bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Staphylococcus aureus intestinal colonization is associated with increased frequency of S. aureuson skin of hospitalized patients
Authors: Bhalla Anita , Aron David C , Donskey Curtis J
Published: September 2007

Background

Intestinal colonization by Staphylococcus aureus among hospitalized patients has been associated with increased risk of staphylococcal infection and could potentially contribute to transmission. We hypothesized that S. aureus intestinal colonization is associated with increased frequency of S. aureus on patients' skin and nearby environmental surfaces.

Methods

Selected inpatients were cultured weekly for S. aureus from stool, nares, skin (groin and axilla), and environmental surfaces (bed rail and bedside table). Investigator's hands were cultured after contacting the patients' skin and the environmental surfaces.

Results

Of 71 subjects, 32 (45.1%) had negative nares and stool cultures, 23 (32.4%) had positive nares and stool cultures, 13 (18.3%) were nares carriers only, and 3 (4.2%) were stool carriers only. Of the 39 patients with S. aureus carriage, 30 (76.9%) had methicillin-resistant isolates. In comparison to nares colonization only, nares and intestinal colonization was associated with increased frequency of positive skin cultures (41% versus 77%; p = 0.001) and trends toward increased environmental contamination (45% versus 62%; p = 0.188) and acquisition on investigator's hands (36% versus 60%; p = 0.057). Patients with negative nares and stool cultures had low frequency of S. aureus on skin and the environment (4.8% and 11.3%, respectively).

Conclusion

We found that hospitalized patients with S. aureus nares and/or stool carriage frequently had S. aureus on their skin and on nearby environmental surfaces. S. aureus intestinal colonization was associated with increased frequency of positive skin cultures, which could potentially facilitate staphylococcal infections and nosocomial transmission.
Appropriate criteria for identification of near-miss maternal morbidity in tertiary care facilities: A cross sectional study
Authors: Souza JP , Cecatti JG , Parpinelli MA , Serruya SJ , Amaral E
Published: September 2007

Background

The study of severe maternal morbidity survivors (near miss) may be an alternative or a complement to the study of maternal death events as a health care indicator. However, there is still controversy regarding the criteria for identification of near-miss maternal morbidity. This study aimed to characterize the near miss maternal morbidity according to different sets of criteria.

Methods

A descriptive study in a tertiary center including 2,929 women who delivered there between July 2003 and June 2004. Possible cases of near miss were daily screened by checking different sets of criteria proposed elsewhere. The main outcome measures were: rate of near miss and its primary determinant factors, criteria for its identification, total hospital stay, ICU stay, and number and kind of special procedures performed.

Results

There were two maternal deaths and 124 cases of near miss were identified, with 102 of them admitted to the ICU (80.9%). Among the 126 special procedures performed, the most frequent were central venous access, echocardiography and invasive mechanical ventilation. The mean hospital stay was 10.3 (± 13.24) days. Hospital stay and the number of special procedures performed were significantly higher when the organ dysfunction based criteria were applied.

Conclusion

The adoption of a two level screening strategy may lead to the development of a consistent severe maternal morbidity surveillance system but further research is needed before worldwide near miss criteria can be assumed.
Association of CTLA-4 gene polymorphisms with sporadic breast cancer in Chinese Han population
Authors: Wang Lihong , Li Dalin , Fu Zhenkun , Li Heng , Jiang Wei , Li Dianjun
Published: September 2007

Background

The host immunogenetic background plays an important role in the development of breast cancer. Cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4) is a molecule expressed predominantly on activated T cells and is important during the down-regulation of T-cell activation. To evaluate the potential influences ofCTLA-4gene polymorphisms on breast cancer risk, a case-control study was conducted in Han women of Northeast China.

Methods

We genotypedCTLA-4variants (-1661 G/A, -658 T/C, -318 T/C, +49 G/A and CT60 G/A) to tag all common haplotypes (≥ 1% frequency) in 117 Chinese breast cancer cases and 148 age/sex matched healthy individuals. Genotypes were determined by the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. Data was analyzed using the Chi-square test and Haploview software.

Results

The frequency ofCTLA-4-1661G allele, -318T allele and CT60G allele carriers was significantly higher in patients than in controls (P= 0.0057, OR 1.91, 95% CI 1.21–3.02;P= 0.0031, OR 2.39, 95% CI 1.34–4.27;P= 0.023, OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.06–2.17, respectively). The -658T allele carrier frequency was significantly lower than in controls (P= 0.0000082, OR 0.17, 95% CI 0.08–0.37), whereas the +49A allele was significantly associated with tumor size in patients (P= 0.0033). Two commonCTLA-4haplotypes, ATCGA and ATCAG, were higher in healthy controls than patients (P= 0.0026, OR 0.17, 95% CI 0.05–0.54;P= 0.034, OR 0.12, 95% CI 0.02–0.92, respectively). A strong association was observed between tumor size and the ACCAA, ACCAG and ACCGA haplotypes (P= 0.0032,P= 0.0000031 andP= 0.017).

