytinae) and its arthropod, nematode and microbial associates: a review of management opportunities forAustralia
Authors: Yousuf Fazila , Gurr Geoff M , Carnegie Angus J , Bedding Robin A , Bashford Richard , Gitau Catherine W
Published: February 2014

The five‐spined bark beetle,Ips grandicollis, is an exotic pest inAustralia that preferentially attacks stressed pine trees, includingPinus radiataD. Don, but it can also attack healthy trees. The beetle has been present inAustralia for 70 years, feeding principally on logging debris, with occasional outbreaks resulting in damage to plantations. Attack on trees stressed by drought, fire or storm damage leads to occasional significant losses. In recent years,I. grandicollishas been observed to attack ‘trap trees’ treated with herbicide to make them attractive toSirex noctilioFabricius as part of a successful biological control programme against this wood wasp.Ips grandicollisis able to tolerate a wide range of climatic conditions, and has an extensive geographical range (limited by host tree plantings). The economic impact ofI. grandicollisis exacerbated by adults vectoring a fungus,Ophiostoma ips(Rumbold) Nannfeldt, which discolours the outer sapwood and contributes to tree death. Nematodes also are also associated withI. grandicollis, both in the body cavity and under the elytra. The dominant nematode isContortylenchus grandicolliMassey, which is found internally, in haemocoel, the gut and the head region of the majority of adult beetles. Mites and bacteria are also associated withI. grandicollisbut their biology is not well known. Since the first detection ofI. grandicollisinAustralia, various bio‐control and other management strategies have been tested. While a better understanding of the microbial and nematode associates ofI. grandicollismay yield novel approaches for the management of this exotic pest, semiochemical‐based disruptants offer more immediate scope, particularly for protecting small areas of high value trees such as trap tree plots.
Genome‐wide scans to detect positive selection in Large White and Tongcheng pigs
Authors: Li Xiuling , Yang Songbai , Tang Zhonglin , Li Kui , Rothschild Max F. , Liu Bang , Fan Bin
Published: February 2014

Due to the direction, intensity, duration and consistency of genetic selection, especially recent artificial selection, the production performance of domestic pigs has been greatly changed. Therefore, we reasoned that there must be footprints or selection signatures that had been left during domestication. In this study, with porcine 60K BeadChip genotyping data from both commercial Large White and local Chinese Tongcheng pigs, we calculated the extended haplotype homozygosity values of the two breeds using the long‐range haplotype method to detect selection signatures. We found 34 candidate regions, including 61 known genes, from Large White pigs and 25 regions comprising 57 known genes from Tongcheng pigs. Many selection signatures were found onSSC1,SSC4,SSC7 andSSC14 regions in both populations. According to quantitative trait loci and network pathway analyses, most of the regions and genes were linked to growth, reproduction and immune responses. In addition, the average genetic differentiation coefficientFSTwas 0.254, which means that there had already been a significant differentiation between the breeds. The findings from this study can contribute to further research on molecular mechanisms of pig evolution and domestication and also provide valuable references for improvement of their breeding and cultivation.
Structure, dynamics and movement patterns of the Australian pig industry
Authors: East IJ , Davis J , Sergeant ESG , Garner MG
Published: February 2014

Objective

To assess management practices and movement patterns that could influence the establishment and spread of exotic animal diseases (EAD) in pigs in Australia.

Methods

A literature review of published information and a telephone survey of 370 pig producers owning >10 pigs who were registered with the PigPass national vendor declaration scheme.

Results

The movement and marketing patterns of Australian pig producers interviewed were divided into two groups based predominantly on the size of the herd. Major pig producers maintain closed herds, use artificial insemination and market direct to abattoirs. Smaller producers continue to purchase from saleyards and market to other farms, abattoirs and through saleyards in an apparently opportunistic fashion. The role of saleyards in the Australian pig industry continues to decline, with 92% of all pigs marketed directly from farm to abattoir.

