bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Positive interactions among competitors can produce species‐rich communities
Authors: Gross Kevin
Published: May 2008

Although positive interactions between species are well documented, most ecological theory for investigating multispecies coexistence remains rooted in antagonistic interactions such as competition and predation. Standard resource‐competition models from this theory predict that the number of coexisting species should not exceed the number of factors that limit population growth. Here I show that positive interactions among resource competitors can produce species‐rich model communities supported by a single limiting resource. Simulations show that when resource competitors reduce each others’ per capita mortality rate (e.g. by ameliorating an abiotic stress), stable multispecies coexistence with a single resource may be common, even while the net interspecific interaction remains negative. These results demonstrate that positive interactions may provide an important mechanism for generating species‐rich communities in nature. They also show that focusing on the net interaction between species may conceal important coexistence mechanisms when species simultaneously engage in both antagonistic and positive interactions.
Effect of selective antagonists of group I metabotropic glutamate receptors on the micturition reflex in rats
Authors: Guarneri Luciano , Poggesi Elena , Angelico Patrizia , Farina Pierluigi , Leonardi Amedeo , Clarke David E. , Testa Rodolfo
Published: May 2008

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the role of Group I metabotropic glutamate (mGlu) receptor subtypes on reflex‐induced micturition in anaesthetized and conscious rats using selective mGlu1 (NPS 2407 and R214127) and mGlu5 (MPEP, MTEP, and SIB1893) allosteric antagonists.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The affinity of the compounds at mGlu1 and mGlu5 receptor subtypes was evaluated by displacement of tritiated R214127 and MPEP, respectively, from rat brain tissue. Effects of intravenous (i.v.) administration of the compounds on isovolumic bladder contractions were evaluated in anaesthetized rats. Effects of MPEP and NPS 2407 on bladder filling and voiding were evaluated by cystometry using saline or diluted (0.2%) acetic acid (MPEP only) infusion of bladders in conscious rats.

RESULTS

Binding studies confirmed the selectivity of the mGlu1 (NPS 2407 and R214127) and mGlu5 (MPEP, MTEP, and SIB1893) compounds. Isovolumic bladder contractions were blocked after i.v. administration of all compounds. However, the mGlu5 antagonists were generally more potent than mGlu1 antagonists. In conscious rats with bladders infused with saline, MPEP dose‐dependently and significantly increased bladder capacity starting from oral administration of 10 mg/kg. Oral administration of NPS 2407 (up to 30 mg/kg) did not induce consistent changes in bladder capacity or micturition pressure. MPEP (10 mg/kg, orally) was also evaluated in conscious rats with bladders infused with diluted acetic acid. In this model, MPEP reduced bladder instability counteracting the decrease of bladder volume capacity induced by acetic acid. There were no consistent effects on bladder contractility.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that i.v. and oral administration of selective mGlu5 antagonists, but not those selective for the mGlu1 subtype, have a marked inhibitory effect on reflex micturition pathways in the rat.
Perinatal outcomes associated with the use of glargine during pregnancy
Authors: Di Cianni G. , Torlone E. , Lencioni C. , Bonomo M. , Di Benedetto A. , Napoli A. , Vitacolonna E. , Mannino D. , Lapolla A. ,   for the Italian Diabetes,   Pregnancy Study Group, Italian Society of Diabetology
Published: May 2008

Aims  Insulin glargine (IG), with its non‐peaking action profile, might be useful in diabetic pregnancy. However, data on its safety are limited and its use during pregnancy is not recommended. This study focused on the effects of IG on perinatal outcome, particularly to estimate the rate of congenital anomalies and birthweight.

Methods  This retrospective study included women with pre‐gestational diabetes who used IG before (at least 1 month) and during pregnancy. For all women we recorded data regarding maternal glycaemic control and pregnancy outcome. We also compared women treated with IG throughout pregnancy and women who stopped taking IG at an earlier stage.

Results  From 27 centres, 107 Type 1 diabetic pregnancies were identified. IG was started 10.3 ± 6.9 months before conception and in 57.4% of cases was stopped during the first trimester; 42.6% of women continued using it until the end of pregnancy. There were six abortions (four spontaneous and two induced) and five newborns (4.9%) with congenital anomalies. Glycaemic control, birthweight and the prevalence of macrosomia and neonatal morbidity were similar in women who used IG for the full term compared with those who stopped IG earlier during pregnancy.

