bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Digital and conventional printing and dyeing with the natural dye annatto: optimisation and standardisation processes to meet future demands
Authors: Savvidis Georgios , Zarkogianni Maria , Karanikas Evangelos , Lazaridis Nikolaos , Nikolaidis Nikolaos , Tsatsaroni Eforia
Published: December 2012

The plant colorant annatto was investigated to determine its potential use as a natural dye for conventional and novel textile applications. Alum was selected as a mordant. Different techniques of mordanting and a broad set of variations in the dyeing recipes were applied to achieve optimisation and an improvement in colour fastness properties. Quality control of all dyeings was performed using standard fastness tests and colour measurements. Printing of cotton fabrics was also achieved with annatto using the flatbed screen‐printing technique. Measurement of the rheological and physical properties of the annatto printing paste confirmed its stability and suitability for conventional printing. Fastness properties of the conventionally printed annatto fabric were also measured. A novel water‐based digital printing ink using annatto was prepared and applied to cotton fabric using a digital printing application. The physical properties of the annatto ink‐jet ink were also measured. Wash, light and rub fastness properties of the annatto digitally printed fabric were determined and compared with those of conventional printing methods. The results were promising for annatto as a natural colorant, which possibly paves the way for the development of a new range of natural environmentally friendly dyes.
Efficacy of endoscopic nasobiliary drainage for the prevention of post‐endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis and cholangitis after repeated clearance of common bile duct stones: Experience from a Chinese center
Authors: Yang Jun , Peng Jia‐yuan , Pang Er‐jun , Chen Wei
Published: December 2012

Background

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether it is reasonable to insert an endoscopic nasobiliary drainage (ENBD) tube in patients with endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) and repeated clearance of common bile duct (CBD) stones.

Patients and methods

Patients with choledocholithiasis who underwent EST and CBD stone clearance at our center from January 2010 to May 2012 were reviewed. The following parameters were evaluated: (i) serum amylase 2 and 24 h after ERCP; (ii) incidence of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)‐related pancreatitis and cholangitis; (iii) time elapsed to normalization of total serum bilirubin levels for those with jaundice before ERCP; and (iv) length of hospital stay.

Results

Compared with the no‐ENBD group, the ENBD group presented a significantly lower postoperative serum amylase of 2 and 24 h (81.3 ± 31.8 U/L vs 90.8 ± 31.2 U/L, 107.0 ± 51.1 U/Lvs 132.3 ± 100.8 U/L, respectively). The incidence of post‐ERCP pancreatitis and cholangitis was also lower in the ENBD group, although the differences were not significant (1% vs 4.4%, 0 vs 4.5%, respectively). Time elapsed to normalization of total serum bilirubin levels and length of hospital stay was shorter in the ENBD group (4.3 days ± 0.6 days vs 4.5 days ± 0.7 days, P > 0.05; 4.8 days ± 2.1 days vs 6.3 days ± 2.8 days, respectively, P < 0.01).

Conclusions

ENBD significantly reduces the incidence of hyperamylasemia and decreases the length of hospital stay in patients with EST and repeated stone extraction. ENBD should be considered for patients with large or multiple CBD stones.
Pluripotent genes in avian stem cells
Authors: Jean Christian , Aubel Pauline , Soleihavoup Clément , Bouhallier Frantz , Voisin Sophie , Lavial Fabrice , Pain Bertrand
Published: December 2012

Embryonic stem (ES) cells were first isolated in 1981 in the mouse from the in vitro proliferation of the inner cell mass of a 3.5 days post‐coitum (dpc) blastocyst. Later on, epiblast stem cells (EpiSC) were identified from in vitro culture of the epiblast of a 6.5 dpc mouse embryo, leading to the concept of naïve and primed stem cells. Among non‐mammalian species, ES cells have been characterized both in birds and fish; here, we focus on cells derived from chicken and the pluripotent associated markers such as OCT4, SOX2, NANOG, and KLF, previously identified in mammalian cells. In this review, we present both published and original data regarding the involvement of those pluripotent associated genes in the ES cells and early embryo of chicken.
Altered locus coeruleus–norepinephrine function following single prolonged stress
Authors: George Sophie A. , Knox Dayan , Curtis Andre L. , Aldridge J. Wayne , Valentino Rita J. , Liberzon Israel
Published: December 2012

