bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linking the Levels: Network and Relational Perspectives for Community Psychology
Authors: Neal Jennifer Watling , Christens Brian D.
Published: April 2014

In this article, we assert that relationships and networks are of paramount importance for understanding and improving settings, neighborhoods, communities, and larger social systems. Despite previous acknowledgements of their relevance, relational and social network perspectives and analyses remain underrepresented in community psychological research and action. Here, we claim that network and relational perspectives can provide conceptual and empirical ‘links’ between levels of analysis, more fully reflecting a transactional view. We also describe some of the sophisticated methodologies that can be employed in empirical studies drawing on these perspectives. Additionally, we contend that core concepts in community psychology such as health promotion, empowerment, coalition building, and dissemination and implementation can be better understood when employing relational and network perspectives. As an introduction to this special issue ofAmerican Journal of Community Psychology, we draw out themes and key points from the articles in the issue, and offer recommendations for future advancement of these perspectives in the field.
Individuation in Slovene emerging adults: Its associations with demographics, transitional markers, achieved criteria for adulthood, and life satisfaction
Authors: Zupančič Maja , Komidar Luka , Levpušček Melita Puklek
Published: April 2014

The study investigated associations of Slovene emerging adults' age, gender, living situation, romantic relationship, and employment status with aspects of individuation in relation to mother and father. Controlling for demographic variables and transitional markers of adulthood, we further explored the contribution of individuation measures to individuals' perceptions of achieved criteria for adulthood and life satisfaction. The participants provided self‐reports on the Individuation Test for Emerging Adults, the Satisfaction With Life Scale, and the list of Achieved Criteria for Adulthood. Age and living out of parental home were positively associated with self‐reliance in relation to both parents, whereas female gender was related to higher levels of connectedness and seeking parental support. Along with age and involvement in a romantic relationship, connectedness and self‐reliance predicted adulthood criteria attainment and life satisfaction. The results support the models of individuation that emphasize growing autonomy and retaining connectedness to parents as pathways towards personal adjustments.
Local and systemic recurrence patterns of urothelial cancer after radical cystectomy
Authors: Özbir Sait , Girgin Cengiz , Kara Cengiz , Dinçel Çetin
Published: April 2014

The aim of this study was to evaluate the local recurrence and distant metastasis rates for urothelial carcinoma of the bladder after radical cystectomy and to identify the predictive factors for local recurrence and distant metastasis. The study population was 347 consecutive patients treated with radical cystectomy for urothelial carcinoma of the bladder at our institution. Local recurrence, distant metastasis, and both local and distant recurrence rates were 49 (14.1%) months, 96 (27.7%) months, and 17 (4.9%) months, respectively. The mean follow‐up times to recurrence were 14.37 ± 13.25 months (range, 2–60 months) and 14.43 ± 15.72 months (range, 2–109 months) for local recurrence and distant metastasis, respectively (p = 0.808). The mean post‐recurrence disease‐specific survival (PRDSS) times for local, distant, and both local and distant recurrences were 17.82 ± 3.18 months, 4.16 ± 0.39 months, and 11.41 ± 2.73 months, respectively (p < 0.001). The predictive factors for local recurrence and distant metastasis were stage and nodal involvement (p < 0.001). Sex, grade, lymphovascular invasion (LVI), carcinoma in situ (CIS), and lymph node density (LND; 10% cut‐off value) were not predictors for recurrence in the results of the multivariate analysis. The current study demonstrated that stage and pathological nodal involvement were independent predictors of local recurrence and distant metastasis. The results of this study suggest that the early diagnosis and intervention of invasive bladder cancer cases may decrease the number of high stage and lymph node positive cases that have a high risk of local and distant recurrences. The adjuvant treatment options in the presence of risk factors for recurrence may improve survival outcomes.
The effect of replacing inorganic trace minerals with organic Bioplex® and Sel-Plex® on the performance and meat quality of broilers
Authors: Tavares Teresa , Mourão José Luís , Kay Zoe , Spring Peter , Vieira José , Gomes António , Vieira-Pinto Madalena
Published: April 2014

The aim of this study was to compare the performance and carcass quality of broilers fed diets containing either a commercial inorganic mineral premix (control) or organic trace minerals (OTM) (Sel-Plex® (Se) and Bioplex® copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn) and iron (Fe)) in a commercial environment. Four identical houses with a total of 119,500 mixed-sex broiler chickens were used (two treatments × two replicates). Birds were fed identical corn/soybean based rations differing only in mineral form and levels. The inorganic treatment (control) provided Cu, Zn, Fe, Mn and Se at levels of 8, 44, 55, 66 and 0.2 ppm, respectively. The OTM contained 5.5, 22, 5.5, 22 and 0.3 ppm of Cu, Zn, Fe, Mn and Se respectively. Growth and feed conversion during the 35-day trial were not influenced (P > 0.05) by treatments. Over the entire trial period and during the first week of production, birds showed significantly lower (P < 0.05) mortality with the OTM treatment. Between 14 and 31 days, sudden death syndrome was lower (P < 0.05) with the OTM diet. OTM improved feathering at 21 days of age (P < 0.001) and lowered carcass skin tearing (P < 0.05). There was no effect of OTM on carcass yield, breast meat pH, drip loss or on meat colour (L* and b* values). However, birds fed organic minerals had redder breast meat (a*) (P < 0.05) on days three and five after slaughter. The results showed that, under commercial conditions, using lower levels of OTM (except Se) in feed relative to inorganic controls can maintain broiler performance.
Neutral oligosaccharide content of preterm human milk
Authors: Nakhla Tarek , Fu Daotian , Zopf David , Brodsky Nancy L. , Hurt Hallam
Published: April 2014

