bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of decision context on perceived risk in pricing strategies: how managers view uncontrollable environmental forces
Authors: Forman Howard , Hunt James M.
Published: April 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to assess managers' evaluation of risk associated with applicable uncontrollable forces when developing pricing strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study is based on attribution theory. An experiment using more than 100 business managers was conducted to assess the perceived risk of uncontrollable environmental factors.

Findings

The findings suggest that when uncontrollable environmental factors dominate pricing managers tend to select pricing strategies with external orientations to deflect risk away from themselves personally.

Research limitations/implications

This research is limited to pricing strategies and not a broader selection of marketing strategies. The present research provides greater insight as to why managers make certain strategic pricing decisions.

Practical implications

This paper suggests management should frame decision‐making contexts so that minimizing personal exposure is consistent with corporate goals and objectives.

Originality/value

This paper is an extension of previous research examining the managers' perception of risk. In particular, this paper focuses on how managers examine/evaluate risk and how that impacts their decision‐making process when selecting pricing strategies.
Involvement moderates the effect of message framing on consumers' perceived monetary gain and product choice
Authors: Gamliel Eyal , Herstein Ram
Published: April 2013

Purpose

Consumers frequently have to choose between products that differ in price and quality. This study aims to hypothesize that involvement would moderate the effect of message framing on consumers' perceived monetary gain when considering cheaper products, as well as on product choice.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 238 participants were randomly assigned to either a positively or a negatively framed message, and either a high or low involvement condition.

Findings

The study finds that presented with a negative relative to positive frame, highly involved participants perceived a higher monetary gain when purchasing the cheaper product; no corresponding differences were found for low‐involved participants. Message framing did not affect either highly or low‐involved participants' product choice.

Research limitations/implications

Explanations for the results are offered and future research is suggested in order to determine whether the effect of message framing on the perceived monetary gain of highly involved consumers choosing cheaper products does affect their product choice.

Practical implications

If future research confirms this hypothesis, both retailers and highly involved consumers should consider the possible effect of message framing on the perceived monetary gain and on the choice between products that differ in price and quality.

Originality/value

This study is the first demonstration of the moderating effect of involvement on the effect of message framing on consumers' perceived monetary gain when choosing between products that differ in price and quality.
Optimal pricing for the growth of innovations with direct network externalities: an agent‐based approach
Authors: Nejad Mohammad G.
Published: April 2013

Purpose

This study aims to explore optimal pricing strategies for innovations with direct network externalities – the effect that the number of adopters of an innovation has on the utility of the innovation to other potential adopters. Examples of such innovations are fax machines, e‐mail, cellular phones, and software programs such as word processors. The success of these innovations requires a minimum number of adopters.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses agent‐based modeling and simulation.

Findings

The relationship between price and net present value (NPV) of revenue resembles an asymmetric inverse U‐shape. A low‐pricing strategy outperforms high‐pricing, while a moderate‐pricing strategy outperforms both low‐ and high‐pricing strategies. Moreover, heterogeneity of consumer price sensitivity positively affects the NPV of sales.

Practical implications

Pricing durable new products with network externalities is more challenging than other types of innovations. The results indicate that firms can maximize their NPV by adopting a moderate pricing strategy. Moreover, firms must consider heterogeneity of consumer price sensitivity along with the market price elasticity when making pricing decisions. Detailed strategic implications and recommendations are discussed.

Originality/value

Several recent studies have called for examining pricing strategies for new products with network externalities. The study findings challenge the common wisdom that a penetration pricing strategy is an optimal approach for durable products with network externalities. Moreover, while other studies have highlighted the importance of market price elasticity, extensive simulation experiments conducted in this study show that heterogeneity of consumer price sensitivity is an important factor that must be considered. Finally, the study presents an agent‐based modeling approach for exploring optimal pricing of innovations with network externalities.
Web‐based horizon scanning: concepts and practice
Authors: Palomino Marco A. , Bardsley Sarah , Bown Kevin , De Lurio Jennifer , Ellwood Peter , Holland‐Smith David , Huggins Bob , Vincenti Alexandra , Woodroof Harry , Owen Richard
Published: April 2013

Purpose

In this review, the aim is first to define horizon scanning and then outline the general approach currently employed by many organisations using web‐based resources. It then aims to discuss the benefits and drivers of horizon scanning, to identify some organisations currently undertaking activities in the field, and explain in detail how the web‐based horizon scanning approach is implemented. The aim is then to conclude with a discussion of good practice and areas for further research.

Design/methodology/approach

The basis for this review is a symposium held at the UK Defence Science and Technology Laboratory in March 2010, where groups undertaking horizon scanning activities shared practices and reviewed the state of the art. Practitioners from both public sector and private organisations attending this symposium, as well as others, were invited to contribute to the manuscript, developing this as an iterative exercise over the last year.

Findings

Structured processes of web‐based horizon scanning, underpinned by strong technical understanding and principles of good practice described in the review, can add significant value to organisational decision making.

