bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biology of Mastrus ridibundus (Gravenhorst), a potential biological control agent for area‐wide management of Cydia pomonella (Linneaus) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)
Authors: Devotto L. , Del Valle C. , Ceballos R. , Gerding M.
Published: June 2009

The codling moth Cydia pomonella (Linnaeus) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) is a serious pest of pome fruit crops. A natural enemy of codling moth, the larval ectoparasitoid Mastrus ridibundus (Gravenhorst) (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) has been imported into South America from the USA but little is known about the biology and ecology of the wasp, knowledge that is needed to design an efficient strategy of release and establishment. Experiments were carried out to assess important traits of the biology of the parasitoid in relation to its possible use as a biocontrol agent for codling moth. When M. ridibundus females were offered larvae ranging in weight from 37 to 78 mg, they oviposited more eggs on heavier hosts. In another study, the adult wasps were offered honey, diluted honey (10%) or pollen in paired choice tests and both males and females preferred honey over the other two foods. Females preferred 10% honey over pollen, while the males showed the opposite preference. Honey‐fed females lived longer than starved females. Adults died rapidly at 35°C, while they lived 20 days at 25°C and 12–17 days at 15°C. Female wasps had on average 25 ± 14 and 18 ± 11 progeny at 15 and 25°C, respectively, but they did not had progeny at 35°C. The development time (egg to adult emergence) was on average 44 ± 7 and 24 ± 2 days at 15 and 25°C respectively. Immature insects did not reach the adult stage at 35°C.
Population genetic structure of Cydia pomonella: a review and case study comparing spatiotemporal variation
Authors: Franck P. , Timm A. E.
Published: June 2009

Analysis of population genetic structure is a key aspect to understand insect pest population dynamics in agricultural scenarios. Here the role of geography, hosts and time on the population genetic structure of codling moth Cydia pomonella (Linnaeus) (Lep., Tortricidae) populations is described. Temporal variation was examined in two French orchards among each of three adult flights during two successive years. Analyses were conducted using two insecticide resistance markers (variation at the sodium channel gene and enzymatic activity of cytochrome P450 oxidases) and three microsatellite loci. Levels of genetic variation among temporal populations were not significant based on variation in the sodium channel gene and microsatellite loci. However, P450 oxidase activity differed significantly during both flights and years, decreasing during the three flights of the first year and increasing during the second. These results suggest that phytosanitary measures are among the factors shaping the genetic structure of C. pomonella populations over temporal and geographical scales. We discuss the relative importance of natural and passive dispersal related to anthropogenic activities affecting C. pomonella population genetics and highlight population genetic research needs in order to design more efficient pest management practices.
Genetic location and evaluation of chromosomal segments for drought tolerance at flowering stage in maize using selected backcross populations
Authors: Li Y. , Liu C. , Shi Y. , Song Y. , Wang T. , Li Y.
Published: June 2009

Development and evaluation of introgression lines have become one of the promising approaches to understanding genetic mechanisms of important traits in crops. In this study, three sets of drought tolerance (DT) selected backcross populations in maize, including two BC2S1 populations and one BC3S1 population, from a cross of Qi319 and Huangzaosi (recurrent parent) were developed by selecting for short anthesis‐silking interval (ASI) under the condition of serious water stress at flowering stage. The introgression of chromosome segments was identified using microsatellite markers. The results showed that the marker allele introgression frequencies in the three DT populations significantly increased compared with the expected value under no selection. There was a notable increase of introgression frequency for the most of these markers which were located on all chromosomes except chromosome 8, but most concentrated on some chromosomes, especially on chromosomes 4 and 5. For example, chromosome 4 harboured the largest number of introgression regions, on which five segments were detected. The ASI in the DT populations significantly shortened compared with the initial BC2 population.
‘Seeing’ the learning community: An exploration of the development of a resource for monitoring online student networking
Authors: Dawson Shane
Published: June 2009

The trend to adopt more online technologies continues unabated in the higher education sector. This paper elaborates the means by which such technologies can be employed for pedagogical purposes beyond simply providing virtual spaces for bringing learners together. It shows how data about student ‘movement’ within and across a learning community can be captured and analysed for the purposes of making strategic interventions in the learning of ‘at risk’ students in particular, through the application of social network analysis to the engagement data. The study that is set out in the paper indicates that online technologies bring with them an unprecedented opportunity for educators to visualise changes in student behaviour and their learning network composition, including the interventions teachers make in those networks over time. To date, these evaluative opportunities have been beyond the reach of the everyday practitioner—they can now be integrated into every teaching and learning plan.
e‐Learning programs as loyalty investments for financial corporations
Authors: Arvanitis Spyridon
Published: June 2009

Although e‐learning has been thoroughly presented and analysed in recent years, this paper aims to present a new concept, about web‐based learning used as a tool to provide ‘products' education’ for customers, and the ways enterprises of the financial sector, may use it in order to promote their brand name and services by affecting crucial factors like customer's trust and loyalty.
COMMODITY CONTENT IN A GENERAL INPUT–OUTPUT MODEL
Authors: Fujimoto Takao , Opocher Arrigo
Published: June 2009

