bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender typing in stereotypes and evaluations of actual managers
Authors: Li Kusterer Hanna , Lindholm Torun , Montgomery Henry
Published: June 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine gender‐related management stereotypes, perceived gender bias and evaluations of actual managers, and to directly compare stereotypes and ratings of actual managers.

Design/methodology/approach

Questionnaires were distributed to employees in the bank and insurance sector, and 240 participants rated their actual managers and stereotypes of male and female managers.

Findings

Men evaluated the female manager stereotype more positively on communal attributes, and the male manager stereotype more positively on agentic attributes. Women evaluated the female manager stereotype more positively on both communal and agentic attributes, but perceived a higher degree of gender bias in favor of male managers than men did. Actual male and female managers were rated similarly. Still, ratings of actual male managers corresponded more with stereotypes of male than female managers, and ratings of actual female managers corresponded more with stereotypes of female than male managers.

Research limitations/implications

Future research needs to determine the direction of association between stereotypes and evaluations of actual managers, and the relative importance of agentic over communal attributes.

Practical implications

While women appeared biased in favor of their own gender, men may underestimate the difficulties that female managers encounter. Managers and human resource practitioners should notice these different views, and recognize that gender equality is not achieved in Sweden.

Originality/value

The present study contributes with data from an egalitarian society with a positive view of female managers, and a direct comparison of stereotypes and workplace evaluations.
The Munster Work Value Measure
Authors: Krumm Stefan , Grube Anna , Hertel Guido
Published: June 2013

Purpose

Established measures of work values were often developed without consideration of age‐related differences, and thus might not be sensitive for values that are only relevant for specific subgroups (i.e. older workers). Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to introduce a new measure that reflects a broad range of different work values including those of special interest for older workers (generativity values). The Munster Work Value Measure (MWVM) covers 21 work values from five value clusters, and combines a rating and ranking version.

Design/methodology/approach

The theoretical concept of the MWVM integrates various approaches from work motivation research. Reliability and validity of the MWVM are examined in two studies (n=81, n=471) using confirmatory factor analysis and multidimensional unfolding as well as concurrent data of organizational citizenship behavior and age‐related differences in work values.

Findings

The assumed structure of the MWVM was largely supported in both studies and for both the ranking and the rating versions of the MWVM. Moreover, correlational data supported the external validity of the MWVM.

Research limitations/implications

Further validation research is desirable, together with benchmark data for specific subgroups (age, gender, occupations).

Practical implications

The MWVM qualifies as an efficient screening tool of motivational profiles and provides a basis for age‐sensitive human resource management.

Originality/value

The MWVM is the first measure that covers a broad range of work values including those of particular importance to older workers. The MWVM is available at the authors' web site.
Linking demographic diversity to organisational outcomes
Authors: Muchiri Michael K. , Ayoko Oluremi B.
Published: June 2013

Purpose

This paper aimed to explore the direct and indirect effects of demographic diversity variables on citizenship behaviours, affective commitment, collective efficacy and general productivity.

Design/methodology/approach

A self‐report questionnaire was used to gather data from employees in the public sector (local government) of Australia.

Findings

Results of the hierarchical regression analyses showed direct and significant relationships between certain demographic diversity variables and several criterion variables. Moving from non‐management to management level was predictive of an increase in organisational citizenship behaviours and affective commitment. Additionally, an increase in tenure within a work unit was predictive of general productivity. Conversely, an increase in organisational tenure was predictive of a decrease in general productivity. Also, an increase in women in a work unit was predictive of a decrease in organisational citizenship behaviours, collective efficacy beliefs and general productivity. Furthermore, an increase in men in a work unit was predictive of a decrease in organisational citizenship behaviours, collective efficacy beliefs and general productivity. Moderated regression analyses indicated that transformational leadership moderated relationships between organisational tenure and organisational citizenship behaviours as well as organisational tenure and general productivity. Finally, transformational leadership moderated relationships between women in work unit and organisational citizenship behaviours, and women in work unit and general productivity.

Research limitations/implications

The authors gathered cross‐sectional data for their research while both of their leadership and performance data were based on participants’ self‐reports. Future research should gather data from multiple sources and employ longitudinal and experimental designs to explore the link between demographic diversity, leadership and organisational outcomes.

Practical implications

Based on the current results, managers need to understand and nurture task‐related demographic diversity (such as gender composition of a workgroup, non‐management vs management level, and tenure in work unit) shown to be positively related to citizenship behaviours, affective commitment and general productivity. Furthermore, organisations should put in place human resource management programs which actively promote transformational leadership in order to lessen or neutralise possible negative effects of demographic diversity on relevant organisational outcomes.

