bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Problems with mitigation translocation of herpetofauna
Authors: Sullivan Brian K. , Nowak Erika M. , Kwiatkowski Matthew A.
Published: July 2014

Mitigation translocation of nuisance animals is a commonly used management practice aimed at resolution of human–animal conflict by removal and release of an individual animal. Long considered a reasonable undertaking, especially by the general public, it is now known that translocated subjects are negatively affected by the practice. Mitigation translocation is typically undertaken with individual adult organisms and has a much lower success rate than the more widely practiced conservation translocation of threatened and endangered species. Nonetheless, the public and many conservation practitioners believe that because population‐level conservation translocations have been successful that mitigation translocation can be satisfactorily applied to a wide variety of human‐wildlife conflict situations. We reviewed mitigation translocations of reptiles, including our own work with 3 long‐lived species (Gila monsters [Heloderma suspectum], Sonoran desert tortoises [Gopherus morafkai], and western diamond‐backed rattlesnakes [Crotalus atrox]). Overall, mitigation translocation had a low success rate when judged either by effects on individuals (in all studies reviewed they exhibited increased movement or increased mortality) or by the success of the resolution of the human–animal conflict (translocated individuals often returned to the capture site). Careful planning and identification of knowledge gaps are critical to increasing success rates in mitigation translocations in the face of increasing pressure to find solutions for species threatened by diverse anthropogenic factors, including climate change and exurban and energy development.

Problemas con la Mitigación por Traslocación de Herpetofauna
Impact of obesity on complications after resection for rectal cancer
Authors: Bokey L. , Chapuis P. H. , Dent O. F.
Published: July 2014

Aim

The prevalence of obesity in Australia is high and increasing, with associated serious negative effects on health. The technical complexity of rectal cancer surgery is exacerbated in obese patients, which may compromise outcomes. The aim of this study was to examine the association between obesity and complications after resection of rectal cancer.

Method

Data were drawn from a comprehensive prospective registry of rectal cancer resections performed from 2007 to 2011 by members of the colorectal surgical unit in a tertiary referral hospital and in a single private hospital with which they were affiliated.

Results

Of 255 patients who had a resection for rectal cancer during the study period, 95 (37%) were classified as obese on the basis of a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2. Among 24 postoperative complications the only significant differences for obese patients were higher rates of wound complications (16% vs 8%, P = 0.038), small bowel obstruction (4% vs 0%, P = 0.019) and prolonged ileus (18% vs 8%, P = 0.011). The total number of complications did not differ significantly between obese and nonobese patients, and there was no difference between obese and nonobese patients in the rates of reoperation and postoperative death.

Conclusion

This study did not support an association between obesity and early postoperative complications after resection of rectal cancer.
Gallery One at the Cleveland Museum of Art
Authors: Alexander Jane
Published: July 2014

How can art museums use interpretive technology to engage visitors actively in new kinds of experiences with works of art? What are the best strategies for integrating technology into the visitor experience? In 2012, the Cleveland Museum of Art responded with Gallery One, an interactive art gallery that opened to stakeholders on December 12, and went through a six‐week testing period before its public opening on January 21, 2013. Gallery One drew from extensive audience research and was part of a major building and renovation project in which CMA reinstalled and reinterpreted the entire permanent collection in new and renovated gallery spaces. The end result was an innovative and robust blend of art, technology, design, and a unique user experience that emerged through the collaboration of staff across the museum and with outside consultants.
The Politics of Capital Flight in the Global Economic Crisis
Authors: Pepinsky Thomas B.
Published: July 2014

This paper studies the effects of economic governance and political institutions on portfolio investment during the Global Economic Crisis of 2008–2009. Leveraging a unique cross‐national dataset on portfolio flows immediately following the collapse of Lehman Brothers in September 2008, it shows that countries with “better institutions” – those with more (or less) democratic, more (or less) constrained or more accountable political systems – were no less vulnerable to portfolio outflows than countries with “worse institutions.” However, countries with better governance prior to the crisis – those with better regulatory apparatuses, rule of law, property rights, and those considered less politically risky – experienced lower net portfolio capital outflows after Lehman. Governance is in fact the strongest predictor of portfolio capital flows during the global flight to liquidity, while political institutions perform poorly. The findings shed light onto the political factors that mediated how the collapse of Lehman affected national financial markets the world over, and have implications for literatures on the political economy of foreign investment, as well as for broader topics of institutions, governance, and economic performance.
Evaluation of the appreciation of virtual teeth with and without pathology
Authors: de Boer I. R. , Lagerweij M. D. , Wesselink P. R. , Vervoorn J. M.
Published: July 2014

Aim

Virtual teeth with and without tooth pathology have been developed for use in a virtual learning environment in dental education. The objective of this study was to evaluate the appearance of these virtual teeth for use in dental education and to compare them with contemporary educational models, such as plastic teeth (Frasaco GmbH) and extracted human teeth.

