bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving processes of care in patient‐controlled analgesia: the impact of computerized order sets and acute pain service patient management
Authors: WRONA SHARON , CHISOLM DEENA J. , POWERS MICHAEL , MILER VERONICA
Published: August 2010

Background:  In an effort to combat opioid induced side effects within the first 24 h of patient‐controlled analgesia (PCA) induction, it has been recommended that care be provided by an Acute Pain Treatment Service (APS) and that computerized PCA order sets with patient monitoring requirements be implemented. To date, there are few published studies on the role of computerized order sets or APS in improving the quality and safety of pediatric PCA use. This retrospective analysis sought to determine if the implementation of computerized order sets would increase appropriate monitoring and problem recognition.

Methods:  Analysis included 536 patients prescribed PCA in one of three ways: an anesthesia order set with APS support (n = 285), a general PCA order set (n = 95), or no order set (n = 156). We analyzed the use of order sets by unit; the incidence of appropriate monitoring (≥12 recordings within 24 h) of respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and sedation level and the recognition of low respiration rate and low oxygen saturation between the types of PCA order.

Results:  We found a significant difference in type of PCA order used by unit. Appropriate documentation of respiratory rate and oxygen saturation occurred significantly more often if the order set with APS was used. Low respiration rate was also recognized significantly more frequently (P ≤ 05) in the APS order set group.

Conclusions:  These findings show that use of a computerized PCA order set with monitoring requirements and an APS can increase monitoring and documentation of important vital signs and increase identification of potential negative events.
Bilateral inguinal hernia repair in a child with hyperekplexia
Authors: EPPRIGHT BRIAN , MAYHEW JAMES F
Published: August 2010

This is a case report of anesthesia for a child with a rare congenital disease marked by hyperreactivity of the neuromuscular system; hyperekplexia. Unlike other reports, she experienced no untoward effects from general anesthesia using sevoflurane, rocuronium and a caudal block.
Addition of morphine to local anesthetic infiltration does not improve analgesia after pediatric dental extractions
Authors: BHANANKER SANJAY M. , AZAVEDO LAWRENCE F. , SPLINTER WILLIAM M.
Published: August 2010

Background:  Opioid receptors have been noted in the peripheral nerve endings of afferent neurons. Blockade of these receptors with peripherally administered opioids is believed to result in analgesia.

Methods:  In a prospective, randomized, double‐blind study, we studied the analgesic effects of adding a subsystemic dose of morphine to local anesthetic infiltration (lidocaine hydrochloride) during pediatric dental extractions. Forty‐two subjects, aged 2–7 years of ASA physical status I–II, were randomized to receive submucous infiltration with either morphine 25 μg·kg−1 in 2% lidocaine hydrochloride with 1 : 1 00 000 epinephrine (morphine group) or 2% lidocaine hydrochloride with 1 : 1 00 000 epinephrine (control group) at the end of surgery.

Results:  There was no difference in postoperative analgesic requirements within the first 24 h. In‐hospital acetaminophen consumption was 85% in the morphine group compared with 81% in the control group.

Conclusion:  We conclude that there is no benefit of adding a subsystemic analgesic dose of morphine to local anesthetics for analgesia after dental extractions in children.
The Shikani Optical Stylet: a useful adjunct to airway management in a neonate with popliteal pterygium syndrome
Authors: JANSEN ANDREA H. , JOHNSTON GRAHAM
Published: August 2010

The craniofacial abnormalities of popliteal pterygium syndrome present unique challenges to the pediatric anesthetist. Congenital fibrous bands between the maxilla and mandible limit mouth opening and the tongue may be fused to the palate. We describe the use of the Shikani Optical Stylet, a novel fiberoptic endoscope, in the airway management of a neonate with popliteal pterygium syndrome and syngnathia.
Clinical adaptation of a pharmacokinetic model of Propofol plasma concentrations in children
Authors: ENGELHARDT THOMAS , McCHEYNE ALAN J , MORTON NEIL , KARSLI CENGIZ , LUGINBUEHL IGOR , ADELI KHOSROW , WALSH WARREN , BISSONNETTE BRUNO
Published: August 2010

Background:  A previously published pharmacokinetic simulation suggested a simple manual infusion regimen to achieve propofol plasma concentrations of 3 μg·ml−1. This study investigated if a simple variation in propofol infusion rates is able to achieve distinct propofol plasma concentrations and whether these are close to the propofol plasma concentrations predicted by the Kataria model.

Methods:  With Research Ethics Board approval and written parental consent, a total of 17 healthy children requiring general anaesthesia were enrolled. Following inhalational induction of anaesthesia, a propofol bolus of 5 mg·kg−1 was given and anaesthesia maintained using an adaptation of the McFarlan continuous propofol infusion regimen to achieve three distinct depths of propofol anaesthesia. Weight and propofol infusion data were used to calculate simulated propofol concentrations using the Kataria dataset and the tiva® simulation program. The performance of the infusion regimen was assessed by calculating the median performance error, median absolute performance error, wobble, and divergence.

