bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of relationship strength and integration capability on the efficiency of knowledge transfer among technology alliances in China
Authors: Shu‐wen Ma , Wen‐an Pan
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to adopt a study framework of network embeddedness and social capital perspective, and to explore the relationship among relationship strength, knowledge integration capability and the efficiency of knowledge transfer among technology alliance.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical data were acquired through a recent survey of electrical and mechanical, biopharmaceutical and chemical industries. LISREL analysis was employed to examine the impact of relationship strength and integration capability on the efficiency of knowledge transfer.

Findings

The results verify that relationship strength has a significant positive impact on cooperative knowledge transfer and external integration capability, but it cannot influence innovative knowledge and internal integration capability. The internal knowledge integration capacity has a positive influence on the external integration capacity, but the external knowledge integration does not have significant impact on the internal integration capacity. Combined with the external integration capability, relationship strength's indirect influence on cooperative knowledge transfer is greater than the direct one.

Research limitations/implications

Strengthening knowledge integration capacity is the key to improve the efficiency of knowledge transfer by taking advantage of partnerships. The enterprise should adjust the relationship strength according to the function matching of the knowledge.

Originality/value

This paper is one of very few that provide empirical evidence of the impact of relationship strength and integration capability on the performance of knowledge transfer. It provides necessary basis for the enterprise to lay out and establish the technology alliance, which the enterprise should adjust the type of union according to the characteristic of the knowledge during the process of planning the technology alliance. This paper also suggests that the enterprises should make full use of technology alliance to enhance the external integration ability.
Development and implementation of a regional intensive care health service model
Authors: Roberts Daniel , Clark Helen , Rock Betty‐Lou
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a case study of a healthcare service redesign. Before 1998, five community hospitals in Winnipeg each managed their intensive care units (ICUs) independently, providing virtually no access to patients in rural and remote regions of the province of Manitoba; and two tertiary university affiliated hospitals were left with insufficient intensive care beds to service the rest of the provincial population in addition to their tertiary service responsibilities. The authors resolved to create a city‐wide integrated critical care services model, in order to improve patient access, quality of care and cost effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

A population demand analysis was performed and service objectives were defined. A gap analysis became the basis of an integrated service model design and an implementation plan was formulated.

Findings

Beds were redistributed among community hospital ICUs to match available nursing resources. A credentialing process was developed to establish medical competency for attending physicians. A central bed registry and a referral triage system were implemented, to ensure that any Manitoban requiring an ICU admission acquired an appropriate bed in a timely manner. A regional computerized critical care database was introduced to all ICUs. The total number of beds was reduced from 92 to 84 and total occupancy fell from 65 to 58. The new model was entirely funded from bed reductions.

Originality/value

This paper describes the integration of a group of hospital‐based ICUs into a regional service delivery model developed to meet the needs of a provincial population.
Applying systems engineering to create a population‐centered sleep disorders program
Authors: Hathout Linda , Tenbergen Tina , Giannouli Eleni , Clark Helen , Roberts Daniel
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a case study of a healthcare service redesign. In 2005, sleep disorder diagnostic assessments for patients in the Province of Manitoba were conducted at two independent sites. Referrals had accumulated, creating a waiting list of over 3,400 patients while only 1,200 patients were studied annually. Wait times for diagnosis and treatment increased dramatically. No managed patient database existed, nor were there standards to measure the effectiveness of the services.

Design/methodology/approach

A systems analysis approach was used which including population demand analysis, value stream mapping and refining the clinical service objectives. The current and desired state of the system was defined and a gap analysis became the foundation of a change management plan.

Findings

A system redesign resulted in tripling the throughput with a 35 per cent increase in operating budget, evaluation metrics, elimination of diagnostic handling and treatment start delays, and an increase in treatment rates for positively diagnosed patients from 55 to 70 per cent.

Originality/value

This paper provides an example of how healthcare services can be envisioned using a systems analysis approach.
The use of cognitive behavioural therapy for adults with autism spectrum disorders: a review of the evidence
Authors: Binnie James , Blainey Sarah
Published: July 2013

Purpose

There is a large and increasing evidence base for cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for the amelioration of common mental health difficulties. In children and young people with autism, there is some evidence that CBT can be effective; however, it is unclear whether this also applies to adults with autistic spectrum disorders (ASDs). This review aimed to evaluate the evidence for the use of CBT with adults with ASDs in relation to reducing comorbid psychiatric symptoms and increasing social and communication skills.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic search was conducted to identify best evidence. Comparison to predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria identified seven relevant studies; these were subsequently critically appraised.

Findings

The results of the appraisal were mixed with no definitive evidence supporting the review question.

Practical implications

Basing assumptions on best evidence, it is suggested that CBT can help adults with ASDs decrease comorbid psychiatric symptomatology. However, there is little evidence that CBT can increase social and communicative functioning. The review concludes that there is a need for increased quantitative research in this area so that more substantial conclusions can be made.

