bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protein Kinase B Promotes Radiation‐Induced Regulatory T Cell Survival in Bladder Carcinoma
Authors: Wang M. , Gou X. , Wang L.
Published: April 2012

Radiotherapy is an efficient remedy in the treatment for bladder carcinoma (BCa); still, some cancer cells can survive from the radiation; the therapeutic effect is to be improved. Regulatory T cell (Treg)‐induced tumour tolerance and Akt expression play important roles in the tumour survival. This study aims to elucidate the role of radiation induces Akt expression in regulatory T cells (Tregs). The surgically removed BCa tissue was collected from 26 patients treated with or without radiotherapy. The frequency of Tregs and apoptotic Tregs in BCa tissue was assessed by flow cytometry. A cell culture model was employed to investigate the mechanism by which the tumour‐infiltrating Tregs survive from radiation. After radiotherapy, the frequency of Treg was increased in the BCa tissue; the apoptotic Tregs were decreased; the expression of Akt was increased in remained Tregs. The results were reproduced in vitro with a cell culture model. The addition of Akt inhibitor blocked the radiation‐induced Treg survival in culture. Akt plays an important role in the radiation‐induced tumour‐infiltrating Treg survival in BCa.
Role of Vesicle‐Inducing Protein in Plastids 1 in cpTat transport at the thylakoid
Authors: Lo Shari M. , Theg Steven M.
Published: April 2012

VIPP1 has been shown to be required for the proper formation of thylakoid membranes. However, studies on VIPP1 itself, as well as on PspA, its bacterial homolog, suggests that this protein may be involved in a number of additional functions, including protein translocation. The role of VIPP1 in protein translocation in the chloroplast has not been investigated. To this end, we conducted in vitro thylakoid protein transport assays to look at the effect of VIPP1 on the cpTat pathway, which is one of three translocation pathways found in both the chloroplast and its bacterial progenitor. We found that VIPP1 does indeed enhance protein transport through the cpTat pathway by up to 100%. The VIPP1 effect on cpTat activity occurs without interacting with the substrates or components of the translocon, and does not alter the energy potentials driving this translocation pathway. Instead, VIPP1 greatly enhances the amount of substrate bound productively to the thylakoids. Moreover, the presence of increasing VIPP1 concentrations in the reactions resulted in greater interactions between thylakoid membranes. Taken together, these results demonstrate a stimulatory role for VIPP1 in cpTat transport by enhancement of substrate binding, probably to the membrane lipid regions of the thylakoid. We propose a model in which VIPP1 facilitates reorganization of the thylakoid structure to increase substrate access to productive binding regions of the membrane as an early step in the cpTat pathway.
Heterosis manifestation during early Arabidopsis seedling development is characterized by intermediate gene expression and enhanced metabolic activity in the hybrids
Authors: Meyer Rhonda C. , Witucka‐Wall Hanna , Becher Martina , Blacha Anna , Boudichevskaia Anastassia , Dörmann Peter , Fiehn Oliver , Friedel Svetlana , von Korff Maria , Lisec Jan , Melzer Michael , Repsilber Dirk , Schmidt Renate , Scholz Matthias , Selbig Joachim , Willmitzer Lothar , Altmann Thomas
Published: April 2012

Heterosis‐associated cellular and molecular processes were analyzed in seeds and seedlings of Arabidopsis thaliana accessions Col‐0 and C24 and their heterotic hybrids. Microscopic examination revealed no advantages in terms of hybrid mature embryo organ sizes or cell numbers. Increased cotyledon sizes were detectable 4 days after sowing. Growth heterosis results from elevated cell sizes and numbers, and is well established at 10 days after sowing. The relative growth rates of hybrid seedlings were most enhanced between 3 and 4 days after sowing. Global metabolite profiling and targeted fatty acid analysis revealed maternal inheritance patterns for a large proportion of metabolites in the very early stages. During developmental progression, the distribution shifts to dominant, intermediate and heterotic patterns, with most changes occurring between 4 and 6 days after sowing. The highest incidence of heterotic patterns coincides with establishment of size differences at 4 days after sowing. In contrast, overall transcript patterns at 4, 6 and 10 days after sowing are characterized by intermediate to dominant patterns, with parental transcript levels showing the largest differences. Overall, the results suggest that, during early developmental stages, intermediate gene expression and higher metabolic activity in the hybrids compared to the parents lead to better resource efficiency, and therefore enhanced performance in the hybrids.
Regulation and expression of IL‐32 in chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Soyka M. B. , Treis A. , Eiwegger T. , Menz G. , Zhang S. , Holzmann D. , Akdis C. A. , Meyer N.
Published: April 2012