Results:  Measured propofol concentrations were (mean ± sd) 7.15 ± 1.4, 4.3 ± 0.85, and 2.85 ± 0.53 μg·ml−1 against simulation values of 6.6, 4.1, and 2.8 μg·ml−1, respectively, at 30, 50, and 70 min using the Kataria dataset. These differences were not significant. Formal assessment of the infusion regimen’s performance was acceptable.

Conclusion:  The manual propofol infusion regimen achieved three distinct depths of propofol anaesthesia. The manual infusion regimen produced higher plasma propofol concentrations than predicted during the early part of the infusion period but was more accurate for later time points.
C Histomorphology of neuromuscular junction in Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: THEROUX MARY C , OLIVANT ALICIA , AKINS ROBERT E
Published: August 2010

Background:  Our objective was to better understand neuromuscular junction (NMJ) morphology in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).

Methods:  We examined the NMJs of four children, age 6–13 years, who were diagnosed with DMD. Using our previously established staining technique, we examined the gross appearance of the NMJs in patients with DMD and evaluated the spread of acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) in relationship to the NMJs. We used a computerized algorithm to measure the area of staining corresponding to AChRs and NMJ.

Results:  Abnormal shape and morphological appearance of some of the NMJs was clearly evident. The spread of AChRs in DMD patients is comparable with the spread of AChRs in nonDMD patients.

Conclusions:  The distribution of AChRs in relationship to the boundaries of NMJs in DMD children is similar to the distribution of NMJs in the erector spinae muscles of idiopathic scoliosis patients.
Tumor lysis associated with dexamethasone use in a child with leukemia
Authors: OSTHAUS WILHELM ALEXANDER , LINDERKAMP CHRISTIN , BÜNTE CHRISTOPH , JÜTTNER BJORN , SÜMPELMANN ROBERT
Published: August 2010

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) occurs in every third patient undergoing general anesthesia without PONV prophylaxis. Antiemetic prophylaxis with dexamethasone is commonly used in patients at moderate risk. We present a case in which PONV prophylaxis with a single dose of dexamethasone led to tumor lysis in a patient with acute leukemia. In case of a cancer patient at moderate risk for PONV, the anesthesiologist should contact the oncologist first, or use other antiemetic drugs such as antiserotoninergic agents for PONV prophylaxis.
Intravenous clonidine infusion in infants after cardiovascular surgery
Authors: POHL‐SCHICKINGER ANJA , LEMMER JULIA , HÜBLER MICHAEL , ALEXI‐MESKISHVILI VLADIMIR , REDLIN MATTHIAS , BERGER FELIX , STILLER BRIGITTE
Published: August 2010

Background:  The aim of this study was to investigate the hemodynamic profile and heart rhythm in infants who were given intravenous clonidine infusion after prolonged analgesia/sedation following cardiac surgery.

Methods:  This is a single center retrospective review. A total of 542 cardiovascular surgical procedures in infants aged 0–24 months with congenital heart disease were performed between 01/2003 and 12/2005 at the Deutsches Herzzentrum in Berlin. The majority received no long‐term analgesia/sedation, but 50 (9%) of these infants received clonidine (dosed at 0.18–3.6 μg·kg−1·h−1) for sedation and to reduce withdrawal symptoms such as CNS hyperactivation, hypertension, tachycardia, and fever. The hospital records of these infants were studied.

Results:  Fifty infants (median age 5.0 months, median body weight 5.3 kg, 32 males/18 females) received prolonged analgesia/sedation to ensure hemodynamic stability. Clonidine infusion started on day 5 (median) after surgery. During clonidine treatment we found an age‐related normalized profile of hemodynamic parameters with a reduction of heart rate and mean arterial pressure from the upper norm to the mean within 24 h (P < 0.001). In no case did clonidine cause low blood pressure resulting in additional therapy to reach the target blood pressure. There were no adverse effects on cardiac rhythm, especially no onset of atrioventricular block. Midazolam, fentanyl, and other opioids could be ended on day 4 of clonidine treatment.

Conclusions:  Although off‐label, it is feasible to use clonidine infusions in infants in the PICU setting after cardiac surgery without hemodynamic problems arising.
Incidence of postdural puncture headache and backache following diagnostic/therapeutic lumbar puncture using a 22G cutting spinal needle, and after introduction of a 25G pencil point spinal needle
Authors: LOWERY SUSAN , OLIVER ALEXANDER
Published: August 2010

Background:  Postdural puncture headache (PDPH) after lumbar puncture (LP) is as common in children as adults. 22G needles are routinely used in adults and children for diagnostic/therapeutic LP, in contrast to 25G or less as standard for spinal anesthesia. We sought to identify incidence of PDPH and backache in oncology children undergoing LP at Royal Marsden Hospital, and whether this could be reduced by a change from 22G to 25G pencil point needle.

Methods:  Symptom questionnaires were given to parents for completion 7 days following LP, and incidence of side effects ascertained. The standard needle was a 22G Quincke. A 25G pencil point spinal needle was subsequently introduced and incidence of side effects reaudited. Number of attempts with the pencil point needle was documented.

