bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Consequences of Bullying Victimization in a Sample of Singapore Youth
Authors: Holt Thomas J. , Chee Grace , Ng Esther Ai Hong , Bossler Adam M.
Published: February 2013

A substantial body of research has developed surrounding the phenomenon of bullying online and off-line among youth populations. These studies demonstrate there are significant psychological and emotional consequences for bullying victims. Researchers have not, however, explored in depth how these outcomes differ across the sexes based on the types of bullying they experience. In addition, few have explored these issues in a cross-national context to consider how variations in technological access and exposure may impact behavior. Thus, this study utilizes a nationally representative sample of youths from Singapore, a country with significant access to technology, to consider how suicidal ideation and school truancy as a consequence of bullying are correlated with bullying victimization online and off-line as well as technology use and various demographic factors. The findings indicate that bullying victimization across virtual and real spaces are significantly related to these outcomes and that there are significant differences between the sexes concerning suicidal ideation. The utility of this study for both criminal justice and mental health practitioners are examined in depth.
Attachment and Autonomy in the Workplace
Authors: Littman-Ovadia Hadassah , Oren Lior , Lavy Shiri
Published: February 2013

Contemporary researchers suggest that working is a relational act. Accordingly, literature reflects increasing interest in the relevance of attachment theory to vocational and organizational phenomena. In the current study, we focused on associations of avoidant attachment orientation (characterized by obsessive self-reliance), anxious attachment orientation (characterized by overdependence), and a central job characteristic (job autonomy) with work-related attitudes and emotions (work engagement, career commitment, work burnout, and emotional distress). Results from 150 Israeli employees revealed significant associations between avoidant attachment and all work-related outcomes, while anxiety was associated only with work burnout and emotional distress. Job autonomy was associated with all work-related outcomes, and although attachment anxiety and avoidance were not associated with job autonomy, the interactions between avoidance and job autonomy (but not the interactions between anxiety and job autonomy) significantly contributed to explained variance of all work outcomes. Simple slope analyses showed significant associations between avoidance and work-related outcomes in high job autonomy conditions and nonsignificant associations in low job autonomy conditions, surprisingly suggesting that high job autonomy specifically disadvantages highly avoidant employees. Theoretical and practical implications for organizations and for attachment theory at work are discussed.
Correlation of Dorsiflexion Angle and Plantar Pressure Following Arthrodesis of the First Metatarsophalangeal Joint
Authors: Alentorn-Geli Eduard , Gil Sergi , Bascuas Iria , Donaire Maria Fernanda , Boza Roser , Pidemunt Gemma , Puig Lluís , Zabala Santiago , Ginés-Cespedosa Alberto
Published: February 2013

Background:

The correlation between angle of fusion of the first metatarsophalangeal (1MTTP) joint and pressures under metatarsal heads and hallux has not been well characterized. The main purpose was to investigate the correlation between fusion dorsiflexion angle of the 1MTTP joint and plantar pressures under the first metatarsal head and hallux during gait.

Methods:

Patients who underwent arthrodesis of the 1MTTP joint from 2005 to 2010 were seen for a follow-up examination. Of 27 patients, 15 (22 feet) with a mean follow-up of 26.2 months were evaluated in the study. Main outcomes included the fusion clinical and radiological dorsiflexion angles and the mean and maximum dynamic plantar pressures under all 5 metatarsal heads and under the hallux. Plantar pressures were measured through an in-shoe system while patients walked normally along a corridor.

Results:

The dorsiflexion angle was positively correlated with mean dynamic plantar pressures under the first metatarsal head: P = .02 ( r = 0.5) for clinical angle, and P = .01 ( r = 0.58) for radiological angle. Patients with 15 degrees or more of clinical dorsiflexion angle demonstrated higher mean dynamic plantar pressure under the first metatarsal head ( P = .05) and higher maximum dynamic plantar pressure under the second metatarsal head ( P = .04) compared with patients with less than 15 degrees. In contrast, the latter patients demonstrated higher mean dynamic plantar pressure beneath the hallux ( P = .04). Patients with 30 degrees or more of radiological dorsiflexion angle demonstrated significantly higher mean dynamic plantar pressure under the first metatarsal head ( P = .04) compared with patients with less than 30 degrees.

Conclusion:

Higher dorsiflexion angles correlate with higher plantar pressures under the first metatarsal head. Lower dorsiflexion angles increase plantar pressures beneath the hallux during gait.