This technical paper provides a definition of ‘commodity content’ in extended von Neumann–Morishima models of production. Our definition admits as special cases the classical definition of ‘labour values’ in Leontief models, as well as Morishima's definition of ‘optimal values’ in a von Neumann model. Proper joint production, heterogeneous labour, durable consumption goods, household activities and disposal processes are all allowed for. We also propose a tentative mathematical criterion for defining bads and for distinguishing between unskilled and skilled labour.
Does Skill Content Explain Total Trade and Intra‐Industry Trade?*
Authors: Cabral Manuel , Falvey Rod , Milner Chris
Published: June 2009

This study compares the results of skill content tests for types of trade flows under alternative assumptions about the technologies used to produce imports and exports. For trade between high‐ and middle‐income countries, we show that the match between the actual skill content of trade and that predicted by endowments in a Heckscher–Ohlin–Vanek framework improves substantially if technological heterogeneity across countries is allowed for and if the factor content of intra‐industry trade is included with that of inter‐industry trade. Endowment differences are important in explaining net trade and vertical intra‐industry trade, but not horizontal intra‐industry trade.
Competitive IPOs
Authors: Jenkinson Tim , Jones Howard
Published: June 2009

Competition between investment banks for lead underwriter mandates in IPOs is fierce, but having committed to a particular bank, the power of the issuer is greatly reduced. Although information revelation theories justify giving the underwriters influence over pricing and allocation, this creates the potential for conflicts of interest. In this clinical paper we analyse an interesting innovation that has been used in recent European IPOs whereby issuers separate the preparation and distribution roles of investment banks, and keep competitive pressure on the banks throughout the issue process. These ‘competitive IPOs’ allow the issuer greater control and facilitate more contingent fee structures that help to mitigate against ‘bait and switch.’ But unlike more radical departures from traditional bookbuilding – such as auctions – the competitive IPO is an incremental market‐based response to potential conflicts of interest that retains many of the advantages of investment banks’ active involvement in issues.
Wittgenstein and Internal Relations
Authors: McGinn Marie
Published: June 2009

Abstract: Interpretations of the Tractatus divide into what might be called a metaphysical and an anti‐metaphysical approach to the work. The central issue between the two interpretative approaches has generally been characterised in terms of the question whether the Tractatus is committed to the idea of ‘things’ that cannot be said in language, and thus to the idea of a distinctive kind of nonsense: nonsense that is an attempt to say what can only be shown. In this paper, I look at this dispute from a different perspective, by focusing on the treatment of the concept of internal relations. By reference to the work of Peter Hacker, Hidé Ishiguro and Cora Diamond, I show how this concept is understood quite differently in each of the two interpretative traditions. I focus particularly on how Wittgenstein's idea of the ‘internal relation of depicting that holds between language and the world’ (Tractatus 4.014) might be understood within the two interpretative approaches. I offer some reasons in support of the anti‐metaphysical treatment of the concept.
Determinants of Capital Structure for Japanese Multinational and Domestic Corporations*
Authors: Akhtar Shumi , Oliver Barry
Published: June 2009

Our study examines whether there are systematic differences in standard leverage determinants for a sample of Japanese multinational (MNCs) and domestic corporations (DCs). We find that on a univariate basis Japanese MNCs differ significantly on most variables relative to Japanese DCs. These variables include leverage, age, collateral value of assets, free cash flows, foreign exchange risks, growth, non‐debt tax shields, political risks, profitability and size. Business risks are not found to be significantly different between the two groups of organizations. When modeling capital structure and the determinants of capital structure we find that Japanese multinationals have significantly less leverage than Japanese DCs, and that multinationality is an important aspect of leverage for Japanese firms. We find that business risks are not significant for modeling capital structure of domestic firms but they are for multinationals and foreign exchange risks are not significant for multinationals but are significant for domestic firms. Business risks are negatively related to leverage for multinationals and we document that significant positive leverage effects of foreign exchange risks and size are subsumed by the negative effect of business risks to explain the lower leverage experienced by Japanese multinationals relative to Japanese DCs. The lack of significance of foreign exchange risks for DCs can be explained by economies of scale in risk management, such as derivatives. Domestic firms seem to manage increased foreign exchange risks through lower leverage rather than derivative use. On the other hand, the larger multinationals can take advantage of economies of scale in risk management. Consequently, foreign exchange risks of multinationals can be managed through derivatives and other risk management operations and not reduced leverage.
Deal or No Deal, That is the Question: The Impact of Increasing Stakes and Framing Effects on Decision‐Making under Risk
Authors: BROOKS ROBERT , FAFF ROBERT , MULINO DANIEL , SCHEELINGS RICHARD
Published: June 2009