Originality/value

This empirical study adds to the growing research findings regarding the relationship between demographic diversity variables and various organisational outcomes using data from the public sector of Australia.
Study on the fluid‐structure interaction of flexible printed circuit board motherboard in personal computer casings
Authors: Chiat Leong Wei , Zulkifly Abdullah Mohd , Yee Khor Chu , Ramdan Dadan
Published: June 2013

Purpose

The flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) can be an alternative to the rigid printed circuit board because of its excellent flexibility, twistability, and light weight. Using FPCB to construct personal computer (PC) motherboard is still rare. Therefore, the present study aims to investigate the fluid‐structure interaction (FSI) behaviors of the newly proposed FPCB motherboard under fan‐flow condition in the PC casings.

Design/methodology/approach

The deflection and stress induced, which are usually ignored in the traditional rigid motherboard, are the main concern in the current FPCB motherboard studies. Only a few studies have been conducted on the effect of inlet locations, effect of inlet sizes, effect of multi‐inlets, and effect of a two‐fan system. These numerical analyses are performed using the fluid flow solver FLUENT and the structural solver ABAQUS; they are real‐time online coupled by Mesh‐based Parallel Code Coupling Interface (MpCCI).

Findings

A smaller inlet size can cause higher deflection and stress fluctuations, but the fluctuations can be reduced by incorporating the multi‐inlets design. In addition, the inlet locations and two‐fan system can prominently affect the magnitudes of the deflection and stress induced.

Practical implications

The current study provides better understanding and allows designers to be aware of the FSI phenomenon when dealing with the FPCB motherboard. Although the present study primarily focuses on the motherboard, the findings could also contribute valuable information for other FPCB applications.

Originality/value

The present study extends the FSI investigation from the previous novel approach of FPCB motherboard, and uniquely explores the behaviors of the FPCB motherboard inside different PC casings.
Tin contamination in PQFN package and its effects on wire bondability
Authors: Zong Fei , Wang Zhi‐jie , Xu Yan‐bo , Niu Ji‐yong , Zhang Han‐min
Published: June 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper was to attempt to confirm the root cause of unstable stitch pull strength in PQFN package and propose some permanent solutions for it.

Design/methodology/approach

A screen experiment was designed to find the key process out of the manufacturing flow; a non‐destructive detaching method and cross section polishing were used to inspect the bond integrity; Auger analysis assisted with argon ion sputter was tried to confirm the contamination; finally the manufacturing processes were redesigned to prevent the contamination.

Findings

Some first aids of process optimization got little improvement; the screen experiment of processes found solder die bonding was the one resulted into a poor bond integrity which was demonstrated by non‐destructive detaching method and cross section inspection; Auger analysis assisted with argon ion sputter detected that there was a tin layer thicker than 20 nm coated on the bonding surface and the wire bondability of gold wire on this tin coating was poor; the lead frame was redesigned to prevent the wetting and flowing of tin and got a perfect performance.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the limitation of time and resources, the proposed solutions for this issue could be studied more deeply.

Originality/value

This paper set up an example how to find out the root cause from the complex manufacturing process flow and put forward a quick solution accordingly for the issue.
Impact of consumer involvement, emotions, and attitude toward Beijing Olympic Games on branding effectiveness of event sponsors
Authors: Mao Luke L. , Zhang James J.
Published: June 2013

Purpose

Sponsorship has undeniably become one of the fastest growing global marketing practices. Business corporations seek sponsorship opportunities to actualize their overall organizational objectives, marketing goals, and promotional strategies, particularly to enhance brand equity. This study aimed to examine the influence of consumers’ involvement, emotions, and attitude toward Beijing Olympic Games on the branding effects of the event.

Design/methodology/approach

Participants (N=556) were university students in China who had watched at least some coverage of Beijing Olympic Games. Two duplicate versions of a questionnaire were formulated and respondents were randomly selected to evaluate perceived branding effects of Beijing Olympic Games to be sponsored by two brands – Li‐Ning and Nongfu Spring.

Findings

An analysis of the structural model, relating brand loyalty, perceived quality, and brand association/awareness to respondent's involvement, emotional responses, and attitude toward the event, revealed that the proposed model fit the data well (CFI=0.96, TLI=0.98, RMSEA=0.048, WRMR=0.93). The findings revealed that branding effects were positively associated with consumer's attitude toward the sponsored event, which was partially determined by consumer's involvement and emotions.

Originality/value

This study examined the relationships among respondent's affective and cognitive involvement, negative and positive emotional responses, and attitude toward the Beijing Olympic Games on the perceived branding effects of event sponsorship.
Professional football clubs and corporate social responsibility
Authors: Blumrodt Jens , Desbordes Michel , Bodin Dominique
Published: June 2013

Purpose

The subject of CSR is nowadays widely discussed, as is its relevance to the sport entertainment industry. The objective of this research was to investigate corporate social responsibility (CSR) actions in the professional European football league and its impact on clubs’ brand image.

