bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of Herbals as Galactagogues
Authors: Zapantis Antonia , Steinberg Jennifer G. , Schilit Lea
Published: March 2012

With a substantial number of women using herbal products to augment their milk production, this article will review available literature illustrating efficacy and adverse effects of using these products. Embase, PubMed, and EBSCO (all databases) were searched from inception to June 2011 using terms such as “galactagogue,” “galactogogue,” “herbal,” and “botanical” and the search was subsequently narrowed to specific herbals by name. Additional articles were obtained from article reference lists. Supplemental information was obtained with Natural Standard. All abstracts retrieved were evaluated for relevance and germane articles were included. Numerous lactation-stimulating herbals have been identified in the literature with varying degrees of evidence, mostly anecdotal. Use of torbangun, milk thistle, and fenugreek may correlate with increased milk supply. Evidence regarding adverse effects, pharmacodynamic properties, and pharmacokinetic effects remains scarce. Despite the fact that postpartum women may turn to herbal galactagogues, scant clinical evidence exists to justify their effectiveness. Further clinical trials are needed in order to substantiate these findings.
A two-dimensional free vibration analysis of functionally graded sandwich beams under thermal environment
Authors: Setoodeh AR , Ghorbanzadeh M , Malekzadeh P
Published: March 2012

In this article, free vibration analysis of elastically supported sandwich beams with functionally graded face sheets subjected to thermal environment is presented. In order to accurately include the transverse shear deformation and the inertia effects, two-dimensional elasticity theory is used to formulate the problem. The layerwise theory in conjunction with the differential quadrature method is employed to discretize the governing equations in the thickness and axial directions, respectively. The material properties of functionally graded face sheets are assumed to be temperature-dependent and graded in the thickness direction according to a power-law distribution. For the purpose of comparison, the problem under consideration is also solved using two-dimensional finite element method and the first-order shear deformation theory. The accuracy, convergence, and versatility of the method are demonstrated by comparing the results with those of the two aforementioned approaches and also with the existing solutions in literature. Eventually, some new numerical results are presented which depict the effects of different material and geometrical parameters on natural frequencies and mode shapes of the beam.
Modal interactions in ultrasonic plate transducers for industrial applications
Authors: Cardoni Andrea , Riera Enrique , Blanco Alfonso , Acosta Víctor , Gallego-Juárez Juan A
Published: March 2012

Among the green technologies that are currently investigated in industry, power ultrasound constitutes an emerging one with a good potential to produce and/or enhance a variety of processes. Lately, a series of power ultrasound systems for applications in the food industry, environment and manufacturing have been developed at laboratory and semi-industrial scales. In order to scale up these systems and their associated processes, elimination and/or control of detrimental modal couplings between tuned and undesired modes are necessary. In this study, the vibration behaviour of a tuned system for defoaming made up of a sandwich transducer of the Langevin-type driving an amplitude concentrator attached to a circular radiating plate was experimentally investigated. A three-mode interaction affecting the performance of the studied power ultrasound system was detected, characterized and classified. The information gathered through this study may be useful for the development of more efficient ultrasonic devices and processes.
Rehearsal talk: Familiarity and expertise in singer-pianist duos
Authors: Ginsborg Jane , King Elaine
Published: March 2012

The cognitive and social processes underlying musical and social collaboration were explored in a small-scale study of two professional and two student singer-pianist duos. Each of the eight participants rehearsed one song with his or her regular partner and a second song with a new partner of the same level of expertise; four participants rehearsed a third song with a new partner of the other level of expertise. Their talk during rehearsal was analysed to determine a) numbers and initiators of verbal exchanges, b) interactional style, c) musical dimensions, and d) rehearsal strategies. The professional duos rehearsed more efficiently, in that they talked less and sang/played more. Interactional style was overwhelmingly positive. Students were more likely than professionals to show solidarity and ask for orientation, while professionals were more likely to give and ask for opinions. Basic, interpretive and expressive musical features were found to be as salient in these single rehearsals as evidenced in earlier research investigating protracted rehearsal periods; the present study also identified a range of rehearsal strategies, although the most common was working from the beginning to the end of the song. In conclusion we make some brief suggestions for performers.
Simulation of multimodal vibration damping of a plate structure using a modal SSDI-Max technique
Authors: Chérif Aïda , Richard Claude , Guyomar Daniel , Belkhiat Saâd , Meddad Mounir
Published: March 2012

Modal synchronized switch damping on inductor control is a vibration damping technique that combines the advantages of both semiactive and active control techniques based on a modal strategy. This method allows targeting any unwanted vibration mode of a structure while using a semiactive autonomous synchronized switch damping on inductor damping technique. This article presents a performance analysis of an improved modal synchronized switch damping on inductor approach called “SSDI-Max.” The particularity of this new approach is to maximize the self-generated voltage amplitude by a proper definition of the switch instants (voltage inversion) according to the chosen targeted mode. Following the basic modal synchronized switch damping on inductor technique, the switch is synchronized with the chosen modal coordinate extremum. In the investigated approach, the voltage is increased by waiting for the next voltage extremum following immediately any targeted modal coordinate extremum in a given time window. This article presents simulations performed on a model representative of a clamped plate. The damping results are given in the case of multimodal, pulse, or noise excitations. This article analyzes the performance of the observer used to focus on a given mode and the influence of the control time window on the damping performance of the system. The results show that substantial damping increase can be obtained with a very slight modification of the control architecture and the same control energy.
American Muslim Perceptions of Healing
Authors: Padela Aasim I. , Killawi Amal , Forman Jane , DeMonner Sonya , Heisler Michele
Published: March 2012

