bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vulnerability to Climate Change
Authors: Pricope Narcisa , Pardo-Rodriguez Lumari , López-Carr David
Published: March 2013

This article was revised by Narcisa G. Pricope, Lumari Pardo-Rodriguez, David Lopez-Carr, Emily Williams, and Lane Zorich on 22 February 2018. The revised version can be found here.
Biogeomorphology and Zoogeomorphology
Authors: Whitesides Clayton J. , Butler David R.
Published: March 2013

Biogeomorphology and zoogeomorphology are subfields of the discipline of geomorphology, the study of landforms and land-forming processes. Biogeomorphology encompasses the study of the effects of plants and animals on the landscape, as well as how geomorphic processes (e.g., running water, glacial ice, wind, wave action, landslides, and mass movements) affect the distribution of plants and animals. Zoogeomorphology is a subfield of biogeomorphology that specifically focuses on the study of the geomorphic effects of animals. “Phytogeomorphology” is a term sometimes used for the study of the interaction of geomorphic processes and plants. The term “ecogeomorphology” is frequently used as a synonym for “biogeomorphology.” Scientists who study biogeomorphology and zoogeomorphology come from both the disciplines of geomorphology as well as from ecology. In ecology, the term “ecosystem engineering” has emerged since around 1990 to indicate the effects that both animals and plants may have in shaping the landscapes in which they live. Biogeomorphology emerged in the late 1980s as a significant subfield of geomorphology; prior to that time, although a few studies and general observations concerning the interactions of plants or animals and geomorphic processes had been recorded, the field of geomorphology was primarily focused on conceptual models of how entire broad regions achieved the appearance they presented over time. With the increasing focus of geomorphologists on finer-scale studies and measurements of surface processes after about the 1970s, biogeomorphology began to be seen as an important subdiscipline for the measurement and understanding of surface processes. Most of the studies of biogeomorphology that were initiated in the 1980s focused on the interaction of surface processes with vegetation. Zoogeomorphology was slower to develop, and was not even formally defined as a subfield of biogeomorphology until 1992. Zoogeomorphology remains a minority subcomponent of biogeomorphology today, although it is the focus of research for an increasing number of geomorphologists around the world.
Urban Geography
Authors: McCarthy Linda
Published: March 2013

The world is becoming increasingly urbanized. In 2007, an urban milestone was reached when the percentage of people living in cities around the world exceeded 50 percent for the first time in history. By 2050, two-thirds of the world’s population is projected to be living in urban areas. To put these figures into historical perspective, in 1950 less than one-third of the world’s population was urbanized. Urban geography can help us understand urbanization trends and their expression in urban spatial structure and to relate these to our own lives and concerns. The study of urban geography can help us have a better appreciation of the economics of what goes on within cities and recognize the interdependencies among local, national, and international economic contexts in an increasingly globalized world. It can provide us with a framework for conceptualizing urbanism in conjunction with an appreciation of history and the relationships between society and culture. It can illuminate the interplay of science and technology with social, economic, and political change; reveal important dimensions related to race, ethnicity, gender, and sexuality; identify important issues concerning social inequality, urban segregation, and gentrification; raise concerns about urban environmental quality; and point to important lessons for urban governance and policy. Most of all, of course, the study of urban geography can help us analyze and interpret the communities and landscapes of cities and metropolitan areas for a better understanding of the people who live in urban areas around the world. As such, urban geography is arguably one of the most important subdisciplines within geography, and especially within human geography.
César Chávez
Authors: Bender Steven W.
Published: March 2013

César Chávez (b. 1927–d. 1993) is recognized as an American hero, as evidenced by an official state holiday in California, the first for any Latina/o or labor leader. Reflecting his influence beyond California, several other states have established optional or commemorative holidays honoring his legacy as a labor leader. Though renowned for his role as a cofounder, with Dolores Huerta and Filipino leaders, of the United Farm Workers (UFW) union to secure fair wages and safe working conditions for agricultural workers, Chávez’s legacy also includes his formative years as a political organizer in California for the Community Service Organization. Known for his invocation of religious symbols as an organizing tactic and his advocacy of an ethos of nonviolence in the farm worker movement, Chávez is best remembered for his twenty-five-day hunger fast in 1968 as an act of penance to ensure nonviolence in the increasingly contentious grape strike and national grape boycott sponsored by the UFW and centered in the grape fields of Delano, California. A later, longer fast in 1988 called attention to the dangers to farm workers and their families from the use of pesticides in the fields. Although rooted in the California grape fields, Chávez’s organizing efforts and the UFW union reached well beyond that locale to encompass other crops and states, notably drawing the UFW into a territorial dispute in the 1970s with the Teamsters union in lettuce and grape fields. UFW membership peaked under Chávez’s leadership in the early 1980s but declined significantly in subsequent years, mirroring national trends of union declines, although some critics fault Chávez’s leadership tactics. Chávez’s life is the subject of many scholarly works, particularly emphasizing the 1960s Delano grape strike and the national grape boycott as well as his leadership style and organizing strategies.
PT
-symmetric quantum electrodynamics and unitarity
Authors: Milton Kimball A , Abalo E. K. , Parashar Prachi , Pourtolami Nima , Wagner J.
Published: March 2013