Clinical Relevance:

Significant increase in plantar pressure under the first metatarsal head may be avoided by performing the arthrodesis of the 1MTTP joint below 30° and 15° for the radiological and clinical dorsiflexion angles, respectively.
Histomorphometric, CT Arthrographic, and Biomechanical Mapping of the Human Ankle
Authors: Buettner Olaf , Leumann André , Lehner Roman , Dell-Kuster Salome , Rosenthal Rachel , Mueller-Gerbl Magdalena , Valderrabano Victor
Published: February 2013

Background:

The specific morphological and biomechanical characteristics of the osteochondral unit of the ankle joint are not yet fully understood. This anatomical study aimed to map regional thickness of the articular hyaline uncalcified cartilage and its adjacent layers of mineralized cartilage and subchondral bone as well as to measure the regional indentation stiffness of human ankle joint cartilage.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 20 pairs of human cadaver ankle joints (median age: 78 years) were evaluated by histomorphometry and multidetector row double-contrast CT arthrography for cartilage thickness in 17 distinct anatomical regions. In addition, regional distribution of the subchondral bone plate and of the mineralized cartilage was scrutinized histologically. Cartilage indentation stiffness was measured using an arthroscopic handheld device (Artscan200), especially validated for use in thin cartilage. The correlation between the thickness of different components of the osteochondral unit and the cartilage indentation stiffness was evaluated.

Results:

The thinnest uncalcified cartilage was measured at the anterior talar dome and the distal fibula. The thickest uncalcified cartilage was found in the mid and posterior talar dome, as well as in the tibial plafond. Mineralized cartilage and subchondral bone showed highest values at the anteromedial talar dome. Cartilage indentation stiffness showed a bicentric distribution pattern in 14/20 ankle pairs and was highest in regions with thin cartilage. Positive correlation between the thickness of the mineralized cartilage and the subchondral bone plate was found. No correlation between the thickness of the uncalcified and the mineralized cartilage could be identified.

Conclusion:

This anatomical study provides a comprehensive mapping of the osteochondral unit of the human ankle joint in elderly people. Articular hyaline uncalcified cartilage and the subchondral bone plate showed clear regional differences and were reciprocally distributed. Cartilage indentation stiffness was inversely correlated to cartilage thickness in elderly people.

Clinical Relevance:

Thorough understanding of the osteochondral unit of the ankle joint could be helpful for clinicians and researchers in the development of improved operative repair techniques for osteochondral defects in the ankle joint, for example, in constructing specific tissue-engineered osteochondral plugs.
The interplay of possible language teacher selves in professional development choices
Authors: Hiver Philip
Published: February 2013

Empirical research on possible selves proliferates in the literature on psychology, yet it is only in the latter half of the 2000s that possible selves were exploited in applied linguistics fields. Kubanyiova’s (2007, 2009) recent mixed-methods study introduced the concept of ‘possible language teacher selves’ as a construct through which to explore language teacher development. Aiming to add to empirical findings in the area, this qualitative study was conducted to investigate the roles that possible language teacher selves play in the teacher development choices of seven in-service Korean English teachers. Findings highlighted clearly constructed actual and possible language teachers selves. Lack of language self-efficacy was found to be near synonymous to lack of teaching self-efficacy for these participants, and the negative affect surrounding this lack of language self-efficacy emerged as the primary drive to engage in teacher development in this context. Two key motivational patterns of the participants’ possible language teacher selves emerged: teachers were either guided by a central need to repair perceived inadequacies of the self, or to enhance the self. A third motive, adhering to normative obligations, was found to be the least significant in driving choices for teacher development.
The internet subculture of Indonesian face-veiled women
Authors: Nisa Eva F.
Published: February 2013

The article analyses internet usage by Indonesian face-veiled women ( cadari). Such women desire to return to a true Islam, and are often understood by mainstream Muslims as oppressed. Taking advantage of the freedom of speech that has emerged in Indonesia’s post-authoritarian period, they use media strategically for their own purposes in ways quite different from those motivating the internet habits of mainstream Muslims in Indonesia. The article analyses how the women create and maintain subcultures through the internet. Specifically, it focuses on the mailing list of one group of Salafi women, and a virtual business enterprise run by a cadari. While the existing literature tends to emphasize those aspects of the internet that can contribute to the creation of civil society, the internet has enabled cadari to fashion differing trajectories compatible with their subcultures.
Longing Band play at Beautiful Hope
Authors: Baulch Emma
Published: February 2013

This article enquires into the contextual dimensions of Indonesian consumerism by presenting the rise to national fame of provincial boy band, Kangen (Longing) Band. The case of Kangen Band suggests that Indonesian consumerism entails new ways of heralding the masses that rely on and play with old generic terms, kampungan (hick-ish) and ‘ Melayu’ (Malay). It also reveals some of the specificities of the Indonesian consumerist environment, in which ring back tones, pirate recordings and corporatized fandom are important resources in the formation of consumer subjectivities.
Alternative news sites and the complexities of ‘space’
Authors: Dencik Lina
Published: February 2013

Crucial to contemporary debates on political space is a common understanding of changing conditions, not least brought on by developments in communication and media, especially with regards to online activity, that are leading to a spatial ‘shift’ upwards to the global. This article seeks to contribute to the debate on new media technologies and political space by exploring the way in which space comes to matter in the context of alternative user-generated news sites. Drawing especially on the case of OhmyNews International and the difficulties this site has had with moving from a domestic space to a global space of activity, this article makes the case for a much more comprehensive integration of research into online practices into the often parallel debate on the globalization of politics.
Peeling back the multiple layers of Twitter’s private disclosure onion: The roles of virtual identity discrepancy and personality traits in communication privacy management on Twitter
Authors: Jin Seung-A Annie
Published: February 2013