Background

Activated T lymphocytes and their interaction with resident tissue cells, particularly epithelium, play important roles in inflammatory processes in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). IL‐32 is a recently described cytokine, which is expressed in a variety of tissue cells and involved in the pathogenesis of several chronic inflammatory diseases.

Methods

Human sinus epithelial cells were isolated from biopsies and stimulated with different cytokines, which play a role in the pathogenesis of CRS. IL‐32 mRNA expression was analyzed using real‐time‐PCR, IL‐32 protein was determined by Western blot and flow cytometry as well as immunofluorescent staining in primary sinus epithelial cells and nasal biopsies from patients with CRS and healthy controls.

Results

IL‐32 mRNA was upregulated by TNF‐α and IFN‐γ in primary sinus epithelial cells, whereas IL‐1 β, IL‐4, IL‐13, and IL‐17 did not influence IL‐32 expression. IL‐32 mRNA expression was significantly higher in human primary sinonasal epithelial cells (HSECs) cocultured with Th1 cells compared with HSECs cocultured with Th0 or Th2 cells. IL‐32 mRNA expression was significantly higher in biopsies from sinus epithelial tissue of CRS patients with nasal polyps compared with healthy subjects (P = 0.01). IL‐32 was detected in biopsies from patients with CRS, whereas it was scarcely present in control tissues.

Conclusion

The induction of IL‐32 by TNF‐α, IFN‐γ and Th1 cells as well as its increased expression in sinus tissues from CRS patients with nasal polyps demonstrated a potential role for IL‐32 in the pathogenesis of CRS.
Atovaquone versus trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole as Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia prophylaxis following renal transplantation
Authors: Gabardi Steven , Millen Peter , Hurwitz Shelley , Martin Spencer , Roberts Keri , Chandraker Anil
Published: April 2012

Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in renal transplant recipients (RTR). Trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole (TMP‐SMZ) is considered the prophylactic agent‐of‐choice. Some patients require an alternative owing to TMP‐SMZ intolerance. This is the first evaluation of full‐dose atovaquone vs. TMP‐SMZ for PCP prevention in RTR. One hundred and eighty‐five RTR were evaluated in this single‐center, retrospective analysis. Patients received either single‐strength TMP‐SMZ daily (group I; n = 160) or 1500 mg/d of atovaquone and of a fluoroquinolone for one month (group II; n = 25). The primary endpoint was the incidence of PCP at 12 months post‐transplant. There were no cases of PCP in either group. There were comparable rates of infections from bacterial pathogens and cytomegalovirus, but rates of BK viremia were significantly higher in group I (22.5%) vs. group II (4%; p = 0.03). The incidence of leukopenia was similar in both groups. Higher mean potassium levels were seen in group I at three months post‐transplant but were comparable at all other time points. The need for dose reduction and/or premature discontinuation of therapy secondary to adverse events was more prevalent in TMP‐SMZ‐treated patients. In our experience, atovaquone appears to be effective in preventing PCP post‐renal transplant and also demonstrates good tolerability.
Estimating the risks of acquiring a kidney abroad: a meta‐analysis of complications following participation in transplant tourism
Authors: Anker Ashley E. , Feeley Thomas H.
Published: April 2012