In this paper, we utilize data from the Australian version of the TV game show, ‘Deal or No Deal’, to explore risk aversion in a high real stakes setting. An attractive feature of this version of the game is that supplementary rounds may occur which switch the decision frame of players. There are four main findings. First, we observe that the degree of risk aversion generally increases with stakes. Second, we observe considerable heterogeneity in people's willingness to bear risk – even at very high stakes. Third, we find that age and gender are statistically significant determinants of risk aversion, while wealth is not. Fourth, we find that the reversal of framing does have a significant impact on people's willingness to bear risk.
An Analysis of the Magnet Effect under Price Limits*
Authors: YAN DU DAPHNE , LIU QIANQIU , RHEE S. GHON
Published: June 2009

Using the Korea Stock Exchange's transaction data and limit order book, we document the accelerating patterns of market activity before limit hits. We confirm the existence of the magnet effect from several key market microstructure variables, using a parsimonious quadratic function of the time until the price limit hit. In addition, this paper is the first to isolate the intraday momentum effect from the magnet effect during the period before stock prices hit daily price limits.
Resolving conflicts of interest in state‐owned enterprises
Authors: Radon Jenik , Thaler Julius
Published: June 2009

State‐owned enterprises (SOEs) face conflicts of interest that stem from a government's dual role as an owner, operator and businessman on the one hand and as the protector of the public interest and therefore a regulator of the SOE on the other hand. Besides pursuing profit maximisation like any private business, SOEs often have a mandate if not an obligation, for broader social goals, such as community education and employment generation. In its function as regulator, a government has to ensure that certain standards, for instance labour and environmental regulations, will be implemented and enforced. These two conflicting goals are difficult to reconcile. The proposed solution to the conflicts of interest is to provide for a clear separation of the ownership and regulatory functions. A SOE should be granted entrepreneurial independence to enable the management to pursue exclusively commercial goals. In order to fulfil its regulatory function the government should also establish separate and independent regulatory bodies. However, a necessary precondition for positive changes is recognising the inherent conflicts of interest in SOEs, and an open and frank discussion about possible solutions.
The devil's excrement as social cement: natural resources and political terror, 1980–2002
Authors: De Soysa Indra , Malmin Binningsbø Helga
Published: June 2009

Using a direct measure of repression of dissent, we find ample evidence to suggest that energy and mineral wealth strongly predict higher levels of political terror, results that are both statistically and substantively large. Oil‐rich and mineral‐rich countries contain higher levels of political terror regardless of the level of autocracy, the incidence of civil and international war and sundry controls. The results are robust to different measures of resource wealth, alternative measures of repression, testing methods and several model specifications. The quality of economic governance, measured as the level of economic freedom, has strong negative effects on political terror and conditions the effects of resource wealth in the direction of more humane governance. Our results suggest several entry points for global and local policy‐makers that seek to extirpate the curse of natural wealth.
Natural resource rent‐cycling outcomes in Botswana, Indonesia and Venezuela
Authors: Auty Richard M.
Published: June 2009

Autocracies tend to be more successful than democracies in deploying natural resource rent. This renders democratic Botswana's success an anomaly, which Collier and Hoeffler (2006) attribute to strong checks and balances. This chapter assesses this thesis by comparing rent deployment since the 1960s in democratic Botswana with that in democratic Venezuela and in Indonesia's autocracy under Suharto. It draws on Rent‐cycling theory, which posits that the higher the ratio of rent/GDP the more likely it is that the political state will pursue rent distribution at the expense of wealth creation; so that rent is cycled through patronage channels at the expense of markets; and, consequently, the economy is distorted. This increases its vulnerability to external shocks and a collapse in growth. The chapter reaches four conclusions. First, a critical determinant of Rent‐cycling outcomes is the strength of the incentives for the elite to prioritise wealth creation over rent distribution. Low rent confers such incentives, as do a rent stream that is precarious (Botswana) and a perception of rent exhaustion (Indonesia). Second, effective institutions reflect rather than mould them wealth‐creating incentives. Patronage‐driven rent cycling tends to corrode institutions, whereas market‐channelled rent tends to consolidate them. Third, few governments manage to pursue all four key policies required for effective rent cycling. Finally, Rent‐cycling impacts are cumulative and negative circles are difficult to arrest.
Energy relations in Russia: administration, politics and security
Authors: Makarychev Andrey
Published: June 2009

This chapter analyses energy relations through a prism of three interlinked concepts: administration, politics and security. This triad describes the basic approaches to questions about technical, politicised and securitised energy. These three concepts are logically linked to one another and represent an elementary matrix; a prism through which different segments of the energy discourse can be analysed. The proposed scheme is of research interest for several reasons. First, it shows that many problems of communication between participants in energy relations arise when these three approaches are combined, whether consciously or unconsciously. Second, practice shows that one and the same country can have several different modes of communication in its arsenal. Third the interconnection between two concepts are important for understanding energy relations that are at first glance opposing, namely, transparency and security.
Effects of topical gluco‐oligosaccharide and collagen tripeptide F in the treatment of sensitive atopic skin
Authors: Berardesca E. , Abril E. , Serio M. , Cameli N.
Published: June 2009

