bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Team Structure: Tight Versus Loose Coupling in Task-Oriented Groups
Authors: Hollenbeck John R. , Spitzmuller Matthias
Published: February 2013

By definition, teams are made up of multiple, interdependent individuals. The individuals within a team are separate and holistic units with their own identity, but this interdependence also means that the team is a holistic unit with its own separate identity. The dual set of identities embodied in teams creates an inherent figure versus ground confusion. In this chapter we use the concept of loosely structured systems (Weick, 1976) to help unravel this figure versus ground paradox. We show how the literature has operationalized four specific dimensions of structural interdependence: (a) task allocation structure (horizontal interdependence), (b) decision-making structure (vertical interdependence), (c) reward structure (outcome interdependence), and (d) communication structure (spatial interdependence). The literature reveals that organizations can no longer compete successfully via uncoupled structures, but at the same time, organizations resist the formation of tightly coupled systems. We discuss the virtues and liabilities of each of the four types of interdependence in teams, and describe why loose coupling may be a normative, and not just a descriptive, practice of organizations.
Team Participation and Empowerment: A Multilevel Perspective
Authors: Chen Gilad , Tesluk Paul
Published: February 2013

In this chapter, we review and integrate the literatures on team empowerment and team participation. We first delineate the individual and collective phenomena that underlie team empowerment and participation, and suggest that the two constructs collectively capture psychological and behavioral aspects of team engagement, respectively. Second, we delineate a multilevel framework that includes individual-level, team-level, and organizational-level antecedents and outcomes of team empowerment and participation. In building this framework, we propose that adopting a multilevel perspective that considers both emergent and contextual phenomena can enhance our understanding of the bases for, as well as nature and function of, team empowerment and participation. Following this framework, we end the chapter by suggesting a set of research questions that can help extend the current state of knowledge pertaining to team empowerment and participation.
Criteria Issues and Team Effectiveness
Authors: Mathieu John E. , Gilson Lucy L.
Published: February 2013

Despite the proliferation of research about teams in the past few decades, relatively little attention has been devoted to understanding the criteria domain of team effectiveness. Accordingly, we identify two fairly general forms of criteria, namely tangible outputs and members’ reactions. We further differentiate three types of tangible outcomes: (a) productivity; (b) efficiency; and (c) quality, and also distinguish between team-level member reactions (i.e., emergent states) and individual-level attitudes, reactions, behaviors, and personal development. We illustrate alternative assessment schemes for each type of criteria. Finally, we discuss how gaining an appreciation for four temporal-related factors—(a) postdictive versus predictive designs; (b) aggregation lags and periods; (c) episodic cycles; and (d) developmental processes—will enhance our understanding of the team effectiveness criteria construct.
Organizational Learning and Knowledge Management
Authors: Argote Linda
Published: February 2013

Research on organizational learning and knowledge management has increased dramatically over the last 20 years. This chapter discusses reasons for the surge in research, describes approaches to defining organizational learning and knowledge, and discusses levels at which learning occurs. It presents major findings about creating, retaining, and transferring knowledge, identifying gaps in our understanding as well as directions for future research. Because organizational learning and effective knowledge management are sources of performance improvements in organizations, a greater understanding of these topics has the potential to advance practice as well as theory.
Organizational Development and Change: Linking Research from the Profit, Nonprofit, and Public Sectors
Authors: Ford J. Kevin , Foster-Fishman Pennie
Published: February 2013

We review the organizational psychology, community psychology, and organizational behavior literatures in order to provide an integrated perspective to change and the factors that impact the success or failure of organizational change initiatives. This chapter provides a historical context for the changing focus and key tensions in the field; describes key change theories that help us understand change processes; and reviews empirical work in the for-profit, nonprofit, and public sectors relevant to understanding core concepts of readiness for change, change capacity, and organizational learning. We identify recent conceptual and methodological approaches that bring a systems perspective to the study of change. The chapter concludes with thoughts on the sustainability of change and the identification of needed research that can inform practice.
Occupational Safety and Health
Authors: Tetrick Lois E. , Peiró José María
Published: February 2013

Occupational health and safety reflects the effect of the work environment on employees, groups and work units in organizations, and organizations as a whole. This chapter provides an overview of the research on workplace safety and specifically discusses safety training, regulatory focus, safety climate, leadership, and job design as they relate to safety. Additionally, the literature on occupational health, drawing heavily on the occupational stress literature, discusses the employee-employer relationship from a psychological contract perspective, including climate for sexual harassment, collective burnout and its contagion, recovery, and organizational wellness programs. Particular attention is given to primary interventions to enhance safety, health, and well-being of employees and to eliminate the harmful effects that may arise through individual characteristics, group/work unit factors, and aspects of the organization.
The Research-Practice Gap in I/O Psychology and Related Fields: Challenges and Potential Solutions
Authors: Rynes-Weller Sara L.
Published: February 2013