Conclusions  This study, although limited, suggests that IG is safe and effective; the rate of congenital malformations was within the range expected for diabetic pregnancies treated with more traditional forms of insulin. IG used throughout pregnancy did not seem to influence birthweight or increase adverse outcomes.
The enhancement of abalone stocks: lessons from Japanese case studies
Authors: Hamasaki Katsuyuki , Kitada Shuichi
Published: May 2008

The dramatic declines in abalone Haliotis spp. fishery production have been documented all over the world. Release of hatchery‐reared juveniles into natural habitats has been considered as one measure to sustain and/or augment the current fishery production of abalone, as well as to restore collapsed abalone stocks. However, attempts at abalone release programmes have only been undertaken at experimental scales, except for Japan, where large‐scale stock enhancement programmes for abalone have been undertaken since late 1960s. To evaluate the potential of stock enhancement for abalone, we analysed the release surveys of 13 case studies in Japan in terms of the overall recapture rate (number of recaptures through a lifetime/number of juveniles released), yield per release (YPR, yields from released individuals), the economic efficiency of releases (ratio of income from recaptured abalone to release cost) for each release year, and the contribution of hatchery releases to total catches for each fishing year. The average estimates for overall recapture rates (0.014–0.238) and YPR (3.1–60.3 g/individual) varied between locations and release years. The economic efficiency was estimated at 0.4–6.2. The released abalone contributed 6.9–83.5% to total catches. Hatchery releases could augment total production at some locations, but the success of release programmes would be limited by the carrying capacity at release areas, because density‐dependent mortality occurred following releases in some cases. Throughout Japan, the annual catch of abalone has continuously declined from ∼6500 t in 1970 to ∼2000 t in the mid‐1990s, despite the increase in the number of hatchery releases. Based on the estimates for YPR, the magnitude of the abalone releases on a national scale has not been sufficiently large to sustain the total production of Japanese abalone, which has primarily fluctuated according to the abundances of wild populations. Our results suggest that releases should be targeted at local populations in regions where stock enhancement is predicted to have the greatest chance of success, and the magnitude of releases should be considered carefully and determined for each region by taking the local carrying capacity into account. We also address the future prospects of abalone stock enhancement.
Muslim and Non‐Muslim Adolescents’ Reasoning About Freedom of Speech and Minority Rights
Authors: Verkuyten Maykel , Slooter Luuk
Published: May 2008

An experimental questionnaire study, conducted in the Netherlands, examined adolescents’ reasoning about freedom of speech and minority rights. Muslim minority and non‐Muslim majority adolescents (12–18 years) made judgments of different types of behaviors and different contexts. The group membership of participants had a clear effect. Muslim participants were less in favor of freedom of speech if it involved the offending of religious beliefs and were more in favor of Muslim minority rights. There were also cross‐group gender differences whereby parental practices that negatively affect females were more strongly rejected by Muslim females than by Muslim males and non‐Muslim females and males. The findings are discussed with reference to social‐cognitive domain theory and intergroup theories.
Ethnicity and Image: Correlates of Crowd Affiliation Among Ethnic Minority Youth
Authors: Brown B. Bradford , Herman Melissa , Hamm Jill V. , Heck Daniel J.
Published: May 2008

Because ethnicity is a basis for defining peer crowds in ethnically diverse American high schools, some may question whether crowds foster discrimination and stereotyping or affirm minority youths’ positive ties to their ethnic background. Through examination of both self‐ and peer ratings of crowd affiliation among 2,465 high school youth aged 14–19 years, this study assesses the likelihood that African American, Asian American, Latino, and multiethnic adolescents are associated with ethnically defined crowds. Crowd affiliations are related to friendship patterns among all groups, positive features of ethnic orientation for Asian and Latino youth, but also some aspects of stereotyping and discrimination for Latinos. Results emphasize ethnic diversity in the role that peer crowds play in minority adolescents’ social experiences.
A Randomized Controlled Trial of a Home‐Visiting Intervention Aimed at Preventing Relationship Problems in Depressed Mothers and Their Infants
Authors: Van Doesum Karin T. M. , Riksen‐Walraven J. Marianne , Hosman Clemens M. H. , Hoefnagels Cees
Published: May 2008

This study examined the effect of a mother–baby intervention on the quality of mother–child interaction, infant–mother attachment security, and infant socioemotional functioning in a group of depressed mothers with infants aged 1–12 months. A randomized controlled trial compared an experimental group (n = 35) receiving the intervention (8–10 home visits) with a control group (n = 36) receiving parenting support by telephone. There were assessments pre, post, and follow‐up after 6 months. The intervention had positive effects on the quality of mother–infant interaction. Infants in the experimental group had higher scores for attachment security and for one aspect of socioemotional functioning, namely, competence. The intervention proved successful in preventing deterioration of the quality of mother–child interaction.
Values as Protective Factors Against Violent Behavior in Jewish and Arab High Schools in Israel
Authors: Knafo Ariel , Daniel Ella , Khoury‐Kassabri Mona
Published: May 2008

This study tested the hypothesis that values, abstract goals serving as guiding life principles, become relatively important predictors of adolescents’ self‐reported violent behavior in school environments in which violence is relatively common. The study employed a students‐nested‐in‐schools design. Arab and Jewish adolescents (N = 907, M age = 16.8), attending 33 Israeli schools, reported their values and their own violent behavior. Power values correlated positively, and universalism and conformity correlated negatively with self‐reported violent behavior, accounting for 12% of the variance in violent behavior, whereas school membership accounted for 6% of the variance. In schools in which violence was more common, power values’ relationship with adolescents’ self‐reported violence was especially positive, and the relationship of universalism with self‐reported violence was especially negative.
The Trouble With Transfer: Insights From Microgenetic Changes in the Representation of Numerical Magnitude
Authors: Opfer John E. , Thompson Clarissa A.
Published: May 2008