Data from preclinical and clinical studies have implicated the norepinephrine system in the development and maintenance of post‐traumatic stress disorder. The primary source of norepinephrine in the forebrain is the locus coeruleus (LC); however, LC activity cannot be directly measured in humans, and previous research has often relied upon peripheral measures of norepinephrine to infer changes in central LC–norepinephrine function. To directly assess LC–norepinephrine function, we measured single‐unit activity of LC neurons in a validated rat model of post‐traumatic stress disorder – single prolonged stress (SPS). We also examined tyrosine hydroxylase mRNA levels in the LC of SPS and control rats as an index of norepinephrine utilisation. For electrophysiological recordings, 92 LC neurons were identified from 19 rats (SPS, 12; control, 7), and spontaneous and evoked responses to a noxious event (paw compression) were recorded. Baseline and restraint stress‐evoked tyrosine hydroxylase mRNA expression levels were measured in SPS and control rats (n = 16 per group) in a separate experiment. SPS rats showed lower spontaneous activity but higher evoked responses, leading to an enhanced signal‐to‐noise ratio of LC neurons, accompanied by impaired recovery from post‐stimulus inhibition. In concert, tyrosine hydroxylase mRNA expression in the LC of SPS rats tended to be lower at baseline, but was exaggerated following restraint stress. These data demonstrate persistent changes in LC function following stress/trauma in a rat model of post‐traumatic stress, as measured by differences in both the electrophysiological properties of LC neurons and tyrosine hydroxylase mRNA transcription.
Contributions of long‐distance dispersal to population growth in colonisingPinus ponderosapopulations
Authors: Lesser Mark R. , Jackson Stephen T.
Published: December 2012

Long‐distance dispersal is an integral part of plant species migration and population development. We aged and genotyped 1125 individuals in four disjunct populations ofPinus ponderosathat were initially established by long‐distance dispersal in the 16th and 17th centuries. Parentage analysis was used to determine if individuals were the product of local reproductive events (two parents present), long‐distance pollen dispersal (one parent present) or long‐distance seed dispersal (no parents present). All individuals established in the first century at each site were the result of long‐distance dispersal. Individuals reproduced at younger ages with increasing age of the overall population. These results suggest Allee effects, where populations were initially unable to expand on their own, and were dependent on long‐distance dispersal to overcome a minimum‐size threshold. Our results demonstrate that long‐distance dispersal was not only necessary for initial colonisation but also to sustain subsequent population growth during early phases of expansion.
Reconciling biodiversity and carbon conservation
Authors: Thomas Chris D , Anderson Barbara J , Moilanen Atte , Eigenbrod Felix , Heinemeyer Andreas , Quaife Tristan , Roy David B , Gillings Simon , Armsworth Paul R , Gaston Kevin J
Published: December 2012

Climate change is leading to the development of land‐based mitigation and adaptation strategies that are likely to have substantial impacts on global biodiversity. Of these, approaches to maintain carbon within existing natural ecosystems could have particularly large benefits for biodiversity. However, the geographical distributions of terrestrial carbon stocks and biodiversity differ. Using conservation planning analyses for the New World and Britain, we conclude that a carbon‐only strategy would not be effective at conserving biodiversity, as have previous studies. Nonetheless, we find that a combined carbon‐biodiversity strategy could simultaneously protect 90% of carbon stocks (relative to a carbon‐only conservation strategy) and > 90% of the biodiversity (relative to a biodiversity‐only strategy) in both regions. This combined approach encapsulates the principle of complementarity, whereby locations that contain different sets of species are prioritised, and hence disproportionately safeguard localised species that are not protected effectively by carbon‐only strategies. It is efficient because localised species are concentrated into small parts of the terrestrial land surface, whereas carbon is somewhat more evenly distributed; and carbon stocks protected in one location are equivalent to those protected elsewhere. Efficient compromises can only be achieved when biodiversity and carbon are incorporated together within a spatial planning process.
Specific infections as the etiology of destructive periodontal disease: a systematic review
Authors: Hujoel Philippe , Zina Lívia , Cunha‐Cruz Joana , López Rodrigo
Published: December 2012

Destructive periodontal disease has been primarily defined and investigated as an infectious disease. The aim of this study was to systematically search for cohort studies where microbiological diagnoses were performed before the onset of destructive periodontal disease and where statistically significant associations were identified. A search was executed in PubMed. The results showed that three studies published after 2005 supported the infection hypothesis for one putative periodontal pathogen: Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. These three studies were conducted in predominantly non‐Caucasian pediatric populations living in geographic areas with an elevated child‐mortality rate. These studies did not obtain physical or laboratory markers of health, making it possible that A. actinomycetemcomitans was not a cause but a marker for poor environmental or systemic health. No cohort studies were identified supporting the infection hypothesis in adults, Caucasians or in a population residing in areas with child‐mortality rates reflective of healthy population goals. While the possibility cannot be excluded that A. actinomycetemcomitans has an etiological role in certain specific pediatric populations, there are no cohort studies supporting an infectious etiology of destructive periodontal disease in adults.
Evolutionary impact assessment: accounting for evolutionary consequences of fishing in an ecosystem approach to fisheries management
Authors: Laugen Ane T , Engelhard Georg H , Whitlock Rebecca , Arlinghaus Robert , Dankel Dorothy J , Dunlop Erin S , Eikeset Anne M , Enberg Katja , Jørgensen Christian , Matsumura Shuichi , Nusslé Sébastien , Urbach Davnah , Baulier Loїc , Boukal David S , Ernande Bruno , Johnston Fiona D , Mollet Fabian , Pardoe Heidi , Therkildsen Nina O , Uusi‐Heikkilä Silva , Vainikka Anssi , Heino Mikko , Rijnsdorp Adriaan D , Dieckmann Ulf
Published: December 2012

