bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laser fibre stabs the catheter: a serious complication of endovenous laser ablation
Authors: van den Bos R R , Neumann M , Nijsten T
Published: November 2010

An 82-year-old woman was treated with endovenous laser ablation for insufficiency of the right great saphenous vein. Because of a very thick layer of subcutaneous fat, puncturing the vein and introducing the laser fibre was difficult. The patient reported pain after activation of the laser. Subsequently, the procedure was discontinued and the catheter was removed. Inspection of the disposables showed that the laser fibre had punctured the catheter and was therefore located outside the lumen. Fortunately, there were no harmful sequelae in this case, but as device-related complications of EVLA are serious, reporting them is important.
Cross-Market Discounts
Authors: Goić Marcel , Jerath Kinshuk , Srinivasan Kannan
Published: November 2010

Firms in several markets attract consumers by offering discounts in other unrelated markets. This promotion strategy, which we call “cross-market discounts,” has been successfully adopted in the last few years by many grocery retailers in partnership with gasoline retailers across North America, Europe, and Australia. In this paper, we use an analytical model to investigate the major forces driving the profitability of this novel promotion strategy. We consider a generalized scenario in which purchases in a source market lead to price discounts redeemable in a target market. Our analysis shows that this strategy can be a revenue driver by simultaneously increasing prices as well as sales in the source market, even though we assume the demand curve to be downward sloping in price. Moreover, it distributes additional consumption (motivated by the discount) in two markets, and under diminishing marginal returns from consumption, this can simultaneously increase firm profits and consumer welfare more effectively than traditional nonlinear pricing strategies. Our study provides many other interesting insights as well, and our key results are in accordance with anecdotal evidence obtained from managers and industry publications.
Organizational Aesthetics: Caught Between Identity Regulation and Culture Jamming
Authors: Wasserman Varda , Frenkel Michal
Published: November 2010

Applying insights from Lefebvre's spatial theory [Lefebvre, H. 1991. The Production of Space. Blackwell, Oxford, UK] to an analysis of Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs—recently relocated to its new award-winning building—the present study seeks to offer a more comprehensive model of the role of organizational aesthetics (OA) in identity regulation and culture jamming. Our contribution is threefold. (1) At the empirical/methodological level, this study attempts to simultaneously analyze the three Lefebvrian spaces in a single organization, demonstrating negotiations and struggles over interpretations of OA. (2) We analyze aesthetic jamming as a form of intentional and unintentional efforts at collective resistance that not only reveals the aesthetic mechanisms of regulation, but actually uses them as a method of counter-regulation. (3) Whereas most studies in this emerging body of literature focus on the regulation of organization-based identities (bureaucratic and professional), we show how the translation of extraorganizational hierarchies of identities (national, ethnic, and gendered) into the organizational control system is also mediated by OA.
Linking Customer Interaction and Innovation: The Mediating Role of New Organizational Practices
Authors: Foss Nicolai J. , Laursen Keld , Pedersen Torben
Published: November 2010

The notion that firms can improve their innovativeness by tapping users and customers for knowledge has become prominent in innovation studies. Similar arguments have been made in the marketing literature. We argue that neither literatures take sufficient account of firm organization. Specifically, firms that attempt to leverage user and customer knowledge in the context of innovation must design an internal organization appropriate to support it. This can be achieved in particular through the use of new organizational practices, notably, intensive vertical and lateral communication, rewarding employees for sharing and acquiring knowledge, and high levels of delegation of decision rights. In this paper, six hypotheses were developed and tested on a data set of 169 Danish firms drawn from a 2001 survey of the 1,000 largest firms in Denmark. A key result is that the link from customer knowledge to innovation is completely mediated by organizational practices.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. You are free to copy, distribute, transmit and adapt this work, but you must attribute this work as “Organization Science. Copyright © 2017 INFORMS. https://doi.org/10.1287/orsc.1100.0584 , used under a Creative Commons Attribution License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ .”
Construction of quasi-periodic response solutions
in forced strongly dissipative systems
Authors: Gentile Guido
Published: November 2010

We consider a class of ordinary differential equations describing
one-dimensional quasi-periodically forced systems in the presence
of large damping. We give a fully constructive proof of the existence
of response solutions, that is quasi-periodic solutions which have
the same frequency vector as the forcing. This requires dealing with
a degenerate implicit function equation: we prove that the latter
has a unique solution, which can be explicitly determined.
As a by-product we obtain an explicit estimate of the
minimal size of the damping coefficient.
Some Divisibility Properties of Binomial Coefficients and the Converse of Wolstenholme's Theorem
Authors: Broughan Kevin A. , Luca Florian , Shparlinski Igor E.
Published: November 2010

We show that the set of composite positive integers

is of cardinality at most
On Relatively Prime Subsets and Supersets
Authors: El Bachraoui Mohamed
Published: November 2010

