bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Culture and Economy Meet inSouthKorea: The Politics of Cultural Economy in Culture‐led Urban Regeneration
Authors: Shin HaeRan , Stevens Quentin
Published: July 2012

This article investigates the ways in which cultural economy is formed through negotiation and interaction between local actors in the case of culture‐led regeneration inGwangju,SouthKorea. It looks at the dynamics between the bureaucrats' pursuit of economic growth in the city and the efforts of civil society to maintain a strong political spirit throughout the regeneration process. Through in‐depth interviews with various participants and archival analysis, the politics of cultural economy are examined in relation to theGwangjuBiennale and theCity ofCulture project. The findings show that in these two cases bureaucrats were the dominant force, a tendency that instrumentalized culture. They also illustrate that this dominance brought about resistance from civil society. However, in the process of both engaging in conflict and working with each other, the different discourses of economic growth and cultural meaning were integrated, and in the process mutual learning and adaptation took place among members of the two groups. Civil society also faced cleavages resulting from different approaches to how to collaborate with the bureaucrats and its ensuing self‐reflection on communicative value enhanced its rehabilitation. The article argues that the politics of cultural economy is dynamic, involving processes of renegotiation, adaptation and self‐realization. It also offers the possibility of a new arena for the public sphere. Civil society plays a critical role in the integration of culture and economy.
Cultural Economy Planning in Creative Cities: Discourse and Practice
Authors: Grodach Carl
Published: July 2012

While a growing body of research analyses the functional mechanisms of the cultural or creative economy, there has been little attention devoted to understanding how local governments translate this work into policy. Moreover, research in this vein focuses predominately on Richard Florida's creative class thesis rather than considering the wider body of work that may influence policy. This article seeks to develop a deeper understanding of how municipalities conceptualize and plan for the cultural economy through the lens of two cities held up as model ‘creative cities’ — Austin, Texas and Toronto, Ontario. The work pays particular attention to how the cities adopt and adapt leading theories, strategies and discourses of the cultural economy. While policy documents indicate that the cities embrace the creative city model, in practice agencies tend to adapt conventional economic development strategies for cultural economy activity and appropriate the language of the creative city for multiple purposes.
The Experience of Labour Emigration in the Life of Married Women: The Case of Podlasie, Poland
Authors: Cieślińska Barbara
Published: July 2012

In this paper, I focus on the experiences of female labour migrants, looking particularly at the emigration of married women from a region with a long‐established culture of emigration, in the context of the accession of Poland to the European Union. The paper is empirical in its content and is based mainly on emigration stories and narratives recorded in the form of biography or autobiography. I discuss different stages of the migration process – the decision to migrate; the experience of migration (in particular, with reference to its impact on families, both abroad and at home), and also the consequences of migration for Polish society, particularly with reference to family cohesion and changing gender roles.
The Determinants of Human Trafficking: A US Case Study
Authors: Jac‐Kucharski Alicja
Published: July 2012

Human trafficking is a global problem. In this paper, I seek to find the determinants of international human trafficking by using the US as a case study. Previous studies have drawn primarily from the migration literature, proposing hypotheses that focus on economic factors, the level of democracy and other “push” factors in the countries of origin that create incentives for individuals to migrate. However, we know that international human trafficking is an involuntary form of migration and may be influenced by additional factors. I hypothesize that factors that influence the cost–benefit calculation of the trafficker determine the volume of human trafficking, in addition to the factors that affect the size of the pool of trafficking victims. I test my theory using the negative binomial regression model. My results indicate that while income inequality within a country and poor protection of women's rights are likely to produce a specific pool of victims, it is the reduction of operational costs for the trafficker that increases the number of individuals who are trafficked.
Homelessness Abroad: “Place Utility” in the Narratives of the Polish Homeless in Brussels
Authors: Mostowska Magdalena
Published: July 2012

Among different groups of Poles in Brussels there are an estimated twenty thousand Polish migrants performing undocumented work. The presence of homeless Poles in Brussels indicates the vulnerability of some of the European labour migrants. The article is based on fieldwork conducted amongst Polish people sleeping rough in Brussels in 2008 and 2009. Most of the homeless informants were construction workers, who lost their living quarters due to seasonal unemployment, alcohol problems, illness or other incidents. In the article I analyse their narratives using Julian Wolpert's concept of “place utility” to confront the way they talk about their adaptation to the environment with the risks and opportunities they attach to staying in Brussels and their possible return migration to Poland. I present four types of homeless migrants and their different situations and survival strategies. The analysis includes their perception of life in Brussels and Poland. The narratives of most of them seem to share the perception of Poland's lower “anticipated place utility” in comparison with Brussels. The decision not to return to Poland minimizes the perceived risks and uncertainty. It avoids psychological strains, such as feelings of shame, frustration and confronting their families and friends. Living on the streets of Brussels seems “optimal” to them, under the circumstances. This example shows that economically unsuccessful migrations cannot be easily terminated; that the risks and profits are not equally distributed across family members; and that the different rationalities of all the actors and their self‐limitations should also be taken into account. Further studies of homelessness among working immigrants may contribute to a better understanding of some of the migration phenomena.
Patterns of cranial size variation in two sibling species Plecotus auritus and P. austriacus (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae) in a contact zone
Authors: Postawa T. , Zagorodniuk I. , Bachanek J.
Published: July 2012