More than 15 years ago, a new approach to quantum mechanics was suggested, in which Hermiticity of the Hamiltonian was to be replaced by invariance under a discrete symmetry, the product of parity and time-reversal symmetry,

. It was shown that, if

is unbroken, energies were, in fact, positive, and unitarity was satisfied. Since quantum mechanics is quantum field theory in one dimension—time—it was natural to extend this idea to higher-dimensional field theory, and in fact an apparently viable version of

-invariant quantum electrodynamics (QED) was proposed. However, it has proved difficult to establish that the unitarity of the scattering matrix, for example, the Källén spectral representation for the photon propagator, can be maintained in this theory. This has led to questions of whether, in fact, even quantum mechanical systems are consistent with probability conservation when Green’s functions are examined, since the latter have to possess physical requirements of analyticity. The status of

QED will be reviewed in this paper, as well as the general issue of unitarity.
Structural basis of protein complex formation and reconfiguration by polyglutamine disease protein Ataxin-1 and Capicua
Authors: Kim Eunji , Lu Hsiang-Chih , Zoghbi Huda Y. , Song Ji-Joon
Published: March 2013

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1) is a dominantly inherited neurodegenerative disease caused by polyglutamine expansion in Ataxin-1 (ATXN1). ATXN1 binds to the transcriptional repressor Capicua (CIC), and the interaction plays a critical role in SCA1 pathogenesis whereby reducing CIC levels rescues SCA1-like phenotypes in a mouse model. The ATXN1/HBP1 (AXH) domain of ATXN1 mediates its homodimerization as well as the interaction with CIC. Here, we present the crystal structure of ATXN1's AXH domain bound to CIC and show that the binding pocket of the AXH domain to CIC overlaps with the homodimerization pocket of the AXH domain. Thus, the binding to CIC disrupts the homodimerization of ATXN1. Furthermore, the binding of CIC reconfigures the complex to allow another form of dimerization mediated by CIC, showing the intricacy of protein complex formation and reconfiguration by ATXN1 and CIC. Identifying the surfaces mediating the interactions between CIC and ATXN1 reveals a critical role for CIC in the reconfiguration of the AXH dimers and might provide insight into ways to target the ATXN1/CIC interactions to modulate SCA1 pathogenesis.
The Manipulation of Auxin in the Abscission Zone Cells of Arabidopsis Flowers Reveals That Indoleacetic Acid Signaling Is a Prerequisite for Organ Shedding
Authors: Basu Manojit M. , González-Carranza Zinnia H. , Azam-Ali Sayed , Tang Shouya , Shahid Ahmad Ali , Roberts Jeremy A.
Published: March 2013

A number of novel strategies were employed to examine the role of indoleacetic acid (IAA) in regulating floral organ abscission in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). Analysis of auxin influx facilitator expression in β-glucuronidase reporter plants revealed that AUXIN RESISTANT1, LIKE AUX1, and LAX3 were specifically up-regulated at the site of floral organ shedding. Flowers from mutants where individual family members were down-regulated exhibited a reduction in the force necessary to bring about petal separation; however, the effect was not additive in double or quadruple mutants. Using the promoter of a polygalacturonase (At2g41850), active primarily in cells undergoing separation, to drive expression of the bacterial genes iaaL and iaaM, we have shown that it is possible to manipulate auxin activity specifically within the floral organ abscission zone (AZ). Analysis of petal breakstrength reveals that if IAA  AZ levels are reduced, shedding takes place prematurely, while if they are enhanced, organ loss is delayed. The At2g41850 promoter was also used to transactivate the gain-of-function AXR3-1 gene in order to disrupt auxin signaling specifically within the floral organ AZ cells. Flowers from transactivated lines failed to shed their sepals, petals, and anthers during pod expansion and maturity, and these organs frequently remained attached to the plant even after silique desiccation and dehiscence had taken place. These observations support a key role for IAA in the regulation of abscission in planta and reveal, to our knowledge for the first time, a requirement for a functional IAA signaling pathway in AZ cells for organ shedding to take place.
Planning Models in Sweden and Norway: Nuancing the Picture
Authors: Hofstad Hege
Published: March 2013

This article nuances the picture given in current research of Swedish policy implementation and planning as consistent and predictable, and Norwegian policy implementation and planning as more unpredictable and fragmented. It does so by adding a discussion of the sources of legitimacy in each of the two national settings, arguing that each system has its distinct pros and cons. The Swedish planning system and local plan practices rest more firmly on a hierarchical mode of governance which is strong on operational efficiency, but suffers from a weaker sense of ownership to the plan outcome among private and civil society actors. In the Norwegian planning system and local plan practices, a combination of hierarchical and interactive governance measures, boasts a broader anchorage and resource division among public, private and civil society actors. However, this system experiences a lower operational efficiency due to the willingness to reconsider former decisions in order to find a viable compromise among different stakeholders in local plan processes, as well as stronger fragmentation due to the privatization of Norwegian detail planning. The empirical basis of the article is: a comparison of the two countries' plan legislation in terms of the inclusion of non‐public actors in plan provision and plan formulation; and four case studies of planning processes concerning the future use of an urban green area.
Preferences and Policies: An Intra‐Household Demand System
Authors: Malcolm Michael
Published: March 2013

