bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring pesticide ecological and health risks in West African agriculture to establish an enabling environment for sustainable intensification
Authors: Jepson P. C. , Guzy M. , Blaustein K. , Sow M. , Sarr M. , Mineau P. , Kegley S.
Published: February 2014

We outline an approach to pesticide risk assessment that is based upon surveys of pesticide use throughout West Africa. We have developed and used new risk assessment models to provide, to our knowledge, the first detailed, geographically extensive, scientifically based analysis of pesticide risks for this region. Human health risks from dermal exposure to adults and children are severe enough in many crops to require long periods of up to three weeks when entry to fields should be restricted. This is impractical in terms of crop management, and regulatory action is needed to remove these pesticides from the marketplace. We also found widespread risks to terrestrial and aquatic wildlife throughout the region, and if these results were extrapolated to all similar irrigated perimeters in the Senegal and Niger River Basins, they suggest that pesticides could pose a significant threat to regional biodiversity. Our analyses are presented at the regional, national and village levels to promote regulatory advances but also local risk communication and management. Without progress in pesticide risk management, supported by participatory farmer education, West African agriculture provides a weak context for the sustainable intensification of agricultural production or for the adoption of new crop technologies.
5-Bromo-2-methyl-3-(3-methylphenylsulfinyl)-1-benzofuran
Authors: Choi Hong Dae , Seo Pil Ja , Lee Uk
Published: February 2014

In the title compound, C16H13BrO2S, the dihedral angle between the mean plane [r.m.s. deviation = 0.012 (1) Å] of the benzofuran ring system and the 3-methylphenyl ring is 84.83 (4)°. In the crystal, molecules are linkedviapairs of Br...O [3.240 (1) Å] contacts, forming inversion dimers. These dimers are linked by C—H...π interactions, forming a three-dimensional network.
Atypical mycobacterial cutaneous infections in Egyptians: A clinicopathological study
Authors: El‐Khalawany Mohamed A.
Published: February 2014

Atypical mycobacteria comprise an uncommon heterogenous non‐tuberculous group of acid‐fast bacteria that rarely involve skin. The pattern of atypical mycobacterial cutaneous infections (AMCI) has not been previously studied in Egypt. The aim of this study was to describe the clinical characteristics, pathological features and species profile of AMCI among Egyptian patients. A retrospective study included 46 cases, diagnosed with AMCI during the period 2002 to 2012. The study included 34 males (73.9%) and 12 females (26.9%). The average age of patients was 39 years while the average duration of lesions was 15 months. The lesions were mostly located on the extremities (91.3%) and there was predominance of single (65.2%) and nodular (41.4%) lesions. History of trauma was confirmed in 91.3%. Histologically, the granulomas were mostly superficial (67.4%) with predominance of nodular suppurative pattern (84.8%). Other significant histological findings included epidermal hypertrophy (100%), presence of large‐sized multinucleated giant cells (87%) and intrafollicular neutrophilic abscesses (84.8%). The diagnosis was proved by direct smear in 6.5%, skin biopsy in 10.9%, tissue culture in 47.8% and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in 34.8%. Isolated species included Mycobacterium marinum (84.8%), Mycobacterium fortuitum (10.9%) and Mycobacterium kansasii (4.3%). Although the results of this study recommend that the diagnosis of AMCI is based mainly on culture and PCR, other clinicopathological features such as history of trauma, acral location of the lesion and suppurative granulomatous reaction with intrafollicular abscesses could be helpful clues in suspecting AMCI.
Case of Fusarium paronychia successfully treated with occlusive dressing of antifungal cream
Authors: Ikeda Isamu , Ohno Tadashi , Ohno Hideaki , Miyazaki Yoshitsugu , Nishimoto Katsutaro , Fukushima Satoshi , Makino Takamitsu , Ihn Hiromobu
Published: February 2014

We report a case of refractory Fusarium paronychia in a 42‐year‐old man with Behçet's disease receiving oral cyclosporin and corticosteroid. Symptoms resembling candidal paronychia of his little finger could not be cured by topical ketoconazole and oral terbinafine. The pathogen was identified as Fusarium solani species complex by gene analysis, and was multiple drug resistant. The case eventually resolved by occlusive dressing therapy with 0.5% amorolfine cream for 3 months.
Incoherence and Tension in Culture‐Led Redevelopment
Authors: Mathews Vanessa
Published: February 2014

This article contributes to contemporary debates surrounding the outcome of culture‐led redevelopment by exploring the tensions that arise when a broad application of ‘culture’ is used to theme space. I take as my focus the Distillery District, a private sector redevelopment in the City of Toronto, Ontario that draws on the arts alongside industrial heritage to heighten consumption. The article is divided into two main sections. I begin with a review of Toronto's shifting arts policies — from a focus on securing space for artistic production to a focus on arts consumption for interurban competition — to contextualize the planning framework underlying the redevelopment of the district. Second, I engage with how diverse and creative interruptions directed by the tenancy run against the unifying grain of the redevelopment process. While culture and creativity are drawn into a strategy of place‐making for the purpose of place distinction, an incongruous festival and events season, and the tokenistic inclusion of cultural producers to satisfy a public appetite for the creative process, complicate these descriptors of space. Ultimately, the representation of the Distillery as a premier centre for ‘arts, culture, and entertainment’ is unravelled by multimodal ways of seeing and experiencing culture and place.
Relational Comparison and LGBTQ Activism in European Cities
Authors: Binnie Jon
Published: February 2014