The gap between science and practice in I/O psychology and related fields is large and, some believe, getting larger. Although not everyone views this as a matter for concern, there is growing momentum to take actions to strengthen the interface between science and practice. This chapter examines three underlying sources of the gap: lack of awareness of what the other side knows and cares about; lack of belief or confidence in the knowledge generated or held by the other side; and lack of implementation of knowledge or ideas, even in the face of awareness and belief. Based on this analysis, proposed solutions are offered for each source of the gap, as are directions for future research and practice.
Work Motivation: Theory, Practice, and Future Directions
Authors: Kanfer Ruth
Published: February 2013

This chapter focuses on recent scientific advances and use-inspired research on motivation related to adult work. The chapter is divided into four sections. The first section reviews basic motivation constructs and processes, and the issues that delineate the scope and content of the field. The second section reports on research progress and the implications of new conceptualizations for understanding and predicting work behaviors and performance. The third section reviews findings on the major determinants of work motivation, organized into three broad categories: content (person variables), context (situation variables), and change (temporal variables). The fourth and final section identifies current gaps in our knowledge, practical challenges, and promising new research directions.
Effect of Clay Mineralogy on Iron Bioavailability and Rhizosphere Transcription of 2,4-Diacetylphloroglucinol Biosynthetic Genes in Biocontrol Pseudomonas protegens
Authors: Almario Juliana , Prigent-Combaret Claire , Muller Daniel , Moënne-Loccoz Yvan
Published: February 2013

Pseudomonas strains producing 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol (DAPG) can protect plants from soilborne phytopathogens and are considered the primary reason for suppressiveness of morainic Swiss soils to Thielaviopsis basicola-mediated black root-rot disease of tobacco, even though they also occur nearby in conducive sandstone soils. The underlying molecular mechanisms accounting for this discrepancy are not understood. In this study, we assessed the hypothesis that the presence of iron-rich vermiculite clay (dominant in suppressive soils) instead of illite (dominant in neighboring conducive soils) translates into higher levels of iron bioavailability and transcription of Pseudomonas DAPG synthetic genes in the tobacco rhizosphere. Rhizosphere monitoring of reporter gene systems pvd-inaZ and phlA-gfp in Pseudomonas protegens indicated that the level of iron bioavailability and the number of cells expressing phl genes (DAPG synthesis), respectively, were higher in vermiculitic than in illitic artificial soils. This was in accordance with the effect of iron on phlA-gfp expression in vitro and, indeed, iron addition to the illitic soil increased the number of cells expressing phlA-gfp. Similar findings were made in the presence of the pathogen T. basicola. Altogether, results substantiate the hypothesis that iron-releasing minerals may confer disease suppressiveness by modulating iron bioavailability in the rhizosphere and expression of biocontrol-relevant genes in antagonistic P. protegens.
Human Pathogens on Plants: Designing a Multidisciplinary Strategy for Research
Authors: Fletcher Jacqueline , Leach Jan E. , Eversole Kellye , Tauxe Robert
Published: February 2013

Recent efforts to address concerns about microbial contamination of food plants and resulting foodborne illness have prompted new collaboration and interactions between the scientific communities of plant pathology and food safety. This article provides perspectives from scientists of both disciplines and presents selected research results and concepts that highlight existing and possible future synergisms for audiences of both disciplines. Plant pathology is a complex discipline that encompasses studies of the dissemination, colonization, and infection of plants by microbes such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and oomycetes. Plant pathologists study plant diseases as well as host plant defense responses and disease management strategies with the goal of minimizing disease occurrences and impacts. Repeated outbreaks of human illness attributed to the contamination of fresh produce, nuts and seeds, and other plant-derived foods by human enteric pathogens such as Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. have led some plant pathologists to broaden the application of their science in the past two decades, to address problems of human pathogens on plants (HPOPs). Food microbiology, which began with the study of microbes that spoil foods and those that are critical to produce food, now also focuses study on how foods become contaminated with pathogens and how this can be controlled or prevented. Thus, at the same time, public health researchers and food microbiologists have become more concerned about plant–microbe interactions before and after harvest. New collaborations are forming between members of the plant pathology and food safety communities, leading to enhanced research capacity and greater understanding of the issues for which research is needed. The two communities use somewhat different vocabularies and conceptual models. For example, traditional plant pathology concepts such as the disease triangle and the disease cycle can help to define cross-over issues that pertain also to HPOP research, and can suggest logical strategies for minimizing the risk of microbial contamination. Continued interactions and communication among these two disciplinary communities is essential and can be achieved by the creation of an interdisciplinary research coordination network. We hope that this article, an introduction to the multidisciplinary HPOP arena, will be useful to researchers in many related fields.
Ciborinia camelliae(Sclerotiniaceae) Induces Variable Plant Resistance Responses in Selected Species ofCamellia
Authors: Denton-Giles Matthew , Bradshaw Rosie E. , Dijkwel Paul P.
Published: February 2013