Spontaneous transfer of learning is often difficult to elicit. This finding may be widespread partly because pretests proactively interfere with transfer. To test this hypothesis, 7‐year‐olds’ transfer was examined across 2 numerical tasks (number line estimation and categorization) in which similar representational changes have been observed. As predicted, children given feedback on numerical estimates learned to use a linear representation of numerical quantity instead of a logarithmic one, but providing practice on a categorization pretest led children to continue using a logarithmic representation on the same task, which they otherwise abandoned with surprising frequency. These findings imply unsupervised practice of inappropriate representations impedes transfer, and studies of learning can greatly underestimate children’s potential for transfer if pretest effects are uncontrolled.
LINKING ECOTOURISM AND BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION: A CASE STUDY OF DOI INTHANON NATIONAL PARK, THAILAND
Authors: Hvenegaard Glen T. , Dearden Philip
Published: May 2008

Ecotourism, or tourism that promotes conservation, does not occur in isolation, but as part of an interdependent system. Based on a case study at Doi Inthanon National Park, Thailand, this study outlines a conceptual framework for such a system, placing biodiversity conservation in the context of other major tourism components, including tourists, ecotourism infrastructure, protected areas and local people. In an interactive way, each component affects the conservation of biodiversity. Based on a tourist survey and participant observation, we examine the interrelationships among the key tourism components and potential changes over time. Several environmental, social, economic and educational effects illustrate the complex nature of the ecotourism‐conservation relationship. Recommendations to increase conservation benefits from ecotourism are provided.
A Social Relations Analysis of Children's Trust in Their Peers across the Early Years of School
Authors: Betts Lucy R. , Rotenberg Ken J.
Published: May 2008

Two hundred and five (103 female and 102 male) children enrolled in school years 1 and 2 in the UK (mean age 6 years 1 month at Time 1) were tested twice over a 1‐year period. The children reported the promise keeping and secret keeping behaviours of classmates (all peers and same‐gender peers) and provided friendship nominations (Time 2 only). Round robin social relations analyses for all peers and same‐gender peers revealed: (1) perceiver variance, demonstrating consistent individual differences in trust beliefs in peers; (2) target variance, demonstrating consistent individual differences in eliciting trust from peers; and, (3) dyadic reciprocity, demonstrating reciprocal trust between individuals. Replicability across measures, stability, and cross‐measure stability of these effects were found for all peers only. As hypothesized, the perceiver and target effects of trust were associated with the number of friendships. The findings support the conclusion that young children demonstrate multiple components of trust in dyadic relationships, which are associated with their social relationships.
Reprogramming Femininity? The Construction of Gender Identities in the Israeli Hi‐tech Industry between Global and Local Gender Orders
Authors: Frenkel Michal
Published: May 2008

Based on the study of gender identities in the Israeli hi‐tech sector, this article sets out to explore the doing of gender in a context comprised of two cultural repertoires characterized by divergent and contradictory fundamental assumptions: the new masculine transnational economy and pro‐natalist Israeli society. The article demonstrates how, by manoeuvering and moving between these global and local cultural repertoires, privileged Israeli hi‐tech women enact and construct a ‘new femininity’ that simultaneously challenges both the discourse of the ‘ideal hi‐tech worker’ and that of traditional Israeli femininity. This new femininity, I argue, is grounded in a local translation of the ‘family friendly organization’ discourse.
Partner notification in pregnant women with HIV: findings from three inner‐city clinics
Authors: Forbes KM , Lomax N , Cunningham L , Hardie J , Noble H , Sarner L , Anderson J
Published: May 2008

British HIV Association guidelines recommend that all HIV‐positive pregnant women should be encouraged to disclose their HIV infection to their partner and that this should be viewed as a process rather than an event. The aim of this study was to describe local practice of partner notification (PN) and patterns of disclosure in a group of HIV‐positive women in an antenatal setting. A retrospective case note and local pregnancy database review was undertaken. Women who had accessed specialist HIV antenatal care at one of three east London hospitals with an expected delivery date between 1 March 2004 and 30 June 2006 were identified. In total, 145 women were identified. HIV status had not been disclosed to a partner in 19% (n=27) of case notes reviewed. There was no documented discussion about PN in 18% (n=26) of case notes. Forty‐three per cent (n=62) of case notes documented that the male partner had accessed HIV testing after PN was discussed. All HIV‐positive pregnant women should have a documented discussion about PN. Concurrent HIV testing offered to both partners may improve HIV testing uptake in male partners and should be explored further. Care plans should include screening for intimate partner violence and housing problems; referral pathways should be established clearly when involving other agencies.
Beneath the Surface: Uncovering the relationship between extraversion and organizational citizenship behavior through a facet approach
Authors: Moon Henry , Hollenbeck John R. , Marinova Sophia , Humphrey Stephen E.
Published: May 2008