This article examines the role of city twinning as a device for conducting transnational activism around lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) politics. It focuses on the city of Leiden in the Netherlands, examining how the city's twinning links with the cities of Torun in Poland and Oxford in the UK have been used at different times as a device to mobilize transnational solidarities with LGBTQ people outside of the Netherlands. Drawing on qualitative semi‐structured interviews with LGBTQ activists in Leiden as part of a wider study of transnational LGBTQ activism in Europe, I seek to understand how twinning links are used to forge sustainable solidarities both across national boundaries and within Leiden. I suggest that relational comparisons about the status and treatment of sexual dissidents in Leiden and its twin cities are central to the production of these solidarities. While twinning has significant potential as a device for the production of sustainable transnational LGBTQ activism, I also suggest that it can be used to advance problematic geo‐temporalities about the relative ‘progressiveness’ or ‘backwardness’ of LGBTQ politics in specific cities.
The Politics of Property in Planning: Hezbollah's Reconstruction of Haret Hreik (Beirut, Lebanon) as Case Study
Authors: Fawaz Mona
Published: February 2014

This research looks at post‐2006‐war reconstruction of the southern suburbs of Beirut under the auspices of Hezbollah (the Islamic resistance movement in Lebanon). The project was widely acclaimed as an alternative to current neoliberal planning practices in the Middle East and beyond. Based on a critical reading of the conception of property issues in this planning project, the article argues that this reconstruction presents a new geometry or alternative to the mainstream configuration of neoliberal urbanism, rather than a departure from its precepts. The reason for this is that the adopted language of property corresponds closely with the conception of property advocated by neoliberal planning, one that enshrines private, individual ownership as sacred and desirable and that works to strengthen its model in the city. I further argue that the ‘neoliberal planning regime’ within which Hezbollah's urban intervention occurs is not accidental; rather, it is necessary for the party's control of this space's future and for consolidating its territory in the city. It is hence expected that Hezbollah's planning in the city will produce the same decried effects as neoliberal planning elsewhere in the city rather than usher an innovative, progressive model of planning.
Bioactive Peptides and Hydrolysates from Pulses and Their Potential Use as Functional Ingredients
Authors: López‐Barrios Lidia , Gutiérrez‐Uribe Janet A. , Serna‐Saldívar Sergio O.
Published: February 2014

Bioactive peptides (BPs) are amino acid sequences derived from food proteins. Their relevance lies in the biological activities they have once they are released from the parent protein. BPs or protein hydrolysates can be commercialized as nutraceutical products or functional ingredients according to their activities. Different food protein sources have been researched for their potential to generate BPs. However, with the exception of lunasin (derived from soy), animal protein sources have been predominantly exploited as commercial BPs sources. On the other hand, pulses have shown diverse BP contents without further impact on their commercialization. Pulses are a rich source of protein in the human diet and their consumption has been associated with the prevention of chronic diseases. The beneficial effect in human health has been related to their micronutrients, phytochemical bioactive compounds, and recently BPs. This article reviews the current literature about pulse protein hydrolysates and BPs with proved angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitory, antioxidant, cancer preventing, and other health promoting activities. Proteolysis process is commonly achieved by digestive and microorganism enzymes. BP purification and identification has consisted mainly on size segregation procedures followed by mass spectrometry techniques. Hydrolysis time, peptide size, and hydrophobicity are employed as process variants and structural features relevant for the BP activities. Finally, some considerations about industrial processing and BPs used as functional food ingredients were reviewed.
Analysis of intraosseous samples in endotoxemic shock – an experimental study in the anaesthetised pig
Authors: STRANDBERG G. , LARSSON A. , LIPCSEY M. , BERGLUND L. , ERIKSSON M.
Published: February 2014

Background

Intraosseous (IO) access is used in emergency situations to allow rapid initiation of treatment. IO access is also sometimes used for blood sampling, although data on accuracy of such sampling in critical illness are limited. There is also a potential risk that bone marrow fragments in IO samples may damage laboratory equipment. It is ethically questionable to perform a simultaneous comparison between IO and arterial/venous sampling in critically ill humans. We have, thus, studied the analytical performance of IO sampling in a porcine septic shock model using a cartridge‐based analyser.

Methods

Eight pigs with endotoxin‐induced septic shock were sampled hourly for 6 h, and analysed for blood gases, acid base status, haemoglobin, glucose and lactate using point of care instruments. Samples were taken from three IO cannulae (tibia bilaterally, one with infusion, and humerus), one arterial and one venous. An interaction test was used to assess changes in agreement between methods over time. Bland–Altman plots were constructed to study bias between methods.