Ciborinia camelliae is the causal agent of Camellia flower blight. This fungal pathogen is a significant pest of the Camellia floriculture industry because it specifically infects the floral tissue of ornamental camellia cultivars leading to the rapid development of necrotic lesions and blight. This study aims to characterize natural resistance to Ciborinia camelliae within a selection of Camellia spp. Based on macroscopic lesion development, Camellia ‘Nicky Crisp’ and Camellia lutchuensis were chosen as compatible and incompatible hosts, respectively. Microscopic analyses of the incompatible Camellia lutchuensis–Ciborinia camelliae interaction revealed several hallmarks of induced plant resistance, including papillae formation, H2O2accumulation, and localized cell death. The compatible Camellia Nicky Crisp–Ciborinia camelliae interaction failed to trigger a similar resistance response. Ciborinia camelliae growth in compatible tissue demonstrated a switch from biotrophy to necrotrophy, evident from the simultaneous development of secondary hyphae and necrotic lesions. Extension of resistance analyses to 39 additional Camellia spp. identified variable levels of resistance within the Camellia genus. The evidence presented supports a resistance breeding strategy for controlling Ciborinia camelliae on ornamental Camellia hybrids.
Disposable penis and its replenishment in a simultaneous hermaphrodite
Authors: Sekizawa Ayami , Seki Satoko , Tokuzato Masakazu , Shiga Sakiko , Nakashima Yasuhiro
Published: February 2013

Although it is often thought that sexual selection is weaker in simultaneous hermaphrodites than in gonochorists, some simultaneous hermaphrodites exhibit bizarre mating behaviour. In the simultaneously hermaphroditic nudibranch
Chromodoris reticulata
, we found a peculiar mating behaviour, wherein the nudibranch autotomized its penis after each copulation and was able to copulate again within 24 h. To have sufficient length to be replenished for three copulations, the penis is compressed and spiralled internally. No other animal is known to repeatedly copulate using such ‘disposable penes’. Entangled sperm masses were observed on the outer surface of the autotomized penis, which is equipped with many backward-pointed spines. There is a possibility that the nudibranch removes sperm already stored in a mating partner's sperm storage organ(s).
Impact–contact dynamics in a disc–ball system
Authors: Liu Caishan , Zhang Hongjian , Zhao Zhen , Brogliato Bernard
Published: February 2013

This paper concerns a disc–ball system, in which a moving ball collides against a disc resting on a rough, fixed horizontal surface. The complexity in such a simple object is due to the presence of the line contact between the disc and the fixed plate, which significantly influences the impact-generated state of the disc. We deal with this problem in a uniform framework that encapsulates different structures of the mathematical model, including contacts, impacts, stick–slip in friction, as well as the transitions among different states of the variable-structure dynamics. We design specific experiments that provide useful information to help determine the macroscopic parameters in impact and friction. Other complicated cases concerned with the couplings between impacts and friction are theoretically and experimentally investigated. Excellent agreements between numerical and experimental results support our theoretical developments.
Temporal mapping of CEBPA and CEBPB binding during liver regeneration reveals dynamic occupancy and specific regulatory codes for homeostatic and cell cycle gene batteries
Authors: Jakobsen Janus Schou , Waage Johannes , Rapin Nicolas , Bisgaard Hanne Cathrine , Larsen Fin Stolze , Porse Bo Torben
Published: February 2013

Dynamic shifts in transcription factor binding are central to the regulation of biological processes by allowing rapid changes in gene transcription. However, very few genome-wide studies have examined how transcription factor occupancy is coordinated temporally in vivo in higher animals. Here, we quantified the genome-wide binding patterns of two key hepatocyte transcription factors, CEBPA and CEBPB (also known as C/EBPalpha and C/EBPbeta), at multiple time points during the highly dynamic process of liver regeneration elicited by partial hepatectomy in mouse. Combining these profiles with RNA polymerase II binding data, we find three temporal classes of transcription factor binding to be associated with distinct sets of regulated genes involved in the acute phase response, metabolic/homeostatic functions, or cell cycle progression. Moreover, we demonstrate a previously unrecognized early phase of homeostatic gene expression prior to S-phase entry. By analyzing the three classes of CEBP bound regions, we uncovered mutually exclusive sets of sequence motifs, suggesting temporal codes of CEBP recruitment by differential cobinding with other factors. These findings were validated by sequential ChIP experiments involving a panel of central transcription factors and/or by comparison to external ChIP-seq data. Our quantitative investigation not only provides in vivo evidence for the involvement of many new factors in liver regeneration but also points to similarities in the circuitries regulating self-renewal of differentiated cells. Taken together, our work emphasizes the power of global temporal analyses of transcription factor occupancy to elucidate mechanisms regulating dynamic biological processes in complex higher organisms.
The Rab GTPase RabG3b Positively Regulates Autophagy and Immunity-Associated Hypersensitive Cell Death in Arabidopsis
Authors: Kwon Soon Il , Cho Hong Joo , Kim Sung Ryul , Park Ohkmae K.
Published: February 2013

