bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Excess May Do Harm: Investigating the Effect of Team External Environment on External Activities in Teams
Authors: Gibson Cristina B. , Dibble Rebekah
Published: July 2012

We extend research on team external environment by investigating whether lack of permanence, fluid membership, and environmental volatility influence the relationship between team external activities and team effectiveness. Teams engage in external activities with clients, audiences, funding sources, or other stakeholders who may receive the work of the team and/or who convey access to legitimacy and resources, and who may be outside of any organization team members represent. We seek to understand whether significant external activities reach a point of diminishing returns, arguing that the utility of such activity depends on the team external environment. Our study consisted of a quantitative analysis of 140 film-making teams rated by the teams and 5,000 film viewers. We found that the relationship between team external activities and effectiveness is nonmonotonic; a moderate amount of activity is associated with the highest level of effectiveness, but these effects are contingent upon the aforementioned environmental characteristics. Our findings extend current theory on team external environment and external activities and have practical implications for collaborators in dynamic environments hoping to optimize their effectiveness without compromising their vision.
The Embeddedness of Networks: Institutions, Structural Holes, and Innovativeness in the Fuel Cell Industry
Authors: Vasudeva Gurneeta , Zaheer Akbar , Hernandez Exequiel
Published: July 2012

Plentiful research suggests that embeddedness in alliance networks influences firms’ innovativeness. This research, however, has mostly overlooked the fact that interorganizational ties are themselves embedded within larger institutional contexts that can shape the effects of networks on organizational outcomes. We address this gap in the literature by arguing that national institutions affect the extent to which specific network positions, such as brokerage, influence innovation. We explore this idea in the context of corporatism, which fosters an institutional logic of collaboration that influences the broker’s ability to manage its partnerships and recombine the knowledge residing in its network as well as the extent of knowledge flows among network participants. We argue that differences in institutional logics lead brokerage positions to exert different effects on firm innovativeness. We propose that the firm spanning structural holes obtains the greatest innovation benefits when the firm (the broker) or its alliance partners are based in highly corporatist countries, or under certain combinations of broker and partner corporatism. We find support for these ideas through a longitudinal study of cross-border fuel cell technology alliance networks involving 109 firms from nine countries between 1981 and 2001.
The Conceyu Nacionalista Astur and the delegitimization of nationalist violence in post-Franco Asturias, 1976–82
Authors: Zimmerman Patrick W.
Published: July 2012

In the brief period after the 1975 death of Francisco Franco and the consolidation of the new constitutional order in the early 1980s, a group of radicals attempted to transform a weak, but developing, nationalist movement in Asturias into an armed struggle. During the summer of 1979,
these militants seized control of a small nationalist party, the Conceyu Nacionalista Astur (CNA), then concerned principally with the revival of the local language. Aided by the Basque group ETA (político-militar), the CNA began a series of armed robberies. The subsequent arrest of
six Asturians and the public exposure of the link between Asturian and Basque nationalism caused a widespread delegitimization of violent tactics, steering most Asturianistas towards more moderate methods in their pursuit of change. The literature on nationalism focuses on cases that developed
sustained conflicts, but it is equally important to understand why other movements largely rejected the use of arms.
Die Beschreibung der Nilflut in der Nilkammer von Edfu
Authors: Baumann Stefan
Published: July 2012

Inside the so-called Nile Chamber of the Horus Temple in Edfu a relief is engraved, displaying six gods that are related to the inundation of the Nile.
Miszelle. ′Inb(w) ḥḏ “White wall(s)”: A Town or White Limestone Cliffs?
Authors: Verner Miroslav
Published: July 2012

The text on a Fifth Dynasty sealing found in the pyramid complex of Raneferef is a rare piece of historical evidence confirming the commonly accepted presumption that Ỉnb in Ptah’s epithet was merely an abbreviated form of ’Inb(w) ḥḏ and, at the same time, suggesting that the enclosure wall of ’Inb(w) ḥḏ was very probably decorated with the “Prunkscheintür”-pattern.
Appealing to Altruism is Not Enough: Motivators for Participating in Health Services Research
Authors: Hunter Jennifer , Corcoran Katherine , Leeder Stephen , Phelps Kerryn
Published: July 2012

This pilot study sought to identify motivators and barriers to participating in a longitudinal survey; we interviewed patients and practitioners at a multidisciplinary primary care clinic where the proposed project would be based. While altruism motivates participation in medical research, we found that for many potential participants, the opportunity to benefit directly was the primary, and sometimes the only motive to participate or encourage participation in the research project. Patients often wanted direct feedback from their individual results, and they expected to provide consent before the results were forwarded to other parties such as their practitioners. Similarly, some practitioners were more likely to support the project if participation benefited patients directly. Other factors were also identified that influenced the acceptability and perceived risks and benefits of participating. More work is needed to understand these motivators and how patients might benefit directly from participating in health services research, especially when direct medical benefit is not possible.
Measurement of fasting salivary insulin and its relationship with serum insulin in children
Authors: Fabre B , Maccallini G , Oneto A , Gonzalez D , Hirschler V , Aranda C , Berg G
Published: July 2012

Background

Saliva is a useful sample as a source of hormones for the diagnosis of different diseases, particularly in pediatric patients and aged individuals, because saliva offers a noninvasive and stress-free alternative to serum collection. The aim of this study was to validate a salivary insulin method and to check its clinical application in pediatric patients.