Results

There were, to a varying extent, differences between IO and arterial/venous levels for all studied variables, but agreement did not change significantly during the experiment. A general finding was a large dispersion of differences between methods.

Conclusions

IO sample values should be treated with caution in this setting but may add useful information to the clinical picture. The tibia or humerus may be used for sampling. IO infusion decreases agreement, thus sampling during infusion should be avoided.
Opening up the black box: an introduction to qualitative research methods in anaesthesia
Authors: Shelton C. L. , Smith A. F. , Mort M.
Published: February 2014

Qualitative research methods are a group of techniques designed to allow the researcher to understand phenomena in their natural setting. A wide range is used, including focus groups, interviews, observation, and discourse analysis techniques, which may be used within research approaches such as grounded theory or ethnography. Qualitative studies in the anaesthetic setting have been used to define excellence in anaesthesia, explore the reasons behind drug errors, investigate the acquisition of expertise and examine incentives for hand‐hygiene in the operating theatre. Understanding how and why people act the way they do is essential for the advancement of anaesthetic practice, and rigorous, well‐designed qualitative research can generate useful data and important insights. Meticulous social scientific methods, transparency, reproducibility and reflexivity are markers of quality in qualitative research. Tools such as the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research checklist and the critical appraisal skills programme are available to help authors, reviewers and readers unfamiliar with qualitative research assess its merits.
Pearls and Pitfalls in Short‐Term Mechanical Circulatory Assist: How to Avoid and Manage Complications
Authors: Mohite Prashant N. , Maunz Olaf , Simon Andre R.
Published: February 2014

In today's era, given the worsening risk profiles of patients undergoing cardiac surgery, the increasing number of complex cardiac surgeries, and the increasing number of patients undergoing thoracic organ transplantation, short‐term mechanical circulatory assist (MCA) devices are indispensable. MCA devices are capable of supporting heart and lung function and have emerged as potentially lifesaving instruments, but may prove to be as hazardous as helpful due to their inherent tendency toward hemolysis, thromboembolism, and hemorrhage. Although MCA devices are being used regularly at some specialized centers, surgeries involving MCA are not as common as other routine cardiac surgeries, and even though professionals implanting and maintaining short‐term MCAs are well acquainted with operating such devices, it is not uncommon to come across complications as a result of minor mistakes committed while dealing with them. Avoiding simple mistakes and taking proper precautions while implanting and maintaining these devices can prevent major catastrophes. We discuss commonly encountered problems and complications during the implantation and maintenance of short‐term MCAs and offer reasonable and practical solutions. In addition, crucial issues such as anticoagulation, replacement of the device circuit, and management of the distal perfusion cannula are discussed. Continuous and efficient monitoring of the MCA device and the patient supported on MCA, together with anticipation and avoidance of complications, is key for successful short‐term MCA support.
Home‐based detoxification for neonatal abstinence syndrome reduces length of hospital admission without prolonging treatment
Authors: Smirk Cameron L. , Bowman Ellen , Doyle Lex W. , Kamlin Omar
Published: February 2014

Aim

Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is a drug withdrawal syndrome, secondary to in utero chemical exposure and characterised by tremor, irritability and feed intolerance. It often requires prolonged hospital treatment and separation of families. Outpatient therapy may reduce this burden, but current literature is sparse. This review aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of our home‐based detoxification programme and compare it with standard inpatient care.

Methods

Infants requiring treatment for NAS between January 2004 and December 2010 were reviewed. Data on demographics, drug exposure, length of stay and type of therapy were compared between infants selected for home‐based therapy and those treated conventionally.

Results

Of the 118 infants who were admitted for treatment of NAS, 38 (32%) were managed at home. Infants receiving home‐based detoxification had shorter hospital stays (mean 19 days vs. 39 days), with no increase in total duration of treatment (mean 36 days vs. 41 days), and were more likely to be breastfeeding on discharge from hospital care (45% vs. 22%).

Conclusion

In selected infants, home‐based detoxification is associated with reduced hospital stays and increased rates of breastfeeding, without prolonging therapy. Safety of the infants remains paramount, which precludes many from entering such a programme.
Insulin therapy and the risk of colorectal cancer in patients with type 2 diabetes: a meta‐analysis of observational studies
Authors: Bu Wu‐jie , Song Lei , Zhao Dan‐yi , Guo Bing , Liu Jing
Published: February 2014

Aims

Several epidemiological studies have reported inconsistent associations between insulin therapy and the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. We performed this meta‐analysis of observational studies to evaluate the effect of insulin therapy on the risk of CRC.