American Muslims represent a growing and diverse community. Efforts at promoting cultural competence, enhancing cross-cultural communication skills, and improving community health must account for the religio-cultural frame through which American Muslims view healing. Using a community-based participatory research model, we conducted 13 focus groups at area mosques in southeast Michigan to explore American Muslim views on healing and to identify the primary agents, and their roles, within the healing process. Participants shared a God-centric view of healing. Healing was accessed through direct means such as supplication and recitation of the Qur’an, or indirectly through human agents including imams, health care practitioners, family, friends, and community. Human agents served integral roles, influencing spiritual, psychological, and physical health. Additional research into how religiosity, health care systems, and community factors influence health-care-seeking behaviors is warranted.
Numerical integration of elasto-plasticity coupled to damage using a diagonal implicit Runge–Kutta integration scheme
Authors: Borgqvist Eric , Wallin Mathias
Published: March 2012

This article is concerned with the numerical integration of finite strain continuum damage models. The numerical sensitivity of two damage evolution laws and two numerical integration schemes are investigated. The two damage models differ in that one of the models includes a threshold such that the damage evolution is suppressed until a certain effective plastic strain is reached. The classical integration scheme based on the implicit Euler scheme is found to suffer from a severe step-length dependence. An alternative integration scheme based on a diagonal implicit Runge--Kutta scheme originally proposed by Ellsiepen ( 1999 ) is investigated. The diagonal implicit Runge--Kutta scheme is applied to the balance of momentum as well as the constitutive evolution equations. When applied to finite strain multiplicative plasticity, the diagonal implicit Runge--Kutta scheme destroys the plastic incompressibility of the underlying continuum evolution laws. Here, the evolution laws are modified such that the incompressibility of the plastic deformation is preserved approximately. The presented numerical examples reveal that a significant increase in accuracy can be obtained at virtually no cost using the diagonal implicit Runge--Kutta scheme. It is also shown that for the model including a discontinuous evolution law, the superiority of the diagonal implicit Runge--Kutta scheme over the implicit Euler scheme is reduced.
Dissensual Decision Making
Authors: Hendershot Marcus E. , Hurwitz Mark S. , Lanier Drew Noble , Pacelle Richard L.
Published: March 2012

This analysis seeks to understand the decline of Supreme Court consensual norms often attributed to the failed leadership of Chief Justice Stone. A new unit of analysis—justice-level dissent and concurrence rates—supports an alternative view of observed increases in dissensual decision making. When these measures are estimated with time-series techniques, results offer evidence of multiple changepoints in this norm of the Court that both lead and lag Stone’s elevation. Broader contextual explanations related to the alteration of the Court’s discretionary issue agenda and its ideological and demographic composition also contribute to fractures in the once-unanimous voting coalitions.
Nurse Practitioners in Home Health Care
Authors: Neal-Boylan Leslie , Mager Diana R. , Kazer Meredith Wallace
Published: March 2012

Nurse practitioners are playing an increasingly visible role in home care. The Institute of Medicine in collaboration with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation recommends wider use of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses and there has been growing interest in using the role in home care.1 However, the physician remains the provider who must sign home health agency paperwork and orders. The “Home Health Care Planning Improvement Act” would allow nurse practitioners to certify Medicare-sponsored treatment plans.2 This article will discuss the status of the nurse practitioner role in home care, the impact of reimbursement on home care services, how the passage of the new act would change current practice, and a vision for the future role of the nurse practitioner in home health care.
Transitioning From Endgame to Sustainability
Authors: Brownlee Jamie , Kueneman Rodney
Published: March 2012

This article engages with Peter Barnes’s work on commons trusts as a model to confront mounting social and ecological crises. The authors begin by locating Barnes’s model within the context of other approaches to this issue and by describing the main elements of his work and applying them to the case of carbon reduction strategies. Throughout, the article highlights the key strengths, limitations, and implications of Barnes’s model. Although Barnes offers a proposal for institutional change that could democratize decision making with a view to protecting the ecosphere, it does not go far enough to challenge the current capitalist order or in explaining how commons trusts would be protected from corporate influence. Implications include the connections between Barnes’s institutional model and a confederal model of global governance, as well as the potential of commons trusts to alter the practice of law and create new channels for ecological literacy and grassroots activism.
Psychopathology and Personality in Parents of Children With ADHD
Authors: Steinhausen Hans-Christoph , Göllner Julia , Brandeis Daniel , Müller Ueli C. , Valko Lilian , Drechsler Renate
Published: March 2012