This study examined multiple layers of private disclosure on the microblogging site Twitter. Survey data ( N = 375) were collected from current Twitter users ( N = 198), nonusers ( N = 116), and dropouts ( N = 61). Data from current Twitter users revealed the existence of multiple strata of private disclosure boundaries on Twitter. There were significant differences at the descriptive and inferential levels among the multiple dimensions of private information, including daily lives, social identity, competence, socio-economic status, and health. Private information regarding daily lives and entertainment was disclosed easily and located at the outermost layer of the disclosure onion. In contrast, health-related private information was concealed and located within the innermost layer of the disclosure onion. ANOVAs ( N = 375) also indicated that there were significant differences among current Twitter users, nonusers, and dropouts with regard to personality traits and privacy concerns about Twitter. Theoretical implications were discussed.
China’s Weibo: Is faster different?
Authors: Sullivan Jonathan
Published: February 2013

The popularization of microblogging in China represents a new challenge to the state’s regime of information control. The speed with which information is diffused in the microblogosphere has helped netizens to publicize and express their discontent with the negative consequences of economic growth, income inequalities and official corruption. In some cases, netizen-led initiatives have facilitated the mobilization of online public opinion and forced the central government to intervene to redress acts of lower level malfeasance. However, despite the growing corpus of such cases, the government has quickly adapted to the changing internet ecology and is using the same tools to help it maintain control of society by enhancing its claims to legitimacy, circumscribing dissent, identifying malfeasance in its agents and using online public opinion to adapt policy and direct propaganda efforts. This essay reflects on microblogging in the context of the Chinese internet, and argues that successes in breaking scandals and mobilizing opinion against recalcitrant officials should not mask the reality that the government is utilizing the microblogosphere to its own advantage.
The sustained snapshot: Incidental ethnographic encounters in qualitative interview studies
Authors: Pinsky Dina
Published: February 2013

The literature on qualitative methods assumes that researchers will conduct interviews in the course of a participant-observation study but not that extensive observations of interviewees might happen to take place during an interview study. In this article, I raise questions about interview study methodologies, using the example of a life history interview project in which the interviewer stayed at interviewee’s homes, met with them for meals, encountered them at events, and kept careful field notes on all of these incidental ethnographic encounters. Reflecting on the ambivalent status of such incidental ethnographic encounters, I argue that qualitative interview methods suffer from the limitations of positivism because the interview encounter is privileged as the sole source of knowledge. I call for a more flexible approach to qualitative interviews that can accommodate and derive knowledge from the full range of encounters between the researcher and participant.
Understanding cultural context when collecting field data: lessons learned from field research in a slum area in the Philippines
Authors: Narag Raymund , Maxwell Sheila R
Published: February 2013

Textbooks on research methods generally emphasize the need to collect data with high validity, reliability, and in the case of qualitative research, authenticity. Yet, field research often poses unanticipated challenges, particularly when the research is conducted in less-than-well-documented milieus. This article outlines field challenges encountered by the authors when doing a qualitative study of a slum community in the Philippines. Acceptable Western standards for gaining entry into a research community, for participating in local community life, and for the language and dress code used in the field had to be re-evaluated by the authors according to the prevailing Filipino cultural norms and the norms used in the local slum community. Lessons learned in this research can inform those doing qualitative research generally, but particularly those considering research in non-Western cultures.
Interactional problems in research interviews
Authors: Roulston Kathryn
Published: February 2013

This article examines how speakers orient to interactional problems in research interviews. These are marked by disfluencies in talk, with interviewees asking questions of the interviewer, declining invitations to elaborate on questions posed, or providing minimal responses. The article argues that interactions in which interviewees choose not to elaborate or challenge interviewers by asking questions provide valuable insights into research topics that complement the ‘rich’ descriptions that are usually sought by researchers in qualitative studies and evaluation projects. By examining how speakers manage interactional problems, researchers can identify trouble sources and important issues for further exploration. This examination of interviewers’ and interviewees’ talk shows that the accomplishment of both intersubjective understanding and generation of data for topical analysis is sensitive work to which speakers keenly attune on a turn-by-turn basis, underscoring the collaborative work that is necessary to do research interviews.
Educational aspirations among ethnic minority youth in Brussels: Does the perception of ethnic discrimination in the labour market matter? A mixed-method approach
Authors: Teney Celine , Devleeshouwer Perrine , Hanquinet Laurie
Published: February 2013

Ethnic disparities in educational aspirations and choices are important to comprehend ethnic education inequality. Based on a mixed-method approach (3121 questionnaires and 40 interviews of pupils), this article investigates ethnic differences among nine ethnic minority groups of pupils in Brussels with regard to their educational aspirations. The multivariate analysis of the questionnaires shows that pupils from only four out of the nine ethnic minorities hold significantly higher aspirations than the majority group. In addition, our mixed-method results did not support the hypothesis on perceived ethnic discrimination in the labour market in explaining the higher educational aspirations of ethnic minority youth. Nevertheless, personal experience of discrimination at school is significantly associated with higher educational aspirations. We conclude by highlighting the relevance of the parental transmission of the intergenerational mobility project in explaining ethnic differences in youth’s educational aspirations.
Dual therapy of vildagliptin and telmisartan on diabetic nephropathy in experimentally induced type 2 diabetes mellitus rats
Authors: Sharma Ashish Kumar , Kanawat Devendra Singh , Mishra Akanksha , Dhakad Prashant Kumar , Sharma Prashant , Srivastava Varnika , Joshi Sneha , Joshi Megha , Raikwar Sachin Kumar , Kurmi Muneem Kumar , Srinivasan Bharthu Parthsarthi
Published: February 2013