The coexistence in one area of two species with similar ecological requirements can lead to their morphological convergence or divergence. Convergence may be the result of adaptation to new conditions (species share a niche), whereas divergence may be the effect of competition for a resource (species compete for a niche). Compatibility with Bergmann's rule is possible in species with a significant latitudinal range. We tested whether potential differences between two long‐eared bat species are consistent with character displacement or Bergmann's rule by investigating variability in cranial morphology of Plecotus auritus and P. austriacus, which commonly occur in Central and Eastern Europe. We used 111 complete specimens from the allopatric range of P. auritus (nine localities) and sympatric P. auritus and P. austriacus (44 localities) from Poland and Ukraine. A traditional morphometric method was used to evaluate variation in cranial size between the species in their ranges. Discriminant function analysis of cranial dimensions showed larger differences between sympatric populations of P. austriacus and P. auritus than between allopatric P. auritus and a sympatric population of P. austriacus. A subsequent analysis showed that most cranial variables (excluding elements of the skull responsible for prey capture and elements partly associated with echolocation) from the sympatric population of P. auritus are smaller than those homologues from allopatric populations. Larger individuals from the allopatric population originate from the northern part of the study area; however, we did not detect an association of cranial variability with latitude pattern. The variation in size of the cranium between individuals from allopatric and sympatric ranges of P. auritus can be explained by different preferences in each range for prey that vary in hardness. P. auritus consumed significantly more hard‐bodied insects in allopatry than in sympatry. This example is one of few confirmed morphological cases of competitive character displacement.
‘The transit of the food trolley’– malnutrition in older people and nurses’ perception of the problem
Authors: Bonetti Loris , Bagnasco Annamaria , Aleo Giuseppe , Sasso Loredana
Published: July 2012

Scand J Caring Sci; 2013; 27; 440–448

‘The transit of the food trolley’– malnutrition in older people and nurses’ perception of the problem

Aims:  To investigate how the issue of malnutrition in institutionalised older people is perceived by nurses in a Teaching Hospital in Italy and how some aspects that can prevent malnutrition are dealt with.

Background:  Malnutrition in institutionalised older people is still a significant and unresolved problem. Many studies have been published on the inadequacy of nutritional care. Nurses play a strategic and key role in the prevention of malnutrition. Knowing how nurses perceive the problem of malnutrition and how they deal with aspects that can prevent malnutrition can be an important starting point for implementing strategies that will improve overall nutritional care.

Methods:  A Focus Group (FGs) study was conducted in a Teaching Hospital in the north‐west of Italy with 33 nurses, who were still working or had worked with older people. The FGs were audio‐taped and transcribed verbatim. Data collection was stopped when we achieved saturation.

Two researchers independently analysed the transcription for content analysis and negotiated the emerging categories.

Results:  Although nurses perceived malnutrition as a significant issue, it was often considered of secondary importance compared with other aspects of care. Food choice, although available, is often limited to very few options, diets are standardised and monotonous and patients must choose ‘sight unseen’. Time constraints and understaffing were the obstacles for the identification of the need for nutritional care. Organisational and managerial decision‐making did not ensure the provision of high‐quality nutritional care. Patients’ nutritional status was often not assessed, and tools such as the Mini Nutritional Assessment were not mentioned by the participants.

Conclusion:  Our study substantially confirmed what is reported in the literature. However, it is necessary to raise nurses’ awareness around poor nutritional care to prevent malnutrition in institutionalised older people.
Permian polar forests: deciduousness and environmental variation
Authors: Gulbranson E. L. , Isbell J. L. , Taylor E. L. , Ryberg P. E. , Taylor T. N. , Flaig P. P.
Published: July 2012

Forests are expected to expand into northern polar latitudes in the next century. However, the impact of forests at high latitudes on climate and terrestrial biogeochemical cycling is poorly understood because such forests cannot be studied in the modern. This study presents forestry and geochemical analyses of threein situfossil forests from Late Permian strata of Antarctica, which grew at polar latitudes. Stem size measurements and stump spacing measurements indicate significant differences in forest density and canopy structure that are related to the local depositional setting. For forests closest to fluvial systems, tree density appears to decrease as the forests mature, which is the opposite trend of self‐thinning observed in modern forests. We speculate that a combination of tree mortality and high disturbance created low‐density mature forests without understory vegetation near Late Permian river systems. Stable carbon isotopes measured from permineralized wood in these forests demonstrate two important points: (i) recently developed techniques of high‐resolution carbon isotope studies of wood and mummified wood can be applied to permineralized wood, for which much of the original organic matter has been lost and (ii) that the fossil trees maintained a deciduous habit at polar latitudes during the Late Permian. The combination of paleobotanical, sedimentologic, and paleoforestry techniques provides an unrivaled examination of the function of polar forests in deep time; and the carbon isotope geochemistry supplements this work with subannual records of carbon fixation that allows for the quantitative analysis of deciduous versus evergreen habits and environmental parameters, for example, relative humidity.
The acute hemodynamic effects of blood flow restriction in the absence of exercise
Authors: Loenneke Jeremy P. , Fahs Christopher A. , Thiebaud Robert S. , Rossow Lindy M. , Abe Takashi , Ye Xin , Kim Daeyeol , Bemben Michael G.
Published: July 2012