Conclusion

These results suggest that polymorphisms of theCTLA-4gene may modify individual susceptibility to and progression of breast cancer in Chinese Han women.
Solution structure of the second bromodomain of Brd2 and its specific interaction with acetylated histone tails
Authors: Huang Hongda , Zhang Jiahai , Shen Weiqun , Wang Xingsheng , Wu Jiawen , Wu Jihui , Shi Yunyu
Published: September 2007

Background

Brd2 is a transcriptional regulator and belongs to BET family, a less characterized novel class of bromodomain-containing proteins. Brd2 contains two tandem bromodomains (BD1 and BD2, 46% sequence identity) in the N-terminus and a conserved motif named ET (extra C-terminal) domain at the C-terminus that is also present in some other bromodomain proteins. The two bromodomains have been shown to bind the acetylated histone H4 and to be responsible for mitotic retention on chromosomes, which is probably a distinctive feature of BET family proteins. Although the crystal structure of Brd2 BD1 is reported, no structure features have been characterized for Brd2 BD2 and its interaction with acetylated histones.

Results

Here we report the solution structure of human Brd2 BD2 determined by NMR. Although the overall fold resembles the bromodomains from other proteins, significant differences can be found in loop regions, especially in the ZA loop in which a two amino acids insertion is involved in an uncommonπ-helix, termedπD. The helixπD forms a portion of the acetyl-lysine binding site, which could be a structural characteristic of Brd2 BD2 and other BET bromodomains. Unlike Brd2 BD1, BD2 is monomeric in solution. With NMR perturbation studies, we have mapped the H4-AcK12 peptide binding interface on Brd2 BD2 and shown that the binding was with low affinity (2.9 mM) and in fast exchange. Using NMR and mutational analysis, we identified several residues important for the Brd2 BD2-H4-AcK12 peptide interaction and probed the potential mechanism for the specific recognition of acetylated histone codes by Brd2 BD2.

Conclusion

Brd2 BD2 is monomeric in solution and dynamically interacts with H4-AcK12. The additional secondary elements in the long ZA loop may be a common characteristic of BET bromodomains. Surrounding the ligand-binding cavity, five aspartate residues form a negatively charged collar that serves as a secondary binding site for H4-AcK12. We suggest that Brd2 BD1 and BD2 may possess distinctive roles and cooperate to regulate Brd2 functions. The structure basis of Brd2 BD2 will help to further characterize the functions of Brd2 and its BET members.
Factors considered by medical students when formulating their specialty preferences in Japan: findings from a qualitative study
Authors: Saigal Priya , Takemura Yousuke , Nishiue Takashi , Fetters Michael D
Published: September 2007

Background

Little research addresses how medical students develop their choice of specialty training in Japan. The purpose of this research was to elucidate factors considered by Japanese medical students when formulating their specialty choice.

Methods

We conducted qualitative interviews with 25 Japanese medical students regarding factors influencing specialty preference and their views on roles of primary versus specialty care. We qualitatively analyzed the data to identify factors students consider when developing specialty preferences, to understand their views about primary and subspecialty care, and to construct models depicting the pathways to specialization.

Results

Students mention factors such as illness in self or close others, respect for family member in the profession, preclinical experiences in the curriculum such as labs and dissection, and aspects of patient care such as the clinical atmosphere, charismatic role models, and doctor-patient communication as influential on their specialty preferences. Participating students could generally distinguish between subspecialty care and primary care, but not primary care and family medicine. Our analysis yields a "Two Career" model depicting how medical graduates can first train for hospital-based specialty practice, and then switch to mixed primary/specialty care outpatient practice years later without any requirement for systematic training in principles of primary care practice.

Conclusion

Preclinical and clinical experiences as well as role models are reported by Japanese students as influential factors when formulating their specialty preferences. Student understanding of family medicine as a discipline is low in Japan. Students with ultimate aspirations to practice outpatient primary care medicine do not need to commit to systematic primary care training after graduation. The Two Career model of specialization leaves the door open for medical graduates to enter primary care practice at anytime regardless of post-graduate residency training choice.
Bilateral synchronous breast carcinomas followed by a metastasis to the gallbladder: a case report
Authors: Zagouri Flora , Sergentanis Theodoros N , Koulocheri Dimitra , Nonni Afroditi , Bousiotou Aggeliki , Domeyer Philip , Michalopoulos Nikolaos V , Dardamanis Dimitrios , Konstadoulakis Manousos M , Zografos George C
Published: September 2007

Background

Breast cancer is usually associated with metastases to lungs, bones and liver. Breast carcinoma metastasizing to the gallbladder is very rare.