Material and methods

Six sets of photographs representing six different teeth were shown to dentists, teachers (dentists) and dental students (bachelor's and master's degree students). Each set consisted of 15 pictures showing five views of the extracted human tooth, the similar virtual tooth and the plastic tooth. The five views represented the mesial, distal, occlusal, buccal and lingual surfaces. The virtual tooth was the same as the extracted tooth (scanned with a cone beam CT, coloured and edited in ColorMapEditor®), and the plastic tooth presented the best possible match to the extracted tooth. The participants were asked to rate the appearance of the virtual teeth (overall and in terms of caries, restoration and colours), whether the virtual or plastic teeth resembled the extracted teeth better and from which teeth they expected to learn the most (extracted, virtual or plastic).

Results

Each group of participants found that the virtual teeth resembled the extracted teeth more than they resembled the plastic teeth; 71% of the participants expected to learn more from the virtual teeth than from the plastic teeth.

Conclusion

The results show that the appearance of the virtual teeth was considered more realistic than the appearance of the plastic teeth. The expectation was that the learning opportunities of the virtual teeth are better than of the plastic teeth.
Negative density dependence of seed dispersal and seedling recruitment in a Neotropical palm
Authors: Jansen Patrick A. , Visser Marco D. , Joseph Wright S. , Rutten Gemma , Muller‐Landau Helene C.
Published: July 2014

Negative density dependence (NDD) of recruitment is pervasive in tropical tree species. We tested the hypotheses that seed dispersal isNDD, due to intraspecific competition for dispersers, and that this contributes toNDDof recruitment. We compared dispersal in the palmAttalea butyraceaacross a wide range of population density on Barro Colorado Island in Panama and assessed its consequences for seed distributions. We found that frugivore visitation, seed removal and dispersal distance all declined with population density ofA. butyracea, demonstratingNDDof seed dispersal due to competition for dispersers. Furthermore, as population density increased, the distances of seeds from the nearest adult decreased, conspecific seed crowding increased and seedling recruitment success decreased, all patterns expected under poorer dispersal. Unexpectedly, however, our analyses showed thatNDDof dispersal did not contribute substantially to these changes in the quality of the seed distribution; patterns with population density were dominated by effects due solely to increasing adult and seed density.
An association analysis of the rs1572931 polymorphism of the RAB7L1 gene in Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and multiple system atrophy in China
Authors: Guo X.‐Y. , Chen Y.‐P. , Song W. , Zhao B. , Cao B. , Wei Q.‐Q. , Ou R.‐W. , Yang Y. , Yuan L.‐X. , Shang H.‐F.
Published: July 2014

Background and purpose

Recently, the rs1572931 single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of the putative promoter of the member RAS oncogene family‐like 1 (RAB7L1) gene was reported to be associated with reduced risk for Parkinson's disease (PD) in the Ashkenazi Jewish population. Ethnic‐specific effects are an important consideration in genome‐wide association studies. Considering that the clinical manifestations and pathological characteristics overlap between PD, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and multiple system atrophy (MSA), the possible associations between the rs1572931 SNP and these three diseases were studied in the Chinese population.

Methods

A total of 1011 PD patients, 778 sporadic ALS (SALS) patients, 264 MSA patients and 516 healthy controls (HC) were included in this study. All subjects were genotyped for the rs1572931 SNP by using polymerase chain reaction and direct sequencing.

Results

Significant differences were observed in the genotype and minor allele frequency (MAF) of rs1572931 between PD and HC (P = 0.0001 and P = 1.08E‐04, respectively) and between late‐onset PD and matched controls (P = 0.0011 and P = 0.0002, respectively). However, no differences were observed between early‐onset PD and HC. The number of minor allele carriers was significantly lower in PD patients than in HC (P = 2.96E‐05, odds ratio 0.63, 95% confidence interval 0.51–0.78). No differences were observed between groups with respect to sex, onset symptoms, absence or presence of cognition impairment, anxiety or depression. In addition, no differences were found in the genotype and MAF of rs1572931 between SALS and HC or between MSA and HC.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that rs1572931 decreases the risk for PD but not for ALS and MSA in the Chinese population. However, the polymorphism is unlikely to be a common cause of SALS and MSA in the Chinese population.
Group Effects and Background Color Patterns Affect the Exploratory Behavior of Tree Sparrows
Authors: Kuo Yen‐Min , Lee Ya‐Fu , Chu Wen‐Chen
Published: July 2014