To date, an empirical link between the broad factor extraversion and organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) has not been found. We propose that a facet conceptualization of extraversion including surgency, sociability and positive emotions predict an individual's level of citizenship behaviors in opposing ways, thus masking the predictive ability of a broad factor of extraversion. In study one, we establish the foundation for predictive differences by documenting differential relationships between the facets of extraversion and the type of organizational cultures potential job applicants are attracted to. In study two, analysis of peer rated OCB from 117 individuals working in various organizations supports the superior predictive ability of the facets over that of the broad factor.
The structural characteristics of the heart ventricle of the African lungfish Protopterus dolloi: freshwater and aestivation
Authors: Icardo José M. , Amelio Daniela , Garofalo Filippo , Colvee Elvira , Cerra Maria C. , Wong Wai P. , Tota Bruno , Ip Yuen K.
Published: May 2008

This paper reports on the structure and ultrastructure of the ventricular myocardium of the African lungfish Protopterus dolloi in freshwater (FW), in aestivation (AE), and after the AE period. The myocardium shows a conventional myofibrillar structure. All the myocytes contain large intracytoplasmic spaces occupied by a pale material that could contain glycosaminoglycans and/or glycogen, which may be used as food and water reservoirs. In FW, the myocytes in the trabeculae associated with the free ventricular wall show structural signs of low transcriptional and metabolic activity (heterochromatin, mitochondria of the dense type). These signs are partially reversed during the AE period (euchromatin, mitochondria with a light matrix), with a return to the FW appearance after arousal. The myocytes in the septum show, in FW conditions, nuclear polymorphism (heterochromatin, euchromatin), and two types (colliquative and coagulative) of necrosis. In AE, all the septal myocytes show euchromatin, and the number of necrotic cells increases greatly. Cell necrosis appears to be related to the septal architecture. After arousal, the septal myocytes exhibit a heterochromatin pattern, the number of necrotic cells decreases, cell debris accumulates under the endocardium, and phagocytosis takes place. Despite being a morphologic continuum, the trabeculae associated with the free ventricular wall appear to constitute a different compartment from that formed by the trabeculae in the ventricular septum. Paradoxically, AE appears to trigger an increase in transcriptional and synthetic myocardial activities, especially at the level of the ventricular septum. This activity may be involved in mechanisms of autocrine/paracrine regulation. Aestivation cannot be regarded as the result of a general depression of all cellular and organic activities. Rather, it is a much more complex state in which the interplay between upregulation and downregulation of diverse cell activities appears to play a fundamental role.
Factors of importance for work satisfaction among nurses in a university hospital in Sweden
Authors: Gardulf Ann , Orton Marie‐Louise , Eriksson Lars E. , Undén Maria , Arnetz Bengt , Kajermo Kerstin Nilsson , Nordström Gun
Published: May 2008

The shortage of registered nurses in the healthcare sector is a problem in most countries. Swedish nurses tend to leave or seek new positions. However, few Swedish studies have addressed questions regarding what factors are of importance for nurses to perceive work satisfaction although satisfied nurses are linked to many positive organizational outcomes, e.g. improved quality of patient care. The aim of this study was to investigate what factors are of importance for nurses at a university hospital to perceive work satisfaction. Eight hundred and thirty‐three nurses responded to the mailed Quality Work Competence questionnaire and the Huddinge University Hospital Model Questionnaire. Regression analyses identifies five factors linked to the head nurses leadership contributing to the nurses’ feelings of work satisfaction: ‘professional competence is made good use of’, ‘feeling of satisfaction with immediate superior regarding support for nursing research and development’, ‘opportunities for developing one's own competence for the current job’, ‘career opportunities in one's own profession’ and ‘yearly dialogue for performance appraisal with immediate superior’. The nurses also reported work‐related exhaustion. Few saw opportunities for making a career as a nurse. In conclusion, the study identified specific amenable factors linked to the head nurses leadership that are of importance in creating attractive workplaces for nurses.
Participation in play activities: a single‐case study focusing on a child with obesity experiences
Authors: Skär Lisa , Prellwitz Maria
Published: May 2008

The purpose of this study was to describe how a child with obesity perceived participation in play activities. A single‐case study design was chosen to optimize the understanding of the complexities of the research question. A 9‐year‐old boy diagnosed with obesity was studied. This is a typical case and is studied mainly to provide understanding to the issue. The data were collected from interviews with the boy, his mother and his teacher. Data were also collected through observations and a self‐report assessment instrument called Kid Play Profile. The results showed that the boy was ridiculed by his peers and that at times he felt excluded from them, which prevented him from participating in play activities. The boy’s experience came from different perceived problems such as lack of friends to play with, his inability to know how to perform in different play activities, and lack of proper support and encouragement from adults. Supporting children to overcome social skills deficits could prevent them from being teased and may have a positive effect on health. To optimize children’s participation in play activities, it is important for adults to give them proper support and encouragement. The results were discussed with regard to earlier research, and topics for further research are suggested.
Hypoventilation does not explain the impaired quality of sleep in postpolio patients ventilated noninvasively vs. invasively
Authors: Klang Birgitta , Markström Agneta , Sundell Kerstin , Barle Hans , Gillis‐Haegerstrand Caroline
Published: May 2008