Originality/value

While a growing number of private and public sector organisations have already embarked on the use of the web as a key information resource, no detailed explanation of the web‐based horizon scanning approach has been published. The review therefore makes an original contribution to this field, with collaborations by horizon scanning practitioners, discussing what constitutes good practice and highlighting areas where future research is needed.
Strategic dialogues for research policy making in Germany
Authors: Lohr Frauke , Hallensleben Sebastian , Beyer‐Kutzner Amina
Published: April 2013

Purpose

The mere generation of foresight results is not sufficient in itself to influence research policy. Research policy makers need specific information and insight on how the structured view of the future provided by foresight affects their strategic planning. Therefore, deriving the maximum benefit from foresight activities requires a carefully designed and actively driven transfer process of foresight results into research policy making. This paper aims to present such a process (“strategic dialogue”) and illustrate it with recent examples from Germany.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors compare strategic dialogues with existing dialogue instruments and investigate the relevance of their theoretical foundations to transferring foresight results into research policy making. They capture the lessons learnt from such dialogues in a seven‐step process that can be adapted to specific situations. Specific success factors are identified and linked to the process.

Findings

Strategic dialogues have proved to be an effective and efficient instrument for achieving the transfer of results from strategic processes such as foresight into research policy making. They ensure that foresight results are processed into a form that is directly useful as an input for policy development. They also help to create a joint vision for the future and to shape supporting infrastructure measures.

Originality/value

The transfer of foresight results into research policy making has not featured prominently so far in discussions of foresight efforts and methods. However, it is a crucial element in ensuring that such activities have maximum impact.
Critical uncertainties in time: an experiment in method
Authors: Shearer Allan W.
Published: April 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe an experiment that asked what kinds of scenarios are perceived as more informative to managers in light of current decisions: scenarios that describe how critical uncertainties might develop; or, scenarios that describe what might happen if the critical uncertainties did, indeed, develop.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a commonly identified set of opinions (pending decisions, actors of influence, persistent trends, a surprise‐free scenario, and two critical uncertainties), participants were divided into two sub‐groups, each of which developed a set of scenarios. Sub‐group A articulated futures that described how the critical uncertainties might emerge. Sub‐group B articulated futures that described what might follow if the same critical uncertainties developed.

Findings

Sub‐group A believed their individual scenarios were slightly more logically comprehensible and that their set of scenarios better captured the range of concerns relevant to their pending decisions. Additionally, Sub‐group B scored the jointly created surprise‐free scenario to be less logically comprehensible than Sub‐group A.

Practical implications

This article suggests that some managers may find it challenging to see the relevance in temporally distant and uncertain futures into their decision‐making activities. Therefore, those involved in strategic planning may find it productive to connect these uncertain futures to the present.

Originality/value

This experiment contributes empirical support to the importance of connecting future events to the present day for engaging scenario users.
Measuring the relative resilience of subarctic lakes to global change: redundancies of functions within and across temporal scales
Authors: Angeler David G. , Allen Craig R. , Johnson Richard K.
Published: April 2013

Ecosystems at high altitudes and latitudes are expected to be particularly vulnerable to the effects of global change. We assessed the responses of littoral invertebrate communities to changing abiotic conditions in subarctic Swedish lakes with long‐term data (1988–2010) and compared the responses of subarctic lakes with those of more southern, hemiboreal lakes.

We used a complex systems approach, based on multivariate time‐series modelling, and identified dominant and distinct temporal frequencies in the data; that is, we tracked community change at distinct temporal scales. We determined the distribution of functional feeding groups of invertebrates within and across temporal scales. Within and cross‐scale distributions of functions have been considered to confer resilience to ecosystems, despite changing environmental conditions.

Two patterns of temporal change within the invertebrate communities were identified that were consistent across the lakes. The first pattern was one of monotonic change associated with changing abiotic lake conditions. The second was one of showing fluctuation patterns largely unrelated to gradual environmental change. Thus, two dominant and distinct temporal frequencies (temporal scales) were present in all lakes analysed.

Although the contribution of individual feeding groups varied between subarctic and hemiboreal lakes, they shared overall similar functional attributes (richness, evenness, diversity) and redundancies of functions within and between the observed temporal scales. This highlights similar resilience characteristics in subarctic and hemiboreal lakes.

Synthesis and applications. The effects of global change can be particularly strong at a single scale in ecosystems. Over time, this can cause monotonic change in communities and eventually lead to a loss of important ecosystem services upon reaching a critical threshold. Dynamics at other spatial or temporal scales can be unrelated to environmental change. The relative ‘intactness’ of these scales that are unaffected by global change and the persistence of functions at those scales may safeguard the whole system from the potential loss of functions at the scale at which global change impacts can be substantial. Thus, an understanding of scale‐specific processes provides managers with a realistic assessment of vulnerabilities and the relative resilience of ecosystems to environmental change. Explicit consideration of ‘intact’ and ‘affected’ scales in analyses of global change impacts provides opportunities to tailor more specific management plans.
Impacts of water level fluctuation on mesotrophic rich fens: acidification vs. eutrophication
Authors: Cusell Casper , Lamers Leon P. M. , van Wirdum Geert , Kooijman Annemieke
Published: April 2013

Water levels in areas with intensive agriculture have often been strictly controlled for decades. Recently, more natural fluctuating water levels have been propagated to improve the ecological quality of wetlands in these areas. This study investigated the effects of water levels on protected base‐rich mesotrophic fens during winter and summer.