Exploratory behavior serves the function of acquiring information when facing environmental uncertainty, thus plays an important role for animals living on patchy or ephemeral resources. Our study tested the hypothesis that exploratory behavior is affected by ecological factors associated with the risk of predation. We conducted experiments to examine exploration behavior of wild‐caught Eurasian tree sparrows (Passer montanus) under the influences of background color patterns (white or camouflaged) and group sizes (single vs. five sparrows). We further conducted two‐pattern choice experiments and offered sparrows backgrounds combining those two color patterns. In comparisons with single sparrows, flocking sparrows had shorter landing latencies, started exploring sand patches earlier, spent less total time on the ground before pecking at the first patch and nearly successfully located and pecked all patches. In contrast, sparrows responded nearly indifferently to the two single‐pattern backgrounds; yet when given a choice, sparrows still favored the camouflaged portion in the two‐pattern backgrounds and first landed more frequently there. Twice as many patches were left untouched on the two‐pattern backgrounds, mostly by single sparrows, than on both types of single‐pattern backgrounds. In tests of flocks, sparrows that first landed on the ground to initiate exploration had a higher chance to also first explore a sand patch than random expectation on single‐pattern backgrounds, but not necessarily on two‐pattern backgrounds. Our results demonstrate context‐specific effects of social exploration, suggest possible influence of individual variation and offer evidence for advantages of group living in situations where explorers have to cope with environmental uncertainty.
Equine botulism: A clinical approach to diagnosis and management
Authors: Stratford C. H. , Mayhew I. G. , Hudson N. P. H.
Published: July 2014

Botulism is a syndrome of neuromuscular weakness caused by the toxins ofClostridium botulinum. Whilst it can affect most mammals, the horse appears to be one of the more susceptible species. Intoxication can occur via ingestion of preformed toxins in spoiled foodstuffs, ingestion of spores with colonisation in the intestinal tract or the contamination of wounds byC. botulinum. Food‐borne botulism is the most common worldwide, usually associated with spoiled roughage. Both individual cases and outbreaks have been reported, with generally a poor prognosis. Many affected horses succumb to recumbency and death/euthanasia shortly after onset of signs. Botulism should be considered a differential diagnosis for any horse displaying dysphagia or symmetrical neuromuscular weakness.
Eschewing Certainties: The Creation of Family Therapists in the 21st Century
Authors: Imber‐Black Evan
Published: July 2014

I reflect here on Family Therapy's origins, our present dilemmas, and future possibilities. Using the lens of training new Family Therapists for current public sector domains, I examine our field's strengths, vulnerabilities, and contradictions. I critique the current vogue of model certainty and branding. Our responsibilities to trainees, young practitioners, and the families we serve are highlighted.
Sap‐feeding insects on forest trees along latitudinal gradients in northern Europe: a climate‐driven patterns
Authors: Kozlov Mikhail V. , Stekolshchikov Andrey V. , Söderman Guy , Labina Eugenia S. , Zverev Vitali , Zvereva Elena L.
Published: July 2014

Knowledge of the latitudinal patterns in biotic interactions, and especially in herbivory, is crucial for understanding the mechanisms that govern ecosystem functioning and for predicting their responses to climate change. We used sap‐feeding insects as a model group to test the hypotheses that the strength of plant–herbivore interactions in boreal forests decreases with latitude and that this latitudinal pattern is driven primarily by midsummer temperatures. We used a replicated sampling design and quantitatively collected and identified all sap‐feeding insects from four species of forest trees along five latitudinal gradients (750–1300 km in length, ten sites in each gradient) in northern Europe (59 to 70°N and 10 to 60°E) during 2008–2011. Similar decreases in diversity of sap‐feeding insects with latitude were observed in all gradients during all study years. The sap‐feeder load (i.e. insect biomass per unit of foliar biomass) decreased with latitude in typical summers, but increased in an exceptionally hot summer and was independent of latitude during a warm summer. Analysis of combined data from all sites and years revealed dome‐shaped relationships between the loads of sap‐feeders and midsummer temperatures, peaking at 17 °C in Picea abies, at 19.5 °C in Pinus sylvestris and Betula pubescens and at 22 °C in B. pendula. From these relationships, we predict that the losses of forest trees to sap‐feeders will increase by 0–45% of the current level in southern boreal forests and by 65–210% in subarctic forests with a 1 °C increase in summer temperatures. The observed relationships between temperatures and the loads of sap‐feeders differ between the coniferous and deciduous tree species. We conclude that climate warming will not only increase plant losses to sap‐feeding insects, especially in subarctic forests, but can also alter plant‐plant interactions, thereby affecting both the productivity and the structure of future forest ecosystems.
Distribution of the Sum of Distances to the First and Second Nearest Facilities
Authors: Miyagawa Masashi
Published: July 2014

This article presents a derivation of the distribution of the sum of the distances to the first and second nearest facilities. Facilities are represented as points configured in regular and random patterns, and distance is measured as theEuclidean and rectilinear distances on a continuous plane. The sum of the distances represents the service level of facility location when customers are serviced by the first and second nearest facilities. Thus, the distribution of the sum is useful for facility location problems with nonclosest facility service. The distribution of the sum of road network distances also is calculated to evaluate the efficiency of actual facility locations.

Este artículo presenta una derivación de la distribución de la suma de las distancias a la primera y segunda instalación más cercana. Las instalaciones son presentadas como puntos en configuraciones espaciales regulares y aleatorias, y la distancias son medidas usando el método euclidiano y el rectilínea sobre un plano continuo. La suma de las distancias representa el nivel de servicio en cada punto, en los casos en los que los clientes son atendidos en la instalación primera y segunda más cercana. El uso de la distribución de la suma de distancias es útil para resolver problemas de localización para casos en los que los clientes son atendidos por las instalaciones de servicios que nos son las más cercanas. Como demostración se calcula la distribución de la suma de las distancias de una red de carreteras para evaluar la eficiencia de la localización de instalaciones en un caso del mundo real.