A central component of the plant defense response to pathogens is the hypersensitive response (HR), a form of programmed cell death (PCD). Rapid and localized induction of HR  PCD ensures that pathogen invasion is prevented. Autophagy has been implicated in the regulation of HR cell death, but the functional relationship between autophagy and HR  PCD and the regulation of these processes during the plant immune response remain controversial. Here, we show that a small GTP-binding protein, RabG3b, plays a positive role in autophagy and promotes HR cell death in response to avirulent bacterial pathogens in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). Transgenic plants overexpressing a constitutively active RabG3b (RabG3bCA) displayed accelerated, unrestricted HR  PCD within 1 d of infection, in contrast to the autophagy-defective atg5-1 mutant, which gradually developed chlorotic cell death through uninfected sites over several days. Microscopic analyses showed the accumulation of autophagic structures during HR cell death in RabG3bCA cells. Our results suggest that RabG3b contributes to HR cell death via the activation of autophagy, which plays a positive role in plant immunity-triggered HR  PCD.
The PP6 Phosphatase Regulates ABI5 Phosphorylation and Abscisic Acid Signaling inArabidopsis
Authors: Dai Mingqiu , Xue Qin , Mccray Tyra , Margavage Kathryn , Chen Fang , Lee Jae-Hoon , Nezames Cynthia D. , Guo Liquan , Terzaghi William , Wan Jianmin , Deng Xing Wang , Wang Haiyang
Published: February 2013

The basic Leucine zipper transcription factor ABSCISIC ACID INSENSITIVE5 (ABI5) is a key regulator of abscisic acid (ABA)–mediated seed germination and postgermination seedling growth. While a family of SUCROSE NONFERMENTING1-related protein kinase2s (SnRK2s) is responsible for ABA-induced phosphorylation and stabilization of ABI5, the phosphatase(s) responsible for dephosphorylating ABI5 is still unknown. Here, we demonstrate that mutations in FyPP1 (for Phytochrome-associated serine/threonine protein phosphatase1) and FyPP3, two homologous genes encoding the catalytic subunits of Ser/Thr PROTEIN PHOSPHATASE6 (PP6), cause an ABA hypersensitive phenotype in Arabidopsis thaliana, including ABA-mediated inhibition of seed germination and seedling growth. Conversely, overexpression of FyPP causes reduced sensitivity to ABA. The ABA hypersensitive phenotype of FyPP loss-of-function mutants is ABI5 dependent, and the amount of phosphorylated and total ABI5 proteins inversely correlates with the levels of FyPP proteins. Moreover, FyPP proteins physically interact with ABI5 in vitro and in vivo, and the strength of the interaction depends on the ABI5 phosphorylation status. In vitro phosphorylation assays show that FyPP proteins directly dephosphorylate ABI5. Furthermore, genetic and biochemical assays show that FyPP proteins act antagonistically with SnRK2 kinases to regulate ABI5 phosphorylation and ABA responses. Thus, Arabidopsis PP6 phosphatase regulates ABA signaling through dephosphorylation and destabilization of ABI5.
An enhancement in structural and superconducting properties of Bi2212 epitaxial thin films grown by the Pechini sol–gel method
Authors: Lu Xiaoming , Wang Tianlin , Zhang Yaming , Shahzad M. Babar , Qi Yang
Published: February 2013

Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+δ(Bi2212) superconducting thin films were prepared by the Pechini sol–gel method using nitrates as reactants. The precursor sol was deposited on SrTiO3(001) single-crystal substratesviathe spin-coating method, and the results revealed the lowering of the Bi2212 phase-transition temperature; meanwhile the sintering time was significantly reduced. According to this investigation, the phase purity and crystallinity of Bi2212 thin films were obviously improved owing to the stable gel mechanism; theTc,onsettransition temperature value of the purec-axis Bi2212 thin films rose to about 95 K.
A new gas system for automatedin situpowder diffraction studies at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility
Authors: Hill Adrian H.
Published: February 2013

A new gas dosing rig built for the high-resolution powder diffraction beamline (ID31) at the ESRF is described. The rig is fully controlled and monitored by the beamline control software, enabling automated absorption and desorption of fixed pressures of gases up to 100 bar (107 Pa) forin situstructural studies. The rig has successfully been used on ID31 as well as other beamlines at the ESRF.
Patterns of contemporary gene flow suggest low functional connectivity of grasslands in a fragmented agricultural landscape
Authors: Aavik Tsipe , Holderegger Rolf , Edwards Peter J. , Billeter Regula
Published: February 2013

The success of ecological restoration is often judged by the number and abundance of species, especially rare ones that have established since restoration. However, the effects of habitat improvement upon connectivity are rarely assessed, although this can readily be performed using modern molecular genetic methods.

We evaluated the functional connectivity of populations of a wet grassland plant Lychnis flos‐cuculi in an intensively managed agricultural landscape in Switzerland. One third of the study populations had been recently restored by sowing wildflower seed mixtures, while all other populations were of natural origin. We used assignment tests to identify first‐generation migrants and to estimate recent patterns of gene flow among the populations of L. flos‐cuculi.

Assignment tests revealed higher levels of recent gene flow among natural populations of L. flos‐cuculi than between sown and natural populations. Most probably, this result simply reflected the formerly good connectivity of natural populations in the study landscape.

We detected a few first‐generation migrants between sown and natural populations and among natural populations, suggesting that functional connectivity was now rather restricted. Migration among sown and natural populations was more likely to occur when natural and sown populations were nearby and when source populations were large.

