bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Group Climate and Creativity in Temporary Innovation Camp Settings
Authors: Nisula Anna‐Maija , Kianto Aino
Published: March 2016

This study examines how perceived group climate shapes the creativity of groups in temporary, collaborative and non‐virtual innovation setting. As no previous studies have examined antecedents of group creativity in temporary non‐virtual innovation settings, this study takes as a starting point the findings of the current studies in conventional ongoing groups to examine the conditions of temporary group innovation camp settings. Through a survey study and partial least squares‐structural equation modelling (PLS‐SEM), the paper sheds light on the antecedents of group creativity in temporary conditions. According to the results, task orientation was the only significant antecedent of group creativity, supporting the assertion that temporary work settings tend to be more task oriented than relationship oriented. The results indicate that many aspects of the social working environment that have been found to affect group creativity in ongoing and stable settings do not exert a similar influence in temporary settings.
An Examination of the Relationship between Air Quality and Income in Canada
Authors: McKitrick Ross , Wood Joel
Published: March 2016

The environmental Kuznets curve hypothesis suggests that at high income levels, economic growth is accompanied by decreasing concentrations of air pollutants. We examine the relationship between four common air pollutants and income across Canadian provinces and metropolitan areas. Our study improves upon past studies of the relationship in Canada in two ways. First, our use of panel methods and pollution concentration data from individual monitoring stations allows for a much larger sample size than previous Canadian studies. Furthermore, our econometric modeling approach separates and identifies the relative magnitudes of the scale, composition, and technique effects. Our results are as expected for annual average concentrations of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide: a positive effect of increases in the scale of the economy was completely offset by improvements in technology and changes in the composition of output. Similar results are found for ground‐level ozone when choosing the measure used to assess the Canada‐Wide Standard; however, the results when using annual average concentrations of ozone are much different. We attribute this difference to the focus of government policy to reduce short‐term, rather than long‐term, exposure to ozone.
Hennig's semaphoront concept and the use of ontogenetic stages in phylogenetic reconstruction
Authors: Sharma Prashant P. , Clouse Ronald M. , Wheeler Ward C.
Published: March 2016

A new practice in systematics, “semaphoront” coding, treats developmental stages as terminals, and it derives from Hennig's concept of the same name. Semaphoront coding has been implemented recently by Lamsdell and Selden (BMC Evol. Biol., 2013, 13:98) and Wolfe and Hegna (Cladistics, 2014, 30:366) in an effort to understand the relationships of fossil taxa of unknown developmental stage. We submit that this approach is antithetical to cladistic practice and constitutes a gross misunderstanding of Hennig's original idea. Here we review the concept of the semaphoront and clarify the role of the semaphoront in phylogenetic systematics. We contend that treating ontogenetic stages as terminals both violates tenets of phylogenetic systematics and oversimplifies the complexity of developmental processes. We advocate Hennig's alternative of including data from as many semaphoronts as possible, but implemented using the superior total evidence framework. Finally, we contend that the application of semaphoront coding to any palaeontological question requires invoking multiple, unjustified assumptions, and ultimately will not yield a possible phylogenetic solution. A total evidence approach can grapple with the placement of fossil developmental stages, if only imperfectly.
Comparison of patient‐centered outcomes after routine implant placement, teeth extraction, and periodontal surgical procedures
Authors: Yao Jie , Lee Koon Kay , McGrath Colman , Wu Yu Nong , Li Kar Yan , Mattheos Nikos
Published: March 2016

Objectives

To compare patient‐centered outcome assessments (POAs) over a 2‐week period after five categories of dento‐alveolar surgical procedures.

Methods

A total of 339 patients in need of dento‐alveolar surgical procedures such as simple tooth extraction (SE), transalveolar extraction (TE), straightforward implant placement (I), implant placement with guided bone regeneration (IGBR), and periodontal surgery (P) in Hong Kong (51.3%) and Nanjing dental clinic were consecutively recruited (2013–2015). POAs in terms of bleeding, swelling, pain, and bruising were obtained using 10 cm visual analog scale (VAS) on each day of the first week and the 14th day postsurgery. Clinical examinations were recorded on the 7th day postoperation.

Results

For the first 3 days of healing, area‐under‐the‐curve (AUC) analyses showed that transalveolar extraction (TE) resulted in significantly higher overall bleeding and pain (AUC: Bleeding Mean = 5.6, Pain Mean = 7.5). However, implant placement with GBR (IGBR) resulted in significant higher level of swelling (AUC: Mean = 9.1) and bruising (Mean = 4.2) for the same period with also the highest use of painkillers. Healing outcomes of straightforward implant placement (I) were comparable to that of a simple extraction (SE). Two‐week overall experience showed the symptoms quickly subsided for all groups. Prevalence for complications 1 week postoperatively was IGBR (20%), P (15.6%), I (12.7%), SE (4.8%), TE (1.5%), respectively.