Human milk oligosaccharides are known to play a role in protection against certain infectious diseases. Previous reports indicate that the content of human milk oligosaccharides varies widely among individuals at term but such information on preterm milk is lacking. After removal of the fat, protein and most of the lactose from non-pooled human milk samples, a total neutral oligosaccharide fraction was isolated by ion-exchange chromatography followed by gel filtration. A Dionex high-performance anion-exchange chromatography system equipped with a pulsed electrometric detector was then employed to measure the levels of ten neutral oligosaccharides in the individual milk samples. Twenty-three milk samples from thirteen mothers who delivered at a mean gestational age of 29·5 (sd 3·1) weeks were collected between days 0 and 33 of lactation, and compared with three samples of term milk from two mothers. The ranges of the total and individual levels of the ten neutral oligosaccharides in preterm milk were similar to those in term milk. Further, as previously described in term milk, preterm milk exhibited a quantitative individual variation. This variation was independent of the gestational age, day of lactation, and postconceptional age. In conclusion, levels of ten neutral oligosaccharides did not differ between preterm and term human milk.
Legal Problems of Anglicanism in Germany
Authors: Engelhardt Hanns
Published: April 2014

As in other countries on the Continent, there have been a considerable number of Anglican chaplaincies and churches in Germany. They were established—loosely speaking, not in the sense of churches as ‘by law established’—either by merchants or by people of means who toured the Continent, and settled occasionally in fashionable spas or other similar places. These chaplaincies may be grouped—from a legal point of view—according to their status under German law which may be different with regard to the German system of law governing the relationships between the state and the churches.
Palladium-catalyzed 1,4-addition of secondary alkylphenylphosphines to α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds for the synthesis of phosphorus- and carbon-stereogenic compounds
Authors: Li Chun , Bian Qing-Long , Xu Sheng , Duan Wei-Liang
Published: April 2014

Asymmetric 1,4-addition of alkylphenylphosphines to α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds catalyzed by pincer–Pd complexes is described to synthesize P-chiral compounds in high ee.
Direct alkenyl C–H functionalization of cyclic enamines with carboxylic acids via Rh catalysis assisted by hydrogen bonding
Authors: Lei Zhi-Quan , Ye Jian-Heng , Sun Jian , Shi Zhang-Jie
Published: April 2014

Enamines and enamides are important synthetic intermediates.
Synthesis, Structures, and Properties of Four Novel HgII Complexes Based on Pyridine Acylamide Ligands
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Min , Feng Xue-Feng , Li Jian-Qiang , Luo Feng
Published: April 2014

In this work we synthesised four new pyridine acylamide complexes [HgI2(L1)] (1) and (2), [HgI2(L2)2] (3), and [HgI2(L3)]n (4) (L1 = N,N′-bis(3-pyridylmethyl)benzene-1,4-dicarboxamide, L2 = N4,N4′-bis(pyridin-3-yl)-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-dicarboxamide, L3 = N1,N3-bis(pyridin-3-ylmethyl)isophthalamide) by solvo(hydro)thermal reaction. Compounds 1 and 2 are supramolecular isomers prepared via variation of the reaction solvent, in which the HgII centres are bridged by L1 ligands to form one-dimensional (1D) helical chain or 1D meso-helical chain, respectively. Careful inspection of the structures reveal that formation of the isomers are mainly induced by the distinct configuration of L1 ligand and slight differences in coordination geometry of the HgII ions. Complex 3 shows a novel Z-shaped zero-dimensional structure with a L2–HgI2–L2–HgI2–L2 arrangement. In complex 4, flexible L3 ligands link HgI2 units to construct a 1D helical chain with an overall chiral structure, derived from spontaneous resolution. Luminescence properties of these four novel complexes were also explored.
Interpersonal Dependency Constructs and Male Perpetrators of Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: MELLINGER MARCELA SARMIENTO , Carnety Michelle Mohr
Published: April 2014

USAThis study analyzed the subscales of the Interpersonal Dependency Inventory to investigate the levels of dependency among men courtordered to enter a batterers intervention program, determine asso-ciations between the subscales and violence, and evaluate thetreatment’s ability to change dependency on program completers.A secondary analysis with 114 men was used. Results indicatedthat using negotiation tactics and psychological aggression weresignificantly associated with emotional reliance on another per-son. Furthermore, the level of injury inflicted on a partner wasassociated with 2 subscales. No change in the level of dependencywas found. Implications regarding treatment were explored anddiscussed.
Veterans in the Criminal Justice System and the Role of Social Work
Authors: Canada Kelli , Albright David L.
Published: April 2014