Managing fisheries resources to maintain healthy ecosystems is one of the main goals of the ecosystem approach to fisheries (EAF). While a number of international treaties call for the implementation of EAF, there are still gaps in the underlying methodology. One aspect that has received substantial scientific attention recently is fisheries‐induced evolution (FIE). Increasing evidence indicates that intensive fishing has the potential to exert strong directional selection on life‐history traits, behaviour, physiology, and morphology of exploited fish. Of particular concern is that reversing evolutionary responses to fishing can be much more difficult than reversing demographic or phenotypically plastic responses. Furthermore, like climate change, multiple agents cause FIE, with effects accumulating over time. Consequently, FIE may alter the utility derived from fish stocks, which in turn can modify the monetary value living aquatic resources provide to society. Quantifying and predicting the evolutionary effects of fishing is therefore important for both ecological and economic reasons. An important reason this is not happening is the lack of an appropriate assessment framework. We therefore describe the evolutionary impact assessment (EvoIA) as a structured approach for assessing the evolutionary consequences of fishing and evaluating the predicted evolutionary outcomes of alternative management options. EvoIA can contribute to EAF by clarifying how evolution may alter stock properties and ecological relations, support the precautionary approach to fisheries management by addressing a previously overlooked source of uncertainty and risk, and thus contribute to sustainable fisheries.
Broad‐scale movements and pelagic habitat of the dusky shark Carcharhinus obscurus off Southern Australia determined using pop‐up satellite archival tags
Authors: Rogers Paul J. , Huveneers Charlie , Goldsworthy Simon D. , Mitchell James G. , Seuront Laurent
Published: December 2012

We investigated the broad‐scale movements and pelagic habitats of large juvenile dusky sharks (Carcharhinus obscurus) off Southern Australia. Pop‐up satellite archival tags (PSATs) were deployed on three large juvenile dusky sharks (∼2.2–2.6 m total length) for 6 months in Spencer Gulf during 2010. Tagged dusky sharks all migrated westward and across the Great Australian Bight (GAB) during autumn to offshore shelf waters off Western Australia. Estimated minimum distances travelled ranged from 1760 to 2736 km. Depths occupied by tagged dusky sharks ranged from the surface to 355 m. The most common thermal ranges occupied were 19–22°C. Broad‐scale movements of large juvenile dusky sharks across the continental shelves combined with periods of residency in semi‐protected gulf waters indicated that a multi‐jurisdictional management approach may be appropriate for this species.
Impacts of climate change on the complex life cycles of fish
Authors: Petitgas Pierre , Rijnsdorp Adriaan D. , Dickey‐Collas Mark , Engelhard Georg H. , Peck Myron A. , Pinnegar John K. , Drinkwater Ken , Huret Martin , Nash Richard D. M.
Published: December 2012

To anticipate the response of fish populations to climate change, we developed a framework that integrates requirements in all life stages to assess impacts across the entire life cycle. The framework was applied on plaice (Pleuronectes platessa) and Atlantic herring (Clupea harengus) in the North Sea, Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) in the Norwegian/Barents Seas and European anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) in the Bay of Biscay. In each case study, we reviewed habitats required by each life stage, habitat availability, and connectivity between habitats. We then explored how these could be altered by climate change. We documented environmental processes impacting habitat availability and connectivity, providing an integrated view at the population level and in a spatial context of potential climate impacts. A key result was that climate‐driven changes in larval dispersion seem to be the major unknown. Our summary suggested that species with specific habitat requirements for spawning (herring) or nursery grounds (plaice) display bottlenecks in their life cycle. Among the species examined, anchovy could cope best with environmental variability. Plaice was considered to be least resilient to climate‐driven changes due to its strict connectivity between spawning and nursery grounds. For plaice in the North Sea, habitat availability was expected to reduce with climate change. For North Sea herring, Norwegian cod and Biscay anchovy, climate‐driven changes were expected to have contrasting impacts depending on the life stage. Our review highlights the need to integrate physiological and behavioural processes across the life cycle to project the response of specific populations to climate change.
Phosphorus, phosphorous, and phosphate
Authors: Iheagwara O. Susan , Ing Todd S. , Kjellstrand Carl M. , Lew Susie Q.
Published: December 2012

This article distinguishes the terms “phosphorus, phosphorous, and phosphate” which are frequently used interchangeably. We point out the difference between phosphorus and phosphate, with an emphasis on the unit of measure. Expressing a value without the proper name or unit of measure may lead to misunderstanding and erroneous conclusions. We indicate why phosphate must be expressed as milligrams per deciliter or millimoles per liter and not as milliequivalents per liter. Therefore, we elucidate the distinction among the terms “phosphorus, phosphorous, and phosphate” and the importance of saying precisely what one really means.
Unemployment and economic security for young adults inFinland,Norway andSweden: From unemployment protection to poverty relief
Authors: Lorentzen Thomas , Angelin Anna , Dahl Espen , Kauppinen Timo , Moisio Pasi , Salonen Tapio
Published: December 2012