Methods

Saliva samples were collected from 130 boys and 147 girls aged 6–14 years. Salivary and serum insulin levels were measured with the chemiluminescent automated method Access (Beckman Coulter, Brea, CA, USA). Serum blood glucose levels were measured with the glucose oxidase method in an autoanalyzer.

Results

The precision profile of the method was determined for six aliquots of different concentrations from pools of saliva, and the coefficients of variation (CV) were 2.4% for 1 μUI/ml, 4% for 0.5, 8.9% for 0.25, 19% for 0.12, 28% for 0.06, and 38% for 0.03 μUI/ml, being the functional sensibility (concentration corresponding to a 20% CV) 0.12 μUI/ml. Insulin recovery was 100.13%. Salivary insulin levels diminished 29.8% in samples stored during 7 days at 2–8 °C. Differences in insulin values were not observed when samples were stored at −20 °C during 7 days. The methods used to measure salivary and serum insulin correlated significantly (r=0.92, P<0.001). However, at levels of serum insulin >20 μUI/ml, this correlation declined (r=0.57, P=0.083).

Conclusion

The proposed method for salivary insulin measurement showed convenient analytical characteristics.
ENDOCRINOLOGY IN PREGNANCY: Thyroid antibodies and risk of preterm delivery: a meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies
Authors: He Xiaoyan , Wang Pingping , Wang Zengfang , He Xiaoqin , Xu Donghua , Wang Bin
Published: July 2012

Background

Observational studies suggest possible associations between thyroid antibodies and risk of preterm delivery. However, whether thyroid antibodies are risk factors of preterm labor remains controversial. Our goal was to evaluate the associations between thyroid antibodies and risk of preterm delivery by conducting a meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, and Wangfang databases were searched through January 2012 to identify studies that met pre-stated inclusion criteria. Data were extracted using standardized forms. Either a fixed- or a random-effects model was used to calculate the overall combined relative ratio (RR) with its corresponding 95% confidence interval (95% CI) to evaluate the relationship between thyroid antibodies and preterm delivery risk. Subgroup analyses were mainly performed by type of thyroid antibodies including thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPO-Ab) and thyroglobulin antibody (TG-Ab).

Results

Eleven prospective cohort studies involving 35 467 participants were included. The combined RR of preterm delivery for pregnant women with thyroid antibodies compared with the reference group was 1.41 (95% CI 1.08–1.84, P=0.011). Subgroup analysis yielded the combined RR of preterm delivery for pregnant women with TPO-Ab compared with the reference group was 1.69 (95% CI 1.19–2.41, P=0.003), whereas pregnant women with positive TG-Ab had no obvious risk of preterm delivery compared with the reference group (RR=0.88, 95% CI 0.60–1.29, P=0.513). Sensitivity analysis restricted to studies excluding women with thyroid dysfunction yielded similar results. Meta-regression analysis suggested that the status of exclusion or inclusion of women with thyroid dysfunction was the major source of heterogeneity in this meta-analysis. No evidence of publication bias was observed.

Conclusions

Current evidence suggests that the presence of TPO-Ab in pregnant women significantly increases the risk of preterm delivery.
THERAPY OF ENDOCRINE DISEASE: A systematic review and meta-analysis of α-lipoic acid in the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy
Authors: Han Tingting , Bai Jiefei , Liu Wei , Hu Yaomin
Published: July 2012

Objective

To evaluate the effects and safety of 300–600 mg α-lipoic acid (ALA) given i.v. for diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN).

Methods

We searched the databases of Medline, Embase, and Cochrane central register of Controlled Trials and Chinese biological medicine for clinical trials of ALA in the treatment of DPN. Data were extracted to examine methodological quality and describe characteristics of studies. The primary outcomes were efficacy, median motor nerve conduction velocity (MNCV), median sensory nerve conduction velocity (SNCV), peroneal MNCV, and peroneal SNCV. Secondary outcomes were adverse events.

Results

Fifteen randomized controlled trials met the inclusion criteria. The treatment group involved the administration of ALA 300–600 mg i.v. per day. And the control group used the same interventions except for ALA. Compared with the control group, nerve conduction velocities increased significantly in the treatment group. The weighted mean differences in nerve conduction velocities were 4.63 (95% confidence interval 3.58–5.67) for median MNCV, 3.17 (1.75–4.59) for median SNCV, 4.25 (2.78–5.72) for peroneal MNCV, and 3.65 (1.50–5.80) for peroneal SNCV in favor of the treatment group. The odds ratio in terms of efficacy was 4.03 (2.73–5.94) for ALA. Furthermore, no serious adverse events were observed during the treatment period.