Veterans, particularly those who were involved in combat, experience difficulty readjusting to civilian life after deployment. Difficulties in adjustment postdeployment can contribute to involvement in the criminal justice system for some veterans. Interventions for veterans in the criminal justice system (e.g., veteran courts) are expanding as stakeholders become more aware of the risks that veterans face in corrections. The social work profession is especially suited to play a unique and critical role in veteran interventions through direct practice, advocacy, administration, and research. This article discusses the role of social work practice with veterans in corrections and the implications for the social work profession in veteran-related policy and research. This article includes an overview of the research on veterans in the criminal justice system, a discussion of one rapidly expanding intervention for veterans, and a focused discussion on the multiple roles for social workers in practice, policy, and research.
Letter from the Editors (7)
Authors: Vaughan-Eden Viola , Butters Rob
Published: April 2014

no abstract
Trait‐mediated functional responses: predator behavioural type mediates prey consumption
Authors: Toscano Benjamin J. , Griffen Blaine D.
Published: April 2014

The predator functional response (i.e. per capita consumption rate as a function of prey density) is central to our understanding of predator–prey population dynamics. This response is behavioural, depending on the rate of attack and time it takes to handle prey.

Consistent behavioural differences among conspecific individuals, termed behavioural types, are a widespread feature of predator and prey populations but the effects of behavioural types on the functional response remain unexplored.

We tested the effects of crab (Panopeus herbstii) behavioural type, specifically individual activity level, on the crab functional response to mussel (Brachidontes exustus) prey. We further tested whether the effects of activity level on the response are mediated by the presence of toadfish (Opsanus tau) predation threat in the form of waterborne chemical cues known to reduce crab activity level.

The effects of crab activity level on the functional response were dependent on crab body size. Individual activity level increased the magnitude (i.e. slope and asymptote) of the typeIIfunctional response of small crabs, potentially through an increase in time spent foraging, but had no effect on the functional response of large crabs. Predation threat did not interact with activity level to influence mussel consumption, but independently reduced the slope of the typeIIfunctional response.

Overall, this study demonstrates size‐specific effects of a behavioural type on a predator–prey interaction, as well as a general pathway (modification of the functional response) by which the effects of individual behavioural types can scale up to influence predator–prey population dynamics.
Exotic birds increase generalization and compensate for native bird decline in plant–frugivore assemblages
Authors: García Daniel , Martínez Daniel , Stouffer Daniel B. , Tylianakis Jason M.
Published: April 2014

Exotic species are thought to alter the structure of natural communities and disrupt ecosystem functioning through invasion. Nevertheless, exotic species may also provide ecological insurance when they contribute to maintain ecosystem functions after the decline of native species following anthropogenic disturbance.

Here, this hypothesis is tested with the assemblage of frugivorous birds and fleshy‐fruited plants of New Zealand, which has suffered strong historical declines in native birds while simultaneously gaining new frugivores introduced by European settlers.

We studied the plant–frugivore assemblage from measures of fruit and bird abundances and fruit consumption in nine forest patches, and tested how this changed across a gradient of relative abundance of exotic birds. We then examined how each bird species' role in the assemblage (the proportion of fruits and the number of plant species consumed) varied with their relative abundance, body size and native/exotic status.

The more abundant and, to a lesser extent, larger birds species consumed a higher proportion of fruits from more plant species. Exotic birds consumed fruits less selectively and more proportionate to the local availability than did native species. Interaction networks in which exotic birds had a stronger role as frugivores had higher generalization, higher nestedness and higher redundancy of plants.

Exotic birds maintained frugivory when native birds became rarer, and diversified the local spectrum of frugivores for co‐occurring native plants. These effects seemed related to the fact that species abundances, rather than trait‐matching constraints, ultimately determined the patterns of interactions between birds and plants. By altering the structure of plant–frugivore assemblages, exotic birds likely enhance the stability of the community‐wide seed dispersal in the face of continued anthropogenic impact.
Linking body mass and group dynamics in an obligate cooperative breeder
Authors: Ozgul Arpat , Bateman Andrew W. , English Sinead , Coulson Tim , Clutton‐Brock Tim H.
Published: April 2014

Social and environmental factors influence key life‐history processes and population dynamics by affecting fitness‐related phenotypic traits such as body mass. The role of body mass is particularly pronounced in cooperative breeders due to variation in social status and consequent variation in access to resources. Investigating the mechanisms underlying variation in body mass and its demographic consequences can help elucidate how social and environmental factors affect the dynamics of cooperatively breeding populations.

In this study, we present an analysis of the effect of individual variation in body mass on the temporal dynamics of group size and structure of a cooperatively breeding mongoose, the Kalahari meerkat, Suricata suricatta.

First, we investigate how body mass interacts with social (dominance status and number of helpers) and environmental (rainfall and season) factors to influence key life‐history processes (survival, growth, emigration and reproduction) in female meerkats. Next, using an individual‐based population model, we show that the models explicitly including individual variation in body mass predict group dynamics better than those ignoring this morphological trait.