Conclusions

The highest extent of swelling and bruising was observed in patients who got implant placement with GBR (IGBR), while healing events of straightforward implants were similar to these of simple extraction. The VAS scores for all POAs parameters were generally low and decreased to nearly zero over the study period following all five surgical procedures. Low prevalence of postsurgical complications was reported.
Healing at implants installed concurrently to maxillary sinus floor elevation with Bio‐Oss® or autologous bone grafts. A histo‐morphometric study in rabbits
Authors: De Santis Enzo , Lang Niklaus P. , Ferreira Sabrina , Rangel Garcia Jr Idelmo , Caneva Marco , Botticelli Daniele
Published: March 2016

Objective

To compare the healing at elevated sinus floors augmented either with deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM) or autologous bone grafts and followed by immediate implant installation.

Material and methods

Twelve albino New Zealand rabbits were used. Incisions were performed along the midline of the nasal dorsum. The nasal bone was exposed. A circular bony widow with a diameter of 3 mm was prepared bilaterally, and the sinus mucosa was detached. Autologous bone (AB) grafts were collected from the tibia. Similar amounts of AB or DBBM granules were placed below the sinus mucosa. An implant with a moderately rough surface was installed into the elevated sinus bilaterally. The animals were sacrificed after 7 (n = 6) or 40 days (n = 6).

Results

The dimensions of the elevated sinus space at the DBBM sites were maintained, while at the AB sites, a loss of 2/3 was observed between 7 and 40 days of healing. The implants showed similar degrees of osseointegration after 7 (7.1 ± 1.7%; 9.9 ± 4.5%) and 40 days (37.8 ± 15%; 36.0 ± 11.4%) at the DBBM and AB sites, respectively. Similar amounts of newly formed mineralized bone were found in the elevated space after 7 days at the DBBM (7.8 ± 6.6%) and AB (7.2 ± 6.0%) sites while, after 40 days, a higher percentage of bone was found at AB (56.7 ± 8.8%) compared to DBBM (40.3 ± 7.5%) sites.

Conclusions

Both Bio‐Oss® granules and autologous bone grafts contributed to the healing at implants installed immediately in elevated sinus sites in rabbits. Bio‐Oss® maintained the dimensions, while autologous bone sites lost 2/3 of the volume between the two periods of observation.
Perineal stapled prolapse resection for full‐thickness external rectal prolapse: a multicentre prospective study
Authors: Mistrangelo M. , Tonello P. , Brachet Contul R. , Arnone G. , Passera R. , Grasso L. , Rapetti L. , Borroni R. , Pozzo M. , Roveroni M. , Morino M. , Perinotti R.
Published: March 2016

Aim

Many different surgical techniques have been reported for the surgical treatment of full‐thickness external rectal prolapse. Perianal stapled prolapse resection (PSP) is a relatively newly reported technique for full thickness external rectal prolapse. The aim of this prospective multicentre study was to evaluate the results of this procedure.

Method

Consecutive patients who underwent a PSP resection for full‐thickness external rectal prolapse at five centres were recruited to the study. Median operating time, hospital stay, complications, recurrence and functional results according to the Wexner Incontinence Scale and obstructive defaecation syndrome score were recorded.

Results

There were 27 patients treated by PSP. The median Wexner incontinence score improved from 10 presurgery to 5 after surgery (P < 0.001); the median obstructed defaecation syndrome score improved from 12 presurgery to 5 (range 4–10) after surgery (P < 0.001). A laparoscopically assisted procedure was performed in three patients (11.1%). The median number of cartridges used was six (range four to nine). The median operating time was 48 min. Early complications occurred in six patients (22.2%) and late complications in two (7.4%). The median length of hospital stay was 5 days. The recurrence rate at a median follow‐up of 30.3 months was 14.8%.

Conclusion

PSP appears to be an easy, fast and safe procedure. Early functional results are good. The recurrence rate compares favourably with other perineal procedures like the Delorme or the Altemeier operations. Long‐term functional results need to be investigated further.
The Role of Lexical Frequency in the Acceptability of Syntactic Variants: Evidence Fromthat‐Clauses in Polish
Authors: Divjak Dagmar
Published: March 2016

A number of studies report that frequency is a poor predictor of acceptability, in particular at the lower end of the frequency spectrum. Because acceptability judgments provide a substantial part of the empirical foundation of dominant linguistic traditions, understanding how acceptability relates to frequency, one of the most robust predictors of human performance, is crucial. The relation between low frequency and acceptability is investigated using corpus‐ and behavioral data on the distribution of infinitival and finitethat‐complements in Polish. Polish verbs exhibit substantial subordination variation and for the majority of verbs taking an infinitival complement, thethat‐complement occurs with low frequency (<0.66 ipm). These low‐frequencythat‐clauses, in turn, exhibit large differences in how acceptable they are to native speakers. It is argued that acceptability judgments are based on configurations of internally structured exemplars, the acceptability of which cannot reliably be assessed until sufficient evidence about the core component has accumulated.
Uphill and Downhill in a Flat World: The Conceptual Topography of the Yupno House
Authors: Cooperrider Kensy , Slotta James , Núñez Rafael
Published: March 2016