A meta‐analysis of odds ratios comparing the risks of participating in transplant tourism by acquiring a kidney abroad to the risks associated with domestic kidney transplant was undertaken. Comparison across 12 medical outcomes indicates transplant tourists are significantly more likely to contract cytomegalovirus, hepatitis B, HIV, post‐transplantation diabetes mellitus, and wound infection than those receiving domestic kidney transplant. Results also indicate that domestic kidney transplant recipients experience significantly higher one‐yr patient‐ and graft‐survival rates. Analyses are supplemented by independent comparisons of outcomes and provide practitioners with weighted estimates of the proportion of transplant recipients experiencing 15 medical outcomes. Practitioners are encouraged to caution patients of the medical risks associated with transplant tourism. Despite the illegal and unethical nature of transplant tourism, additional efforts are indicated to eliminate the organ trade and to educate wait‐listed patients about the risks of transplant tourism.
The Response of the Leguminous Fodder Plant Bituminaria bituminosa to Water Stress
Authors: Martínez‐Fernández D. , Walker D. J. , Romero P. , Martínez‐Ballesta M. C. , Correal E.
Published: April 2012

Abstract Bituminaria bituminosa (L.) C.H. Stirton (Fabaceae) is a biennial–perennial species, which grows throughout the Mediterranean basin and Macaronesia. It is cultivated to provide livestock fodder and shows promise as a source of furanocoumarins. This is the first report on its physiological and growth responses to water deprivation. We assessed these in a pot assay, in the field and in hydroponic culture, using two populations from southern Spain and two from the Canary Islands. Proline accumulation was much lower in the field than for pot‐grown plants, supporting recent indications that it is phytotoxic under combined drought and heat stress. In hydroponic culture, imposition of water stress by poly(ethylene glycol) increased the root/shoot ratio and decreased the root hydraulic conductivity. Overall, the results show B. bituminosa to be a species with high constitutive resistance to soil water deficit. For example, leaf turgor did not diminish, demonstrating its capacity for osmotic adjustment, and the specific leaf area in field conditions was similar to that of other species adapted to seasonal drought. Notwithstanding, the two Canarian populations (which complete their life cycles under very different conditions) maintained better their relative water content and water potential to avoid internal stress. Famara (Lanzarote, Canary Islands) is the most appropriate as a breeding line, which can maintain its shoot biomass under drought.
Endoscopic approach to pancreatic pseudocyst, abscess and necrosis: Review on recent progress
Authors: Chen Jie , Fukami Norio , Li Zhaoshen
Published: April 2012

Aim:  The aim of this study is to introduce recent progress in the treatment of pancreatic pseudocyst, abscess and necrosis using the endoscopic approach.

Methods:  Studies on PubMed and MEDLINE from the last 30 years on progress in the management of the complications from severe pancreatitis were researched and reviewed. Herein, the indication for intervention, definition of fluid collection associated with acute pancreatitis and treatment modalities of these complications are summarized.

Results:  Three types of management are employed for complications of severe pancreatitis: the endoscopic, surgical and percutaneous approaches.

Conclusions:  Over the years, as technical expertise has increased and instruments for endoscopy have improved, patients who had endoscopic surgery to address the complications of severe pancreatitis have had higher survival rates, lower mortality rates and lower complication rates than those having open debridement. However, traditional open abdominal surgery should be advocated when minimally invasive management fails or necrosis is extensive and extends diffusely to areas such as the paracolic gutter and the groin (i.e. locations not accessible by endoscopy).
What is the preferred shape for an esophageal stent flange?
Authors: Maetani Iruru , Shigoka Hiroaki , Omuta Shigefumi , Gon Katsushige , Saito Michihiro
Published: April 2012

Aim:  Self‐expandable metallic stents (SEMS) for the gastrointestinal tract have different types of flanges at either the oral end or both ends to prevent stent migration. The effect of flange shape on the properties of SEMS, to our knowledge, has not been evaluated. The aim of this study was to measure the strain that a SEMS imposes on the adjacent wall and the anti‐migration force (AF) exerted by three stents, each with a different flange shape.

Methods:  Stents with one of three different flanges (flared, dumbbell, and barrel) were designed and then their strain and AF values were measured with apparatuses devised in our laboratory.