Originality/value

This paper summarises the available evidence in relation to CBT for adults with ASD; most previous review papers have focused on children and young people. Future research directions are suggested.
Stationary phase and mature infectious forms of Legionella pneumophila produce distinct viable but non‐culturable cells
Authors: Al‐Bana Badii H. , Haddad Moreen T. , Garduño Rafael A.
Published: July 2013

Legionella pneumophila is an intracellular bacterial parasite of freshwater protozoa and an accidental waterborne human pathogen. L. pneumophila is highly pleomorphic showing several forms that differentiate within its developmental cycle. In water, L. pneumophila produces viable but non‐culturable cells (VBNCCs), which remain largely uncharacterized. We produced VBNCCs from two developmental forms of L. pneumophila [stationary phase forms (SPFs) and mature infectious forms (MIFs)] in two water microcosms [double‐deionized (dd) and tap water] at 45°C. In contrast with SPFs, MIFs upheld a robust ultrastructure and high viability in the two water microcosms. In dd‐water, MIFs and SPFs lost their culturability faster than in tap water and did not consume their poly‐β‐hydroxybutyrate inclusions. Resuscitation in Acanthamoeba castellani was only possible for VBNCCs produced from SPFs in tap water. Addition of salts to dd‐water prolonged L. pneumophila culturability to tap water levels, suggesting that L. pneumophila requires ions to maintain its readiness to resume growth. VBNCCs resisted detergent lysis and digestion in the ciliate Tetrahymena, except for VBNCCs produced from SPFs in dd‐water. L. pneumophila VBNCCs thus show distinct traits according to its originating developmental form and the surrounding water microcosm.
Functional diversity ofNocardiain metabolism
Authors: Luo Quan , Hiessl Sebastian , Steinbüchel Alexander
Published: July 2013

Bacteria affiliated in the genusNocardiaare aerobic andGram‐positive actinomycetes that are widely found in aquatic and terrestrial habitats. As occasional pathogens, several of them cause infection diseases called ‘nocardiosis’ affecting lungs, central nervous system, cutaneous tissues and others. In addition, members of the genusNocardiaexhibit an enormous metabolic versatility. On one side, many secondary metabolites have been isolated from members of this genus that exhibit various biological activities such as antimicrobial, antitumor, antioxidative and immunosuppressive activities. On the other side, many species are capable of degrading or converting aliphatic and aromatic toxic hydrocarbons, natural or synthetic polymers, and other widespread environmental pollutants. Because of these valuable properties and the application potential,Nocardiaspecies have attracted much interest in academia and industry in recent years. A solid basis of genetic tools including a set of shuttle vectors and an efficient electroporation method for further genetic and metabolic engineering studies has been established to conduct efficient research. Associated with the increasing data of nocardial genome sequences, the functional diversity ofNocardiawill be much faster and better understood.
The motorcycle Sallah durbars of Zaria 2012 (Respond to this article at http://www.therai.org.uk/at/debate)
Authors: Renne Elisha P.
Published: July 2013

Social dynamics may be understood more clearly through the analysis of an extraordinary event, which suggests not only a change in cultural practice but which also suggests wider political ramifications. In Zaria City, the old, walled section of the town of Zaria associated with the former Emirate of Zazzau, in northern Nigeria, the Emir's cancellation of the Sallah durbars—elaborate processions of gorgeously dressed men and horses—and their replacement by young men wearing blue jeans and riding motorcycles represents just such an event. Through their actions, these young men motorcyclists questioned the moral authority of those associated with traditional rule in Zaria who are seen as reneging on their duty to intercede for their people in favor of federal largesse. In this sense, the performance of motorcycle Sallah durbars relates to the more violent protests in northern Nigeria against police officers, soldiers, and political leaders (which includes traditional rulers), attributed to the Islamic reformist movement, Jama'atu Ahlis‐Sunnah Lidda'awati Wal Jihad (JASLWJ), popularly known as Boko Haram. The complaints and demands of the young men involved differ; the Sallah motorcyclists are criticizing the behavior of an individual emir, while JASLWJ followers are demanding a state ruled by Shari'a law and a return to Islamic moral order. Yet in both cases, they challenge the prevailing status quo and question the authority of their elders. The significance for the Nigerian state of these conflicts—between those advocating a religious regime and those supporting a secular state, between youth and elders, between rich and poor—may be understood more clearly by examining the micro‐politics of the motorcycle Sallah durbars which took place in Zaria in 2012.
How large are the extinct giant insular rodents? New body mass estimations from teeth and bones
Authors: MONCUNILL‐SOLÉ Blanca , JORDANA Xavier , MARÍN‐MORATALLA Nekane , MOYÀ‐SOLÀ Salvador , KÖHLER Meike
Published: July 2013