Introduction:

The objective of this article is to investigate the combination of telmisartan with vildagliptin therapy versus monotherapy of vildagliptin and telmisartan on diabetic nephropathy in type 2 diabetes mellitus rats.

Materials and methods:

In adult rats streptozotocin (65 mg/kg) and nicotinamide (110 mg/kg) were injected intraperitoneally to produce diabetic nephropathy. Rats of either sex allotted to the following groups: (i) triple therapy: metformin (120 mg/kg, o.d.) + pioglitazone (1.25 mg/kg, o.d.) + glimepiride (0.7 mg/kg, o.d.); (ii) dual therapy: vildagliptin (8.76 mg/kg, o.d.) + telmisartan (6.48 mg/kg, o.d.); (iii) vildagliptin (8.76 mg/kg, o.d.); and (iv) telmisartan (6.48 mg/kg, o.d.); therapy was carried out for 35 days orally. Weekly at days 7, 14, 21, 28 and 35, blood pressure, blood glucose level, body weight, blood serum creatinine level, protein albumin level in urine, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were estimated. Renal structural changes were observed.

Results:

Blood pressure, blood glucose level, blood serum creatinine level, protein albumin level in urine, BUN and renal deterioration increased significantly in diabetic rats compared with normal control rats. The vildagliptin + telmisartan treatment group showed no weight gain and controlled blood pressure, renovascular structural and biochemical parameters in diabetic neuropathy rats.

Conclusions:

The addition of telmisartan to vildagliptin demonstrated the best control over blood pressure, glycemia and diabetic nephropathy markers, renal structural changes and improvement of renal function as opposed to monotherapy with either drug, possibly because of the dual inhibitory effect on the renin–angiotensin system.
Relations between study and employment: Music graduates in Puerto Rico
Authors: Latorre Ileana S , Lorenzo Oswaldo
Published: February 2013

Higher education programs in Puerto Rico include undergraduate degrees in music, music education, composition, popular music, jazz and Caribbean music, and, most recently, a master’s degree in music education. However, little is known about what music graduates do after concluding college. Do they work in music-related areas? Are they satisfied with their music preparation and work? The scarcity of research in this topic, along with the singularity of the island’s geographical situation, offers a distinctive opportunity to study graduates from different higher education institutions, in order better to understand the relationship between their achieved academic preparation and their future work.
The role and influence of key informants in community-engaged research: A critical perspective
Authors: McKenna Stacey A , Main Deborah S
Published: February 2013

With the national emphasis on engaged and action research approaches to enhance research with communities and improve research translation, conventional social science and health researchers will benefit from greater knowledge and skills in line with the underlying principles of collaboration and participation. One prominent competency is to ensure that researcher and community interests and priorities coalesce and shape all stages of the research and dissemination process. This article includes our reflection on the unique role and purpose of key informants in community-engaged research. Taking a critical social science perspective, we consider the value and challenges involved in selecting and relying on key informants to represent the community and its perspectives. Because key informants inhabit social and professional roles in communities, they are often sought by researchers to provide knowledge and information related to health promotion and education within a community. However, their identification and selection – and their perspectives about what is important and would work best for a community – must be carefully considered. We conclude this article with several recommendations for enhancing community engagement in translational research.
Hypothesis Testing for Group Structure in Legislative Networks
Authors: Kirkland Justin H.
Published: February 2013

Scholars of social networks often rely on summary statistics to measure and compare the structures of their networks of interest. However, measuring the uncertainty inherent in these summaries can be challenging, thus making hypothesis testing for network summaries difficult. Computational and nonparametric procedures can overcome these difficulties by allowing researchers to generate reference distributions for comparison directly from their data. In this research, I demonstrate the use of nonparametric hypothesis testing in networks using the popular network summary statistic network modularity. I provide a method based on permutation testing for assessing whether a particular network modularity score is larger than a researcher might expect due to random chance. I then create a simulation study of network modularity and its simulated reference distribution that I propose. Finally, I provide an empirical example of this technique using cosponsorship networks from U.S. state legislatures.
Political Inclusion of Latino Immigrants
Authors: Levin Ines
Published: February 2013