Design/methodology/approach

The first part of this research discusses some particular points of the world's biggest sport entertainment, which is soccer. Then a definition of the meaning of CSR for this particular sector will be outlined. The CSR values adopted by sport clubs are observed in first division football in France. This approach has been combined with brand theories.

Findings

The specific research protocol evaluates consumers’ perceptions. The method which is developed measures and analyses the impact of CSR commitment on spectators’ brand perception. In linking CSR to brand image, two managerial viewpoints are discussed. CSR is synonymous with a company's social and ethical commitment. Brand theories outline the nature of brand equity. The authors apply these two complementary considerations to professional football clubs and argue that Keller's model of customer‐based brand equity has to be reconsidered for football clubs.

Practical implications

This research highlights that CSR has to become part of management strategies.

Originality/value

The authors draw attention to the argument that the professional sport entertainment industry requires a specific CSR management strategy which goes beyond the local level or the operational level of one single club. These clubs have to perform well in competition. But, as in no other industry, they have also to be “good” brands.
Australian Football League: “home advantage”, “umpire bias” or both?
Authors: Watson John
Published: June 2013

Purpose

This study sought to clarify potentially conflicting results from two prior studies examining the “home advantage”, and possible “umpire bias”, in the Australian Football League (AFL).

Design/methodology/approach

Using categorical regression analysis, and controlling for team ability, the number of free kicks awarded to/against each AFL team during the home and away season of 2006 was investigated.

Findings

The findings support previous research suggesting home teams generally win more often and receive more favourable treatment from umpires. However, for games involving both a Victorian and a non‐Victorian team, there is clear evidence of “umpire bias” (beyond the traditional “home advantage”) operating against non‐Victorian teams.

Research limitations/implications

A major limitation of this study is that it only considers the number of free kicks awarded and not where, or when, those free kicks are awarded.

Practical implications

The findings suggest that the AFL should seriously consider appointing neutral umpires for all games (particularly those involving a Victorian and non‐Victorian team) and establishing an independent panel to oversee the development and selection of AFL umpires.

Originality/value

This is the first study of potential “bias” in the AFL that controls for team ability and, as such, helps to reconcile conflicting conclusions from two prior studies.
Suggestions for improving outcomes in the NHS following “mild” traumatic brain injury in adults, a bio‐psycho‐social approach
Authors: Bunnage Martin
Published: June 2013

Purpose

Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is a common occurrence. For most people recovery is quick and complete. For a minority disability persists. This paper aims to discuss the factors that likely give rise to this on‐going disability and discuss the current evidence‐based approaches to treatment.

Design/methodology/approach

A selective review of the contemporaneous research literature was undertaken.

Findings

On‐going disability following mTBI is likely to be secondary to a combination of factors, namely subtle organic damage, psychological factors and situational/motivational factors. These factors likely operate to different degrees in different individuals and may vary over time in individual cases. Treatment in the form of a multi‐disciplinary assessment, accurate sign‐posting to appropriate services and cognitive‐behavioural psychotherapy is likely to improve outcomes for some with on‐going disability following mTBI.

Research limitations/implications

Future research should aim to identify at an early stage post‐injury those individuals at risk of developing on‐going disability following mTBI and the efficacy of different treatment approaches.

Practical implications

Earlier identification of individuals not making the expected rapid recovery from mTBI, followed by appropriate multi‐disciplinary assessment and intervention would likely improve outcomes for patients at risk of developing on‐going disability following mTBI.

Originality/value

This paper is of value to healthcare professionals who encounter individuals reporting on‐going symptoms and problems following an apparently mild traumatic brain injury.
How can children with ABI achieve their potential?
Authors: Ashworth Janette
Published: June 2013

Purpose

Functional deficits caused by ABI often prevent children from developing independence at the level of which they are cognitively capable. This case study aims to illustrate how consistent educational and behaviour management strategies including an antecedent behaviour management (ABM) approach, coupled with individualised neuroeducation informed by the student's specific neurodisabilities, had a positive impact on attainment and development and led to much improved ability to self manage, interact with others and attain personal goals.

Design/methodology/approach

The study considers the impact of an antecedent behaviour management (ABM) approach, coupled with individualised neuroeducation, in working with an adolescent student whose violent, aggressive and self‐harming behaviour was preventing her from developing independence, achieving her academic potential and interacting positively with her family, peers and other adults.

Findings

The results of the case study indicate that a consistent and well‐informed ABM strategy can have an extremely positive effect, when employed in conjunction with individualised neuroeducation, resulting in improved self‐management, independence, academic attainment and a much improved relationship with peers, family and other adults.