本文讨论了一种最邻近距离总和与次邻近设施距离总和分布情况的推导方法。具体设施以规则和随机两种模式的点状要素来表示，距离采用连续平面中的欧氏及直线距离测度。距离之和反映了最邻近及次邻近设施为用户提供该设施区位的服务水平。因此，距离和的分布在无最邻近设施服务的设施选址问题中具有参考价值。路网距离和的分布也可计算用于现有设施区位的效率评估。
Bisphosphonates, healthcare professionals and oral health
Authors: Raj Dasera V. , Abuzar Menaka , Borromeo Gelsomina L.
Published: July 2014

Objective

General medical and dental practitioner and pharmacists all encounter patients on bisphosphonates and as such require adequate knowledge regarding osteonecrosis of the jaw, a potential complication associated with its use. The cross‐sectional study investigated perceived implications of and attitudes towards bisphosphonate use in oral health among general medical and dental practitioners and pharmacists.

Materials and methods

Medical and dental practitioners and pharmacists registered in Victoria, Australia, completed an online survey (SurveyMonkey©). Data analysis consisted of chi‐square tests with significance as p < 0.05.

Results

One hundred and thirty six doctors (general medical practitioners, GMPs), 283 dentists (GDPs) and 26 pharmacists (PHs) participated. 70, 38 and 80%, respectively, reviewed patients prescribed bisphosphonates (BPs). GMPs (88%), GDPs (76%) and PHs (85%) were aware of osteonecrosis of the jaws (ONJ). GMPs (76%) and PHs (100%) advised patients to inform dentists. GMPs (45%) referred patients for dental assessments prior to commencing BPs with 71.9% of GDPs received such referrals. In terms of available information on oral health and BPs, GMPs (56%), GDPs (50%) and PH (53.8%) were either unsure any existed or reported receiving sufficient information.

Conclusions

Discrepancies exist amongst different healthcare professionals in terms of BP use and oral health, and common consensus guidelines are warranted.
Simulating Water‐Quality Trends in Public‐Supply Wells in Transient Flow Systems
Authors: Jeffrey Starn J. , Green Christopher T. , Hinkle Stephen R. , Bagtzoglou Amvrossios C. , Stolp Bernard J.
Published: July 2014

Models need not be complex to be useful. An existing groundwater‐flow model of Salt Lake Valley, Utah, was adapted for use with convolution‐based advective particle tracking to explain broad spatial trends in dissolved solids. This model supports the hypothesis that water produced from wells is increasingly younger with higher proportions of surface sources as pumping changes in the basin over time. At individual wells, however, predicting specific water‐quality changes remains challenging. The influence of pumping‐induced transient groundwater flow on changes in mean age and source areas is significant. Mean age and source areas were mapped across the model domain to extend the results from observation wells to the entire aquifer to see where changes in concentrations of dissolved solids are expected to occur. The timing of these changes depends on accurate estimates of groundwater velocity. Calibration to tritium concentrations was used to estimate effective porosity and improve correlation between source area changes, age changes, and measured dissolved solids trends. Uncertainty in the model is due in part to spatial and temporal variations in tracer inputs, estimated tracer transport parameters, and in pumping stresses at sampling points. For tracers such as tritium, the presence of two‐limbed input curves can be problematic because a single concentration can be associated with multiple disparate travel times. These shortcomings can be ameliorated by adding hydrologic and geologic detail to the model and by adding additional calibration data. However, the Salt Lake Valley model is useful even without such small‐scale detail.
Long Afterglow SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+ Phosphors as Luminescent Down‐Shifting Layer for Crystalline Silicon Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Chunbo , Xuan Tongtong , Liu Jiaqing , Li Huili , Sun Zhuo
Published: July 2014

SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+ phosphors can convert near ultraviolet light with lower sensitivity to the solar cell to yellow‐green light at which the solar cell has higher sensitivity and exhibit the excellent luminescent property of long persistence. Therefore, in this study, the authors firstly synthesized the fine SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+ phosphors and then produced SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+/SiO2 composite films as spectral shifters to understand the effects of SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+ phosphor on photoelectric conversion efficiencies of a crystalline silicon photovoltaic module. Under one sun illumination, the composite film containing an appropriate amount of SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+ phosphor enhances the photoelectric conversion efficiency of the cell through spectral down‐shifting as compared to the bare glass substrate, and the maximum achieves 11.12%. In contrast, the commercial SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+ phosphor composite film is not effective for improving the photoelectric conversion efficiency because of the relatively lower visible light transmittance of film caused by the large aggregates. After one sun illumination for 1 min, the light source was turned off, and the cell containing the synthesized SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+ phosphor still shows an efficiency of 1.16% in the dark due to the irradiation by the long persistent light from SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+, which provides a possibility to fulfill the operation of solar cells even in the dark.
Consumer response to product construction: the role of haptic stimulation
Authors: Atakan Sukriye Sinem
Published: July 2014