Synthesis and applications. We demonstrated that genetic methods offer a valuable tool for examining the effects of restoration measures on functional connectivity of plant populations. The connectivity of wet grasslands is likely to be best enhanced by establishing a relatively dense network of large habitat patches.
Historical Pragmatics: Evidence From The Old Bailey
Authors: Archer Dawn
Published: February 2013

This paper demonstrates the value of The Proceedings of the Old Bailey (1674–1913) as a linguistic resource, via a discussion of pragmatic studies undertaken by Archer, Cecconi and Traugott. The field of historical pragmatics is also delineated, as practised by these linguists. The paper argues that, as well as telling us important things about Old Bailey discursive practices of old, and the language used, the studies offer a means of advancing pragmatic theory – in respect to grammaticalization and facework – and pragmatic methodology – in respect to the viability of using corpus‐linguistic techniques to locate pragmatic phenomena.
Third Molar Development: Evaluation of Nine Tooth Development Registration Techniques for Age Estimations
Authors: Thevissen Patrick W. , Fieuws Steffen , Willems Guy
Published: February 2013

Multiple third molar development registration techniques exist. Therefore the aim of this study was to detect which third molar development registration technique was most promising to use as a tool for subadult age estimation. On a collection of 1199 panoramic radiographs the development of all present third molars was registered following nine different registration techniques [Gleiser, Hunt (GH); Haavikko (HV); Demirjian (DM); Raungpaka (RA); Gustafson, Koch (GK); Harris, Nortje (HN); Kullman (KU); Moorrees (MO); Cameriere (CA)]. Regression models with age as response and the third molar registration as predictor were developed for each registration technique separately. The MO technique disclosed highest R2 (F 51%, M 45%) and lowest root mean squared error (F 3.42 years; M 3.67 years) values, but differences with other techniques were small in magnitude. The amount of stages utilized in the explored staging techniques slightly influenced the age predictions.
Quantitative Analysis of the DNA Distribution on Cigarette Butt Filter Paper*
Authors: Casey Lisa , Engen Sarah , Frank Greg
Published: February 2013

The distribution of DNA on the filter paper of smoked cigarette butts was quantitatively mapped using real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The filter papers from smoked cigarette butts collected from indoor and outdoor sources were sliced into equal pieces and the amount of DNA on each slice was determined. This study found that the cigarette butt filter papers sliced parallel to the seam of the cigarette had more uniformly distributed DNA on the slices and in most cases, there was enough DNA on each slice to obtain a complete DNA profile. The perpendicular slices had a less uniform pattern of distribution and some slices did not have enough DNA to obtain an interpretable DNA profile. Cigarette butts found indoors also had more DNA per cigarette on average than cigarette butts found outdoors.
Risk of Traumatic Intracranial Hemorrhage In Patients With Head Injury and Preinjury Warfarin or Clopidogrel Use
Authors: Nishijima Daniel K. , Offerman Steven R. , Ballard Dustin W. , Vinson David R. , Chettipally Uli K. , Rauchwerger Adina S. , Reed Mary E. , Holmes James F.
Published: February 2013

Objectives

Appropriate use of cranial computed tomography (CT) scanning in patients with mild blunt head trauma and preinjury anticoagulant or antiplatelet use is unknown. The objectives of this study were: 1) to identify risk factors for immediate traumatic intracranial hemorrhage (tICH) in patients with mild head trauma and preinjury warfarin or clopidogrel use and 2) to derive a clinical prediction rule to identify patients at low risk for immediate tICH.

Methods

This was a prospective, observational study at two trauma centers and four community hospitals that enrolled adult emergency department (ED) patients with mild blunt head trauma (initial ED Glasgow Coma Scale [GCS] score 13 to 15) and preinjury warfarin or clopidogrel use. The primary outcome measure was immediate tICH, defined as the presence of ICH or contusion on the initial cranial CT. Risk for immediate tICH was analyzed in 11 independent predictor variables. Clinical prediction rules were derived with both binary recursive partitioning and multivariable logistic regression.

Results

A total of 982 patients with a mean (± standard deviation [SD]) age of 75.4 (±12.6) years were included in the analysis. Sixty patients (6.1%; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 4.7% to 7.8%) had immediate tICH. History of vomiting (relative risk [RR] = 3.53; 95% CI = 1.80 to 6.94), abnormal mental status (RR = 2.85; 95% CI = 1.65 to 4.92), clopidogrel use (RR = 2.52; 95% CI = 1.55 to 4.10), and headache (RR = 1.81; 95% CI = 1.11 to 2.96) were associated with an increased risk for immediate tICH. Both binary recursive partitioning and multivariable logistic regression were unable to derive a clinical prediction model that identified a subset of patients at low risk for immediate tICH.

Conclusions

While several risk factors for immediate tICH were identified, the authors were unable to identify a subset of patients with mild head trauma and preinjury warfarin or clopidogrel use who are at low risk for immediate tICH. Thus, the recommendation is for urgent and liberal cranial CT imaging in this patient population, even in the absence of clinical findings.
Technology‐enhanced Simulation in Emergency Medicine: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Ilgen Jonathan S. , Sherbino Jonathan , Cook David A.
Published: February 2013

Objectives

Technology‐enhanced simulation is used frequently in emergency medicine (EM) training programs. Evidence for its effectiveness, however, remains unclear. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of technology‐enhanced simulation for training in EM and identify instructional design features associated with improved outcomes by conducting a systematic review.