Case presentation

A 59-year-old woman presented with bilateral synchronous breast lesions. A palpable, retroareolar solid lesion of diameter equal to 5 cm was present in the right breast, and a newly developed, non-palpable lesion with microcalcifications (diameter equal to 0.7 cm) was present in the upper outer quadrant of the left breast. Modified radical mastectomy was performed on the right breast and lumpectomy after hook-wire localization was performed on the left breast, combined with lymph node dissection in both sides. The pathological examination revealed invasive lobular carcinoma grade II in the right breast and invasive ductal carcinoma grade I in the left breast. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, trastuzumab and letrozole were appropriately administered. At her 18-month follow-up, the patient was free of symptoms; the imaging tests (chest CT, abdominal U/S, bone scan), biochemical tests, blood cell count and tumor markers were also normal. At the 20th month after surgery however, the patient developed symptoms of cholecystitis and underwent cholecystectomy. The histopathological examination revealed metastasis of the lobular carcinoma to the gallbladder.

Conclusion

This extremely rare case confirms on a single patient the results of large series having demonstrated the preferential metastasis of lobular breast cancer to the gallbladder. Symptoms of cholecystitis should not be neglected in such patients, as they might indicate metastasis to the gallbladder.
Centrosomal pre-integration latency of HIV-1 in quiescent cells
Authors: Zamborlini Alessia , Lehmann-Che Jacqueline , Clave Emmanuel , Giron Marie-Lou , Tobaly-Tapiero Joëlle , Roingeard Philippe , Emiliani Stéphane , Toubert Antoine , de Thé Hugues , Saïb Ali
Published: September 2007

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) efficiently replicates in dividing and non-dividing cells. However, HIV-1 infection is blocked at an early post-entry step in quiescent CD4+ T cells in vitro. The molecular basis of this restriction is still poorly understood. Here, we show that in quiescent cells, incoming HIV-1 sub-viral complexes concentrate and stably reside at the centrosome for several weeks. Upon cell activation, viral replication resumes leading to viral gene expression. Thus, HIV-1 can persist in quiescent cells as a stable, centrosome-associated, pre-integration intermediate.
Axon and dendrite geography predict the specificity of synaptic connections in a functioning spinal cord network
Authors: Li Wen-Chang , Cooke Tom , Sautois Bart , Soffe Stephen R , Borisyuk Roman , Roberts Alan
Published: September 2007

Background

How specific are the synaptic connections formed as neuronal networks develop and can simple rules account for the formation of functioning circuits? These questions are assessed in the spinal circuits controlling swimming in hatchling frog tadpoles. This is possible because detailed information is now available on the identity and synaptic connections of the main types of neuron.

Results

The probabilities of synapses between 7 types of identified spinal neuron were measured directly by making electrical recordings from 500 pairs of neurons. For the same neuron types, the dorso-ventral distributions of axons and dendrites were measured and then used to calculate the probabilities that axons would encounter particular dendrites and so potentially form synaptic connections. Surprisingly, synapses were found between all types of neuron but contact probabilities could be predicted simply by the anatomical overlap of their axons and dendrites. These results suggested that synapse formation may not require axons to recognise specific, correct dendrites. To test the plausibility of simpler hypotheses, we first made computational models that were able to generate longitudinal axon growth paths and reproduce the axon distribution patterns and synaptic contact probabilities found in the spinal cord. To test if probabilistic rules could produce functioning spinal networks, we then made realistic computational models of spinal cord neurons, giving them established cell-specific properties and connecting them into networks using the contact probabilities we had determined. A majority of these networks produced robust swimming activity.

Conclusion

Simple factors such as morphogen gradients controlling dorso-ventral soma, dendrite and axon positions may sufficiently constrain the synaptic connections made between different types of neuron as the spinal cord first develops and allow functional networks to form. Our analysis implies that detailed cellular recognition between spinal neuron types may not be necessary for the reliable formation of functional networks to generate early behaviour like swimming.
Insights into spatial configuration of a galactosylated epitope required to trigger arthritogenic T-cell receptors specific for the sugar moiety
Authors: Glatigny Simon , Blaton Marie-Agnès , Marin Julien , Mistou Sylvie , Briand Jean-Paul , Guichard Gilles , Fournier Catherine , Chiocchia Gilles
Published: September 2007

The immunodominant epitope of bovine type II collagen (CII256–270) in Aq mice carries a hydroxylysine-264 linked galactose (Gal-Hyl264), the recognition of which is central to the development of collagen-induced arthritis. This study explores the molecular interactions involved in the engagement of T-cell receptors (TCRs) with such epitopes. Responses of three anti-CII T-cell hybridomas and clone A9.2 (all sharing close TCR sequences) to a panel of CII256–270 analogues incorporating Gal-Hyl264 with a modified side chain were determined. Recognition of naturally occurring CII256–270 peptides by either group of T cells depended strictly upon the presence of the carbohydrate and, more precisely, its intact HO-4 group. Modifications of primary amino group on the hydroxylysine side chain eliminated T-cell reactivity, notwithstanding the presence of the galactosyl moiety. Moderate stereochemical changes, such as altered sugar orientation and methylation at the galactose anchor position, were still permissive. Conversely, robust transformations affecting the relative positions of the key elements were detrimental to TCR recognition. To conclude, these data provide strong new experimental evidence that integrity of both galactose HO-4 and hydroxylysine side chain primary amino groups are mandatory for activation of anti-Gal-Hyl264 TCRs. They also indicate that there is a certain degree of TCR plasticity in peptide-TCR interactions.
How to evaluate the microcirculation: report of a round table conference
Authors: De Backer Daniel , Hollenberg Steven , Boerma Christiaan , Goedhart Peter , Büchele Gustavo , Ospina-Tascon Gustavo , Dobbe Iwan , Ince Can
Published: September 2007