This study investigates how consumers are affected by haptic information, that is, the information acquired through the sense of touch, when they take part in the construction or assembly of a product. In order to create value for consumers, marketers must understand how and why haptic information affects the evaluative processes of consumers and whether there are specific segments that are affected differentially by the process. An experimental design with two between‐subjects factors was used to examine consumers' responses to haptic stimulation during the physical construction of a picture frame. The results demonstrate that positive haptic stimulation evoked by the materials used in the product's construction results in an affective response and creates emotional attachment to the finished product. However, the effect is not generalizable to the general population. It depends on the level of autotelic (not functional) need for touch (NFT) that the consumer has. Consumers who have high autotelic NFT are more likely to become attached to and, consequently, enhance their evaluation of the finished product when the product materials used during the construction evoke a positive haptic stimulation.
Sensory and bio‐chemical preservation of ricotta cheese using natural products
Authors: Asensio Claudia M. , Gallucci Nicolás , Oliva María de las Mercedes , Demo Mirta S. , Grosso Nelson R.
Published: July 2014

The objective of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity and to study their preserving effect on quality and sensory parameters on flavoured ricotta cheese of Argentinean oregano essential oils (EOs). Criollo essential oil was the most effective agent controlling foodborne bacteria, with MIC values of 1.90 E‐04 mg mL−1 for S. aureus and Salmonella sp. Ricotta with Cordobes essential oil exhibited the lowest percentage of lactic acid at the end of the storage (0.246%). After 30 days of storage, ricotta flavoured with Cordobes and Criollo EOs had the lowest total count (5.63 × 103 and 7.80 × 103 cfu g−1, respectively). The Pearson's correlation analyses (P ≤ 0.05) showed that sour flavour was negatively related to cheese and casein flavours (r = −0.46 and −0.52, respectively). The inclusion of oregano EOs into ricotta cheese improves quality parameters but affects its sensory attributes.
Effect of superheated steam prefrying treatment on the quality of potato chips
Authors: Zielinska Magdalena , Błaszczak Wioletta , Devahastin Sakamon
Published: July 2014

Superheated steam drying (SSD) was used as a prefrying treatment prior to deep‐fat frying for potato slices. The effect of SSD at 130, 150 or 180 °C and steam velocity of 2.0 m s−1 on the fat uptake, colour and texture of fried potato chips was evaluated; microstructure and degree of starch gelatinization were also evaluated to help explain the fat uptake results. SSD and frying yielded potato chips with the fat content from 0.263 ± 0.002 to 0.304 ± 0.002 kg kg−1 (d.b.), while frying without SSD led to chips with the fat content as high as 0.359 ± 0.003 kg kg−1 (d.b.). SSD did not promote starch gelatinization. Lower fat uptake was correlated to modified surface structure and lower moisture content of potato slices prior to frying. Frying with/without SSD pretreatment yielded potato chips of similar hardness, crispness and lightness. On the other hand, SSD significantly increased redness and yellowness of the fried chips.
Development of simple equations for effective screening of spurious hemolysis in whole‐blood specimens
Authors: Lippi G. , Pavesi F. , Avanzini P. , Chetta F. , Aloe R. , Pipitone S.
Published: July 2014

Introduction

We aimed to identify simple but reliable indices for effective screening of spurious hemolysis in whole‐blood specimens.

Methods

Thirteen inpatient whole‐blood samples were divided in two aliquots. The former was left untreated, whereas the latter was mechanically hemolyzed by forced aspiration with an insulin syringe. All aliquots were tested on Siemens Advia 2120 and Sysmex XE‐2100. The hemolysis index (HI) was also assessed in centrifuged plasma.

Results

The mechanical hemolysis generated a 4–40% decrease in red blood cells (RBCs). A statistically significant decrease was observed for hematocrit (Ht) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV), whereas mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, and platelet count were increased. The values of hemoglobin (Hb) and white blood cells remained substantially unchanged. Two specific equations ([Ht/Hb] × √MCV and [Ht/Hb] × 100) were developed. Both equations displayed an area under the curve of ≥0.99 for identifying spurious hemolysis, much greater than that of both RBC ghosts and immature platelet fraction. A highly significant correlation was also observed between results of these equations and percentage reduction in RBCs or HI increase.