Does becoming a citizen represent a major step toward the inclusion of Latino immigrants in the American polity? I study this question by comparing the behavior of immigrants who have acquired citizenship with that of immigrants who are not willing or not eligible to become citizens, focusing on nonelectoral political activities such as contacting government officials and working to solve problems with others informally or through existing groups and organizations. The data analysis is based on recent survey data from the 2006 Latino National Survey. I use matching methods to control for the nonrandom selection of respondents into citizenship status, and perform a sensitivity analysis to evaluate the robustness of findings to hidden bias. Results suggest that granting citizenship to nonnaturalized immigrants is a measure that, by itself, is unlikely to achieve full inclusion of Latino immigrants in the broader democratic process.
Mobilizing Money
Authors: Lowry Robert C.
Published: February 2013

A great deal of research focuses on contributions by political action committees (PACs) to candidates, but PACs are also institutional mechanisms for mobilizing contributions by individuals. Restrictions on the ability of PACs sponsored by businesses, trade associations, and labor unions to solicit contributions and the private benefits of contributing imply that these PACs are likely to mobilize donors who do not otherwise contribute to political campaigns. Analysis of itemized contributions to PACs during the 2004 election cycle confirms this. Moreover, the numbers of donors and dollars contributed to sponsored PACs aggregated by congressional district during 1996-2006 are relatively unaffected by electoral competition, presidential cycles, or changes in campaign finance regulations, and the effects of urbanization are less uniform than for nonconnected PACs. PACs sponsored by economic institutions therefore expand the pool of donors beyond the usual suspects.
The (Dis)Connection Between Political Culture and External Efficacy
Authors: Chamberlain Adam
Published: February 2013

Theories of political culture have traditionally been based on how the mass public views the role of government, yet scholars have rarely studied this issue. Using American National Election Studies(ANES) data from 1952 to 2008, I track cultural changes in external efficacy, a measure of the public’s beliefs about government responsiveness. The aggregate- and individual-level results indicate that external efficacy varied across political cultures until around 1980, when the differences dissipated. These findings should cause scholars to question some of the underlying theoretical basis of political culture, as well as the measurement of external efficacy.
Epileptogenic Developmental Venous Anomaly
Authors: Scheidegger Olivier , Wiest Roland , Jann Kay , König Thomas , Meyer Klaus , Hauf Martinus
Published: February 2013

Developmental venous anomalies (DVAs) are associated with epileptic seizures; however, the role of DVA in the epileptogenesis is still not established. Simultaneous interictal electroencephalogram/functional magnetic resonance imaging (EEG/fMRI) recordings provide supplementary information to electroclinical data about the epileptic generators, and thus aid in the differentiation of clinically equivocal epilepsy syndromes. The main objective of our study was to characterize the epileptic network in a patient with DVA and epilepsy by simultaneous EEG/fMRI recordings. A 17-year-old woman with recently emerging generalized tonic–clonic seizures, and atypical generalized discharges, was investigated using simultaneous EEG/fMRI at the university hospital. Previous high-resolution MRI showed no structural abnormalities, except a DVA in the right frontal operculum. Interictal EEG recordings showed atypical generalized discharges, corresponding to positive focal blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) correlates in the right frontal operculum, a region drained by the DVA. Additionally, widespread cortical bilateral negative BOLD correlates in the frontal and parietal lobes were delineated, resembling a generalized epileptic network. The EEG/fMRI recordings support a right frontal lobe epilepsy, originating in the vicinity of the DVA, propagating rapidly to both frontal and parietal lobes, as expressed on the scalp EEG by secondary bilateral synchrony. The DVA may be causative of focal epilepsies in cases where no concomitant epileptogenic lesions can be detected. Advanced imaging techniques, such as simultaneous EEG/fMRI, may thus aid in the differentiation of clinically equivocal epilepsy syndromes.
Drug-Induced Photosensitivity and the Major Culprits
Authors: White Nicole D. , Lenz Thomas L.
Published: February 2013

Photosensitivity is a condition that occurs when sunlight or artificial forms of radiation interact with a medication to produce an adverse cutaneous drug eruption. This adverse reaction may increase the incidence of skin cancer and can be prevented with proper counseling. There are 2 major types of photosensitivity: phototoxic reactions, which occur when an individual is exposed to both high doses of medication and radiation, and photoallergic reactions, which require an immune-mediated response. Several classes of drugs are commonly implicated in photosensitivity reactions, including tetracyclines, floroquinolones, sulfonamides, diuretics, phenothiazine antipsychotics, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. This review will discuss photosensitivity reactions, the most commonly reported photosensitizing agents, and treatment and prevention measures for the condition.
Donor Human Milk for Premature Infants
Authors: Wagner Julie , Hanson Corrine , Anderson Berry Ann
Published: February 2013

Human milk has many well-established health benefits for both term and premature infants. When mother’s own milk is unavailable, pasteurized donor human milk feeding has become a standard of care for sick and premature infants in many neonatal intensive care units. Significant data show that feeding premature infants pasteurized donor human milk in the absence of mother’s own milk reduces the risk of developing necrotizing enterocolitis when compared with feeding infant formula. However, there is also substantial evidence that premature infants have slower growth rates in the immediate neonatal period when fed donor milk rather than infant formula or mother’s own milk. The composition of human milk is significantly affected by stage of lactation and the pasteurization process, and the substantial nutritional differences between mother’s own milk and pasteurized donor milk must be considered when using donor milk as a source of long-term nutrition for premature infants. Close attention to fortification methods and nutrient provision is needed when attempting to meet the nutrition needs of the premature infant with donor milk. Feeding protocols should be established that allow for provision of human milk to the most vulnerable preterm infants regardless of availability of mother’s own milk, while at the same time minimizing the risk of inadequate nutrition.
The Role of Sonography in Renal Artery Stenosis Evaluation and Stent Placement
Authors: Mapes-Gonnella Tia
Published: February 2013