Introduction

Microvascular alterations may play an important role in the development of organ failure in critically ill patients and especially in sepsis. Recent advances in technology have allowed visualization of the microcirculation, but several scoring systems have been used so it is sometimes difficult to compare studies. This paper reports the results of a round table conference that was organized in Amsterdam in November 2006 in order to achieve consensus on image acquisition and analysis.

Methods

The participants convened to discuss the various aspects of image acquisition and the different scores, and a consensus statement was drafted using the Delphi methodology.

Results

The participants identified the following five key points for optimal image acquisition: five sites per organ, avoidance of pressure artifacts, elimination of secretions, adequate focus and contrast adjustment, and recording quality. The scores that can be used to describe numerically the microcirculatory images consist of the following: a measure of vessel density (total and perfused vessel density; two indices of perfusion of the vessels (proportion of perfused vessels and microcirculatory flow index); and a heterogeneity index. In addition, this information should be provided for all vessels and for small vessels (mostly capillaries) identified as smaller than 20 μm. Venular perfusion should be reported as a quality control index, because venules should always be perfused in the absence of pressure artifact. It is anticipated that although this information is currently obtained manually, it is likely that image analysis software will ease analysis in the future.

Conclusion

We proposed that scoring of the microcirculation should include an index of vascular density, assessment of capillary perfusion and a heterogeneity index.
Pooled Results From 38 Analyses of the Accuracy of Distress Thermometer and Other Ultra-Short Methods of Detecting Cancer-Related Mood Disorders
Authors: Mitchell Alex J.
Published: September 2007

Ultra-short screening tools involving fewer than five questions have been recommended as a simple method of detecting distress, anxiety, or depression in cancer settings. Such methods have practical appeal, but their diagnostic accuracy is unclear. A literature search limited to diagnostic validity studies of ultra-short screening in cancer settings identified 38 analyses, including 19 assessing the Distress Thermometer alone, involving a total of 6,414 unique patients. The pooled ability of ultra-short methods to detect depression was given by a sensitivity of 78.4%, a specificity of 66.8%, a positive predictive value (PPV) of 34.2%, and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 93.4%. Thus these tools were very good at excluding possible cases of depression but poor at confirming a suspected diagnosis. The pooled ability of ultra-short methods to detect anxiety was given by a sensitivity of 77.3% and a specificity of 56.6% (PPV, 55.2%; NPV, 80.25%) and for distress a sensitivity of 78.3% and a specificity of 66.5% (PPV, 59.7%; NPV, of 82.8%). Results using the Distress Thermometer alone were similar. Scores of integrated accuracy, using the Youden index and diagnostic odds ratio, suggested modest overall accuracy with least success in diagnosing anxiety disorders. Ultra-short methods were modestly effective in screening for mood disorders. Their rule-in ability was poorer than their rule-out ability. Ultra-short methods cannot be used alone to diagnose depression, anxiety, or distress in cancer patients but they may be considered as a first-stage screen to rule out cases of depression.
THE LITERARY WORKSHOP
Authors: Wittig Monique
Published: September 2007

Translated by Catherine Temerson and Sande Zeig
THE GARDEN
Authors: Wittig Monique
Published: September 2007

Translated by Lorie Sauble-Otto
Individual Behavior and Group Membership
Authors: Charness Gary , Rigotti Luca , Rustichini Aldo
Published: September 2007

People who are members of a group and identify with it behave differently from people who perceive themselves as isolated individuals. This paper shows that group membership affects preferences over outcomes, and saliency of the group affects the perception of the environment. We manipulate the saliency of group membership by letting a player's own group watch as a passive audience as decisions are made, and/or by making part of the payoff common for members of the group. In contrast to the minimal-group paradigm, minimal groups alone do not affect behavior in our strategic environments. However, salient group membership significantly increases the aggressive stance of the hosts (people who have their group members in the audience), and tends to reduce that of the guests. (JEL D71, Z13)
Political Bias and War
Authors: Jackson Matthew O , Morelli Massimo
Published: September 2007