A nonempty finite set of positive integers
Optimizing Clinical Benefits of Bisphosphonates in Cancer Patients with Bone Metastases
Authors: Aapro Matti , Saad Fred , Costa Luis
Published: November 2010

Bisphosphonates are important treatments for bone metastases. Considerations for optimizing the clinical benefits of bisphosphonates include efficacy, compliance, and safety. Several bisphosphonates are approved for clinical use; however, few have demonstrated broad efficacy in the oncology setting and been compared directly in clinical trials. Among patients with bone metastases from breast cancer, the efficacy of approved bisphosphonates was evaluated in a Cochrane review, showing a reduction in the risk of skeletal-related events (SREs) ranging from 8% to 41% compared with placebo. Between-trial comparisons are confounded by inconsistencies in trial design, SRE definition, and endpoint selection. Zoledronic acid has demonstrated clinical benefits beyond those of pamidronate in a head-to-head trial that included patients with breast cancer or multiple myeloma. Compliance and adherence also have effects on treatment efficacy. In a comparison study, the adherence rates with oral bisphosphonates were found to be significantly lower compared with those of intravenous bisphosphonates. The safety profiles of oral and intravenous bisphosphonates differ. Oral bisphosphonates are associated with gastrointestinal side effects, whereas intravenous bisphosphonates have dose- and infusion rate–dependent effects on renal function. Osteonecrosis of the jaw is an uncommon but serious event in patients receiving monthly intravenous bisphosphonates or denosumab. The incidence of this event can be reduced with careful oral hygiene. A positive benefit-risk ratio for bisphosphonates has been established, and ongoing clinical trials will determine whether individualized therapy is possible.
A Review on Automatic Analysis of Human Embryo Microscope Images
Authors: Filho E. Santos , Noble J.A , Wells D
Published: November 2010

Over the last 30 years the process ofin vitrofertilisation (IVF) has evolved considerably, yet the efficiency of this treatment remains relatively poor. The principal challenge faced by doctors and embryologists is the identification of the embryo with the greatest potential for producing a child. Current methods of embryo viability assessment provide only a rough guide to potential. In order to improve the odds of a successful pregnancy it is typical to transfer more than one embryo to the uterus. However, this often results in multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc), which are associated with significantly elevated risks of serious complications. If embryo viability could be assessed more accurately, it would be possible to transfer fewer embryos without negatively impacting IVF pregnancy rates. In order to assist with the identification of viable embryos, several scoring systems based on morphological criteria have been developed. However, these mostly rely on a subjective visual analysis. Automated assessment of morphological features offers the possibility of more accurate quantification of key embryo characteristics and elimination of inter- and intra-observer variation. In this paper, we describe the main embryo scoring systems currently in use and review related works on embryo image analysis that could lead to an automatic and precise grading of embryo quality. We summarise achievements, discuss challenges ahead, and point to some possible future directions in this research field.
Vascular Function and Inflammation in Rheumatoid Arthritis: the Role of Physical Activity
Authors: Metsios George S. , Kalinoglou Antonios Stavropoulos , Sandoo Aamer , van Zanten Jet J.C.S. Veldhuijzen , Toms Tracey E. , John Holly , Kitas George D.
Published: November 2010

Inflammation disturbs biochemical pathways involved in homeostasis of the endothelium. Research has established clear links between inflammatory mediators, particularly C-reactive protein and tumour necrosis factor alpha, endothelial dysfunction, and atherosclerosis. Endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis may be subclinical at early stages, and thus the ability to detect them with non-invasive techniques is crucially important, particularly in populations at increased risk for cardiovascular disease, such as those with rheumatoid arthritis. This may allow the identification of interventions that may reverse these processes early on. One of the best non-pharmacological interventions that may achieve this is physical activity. This review explores the associations between inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and atherosclerosis and discusses the role of exercise in blocking specific pathways in the inflammation, endothelial dysfunction - atherosclerosis network.
Involvement of Signaling Molecules on Na+/H+ Exchanger-1 Activity in Human Monocytes
Authors: Sarigianni Maria , Tsapas Apostolos , Mikhailidis Dimitri P , Kaloyianni Martha , Koliakos George , Paletas Konstantinos
Published: November 2010

Background:

Sodium/hydrogen exchanger-1 (NHE-1) contributes to maintaining intracellular pH (pHi). We assessed the effect of glucose, insulin, leptin and adrenaline on NHE-1 activity in human monocytesin vitro. These cells play a role in atherogenesis and disturbances in the hormones evaluated are associated with obesity and diabetes.