The purpose was to investigate the acute effects of blood flow restriction (BFR) on arterial and venous hemodynamic parameters. Nine participants completed a 10‐min time control (resting condition) and then a lower body BFR protocol. The protocol was five, 5‐min bouts of restrictive cuff inflation with 3‐min of deflation between each bout. The pressure was set relative to each individual's thigh circumference. There were no significant differences between resting and BFR conditions for blood pressure or wave reflection. There was, however, a significant decrease in venous compliance and maximal venous outflow following BFR. Acute BFR with pressures relative to thigh circumference does not result in acute changes in blood pressure or wave reflection. There is, however, an acute decrease in venous compliance and maximal venous outflow, the significance of which is currently unknown. These results suggest that an acute BFR protocol affects venous but not arterial hemodynamics.
Reduced biliary sterol output with no change in total faecal excretion in mice expressing a human apolipoprotein A‐I variant
Authors: Parolini Cinzia , Caligari Silvia , Gilio Donatella , Manzini Stefano , Busnelli Marco , Montagnani Marco , Locatelli Marcello , Diani Erika , Giavarini Flavio , Caruso Donatella , Roda Enrico , Roda Aldo , Sirtori Cesare R. , Chiesa Giulia
Published: July 2012

Background/Aims

Apolipoprotein (apo)A‐IMilano, is a molecular variant of apoA‐Iwild‐type, associated with dramatically low HDL‐cholesterol levels, but no increased risk for cardiovascular disease. In view of the present uncertainties on the role of apoA‐I in liver cholesterol removal by way of bile acids and neutral sterols, and of the greater capacity of apoA‐IMilano to remove arterial cholesterol, biliary sterol metabolism was evaluated in transgenic mice expressing apoA‐IMilano.

Methods

ApoA‐IMilano mice were fed a high‐cholesterol/high‐fat diet, and compared with human apoA‐Iwild‐type mice. Plasma lipid levels, hepatic bile flow and composition, hepatic and intestinal cholesterol and bile acid content, and faecal sterol content were measured. Moreover, the expression of hepatic ABCA1, SR‐B1 and that of hepatic and intestinal genes involved in bile acid metabolism were evaluated.

Results

The dietary treatment led to a strong elevation in HDL‐cholesterol levels in A‐IMilano mice, associated with an increased expression of hepatic ABCA1. ApoA‐IMilano mice showed lower cholesterol output from the liver compared with apoA‐Iwild‐type mice, in the absence of liver sterol accumulation. Faecal excretion of neutral sterols and bile acids was similar in the two mouse lines.

Conclusions

In spite of a different response to the dietary challenge, with an increased ABCA1 expression and a lower hepatic cholesterol output in apoA‐IMilano mice, the net sterol excretion is comparable in the two transgenic lines.
Improvement of Intradialytic Hypotension in Diabetic Hemodialysis Patients Using Vitamin E‐Bonded Polysulfone Membrane Dialyzers
Authors: Koremoto Masahide , Takahara Noriko , Takahashi Masahiro , Okada Yasuhiro , Satoh Kouhei , Kimura Tomoyoshi , Hirai Tomoyuki , Ebihara Itaru , Nagasaku Daisuke , Miyata Shigeo , Maniwa Shunji , Kouzuma Takuji , Arimura Tetsurou , Kamei Junzou
Published: July 2012

Currently, there are no detailed reports on the effects of vitamin E‐bonded polysulfone (PS) membrane dialyzers on intradialytic hypotension (IDH) in diabetic hemodialysis (HD) patients. This study was designed to evaluate changes in intradialytic systolic blood pressure (SBP) using “VPS‐HA” vitamin E‐bonded super high‐flux PS membrane dialyzers. The subjects were 62 diabetic HD patients whose intradialytic SBP fell by more than 20%. Group A comprised patients who required vasopressors to be able to continue treatment or who had to discontinue therapy due to their lowest intradialytic SBP being observed at 210 min (28 patients). Group B comprised patients who showed no symptoms and required no vasopressors but showed a gradual reduction in blood pressure, with the lowest intradialytic SBP seen at the end of dialysis (34 patients). The primary outcome was defined as the lowest intradialytic SBP after 3 months using VPS‐HA. Secondary outcomes included changes in the following: lowest intradialytic diastolic blood pressure, pulse pressure, pulse rate, plasma nitric oxide and peroxynitrite, serum albumin, and hemoglobin A1c. Group A's lowest intradialytic SBP had significantly improved at 3 months (128.0 ±  25.1 mm Hg vs. 117.1 ± 29.2 mm Hg; P = 0.017). Group B's lowest intradialytic SBP had significantly improved at 1 month (134.4 ± 13.2 mm Hg vs. 121.5 ± 25.8 mm Hg; P =  0.047) and 3 months (139.1 ± 20.9 mm Hg vs. 121.5 ±  25.8 mm Hg; P = 0.011). We conclude that VPS‐HA may improve IDH in diabetic HD patients.
Blood Color Is Influenced by Inflammation and Independently Predicts Survival in Hemodialysis Patients: Quantitative Evaluation of Blood Color
Authors: Shibata Masanori , Nagai Kojiro , Doi Toshio , Tawada Hideo , Taniguchi Shinkichi
Published: July 2012