Synopsis

Sensitive skin is a dermatological problem of increasing incidence in western countries and is sometimes associated with atopic condition and bacterial sovrainfection. The purpose of this study is to evaluate in a double blind, randomized, placebo controlled trial the efficacy of gluco‐oligosaccharide and collagen tripeptide F in controlling the signs and symptoms of sensitive atopic skin. Forty female subjects (age, 30–59 years) affected by non‐lesional atopic sensitive skin entered the study. Skin sensitivity was determined by a dermatologist on the basis of medical history, stinging test, dermatological examination and a questionnaire. A treatment with the test products (active and placebo) was carried out for 4 weeks. Measurements and clinical evaluation were carried out at baseline and at the end of the study. The following objective parameters investigated were bacterial count, skin pH and colour, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), stratum corneum hydration, skin roughness and mechanical properties. Clinical assessment included also a scoring system for dryness, desquamation, irritation, erythema and papules. Significant differences were found in the active treated group when compared with the placebo and in particular for instrumental parameters of roughness (P < 0.02), volume (P < 0.01), TEWL (P < 0.02), erythema (P < 0.0006) and clinical parameters of dryness, desquamation and irritation (P < 0.001). Moisturization levels and skin colour improved significantly in both the active and placebo groups. In conclusion, the study shows that the modulation of bacterial proliferation and normalization of skin barrier properties and stratum corneum moisturization can improve the symptoms of sensitive skin.
Bathing and cleansing in newborns from day 1 to first year of life: recommendations from a European round table meeting
Authors: Blume‐Peytavi U , Cork MJ , Faergemann J , Szczapa J , Vanaclocha F , Gelmetti C
Published: June 2009

Background  Development of the skin barrier continues up to 12 months after birth; therefore, care must be taken when cleansing and bathing infants’ skin. Available guidelines for skin care in newborns are, however, limited. In 2007, the 1st European Round Table meeting on ‘Best Practice for Infant Cleansing’ was held, at which a panel of expert dermatologists and paediatricians from across Europe aimed to provide a consensus on infant bathing and cleansing.

Outcomes  Based on discussions at the meeting and a comprehensive literature review, the panel developed a series of recommendations relating to several aspects of infant skin care, including initial and routine bathing, safety while bathing, and post‐bathing procedures. The panel also focused on the use of liquid cleansers in bathing, particularly relating to the benefits of liquid cleansers over water alone, and the criteria that should be used when choosing an appropriate liquid cleanser for infants. Alkaline soaps have numerous disadvantages compared with liquid cleansers, with effects on skin pH and lipid content, as well as causing skin drying and irritation. Liquid cleansers used in newborns should have documented evidence of their mildness on skin and eyes, and those containing an emollient may have further benefits. Finally, the panel discussed seasonal differences in skin care, and issues relating to infants at high risk of atopic dermatitis. The panel further discussed the need of clinical studies to investigate the impact of liquid cleansers on skin physiology parameters on newborns’ and infants’ skin.

Conclusions  Bathing is generally superior to washing, provided basic safety procedures are followed, and has psychological benefits for the infant and parents. When bathing infants with a liquid cleanser, a mild one not altering the normal pH of the skin surface or causing irritation to skin or eyes should be chosen.

Conflicts of interest

M.J. Cork and F. Vanaclocha are advisors to Johnson and Johnson. U. Blume‐Peytavi is a member of the advisory board of the ‘Penaten Beirat’, Johnson & Johnson, Germany. J. Faergemann, C. Gelmetti, J. Szczapa declared to have no conflict of interest.
Rapeseed cytoplasm gives advantage in wild relatives and complicates genetically modified crop biocontainment
Authors: Allainguillaume J. , Harwood T. , Ford C. S. , Cuccato G. , Norris C. , Allender C. J. , Welters R. , King G. J. , Wilkinson M. J.
Published: June 2009

DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-8137.2009.02991.xCommentary p 925
Consumer service and loyalty in Spanish grocery store retailing: an empirical study
Authors: Molina Arturo , Martín Víctor J. , Santos Jesús , Aranda Evangelina
Published: June 2009

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of consumer service on loyalty in retail establishments. Based on a theoretical discussion regarding the relationship between waiting time, product quality, store atmosphere and loyalty, an empirical research was conducted to test the proposed relationships. Multiple‐item indicators from previous studies were used to measure the constructs. Results from the study provide empirical support, suggesting that consumer service through three dimensions influences loyalty. Research results suggest that consumer service in retail establishments can be viewed as a threshold factor in order to maintain satisfied and loyal customers. Additionally, managers should consider that loyalty depends on waiting time, product quality and store atmosphere. The present study provides useful information on the relationship between consumer service and loyalty in retailing.
Increased maternal BMI is associated with an increased risk of minor complications during pregnancy with consequent cost implications
Authors: Denison FC , Norrie G , Graham B , Lynch J , Harper N , Reynolds RM
Published: June 2009

Objective  To investigate the effect of maternal body mass index (BMI) on minor complications, associated additional medication use during pregnancy and the consequent cost implications.

