bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The disposition to understand for oneself at university: Integrating learning processes with motivation and metacognition
Authors: Entwistle Noel , McCune Velda
Published: February 2013

Background

A re‐analysis of several university‐level interview studies has suggested that some students show evidence of a deep and stable approach to learning, along with other characteristics that support the approach. This combination, it was argued, could be seen to indicate a disposition to understand for oneself.

Aim

To identify a group of students who showed high and consistent scores on deep approach, combined with equivalently high scores on effort and monitoring studying, and to explore these students' experiences of the teaching–learning environments they had experienced.

Sample

Re‐analysis of data from 1,896 students from 25 undergraduate courses taking four contrasting subject areas in eleven British universities.

Methods

Inventories measuring approaches to studying were given at the beginning and the end of a semester, with the second inventory also exploring students' experiences of teaching. K‐means cluster analysis was used to identify groups of students with differing patterns of response on the inventory scales, with a particular focus on students showing high, stable scores.

Results

One cluster clearly showed the characteristics expected of the disposition to understand and was also fairly stable over time. Other clusters also had deep approaches, but also showed either surface elements or lower scores on organized effort or monitoring their studying.

Conclusions

Combining these findings with interview studies previously reported reinforces the idea of there being a disposition to understand for oneself that could be identified from an inventory scale or through further interviews.
Extracting Value from Learning Curves: Integrating Theory and Practice
Authors: Linton Jonathan D. , Walsh Steven T.
Published: February 2013

Learning curves are used as management metrics in many industrial settings. However, their apparent simplicity masks the tremendous number of changes and opportunities that are summarized by this apparently simple exponential relationship. Through exploration of these underlying opportunities, practitioners are able to better identify and exploit opportunities. By integrating learning curve theory to include design, supply chain and life cycle management to a framework illustrating the complex series of events that comprise the seemingly parsimonious learning curve, it is possible to better see how learning curves reduce cost, expand existing markets and create new markets. Illustrations are used to assist practitioners in taking economic advantage of the theoretical contributions offered in this framework.
A New Roadmapping Technique for Creatively Managing the Emerging Smart Grid
Authors: Cowan Kelly R.
Published: February 2013

The ‘Smart grid’ has been described as the ‘Energy Internet’, combining energy technology with information technology. The promise of the smart grid is to upgrade ageing energy infrastructure through the use of emerging technology. The resultant smart grid would improve efficiency, the ability to use alternative energy sources, responsiveness and security of the system. The need for creating a smarter grid is clear. Yet the traditional tool used by policy and other decision makers to rapidly advance technology product platforms, the technology roadmap, is proving ineffective due to the unique regulatory and market structure challenges of the smart grid. If the smart grid is important and its development constricted, then there is cause for concern. Today, most smart grid development teams are focusing their roadmapping efforts at the local and national levels. Yet regional roadmapping efforts can create higher quality and better integrated outcomes. A more advanced roadmapping technique is required for the effective and efficient management of the emerging smart grid technology product platform. Here, a case study approach utilizing the Pacific Northwest smart grid regional planning effort is utilized to generate an improved technology roadmapping technique, one that addresses the needs of emerging multi‐root technology‐based products like the smart grid. This roadmapping technique is designed to more effectively include the market structure and regulatory challenges inherent in the smart grid. The new roadmapping model integrates multiple technology, business and policy concerns.
Introduction to the Field of Emerging Technology Management
Authors: Groen A.J. , Walsh S.T.
Published: February 2013

Many see emerging technologies as a solution vector for the global challenges of the twenty‐first century. Today's emerging technologies include: computational sciences; nanotechnology; micro‐electro‐mechanical systems (MEMS); bio‐fuels; mobile technologies and a host of others. Yet an adequate understanding of their commercial, policy, environmental, ethical and societal implications lags far behind the development of their science and technology. The authors in this issue discuss the challenges presented by the commercial considerations of emerging technologies. If emerging technologies are critical to solving the largest problems facing the world, then better techniques are needed: for their management, to create policy and educate professionals to commercialize and govern them. This special issue presents the work of a number of researchers that helps to fill this gap. Some initial solutions such as radically improving current techniques and generating new ones are presented, and each author provides future research pathways.
Association Between Weight Loss and Improvement of Ventricular Systolic Function in Advanced Heart Failure
Authors: Guglin Maya , Verma Sameer , Chen Ren
Published: February 2013

In heart failure (HF), longitudinal changes in ventricular ejection fraction are poorly studied. The authors' objective was to document the dynamic changes in systolic function of both ventricles during acute HF and after a 3‐month follow‐up period, and to identify factors associated with ventricular improvement. A limited access dataset from the Evaluation Study of Congestive Heart Failure and Pulmonary Artery Catheterization Effectiveness (ESCAPE) trial provided by The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute was analyzed. In patients admitted to the hospital with acute HF, both ventricles were evaluated by echocardiography on admission, at discharge, and at 3 months. From baseline to 3 months, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) increased in 43.4% of patients, decreased in 23.9%, and remained unchanged in 32.7%. Similarly, right ventricular systolic function improved in 40.9%, deteriorated in 25.0%, and remained stable in 34.1%. Weight loss during index admission and cardiac index/cardiac output increase were the only factors associated with LVEF improvement from baseline to month 3. There was no difference between ischemic and nonischemic etiology. In acute HF, ischemic or nonischemic, systolic function of the ventricles improved during 3 months in about 40% of patients and remained unchanged or deteriorated in the rest. Weight loss and increase in cardiac index/output during hospitalization was associated with improvement in LVEF.
A comparison between 4 and 6 implants in the maxillary posterior region to support an overdenture; 1‐year results from a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Slot Wim , Raghoebar Gerry M. , Vissink Arjan , Meijer Henny J.A.
Published: February 2013

Objective

To compare the treatment outcome of 4 vs. 6 bar‐connected implants in the posterior region of the maxilla to support an overdenture during a 1‐year follow‐up period.