Blood color of dialysis patients can be seen routinely. Darkened blood color is often observed in critically ill patients generally because of decreased oxygen saturation, but little is known about the other factors responsible for the color intensity. In addition, quantitative blood color examination has not been performed yet. Therefore, no one has evaluated the predictive power of blood color. The aim of this study was to evaluate if blood color darkness reflects some medical problems and is associated with survival disadvantage. Study design is a prospective cohort study. One hundred sixty‐seven patients were enrolled in this study. Quantification of blood color was done using a reflected light colorimeter. Demographic and clinical data were collected to find out the factors that can be related to blood color. Follow‐ups were performed for 2 years to analyze the risk factors for their survival. Regression analysis showed that C‐reactive protein and white blood cell count were negatively correlated with blood color. In addition, blood color was positively correlated with mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration and serum sodium concentration as well as blood oxygen saturation. During a follow‐up, 34 (20.4%) patients died. Cox regression analysis revealed that darkened blood color was an independent significant risk factor of mortality in hemodialysis patients as well as low albumin and low Kt/V. These results suggest that inflammation independently affects blood color and quantification of blood color is useful to estimate prognosis in patients undergoing hemodialysis. It is possible that early detection of blood color worsening can improve patients' survival.
LIGHT‐INDUCED OIL GLOBULE MIGRATION IN HAEMATOCOCCUS PLUVIALIS (CHLOROPHYCEAE)
Authors: Peled Ehud , Pick Uri , Zarka Aliza , Shimoni Eyal , Leu Stefan , Boussiba Sammy
Published: July 2012

Astaxanthin‐rich oil globules in Haematococcus pluvialis display rapid light‐induced peripheral migration that is unique to this organism and serves to protect the photosynthetic system from excessive light. We observed rapid light‐induced peripheral migration that is associated with chlorophyll fluorescence quenching, whereas the recovery was slow. A simple assay to follow globule migration, based on chlorophyll fluorescence level has been developed. Globule migration was induced by high intensity blue light, but not by high intensity red light. The electron transport inhibitor dichlorophenyl‐dimethylurea did not inhibit globule migration, whereas the quinone analog (dibromo‐methyl‐isopropylbenzoquinone), induced globule migration even at low light. Actin microfilament‐directed toxins, such as cytochalasin B and latrunculin A, inhibited the light‐induced globule migration, whereas toxins against microtubules were ineffective. Electron microscopic (EM) imaging confirmed the cytoplasmic localization and peripheral migration of globules upon exposure to very high light (VHL). Scanning EM of freeze‐fractured cells also revealed globules within cytoplasmic bridges traversing the chloroplast, presumably representing the pathway of migration. Close alignments of globules with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membranes were also observed following VHL illumination. We propose that light‐induced globule migration is regulated by the redox state of the photosynthetic electron transport system. Possible mechanisms of actin‐based globule migration are discussed.
Does South‐to‐North Water Transfer Reduce the Environmental Impact of Water Consumption in China?
Authors: Lin Chen , Suh Sangwon , Pfister Stephan
Published: July 2012

The South‐to‐North Water Transfer Project (SNWTP) is planned in China to alleviate the problem of the heterogeneous distribution of water resources. The project is expected to reduce water stress and decrease associated environmental impacts in northern China. This article utilizes life cycle impact assessment modeling, including regionalized water consumption impact assessment and an interregional input‐output model, to examine the potential of the SNWTP to reduce the impact of water consumption embodied in final demand. The environmental impacts of water consumption embodied in final demands within northern and southern China are calculated based on current conditions and on the scenario that the water transfer project is completed. The results show that the SNWTP increases the environmental impact of water consumption in southern China and reduces it in northern China. In total, the SNWTP will lead to a 5.74% net reduction in the environmental impact of water consumption embodied in the final demand from both southern and northern China. When monetized, the environmental benefit of the SNWTP could translate into 436 million euro (570 million U.S. dollars) per year, paying the total project cost back over 30 years without considering non‐environmental benefits and costs.
Focal Location Quotients: Specification and Applications
Authors: Cromley Robert G. , Hanink Dean M.
Published: July 2012

Location quotients (LQs) are commonly used descriptive statistics in spatial analysis. They are not directly affected by neighbor relationships, and their calculation ignores spatial information. This article computes LQs as focal, rather than strictly local, functions by incorporating the spatial structure of the observations in the reference group in their computation. Focal LQs, tested for significance by event‐based Monte Carlo simulations, are applied both to North Carolina sudden infant death syndrome data for comparison with the spatial statistic and to sectoral employment data in that state in a more typical context for LQ analysis. The significance tests show that the focal LQ is far more sensitive to the size of the denominator for spatially intensive data than is the statistic.