 We used a mesocosm approach to simulate water level fluctuations under winter and summer conditions (light and temperature) to test the effects of water level on the biogeochemistry and vegetation of two highly endangered fen types with the brownmosses Scorpidium scorpioides and Hamatocaulis vernicosus as dominant mosses.

 Both species showed decreased photosynthetic capacity at lower water levels. These levels also resulted in decreased alkalinity due to oxidation processes in the moss layer. High water levels led to increased pH and alkalinity, due to reduction processes and infiltration of base‐rich water.

 For the P‐limited S. scorpioides mesocosms, high water levels did not lead to P mobilization or to significant changes in biomass production, P uptake and N:P ratios. However, for the mesocosms with H. vernicosus, where P limitation was not obvious, high water levels did result in P mobilization and increased P availability due to iron reduction. The lower P mobilization for S. scorpioides appeared to be related to lower total soil P content and higher Fe:P and Ca:P ratios. Although high water levels resulted in the accumulation of ammonium under winter conditions, this did not happen under summer conditions, making ammonium toxicity unlikely.

 Synthesis and applications. Our results suggest that low water levels could hamper protected brownmosses in rich fens, especially during the summer. In contrast, inundations may have a positive effect on rich fens by increasing the alkalinity. However, inundations may lead to eutrophication due to internal P mobilization in soils with a high total P content and low Fe:P ratio. Therefore, we recommend that soils with high total P content and low Fe:P ratios should not be flooded.
Nondestructive and continuous observation of nectar volume using time‐interval photography
Authors: Raihan Jahir , Kawakubo Nobumitsu
Published: April 2013

To observe temporal changes in the nectar volume of Impatiens flowers, we modified and used an interval‐shooting camera with a special flash system. Former methods of measuring nectar volume inevitably necessitated destruction or damage of the floral parts. As a consequence, accurate continuous measurements of nectar volume under natural conditions have been difficult. While considering how to overcome this problem we noticed that when flowers were observed against transmitted light from the sun, a silhouette of nectar was visible inside the spur. To exploit this phenomenon, we attached a polymer optical fiber to the built‐in flash of a compact digital camera and bent the fiber towards the camera's lens to provide backlighting. We took interval images and estimated the nectar volume from the size of nectar silhouette. To our knowledge, this is the first reported method involving the use of time‐interval photography for measuring nectar volume in situ.
Floral biology and histochemical analysis of Vanilla edwallii Hoehne (Orchidaceae: Vanilloideae): an orchid pollinated by Epicharis (Apidae: Centridini)
Authors: Pansarin Emerson R. , Aguiar João M.R.B.V. , Pansarin Ludmila M.
Published: April 2013

The genus Vanilla is the most diverse in Vanilloideae, with ca 90 species distributed among tropical regions. Despite their economic importance, studies on pollination of Vanilla are very scarce and data on pollinators of species endemic to Brazil are lacking. Based on fieldwork and laboratory investigations, the floral biology of V. edwallii was studied. The pollinators and pollination process were recorded at the Serra do Japi reserve, state of São Paulo, southeastern Brazil, and the presence of floral reward was also investigated. Vanilla edwallii blooms in summer. The lateral inflorescences produce up to four pale green flowers. The white labellum is united to the base of the column forming a mentum. In the studied population V. edwallii is pollinated by Epicharis (Hoplepicharis) affinis, where the males exhibit a territorial behavior, defending flowers from other possible flower visitors. The pollen is deposited on the scutellum of bees when they abandon the flower. The mentum region is dry, suggesting no nectar production. The only secretory structures are osmophores dispersed on the inner surface of the lip responsible for production of a sweet fragrance, which together with color and morphology of flowers is related to bee attraction. The labellum is rich in mucilaginous cells, while the mucilaginous substance is retained inside the cells. The histochemical analysis also detected the presence of phenolic compounds and starch concentrated mainly at the adaxial surface of the lip and around the vascular bundles.
Methanobactin and MmoD work in concert to act as the ‘copper‐switch’ in methanotrophs
Authors: Semrau Jeremy D. , Jagadevan Sheeja , DiSpirito Alan A. , Khalifa Ashraf , Scanlan Julie , Bergman Brandt H. , Freemeier Brittani C. , Baral Bipin S. , Bandow Nathan L. , Vorobev Alexey , Haft Daniel H. , Vuilleumier Stéphane , Murrell J. Colin
Published: April 2013