Results:  Although the average maximal strain values at the flange were similar (508.4 µm/m, 513.3 µm/m and 486.4 µm/m for flared, dumbbell and barrel, respectively), strain values for each position differed among the three different types of stents. Strain values for the flared shape increased toward the stent end, reaching the maximum value. Maximal strain values for the dumbbell and barrel shapes were observed near the flange's midpoint. Maximal AF values differed significantly according to flange shape. Thus, the median maximal AF values were 1.85 newton, 1.35 newton, and 1.13 newton, for barrel, dumbbell and flared shapes, respectively.

Conclusions:  The performance of braided esophageal SEMS with barrel shaped flanges is superior to that of SEMS with dumbbell or flared flanges, based on the strain on the adjacent wall and the prevention of stent migration.
Signet‐ring cell carcinoma of the breast with uterine metastasis treated with extensive cytoreductive surgery: A case report and brief review of the literature
Authors: Ertas Ibrahim Egemen , Sayhan Sevil , Karagoz Gurhan , Yildirim Yusuf
Published: April 2012

Primary signet‐ring cell carcinoma (SRCC) of the breast is an uncommon variant, accounting for 2–4.5% of all primary breast cancers. Secondary SRCC of the endometrium is very rare and usually originates from the breast or gastrointestinal tract. A 54‐year‐old, postmenopausal woman with a past history of breast cancer four years previously was admitted with abnormal uterine bleeding. An endometrial biopsy revealed undifferentiated adenocarcinoma with signet‐ring cells. The patient underwent laparotomy and cytoreductive surgery was performed. Pathological analysis and immunohistochemical tests demonstrated a uterine (endomyometrial) metastasis of breast SRCC. Omentum, peritoneal surfaces and retroperitoneal lymph nodes also included tumoral tissue with signet‐ring cell morphology. The patient received adjuvant systemic chemotherapy with adriamycin, cyclophosphamide and paclitaxel. This case report discusses the patient's clinical characteristics and the role of cytoreductive surgery on patient survival in SRCC of the breast metastasizing to the uterus.
Single nucleotide polymorphisms of RAD51 G135C, XRCC2 Arg188His and XRCC3 Thr241Met homologous recombination repair genes and the risk of sporadic endometrial cancer in Polish women
Authors: Romanowicz‐Makowska Hanna , Smolarz Beata , Połać Ireneusz , Sporny Stanisław
Published: April 2012

Background:  The genes RAD51, XRCC2 and XRCC3 encode proteins that are important for the repair of double‐strand DNA breaks by homologous recombination. Therefore, genetic variability in these genes may contribute to the occurrence and progression of endometrial cancer.

Methods:  The subject of investigation in the reported study was the distribution of genotypes and the prevalence of alleles of the RAD51 G135C, XRCC2 Arg188His and XRCC3 Thr241Met polymorphism in 230 cases of sporadic endometrial cancer; the polymorphisms were determined by polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment‐length polymorphism methods.

Results:  The obtained results demonstrated a significant positive association between the RAD51 C/C genotype and endometrial carcinoma, with an adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 3.75 (P < 0.0001). The homozygous C/C genotype was found in 72% of endometrial cancer cases and in 19% of the used controls. The variant 135C allele of RAD51 increased the cancer risk (OR = 1.64 [1.28–2.10]P < 0.0001). There were no significant differences between the distribution of G135C, Arg188His and Thr241Met genotypes in the subgroups assigned to histological grades.

Conclusions:  The obtained results indicate that the polymorphism of RAD51, but not of either XRCC2 or XRCC3 genes, may be positively associated with the incidence of endometrial carcinoma in the population of Polish women. Further studies, including those on a larger group of patients, are required to further clarify this point.
Altered arterial stiffness in male‐to‐female transsexuals undergoing hormonal treatment
Authors: Sharula  , Chekir Chebib , Emi Yayoi , Arai Fujimi , Kikuchi Yukako , Sasaki Aiko , Matsuda Miwa , Shimizu Keiko , Tabuchi Kazuhiro , Kamada Yasuhiko , Hiramatsu Yuji , Nakatsuka Mikiya
Published: April 2012

Aim:  Male‐to‐female (MTF) transsexuals are treated with estrogen with and without progestin through a variety of routes. The aim of this study is to evaluate the arterial stiffness in MTF transsexuals undergoing hormonal treatment.