Conclusions

The results of this meta-analysis provide evidence that treatment with ALA (300–600 mg/day i.v. for 2–4 weeks) is safe and that the treatment can significantly improve both nerve conduction velocity and positive neuropathic symptoms. However, the evidence may not be strong because most of the studies included in this meta-analysis have poor methodological quality.
Pasireotide (SOM230) shows efficacy and tolerability in the treatment of patients with advanced neuroendocrine tumors refractory or resistant to octreotide LAR: results from a phase II study
Authors: Kvols Larry K , Oberg Kjell E , O'Dorisio Thomas M , Mohideen Pharis , de Herder Wouter W , Arnold Rudolf , Hu Ke , Zhang Yilong , Hughes Gareth , Anthony Lowell , Wiedenmann Bertram
Published: July 2012

Pasireotide (SOM230) is a novel multireceptor-targeted somatostatin (sst) analog with high binding affinity for sst receptor subtype 1, 2, 3 (sst1,2,3) and sst5. Because of this binding profile, pasireotide may offer symptom control in patients with neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) and carcinoid syndrome no longer responsive to octreotide LAR. This was a phase II, open-label, multicenter study of pasireotide in patients with advanced NET whose symptoms of carcinoid syndrome (diarrhea/flushing) were inadequately controlled by octreotide LAR. Patients received s.c. pasireotide 150 μg twice daily (bid), escalated to a maximum dose of 1200 μg bid until a clinical response was achieved. Forty-four patients were evaluated for efficacy and 45 for tolerability. Pasireotide 600–900 μg s.c. bid effectively controlled the symptoms of diarrhea and flushing in 27% of patients. Evaluation of tumor response in 23 patients showed 13 with stable disease and ten with progressive disease at study end. The most common drug-related adverse events were nausea (27%), abdominal pain (20%), weight loss (20%), and hyperglycemia (16%) and most were of mild or moderate severity. Pasireotide 600–900 μg s.c. bid was effective and generally well tolerated in controlling the symptoms of carcinoid syndrome in 27% of patients with advanced NET refractory or resistant to octreotide LAR therapy.
Defining stem cell types: understanding the therapeutic potential of ESCs, ASCs, and iPS cells
Authors: Alvarez Clara V , Garcia-Lavandeira Montserrat , Garcia-Rendueles Maria E R , Diaz-Rodriguez Esther , Garcia-Rendueles Angela R , Perez-Romero Sihara , Vila Tania Vila , Rodrigues Joana S , Lear Pamela V , Bravo Susana B
Published: July 2012

Embryonic, adult, artificially reprogrammed, and cancer…– there are various types of cells associated with stemness. Do they have something fundamental in common? Are we applying a common name to very different entities? In this review, we will revisit the characteristics that define ‘pluripotency’, the main property of stem cells (SCs). For each main type of physiological (embryonic and adult) or synthetic (induced pluripotent) SCs, markers and functional behavior in vitro and in vivo will be described. We will review the pioneering work that has led to obtaining human SC lines, together with the problems that have arisen, both in a biological context (DNA alterations, heterogeneity, tumors, and immunogenicity) and with regard to ethical concerns. Such problems have led to proposals for new operative procedures for growing human SCs of sufficiently high quality for use as models of disease and in human therapy. Finally, we will review the data from the first clinical trials to use various types of SCs.
Biomarkers of aggressive pituitary adenomas
Authors: Mete Ozgur , Ezzat Shereen , Asa Sylvia L
Published: July 2012

Pituitary adenomas exhibit a wide range of behaviors. The prediction of aggressive or malignant behavior in pituitary adenomas remains challenging; however, the utility of biomarkers is rapidly evolving. In this review, we discuss potential biomarkers as they relate to aggressive behavior in pituitary adenomas. While detailed histological subtyping remains the best independent predictor of aggressive behavior in the majority of cases, evidence suggests that the additional analyses of FGFR4, MMP, PTTG, Ki-67, p53, and deletions in chromosome 11 may contribute to decisions concerning management of aggressive pituitary adenomas.
Insulin and IGF1 receptors in human cardiac microvascular endothelial cells: metabolic, mitogenic and anti-inflammatory effects
Authors: Bäck Karolina , Islam Rakibul , Johansson Git S , Chisalita Simona I , Arnqvist Hans J
Published: July 2012