Materials and methods

Sixty‐six edentulous patients with an insufficient amount of bone volume in the maxilla to place implants were asked to participate in this study. Randomization assigned patients to either 4 or 6 implants. In all patients, a maxillary sinus floor elevation procedure with bone from the iliac crest was performed, and after a 3‐month healing period, 4 or 6 dental implants were inserted in the maxillary posterior region in a one‐stage procedure. After 3 months of osseointegration, a bar‐supported overdenture was constructed. Implant survival, overdenture survival, clinical scores, peri‐implant bone height changes and patients' satisfaction were assessed. Study analysis was performed according a non‐inferiority design.

Results

All patients completed the one‐year follow‐up. After a functional period of 1‐year, implant survival was 100% in the 4 implants group and 99.5% in the 6 implants group. Overdenture survival was 100% in both groups. Mean clinical scores were very low and did not significantly differ between groups. Mean marginal bone resorption was 0.35 ± 0.31 mm and 0.46 ± 0.34 mm in the 4 and 6 implants group, respectively. Patients' satisfaction improved significantly in both groups, but did not differ between groups.

Conclusion

A bar‐supported overdenture on 4 implants in the posterior maxillary region is not inferior to an overdenture supported by 6 bar‐connected dental implants.
Deviated nose attenuates the degree of patient satisfaction and quality of life in rhinoplasty: a prospective controlled study
Authors: Cingi C. , Eskiizmir G.
Published: February 2013

Objective

To analyse and compare the patient satisfaction and quality of life in patients with and without deviated nose deformity who underwent rhinoplasty.

Design

Prospective, before–after trial.

Setting

Tertiary referral centre.

Participants

A total of 191 patients who underwent primary rhinoplasty between 2006 and 2009 were included. The study population was separated into two groups: non‐deviated (patients with an external nasal deformity of less than 50) and deviated nose (patients with an external nasal deformity of more than 50).

Main Outcome Measures

The angles of deviations were measured from the pre‐ and postoperative photographs by an image analysis software program. Patient satisfaction and quality of life were measured by Rhinoplasty outcome evaluation and European Quality of Life‐5 Dimension questionnaires before and after surgery.

Results

Eighty‐one cases had deviated nose deformity; on the other hand, 110 cases had nasal deformities other than deviated nose deformity. The objective analysis of surgical outcome demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in the favour of postoperative results in both non‐deviated (P = 0.0004) and deviated (P = 0.0002) nose groups. In addition, Rhinoplasty outcome evaluation and European Quality of Life‐5 Dimension questionnaires demonstrated remarkable improvement in both non‐deviated and deviated nose groups after rhinoplasty. However, the comparison of pre‐ and postoperative change between non‐deviated and deviated nose groups demonstrated statistically significant differences in almost all questions (except family and friends' satisfaction with appearance P = 0.069) and total score (P < 0.001) of Rhinoplasty outcome evaluation questionnaire, European Quality of Life‐5 Dimension index (P < 0.001), European Quality of Life‐5 Dimension visual analogue scale (P = 0.036) and living quality index (P < 0.001) with lower scores in deviated nose group.

Conclusion

Rhinoplasty can provide an objective improvement, high satisfaction and positive impact on quality of life. However, the degree of satisfaction and improvement in quality of life in patients with deviated nose deformity are less than patients with non‐deviated nose deformity.
Connectivity Planning to Address Climate Change
Authors: NUÑEZ TRISTAN A. , LAWLER JOSHUA J. , MCRAE BRAD H. , PIERCE D. JOHN , KROSBY MEADE B. , KAVANAGH DARREN M. , SINGLETON PETER H. , TEWKSBURY JOSHUA J.
Published: February 2013

As the climate changes, human land use may impede species from tracking areas with suitable climates. Maintaining connectivity between areas of different temperatures could allow organisms to move along temperature gradients and allow species to continue to occupy the same temperature space as the climate warms. We used a coarse‐filter approach to identify broad corridors for movement between areas where human influence is low while simultaneously routing the corridors along present‐day spatial gradients of temperature. We modified a cost–distance algorithm to model these corridors and tested the model with data on current land‐use and climate patterns in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. The resulting maps identified a network of patches and corridors across which species may move as climates change. The corridors are likely to be robust to uncertainty in the magnitude and direction of future climate change because they are derived from gradients and land‐use patterns. The assumptions we applied in our model simplified the stability of temperature gradients and species responses to climate change and land use, but the model is flexible enough to be tailored to specific regions by incorporating other climate variables or movement costs. When used at appropriate resolutions, our approach may be of value to local, regional, and continental conservation initiatives seeking to promote species movements in a changing climate.