Conclusions

This survey described movement patterns that will assist in modelling the potential spread of EAD in the Australian pig industry. Continued movement towards vertical integration and closed herds in the Australian pig industry effectively divides the industry into a number of compartments that mitigate against the widespread dissemination of disease to farms adopting these practices.
Morphology of the tongue dorsal surface in white sea bream (Diplodus sargus sargus)
Authors: Guerrera Maria Cristina , Montalbano Giuseppe , Germanà Antonino , Maricchiolo Giulia , Ciriaco Emilia , Abbate Francesco
Published: February 2014

In the present study, the tongue dorsal surface of the white sea bream Diplodus sargus sargus (Linnaeus, 1758) (teleosts, Sparidae) was studied, to give a support to the knowledge of the anatomical characteristics of the oral cavity of a species with a future potential use in aquaculture. The feeding habits in captivity are one of the critical steps in the species of commercial interest, strictly related to the morphological characteristics of the oropharyngeal cavity. This study was undertaken, using light and scanning electron microscopy, to analyse the morphology of the dorsal tongue surface to show whether relationships are present between the anatomy and the nutritional habits and choices of this farmed species. Three zones, an apex, a body and a root, can be clearly distinguished, with a pouch partially covering the apex. In the pouch, cylindroid and mucosal ridges were observed. Along the whole tongue surface, from the apex to the root, on the medial and lateral parts, many papillae are present, with a fungiform, cylindroid and cone‐like aspect. Taste buds are showed on the dorsal surface of some papillae.
Niche Conservatism and Future Changes in the Potential Area Coverage ofArundina graminifolia, an Invasive Orchid Species from Southeast Asia
Authors: Kolanowska Marta , Konowalik Kamil
Published: February 2014

The Asian orchid,Arundina graminifolia, has been introduced to many locations over the last 50 yr, predominantly in South and Central America. A list of localities ofA. graminifoliawas compiled and used to model potential climatic niches based on the maximum entropy method. The differences are presented between niches occupied by native and invasive populations ofA. graminifolia, and possible changes in the potential range of the species are discussed on the basis of various climate change scenarios. The coverage of habitats suitable forA. graminifoliawill be reduced under future climate changes scenarios. The created niche distribution models indicated a more significant reduction in the potential ecological niches of the studied species in its invasive range. Nevertheless, areas with potentially suitable bioclimatic conditions forA. graminifoliashould be monitored to prevent future uncontrolled invasion of the orchid into new habitats and to study its impact on the local ecosystems, as vast areas of its potential niche in the Americas are still unoccupied.
Leptin hormone level in serum of opticospinal, neuromyelitisoptica and multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Bahrami Ehsan , Zarkesh‐Esfahani Sayyed Hamid , Kardi Mohammad T. , Mostajeran Maryam , Triot Alexa , Bouzari Majid , Maghzi Amir H. , Etemadifar Masoud
Published: February 2014

Objectives

A growing body of evidence shows that leptin acts as a pro‐inflammatory cytokine in autoimmune disorders and is related to multiple sclerosis (MS) pathogenesis. The present study was an analysis of serum leptin levels among healthy volunteers and patients with different subtypes of MS, opticospinal MS (OSMS) and neuromyelitis optica (NMO).

Methods

Leptin concentrations in the sera of 121 healthy volunteers and 201 patients with different subtypes of MS, as well as in 27 NMO and 27 OSMS, were measured.

Results

Significant differences in leptin serum levels were observed between healthy volunteers, and MS, OSMS and NMO patients (P < 0.001). Furthermore, leptin serum concentration was in correlation with expanded disability status scale (EDSS) in primary progressive MS and secondary progressive MS groups. Interestingly, while the female‐to‐male ratio of leptin was approximately 2 in each group, the NMO female patients showed sevenfold higher levels of leptin than males.