In this study, we investigated if there has been a displacement in the type and coverage of welfare services available for young unemployed adults inFinland,Norway andSweden over the last two decades. This question is important because a number of studies have argued that the generous unemployment benefits and extensive labour market intervention found in theNordic welfare states shield young people from the most severe consequences of economic inactivity. In this article, we instead show that during this period, less generous means‐tested unemployment and social assistance benefits have become the most important form of income protection for young people. In evidence, earnings‐related unemployment benefits now cover only 10 per cent of unemployedSwedes andFinns and 45 per cent of unemployedNorwegians aged 24 years or younger. This development marks a significant change in our understanding of unemployment protection for young people inNordic countries.
18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography–computed tomography for preoperative lymph node staging in patients undergoing radical cystectomy for bladder cancer: A prospective study
Authors: Hitier‐Berthault Maryam , Ansquer Catherine , Branchereau Julien , Renaudin Karine , Bodere Françoise , Bouchot Olivier , Rigaud Jérôme
Published: December 2012

Objectives

The objective of our study was to analyze the diagnostic performance of 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography–computed tomography for lymph node staging in patients with bladder cancer before radical cystectomy and to compare it with that of computed tomography.

Methods

A total of 52 patients operated on between 2005 and 2010 were prospectively included in this prospective, mono‐institutional, open, non‐randomized pilot study. Patients who had received neoadjuvant chemotherapy or radiotherapy were excluded. 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography–computed tomography in addition to computed tomography was carried out for lymph node staging of bladder cancer before radical cystectomy. Lymph node dissection during radical cystectomy was carried out. Findings from 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography–computed tomography and computed tomography were compared with the results of definitive histological examination of the lymph node dissection. The diagnostic performance of the two imaging modalities was assessed and compared.

Results

The mean number of lymph nodes removed during lymph node dissection was 16.5 ± 10.9. Lymph node metastasis was confirmed on histological examination in 22 cases (42.3%). This had been suspected in five cases (9.6%) on computed tomography and in 12 cases (23.1%) on 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography–computed tomography. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, relative risk and accuracy were 9.1%, 90%, 40%, 57.4%, 0.91 and 55.7%, respectively, for computed tomography, and 36.4%, 86.7%, 66.7%, 65%, 2.72, 65.4%, respectively, for 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography–computed tomography.

Conclusions

18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography–computed tomography is more reliable than computed tomography for preoperative lymph node staging in patients with invasive bladder carcinoma undergoing radical cystectomy.
The establishment of the plasma cell survival niche in the bone marrow
Authors: Chu Van T. , Berek Claudia
Published: December 2012

Antibodies continuously secreted by plasma cells play a central role in humoral immune protection of the organism. These plasma cells are generated during the germinal center reaction, and it is likely that they here acquire the potential to develop into long‐lived cells. To achieve longevity, these cells require factors provided by the microenvironment. Indeed, only a few of the plasmablasts arising during an immune response will differentiate into mature plasma cells, which may survive for decades in specialized survival niches in the bone marrow. Here, we discuss how the survival niche in the bone marrow is established and what is known about the cell–cell interactions needed to support the long‐term survival of plasma cells. A particular emphasis is put on the role of eosinophils, which have been shown to be key providers of plasma cell survival factors. The data suggest that the reticulum of bone marrow stromal cells supports a dynamic survival niche, in which long‐lived plasma cells are provided with essential factors by a continuously turning over population of eosinophils and other cells.
Transfer of extracellular vesicles during immune cell‐cell interactions
Authors: Gutiérrez‐Vázquez Cristina , Villarroya‐Beltri Carolina , Mittelbrunn María , Sánchez‐Madrid Francisco
Published: December 2012

The transfer of molecules between cells during cognate immune cell interactions has been reported, and recently a novel mechanism of transfer of proteins and genetic material such as small RNA between T cells and antigen‐presenting cells (APCs) has been described, involving exchange of extracellular vesicles (EVs) during the formation of the immunological synapse (IS). EVs, a term that encompasses exosomes and microvesicles, has been implicated in cell‐cell communication during immune responses associated with tumors, pathogens, allergies, and autoimmune diseases. This review focuses on EV transfer as a mechanism for the exchange of molecules during immune cell‐cell interactions.
Dynamics of NK cell interactions in vivo
Authors: Deguine Jacques , Bousso Philippe
Published: December 2012

Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphocytes endowed with the capacity to survey and eliminate infected and transformed cells. Like T cells and B cells, NK cells fulfill their task by responding to soluble factors and to signals exchanged during cell‐cell contacts. In this respect, cellular interactions established by NK cells are critical at every stage of their life. They regulate their survival and tune their responsiveness in the periphery. They are also important during their activation and for the targeted delivery of their cytotoxic granules. With the help of two‐photon imaging, the occurrence and dynamics of these interactions as they occur in vivo are being uncovered. Interestingly, several of these initial observations were not predicted by in vitro studies and revealed the transient nature of many NK cell interactions. We review here our recent understanding of NK cell interactions in vivo at steady state, during inflammation, and during tumor elimination, emphasizing the similarities and differences with T cells.
Organization of the resting TCR in nanoscale oligomers
Authors: Schamel Wolfgang W. A. , Alarcón Balbino
Published: December 2012