Originality/value

The Trust Centre is the UK's only specialist school for children with an ABI and this is the first time in the UK that a 24‐hour curriculum, encompassing therapy, care and academic education, has been integrated based on the child's identified neurological needs. The findings clearly point to the value of this approach.
Using stable isotope probing to obtain a targeted metatranscriptome of aerobic methanotrophs in lake sediment
Authors: Dumont Marc G. , Pommerenke Bianca , Casper Peter
Published: June 2013

In this study, we demonstrate the possibility of obtaining a targeted metatranscriptome from a functional group of microorganisms using a stable isotope probing (SIP) approach. Methanotrophs in lake sediment were labelled using 13CH4, and both labelled and unlabelled‐RNA were isolated and sequenced by 454 pyrosequencing. The unlabelled metatranscriptome had a large diversity of bacterial, archaeal, eukaryotic and viral sequences as expected from a diverse sediment community. In contrast, the labelled‐RNA metatranscriptome was dominated by methanotroph sequences, particularly from Methylococcaceae. Transcripts of the methane monooxygenase genes pmoCAB were the most abundant in this metatranscriptome, and the pathway of methane oxidation to CO2 could be traced, as well as many steps in the ribulose monophosphate pathway for carbon assimilation. A high abundance of mRNA transcripts for proteins related to motility was detected, suggesting an importance for methanotrophs in lake sediments. This combination of SIP and metatranscriptomics should be broadly applicable, and will enhance the detection and identification of mRNA from target organisms.
Strict vegetarian diet improves the risk factors associated with metabolic diseases by modulating gut microbiota and reducing intestinal inflammation
Authors: Kim Min‐Soo , Hwang Seong‐Soo , Park Eun‐Jin , Bae Jin‐Woo
Published: June 2013

Low‐grade inflammation of the intestine results in metabolic dysfunction, in which dysbiosis of the gut microbiota is intimately involved. Dietary fibre induces prebiotic effects that may restore imbalances in the gut microbiota; however, no clinical trials have been reported in patients with metabolic diseases. Here, six obese subjects with type 2 diabetes and/or hypertension were assigned to a strict vegetarian diet (SVD) for 1 month, and blood biomarkers of glucose and lipid metabolisms, faecal microbiota using 454‐pyrosequencing of 16S ribosomal RNA genes, faecal lipocalin‐2 and short‐chain fatty acids were monitored. An SVD reduced body weight and the concentrations of triglycerides, total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol and haemoglobin A1c, and improved fasting glucose and postprandial glucose levels. An SVD reduced the Firmicutes‐to‐Bacteroidetes ratio in the gut microbiota, but did not alter enterotypes. An SVD led to a decrease in the pathobionts such as the Enterobacteriaceae and an increase in commensal microbes such as Bacteroides fragilis and Clostridium species belonging to clusters XIVa and IV, resulting in reduced intestinal lipocalin‐2 and short‐chain fatty acids levels. This study underscores the benefits of dietary fibre for improving the risk factors of metabolic diseases and shows that increased fibre intake reduces gut inflammation by changing the gut microbiota.
Interaction of Aspergillus fumigatus conidia with Acanthamoeba castellanii parallels macrophage–fungus interactions
Authors: Van Waeyenberghe Lieven , Baré Julie , Pasmans Frank , Claeys Myriam , Bert Wim , Haesebrouck Freddy , Houf Kurt , Martel An
Published: June 2013

Aspergillus fumigatus and free‐living amoebae are common inhabitants of soil. Mechanisms of A. fumigatus to circumvent the amoeba's digestion may facilitate overcoming the vertebrate macrophage defence mechanisms. We performed co‐culture experiments using A. fumigatus conidia and the amoeba Acanthamoeba castellanii. Approximately 25% of the amoebae ingested A. fumigatus conidia after 1 h of contact. During intra‐amoebal passage, part of the ingested conidia was able to escape the food vacuole and to germinate inside the cytoplasm of A. castellanii. Fungal release into the extra‐protozoan environment by exocytosis of conidia or by germination was observed with light and transmission electron microscopy. These processes resulted in structural changes in A. castellanii, leading to amoebal permeabilization without cell lysis. In conclusion, A. castellanii internalizes A. fumigatus conidia, resulting in fungal intracellular germination and subsequent amoebal death. As such, this interaction highly resembles that of A. fumigatus with mammalian and avian macrophages. This suggests that A. fumigatus virulence mechanisms to evade macrophage killing may be acquired by co‐evolutionary interactions among A. fumigatus and environmental amoebae.
Emergency Department–Based Brief Intervention to Reduce Risky Driving and Hazardous/Harmful Drinking in Young Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Sommers Marilyn S. , Lyons Michael S. , Fargo Jamison D. , Sommers Benjamin D. , McDonald Catherine C. , Shope Jean T. , Fleming Michael F.
Published: June 2013

Background

Risky driving and hazardous drinking are associated with significant human and economic costs. Brief interventions for more than one risky behavior have the potential to reduce health‐compromising behaviors in populations with multiple risk‐taking behaviors such as young adults. Emergency department (ED) visits provide a window of opportunity for interventions meant to reduce both risky driving and hazardous drinking.