I estimate a household demand system with specific focus on allocation to children, adults and joint household goods. The main finding is that marginal dollars are spent disproportionately on adult‐assignable goods relative to the way in which the average dollar is spent. The estimation provides both income effects and a complete set of cross‐price effects, which informs analysis both of income transfers and of policies that induce relative price changes. Contrasted with earlier work, the demand system in this paper covers nearly all household expenditures. I show bias that results from reduced‐form systems.
Developmental patterns of a large set of barley (Hordeum vulgare) cultivars in response to ambient temperature
Authors: Karsai I. , Igartua E. , Casas A.M. , Kiss T. , Soós V. , Balla K. , Bedő Z. , Veisz O.
Published: March 2013

Ambient temperature plays an important role in plant development. In cereals, little is known about the exact effects of ambient temperature in the range between it being a vernalising agent and an abiotic stress factor; thus the genetic determinants involved in the registering and response to ambient temperature, and their natural variation has not been dissected either. Principally, we wished to establish the level of natural variation in response to ambient temperature in barley via studying plant phenological development. The responses to temperature of 168 barley genotypes of different provenances and seasonal growth habit groups were observed in controlled environments. The effects of four temperature regimes (13°C, 16.5°C, 18°C and 23°C) on the duration of plant phenophases were examined. The plant development was characterised in a series of consecutive phenophases that span the plant life cycle from germination through flowering to attainment of maximum plant height. Ambient temperature affected significantly plant development, with substantial variation in responses among the genotypes. Six major types of responses were identified, which depended strongly on seasonal growth habit, with only a small degree of overlap. Although the differences in the timing of development among clusters were significant under each temperature regime, the 23°C treatment resulted in the largest diversity of responses, with significant changes in the ranking of the six clusters compared to other treatments. Two clusters showed particularly unusual responses to 23°C: the development of one winter barley cluster was extremely accelerated by the 23°C treatment, whereas the development of one spring barley cluster was significantly delayed. Ambient temperature assumes importance as a regulatory cue in the intricate and complex temporal and spatial regulation network of plant development in cereals and acts mostly through its regulatory effect on certain developmental phases such as the onset and duration of the intensive stem elongation.
Evaluation of a Novel Artificial Pancreas: Closed Loop Glycemic Control System With Continuous Blood Glucose Monitoring
Authors: Tsukamoto Yuuki , Kinoshita Yoshihiko , Kitagawa Hiroyuki , Munekage Masaya , Munekage Eri , Takezaki Yuka , Yatabe Tomoaki , Yamashita Koichi , Yamazaki Rie , Okabayashi Takehiro , Tarumi Masatoshi , Kobayashi Masaki , Mishina Suguru , Hanazaki Kazuhiro
Published: March 2013

A closed‐loop glycemic control system using an artificial pancreas has been applied with many clinical benefits in Japan since 1987. To update this system incorporating user‐friendly features, we developed a novel artificial pancreas (STG‐55). The purpose of this study was to evaluate STG‐55 for device usability, performance of blood glucose measurement, glycemic control characteristics in vivo in animal experiments, and evaluate its clinical feasibility. There are several features for usability improvement based on the design concepts, such as compactness, display monitor, batteries, guidance function, and reduction of the preparation time. All animal study data were compared with a clinically available artificial pancreas system in Japan (control device: STG‐22). We examined correlations of both blood glucose levels between two groups (STG‐55 vs. control) using Clarke's error grid analysis, and also compared mean glucose infusion rate (GIR) during glucose clamp. The results showed strong correlation in blood glucose concentrations (Pearson's product‐moment correlation coefficient: 0.97; n = 1636). Clarke's error grid analysis showed that 98.4% of the data fell in Zones A and B, which represent clinically accurate or benign errors, respectively. The difference in mean GIRs was less than 0.2 mg/kg/min, which was considered not significant. Clinical feasibility study demonstrated sufficient glycemic control maintaining target glucose range between 80 and 110 (mg/dL), and between 140 and 160 without any hypoglycemia. In conclusion, STG‐55 was a clinically acceptable artificial pancreas with improved interface and usability. A closed‐loop glycemic control system with STG‐55 would be a useful tool for surgical and critical patients in intensive care units, as well as diabetic patients.
A Technological Study of the Elamite Polychrome Glazed Bricks at Susa, South‐Western Iran
Authors: Holakooei P.
Published: March 2013