A literature review has been conducted to demonstrate the role of duplex sonography in evaluating renal artery stenosis (RAS) as a screening method for patients prior to percutaneous transluminal renal artery stent (PTRAS) placement. The review also evaluates the role of ultrasound surveillance following PTRAS and establishes the overall influence of ultrasound on defining stent efficacy for managing hemodynamically significant renovascular disease. Recent studies have narrowed criteria for intervention through duplex sonographic assessment of RAS to better predict patient benefit and response to stent placement. Studies using sonographic parameters evaluating patients for renal artery stenosis, criteria-dependent stent placement, and postintervention follow-up have shown improved patient response, helping ensure effective and appropriate care in RAS management.
Role of LRF/Pokemon in lineage fate decisions
Authors: Lunardi Andrea , Guarnerio Jlenia , Wang Guocan , Maeda Takahiro , Pandolfi Pier Paolo
Published: February 2013

In the human genome, 43 different genes are found that encode proteins belonging to the family of the POK (poxvirus and zinc finger and Krüppel)/ZBTB (zinc finger and broad complex, tramtrack, and bric à brac) factors. Generally considered transcriptional repressors, several of these genes play fundamental roles in cell lineage fate decision in various tissues, programming specific tasks throughout the life of the organism. Here, we focus on functions of leukemia/lymphoma-related factor/POK erythroid myeloid ontogenic factor, which is probably one of the most exciting and yet enigmatic members of the POK/ZBTB family.
Incidence and prognostic relevance of genetic variations in T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma in childhood and adolescence
Authors: Bonn Bettina R. , Rohde Marius , Zimmermann Martin , Krieger David , Oschlies Ilske , Niggli Felix , Wrobel Grazyna , Attarbaschi Andishe , Escherich Gabriele , Klapper Wolfram , Reiter Alfred , Burkhardt Birgit
Published: February 2013

Key Points

Confirms the prognostic effect of NOTCH1 mutations in pediatric T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma in a large and independent cohort. Provides the scientific basis for using NOTCH1 mutations and chromosome 6q alterations as stratification criterion in patients with T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma.
Established and experimental medical therapy of pulmonary sarcoidosis
Authors: Baughman Robert P. , Nunes Hilario , Sweiss Nadera J. , Lower Elyse E.
Published: February 2013

The treatment options for pulmonary sarcoidosis have increased over the past 10 years. As new treatments have been introduced, the best way to assess and compare treatments remains unknown. The goal of this review is to discuss the standard treatments for pulmonary sarcoidosis, including glucocorticoids, and cytotoxic agents, such as methotrexate, azathioprine and leflunomide, and compare them to the newer biological agents, such as infliximab and adalimumab. We also discuss some novel treatments which are currently being evaluated. To compare these different regimens, we look at the measures used to assess response. These include pulmonary function, chest imaging, steroid sparing potential and, more recently, improvements in quality of life measures. While there is, as yet, no standard assessment for response, there is a growing consensus that response to treatment may include improvement of one or more of the following: forced vital capacity, chest imaging and steroid sparing. Several drugs used for pulmonary sarcoidosis have demonstrated improvement in one or more of these measures.
Consensus statement for inert gas washout measurement using multiple- and single- breath tests
Authors: Robinson Paul D. , Latzin Philipp , Verbanck Sylvia , Hall Graham L. , Horsley Alexander , Gappa Monika , Thamrin Cindy , Arets Hubertus G.M. , Aurora Paul , Fuchs Susanne I. , King Gregory G. , Lum Sooky , Macleod Kenneth , Paiva Manuel , Pillow Jane J. , Ranganathan Sarath , Ratjen Felix , Singer Florian , Sonnappa Samatha , Stocks Janet , Subbarao Padmaja , Thompson Bruce R. , Gustafsson Per M.
Published: February 2013

Inert gas washout tests, performed using the single- or multiple-breath washout technique, were first described over 60 years ago. As measures of ventilation distribution inhomogeneity, they offer complementary information to standard lung function tests, such as spirometry, as well as improved feasibility across wider age ranges and improved sensitivity in the detection of early lung damage. These benefits have led to a resurgence of interest in these techniques from manufacturers, clinicians and researchers, yet detailed guidelines for washout equipment specifications, test performance and analysis are lacking. This manuscript provides recommendations about these aspects, applicable to both the paediatric and adult testing environment, whilst outlining the important principles that are essential for the reader to understand. These recommendations are evidence based, where possible, but in many places represent expert opinion from a working group with a large collective experience in the techniques discussed.