Methods and Results:

Monocytes were isolated from 16 healthy obese and 10 lean healthy subjects. NHE-1 activity was estimated by measuring pHi with a fluorescent dye. pHi was assessed pre- and post-incubation with glucose, insulin, leptin and adrenaline. Experiments were repeated after adding a NHE-1 inhibitor (cariporide) or an inhibitor of protein kinase C (PKC), nitric oxide synthase (NOS), nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase, phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3K) or actin polymerization. Within the whole study population, glucose enhanced NHE-1 activity by a processes involving PKC, NOS, PI3K and actin polymerization (p = 0.0006 to 0.01). Insulin-mediated activation of NHE-1 (p = <0.0001 to 0.02) required the classical isoforms of PKC, NOS, NADPH oxidase and PI3K. Leptin increased NHE-1 activity (p = 0.0004 to 0.04) through the involvement of PKC and actin polymerization. Adrenaline activated NHE-1 (p = <0.0001 to 0.01) by a process involving the classical isoforms of PKC, NOS and actin polymerization. There were also some differences in responses when lean and obese subjects were compared. Incubation with cariporide attenuated the observed increase in NHE-1 activity.

Conclusions:

Selective inhibition of NHE-1 in monocytes could become a target for drug action in atherosclerotic vascular disease.
Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Therapy: A Single Center Experience in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Hersi Ahmad S
Published: November 2010

Introduction:

Internal Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICD) has been shown to decrease mortality in patients such as those with structural heart disease or at high risk of sudden cardiac death. To date there is no data regarding the clinical features, and outcomes of ICD patients in Saudi Arabia. Accordingly, we explored the clinical features and outcomes of ICD therapy among Saudis.

Methods:

Patients who had ICD implantation in King Khalid University Hospital from November 2007 until January 2010 were enrolled.

Results:

One hundred and eight ICD were implanted between November 2007 and February 2010. The mean age was 58.6±13.2 years. The majority were male 94 (87%), the rate of Diabetes Mellitus (DM) was 58.3%, Hypertension (HTN) was 61.1%, and 63% were smokers. The mean ejection fraction (EF) was 24.5%. Of the 108 patient 90(83.3%) had ICD insertion for primary prevention and 18(16.7%) for secondary prevention. Of the 90 patients who ICD for primary prevention 62 (57.4%) had ischemic cardiomyopathy, 39(36.1%) had dilated cardiomyopathy and 7 (6.5%) had channelopathy. Over a mean follow-up of 18 months 4 (3.7%) died.

Conclusions:

Our study describes for the first time patients characteristic and outcomes for ICD therapy in Saudi Arabia. Our patients are younger and have higher prevalence of risk factors that those in Western countries.
The Acute Compartment Syndrome of the Lower Leg: A Difficult Diagnosis?
Authors: Oprel P.P , Eversdijk M.G , Vlot J , Tuinebreijer W.E , den Hartog D
Published: November 2010

Three patients, two adults and one child, developed an acute compartment syndrome of the lower leg. Due to delay in diagnosis, severe complications developed, resulting in two transfemoral amputations. In the youngest patient, the lower leg was able to be saved after extensive reconstructive surgery. In most cases, acute compartment syndrome of the lower leg is seen in combination with a fracture (40%), although other causes (minor trauma or vascular surgery) are also known. Moreover, patient history (pain out of proportion to the associated injury) and physical examination are central to the diagnosis. In some cases, however, a reliable diagnosis cannot be made clinically, as in the case of unconscious, intoxicated or intubated patients, as well as small children. Under these circumstances, intra-ompartmental pressure measurement can be of great assistance. After confirmation of the diagnosis, immediate fasciotomy of all lower leg compartments should be performed. The eventual outcome of this syndrome is directly related to the time elapsed between diagnosis and definitive treatment. Although the diagnosis can be difficult, delays in treatment should be avoided at all costs. The acute compartment syndrome of the lower leg is a surgical emergency and should be dealt with immediately.
DoctorEye: A Clinically Driven Multifunctional Platform, for Accurate Processing of Tumors in Medical Images
Authors: Skounakis Emmanouil , Farmaki Christina , Sakkalis Vangelis , Roniotis Alexandros , Banitsas Konstantinos , Graf Norbert , Marias Konstantinos
Published: November 2010

This paper presents a novel, open access interactive platform for 3D medical image analysis, simulation and visualization, focusing in oncology images. The platform was developed through constant interaction and feedback from expert clinicians integrating a thorough analysis of their requirements while having an ultimate goal of assisting in accurately delineating tumors. It allows clinicians not only to work with a large number of 3D tomographic datasets but also to efficiently annotate multiple regions of interest in the same session. Manual and semi-automatic segmentation techniques combined with integrated correction tools assist in the quick and refined delineation of tumors while different users can add different components related to oncology such as tumor growth and simulation algorithms for improving therapy planning. The platform has been tested by different users and over large number of heterogeneous tomographic datasets to ensure stability, usability, extensibility and robustness with promising results.

Availability

The platform, a manual and tutorial videos are available at: http://biomodeling.ics.forth.gr.