Speakers of many languages around the world rely on body‐based contrasts (e.g.,left/right) for spatial communication and cognition. Speakers of Yupno, a language of Papua New Guinea's mountainous interior, rely instead on an environment‐baseduphill/downhillcontrast. Body‐based contrasts are as easy to use indoors as outdoors, but environment‐based contrasts may not be. Do Yupno speakers still useuphill/downhillcontrasts indoors and, if so, how? We report three studies on spatial communication within the Yupno house. Even in this flat world,uphill/downhillcontrasts are pervasive. However, the terms are not used according to the slopes beyond the house's walls, as reported in other groups. Instead, the house is treated as a microworld, with a “conceptual topography” that is strikingly reminiscent of the physical topography of the Yupno valley. The phenomenon illustrates some of the distinctive properties of environment‐based reference systems, as well as the universal power and plasticity of spatial contrasts.
Antioxidant‐assisted coloration of wool with xanthophylls extracted from corn distillers’ dry grain
Authors: Chen Luyi , Duan Qian , Chen Jiangang , Yang Yiqi , Wang Bijia
Published: March 2016

Xanthophylls extracted from corn distillers’ dry grain were successfully applied to dye wool fabrics. As a readily available and cost‐effective grain processing byproduct, corn distillers’ dry grain contains appreciable amounts of isolable xanthophyll colourants, which can potentially be used in textile coloration. However, the application of xanthophylls as textile colourants has been limited, possibly owing to their hydrophobic nature and lack of stability at higher temperatures. In the present work, dyeing of wool fabrics with xanthophyll dyes was performed in the presence of a solubilising agent (diglyme) and an antioxidant (butylated hydroxytoluene). Dyeing conditions were modelled and optimised by the one‐factor‐at‐a‐time method and response surface methodology. Depth of shade of the wool fabrics dyed with 0.33 g l−1 of xanthophylls could be as high as 10.9 ± 0.5, while the colour fastness to laundering and crocking was better than grade 4. The prominent effect of butylated hydroxytoluene on depth of shade (K/S) was further studied using functionally and structurally related model compounds. The K/S‐enhancing ability of butylated hydroxytoluene was found to be a synergistic result of its antioxidising and complexing abilities. Lab‐extracted xanthophylls of various purities were applied to wool fabrics using the optimised dyeing and aftertreatment conditions. Depth of shade but not colour fastness was significantly affected by the impurities in xanthophylls extracted from corn distillers’ dry grain. The strategy developed by this work not only extends the scope of xanthophyll application into textile coloration but also could be used for other hydrophobic and unstable natural colourants.
Solubilisation study of water‐insoluble dye in cationic single/dimeric surfactant micelles: effect of headgroup, non‐polar tail, and spacer chain in aqueous and salt solution
Authors: Padasala Shailesh , Kuperkar Ketan , Bahadur Pratap
Published: March 2016

The solubilisation of hydrophobic azo dye Orange OT in aqueous/salt solution in several cationic surfactant micelles was studied using UV‐vis spectroscopy. An attempt was made to correlate dye solubilising strength with adsorption/micellar characteristics. In our experiments we determined the change in solubilisation of hydrophobic dye when added to an aqueous solution of oppositely charged quaternary‐salt‐based cationic surfactants (conventional and gemini) and remarked on the probable location of the solubilised dye in the surfactant micelle. Results highlight the onset of dye solubilisation around the critical micelle concentration of each surfactant, which is influenced by the non‐polar tail, spacer, and polar headgroup, while no dye could be solubilised at concentrations below the critical micelle concentration. Orange OT solubilised almost linearly with increase in surfactant concentration at and above the critical micelle concentration. The change in colour intensity of the dye (darker below the critical micelle concentration, lighter at and above the critical micelle concentration) could be attributed to dye–surfactant interactions. Further dye solubilisation was observed in the presence of salt.
Cutaneous presentation of disseminated histoplasmosis as a solitary peri‐anal ulcer. Case report and discussion
Authors: Hong Janet H. , Stetsenko Galina Y. , Pottinger Paul S. , George Evan
Published: March 2016

Disseminated histoplasmosis has a diverse and non‐specific range of clinical signs and symptoms. In a significant minority of patients, cutaneous lesions are apparent at the time of initial presentation, affording an opportunity to establish the diagnosis from a skin biopsy. The most frequently reported clinical scenario in immunocompromised patients with cutaneous involvement is that of multiple papulo‐nodular lesions on the face, trunk or extremities. The following report features an immunocompetent patient who presented with a solitary ulcerated plaque on the buttocks close to the anal verge. This case presentation underscores the broad spectrum of clinical presentations as well as the potential for diagnostic confusion with protozoa such as Leishmania or Trypanosoma species during histopathologic examination if special stains for fungal organisms are not performed.
Reflectance confocal microscopy features of mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome: correlation with histopathologic and T‐cell receptor rearrangement studies
Authors: Mancebo Silvia E. , Cordova Miguel , Myskowski Patricia L. , Flores Eileen S. , Busam Klaus , Jawed Sarah I. , Skripnik Anna , Rajadhyaksha Milind , Querfeld Christiane
Published: March 2016

Background

Mycosis fungoides/Sézary syndrome (MF/SS) often requires multiple skin biopsies for definitive diagnosis. In vivo reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) visualizes high‐resolution cellular detail of the skin. The objective of this study is to evaluate the morphologic features of MF/SS using RCM and to correlate RCM features with histopathology and T‐cell receptor (TCR) gene rearrangement studies.