Methods

We determined the efficacy of a Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) protocol addressing risky driving and hazardous drinking. We used a randomized controlled trial design with follow‐ups through 12 months. ED patients aged 18 to 44 who screened positive for both behaviors (n = 476) were randomized to brief intervention (BIG), contact control (CCG), or no‐contact control (NCG) groups. The BIG (n = 150) received a 20‐minute assessment and two 20‐minute interventions. The CCG (n = 162) received a 20‐minute assessment at baseline and no intervention. The NCG (n = 164) were asked for contact information at baseline and had no assessment or intervention. Outcomes at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months were self‐reported driving behaviors and alcohol consumption.

Results

Outcomes were significantly lower in BIG compared with CCG through 6 or 9 months, but not at 12 months: Safety belt use at 3 months (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 0.22; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.08 to 0.65); 6 months (AOR, 0.13; 95% CI, 0.04 to 0.42); and 9 months (AOR, 0.18; 95% CI, 0.06 to 0.56); binge drinking at 3 months (adjusted rate ratio [ARR] 0.84; 95% CI, 0.74 to 0.97) and 6 months (ARR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.67 to 0.97); and ≥5 standard drinks/d at 3 months (AOR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.20 to 0.91) and 6 months (AOR, 0.41; 95% CI, 0.17 to 0.98). No substantial differences were observed between BIG and NCG at 12 months.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that SBIRT reduced risky driving and hazardous drinking in young adults, but its effects did not persist after 9 months. Future research should explore methods for extending the intervention effect.
The Effect of Political Dynasties on Effective Democratic Governance: Evidence From the Philippines
Authors: Tusalem Rollin F. , Pe‐Aguirre Jeffrey J.
Published: June 2013

What is the effect of political dynasties on effective governance? To determine whether dynastic presence has a positive or detrimental effect on good governance, we examined the Philippine House of Representatives, an institution where more than 60% of its members have been dominated by such clans since the restoration of democracy in 1987. Specifically, we test whether provinces dominated by such established families are more likely to bring higher levels of pork barrel allocations to their provinces. The findings show how provinces dominated by family clans are less likely to experience good governance in terms of (a) infrastructure development, (b) spending on health, (c) the prevalence of criminality, (d) full employment, and (e) the overall quality of government. The implications of the empirical analyses convey that political dynasties have deleterious effects in terms of the allocation of public goods, even if their presence induces higher levels of congressional earmarks.
Iran and the Arab Spring: Why Haven't Iranians Followed the Arabs in Waging Revolution?
Authors: Ahmadi Hamid
Published: June 2013

Since the beginning of the Arab Spring, the question of Iran's own political situation and its relationship to the Arab movements has become a controversial issue. This article examines the Iranian ruling elites' as well as oppositionist views of the Arab Spring, explaining why Iran has not followed its Arab counterparts in engaging a revolutionary and violent confrontation with the Islamic Republic regime. A main argument is that there is no agreement among the Iranians regarding the nature of the Arab Spring, thus situational and nationalistic considerations make Iranians hesitant to take a radical and violent move against the regime. Further, it is argued that in contrast to the expectations of the ruling elite, the empowerment of Arab Islamists brings about unexpected challenges, rather than advantages, for the Islamic Republic in Iran.
The Strong and the Weak: Ups and Downs of State Capacity in Southeast Asia
Authors: Larsson Tomas
Published: June 2013

Why are some Southeast Asian states strong and others weak? This article addresses this question by mapping state capacity across the region on two dimensions—fiscal and legal‐administrative—and then exploring alternative explanations. It argues that variation in state capacities relates to differences in regime type and industrial structure. The region's democracies have greater fiscal state capacity than authoritarian regimes, and economies dependent on capital inflows associated with complex exports have greater legal‐administrative state capacity than those dependent on other types of capital inflows.
Rho kinase inhibition in diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Komers Radko
Published: June 2013

Small GTPases of the Rho family and their down‐stream effectors Rho associated kinases (ROCKs) are the molecules that converge a spectrum of pathophysiological signals triggered by the diabetic milieu and represent promising molecular targets for nephroprotective treatment in diabetes. The review discusses recent studies exploring the consequences of diabetes‐induced Rho‐ROCK activation in the kidney and the effects of ROCK inhibition (ROCKi) in experimental diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Studies in models of type 1 and type 2 diabetes have indicated blood pressure‐independent nephroprotective actions of ROCKi in DKD. The underlying mechanisms include attenuation of diabetes‐induced increases in renal expression of prosclerotic cytokines and extracellular matrix, anti‐oxidant effects and protection of mitochondrial function, resulting in slower development of glomerulosclerosis and interstitial fibrosis. The studies have also shown antiproteinuric effects of ROCKi that could be related to reductions in permeability of the glomerular barrier and beneficial effects on podocytes. Glomerular haemodynamic mechanisms might also be involved. Despite remaining questions in this field, such as the effects in podocytes later in the course of DKD, specificity of currently available ROCKi, or the roles of individual ROCK isoforms, recent evidence in experimental diabetes suggests that ROCKi might in future broaden the spectrum of treatments available for patients with DKD. This is supported by the evidence generated in models of non‐diabetic kidney disease and in clinical studies in patients with various cardiovascular disorders.
Use of magnetic resonance imaging in pharmacogenomics
Authors: Viviani Roberto , Lehmann Marie‐Louise , Stingl Julia C.
Published: June 2013