Results:  Fifty‐six of 83 questionnaires were completed for the 22G Quincke (67%). Incidence of headache was 33%, with 11% classified as PDPH (6 children, 2 > 7 days). Nausea/vomiting occurred in 25% and backache in 11%; 43 of 79 questionnaires were completed for the 25G pencil point needle (54%). Incidence of headache was 30% with 7% classified as PDPH (3 children, none >7 days). Nausea/vomiting occurred in 23%, and backache in none. Seventy percentage of needle insertions by pediatricians were successful on first attempt, 89% on second, and 100% on third.

Conclusions:  We have confirmed a significant incidence of PDPH in oncology patients and suggest that a 25G pencil point needle can be used successfully for diagnostic/therapeutic LP, with significantly reduced incidence of back pain, and a small tendency towards a shorter duration of PDPH symptoms.
Anesthetic management of children with pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: FRIESEN ROBERT H. , WILLIAMS GLYN D.
Published: August 2010

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is associated with significant perioperative risk for major complications, including pulmonary hypertensive crisis and cardiac arrest. Several mechanisms of hemodynamic deterioration, including acute increases in pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR), alterations of ventricular contractility and function and coronary hypoperfusion can contribute to morbidity. Anesthetic drugs exert a variety of effects on PVR, some of which are beneficial and some undesirable. The goals of balanced and cautious anesthetic management are to provide adequate anesthesia and analgesia for the surgical procedure while minimizing increases in PVR and depression of myocardial function. The development of specific pulmonary vasodilators has led to significant advances in medical therapy of PAH that can be incorporated in anesthetic management. It is important that anesthesiologists caring for children with PAH be aware of the increased risk, understand the pathophysiology of PAH, form an appropriate anesthetic management plan and be prepared to treat a pulmonary hypertensive crisis.
Propofol vs pentobarbital for sedation of children undergoing magnetic resonance imaging: results from the Pediatric Sedation Research Consortium
Authors: MALLORY MICHAEL D. , BAXTER AMY L. , KOST SUSANNE I. ,   THE PEDIATRIC SEDATION RESEARCH CONSORTIUM
Published: August 2010

Background:  Pentobarbital and propofol are commonly used to sedate children undergoing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The Pediatric Sedation Research Consortium (PSRC) was created in 2003 to improve pediatric sedation process and outcomes.

Objective:  To use PSRC records to compare the effectiveness, efficiency and adverse events of propofol vs pentobarbital for sedation of children undergoing MRI.

Methods:  Pediatric Sedation Research Consortium records of children aged 6 months to 6 years who were primarily sedated with either i.v. pentobarbital or propofol were included. Participating PSRC investigators obtained institutional review board approval before data collection.

Results:  Of 11 846 sedations for MRI, 7079 met inclusion criteria (propofol: n = 5072; pentobarbital: n = 2007). Demographic details were similar between the two groups. Ideal sedation was produced in 96.45% of the pentobarbital group and in 96.8% of the propofol group (P = 0.478), but pentobarbital was more likely to result in poor sedation canceling the procedure (OR 5.88; CI 2.24, 15.40). Propofol resulted in physiologic changes more frequently than did pentobarbital (OR 5.69; CI 1.35, 23.97). Pentobarbital was associated with prolonged recovery (OR 16.82; CI 4.98, 56.8), unplanned admission (OR 5.60; CI 1.02, 30.82), vomiting (OR 36.76; CI 4.84, 279.2) and allergic complication (OR 9.15; CI 1.02, 82.34). The incidence of airway complications was not significantly different between the two. The median recovery time for patients receiving propofol was 30 min, whereas for pentobarbital it was 75 min (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:  Among institutions contributing data to the PSRC, it is found that propofol provides more efficient and effective sedation than pentobarbital for children undergoing MRI. Although apnea occurred with a greater frequency in patients who received propofol, the rate of apnea and airway complications for propofol was not statistically different from that seen in patients who received pentobarbital.
The addition of ketamine to a morphine nurse‐ or patient‐controlled analgesia infusion (PCA/NCA) increases analgesic efficacy in children with mucositis pain
Authors: JAMES PAUL J. , HOWARD RICHARD F. , WILLIAMS DAVID GLYN
Published: August 2010

Aim:  To assess the efficacy of adding ketamine to morphine nurse‐ or patient‐controlled analgesia (NCA/PCA) infusions in treating mucositis pain in children.

Background:  Mucositis pain can be very difficult to control in some patients despite the use of parenteral opioids. In our institution, we have started adding low‐dose ketamine to the morphine NCA/PCA in these children in an effort to improve analgesic efficacy.

Methods/materials:  The records of all children receiving a morphine/ketamine PCA or NCA for mucositis pain in our institution from 1999 to 2007 were reviewed. At the time of treatment, details of the analgesic management and consumption, pain scores and side effects were prospectively recorded and then entered on to an electronic database. Ketamine was added at a concentration of 20 or 40 μg·kg−1 per ml with our standard morphine NCA/PCA infusions and protocols being used.

Results:  In 28 patients, there was no difference between average morphine consumption in the 24 h pre and post the addition of ketamine (33.1 (±10.7) vs 35.2 (±14.3) μg·kg−1 per hour, P = 0.45) but in those with recorded pain scores (n = 16), the median percentage of pain scores ≥4 was 48% (13–100%) preketamine versus 33% (0–82%) postketamine (P = 0.01). In all patients, there was no change in the rates of nausea and vomiting and pruritis pre and post the addition of ketamine and no other significant side effects were reported. No difference was seen between those who had 20 or 40 μg·kg−1 per ml of ketamine added.