We examine how countries' incentives to go to war depend on the “political bias” of their pivotal decision makers. This bias is measured by a decision maker's risk/reward ratio from a war compared to that of the country at large. If there is no political bias, then there are mutually acceptable transfers from one country to the other that will avoid a war in the presence of commitment or enforceability of peace treaties. There are cases with a strong enough bias on the part of one or both countries where war cannot be prevented by any transfer payments. Our results shed some new light on the uneven contender paradox and the interpretation of the “democratic peace.” We examine countries' choices of the bias of their leaders and show that when transfers are possible, at least one country will choose a biased leader, as that leads to a strong bargaining position and extraction of transfers. (JEL D72, D74)
Labor and the Market Value of the Firm
Authors: Merz Monika , Yashiv Eran
Published: September 2007

What role does labor play in firms' market value? We use a production-based asset pricing model with factor adjustment costs and forward-looking agents to explore this question. We posit that the hiring of labor is akin to investment in capital and that the two interact, with the interaction being a crucial determinant of the dynamic behavior of market value. Using aggregate US corporate sector data, we estimate firms' optimal hiring and investment decisions and the consequences for firms' value. (JEL E22, E24, G31, G32, M51)
Emergency Department Management of Pediatric Asthma at a University Teaching Hospital
Authors: Ly Cynthia D , Dennehy Cathi E
Published: September 2007

Background:

Asthma is a major health problem and the most frequent cause of chronic illness and emergency department (ED) visits in children. Limited data examining the ED management of pediatric asthma within university teaching hospitals across the US exist.

Objective:

To compare the ED management of children (aged 1–17 y) with asthma at a university teaching hospital using National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP) guidelines.

Methods:

All cases of pediatric asthma that presented to the University ot California, San Francisco, Medical Center ED between October 1, 2003, and October 31, 2004, were included. Patients who required hospital admission were excluded. Data pertaining to patient demographics, primary diagnosis, pharmacologic management, diagnostic tests performed, and follow-up plans were abstracted and compared with NAEPP guidelines issued in 1997 and updated topics released in 2002.

Results:

A total of 141 cases were Identified. Mean patient age was 5.8 years. Most (61.7%) patients were male and of African American ethnicity (31.9%). Asthma severity was typically mild (66.7%) or moderate (29.1%). In persons at least 6 years of age (n = 58), peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) was performed in 25.9% of cases. Pulse oximetry, however, was always performed. Based on NAEPP guidelines, β-agonists and corticosteroids should have been used, but were not, in 2.8% and 31.9% ot cases, respectively. At discharge, no corticosteroid prescription was given in 40.4% of the cases, no written action plan was prepared in 80.1% of the cases, no formal device training was administered in 67.3% of cases, and no peak flow meter was provided for persons at least 6 years of age in 50.0% of cases.

Conclusions:

NAEPP guidelines were met in all patients regarding pulse oximetry and in most patients with respect to the use of β-agonists. Improvements could be made, however, in the use of corticosteroids in the ED: in performing PEFR measurements for persons al least 6 years of age upon arrival; and in providing formal device training, a written action plan, prescriptions for steroids, and peak flow meters at discharge.
The roles of perceived task interdependence and group members' interdependence in the development of collective efficacy in university student group contexts
Authors: Alavi Seyyed Babak , McCormick John
Published: September 2007

Background. Although the relationship between collective efficacy and group performance has been frequently investigated, a few studies have investigated the development of collective efficacy.

Aim. This paper proposes some determinants of collective efficacy in small university groups. Group level hypotheses and research questions relating collective efficacy to collective cognition activities, task interdependence, self‐efficacy for group work, and collective orientation were posited.

Sample. The sample comprised 145 university students in 40 work‐groups.

Method. A two‐phase longitudinal design was employed in the context of university student groups. All groups were required to perform interdependent academic tasks. Aggregated variables were used after testing for within‐group agreement.

Results. The results of multiple regression analysis provided some evidence that the more group members perceived themselves to be interdependent in the early stages of group work and assigned their tasks interdependently during group processes, the more likely they were to develop high collective efficacy in the final stages of group work. Collective efficacy was also related to the group average of self‐efficacy for group work especially when task interdependence was perceived to be high.

Conclusions. The results suggest that forming groups with capable university students in group work, strengthening university students' perceptions of themselves as interdependent in the early stages of academic group work and assigning interdependent group tasks during group work may contribute to the development of high collective efficacy.
Organization of co‐occurring Axis II features in borderline personality disorder
Authors: Critchfield Kenneth L. , Clarkin John F. , Levy Kenneth N. , Kernberg Otto F.
Published: September 2007

Objectives

Considerable heterogeneity exists in the comorbid Axis II features that frequently accompany borderline personality disorder (BPD). These features have potential to be meaningfully organized, relate to specific BPD presentation, and have implications for treatment process and outcome. The present study explored patterns of Axis II comorbidity in order to identify subtypes of BPD.