Conclusion

Provided that these results will be confirmed in further studies, these equations may provide a reliable means for screening spurious hemolysis in whole‐blood samples.
‘Still too much socialism in Britain’: The legacy of Margaret Thatcher
Authors: Beynon Huw
Published: July 2014

Margaret Thatcher's death in 2013 was followed by extensive tributes to her achievements, often describing her role in ‘saving Britain’. Other more sceptical voices pointed to the destructive aspects of her politics. This article explores these issues through an examination of the major confrontation with the coal miners and their trade union the NUM. Through published sources and interviews with key actors it argues that the dispute epitomised Mrs Thatcher's concern to weaken trade unionism and defeat socialism. This (rather than issues of employment or energy policy) is seen as her strategic objective and her success can be measured in the changed nature of the Labour Party. In this the exercise of state power was decisive. However, the article questions the extent to which ‘Thatcherism’ and the associated individualism has prevailed as an hegemonic force. It provides examples of a continuing patterns of collective behaviour and beliefs and raises the possibility of an emerging and different form of labour movement.
The role of nonspeech rhythm in Spanish word reading
Authors: González‐Trujillo M. Carmen , Defior Sylvia , Gutiérrez‐Palma Nicolás
Published: July 2014

Recent literacy research shows an increasing interest in the influence of prosody on literacy acquisition. The current study examines the relationship of nonspeech rhythmic skills to children's reading acquisition, and their possible relation to stress assignment in Spanish, a syllable‐timed language. Sixty‐six third graders with no reading difficulties were scored on measures of nonspeech rhythm, word‐level decoding skill, reading fluency and reading with correct assignment of lexical stress. After controlling for verbal intelligence and working memory, hierarchical multiple regression analyses showed that nonspeech rhythm predicted unique variance in reading fluency and correct stress assignment; it did not predict decoding skills. Given that Spanish is a syllable‐timed as opposed to stress‐timed language like English, the association between nonspeech rhythm, reading fluency and stress assignment found in our study suggests that nonspeech rhythm may be a universal factor in reading acquisition, independent of the type of linguistic rhythm.
Synthetic Aragonite (CaCO3) as a Potential Additive in Calcium Phosphate Cements: Evaluation in Tris‐FreeSBFat 37°C
Authors: Lee Jin H. , Madden Andrew S. , Kriven Waltraud M. , Tas A. Cuneyt
Published: July 2014

Conventional SBF (simulated/synthetic body fluid) solutions are buffered atpH7.4°C and 37°C using 50 mM Tris [(HOCH2)3CNH2]. Tris is not present in human blood or metabolism and its high concentration makes it the third major component of SBF solutions. All three crystalline polymorphs of calcium carbonate (calcite, aragonite and vaterite) have never been tested simultaneously in an SBF solution. This study presents the SBF‐testing of the particles of these polymorphs at 37°C in Na‐L‐lactate (22 mM)‐bufferedLac‐SBF solution. While the calcite rhombohedra remained completely inert in the solution, vaterite spherulites and aragonite needles accrued apatiticCaP(calcium phosphate) deposits on their surfaces. Mg‐doped (1050 ppm) synthetic aragonite particles did not transform into calcite for 96 h in theLac‐SBF solution while increasing their BET surface area by about 560% via the apatiticCaPdeposits. Given the well‐established use of calcite powders inCaPcement formulations, synthetic aragonite particles may be a potential replacement for calcite due to their rapid response to blood plasma‐like solutions in between 24 and 48 h at 37°C.
Visible Reserves in Banks – Determinants of Initial Creation, Usage and Contribution to Bank Stability
Authors: Bornemann Sven , Homölle Susanne , Hubensack Carsten , Kick Thomas , Pfingsten Andreas
Published: July 2014

The opportunity of building up visible “Reserves for General Banking Risks” by the bank management represents a peculiarity in the German financial accounting framework for banks. We investigate German banks' motives for the creation and usage of these reserves and assess their role in financial stability. We find that banks primarily create and use GBR reserves to build up Tier 1 capital for regulatory capital management and earnings management purposes. Most importantly, however, we also reveal that banks using these reserves are less likely to experience a future distress or a bank default event. We therefore conclude that the existence of GBR reserves within the financial accounting framework represents both a convenient capital and earnings management tool for bank managers and a beneficial regulatory instrument to enhance bank stability.
The red island and the seven dwarfs: body size reduction in Cheirogaleidae
Authors: Masters Judith C. , Génin Fabien , Silvestro Daniele , Lister Adrian M. , DelPero Massimiliano
Published: July 2014

Aim

Small body size in Madagascar's dwarf and mouse lemurs (Cheirogaleidae) is generally viewed as primitive. We investigated the evolution of body size in this family and in its sister‐taxon, the Lepilemuridae, from phylogenetic, ontogenetic and adaptive perspectives.

Location

Madagascar.

Methods

We used a phylogenetic method to reconstruct the evolution of body size in lemurs, and allometric regression models of gestation periods and static and growth allometries in Cheirogaleidae and Lepilemuridae to test the hypothesis that dwarfing occurred as a result of truncated ontogeny (progenesis). We also examined adaptive hypotheses relating body size to environmental variability, life history, seasonality of reproduction, hypothermy (use of torpor), and a diet rich in plant exudates.

Results

Our results indicated that cheirogaleids experienced at least four independent events of body size reduction from an ancestor as large as living Lepilemuridae, by means of progenesis. Our interpretation is supported by the paedomorphic appearance and parallel ontogenetic trajectories of the dwarf taxa, as well as their very short gestation periods and increased fecundity. Lepilemur species that occupy more predictable environments are significantly larger than those occupying unpredictable habitats.