Objective: To compare psychopathology and personality in parents of children with ADHD and control parents. Method: A total of 140 parents were subdivided according to presence and duration of ADHD. Assessment was based on various ADHD self-rating scales, the revised Symptom Checklist (SCL-90-R), the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ), and the revised NEO Five Factors Inventory (NEO-FFI). Results: Parents with lifelong persistent ADHD were most abnormal on all dimensions of ADHD psychopathology, the SCL-90-R, the PHQ, and the neuroticism and conscientiousness dimensions of the NEO-FFI. The scores of parents with current ADHD approached those of parents with persistent ADHD on most dimensions, and both groups scored higher than did parents with either remitted ADHD or no ADHD, or controls. The scores of the latter three groups were not significantly different from each other. Conclusion: Among parents of children with ADHD, parents with lifelong persistent or current ADHD show highest scores of psychopathology.
Brain Cortical Thickness in ADHD
Authors: Almeida Montes Luis Guillermo , Prado Alcántara Hugo , Martínez García Reyna Beatriz , De La Torre Lázaro Barajas , Ávila Acosta David , Duarte Martín Gallegos
Published: March 2012

Objective: Longitudinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies have shown reduced cortical thickness (CT) in individuals with ADHD, but this abnormality disappears with age, suggesting developmental delay. However, cross-sectional MRI studies have shown reduced CT, suggesting abnormal development. The aim of this study was to compare whole-brain CT in male and female children, adolescents, and adults with ADHD with whole-brain CT in matched control participants. Method: MRI scans were performed on ADHD and control participants. Results: CT data revealed differences in right hemisphere (RH) only. Reduced CT was observed predominantly in the frontoparietal region. However, increased CT was observed predominantly in the occipital lobe. The CT differences were correlated with severity of ADHD. Analysis of sex differences revealed that location, number, and magnitude of CT differences were different between males and females in each age group. Conclusion: These data support the hypothesis that anatomical abnormalities in ADHD represent abnormal development rather than developmental delay.
Policy Making, Incrementalism, and News Discourse
Authors: Watts Richard A. , Frick Karen Trapenberg , Maddison Jonathan
Published: March 2012

Gasoline taxes provide a significant source of funding for transportation in the United States but have failed to keep pace with system needs. This article examines the news media discourse surrounding proposed gasoline tax increases in eight states in 2008 and 2009: Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Idaho, Rhode Island, Virginia, and Oregon. Researchers use a frame analysis approach to examine the policy debate in these states. Results indicate that frequently occurring frames promoting gasoline tax increases emphasize the deterioration of the transportation system, funding shortfalls, and job creation. Frames opposing tax increases highlight difficult economic times, more efficient government, and general opposition to new taxes. In three of the four cases where states rejected gas tax increases, significant increases in transportation spending are provided through other revenue sources, an evidence of the shifting in financing transportation from user fees such as gas tax to other sources.
Choosing the enemy
Authors: Walter Annemarie S
Published: March 2012

This article examines which political parties are the most likely targets of negative campaigning in a multiparty system. The choice of target is an important strategic decision parties make when deciding on their campaign strategy. The article advances existing research on negative campaigning in several ways. First, it is the only paper of its kind to statistically test which parties are most likely to be attacked in a multiparty system and in a non-US setting. Second, it contributes to the development of a general theory on negative campaigning by examining its use in a multiparty system. Finally, it presents new content analysis data on negative campaigning from ten Dutch Parliamentary elections between 1981 and 2010. The findings show that large parties, ideologically proximate parties, parties close to the median party position and government parties are the most likely targets of negative campaigning in the Dutch multiparty system.
Placing and tracing absence: A material culture of the immaterial
Authors: Meyer Morgan
Published: March 2012

This essay engages with recent work on an unusual, yet fascinating theme: absence. Two edited collections have recently been published that deal with the topic: An Anthropology of Absence: Materializations of Transcendence and Loss (Bille et al., 2010) and The Matter of Death: Space, Place and Materiality (Hockey et al., 2010). These books explore an almost counterintuitive aspect of absence: its material culture. Indeed, absence has a materiality and exists in – and has effects on – the spaces people inhabit and their daily practices and experiences. Drawing on the discussions in these two books and on other recent developments in the study of absence, this essay considers the relational ontology of absence, conceiving absence not as a thing in itself but as something that exists through relations that give absence matter. Absence, in this view, is something performed, textured and materialized through relations and processes, and via objects. We therefore need to trace absence. This entails following and describing the processes through which absence becomes matter and absence comes to matter. It means to map out, locate and follow the traces of absence and understand absences as traces, that is, as residual, incomplete, elusive, ambiguous, yet material entities.
The penis as public part: Embodiment and the performance of masculinity in public settings
Authors: Del Rosso Jared
Published: March 2012

Drawing on an online ethnography at PeniSanity.com, a support site for men who perceive their penises to be small, this article examines site members’ descriptions of their everyday experiences of exposure to the gaze of other men. Site members describe offline exposure as inducing anxieties about having their ‘small penises’ seen. In contrast, online exposure, particularly at the website itself, is often described as liberating. I conclude with a discussion of the contextual resources available in these settings that account for these differences.
‘You will always have to “out” yourself’: Reconsidering coming out through strategic outness
Authors: Orne Jason
Published: March 2012