Design  Retrospective analysis of case notes.

Setting  Labour wards, tertiary referral hospital, Royal Infirmary Edinburgh, UK.

Population  Six hundred and fifty‐one women with a singleton pregnancy over four separate time periods in 2007 and 2008.

Methods  Descriptive statistics, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis and cost analysis using standard techniques and inflation indices.

Main outcome measures  Minor complications, use of medications during pregnancy and consequent incremental costs from the perspective of the National Health Service (NHS).

Results  42.4% of women were overweight or obese (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2). Higher BMI during the first trimester (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 compared with BMI < 25 kg/m2) was associated with an increased risk of minor complications including symphysis pubis dysfunction (OR 3.97; 95% CI 2.19–7.18), heartburn (OR 2.65; 95% CI 1.42–4.94) and chest infection (OR 8.71; 95% 2.20–34.44) and with drugs used to treat these complications including Gaviscon (OR 3.52; 95% CI 1.78–6.96). The mean incremental (additional) NHS costs per woman for treating minor complications increased with maternal BMI were £15.45/woman, £17.64/woman and £48.66/woman for BMI < 25 kg/m2, BMI ≥ 25 to <30 kg/m2 and BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 respectively.

Conclusions  Increased maternal BMI is associated with increased risk of developing minor complications during pregnancy; use of medications associated with treating these conditions and has significant NHS costs.
A genetic algorithm for the two‐dimensional knapsack problem with rectangular pieces
Authors: Bortfeldt Andreas , Winter Tobias
Published: June 2009

Given a set of rectangular pieces and a rectangular container, the two‐dimensional knapsack problem (2D‐KP) consists of orthogonally packing a subset of the pieces within the container such that the sum of the values of the packed pieces is maximized. If the value of a piece is given by its area, the objective is to maximize the covered area of the container. A genetic algorithm (GA) is proposed addressing the guillotine case of the 2D‐KP as well as the non‐guillotine case. Moreover, an orientation constraint may optionally be taken into account and the given piece set may be constrained or unconstrained. The GA is subjected to an extensive test using well‐known benchmark instances. Compared with recently published methods, the GA yields competitive results.
Two‐stage hybrid flow shop with recirculation
Authors: Boudhar Mourad , Meziani Nadjat
Published: June 2009

In this paper, we present two scheduling hybrid flow shop problems to minimize the makespan. In each problem, we have two stages. In the first problem, one machine at each stage is considered with recirculation of jobs in the second stage (machine). We prove that this first problem is polynomial and we present an algorithm for its resolution. The second problem consists of one machine in the first stage and two identical parallel machines in the second. Jobs can be recirculated a fixed number of times in the second stage. We show that the problem is NP‐hard and a polynomial subproblem is proposed. Linear program and heuristics are also presented with numerical experimentations.
Change in Oregon Maternity Care Workforce after Malpractice Premium Subsidy Implementation
Authors: Smits Ariel K. , King Valerie J. , Rdesinski Rebecca E. , Dodson Lisa G. , Saultz John W.
Published: June 2009

Objectives. (1) To determine the proportion of maternity care providers who continue to deliver babies in Oregon; (2) to determine the important factors relating to the decision to discontinue maternity care services; and (3) to examine how the rural liability subsidy is affecting rural maternity care providers' ability to provide maternity care services.

Study Design. We surveyed all obstetrical care providers in Oregon in 2002 and 2006. Survey data, supplemented with state administrative data, were analyzed for changes in provision of maternity care, reasons for stopping maternity care, and effect of the malpractice premium subsidy on practice.

Principal Findings. Only 36.6% of responding clinicians qualified to deliver babies were actually providing maternity care in Oregon in 2006, significantly lower than the proportion (47.8%) found in 2002. Cost of malpractice premiums remains the most frequently cited reason for stopping maternity care, followed by lifestyle issues. Receipt of the malpractice subsidy was not associated with continuing any maternity services.

Conclusions. Oregon continues to lose maternity care providers. A state program subsidizing the liability premiums of rural maternity care providers does not appear effective at keeping rural providers delivering babies. Other policies to encourage continuation of maternity care need to be considered.
Employer‐Sponsored Insurance, Health Care Cost Growth, and the Economic Performance of U.S. Industries
Authors: Sood Neeraj , Ghosh Arkadipta , Escarce José J.
Published: June 2009

Objective. To estimate the effect of growth in health care costs that outpaces gross domestic product (GDP) growth (“excess” growth in health care costs) on employment, gross output, and value added to GDP of U.S. industries.