Methods

A cohort of patients with active/recurrent or suspicious MF/SS disease was prospectively recruited for RCM imaging and histopathologic/RCM images were evaluated. Statistical analyses were performed to identify unique RCM features and to correlate RCM features with histopathologic findings and TCR rearrangement studies.

Results

Eighty‐three lesions were evaluated. Correlation between RCM and histopathology was moderate for all relatable features (κ = 0.41, p<0.001), almost perfect for intraepidermal atypical lymphocytes [prevalence and bias‐adjusted kappa (PABAK) = 0.90], and fair for Pautrier collections (κ = 0.32, p = 0.03). Lesions with Pautrier collections identified by RCM were significantly more likely to show TCR clonality (p = 0.04) and diagnostic features of MF/SS on histopathology (p = 0.03).

Conclusions

Our study captures morphologic RCM criteria for a variety of skin lesions. Pautrier collections visualized by RCM are associated with improved histopathologic diagnosis and detection of TCR gene clonality. Although further studies are needed to validate the diagnostic implications of RCM for MF/SS, our study highlights the potential utility of RCM.
CC chemokine receptor 5 Δ32 polymorphism: association analysis and allele distribution among cutaneous leishmaniasis patients from Pakistan
Authors: Sophie Mariam , Hameed Abdul , Muneer Akhtar , Samdani Azam J. , Saleem Saima , Azhar Abid
Published: March 2016

Background

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/leishmaniasis coinfection is a matter of deep concern worldwide. CC chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) functions as a co‐receptor for HIV entry into host immune cells with an elevated expression observed during leishmaniasis, promoting parasite persistence. A 32 bp deletion (Δ32) in the CCR5 gene provides protection against HIV infection and increased resistance to Leishmania infection.

Methods

In this study, CCR5‐Δ32 distribution within Pakistani population with cutaneous leishmaniasis was investigated to evaluate genetic susceptibility to HIV infection. CCR5‐Δ32 polymorphism was analyzed in 276 leishmaniasis patients and 119 uninfected healthy controls. Genotypic and allelic frequencies were evaluated and tested for Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (HWE).

Results

The overall Δ32 allele frequency was 6.58% of the population (n = 395). There was a significant difference (p < 0.05) in the geographical distribution of Δ32 allele which was higher in the northern region of the country when compared with the south. Five individuals were identified to be homozygous for the Δ32 allele which has not been reported before from Pakistan. However, no significant association was observed between CCR5‐Δ32 and cutaneous leishmaniasis.

Conclusion

The higher frequency of CCR5 wild‐type allele among leishmaniasis patients may suggest an increased risk of HIV infection and also support its facilitative role in Leishmania infection.
New endoscopic classification of the cardiac orifice in esophageal achalasia: Champagne glass sign
Authors: Gomi Kuniyo , Inoue Haruhiro , Ikeda Haruo , Bechara Robert , Sato Chiaki , Ito Hiroaki , Onimaru Manabu , Kitamura Yohei , Suzuki Michitaka , Nakamura Jun , Hata Yoshitaka , Maruyama Shota , Sumi Kazuya , Takahashi Hiroshi
Published: March 2016

Background and Aim

Endoscopy, barium esophagram and manometry are used in the diagnosis of achalasia. In the case of early achalasia, characteristic endoscopic findings are difficult to recognize. As a result, the diagnosis of achalasia is often made several years after symptom onset. Therefore, we examined the endoscopic findings of the cardiac orifice in achalasia and propose a new classification.

Methods

A total of 400 patients with spastic esophageal motility disorders who underwent peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) at our hospital between March 2014 and August 2015 were screened for this study. Champagne glass sign (CG) was defined as when the distal end of the lower esophageal sphincter relaxation failure (LESRF) was proximal to the squamocolumnar junction (SCJ) and the SCJ was dilated in the retroflex view. Specifically, CG‐1 was defined as a distance from the SCJ to the lower end of LESRF of <1 cm, and CG‐2 was defined as a distance ≥1 cm.

Results

CG‐0 was seen in 73 patients (28.0%), whereas the CG sign was seen in 186 patients (71.3%), of whom 170 (65.1%) were CG‐1 and 16 (6.1%) were CG‐2.

Conclusions

The CG sign is often observed in esophageal achalasia patients. CG‐0 (equal to Maki‐tsuki) was observed in 28.0% of achalasia patients only. Its absence with dilated SCJ cannot be used to rule out achalasia. Barium esophagram and manometry should be done if esophageal achalasia is strongly suspected.
DNA and dispersal models highlight constrained connectivity in a migratory marine megavertebrate
Authors: Naro‐Maciel Eugenia , Hart Kristen M. , Cruciata Rossana , Putman Nathan F.
Published: March 2016