Conclusion:  The addition of ketamine to a morphine NCA/PCA improves analgesic efficacy in children with mucositis pain with no increase in the incidence of side effects.
A prospective randomized trial comparing supraglottic airways for flexible bronchoscopy in children
Authors: BAKER PAUL A. , BRUNETTE KATHARINE E.J. , BYRNES CATHERINE A. , THOMPSON JOHN M.D.
Published: August 2010

Objective:  A prospective randomized, controlled trial was conducted comparing supraglottic airways (SGA) for flexible bronchoscopy in 100 children.

Background:  Pediatric flexible bronchoscopy is commonly performed using a SGA as both a ventilation device and a conduit for flexible bronchoscopy. We observed that some disposable SGAs were associated with increased resistance to bronchoscope manipulation compared to the LMA Classic™ (cLMA™).

Methods:  We compared the cLMA™ to the Ambu® Aura Once™, Portex® Soft Seal™, Boss Systems disposable silicone laryngeal mask, and LMA Unique™. We recorded the subjective resistance of the bronchoscope manipulation within the SGA by linear analog score and measured the time to insert the bronchoscope from the proximal end of the SGA to the right upper lobe. We also scored the view of the larynx through the bronchoscope and measured SGA cuff pressures.

Results:  Resistance to bronchoscope manipulation during pediatric flexible bronchoscopy was higher using polyvinyl chloride (PVC) disposable SGAs (Ambu®, Unique™, and Portex®) than the silicone re‐usable cLMA™ (P < 0.0001). The Unique™ and Ambu® laryngeal masks were clinically inferior to the cLMA™ at all levels of the airway (P < 0.0001). The Portex® Soft Seal™ was not different above the larynx but was significantly statistically inferior at (P < 0.04) and below the larynx (P < 0.006) and inferior overall (P < 0.007). Boss Systems single‐use laryngeal mask was as effective as the cLMA™.

Conclusion:  In this trial, PVC single‐use laryngeal masks were inferior to the silicone cLMA™ and Boss Systems laryngeal masks for flexible bronchoscopy in children.
Incidence of self‐limiting back pain in children following caudal blockade: an exploratory study
Authors: VALOIS TERESA , OTIS ANNIK , RANGER MANON , MUIR JOHN G.
Published: August 2010

Background:  Currently, in pediatric anesthesia, there is no evidence‐based information available to pediatric patients and their parents regarding the incidence of back pain after neuraxial injections performed for postoperative analgesia. Back pain postepidural blockade has been reported in numerous studies with adult patients; however, it has not been investigated in children. The main objective of this study is to examine the incidence of back pain symptoms after caudal blockade (early and late onset) in children.

Methods:  Patients under the age of 18 years, who received caudal blockade at the Montreal Children’s Hospital between July 2006 and December 2008 were recruited in this prospective observational study. Back pain was measured prospectively by patient self‐report and parental observation during the 15‐day postoperative period. Patients, or their parents, were contacted by phone on postoperative day 2 (POD2) and postoperative day 15 (POD15) to answer a seven‐item symptom questionnaire.

Results:  In a sample of 135 children, the incidence of back pain symptoms was 4.7% and 1.1% on POD2 and POD15, respectively.

Conclusions:  The results of this study provide support that transient self‐limiting back pain after caudal blockade does occur in pediatric patients. Clinically, this is useful information for physicians to provide to their patients. An exploration of factors that may be associated with back pain following caudal blockade in children is an interesting area of future research.
Incidence of sore throat in children following use of flexible laryngeal mask airways – impact of an introducer device
Authors: WILLIAM ANTHEA , CHAMBERS NEIL A. , ERB THOMAS O. , Von UNGERN‐STERNBERG BRITTA S.
Published: August 2010

Background:  Insertion of a flexible laryngeal mask airway (FLMA) is more difficult and therefore might result in a higher risk for trauma to the upper airway. To facilitate the insertion of FLMA, the use of an introducer device (Portex Limited, Hythe, Kent, UK) was promoted. However, the impact of the use of this device on the occurrence of postoperative sore throat is unknown.

Methods:  Four hundred children (3–21 years) undergoing elective ambulatory surgery were consecutively included in this study. In 196 cases, the FLMA was inserted using an introducer device. The FLMA cuff was then inflated and the pressure adjusted to below 60 cmH2O (according to manufacturers guidelines) using a calibrated cuff manometer (Portex Limited). Three types of FLMA were available: FLMA classic, FLMA unique (both FLMA PacMed, Richmond, Victoria, Australia) and FLMA ProBreathe (Well Lead Medical Co Ltd., Hualong, Guangzhou, China). Prior to discharge, patients’ pain was assessed using an age appropriate scale.

Results:  Thirteen children (3.3%) developed sore throat, two (0.5%) sore neck and three (0.75%) sore jaw. Of those that developed sore throat, seven had a FLMA inserted with an introducer, six without an introducer. Using a laryngeal mask airways (LMA) with a polyvinyl chloride (PVC), surface was associated with a higher risk for sore throat compared with an LMA with a silicone surface (P = 0.0002).