Main conclusions

Cheirogaleidae appear to be paedomorphic dwarfs, a consequence of progenesis, probably as an adaptation to high environmental unpredictability. Although the capacity to use hypothermy is related to small body size, this advantage is unlikely to have driven dwarfing in cheirogaleids. We propose that gummmivory/exudativory co‐evolved with body size reduction in this clade, probably from a folivorous ancestor. Their small size is derived, and their suitability as models for the ‘ancestral primate’ is therefore dubious.
Hospital pharmacy services in the Pacific Island countries
Authors: Penm Jonathan , Chaar Betty , Moles Rebekah
Published: July 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

Non‐communicable diseases have become an increasing problem in the Pacific Island countries (PICs). With the medical supply system often attached to hospitals in PICs, the training of hospital pharmacy staff has become increasingly important. This study aimed to explore hospital pharmacy services in the PICs using these validated surveys (BS26–27 and BS28–31 surveys) focusing upon hospital pharmacists' influence on prescribing and quality use of medicines.

Method

The BS26–27 and BS28–31 surveys were distributed online to pharmacy directors in hospitals in the PICs in 2011 and 2013, respectively. Surveys were made available in both English and French.

Results

In total, data from 55 hospitals were received (77% of the hospital sample in PICs) for either the BS26–27 or BS28–31 survey. From the responses received, 97% (36/37) of hospitals had a formulary, with 81% (26/32) of hospitals having a Pharmacy and Therapeutics (P&T) committee. Furthermore, 67% (24/36) of respondents stated that they provided some sort of clinical pharmacy service. On average, hospitals had two pharmacists involved in clinical pharmacy services. In BS28–31, over 75% (n = 27) of respondents believed having a strong relationship with other health care professionals, having effective communication skills and taking professional responsibility for the medicines prescribed as ‘mostly’ or ‘strongly’ facilitating clinical services.

Conclusions

Hospital pharmacists' participation on P&T committee and clinical services is common in the PICs. Such services enhance medication selection and reduce wastage. Although there are still too few hospital pharmacists in PICs, additional support aimed at enhancing their team building and communication skills will allow them to expand their roles and continue to improve patient health outcomes.
Evidence for Gene Duplication and Allelic Codominance (not Hierarchical Dominance) at the Mating‐Type Locus of the Ciliate, Euplotes crassus
Authors: Vallesi Adriana , Alimenti Claudio , Federici Sergio , Di Giuseppe Graziano , Dini Fernando , Guella Graziano , Luporini Pierangelo
Published: July 2014

The high‐multiple mating system of Euplotes crassus is known to be controlled by multiple alleles segregating at a single locus and manifesting relationships of hierarchical dominance, so that heterozygous cells would produce a single mating‐type substance (pheromone). In strain L‐2D, now known to be homozygous at the mating‐type locus, we previously identified two pheromones (Ec‐α and Ec‐1) characterized by significant variations in their amino acid sequences and structure of their macronuclear coding genes. In this study, pheromones and macronuclear coding genes have been analyzed in strain POR‐73 characterized by a heterozygous genotype and strong mating compatibility with L‐2D strain. It was found that POR‐73 cells contain three distinct pheromone coding genes and, accordingly, secrete three distinct pheromones. One pheromone revealed structural identity in amino acid sequence and macronuclear coding gene to the Ec‐α pheromone of L‐2D cells. The other two pheromones were shown to be new and were designated Ec‐2 and Ec‐3 to denote their structural homology with the Ec‐1 pheromone of L‐2D cells. We interpreted these results as evidence of a phenomenon of gene duplication at the E. crassus mating‐type locus, and lack of hierarchical dominance in the expression of the macronuclear pheromone genes in cells with heterozygous genotypes.
Influence of Sucrose Content on Expansion of Extruded, Starch‐Based Pellets during Microwave Vacuum Processing
Authors: Kraus Stefan , Enke Nathanael , Schuchmann Heike P. , Gaukel Volker
Published: July 2014

The influence of sucrose content on microwave‐induced expansion of starch‐based, extruded pellets under vacuum was investigated. Expansion of extruded pellets with different sucrose contents (0, 10 and 20%) was investigated in a microwave vacuum‐drying system. With increasing sucrose content, volume expansion showed a nearly linear increase. Also, the number of pores increased with increasing sucrose content. A softening of the matrix might facilitate nucleation. Pore areas decrease with increasing number of pores. We therefore assume that nucleation has the strongest impact on pore area distribution. Mainly pillow‐shaped and round final products were found. The shape of the final products could be related to the glass transition temperature Tg of the intermediate products and to heating and drying characteristics of the pellets during microwave vacuum processing. Tg decreases with increasing sucrose contents. If expansion of the initially cylindrical pellets takes place within the rubbery state, round final products are formed. If a glassy outer layer is built due to evaporation cooling of the surface and high Tg of the matrix, the pellets rupture upon expansion and the pillow shape forms.