Conclusion

The present results show that leptin concentration is important in the pathogenesis of different neuroinflammatory diseases of the central nervous system, in particular NMO.
Primary Stability of a Hybrid Implant Compared with Tapered and Cylindrical Implants in an Ex Vivo Model
Authors: Toyoshima Takeshi , Tanaka Hideaki , Ayukawa Yasunori , Howashi Miori , Masuzaki Tomohiro , Kiyosue Takahiro , Koyano Kiyoshi , Nakamura Seiji
Published: February 2014

Background

Hybrid implants are thought to offer good stability and bone‐implant contact.

Purpose

This study sought to evaluate the primary stability of a hybrid implant compared with tapered and cylindrical implants in an ex vivo model and compare undersized drilling with standard drilling in attaining primary stability.

Materials and Methods

Hybrid (Straumann® Bone Level; BL), tapered (Straumann® Tapered Effect; TE), and cylindrical (Straumann® Standard Plus; SP) implants were inserted into 15 mm–thick porcine iliac crest blocks using standard (corticocancellous or cancellous bone) or undersized (cancellous bone only) drilling (n = 7). Stability was evaluated using maximum insertion torque (MIT), implant stability quotient (ISQ), and push‐out tests.

Results

The mean MIT for BL and TE was significantly higher than that for SP (p < 0.05). With standard drilling in corticocancellous bone, the mean ISQ for TE was significantly higher than that for SP (p < .05). The mean MIT, ISQ, and push‐out test scores for BL, TE, and SP with standard drilling in corticocancellous bone were significantly higher than those with undersized or standard drilling in cancellous bone (p < .05).

Conclusions

In this ex vivo model, the hybrid implant demonstrated promising primary stability compared with the cylindrical implant. The improved stability of the hybrid implant was especially evident in cancellous bone. The influence of the cortical layer should be recognized when selecting implants for primary stability.
Institutions and Equity Structure of Foreign Affiliates
Authors: Driffield Nigel , Mickiewicz Tomasz , Temouri Yama
Published: February 2014

Manuscript Type

Empirical

Research Question/Issue

We combine agency and institutional theory to explain the division of equity shares between the foreign (majority) and local (minority) partners within foreign affiliates. We posit that once the decision to invest is made, the ownership structure is arranged so as to generate appropriate incentives to local partners, taking into account both the institutional environment and the firm‐specific difficulty in monitoring.

Research Findings/Insights

Using a large firm‐level dataset for the period 2003–2011 from 16 Central and Eastern European countries and applying selectivity corrected estimates, we find that both weaker host country institutions and higher share of intangible assets in total assets in the firm imply higher minority equity share of local partners. The findings hold when controlling for host country effects and when the attributes of the institutional environment are instrumented.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

The classic view is that weak institutions lead to concentrated ownership, yet it leaves the level of minority equity shares unexplained. Our contribution uses a firm‐level perspective combined with national‐level variation in the institutional environment, and applies agency theory to explain the minority local partner share in foreign affiliates. In particular, we posit that the information asymmetry and monitoring problem in firms are exacerbated by weak host country institutions, but also by the higher share of intangible assets in total assets.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

Assessing investment opportunities abroad, foreign firms need to pay attention not only to features directly related to corporate governance (e.g., bankruptcy codes) but also to the broad institutional environment. In weak institutional environments, foreign parent firms need to create strong incentives for local partners by offering them significant minority shares in equity. The same recommendation applies to firms with higher shares of intangible assets in total assets.
The effects of N‐ethyl‐N′‐methyl imidazolium chloride on the solubility, stability and aggregation of tc‐rPA
Authors: Tischer Alexander , Pultke Heiko , Topf Andrea , Auton Matthew , Lange Christian , Lilie Hauke
Published: February 2014

The ionic liquid N‐ethyl‐N′‐methyl imidazolium chloride (EMIMCl) has been described as being very efficient in promoting refolding of the recombinant plasminogen activator rPA. Our study reveals that molar concentrations of EMIMCl increase the solubility of native and unfolded proteins due to favorable interactions with amino acid side chains rather than favorably interacting with the peptide backbone. This delicate balance of favorable interactions with side chains and unfavorable interactions with the peptide backbone provides a molecular explanation of how EMIMCl suppresses protein aggregation and simultaneously promotes refolding. By contrast, high concentrations of EMIMCl denature proteins because of a reduced water content and strong favorable interactions with amino acid side chains. This denatured species is not soluble and aggregates because, in contrast to the classical denaturants, guanidine hydrochloride and urea, EMIMCl does not solubilize the peptide backbone.