Methods

We carried out a systematic search of PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library Central database between January 1966 and August 2013. Fixed‐effects and random‐effects models were used to estimate the pooled relative risk (RR) and corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

A total of 12 epidemiological studies were included in the present meta‐analysis, involving a total of 7947 CRC cases and 491 384 participants. There was significant heterogeneity among the studies, but no publication bias. Insulin therapy significantly increased the risk of CRC [RR = 1.69, 95% CI (1.25, 2.27)]. When the various studies were stratified by study design, we found that insulin use was associated with a statistically significant 115% higher risk of CRC among case–control studies [RR = 2.15, 95% CI (1.41, 3.26)], but not among cohort studies [RR = 1.25, 95% CI (0.95, 1.65)]. Furthermore, a significant association was noted among studies conducted in USA [RR = 1.73, 95% CI (1.15, 2.60)] and Asia [RR = 2.55, 95% CI (2.14, 3.04)], but not in Europe [RR = 1.20, 95% CI (0.92, 1.57)].

Conclusions

The present meta‐analysis suggests that insulin therapy may increase the risk of CRC. More prospective cohort studies with longer follow‐up durations are warranted to confirm this association. Furthermore, future studies should report results stratified by gender and race and should adjust the results by more confounders.
Methods and software tools for design evaluation in population pharmacokinetics–pharmacodynamics studies
Authors: Nyberg Joakim , Bazzoli Caroline , Ogungbenro Kay , Aliev Alexander , Leonov Sergei , Duffull Stephen , Hooker Andrew C. , Mentré France
Published: February 2014

Population pharmacokinetic (PK)–pharmacodynamic (PKPD) models are increasingly used in drug development and in academic research; hence, designing efficient studies is an important task. Following the first theoretical work on optimal design for nonlinear mixed‐effects models, this research theme has grown rapidly. There are now several different software tools that implement an evaluation of the Fisher information matrix for populationPKPD. We compared and evaluated the following five software tools:PFIM,PkStaMp,PopDes,PopEDandPOPT. The comparisons were performed using two models, a simple‐one compartment warfarinPKmodel and a more complexPKPDmodel for pegylated interferon, with data on both concentration and response of viral load of hepatitisCvirus. The results of the software were compared in terms of the standard error (SE) values of the parameters predicted from the software and the empiricalSEvalues obtained via replicated clinical trial simulation and estimation. For the warfarinPKmodel and the pegylated interferonPKPDmodel, all software gave similar results. Interestingly, it was seen, for all software, that the simpler approximation to the Fisher information matrix, using the block diagonal matrix, provided predictedSEvalues that were closer to the empiricalSEvalues than when the more complicated approximation was used (the full matrix). For mostPKPDmodels, using any of the available software tools will provide meaningful results, avoiding cumbersome simulation and allowing design optimization.
Pharmacoepidemiologic and in vitro evaluation of potential drug–drug interactions of sulfonylureas with fibrates and statins
Authors: Schelleman H. , Han X. , Brensinger C. M. , Quinney S. K. , Bilker W. B. , Flockhart D. A. , Li L. , Hennessy Sean
Published: February 2014

Aims

To examine whether initiation of fibrates or statins in sulfonylurea users is associated with hypoglycaemia, and examine in vitro inhibition of cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes by statins, fenofibrate and glipizide.

Methods

We used healthcare data to conduct nested case‐control studies of serious hypoglycaemia (i.e. resulting in hospital admission or emergency department treatment) in persons taking glipizide or glyburide, and calculated adjusted overall and time‐stratified odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We also characterized the in vitro inhibition of CYP enzymes by statins, fenofibrate and glipizide using fluorometric CYP450 inhibition assays, and estimated area under the concentration–time curve ratios (AUCRs) for the drug pairs.

Results

We found elevated adjusted overall ORs for glyburide‐fenofibrate (OR 1.84, 95% CI 1.37, 2.47) and glyburide‐gemfibrozil (OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.25, 1.96). The apparent risk did decline over time as might be expected from a pharmacokinetic mechanism. Fenofibrate was a potent in vitro inhibitor of CYP2C19 (IC50 = 0.2 μm) and CYP2B6 (IC50 = 0.7 μm) and a moderate inhibitor of CYP2C9 (IC50 = 9.7 μm). The predicted CYP‐based AUCRs for fenofibrate‐glyburide and gemfibrozil‐glyburide interactions were only 1.09 and 1.04, suggesting that CYP inhibition is unlikely to explain such an interaction.

Conclusions

Use of fenofibrate or gemfibrozil together with glyburide was associated with elevated overall risks of serious hypoglycaemia. CYP inhibition seems unlikely to explain this observation. We speculate that a pharmacodynamic effect of fibrates (e.g. activate peroxisome proliferator‐activator receptor alpha) may contribute to these apparent interactions.
Viral lymphomagenesis: from pathophysiology to the rationale for novel therapies
Authors: Castillo Jorge J. , Reagan John L. , Bishop Kenneth D. , Apor Emmanuel
Published: February 2014