Increasingly, researchers casually use the concept of coming out. After tracing its conceptual inflation, this article shifts the lens from identity development to reconsider coming out as identity management. I develop the perspective of strategic outness – the contextual and continual management of identity – to emphasize the role of social context in sexual identity disclosure. Using data from open-ended essays, I explore three aspects of strategic outness: strategies, motivational discourses, and social relationships. My participants discuss using multiple strategies to manage who knows about their sexuality, cohesively describe multiple motivations for controlling that information, and emphasize the role of social relationships in their decision-making. Strategic outness reconsiders how coming out is used with sexuality research, providing researchers with an explicit perspective to consider the social context of sexual identity disclosure in their analyses.
Hearts, groins and the intricacies of gay male open relationships: Sexual desire and liberation revisited
Authors: Coelho Tony
Published: March 2012

An extensive look at the narratives of 14 gay men in open relationships living in Amsterdam presents a world of gay male sexual desire that continues to leave the heterosexual counterpart dumbfounded. This article focuses on the five main points deducted from the informants' erotic retellings: the variety and unpredictability of arrangements between each couple; the preference for a more intimate connection with outside encounters instead of an impersonal or anonymous encounter; the decline of sex as a non-factor for choosing to open up sexual barriers as informants confess to non-monogamy in the beginnings of their relationships; the common perception that there exists a natural male drive to sexually explore with multiple partners; and finally, the complexities that come with open arrangements, forcing a re-examination of the open gay couple as the embodiment of ‘liberation’.
Angiotensin-converting enzyme I/D polymorphism is not associated with type 2 diabetes in a Chinese population
Authors: Zhou Donghao , Ruiter Rikje , Zhang Jingling , Zhou Ming’ai , Liu Hongjun , Liu Weidong , Wang Shengxiang
Published: March 2012

Objective:

A role for the angiotensin-converting enzyme ( ACE) gene has been suggested in the aetiology of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). However, results have been inconsistent. In this study, we performed a meta-analysis to further clarify the association between ACE I/D polymorphism and T2DM risk in a Chinese population.

Methods:

PubMed, EMBASE, CNKI and Wan Fang Data were searched for eligible studies. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a fixed-effects model or random-effects model.

Results::

A total of 41 studies (4708 cases and 5368 controls) for the association between ACE I/D polymorphism and T2DM in a Chinese population were identified. The pooled ORs for the association between ACE I/D polymorphism and T2DM risk were not statistically significant under all genetic models (co-dominant model: DD vs. II: OR = 1.17, 95% CI 0.97–1.42 and ID vs. II: OR = 1.01, 95% CI 0.93–1.10; dominant model: OR = 1.06, 95% CI 0.94–1.19; multiplicative model: OR = 1.08, 95% CI 0.98–1.18). Although a marginally significant association was observed under a recessive model (OR = 1.17, 95% CI 1.00–1.36), robustness of this estimate could not be established under additional sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions::

The meta-analysis presented in this study indicated that ACE I/D polymorphism may not be associated with the risk of T2DM in the Chinese population.
Synergistic effect of angiotensin II type-1 receptor 1166A/C with angiotensin-converting enzyme polymorphism on risk of acute myocardial infarction in north Indians
Authors: Kaur Rupinder , Das Reena , Ahluwalia Jasmina , Kumar Rohit Manoj , Talwar KK
Published: March 2012

Introduction:

This first study from north India investigated the synergistic effect of AT1R 1166A/C with the ACE I/D polymorphism on risk of acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

Materials and Methods:

Traditional coronary risk factors, ACE I/D and AT1R 1166A/C polymorphism were analyzed in 350 patients with AMI and 350 matched controls.

Results:

In univariate analysis, hypertension (52.9% vs. 11.1%; OR=8.9; 95%CI 6.0–13.3), diabetes mellitus (16.0% vs. 0.6%; OR=33.1; 95%CI 8.0–137), smoking (43.7% vs. 20.9%; OR=2.9; 95%CI 2.1–4.1), family history of coronary artery disease (22.3% vs. 14.0%; OR=1.8; 95%CI 1.2–2.6), high body mass index (64.3% vs. 51.4%; OR=1.7; 95%CI 1.3-2.3), high waist–hip ratio (46.2% vs. 2.3%; OR=37; 95%CI 16–85.8) and AT1R 1166AC genotype (20.6% vs. 12%; OR=1.9; 95%CI 1.3–2.9) were associated with AMI. In multivariate analysis, all these factors were found to be independent risk predictors for AMI. Subjects carrying the AT1R 1166AC+CC and ACE ID+DD combined genotype showed a twofold increased association (OR=2.1; 95%CI 1.2–3.5) compared with the AT1R 1166AA–A CE II combined genotype. Patients who smoked and who carried the ACE ID+DD genotype had 2.4-fold (OR=2.4; 95%CI 1.5–3.8), and with the AT1R 1166AC+CC genotype had 15-fold (OR=14.9; 95%CI 5.2–42.8) increased risk of AMI compared with non-smoking non-carriers.