Methods

The authors systematically searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, ERIC, PsychINFO, Scopus, key journals, and previous review bibliographies through May 2011. Original research articles in any language were selected if they compared simulation to no intervention or another educational activity for the purposes of training EM health professionals (including student and practicing physicians, midlevel providers, nurses, and prehospital providers). Reviewers evaluated study quality and abstracted information on learners, instructional design (curricular integration, feedback, repetitive practice, mastery learning), and outcomes.

Results

From a collection of 10,903 articles, 85 eligible studies enrolling 6,099 EM learners were identified. Of these, 56 studies compared simulation to no intervention, 12 compared simulation with another form of instruction, and 19 compared two forms of simulation. Effect sizes were pooled using a random‐effects model. Heterogeneity among these studies was large (I2 ≥ 50%). Among studies comparing simulation to no intervention, pooled effect sizes were large (range = 1.13 to 1.48) for knowledge, time, and skills and small to moderate for behaviors with patients (0.62) and patient effects (0.43; all p < 0.02 except patient effects p = 0.12). Among comparisons between simulation and other forms of instruction, the pooled effect sizes were small (≤0.33) for knowledge, time, and process skills (all p > 0.1). Qualitative comparisons of different simulation curricula are limited, although feedback, mastery learning, and higher fidelity were associated with improved learning outcomes.

Conclusions

Technology‐enhanced simulation for EM learners is associated with moderate or large favorable effects in comparison with no intervention and generally small and nonsignificant benefits in comparison with other instruction. Future research should investigate the features that lead to effective simulation‐based instructional design.
Innovations in Practice: Feasibility of the development and well‐being assessment as an adjunct to clinical assessment in child and adolescent mental health services
Authors: Last Anna , Henley William , Norman Shelley , Goodman Robert , Ford Tamsin
Published: February 2013

Background

Child and Adolescent Mental Health services (CAMHS) might benefit from the use of structured diagnostic assessments as an adjunct to clinical assessment. Such assessments will only support clinical practice if their completion avoids too great a burden to parents and services, and if the resulting information is useful to practitioners.

Method

Parents were asked to complete the Development And Well‐Being Assessment (DAWBA) before their initial appointment at a community CAMHS, and DAWBAs were disclosed to the assessing practitioners in a random half of cases. Parents and Practitioners were asked to complete a questionnaire about their experience of the DAWBA. Parents completed the experience of services questionnaire 6 months after the baseline.

Results

Most parents found the interview easy to understand. Many reported that the experience of completing the interview changed the way that they thought about their child's difficulties in a positive manner. Practitioner reports were also mainly positive. The mean helpfulness score adjusted for the clustering of cases within practitioners out of 1–5 for very unhelpful to very helpful was 4.04 (95% Confidence Interval: 3.89–4.18). There was no association between practitioner access to the DAWBA and parent reported satisfaction on the Experiences of Services Questionnaire (mean difference 0.74, 95% confidence interval −0.59–02.06, p0.27).

Conclusions

With the right supporting arrangements in place, the DAWBA would be a feasible assessment tool in community CAMHS.
New Policies for Old Trees: Averting a Global Crisis in a Keystone Ecological Structure
Authors: Lindenmayer David B. , Laurance William F. , Franklin Jerry F. , Likens Gene E. , Banks Sam C. , Blanchard Wade , Gibbons Philip , Ikin Karen , Blair David , McBurney Lachlan , Manning Adrian D. , Stein John A.R.
Published: February 2013

Large old trees are critical organisms and ecological structures in forests, woodlands, savannas, and agricultural and urban environments. They play many essential ecological roles ranging from the storage of large amounts of carbon to the provision of key habitats for wildlife. Some of these roles cannot be replaced by other structures. Large old trees are disproportionately vulnerable to loss in many ecosystems worldwide as a result of accelerated rates of mortality, impaired recruitment, or both. Drivers of loss, such as the combined impacts of fire and browsing by domestic or native herbivores, chemical spray drift in agricultural environments, and postdisturbance salvage logging, are often unique to large old trees but also represent ecosystem‐specific threats. Here, we argue that new policies and practices are urgently needed to conserve existing large old trees and restore ecologically effective and viable populations of such trees by managing trees and forests on much longer time scales than is currently practiced, and by protecting places where they are most likely to develop. Without these steps, large old trees will vanish from many ecosystems, and associated biota and ecosystem functions will be severely diminished or lost.
Indirect Effects on Heathland Conservation and Wolf Persistence of Contradictory Policies that Threaten Traditional Free‐Ranging Horse Husbandry
Authors: López‐Bao José Vicente , Sazatornil Víctor , Llaneza Luis , Rodríguez Alejandro
Published: February 2013