The association between viruses and lymphomas has long been recognized; however, the pathophysiological phenomena behind this relationship are unclear, and have been the object of intense research. Although our understanding of such mechanisms is slowly improving, much is still left to learn. With the recent advances in cancer biology, a diversity of biological pathways and novel targets and agents have been described in patients with haematological malignancies and successfully put into clinical practice. Clear examples are rituximab and brentuximab vedotin in patients with B cell lymphomas and Hodgkin lymphoma respectively. The main purpose of this review is not only to succinctly summarize what we know regarding the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of virally induced lymphomas and to describe the current practices in terms of diagnosis of treatment of such lymphomas, but also to provide a scientific rationale for the use of novel therapies that are likely to improve the outcomes of patients with these conditions.
When friendship formation goes down the toilet: Design features of shared accommodation influence interpersonal bonds and well‐being
Authors: Easterbrook Matthew J. , Vignoles Vivian L.
Published: February 2014

Despite its omnipresence, the influence of the built environment on human psychology is not well understood. In a five‐wave longitudinal study, we investigated whether physical design features within shared student accommodation predicted the frequency of coincidental meetings between new flatmates, and whether these meetings predicted the strength of their interpersonal bonds and psychological well‐being. Multilevel latent growth modelling on responses from 462 new university residents supported our hypotheses: Respondents living in flats with design features that encouraged the use of communal areas – a shared common area and an absence of ensuite toilets – reported unintentionally meeting their flatmates more frequently within their flats. This in turn predicted the initial strength of their interpersonal bonds with their flatmates, which in turn positively predicted their well‐being. These effects were maintained throughout the 10‐week study. Our findings provide an empirical basis for the development of shared housing designed to foster positive relationships and well‐being among residents.
Histological subtypes of periocular basal cell carcinoma
Authors: Wu Albert , Sun Michelle T , Huilgol Shyamala C , Madge Simon , Selva Dinesh
Published: February 2014

Background

To determine the proportion of different subtypes of periocular BCC in South Australia.

Design

Retrospective review.

Participants

One thousand seven hundred thirteen consecutive periocular basal cell carcinoma (BCC) excision specimens.

Methods

Histological analysis of consecutive periocular BCC specimens.

Main Outcome Measures

Date of resection, patient age at resection, gender, tumour location, histological subtype and perineural invasion.

Results

From 2006 to 2012, a total of 1713 consecutive periocular BCC excision specimens were analysed. The mean age at resection was 68.8 years (median: 71, range: 21–101). Most specimens (56.4%) were removed from male patients. 52.7% involved the lower eyelid, 29.0% the medial canthus, 10.9% the lateral canthus and 7.5% the upper eyelid. The main histological subtypes identified were nodular (65.7%), infiltrative (17.5%), superficial (12.6%) and micronodular (4.2%). Of the specimens, 25.6% had more than one subtype. The most common subtype combinations were nodular with infiltrative (49.7%), and nodular with superficial (26.0%).

Conclusions

The majority of periocular BCC were located on the lower lid and classified histologically as nodular. Infiltrative BCC occurred more frequently than the superficial subtype. As the proportion of mixed BCC containing aggressive subtypes is high, surgical excision with margin control should be considered for periocular BCC.
Optical coherence contrast imaging using gold nanorods in living mice eyes
Authors: de la Zerda Adam , Prabhulkar Shradha , Perez Victor L , Ruggeri Marco , Paranjape Amit S , Habte Frezghi , Gambhir Sanjiv S , Awdeh Richard M
Published: February 2014

Background

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a powerful imaging modality to visualize tissue structures, with axial image pixel resolution as high as 1.6 μm in tissue. However, OCT is intrinsically limited to providing structural information as the OCT contrast is produced by optically scattering tissues.

Methods

Gold nanorods (GNRs) were injected into the anterior chamber (AC) and cornea of mice eyes which could create a significant OCT signal and hence could be used as a contrast agent for in vivo OCT imaging.

Results

A dose of 30 nM of GNRs (13 nm in diameter and 45 nm in length) were injected to the AC of mice eyes and produced an OCT contrast nearly 50‐fold higher than control mice injected with saline. Furthermore, the lowest detectable concentration of GNRs in living mice AC was experimentally estimated to be as low as 120 pM.

Conclusions

The high sensitivity and low toxicity of GNRs brings great promise for OCT to uniquely become a high‐resolution molecular imaging modality.
Successes and Challenges from Formation to Implementation of Eleven Broad‐Extent Conservation Programs
Authors: BEEVER ERIK A. , MATTSSON BRADY J. , GERMINO MATTHEW J. , BURG MAX POST VAN DER , BRADFORD JOHN B. , BRUNSON MARK W.
Published: February 2014

Integration of conservation partnerships across geographic, biological, and administrative boundaries is increasingly relevant because drivers of change, such as climate shifts, transcend these boundaries. We explored successes and challenges of established conservation programs that span multiple watersheds and consider both social and ecological concerns. We asked representatives from a diverse set of 11 broad‐extent conservation partnerships in 29 countries 17 questions that pertained to launching and maintaining partnerships for broad‐extent conservation, specifying ultimate management objectives, and implementation and learning. Partnerships invested more funds in implementing conservation actions than any other aspect of conservation, and a program's context (geographic extent, United States vs. other countries, developed vs. developing nation) appeared to substantially affect program approach. Despite early successes of these organizations and benefits of broad‐extent conservation, specific challenges related to uncertainties in scaling up information and to coordination in the face of diverse partner governance structures, conflicting objectives, and vast uncertainties regarding future system dynamics hindered long‐term success, as demonstrated by the focal organizations. Engaging stakeholders, developing conservation measures, and implementing adaptive management were dominant challenges. To inform future research on broad‐extent conservation, we considered several challenges when we developed detailed questions, such as what qualities of broad‐extent partnerships ensure they complement, integrate, and strengthen, rather than replace, local conservation efforts and which adaptive management processes yield actionable conservation strategies that account explicitly for dynamics and uncertainties regarding multiscale governance, environmental conditions, and knowledge of the system?