Conclusions:

The AT1R 1166A/C polymorphism has association with AMI among north Indian patients, particularly if integrated with ACE I/D polymorphism and smoking.
Social Networks and Career Advancement of People With Disabilities
Authors: Kulkarni Mukta
Published: March 2012

Although organizational social networks are known to influence career mobility, the specific direction of this influence is different for diverse employee groups. Diversity in organizational network research has been operationalized on various dimensions such as race and ethnicity, age, religion, education, occupation, and gender. Missing in this stream of research are application and implications of social networks as they influence career advancement of people with disabilities. The objective of this conceptual article is to outline how social network characteristics such as network density, multiplexity, cohesiveness, and homophily influence career advancement of individuals with a disability. The author concludes by proposing that human resource development professionals can engage in structured socialization programs, network audits, focused training, and the creation of an inclusive climate to ensure that social networks do not pose a deterrent to career advancement of minorities such as people with a disability.
In Vitro Analysis of Balloon Cuffing Phenomenon
Authors: Chung Eric , So Karina
Published: March 2012

Aim: To investigates the different methods of balloon deflation, types of urinary catheters and exposure to urine media in catheter balloon cuffing. Materials and methods: Bardex®, Bard-Lubri-Sil®, Argyle®, Releen® and Biocath® were tested in sterile and E.Coli inoculated urine at 0, 14 and 28 days. Catheter deflation was performed with active deflation; passive deflation; passive auto-deflation; and excision of the balloon inflow channel. Balloon cuffing was assessed objectively by running the deflated balloon over a plate of agar and subjectively by 3 independent observers. Results: Bardex®, Argyle® and Biocath® showed greater degree of catheter balloon cuffing ( p < 0.01). Active balloon deflation was the worst method ( p < 0.01). The presence of infected urine media also contributed to greater balloon cuffing ( p > 0.05). Linear regression model analysis confirmed time as the most significant factor. Conclusion: The duration of catheters exposure, different deflation methods and types of catheters tested contributed significantly to catheter balloon cuffing ( p < 0.01).
Optimizing Surgical Approach for Natural Orifice Translumenal Endoscopic Procedures
Authors: Cassera Maria A. , Zheng Bin , Spaun Georg O. , Swanström Lee L.
Published: March 2012

Background. Natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) often requires some degree of retroflexion of the endoscopic operating system. This study investigates the impact of retroflexion on task performance in NOTES. Methods. In a bench-top simulation, surgeons were required to manipulate a single-channel endoscope to touch 4 dots in a predetermined order. The task was performed under the forward-view and retroflexed-view conditions. Results. Tasks performed under the forward-view condition were significantly faster than those performed under the retroflexed-view condition ( P = .005). Also, 5 experienced surgeons completed tasks in less time than the novices ( P = .043). Experienced surgeons were mildly affected by the inverted image, whereas the novices were vulnerable to image malalignment. Conclusion. Careful selection of the surgical approach to avoid image malalignment is suggested for safe performance of NOTES. Extensive training is required for novices to overcome the vision–motion difficulty before they can perform NOTES safely and effectively.
Single-Incision Laparoscopic Resection of Bismuth I Hilar Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Yu Hong , Wu Shuo-dong , Tian Yu , Su Yang , Li Yong-nan
Published: March 2012

Introduction. Laparoscopic hilar cholangiocarcinoma is rarely performed because of its aggressive growth and complicated anatomy. The authors successfully performed single-incision laparoscopic resection of Bismuth I hilar cholangiocarcinoma in 2 cases. Method. Two cases with Bismuth I cholangiocarcinoma were chosen for the laparoscopic surgery. Segmental bile duct resection and hepatoduodenal ligament lymphadenectomy were performed using single-incision laparoscopic technique with conventional instruments. Results. Two operations were successfully performed without conversion. The operation time was 300 and 350 minutes, respectively. The margins of proximal and distal bile ducts were negative. The hospital stay was 6 and 9 days, respectively. One dosage of analgesic was administered after surgery. The abdominal wound recovered very well with good cosmesis. Conclusion. Single-incision laparoscopic surgery cholangiocarcinoma resection can be optional in strictly selected patients with Bismuth I cholangiocarcinoma. Long-term follow-up and more data are needed to evaluate its benefits.
Treatment of Chronic Noninsertional Achilles Tendinopathy with Endoscopic Achilles tendon Debridement and Flexor Hallucis Longus Transfer
Authors: Lui Tun Hing
Published: March 2012

Decompression with debridement has been shown to be effective in pain management in patients with chronic mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy; however, augmentation with the flexor hallucis longus tendon can provide additional mechanical support. The technique of endoscopic debridement of the tendinopathic tendon together with flexor hallucis longus transfer is described to treat patients suffering from chronic painful noninsertional Achilles tendinopathy with the potential advantage of minimally invasive surgery.