Population structure and spatial distribution are fundamentally important fields within ecology, evolution, and conservation biology. To investigate pan‐Atlantic connectivity of globally endangered green turtles Chelonia mydas from two National Parks in Florida, USA, we applied a multidisciplinary approach comparing genetic analysis and ocean circulation modeling. The Everglades (EP) is a juvenile feeding ground, whereas the Dry Tortugas (DT) is used for courtship, breeding, and feeding by adults and juveniles. We sequenced two mitochondrial segments from 138 turtles sampled there from 2006–2015, and simulated oceanic transport to estimate their origins. Genetic and ocean connectivity data revealed northwestern Atlantic rookeries as the major natal sources, while southern and eastern Atlantic contributions were negligible. However, specific rookery estimates differed between genetic and ocean transport models. The combined analyses suggest that post‐hatchling drift via ocean currents poorly explains the distribution of neritic juveniles and adults, but juvenile natal homing and population history likely play important roles. DT and EP were genetically similar to feeding grounds along the southern US coast, but highly differentiated from most other Atlantic groups. Despite expanded mitogenomic analysis and correspondingly increased ability to detect genetic variation, no significant differentiation between DT and EP, or among years, sexes or stages was observed. This first genetic analysis of a North Atlantic green turtle courtship area provides rare data supporting local movements and male philopatry. The study highlights the applications of multidisciplinary approaches for ecological research and conservation.
Direct and indirect effects of weather variability in a specialist butterfly
Authors: CERRATO CRISTIANA , LAI VALENTINA , BALLETTO EMILIO , BONELLI SIMONA
Published: March 2016

1. Climate change poses serious threats to the long‐term persistence of many animal and plant populations. Species having specific niche requirements, or characterised by highly co‐evolved interactions, will face the greatest challenges. An example is represented byMaculinea alcon(Denis &Schiffermüller), a monophagous and univoltine butterfly species, which lays eggs only on larval host plants which occur inparticular phenological conditions.

2. The present 2‐year study focused on twoM.alconpopulations, both located at the southern boundaries of the species, but facing different climatic conditions (360 m,low altitudeversus 860 m,high altitude). Population vulnerability with respect to direct and indirect effects of climate change was analysed, focusing on two important aspects of butterfly biology, i.e. the flight activity of adults and the degree of synchrony in the larval plant–insect interactions.

3. It was observed that, when positive temperature anomalies are reached, the temperature can exert detrimental effects on adults' activity. At a low altitude, in a hotter than usual year, a temperature threshold was recorded (around 32 °C), above which the activity of butterflies is inhibited. In contrast, at a high altitude, temperature increases maintain the opportunity to enhance butterfly activity. Altitudinal differences were also observed in the phenology of the two interacting species, which generate stronger asynchrony at low altitudes.

4. High‐ and low‐altitude populations represent different conservation units: a global increase in temperature would pose a serious threat to the lowland populations, whereas high‐altitude populations would gain a greater role in assuring the persistence ofM.alconat its southern boundaries.
Establishing statistical foundations of a chronology for the great divergence: a survey and critique of the primary sources for the construction of relative wage levels for Ming–Qing China
Authors: Deng Kent , O'Brien Patrick
Published: March 2016

This article is a survey and critique of recent endeavours to establish statistical foundations for a chronology for the great divergence based upon trends and levels in relative wages. Our reading of the bibliography in Chinese labour history, together with a preliminary investigation into other primary sources, suggests that the Kuznetsian paradigm for empirical economics may not be viable for the construction of analytical narratives for the Chinese and other premodern imperial economies in South and West Asia. Nevertheless, two datasets currently in print will continue to be quoted to lend support to numerically grounded speculations for levels and trends in real wages and welfare for the families of wage‐dependent urban workers in China over the eighteenth century. Statistical evidence for the Ming and Qing dynasties calibrated for the purposes of comparing real wage levels for wage‐dependent labour between China and western Europe can, however, be placed on a spectrum for accuracy and inferential analysis that runs from ‘unfounded guess work’ to ‘plausible conjectures’. The unwelcome contention of this article is that the data published and potentially available for China (and probably for India and the Ottoman Empire) stand close to the unfounded guess work end of that spectrum. Meanwhile, and as a speculative conclusion, we offer a conjecture that the ‘real wages’ for Qing China's tiny proletariat, whose income included high proportions of wages in kind, have remained as elusive as they were when the real wage debate began a decade ago.
Periodic recoinage as a monetary tax: conditions for the rise and fall of the bracteate economy
Authors: Svensson Roger
Published: March 2016

Scholars in the fields of archaeology and numismatics have long been familiar with the phenomenon of periodic recoinage (renovatio monetae), which dominated monetary taxation in medieval Europe for almost 200 years. However, this form of monetary taxation is seldom, if ever, discussed in the literature of economics or economic history. No economic theory has ever been proposed to explain periodic recoinage. The present study aims to make up for this absence. It examines the qualities that typically differentiate regions with periodic recoinage from those with other monetary systems and analyses how periodic recoinage was monitored and enforced. The principal example of frequently renewed coins is uni‐faced bracteates, which were often subject to annual or even biannual recoinages. Although bracteates were not the cause of periodic recoinage, their features facilitated frequent renewals. The study discusses the economic consequences of periodic recoinage and links the breakdown of this monetary system with the end of bracteates’ role as the principal coin in the fourteenth century.
What's the meaning of local? Using molecular markers to define seed transfer zones for ecological restoration in Norway
Authors: Jørgensen Marte Holten , Elameen Abdelhameed , Hofman Nadine , Klemsdal Sonja , Malaval Sandra , Fjellheim Siri
Published: March 2016