Los autores usan momentos de una matriz de covarianza para datos panel espaciales para estimar los parámetros del modelo de autoregresión espacial (spatial autoregressive model), incluyendo la matriz de conectividad (o de ponderación) espacial W. En el modelo de autoregresión espacial sin restricciones, los parámetros están sub‐identificados por un valor de uno en los casos que la matriz W es simétrica. Los autores demuestran que existe un caso especial en el cual la matriz W es asimétrica y sus parámetros tienen cálculo exacto. Si los datos panel son estacionarios y ergódicos, espacial y temporalmente, los estimados de W y el coeficiente de autoregresión espacial son consistentes. Para ilustrar la metodología propuesta, los autores usan datos‐panel espaciales de precios de vivienda en Israel.

区位熵（LQs）通常应用于空间分析的统计性描述。但分析时并没有考虑来自邻域相关性的直接影响，并且计算过程忽略空间信息。本文计算局部焦点的LQs，而并非严格意义上的局部空间，在计算过程的对照组中，对观察值的空间结构进行合并生成函数。对于局部焦点LQs的显著性检验采取基于事件的蒙特卡洛模拟方法，同时应用于北卡罗来纳州的婴儿猝死综合症（SIDS）数据与Gi*空间统计对照，和更典型状况下该州就业部门数据的LQ分析。显著性检验表明局部焦点LQ在数据密集的空间尺度上比Gi*统计量更为敏感。
Prepayment Penalty as a Screening Mechanism for Default and Prepayment Risks
Authors: Bian Xun , Yavas Abdullah
Published: July 2012

The objective of this article is to offer a theoretical model of asymmetric information to analyze the screening role of prepayment penalty. We consider both default risk and prepayment risk. What makes the role of prepayment penalty interesting and more complicated is that a borrower's contract choice could send conflicting signals to the lender about that borrower's default and prepayment risk type. This is different from earlier theoretical models of mortgage choice under asymmetric information where a certain aspect of the contract (e.g., discount points or loan‐to‐value ratio) is explored as a screening mechanism for a single risk dimension (default risk or prepayment risk) of the borrower type. We show the existence of separating equilibria where different default and prepayment risk types choose contracts with different combinations of prepayment penalty and interest rate. For certain parameter combinations, the model also generates a pooling equilibrium where all borrower types obtain the same contract. Our analysis could offer a partial explanation for the observation that contracts with prepayment penalties are a lot less prevalent than contracts with points.
Spatial Linkages in Returns and Volatilities among U.S. Regional Housing Markets
Authors: Zhu Bing , Füss Roland , Rottke Nico B.
Published: July 2012

This article investigates spatial linkages in returns, idiosyncratic risks and volatilities across 19 U.S. regional housing markets. Using Case & Shiller housing price indices from 1995 through 2009, we find that interconnections across markets can be “wider” and “stronger” than would normally be expected. They are “wider” because, in addition to geographic closeness, economic proximity is also an important source of influence; they are “stronger” because of the significant contagion effects during the 2007–2009 subprime and financial crises. The increased comovement and interdependence, especially among more geographically diverse regions with similar economic conditions, may help explain the failure of geographic portfolio diversification strategies.
Atrial Bigeminy Results in Decreased Left Ventricular Function: An Insight into the Mechanism of PVC‐Induced Cardiomyopathy
Authors: PACCHIA CHRISTINA F. , AKOUM NAZEM W. , WASMUND STEPHEN , HAMDAN MOHAMED H.
Published: July 2012

Background:
 Premature ventricular complexes have been recently recognized as a reversible cause of cardiomyopathy. The purpose of this study was to determine if premature complexes independent of “dyssynchrony” resulted in increased left ventricular (LV) dimensions and decreased LV function.

Methods:
 Ten mongrel dogs underwent the implantation of a pacemaker and were randomized to a control group (n = 5) or a paced group (n = 5). In the paced group, the pacemaker was connected to two endocardial atrial leads, one inserted into the atrial port and the other one into the ventricular port with an atrioventricular delay adjusted to ensure the presence of coupled pacing simulating atrial bigeminy with conducted beats in the absence of aberrancy. Echocardiographic parameters of LV size (LV end‐diastolic diameter [LV‐EDD], LV end‐systolic diameter [LV‐ESD]), and LV ejection fraction (LVEF) were measured at baseline and after 4 weeks of monitoring (control group) or pacing (paced group).

Results:
 In the control group, LV size decreased with no significant changes in LVEF: 55% at baseline versus 70% at 4 weeks (P = 0.23). In the paced group, LV‐EDD decreased with no significant change in LV‐ESD. Unlike the control group, LVEF decreased significantly from 69 ± 9% at baseline to 32 ± 22% after 4 weeks of pacing (P = 0.05).