Planificación de Conectividad para Atender el Cambio Climático
BK virus‐associated nephropathy: neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin as a new diagnostic tool?
Authors: Rau Simon , Schönermarck Ulf , Jäger Gundula , Stangl Manfred , Guba Markus , Meiser Bruno , Fischereder Michael , Habicht Antje
Published: February 2013

Introduction

BK nephropathy has emerged as an important cause for allograft failure in renal transplant patients. The kidney tubules are the main target of BK virus infiltration. Neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL) has been proven to be a powerful biomarker for tubular damage. Therefore, we investigated the suitability of plasma NGAL as new diagnostic tool in patients with BK infection.

Material and methods

We retrospectively analyzed 240 renal transplant recipients. Systematic BKV screening by plasma PCR was performed one month after transplantation and every three month thereafter for two yr. Plasma NGAL concentration was investigated using a commercial ELISA. Medical records and electronic databases were reviewed for clinical parameters.

Results

BK viremia (BKV+) was diagnosed in 5.0% (12/240) and BK nephropathy in 3.3% (8/240) of our patients. BKV+ patients received more induction therapy (p = 0.03) and experienced a higher rate of biopsy‐proven rejections compared to 13 control patients with similar graft function but negative BKV PCR. Contrary to our hypothesis, there was no difference in plasma NGAL expression between both groups (128.6 vs. 172.2 ng/mL; p = 0.68).

Conclusions

Intensified immunosuppressive therapy is associated with an increased risk for BK nephropathy. Plasma NGAL is neither suitable for diagnosing BK nephropathy nor helpful in predicting the individual course of patients with BKV infection.
Endoscopic diagnostic strategy of superficial esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Muto Manabu
Published: February 2013

The prognosis of the esophageal squamous cell carcinoma is still poor. Early detection is ideal to improve patient survival. In particular, superficial cancer limited within the mucosal layer is a good candidate for minimally invasive treatment by endoscopic resection with curative intent. However, an effective endoscopic diagnostic strategy is not established worldwide. Herein, we review the published papers on this subject.
GABAergic inhibition through synergistic astrocytic neuronal interaction transiently decreases vasopressin neuronal activity during hypoosmotic challenge
Authors: Wang Yu‐Feng , Sun Min‐Yu , Hou Qiuling , Hamilton Kathryn A.
Published: February 2013

The neuropeptide vasopressin is crucial to mammalian osmotic regulation. Local hypoosmotic challenge transiently decreases and then increases vasopressin secretion. To investigate mechanisms underlying this transient response, we examined the effects of hypoosmotic challenge on the electrical activity of rat hypothalamic supraoptic nucleus (SON) vasopressin neurons using patch‐clamp recordings. We found that 5 min exposure of hypothalamic slices to hypoosmotic solution transiently increased inhibitory postsynaptic current (IPSC) frequency and reduced the firing rate of vasopressin neurons. Recovery occurred by 10 min of exposure, even though the osmolality remained low. The γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)A receptor blocker, gabazine, blocked the IPSCs and the hypoosmotic suppression of firing. The gliotoxin l‐aminoadipic acid blocked the increase in IPSC frequency at 5 min and the recovery of firing at 10 min, indicating astrocytic involvement in hypoosmotic modulation of vasopressin neuronal activity. Moreover, β‐alanine, an osmolyte of astrocytes and GABA transporter (GAT) inhibitor, blocked the increase in IPSC frequency at 5 min of hypoosmotic challenge. Confocal microscopy of immunostained SON sections revealed that astrocytes and magnocellular neurons both showed positive staining of vesicular GATs (VGAT). Hypoosmotic stimulation in vivo reduced the number of VGAT‐expressing neurons, and increased co‐localisation and molecular association of VGAT with glial fibrillary acidic protein that increased significantly by 10 min. By 30 min, neuronal VGAT labelling was partially restored, and astrocytic VGAT was relocated to the ventral portion while it decreased in the somatic zone of the SON. Thus, synergistic astrocytic and neuronal GABAergic inhibition could ensure that vasopressin neuron firing is only transiently suppressed under hypoosmotic conditions.
Effects of antidepressant treatment on mice lacking brain‐derived neurotrophic factor expression through promoter IV
Authors: Sakata Kazuko , Mastin Joshua R. , Duke Sean M. , Vail Meghan G. , Overacre Abigail E. , Dong Brittany E. , Jha Shanker
Published: February 2013

Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is implicated in the pathophysiology of major depression; mice lacking BDNF expression through promoter IV (BDNF‐KIV) exhibit a depression‐like phenotype. We tested our hypothesis that deficits caused by promoter IV deficiency (depression‐like behavior, decreased levels of BDNF, and neurogenesis in the hippocampus) could be rescued by a 3‐week treatment with different types of antidepressants: fluoxetine, phenelzine, duloxetine, or imipramine. Each antidepressant reduced immobility time in the tail suspension test without affecting locomotor activity in the open field test in both BDNF‐KIV and control wild type mice, except that phenelzine increased locomotor activity in wild type mice and anxiety‐like behavior in BDNF‐KIV mice. The antidepressant treatments were insufficient to reverse decreased BDNF levels caused by promoter IV deficiency. No antidepressant treatment increased the hippocampal progenitors of either genotype, whereas phenelzine decreased the surviving progenitors in both genotypes. The antidepressant treatments differently affected the dendritic extension of hippocampal immature neurons: fluoxetine and imipramine increased extension in both genotypes, duloxetine increased it only in BDNF‐KIV mice, and phenelzine decreased it only in wild type mice. Interestingly, a saline‐only injection increased neurogenesis and dendrite extensions in both genotypes. Our results indicate that the behavioral effects in the tail suspension test by antidepressants do not require promoter IV‐driven BDNF expression and occur without a detectable increase in hippocampal BDNF levels and neurogenesis but may involve increased dendritic reorganisation of immature neurons. In conclusion, the antidepressant treatment demonstrated limited efficacy; it partially reversed the defective phenotypes caused by promoter IV deficiency but not hippocampal BDNF levels.
Glyoxalase 1 and its substrate methylglyoxal are novel regulators of seizure susceptibility
Authors: Distler Margaret G. , Gorfinkle Naomi , Papale Ligia A. , Wuenschell Gerald E. , Termini John , Escayg Andrew , Winawer Melodie R. , Palmer Abraham A.
Published: February 2013

Purpose

Epilepsy is a complex disease characterized by a predisposition toward seizures. There are numerous barriers to the successful treatment of epilepsy. For instance, current antiepileptic drugs have adverse side effects and variable efficacies. Furthermore, the pathophysiologic basis of epilepsy remains largely elusive. Therefore, investigating novel genes and biologic processes underlying epilepsy may provide valuable insight and enable the development of new therapeutic agents. We previously identified methylglyoxal (MG) as an endogenous γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABAA) receptor agonist. Here, we investigated the role of MG and its catabolic enzyme, glyoxalase 1 (GLO1), in seizures.

Methods

We pretreated mice with MG before seizure induction with picrotoxin or pilocarpine and then assessed seizures behaviorally or by electroencephalography (EEG). We then investigated the role of GLO1 in seizures by treating mice with a pharmacologic inhibitor of GLO1 before seizure induction with pilocarpine and measured subsequent seizure phenotypes. Next, we explored the genetic relationship between Glo1 expression and seizures. We analyzed seizure phenotypes among C57BL/6J × DBA/2J (BXD) recombinant inbred (RI) mice with differential Glo1 expression. Lastly, we investigated a causal role for Glo1 in seizures by administering pilocarpine to transgenic (Tg) mice that overexpress Glo1.

Key Findings

Pretreatment with MG attenuated pharmacologically‐induced seizures at both the behavioral and EEG levels. GLO1 inhibition, which increases MG concentration in vivo, also attenuated seizures. Among BXD RI mice, high Glo1 expression was correlated with increased seizure susceptibility. Tg mice overexpressing Glo1 displayed reduced MG concentration in the brain and increased seizure severity.

Significance

These data identify MG as an endogenous regulator of seizures. Similarly, inhibition of GLO1 attenuates seizures, suggesting that this may be a novel therapeutic approach for epilepsy. Furthermore, this system may represent an endogenous negative feedback loop whereby high metabolic activity increases inhibitory tone via local accumulation of MG. Finally, Glo1 may contribute to the genetic architecture of epilepsy, as Glo1 expression regulates both MG concentration and seizure severity.
Reduction of seizure frequency after epilepsy surgery in a patient with STXBP1 encephalopathy and clinical description of six novel mutation carriers
Authors: Weckhuysen Sarah , Holmgren Philip , Hendrickx Rik , Jansen Anna C. , Hasaerts Daniele , Dielman Charlotte , de Bellescize Julitta , Boutry‐Kryza Nadia , Lesca Gaetan , Spiczak Sarah Von , Helbig Ingo , Gill Deepak , Yendle Simone , Møller Rikke S. , Klitten Laura , Korff Christian , Godfraind Catherine , Van Rijckevorsel Kenou , De Jonghe Peter , Hjalgrim Helle , Scheffer Ingrid E. , Suls Arvid
Published: February 2013

Mutations in STXBP1 have been identified in a subset of patients with early onset epileptic encephalopathy (EE), but the full phenotypic spectrum remains to be delineated. Therefore, we screened a cohort of 160 patients with an unexplained EE, including patients with early myoclonic encephalopathy (EME), Ohtahara syndrome, West syndrome, nonsyndromic EE with onset in the first year, and Lennox‐Gastaut syndrome (LGS). We found six de novo mutations in six patients presenting as Ohtahara syndrome (2/6, 33%), West syndrome (1/65, 2%), and nonsyndromic early onset EE (3/64, 5%). No mutations were found in LGS or EME. Only two of four mutation carriers with neonatal seizures had Ohtahara syndrome. Epileptic spasms were present in five of six patients. One patient with normal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) but focal seizures underwent epilepsy surgery and seizure frequency dropped drastically. Neuropathology showed a focal cortical dysplasia type 1a. There is a need for additional neuropathologic studies to explore whether STXBP1 mutations can lead to structural brain abnormalities.
Risk factors for hyperammonemia in pediatric patients with epilepsy
Authors: Yamamoto Yoshiaki , Takahashi Yukitoshi , Imai Katsumi , Mishima Nobuyuki , Yazawa Rei , Inoue Kazuyuki , Itoh Kunihiko , Kagawa Yoshiyuki , Inoue Yushi
Published: February 2013

Purpose

To identify risk factors for hyperammonemia in pediatric patients with epilepsy.