The island rule entails a modification of the body size of insular mammals, a character related with numerous biological and ecological variables. From the Miocene to human colonization (Holocene), Mediterranean and Canary Islands were unaltered natural ecosystems, with paleofaunas formed with endemic giant rodents among other mammals. Our aim is to create methods to estimate the body masses of fossil island rodents and address the nature of ecological pressures driving the island rule. We created regression equations based on extant rodent data and used these to estimate the body masses of the extinct species. Our results show strong correlations between teeth, cranial and postcranial measurements and body mass, except for the length of the long bones, the transversal diameter of the distal tibia and the anteroposterior diameter of the proximal tibia, where the equations were less reliable. The use of equations obtained from a more homogeneous group (suborder and family) is preferable when analyzing the area of the first molar. The new regressions were applied to estimate the body masses of some Mediterranean and Canarian fossil rodents (Canariomys, C. bravoi 1.5 kg and C. tamarani 1 kg; Hypnomys, H. morpheus 230 g and H. onicensis 200 g; and Muscardinus cyclopeus 100 g). Our results indicate that under absence of predation, resource availability (island area) is the key factor that determines the size of the Canariomys sp. However, under presence of specialized predators (birds of prey), body size evolution is less pronounced (Hypnomys sp.).
Analysis of the black‐chinned tilapia Sarotherodon melanotheron heudelotii reproducing under a wide range of salinities: from RNA‐seq to candidate genes
Authors: Avarre J.‐C. , Dugué R. , Alonso P. , Diombokho A. , Joffrois C. , Faivre N. , Cochet C. , Durand J.‐D.
Published: July 2013

The black‐chinned tilapia Sarotherodon melanotheron heudelotii is an ecologically appealing model as it shows exceptional adaptive capacities, especially with regard to salinity. In spite of this, this species is devoid of genomic resources, which impedes the understanding of such remarkable features. De novo assembly of transcript sequences produced by next‐generation sequencing technologies offers a rapid approach to obtain expressed gene sequences for non‐model organisms. It also facilitates the development of quantitative real‐time PCR (qPCR) assays for analysing gene expression under different environmental conditions. Nevertheless, obtaining accurate and reliable qPCR results from such data requires a number of validations prior to interpretation. The transcriptome of S. melanotheron was sequenced to discover transcripts potentially involved in the plasticity of male reproduction in response to salinity variations. A set of 54 candidate and reference genes was selected through a digital gene expression (DGE) approach, and a de novo qPCR assay using these genes was validated for further detailed expression analyses. A user‐friendly web interface was created for easy handling of the sequence data. This sequence collection represents a major transcriptomic resource for S. melanotheron and will provide a useful tool for functional genomics and genetics studies.
Clot lysis phenotype and response to recombinant factor VIIa in plasma of haemophilia A inhibitor patients
Authors: Bakhtiari Kamran , Kamphuisen Pieter W. , Mancuso Maria E. , Hamulyak Karly , Schutgens Roger E. G. , Santagostino Elena , Meijers Joost C. M.
Published: July 2013

Recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa) is a haemostatic agent that is used for the treatment of haemophilia A patients with inhibitors. However, clinical response to rFVIIa is variable and unpredictable with currently available assays. We investigated the anti‐fibrinolytic effects of rFVIIa in relation to thrombin generation (TG) and other haemostatic parameters in haemophilia A patients with inhibitors. After addition of rFVIIa to plasma, the clot‐lysis assay, TF‐dependent TG, TF‐independent TG and parameters involved in coagulation, anticoagulation and fibrinolysis were assessed. The clot‐lysis test distinguished two groups of patients: a group with a normal and a group with impaired anti‐fibrinolytic response to rFVIIa. Our results showed a dose‐dependent increase in TF‐dependent TG and TF‐independent TG in all individuals. There was a significant difference in TF‐independent TG parameters between the normal and impaired response groups. In addition, there was a difference between the normal and impaired response group in prothrombin time, which could be explained by significantly higher levels of coagulation factors in the normal response group, and soluble thrombomodulin. In conclusion, we observed different in vitro responses following rFVIIa addition in plasma of patients with haemophilia A and inhibitors, which could be partially attributed to levels of procoagulant proteins and soluble thrombomodulin.
Deregulated MIR335 that targets MAPK1 is implicated in poor outcome of paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Authors: Yan Junli , Jiang Nan , Huang Gaofeng , Tay Jim L.‐S. , Lin Baohong , Bi Chonglei , Koh Grace S. , Li Zhenhua , Tan Joy , Chung Tae‐Hoon , Lu Yi , Ariffin Hany , Kham Shirley K. Y. , Yeoh Allen E. J. , Chng Wee‐Joo
Published: July 2013

Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) is the most common paediatric malignancy. Although 90% of patients are now long‐term survivors, the remaining 10% have poor outcome predominantly due to drug resistance. In this study, we carried out genome‐wide microRNA (miRNA) microarray analysis on diagnostic bone marrow samples to determine miRNA expression profiles associated with poor outcome in ALL. A reduced expression of MIR335 was identified as the most significant miRNA abnormality associated with poor outcome. It is well known that glucocorticoid (GC) resistance is one of the major reasons contributing to poor outcome. We show that exogenous expression of MIR335 in ALL cells increases sensitization to prednisolone‐mediated apoptosis. Moreover, we demonstrate that MAPK1 is a novel target of MIR335, and that MEK/ERK inhibitor treatment enhanced prednisolone‐induced cell death through the activation of BIM (BCL2L11). These results provide a possible underlying molecular mechanism to explain the association between reduced MIR335 with poor clinical outcome, and suggest that approaches to re‐introduce MIR335 expression or override MAPK1 activity may offer promising therapeutic strategies in the treatment of ALL.
Urinary tract abnormalities in boys with recurrent urinary tract infections after hypospadias repair
Authors: Wehbi Elias , Patel Premal , Kanaroglou Niki , Tam Stephanie , Weber Bryce , Lorenzo Armando , Salle Joao Luiz Pippi , Bagli Darius , Koyle Martin , Farhat Walid A.
Published: July 2013

Objective

To examine the development of recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) in boys who have undergone hypospadias repair.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the records of all boys who had recurrent UTIs after primary or redo tubularized incised plate (TIP) or transverse island flap (TVIF) repairs, between 1998 and 2009.