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV
Internet News
Authors: Gaskins Benjamin , Jerit Jennifer
Published: March 2012

The Internet has changed the political world, but its effect on media usage patterns is not well understood. In particular, previous research suggests no clear answer to the question of whether the Internet is a substitute for or a complement to traditional media outlets. We contribute to this literature by applying theories from ecology—namely, the theory of the niche—to examine competition between new and older media. Our study is the first to test hypotheses derived from this theory on a large, national sample. The analysis indicates that people are replacing traditional outlets, especially newspapers, with the Internet. At the same time, however, replacement is not a widespread phenomenon as yet. We find important replacement differences across newspapers and radio on the one hand and television on the other. We also report some of the first evidence regarding the attitudinal consequences of replacement behavior.
A Pilot Randomized Trial Comparing a Commercial Weight Loss Program with a Clinic-Based Intervention for Weight Loss
Authors: Tsai Adam G. , Raube Elizabeth , Conrad Judith , Bessesen Daniel H. , Rozwadowski Jeanne M.
Published: March 2012

Objective: To compare the efficacy of a popular commercial program with that of a clinic-based intervention for weight loss. Methods: Randomized clinical trial conducted at an internal medicine clinic affiliated with a city hospital in Denver, Colorado. Participant (n = 46) had a body mass index ≥ 30 kg/m2 and no life-threatening medical conditions. They either were provided a voucher to attend Weight Watchers for 17 weeks (n = 23), or they were assigned to the clinic group (n = 23), which provided 12 visits over 17 weeks and the option to augment weight loss using either meal replacements or weight loss medication. The primary study outcome was weight change. Results: Participants assigned to the clinic arm lost 4.0 ± 1.2 kg, compared to 0.4 ± 1.1 for those assigned to the commercial program ( P = .04 for difference). Weight losses in the clinic arm were 3.2 kg for meal replacements (n = 10) and 5.0 kg for phentermine (n = 13). Conclusions: In this single-site trial, a clinic-based intervention was more effective than a popular commercial program for weight loss. Primary care providers in the United States are under increasing pressure to combat the epidemic of obesity. This trial, although small, begins to address how the primary care setting might play that role.
In Their Own Voices
Authors: Morrow Jennifer Ann , Clayman Sharon , McDonagh Bonnie
Published: March 2012

It is estimated that child abuse and neglect result in direct (e.g., health care, law enforcement, judicial system) and indirect (e.g., special education, lost productivity to society) costs of approximately 103 billion dollars each year. Why do some abuse survivors display healthy functioning as adults while others display a variety of physical and psychological health problems? It was the goal of this study to discover what positive influences, both internal and external, that individuals relied on to overcome childhood trauma. Five main themes emerged from the data. The five themes are as follows: Spirituality/Faith in God, Supportive Others, Therapeutic Relationships, Self-Determination, and Expressive Writing. A description of these themes and selected quotes from participants are described.
The Cognitive Mobilization Index
Authors: Alaminos Antonio , Penalva Clemente
Published: March 2012

This article shows how the cognitive mobilization index, designed for use in observing potential political participation, can be used as an indicator of the political climate that a particular society is going through. Following a discussion of the theoretical elaborations (and their working definitions) of the concept of cognitive mobilization, a longitudinal study of various European countries is used to consider the question of how political crises influence cognitive mobilization indexes and what effects they have on the political socialization process among the youngest cohorts.
Walter Lippmann’s Ethical Challenge to the Individual
Authors: Urbanski Steve
Published: March 2012

This essay analyzes in hermeneutic fashion random concepts of the individual from three of philosopher Walter Lippmann’s major works, Liberty and the News, Public Opinion, and The Phantom Public. The article addresses the following: By considering Lippmann’s multileveled representation of the individual, 21st-century media professionals can become empowered to avoid emotivism and strive toward a more narrative-based form of ethics. The article compares and contrasts Lippmann’s representation of the individual with John Dewey’s Great Community and Daniel Boorstin’s notion of the pseudo-event.
Sonographic Evaluation of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Manring Mairnee
Published: March 2012

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma requires an early diagnosis for optimal survival rates. If a diagnosis and treatment are too late, the malignancy has the probability of spreading to extranodal regions. A diagnosis of non-Hodgkin lymphoma may present itself unexpectedly to the young adult patient, as well as the examining sonographer. With a comparable case and images, this case study can aid sonographers, radiographers, and radiologists in making an accurate diagnosis of this malignancy for the most favorable patient treatment and outcome.
Freedom to Compete? The Cartelization of European Transnational Corporations
Authors: Buch-Hansen Hubert
Published: March 2012

Transnational corporations (TNCs) have been driving forces behind promoting policies aimed at protecting and further intensifying competition in global markets. This article aims to examine the extent to which leading European TNCs that have promoted such policies have been involved in cartels. To this end, the article focuses on companies associated with the European Roundtable of Industrialists (ERT), a highly influential network consisting of top executives from a range of Europe's largest TNCs that has consistently urged political decision-makers to give companies the ‘freedom to compete’. We find that a third of these companies were convicted for participating in cartels between 1990 and 2010. Drawing on critical political economy scholarship, it is concluded that this behaviour may not be paradoxical.
Transition Indicators of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development: A Doubtful Guide to Economic Success
Authors: Myant Martin , Drahokoupil Jan
Published: March 2012