Despite the low affinity of the T‐cell antigen receptor (TCR) for its peptide/major histocompatibility complex (pMHC) ligand, T cells are very sensitive to their antigens. This paradox can be resolved if we consider that the TCR may be organized into pre‐existing oligomers or nanoclusters. Such structures could improve antigen recognition by increasing the functional affinity (avidity) of the TCR–pMHC interaction and by allowing cooperativity between individual TCRs. Up to approximately 20 TCRs become tightly apposed in these nanoclusters, often in a linear manner, and such structures could reflect a relatively generalized phenomenon: the non‐random concentration of membrane receptors in specific areas of the plasma membrane known as protein islands. The association of TCRs into nanoclusters can explain the enhanced kinetics of the pMHC–TCR interaction in two dimensional versus three dimensional systems, but also their existence calls for a revision of the TCR triggering models based on pMHC‐induced TCR clustering. Interestingly, the B‐cell receptor and the FcεRI have also been shown to form nanoclusters, suggesting that the formation of pre‐existing receptor oligomers could be widely used in the immune system.
The Comparative Advantage of Non‐Union Voice in Britain, 1980–2004
Authors: Bryson Alex , Willman Paul , Gomez Rafael , Kretschmer Tobias
Published: December 2012

Non‐union direct voice has replaced union representative voice as the primary avenue for employee voice in the British private sector. This study explains this development by providing a framework for examining the relationship between employee voice and workplace outcomes. Voice is associated with lower voluntary turnover, especially in the case of union voice. However, union voice is also associated with greater workplace conflict. We argue changes in voice in Britain are not best understood using a simple union/non‐union dichotomy. Union effects on workplace outcomes and the incidence of human resource management hinge on whether it coexists at the workplace with non‐union voice in what we term a “dual” system. In the first part of the 21st century, these dual voice systems were performing at least as well as non‐union only regimes, suggesting that the rise of non‐union regimes is attribu` to something other than clear comparative performance advantages over other forms of voice.
Is a computer‐based measurement method superior to a recommended manual method by the ROHO® Group to assess pressure in the sitting position?
Authors: Andreasen Jane , Olesen Christian Gammelgaard , Rasmussen John , Nielsen Susanne Kaasgaard , Nguyen Lone , Larsen Peter
Published: December 2012

Background

In clinical practice, a manual‐based assessment is standard procedure to adjust the air pressure in the ROHO® cushion in seated position. Recently, a computerized pressure system method was developed to support the clinical adjustment of air in the ROHO® cushion to reduce the pressure in the seated position. To our knowledge, no studies have investigated the reliability between the manual method mostly used in clinical practice and the alternative computer‐based assessment of the pressure in the seated position.

Aim

The objective was to test intra‐tester and inter‐tester reliability and evaluate if a computer‐based measurement method is superior to a manual method to reduce pressure in the seated position. The cushion used was a Roho Quadtro select® high profile.

Methods

An intra‐tester and inter‐tester reliability study was conducted in 2010 at the Department of Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy, Aalborg Hospital, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark. Subjects included were two occupational therapists and 20 healthy subjects. The outcome measures were obtained using a pressure imaging system that could register pressure distribution in the sitting area.

Results

The study did not show high intra‐class correlation coefficients neither in the intra‐tester nor in the inter‐tester reliability for manual or computer‐based methods in reducing pressure in the seating position.

Conclusions

The current company‐recommended air pressure adjustment procedure seems unreliable. The technical superiority of the computer‐based method over the manual method has not been established.
THE USE OF PERFORMANCE INFORMATION IN BUDGETARY DECISION‐MAKING BY LEGISLATORS: IS ESTONIA ANY DIFFERENT?
Authors: RAUDLA RINGA
Published: December 2012

The goal of this article is to examine to what extent legislators in Estonia use performance information in budgetary decision‐making. Interviews with the members of the finance committee of the parliament show that legislators make only limited use of the formal documents containing performance information. Instead, they rely, for the most part, on informal social networks for gathering information they consider necessary for budget discussions. According to the legislators, the main reasons for limited use of performance information are the following: the documents containing performance are too long and cumbersome, the legislative budget process is too time‐constrained, and the parliament has only a limited role in making substantive changes to the budget. The study also indicates that more experienced politicians are less interested in performance information than the novices but there are no significant differences between legislators from governing and opposition parties.
Relations between Temperament and Anger Regulation over Early Childhood
Authors: Tan Patricia Z. , Armstrong Laura Marie , Cole Pamela M.
Published: December 2012