Conclusion:  In this study with controlled low cuff pressures, the incidence of sore throat was low. The use of an introducer device did not affect the rate of sore throat.
Emergence agitation after cataract surgery in children: a comparison of midazolam, propofol and ketamine
Authors: CHEN JIAYAO , LI WENXIAN , HU XIAO , WANG DINGDING
Published: August 2010

Objectives:  The aim of this study was to determine whether the concurrent use of either of a subhypnotic dose of midazolam, propofol or ketamine with fentanyl just before discontinuing the sevoflurane anesthesia would effectively sedate the children as they recovered and significantly decrease the incidence and severity of emergence agitation and would not delay patient awakening and discharge.

Background:  Postoperative emergence agitation may occur in children after general anesthesia with volatile anesthetics. Children who undergo cataract surgery after sevoflurane induction and sevoflurane–remifentanil maintenance may experience this type of agitation.

Methods/Materials:  In 120 un‐premedicated children aged 1–7 years, mask induction with sevoflurane was performed and they were then randomly assigned to one of the three antiagitation postoperative groups (n = 40). We studied the postoperative antiagitation effects of subhypnotic doses of midazolam combined with fentanyl, propofol with fentanyl or ketamine with fentanyl administered just before discontinuing the sevoflurane anesthesia. A score for the level of agitation can be assigned based on the recovery mental state (RMS) scale and the recently published pediatric anesthesia emergence delirium scale (PAED). Postoperative factors assessed included emergence behaviors, the time to eye opening, the time to discharge from the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) to the ward.

Results:  There were significantly more agitated children in the ketamine‐group when compared to the midazolam‐group or to the propofol‐group at all time P < 0.05), especially at 10 and 15 min. The PAED scale showed a significant advantage for midazolam–fentanyl [5 (2–15)] and propofol–fentanyl [6 (3–15)] versus ketamine–fentanyl [10 (3–20)] (P < 0.05). The time to discharge from the PACU to the ward was not significantly different among the groups.

Conclusions:  Intravenous administration of a subhypnotic dose of midazolam or propofol in addition to a low dose of fentanyl just before discontinuing the sevoflurane anesthesia was both effective on decreasing the incidence and severity of emergence agitation in children undergoing cataract extraction without significant delaying recovery time and discharge. The effect of midazolam was clearer than that seen with propofol.
Trade‐offs and the evolution of life‐histories during range expansion
Authors: Burton Olivia J. , Phillips Ben L. , Travis Justin M. J.
Published: August 2010

Ecology Letters(2010)

During range‐advance, individuals on the expanding edge of the population face a unique selective environment. In this study, we use a three‐trait trade‐off model to explore the evolution of dispersal, reproduction and competitive ability during range expansion. We show that range expansion greatly affects the evolution of life‐history traits due to differing selection pressures at the front of the range compared with those found in stationary and core populations. During range expansion, dispersal and reproduction are selected for on the expanding population front, whereas traits associated with fitness at equilibrium density (competitive ability) show dramatic declines. Additionally, we demonstrate that the presence of a competing species can considerably reduce the extent to which dispersal is selected upwards at an expanding front. These findings have important implications for understanding both the rate of spread of invasive species and the range‐shifting dynamics of native species in response to climate change.
Meta‐analysis reveals negative yet variable effects of ocean acidification on marine organisms
Authors: Kroeker Kristy J. , Kordas Rebecca L. , Crim Ryan N. , Singh Gerald G.
Published: August 2010

Ecology Letters (2010) 13: 1419–1434

Ocean acidification is a pervasive stressor that could affect many marine organisms and cause profound ecological shifts. A variety of biological responses to ocean acidification have been measured across a range of taxa, but this information exists as case studies and has not been synthesized into meaningful comparisons amongst response variables and functional groups. We used meta‐analytic techniques to explore the biological responses to ocean acidification, and found negative effects on survival, calcification, growth and reproduction. However, there was significant variation in the sensitivity of marine organisms. Calcifying organisms generally exhibited larger negative responses than non‐calcifying organisms across numerous response variables, with the exception of crustaceans, which calcify but were not negatively affected. Calcification responses varied significantly amongst organisms using different mineral forms of calcium carbonate. Organisms using one of the more soluble forms of calcium carbonate (high‐magnesium calcite) can be more resilient to ocean acidification than less soluble forms (calcite and aragonite). Additionally, there was variation in the sensitivities of different developmental stages, but this variation was dependent on the taxonomic group. Our analyses suggest that the biological effects of ocean acidification are generally large and negative, but the variation in sensitivity amongst organisms has important implications for ecosystem responses.
Key innovations within a geographical context in flowering plants: towards resolving Darwin’s abominable mystery
Authors: Vamosi Jana C. , Vamosi Steven M.
Published: August 2010

Ecology Letters (2010)