It is free to use under the GNU General Public License.
Urban Wet‐Weather Flows
Authors: Goulding Gunilla , Barrack Bill , Jaligoma Gopi , Muneer Alie , Narayanaswamy Karthik , Radhakrishnan Venkat
Published: November 2010

This literature review summarizes significant technical literature published in 2009 regarding the field of urban wet‐weather flows. The review addresses characterization, pollution sources, monitoring and sampling, surface and groundwater impacts, decision support systems, regulatory policies, and control and treatment technologies.
Membrane Processes
Authors: Pellegrin Marie‐Laure , Wilf Mark , Aguinaldo Jorge , Greiner Anthony D. , Zhang Kai , Gluck Steven , Min Kyungnan , McCandless Robert , Burbano Marie Sedran , Diamond Jason
Published: November 2010

This review for literature published in 2009 contains information related to membrane processes for municipal and industrial applications. This review is a subsection of the Treatment Systems section of the annual Water Environment Federation literature review and covers the following topics: pretreatment, membrane bioreactor (MBR) configuration, design, nutrient removal, operation, industrial treatment, fixed film and anaerobic membrane systems, reuse, microconstituents removal, membrane technology advances, membrane fouling, and modeling. ———————
Gaseous Emissions from Wastewater Facilities
Authors: Dimitriou‐Christidis Petros
Published: November 2010

A review of the literature published in 2009 on topics related to gaseous emissions from wastewater facilities is presented. This review is divided into the following sections: odorant emissions from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs); greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from WWTPs; emissions from collection systems; physicochemical emission control methods; biological odor control methods; odor monitoring; and odor impacts.
Automotive Wastes
Authors: Kindzierski Warren B. , Hashisho Zaher , Khan Waqar , Fayaz Mohammadreza
Published: November 2010

A review of the literature published in 2009 on topics relating to automotive wastes is presented. This includes wastes from automotive bodies, tires, and emissions from both the vehicles themselves as well as from the manufacturing industry. Literature published related to potential toxicological and health effects of automotive wastes are also reviewed.
Pulp and Paper Mill Effluents Management
Authors: Menezes Gustavo B. , De Galvão T. Cassia Brito , Moo‐Young H. Keith
Published: November 2010

Over the years, paper production and development processes have continuously changed to meet the demands of our society. Direct consequences are rapid transformation of production processes and use of new chemicals. Indirectly, changes have occurred to wastewater compositions and their impacts on the receiving environment. Mitigation of the negative impact of effluents depends on the development of advanced effluent management technologies that are both environmentally conscious and cost‐effective. In 2009, a large number of publications targeted these issues. A set of manuscripts that best represent the 2009 literature on pulp and paper industry effluent management are reviewed herein. Publications have been grouped into the following areas of knowledge: Toxicology and Monitoring, Sustainability Practices, Biological Treatment, Physicochemical Treatment, and Biochemical Treatment.
Mixing and Transport
Authors: Darnault Christophe J.G. , Köken Emre
Published: November 2010

This section covers research published during the calendar year 2009 on mixing and transport processes related to environmental flow.
Nonpoint Source Pollution
Authors: Sun Shaowei , Deng Zhiqiang , Gang Daniel Dianchen
Published: November 2010

This article presents a comprehensive review of research advances in 2009 on nonpoint source water pollution caused by urban stormwater, highway stormwater, agricultural runoff, and atmospheric deposition. Modeling progresses in total maximum daily load calculations for nonpoint source pollution are also reviewed. Various low impact development technologies and best management practices for mitigating nonpoint source pollution and their socioeconomic impacts are assessed.
Substratum‐Associated Microbiota
Authors: Liess Antonia , Francoeur Steven N.
Published: November 2010

A review of the literature published in 2009 on topics relating to on the subject of ecology of substratum‐associated microbiota (algae, bacteria, fungi and viruses). We also highlighted some of the new methods that can be applied to the study of substratumassociated microbiota and included newly described taxa.
Economics
Authors: Palley Paul D. , Parcero Miriam E.
Published: November 2010

A review of literature during calendar year 2009 focused on environmental policies and sustainable development, and economic policies. This review is divided into these sections: sustainable development, irrigation, wetland and watershed management, climate change and disaster risk management, environmental policies management, economic growth, water supply policies, water consumption, water price regulation, and valuation.
River Otter Latrine Site Selection in Arid Habitats of Western Colorado, USA
Authors: Depue John E. , Ben‐David Merav
Published: November 2010

ABSTRACT River otters (Lontra canadensis) select specific habitat features when establishing latrines, but no studies have described latrine features in arid and semiarid environments. We developed a model describing those habitat features that influence otter latrine site selection on rivers in arid and semiarid watersheds of western Colorado, USA. River otters selected latrine sites with the presence of beaver (Castor canadensis) activity, large prominent rocks, adjacent to deeper water, with shading over the site, and rock or cliff overstory. Our model provides a robust predictive tool for identifying river otter latrine sites in arid environments of southwestern North America.
Influence of Density and Climate on Population Dynamics of a Large Herbivore Under Harsh Environmental Conditions
Authors: Simard M. Anouk , Coulson Tim , Gingras André , Co̧té Steeve D.
Published: November 2010