Diabetes is associated with microcirculatory dysfunction and heart failure and changes in insulin and IGF1 levels. Whether human cardiac microvascular endothelial cells (HMVEC-Cs) are sensitive to insulin and/or IGF1 is not known. We studied the role of insulin receptors (IRs) and IGF1 receptors (IGF1Rs) in metabolic, mitogenic and anti-inflammatory responses to insulin and IGF1 in HMVEC-Cs and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). IR and IGF1R gene expression was studied using real-time RT-PCR. Receptor protein expression and phosphorylation were determined by western blot and ELISA. Metabolic and mitogenic effects were measured as glucose accumulation and thymidine incorporation. An E-selectin ELISA was used to investigate inflammatory responses. According to gene expression and protein in HMVEC-Cs and HUVECs, IGF1R is more abundant than IR. Immunoprecipitation with anti-IGF1R antibody and immunoblotting with anti-IR antibody and vice versa, showed insulin/IGF1 hybrid receptors in HMVEC-Cs. IGF1 at a concentration of 10−8 mol/l significantly stimulated phosphorylation of both IGF1R and IR in HMVEC-Cs. In HUVECs IGF1 10−8 mol/l phosphorylated IGF1R. IGF1 stimulated DNA synthesis at 10−8 mol/l and glucose accumulation at 10−7 mol/l in HMVEC-Cs. TNF-α dramatically increased E-selectin expression, but no inflammatory or anti-inflammatory effects of insulin, IGF1 or high glucose were seen. We conclude that HMVEC-Cs express more IGF1Rs than IRs, and mainly react to IGF1 due to the predominance of IGF1Rs and insulin/IGF1 hybrid receptors. TNF-α has a pronounced pro-inflammatory effect in HMVEC-Cs, which is not counteracted by insulin or IGF1.
DNA Replication Origin Function Is Promoted by H3K4 Di-methylation inSaccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Rizzardi Lindsay F , Dorn Elizabeth S , Strahl Brian D , Cook Jeanette Gowen
Published: July 2012

DNA replication is a highly regulated process that is initiated from replication origins, but the elements of chromatin structure that contribute to origin activity have not been fully elucidated. To identify histone post-translational modifications important for DNA replication, we initiated a genetic screen to identify interactions between genes encoding chromatin-modifying enzymes and those encoding proteins required for origin function in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We found that enzymes required for histone H3K4 methylation, both the histone methyltransferase Set1 and the E3 ubiquitin ligase Bre1, are required for robust growth of several hypomorphic replication mutants, including cdc6-1. Consistent with a role for these enzymes in DNA replication, we found that both Set1 and Bre1 are required for efficient minichromosome maintenance. These phenotypes are recapitulated in yeast strains bearing mutations in the histone substrates (H3K4 and H2BK123). Set1 functions as part of the COMPASS complex to mono-, di-, and tri-methylate H3K4. By analyzing strains lacking specific COMPASS complex members or containing H2B mutations that differentially affect H3K4 methylation states, we determined that these replication defects were due to loss of H3K4 di-methylation. Furthermore, histone H3K4 di-methylation is enriched at chromosomal origins. These data suggest that H3K4 di-methylation is necessary and sufficient for normal origin function. We propose that histone H3K4 di-methylation functions in concert with other histone post-translational modifications to support robust genome duplication.
Psychological Maltreatment
Authors: Hibbard Roberta , Barlow Jane , MacMillan Harriet ,   the Committee on Child Abuse and Neglect and AMERICAN ACADEMY OF CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRY, Child Maltreatment and Violence Committee, Christian Cindy W. , Crawford-Jakubiak James E. , Flaherty Emalee G. , Leventhal John M. , Lukefahr James L. , Sege Robert D.
Published: July 2012

Psychological or emotional maltreatment of children may be the most challenging and prevalent form of child abuse and neglect. Caregiver behaviors include acts of omission (ignoring need for social interactions) or commission (spurning, terrorizing); may be verbal or nonverbal, active or passive, and with or without intent to harm; and negatively affect the child’s cognitive, social, emotional, and/or physical development. Psychological maltreatment has been linked with disorders of attachment, developmental and educational problems, socialization problems, disruptive behavior, and later psychopathology. Although no evidence-based interventions that can prevent psychological maltreatment have been identified to date, it is possible that interventions shown to be effective in reducing overall types of child maltreatment, such as the Nurse Family Partnership, may have a role to play. Furthermore, prevention before occurrence will require both the use of universal interventions aimed at promoting the type of parenting that is now recognized to be necessary for optimal child development, alongside the use of targeted interventions directed at improving parental sensitivity to a child’s cues during infancy and later parent-child interactions. Intervention should, first and foremost, focus on a thorough assessment and ensuring the child’s safety. Potentially effective treatments include cognitive behavioral parenting programs and other psychotherapeutic interventions. The high prevalence of psychological abuse in advanced Western societies, along with the serious consequences, point to the importance of effective management. Pediatricians should be alert to the occurrence of psychological maltreatment and identify ways to support families who have risk indicators for, or evidence of, this problem.
Comparison of Two-Dimensional and Three-Dimensional Images for Phenotypic Assessment of Craniofacial Microsomia
Authors: Birgfeld Craig B. , Saltzman Babette S. , Luquetti Daniela V. , Latham Kerry , Starr Jackie R. , Heike Carrie L.
Published: July 2012

Background and Purpose

Three-dimensional surface imaging is used in many craniofacial centers. However, few data exist to indicate whether such systems justify their cost. Craniofacial microsomia is associated with wide phenotypic variability and can affect most facial features. The purpose of this study is to compare three-dimensional versus two-dimensional images for classification of facial features in individuals with craniofacial microsomia.

Methods

We obtained a series of two-dimensional and three-dimensional images of 50 participants, aged 0-20 years, diagnosed with craniofacial microsomia, microtia, or Goldenhar syndrome. Three clinicians classified the craniofacial features on each image, and ratings were compared by calculating kappa statistics. We also evaluated image quality using a 5-point Likert scale.