According to the Norwegian Diversity Act, practitioners of restoration in Norway are instructed to use seed mixtures of local provenance. However, there are no guidelines for how local seed should be selected. In this study, we use genetic variation in a set of alpine species (Agrostis mertensii, Avenella flexuosa, Carex bigelowii, Festuca ovina, Poa alpina and Scorzoneroides autumnalis) to define seed transfer zones to reduce confusion about the definition of ‘local seeds’. The species selected for the study are common in all parts of Norway and suitable for commercial seed production. The sampling covered the entire alpine region (7–20 populations per species, 3–15 individuals per population). We characterised genetic diversity using amplified fragment length polymorphisms. We identified different spatial genetic diversity structures in the species, most likely related to differences in reproductive strategies, phylogeographic factors and geographic distribution. Based on results from all species, we suggest four general seed transfer zones for alpine Norway. This is likely more conservative than needed for all species, given that no species show more than two genetic groups. Even so, the approach is practical as four seed mixtures will serve the need for restoration of vegetation in alpine regions in Norway.
End‐of‐life care decisions for haemodialysis patients – ‘We only tend to have that discussion with them when they start deteriorating’
Authors: Lazenby Sophia , Edwards Adrian , Samuriwo Raymond , Riley Stephen , Murray Mary Ann , Carson‐Stevens Andrew
Published: March 2016

Background

Haemodialysis patients receive very little involvement in their end‐of‐life care decisions. Issues relating to death and dying are commonly avoided until late in their illness. This study aimed to explore the experiences and perceptions of doctors and nurses in nephrology for involving haemodialysis patients in end‐of‐life care decisions.

Methods

A semi‐structured qualitative interview study with 15 doctors and five nurses and thematic analysis of their accounts was conducted. The setting was a large teaching hospital in Wales, UK.

Results

Prognosis is not routinely discussed with patients, in part due to a difficulty in estimation and the belief that patients do not want or need this information. Advance care planning is rarely carried out, and end‐of‐life care discussions are seldom initiated prior to patient deterioration. There is variability in end‐of‐life practices amongst nephrologists; some patients are felt to be withdrawn from dialysis too late. Furthermore, the possibility and implications of withdrawal are not commonly discussed with well patients. Critical barriers hindering better end‐of‐life care involvement for these patients are outlined.

Conclusions

The study provides insights into the complexity of end‐of‐life conversations and the barriers to achieving better end‐of‐life communication practices. The results identify opportunities for improving the lives and deaths of haemodialysis patients.
Phospholamban p.Arg14del cardiomyopathy is characterized by phospholamban aggregates, aggresomes, and autophagic degradation
Authors: te Rijdt Wouter P , van Tintelen J Peter , Vink Aryan , van der Wal Allard C , de Boer Rudolf A , van den Berg Maarten P , Suurmeijer Albert J H
Published: March 2016

Aims

The non‐desmosomal phospholamban PLN p.Arg14del mutation was identified in patients diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and/or arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM). We aimed to investigate whether this mutation leads to aggregation, aggresome formation and autophagy of mutant PLN protein.

Methods and results

We studied 20 complete heart specimens of PLN p.Arg14del mutation carriers [mean age 48 ± 15 years; 55% males], either from autopsies or from explants. Gross and microscopic examination showed biventricular cardiomyopathy with histopathological features of both ACM and DCM, i.e. a combination of fibrofatty replacement and interstitial fibrosis. Immunohistochemistry for PLN showed large perinuclear PLN protein aggregates in cardiomyocytes in both ventricles in all examined hearts. The median numbers of PLN‐containing aggregates were 12 per 5 mm2 range 3–48 mm2 in right ventricular myocardium and 13 per 5 mm2 (range 5–89 mm2) in left ventricular myocardium. Double immunohistochemical staining showed colocalization of autophagy markers p62 (sequestosome‐1) and microtubule‐associated protein light chain 3 with PLN in all aggregates, suggestive of degradation by selective autophagy. On electron microscopy, the ultrastructural appearance of these PLN‐containing aggregates was typical of aggresomes; they were not surrounded by a membrane, and were located adjacent to the microtubular organizing centre. PLN‐containing aggregates were not found in 10 PLN‐negative cases of idiopathic and genetic DCM or in seven cases of desmosomal ACM.

Conclusions

PLN p.Arg14del cardiomyopathy is a biventricular cardiomyopathy characterized by large perinuclear PLN protein aggregates with a typical ultrastructural appearance of aggresomes. PLN detected by immunohistochemistry appears to be a sensitive and specific marker for this disease.
Controlling the Metastable States of Glasses by External Fields
Authors: Qiu Jianrong
Published: March 2016

Glass is a noncrystalline amorphous solid showing glass transition characteristic. It can transform from one metastable state to another metastable or stable state in an external field. In glasses, novel functions can be achieved if we control the status, morphology, and distribution of external field‐induced structures. In this article, we review controlled crystallization of glass by the external fields, that is, control of ligand field, local symmetry, and energy transfer of active ions, etc. by temperature field to achieve efficient broadband near‐infrared emission and optical amplification. We also discussed highly localized crystallization in glass by electron beam and femtosecond laser. Finally, we introduced a novel process for the fabrication of glass ceramic fibers.
Modified Audit Reports in the Case of Joint Municipal Authorities: Empirical Evidence from Finland
Authors: Paananen Mikko
Published: March 2016