Biological oxidation of methane to methanol by aerobic bacteria is catalysed by two different enzymes, the cytoplasmic or soluble methane monooxygenase (sMMO) and the membrane‐bound or particulate methane monooxygenase (pMMO). Expression of MMOs is controlled by a ‘copper‐switch’, i.e. sMMO is only expressed at very low copper : biomass ratios, while pMMO expression increases as this ratio increases. Methanotrophs synthesize a chalkophore, methanobactin, for the binding and import of copper. Previous work suggested that methanobactin was formed from a polypeptide precursor. Here we report that deletion of the gene suspected to encode for this precursor, mbnA, in Methylosinus trichosporium OB3b, abolishes methanobactin production. Further, gene expression assays indicate that methanobactin, together with another polypeptide of previously unknown function, MmoD, play key roles in regulating expression of MMOs. Based on these data, we propose a general model explaining how expression of the MMO operons is regulated by copper, methanobactin and MmoD. The basis of the ‘copper‐switch’ is MmoD, and methanobactin amplifies the magnitude of the switch. Bioinformatic analysis of bacterial genomes indicates that the production of methanobactin‐like compounds is not confined to methanotrophs, suggesting that its use as a metal‐binding agent and/or role in gene regulation may be widespread in nature.
The Generational Effect in Turnout in the Swedish General Elections, 1960–2010
Authors: Persson Mikael , Wass Hanna , Oscarsson Henrik
Published: April 2013

Recent analyses have reported a generational pattern in electoral participation both in national and the European Parliament elections which suggests that a lower voting propensity among the younger cohorts remains relatively stable over time. Based on the Swedish national election studies 1960–2010, this article examines the magnitude of generational differences in a high‐turnout context. It contributes to earlier studies by using multilevel modeling to estimate the impacts of life cycle, generation and period on turnout and by aiming to account for the generational effect with institutional‐ and individual‐level factors. The results show a fairly modest generational effect. When controlling for the proportion of party members in the electorate and the effective number of parties, the differences between generations in their propensities to vote are substantially reduced.
Fabrication, Gastromucoadhesivity, Swelling, and Degradation of Zein–Chitosan Composite Ultrafine Fibers
Authors: Wongsasulak Saowakon , Puttipaiboon Natthon , Yoovidhya Tipaporn
Published: April 2013

Fabrication, via electrospinning, and characterization of an ultrafine structure architected from a blend of hydrophobic zein and hydrophilic chitosan (CS) were conducted. Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and nonionic surfactant, namely, Tween® 40, were employed to improve the electrospinnability of the blend, while ethanol was used as a solvent for zein. The effects of ethanol (EtOH) concentration (85% and 90%) and ratio of zein/PEO/CS (95/2.5/2.5 and 87.5/10/2.5) on the fiber morphology as well as gastromucoadhesivity against porcine stomach mucosa were then investigated; polymer‐mucosa adhesion was also investigated via Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy. Swelling and degradation of the composite ultrafine fibers were investigated under 2 simulated gastric conditions, namely, at pH 2 without pepsin and at pH 1.2 with pepsin. Using 85% EtOH as a solvent for zein resulted in a spider‐web‐like morphology; the maximum detachment force (MDF), which is an indirect indicator of the gastromucoadhesivity was nevertheless higher. Zein‐based ultrafine fibers exhibited higher MDF than the zein‐PEO‐CS composite; however, the cohesiveness of the composite fibers was higher. FTIR spectroscopic results indicated molecular interactions between the composite fibers and mucin functional groups. Swelling of the composite ultrafine fibers in simulated gastric fluid (SGF) at pH 2 without pepsin was not different from that in SGF at pH 1.2 with pepsin. Nevertheless, degradation of the composite fibers in SGF at pH 2 without pepsin was much less than that in SGF at pH 1.2 with pepsin; only 20% degradation was noted in the former case.
Protein Oxidation at Different Salt Concentrations Affects the Cross‐Linking and Gelation of Pork Myofibrillar Protein Catalyzed by Microbial Transglutaminase
Authors: Li Chunqiang , Xiong Youling L. , Chen Jie
Published: April 2013

In a fabricated then restructured meat product, protein gelation plays an essential role in producing desirable binding and fat‐immobilization properties. In the present study, myofibrillar protein (MFP) suspended in 0.15, 0.45, and 0.6 M NaCl was subjected to hydroxyl radical stress for 2 or 24 h and then treated with microbial transglutaminase (MTGase) in 0.6 M NaCl (E : S = 1 : 20) at 4 and 15 °C for 2 h. Protein cross‐linking and dynamic rheological tests were performed to assess the efficacy of MTGase for mediating the gelation of oxidized MFP. MTGase treatments affected more remarkable polymerization of myosin in oxidized MFP than in nonoxidized, especially for samples oxidized at 0.6 M NaCl. Notably, the extent of MTGase‐induced myosin cross‐linking at 15 °C in oxidized MFP improved up to 46.8%, compared to 31.6% in nonoxidized MFP. MTGase treatment at 4 °C for MFP oxidized in 0.6 M NaCl, but not MFP oxidized in 0.15 M NaCl, produced stronger gels than nonoxidized MFP (P < 0.05). The final (75 °C) storage modulus (G′) of oxidized MFP gels was significantly greater than that of nonoxidized, although the G′ of the transient peak (∼44.5 °C) showed the opposite trend. Overall, oxidation at high salt concentrations significantly improved MTGase‐mediated myosin cross‐linking and MFP gelation. This might be because under this condition, MTGase had an increased accessibility to glutamine and lysine residues to effectively initiate protein–protein interactions and gel network formation.
Assembly‐free metagenomic analysis reveals new metabolic capabilities in surface ocean bacterioplankton
Authors: Luo Haiwei , Moran Mary Ann
Published: April 2013