In a previous study, it was found that patients treated with noninvasive ventilation (NIV) reported larger dysfunctions in sleep‐related parameters as assessed with the Sickness Impact Profile (SIP) and Health Index questionnaires than those treated with tracheostomy. The aim of the current study was to further evaluate these sleep limitations and relate these limitations to blood gas analyses in the groups to investigate, if the differences could be related to differences in the efficacy of ventilation. We compared postpolio patients treated with tracheostomy (PPT, n = 17), NIV (PPN, n = 14) and patients with neuromuscular disorders treated with NIV (NMN, n = 15). Significantly fewer patients in the PPT group scored large dysfunctions in the SIP sleep (SIP score >10 points) compared with the PPN and NMN patients. The PPT patients scored significantly higher regarding quality of sleep and less sense of tiredness than the PPN and NMN patients. No differences were found between the groups regarding blood gas parameters neither before nor during or after the study period. In conclusion, postpolio patients treated with invasive home mechanical ventilation seem to experience better sleep and less sense of tiredness than patients on NIV. These differences cannot be explained by differences in alveolar ventilation as assessed with blood gas analyses.
The relationship between lifestyle, working environment, socio‐demographic factors and expulsion from the labour market due to disability pension among nurses
Authors: Friis Karina , Ekholm Ola , Hundrup Yrsa Andersen
Published: May 2008

Background:  Denmark is facing a shortage of nurses and this trend is anticipated to worsen within the next decades. The major reason for this shortage is that only very few nurses remain employed until the general retirement age. Every year several nurses are expelled from the labour market prematurely which causes a problem not only for the disabled nurses but also because it can affect the morale and productivity among the remaining personnel while new staff members are hired and trained.

Aim:  The aim of the study was to analyse the relationship between lifestyle, working environment, socio‐demographic factors and disability pension (DP) among nurses.

Methods:  The study was based on 12 028 nurses above the age of 44 who in 1993 completed a questionnaire. The survey information was combined with longitudinal data from a register compiled by Statistics Denmark. The follow‐up period was from 1993 to 2002.

Results:  Nurses with relatively low gross incomes were more likely to become disability pensioners compared to nurses with high incomes (hazard ratio, HR 1.33 and HR 2.17). Also, nurses who were singles had a higher probability of entering DP (HR 1.63). Nurses who worked fixed evening or night shifts had higher risks of DP than nurses who worked daytime exclusively (HR 1.51 and HR 1.45). Smoking, obesity and having a sedentary lifestyle were also risk indicators for DP (HR 1.42, HR 1.63 and HR 1.50). Furthermore, low influence and high physical demands at work increased the probability of entering DP (HR 1.39 and HR 1.22).

Conclusion:  DP among nurses is influenced by a number of factors. Nurses who have poor working environments and/or unhealthy lifestyles have higher risks of becoming disability pensioners. Also, nurses who are singles and/or have low gross incomes have higher probability of entering DP.
Policies for labour management – existence and content
Authors: Stålhammar Anna , Boström Barbro
Published: May 2008

Background:  To prevent dystocia, it is important to have criteria for labour onset and policies for diagnosing and treating uterine inertia. Uterine inertia is often followed by complications such as prolonged labour, caesarean section, instrumental labour and a negative birth experience, and prevention and proper treatment are therefore important. The Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare has stipulated that labour wards should have policies for labour management. The aim of this study was to investigate the extent to which labour wards in Sweden have such policies. For those wards with policies for labour management, a further aim was to study the content of the policies.

Methods:  A descriptive survey presenting information from 48 of 49 labour wards in Sweden. Descriptive statistics were used.

Results:  Three of the 48 labour wards had written policies concerning all four main issues of interest. Written policies existed regarding criteria for labour onset at 11 wards, diagnosis of uterine inertia at 13 wards and treatment of uterine inertia at 21 wards. Seventeen wards had written policies for when during the progress of labour neuraxial analgesia was recommended.

Conclusions:  The majority of labour wards in Sweden did not have written policies, and there was no consensus among the wards regarding criteria for diagnosing labour onset and uterine inertia, policies for treatment of uterine inertia, or about recommendations for when to use neuraxial analgesia. It is possible that the lack of policies could imply a risk for nonevidence‐based labour management.
The hospital appropriateness evaluation protocol in elderly patients: a technique to evaluate admission and hospital stay
Authors: Sánchez‐García Sergio , Juárez‐Cedillo Teresa , Mould‐Quevedo Joaquín Federico , García‐González José Juan , Contreras‐Hernández Iris , Espinel‐Bermudez Maria Claudia , Hernández‐Hernández Dulce María , Garduño‐Espinosa Juan , García‐Peña Carmen
Published: May 2008

Background:  Aging of the population represents one of the main challenges for health systems because of the increase in the demand for hospital services. To be able to count on tools that allow an objective evaluation of hospital‐resource use becomes indispensable for health systems.

Objective:  To evaluate the reliability and validity of the Appropriateness Evaluation Protocol (AEP) regarding the appropriateness of admissions and hospital stays in elderly patients. In a scenario of scarce resources, to have a valid instrument will make it possible to evaluate the process of care in our growing elderly population in a standardized way.