Conclusion:
 We have shown that 4 weeks of coupled pacing simulating atrial bigeminy significantly reduced LV function. Our findings suggest that premature complexes independent of ventricular dyssynchrony might lead to the development of cardiomyopathy. (PACE 2012; 35:1232–1235)
Novel Ion‐Exchange Process for the Preparation of Metal Oxide Nanopowders from Sodium Alginate
Authors: Wang Zihua , Kale Girish M. , Ghadiri Mojtaba
Published: July 2012

A novel and generic sol–gel method has been developed for the production of high purity metal oxide nanopowders using sodium alginate. This has been demonstrated successfully employing nickel oxide (NiO) as a model material in this instance. The results of this investigation indicate that the final particle size of ~20 nm can be obtained after calcination of the predried beads at 500°C for 3 h in ambient air. An insight into the calcination process has been obtained using simultaneous thermo‐gravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry (TGA/DSC) and high temperature X‐ray diffraction (HT‐XRD). Powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD) confirms that the obtained samples are single phase cubicNiOpowders with no trace of impurity. During the phase transformation,NiO + NiO2have been found to coexist between 250°C and 350°C and a reaction scheme is proposed to account for this. The mean crystallite sizes calculated fromXRDanalysis using Rietveld refinement method is in good agreement with the morphological features observed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). TheNiOnanopowders produced in this study exhibit negligible strain as indicated using Rietveld refinement procedure. TheXRDandTEManalyses indicate that there is a significant influence of calcination temperature and time on the particle size, which increases with increasing temperature and annealing time. This new sol–gel method is a simple, environmentally friendly, and nontoxic route for a large scale production of high purity single phase nanopowders in a cost‐effective manner at significantly low temperatures. The process described in this study can yield 200 kg ofNiOnanopowders per ton of driedNi‐ALGbeads.
Observed Characteristics of Suicidal Hangings: An 11‐year Retrospective Review
Authors: Dean Dorothy E. , Kohler Lisa J. , Sterbenz George C. , Gillespie Patrick J. , Gonzaga Niki S. , Bauer Laurie J. , Looman Karen , Owens O'dell
Published: July 2012

Many studies have been published regarding suicidal hanging deaths, and most forensic pathologists and coroners are very familiar with such causes of death. Forensic pathologists are challenged over their rulings regarding manner of death in part because the general public has a limited scope of knowledge. One such challenge centers on the question of whether a hanging can be a suicide if the individual is not fully suspended. The authors designed a retrospective study to review suspension in hangings and to analyze other criteria used to help in deciding manner of death. We examined 229 suicidal hanging deaths over an 11‐year period (1997 through early 2009) using the data from two separate jurisdictions in Ohio. In conclusion, we found that the vast majority (83.4%) of people who hanged themselves were found partially suspended. Among other criteria analyzed, only the presence of petechial hemorrhages and acute neck injury was statistically significant.
Tariff equivalents of nontariff measures: the case of European horticultural and fish imports from African countries
Authors: Nimenya Nicodème , Ndimira Pascal‐Firmin , de Frahan Bruno Henry
Published: July 2012

In the context of the Partnership Agreements between the European Union (EU) and the African, Caribbean, and Pacific countries, this study estimates ad valorem tariff equivalents of European food safety standards on imports of key horticultural and fish products from Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. The study uses an extension of the price‐wedge method to account for imperfect substitution and factor endowment in monopolistic competition. The estimated tariff equivalents are 55% and 98% for imports of fresh peas from Zambia to the Netherlands and the U.K., respectively. They range from 39% to 64% for imports of green beans and avocados from Kenya and from 63% to 270% for imports of frozen fish fillets in EU countries from the East African Community. We also observe large variations in tariff equivalents for the horticultural and fish products over time and EU importing countries.
A dopamine/noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor improves performance in the heat, but only at the maximum therapeutic dose
Authors: Roelands B. , Watson P. , Cordery P. , Decoster S. , Debaste E. , Maughan R. , Meeusen R.
Published: July 2012

A maximal dose of bupropion has enabled subjects to maintain a higher power output than reported during the placebo session in the heat. Because this drug is taken in different doses it is important to know if there is a dose–response relationship with regard to exercise at high ambient temperature. Ten well‐trained male cyclists ingested placebo (pla; 200 mg) or bupropion (50%, 75%, 100% of maximal dose: bup50: 150 mg; bup75: 225 mg; bup100: 300 mg) the evening before and morning of the experimental trial. Trials were conducted in 30 °C (humidity 48%). Subjects cycled for 60 min at 55% W
max, immediately followed by a time trial to measure performance. Bup100 improved performance (pla: 33'42” ± 2'06”; bup100: 32'06” ± 1'54”; P = 0.035). Bupropion increased core temperature at the end of exercise, while heart rate was higher only in the bup100 trial (P < 0.05). No changes in rating of perceived exertion (RPE) or thermal sensation were found. Lower doses of bupropion were not ergogenic, indicating there was no dose–response effect. Interestingly, despite an increase in core temperature and improved performance in the maximal dose, there was no change in RPE and thermal sensation, suggesting an altered motivation or drive to continue exercise.
Physical activity reduces bone loss in the distal forearm in post‐menopausal women – a 25‐year prospective study
Authors: Svejme O. , Ahlborg H. G. , Karlsson M. K.
Published: July 2012