This study investigated the technological features of the Neo‐Elamite glazed bricks discovered at the Acropolis of Susa, south‐western Iran, by conducting micro‐Raman spectroscopy, differential thermal analysis/thermogravimetry (DTA/TG), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy–energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDS). The results showed that calcium antimonate white and lead antimonate yellow were used as opacifiers in the white, yellow and green glazes, and that green and turquoise glazes were achieved using copper. Coloured glazes were separated by a Si‐rich brown glaze to prevent them from running together during firing. The glazed bricks most probably were not fired at temperatures higher than 900°C.
Thinking positively about chronic illness: An exploration of optimism, illness perceptions and well‐being in patients with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Hurt Catherine S. , Burn David J. , Hindle John , Samuel Mike , Wilson Ken , Brown Richard G.
Published: March 2013

Objectives

Holding positive beliefs about illness and having an optimistic outlook have been associated with increased well‐being across a range of health conditions. However, research has indicated that being very optimistic may not actually be beneficial, and holding a realistic attitude is more adaptive in some forms of chronic illness, for example, Parkinson's disease (PD). This study aimed to explore the nature of relationships between illness perceptions, optimism and well‐being: specifically, whether a linear or non‐linear relationship best described the data. Additionally, the proposed moderating effect of optimism on the relationship between illness perceptions and well‐being was tested.

Design

A total of 109 participants with idiopathic PD completed questionnaire measures of illness perception, optimism, mood and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL).

Methods

Multiple regression analyses were used to explore relationships between illness perceptions, optimism, mood and HRQoL. The potential curvilinear effects of illness perceptions and optimism were modelled using squared variables and linear and quadratic curve estimation.

Results

Holding positive illness perceptions predicted better well‐being. Some evidence for a non‐linear relationship between optimism and mood was found. Optimism had a significant moderating effect on the relationship between specific illness perceptions and outcome.

Conclusions

Optimism appears to provide protection against some negative perceptions of illness and was associated with better mood and HRQoL. The findings indicate that specific illness perceptions may be beneficial targets for therapy. Therapeutic interventions should focus on enhancing positive perceptions of PD but potentially more importantly general optimistic attitude to maximize well‐being.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject? Positive illness perceptions and high optimism are associated with better well‐being in a range of conditions, both chronic and acute. Preliminary studies suggest that in chronic degenerative diseases, marked positive optimism confers no additional benefit over medium levels of optimism for well‐being and is associated with less use of adaptive coping.

What does this study add?

Optimism moderates the effects of specific negative illness perceptions on well‐being in Parkinson's disease.

No evidence was found that unrealistic positive illness perceptions are detrimental to well‐being.

Adaptive illness perceptions may be condition specific.
Systematic molecular and cytogenetic screening of 100 patients with marfanoid syndromes and intellectual disability
Authors: Callier P , Aral B , Hanna N , Lambert S , Dindy H , Ragon C , Payet M , Collod‐Beroud G , Carmignac V , Delrue MA , Goizet C , Philip N , Busa T , Dulac Y , Missotte I , Sznajer Y , Toutain A , Francannet C , Megarbane A , Julia S , Edouard T , Sarda P , Amiel J , Lyonnet S , Cormier‐Daire V , Gilbert B , Jacquette A , Heron D , Collignon P , Lacombe D , Morice‐Picard F , Jouk PS , Cusin V , Willems M , Sarrazin E , Amarof K , Coubes C , Addor MC , Journel H , Colin E , Khau Van Kien P , Baumann C , Leheup B , Martin‐ Coignard D , Doco‐Fenzy M , Goldenberg A , Plessis G , Thevenon J , Pasquier L , Odent S , Vabres P , Huet F , Marle N , Mosca‐ Boidron AL , Mugneret F , Gauthier S , Binquet C , Thauvin‐Robinet C , Jondeau G , Boileau C , Faivre L
Published: March 2013

The association of marfanoid habitus (MH) and intellectual disability (ID) has been reported in the literature, with overlapping presentations and genetic heterogeneity. A hundred patients (71 males and 29 females) with a MH and ID were recruited. Custom‐designed 244K array‐CGH (Agilent®; Agilent Technologies Inc., Santa Clara, CA) and MED12, ZDHHC9, UPF3B, FBN1, TGFBR1 and TGFBR2 sequencing analyses were performed. Eighty patients could be classified as isolated MH and ID: 12 chromosomal imbalances, 1 FBN1 mutation and 1 possibly pathogenic MED12 mutation were found (17%). Twenty patients could be classified as ID with other extra‐skeletal features of the Marfan syndrome (MFS) spectrum: 4 pathogenic FBN1 mutations and 4 chromosomal imbalances were found (2 patients with both FBN1 mutation and chromosomal rearrangement) (29%). These results suggest either that there are more loci with genes yet to be discovered or that MH can also be a relatively non‐specific feature of patients with ID. The search for aortic complications is mandatory even if MH is associated with ID since FBN1 mutations or rearrangements were found in some patients. The excess of males is in favour of the involvement of other X‐linked genes. Although it was impossible to make a diagnosis in 80% of patients, these results will improve genetic counselling in families.
A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial of Edentulous Patients Treated with Immediately Loaded Implant‐Supported Mandibular Fixed Prostheses
Authors: Alfadda Sara Abdulaziz
Published: March 2013