Results

Reliability estimates were high for most features using both two-dimensional and three-dimensional image data. Our three-dimensional protocol did not allow for scoring of facial animation, occlusal cant, or tongue anomalies. Image quality scores for the mandible and soft tissue assessment were higher for three-dimensional images. Raters preferred two-dimensional photographs for assessment of the ear, ear canal, and eyes.

Conclusions

Both three-dimensional and two-dimensional images provide useful data for objective characterization of the craniofacial features affected in craniofacial microsomia. A series of two-dimensional images has relative advantages for assessment of some specific features, such as the ear, though three-dimensional images may have advantages for quantitative analysis and qualitative assessment of deformities of the jaw and soft tissue. These results should apply to any assessment of these features with or without a craniofacial microsomia diagnosis.
Bone Grafting, Corticotomy, and Orthodontics: Treatment of Cleft Alveolus in a Chinese Cohort
Authors: Mao Li-Xia , Shen Guo-Fang , Fang Bing , Xia Yun-Hui , Ma Xu-Hui , Wang Bo
Published: July 2012

Objective

A multimodal therapy was applied to solve a set of related problems including collapse of the posterior segment, high level gingival margin of canine, and resorption of grafted bone in a cohort of Chinese youngsters with cleft lip and palate. This study aimed to evaluate the benefits of this treatment procedure.

Methods

Thirty patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate were included in this prospective study. All patients had previously undergone only cleft lip and palate repair and presented with alveolar cleft and an obvious step in the gingival margin between the canine tooth and the teeth beside it. A multimodal therapy that included bone grafting, corticotomy, and orthodontics was applied to solve these problems. Grafted bone volume, parallelism of the roots, root resorption, gingival margin, and mobility of the canine on the cleft side were established before surgery, 1 week after surgery, and after straightening of the canine.

Results

Less than 25% of the grafted bone was reabsorbed in 25 of the 30 patients, while less than 50% was resorbed in the remaining five. The roots of the canines on the cleft side were mostly parallel to the adjacent teeth. Root resorption and mobility of the canines were slight. The difference in the gingival margin between the canines on the cleft side and the other side was small.

Conclusions

Canines moved into the grafted bone safely and effectively, thus achieving a normal gingival margin and retaining grafted bone volume in one operation.
Spatial variation in the functional characteristics of herbivorous fish communities and the resilience of coral reefs
Authors: Cheal Alistair J. , Emslie Michael , MacNeil M. Aaron , Miller Ian , Sweatman Hugh
Published: July 2012

Many ecosystems face degradation unless factors that underpin their resilience can be effectively managed. In tropical reef ecosystems, grazing by herbivorous fishes can prevent coral–macroalgal phase shifts that commonly signal loss of resilience. However, knowledge of grazing characteristics that most promote resilience is typically experimental, localized, and sparse, which limits broad management applications. Applying sound ecological theory to broad‐scale data may provide an alternative basis for ecosystem management. We explore the idea that resilience is positively related to the diversity within and among functional groups of organisms. Specifically, we infer the relative vulnerability of different subregions of the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) to phase shifts based on functional characteristics of the local herbivorous fish communities. Reef slopes on 92 reefs set in three zones of the continental shelf in eight latitudinal sectors of the GBR were surveyed on multiple occasions between 1995 and 2009. Spatial variation in fish community structure was high and driven primarily by shelf position. Measures of functional diversity, functional redundancy, and abundance were generally higher offshore and lower inshore. Two turbid inshore subregions were considered most vulnerable based on very low measures of herbivore function, and this was supported by the occurrence of phase shifts within one of three subregions. Eleven reefs that resisted phase shifts after major coral mortality included some with very low measures of herbivore function. The fact that phase shifts did not necessarily occur when large herbivores were scarce indicates that other environmental factors compensated to preserve resilience. Estimates of vulnerability based solely on herbivore function may thus prove conservative, but caution is appropriate, since compensatory factors are largely unknown and could be eroded unwittingly by anthropogenic stresses. Our data suggest that managing the threat of phase shifts in coral reef ecosystems successfully will require spatially explicit strategies that consider both the functional characteristics of local herbivore communities and environmental factors that may raise or lower resilience thresholds. A strong positive correlation between water clarity and the species richness and abundance of herbivorous fishes suggests that management of water quality is of generic importance to ensure the ecosystem services of this important group of herbivores.
Evidence for an age‐dependent influence of environmental variations on a long‐lived seabird's life‐history traits
Authors: Pardo Deborah , Barbraud Christophe , Authier Matthieu , Weimerskirch Henri
Published: July 2012