This paper explores the determinants of modified audit reports among joint municipal authorities (JMAs) in Finland. Research in this area has traditionally focused on private‐sector corporations, and surprisingly little is known about the practice in municipalities, let alone JMAs. Here is a clear research gap. This study takes the first steps in identifying the determinants of such modifications in Finnish municipal administration. The focus of the analysis is on whether some traditional determinants found among corporations also apply to JMAs. A long audit report lag, audit firm size, and a large organizational size seem to increase the likelihood of a modified audit opinion, whereas high leverage, a large organizational size, and the male gender of the principal auditor increase the likelihood of modified results of the audit.
Towards a Three‐Component Model of Relational Social Constructionist Leadership: A Systematic Review and Critical Interpretive Synthesis
Authors: Endres Sigrid , Weibler Jürgen
Published: March 2016

Given the increasingly acknowledged insight that people do not act as self‐contained individuals but in relation to others and embedded in context, relational social constructionist leadership (RSCL) has recently gained exciting momentum. Unfortunately, this development has not been accompanied by sufficient efforts at clarification. This systematic concept‐centric review, which consists of 47 empirical RSCL studies, contributes to a better understanding of RSCL as part of the relationality movement in leadership. The results help to clear up some misunderstandings on relational leadership and suggest a more analytical and critical treatment of RSCL approaches to advance the development of RSCL. As a major contribution for dealing appropriately with RSCL, the authors propose a three‐component RSCL model, composed of: (1) social construction (i.e. processes of intersubjectively creating social realities through ongoing interpretation and interaction), representing the leadership mechanism, (2) high‐quality relating and communicating (i.e. all the visible and invisible threads that connect people) representing the leadership content; and (3) influence (emerging at the interpersonal interaction level or the collective level), representing the leadership manifestation. This model permits: first, clearer boundaries to be drawn between RSCL and other relational leadership forms and general relationship forms; second, power and influence in RSCL to be addressed adequately; and third, potential ‘dark sides of RSCL’ to be considered in full. The authors believe that this model may help to reduce the risk of diluting the distinctiveness of RSCL, and to balance potential tendencies towards developing overly idealistic or implicit ideological leadership approaches within the promising field of RSCL.
Safety and efficacy of a novel short occlusive regimen of imiquimod for selected non‐melanotic skin lesions in renal transplant patients
Authors: Das G. , Tan B. , Nicholls K.
Published: March 2016

Australian patients remain at very high risk of non‐melanotic skin cancer after renal transplantation. Surgical excision offers a cure but destroys tissue and may jeopardise function and cosmesis. We report excellent safety and efficacy using topical imiquimod in a novel short intensive regimen in 10 renal transplant patients with superficial basal cell carcinomas, Bowen disease or actinic keratosis. Outcomes compare well to those reported with extended‐use imiquimod protocols.
A randomised crossover trial of minimising medical terminology in secondary care correspondence in patients with chronic health conditions: impact on understanding and patient reported outcomes
Authors: Wernick M. , Hale P. , Anticich N. , Busch S. , Merriman L. , King B. , Pegg T.
Published: March 2016

Background

There is little existing research on the role that secondary care letters have in ensuring patient understanding of chronic health conditions.

Aim

To determine whether minimising the use of medical terminology in medical correspondence improved patient understanding and anxiety/depression scores.

Methods

A single‐centre, non‐blinded, randomised crossover design assessed health literacy, EQ‐5D scores and the impact of the ‘translated’ letter on the doctor's professionalism, the patient's relationship with their general practitioner (GP) and their perceived impact on chronic disease management. Patients were crossed over between their ‘translated’ and original letter.

Results

Sixty patients were recruited. Use of a ‘translated’ letter reduced mean terms not understood from 7.78 to 1.76 (t(58) = 4.706, P < 0.001). Most patients (78.0%) preferred the ‘translated’ letter, with 69.5% patients perceiving an enhancement in their doctor's professionalism (z = 2.864, P = 0.004), 69.0% reporting a positive influence on relationship with their GP (z = 2.943, P = 0.003) and 79.7% reporting an increase in perceived ability to manage their chronic health condition with the ‘translated’ letter (z = 4.601, P < 0.001). There was no effect on EQ‐5D depression/anxiety scores.

Conclusion

Minimising the use of medical terminology in medical correspondence significantly improved patient understanding and perception of their ability to manage their chronic health condition. Although there was no impact on EQ‐5D depression/anxiety scores, overwhelming patient preference for the ‘translated’ letter indicates a need for minimisation of medical terminology in medical correspondence for patients with chronic health conditions.
Barriers to and facilitators of diabetes self‐management with elderly Korean‐American immigrants
Authors: Joo J.Y. , Lee H.
Published: March 2016

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore barriers to and facilitators of diabetes self‐management among first‐generation Korean‐American elderly immigrants with type 2 diabetes in the United States Midwest.

Background

The number of Korean‐American elderly immigrants with type 2 diabetes in the United States is expected to increase because they are at risk of adopting a Western lifestyle.