Purpose

A 1‐year blinded two‐arm parallel randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted to test the null hypothesis that immediate loading of four dental implants between the mental foramina with a fixed prosthesis has no benefits compared with the conventional loading technique in terms of implant success and clinical function.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐five patients, completely edentulous in the mandibles seeking implant‐supported prostheses at the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, were recruited. Four TiUnite dental implants (NobelBiocare®, Göteborg, Sweden) were placed following the one‐stage surgical protocol. Immediately after surgery, the patients were randomly assigned to either study arms by a third independent party. In the experimental arm (EA), existing mandibular denture was converted into an interim implant‐supported fixed bridge (ISFB) on the same day of surgery. In the control arm (CA), the mandibular denture was hollowed out and relined with a soft tissue reline. The implants were loaded with the permanent ISFB at least 3 months postsurgery. Patients were assessed by a calibrated independent investigator at 2, 6, and 12 months following completion of treatment.

Results

A total of one hundred sixty implants were placed. Due to anatomical limitations, one patient was excluded from the study. Four patients in the EA did not receive intervention as allocated and were transferred to the CA. Implant success rate was comparable between the two arms and exceeded 96%. Marginal bone loss was statistically significantly more in the immediate loading arm, −0.296 mm versus −0.037 mm (intention to treat: p = .002; per protocol: p = .021). The relatively early intervention and insertion of the final prosthesis in the immediate arm, when bone healing and remodeling process had not yet been completed, might explain the difference in the amount of bone loss.

Conclusion

Immediate loading of four dental implants with a fixed prosthesis in the edentulous mandible is a feasible treatment option and leads to a substantial improvement in perceived oral health status.
Predicting individual differences in low‐income children's executive control from early to middle childhood
Authors: Cybele Raver C. , McCoy Dana Charles , Lowenstein Amy E. , Pess Rachel
Published: March 2013

The present longitudinal study tested the roles of early childhood executive control (EC) as well as exposure to poverty‐related adversity at family and school levels as key predictors of low‐income children's EC in elementary school (n = 391). Findings suggest that children's EC difficulties in preschool and lower family income from early to middle childhood are robust predictors of later EC difficulties as rated by teachers in 2nd and 3rd grades. Findings also suggest enrollment in unsafe elementary schools is significantly predictive of higher levels of teacher‐rated EC difficulty, but only for those children who showed initially elevated levels of EC difficulty in early childhood. Implications for scientific models of cognitive development and poverty‐related adversity are discussed.
The Role of Management Innovation in Enabling Technological Process Innovation: An Inter‐Organizational Perspective
Authors: Hollen Rick M.A. , Van Den Bosch Frans A.J. , Volberda Henk W.
Published: March 2013

For sustained competitive advantage of established process manufacturing firms, technological process innovation to improve resource productivity and environmental performance has become of pivotal importance. These firms, however, often face intra‐organizational tensions to reconcile pressures for exploration and exploitation across subsequent phases of technological process innovation. Firms may, therefore, need to perform the development phase – being the most sensitive to these tensions – in the inter‐organizational context of an external dedicated development facility. This requires new‐to‐the‐firm management activities, i.e., management innovation. However, the role of management innovation in enabling technological process innovation in an inter‐organizational context remains largely unexplored. To address this gap, in developing propositions we use illustrative examples from the research context of an external development facility for sustainable process technology. The paper has two contributions. First, by adopting a process perspective we are able to clarify how both types of innovation are combined over time in an intertwined way. Second, we extend management innovation theory by conceptualizing management innovation in an inter‐organizational context. We conclude with implications for theory, practice and future research.
Decadal‐scale regional changes in Canadian freshwater zooplankton: the likely consequence of complex interactions among multiple anthropogenic stressors
Authors: Palmer Michelle E. , Yan Norman D.
Published: March 2013

Ecological integrity is increasingly threatened by multiple anthropogenic stressors, but the cumulative impact of stressors is poorly understood because they can interact in unexpected ways. Knowledge of these interactions and their associated impacts is needed to support the conservation of valued ecosystems. We used a large‐scale, replicated field survey and multiple regression analysis to investigate the cumulative impacts of multiple physical, chemical and biological stressors on the crustacean zooplankton assemblages of 34 Canadian Shield lakes between 1980s and 2004–2005.

Zooplankton total abundance, species richness, diversity and community structure, as well as the relative abundances of prominent taxonomic orders of zooplankton, changed at a regional scale. These changes occurred in response to changes in water quality and lake thermal regime, and invasion by an exotic predator. Interactions between stressors were common and represented an important determinant of zooplankton assemblage changes over time.