Design

A well‐defined sample of 90 patients diagnosed with BPD was recruited as part of an RCT study. Participants were administered the International Personality Disorder Examination (Loranger, 1999) to diagnose BPD and assess comorbid Axis II features. Other measures were also administered to assess aspects of current work and relationship functioning, symptomatology, and self‐concept.

Methods and results

Q‐factoring was used to develop subtypes based on commonly occurring Axis II profiles, identifying three: Cluster A (elevated paranoid and schizotypal features), Cluster B (elevated narcissistic and histrionic features), and Cluster C (elevated avoidant and obsessive–compulsive features). An additional factor analysis revealed two dimensions underlying the comorbid features identifiable as: extraversion versus introversion and antagonism versus constraint. Validity of these two maps of comorbidity was explored in terms of the BPD criteria themselves, as well as on work and relationship functioning, identity diffusion, views of self and others, positive and negative affect, behavioural dyscontrol, and symptomatic distress.

Conclusions

Clinically meaningful subtypes can be identified for BPD based on co‐occurring Axis II features. Further research is needed to replicate and further establish base‐rates of these subtypes as well as their differential implications for treatment.
Precursors and mediators of intergroup reconciliation in Northern Ireland: A new model
Authors: Noor Masi , James Brown Rupert , Prentice Garry
Published: September 2007

We examined social psychological factors contributing to the restoration of the intergroup relationship between Protestants and Catholics in Northern Ireland. A theoretical model of reconciliation orientation (ROM) was developed, with intergroup forgiveness and subjective evaluation of past violence as the main precursors of that orientation. Data from a Northern Irish sample (N =318) validated and extended the model. Forgiveness and evaluation of past violence were predicted by ‘competitive victimhood’ (a belief in having suffered more than the out‐group), negatively and positively, respectively. These associations were fully accounted for by the strength of identification with the in‐group and trust in the out‐group. Empathy functioned mainly as a direct predictor of forgiveness. The theoretical and practical implications of these results are discussed.
Fit perceptions in the employment interview: The role of similarity, liking, and expectations
Authors: García M. F. , Posthuma R. A. , Colella A.
Published: September 2007

We examined (1) how interviewers construct fit perceptions about applicants and (2) the relationship between these perceptions and actual hiring recommendations. It was hypothesized that actual demographic similarity and human capital similarity would indirectly affect fit perceptions. These fit perceptions would be predicted by the interviewer's perceived similarity to applicants, mediated by two factors: interviewers' liking of the applicant and interviewers' expectations of applicant performance. Actual interviewer‐applicant dyads (N=118) were studied. The results indicated that the relationship between perceived similarity and fit perceptions is mediated by performance expectations but not by liking. This study provides evidence that interviewers are more rational than previous research suggested. However, the fact that human resource interviewers are more likely to perceive applicants as similar to themselves than line interviewers suggests that interviewers' neutrality is questioned.
An evaluation of the cross‐national generalizability of organizational commitment
Authors: Hattrup Keith , Mueller Karsten , Aguirre Pancho
Published: September 2007

Using data from two large multinational samples, this research sought to contribute to our knowledge of international organizational behaviour by examining the cross‐national generalizability of organizational commitment. Sample 1 included employees of 10 subsidiaries of a large multinational organization, whereas Sample 2 relied on data collected in 25 nations in the context of a large opinion survey. Results in both samples supported the expectation that measures of commitment would be more susceptible to measurement non‐equivalence than measures of job satisfaction. Differences in relationships between commitment and satisfaction across countries were observed in both samples, as were differences in mean commitment levels. Nation‐level individualism/collectivism (I/C) failed to account for the observed differences, however, suggesting that commitment and I/C are largely independent, despite theoretical arguments to the contrary. Results of the study suggest that despite some cross‐national variation, differences in commitment across national boundaries are small and empirically unrelated to I/C.
The role of confirmation bias in suspect interviews: A systematic evaluation
Authors: Hill Carole , Memon Amina , McGeorge Peter
Published: September 2007

Purpose. The three studies presented in this paper systematically examined the effect of expectations of guilt on interviewer questioning style, confession, denial rates, and suspects' verbal behaviour during interview.

Method. Undergraduate students were recruited to participate in the three studies. In Study 1, 61 participants formulated questions that they wanted to ask a suspect to determine whether or not they cheated on a task. Prior to formulating their questions, participants were led to believe that the suspect was likely to be guilty or innocent. In Study 2, 45 ‘innocent’ and ‘guilty’ participants were accused of cheating on a task and were interviewed with either guilt‐presumptive questions or neutral questions. In the final study, 58 participants listened to a selection of audiotaped interviews from Study 2. They then rated various aspects of the suspects' verbal behaviour.

Results. As hypothesized expectations of guilt resulted in the formulation of more guilt‐presumptive questions even when participants were free to generate their own questions (Study 1). A significant association was found between suspect guilt/innocence and whether they confessed or denied, although there was no association between questioning style and confession or denial rates (Study 2). However, as expected, ratings of independent observers who listened to tape recordings of the suspect interviews indicated an influence of questioning style on the suspects' verbal behaviour whereby a self‐fulfilling prophecy effect occurred (Study 3).