Methods

Three focus groups (N = 18) and five individual interviews were conducted with Korean‐American elderly immigrants with type 2 diabetes. Demographic characteristics and diabetes‐related medical history information were obtained with a questionnaire. All data were digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim and translated from Korean into English. Transcripts were analysed using standard content‐based analysis.

Results

Five perceived barriers were identified: the high cost of type 2 diabetes care, language issues, loss of self‐control, memory loss and limited access to healthcare resources. Three perceived facilitators were time, seeking information, and family and peer supports.

Limitations

The convenience samples and small sample size may limit the study.

Conclusions

The barriers to and facilitators of diabetes self‐management identified in this study can be used in the development of more age‐ and culturally sensitive diabetes interventions and resources.

Implication for nursing and health policy

Nurses and healthcare providers can use this study's findings to develop patient‐centred, age‐appropriate and culturally appropriate diabetes interventions. There are urgent needs to train bilingual healthcare providers and staff and to provide translation services for Korean‐American elderly immigrants. Finally, communities and social supports within public health policy are urgently needed for this ethnic minority group.
Predicting Objectively Measured Exercise Participation from Motivation and Basic Needs Satisfaction: Does a Mediational Model Exist?
Authors: Patek Kyle T. , Lloyd Lisa K. , Schmidt Eric A. , Meaney Karen , Vaughan Phillip W.
Published: March 2016

This study (a) explored whether relationships exist between objectively assessed exercise participation and both controlled extrinsic motivation and amotivation, and (b) investigated the possible mediation of the relationships between satisfaction of the basic needs and objectively assessed exercise participation. Participants (n = 162) were members of a worksite wellness program. Before beginning the program, participants completed a 33‐item survey measuring the constructs of self‐determination theory. Objectively assessed exercise participation was measured via attendance. Path analysis revealed that the net effect of external regulation on attendance was positive. Of the basic needs, only autonomy was a significant predictor of attendance, with no mediation of this relationship. Appealing to participants' external regulation and need for autonomy may enhance exercise participation.
Social Physique Anxiety: An Exploration of Influence on Sporting Confidence and Participation
Authors: Robinson Alyce , Lewis Vivienne
Published: March 2016

Limited research has been undertaken into influences on body image in sporting environments. This study investigates the relationship between social physique anxiety (SPA), body image, and sporting participation. Participants (n = 93) were recruited from an Australian university and sporting clubs, and completed a self‐report questionnaire. Results revealed that females (n = 66) were higher in SPA, appearance orientation, health orientation, and weight preoccupation than males (n = 27). Participants who were higher on sporting confidence had lower appearance orientation and body dissatisfaction, and higher appearance evaluation. Results are discussed with regard to the conflicting research in the area.
Phase Behavior of Polyelectrolyte Complexes and Rheological Behavior of Alumina suspensions for Direct Ink Writing
Authors: Sun Yuehua , Peng Chaoqun , Wang Xiaofeng , Wang Richu , Chen Yixin , Zhang Dou
Published: March 2016

Polyelectrolyte complexes have a bright prospect for fabricating 3D periodic structures by direct ink writing. The phase behavior of complexes containing poly(acrylic acid) and poly(ethylenimine) and rheological behavior of Al2O3 colloidal suspensions are characterized. The results reveal that the pH value of solution takes an important role on the phase behavior of polyelectrolyte complexes. When the [COOH]:[NHx] ratio is higher than or lower than the critical value of 0.6, the pH range of turbid complex solutions narrows down and meanwhile moves to acidic or alkaline region, respectively. The addition of pH regulators prompts polyelectrolyte exchange reaction and soluble complexes are suitable for preparation of cera‐mic suspensions. The polyelectrolyte suspensions with linear viscoelasticity at lower shear stress and good fluidity at higher shear stress are identified for direct ink writing of 3D structures with microsized feature.
An Exploration of Costs of Community‐Based Specialist Health Service Provision for the Management of Aggressive Behaviour in Adults with Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Unwin Gemma , Deb Shoumitro , Deb Tanya
Published: March 2016

Background

In the UK, people with intellectual disabilities who exhibit aggressive behaviour often receive community‐based specialist health services from a community learning disability team (CLDT). Our aim was to estimate costs associated with this provision and to identify predictors of higher costs.

Method

Costs were estimated for 60 adults with intellectual disabilities and aggressive behaviour who attended specialist psychiatric outpatient clinics in the West Midlands region of the UK, including contact time with members of the CLDT and use of psychotropic medication over a 12‐month period.

Results

Mean total cost of 12‐month service provision was £418 (95% confidence interval [CI] £299–557). Mean total cost of 12‐month psychotropic medication was £369 (95% CI £256–492). Amongst individual members of the CLDT, mean costs were highest for psychiatrists (£181) and relatively lower for community nurses (£70) and clinical psychologists (£30), and lowest for physiotherapists (£13). Male sex, presence of expressive verbal communication and presence of epilepsy were independently associated with 12‐month medication and service use costs, accounting for 23% of the variance in cost.

Conclusions

It seems that in terms of costs, there is an overreliance on medication and psychiatrists and a relatively lesser reliance on other CLDT members such as community nurses and clinical psychologists for the management of aggressive behaviour in adults with intellectual disabilities within community settings. Health commissioners may wish to explore this relative cost discrepancy further and try to redress the balance where appropriate.