Uncovering the metabolic capabilities of microbes is key to understanding global energy flux and nutrient transformations. Since the vast majority of environmental microorganisms are uncultured, metagenomics has become an important tool to genotype the microbial community. This study uses a recently developed computational method to confidently assign metagenomic reads to microbial clades without the requirement of metagenome assembly by comparing the evolutionary pattern of nucleotide sequences at non‐synonymous sites between metagenomic and orthologous reference genes. We found evidence for new, ecologically relevant metabolic pathways in several lineages of surface ocean bacterioplankton using theGlobalOceanSurvey (GOS) metagenomic data, including assimilatory sulfate reduction and alkaline phosphatase capabilities in the alphaproteobacterialSAR11 clade, and proteorhodopsin‐like genes in the cyanobacterial genusProchlorococcus. These findings raise new hypotheses about microbial roles in energy flux and organic matter transformation in the ocean.
Pro‐inflammatory capacity of classically activated monocytes relates positively to muscle mass and strength
Authors: Beenakker Karel G. M. , Westendorp Rudi G. J. , de Craen Anton J. M. , Slagboom Pieternella E. , van Heemst Diana , Maier Andrea B.
Published: April 2013

In mice, monocytes that exhibit a pro‐inflammatory profile enter muscle tissue after muscle injury and are crucial for clearance of necrotic tissue and stimulation of muscle progenitor cell proliferation and differentiation. The aim of this study was to test if pro‐inflammatory capacity of classically activated (M1) monocytes relates to muscle mass and strength in humans. This study included 191 male and 195 female subjects (mean age 64.2 years (SD 6.4) and 61.9 ± 6.4, respectively) of the Leiden Longevity Study. Pro‐inflammatory capacity of M1 monocytes was assessed by ex vivo stimulation of whole blood with Toll‐like receptor (TLR) 4 agonist lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and TLR‐2/1 agonist tripalmitoyl‐S‐glycerylcysteine (Pam3Cys‐SK4), both M1 phenotype activators. Cytokines that stimulate M1 monocyte response (IFN‐γ and GM‐CSF) as well as cytokines that are secreted by M1 monocytes (IL‐6, TNF‐α, IL‐12, and IL‐1β) were measured. Analyses were adjusted for age, height, and body fat mass. Upon stimulation with LPS, the cytokine production capacity of INF‐γ, GM‐CSF, and TNF‐α was significantly positively associated with lean body mass, appendicular lean mass and handgrip strength in men, but not in women. Upon stimulation with Pam3Cys‐SK4, IL‐6; TNF‐α; and Il‐1β were significantly positively associated with lean body mass and appendicular lean in women, but not in men. Taken together, this study shows that higher pro‐inflammatory capacity of M1 monocytes upon stimulation is associated with muscle characteristics and sex dependent.
Behavioural responses of free‐ranging western grey kangaroos (Macropus fuliginosus) to olfactory cues of historical and recently introduced predators
Authors: Mella Valentina S. A. , Cooper Christine E. , Davies Stephen J. J. F.
Published: April 2013

Predation risk influences foraging decisions and time allocation of prey species, and may result in habitat shifts from potentially dangerous to safer areas. We examined a wild population of western grey kangaroos (Macropus fuliginosus) to test the efficacy of predator faecal odour in influencing time allocated to different behaviours and inducing changes in habitat use. Kangaroos were exposed to fresh faeces of a historical predator, the dingo (Canis lupus dingo), a recently introduced predator, the red fox (Vulpes vulpes), a herbivore (horse, Equus caballus) and an unscented control simultaneously. Kangaroos did not increase vigilance in predator‐scented areas. However, they investigated odour sources by approaching and sniffing; more time was spent investigating fox odour than control odours. Kangaroos then exhibited a clear anti‐predator response to predator odours, modifying their space use by rapidly escaping, then avoiding fox and dingo odour sources. Our results demonstrate that wild western grey kangaroos show behavioural responses to predator faeces, investigating then avoiding these olfactory cues of potential predation risk, rather than increasing general vigilance. This study contributes to our understanding of the impact of introduced mammalian predators on marsupial prey and demonstrates that a native Australian marsupial can recognize and respond to the odour of potential predators, including one that has been recently introduced.
Evaluation of synthetic sex pheromone for monitoring and management of raspberry crown borer Pennisetia marginata (Lepidoptera: Sesiidae)
Authors: Teasdale Carolyn , Judd Gary J. R. , Gries Regine , Gries Gerhard
Published: April 2013

(E,Z)‐3,13‐Octadecadienal (E3,Z13‐18:Ald) was recently identified as a sex pheromone component of the raspberry crown borer Pennisetia marginata (Harris) (Lepidoptera: Sesiidae). Although unstable, this pheromone may have utility for monitoring the seasonal abundance and flight phenology of adult P. marginata, as well as for developing control tactics, such as disorienting mate‐seeking males. Experiments conducted in raspberry and blackberry crops tested the effect of lure and trap attributes on captures of male P. marginata.