Study Setting. We analyzed data from 38 U.S. industries for the period 1987–2005. All data are publicly available from various government agencies.

Study Design. We estimated bivariate and multivariate regressions. To develop the regression models, we assumed that rapid growth in health care costs has a larger effect on economic performance for industries where large percentages of workers receive employer‐sponsored health insurance (ESI). We used the estimated regression coefficients to simulate economic outcomes under alternative scenarios of health care cost inflation.

Results. Faster growth in health care costs had greater adverse effects on economic outcomes for industries with larger percentages of workers who had ESI. We found that a 10 percent increase in excess growth in health care costs would have resulted in 120,803 fewer jobs, US$28,022 million in lost gross output, and US$14,082 million in lost value added in 2005. These declines represent 0.17 to 0.18 percent of employment, gross output, and value added in 2005.

Conclusion. Excess growth in health care costs is adversely affecting the economic performance of U.S. industries.
From Pubs to Scrubs: Alcohol Misuse and Health Care Use
Authors: Balsa Ana I. , French Michael T. , Maclean Johanna Catherine , Norton Edward C.
Published: June 2009

Objective. To analyze the relationships between alcohol misuse and two types of acute health care use—hospital admissions and emergency room (ER) episodes.

Data Sources/Study Setting. The first (2001/2002) and second (2004/2005) waves of the National Epidemiological Survey of Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC).

Study Design. Longitudinal study using a group of adults (18–60 years in Wave 1, N=23,079). Gender‐stratified regression analysis adjusted for a range of covariates associated with health care use. First‐difference methods corrected for potential omitted variable bias.

Data Collection. The target population of the NESARC was the civilian noninstitutionalized population aged 18 and older residing in the United States and the District of Columbia. The survey response rate was 81 percent in Wave 1 (N=43,093) and 65 percent in Wave 2 (N=34,653).

Principal Findings. Frequent drinking to intoxication was positively associated with hospital admissions for both men and women and increased the likelihood of using ER services for women. Alcohol dependence and/or abuse was related to higher use of ER services for both genders and increased hospitalizations for men.

Conclusions. These findings provide updated and nationally representative estimates of the relationships between alcohol misuse and health care use, and they underscore the potential implications of alcohol misuse on health care expenditures.
Role of nitroso radicals as drug targets in circulatory shock
Authors: Esposito Emanuela , Cuzzocrea Salvatore
Published: June 2009

A vast amount of circumstantial evidence implicates oxygen‐derived free radicals (especially, superoxide and hydroxyl radical) and high‐energy oxidants [such as peroxynitrite (OONO‐)] as mediators of shock and ischaemia/reperfusion injury. Reactive oxygen species can initiate a wide range of toxic oxidative reactions. These include initiation of lipid peroxidation, direct inhibition of mitochondrial respiratory chain enzymes, inactivation of glyceraldehyde‐3phosphate dehydrogenase, inhibition of membrane sodium/potassium adenosine 5′‐triphosphate‐ase activity, inactivation of membrane sodium channels and other oxidative modifications of proteins. All these toxicities are likely to play a role in the pathophysiology of shock and ischaemia and reperfusion. Moreover, various studies have clearly shown that treatment with either OONO‐decomposition catalysts, which selectively inhibit OONO‐, or with superoxide dismutase (SOD) mimetics, which selectively mimic the catalytic activity of the human SOD enzymes, have been shown to preventin vivothe delayed vascular decompensation and the cellular energetic failure associated with shock and ischaemia/reperfusion injury.

British Journal of Pharmacology(2009)157,494–508; doi:10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2009.00255.x

This article is part of a themed section on Endothelium in Pharmacology. For a list of all articles in this section see the end of this paper, or visit:http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/journal/121548564/issueyear?year=2009
Holocene deposits from Neptune's Cave, Nordland, Norway: Environmental interpretation and relation to the deglacial and emergence history of the Velfjord–Tosenfjord area
Authors: FAULKNER TREVOR L. , HUNT CHRIS O.
Published: June 2009

Neptune's Cave in the Velfjord–Tosenfjord area of Nordland, Norway is described, together with its various organic deposits. Samples of attached barnacles, loose marine molluscs, animal bones and organic sediments were dated, with radiocarbon ages of 9840 ± 90 and 9570 ± 80 yr BP being derived for the barnacles and molluscs, based on the superseded but locally used marine reservoir age of 440 years. A growth temperature of c. 7.5 °C in undiluted seawater is deduced from the δ13C and δ18O values of both types of marine shell, which is consistent with their early Holocene age. From the dates, and an assessment of local Holocene uplift and Weichselian deglaciation, a scenario is constructed that could explain the situation and condition of the various deposits. The analysis uses assumed local isobases and sea‐level curve to give results: that are consistent with previous data, that equate the demise of the barnacles to the collapse of a tidewater glacier in Tosenfjord, and that constrain the minimum extent of local Holocene uplift. An elk fell into the cave in the mid‐Holocene at 5100 ± 70 yr BP, after which a much later single ‘bog‐burst’ event at 1780 ± 70 yr BP could explain the transport of the various loose deposits further into the cave.
Vegetation and climate history in the Westeifel Volcanic Field (Germany) during the past 11 000 years based on annually laminated lacustrine maar sediments
Authors: LITT THOMAS , SCHÖLZEL CHRISTIAN , KÜHL NORBERT , BRAUER ACHIM
Published: June 2009