Methods:  We evaluated the arterial stiffness in 156 MTF transsexuals (22 untreated and 129 treated with estrogen only or plus progestin) using a volume‐plethysmographic apparatus equipped with a multi‐element applanation tonometry sensor.

Results:  MTF transsexuals treated with parenteral estrogen were significantly older than untreated MTF transsexuals. Hematocrit, uric acid and activated partial thromboplastin time in treated MTF transsexuals were significantly lower than in untreated MTF transsexuals. The level of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol in MTF transsexuals treated with oral estrogen was significantly higher than in untreated MTF transsexuals or those treated with parenteral estrogen with and without progestin. The systolic blood pressure in MTF transsexuals treated with estrogen only is significantly lower than that in untreated MTF transsexuals. The brachial–ankle pulse wave velocity was significantly decreased in MTF transsexuals treated with estrogen compared to that in untreated MTF transsexuals or in those treated with estrogen plus progestin. The carotid augmentation index in MTF transsexuals treated with oral estrogen was significantly lower than that in MTF transsexuals treated with parenteral estrogen or oral estrogen plus progestin.

Conclusions:  Estrogen treatment is likely to have some beneficial effects on lipid metabolism and vascular function in MTF transsexuals; however, progestin administered with estrogen may have adverse effects on arterial stiffness.
Cost–benefit analysis of laparoscopic surgery versus laparotomy for patients with endometrioid endometrial cancer: Experience from an institute in China
Authors: Lu Zhiying , Yi Xiaofang , Feng Weiwei , Ding Jingxin , Xu Huan , Zhou Xianrong , Hua Keqin
Published: April 2012

Aim:  To compare the clinical outcomes and associated costs between laparoscopic and abdominal surgery for patients with endometrioid endometrial cancer.

Methods:  From 2003 to 2008, 115 patients who underwent laparoscopically‐assisted surgery for endometrioid endometrial cancers were enrolled in this retrospective study. Another 123 patients who had abdominal surgery for the same histological type of endometrial cancer were included as the control group. The clinico‐pathological variables, surgical outcome, costs, death and case recurrence of the two groups were compared.

Results:  There was no difference in the patients' age, body mass index, FIGO stage, histological grade or surgical types between the two groups. The patients in the laparoscopy group had less blood loss (P = 0.010), a shorter hospital stay (P < 0.001), less postoperative pain (P < 0.001) and lower complication rates (P < 0.001) than those treated by laparotomy. The total costs in the laparoscopy group were higher than that in the laparotomy group ($2073 vs $1638, P < 0.001). Patients in the laparoscopy group returned to usual activity more quickly (P = 0.001) and went back to work earlier (P = 0.013) than those in laparotomy group. With a median follow‐up of 42 months for the laparoscopy group and 40 months for the laparotomy group, there was no significant difference in the number of cases with respect to death (P = 1.000) or recurrence (P = 1.000).

Conclusions:  Laparoscopically‐assisted surgery is as effective as the laparotomy approach for the treatment of early‐stage and advanced‐stage endometrial cancer. The relatively higher cost of the laparoscopic surgery may be compensated by its benefits. In developing countries such as China, laparoscopically‐assisted surgery is also an attractive alternative for selected patients with endometrial cancer.
How far has the pendulum swung in the surgical management of sigmoid volvulus? Experience from the KwaZulu‐Natal Teaching Hospitals and review of the literature
Authors: Mnguni M. N. , Islam J. , Manzini V. , Govindasamy V. , Zulu B. M. W. , Clarke D. L. , Madiba T. E.
Published: April 2012

Aim  Sigmoid volvulus is common in sub‐Saharan Africa. The aim of the study was to document the clinicopathological patterns of sigmoid volvulus in KwaZulu‐Natal.