Increasing lure loads (10, 100 or 1000 µg) of E3,Z13‐18:Ald significantly increased trap captures.

Freshly prepared lures were significantly more attractive than lures aged for 2–10 days at room temperature.

White wing traps and white delta traps were more effective than green delta or green bucket traps.

Trap height in the crop canopy had no effect on the capture of males.

When sex pheromone components of three other sesiid moth species were added to E3,Z13‐18:Ald, the attraction of male P. marginata was reduced and, thus, these components were identified as pheromone antagonists.

Pheromone‐based mass trapping with 25 wing traps per hectare reduced captures of males in traps baited with a low‐dose (10 µg) pheromone lure by 67–87% in 2011.
Moving from peanut extract to peanut components: towards validation of component‐resolved IgE tests
Authors: Aalberse J. A. , Meijer Y. , Derksen N. , van der Palen‐Merkus T. , Knol E. , Aalberse R. C.
Published: April 2013

Background

Replacement of peanut extracts by recombinant peanut components is an important step in allergy serologic testing. Criteria are needed for the unbiased inclusion of patients into a study to validate such a replacement.

Methods

Plasma samples from 64 peanut‐positive children (42 reactors, 22 nonreactors in a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled food challenge) were used to compare IgE reactivity to six recombinant peanut allergens with reactivity to natural peanut proteins extracted at neutral or low pH. We tested the hypothesis that poor extractability of Ara h 9 and other basic allergens at neutral pH leads to under‐representation of patients with such sensitization.

Results

IgE reactivity to the components did not fully explain IgE reactivity to peanut extract in 5 of 32 reactors with IgE to peanut extract ≤100 kUA/l. IgE reactivity to components was stronger than to the extract in 11 plasma samples, which was largely due to a low Ara h 8 reactivity of the extract. IgE reactivity to Ara h 9 was much lower than reactivity to other basic proteins, some of which bound IgE well in the RAST, but lost IgE reactivity upon immunoblotting.

Conclusions

Conventional peanut extracts are deficient in significant IgE‐binding components. The inclusion of patients for a validation study should be based on serology performed with improved peanut reagents to avoid a bias against these under‐represented, potentially important allergens. To judge clinical relevance of an allergen, the reagent used for inclusion of patients needs to be efficient in detecting IgE to this component.
Cedar and cypress pollen counts are associated with the prevalence of allergic diseases in Japanese schoolchildren
Authors: Yoshida K. , Adachi Y. , Akashi M. , Itazawa T. , Murakami Y. , Odajima H. , Ohya Y. , Akasawa A.
Published: April 2013

Background

Patients allergic to pollen have been known to become more symptomatic during pollen season compared with the nonpollen season. However, there are few studies regarding whether higher exposure to pollen might increase the prevalence of allergic diseases.

Methods

An ecological analysis was conducted to evaluate whether pollen exposure is associated with the prevalence of allergic diseases in schoolchildren. Pollen count data of Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) and Japanese cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa), which are the major pollen allergens in Japan, were obtained from each prefecture. The prevalence of allergic diseases in schoolchildren in each prefecture was based on a nationwide cross‐sectional survey using the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood questionnaire.

Results

After omitting three prefectures where pollen data were not available, data of 44 prefectures were analysed. The prevalence of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis in children aged 6–7 years was positively associated with both cedar and cypress pollen counts (P = 0.01, both), whereas the prevalence of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis in children aged 13–14 years was positively associated with only cypress pollen counts (P = 0.003). Furthermore, the prevalence of asthma was positively associated with cedar pollen counts in 6‐ to 7‐year‐old children (P = 0.003) but not cypress pollen counts in either age group.

Conclusions

There are ecological associations between pollen counts and the prevalence of allergic diseases in Japanese schoolchildren. Further studies are needed to determine whether the difference between the effects of cedar and cypress pollens is attributable to pollen counts or allergenicity.
An evaluation of non‐Luer safety connectors for neuraxial procedures
Authors: Sharpe P. , Scott S. , Gross J. M.
Published: April 2013

We evaluated seven non‐Luer spinal needles in a two‐part study. In part 1, we measured the time to see and collect simulated cerebrospinal fluid. In part 2, clinicians scored needle quality using a standardised questionnaire. The mean (SD) times to see cerebrospinal fluid varied in the lateral position from 4.2 (0.3) s (Vygon) to 25.2 (1.5) s (Sarstedt), and in the sitting position from 1.7 (0.2) s (BBraun) to 6.6 (0.3) s (Sarstedt). The time to collect cerebrospinal fluid varied from 43 (2.5) s (Vygon) to 139 (9.6) s (Pajunk) and from 19 (0.4) s (BBraun) to 34 (1.7) s (Pajunk), for the lateral and sitting positions, respectively. Median (IQR [range]) satisfaction scores in 205 needle function assessments were as follows: Sarstedt 9.0 (8.0–9.3 [5.0–10.0]); BD 8.0 (7.0–9.5 [3.0–10.0]); Pajunk 9.0 (8.0–9.8 [5.0–10.0]); Neurax 8.0 (7.0–9.0 [2.0–9.0]); Smiths 8.0 (7.0–9.0 [4.0–10.0]); Vygon 8.0 (7.5–9.0 [5.0–10.0]); and BBraun 9.0 (9.0–10.0 [7.0–10.0]). The difference in satisfaction scores between the BBraun and Neurax was significant (p < 0.01). A number of recurrent problems were found during the evaluation. The variation in time to collect cerebrospinal fluid samples may have implications for non‐anaesthetic practice. This evaluation provides a baseline to assist others in commencing their procurement process.
Does Social Support Really Help to Eat a Low‐Fat Diet? Main Effects and Gender Differences of Received Social Support within the Health Action Process Approach
Authors: Scholz Urte , Ochsner Sibylle , Hornung Rainer , Knoll Nina
Published: April 2013