We provide the first evidence that the individual and combined impacts of multiple stressors cause regional ecological change over decades. Our results demonstrate the prevalence of stressor interactions in natural environments and highlight the complexity of ecosystem responses to multiple stressors. Zooplankton changes recorded here may be widespread because climate change, acidification, development and the spread of invasive species are globally pervasive. These changes could have cascading impacts because zooplankton is an essential link in aquatic food webs. Our findings highlight the need to consider the interactive effect of stressors when assessing anthropogenic impacts and will inform management and conservation of ecosystems threatened by multiple stressors.
Prevalence and factors associated with rheumatic diseases and chronic joint symptoms in the elderly
Authors: Falsarella Gláucia R , Coimbra Ibsen B , Barcelos Caroline C , Costallat Lilian TL , Carvalho Olga MF , Coimbra Arlete MV
Published: March 2013

Aim

In the elderly population, rheumatic conditions are major causes of pain that restrict participation in activities and mobility, and cause difficulties in the execution of self‐care tasks. The present study aimed to analyze the prevalence and factors associated with the self‐reported rheumatic diseases and chronic joint symptoms of the elderly.

Methods

This transversal epidemiological survey involved 2209 older adults (aged ≥60 years). The investigation included sociodemographic factors, anthropometrics, activities of daily living, chronic conditions, medication and quality of life. Univariate and multivariate regression analysis were used for statistical procedures, P ≤ 0.05.

Results

The prevalence of rheumatism was 22.7%. Multivariate analysis showed that rheumatism was correlated with the following: female sex (OR = 1.91), high income (OR = 2.34), cardiovascular disease (OR = 1.42), cataracts (OR = 1.39), glucocorticoids (OR = 5.24), other anti‐inflammatory medications (OR = 2.24) and pain (OR = 0.983). After adjusting for age and glucocorticoids, an association between cataracts and rheumatism was detected (OR = 1.32). The prevalence of symptoms was 45.6%. Multivariate regression results for symptoms included the following: female sex (OR = 1.40), body mass index ≥30.0 kg/m2 (OR = 3.31), functional capacity (OR = 0.990), general health (OR = 0.993) and pain (OR = 0.981). After adjustment for age and glucocorticoids, an association between cataracts and symptoms was detected (OR = 1.26).

Conclusion

There was a significant association of rheumatism and symptoms with women and high incomes. Obesity was associated with joint symptoms, which in turn were associated with an impaired quality of life. Cataracts and cardiovascular disease were associated with rheumatism. The identification of these characteristics in the elderly will contribute to a better understanding of this systemic disease and should be used to plan effective preventive measures. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2013; 13: 1043–1050.
“Coming to our Senses: Historicizing Sound and Noise in the Middle East”
Authors: Fahmy Ziad
Published: March 2013

This speculative essay is a call for further research and the beginning of a long overdue conversation among historians of the Middle East about the importance of sounds and soundscapes in studying history. In the process, I will suggest some research strategies for uncovering the sounds and noises of the past – especially before the introduction of recording technologies. All the while, I hope to encourage more multidisciplinary conversations by Middle East historians with other scholarly disciplines that examine sound and listening.
Immigration and Transnationalism: Rethinking the Role of the State in Latin America
Authors: Weeks Gregory , Weeks John
Published: March 2013

As more Latin American migrants make their way to the United States, the issue of transnationalism has received increased scholarly attention. Transnationalism refers to the delinking of the individual from his or her government and an increase in international ties as a result of the economic globalization that promotes the movement of people, goods, money, and ideas. Prevailing consensus is that the state, particularly in Latin America, is weakened by transnationalism because individuals are freer than ever from state control. This article argues that examining Latin American emigrant policies yields a different conclusion, namely that the state's response to transnational pressures has made governments more active and relevant in certain ways than in the past. Studies of transnationalism must therefore incorporate state strategies for a better understanding of its impact on Latin American governments.
Knowledge Transfer and Capacity Building Through the Temporary Return of Qualified Nationals to Afghanistan
Authors: Kuschminder Katie
Published: March 2013

Increasing research has illustrated the positive effects of the diaspora on the country of origin. The majority of this research, however, has focused on the effects of diaspora remittances and investments. This article examines the effects of the diaspora on knowledge transfer and capacity building in a post‐conflict environment. The article is based on a case study of the International Organization for Migration the Netherlands, Temporary Return of Qualified Nationals to Afghanistan project, in which 59 highly skilled Dutch‐Afghans returned to work with a host institution (public or private) in Afghanistan for three months to transfer knowledge and build capacity. In‐depth interviews were conducted with project participants, host institutions, participants' colleagues, and key informants to gather an understanding of how participants contributed. The article finds that diaspora temporary returnees were most effective in forms of tacit knowledge transfer and that the knowledge transfer process effectively led to capacity building in Afghanistan.
Sustained virological response following chronic hepatitis C treatment is associated with improvement in insulin resistance
Authors: Chan C. H. Y. , Hansen R. D. , Gilliver R. S. , Jones B. E.
Published: March 2013

Background

Insulin resistance (IR) is a key factor in the development of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C virus infection. Little is known about the impact of viral clearance on IR.

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the impact of viral clearance on IR.

Methods

Eighty‐six patients treated according to standard clinical practice at an Australian teaching hospital between 2003 and 2007 were prospectively studied. Demographic, biochemical and histological data were collected.