Method  Analysis was performed of prospectively collected data of patients presenting with sigmoid volvulus at the KwaZulu‐Natal Teaching Hospitals from 2000 to 2009. Data collected included demographics, clinical presentation, operative findings, management and outcome.

Results  There were 135 patients (122 male) of mean age 39.3 ± 17 years. Management was by emergency surgery (103), elective surgery (23), no surgery (9). The level of the twist was at the pelvic brim. Fifty‐four patients had gangrenous bowel and 81 had viable bowel. Resection was accompanied by primary anastomosis (80) and Hartmann’s procedure (46). Complication and mortality rates were 47% and 17% respectively. Mortality rates for emergency and elective surgery were 19% and 9% (P = 0.330), and those for primary anastomosis and Hartmann’s procedure were 14% and 24% respectively (P = 0.305). Mortality rates for gangrenous and viable bowel were 21% and 15% respectively (P = 0.624). Twenty‐eight (22%) patients required intensive care in the intensive care unit (ICU) with an ICU stay of 8.8 ± 8 days. Hospital stay was 10.5 ± 14.4 days.

Conclusion  The clinicopathological picture of sigmoid volvulus resembles that in the rest of Africa in that it affects predominantly young African males. The level of the twist is at the pelvic brim. The timing of surgery, the type of anastomosis and the viability of the bowel does not influence outcome.
Effect of antidiabetic agents added to metformin on glycaemic control, hypoglycaemia and weight change in patients with type 2 diabetes: a network meta‐analysis
Authors: Liu S.‐C. , Tu Y.‐K. , Chien M.‐N. , Chien K.‐L.
Published: April 2012

Aim: Most guidelines recommend metformin as first‐line therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes. However, the choice of a second‐line drug lacks consistent consensus. We aimed to assess available information of antidiabetic drugs added to metformin on the change in glycated haemoglobin A1c (A1C), risk of hypoglycaemia and change in body weight.

Methods: PubMed and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) written in English through December 2011. We analysed direct and indirect comparisons of different treatments using Bayesian network meta‐analysis.

Results: Thirty‐nine RCTs involving 17 860 individuals were included. Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) analogues resulted in greater decrease in A1C compared with sulfonylureas, glinides, thiazolidinediones, α‐glucosidase inhibitors and DPP‐4 inhibitors [−0.20% (95% CI −0.34 to −0.04%), −0.31% (95% CI −0.61 to −0.02%), −0.20% (95% CI −0.38 to −0.00), −0.36% (95% CI −0.64 to −0.07%), −0.32% (95% CI −0.47 to −0.17%), respectively] and was comparable with basal insulin and biphasic insulin. A1C decrease was greater for sulfonylureas compared with DPP‐4 inhibitors [−0.12% (−0.23 to −0.03%)], and for biphasic insulin compared with glinides (−0.36%; 95% CI −0.82 to −0.11%). Compared with placebo, the risk of hypoglycaemia was increased in the sulfonylureas, glinides, basal insulin and biphasic insulin. Weight increase was seen with sulfonylureas, glinides, thiazolidinediones, basal insulin and biphasic insulin, and weight loss was seen with α‐glucosidase inhibitors and GLP‐1 analogues.

Conclusions: Biphasic insulin, GLP‐1 analogues and basal insulin were ranked the top three drugs in terms of A1C reduction. GLP‐1 analogues did not increase the risk of hypoglycaemia and resulted in a significant decrease in body weight. Most oral antidiabetic drugs had similar effects on A1C, but some agents had a lower risk of hypoglycaemia and body weight gain.
Refractive state of the Spanish Thoroughbred horse: a comparison with the crossbred horse
Authors: Rull‐Cotrina Jorge , Molleda Jose M. , Gallardo José , Martín‐Suárez Eva
Published: April 2012

Objective To assess the refractive state of the equine eye utilizing retinoscopy. To compare the refractive state of Spanish Thoroughbred horses with the refractive state of Crossbred horses.