Éxitos y Retos de la Formación a la Implementación de Once Programas de Conservación de Amplio Alcance
Staging accuracy of ampullary tumors by endoscopic ultrasound: Meta‐analysis and systematic review
Authors: Trikudanathan Guru , Njei Basile , Attam Rajeev , Arain Mustafa , Shaukat Aasma
Published: February 2014

Background and Aim

Accurate preoperative staging of ampullary neoplasms is of paramount importance in predicting prognosis and determining the most appropriate therapeutic approach. The aim of the present review was to evaluate the accuracy of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) in predicting depth of ampullary tumor invasion (T‐stage) and regional lymph node status (N‐stage) by carrying out a meta‐analysis of all relevant studies.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, Medline and Scopus databases for all studies published between January 1980 and December 2012. Only EUS studies involving ≥10 patients with ampullary neoplasms, confirmed by surgical histopathology, with data available for construction of a 2 × 2 table were included.

Results

Meta‐analysis of 14 studies involving 422 patients using the Mantel–Haenszel method was performed. Pooled sensitivity and specificity of EUS to diagnose T1‐stage tumor were 77% (95% CI: 69–83) and 78% (95% CI: 72–84), respectively. Pooled sensitivity for T4 tumors was 84% (95% CI: 73–92) and specificity was 74% (95% CI: 63–83). Combined sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio and diagnostic odds ratio for diagnosing nodal status were 0.70 (95% CI: 0.62–0.77), 0.74 (95% CI: 0.67–0.0.80), 2.49 (95% CI: 1.91–3.24), 0.46 (95% CI: 0.36–0.59) and 6.53 (95% CI: 3.81–11.19), respectively.

Conclusion

Based on our pooled estimates, EUS had a moderate strength of agreement with histopathology in preoperative staging of ampullary neoplasms in predicting tumor invasion and lymph node involvement. Additional refinement in EUS technologies and diagnostic criteria may be required to enhance staging accuracy.
Show Me the Money! Pay Structure and Individual Performance in Golden Teams
Authors: Della Torre Edoardo , Giangreco Antonio , Maes Johan
Published: February 2014

Using the Italian Serie A football league as an example, we analyse the unresolved relationship between pay structure and individual performance in organizational golden team settings, namely, groups of interdependent high‐skilled, high‐paid employees. We contribute to existing compensation literature by focusing on individual (rather than collective) performance, considering both absolute and relative (within team‐within role) pay structures, and investigating the moderating role of pay dispersion in the relationship between pay level and performance. Our analysis confirms the complexity of the understanding of the effects of pay structures on individuals. Specifically, both (absolute and relative) pay level and pay dispersion have a positive impact on the individual performance. However, when absolute and relative pay levels are jointly considered, only the latter displays a significant impact. Moreover, because of its direct positive relationship with individual performance, absolute (and relative) pay dispersion shows to have a partial substituting effect on the impact of absolute (and relative) pay on individual performance. The theoretical and managerial implications of our results and the issue of the extendibility of the findings to non‐sport organizations are discussed.
Insular territories: US colonial science, geopolitics, and the (re)mapping of the Philippines
Authors: Kirsch Scott
Published: February 2014

Examining the category of the Insular as a key framing of US extraterritorial, inter‐oceanic power during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the paper examines two overlapping sets of geographical discourses and mapping practices – broadly characterised as geopolitical‐imperial and scientific‐governmental – that reflected US efforts to map (remap) the Philippines after 1898, beginning with the purchase of Spanish (Jesuit) geographical knowledge. Turning to the spatially extensive and, it is argued, geopolitically loaded survey and mapping sciences, including geography, ethnology, geology, forestry and geodesy, the paper explores how cartographic practices were not only integral to a more accurate representation of the islands on paper but were also linked in practice with processes of governmental knowledge production and territorial transformation. In these efforts to extend US colonial sovereignty across the archipelago during the first decade of the twentieth century, US Insular officials grappled to know the territories which they presumed to govern.
Integrated postural analysis in children with haemophilia
Authors: Boccalandro E. , Pasta G. , Mannucci P. M. , Santagostino E. , Peyvandi F. , Seuser A. , Mancuso M. E. , Solimeno L. P.
Published: February 2014