Structured digital abstract

PNP and PNP bind by molecular sieving (1, 2, 3, 4)
Pressure pain threshold of the cervico‐facial muscles in healthy elderly people: the role of gender, age and dominance
Authors: De Rui Marina , Marini Ida , Bartolucci Maria Lavinia , Inelmen Emine Meral , Bortolotti Francesco , Manzato Enzo , Gatto Maria Rosaria Antonella , Checchi Luigi , Sergi Giuseppe
Published: February 2014

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of age on pressure pain threshold (PPT) of cervico‐facial muscles in healthy geriatric subjects and to investigate the role of gender and dominance on nociception.

Background

Musculo‐skeletal pain is common in the elderly, but being subjective, it risks to be underdiagnosed and undertreated. A useful method for assessment of local pain is determiningPPTthrough pressure algometry. Ageing process seems to increasePPTs, but reference values for the assessment of pain in geriatric subjects are lacking.

Methods

In this study,PPTs in temporal muscle, masseter, sternocleidomastoid, occipital and splenius capitis of 97 healthy elderly subjects were measured usingFischer algometer. Participants were divided by age in four classes (years 65–69; 70–74; 75–79; ≥80).

Results

Women had lowerPPTs in all muscles compared with men. ComparingPPTs obtained from the right and the left side, no significant differences were recorded neither in men nor in women. When dividing subjects by age class and education, in both genders no significant differences were observed inPPTs among the groups, neither in the right nor in the left sides.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the present study reports referencePPTvalues for the cervico‐facial muscles that can be applied to a population of healthy elderly subjects. After 65 years of age, further ageing does not influencePPTs in cervico‐facial muscles whereas female gender has lowerPPTs.
Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension: Pseudotumor Cerebri
Authors: Kosmorsky Gregory S.
Published: February 2014

Background

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is most often diagnosed in young obese females of childbearing years. The diagnosis is made based on the modified Dandy criteria and the exclusion of alternate causes of raised intracranial pressure.

Results

The focus of this review is to provide an overview of the diagnosis and treatment options for patients with IIH. There are long‐term consequences for patients experiencing IIH, with visual loss being the most serious.

Conclusion

We conclude that the diagnosis of IIH is not usually difficult. An ophthalmologic examination is essential in patients with IIH to monitor visual function. A neurologist or neurosurgeon may be needed at some point for medical and/or surgical intervention.
Treatment decisions for localized prostate cancer: a concept mapping approach
Authors: McFall Stephanie L. , Mullen Patricia D. , Byrd Theresa L. , Cantor Scott B. , Le Yen‐Chi , Torres‐Vigil Isabel , Pettaway Curtis , Volk Robert J.
Published: February 2014

Objective

Few decision aids emphasize active surveillance (AS) for localized prostate cancer. Concept mapping was used to produce a conceptual framework incorporating AS and treatment.

Methods

Fifty‐four statements about what men need to make a decision for localized prostate cancer were derived from focus groups with African American, Latino and white men previously screened for prostate cancer and partners (n = 80). In the second phase, 89 participants sorted and rated the importance of statements.

Results

An eight cluster map was produced for the overall sample. Clusters were labelled Doctor–patient exchange, Big picture comparisons, Weighing the options, Seeking and using information, Spirituality and inner strength, Related to active treatment, Side‐effects and Family concerns. A major division was between medical and home‐based clusters. Ethnic groups and genders had similar sorting, but some variation in importance. Latinos rated Big picture comparisons as less important. African Americans saw Spirituality and inner strength most important, followed by Latinos, then whites. Ethnic‐ and gender‐specific concept maps were not analysed because of high similarity in their sorting patterns.