Background: Most theories of health‐behavior change focus exclusively on individual self‐regulation without taking social factors, such as social support, into account. This study's first aim was to systematically test the added value of received instrumental and emotional social support within the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) in the context of dietary change. In the social support literature, gender effects emerge with regard to the effectiveness of social support. Thus, a second aim was the examination of gender differences in the association of social support with dietary behavior. Methods: Participants were 252 overweight and obese individuals. At baseline and 12 months later, participants completed questionnaires on HAPA variables; diet‐specific received social support and low‐fat diet. Results: For the prediction of intentions 12 months later, instrumental support was more beneficial for men than for women over and above individual self‐regulation. In terms of dietary behavior at T2, a moderate main effect of instrumental support emerged. Moreover, received emotional social support was beneficial for men, but not for women in terms of a low‐fat diet 12 months later. Conclusions: Effects of received instrumental social support found in this study provide new evidence for the added value of integrating social support into the HAPA.
Melatonin Attenuates Isoflurane‐Induced Acute Memory Impairments in Aged Rats
Authors: Liu Yajie , Ni Cheng , Tang Yi , Tian Xiaosheng , Zhou Yang , Qian Min , Li Zhengqian , Chui Dehua , Guo Xiangyang
Published: April 2013

Melatonin is an endogenous hormone with neuroprotective effects. Melatonin levels in elderly patients are reduced after surgeries that require anaesthesia. Whether reduced melatonin levels are important for postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) remains unclear. Here, we investigated the effects of melatonin on cognitive dysfunctions induced by isoflurane and mechanisms underlying these effects. Seventy‐two 20‐month‐old Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into six groups (n = 12). These groups included M1 and M10 groups that received intraperitoneal melatonin at 1 mg/kg or 10 mg/kg, respectively, and an ISO group that received 4 hr of inhaled 2% isoflurane. They also included M1+ISO and M10+ISO groups that received 1 mg/kg or 10 mg/kg of melatonin plus 4 hr of inhaled 2% isoflurane, respectively, and a control group that received an equal volume of saline. Injections were administered daily for 14 consecutive days. Memory was assessed in the Morris water maze. Plasma and hippocampi were harvested to determine melatonin concentrations and MT1/MT2 receptor expression. Rats treated only with isoflurane showed significantly longer latencies in Morris water maze test trials compared with the control group, with shorter time in the probe trial (p < 0.05). Although plasma melatonin levels and MT2 expression in the hippocampus were significantly decreased, MT1 expression was higher in the isoflurane group than in the control group (p < 0.001). However, these parameters did not significantly vary in animals administered melatonin compared with controls. Isoflurane may induce cognitive dysfunction by influencing melatonin and MT1/MT2 levels. Melatonin can improve cognitive dysfunction by normalizing plasma melatonin and its receptor levels.
Response to lenalidomide in myelodysplastic syndromes with del(5q): influence of cytogenetics and mutations
Authors: Mallo Mar , del Rey Mónica , Ibáñez Mariam , Calasanz Mª José , Arenillas Leonor , Larráyoz Mª José , Pedro Carmen , Jerez Andrés , Maciejewski Jaroslaw , Costa Dolors , Nomdedeu Meritxell , Diez‐Campelo María , Lumbreras Eva , González‐Martínez Teresa , Marugán Isabel , Such Esperanza , Cervera José , Cigudosa Juan C. , Álvarez Sara , Florensa Lourdes , Hernández Jesús Mª , Solé Francesc
Published: April 2013

Lenalidomide is an effective drug in low‐risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) with isolated del(5q), although not all patients respond. Studies have suggested a role for TP53 mutations and karyotype complexity in disease progression and outcome. In order to assess the impact of complex karyotypes on treatment response and disease progression in 52 lenalidomide‐treated patients with del(5q) MDS, conventional G‐banding cytogenetics (CC), single nucleotide polymorphism array (SNP‐A), and genomic sequencing methods were used. SNP‐A analysis (with control sample, lymphocytes CD3+, in 30 cases) revealed 5q losses in all cases. Other recurrent abnormalities were infrequent and were not associated with lenalidomide responsiveness. Low karyotype complexity (by CC) and a high baseline platelet count (>280 × 109/l) were associated with the achievement of haematological response (P = 0·020, P = 0·013 respectively). Unmutated TP53 status showed a tendency for haematological response (P = 0·061). Complete cytogenetic response was not observed in any of the mutated TP53 cases. By multivariate analysis, the most important predictor for lenalidomide treatment failure was a platelet count <280 × 109/l (Odds Ratio = 6·17, P = 0·040). This study reveals the importance of a low baseline platelet count, karyotypic complexity and TP53 mutational status for response to lenalidomide treatment. It supports the molecular study of TP53 in MDS patients treated with lenalidomide.
CD146 and insulin‐like growth factor 2 mRNA‐binding protein 3 predict prognosis of asbestos‐induced rat mesothelioma
Authors: Okazaki Yasumasa , Nagai Hirotaka , Chew Shan H. , Li Jiang , Funahashi Satomi , Tsujimura Tohru , Toyokuni Shinya
Published: April 2013