Conclusions. These results indicate that expectations of guilt can indeed have an effect on questioning style and that this in‐turn can lead to a self‐fulfilling prophecy effect.
A randomized group intervention trial to enhance mood and self‐efficacy in people with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Rigby S. A. , Thornton E. W. , Young C. A.
Published: September 2007

ObjectivesTo document mood, self‐efficacy, and resiliency in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) following a brief group psychological intervention, and to examine whether benefits were greater than those derived from provision of education or group social interaction.

DesignA randomized controlled intervention trial assessing outcomes at five time points over a 1‐year follow‐up.

MethodsParticipants with MS were assigned to one of three groups: one receiving brief group psychological intervention (PG) comprising three 90 minute cognitive behavioural sessions supported by an Information Booklet dealing with mental and emotional issues relating to MS; a group provided only with educational material – the information booklet group (IBG); and a group who not only received the booklet but also participated in non‐structured social discussion (SDG) sessions similar in length and number to PG participants. Outcomes were documented using questionnaires.

ResultsOutcomes were assessed using area under the curve (AUC) analysis: a summary measure that considers individual changes serially over time to provide a more meaningful picture than the one based on single time points. Ninety participants were followed up over the 12‐month post‐intervention, and their data are included in the analysis. Analyses indicated benefits in all outcome dimensions for the psychotherapeutic (PG) and social discussion groups (SDG) relative to theIBGgroup, but no differences betweenPGandSDG.

ConclusionThe study indicates benefits from psychosocial intervention compared with bibliotherapy, with some additional benefit from psychological intervention compared with a social discussion group. Results suggest that much of the benefit may derive from non‐specific therapeutic components. Without psychosocial intervention, the psychological status of people with MS worsened over time.
The Unpublished Menninger: Divorce, Marriage, and Analyses
Authors: Faulkner Howard J. , Pruitt Virginia D.
Published: September 2007

Editing the correspondence, like writing the "authorized" biography, of a living person often creates a scholarly and ethical dilemma for a researcher. Although the authors knew they had the legal right to publish what they chose from Karl Menninger's correspondence, they also knew that simply by closing the archives to them, Menninger could circumvent legal niceties. Four sets of letters were left out of their two volumes of Menninger's professional correspondence; all of these omitted letters concern the same subjects—his divorce and remarriage and the two periods of psychoanalysis that coincided with the decisive moments in his romantic and erotic attachments. The longest and bitterest of the exchanges is with Leo Rosten, for whom Menninger's second wife worked briefly during the prolonged period of Menninger's divorce negotiations with his first wife. Exchanges with Menninger's own analysts, Franz Alexander and Ruth Mack Brunswick, and his reflections about them, also reveal intimate details of his personal life and psychological make-up. Printed here for the first time, the letters and commentary, although not always flattering, provide new insight into the workings of the keenest mind, albeit an often divided one, in 1930s psychiatry as well as more fully exposing Menninger's relationships—both personal and professional—with his family and his colleagues.
The Treatment Program at Menninger
Authors: Schlesinger Herbert J
Published: September 2007

In 1946, a small sanitarium treating a few patients and training a few psychiatrists grew suddenly to become one of the largest schools of psychiatry and clinical psychology in the world, accepting classes of 100 psychiatric residents and ten clinical psychology interns. The motive of the federal government in supporting this effort was to train the mental health professionals needed to care for the military returning from World War II. The Menninger inpatient and outpatient programs described in this article were designed for the thorough treatment of a few patients, and so served as the inspiration, rather than the model, for the treatment of veterans.
A Return of the Repressed from the Topeka Menninger Foundation Days
Authors: Shevrin Howard
Published: September 2007

The fate of repression in our patients and in ourselves, its tendency to relent for a time and then reassert itself, is the focus of this report. In this instance, the patient, a young woman in her twenties, was a subject some thirty-five years ago in a subliminal experiment conducted by the author to investigate decompensating repressive defenses. She revealed remarkable insights into her struggles with repression that were partly mirrored in the experimental results. The author quite recently returned to his notes on the experiment with a view to publishing it as a paper. He discovered that he had repressed the fact that he had already published it. Moreover, he also discovered that he had repressed an important finding. The relation between the patient's struggle and the investigator's own defenses is examined as an instance of the connection between scientific insight and repression.
New Evidence for Southeast Asian Pleistocene Foraging Economies: Faunal Remains from the Early Levels of Lang Rongrien Rockshelter, Krabi, Thailand
Authors: Mudar Karen , Anderson Douglas D
Published: September 2007