Conservation agencies within the European Union promote the restoration of traditional land uses as a cost‐effective way to preserve biodiversity outside reserves. Although the European Union pursues the integration of the environment into strategic decision‐making, it also dictates sectoral policies that may damage farmland biodiversity. We illustrate this point by outlining the socioeconomic factors that allow the persistence of traditional free‐ranging horse husbandry in Galicia, northwestern Spain. Free‐ranging Galician mountain ponies provide ecological and socioeconomic services including the prevention of forest fires, the maintenance of heathlands and wolves, and the attenuation of wolf‐human conflicts. This traditional livestock system may have persisted because it entails negligible costs for farmers. Wolf predation upon Galician mountain ponies does not threaten farmer's economies and seems to be tolerated better than attacks to more valuable stock. Recently, European Union's regulations on animal welfare, carcass management, or meat production put new economic and administrative burdens on farmers, make free‐ranging horse rearing economically unsustainable, and incentivize its abandonment. The aim of the European Union to integrate environmental policies may be successful to preserve farmland biodiversity only through careful anticipation of the side effects of apparently unrelated regulations on the fragile equilibrium that sustain traditional land uses.
Vitamin B12 and homocysteine status during pregnancy in the metformin in gestational diabetes trial: responses to maternal metformin compared with insulin treatment
Authors: Gatford K. L. , Houda C. M. , Lu Z. X. , Coat S. , Baghurst P. A. , Owens J. A. , Sikaris K. , Rowan J. A. , Hague W. M.
Published: February 2013

Aim

The aim of the study is to compare the effects of metformin and insulin treatment for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) on vitamin B12 and homocysteine (Hcy) status.

Methods

Women with GDM, who met criteria for insulin treatment, were randomly assigned to metformin (n = 89) or insulin (n = 91) in the Adelaide cohort of the metformin in gestational diabetes (MiG) trial. Fasting serum total vitamin B12 (TB12), holotranscobalamin (HoloTC), a marker of functional B12 status and plasma Hcy concentrations were measured at 20–34 weeks (at randomization) and 36 weeks gestation, then at 6–8 weeks postpartum.

Results

Circulating TB12, HoloTC and Hcy were similar in both treatment groups at each time point. Women who were taking dietary folate supplements at randomization had higher serum TB12 and HoloTC at randomization than those not taking folate. Overall, serum TB12 fell more between randomization and 36 weeks gestation in the metformin group than in the insulin group (metformin: −19.7 ± 4.7 pmol/l, insulin: −6.4 ± 3.6 pmol/l, p = 0.004). The decrease in serum TB12 during treatment was greater with increasing treatment duration in metformin‐treated (p < 0.001), but not in insulin‐treated women.

Conclusions

Total, but not bioavailable, vitamin B12 stores were depleted during pregnancy to a greater extent in metformin‐treated than in insulin‐treated women with GDM, but neither analyte differed between groups at any stage. This adds further evidence supporting metformin as a safe alternative treatment to insulin in GDM. Further investigation is needed to evaluate whether women treated with metformin for longer periods in pregnancy require additional B12 or other supplementation.
Reduced postprandial GLP‐1 responses in women with gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Bonde L. , Vilsbøll T. , Nielsen T. , Bagger J. I. , Svare J. A. , Holst J. J. , Larsen S. , Knop F. K.
Published: February 2013

Aim

We investigated postprandial glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) responses in pregnant women with and without gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and again following delivery when normal glucose tolerance (NGT) was re‐established.

Methods

Eleven women with GDM [plasma glucose (PG) concentration at 120 min after a 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT): 10.0 ± 0.9 mM (mean ± SD); age: 31 ± 6 years; body mass index (BMI): 31.6 ± 6.4 kg/m2; haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c): 5.6 ± 0.5%] and eight pregnant women with NGT (PG120min, OGTT: 5.7 ± 0.7 mM; age: 28 ± 3 years; BMI: 29.7 ± 5.4 kg/m2; HbA1c: 5.4 ± 0.3%) were investigated with a 4‐h liquid meal test during third trimester (TT) and 3–4 months postpartum (PP). All patients with GDM re‐established NGT following delivery.

Results

Pregnancy was associated with low postprandial GLP‐1 responses. Patients with GDM exhibited reduced postprandial GLP‐1 responses compared to their PP levels [area under curve (AUC): 5.5 ± 1.3 vs. 8.4 ± 3.2 nM × min, p=0.005], but the difference among NGT women (7.3 ± 2.8 vs. 8.8 ± 2.0 nM × min, p=0.066) was not statistically significant. Pregnancy did not influence postprandial responses of the other incretin hormone glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) in any of the groups, but GDM patients were characterized by greater postprandial GIP responses during both TT and PP compared to NGT subjects.

Conclusions

Pregnancy is associated with reduced postprandial GLP‐1 responses (most pronounced in patients with GDM) that normalize after delivery. In contrast, postprandial GIP responses seem unaffected by pregnancy but is increased in GDM patients.
A Retrospective Matched Case–Control Study on Medical Costs of Refractory Migraine in Taiwan
Authors: Tang Chao‐Hsiun , Chen Yong‐Chen , Ng Kwong , Wang Shuu‐Jiun
Published: February 2013

Background

Migraine is associated with a significant economic burden in Western countries. However, there is limited information regarding the impact of the cost of migraine in Asia.

Objectives

To quantify and compare the direct medical costs of refractory migraine (RM) and other migraine, using health insurance claims data in Taiwan.