Data on age, operating details, postoperative complications and imaging studies were collected.

We attempted to identify risk factors for recurrent UTIs after hypospadias repair.

Results

During the study period, 43/2249 boys (1.91%) were diagnosed with recurrent UTIs after hypospadias repair. The boys' mean (range) age at repair was 14 (6–24) months and the median (range) follow‐up was 6.5 (1.5–11) years.

Primary TIP and TVIF were performed in 47% (20/43) and 35% (15/43) of the boys, respectively. Redo surgeries were performed in 18% of the boys (8/43). The initial meatal location was proximal in all TVIF and redo repairs, and in one of the TIP repairs.

Postoperative voiding cysto‐urethrography, ultrasonography and dimercapto‐succinic acid (DMSA) scans were performed in 58% (25/43), 90% (39/43) and 19% (8/43) of the boys, respectively. Abnormalities were noted.

Of those boys who underwent a TVIF repair, urethral diverticula were seen in 47% (7/15) and urethral fistulae were also seen in 47% (7/15). Conversely, in those who had a TIP repair, an elevated PVR and vesico‐ureteric reflux were more common; they were found in 40% (8/20) and 50% (10/20) of patients, respectively.

Conclusions

The pathophysiology of recurrent UTI is multifactorial, but postoperative complications seem to vary with type of procedure.

Recurrent UTIs after hypospadias surgery should prompt a specific assessment for potentially functionally relevant and correctable anatomical abnormalities.
Spatial distribution of mean winter air temperatures in Siberian permafrost at 20−18 ka BP using oxygen isotope data
Authors: Vasil'chuk Yurij , Vasil'chuk Alla
Published: July 2013

Palaeotemperature reconstruction for the period of 20−18 ka BP in Siberia is here based on δ18O analysis and 14C dating of large syngenetic ice wedges. Dozens of yedoma exposures, from Yamal Peninsula to Chukotka, have been studied. Snow meltwater is considered to be the main source of ice‐wedge ice. The modern relationship between δ18O composition of ice‐wedge ice and winter temperature is used as a base for reconstruction. In modern ice wedges (elementary veins that have accumulated during the last 60–100 years) δ18O fluctuates between −14 and −20‰ in western Siberia and between −23 and −28‰ in northern Yakutia. The trend in δ18O distribution in ice wedges dated at 20−18 ka BP is similar to the modern one. For example, the δ18O values in Late Pleistocene wedges are more negative going from west to east by 8–10‰, i.e. from −19 to −25‰ in western Siberian ice wedges to −30 to −35‰ in northern Yakutia. However, values are as high as −28 to −33‰ in north Chukotka and the central areas of the Magadan Region and even as high as −23 to −29‰ in the east of Chukotka. The same difference between the oxygen isotope composition of ice wedges in the eastern and western regions of Siberian permafrost (about 8–10‰) is also preserved from 20−18 ka BP to the present: δ18O values obtained from large ice wedges from the Late Pleistocene vary from −19 to −25‰ in western Siberia to −30 to −35‰ in northern Yakutia. We conclude that, at 20−18 ka BP, mean January temperatures were about 8–12°C lower (in Chukotka up to 17–18°C) than at present.
The Audiovisual Temporal Binding Window Narrows in Early Childhood
Authors: Lewkowicz David J. , Flom Ross
Published: July 2013

Binding is key in multisensory perception. This study investigated the audio‐visual (A‐V) temporal binding window in 4‐, 5‐, and 6‐year‐old children (total N = 120). Children watched a person uttering a syllable whose auditory and visual components were either temporally synchronized or desynchronized by 366, 500, or 666 ms. They were asked whether the voice and face went together (Experiment 1) or whether the desynchronized videos differed from the synchronized one (Experiment 2). Four‐year‐olds detected the 666‐ms asynchrony, 5‐year‐olds detected the 666‐ and 500‐ms asynchrony, and 6‐year‐olds detected all asynchronies. These results show that the A‐V temporal binding window narrows slowly during early childhood and that it is still wider at 6 years of age than in older children and adults.
Effects of load and type of physical training on resting and postexercise cardiac autonomic control
Authors: Guerra Zaqueline F. , Peçanha Tiago , Moreira Débora N. , Silva Lilian P. , Laterza Mateus C. , Nakamura Fábio Y. , Lima Jorge R. P.
Published: July 2013