Body mass influences group dynamics mainly through its effects on helper emigration and dominant reproduction. Rainfall has a trait‐mediated, destabilizing effect on group dynamics, whereas the number of helpers has a direct and stabilizing effect. Counteracting effects of number of helpers on different demographic rates, despite generating temporal fluctuations, stabilizes group dynamics in the long term.

Our study demonstrates that social and environmental factors interact to produce individual variation in body mass and accounting for this variation helps to explain group dynamics in this cooperatively breeding population.
Tropical forest wood production: a cross‐continental comparison
Authors: Banin Lindsay , Lewis Simon L. , Lopez‐Gonzalez Gabriela , Baker Timothy R. , Quesada Carlos A. , Chao Kuo‐Jung , Burslem David F. R. P. , Nilus Reuben , Abu Salim Kamariah , Keeling Helen C. , Tan Sylvester , Davies Stuart J. , Monteagudo Mendoza Abel , Vásquez Rodolfo , Lloyd Jon , Neill David A. , Pitman Nigel , Phillips Oliver L.
Published: April 2014

Tropical forest above‐ground wood production (AGWP) varies substantially along environmental gradients. Some evidence suggests that AGWP may vary between regions and specifically that Asian forests have particularly high AGWP. However, comparisons across biogeographic regions using standardized methods are lacking, limiting our assessment of pan‐tropical variation in AGWP and potential causes.

We sampled AGWP in NW Amazon (17 long‐term forest plots) and N Borneo (11 plots), both with abundant year‐round precipitation. Within each region, forests growing on a broad range of edaphic conditions were sampled using standardized soil and forest measurement techniques.

Plot‐level AGWP was 49% greater in Borneo than in Amazonia (9.73 ± 0.56 vs. 6.53 ± 0.34 Mg dry mass ha−1 a−1, respectively; regional mean ± 1 SE). AGWP was positively associated with soil fertility (PCA axes, sum of bases and total P). After controlling for the edaphic environment, AGWP remained significantly higher in Bornean plots. Differences in AGWP were largely attributable to differing height–diameter allometry in the two regions and the abundance of large trees in Borneo. This may be explained, in part, by the greater solar radiation in Borneo compared with NW Amazonia.

Trees belonging to the dominant SE Asian family, Dipterocarpaceae, gained woody biomass faster than otherwise equivalent, neighbouring non‐dipterocarps, implying that the exceptional production of Bornean forests may be driven by floristic elements. This dominant SE Asian family may partition biomass differently or be more efficient at harvesting resources and in converting them to woody biomass.

Synthesis. N Bornean forests have much greater AGWP rates than those in NW Amazon when soil conditions and rainfall are controlled for. Greater resource availability and the highly productive dipterocarps may, in combination, explain why Asian forests produce wood half as fast again as comparable forests in the Amazon. Our results also suggest that taxonomic groups differ in their fundamental ability to capture carbon and that different tropical regions may therefore have different carbon uptake capacities due to biogeographic history.
Human Identification by Oral Prosthesis Analysis with Probability Rates Higher than DNA Analysis
Authors: Modesti Luana D. M. , Vieira Giovanni M. , Galvão Malthus F. , de Amorim Rivadávio F. B.
Published: April 2014

Several techniques are used to perform an appropriate and reliable human identification. Forensic dentistry has achieved great relevance over the past years. The aim of this article is to report the method used for the identification of a male body found in the colliquative stage of putrefaction. The identification of the victim was succeeded confronting the dental findings found in the corpse with the data present on dental records provided by his dentist. The major elements for the identity′s recognition were a metal core and a prosthetic crown that were being fabricated. These elements associated with the dental records were compelling for the elucidation of the case, and a positive body identification was achieved with high levels of probability. In the present case, cadaveric analysis of stomatognathic system structures achieved a probability value higher than DNA identification techniques, emphasizing the importance of forensic dentistry.
Geographic segregation and evidence of density‐dependent changes in sex ratios in an abundant colonial waterbird
Authors: DORR Brian S. , HANSON‐DORR Katie C. , DeVAULT Travis L. , GUILLAUMET Alban , BARRAS Scott C.
Published: April 2014

Demographic information, such as geographic segregation of sexes and sex ratio data, is needed to develop, model and evaluate conservation and management strategies for wildlife. A variety of physiological, behavioral and environmental factors can influence segregation of sexes and sex ratios, many of which originate with density‐dependent processes. Departure from 50:50 sex ratios of double‐crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus) collected during control efforts in breeding and wintering areas across their eastern range of the USA were evaluated using using a Z‐test as well as Stouffer's weighted Z‐tests. In addition, a specifically‐designed randomization test was used to evaluate density‐dependent effects on primary sex ratios in cormorants from egg collections and colony nest count data over a 21‐year period. Cormorants collected from breeding colonies were strongly male‐biased, whereas cormorants collected from feeding flocks were slightly biased toward females. Cormorants were partly segregated by sex on the wintering grounds, with significantly more males found in areas with intensive channel catfish aquaculture. The null hypothesis that females produced a balanced sex ratio independent of number of nesting cormorants was rejected: more male embryos were produced during rapid population growth, whereas at maximum nesting number more female embryos were produced. Once populations stabilized, the sex ratio was more equal. This examination of sex ratios indicates that different management methods and locations result in sex‐biased culling of cormorants. Sex‐biased culling in cormorants could make population reduction efforts more efficient and reduce overall take. We suggest further research to examine density‐dependent effects on primary sex ratios documented here.
Dipeptidyl Peptidase‐4 Inhibitors and Cardiovascular Outcomes: Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials with 55,141 Participants
Authors: Wu Shiying , Hopper Ingrid , Skiba Marina , Krum Henry
Published: April 2014