The European bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has produced indicators of success in creating market economies in Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union. These have been helpful for researchers, but suffer from a limited view of transition based on liberalization and private property. A good score in transition indicators need not correspond to creation of a successful, modern economy. Shortcomings have been acknowledged, but changes have not overcome the weaknesses in the indicators.
Therapeutic use of a cationic antimicrobial peptide from the spider Acanthoscurria gomesianain the control of experimental candidiasis
Authors: Rossi Diego C , Muñoz Julian E , Carvalho Danielle D , Belmonte Rodrigo , Faintuch Bluma , Borelli Primavera , Miranda Antonio , Taborda Carlos P , Daffre Sirlei
Published: March 2012

Background

Antimicrobial peptides are present in animals, plants and microorganisms and play a fundamental role in the innate immune response. Gomesin is a cationic antimicrobial peptide purified from haemocytes of the spider Acanthoscurria gomesiana. It has a broad-spectrum of activity against bacteria, fungi, protozoa and tumour cells. Candida albicans is a commensal yeast that is part of the human microbiota. However, in immunocompromised patients, this fungus may cause skin, mucosal or systemic infections. The typical treatment for this mycosis comprises three major categories of antifungal drugs: polyenes, azoles and echinocandins; however cases of resistance to these drugs are frequently reported. With the emergence of microorganisms that are resistant to conventional antibiotics, the development of alternative treatments for candidiasis is important. In this study, we evaluate the efficacy of gomesin treatment on disseminated and vaginal candidiasis as well as its toxicity and biodistribution.

Results

Treatment with gomesin effectively reduced Candida albicans in the kidneys, spleen, liver and vagina of infected mice. The biodistribution of gomesin labelled with technetium-99 m showed that the peptide is captured in the kidneys, spleen and liver. Enhanced production of TNF-α, IFN-γ and IL-6 was detected in infected mice treated with gomesin, suggesting an immunomodulatory activity. Moreover, immunosuppressed and C. albicans-infected mice showed an increase in survival after treatment with gomesin and fluconazole. Systemic administration of gomesin was also not toxic to the mic

Conclusions

Gomesin proved to be effective against experimental Candida albicans infection. It can be used as an alternative therapy for candidiasis, either alone or in combination with fluconazole. Gomesin's mechanism is not fully understood, but we hypothesise that the peptide acts through the permeabilisation of the yeast membrane leading to death and/or releasing the yeast antigens that trigger the host immune response against infection. Therefore, data presented in this study reinforces the potential of gomesin as a therapeutic antifungal agent in both humans and animals.
What do we know about chronic kidney disease in India: first report of the Indian CKD registry
Authors: Rajapurkar Mohan M , John George T , Kirpalani Ashok L , Abraham Georgi , Agarwal Sanjay K , Almeida Alan F , Gang Sishir , Gupta Amit , Modi Gopesh , Pahari Dilip , Pisharody Ramdas , Prakash Jai , Raman Anuradha , Rana Devinder S , Sharma Raj K , Sahoo RN , Sakhuja Vinay , Tatapudi Ravi Raju , Jha Vivekanand
Published: March 2012

Background

There are no national data on the magnitude and pattern of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in India. The Indian CKD Registry documents the demographics, etiological spectrum, practice patterns, variations and special characteristics.

Methods

Data was collected for this cross-sectional study in a standardized format according to predetermined criteria. Of the 52,273 adult patients, 35.5%, 27.9%, 25.6% and 11% patients came from South, North, West and East zones respectively.

Results

The mean age was 50.1 ± 14.6 years, with M:F ratio of 70:30. Patients from North Zone were younger and those from the East Zone older. Diabetic nephropathy was the commonest cause (31%), followed by CKD of undetermined etiology (16%), chronic glomerulonephritis (14%) and hypertensive nephrosclerosis (13%). About 48% cases presented in Stage V; they were younger than those in Stages III-IV. Diabetic nephropathy patients were older, more likely to present in earlier stages of CKD and had a higher frequency of males; whereas those with CKD of unexplained etiology were younger, had more females and more frequently presented in Stage V. Patients in lower income groups had more advanced CKD at presentation. Patients presenting to public sector hospitals were poorer, younger, and more frequently had CKD of unknown etiology.

Conclusions

This report confirms the emergence of diabetic nephropathy as the pre-eminent cause in India. Patients with CKD of unknown etiology are younger, poorer and more likely to present with advanced CKD. There were some geographic variations.
Clinical characteristics and patterns of healthcare utilization in patients with painful neuropathic disorders in UK general practice: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Berger Ariel , Sadosky Alesia , Dukes Ellen , Edelsberg John , Oster Gerry
Published: March 2012

Background

Clinical characteristics and patterns of healthcare utilization in patients with painful neuropathic disorders (PNDs) who are under the care of general practitioners (GPs) in the UK are not well understood.