This study reports on analysis of a sample of animal bones from Pleistocene levels of Lang Rongrien Rockshelter, Thailand. Analysis identified small proportions of marine and/or freshwater fish bone, freshwater/terrestrial snail shells, and bird bones, as well as large proportions of tortoise, turtle, and mammal bones. Comparison with three other faunal assemblages underscores salient characteristics consisting of a high proportion of turtle and tortoise and an absence of pigs in the Lang Rongrien sample. Analysis of the faunal assemblage suggests that, in contrast to other sites such as Niah Cave and Moh Khiew that were occupied on a long-term basis, the Pleistocene levels of Lang Rongrien were intermittently occupied by foragers who may have been practicing a seasonal round that involved transhumance from interior to coast.
Inter- and Intraregional Variation in the Austronesian Painting Tradition: A View from East Timor
Authors: O'Connor Sue , Oliveira Nuno Vasco
Published: September 2007

This article reports on the discovery of a new rock art site from East Timor that is located inland on the southern flanks of the central mountainous spine of the island. One particular painted motif, a socketed axe with haft, indicates that at least some of the motifs were painted c. 2000 b.p. This date and the stylistic and technical features of the art would place it within the later body of painted art associated with the Austronesian Painting Tradition (APT) elsewhere in the western Pacific. This later phase is characterized by greater diversity in style, color, and placement of motifs than is found in the earlier APT. Comparison with the other known art sites in East Timor shows significant di¤erences between the rock art of the eastern and central parts of East Timor, indicating that these areas comprised separate stylistic regions.
Debating Jomon Social Complexity
Authors: Pearson Richard
Published: September 2007

People of the Jomon period (currently dated from about 14,000 b.c. to the first millennium b.c.) began to make lacquer ornaments as early as 7000 b.c. and by the fourth millennium b.c. were creating elaborately decorated, low-fired pottery vessels that appear to have been used for feasting. In the Final period of the Jomon, grave goods appear in a substantial percentage of burials. Without reliance on agriculture, Jomon people appear to have achieved a high level of social complexity. However, the evidence from a few case studies concerning lacquer, elaborate pottery, and burials seems to show that while part-time specialization provided a wealth of rich material culture, sustained hierarchy was not achieved and there was an emphasis on exchange and solidarity, as in other middle-range societies. This article reviews new material and debates.
Korean Contributions to Agriculture, Technology, and State Formation in Japan: Archaeology and History of an Epochal Thousand Years, 400 B.C.–A.D. 600
Authors: Rhee Song Nai , Aikens C. Melvin , Chʻoe Sŏng-nak , No Hyŏk-chin
Published: September 2007

This is a study of Korean contributions to cultural changes in ancient Japan as it developed agriculture and increasing social complexity and finally formed the Yamato state over the course of a thousand years, between 400 b.c. and a.d. 600. Central to this study are three broad themes, supported primarily by archaeology but importantly informed by historical texts. First, key cultural features and technologies that were essential to increasing social complexity in Yayoi period Japan and to formation of a centralized state in the sixth century a.d. entered the archipelago directly from the Korea Peninsula. Second, a dominant factor behind the infusion of Korean cultural features was the movement, in several waves, of peninsula residents into the Japanese archipelago. While trade moved peninsula goods to the archipelago all throughout the formative period, Korean technologies, skills, ideologies, and cultural systems moved with people, including permanent immigrants, temporary residents, and official envoys. The Korean immigrants in particular were impelled initially by explosive population growth in Korea fueled by the spread of agriculture there and later by increasingly tumultuous political and military events that unfolded in the peninsula as rival polities contended for power during several hundred years of war. Third, a number of Korean immigrants emerged as powerful technocrats and political functionaries during the Kofun period, providing important organizational experience and service to the Yamato court during the process of state formation in Japan.
The Contingencies of State Formation in Eastern Inner Asia
Authors: Rogers J. Daniel
Published: September 2007

Three key themes consistently play a role in the study of early state formation in eastern Inner Asia. First, scholars have frequently argued that China exerted a disproportionately strong influence on steppe polities, serving as a source of goods and ideas for neighboring pastoralist societies. Although Chinese states did very significantly influence steppe polities, interactions were complex and highly variable. Rather than being dominated by Chinese states, exchanges and interactions were often on a level of parity or were under the control of the steppe polities. It is frequently argued that the fragility of the pastoralist economy required steppe polities to acquire agricultural products, which in turn fostered a dependency on agricultural societies in the south. New evidence, however, suggests that the traditional distinction between pastoralist and agriculturalist economies may be insuficient to characterize the complex sets of interactions. Second, steppe polities are often described as short-lived entities that succeeded each other in rapid succession. This description deemphasizes the economic and cultural continuity that transcended the rise and fall of individual political entities. The third theme concerns the construction and maintenance of order. How, in other words, did rulers legitimate their power and maintain political and organizational control of populations and territories? Most interpretations argue that steppe polities looked to neighboring states for the cultural knowledge that allowed them to create and maintain order. That knowledge, however, came from multiple sources—especially the internal traditions that linked successive steppe polities.