Because of the large variation in the response to psychoactive medication, many studies have attempted to uncover genetic factors that determine response. While considerable knowledge exists on the large effects of genetic polymorphisms on pharmacokinetics and plasma concentrations of drugs, effects of the concentration at the target site and pharmacodynamic effects on brain functions in disease are much less known. This article reviews the role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to visualize response to medication in brain behaviour circuitsin vivoin humans and assess the influence of pharmacogenetic factors. Two types of studies have been used to characterize effects of medication and genetic variation. In task‐related activation studies the focus is on changes in the activity of a neural circuit associated with a specific psychological process. The second type of study investigates resting state perfusion. These studies provide an assessment of vascular changes associated with bioavailability of drugs in the brain, but may also assess changes in neural activity after binding of centrally active agents. Task‐related pharmacogenetic studies of cognitive function have characterized the effects in the prefrontal cortex of genetic polymorphisms of dopamine receptors (DRD2), metabolic enzymes (COMT) and in the post‐synaptic signalling cascade under the administration of dopamine agonists and antagonists. In contrast, pharmacogenetic imaging with resting state perfusion is still in its infancy. However, the quantitative nature of perfusion imaging, its non‐invasive character and its repeatability might be crucial assets in visualizing the effects of medicationin vivoin man during therapy.
Measurement of renal function in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Sandilands Euan A. , Dhaun Neeraj , Dear James W. , Webb David J.
Published: June 2013

Chronic kidney disease affects millions of people worldwide and is associated with an increased morbidity and mortality as a result of kidney failure and cardiovascular disease. Accurate assessment of kidney function is important in the clinical setting as a screening tool and for monitoring disease progression and guiding prognosis. In clinical research, the development of new methods to measure kidney function accurately is important in the search for new therapeutic targets and the discovery of novel biomarkers to aid early identification of kidney injury. This review considers different methods for measuring kidney function and their contribution to the improvement of detection, monitoring and treatment of chronic kidney disease.
Concentrating on affective feedforward in online tutoring
Authors: Chen Ya‐Ting , Chou Yung‐Hsin , Cowan John
Published: June 2013

With considerable input from the student voice, the paper centres on a detailed account of the experiences of Western academic, tutoring Eastern students online to develop their critical thinking skills. From their online experiences together as tutor and students, the writers present a considered case for the main emphasis in facilitative online tutoring to be on building, and then building upon, congruent relationships and constructive feedforward. Initially, the Western tutor had followed as best he could the norms of a Confucian Heritage Culture, concentrating reactively on instructional feedback. He then took the considered risk of reverting to proactivity, following the advice of Rogers and Vygotsky and according to an explicit rationale. The ensuing changes in students' online discussions and their learning experiences were marked and were objectively analysed. The tutor and two of his students suggest that the nature of congruent tutor/student relationships, irrespective of culture, is more significant in effectively promoting development than the cognitive content that might feature in feedback in such interactions. For it seems possible from the reported experiences that learning dependent on technological links may benefit from meaningful tutor/student relationships.

A video abstract of this article can be viewed at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=teslTzgVBsc&feature=youtu.be
The contemporary nucleus: A trip down memory lane
Authors: Osorio Daniel S. , Gomes Edgar R.
Published: June 2013

The nucleus is one of the hallmarks of eukaryotic cells. The history of its discovery and characterisation is intimately entangled with that of cell biology as a discipline. Here, we provide a broad historical perspective of the nucleus, from its initial descriptions until the present. We describe the key events that led to the formulation of the chromosomal theory, the discovery of the nuclear pore complex, nucleo‐cytoplasmic transport and the structure of chromatin. We also focus on the rising importance of the nuclear periphery as a key subject in nuclear research, with the characterisation of the multiple roles of nuclear lamina and the proteins involved in connecting the nuclear envelope and the cytoskeleton. Over the last decades, critical technical advancements from electron microscopy to protein structural characterisation have allowed us to gain in‐depth knowledge of nuclear substructure and components, from its core to the envelope. This knowledge has set the stage for a rising challenge: understanding specialised nuclear configurations and their role in different tissues, developmental stages and disease.
Endonasal endoscopic transsphenoidal pituitary surgery: early experience and outcome in paediatric Cushing's disease
Authors: Storr Helen L. , Drake William M. , Evanson Jane , Matson Matthew , Berney Dan M. , Grossman Ashley B. , Akker Scott A. , Monson John P. , Alusi Ghassan , Savage Martin O. , Sabin Ian
Published: June 2013

Background

Selective adenomectomy remains the first‐line treatment for Cushing's disease (CD), until recently by microscopic transsphenoidal pituitary surgery. Endonasal transsphenoidal endoscopic surgery (ETES) is emerging as a novel, less invasive treatment for pituitary adenomas and has become the optimal surgical approach.