Lakes Holzmaar and Meerfelder Maar are located in the Westeifel Volcanic Field less than 10 km apart. Both maar lakes are well known for their annually laminated (varved) sediments covering the past 15 000 years. Here, we focus on reconstructing the history of Holocene vegetation, human impact and climate using high‐resolution pollen data. Detailed correlation between the two records using palynologically defined tie‐points provides for the first time a test of the precision of the individual varve chronologies. The high‐resolution pollen records of both Holzmaar and Meerfelder Maar show continuous natural successions of vegetation during the early and mid‐Holocene controlled by the development of soil, climate, immigration and competitive expansion of thermophilous tree species. From 6500 varve yr BP onwards, human impact became an increasingly more important factor. Given the high chronological precision of both records, regional similarities, but also local differences of anthropogenically influenced vegetation changes, can be recognized. The reconstructed July temperature between 8500 and 5000 varve yr BP is around 1 °C higher than today, most likely in response to higher summer insolation related to orbital forcing. High variability of reconstructed July and January temperatures as well as annual precipitation around 5000 varve yr BP is a prominent climatic signal. This is consistent with other records in several areas of Europe which also identify this period as climatically highly variable.
Avoidance Behavior by Prairie Grouse: Implications for Development of Wind Energy
Authors: PRUETT CHRISTIN L. , PATTEN MICHAEL A. , WOLFE DONALD H.
Published: June 2009

Abstract:  New wind‐energy facilities and their associated power transmission lines and roads are being constructed at a rapid pace in the Great Plains of North America. Nevertheless, little is known about the possible negative effects these anthropogenic features might have on prairie birds, one of the most threatened groups in North America. We examined radiotelemetry tracking locations of Lesser Prairie‐Chickens (Tympanuchus pallidicinctus) and Greater Prairie‐Chickens (T. cupido) in two locations in Oklahoma to determine whether these birds avoided or changed movement behavior near power lines and paved highways. We tracked 463 Lesser Prairie‐Chickens (15,071 tracking locations) and 216 Greater Prairie‐Chickens (5,750 locations) for 7 and 3 years, respectively. Individuals of both species avoided power lines by at least 100 m and Lesser Prairie‐Chickens avoided one of the two highways by 100 m. Prairie‐chickens crossed power lines less often than expected if birds moved randomly (p < 0.05) but did not appear to perceive highways as a movement barrier (p > 0.05). In addition, home ranges of Lesser Prairie‐Chickens overlapped the power line less often than would be expected by chance placement of home ranges; this result was supported by kernel‐density estimation of home ranges. It is likely that new power lines (and other tall structures such as wind turbines) will lead to avoidance of previously suitable habitat and will serve as barriers to movement. These two factors will likely increase fragmentation in an already fragmented landscape if wind energy development continues in prairie habitats.
Microstructural, chemical and textural records during growth of snowball garnet
Authors: ROBYR M. , CARLSON W. D. , PASSCHIER C. , VONLANTHEN P.
Published: June 2009

The growth history of two populations of snowball garnet from the Lukmanier Pass area (central Swiss Alps) was examined through a detailed analysis of three‐dimensional geometry, chemical zoning and crystallographic orientation. The first population, collected in the hinge of a chevron‐type fold, shows an apparent rotation of 360°. The first 270° are characterized by spiral‐shaped inclusion trails, gradual and concentric Mn zoning and a single crystallographic orientation, whereas in the last 90°, crenulated inclusion trails and secondary Mn maxima centred on distinct crystallographic garnet domains are observed. Microstructural, geochemical and textural data indicate a radical change in growth regime between the two growth sequences. In the first 270°, growth occurred under rotational non‐coaxial flow, whereas in the last 90°, garnet grew under a non‐rotational shortening regime. The second population, collected in the limb of the same chevron‐type fold structure, is characterized by a spiral geometry that does not exceed 270° of apparent rotation. These garnet microstructures do not record any evidence for a modification of the stress field during garnet growth. Concentric Mn zoning as well as a single crystallographic orientation are observed for the entire spiral. Electron backscatter diffraction data indicate that nearly all central domains in the snowball garnet are characterized by one [001] axis oriented (sub‐)parallel to the symmetry axis and by another [001] axis oriented (sub‐)parallel to the orientation of the internal foliation. These features suggest that the crystallographic orientation across the garnet spiral is not random and that a relation exists among the symmetry axis, the internal foliation and the crystallographic orientation.
Pilot Testing of Intervention Protocols to Prevent Pneumonia in Nursing Home Residents
Authors: Quagliarello Vincent , Juthani‐Mehta Manisha , Ginter Sandra , Towle Virginia , Allore Heather , Tinetti Mary
Published: June 2009

OBJECTIVES: To test intervention protocols for feasibility, staff adherence, and effectiveness in reducing pneumonia risk factors (impaired oral hygiene, swallowing difficulty) in nursing home residents.