The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of training load and exercise mode on heart rate variability and heart rate recovery (HRR) in healthy individuals. The subjects were divided into three groups: sedentary (SED), resistance trained (RT) and aerobically trained (RT). Resting and postmaximal exercise RR intervals were recorded on supine and seated position, respectively. The HRV indices calculated in the resting position were RMSSD and LF and HF power densities. The following HRR indices were calculated throughout the 5‐minute postmaximal recovery period: semi‐logarithmic regression analysis of the first 30 s (T30); absolute difference between the peak and 60 s HR (HRR60s); and mono‐exponential time constant of HRR (HRRτ). The RMSSD on subsequent 30‐s segments (RMSSD30s) on recovery period was also calculated. Both RT and AT groups presented faster HRR than SED (P<0·05). The aerobic trained group was the only group that presented vagal reactivation, when analysing the RMSSD30s. There were no correlations between the Baecke sport score and the HRV vagal‐related indices. However, it was significantly correlated with HRR. It was concluded that that the training load positively influences the HRR, but has no effect on the HRV at rest and that the type of exercise, showed a marked influence on HRV recovery.
Freshwater habitat associations between pink (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha), chum (O. keta) and Chinook salmon (O. tshawytscha) in a watershed dominated by sockeye salmon (O. nerka) abundance
Authors: Pess George R. , Quinn Thomas P. , Schindler Daniel E. , Liermann Martin C.
Published: July 2013

To understand the interplay between habitat use and contemporary anadromous Pacific salmon, Oncorhynchus spp., distributions we explored the habitat associations of three species, pink (O. gorbuscha), chum (O. keta) and Chinook salmon (O. tshawytscha) in streams of the Wood River system of Bristol Bay, Alaska, where sockeye salmon (O. nerka) are numerically dominant. We developed models to investigate the occurrence of nondominant salmon in relation to habitat characteristics and sockeye salmon density, using four decades of salmon presence and abundance data. The frequency of occurrence and abundance of nondominant species increased with watershed drainage area and stream depth and decreased with sockeye salmon density. The range of occurrence varied from nonexistent to perennial for the other species in sockeye‐dominated streams. Increasing watershed area resulted in larger stream habitat area and deeper habitats, allowing for the sympatric occurrence and persistence of all salmon species. The relationships between habitat and the presence of these Pacific salmon help define their requirements but also remind us that the patterns of presence and absence, within the overall ranges of salmon species, have yet to be fully understood.
Success of a low‐sloping rack for improving downstream passage of silver eels at a hydroelectric plant
Authors: Calles O. , Karlsson S. , Vezza P. , Comoglio C. , Tielman J.
Published: July 2013

The European eel (Anguilla anguilla) is a critically endangered species, and one major threat is the survival of silver eels migrating downstream towards the sea from lake and river rearing areas. During this migration, many eels are impinged and die on intake racks, or are injured or killed when passing through turbines.

Intake racks at a hydroelectric plant were modified to avoid impingement and to collect eels without injury; high mortality on both racks and in turbines was previously documented. Modifications consisted of reducing the rack gap width from 20 to 18 mm, decreasing the rack slope from 63 to 35 degrees, increasing the rack surface area by 58% and installing six openings in the rack leading to traps.

Downstream passage conditions for silver eels at the hydroelectric plant were significantly improved, reducing mortality from >70% at the old steep 20 mm racks to <10% at the modified 18 mm rack collection facility. No tagged eels were impinged and killed on the racks, and 80% entered the collection facility.

Survival can probably be improved even more, as the individuals that passed the facility most likely escaped through holes in the traps. Moreover, injured untagged eels were still encountered at the modified racks, illustrating the need for rehabilitative measures to be implemented at all obstacles between the main eel rearing areas and the sea.
Plankton dynamics under different climate conditions in tropical freshwater systems (a reply to the comment by Sarmento, Amado & Descy, )
Authors: de Senerpont Domis Lisette N. , Elser James J. , Gsell Alena S. , Huszar Vera L. M. , Ibelings Bas W. , Jeppesen Erik , Kosten Sarian , Mooij Wolf M. , Roland Fabio , Sommer Ulrich , van Donk Ellen , Winder Monika , Lürling Miquel
Published: July 2013

In our recent contribution to the special issue on plankton dynamics in a fast‐changing world, we outlined some general predictions of plankton dynamics in different climate regions now and in future, building on the Plankton Ecology Group (PEG) model (de Senerpont Domis et al., 2013).

We proposed a stylised version of plankton dynamics in Fig. 3 of our article and stated that these patterns need to be further elaborated. Our figure displays annual plankton dynamics now and in future in oligotrophic, mesotrophic and eutrophic lakes in arctic, temperate and tropical climate zones.

We fully agree with Sarmento, Amado & Descy (2013) that more data on tropical regions are needed, and we are looking forward to the emergence of published data from tropical regions to extend our still‐limited understanding of plankton dynamics in these regions.