Methods

A total of 2,944 pediatric patients (ages 0–15 years) were classified into the following three groups: a group without drug treatment (n = 445, group I), a group receiving antiepileptic drugs other than valproic acid (VPA) (n = 673, group II), and a VPA‐treated group (n = 1,826, group III). Hyperammonemia was defined as a plasma ammonia level exceeding 100 μg/dl with reference to the standard range and previous reports.

Key Findings

The mean ammonia level of groups I, II, and III was 36.0, 56.0, and 86.8 μg/dl, respectively, and the incidence of hyperammonemia was 1.6%, 7.7%, and 31.7%, respectively. In each group, the mean ammonia level of patients aged 3 years or younger was significantly higher than that of patients aged 4–15 years. In group II, concomitant use of topiramate and zonisamide were risk factors for hyperammonemia (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 3.9, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.7–9.2, and OR 3.5, 95% CI 1.9–6.5, respectively). In group III, the ammonia level increased in a VPA dose–dependent manner. At a VPA dose of 30 mg/kg, there was 4.3‐fold increase in the incidence of hyperammonemia. The other significant risk factors identified were female gender (OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.0–1.6), symptomatic generalized epilepsy (OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.1–1.8), and the concomitant use of phenytoin (OR 4.7, 95% CI 3.3–6.9), phenobarbital (OR 2.2. 95% CI 1.6–3.2), acetazolamide (OR 6.6, 95% CI 2.5–17.2), topiramate, or zonisamide.

Significance

A young age and concomitant use of carbonic anhydrase inhibitors are associated with an increased risk of hyperammonemia regardless of whether the patient is taking VPA. In patients receiving VPA, concomitant use of phenytoin and/or phenobarbital enhances the risk of hyperammonemia. An increase in ammonia can be caused by multiple factors. Our results may help clinicians to avoid problems of hyperammonemia.
Non‐invasive diffuse reflectance measurements of cutaneous melanin content can predict human sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation
Authors: Coelho Sergio G. , Zmudzka Barbara Z. , Yin Lanlan , Miller Sharon A. , Yamaguchi Yuji , Tadokoro Taketsugu , Hearing Vincent J. , Beer Janusz Z.
Published: February 2013

The diversity of human skin phenotypes and the ubiquitous exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) underscore the need for a non‐invasive tool to predict an individual's UVR sensitivity. We analysed correlations between UVR sensitivity, melanin content, diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DR) and UVR‐induced DNA damage in the skin of subjects from three racial/ethnic groups: Asian, Black or African American and White. UVR sensitivity was determined by evaluating each subject's response to one minimal erythemal dose (MED) of UVR one day after the exposure. Melanin content was measured using DR and by densitometric analysis of Fontana‐Masson staining (FM) in skin biopsies taken from unexposed areas. An individual's UVR sensitivity based on MED was highly correlated with melanin content measured by DR and by FM. Therefore, a predictive model for the non‐invasive determination of UVR sensitivity using DR was developed. The MED precision was further improved when we took race/ethnicity into consideration. The use of DR serves as a tool for predicting UVR sensitivity in humans that should be invaluable for determining appropriate UVR doses for therapeutic, diagnostic and/or cosmetic devices.
Assessing the food web impacts of an anadromousArctic charr introduction to a sub‐Arctic watershed using stable isotopes
Authors: Murdoch A. , Klein G. , Doidge D. W. , Power M.
Published: February 2013

AnadromousArctic charr,Salvelinus alpinus(L.), was introduced to a sub‐Arctic river–lake system near the village ofKujjuuaq,Nunavik, and the stable isotope values and diets of key resident fish species were used to assess changes in feeding patterns. Stable isotope values for most species did not differ significantly between the pre‐ and post‐introduction periods, with observed shifts being within the bounds of expected natural variation. Lake chub,Couesius plumbeus(Agassiz), were the single species to show a difference between study periods, with a small but significant increase in δ15N. No significant post‐introduction changes were seen in lake trout,Salvelinus namaycush(Walbaum), omnivory or in any of the assessed quantitative food web metrics. Gut contents of major fish species similarly showed significant temporal overlap between the pre‐ and post‐introduction periods, and there was no significant change in species' weight–length relationships. The minor ecological impact was interpreted in relation to the availability of open niches exploitable by ecological generalists such asArctic charr. The explanation accords with the known habitat and feeding flexibility ofArctic charr and the ecological immaturity of sub‐Arctic lakes known to have driven adaptive variation amongArctic charr. Findings suggest that anadromousArctic charr may be introduced at moderate densities to other sub‐Arctic watersheds without major negative food web consequences for other resident fish species.
Transgenerational marking of brown trout Salmo trutta f.f., using an 84Sr spike
Authors: Zitek A. , Irrgeher J. , Kletzl M. , Weismann T. , Prohaska T.
Published: February 2013