DESIGN: Prospective study.

SETTING: Two nursing homes.

PARTICIPANTS: Fifty‐two nursing home residents.

INTERVENTION: Thirty residents with impaired oral hygiene were randomly assigned to manual oral brushing plus 0.12% chlorhexidine oral rinse at different frequencies daily. Twenty‐two residents with swallowing difficulty were randomly assigned to upright feeding positioning, teaching swallowing techniques, or manual oral brushing. All protocols were administered over 3 months.

MEASUREMENTS: Feasibility was assessed monthly and defined as high if the protocol took less than 10 minutes to administer. Adherence was assessed weekly and defined as high if full staff adherence was demonstrated in more than 75% of assessments. Effectiveness for improved oral hygiene (reduction in oral plaque score) and swallowing (reduction in cough during swallowing) was compared at baseline and 3 months.

RESULTS: Daily manual oral brushing plus 0.12% chlorhexidine rinse demonstrated high feasibility, high staff adherence, and effectiveness in improving oral hygiene (P<.001 vs baseline); this combination administered twice per day showed the highest plaque score reduction. Daily manual oral brushing and upright feeding positioning demonstrated high feasibility, high staff adherence, and effectiveness in improving swallowing.

CONCLUSION: Manual oral brushing, 0.12% chlorhexidine oral rinse, and upright feeding positioning demonstrated high feasibility, high staff adherence, and effectiveness in pneumonia risk factor reduction. A protocol combining these components warrants testing for its ability to reduce pneumonia in nursing home residents.
How Will the U.S. Healthcare System Meet the Challenge of the Ethnogeriatric Imperative?
Authors: Yeo Gwen
Published: June 2009

Much of the geriatric imperative that is facing providers in the United States is an ethnogeriatric imperative, because one‐third of older Americans are projected to be from one of the minority populations by mid‐century, and that vastly underrepresents the actual diversity providers will see. Because of the vast heterogeneity of culture, language, health beliefs, risk for disease, and other factors, it is important for policy makers and health providers to be familiar with the diverse characteristics and needs of the various groups that will need geriatric care if they are to receive effective services. Challenges to high‐quality ethnogeriatric care include disparities in health status and health care, differences of acculturation level and other characteristics within the populations, language and limited English proficiency, health literacy, culturally defined health beliefs and syndromes, and specific beliefs and preferences about long‐term and end‐of‐life care. Some models of successful ethnogeriatric care have been identified and have in common the involvement of members of the target population in the development and design of the services and the use of cultural liaisons from the ethnic community being served, such as community health workers, or promatores. Thirteen recommendations are suggested for policy and practice changes in multiethnic and ethnic‐specific health programs to provide competent ethnogeriatric care in the U.S. healthcare system.
The Overlap Syndrome of Depression and Delirium in Older Hospitalized Patients
Authors: Givens Jane L. , Jones Richard N. , Inouye Sharon K.
Published: June 2009

OBJECTIVES: To measure the prevalence, predictors, and posthospitalization outcomes associated with the overlap syndrome of coexisting depression and incident delirium in older hospitalized patients.

DESIGN: Secondary analysis of prospective cohort data from the control group of the Delirium Prevention Trial.

SETTING: General medical service of an academic medical center. Follow‐up interviews at 1 month and 1 year post‐hospital discharge.

PARTICIPANTS: Four hundred fifty‐nine patients aged 70 and older who were not delirious at hospital admission.

MEASUREMENTS: Depressive symptoms assessed at hospital admission using the 15‐item Geriatric Depression Scale (cutoff score of 6 used to define depression), daily assessments of incident delirium from admission to discharge using the Confusion Assessment Method, activities of daily living at admission and 1 month postdischarge, and new nursing home placement and mortality determined at 1 year.

RESULTS: Of 459 participants, 23 (5.0%) had the overlap syndrome, 39 (8.5%) delirium alone, 121 (26.3%) depression alone, and 276 (60.1%) neither condition. In adjusted analysis, patients with the overlap syndrome had higher odds of new nursing home placement or death at 1 year (adjusted odds ratio (AOR)=5.38, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.57–18.38) and 1‐month functional decline (AOR=3.30, 95% CI=1.14–9.56) than patients with neither condition.

CONCLUSION: The overlap syndrome of depression and delirium is associated with significant risk of functional decline, institutionalization, and death. Efforts to identify, prevent, and treat this condition may reduce the risk of adverse outcomes in older hospitalized patients.