Results

The mean pretreatment homeostatic model assessment–IR (HOMA‐IR) was similar in the sustained virological response (SVR) and non‐SVR groups (2.7 ± 0.5 and 2.8 ± 0.4, respectively), and both values were consistent with significant IR. There was a significant improvement in HOMA‐IR (from 3.0 ± 1.0 to 2.2 ± 0.5, P = 0.04) at the end of treatment in the SVR group only. This trended towards significance at 6 months post‐treatment. Multiple regression analysis found improvement in both gamma‐glutamyl transpeptidase and alanine aminotransferase predicted improvement in HOMA‐IR when controlled for other potential factors (P = 0.01).

Conclusions

Hepatitis C virus clearance is associated with improvement in IR. Although baseline hepatic fibrosis is a predictor of IR, changes in IR appear to be independent of changes in liver fibrosis. Treatment‐related improvement in gamma‐glutamyl transpeptidase and alanine aminotransferase seen with improved IR may be a possible marker of reduction of hepatic oxidative stress.
Prescription medications and their influence on acute kidney injury presentation and outcomes
Authors: Cheikh Hassan H. , Makris A. , Suranyi M. G. , Wong J. K. W.
Published: March 2013

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common clinical problem. An increase in the severity of AKI is associated with increased mortality and worse prognosis. Many patients presenting with AKI also take long‐term medications that may potentially exacerbate or precipitate AKI. However, no study has examined the role of such medications on AKI outcomes.

Aim

Our aim was to analyse use of chronic prescription medications by patients presenting with AKI and their impact on outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective study of discharge data identified 172 patients admitted to a tertiary level metropolitan hospital with a primary diagnosis of AKI over a 2‐year period. Patient characteristics, medications that could precipitate or exacerbate AKI, and outcomes based on mortality, need for renal replacement therapy (RRT) and intensive care unit admission were analysed.

Results

Patients taking medications (69.2%) were older (P = 0.04) with more comorbidities such as: congestive cardiac failure (P < 0.001), chronic kidney disease (P < 0.001) and diabetes (P = 0.004) than patients not consuming any. Patients taking medications were less likely to be admitted with severe AKI (P = 0.01) or require RRT (P = 0.04). Multivariate logistic regression analysis did not show a significant impact of medications on outcomes.

Conclusion

Prescription medication use in patients presenting with AKI is common. Despite being used in older patients with more comorbidities, these medications had no detrimental effect on need for RRT, intensive care unit admission or mortality, and were associated with a decrease in the incidence of severe AKI.
The Wage–Health Insurance Trade‐off and Worker Selection: Evidence From the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey 1997 to 2006
Authors: Lluis Stéphanie , Abraham Jean
Published: March 2013

Key provisions within healthcare reform will likely further increase the cost of employer‐sponsored insurance. Theory suggests that workers pay for their health insurance through a wage offset. We investigate this issue using data from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey. GMM estimates aimed at correcting for endogenous worker mobility reveal evidence of a trade‐off for workers who are offered health insurance as the only fringe benefit. On the other hand, employees in establishments with a more comprehensive set of benefits enjoy higher wages relative to employees in establishments that offer no benefits. Health also affects the wage–health insurance trade‐off.
Das Gesundheitssystem der V. R. China: Zwischen Privatisierung und öffentlicher Gesundheitsversorgung
Authors: Darimont Barbara , Liu Dongmei
Published: March 2013

In der chinesischen Gesundheitspolitik wurden in den letzten Jahren zahlreiche Reformen durchgeführt, die häufig neue Probleme verursachten, so dass ein erneuter Reformbedarf entstand. Bei den Reformen wird versucht, einen Mittelweg zwischen öffentlicher Gesundheitsversorgung und kommerzieller Privatversicherung zu finden. Damit folgt China den Ländern, die zunächst eine stärkere Privatisierung in den 1990er‐Jahren und zu Beginn des 21. Jahrhunderts durchführten und nun zu einer öffentlichen Gesundheitsversorgung tendieren. Allerdings verursachen die ständigen Reformen und Projekte eine Intransparenz des Gesundheitssystems, die kein konsistentes Bild entstehen lässt und zu Vertrauensverlusten in der Bevölkerung führt. Wie die Entwicklung in China weitergeht, ist nur zu erahnen. Es könnte sich aber ein Kompromiss zwischen steuerfinanzierter Gesundheitsversorgung und Sozialversicherung herauskristallisieren, der auch für andere Länder zukunftsweisend wäre.
Preview effects of plausibility and character order in reading Chinese transposed words: evidence from eye movements
Authors: Yang Jinmian
Published: March 2013