The maintenance of a correct posture in haemophilic boys might contribute to prevent joint bleeds, chronic pain and dysfunction. This single‐centre study was aimed at evaluating whether or not postural alterations are more common in haemophilic than in non‐haemophilic boys and whether they are related to the orthopaedic status. Posture and balance were investigated in boys with severe/moderate haemophilia (cases) and in age‐matched non‐haemophilic peers (controls). Thirty‐five cases (89% with haemophilia A: 74% with severe disease) were included in the study and compared with 57 controls. Posture was evaluated on digital pictures of anterior, lateral and posterior views of the habitual standing position. Balance was examined with a portable force platform with eyes open and closed. The trajectory of the total body centre of force (CoF) displacement over the platform was computed by multiple planes obtaining different measures: sway area, velocity, acceleration and body loads. The joint status of cases was assessed with the Haemophilia Joint Health Score. Cases were more disharmonic than controls (52% vs. 26% in controls; P = 0.04), swayed significantly less and more slowly than controls (P < 0.05 for several parameters of CoF displacement) revealing stiffness of the musculoskeletal system. However, they were able to maintain their stance within a similar sway area. Haemophilic boys have more postural disharmonies than non‐haemophilic peers, hence a global evaluation of the orthopaedic status should include also balance and posture examination to identify early dysfunction and establish a tailored physical or rehabilitation programme.
Signal intensity of small hepatocellular carcinoma on apparent diffusion coefficient mapping and outcome after radiofrequency ablation
Authors: Mori Yoshiyuki , Tamai Hideyuki , Shingaki Naoki , Moribata Kosaku , Deguchi Hisanobu , Ueda Kazuki , Inoue Izumi , Maekita Takao , Iguchi Mikitaka , Kato Jun , Terada Masaki , Ichinose Masao
Published: February 2014

Aim

It has been reported that the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) on diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is associated with their histological grade. The present study aimed to evaluate whether the signal intensity of small hypervascular HCC on the ADC map is related to the treatment outcome of radiofrequency ablation (RFA).

Methods

Between February 2008 and August 2012, 136 consecutive patients with initial small hypervascular HCC (≤3 tumors and ≤3 cm in diameter) were examined by diffusion‐weighted MRI before RFA. The signal intensities of HCC on the ADC map were visually compared with the surrounding liver and categorized as hypointense and non‐hypointense. Critical recurrence was defined as more than three intrahepatic recurrences, recurrence with vascular invasion, seeding, dissemination and/or extrahepatic metastasis.

Results

The median follow up was 619 days. The cumulative 2‐year recurrence rates of the hypointense and non‐hypointense on the ADC map groups were 79% and 50% (P < 0.001), respectively, with cumulative 2‐year local recurrence rates of 18% and 7% (P = 0.014) and cumulative 2‐year critical recurrence rates of 38% and 13% (P = 0.005), respectively. The cumulative 3‐year survival rates were 60% and 82% (P = 0.007), respectively. On multivariate analysis, hypointensity on the ADC map was the strongest independent factor related to recurrence and survival after RFA.

Conclusion

The signal intensity of HCC on the ADC map was strongly associated with outcome after RFA. These results suggest that treatment strategy should be determined carefully even for small HCC when they appear hypointense on the ADC map.
Performance of K0.5 Na0.5 NbO3 (KNN)‐based Lead‐free Piezoelectric Materials in Active Vibration Control
Authors: Sharma Anshul , Kumar Rajeev , Vaish Rahul , Chauhan Vishal S.
Published: February 2014

Lead‐free ceramics in the composition of K0.5 Na0.5 NbO3 (KNN) are reported to be promising for piezoelectric application. This family of material has comparable piezoelectric properties to that of existing lead‐based ceramics. Present study deals with performance evaluation of KNN based materials for active vibration control. Finite element method is used to simulate the performance of these materials. Interestingly, K0.5 Na0.5 NbO3 ‐LiSbO3‐CaTiO3 (KNN‐LS‐CT) demonstrated better vibration control behavior than that of conventional lead‐based compounds. These materials are also reported to be temperature insensitive (−50 to 200°C) for piezoelectric properties viewpoints.
Incremental Validity of Interactive Multimedia Simulations in Two Organizations
Authors: Fluckinger Chris D. , Dudley Nicole M. , Seeds Marisa
Published: February 2014

Interactive multimedia simulations are conceptually distinct from other simulations commonly used as selection tools, such as assessment centers and situational judgment tests, and represent a potentially cost‐effective and job‐related candidate assessment tool. This study investigated the predictive validity of these simulations with a combined sample of call center employees from two organizations. Results indicate that customized interactive multimedia simulations demonstrate substantial criterion‐related validity and significant incremental validity over other noncognitive measures such as biodata and personality.
Structural modelling and molecular characterization of omega‐class glutathione S‐transferase 2 from Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Kim K. , Yim J.
Published: February 2014