Aims

The association between glucose lowering in diabetes mellitus and major cardiovascular (CV) outcomes is weak; indeed, some oral hypoglycemic agents are associated with increased CV events. Dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors (DPP‐4 inhibitors) are a new class of oral hypoglycemic agent that may have beneficial CV effects. We undertook a systematic review and meta‐analysis to appraise the CV safety and efficacy of DPP‐4 inhibitors.

Methods

Comprehensive search for prospective trials involving DPP‐4 inhibitors. Trials included reported at least one of the outcomes examined, recruited minimum 100 patients and minimum follow‐up 24 weeks. The risk ratio (RR) was calculated using the Mantel–Haenszel random‐effects model for mortality and major cardiovascular (CV) outcomes.

Results

Fifty trials enrolling 55,141 participants were included. Mean follow‐up 45.3 weeks. DPP‐4 inhibitors compared with all comparators (placebo and active) showed no difference in all‐cause mortality (n = 50,982, RR = 1.01, 95% CI 0.91–1.13, P = 0.83), CV mortality (n = 48,151, RR = 0.97, 95% CI 0.85–1.11, P = 0.70), acute coronary syndrome (ACS) (n = 53,034 RR = 0.97, 95% CI 0.87–1.08, P = 0.59), or stroke (n = 42,737, RR = 0.98, 95% CI 0.81–1.18, P = 0.80), and a statistically significant increase in heart failure outcomes (n = 39,953, RR = 1.16, 95% CI 1.01–1.33, P = 0.04).

Discussion

Treatment with DPP‐4 inhibitors compared with placebo shows no increase in risk with regards to all‐cause mortality, CV mortality, ACS, or stroke, but a statistically significant trend toward increased risk of HF outcomes.

Conclusion

These findings suggest no cardiovascular harm (or benefit) with DPP‐4 inhibitors; further large‐scale CV outcome studies will resolve the issue of excess HF risk.
The Effect of the Inclusion of Uncertainty on the Optimal Allocation of Resources to Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Programmes
Authors: Maybee Bryan M. , Packey Daniel J.
Published: April 2014

How to deal with our changing climate is one of the most controversial topics facing modern society. The two most prevalent choices are to mitigate the effects through global programmes, or adapt to the changes at the local level. While both have positive and negative traits, the reality is that a combination of the two strategies is required. This is the second study in a series investigating the mitigation–adaptation balance from an economic perspective. Using an expected value approach, this study discusses the theoretical sources and impact of uncertainty associated with implementing a mitigation or adaptation programme on the strategic optimisation.
The Effects of Exchange‐Rate Volatility on Korean Trade Flows: Industry‐Level Estimates
Authors: Bahmani‐Oskooee Mohsen , Hegerty Scott W. , Zhang Ruixin
Published: April 2014

As one of the world's most important exporters, Korea might find volatility in the won to be detrimental to trade. But, since previous studies – as well as economic theory – suggest that the impact of exchange‐rate risk on individual countries trade flows can be ambiguous, each case must be tested empirically. This study does, examining 148 Korean export industries and 144 import industries vis‐à‐vis the rest of the world. We find that in the long run, twenty export industries respond negatively to exchange‐rate risk, while twelve respond positively. For imports, however, eight have negative coefficients and fourteen have positive ones. The majority of industries are unaffected. Small Korean exporters are particularly vulnerable to exchange‐rate risk, as are two large export industries. Imports in the Machinery and transport equipment sector, particularly automobiles, are most likely to see a decrease in the overall trade balance due to increased risk.
Pre‐Existing Distortions, Inter‐Industry Rent Seeking and the Welfare Cost of Policies Subject to Influence
Authors: Robson Alex
Published: April 2014

It is well known that when there are existing distortions in related markets, partial equilibrium estimates of the welfare costs of new distortions using the standard “Harberger triangle” may be misleading (Goulder & Williams,). We show that similar general equilibrium considerations also play an important role in the development of accurate estimates of the costs of rent seeking. Producers in other markets will have an incentive to engage in additional rent‐seeking activity to suppress or encourage the establishment of new distortions in hitherto undistorted markets. In these situations, the total amount of resources spent on trying to encourage or discourage a new distortion or increasing an existing distortion can exceed the sum of the partial equilibrium Harberger () “triangle” and Tullock () “rectangle.” The analysis and results contrast sharply with standard general equilibrium measures of the welfare costs of distortions and the general theory of second best, which hold that introducing a new distortion or increasing an existing distortion may, in some instances, be welfare improving.
The Effect of Land Reform on Poverty: The Case of Southern African Development Community (SADC) Countries
Authors: Nene Gibson , Boubacar Inoussa , Gitar Bret
Published: April 2014