The current paper examined the role of plausibility information in the parafovea for Chinese readers by using two‐character transposed words (in which the order of the component characters is reversed but are still words). In two eye‐tracking experiments, readers received a preview of a target word that was (1) identical to the target word, (2) a reverse word that was the target word with the order of its characters reversed or (3) a control word different from the target word. Reading times on target words were comparable between the identical and the reverse preview conditions when the reverse preview words were plausible. This plausibility preview effect was independent of whether the reverse word shared the meaning with the target word or not. Furthermore, the reverse preview words yielded shorter fixation durations than the control preview words. Implications of these results for preview processing during Chinese reading are discussed.
Evaluation of an Intellectual Function Assessment Method in Adults with Acquired Brain Damage
Authors: Söderback Ingrid , Ramund Bengt
Published: March 2013

ABSTRACT. The Intellectual Function Assessment (IFA) method involves the use of a battery of three booklets, each consisting of 75 items divided into eight subtests. The IFA was administered to two groups, together consisting of 90 braindamaged patients, and to a third group consisting of 99 nonclinical persons. Battery homogeneity was estimated with Cronbach's alpha‐coefficient to be between 0.83 and 0.88. Interobserver reliability was 0.70 or better. Construct validity was estimated by identifying the cut‐off scores separating the non‐clinical persons from the brain‐damaged patients. The mean difference between these two groups was statistically significant (P<0.001). The concurrent validity of the IFA‐battery subtests is indicated by their significant correlations with four factors separated from a psychometric test battery of 15 subtests. The differences between the three alternative versions of the IFA means were small and insignificant. The result indicated that the IFA method has acceptable reliability and validity when used with patients suffering from cerebrovascular diseases and brain trauma damage.
Evaluation of Functional Capacity after Stroke as a Basis for Active Intervention
Authors: Hamrin Elisabeth , Lindmark Birgitta
Published: March 2013

ABSTRACT This paper describes further testing of an Activity Index introduced by Hamrin & Wohlin, which was designed especially to evaluate the functional capacity of patients after stroke. The results of reliability tests and validation procedures are presented, in particular in comparison with the internationally well known Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living. The standardised item alpha reliability coefficient for the Activity Index was 0.97 for the total score (n= 231) and the corresponding value for the Katz Index of ADL was 0.94. Using factor analysis with four factors, 88.3% of the variances of the 16 variables of the Activity Index could be explained, and the different variables were found to have a logical distribution between the factors. In a two‐factor analysis of the Katz Index of ADL, 89.6% of the variance of the six variables could be explained, and the hierarchical structure of the test was recognised. Compared with the Katz Index of ADL, the Activity Index had a higher predictive capacity and it also better measured changes in the patient's functional ability between different test occasions.
The Quality of Outpatient Psychiatric Care
Authors: Hansson Lars
Published: March 2013

ABSTRACT Patient satisfaction with outpatient psychiatric care in a sectorised care organisation was studied by means of a mailed questionnaire to a one‐year population of patients. Response rate was 40.7%. The results showed a high general satisfaction with treatment. Satisfaction was highest in areas of treatment planning/treatment design, treatment accomplishment and relationship to staff. A somewhat lower level of satisfaction was noted concerning information and coinfluence of the patient. Level of satisfaction was not related to social and psychiatric background characteristics. Patients with longer time in therapy showed a higher level of satisfaction. Patients' ratings of the quality of information and coinfluence were related to both satisfaction with treatment and treatment outcome, pointing to the importance of these factors for course of treatment and treatment success. A comparison with patient satisfaction with in‐hospital care revealed significant differences in favour of the outpatient group. It is concluded that surveys of patient satisfaction with care may be a important and useful tool in the evaluation of changes in care organisations and in the monitoring of quality assurance standards.
A Caring Perspective on Rehabilitation after Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Fridlund Bengt , Lidell Evy , Larsson Pär A.
Published: March 2013

ABSTRACT Several rehabilitation models after myocardial infarction (MI) have been developed during recent years, usually with a biomedical perspective. The MI client is a biopsychosocial human being and therefore a multifactorial approach built on holistic care may offer an efficient rehabilitation process. This includes increased social support and decreased life stress for the MI client in order to obtain an adaptive coping capacity for a life style change. Health care professionals are required with specialised knowledge about how and why to care for an MI client. The present theoretical framework provides a basis for building a multifactorial rehabilitation with a caring perspective.
Effects of the Training of Integrity‐promoting Care on the Interaction at a Long‐term Ward
Authors: Kihlgren Mona , Hallgren Anita , Norberg Astrid , Bråne Görel , Karlsson Ingvar
Published: March 2013

ABSTRACT. A training programme in integrity‐promoting care was given the staff of a long‐term ward and practised during a three months intervention period. The effects were analysed in different parameters and compared with a control ward. This report describes analysis of video‐recorded interactions (12 hs) during social activities between demented patients and caregivers and changes induced by the programme. The video‐recorded episodes, containing mainly music and coffee sessions were interpreted from a model on interaction with demented patients suggested by Athlin & Norberg. The results indicate that the training programme and the guidance during the intervention resulted in increased understanding of demented patients' situation among the staff. They became more sensitive, adapted their cues and made the environment easier to interpret for the patients. This in turn led to the fact that the patients appeared more sensitive and clear in their cues. A positive circle developed.