Theoretical and empirical studies have highlighted the effects of age on several life‐history traits in wild populations. There is also increasing evidence for environmental effects on their demographic traits. However, quantifying how individuals differentially respond to environmental variations according to their age remains a challenge in ecology. In a population of Black‐browed Albatrosses monitored during 43 years, we analyzed how life‐history traits varied according to age, and whether individuals of different ages responded in different ways to environmental conditions. To do so, we: (1) examined how age affected seven life‐history traits, (2) investigated differences in temporal variance of demographic traits between age classes, and (3) tested for age‐dependent effects of climate and fisheries covariates on demographic traits. Overall, there was a tendency for traits to improve during the first years of life (5–10 years), to peak and remain stable at middle age (10–30 years), and decline at old ages. At young ages, survival and reproductive parameters increased, except offspring body condition at fledging, suggesting that younger parents had already acquired good foraging capacities. However, they suffered from inexperience in breeding as suggested by their higher breeding failures during incubation. There was evidence for reproductive and actuarial senescence. In particular, breeding success and offspring body condition declined abruptly, suggesting altered foraging capacities of old individuals. Middle‐aged individuals had the lowest temporal variance of demographic traits. Although this is predicted by the theory of environmental canalization, it could also results from a higher susceptibility of young and old birds due to their respective inexperience and senescence. The highest temporal variances were found in old individuals. Survival was significantly influenced by sea surface temperatures in the foraging zone of this albatross population during breeding. During warm events survival of young and old individuals improved, whereas a decrease was observed for middle‐aged individuals. Presumably, during cold years with poor environmental conditions, young and old breeding birds may suffer more from intraspecific competition for resources than middle‐aged individuals. This study showed that age, known as a major factor structuring demography in long‐lived species, can also potentially influence the response of populations to global change.
Development of microbial‐enzyme‐mediated decomposition model parameters through steady‐state and dynamic analyses
Authors: Wang Gangsheng , Post Wilfred M. , Mayes Melanie A.
Published: July 2012

We developed a microbial‐enzyme‐mediated decomposition (MEND) model, based on the Michaelis‐Menten kinetics, that describes the dynamics of physically defined pools of soil organic matter (SOC). These include particulate, mineral‐associated, dissolved organic matter (POC, MOC, and DOC, respectively), microbial biomass, and associated exoenzymes. The ranges and/or distributions of parameters were determined by both analytical steady‐state and dynamic analyses with SOC data from the literature. We used an improved multi‐objective parameter sensitivity analysis (MOPSA) to identify the most important parameters for the full model: maintenance of microbial biomass, turnover and synthesis of enzymes, and carbon use efficiency (CUE). The model predicted that an increase of 2°C (baseline temperature 12°C) caused the pools of POC‐cellulose, MOC, and total SOC to increase with dynamic CUE and decrease with constant CUE, as indicated by the 50% confidence intervals. Regardless of dynamic or constant CUE, the changes in pool size of POC, MOC, and total SOC varied from −8% to 8% under +2°C. The scenario analysis using a single parameter set indicates that higher temperature with dynamic CUE might result in greater net increases in both POC‐cellulose and MOC pools. Different dynamics of various SOC pools reflected the catalytic functions of specific enzymes targeting specific substrates and the interactions between microbes, enzymes, and SOC. With the feasible parameter values estimated in this study, models incorporating fundamental principles of microbial‐enzyme dynamics can lead to simulation results qualitatively different from traditional models with fast/slow/passive pools.
Auditors' Relationship with Their Accounting Firm and Its Effect on Burnout, Turnover Intention, and Post-Employment Citizenship
Authors: Herda David N.
Published: July 2012

This summary discusses two related papers (one focusing on auditors currently employed by their firm and the other on firm alumni) that examine the relationship between auditors and their firm; both papers address auditors' commitment to their firm and how it affects important organizational outcomes including burnout, turnover intention, and post-employment citizenship. Herda and Lavelle's (2012) paper, “The Auditor-Audit Firm Relationship and Its Effect on Burnout and Turnover Intention,” suggests that stronger relationships between auditors and their firms can reduce burnout and turnover intention. Herda and Lavelle's (2011) paper, “The Effects of Organizational Fairness and Commitment on the Extent of Benefits Big Four Alumni Provide Their Former Firm,” investigates how these relationships continue to provide benefits to the firm after the auditor's employment with the firm has ended. The results of both papers underscore the importance of fair treatment in building high-quality relationships between auditors and their firm. If audit firms use fair procedures when making organizational decisions (e.g., performance evaluations, scheduling, paid time-off), then current auditors are less likely to burn out and leave the firm, and former auditors are more likely to send the firm business.
Dendritic Cells Promote Macrophage Infiltration and Comprise a Substantial Proportion of Obesity-Associated Increases in CD11c+ Cells in Adipose Tissue and Liver
Authors: Stefanovic-Racic Maja , Yang Xiao , Turner Michael S. , Mantell Benjamin S. , Stolz Donna B. , Sumpter Tina L. , Sipula Ian J. , Dedousis Nikolaos , Scott Donald K. , Morel Penelope A. , Thomson Angus W. , O’Doherty Robert M.
Published: July 2012