Methods:  We carried out a retrospective study of 144 randomly chosen elderly patients admitted to the hospital with 394 even‐numbered hospital‐stay days. For the reliability analysis between the pair of nurses with the AEP and the pair of specialists, the details of the hospital admissions and the stay days were obtained from the clinical files. Criteria validity was conducted by pairs of physicians, including two internists, two general surgeons and two geriatricians. Only the agreements were compared with agreements of the AEP‐trained nurses. Disagreements were excluded from the final analysis.

Results:  Inter‐rater (inter‐reviewer) agreement of hospital admissions and days spent by the patient presented a kappa coefficient of >0.70, while these admissions and hospital‐stay days was >0.70. Sensitivity and positive predictor value to detect inappropriate admissions were not calculated because no agreement existed on inappropriate admissions. Specificity and negative predictive value to detect appropriate admission was >94.0% and >98.0%. Sensitivity and positive predictor value to detect inappropriate hospital‐stay days was >44.0% and >10.0%, while specificity and negative predictor value for detecting appropriate hospital‐stay days was >79.0% and >88.0%.

Conclusions:  AEP’s high‐reliability and moderate‐validity results with regard to clinical judgement positions it as a useful instrument for appropriate hospitalization screening in elderly patients.
Evaluation of antioxidant and neuroprotective effect of ethanolic extract of Embelia ribes Burm in focal cerebral ischemia/reperfusion‐induced oxidative stress in rats
Authors: Nazam Ansari M. , Bhandari Uma , Islam F. , Tripathi C.D.
Published: May 2008

Antioxidants have been the focus of studies for developing neuroprotective agents to be used in the therapy for stroke, which is an acute and progressive neurodegenerative disorder and is the second leading cause of death throughout the world. In fact, many herbal antioxidants have been developed in in vitro and in vivo experiments and some of these have been tested in clinical studies of stroke. Embelia ribes have been reported to have antioxidant and antidiabetic effects. In addition to these effects, this study was designed to investigate the neuroprotective effect of ethanolic extract of E. ribes Burm fruits on middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO)‐induced focal cerebral ischemia in rats. Male Wistar albino rats were fed ethanolic E. ribes extract (100 and 200 mg/kg body weight; p.o.) for 30 days. After 30 days of feeding, all animals were anaesthetized with chloral hydrate (400 mg/kg, i.p.). The right middle cerebral artery was occluded with a 4‐0 suture for 2 h. The suture was removed after 2 h to allow reperfusion injury. Ischemia followed by reperfusion in ischemic group rats significantly (P < 0.001) reduced the grip strength activity and non‐enzymatic (reduced glutathione, GSH) and enzymatic [glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR) and glutathione‐S‐transferase (GST)] antioxidant levels in hippocampus and frontal cortex compared to sham‐operated rats. Further, serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) levels in hippocampus and frontal cortex were significantly increased in ischemic group compared to sham‐operated rats. Furthermore, ethanolic E. ribes extracts pretreatment significantly (P < 0.001) increased the grip strength activity, and GSH, GPx, GR and GST levels in hippocampus and frontal cortex with significant decrease in LDH levels in serum and TBARS levels in hippocampus and frontal cortex compared to MCAO + vehicle group rats. The data from this study suggest that chronic treatment with ethanolic E. ribes extract enhances the antioxidant defense against MCAO‐ induced focal cerebral ischemia in rats and exhibits neuroprotective activity.
TWO NEW PARROTS (PSITTACIFORMES) FROM THE LOWER EOCENE FUR FORMATION OF DENMARK
Authors: WATERHOUSE DAVID M. , LINDOW BENT E. K. , ZELENKOV NIKITA V. , DYKE GARETH J.
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  Two new fossil psittaciform birds from the Lower Eocene ‘Mo Clay’ (Fur Formation) of Denmark (c. 54 Ma) are described. An unnamed specimen is assigned to the extinct avian family of stem‐group parrots, Pseudasturidae (genus and species incertae sedis), while a second (Mopsitta tanta gen. et sp. nov.) is the largest fossil parrot yet known. Both specimens are the first fossil records of these birds from Denmark. Although the phylogenetic position of Mopsitta is unclear (it is classified as family incertae sedis), this form is phylogenetically closer to Recent Pstittacidae than to other known Palaeogene psittaciforms and may, therefore, represent the oldest known crown‐group parrot.
The Emergence of Integrative Medicine in Australia: The Growing Interest of Biomedicine and Nursing in Complementary Medicine in a Southern Developed Society
Authors: Baer Hans
Published: May 2008