Theory suggests temperamental reactivity [negative affectivity (NA)] and regulation [effortful control (EC)] predict variation in the development of emotion regulation (ER). However, few studies report such relations, particularly studies utilizing observational measures of children's ER behaviors in longitudinal designs. Using multilevel modeling, the present study tested whether (1) between‐person differences in mean levels of mother‐reported child NA and EC (aggregated across age) and (2) within‐person changes in NA and EC from the ages of 18 to 42 months predicted subsequent improvements in laboratory‐based observations of children's anger regulation from the ages of 24 to 48 months. As expected, mean level of EC (aggregated across age) predicted longer latency to anger; however, no other temperament variables predicted anger expression. Mean level of EC also predicted the latency to a child's use of one regulatory strategy, distraction. Finally, decreases in NA were associated with age‐related changes in how long children used distractions and how quickly they bid calmly to their mother. Implications for relations between temperament and anger regulation are discussed in terms of both conceptual and methodological issues.
Interviewer Speech and the Success of Survey Invitations
Authors: Conrad Frederick G. , Broome Jessica S. , Benkí José R. , Kreuter Frauke , Groves Robert M. , Vannette David , McClain Colleen
Published: December 2012

When potential survey respondents decide whether or not to participate in a telephone interview, they may consider what it would be like to converse with the interviewer who is currently inviting them to respond, e.g. how he or she sounds, speaks and interacts. In the study that is reported here, we examine the effect of three interactional speech behaviours on the outcome of survey invitations: interviewer fillers (e.g. ‘um’ and ‘uh’), householders’ backchannels (e.g. ‘uh huh’ and ‘I see’) and simultaneous speech or ‘overspeech’ between interviewer and householder. We examine how these behaviours are related to householders’ decisions to participate (agree), to decline the invitation (refusal) or to defer the decision (scheduled call-back) in a corpus of 1380 audiorecorded survey invitations (contacts). Agreement was highest when interviewers were moderately disfluent—neither robotic nor so disfluent as to appear incompetent. Further, household members produced more backchannels, a behaviour which is often assumed to reflect a listener’s engagement, when they ultimately agreed to participate than when they refused. Finally, there was more simultaneous speech in contacts where householders ultimately refused to participate; however, interviewers interrupted household members more when they ultimately scheduled a call-back, seeming to pre-empt householders’ attempts to refuse. We discuss implications for hiring and training interviewers, as well as the development of automated speech interviewing systems.
Assessing the Measurement Error Properties of Interviewer Observations of Neighbourhood Characteristics
Authors: Casas-Cordero C. , Kreuter F. , Wang Y. , Babey S.
Published: December 2012

Interviewer observations made during the process of data collection are currently used to inform responsive design decisions, to expand the set of covariates for non-response adjustments, to explain participation in surveys and to assess non-response bias. However, little effort has been made to assess the quality of such interviewer observations. Using data from the Los Angeles Family and Neighborhood Survey, the paper examines measurement error properties of interviewer observations of neighbourhood characteristics. Block level and interviewer covariates are used in multilevel models to explain interviewer variation in the observations of neighbourhood features.
Fairness and the Changing Fortunes of People in Britain
Authors: Dorling Danny
Published: December 2012

Different people have different definitions of fairness, some of which may be fairer than others. The paper considers how some key life chances have changed in Britain from the time when William Beveridge was a young man, to when his research assistant, Harold Wilson, was Prime Minister, and then to today. The emphasis is on inequalities in critical outcomes between different groups that have been defined geographically. How have income and wealth inequalities altered over the course of the last century and few decades and how have rates of mortality varied? How do the geographies of school examination passes, university entry, employment or even changing rates of imprisonment influence our lives today? To understand changes in fairness and our fortunes better these trends sometimes must be put in a longer historical and a wider geographical context. Sometimes it is necessary to look back a century in time to find comparable inequality with that of today. And to know that such inequality is not universal the changing levels of income inequalities within Britain need to be compared with trends in otherwise very similar nation states. Such comparison is essential if the argument that rising inequality is inevitable is to be countered. Precisely how fairness and fortune are measured alters whether we find them to be rising or falling. Thousands of statistics can also be dull and so graphics and some more unusual visualizations which open up the map are used to illustrate the trends that are discussed here.
Spinal muscular atrophy, John Griffin, and mentorship
Authors: Sumner Charlotte J.
Published: December 2012

Hereditary canine spinal muscular atrophy is an inherited motor neuron disease that occurs in Brittany Spaniels and has remarkable similarities with human spinal muscular atrophy. Both disorders are characterized by proximal limb and truncal muscle weakness of variable severity. Detailed pathological studies indicate that there is early dysfunction of motor neuron synapses, particularly the neuromuscular junction synapse, prior to motor neuron death. This period of synaptic dysfunction may define a critical window of opportunity for disease reversibility in motor neuron disease.
A Less Invasive Technique for Spaying Pet Pigs
Authors: Biedrzycki Adam , Brounts Sabrina H.
Published: December 2012

Objectives

To determine if ovariectomy (OVE) by electrothermal bipolar vessel sealing (EBVS) is a safe alternative to ovariohysterectomy (OVH) by hand‐tied ligatures as a method of spaying in pigs.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Animals

Intact female pigs (n = 14).

Methods

Medical records (2001–2010) of pigs admitted for sterilization were reviewed for signalment, surgical technique, intra‐ and postoperative complications, length of hospitalization, and outcome. Long‐term follow‐up was obtained by owner questionnaire.