Obesity-associated increases in adipose tissue (AT) CD11c+ cells suggest that dendritic cells (DC), which are involved in the tissue recruitment and activation of macrophages, may play a role in determining AT and liver immunophenotype in obesity. This study addressed this hypothesis. With the use of flow cytometry, electron microscopy, and loss-and-gain of function approaches, the contribution of DC to the pattern of immune cell alterations and recruitment in obesity was assessed. In AT and liver there was a substantial, high-fat diet (HFD)–induced increase in DC. In AT, these increases were associated with crown-like structures, whereas in liver the increase in DC constituted an early and reversible response to diet. Notably, mice lacking DC had reduced AT and liver macrophages, whereas DC replacement in DC-null mice increased liver and AT macrophage populations. Furthermore, delivery of bone marrow–derived DC to lean wild-type mice increased AT and liver macrophage infiltration. Finally, mice lacking DC were resistant to the weight gain and metabolic abnormalities of an HFD. Together, these data demonstrate that DC are elevated in obesity, promote macrophage infiltration of AT and liver, contribute to the determination of tissue immunophenotype, and play a role in systemic metabolic responses to an HFD.
Improvements in the Life Expectancy of Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Miller Rachel G. , Secrest Aaron M. , Sharma Ravi K. , Songer Thomas J. , Orchard Trevor J.
Published: July 2012

Survival in type 1 diabetes has improved, but the impact on life expectancy in the U.S. type 1 diabetes population is not well established. Our objective was to estimate the life expectancy of the Pittsburgh Epidemiology of Diabetes Complications (EDC) study cohort and quantify improvements by comparing two subcohorts based on year of diabetes diagnosis (1950–1964 [n = 390] vs. 1965–1980 [n = 543]). The EDC study is a prospective cohort study of 933 participants with childhood-onset (aged <17 years) type 1 diabetes diagnosed at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh from 1950 to 1980. Mortality ascertainment was censored 31 December 2009. Abridged cohort life tables were constructed to calculate life expectancy. Death occurred in 237 (60.8%) of the 1950–1964 subcohort compared with 88 (16.2%) of the 1965–1980 subcohort. The life expectancy at birth for those diagnosed 1965–1980 was ∼15 years greater than participants diagnosed 1950–1964 (68.8 [95% CI 64.7–72.8] vs. 53.4 [50.8–56.0] years, respectively) (P < 0.0001); this difference persisted regardless of sex or pubertal status at diagnosis. This improvement in life expectancy emphasizes the need for insurance companies to update analysis of the life expectancy of those with childhood-onset type 1 diabetes because weighting of insurance premiums is based on outdated estimates.
Maternal Efficacy and Safety Outcomes in a Randomized, Controlled Trial Comparing Insulin Detemir With NPH Insulin in 310 Pregnant Women With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Mathiesen Elisabeth R. , Hod Moshe , Ivanisevic Marina , Duran Garcia Santiago , Brøndsted Lise , Jovanovič Lois , Damm Peter , McCance David R. ,   on behalf of the Detemir in Pregnancy Study Group
Published: July 2012

OBJECTIVE

This randomized, controlled noninferiority trial aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of insulin detemir (IDet) versus neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH) (both with prandial insulin aspart) in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Patients were randomized and exposed to IDet or NPH up to 12 months before pregnancy or at 8–12 weeks gestation. The primary analysis aimed to demonstrate noninferiority of IDet to NPH with respect to A1C at 36 gestational weeks (GWs) (margin of 0.4%). The data were analyzed using linear regression, taking several baseline factors and covariates into account.

RESULTS

A total of 310 type 1 diabetic women were randomized and exposed to IDet (n = 152) or NPH (n = 158) up to 12 months before pregnancy (48%) or during pregnancy at 8–12 weeks (52%). The estimated A1C at 36 GWs was 6.27% for IDet and 6.33% for NPH in the full analysis set (FAS). IDet was declared noninferior to NPH (FAS, –0.06% [95% CI –0.21 to 0.08]; per protocol, –0.15% [–0.34 to 0.04]). Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) was significantly lower with IDet versus NPH at both 24 GWs (96.8 vs. 113.8 mg/dL, P = 0.012) and 36 GWs (85.7 vs. 97.4 mg/dL, P = 0.017). Major and minor hypoglycemia rates during pregnancy were similar between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with IDet resulted in lower FPG and noninferior A1C in late pregnancy compared with NPH insulin. Rates of hypoglycemia were comparable.
Intervention Costs and Cost-Effectiveness of a Successful Telephonic Intervention to Promote Diabetes Control
Authors: Schechter Clyde B. , Cohen Hillel W. , Shmukler Celia , Walker Elizabeth A.
Published: July 2012

OBJECTIVE

To characterize the costs and cost-effectiveness of a telephonic behavioral intervention to promote glycemic control in the Improving Diabetes Outcomes study.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Using the provider perspective and a time horizon to the end of the 1-year intervention, we calculate the costs of a telephonic intervention by health educators compared with an active control (print) intervention to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes. We calculate the cost-effectiveness ratios for a reduction of one percentage point in hemoglobin A1c (A1C), as well as for one participant to achieve an A1C <7%. Base-case and sensitivity analysis results are presented.