The maternal transmission of a naturally occurring and non‐toxic minor isotope of strontium (84Sr) to the central otolith region of the progeny of a typical European freshwater fish species, brown trout, Salmo trutta f.f. L. was accomplished. The focus was to apply minimum doses of a non‐toxic solution at physiological salt concentration to minimise potential adverse effects on the fish. Female spawners were intraperitoneally injected with doses of 12.5 and 30.2 μg 84Sr kg−1 fish. Eggs were stripped and the resulting progeny were reared in a hatchery for about 1 year before sampling the otoliths. Strontium isotope ratios in the otoliths of the offspring were measured by cross‐sectional line scans using laser ablation‐multiple collector‐inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA‐MC‐ICPMS). Otolith cores of marked juveniles showed a significantly elevated 84Sr/86Sr ratio compared with control fish and to otolith regions created after hatching. Mass marking of cohorts of progeny from individually spiked brown trout with Sr isotopes is therefore possible for dispersal and migration studies without the necessity of handling eggs and applying other larval marking methods like immersion.
Association Between Helicobacter pylori Infection Detected by the 13C‐Urea Breath Test and Low Serum Ferritin Levels among Japanese Adults
Authors: Nakagawa Hiroko , Tamura Takashi , Mitsuda Yoko , Kurata Mio , Goto Yasuyuki , Kamiya Yoshikazu , Kondo Takaaki , Hamajima Nobuyuki
Published: February 2013

Background

Helicobacter pylori infection is a major risk factor for chronic gastritis, digestive ulcers, and gastric cancer. Previous studies have shown associations between H. pylori infection and decreased iron storage. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the associations between H. pylori infection and serum iron and ferritin levels in Japan.

Materials and Methods

Overall, 268 Japanese individuals who visited a clinic located in an urban area for H. pylori infection tests and subsequent eradication were enrolled. H. pylori infection was diagnosed by a 13C‐urea breath test, with positive results defined as values ≥2.5‰.

Results

The overall infection rate was 65.3% (175/268). The geometric mean serum iron levels in uninfected and infected subjects were 115.7 μg/dL and 108.9 μg/dL, respectively, in men, and 83.9 and 91.8 μg/dL, respectively, in women. The geometric mean serum ferritin levels were 128.9 and 81.0 ng/mL, respectively, in men, and 25.5 and 27.0 ng/mL, respectively, in women. Regression analysis adjusted for age showed that lower geometric mean serum ferritin levels were significantly associated with H. pylori infection in men (131.8 vs 79.4 ng/mL p = .009) and in women (33.9 vs 23.4 ng/mL p = .041). The difference was greater in subjects ≥50 years old, although the interaction was not statistically significant. Helicobacter pylori infection was not significantly associated with serum iron levels.

Conclusion

This study showed that H. pylori infection was significantly associated with altered serum ferritin levels in Japanese individuals, particularly in those aged ≥50 years.
The Counterintuitive Psychological Benefits of Intergenerational Discrepancies in Family Prioritization for Jamaican Adolescent–Parent Dyads
Authors: Ferguson Gail M.
Published: February 2013

The current study tests a prediction of Relational Discrepancy Theory (RDT; i.e., emotional distress will not accompany discrepancies in hierarchical relationships) for family obligations discrepancies among adolescent–parent dyads in Jamaica, a moderately collectivistic and hierarchical society. Ninety‐five dyads reported psychological adjustment and discrepancies in family prioritization (i.e., value priority placed on family vs. other life domains). Results supported RDT and replicated recent work with Caribbean immigrants in Europe. Unlike findings in individualistic and egalitarian societies, discrepancies were not an emotional liability for Jamaican adolescents but were associated with fewer depressive symptoms and higher life satisfaction. Furthermore, Jamaican parents benefitted psychologically when adolescents prioritized family highly but may have been unaware of the emotional risks to their teenagers of matching parental expectations.
Adolescent Resilience in Northern Uganda: The Role of Social Support and Prosocial Behavior in Reducing Mental Health Problems
Authors: Haroz Emily E. , Murray Laura K. , Bolton Paul , Betancourt Theresa , Bass Judith K.
Published: February 2013

We investigated relations between prosocial behavior, perceived social support, and improvement in depression and anxiety symptoms over 6 months among 102 Acholi adolescent (14–17 years, 58% female adolescents) survivors of war and displacement in Northern Uganda. Adolescents were assessed using a locally developed screener. Regression analyses measured the association between resilience factors and mental health outcomes. Findings indicated that high levels of baseline prosocial behaviors were associated with improvement in anxiety symptoms among adolescents with high symptom improvement. This same trend was seen for depression symptoms (p = .06). Experiencing caregiver loss modified this association for depression symptoms. Baseline social support was not associated with improvement in depression or anxiety. Results suggest that prosocial behavior is associated with increased resilience.
Opening Pathways for Vulnerable Young People in Patagonia
Authors: Hamilton Mary Agnes , Hamilton Stephen F. , Bianchi Lucia , Bran Jacqui
Published: February 2013

New and improved institutions are needed to support the transition to adulthood of vulnerable young people. Existing institutions that should provide that support demonstrate structural lag: they have not adapted to changing circumstances. Action research was conducted in Por un Mañana, an employment training program for low‐income youth and young adults in the Patagonia region of Argentina to explore how to build developmental assets and to overcome employers' prejudice against low‐income youth. Consultation with program graduates generated new program elements to increase social inclusion and employability of young mothers and graduates. The action research team uncovered participants' fears and preconceptions about work and the need to move them out of the program's protective bubble.
Gender‐Typed Behaviors in Friendships and Well‐Being: A Cross‐Cultural Study of Chinese and American Boys
Authors: Gupta Taveeshi , Way Niobe , McGill Rebecca K. , Hughes Diane , Santos Carlos , Jia Yueming , Yoshikawa Hirokazu , Chen Xinyin , Deng Huihua
Published: February 2013