In this article, I examine the process by which some biomedical physicians and nurses in Australia have come to adopt various alternative therapies in their regimens of practice, largely in response to (1) the growing interest on the part of many Australians in what is generally called “complementary medicine”, and (2) a recognition that biomedicine is not particularly effective in treating an array of chronic ailments. Some Australian biomedical physicians and nurses have come to embrace “integrative medicine,” which purports to blend the best of biomedicine and complementary medicine, and have even created an Australasian Integrative Medical Association and established integrative medical training programs and centers. I argue that the adoption of alternative therapies and the development of integrative medicine on the part of Australian biomedical physicians and nurses constitute another national manifestation of the co‐option of complementary and alternative medicine.
Meta‐analytically Quantifying the Reliability and Biasability of Forensic Experts
Authors: Dror Itiel , Rosenthal Robert
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  In this paper we employ meta‐analytic procedures and estimate effect sizes indexing the degree of reliability and biasability of forensic experts. The data are based on within‐expert comparisons, whereby the same expert unknowingly makes judgments on the same data at different times. This allows us to take robust measurements and conduct analyses that compare variances within the same experts, and thus to carefully quantify the degree of consistency and objectivity that underlie expert performance and decision making. To achieve consistency, experts must be reliable, at least in the very basic sense that an expert makes the same decision when the same data are presented in the same circumstances, and thus be consistent with themselves. To achieve objectivity, experts must focus only on the data and ignore irrelevant information, and thus be unbiasable by extraneous context. The analyses show that experts are not totally reliable nor are they unbiasable. These findings are based on fingerprint experts decision making, but because this domain is so well established, they apply equally well (if not more) to all other less established forensic domains.
A Clandestine Burial in Costa Rica: Prospection and Excavation
Authors: Congram Derek R.
Published: May 2008

Abstract: This case report describes the search for a clandestine grave in Costa Rica for which the police sought the assistance of an archaeologist. An anonymous informant suggested that the victim had been kidnapped and murdered, placed in a shallow grave in the woods, then covered with lime and cement. A search of the area to detect conventional signs of burial (e.g., slumping, different plant growth) resulted in excavation of unrelated features of past disturbance. Different aspects of the grave including the deposition of cement powder over the body prevented its initial discovery. Improvisation of conventional archaeological excavation methods and use of police familiar with archaeological excavation resulted in the location of the grave and exhumation of the victim without loss of important contextual evidence that supported testimony on the cause of death. The taphonomic effects of high‐lying ground water and lime in the tropical burial environment are briefly discussed. Recommendations such as the construction of a temporary sump to lower the ground water level in the grave during excavation are made to assist in similar investigations in the future.
A Novel Approach for Fingerprinting Mummified Hands
Authors: Fields Roy , Molina D. Kimberley
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  Fingerprinting has long been used as a method for identifying bodies and, since first discovered, many advances have been made in both fingerprint acquisition and interpretation. However, in the field of forensic pathology, the attainment of fingerprints from mummified bodies has remained difficult. The most common technique historically used to obtain fingerprints in these cases usually employs the amputation of the fingers combined with soaking and/or injecting the fingers with various solutions in order to enhance the fingerprints. A novel approach to fingerprinting mummified fingers is presented which involves removal and rehydration of the fingerpads (including the epidermal, dermal, and adipose tissues) followed by inking and rolling, using a gloved finger for support. The technique presented produces a superior quality of print without amputation of the finger, yielding excellent results and assisting in obtaining positive identification.
John and Jane Doe: The Epidemiology of Unidentified Decedents
Authors: Paulozzi Leonard J. , Cox Christine S. , Williams Dionne D. , Nolte Kurt B.
Published: May 2008

Abstract: The number of people who cannot be identified at the time of death, sometimes referred to as John or Jane Does, is unknown, and little is known about them as a group. The study’s objectives were to estimate the number of annual unidentified deaths, to identify demographic characteristics associated with dying unidentified, to determine whether the rates of such deaths vary geographically or over time, and to better characterize the causes of death. This was a population‐based surveillance study of data collected from death certificates from 1979 to 2004 in the U.S. Subjects were selected by the absence of name, date of birth, and Social Security Number on their certificates. Main outcome measures were distributions by age, sex, and underlying cause of death and rates by sex, race, year, and state of death. An average of 413 unidentified persons died each year. The peak year was 1987 with 691 deaths, a rate of 28.5 per 10 million people. The rate declined to 9.7 per 10 million in 2004. Most unidentified decedents were male (80.6%). Unidentified death rates were highest among black people and in the Southwest. Among deaths for which the cause was known, 82.7% were due to injuries. Among injury deaths, 31.8% were homicides. Improvement in identification technology may have reduced rates of unidentified death since the 1980s. In addition, variations in rates of unidentified decedents may reflect changes in risk factors such as homelessness and substance abuse.
Synergism of Shrew‐1’s Signal Peptide and Transmembrane Segment Required for Plasma Membrane Localization
Authors: Resch Eduard , Quaiser Saskia , Quaiser Tom , Schneider Gisbert , Starzinski‐Powitz Anna , Schreiner Alexander
Published: May 2008