This article examines the effect of land reform on poverty in Southern African Development Community countries while controlling for factors that have been shown to be important in explaining poverty in Africa. The percentage of the population without access to clean water is used as a proxy for poverty. Empirical results provide evidence that countries that embarked on land reform experienced an increase in the percentage of the population without access to clean water for the period 1990–2007. More specifically, our results show that the impact of the willing seller–willing buyer land reform approach is higher than the impact of the expropriation land reform approach during the study period.
Have Mining Royalties Been Beneficial to Australia?
Authors: Ergas Henry , Pincus Jonathan
Published: April 2014

The “Henry tax review,” Australia's Future Tax System (Commonwealth of Australia, Department of Treasury, ), recommended that royalties be abolished and replaced by a resource rent tax. Regarding abolition, AFTS drew on KPMG Econtech () (http://taxreview.treasury.gov.au/content/html/commissioned_work/downloads/KPMG_Econtech_Efficiency%20of%20Taxes_Final_Report.pdf), a major report commissioned by Treasury to investigate the efficiencies of a wide range of Australian taxes, using MM900, a proprietary CGE model. That report estimated that the average excess burden of royalties and crude oil excise, taken together, was 50 cents per dollar of public revenue, and that the marginal excess burden, at 70 cents, was the highest of all imposts except those on gambling. We argue that the KPMG Econtech long‐run comparative static framework was inappropriate for policy purposes. By ignoring that mining is largely foreign owned, the model missed a large “rectangle” of gain – which we calculate using a partial equilibrium model. More fundamentally, the finding that royalties do harm is difficult to reconcile with the widely accepted claim that a rise in the terms of trade is beneficial. Using a partial equilibrium model, we conclude that royalties are likely to have brought substantial benefits to Australians, and that higher royalty rates would have increased both economic welfare as well as public revenue.
Modelling the Demand and Supply Determinants of Australian Wine Grapes
Authors: Oczkowski Edward
Published: April 2014

This study presents an econometric investigation of the demand and supply determinants of the dominant premium wine grapes in the warm inland regions of Australia. Motivated by the extensive use of long‐term contracts, market concentration, the lag between vine planting and grape production and the lingering impact of unexpected export demand, a market disequilibrium model is employed to estimate demand and supply elasticities. Demand is found to statistically significantly depend upon own prices, and fluctuations in income, exchange rates and the level of wine stocks. Important identified supply determinants include current prices, a quantity partial adjustment process, a time trend and lagged relative prices with regard to non‐premium and other premium varieties. The resulting elasticity estimates provide important information for model simulations relating to potential tax changes and the impact of research and development. The results also identify key changes in market conditions, including the export‐driven excess demand of the 1990s and measures of the subsequent excess supply of the 2000s.
Mesenchymal stem cells regulate airway contractile tissue remodeling in murine experimental asthma
Authors: Mariñas‐Pardo L. , Mirones I. , Amor‐Carro Ó. , Fraga‐Iriso R. , Lema‐Costa B. , Cubillo I. , Rodríguez Milla M. Á. , García‐Castro J. , Ramos‐Barbón D.
Published: April 2014

Background

Mesenchymal stem cells may offer therapeutic potential for asthma due to their immunomodulatory properties and host tolerability, yet prior evidence suggests that bloodborne progenitor cells may participate in airway remodeling. Here, we tested whether mesenchymal stem cells administered as anti‐inflammatory therapy may favor airway remodeling and therefore be detrimental.

Methods

Adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cells were retrovirally transduced to express green fluorescent protein and intravenously injected into mice with established experimental asthma induced by repeat intranasal house dust mite extract. Controls were house dust mite‐instilled animals receiving intravenous vehicle or phosphate‐buffered saline‐instilled animals receiving mesenchymal stem cells. Data on lung function, airway inflammation, and remodeling were collected at 72 h after injection or after 2 weeks of additional intranasal challenge.

Results

The mesenchymal stem cells homed to the lungs and rapidly downregulated airway inflammation in association with raised T‐helper‐1 lung cytokines, but such effect declined under sustained allergen challenge despite a persistent presence of mesenchymal stem cells. Conversely, airway hyperresponsiveness and contractile tissue underwent a late reduction regardless of continuous pathogenic stimuli and inflammatory rebound. Tracking of green fluorescent protein did not show mesenchymal stem cell integration or differentiation in airway wall tissues.