Sarmento et al. (2013) did not agree with our predictions on plankton dynamics for hydrology‐driven water systems in the tropics. Unfortunately, however, Sarmento et al. (2013) did not substantiate their statements with the much‐needed data on plankton dynamics in the tropics. Moreover, they merely provide an overview of precipitation patterns in the tropics, not an alternative hypothesis for our predictions.
Future habitat suitability for coral reef ecosystems under global warming and ocean acidification
Authors: Couce Elena , Ridgwell Andy , Hendy Erica J.
Published: July 2013

Rising atmospheric CO2 concentrations are placing spatially divergent stresses on the world's tropical coral reefs through increasing ocean surface temperatures and ocean acidification. We show how these two stressors combine to alter the global habitat suitability for shallow coral reef ecosystems, using statistical Bioclimatic Envelope Models rather than basing projections on any a priori assumptions of physiological tolerances or fixed thresholds. We apply two different modeling approaches (Maximum Entropy and Boosted Regression Trees) with two levels of complexity (one a simplified and reduced environmental variable version of the other). Our models project a marked temperature‐driven decline in habitat suitability for many of the most significant and bio‐diverse tropical coral regions, particularly in the central Indo‐Pacific. This is accompanied by a temperature‐driven poleward range expansion of favorable conditions accelerating up to 40–70 km per decade by 2070. We find that ocean acidification is less influential for determining future habitat suitability than warming, and its deleterious effects are centered evenly in both hemispheres between 5° and 20° latitude. Contrary to expectations, the combined impact of ocean surface temperature rise and acidification leads to little, if any, degradation in future habitat suitability across much of the Atlantic and areas currently considered ‘marginal’ for tropical corals, such as the eastern Equatorial Pacific. These results are consistent with fossil evidence of range expansions during past warm periods. In addition, the simplified models are particularly sensitive to short‐term temperature variations and their projections correlate well with reported locations of bleaching events. Our approach offers new insights into the relative impact of two global environmental pressures associated with rising atmospheric CO2 on potential future habitats, but greater understanding of past and current controls on coral reef ecosystems is essential to their conservation and management under a changing climate.
The relationship between psychosocial problems including depression and behavioural trends among middle‐aged menopausal women in a cohort study
Authors: Oi N. , Ohi K.
Published: July 2013

Synopsis

Objective

We investigated the association of psychosocial problems, menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes, and trends of smoking and use of cosmetics in our previous study. In this follow‐up study, we researched psychiatric disorders and psychosocial problems in menopausal women.

Methods

We designed a cohort study with 577 Japanese women aged 30–64 years. Subjects were selected randomly from among women who visited the department of gender‐specific medicine at Tokyo Women's Medical University East Medical Center between June 2010 and September 2011. We analysed trends such as smoking, using cosmetics, and menopausal symptoms and their association with the first lifetime episode of severe depression and anxiety using structured clinical interviews for the DSM‐IV (structured clinical interview for DSM‐IV, outpatient version [SCID]), the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES‐D) and the State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI).

Results

Significant associations were observed between hot flushes, smoking and the frequency of using cosmetics. Furthermore, the trends in cosmetic use and smoking affected not only psychosocial problems, but also physical problems. Younger women suffered from psychosocial problems more than twice the rate of post‐menopausal women. Those who reported their first severe depression episode were also affected by severe anxiety disorders and physical problems.

Conclusion

By self‐checking the frequency of using cosmetics is up to date knowledge of psychosocial mood problems and improving women's quality of life.
Current practices of bleeding time in a developing country: an alert for noncompliance with the standard procedures
Authors: Tantanate C. , Tientadakul P.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Bleeding time is still widely performed in many developing countries including Thailand. To generate an accurate result, the procedure should be complied with standard recommendations such as those from Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) and World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH). The authors surveyed the current practices of bleeding time in Thailand in order to verify the practices that did not comply with the accepted standard.

Methods

The questionnaires were sent to hospitals participating Thailand National External Quality Assessment Scheme (NEQAS) for blood coagulation. Items in the questionnaire comprised information about preanalytical, analytical, and postanalytical issues of bleeding time.

Results

From a dispatch of 201 questionnaires, 155 (77.1%) were returned. The common noncompliance with standards observed in this survey included inappropriateness of indication, e.g. use for preoperative screening (95 of 126, 75.4%), use of devices other than standard template (130 of 132, 98.5%), and inappropriate reference range (125 of 127, 98.4%).

Conclusions

The noncompliance shown in this survey can affect the accuracy of bleeding time results. The authors would like to address these problems as an alert for other laboratories especially in the developing countries where the standard templates are not widely available.
Effect of passive immunization on immunogenicity and protective efficacy of vaccination against a Mexican low‐pathogenic avian H5N2 influenza virus
Authors: Forrest Heather L. , Garcia Alejandro , Danner Angela , Seiler Jon P. , Friedman Kimberly , Webster Robert G. , Jones Jeremy C.
Published: July 2013

Background

Despite the use of vaccines, low‐pathogenic (LP) H5N2 influenza viruses have continued to circulate and evolve in chickens in Mexico since 1993, giving rise to multiple genetic variants. Antigenic drift is partially responsible for the failure to control H5N2 influenza by vaccination; the contribution of maternal antibodies to this problem has received less attention.

Methods

We investigated the effect of different antisera on the efficacy of vaccination and whether booster doses of vaccine can impact immune suppression.