Methods

Using a large electronic UK database, we identified all adults (age ≥ 18 years) with any GP encounters between 1 January 2006 - 31 December 2006 at which a diagnosis of PND was noted ("PND patients"). An age-and gender-matched comparison group also was constituted consisting of randomly selected patients with one or more GP encounters-but no mention of PNDs-during this period. Characteristics and patterns of healthcare utilization of patients in the two groups were then examined over the one-year study period.

Results

The study sample consisted of 31,688 patients with mention of PNDs and an equal number of matched comparators; mean age was 56 years, and 62% were women. The prevalence of various comorbidities was higher among patients in the PND group, including digestive disorders (31% vs. 17% for comparison group), circulatory disorders (29% vs. 22%), and depression (4% vs. 3%) (all p < 0.01). Receipt of prescriptions for pain-related pharmacotherapy also was higher among PND patients, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (56% of PND patients had one or more such prescriptions vs. only 22% in the comparison group), opioids (49% vs. 12%), tricyclic antidepressants (20% vs. 1%), and antiepileptics (12% vs. 1%) (all p < 0.01). PND patients also averaged significantly more GP visits (22.8 vs. 14.2) and referrals to specialists (2.8 vs. 1.4) over one year (both comparisons p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Patients with PNDs under the care of GPs in the UK have relatively high levels of use of healthcare services and pain-related pharmacotherapy.
KAI1 suppresses HIF-1α and VEGF expression by blocking CDCP1-enhanced Src activation in prostate cancer
Authors: Park Jung-Jin , Jin Yeung Bae , Lee Yoon-Jin , Lee Jae-Seon , Lee Yun-Sil , Ko Young-Gyu , Lee Minyoung
Published: March 2012

Background

KAI1 was initially identified as a metastasis-suppressor gene in prostate cancer. It is a member of the tetraspan transmembrane superfamily (TM4SF) of membrane glycoproteins. As part of a tetraspanin-enriched microdomain (TEM), KAI1 inhibits tumor metastasis by negative regulation of Src. However, the underlying regulatory mechanism has not yet been fully elucidated. CUB-domain-containing protein 1 (CDCP1), which was previously known as tetraspanin-interacting protein in TEM, promoted metastasis via enhancement of Src activity. To better understand how KAI1 is involved in the negative regulation of Src, we here examined the function of KAI1 in CDCP1-mediated Src kinase activation and the consequences of this process, focusing on HIF-1 α and VEGF expression.

Methods

We used the human prostate cancer cell line PC3 which was devoid of KAI1 expression. Vector-transfected cells (PC3-GFP clone #8) and KAI1-expressing PC3 clones (PC3-KAI1 clone #5 and #6) were picked after stable transfection with KAI1 cDNA and selection in 800μg/ml G418. Protein levels were assessed by immunoblotting and VEGF reporter gene activity was measured by assaying luciferase activitiy. We followed tumor growthin vivoand immunohistochemistry was performed for detection of HIF-1, CDCP1, and VHL protein level.

Results

We demonstrated that Hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) and VEGF expression were significantly inhibited by restoration of KAI1 in PC3 cells. In response to KAI1 expression, CDCP1-enhanced Src activation was down-regulated and the level of von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) protein was significantly increased. In anin vivoxenograft model, KAI1 inhibited the expression of CDCP1 and HIF-1α.

Conclusions

These novel observations may indicate that KAI1 exerts profound metastasis-suppressor activity in the tumor malignancy process via inhibition of CDCP1-mediated Src activation, followed by VHL-induced HIF-1α degradation and, ultimately, decreased VEGF expression.
The possible role of ribosomal protein S6 kinase 4 in the senescence of endothelial progenitor cells in diabetes mellitus
Authors: Yin Zhiyong , Fan Linni , Huang Gaosheng , Wang Haichang , Wang Zhe
Published: March 2012

Background

The decrease and dysfunction of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) has been assumed as an important cause/consequence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and its complications, in which the senescence of EPCs induced by hyperglycemia may play an immensurable role. However, the mechanisms of EPCs senescence has not been fully investigated. Recently, ribosomal protein S6 kinase 4 (RSK4), a member of serine/threomine (Ser/Thr) kinase family and p53-related gene, is reported to regulate the replicative and stress-induced senescence of different cells.

Presentation of the hypothesis

These above lead to consideration of an evidence-based hypothesis that RSK4 may serve as a mediator of EPCs senescence in DM.

Testing the hypothesis

EPCs of healthy subjects and DM patients are isolated from peripheral blood and incubated with high glucose (HG). Then, the EPCs senescence would be detected by senescence associated β-galactosides (SA-β-gal) staining. Meanwhile, the RSK4 expression is assessed by RT-PCR and western blot. Moreover, overexpressing or RNA interfering of RSK4 in EPCs to investigate the relationship between RSK4 expression and the senescence of EPCs are necessary to substantiate this hypothesis. Also, studies on possible upstream and downstream factors of RSK4 would be explored to reveal the RSK4-mediated senescence pathway in EPCs.

Implications of the hypothesis

If proved, this hypothesis will provide another mediator of EPCs senescence, and may establish a novel pathogenesis for DM and further benefit to the management of DM.