ABSTRACTDynamics of herbivore populations can be influenced both by density‐dependent processes and climate. We used age‐at‐harvest data for adult female white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) collected over 23 years to estimate survival and reproduction by age class and to identify effects of environmental factors. The study population was located on Anticosti Island (QC, Canada), at the northern limit of the species' range; the population was at high density, and the landscape had scarce forage and abundant snow during winter. Despite severe environmental conditions, population growth apparently increased during the study; adult survival was similar to other populations, although reproduction appeared lower. Winter severity was not related to survival, but density affected adult female survival. Density at estrus was the main factor influencing reproduction of 2‐ and 3–4‐year‐olds and also affected reproduction of prime‐aged females (5–9‐yr‐olds), but not of older females. Reproductive rate of younger females was influenced by environmental conditions in autumn, such as high density or snow conditions that limited forage availability. Reproductive success of 5–9‐ and ≥10‐year‐old females appeared dependent on spring conditions favoring high‐quality forage, probably through effects on neonatal survival. Relative to other studies on northern ungulates, demographic processes in our study appeared to be more affected by autumn and spring climate, in addition to population density, than by winter climate. We thus propose that population density, as well as autumn and spring climate, should be considered in management strategies. Harvest data offered a unique opportunity to study forest ungulates, for which individual monitoring is rarely possible.
Predator‐Mediated Indirect Effects of Snowshoe Hares on Dall's Sheep in Alaska
Authors: Arthur Stephen M. , Prugh Laura R.
Published: November 2010

ABSTRACTIndirect interactions among species can strongly influence population dynamics and community structure but are often overlooked in management of large mammals. We estimated survival of Dall's sheep (Ovis dalli) in the central Alaska Range, USA, during years of differing snowshoe hare (Lepus americanus) abundance to test whether indirect interactions with a cyclic hare population affect Dall's sheep either negatively, by subsidizing predators (apparent competition), or positively, by diverting predation (apparent commensalism). Annual survival of adult female sheep was consistently high (0.85 for all yr and age classes combined). In contrast, annual estimates of lamb survival ranged from 0.15 to 0.63. The main predators of lambs were coyotes (Canis latrans) and golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos), which rely on hares as their primary food and prey on lambs secondarily. Coyotes and eagles killed 78% of 65 radiocollared lambs for which cause of death was known. Lamb survival was negatively related to hare abundance during the previous year, and lamb survival rates more than doubled when hare abundance declined, supporting the hypothesis of predator‐mediated apparent competition between hares and sheep. However, stage‐specific predation and delays in predator responses to changes in hare numbers led to a positive relationship between abundance of adult Dall's sheep and hares. Lacking reliable estimates of survival, a manager might erroneously conclude that hares benefit sheep. Thus, support for different indirect effects can be obtained from different types of data, which demonstrates the need to determine the mechanisms that create indirect interactions. Long‐term survey data suggest that predation by coyotes is limiting this sheep population below levels typical when coyotes were rare or absent. Understanding the nature of indirect interactions is necessary to effectively manage complex predator–prey communities.
Pest Responses to Odors From Predators Fed a Diet of Target Species Conspecifics and Heterospecifics
Authors: Cox Tarnya E. , Murray Peter J. , Hall Graham P. , Li Xiuhua
Published: November 2010

ABSTRACT Research into the use of predator‐odor‐based repellents as a management tool has gained momentum during the past 30 years. Some studies have suggested that odors from a predator whose diet includes the target species are more effective than odors from a predator that does not consume the species. To evaluate this management tool in the Australian context and to determine the effect, if any, of predator diet on odor repellence, we tested eutherian and metatherian, predator fecal odors on phylogenetically separated pest species that currently occur in Australia. We evaluated fecal odors from tigers (Panthera tigris) and Tasmanian devils (Sarcophilus harrisii) as repellents for goats (Capra hircus) and eastern grey kangaroos (Macropus giganteus). We fed tigers and Tasmanian devils 2 diets: one of goat and one of eastern grey kangaroo. The test fecal odors were more effective than a control odor of carrier material and solvent at deterring goats (P < 0.001) and kangaroos (P = 0.02) from food. Tiger fecal odor was more effective than Tasmanian devil odor in deterring both goats (P = 0.001)and kangaroos (P = 0.03). We observed a decrease in the number of feeding events for goats when they were exposed to the odor from a tiger fed goat compared with all other predator‐diet combinations (P < 0.001). We also observed a decrease in feeding events for kangaroos when exposed to the odor from a tiger fed kangaroo compared with all other predator‐diet combinations. We observed signs of desensitization to the test odors in goats and habituation to the test odors in kangaroos over the experimental period. A better understanding of the factors involved in desensitization and habituation may increase the effectiveness of fecal odor‐based repellents as a humane and nonlethal management tool for managers.
Predicting and Correcting Electrocution of Birds in Mediterranean Areas
Authors: TintÓ Albert , Real Joan , Mañosa Santi
Published: November 2010