Results

While single doses of inactivated oil emulsion vaccine to currently circulating H5N2 influenza viruses provide partial protection from homologous challenge, chickens that receive high‐titer homologous antisera intraperitoneally before vaccination showed effects ranging from added protection to immunosuppression. Post‐infection antisera were less immunosuppressive than antisera obtained from field‐vaccinated chickens. Homologous, post‐infection chicken antisera provided initial protection from virus challenge, but reduced the induction of detectable antibody responses. Homologous antisera from field‐vaccinated chickens were markedly immunosuppressive, annulling the efficacy of the vaccine and leaving the chickens as susceptible to infection as non‐vaccinated birds. Booster doses of vaccine reduced the immunosuppressive effects of the administered sera.

Conclusion

Vaccine efficacy against LP H5N2 in Mexico can be severely reduced by maternal antibodies. Source‐dependent antisera effects offer the possibility of further elucidation of the immunosuppressive components involved.
Comparison of Complication Rates and Clinical Outcome Between Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy and a Modified Cranial Closing Wedge Osteotomy for Treatment of Cranial Cruciate Ligament Disease in Dogs
Authors: Oxley Bill , Gemmill Toby J. , Renwick Alasdair R. , Clements Dylan N. , McKee W. Malcolm
Published: July 2013

Objective

To report complication rates and clinical outcomes after tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) and a modified cranial closing wedge osteotomy (mCCWO) for treatment of cranial cruciate ligament disease in dogs.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Animals

Dogs weighing 20–60 kg with unilateral cranial cruciate ligament disease treated by either TPLO (n = 97) or mCCWO (n = 74).

Methods

Clinical and radiographic assessments including lameness score, morphometric measurements and tibial plateau angle (TPA) were made before surgery and 8 weeks after either TPLO or mCCWO. Long‐term outcome assessment by owner questionnaire or interview was undertaken at ≥6 months postoperatively.

Results

Significant differences in lameness scores between groups were not identified at short‐ or long‐term follow‐up. Major complication and reoperation rates did not differ significantly between groups (TPLO 7.2% and 6.1%; mCCWO 9.5% and 5.4%). Median postoperative TPA did not differ significantly between groups (TPLO group 5.5°; mCCWO group 6.5°). At >6 months owner assessed lameness, disability, quality of life and satisfaction were not different between groups and were good in 90–97% of dogs.

Conclusions

In dogs weighing 20–60 kg, TPLO and mCCWO are associated with similar complication rates and clinical outcomes when performed by surgeons experienced with the surgical techniques.
Timing of songbird migration: individual consistency within and between seasons
Authors: Thorup Kasper , Vardanis Yannis , Tøttrup Anders P. , Kristensen Mikkel Willemoes , Alerstam Thomas
Published: July 2013

The timing of migration is generally considered of utmost importance for reproduction and survival, and timing is furthermore considered to be under strong genetic control. The individual timing of migration is presumably a result of a combination of genetic, phenotypic and environmental factors as well as some degree of randomness. However, potential differences in consistency of timing between spring and autumn and between migration strategies are not well studied. Using long‐term Danish ringing data, we study such differences by correlating date of ringing with date of recaptures for a suite of common migrating passerines in Denmark. We found that individuals marked early in one year tended to be recaptured early in the same season in a following year indicating that individuals time their migration in spring or autumn similarly between years. The relationship between spring and autumn migration was overall slightly negative, suggesting that birds arriving early in spring tended to depart late in autumn and vice versa. There were only weak effects of geographical location on timing, suggesting that the patterns found are not primarily caused by different populations being involved. Knowledge of individual consistency in migration timing is needed for understanding changes in migration timing. The consistent patterns of repeatabilities within and between seasons found here highlight the importance of timing of migration in songbirds.
Waist‐to‐height ratio and cardiometabolic risk factors in adolescence: findings from a prospective birth cohort
Authors: Graves L. , Garnett S. P. , Cowell C. T. , Baur L. A. , Ness A. , Sattar N. , Lawlor D. A.
Published: July 2013

What is already known about this subject

In adults, associations between body mass index (BMI), waist‐to‐height ratio (WHtR) and cardiometabolic outcomes are similar.

In children and adolescents, results from cross‐sectional studies examining the associations between BMI z scores, WHtR and cardiometabolic outcomes are conflicting and there is a paucity of prospective data.

What this study adds

This is the first study to demonstrate the prospective association between WHtR in childhood and cardiometabolic outcomes in adolescent boys.

WHtR is a simple calculation that can be used to identify children and adolescents for cardiometabolic risk without the need for reference growth charts.

The WHtR cut‐point of ≥0.5 was highly specific in identifying cardiometabolic risk co‐occurrence but has poor sensitivity.

Objective

To examine the associations between body mass index (BMI) and waist‐to‐height ratio (WHtR) measured in childhood and adolescence and cardiometabolic risk factors in adolescence.

Methods

Secondary data analysis of the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, a population based cohort. Data from 2858 adolescents aged 15.5 (standard deviation 0.4) years and 2710 of these participants as children aged 7–9 years were used in this analysis. Outcome measures were cardiometabolic risk factors, including triglycerides, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, insulin, glucose and blood pressure at 15 years of age.