Practical Applications

In contrast to direct expanded extruded snacks, third‐generation snacks are generally produced by pre‐drying nonexpanded, extruded pellets, followed by a separated expansion process. By this process route, extrusion can be performed at high moisture contents, moderate temperatures and moderate shearing conditions. This is beneficial in terms of preserving thermal‐ and mechanical‐sensitive ingredients. A special feature of the process investigated in this study is that the expansion is achieved by microwave vacuum processing that allows an indirect expansion without a time‐ and energy‐consuming pre‐drying process. This study shows that total volume and inner structure of the expanded pellets is strongly influenced by the amount of sucrose added to the starch‐based matrix. With these information producers can turn structure‐related properties such as appearance, crispiness and crunchiness to target values.
Effectiveness and Safety of a High‐Dose Weekly Vitamin D (20,000 IU) Protocol in Older Adults Living in Residential Care
Authors: Feldman Fabio , Moore Crystal , da Silva Liz , Gaspard Gina , Gustafson Larry , Singh Sonia , Barr Susan I. , Kitts David D. , Li Wangyang , Weiler Hope A. , Green Timothy J.
Published: July 2014

Objectives

To report 25 hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) concentrations, an indicator of vitamin D status, in older adults living in residential care 1 year after a protocol of weekly 20,000 IU of vitamin D was started.

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Setting

Five residential care facilities in British Columbia, Canada.

Participants

Residents aged 65 and older from five facilities (N = 236).

Measurements

Participants provided a blood sample. Demographic and health information was obtained from the medical record.

Results

Mean 25OHD was 102 nmol/L (95% confidence interval (CI) = 98–106 nmol/L). Three percent of residents had a 25OHD concentration of less than 40 nmol/L, 6% <50 nmol/L, and 19% <75 nmol/L. In those who received 20,000 IU/wk or more for 6 months or longer (n = 147), mean 25OHD was 112 nmol/L (95% CI = 108–117 nmol/L), and none had a 25OHD level of less than 50 nmol/L. Hypercalcemia (>2.6 mmol/L), a potential consequence of too much vitamin D, was present in 14%, although 25OHD levels did not differ in those with and without hypercalcemia (108 vs 101 nmol/L; P = .17).

Conclusion

Twelve months after implementation of a 20,000‐IU/wk vitamin D protocol for older adults in residential care, mean 25OHD concentrations were high, and there was no evidence of poor vitamin D status. Given the absence of demonstrated benefit of high 25OHD concentrations to the residential care population, dosages less than 20,000 IU/wk of vitamin D are recommended.
Causes of Death Determined in Medicolegal Investigations in Residents of Nursing Homes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kennedy Briohny , Ibrahim Joseph E. , Bugeja Lyndal , Ranson David
Published: July 2014

Objectives

To systematically review published research characterizing the nature and circumstances surrounding the death of older people in nursing homes specifically using information generated for medicolegal death investigations.

Design

Systematic review in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses Statement using the key words death, nursing homes, and medicolegal death investigation.

Setting

Cross‐sectional data from original, peer‐reviewed articles published in English between 2000 and 2013 describing deaths of nursing home residents.

Measurements

Information was extracted for analysis about study and population characteristics, number and type of deaths, study design, findings, and limitations.

Results

Thirteen studies were identified. The studies examined external causes of deaths from suicide, choking, restraint or bed‐related injuries, falls, and pressure injuries. Deaths were more frequent in women with existing comorbidities. Suicide was predominant in men. Identified risk factors and opportunities to reduce harm were identified at individual, organizational, and structural levels. Overall, the quality of the studies limited the aggregation and comparability of findings.

Conclusion

This systematic review informs researchers, clinicians and policy‐makers about how to reduce external causes of death in nursing homes.
Staying in the Game: The 10‐Step Approach to Sustaining Geriatrics Education in Hospitalists and Subspecialty Providers
Authors: Gillespie Suzanne M. , Brandt Lynsey E. , Chang Anna , Chao Serena H. , Corcoran Amy M. , Miller Rachel , Harper G. Michael , Levine Sharon A. , Medina‐Walpole Annette
Published: July 2014

Geriatrics as a field has been fortunate to have the support of several philanthropic organizations to advance geriatrics education and training in the past two decades. Awardees of such grants were presented with unparalleled opportunities to develop new and innovative educational initiatives affecting learners at multiple levels and in multiple disciplines and specialties. The lessons learned from the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation initiatives about effect and sustainability are invaluable to the ongoing strategic development of geriatrics nationally. This article highlights successful educational initiatives developed at four institutions with past and current Donald W. Reynolds Foundation funding. Following an ice hockey playbook, this article identifies 10 strategies and initiatives to “stay in the geriatrics game” by training hospitalists and subspecialty providers. The authors' collective experience suggests that geriatrics educational initiatives can not only influence provider education, but also improve the care of older adults in multiple settings.