Intervention studies have shown that high‐intensity training programs with duration of 1–3 years can influence bone mass in post‐menopausal women. We wanted to investigate whether moderate physical activity could be associated with reduced post‐menopausal bone loss also in the long‐term perspective. We evaluated changes in bone mass and bone structure by repeated single‐photon absorptiometry measurements of the distal forearm in 91 moderately physically active and 21 inactive women, categorized according to information from questionnaires, from menopause and on average 25 years onwards. Data were calculated with analysis of variance and analysis of covariance tests and presented as means with 95% confidence interval. There were no group differences in bone mass or bone structure at menopause. The mean annual loss in bone mineral content was 1.2% (1.1, 1.3) in the physically active and 1.6% (1.3, 1.8) in the inactive women (after adjustment for menopausal age P = 0.02) and the mean decline in a strength index based on bone mass and bone structure was 0.7% (0.6, 0.8) in the physically active and 1.2% (0.8, 1.5) in the inactive women (P = 0.004). There were no group differences in the changes in bone structure. Physical activity is also in a long‐term perspective associated with reduced post‐menopausal bone loss.
Epidemiology of ankle and foot overuse injuries in sports: A systematic review
Authors: Sobhani S. , Dekker R. , Postema K. , Dijkstra P. U.
Published: July 2012

Studies regarding ankle and foot overuse injuries are quite diverse in research methodology, data reporting, and outcomes. The aims of this systematic review were to analyze the methodology of published studies regarding ankle and foot overuse injuries in different sports disciplines and to summarize epidemiological data of ankle and foot overuse injuries. Four electronic databases, PubMed (MEDLINE), EMBASE, CINAHL, and SPORTDiscus® were systematically searched up to June 2011. A total of 89 articles on 23 sports disciplines were included in this review. Soccer, running, and gymnastics were the most frequently studied sports. Achilles tendinopathy, plantar fasciitis, and stress fracture were the most frequently studied injuries. Study design and reporting methods were heterogeneous. Most studies suffered from a weak methodology and poor reporting. The most common weaknesses were lack of a clear case definition, describing assessment procedures and reporting sample characteristics. Due to methodological heterogeneity of studies, inter‐sports and intra‐sports comparisons and meta‐analysis were not possible. Methodology of most studies on incidence and prevalence of ankle and foot overuse injuries is insufficient. Based on the results, we recommend authors to clearly define cases, describe assessment procedures and report sample characteristics adequately.
Management alters interspecific leaf trait relationships and trait‐based species rankings in permanent meadows
Authors: Rose Laura , Rubarth Marie C. , Hertel Dietrich , Leuschner Christoph
Published: July 2012

Question

Plant functional traits have the potential to characterize species ecological strategies and predict ecosystem responses to environmental changes. (1) Do trait responses to land‐use intensification alter trait‐based species rankings, and (2) does land‐use intensification alter relationships among interrelated leaf traits?

Location

Solling Mountains, Central Germany (Grassland management experiment, GrassMan).

Methods

Over the course of 2 yr with differing weather conditions, we analysed the specific leaf area (SLA) of eight grassland species and related it to leaf nitrogen per mass (Nmass) or area (Narea) in an old‐growth grassland with two fertilization levels (none vs NPK fertilization, 180‐30‐100 kg·ha−1·yr−1) and two cutting frequencies (one vs three cuts per season).

Results

NPK fertilization led to an expected increase in SLA, Nmass and Narea, while the effect of altered cutting frequency on leaf traits was more species‐specific. Species‐specific responses to management significantly altered trait‐based species rankings. A significant SLA–Nmass relationship occurred in unfertilized plots, whereas the SLA–Narea relationship was stronger in fertilized plots. This was mostly caused by a decrease in the among‐species variation in Nmass upon fertilization.

Conclusions

Although our results reflect only short‐term community responses, they indicate that trait‐based species ranking and the relationships between plant functional traits are not always consistent across different management regimes. Hence, trait values used to characterize species and communities should never be discussed without consideration of the set of environmental conditions under which they were measured.
A reliable option for wrist soft tissue defects: adipofascial flaps for immediate and late reconstruction
Authors: Ozakpinar Hulda R , Tellioglu Ali T , Eryilmaz Tolga , Durgun Mustafa , Inozu Emre , Oktem Fatih
Published: July 2012

Extensive volar injuries are common and devastating because of the long‐term adhesion potency. The gliding effect of the adipose tissue is essential in preventing tendon adhesions after injury. In this study, we present the results of performing adipofascial flaps for the reconstruction of soft tissue defects following wrist trauma. The study included 15 patients. Adipofascial flaps were performed for immediate coverage of the tissue defect in 2 patients and for late adhesion‐related problems in 13 patients. Flap dimensions varied from 8 × 14 to 8 × 20 cm. All but one of the flaps and skin grafts survived uneventfully. None of the patients, whether immediate or late, required another operation to address further adhesion problems. Since adipofascial flaps provide a gliding surface, they are a good choice for immediate coverage of soft tissue defects in the wrist that are not suitable for skin grafting alone as well as for late adhesion‐related problems.
Why Don't Healthcare Professionals Talk About Sex? A Systematic Review of Recent Qualitative Studies Conducted in the United Kingdom
Authors: Dyer Kerry , das Nair Roshan
Published: July 2012

Introduction

Sexuality is considered to be an important aspect of holistic care, yet research has demonstrated that it is not routinely addressed in healthcare services. A greater understanding of this can be achieved through synthesizing qualitative studies investigating healthcare professionals' experiences of talking about sex. In doing so, policy makers and healthcare providers may be able to better address the sexual issues of service users.