Malignant mesothelioma (MM), which is associated with asbestos exposure, is one of the most deadly tumors in humans. Early MM is concealed in the serosal cavities and lacks specific clinical symptoms. For better treatment, early detection and prognostic markers are necessary. Recently, CD146 and insulin‐like growth factor 2 mRNA‐binding protein 3 (IMP3) were reported as possible positive markers of MM to distinguish from reactive mesothelia in humans. However, their application on MM of different species and its impact on survival remain to be elucidated. To disclose the utility of these molecules as early detection and prognostic markers of MM, we injected chrysotile or crocidolite intraperitoneally to rats, thus obtaining 26 peritoneal MM and establishing 11 cell lines. We immunostained CD146 and IMP3 using paraffin‐embedded tissues and cell blocks and found CD146 and IMP3 expression in 58% (15/26) and 65% (17/26) of MM, respectively, but not in reactive mesothelia. There was no significant difference in both immunostainings for overexpression among the three histological subtypes of MM and the expression of CD146 and IMP3 was proportionally associated. Furthermore, the overexpression of CD146 and/or IMP3 was proportionally correlated with shortened survival. These results suggest that CD146 and IMP3 are useful diagnostic and prognostic markers of MM.
Synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis and osteitis syndrome with trigeminal brainstem involvement
Authors: Redondo Robles Laura , Fernández Menéndez Santiago , Galiana Ivars Alberto , Vázquez Sánchez Fernando , Tejada García Javier , Guerra Laso Jose Manuel
Published: April 2013

The synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis and osteitis (SAPHO) syndrome is defined as the association of characteristic osteoarticular and dermatological manifestations. The diagnosis is based on clinical and radiological aspects, but in the recent years it has been described as an extension of other systems different from the skin and the bones. We report the first case of parenchymal brainstem trigeminal involvement in the context of clinically‐active SAPHO syndrome. We review the literature and discuss the underlying mechanism of this multi‐organ presentation.
Uremic Cardiomyopathy: An Underdiagnosed Disease
Authors: Alhaj Eyad , Alhaj Nehad , Rahman Ifad , Niazi Tariq O. , Berkowitz Robert , Klapholz Marc
Published: April 2013

Uremic cardiomyopathy is responsible for high morbidity and mortality rates among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or end‐stage renal disease (ESRD); however, the early implementation of hemodialysis may halt its progression. Nonconventional hemodialysis, such as frequent hemodialysis, appears to have an advantage over conventional hemodialysis. Kidney transplantation has been shown to reverse uremic cardiomyopathy and to confer a significant survival advantage over hemodialysis. Targeting future therapies at the underlying cellular mechanisms of uremic cardiomyopathy may finally start to reduce the burden of uremic cardiomyopathy in the CKD and ESRD population.
Completely steroid‐free immunosuppression in liver transplantation: a randomized study
Authors: Ramirez Carlo B. , Doria Cataldo , Frank Adam M. , Armenti Stephen T. , Marino Ignazio R.
Published: April 2013

Introduction

Corticosteroids (CS) have been standard immunosuppression to prevent and treat rejection. However, CS are associated with increased risk of infection, obesity, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and accelerated hepatitis C virus (HCV) recurrence post‐orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). This study assesses the safety and efficacy of CS‐free immunosuppressive regimen in adult OLT.

Methods

A two‐yr, prospective, randomized study of CS with delayed withdrawal (CS) or CS‐free regimen with basiliximab, tacrolimus, and enteric‐coated mycophenolate sodium (EC‐MPS) was performed in 39 patients (CS=20; CS‐free=19). CS group received intra‐operative methylprednisolone weaned by six months. HCV patients had HCV PCR pre‐OLT and 0.5, one, three, and six months post‐OLT. Protocol liver biopsies were performed at OLT, 2 and 24 wk post‐OLT or when indicated.

Results

Rejection occurred in two patients. Patient survival at one yr (100% vs. 95%), three yr (85% vs. 63%), and five yr (80% vs. 63%) post‐OLT were similar between CS and CS‐free group, respectively. Death‐censored graft survival at one yr (100% vs. 95%), three yr (85% vs. 63%), and five yr (75% vs. 63%) were also similar. The risk of new‐onset DM, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and weight gain was similar between groups.

Conclusion

CS avoidance with basiliximab, calcineurin inhibitor, and EC‐MPS is safe and effective as CS‐ containing immunosuppression in adult OLT.