Conclusions

Therapeutic mesenchymal stem cell infusion in murine experimental asthma is free of unwanted pro‐remodeling effects and ameliorates airway hyper‐responsiveness and contractile tissue remodeling. These outcomes support furthering the development of mesenchymal stem cell‐based asthma therapies, although caution and solid preclinical data building are warranted.
Tissue‐Engineered Tracheal Reconstruction Using Three‐Dimensionally Printed Artificial Tracheal Graft: Preliminary Report
Authors: Chang Jae Won , Park Su A. , Park Ju‐Kyeong , Choi Jae Won , Kim Yoo‐Suk , Shin Yoo Seob , Kim Chul‐Ho
Published: April 2014

Three‐dimensional printing has come into the spotlight in the realm of tissue engineering. We intended to evaluate the plausibility of 3D‐printed (3DP) scaffold coated with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) seeded in fibrin for the repair of partial tracheal defects. MSCs from rabbit bone marrow were expanded and cultured. A half‐pipe‐shaped 3DP polycaprolactone scaffold was coated with the MSCs seeded in fibrin. The half‐pipe tracheal graft was implanted on a 10 × 10‐mm artificial tracheal defect in four rabbits. Four and eight weeks after the operation, the reconstructed sites were evaluated bronchoscopically, radiologically, histologically, and functionally. None of the four rabbits showed any sign of respiratory distress. Endoscopic examination and computed tomography showed successful reconstruction of trachea without any collapse or blockage. The replaced tracheas were completely covered with regenerated respiratory mucosa. Histologic analysis showed that the implanted 3DP tracheal grafts were successfully integrated with the adjacent trachea without disruption or granulation tissue formation. Neo‐cartilage formation inside the implanted graft was sufficient to maintain the patency of the reconstructed trachea. Scanning electron microscope examination confirmed the regeneration of the cilia, and beating frequency of regenerated cilia was not different from those of the normal adjacent mucosa. The shape and function of reconstructed trachea using 3DP scaffold coated with MSCs seeded in fibrin were restored successfully without any graft rejection.
Effect of Additional Preoperative Administration of the Neutrophil Elastase Inhibitor Sivelestat on Perioperative Inflammatory Response After Pediatric Heart Surgery With Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Kohira Satoshi , Oka Norihiko , Inoue Nobuyuki , Itatani Keiichi , Kitamura Tadashi , Horai Tetsuya , Oshima Hiroyuki , Tojo Keiichi , Yoshitake Shigenori , Miyaji Kagami
Published: April 2014

Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) elicits a systemic inflammatory response. Our previous reports revealed that prophylactic sivelestat administration at CPB initiation suppresses the postoperative acute inflammatory response due to CPB in pediatric cardiac surgery. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of sivelestat administration before CPB and at CPB initiation in patients undergoing pediatric open‐heart surgery. Twenty consecutive patients weighing 5–10 kg and undergoing ventricular septal defect closure with CPB were divided into pre‐CPB (n = 10) and control (n = 10) groups. Patients in the pre‐CPB group received a 24 h continuous intravenous infusion of 0.2 mg/kg/h sivelestat starting at the induction of anesthesia and an additional 0.1 mg/100 mL during CPB priming. Patients in the control group received a 24‐h continuous intravenous infusion of 0.2 mg/kg/h sivelestat starting at the commencement of CPB. Blood samples were tested. Clinical variables including blood loss, water balance, systemic vascular resistance index, and the ratio between partial pressure of oxygen and fraction of inspired oxygen (P/F ratio) were assessed. White blood cell count and neutrophil count as well as C‐reactive protein levels were significantly lower in the pre‐CPB group according to repeated two‐way analysis of variance, whereas platelet count was significantly higher. During CPB, mixed venous oxygen saturation remained significantly higher and lactate levels lower in the pre‐CPB group. Postoperative alanine aminotransferase and blood urea nitrogen levels were significantly lower in the pre‐CPB group than in the control group. The P/F ratio was significantly higher in the pre‐CPB group than in the control group. Fluid load requirement was significantly lower in the pre‐CPB group.Administration of sivelestat before CPB initiation is more effective than administration at initiation for the suppression of inflammatory responses due to CPB in pediatric open‐heart surgery, with this effect being confirmed by clinical evidence.
Comparing minimally invasive and proactive initial management of extremely preterm infants
Authors: Lando A , Kure Østergaard K , Greisen G
Published: April 2014

Aim

In 2005, we changed our minimally invasive departmental policy for infants born before 26 weeks of gestation to a proactive approach. This included structured guidelines as well as intubation and surfactant in the delivery room, if the parents agreed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of this change of policy.

Method

We compared the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) scores, mortality rates and use of mechanical ventilation before (1999–2003) and after (2005–2011) the introduction of the new policy.

Results

Twenty‐two per cent of 61 infants in the before group had an ASQ z‐score of <−2 standard deviation at 18 months' corrected age, compared with 26% of 55 infants in the after group. Mortality decreased from 46% to 36% (p = 0.06) and the use of mechanical ventilation at any time during admission increased from 64% to 87% (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

We demonstrated that changing our policy to a proactive approach to the initial care of infants born before 26 weeks did not result in a major increase in psychomotor deficit. However, the use of mechanical ventilation increased significantly and survival tended to improve.
Comparison of mortality following hospitalisation for ulcerative colitis in Scotland between 1998–2000 and 2007–2009
Authors: Ventham N. T. , Kennedy N. A. , Duffy A. , Clark D. N. , Crowe A. M. , Knight A. D. , Nicholls R. J. , Satsangi J.
Published: April 2014

Background

Scottish nationwide linkage data from 1998 to 2000 demonstrated high 3‐year mortality in patients hospitalised with ulcerative colitis (UC).

Aim

To compare 3‐year mortality, and factors related to mortality, in Scottish patients hospitalised with UC between 1998–2000 and 2007–2009.