Objective

There are no published series for the treatment of paediatric CD by ETES, and we report our centre's preliminary results.

Design

Retrospective analysis.

Patients

Six paediatric patients (median age 15·8 years; range 11·7–17·0 years) fulfilled standard diagnostic criteria for CD. Preoperatively, no abnormality was identified on pituitary MR scanning in 3 (50%) patients, one had a macroadenoma. Bilateral petrosal sinus sampling demonstrated central ACTH secretion (IPS/P ACTH ratio ≥3·0, post‐CRH) in 3/6 (50%) patients. The same neurosurgeon and endoscopic nasal surgeon undertook all the operations.

Outcome measures

Therapeutic outcome and rate of complications.

Results

Clinical recovery and biochemical ‘cure’ were achieved in 5 (83%) patients, and a corticotroph adenoma was confirmed histologically in all cured cases. One case developed post‐operative CSF leak requiring lumbar drain insertion and patching. At a mean interval of 4·7 years (0·1–10·8 years) post‐operatively, cured patients have shown no recurrence. One patient, with a large diffuse adenoma requiring more extensive surgery, has panhypopituitarism, and another patient has GH and gonadotrophin deficiencies.

Conclusions

Our experience shows that ETES for removing corticotroph adenomas in children, in most cases not visualized on MRI, is minimally invasive and gave excellent post‐operative recovery/results. In skilled hands, this technique provides an alternative to conventional transsphenoidal microscopic surgery in managing paediatric CD.
Allergic contact dermatitis
Authors: Becker Detlef
Published: June 2013

Allergic contact dermatitis is a frequent inflammatory skin disease. The suspected diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms, a plausible contact to allergens and a suitable history of dermatitis. Differential diagnoses should be considered only after careful exclusion of any causal contact sensitization. Hence, careful diagnosis by patch testing is of great importance. Modifications of the standardized test procedure are the strip patch test and the repeated open application test. The interpretation of the SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate) patch test as well as testing with the patients' own products and working materials are potential sources of error. Accurate patch test reading is affected in particular by the experience and individual factors of the examiner. Therefore, a high degree of standardization and continuous quality control is necessary and may be supported by use of an online patch test reading course made available by the German Contact Dermatitis Research Group. A critical relevance assessment of allergic patch test reactions helps to avoid relapses and the consideration of differential diagnoses. Any allergic test reaction should be documented in an allergy ID card including the INCI name, if appropriate. The diagnostics of allergic contact dermatitis is endangered by a seriously reduced financing of patch testing by the German statutory health insurances. Restrictive regulations by the German Drug Law block the approval of new contact allergens for routine patch testing. Beside the consistent avoidance of allergen contact, temporary use of systemic and topical corticosteroids is the therapy of first choice.
From modeling to morals: Imagining the future of HIV PREP in Lesotho
Authors: Kenworthy Nora J. , Bulled Nicola
Published: June 2013

Amidst growing global endorsements of new biomedical HIV prevention strategies, ARV‐based pre‐exposure prophylaxis (ARV PrEP) has garnered considerable attention as a potentially promising prevention strategy. Though it may offer more effective protection for certain at‐risk groups than conventional prevention strategies (such as sexual partner reduction, condom use, and prevention of mother‐to‐child transmission), PrEP is more costly. PrEP requires more ongoing contact between individuals and providers, and a level of surveillance from the health system that is not necessary with other preventive measures. In this sense, it represents a new bio‐technology for HIV prevention that poses particular challenges for worldwide implementation, given developing countries’ struggling health systems and incomplete HIV treatment programs. Since the emergence of PrEP has stimulated ethical discussions premised on incomplete knowledge of efficacy and implementation, this paper explores the ethical parameters of a likely scenario for PrEP usage in a single, resource‐poor country. We first develop a plausible model for PrEP deployment and utilization based on current PrEP research, while carefully considering the reigning institutional values of feasibility and effectiveness in global health approaches. Drawing on ethnographic research of HIV treatment and prevention approaches in Lesotho, we address ethical questions arising from this scenario of PrEP delivery. Lesotho presents a compelling and emblematic case study of PrEP's potential successes and pitfalls in a developing country, given the country's high HIV prevalence, struggles to achieve universal access to HIV treatment regimes, continued existence of stigma around the epidemic, and difficulties in addressing persistent social inequalities that fuel infections.
Critically Adaptive Pedagogical Relations: The Relevance for Educational Policy and Practice
Authors: Griffiths Morwenna
Published: June 2013