Results

Mean ± SD age and mean weight was 131 ± 86 days and 13.0 ± 6.2 kg, respectively. There were 5 OVH pigs and 9 OVE pigs; age and weight were not significantly different between groups. When comparing OVE to OVH, mean incisional length was less (12 ± 6 cm OVE; 22 ± 6 cm OVH;P< .01) and surgical time was short (50 ± 9 min OVE; 103 ± 15 min OVH;P< .01). Intraoperative hemorrhage occurred in 1 OVH pig. Postoperative complications included hemorrhage (n = 1), fever (3), hypothermia (2), surgical site infection (1), and inappetence (3). Return to normal behavior and appetite was significantly shorter for OVE pigs (1.10 ± 0.93 days; 4.30 ± 0.94 days OVH;P< .01). After a mean follow‐up of 36 months, no difference between groups could be observed.

Conclusion

OVE using EBVS is a faster surgical technique with less perioperative complications when compared to OVH with ligatures. OVE can potentially replace OVH as a spaying method in pigs.
The Effectiveness of Models and Prompts on Waste Diversion: A Field Experiment on Composting by Cafeteria Patrons
Authors: Sussman Reuven , Greeno Matthew , Gifford Robert , Scannell Leila
Published: December 2012

This study investigated whether or not visual prompts and human models influence compost‐supportive behavior by individuals in a cafeteria setting. Waste disposal behavior of cafeteria patrons was observed (N = 1,060) after the introduction of (1) pro‐composting signs, and (2) models who demonstrated appropriate composting behavior. Ideal composting significantly increased relative to the baseline with the introduction of the signs (from 12.5% to 20.5%). A further increase (to 42%) was observed when two (but not one) individuals modeled the behavior, and this increase was sustained even after the models were removed. Informational and normative influences may explain the increase in composting. This study further supports the use of prompts and models as a strategy for encouraging pro‐environmental behaviors.
Public versus Private Ownership and Fund Manager Turnover
Authors: Adams John C. , Mansi Sattar A. , Nishikawa Takeshi
Published: December 2012

We examine the correlation between organizational structure (public vs. private) and managerial turnover in a large sample of United States offered mutual funds. Consistent with the hypothesis that publicly traded and privately held firms have different incentive structures and, as such, should differ in their treatment of internal control mechanisms, we find that public sponsors are more sensitive to prior fund performance when making replacement decisions and experience smaller post turnover performance improvements. Additional testing suggests a greater likelihood of fund manager replacement when mutual funds are team managed and when fund boards are more independent.
Do Convertible Bond Issuers Cater to Investor Demand?
Authors: de Jong Abe , Duca Eric , Dutordoir Marie
Published: December 2012

We examine the impact of fluctuations in investor demand for convertible securities on convertible bond issue volumes, pricing, and design. We find evidence of a positive impact of investor demand proxies on convertible bond issue volumes. We also document significantly lower convertible bond underpricing in periods with higher investor demand. The results hold in a variety of specifications, and are robust to controlling for firm‐specific and macroeconomic financing cost proxies. However, we obtain only limited evidence that issuers adjust the design of their convertible bond offerings in response to investor demand.
Shoulder Tendon Transfers for Rotator Cuff Deficiency
Authors: Talbot Joseph C. , Watts Adam C. , Grimberg Jean , Funk Lennard
Published: December 2012

Tendon transfer surgery can be employed to improve function in a select group of patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears or used in combination with reverse geometry shoulder arthroplasty performed for rotator cuff deficiency and arthrosis. This review aims to aid shoulder surgeons in patient selection for surgery, including the indications and contra-indications to tendon transfer.
A theoretical model of efficacy beliefs, functional status and quality of life for older people during rehabilitation: testing causal relationships
Authors: Tung Yi‐Chen , Cooke Marie , Moyle Wendy
Published: December 2012

Aims

Structural equation modelling tested hypothesized causal relationships between age, gender, pain, depression, self‐efficacy, outcome expectations, functional status and quality of life in older Australians postorthopaedics surgery across three stages of their rehabilitation.

Background

Self‐efficacy is important in forming personal beliefs about capabilities to perform functional activities, which is believed to maintain individual's quality of life. Research examining how efficacy beliefs influence functional status in older people following orthopaedic events is limited.

Design

A descriptive, longitudinal method was used for this study.

Methods

A convenience sample of 101 older people with orthopaedic surgery to lower extremities was recruited from private rehabilitation units in Brisbane, Australia. Data were collected from September 2008–November 2009. Standardized questionnaires were used to measure efficacy beliefs, functional status, and quality of life.

Results

Structural equation modelling revealed that depression, efficacy beliefs, age, and gender significantly influenced quality of life, as self‐efficacy and gender have a direct relationship on functional status. Across three stages in the model, outcome expectation at stage 2 was the most significant predictor of functional recovery after discharge. Older men with higher quality of life at admission was positively related to self‐efficacy and negatively associated with depression at stage 2: quality of life influenced outcome expectations and pain positively at stage 3.