Elucidating factors associated with diversification have been attempted in lineages as diverse as birds, mammals and angiosperms, yet has met with limited success. In flowering plants, the ambiguity of associations between traits and diversification has sparked debate since Darwin’s description of angiosperm diversification as an ‘abominable mystery’. Recent work has found that diversification is often diversity‐dependent, suggesting that species richness depends on geographical area available more than on traits or the time available to accumulate species. Here, we undertake phylogenetic generalized least squares analyses that jointly examine the effects of age, ecoregion area and four ecological traits on diversification in 409 angiosperm families. Area explained the most variation, dwarfing the effect of traits and age, suggesting that diversity‐dependent diversification is controlled by ecological limits. Within the context of area, however, traits associated with biotic pollination (zygomorphy) exhibited the greatest effect, possibly through the evolution of specialization.
Resource allocation for efficient environmental management
Authors: McCarthy Michael A. , Thompson Colin J. , Hauser Cindy , Burgman Mark A. , Possingham Hugh P. , Moir Melinda L. , Tiensin Thanawat , Gilbert Marius
Published: August 2010

Ecology Letters (2010)

Environmental managers must decide how to invest available resources. Researchers have previously determined how to allocate conservation resources among regions, design nature reserves, allocate funding to species conservation programs, design biodiversity surveys and monitoring programs, manage species and invest in greenhouse gas mitigation schemes. However, these issues have not been addressed with a unified theory. Furthermore, uncertainty is prevalent in environmental management, and needs to be considered to manage risks. We present a theory for optimal environmental management, synthesizing previous approaches to the topic and incorporating uncertainty. We show that the theory solves a diverse range of important problems of resource allocation, including distributing conservation resources among the world’s biodiversity hotspots; surveillance to detect the highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus in Thailand; and choosing survey methods for the insect order Hemiptera. Environmental management decisions are similar to decisions about financial investments, with trade‐offs between risk and reward.
Solenicola setigera is the first characterized member of the abundant and cosmopolitan uncultured marine stramenopile group MAST‐3
Authors: Gómez Fernando , Moreira David , Benzerara Karim , López‐García Purificación
Published: August 2010

Culture‐independent molecular methods based on the amplification, cloning and sequencing of small‐subunit (SSU) rRNA genes are a powerful tool to study the diversity of prokaryotic and eukaryotic microorganisms for which morphological features are not conspicuous. In recent years, molecular data from environmental surveys have revealed several clades of protists lacking cultured and/or described members. Among them are various clades of marine stramenopiles (heterokonts), which are thought to play an essential ecological role as grazers, being abundant and distributed in oceans worldwide. In this work, we show that Solenicola setigera, a distinctive widespread colonial marine protist, is a member of the environmental clade MArine STramenopile 3 (MAST‐3). Solenicola is generally considered as a parasite or an epiphyte of the diatom Leptocylindrus mediterraneus. So far, the ultrastructural, morphological and ecological data available were insufficient to elucidate its phylogenetic position, even at the division or class level. We determined SSU rRNA gene sequences of S. setigera specimens sampled from different locations and seasons in the type locality, the Gulf of Lions, France. They were closely related, though not identical, which, together with morphological differences under electron microscopy, suggest the occurrence of several species. Solenicola sequences were well nested within the MAST‐3 clade in phylogenetic trees. Since Solenicola is the first identified member of this abundant marine clade, we propose the name Solenicolida for the MAST‐3 phylogenetic group.
HETEROGENEOUS RATES OF TIME PREFERENCE AND THE DECISION TO SMOKE
Authors: SCHARFF ROBERT L. , VISCUSI W. KIP
Published: August 2010

Individuals with higher personal rates of time preference will be more likely to smoke. Although previous studies have found no evidence of a relationship between smoking and rates of time preference, analysis of implicit rates of time preference associated with workers' wage fatality risk trade‐offs indicates that smokers have higher rates of time preference with respect to years of life. Current smokers have an implied rate of time preference of 13.8% as compared to 8.1% for nonsmokers. Current smokers who are blue‐collar workers have rates of time preference with respect to years of life of 16.3% compared to 7.8% for nonsmoking blue‐collar workers. (JEL I12, D81, D91)
PATENT POOL FORMATION AND SCOPE OF PATENTS
Authors: LANGINIER CORINNE
Published: August 2010

Basic innovations are often fundamental to the development of applications that may be developed by other innovators. In this setting, we investigate whether patent pools can rectify the lack of incentives for a developer to invest in applications. Following Green and Scotchmer, we wonder whether broad basic patents are necessary to provide enough incentives for basic innovators. We show that patent pools are more likely to be formed with patents of very different breadths, or patents of similarly wide breadths. Furthermore, although patent pools rectify the lack of developer incentives, they may reduce the incentive for doing basic research. (JEL K11, L4, O31)
The relationship between functional and taxonomic homogenization
Authors: Baiser Benjamin , Lockwood Julie L.
Published: August 2010

Aim Species introductions and extinctions have reorganized the earth's biota, often leaving formerly spatially distinct assemblages more similar in species composition, a process termed biotic homogenization. The study of biotic homogenization has been almost entirely focused on the change in taxonomic similarity between assemblages through time. Here, we provide a trait‐based method for calculating functional similarity through time and compare these trends in functional attributes with those trends generated from a taxonomic perspective.

Location Data were produced through computer simulation and gathered from North American Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) data and published accounts of North American birds for 10 locations across the east and west coast of the United States.