Glutathione S‐transferase omega (GSTO) is a recently identified Glutathione S‐transferase (GST), and it has several known functions and variable distribution patterns in many organisms. In Drosophila, GstO2 exists as two isoforms, GstO2A and GstO2B. Despite the high sequence homology between the two GstO2 isoforms, they have different physiological functions. In the present study, we characterized the structural and molecular properties of Drosophila melanogaster GstO2 isoforms. Homology modelling of GstO2s using I‐TASSER servers for protein structure and function prediction revealed that the two GstO2s have different electropotential surface distributions and different shapes of the substrate‐binding sites. The recombinant GstO2s have native molecular weights of ∼60 kDa. GstO2s have similar optimum conditions for enzymatic reactions at pH 8.0 and 40 °C. The kinetic parameters of the reduction of dehydroascorbate by these two GstO2s were determined. Collectively, our results provide structural insights into the different substrate profiles of the GstO2 isoforms.
An education booklet to aid cardiac patients' recovery at home
Authors: Wang W. , Thompson D.R. , Chow A. , Kowitlawakul Y.
Published: February 2014

Background

Hospital and home‐based cardiac rehabilitation programmes improve the health outcomes of cardiac patients. Both types of programmes include patient education as a core component. However, many patients do not attend cardiac rehabilitation programmes for a variety of reasons. In Singapore, where cardiac rehabilitation is comparatively uncommon, patient education is usually delivered face‐to‐face by healthcare professionals because educational materials designed specifically for cardiac patients recovering at home are not available.

Aim

This paper describes the development of a patient education booklet designed to aid recovery at home after a myocardial infarction in Singapore.

Methods

The conception and development of this evidence‐based Heart Recovery Education Booklet was based on patient need and current clinical guidelines pertaining to cardiac rehabilitation and planned in consultation with specialists such as cardiologists, psychiatrists and physiotherapists.

Results

The booklet is a patient resource to aid recovery at home after an myocardial infarction. It is interactive, based on identified need and aims to guide and assist the patient in performing their usual activities of daily living and adhering to treatment regimens, including exercise.

Conclusion

This booklet is a resource for patients with myocardial infarction and healthcare professionals and its effectiveness in improving health‐related quality of life, psychological status and coronary risk profile is to be tested in a randomized controlled trial.

Implications for nursing and health policy

Policy makers in health and nursing must find ways of developing and implementing cardiac rehabilitation programmes that aid recovery from myocardial infarction. This education booklet offers one way to do this.
Harmonization Process for Effective Corporate Governance in the European Union: From a Historical Perspective to Future Prospects
Authors: Magnier Veronique
Published: February 2014

In 2011, the European Commission launched a public consultation on ‘the European Corporate Governance framework’, reflecting the EU's increasing concern about corporate governance issues, and the changes and reforms needed in the aftermath of the financial crisis. The question raised is twofold: first, should new objectives be established, and secondly, which of the various regulatory mechanisms, the traditional unification/coordination tools or the more recent comply‐or‐explain rule, would best fulfill these objectives? The article discusses how the financial crisis has made the harmonization of corporate governance more imperative, why the objectives of corporate governance rules must be enlarged to preserve the interests of companies as a whole, and which mechanism would best achieve these changes. More specifically, it tackles the comply‐or‐explain rule already widespread in Europe, discussing its major advantages and flaws, as well as the efficiency of its control by national and European market authorities.
Understanding the Board of Directors after the Financial Crisis: Some Lessons for Europe
Authors: McCahery Joseph A. , Vermeulen Erik P.M.
Published: February 2014

There are numerous studies on the effectiveness of boards that primarily focus on legal formalities, including gender diversity, board size, remuneration, board evaluation, and the role of the chairman of the board. While attempting to design a one‐size‐fits‐all framework, scholars approaching board independence from an agency‐cost perspective have been less concerned with analysing board structures that contribute to strategic decision making and corporate performance. We examine the factors and board strategies that are associated with value creation and innovation by analysing the composition of high‐performance and high‐growth companies. The article shows that venture capitalists, with their specific expertise and experience, continue to play an important role as independent board members in the post‐IPO period. We specifically investigate the importance of diversity, showing that there are significant differences between the companies in terms of age, gender diversity, and business expertise (which is dependent on the stage in the company life cycle).
Critical Citizenship Education and Community Interaction: A Reflection on Practice
Authors: Costandius Elmarie , Rosochacki Sophia , le Roux Adrie
Published: February 2014

The social transformation required in a democratic South Africa can only be achieved through the transformation of perceptions and attitudes. This article argues that community interaction can play an important role not only in raising the level of societal awareness of students, but also in the development of a symbiotic relationship between an academic institution and its surrounding society. Although this process has become a common feature in many universities, evidence suggests that engagement which leads to true social transformation, including a change in deep‐seated attitudes, is rare. Consequently, community engagement risks remaining unprogressive, and has the potential to reinforce the very discriminatory attitudes and practices which it aims to overcome, while serving as a superficial response to institutional social responsibility imperatives. Through an analysis of a case study from the Visual Arts Department at Stellenbosch University, the article engages with the problems that emerge as barriers to social transformation in the relationship between the academic institution and the community, and argues that, in order that its emancipatory potential be realised, the politics surrounding community engagement, particularly its relation to social transformation, need to be identified and challenged.