Methods

The Scottish Morbidity Records and linked datasets were used to assess 3‐year mortality, standardised mortality ratio (SMR) and multivariate analyses of factors associated with 3‐year mortality. The 3‐year mortality was determined after four admission types: surgery‐elective or emergency; medical‐elective or emergency.

Age‐standardised mortality rates (ASR) were used to compare mortality rates between periods.

Results

Ulcerative colitis admissions increased from 10.6 in Period 1 to 11.6 per 100 000 population per year in Period 2 (P = 0.046). Crude and adjusted 3‐year mortality fell between time periods (crude 12.2% to 8.3%; adjusted OR 0.59, CI 0.42–0.81, P = 0.04). Adjusted 3‐year mortality following emergency medical admission (OR 0.58, CI 0.39–0.87, P = 0.003) and in patients >65 years (38.8% to 28.7%, P = 0.02) was lower in Period 2. The SMR in period 1 was 3.04 and 2.96 in Period 2. Directly age‐standardised mortality decreased from 373 (CI 309–437) to 264 (CI 212–316) per 10 000 person‐years. On multivariate analysis, increasing age (50–64 years OR 7.11 (CI 2.77–18.27, P < 0.05); 65–74 years OR 14.70 (CI 5.65–38.25 P < 0.05); >75 years OR 46.42 (CI 18.29–117.78, P < 0.001) and co‐morbidity (OR 3.02, CI 1.72–5.28, P < 0.001) were significantly associated with 3‐year mortality in Period 2.

Conclusions

Comparisons of crude and adjusted mortality rates suggest significant improvement in outcome over the last decade – however, mortality remains high, and older age and co‐morbidity are important predictors of outcome.
Petrographic Characterization and Provenance Determination of the Crystalline Marbles Used in the Roman City of Banasa (Morocco): New Data on the Import of Iberian Marble in Roman North Africa
Authors: Antonelli F. , Lapuente M. Pilar , Dessandier D. , Kamel S.
Published: April 2014

This paper reports the results of an archaeometric study of the crystalline marbles used in the Roman city of Banasa (Morocco). On‐site surveys allowed a detailed inspection of the monuments of the ancient city and sampling of the different marble lithotypes used for architectural purposes and sculptures. The inventory was completed by the study of both the grey‐and‐white streaked or spotted marble items stored in the warehouse of the archaeological site and of those currently exhibited at the National Archaeological Museum of Rabat. Provenance determination of 28 samples was carried out by means of a multi‐method approach combining mineralogical–petrographic data and C–O stable isotope analyses as the first step, and cathodoluminescence microscopy as a complementary technique to verify possible unusual alternative origins of some marbles. The analytical results obtained were compared with both the most reliable international databases and the few available studies dealing with the use of marble in other Roman towns in Morocco (e.g., Volubilis, Thamusida and Sala‐Chellah). They point to a variety of classical marble sources such as Carrara, Mount Penteli, Paros, Marmara and probably Mount Filfila (Algeria), and prove a significant import of Iberian lithotypes.
Teaching a Larger “Sense of Community”
Authors: Flanagan Constance
Published: April 2014

In this commentary, I summarize three teaching practices that nurture the democratic dispositions of students. The common element in these pedagogies is extending youths’ interactions with others whose backgrounds differ from theirs and broadening youths’ perspectives about the interdependence of their fates with the fates of others.
Reproductive Justice: More Than Choice
Authors: Zucker Alyssa N.
Published: April 2014

Personal health behaviors and outcomes are deeply influenced by context. The contemporary United States does not provide the conditions for optimal reproductive health. Challenges that women face in terms of family planning, access to abortion, and safe pregnancy and delivery are best understood from a reproductive justice framework. Reproductive justice frames the issue as more than individual choice, and simultaneously considers race, class, and social location, along with gender. It employs a human rights framework that promotes social justice.
The development and assessment of biological treatments for children
Authors: Smith Eve M. D. , Foster Helen E. , Beresford Michael W.
Published: April 2014

The development of biological agents with specific immunological targets has revolutionized the treatment of a wide variety of paediatric diseases where traditional immunosuppressive agents have been partly ineffective or intolerable. The increasing requirement for pharmaceutical companies to undertake paediatric studies has provided impetus for studies of biologics in children. The assessment of biological agents in children to date has largely relied upon randomized controlled trials using a withdrawal design, rather than a parallel study design. This approach has been largely used due to ethical concerns, including use of placebo treatments in children with active chronic disease, and justified on the basis that treatments have usually already undergone robust assessment in related adult conditions. However, this study design limits the reliability of the data and can confuse the interpretation of safety results. Careful ongoing monitoring of safety and efficacy in real‐world practice through national and international biologics registries and robust reporting systems is crucial. The most commonly used biological agents in children target tumour necrosis factor‐α, interleukin‐1, interleukin‐6 and cytotoxic lymphocyte‐associated antigen‐4. These agents are most frequently used in paediatric rheumatic diseases. This review discusses the development and assessment of biologics within paediatric rheumatology with reference to the lessons learned from use in other subspecialties.