This 3‐year, longitudinal analysis examined the psychological and social correlates of adhering to gender‐typed behaviors in friendships among boys during middle school in United States (N = 446, Mage = 11.37 years) and in China (N = 368, Mage = 12.20 years). Results indicated that boys did not differ by nationality in the mean levels or in the increase over time in adherence to gender‐typed behaviors. Furthermore, adherence over time was associated with higher depressive symptoms, lower self‐esteem, and lower friendship quality for boys in both countries. However, the associations between gender‐typed behaviors and friendship quality and depressive symptoms were stronger for boys in the United States. Our study suggests that gender‐typed behaviors play an important role in the well‐being of youth in different parts of the world.
Depressive Symptoms and Somatic Complaints Among Zambian Adolescents: Associations With Stress and Coping
Authors: Neese Angela L. , Pittman Laura D. , Hunemorder Rebecca
Published: February 2013

This study explored the possible links between perceived stress, coping strategies, depression, and somatic complaints, which have often been supported in other populations, in a school‐based sample of Zambian adolescents ages 11–19 years (N = 230; 60% males). Zambian adolescents reported elevated levels of depressive symptoms and somatic complaints, suggesting a need to study this population further. Like previous studies, perceived stress was found to be positively associated with both depressive symptoms and somatic complaints. Unexpectedly, coping was found to be positively associated with depressive symptoms, perhaps because of the cross‐sectional nature of the design. The possible influence of culture on the findings (e.g., construct validity, difference in how coping functions adaptively) is discussed.
Commentary: Leapfrogging as a Principle for Research on Children and Youth in Majority World Settings
Authors: Sommer Simon
Published: February 2013

I am writing this commentary while visiting the 30th International Congress of Psychology in Cape Town, South Africa. Looking at the program, I see that psychological research on non‐Western populations and internationally comparative research seems to be much en vogue! However, much of the research I have seen left me—as a representative of a research funding organization—rather puzzled.
Does the Threat of Insurer Liability for “Bad Faith” Affect Insurance Settlements?
Authors: Asmat Danial P. , Tennyson Sharon
Published: February 2013

Economic reasoning predicts that policyholders in states that treat for insurer bad faith in settling claims as a tort should receive higher payments from insurers because of the greater potential damages insurers face in claims disputed in court. We test this hypothesis using data on automobile insurance claims for accidents occurring during 1972–1997, exploiting differences in states “laws and variation in timing of states” adoption of bad faith rules to identify the effects of tort liability. We find that the presence of tort liability for insurer bad faith increases settlement amounts and reduces the likelihood that a claim is underpaid.
The Impact of Private Equity on a Life Insurer's Capital Charges Under Solvency II and the Swiss Solvency Test
Authors: Braun Alexander , Schmeiser Hato , Siegel Caroline
Published: February 2013

In this article, we conduct an in‐depth analysis of the impact of private equity investments on the capital requirements faced by a representative life insurance company under Solvency II as well as the Swiss Solvency Test. Our discussion begins with an empirical performance measurement of the asset class over the period from 2001 to 2010, suggesting that limited partnership private equity funds may be suited for the purpose of portfolio enhancement. Subsequently, we review the market risk standard approaches set out by both regulatory regimes and outline a potential framework for an internal model. Based on an implementation of these solvency models, it is possible to demonstrate that private equity is overly penalized by the standard approaches. Hence, life insurers aiming to exploit the asset class's return potential may expect significantly lower capital charges when applying an economically sound internal model. Finally, we show that, from a regulatory capital perspective, it can even be less costly to increase the exposure to private rather than public equity.
Influence of Balloon Size on Aortic Regurgitation in Neonates Undergoing Balloon Aortic Valvuloplasty—A Retrospective Study Over an 11‐Year Period
Authors: HAMIDI‐MANESH LAILA , TIBBY SHANE M. , HERMAN ROSIE , ROSENTHAL ERIC , QURESHI SHAKEEL A. , KRASEMANN THOMAS
Published: February 2013

Background

Transcatheter balloon aortic valvuloplasty has become the first‐line treatment for critical or severe aortic stenosis in neonates in many centers. Aortic regurgitation following balloon aortic valvuloplasty remains a major concern. An optimal balloon size to aortic annulus ratio in order to minimize aortic regurgitation postprocedure, while relieving the obstruction, has not yet been identified.

Methods and Results

In this retrospective study, data from 29 neonates with critical or severe congenital aortic valve stenosis, who underwent balloon aortic valvuloplasty in the first 28 days of life, over an 11‐year period, was evaluated. The balloon size used, ranged from 71% to 160% of the annulus size, with an average of 89%, based on the aortic annulus size as measured on angiography. The aortic regurgitation immediately following the procedure was trivial in 8 (27.6%), mild in 13 (44.8%), moderate in 7 (24.1%), and severe in 1 (3.4%) patient. The balloon to annulus ratio had no statistically significant effect on the degree of aortic regurgitation immediately after the procedure (P‐value of 0.25), at first follow‐up within 6 weeks of the procedure (P‐value of 0.76) or at follow‐up at 1 year (P‐value of 0.52).