ABSTRACTBird electrocution on power lines is an important conservation problem that affects many endangered species. We surveyed 3,869 pylons in the Barcelona Pre‐littoral Mountains (Catalonia, NE Spain) and collected 141 carcasses of electrocuted birds, mainly raptors and corvids. Univariate analysis indicated that metal pylons with pin‐type insulators or exposed jumpers, with connector wires, located on ridges, overhanging other landscape elements, and in open habitats with low vegetation cover were the most dangerous. A logistic regression model indicated that the probability of a pylon electrocuting a bird was mainly related to pylon conductivity, distribution of the conductive elements on the cross‐arms, cross‐arm configuration, habitat, topography, whether the pylon was overhanging other landscape elements, and presence of rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). We validated the predictive power of this model by using a random sample of 20% of all pylons surveyed. We found that bird mortality was aggregated mainly on pylons assigned a high probability risk by the model. Pylons included in the very high electrocution risk category (9.2%) accounted for 53.2% of carcasses, whereas pylons classified in the low electrocution risk category (54.5%) only accounted for 3.5% of mortality. Power companies employed this classification to prioritize the correction of 222 pylons by installing alternate cross‐arms and suspended jumpers and isolating wires and jumpers. We evaluated the effectiveness of this mitigation strategy. A significant fall in the mortality rate on corrected pylons combined with the lack of any reduction in the mortality rate in a sample of 350 noncorrected pylons indicated that the model selected adequately the most dangerous pylons and that the applied correction measures were effective. Consequently, our strategy may be a useful tool for optimizing efforts and resources invested in solving the problem of bird electrocution.
Contrasting Activity Patterns of Sympatric and Allopatric Black and Grizzly Bears
Authors: Schwartz Charles C. , Cain Steven L. , Podruzny Shannon , Cherry Steve , Frattaroli Leslie
Published: November 2010

ABSTRACTThe distribution of grizzly (Ursus arctos) and American black bears (U. americanus) overlaps in western North America. Few studies have detailed activity patterns where the species are sympatric and no studies contrasted patterns where populations are both sympatric and allopatric. We contrasted activity patterns for sympatric black and grizzly bears and for black bears allopatric to grizzly bears, how human influences altered patterns, and rates of grizzly‐black bear predation. Activity patterns differed between black bear populations, with those sympatric to grizzly bears more day‐active. Activity patterns of black bears allopatric with grizzly bears were similar to those of female grizzly bears; both were crepuscular and day‐active. Male grizzly bears were crepuscular and night‐active. Both species were more night‐active and less day‐active when ≤1 km from roads or developments. In our sympatric study area, 2 of 4 black bear mortalities were due to grizzly bear predation. Our results suggested patterns of activity that allowed for intra‐ and inter‐species avoidance. National park management often results in convergence of locally high human densities in quality bear habitat. Our data provide additional understanding into how bears alter their activity patterns in response to other bears and humans and should help park managers minimize undesirable bear‐human encounters when considering needs for temporal and spatial management of humans and human developments in bear habitats.
Tacrolimus and Cyclosporine Nephrotoxicity in Native Kidneys of Pancreas Transplant Recipients
Authors: Fioretto Paola , Najafian Behzad , Sutherland David E.R. , Mauer Michael
Published: November 2010

Background and objectives

Calcineurin inhibitors, while representing advances for solid organ transplantation, have nephrotoxic potential that reduces their net benefit. Tacrolimus has been considered less nephrotoxic than cyclosporine, but direct quantitative comparisons of the changes in renal structure from baseline to follow-up biopsies have not been done. To avoid the pitfalls of renal allograft studies, including rejection and disease recurrence, we compared the development of calcineurin lesions in the native kidneys of 14 tacrolimus– and 12 calcineurin–treated pancreas transplant alone recipients cured of type 1 diabetes.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Research renal biopsies obtained before and at 5 years after transplantation were studied using established morphometric methods.

Results

The cyclosporine and tacrolimus groups had, respectively, on average, 33% versus 44% decline in GFR (ns), 27% versus 29% increase in cortical interstitial fractional volume (ns), 245% versus 347% increase in the fractional volume of cortical tubules that were atrophic (ns), and 291% versus 392% increase in the percent of globally sclerotic glomeruli (ns). Arteriolar hyalinosis did not change significantly in either group.