Methods We simulated change in assemblages with different trait types (binary and continuous), levels of trait overlap, number of traits and species richness to determine the relationship between change in taxonomic similarity (ΔTS) and change in functional similarity (ΔFS). We also assess the relationship between ΔTS and ΔFS for bird assemblages across 10 locales in the USA between 1968 and 2008. We used simple linear regression to determine the slope and correlation between ΔTS and ΔFS and used multiple regression to assess the influence of trait overlap, number of traits, species richness and the ratio of traits to species on the relationship between ΔTS and ΔFS.

Results Simulations reveal that trait redundancy governs the relationship between ΔTS and ΔFS. A decrease in trait overlap increases the slope of the regression between ΔTS and ΔFS and an increase in the ratio of traits to species in the regional pool increases the correlation. The relationship between ΔTS and ΔFS for breeding birds is comparable to simulations with low trait redundancy.

Main conclusions We show that often losing or gaining species from an assemblage tells us very little about the loss or gain of function, and that this scenario most often occurs when the two assemblages have high trait redundancy. It remains to be seen how prevalent this scenario is within empirical examples; however, the implications for the continued delivery of ecosystem functions in the face of species introductions and extinctions are large.
Potential impacts of climate change on the environmental services of humid tropical alpine regions
Authors: Buytaert Wouter , Cuesta‐Camacho Francisco , Tobón Conrado
Published: August 2010

Aim  Humid tropical alpine environments are crucial ecosystems that sustain biodiversity, biological processes, carbon storage and surface water provision. They are identified as one of the terrestrial ecosystems most vulnerable to global environmental change. Despite their vulnerability, and the importance for regional biodiversity conservation and socio‐economic development, they are among the least studied and described ecosystems in the world. This paper reviews the state of knowledge about tropical alpine environments, and provides an integrated assessment of the potential threats of global climate change on the major ecosystem processes.

Location  Humid tropical alpine regions occur between the upper forest line and the perennial snow border in the upper regions of the Andes, the Afroalpine belt and Indonesia and Papua New Guinea.

Results and main conclusions  Climate change will displace ecosystem boundaries and strongly reduce the total area of tropical alpine regions. Displacement and increased isolation of the remaining patches will induce species extinction and biodiversity loss. Drier and warmer soil conditions will cause a faster organic carbon turnover, decreasing the below‐ground organic carbon storage. Since most of the organic carbon is currently stored in the soils, it is unlikely that an increase in above‐ground biomass will be able to offset soil carbon loss at an ecosystem level. Therefore a net release of carbon to the atmosphere is expected. Changes in precipitation patterns, increased evapotranspiration and alterations of the soil properties will have a major impact on water supply. Many regions are in danger of a significantly reduced or less reliable stream flow. The magnitude and even the trend of most of these effects depend strongly on local climatic, hydrological and ecological conditions. The extreme spatial gradients in these conditions put the sustainability of ecosystem management at risk.
Are active fund managers collectors of private information or fast interpreters of public information?
Authors: Gallagher David R. , Looi Adrian , Pinnuck Matt
Published: August 2010

Recent studies of fund manager performance find evidence of outperformance. However limited research exists as to whether such outperformance is because of privately collected information, or merely expedient interpretation of publicly released information. In this study, we examine the trade sequences of active Australian equity fund managers around earnings announcements to provide insights into the source of fund managers’ superior information. We document an increased occurrence of buy‐sell trade sequences around good‐news earnings announcements. The evidence is consistent with fund managers having both private information about forthcoming good‐news earnings announcements and being ‘short‐term profiteers’. We find no evidence that fund managers have private information about forthcoming bad‐news earnings announcements. However, we do find an increase in the frequency of fund managers not trading before bad‐news earnings announcements only to subsequently sell during announcements.
Understanding the structure of audit workpaper error knowledge and its relationship with workpaper review performance
Authors: Harding Noel
Published: August 2010

This study examines the veracity of two important, yet untested, premises underlying the interpretation of hierarchical variation in workpaper review performance. Prior research has argued that auditors at different hierarchical levels structure their knowledge of workpaper errors differently, and that these differences in knowledge structure give rise to hierarchical variation in the ability of auditors to identify mechanical and conceptual workpaper errors. This study directly examines the way in which audit firm managers, seniors and staff auditors structure their knowledge of audit workpaper errors and finds variation across hierarchical levels. These differences in knowledge structure were found to be associated with variation in workpaper review performance as they related to the identification of conceptual errors, but not, as proposed in prior research, mechanical workpaper errors. These results guide future research efforts aimed at improving workpaper review performance.
Clinical engagement of Canadian First Nations couples
Authors: Morrissette Patrick J.
Published: August 2010

Although intervention with Canadian First Nations (FN) clients has been discussed in the literature, the area of couple therapy remains unexplored. Moreover, the specific process of engaging couples in treatment by non‐FN therapists has not been examined. To address this critical aspect of couple treatment, this exploratory paper elaborates on significant factors that influence the engagement process and discusses (1) residual effects of the residential school era, (2) contemporary sociopolitical issues endured by FN peoples, and (3) sensitivity regarding cultural imperatives, beliefs and practices. Finally, to promote effective engagement with FN couples several suggestions and corresponding case vignettes are provided.
Introducing research methods and reflexivity into family therapy training
Authors: Wrate Rob , Forbat Liz
Published: August 2010