Aim

To gain an in-depth understanding of healthcare professionals' subjective experience of discussing sexuality with service users by identifying the factors that impede and facilitate such discussions.

Main Outcome Measures

Review of healthcare professionals' experience of discussing sexuality with service users.

Methods

Electronic databases and reference lists of published articles were searched in July 2011. Primary research studies were included in the review if they explored health professionals' experiences of discussing sexuality with adult service users, used qualitative methods, and were conducted in the United Kingdom over the last 10 years. Each study was reviewed and assessed. A secondary thematic analysis method was used where key themes were extracted and grouped and key concepts were explored.

Results

Nineteen interconnected themes emerged relating to healthcare professionals' experience of discussing sexuality with service users, including fear about “opening up a can of worms,” lack of time, resources, and training, concern about knowledge and abilities, worry about causing offense, personal discomfort, and a lack of awareness about sexual issues. Some themes were particularly marked relating to the sexuality of the opposite-gender, black and ethnic minority groups, older and nonheterosexual service users, and those with intellectual disabilities.

Conclusions

The majority of healthcare professionals do not proactively discuss sexuality issues with service users, and this warrants further attention. An understanding of the perceived barriers and facilitators indicates that interventions to improve the extent to which sexuality issues are addressed need to take organizational, structural, and personal factors into consideration.
Effects of Salusin‐β on action potential and ionic currents in ventricular myocytes of rats
Authors: Ren An‐Jing , Liang Qing , Wang Rong , Ji Hai‐Yu , Wu Yi , Shi Jing‐Song , Lin Li , Yuan Wen‐Jun
Published: July 2012

Aim

Salusin‐β is a regulatory peptide that exerts negative inotropic effect on ventricular muscle, but its electrophysiological effects on ventricular myocytes are still unknown.

Methods

Action potential and channel currents such as sodium current (INa), transient outward potassium current (Ito), steady‐state potassium current (Isus), sodium–calcium exchange current (INaCa) and inward rectifier potassium current (IK1) were measured in ventricular myocytes isolated from 12 to 16 weeks rats by whole‐cell voltage‐clamp techniques.

Results

Salusin‐β dose‐dependently shortened the duration of action potential in rat ventricular myocytes. Furthermore, salusin‐β significantly inhibited INaCa and increased Ito, but did not affect INa, Isus and IK1.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the effect of salusin‐β on action potential may be partly attributed to a decrease in inward currents and an increase in outward currents.
The future of nursing
Authors: Moores Y.
Published: July 2012

The White paper, “The New NHS, Modern ‐ Dependable” has marked a turning point for the National Health Service and Nursing, replacing the internal market with integrated care, and sets out a vision of health service that meets the full range of patients' needs in all care settings. Assuring quality is an underpinning theme of the White paper, with nursing having a vital role in driving this agenda forward. Quality encompasses the environment of care, the professionalism, skill and compassion of staff, the effectiveness of treatments and respect and dignity of patients. This is an exciting time for nursing with many challenges, as the recognition and value for nursing grows. The profession has the ability to rise to these challenges and make a real difference to people's health and well being.
Clinical outcomes for patients with diabetic nephropathy
Authors: De Francisco A.L.M.
Published: July 2012

Diabetic nephropathy is the chief cause of morbidity and premature mortality in patients with diabetes with clinically significant renal disease being present in 30–50% of type 1 and 10% of type 2 diabetics after 10–20 years of the disease. End stage renal failure is commonly associated with other complications of diabetes, such as severe retinopathy and vasculopathy of the coronary, cerebral and peripheral arteries. Diabetic patients represent 35% in USA and about 20% in Europe of all new end stage renal disease patients. This paper reviews the current practices to prevent complications and discusses clinical issues and outcomes associated with the different renal replacement therapies.
Pre‐dialysis serum albumin is a poor indicator of nutritional status in stable chronic haemodialysis patients
Authors: Dutton J. , Campbell H. , Tanner J. , Richards N.
Published: July 2012

The correlation between pre‐dialysis serum albumin and mortality has been linked with malnutrition. We measured pre and post‐dialysis albumin in 86 stable haemodialysis patients and compared them with anthropometric measurements and body mass index (BMI). On the basis of pre‐dialysis albumin 13% of patients would be classified as high risk, whilst on the basis of post‐dialysis albumin only 12% would be classified as high risk. Change in albumin could be predicted by fluid removal during haemodialysis. Pre‐dialysis albumin correlated weakly with mid upper arm circumference (MUAC). Post dialysis albumin correlated with MUAC and triceps skin fold thickness (TSF). There was a weak negative correlation between age and post‐dialysis albumin. TSF strongly correlated with MUAC and BMI. Pre‐dialysis albumin appears to be a poor predictor of nutritional status and does not correlate well with other nutritional parameters. The excess risk of death associated with a low pre‐dialysis albumin may be related to fluid overload rather than malnutrition.