Finally, the important issues that remain unanswered are highlighted. By addressing these important issues and directing future research, the hope is to facilitate the incorporation of these promising tests into routine clinical practice.
Application of ’omics technologies to biomarker discovery in inflammatory lung diseases
Authors: Wheelock Craig E. , Goss Victoria M. , Balgoma David , Nicholas Ben , Brandsma Joost , Skipp Paul J. , Snowden Stuart , Burg Dominic , D'Amico Arnaldo , Horvath Ildiko , Chaiboonchoe Amphun , Ahmed Hassan , Ballereau Stéphane , Rossios Christos , Chung Kian Fan , Montuschi Paolo , Fowler Stephen J. , Adcock Ian M. , Postle Anthony D. , Dahlén Sven-Erik , Rowe Anthony , Sterk Peter J. , Auffray Charles , Djukanović Ratko ,   the U-BIOPRED Study Group
Published: February 2013

Inflammatory lung diseases are highly complex in respect of pathogenesis and relationships between inflammation, clinical disease and response to treatment. Sophisticated large-scale analytical methods to quantify gene expression (transcriptomics), proteins (proteomics), lipids (lipidomics) and metabolites (metabolomics) in the lungs, blood and urine are now available to identify biomarkers that define disease in terms of combined clinical, physiological and patho-biological abnormalities. The aspiration is that these approaches will improve diagnosis,i.e.define pathological phenotypes, and facilitate the monitoring of disease and therapy, and also, unravel underlying molecular pathways. Biomarker studies can either select predefined biomarker(s) measured by specific methods or apply an “unbiased” approach involving detection platforms that are indiscriminate in focus. This article reviews the technologies presently available to study biomarkers of lung disease within the ’omics field. The contributions of the individual ’omics analytical platforms to the field of respiratory diseases are summarised, with the goal of providing background on their respective abilities to contribute to systems medicine-based studies of lung disease.
The danger signal plus DNA damage two-hit hypothesis for chronic inflammation in COPD
Authors: Aoshiba Kazutetsu , Tsuji Takao , Yamaguchi Kazuhiro , Itoh Masayuki , Nakamura Hiroyuki
Published: February 2013

Inflammation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is thought to originate from the activation of innate immunity by a danger signal (first hit), although this mechanism does not readily explain why the inflammation becomes chronic. Here, we propose a two-hit hypothesis explaining why inflammation becomes chronic in patients with COPD. A more severe degree of inflammation exists in the lungs of patients who develop COPD than in the lungs of healthy smokers, and the large amounts of reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species released from inflammatory cells are likely to induce DNA double-strand breaks (second hit) in the airways and pulmonary alveolar cells, causing apoptosis and cell senescence. The DNA damage response and senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) are also likely to be activated, resulting in the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. These pro-inflammatory cytokines further stimulate inflammatory cell infiltration, intensifying cell senescence and SASP through a positive-feedback mechanism. This vicious cycle, characterised by mutually reinforcing inflammation and DNA damage, may cause the inflammation in COPD patients to become chronic. Our hypothesis helps explain why COPD tends to occur in the elderly, why the inflammation worsens progressively, why inflammation continues even after smoking cessation, and why COPD is associated with lung cancer.
Diagnostic accuracy of a serotype-specific antigen test in community-acquired pneumonia
Authors: Huijts Susanne M. , Pride Michael W. , Vos Josephine M.I. , Jansen Kathrin U. , Webber Chris , Gruber William , Boersma Wim G. , Snijders Dominic , Kluytmans Jan A.J.W. , van der Lee Ivo , Kuipers Bart A.F. , van der Ende Arie , Bonten Marc J.M.
Published: February 2013

Our aim was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility of a serotype-specific urinary antigen detection multiplex assay for identification of 13 pneumococcal serotypes (1, 3, 4, 5, 6A, 6B, 7F, 9V, 14, 18C, 19A, 19F and 23F) in urine of patients with community-acquired pneumonia.

Adult patients with clinical suspicion of community-acquired pneumonia were included. In addition to standard diagnostic procedures, a urine sample was collected to perform the urinary antigen detection test. Demographic, clinical, radiological and microbiological data were collected.

Among 1095 community-acquired pneumonia patientsStreptococcus pneumoniaewas identified as causative pathogen in 257 (23%), when using conventional diagnostic methods and in 357 (33%) when urinary antigen detection was added. Of the 49 bacteraemic episodes caused by one of the 13 serotypes covered by the urinary antigen detection, 48 were detected by the urinary antigen detection, indicating a sensitivity of 98%. Of the 77 community-acquired pneumonia episodes with a “non-urinary antigen detection” causative pathogen, none had a positive urinary antigen detection result, indicating a specificity of 100%.