In this article Morwenna Griffiths argues that teacher education policies should be predicated on a proper and full understanding of pedagogical relations as contingent, responsive, and adaptive over the course of a career. Griffiths uses the example of the recent report on teacher education in Scotland, by Graham Donaldson, to argue that for all the report's considerable merits, it remains deficient because it does not attend to the complexity and contingency of pedagogical relations. The complexity arises from the existence of (at least) four analytically distinguishable pedagogical relations, each of which interacts with the others. These relations are contingent on the embodiment of teacher and students and on the political and sociocultural context of the class. Therefore they are also contingent on time, as teachers age and as the political and sociocultural context changes. Griffiths concludes the article with suggestions for creating a teaching profession in which teachers are reflectively and critically adaptive during the course of their careers.
Love, Socrates, and Pedagogy
Authors: Assiter Alison
Published: June 2013

A recent report on the UK's higher education system by Lord John Browne exemplifies the dominant trend in education policy initiatives toward a focus on education primarily for employment and for the acquisition of skills. In this essay, Alison Assiter argues that such an entrepreneurial approach neglects essential aspects of the processes of teaching and learning. She draws on the work of Hannah Arendt, who saw the proper role of education as imparting the love of a subject, to critique the view expressed in Browne's report. Assiter then uses Søren Kierkegaard's reflections on education to further develop Arendt's perspective. While Kierkegaard certainly would have agreed with Arendt that teaching is a process of inspiring in students the love of a subject, he went beyond this to suggest that teaching also must encourage students to believe they can make a difference in the world and must instill in both teachers and students a commitment to engaging in a mutual process of development.
Unpredictability, Transformation, and the Pedagogical Encounter: Reflections on “What Is Effective” in Education
Authors: O'Donnell Aislinn
Published: June 2013

In this article, Aislinn O'Donnell offers a set of reflections on the relation between therapy and education. In the first section, she examines criticisms of therapeutic education, mobilizing the example of prison education to highlight the difficulties that arise from imposing prescriptive modes of subjectification and socialization in pedagogy. In the second section, she addresses the relation between therapy and education by focusing on just one element of the experience of education: those moments at which a subject has the potential of becoming significant in the life of a student. An important dimension of the educator's authority involves noticing such moments, fostering the conditions that make them more likely, and engaging in the creative process and practice of deciding how best pedagogically to respond to these moments. In the third section, O'Donnell develops this idea by detailing a philosophical approach and practice that understands “effectiveness” in education as bound to practice, creative responsiveness, and the judgment of the educator in concrete, singular pedagogical situations, rather than construed in terms of generic models of “best practice.”
A Matter of Friendship: Educational Interventions into Culture and Poverty
Authors: Shuffelton Amy B.
Published: June 2013

Contemporary educational reformers have claimed that research on social class differences in child raising justifies programs that aim to lift children out of poverty by means of cultural interventions. Focusing on the Knowledge Is Power Program (KIPP), Ruby Payne's “aha! Process,” and the Harlem Children's Zone as examples, Amy Shuffelton argues that such programs, besides overstepping the social science research, are ethically illegitimate insofar as they undermine the equitable development of civic agency. Shuffelton invokes Aristotelian civic friendship, particularly as interpreted by Danielle Allen and Sibyl Schwarzenbach, as key to a politics that avoids relations of domination and subordination. She concludes that social justice requires that educators involved with culturally interventionist programs recognize the workings of power within schooling and society, that they accept the limits of their own perspectives, and that they remain open to what is of value in child‐raising practices other than those associated with the contemporary middle class.
Rates of projected climate change dramatically exceed past rates of climatic niche evolution among vertebrate species
Authors: Quintero Ignacio , Wiens John J.
Published: June 2013

A key question in predicting responses to anthropogenic climate change is: how quickly can species adapt to different climatic conditions? Here, we take a phylogenetic approach to this question. We use 17 time‐calibrated phylogenies representing the major tetrapod clades (amphibians, birds, crocodilians, mammals, squamates, turtles) and climatic data from distributions of > 500 extant species. We estimate rates of change based on differences in climatic variables between sister species and estimated times of their splitting. We compare these rates to predicted rates of climate change from 2000 to 2100. Our results are striking: matching projected changes for 2100 would require rates of niche evolution that are > 10 000 times faster than rates typically observed among species, for most variables and clades. Despite many caveats, our results suggest that adaptation to projected changes in the next 100 years would require rates that are largely unprecedented based on observed rates among vertebrate species.