Conclusion

This study did not show any significant relationship between the balloon to annulus ratio during interventional dilatation and the degree of aortic regurgitation following the procedure. (J Interven Cardiol 2013;26:200–207)
Moderating effects of attributions on the relationship between emotional dissonance and surface acting: a transactional approach to health care professionals' emotion work
Authors: Crego Antonio , Martínez‐Iñigo David , Tschan Franziska
Published: February 2013

Based on a transactional model of stress, this study aims to understand the role played by attributions in selecting surface acting as emotion regulation strategy when coping with emotion‐rule dissonance. A sample of primary health care professionals (n = 87) based in Madrid filled in a questionnaire. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses were conducted to test hypotheses on the moderating effects of attributions on the relationship between emotion‐rule dissonance and surface acting. Results showed that high levels of attribution to patients of responsibility for negative events, low levels of professionals' self‐accountability, and low attribution of being able to promote a positive change strengthen the positive association between emotion‐rule dissonance and surface acting. This could explain why professionals use a potentially damaging emotion regulation strategy.
Picky hitch‐hikers: vector choice leads to directed dispersal and fat‐tailed kernels in a passively dispersing mite
Authors: Fronhofer Emanuel A. , Sperr Ellen B. , Kreis Anna , Ayasse Manfred , Poethke Hans Joachim , Tschapka Marco
Published: February 2013

Dispersal is a central life‐history trait for most animals and plants: it allows to colonize new habitats, escape from competition or avoid inbreeding. Yet, not all species are mobile enough to perform sufficient dispersal. Such passive dispersers may use more mobile animals as dispersal vectors. If multiple potential vectors are available, an active choice can allow to optimize the dispersal process and to determine the distribution of dispersal distances, i.e. an optimal dispersal kernel.

We explore dispersal and vector choice in the neotropical flower mite Spadiseius calyptrogynae using a dual approach which combines experiments with an individual‐based simulation model. Spadiseius calyptrogynae is found in lowland rainforests in Costa Rica. It inhabits inflorescences of the understorey palm Calyptrogyne ghiesbreghtiana and is phoretic on a number of flower visitors including bats, beetles and stingless bees. We hypothesised that the mites should optimise their dispersal kernel by actively choosing a specific mix of potential phoretic vectors.

In a simple olfactometer setup we showed that the flower mites do indeed discriminate between potential vectors. Subsequently we used an individual‐based model to analyse the evolutionary forces responsible for the observed patterns of vector choice. The mites combine vectors exhibiting long‐distance dispersal with those allowing for more localized dispersal. This results in a fat‐tailed dispersal kernel that guarantees the occasional colonization of new host plant patches (long distance) while optimizing the exploitation of clumped resources (local dispersal). Additionally, kin competition results in a preference for small vectors that transport only few individuals at a time. At the same time, these vectors lead to directed dispersal towards suitable habitat, which increases the stability of this very specialized interaction. Our findings can be applied to other phoretic systems but also to vector‐based seed dispersal, for example.
Functional role of progestin and the progesterone receptor in the suppression of spermatogenesis in rodents
Authors: Lue Yanhe , Wang Christina , Lydon John P , Leung Andrew , Li James , Swerdloff Ronald S.
Published: February 2013

Synthetic progestins such as levonorgestrel (LNG) are used in combination with testosterone (T) in male contraceptive clinical trials to suppress gonadotropins secretion, but whether progestins have additional direct effects on the testis are not known. This study aimed to examine the effect of a potent progestin, (LNG), alone or in combination with testosterone (T) on spermatogenesis in adult rats, and to evaluate the functional role of the progesterone receptors (PRs) in the testis. In comparison with a low dose of LNG treatment in adult rats for 4 weeks, T and T + LNG treatment decreased testicular sperm count to 64.1 and 40.2% of control levels respectively. LNG induced germ cell apoptosis at stages I–IV and XII–XIV; T increased apoptosis at stages VII–VIII; LNG + T treatment induced greater germ cell apoptosis at a wider range of seminiferous epithelial stages. RT‐PCR and Western Blots showed that PR was present in testes and up‐regulated during suppression of spermatogenesis induced by testicular hormonal deprivation. PR knockout (PRKO) mice had larger testes, greater sperm production, increased numbers of Sertoli and Leydig cells. Suppression of gonadotropin and intratesticular T by GnRH‐antagonist treatment induced PR promoter driven LacZ expression in Leydig cells of PRKO mice. This suggests that GnRH‐antagonist treatment while inducing germ cell apoptosis also up‐regulates PR. We conclude that (i) LNG + T induced greater suppression of spermatogenesis through increase in germ cell apoptosis involving a wider range of seminiferous epithelial stages than either treatment alone, (ii) up‐regulation of PR was associated with inhibition of spermatogenesis, (iii) PR knockout mice showed increased sperm production suggesting that testicular PR activated events play a physiological and pharmacological inhibitory role in the testis. These data support the hypothesis that in addition to its known suppressive effects on gonadotropins, progestins may have direct inhibitory actions on the testis.