Addition of the urinary antigen detection test to conventional diagnostic methods increased the prevalence ofS. pneumoniaecommunity-acquired pneumonia by 39%. Using bacteraemic episodes as reference sensitivity and specificity of the urinary antigen detection was 98% and 100%, respectively.
The effect of nasal tramazoline with dexamethasone in obstructive sleep apnoea patients
Authors: Koutsourelakis Ioannis , Minaritzoglou Aliki , Zakynthinos Georgios , Vagiakis Emmanouil , Zakynthinos Spyros
Published: February 2013

Although there is a strong correlation between oral/oro-nasal breathing and apnoea/hypopnoea index in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea and normal nasal resistance at wakefulness, it remains unknown whether the pharmacological prevention of potential nasal obstruction during sleep could decrease oral/oro-nasal breathing and increase nasal breathing and subsequently decrease the apnoea/hypopnoea index. This study evaluated the effect of a combination of a nasal decongestant with corticosteroid on breathing route pattern and apnoea/hypopnoea index.

21 patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (mean apnoea/hypopnoea index 31.1 events per hour) and normal nasal resistance at wakefulness were enrolled in a randomised crossover trial of 1 weeks’ treatment with nasal tramazoline and dexamethasone compared with 1 weeks’ treatment with nasal placebo. At the start and end of each treatment period, patients underwent nasal resistance measurement and overnight polysomnography with attendant measurement of breathing route pattern.

Nasal tramazoline with dexamethasone was associated with decrease in oral/oro-nasal breathing epochs and concomitant increase in nasal breathing epochs, and mean decrease of apnoea/hypopnoea index by 21%. The change in nasal breathing epochs was inversely related to the change in apnoea/hypopnoea index (Rs=0.78; p<0.001).

In conclusion, nasal tramazoline with dexamethasone in OSA patients with normal nasal resistance at wakefulness can restore the preponderance of nasal breathing epochs and modestly improve apnoea/hypopnoea index.
Pulmonary manifestations of human herpesvirus-8 during HIV infection
Authors: Borie Raphael , Cadranel Jacques , Guihot Amélie , Marcelin Anne Geneviève , Galicier Lionel , Couderc Louis-Jean
Published: February 2013

Human herpesvirus (HHV)-8 is an oncogenic gamma herpesvirus that was first described in 1994 in Kaposi sarcoma lesions. HHV-8 is involved in the pathophysiological features of multicentric Castleman’s disease (MCD) and primary effusion lymphoma (PEL), both rare B-cell lymphoproliferative diseases. HHV-8-related tumours occur almost exclusively in immunocompromised patients, mostly those with HIV infection. Combined antiretroviral therapies have reduced the incidence of Kaposi sarcoma but not MCD and PEL.

HHV-8-related diseases frequently exhibit pulmonary involvement, which may indicate the disease. Kaposi sarcoma in the lung is often asymptomatic but may require specific therapy. It mostly shows cutaneous or mucosal involvement. Patients with typical MCD present fever and lymphadenopathy associated with interstitial lung disease without opportunistic infection. Specific treatment may be urgent. PEL provokes a febrile, lymphocytic-exudative pleural effusion, without a pleural mass on computed tomography scan. Rapid diagnosis prevents unnecessary examinations and leads to specific, rapid treatment. Therapy is complex, combining antiretroviral therapy and chemotherapy.
Pulmonary hypertension in antisynthetase syndrome: prevalence, aetiology and survival
Authors: Hervier Baptiste , Meyer Alain , Dieval Céline , Uzunhan Yurdagul , Devilliers Hervé , Launay David , Canuet Matthieu , Têtu Laurent , Agard Christian , Sibilia Jean , Hamidou Mohamed , Amoura Zahir , Nunes Hilario , Benveniste Olivier , Grenier Philippe , Montani David , Hachulla Eric
Published: February 2013

Antisynthetase syndrome is characterised by the association of interstitial lung disease and myositis with different anti-tRNA-synthetase antibodies. The occurrence, aetiology and prognosis of pulmonary hypertension have not yet been evaluated.

Among 203 consecutive patients, transthoracic echocardiogram and right heart catheterisation results were retrospectively analysed in the light of clinico-biological, morphological and functional parameters. Definitions of pulmonary hypertension were based on the European Society of Cardiology/European Respiratory Society 2009 guidelines, with severe pulmonary hypertension being defined by a mean pulmonary arterial pressure >35 mmHg.

Pulmonary hypertension was suspected by transthoracic echocardiogram in 47 (23.2%) cases, corresponding to pulmonary hypertension “possible” (n=27, 13.3%) or “likely” (n=20, 9.9%). Right heart catheterisation was performed in 21 patients, excluding pulmonary hypertension in five and confirming pre-capillary pulmonary hypertension in 16 (7.9%). Although related to interstitial lung disease in all cases, pre-capillary pulmonary hypertension was severe in 13 (81.3%) patients (mean±sdpulmonary arterial pressure 46±9 mmHg), frequently associated with low cardiac index (mean±sd2.3±0.8 L·min−1·m−2) and high forced vital capacity/diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide ratio (2.5±0.6). Pulmonary hypertension was significantly associated with a lower survival rate (p<0.001), with a 3-year survival rate of 58%.

The occurrence of pulmonary hypertension in antisynthetase syndrome is significant and dramatically worsens the prognosis. Although systematically associated with interstitial lung disease, pulmonary hypertension was usually severe, suggesting a specific pulmonary vascular involvement.