Signal peptides (SP) and transmembrane segments (TMS) ensure proper subcellular targeting and localization of proteins. Thus, understanding the molecular variability of this targeting information is essential. In this study, we functionally analyzed the predicted SP and the TMS of adherens junction protein, shrew‐1 (Bharti et al. Novel membrane protein shrew‐1 targets to cadherin‐mediated junctions in polarized epithelial cells. Mol Biol Cell 2004:15:397). We used human secreted alkaline phosphatase (SEAP) as reporter protein. The SP of shrew‐1 was able to functionally substitute for SEAP’s intrinsic SP and was cleaved, indicating that it acts as a start‐transfer signal and not a signal anchor. In turn, the TMS of shrew‐1 functions as stop‐transfer signal. Notably, clearly detectable plasma membrane localization is only achieved when the fusion protein contains both the SP and the TMS of shrew‐1. In combination with the intrinsic SP from SEAP, the shrew‐1 TMS is unable to promote stable plasma membrane localization. Hence, it may be assumed that this synergism between an SP and a TMS to mediate plasma membrane localization is essential for structural and/or functional integrity of shrew‐1.
Neonatal supraventricular tachycardia: outcomes over a 27‐year period at a single institution
Authors: Gilljam Thomas , Jaeggi Edgar , Gow Robert M
Published: May 2008

Aim: To establish prognosis in neonatal supraventricular tachycardia.

Methods: All 109 patients <30 days with supraventricular tachycardia due to accessory atrioventricular or atrioventricular nodal reentry from 1971 to 1997 at one institution were retrospectively reviewed.

Results: There were seven deaths (6%): five cardiac failure, two not related to arrhythmia. Freedom from arrhythmia, antiarrhythmic medication or late recurrence of arrhythmia was 52% at 1 year, 82% at 5 years and 83% at 10 years. At 10 years 31% of patients with ventricular preexcitation on electrocardiogram had symptoms or medication compared to 6% in those with concealed pathways (p < 0.0001). In patients who needed multiple drugs or more than 6 days to obtain initial arrhythmia control, 50% had arrhythmias at 10 years, compared to 10% of more easily treated cases (p = 0.001).

Conclusion: Ventricular preexcitation and initial treatment difficulties, but not foetal presentation, were significant risk factors for prolonged arrhythmia, as confirmed by multivariate analysis. In the remainder, arrhythmia resolved in approximately 90%.
Infants of mothers with persistent nipple pain exert strong sucking vacuums
Authors: McClellan HL , Geddes DT , Kent JC , Garbin CP , Mitoulas LR , Hartmann PE
Published: May 2008

Aim: The objective of this study was to determine whether infants of mothers experiencing persistent nipple pain exerted very strong intraoral vacuums during a breastfeed.

Methods: Thirty mothers experiencing persistent pain during breastfeeding (Pain group; infants aged 49.4 ± 35.5 days) were compared to 30 successfully breastfeeding mothers (Control group; infants aged 55.0 ± 22.7 days). Infant intraoral vacuums were measured via a small milk‐filled tube taped alongside the nipple and connected to a pressure transducer. Milk intake was measured using the test weigh method.

Results: Infants in the Pain group applied significantly stronger baseline (−90.8 ± 54.5 vs. −56.4 ± 31.4 mmHg, p = 0.004), peak (−214.3 ± 60.5 vs. 163.2 ± 62.4 mmHg, p = 0.002) and pause vacuums (−104.8 ± 67.9 vs. −45.8 ± 30.3 mmHg, p < 0.001). Despite similar active sucking times (377.5 ± 175.2 vs. 349.4 ± 184.0 sec, p = 0.554) the mean milk intake was significantly lower for infants of mothers with nipple pain (41.6 ± 31.3 vs. 70.7 ± 30.7 g, p = 0.001).

Conclusion: Infants of breastfeeding mothers experiencing persistent nipple pain applied significantly higher vacuum to the breast during breastfeeding despite assistance with positioning and attachment from a lactation consultant. Further investigation into the cause of the abnormally high vacuums is essential to develop successful interventions for these mother–infant dyads.
Perceptions of oral health adequacy and access in Michigan nursing facilities
Authors: Smith Barbara J. , Ghezzi Elisa M. , Manz Michael C. , Markova Christiana P.
Published: May 2008

Objective:  To determine practices and perceived access barriers (facility resources, attitudes and professional dental involvement) related to oral health by surveying directors of nursing (DONs) in Michigan nursing homes (NHs).

Background:  DONs are crucial to NH practice and policy, so understanding their perceptions of oral health care is vital.

Methods:  A 27‐item questionnaire exploring aspects of oral health was mailed to all 402 Michigan NH. Descriptive statistics were calculated for response items.

Results:  Facility response rate was 32% (n = 129). Sixty‐three per cent of facilities had a written dental care plan primarily co‐ordinated by nursing staff and social workers. Stationary dental equipment was available in 3% of facilities. Thirty‐eight per cent stated an examination by a dentist was provided to new residents. Seventy‐five per cent of residents identified as needing dental treatment were likely to receive it. Of the 28% of residents receiving dental treatment beyond an examination in the past year, 28% received emergent care. Over 50% of responding DONs indicated satisfaction with how oral hygiene needs were met in their facilities. The greatest perceived barriers were willingness of general and specialty dentists to treat residents at the nursing facility and/or their private offices as well as financial concerns of the resident and/or family. Generally, greater resources were available in urban facilities, but substantial barriers to care were uniformly perceived.

Conclusion:  Oral health policies and practices within Michigan NH vary, as measured by resources, attitudes, and the availability of professional care. Dental involvement in policy creation, provision of consultation, and service is limited.