Conclusions

These studies indicate that the nephrotoxic potential of tacrolimus and cyclosporine are equivalent and support the development of strategies to reduce these negative effects.
Students, Writing and Computers
Authors: Hartley James
Published: November 2010

Set within a prologue and epilogue concerning the academic performance of higher education students in the UK, this paper first looks at some of the differences between psychology students in their approaches to learning, then examines the relevance of this for academic writing and finally considers the question of whether or not new technology will change the ways that students write. The paper concludes with some implications for instruction.
Effecting System Change: What LTSN Can Learn from the Experience of Primary Schools
Authors: Tweedie Sarah , Howe Christine
Published: November 2010

This article considers the implications of the OISE/UT document Watching and Learning: Evaluation of the Implementation of the National Literacy and Numeracy Strategies (Earl et al., 2000) for the Learning and Teaching Support Network as a whole. The Earl et al. (2000) article was discussed at a workshop moderated by LTSN Psychology, “Effecting system change: The experience of primary schools”, at the LTSN Annual Conference, 2001. It should be noted that the current paper is based on contributions from members of various subject centres of the LTSN who attended the workshop. The views should therefore not be taken to necessarily represent those of LTSN Psychology.
Report on an Investigation into the Use of Practicals in the Teaching of Biological Psychology in the UK
Authors: Clow Angela
Published: November 2010

It is the perception of many academics that the use of experimental practical work in the teaching of biological psychology has been in decline over the last 10–20 years. The time restraints of the new modular degree systems as well as increased student numbers has made provision of practical work more difficult and in some cases vanish altogether. It was the purpose of the current investigation to sample current practice and disseminate details of practical work that could be used within the restraints of the 21st century University environment. Indeed, more than 70% of the respondents in the current survey wanted to offer more practical work in their modules, indicating that this is an issue of concern to many. It is hoped that the current investigation will focus attention upon the dwindling provision of practical experimentation for our students and spread good practice amongst psychology teaching staff in the UK.
Does the introduction of Non-Traditional Teaching Techniques Improve Psychology Undergraduates' Performance in Statistics?
Authors: Helman Shaun , Horswill Mark S.
Published: November 2010

We report a study in which five non-traditional teaching techniques were applied to an introductory statistics course for psychology undergraduates: active and implicit learning, use of breaks, mastery learning, peer tutoring and problem-based learning. Collectively, these techniques improved students' scores in a statistics examination by ten percent compared with a matched control group and this improvement was statistically significant. Students' responses to the new course were positive.
Assessing and Developing Students' Critical Thinking
Authors: Rimiene Vaiva
Published: November 2010

The development of critical thinking is an important step in achieving the goals of holistic education, not only through helping students gain knowledge but above all through ensuring that they think effectively. The aim of this article is to explore the concept of critical thinking and to discuss possibilities to develop students' critical thinking. This article presents results of an experiment that was carried out in Vilnius Pedagogical University and designed to develop students' critical thinking skills and to strengthen their motivation to think critically. We investigated how a critical thinking development programme influenced students' critical thinking skills and motivation. Our programme of critical thinking is based on the ideas of humanistic psychology and meaningful learning, and the main learning methods deployed were based on co-operative learning. Our critical thinking development course significantly influenced all the measured components of the students' critical thinking skills and some components of their motivation. We discuss the result, draws conclusions and suggest recommendations.
Examining the Examiners: Why are We So Bad at Assessing Students?
Authors: Newstead Stephen
Published: November 2010

In this paper I present evidence that assessment has a major influence on students' attitudes towards their studies. Indeed, students' principal motivation is probably to get good marks rather than to learn about their discipline. I also present evidence that the assessment systems we use are flawed in several respects, in that they are inconsistent, unreliable and not valid. There is a need for research on the different methods of assessment so that we know what the merits and disadvantages are for each of them. The paper ends with some radical (and some tongue-in-cheek) suggestions as to how we can improve things.
Teacher Evaluations of Make-up Exam Procedures
Authors: Perlman Baron , McCann Lee I. , Dettlaff Dawn M. , Palladino Joseph J.
Published: November 2010

We investigated procedures faculty in the United States use when students miss exams. A 27-item survey asked about methods used in the past, those currently used and faculty satisfaction with each and with general characteristics of make-up procedures. Faculty are satisfied with their current methods of determining eligibility for students to take make-up exams and the make-up procedures they use most often, rating them as fair and equitable. Participants have used a variety of methods, some ethically questionable.
Assessment as a Tool for Fostering Key Skills
Authors: Banister Peter
Published: November 2010

Key skills are increasingly being seen as an essential component of a psychology degree, but achievement of such skills does not always feature in student assessment. This paper looks at some of the problems involved in traditional student assessment techniques and suggests some alternatives which might be of better use in the measurement of student attainment in the area of key skills. Suggestions are also made as to how the current degree classification system used in this country could be modified to reflect in more detail student achievement on a psychology degree.
Psychology Learning and Teaching in Wales
Authors: Upton Dominic , Martin Jesse
Published: November 2010

A Learning and Teaching Support Network (LTSN) for Psychology sponsored workshop was held in April 2003 to discuss issues related to the research, teaching and learning of psychology in Wales. Representatives of a number of psychology departments from Welsh Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) attended the workshop. This introductory paper presents an overview of the current teaching of psychology in Welsh higher education: the departments, the research being carried out and the unique political context in which Welsh HE currently finds itself.