Research training does not always sit easily with family therapy trainees due to the perceived difficulty of the terrain and the mismatch between the primacy given to research and their developing expertise in the clinical work. Despite these tensions, research forms a core component to advanced training and is a requisite module for students completing an M.Sc. Following the provision of suboptimal teaching in research methods for M.Sc. candidates, a substantial redesign of the course was undertaken, taking into account the context of students' learning. This paper reports on the contextual influences on this new approach, and outlines the key pedagogical strategies that support student learning within the formal teaching sessions and beyond. We present a summary of the outcomes so far.
Inner and outer voices in the present moment of family and network therapy
Authors: Seikkula Jaakko
Published: August 2010

Dialogue in the polyphony of inner and outer voices in the present moment of family therapy is analysed. In Western Lapland a focus on social networks and dialogues in the meeting with families has proved to be effective in psychotic crises.
Non‐violent resistance and violence against siblings
Authors: Omer Haim , Schorr‐Sapir Irit , Weinblatt Uri
Published: August 2010

A parent‐training approach to the treatment of violence against siblings according to the principles of non‐violent resistance was developed aiming at resisting the violence, providing protection to the victims and reducing escalation between the parents and the violent child.
Exploring Levinas: the ethical self in family therapy
Authors: Larner Glenn
Published: August 2010

From a systemic perspective, people are relational beings located in wider systems of interaction, conversation and meaning. As for social constructionists, the self is positioned and storied through language and dialogue. Yet is the self no more than the multiple conversations and relations it enters into? Systemic therapists informed by psychoanalytic thinking describe a reflective self, responsive to inner conversation about emotional experience (Flaskas, 2005). Those working in mental health services contend with the biological and ‘cognitive‐mindful’ self. Perhaps the self can be defined in many ways or languages as a deconstructive both/and. In this paper the systemic, relational or dialogic self in family therapy is discussed from the perspective of the ethical philosophy of Emmanuel Levinas. For Levinas ethical intersubjectivity is what makes subjectivity and thinking possible. The self is respons‐ibility to other or, as Derrida (1999) says, ‘consciousness is hospitality’ (p. 48). Yet for both Derrida and Levinas the relational self is also a separate and unique self. The ethical self is discussed in relation to family therapy practice.
Therapeutic challenges of multi‐being
Authors: Gergen Kenneth J.
Published: August 2010

This paper emerges from an attempt to shift the locus of understanding human action from the individual to relationship. In doing so we come to see persons as multi‐beings, that is, as constituted within multiple relationships from which they emerge with multiple, incoherent, and often conflicting potentials. Therapy, in this context, becomes a collaborative relationship with the aim of transforming the client's broader relational network. In this view, schooling in a singular practice of therapy artificially limits the therapist's potential, and thus the possible outcomes of the client–therapist relationship. Invited, then, is a reflective eclecticism, in which the myriad potentials of both the therapist and client are considered in tandem. This view is illustrated by contrasting three relational conditions in which clients find themselves, each of which invites a different form of self‐expression from the therapist.
The Struggle Continues? The Spectre of Liberation, Memory Politics and ‘War Veterans’ in Namibia
Authors: Metsola Lalli
Published: August 2010

Memory politics continues to define the socio‐political landscape of post‐colonial Namibia. Interpretations of the country's recent political history are used to contest and legitimize current social and political relations. This article examines these issues as they appear in the negotiation of recognition and benefits between ex‐combatants and state and ruling party actors. A dominant narrative of national liberation, associated with the ruling party Swapo, casts Swapo ex‐combatants as heroes. This has propelled recurrent ex‐combatant demands to the forefront and relegated those who fought on the South African side to a secondary category of ex‐combatant ‘reintegration’. At the same time, this frame constrains ex‐combatant remembrance, pushing aside contentious memories that might lead to a more critical historical consciousness. Although telling a story of the emergence of a unified nation, the liberation narrative actually is an example of a far more exclusionary form of nationalism that uses the vocabulary of national belonging to make distinctions between citizens, and thus justifies practices of inclusion and exclusion. Its strength lies in its ability to link current material politics with emotionally compelling narratives of identity.
Protection for Sale? War and the Transformation of Regulation on the Congo–Ugandan Border
Authors: Raeymaekers Timothy
Published: August 2010

This article proposes an explanation for the emergence of non‐state governance in situations of apparent state collapse, based on an ethnographic study of the armed rebellion in Butembo (eastern Democratic Republic of Congo). The model of explanation is inspired by Charles Tilly's description of state making as organized crime, in which armed rebels and private economic agents enter an agreement for private protection. The study seeks to explain how an original meeting between Butembo's armed rebels of the Rassemblement Congolais pour la Démocratie — Mouvement de Libération (RCD–ML) and an existing network of cross‐border traders actually led to a ‘pluralizing’ moment, in which the reinterpretation of existing relations and regulatory practices contributed to a gradual transformation of the institutional framework and local governance. Recently, this local political order has entered into increasing competition with the internationally induced project of political ‘transition’, based on a conflict between dynamics of state building and translocal political (trans)formation.