Conclusions

We identified a conceptual framework for management of early‐stage prostate cancer that included coverage of AS. Eliciting the conceptual framework is an important step in constructing decision aids which will address gaps related to AS.
Middle East Historiography: Did We Miss the Cultural Turn?
Authors: Martin Kevin W.
Published: February 2014

In the late 20th century, a novel mode of historical research and writing emerged and soon acquired its distinctive label, “the new cultural history.” By the first decade of the current century, some deemed cultural history to have achieved hegemonic status within the historical profession. Yet recently mounted retrospective assessments of this “cultural turn” have cast doubt on such triumphalist declarations. This is especially so within the field of Middle East historiography, in which cultural historyper sehas failed to achieve the status of an identifiable sub‐discipline on a par with social, economic, or political history. This essay explores possible explanations for this conspicuous absence, focusing on the distinctive history of the Western historiography of the Middle East and the tendency of disciplinary mainstreams to “domesticate” their unruly “children.”
Presidential Address: African-American Education History—A Manifestation of Faith
Authors: Randolph Adah Ward
Published: February 2014

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for; the evidence of thing not seen.

Hebrews 11:1 (KJV)

First, I would like to thank all of the people who placed me in this position. What you did not know was I had no idea I would actually be in this situation. So, I come before you today with what is on my mind and in my heart. Many years ago, my husband Dr. Lewis A. Randolph told me I would be in this spot. Of course, I doubted him. But I thank him because he had more faith in me than I had in myself at that time concerning my trajectory in the field of the history of education. But here I stand as a child of God before you. I hope what he has given me to share with you spurns your thoughts, ideas, and your heart to continue to develop and uncover the history of African-American education.
T cells in the central nervous system: messengers of destruction or purveyors of protection?
Authors: Walsh James T. , Watson Nikki , Kipnis Jonathan
Published: February 2014

Although the destructive effects of an overactive adaptive immune system have been well established, especially in the context of autoimmune diseases, recently an understanding of the beneficial effects of the adaptive immunity in central nervous system (CNS) injuries has emerged. CD4+ T cells have been shown to benefit injured CNS tissue through various mechanisms; both traditional cytokine signalling and by modulating the phenotype of neural cells in the injury site. One of the major targets of the cytokine signalling in the CNS are myeloid cells, both resident microglia and monocytes, that infiltrate the tissue after injury and whose phenotype; protective or destructive, appears to be directly influenced by T cells. This cross‐talk between the adaptive and innate immune systems presents potential new targets that could provide tangible benefits in pathologies that currently have few treatment options.
Xenotransplantation: immunological hurdles and progress toward tolerance
Authors: Griesemer Adam , Yamada Kazuhiko , Sykes Megan
Published: February 2014

The discrepancy between organ need and organ availability represents one of the major limitations in the field of transplantation. One possible solution to this problem is xenotransplantation. Research in this field has identified several obstacles that have so far prevented the successful development of clinical xenotransplantation protocols. The main immunologic barriers include strong T‐cell and B‐cell responses to solid organ and cellular xenografts. In addition, components of the innate immune system can mediate xenograft rejection. Here, we review these immunologic and physiologic barriers and describe some of the strategies that we and others have developed to overcome them. We also describe the development of two strategies to induce tolerance across the xenogeneic barrier, namely thymus transplantation and mixed chimerism, from their inception in rodent models through their current progress in preclinical large animal models. We believe that the addition of further beneficial transgenes to Gal knockout swine, combined with new therapies such as Treg administration, will allow for successful clinical application of xenotransplantation.
Biomarkers and possible mechanisms of operational tolerance in kidney transplant patients
Authors: Dugast Emilie , Chesneau Mélanie , Soulillou Jean‐Paul , Brouard Sophie
Published: February 2014

A small number of patients do not reject their graft after weaning from immunosuppressive treatment. Here, we analyze the studies carried out to try to understand the mechanisms involved in this operational transplant tolerance and evaluate the hypotheses proffered on these potential mechanisms.