Procedures The refractive state of 135 horses (264 eyes) was assessed utilizing streak retinoscopy. Two perpendicular meridians were examined in order to assess astigmatism at a working distance of approximately 67 cm. A group of 81 Spanish Thoroughbred horses was compared with a group of 54 Crossbred horses. Cyclopentolate ophthalmic solution was instilled in the eyes of a group of 18 horses to determine if accommodation has any influence on the assessment of the refractive state.

Results Mean ± SE refractive state of all horses examined was −0.17 ± 0.04 D. The mean refractive state of the Spanish Thoroughbred was −0.28 ± 0.06 D while that of the Crossbred was −0.01 ± 0.05 D. The refractive state of the Spanish Thoroughbred was found to be statistically different to that of the Crossbred. The most prevalent refractive state was emmetropia in all cases, followed by hyperopia for the Crossbred, and myopia for the Spanish Thoroughbred. Astigmatism ≥0.50 D present in both eyes from the same individual was found in 21.7% of all horses examined. Anisometropia ≥1.00 D was diagnosed in 4 out of 129 horses with both visual eyes. Cycloplegia did not statistically affect the refractive state of the evaluated eyes.

Conclusions The equine eye has a refractive state close to emmetropia. Myopia is higher among Spanish Thoroughbred horses than among Crossbred horses.
Adding pharmacists to primary care teams reduces predicted long‐term risk of cardiovascular events in Type 2 diabetic patients without established cardiovascular disease: results from a randomized trial
Authors: Ladhani N. N. , Majumdar S. R. , Johnson J. A. , Tsuyuki R. T. , Lewanczuk R. Z. , Spooner R. , Simpson S. H.
Published: April 2012

Aim  To determine the impact of adding pharmacists to primary care teams on predicted 10‐year risk of cardiovascular events in patients with Type 2 diabetes without established cardiovascular disease.

Methods  This was a pre‐specified secondary analysis of randomized trial data. The main study found that, compared with usual care, addition of a pharmacist resulted in improvements in blood pressure, dyslipidaemia, and hyperglycaemia for primary care patients with Type 2 diabetes. In this sub‐study, predicted 10‐year risk of cardiovascular events at baseline and 1 year were calculated for patients free of cardiovascular disease at enrolment. The primary outcome was change in UK Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS) risk score; change in Framingham risk score was a secondary outcome.

Results  Baseline characteristics were similar between the 102 intervention patients and 93 control subjects: 59% women, median (interquartile range) age 57 (50–64) years, diabetes duration 3 (1–6.5) years, systolic blood pressure 128 (120–140) mmHg, total cholesterol 4.34 (3.75–5.04) mmol/l and HbA1c 54 mmol/mol (48–64 mmol/mol) [7.1% (6.5–8.0%)]. Median baseline UKPDS risk score was 10.2% (6.0–16.7%) for intervention patients and 9.5% (5.8–15.1%) for control subjects (P = 0.80). One‐year post‐randomization, the median absolute reduction in UKPDS risk score was 1.0% greater for intervention patients compared with control subjects (P = 0.032). Similar changes were seen with the Framingham risk score (median reduction 1.2% greater for intervention patients compared with control subjects, P = 0.048). The two risk scores were highly correlated (rho = 0.83; P < 0.001).

Conclusion  Adding pharmacists to primary care teams for 1 year significantly reduced the predicted 10‐year risk of cardiovascular events for patients with Type 2 diabetes without established cardiovascular disease.
Relationship closeness and control as determinants of pleasant amae
Authors: Niiya Yu , Harihara Motoko
Published: April 2012

Japanese often find it pleasant when someone engages in amae, defined as an inappropriate request with the expectation of acceptance. Using a random sampling survey, we examined why Japanese adults feel good when a friend or an acquaintance engages in amae and when they, themselves, engage in amae. In both situations, positive attitude toward amae predicted more positive emotions. Relationship closeness and feeling of control mediated this association, and perceiving enough resources to grant the request did so only in the friend/acquaintance amae situation. Despite its inappropriateness, amae could be an effective way to seek help and express closeness with others.
The Multifaceted Impact of Corruption on International Trade
Authors: Thede Susanna , Gustafson Nils‐Åke
Published: April 2012