Following this introduction are articles from Enlli Thomas who discusses the problems associated with attempting to teach psychology in Welsh; Paul Sander who reports on the problems associated with teaching increasing numbers of students; Lance Workman who reports on the differing and changing, self-perceptions of old and new university students; and finally Ray Crozier, who presents a study that explores shy students' views on seminars.
Demonstrations of the Ease of Detecting Additions over Deletions
Authors: Horner David , Stetter Kathleen , Marquart Melissa
Published: November 2010

People notice the presence of added features in a scene (additions) more readily than the absence of deleted features (deletions). We describe several simple and brief demonstrations of the superiority of noticing additions compared to deletions. The demonstrations are appropriate for any course involving cognitive psychology including large enrolment courses.
Evaluating a Part-Time Degree Programme in Psychology
Authors: Harrop Alex , Tattersall Andy , Cairns Jennie
Published: November 2010

University records were examined for the 91 part-time students who entered Liverpool John Moores University between 1992 and 1994 to study psychology. The records showed 35 had achieved a BSc Hons Applied Psychology degree and 12 others had reached the level for intermediate awards although only two of these had so far claimed their awards. Despite the wide range of educational backgrounds, which included a number of students without formal qualifications, the mean and the standard deviations of the final examination marks of the part-time students were virtually indistinguishable from those of the full-time students. Withdrawal from the programme had occurred predominantly in the first year. Some implications of these findings are discussed.
WebCT: A Useful Support Tool for Psychology Undergraduates — A Q Methodological Study
Authors: Coogan Joy , Dancey Christine P. , Attree Elizabeth A.
Published: November 2010

WebCT is a web based course tool used as an additional source of information on the research methods module at the University of East London (UEL). A Q sort was conducted on 102 psychology students to assess their views about using WebCT. This resulted in one main factor and five small factors depicting the different approaches students have to using WebCT. A correlation between students' use of WebCT and marks on the research methods module led to a linear regression which revealed that students' overall marks increased by one for every 50 hits on WebCT. These results are discussed in relation to the way students approached the research methods module, their mode of attendance and the support they were given in using WebCT.
Relationships between ADHD and Dyslexia Screening Scores and Academic Performance in Undergraduate Psychology Students: Implications for Teaching, Learning and Assessment
Authors: Pope Debbie , Whiteley Helen , Smith Chris , Lever Rachel , Wakelin Delia , Dudiak Helen , Dewart Hazel
Published: November 2010

The impact of dyslexia and ADHD characteristics on study in higher education has been relatively neglected. This study investigates the prevalence of self-reported dyslexia and ADHD characteristics in 1182 undergraduate psychology students at four universities. Findings suggest that there is a high incidence of undiagnosed students in the ‘at risk’ categories for both dyslexia and ADHD. Whilst no relationship was found between achievement data and dyslexia scores, there were strong negative associations between ADHD subscale scores (inattention, hyperactivity or impulsivity and overall ADHD) and academic grades, indicating that those who score higher on ADHD rating scales are performing more poorly in academic tests than their lower scoring peers. Assessment results indicate that specific modes of assessment (multiple choice questions) may pose particular problems for high inattentive or ADHD scorers. The study suggests a need to focus on the identification and provision of support for students with problems related to ADHD characteristics, and indicates that many students, other than those who ‘declare’ a learning difficulty, would benefit from further support.
Competence-Based Training and Assessment by Portfolio: The Health Psychology Model
Authors: Elander James , Towell Tony , Fox Pauline
Published: November 2010

All UK postgraduate qualifications in applied areas of psychology will soon be competence-based. This will improve the professional recognition and esteem of applied psychology, and make it easier to transfer qualifications between psychology and other disciplines and between psychology sub-disciplines. However, the changes pose considerable challenges because there is very little clear evidence about the effectiveness of competence-based training and portfolio assessment. Health psychology has led the development of competence-based training in psychology with the ‘stage two’ qualification in health psychology, and this article considers postgraduate health psychology training in the context of what is known about competence-based training and portfolio assessment in professions such as medicine, nursing and education. This raises a number of questions for professional training and qualifications in psychology.
Undergraduate Peer Mentoring: An Investigation into Processes, Activities and Outcomes
Authors: Hill Ros , Reddy Peter
Published: November 2010

Peer mentoring of undergraduates is increasingly being used in higher education to reduce first year attrition by aiding transition to university. We propose that peer mentoring may also be a means of transmitting the values and ethics which reflect academic and personal integrity and underpin graduate and professional identity. In a qualitative study, we examined students' expectations and subsequent experience of a psychology undergraduate pilot mentoring scheme, together with the process and content. Mentors and mentees felt that mentors had a unique part to play in aiding transition to university. Mentors' advice reflected implicit academic values rather than strategic short cuts and mentoring cued reflection on their own development. The implications for encouraging student participation in mentoring schemes are discussed.