Methods

A retrospective matched case–control study was conducted utilizing data from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. RM cases were defined as patients with at least 1 neurological outpatient visit with a primary or secondary International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification code of 346.11 (common migraine with intractable migraine, so stated), diagnosed by certified neurologists in medical centers during 2007‐2008. The first control group was the non‐migraineurs matched with cases at a 4:1 ratio by age, gender, urbanization level of the residence, and income. The second control group was patients with other migraine types (346.00, 346.10, 346.20, 346.80, and 346.90) matched with cases at a 4:1 ratio by age, gender, and hospital setting. Medical utilization and costs within 365 days after the index visit date were assessed using a 2‐part model. The exchange rate for US$1 was NT$32.50.

Results

Patients with RM had significantly higher total medical costs compared with non‐migraineurs (NT$57,932 [US$1783] vs NT$26,817 [US$825]; P < .001) or other migraineurs (NT$54,678 [US$1682] vs NT$38,397 [US$1181]; P < .001). The mean drug costs for those with RM were also higher than for non‐migraineurs (NT$19,752 [US$608] vs NT$8660 [US$266]; P < .001) or those with other migraine (NT$17,623 [US$542] vs NT$10,088 [US$310]; P < .001). In addition, we reviewed the charts of all patients with an outpatient department diagnostic code of 346.11 (n = 98) at our hospital (Taipei Veterans General Hospital, a medical center in Taiwan) in 2007. Of these patients, 88 (90%) fulfilled the Silberstein–Lipton criteria for chronic migraine, ie, >15 headache days per month and presence of a history of migraine.

Conclusions

Refractory migraineurs in Taiwan had significantly higher medical costs than either non‐migraineurs or those with other migraine diagnoses.
Refractory Migraine – A Review
Authors: Schulman Elliott
Published: February 2013

Refractory migraine has long been a challenge to all headache specialists. This subgroup of migraine patients experience disability and impaired quality of life, despite optimal treatment. This article reviews the proposed definitions and epidemiology of refractory migraine, as well as the pathophysiology that may contribute to the genesis of this disorder. Aspects of treatment, including pharmacological, complementary/adjunct, and invasive approaches, are reviewed. Comorbid factors, medication overuse, potential pitfalls to treatment, and areas for future investigation are highlighted.
Measuring the short‐term effects of incorporating academic service learning throughout a dental hygiene curriculum
Authors: Simmer‐Beck M , Gadbury‐Amyot C , Williams KB , Keselyak NT , Branson B , Mitchell TV
Published: February 2013

Objectives

Academic service learning (ASL) provides the venue for dental hygiene education to take oral healthcare services directly into communities while at the same time promoting professional responsibility within the student bodies. The purpose of this study was to quantitatively examine the change in pre‐existing attitudes and behaviours of dental hygiene students following the incorporation of ASL activities throughout a five‐semester dental hygiene curriculum.

Methods

Seventy‐seven first‐year dental hygiene students who participated in ASL from the graduating classes of 2008–2010 participated in the study. A survey instrument developed by Shiarella, based on Schwartz's Helping Behaviors Model, was used to assess students' attitudes towards community service. Additionally, questions were developed using Shinnamon's Methods and Strategies for Assessing Service‐Learning in the Health Professions.

Results

Internal estimates of reliability for scales (Cronbach's α) were all >0.8. The results revealed statistically significant improvements over time in enhanced learning (P = 0.0001), self‐awareness (P = 0.0001), sense of volunteerism (P = 0.013), impact on career choices (P = 0.001) and decrease in personal costs (P = 0.0001). There were no significant changes in other subscales over time. Further investigating these domains revealed minimal to no changes in attributes of service learning.

Conclusion

Service learning integrated into the dental hygiene curriculum can enhance learning and improve students' self‐awareness, sense of volunteerism, career choices and perception of personal costs. In concert with the literature on ASL, these experiences throughout the curriculum have potential for increasing students' awareness of community need and their roles as oral health professionals.
Marantic endocarditis presenting with multifocal neurological symptoms
Authors: Wong S. F. , Seow J. , Profitis K. , Johns J. , Barnett S. , John T.
Published: February 2013

Non‐bacterial thrombotic endocarditis (NBTE), also known as marantic endocarditis, has been reported to occur in 0.3–9.3% of the adult population at autopsy. NBTE associated with malignancy is an underrecognised cause of thromboembolic disorders. The clinical spectrum encountered and investigation results can be non‐specific, often mimicking other acute conditions such as infective endocarditis. We describe the case of a 34‐year‐old woman with non‐localising and multifocal neurological symptoms, who was subsequently diagnosed with NBTE secondary to a resectable primary lung adenocarcinoma.
Triple negative breast cancer in a male‐to‐female transsexual
Authors: Pattison S. T. , McLaren B. R.
Published: February 2013

There is limited published literature on the risk of breast cancer in transgender patients. We report a case of an aggressive triple negative inflammatory breast cancer in a male‐to‐female transsexual. This patient had a complicated psychiatric history with significant antipsychotic use, and the case raises several questions about the pathogenesis of this breast cancer. The literature on breast cancer in transgender patients and in relation to hyperprolactinaemia is reviewed.