RESULTS

The intervention cost $176.61 per person randomized to the telephone group to achieve a mean 0.36 percentage point of A1C improvement. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was $490.58 per incremental percentage point of A1C improvement and $2,617.35 per person over a 1-year intervention in achieving the A1C goal. In probabilistic sensitivity analysis, the median (interquartile range) of per capita cost, cost per percentage point reduction in A1C, and cost per person achieving the A1C goal of <7% are $175.82 (147.32–203.56), $487.75 (356.50–718.32), and $2,312.88 (1,785.58–3,220.78), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The costs of a telephonic intervention for diabetes self-management support are moderate and commensurate to the modest associated improvement in glycemic control.
Sectional anatomic and magnetic resonance imaging features of the head of juvenile loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta)
Authors: Arencibia Alberto , Hidalgo María R. , Vázquez José M. , Contreras Samuel , Ramírez Gregorio , Orós Jorge
Published: July 2012

Objective—To compare anatomic features of cross-sectional specimens with those of MRI images of the heads of loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta).

Animals—5 cadavers of juvenile female loggerhead sea turtles.

Procedures—Spin-echo T1-weighted and T2-weighted MRI scans were obtained in sagittal, transverse, and dorsal planes with a 0.2-T magnet and head coil. Head specimens were grossly dissected and photographed. Anatomic features of the MRI images were compared with those of gross anatomic sections of the heads from 4 of these turtles.

Results—In the MRI images, anatomic details of the turtles' heads were identified by the characteristics of signal intensity of various tissues. Relevant anatomic structures were identified and labeled on the MRI images and corresponding anatomic sections.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The MRI images obtained through this study provided valid information on anatomic characteristics of the head in juvenile loggerhead sea turtles and should be useful for guiding clinical evaluation of this anatomic region in this species.
Evaluation of intersegmental vertebral motion during performance of dynamic mobilization exercises in cervical lateral bending in horses
Authors: Clayton Hilary M. , Kaiser LeeAnn J. , Lavagnino Michael , Stubbs Narelle C.
Published: July 2012

Objective—To identify differences in intersegmental bending angles in the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar portions of the vertebral column between the end positions during performance of 3 dynamic mobilization exercises in cervical lateral bending in horses.

Animals—8 nonlame horses.

Procedures—Skin-fixed markers on the head, cervical transverse processes (C1–C6) and spinous processes (T6, T8, T10, T16, L2, L6, S2, and S4) were tracked with a motion analysis system with the horses standing in a neutral position and in 3 lateral bending positions to the left and right sides during chin-to-girth, chin-to-hip, and chin-to-tarsus mobilization exercises. Intersegmental angles for the end positions in the various exercises performed to the left and right sides were compared.

Results—The largest changes in intersegmental angles were at C6, especially for the chin-to-hip and chin-to-tarsus mobilization exercises. These exercises were also associated with greater lateral bending from T6 to S2, compared with the chin-to-girth mobilization or neutral standing position. The angle at C1 revealed considerable bending in the chin-to-girth position but not in the 2 more caudal positions.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The amount of bending in different parts of the cervical vertebral column differed among the dynamic mobilization exercises. As the horse's chin moved further caudally, bending in the caudal cervical and thoracolumbar regions increased, suggesting that the more caudal positions may be particularly effective for activating and strengthening the core musculature that is used to bend and stabilize the horse's back.
Effect of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and body condition on serum concentrations of adipokines in healthy dogs
Authors: Mazaki-Tovi Michal , Abood Sarah K. , Schenck Patricia A.
Published: July 2012

Objective—To determine associations between serum concentrations of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids or body condition and serum concentrations of adiponectin, leptin, insulin, glucose, or triglyceride in healthy dogs.

Animals—62 healthy adult client-owned dogs.

Procedures—Body condition score and percentage of body fat were determined. Blood samples were collected after food was withheld for 12 hours. Serum was harvested for total lipid determination, fatty acid analysis, and measurement of serum concentrations of adiponectin, leptin, insulin, glucose, and triglyceride. Associations between the outcome variables (adiponectin, leptin, insulin, glucose, and triglyceride concentrations) and each of several variables (age, sex, percentage of body fat, and concentrations of total lipid, α-linolenic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, docosapentaenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid) were determined.

Results—Serum concentrations of docosapentaenoic acid were significantly positively associated with concentrations of adiponectin and leptin and negatively associated with concentrations of triglyceride. Serum concentrations of α-linolenic acid were significantly positively associated with concentrations of triglyceride. No significant associations were detected between serum concentrations of eicosapentaenoic acid or docosahexaenoic acid and any of the outcome variables. Percentage of body fat was significantly positively associated with concentrations of leptin, insulin, and triglyceride but was not significantly associated with adiponectin concentration. Age was positively associated with concentrations of leptin, insulin, and triglyceride and negatively associated with concentrations of adiponectin. Sex did not significantly affect serum concentrations for any of the outcome variables.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Docosapentaenoic acid may increase serum concentrations of adiponectin and leptin and decrease serum triglyceride concentration in healthy dogs.