Results

Both BMI and WHtR measured at ages 7–9 years and at age 15 years were associated with cardiometabolic risk factors in adolescents. A WHtR ≥0.5 at 7–9 years increased the odds by 4.6 [95% confidence interval 2.6 to 8.1] for males and 1.6 [0.7 to 3.9] for females of having three or more cardiometabolic risk factors in adolescence. Cross‐sectional analysis indicated that adolescents who had a WHtR ≥0.5, the odds ratio of having three or more cardiometabolic risk factors was 6.8 [4.4 to 10.6] for males and 3.8 [2.3 to 6.3] for females. The WHtR cut‐point was highly specific in identifying cardiometabolic risk co‐occurrence in male children and adolescents as well as female children (90 to 95%), but had poor sensitivity (17 to 53%). Similar associations were observed when BMI was used to define excess adiposity.

Conclusions

WHtR is a simple alternative to age and sex adjusted BMI for assessing cardiometabolic risk in adolescents.
Dispersion and Setting of Powder Suspensions in Concentrated Aqueous Urea Solutions for the Preparation of Porous Alumina Ceramics with Aligned Pores
Authors: Vijayan Sujith , Narasimman Rajaram , Prabhakaran Kuttan
Published: July 2013

Highly concentrated alumina powder suspensions have been prepared in aqueous urea solutions of concentrations in the range 200–360 g/100 mL using an ammonium poly(acrylate) dispersant at 80°C. The dispersant concentration for the suspension viscosity minimum in the urea solutions is higher than that in water due to the higher processing temperature. The urea solutions having higher dielectric constant than that of water offer higher interparticle potential that resulted in better dispersion of the powder as evidenced from the lower viscosity and yield stress of the suspensions. The decrease in temperature increased the suspension viscosity and the suspension formed a strong gel when cooled to room temperature due to the crystallization of urea. The minimum urea solution concentration for a 55 vol% alumina suspension to form a dimensionally stable gel is 240 g/100 mL. The compressive strength and Young's modulus of the gels increased with the increase in urea solution concentration. The alumina ceramics prepared by the urea removal followed by sintering at 1500°C had porosity in the range 28–36 vol% with the rectangular rod‐shaped aligned pores.
A Retrospective Analysis of 800 Brånemark System Implants Following the All‐on‐Four™ Protocol
Authors: Balshi Thomas J. , Wolfinger Glenn J. , Slauch Robert W. , Balshi Stephen F.
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to retrospectively evaluate implant survival rates in patients treated with the All‐on‐Four™ protocol according to edentulous jaws, gender, and implant orientation (tilted vs. axial).

Materials and Methods

All Brånemark System implants placed in patients following the All‐on‐Four™ protocol in a single private practice were separated into multiple classifications (maxilla vs. mandible; male vs. female; tilted vs. axial) by retrospective patient chart review. Inclusion criteria consisted of any Brånemark System implant placed with the All‐on‐Four™ protocol from the clinical inception (May 2005) until December 2011. Life tables were constructed to determine cumulative implant survival rates (CSR). The arches, genders, and implant orientations were statistically compared with ANOVA.

Results

One hundred fifty‐two patients, comprising 200 arches (800 implants) from May 2005 until December 2011, were included in the study. Overall implant CSR was 97.3% (778 of 800). Two hundred eighty‐nine of 300 maxillary implants and 489 of 500 mandibular implants survived, for CSRs of 96.3% and 97.8%, respectively. In male patients, 251 of 256 implants (98.1%) remain in function while 527 of 544 implants (96.9%) in female patients survived. Regarding implant orientation, 389 of 400 tilted implants and 389 of 400 axial implants osseointegrated, for identical CSRs of 97.3%. All comparisons were found to be statistically insignificant. The prosthesis survival rate was 99.0%.

Conclusions

The results from this study suggest that edentulous jaws, gender, and implant orientation are not significant parameters when formulating an All‐on‐Four™ treatment plan. The high CSRs for each variable analyzed demonstrate the All‐on‐Four™ treatment as a viable alternative to more extensive protocols for rehabilitating the edentulous maxilla or mandible.
Content and Goals of Preclinical Prosthodontic Programs at German‐Language Dental Schools
Authors: Hey Jeremias , Stimmelmayr Michael , Hirsch Christian , Beuer Florian
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The Association for Dental Education in Europe (ADEE) makes recommendations regarding the skills graduates of European dental schools need to achieve and advises dental schools regarding necessary changes to be made to the curriculum. In 2010 to 2011, a survey was conducted in German‐language dental schools to validate the curricula and goals of preclinical prosthodontic programs with regard to laboratory work.

Materials and Methods

The survey was mailed to the course instructors of the preclinical programs at 37 dental schools. Of these, 35 schools returned the completed survey, resulting in a response rate of 95%.

Results

Bent wire, wax‐up exercises, metal‐ceramic single crowns, fixed dental prostheses, cast metal single crowns, temporary removable dental prostheses, and full dentures were part of the dental laboratory work at most schools; however, most instructors considered laboratory work as less important, and there were few similarities among the programs in this area. According to the instructors responsible for preclinical education, honing of fine motor skills, realistic self‐assessment, and the ability to work independently were the main goals of the programs.

Conclusion

The results of this survey show that with regard to laboratory work, there were more differences than similarities among preclinical prosthodontic programs at German‐language dental schools, contrary to the recommendations of the ADEE. These findings should be taken into account when program reforms are planned.