Conclusion

Rehabilitation programmes play a significant role in assisting older people in resuming functional activities and quality of life following orthopaedic surgery. Enhancing self‐efficacy may facilitate older people's participation and adher‐ence to rehabilitation programmes during hospitalization and following discharge.
Smoking in pregnancy: a systematic review of qualitative research of women who commence pregnancy as smokers
Authors: Flemming Kate , Graham Hilary , Heirs Morag , Fox Dave , Sowden Amanda
Published: December 2012

Aim

To provide evidence on how women's circumstances and experiences influence their smoking behaviour in pregnancy, including their attempts to quit.

Background

Women in disadvantaged circumstances are more likely to smoke prior to pregnancy; they are also less likely to quit in pregnancy and, among those who quit, more likely to resume smoking after birth. Although there is a rich seam of qualitative research on their experiences, it has yet to be bought together and synthesized.

Design

The synthesis was conducted using meta‐ethnography.

Data sources

A comprehensive search of five electronic databases (inception to May 2012) was completed to identify qualitative research exploring pregnant women's experiences of smoking in pregnancy.

Review methods

Following critical appraisal, 26 studies reported in 29 papers were included in the review. Over 640 pregnant women were represented, the majority drawn from disadvantaged groups. We carried out the synthesis using meta‐ethnography.

Results

Four dimensions of women's circumstances and experiences of smoking in pregnancy were highlighted: the embeddedness of smoking in women's lives, questioned only because of pregnancy; quitting for pregnancy rather than for good; quitting had significant costs for the woman and cutting down was a positive alternative; the role of partners and the broader dynamics of the couple's relationship in influencing women's smoking habits.

Conclusion

Syntheses of qualitative research have an important role to play in producing the evidence base for midwifery, nursing, and public health policy and practice. The four dimensions identified in this review have implications for the design and delivery of interventions to support women to quit smoking in pregnancy.
Novel neuroprotective action of prothymosin alpha‐derived peptide against retinal and brain ischemic damages
Authors: Halder Sebok Kumar , Matsunaga Hayato , Yamaguchi Haruka , Ueda Hiroshi
Published: December 2012

Prothymosin alpha (ProTα), a nuclear protein, is implicated in the inhibition of ischemia‐induced necrosis as well as apoptosis in the brain and retina. Although ProTα has multiple biological functions through distinct regions in its sequence, it has remained which region is involved in this neuroprotection. This study reported that the active core peptide sequence P30 (amino acids 49–78) of ProTα exerts its full survival effect in cultured cortical neurons against ischemic stress. Our in vivo study revealed that intravitreous administration of P30 at 24 h after retinal ischemia significantly blocks the ischemia‐induced functional damages of retina at day 7. In addition, P30 completely rescued the retinal ischemia‐induced ganglion cell damages at day 7 after the ischemic stress, along with partial blockade of the loss of bipolar, amacrine, and photoreceptor cells. On the other hand, intracerebroventricular (3 nmol) or systemic (1 mg/kg; i.v.) injection of P30 at 1 h after cerebral ischemia (1 h tMCAO) significantly blocked the ischemia‐induced brain damages and disruption of blood vessels. Systemic P30 delivery (1 mg/kg; i.v.) also significantly ameliorated the ischemic brain caused by photochemically induced thrombosis. Taken together, this study confers a precise demonstration about the novel protective activity of ProTα‐derived small peptide P30 against the ischemic damages in vitro and in vivo.
Revisiting the effects of Parkinson's disease and frontal lobe lesions on task switching: The role of rule reconfiguration
Authors: Kehagia Angie A. , Barker Roger A. , Robbins Trevor W.
Published: December 2012

This study investigated the hypothesis that rule reconfiguration in task switching can isolate aspects of intact and impaired control at different stages of Parkinson's disease (PD) by comparing switches between concrete naming rules pertaining to stimulus selection, to switches between abstract rules which allocate categorization responses to these stimuli. Based on previous findings, it was hypothesized that attentional switches, where task set competition emerges at the stimulus but not response set level, highlights striatal dopaminergic function. Conversely, increasing the degree of task set competition to encompass reconfiguration of response set when switching between abstract rules, represents a condition which engages the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and renders this manipulation sensitive to frontal damage. To this end, we investigated task switching with concrete and abstract rules in unilaterally (Hoehn & Yahr stage I) and bilaterally (Hoehn & Yahr stage II) affected PD patients, as well as striatally intact frontal lesion patients. As predicted, frontal lesion patients demonstrated switching deficits only with abstract categorization rules, where switching engendered complete task set reconfiguration and a new response, as did stage II PD patients with presumed frontal cortical pathology. Replicating previous findings, stage I PD patients with relatively circumscribed striatal pathology demonstrated no such impairment. Disease severity also impacted on attentional switching indexed by naming rules, since medicated stage II but not stage I patients demonstrated switching deficits emerging from stimulus set reconfiguration, suggesting that the ameliorative efficacy of dopaminergic medication is inversely related to the severity of the striatal deficit. These findings illustrate that the nature of the rules that are switched, and its implication in terms of reconfiguring different task set elements, highlights different neural characters of cognitive flexibility. These manipulations may help decipher the differential effects of progressive neurodegeneration on parkinsonian cognition, and provide a framework in which to conceptualize the contributions of cortical and subcortical regions to cognitive control.