The purpose of this paper is to perform a detailed examination of corruption effects on trade based on corruption characteristics known to affect economic exchange within the corruption research field. These characteristics are the level, prevalence, customs location, function and predictability of corruption. The multifaceted corruption impact on trade is empirically examined using a corruption‐augmented gravity equation. The equation is estimated using a Heckman version of a GMM instrumental variable method. Our results provide strong evidence of that import flows vary systematically with the investigated corruption characteristics and enable the identification of channels through which corruption affects international trade. The empirical investigation clearly indicates the need to examine the multifaceted role of corruption to properly assess the trade effects of corruption.
Lessons from the Eurocrisis for East Asian Monetary Relations
Authors: De Grauwe Paul
Published: April 2012

I analyse the sources of the Eurozone crisis. The major conclusion is that the Eurozone is insufficiently embedded in a monetary union, thereby making it fragile and prone to crises. The lesson I draw for East Asia is that despite the fact that this region appears to satisfy the traditional optimal currency area (OCA) criteria to form a monetary union, the complete absence of political unification makes the prospect of a monetary union in that region of the world both unrealistic and undesirable.
Exogenous Shocks and Exchange Rate Regimes
Authors: Chia Wai‐Mun , Cheng Tianyin , Li Mengling
Published: April 2012

Using a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) model with nominal price rigidity and imperfect competition, we examine the impact of terms‐of‐trade and foreign interest rate shocks on some key macroeconomic variables for a small open economy under different exchange rate regimes. Numerical solutions from the model are found consistent with empirical panel VAR results of 33 Asian economies for the period of 1980–2009. From both the theoretical model and empirical evidence, we find that (i) output responses to terms‐of‐trade and foreign interest rate shocks are smoother in floats, (ii) price responses to terms‐of‐trade shocks are smoother in floats than in pegs, while its responses to foreign interest shocks are more volatile in floats than in pegs, and (iii) the effects of terms‐of‐trade and foreign interest shocks are more prolonged under floats.
Intra‐industry Trade and Industry Distribution of Productivity: A Cournot–Ricardo Approach
Authors: Song E. Young , Sohn Chan‐Hyun
Published: April 2012

This study constructs a general equilibrium model of trade by incorporating Cournot competition in a Ricardian model of trade with a continuum of goods. In this model, the share of intra‐industry trade (IIT) in bilateral trade volume decreases as trading partners become more different in terms of the industry distribution of labour productivity. We show that this relationship is a special case of a general accounting identity: the intensity of IIT is decreasing in a specialisation index. The specialisation index is equal to the difference in the industry distribution of labour productivity in our Cournot–Ricardo model, while it is equal to the difference in factor endowments in the well‐known monopolistic competition model. As both technologies and factor endowments would play important roles in shaping specialisation patterns, we conjecture that the share of IIT is decreasing in both measures of specialisation. Using the data from Nicita and Olarreaga, we test this conjecture. Our pooled ordinary least squares (OLS) estimations strongly support this conjecture. However, in fixed‐effect panel estimations, only the industry distribution of productivity is significant in the entire sample. Subdividing the sample, we find that the difference in the industry distribution of productivity is significant in explaining North–North IIT, while the difference in factor endowments is significant in explaining North–South IIT.
INTERNAL MIGRATION ACROSS ITALIAN REGIONS: MACROECONOMIC DETERMINANTS AND ACCOMMODATING POTENTIAL FOR A DUALISTIC ECONOMY*
Authors: PIRAS ROMANO
Published: April 2012

We investigate internal migration across Italian regions and provide empirical evidence that the share of young population, per capita GDP, unemployment rate and migrants' human capital are the main determinants of migration flows across Italian regions from 1970 to 2002. We deal with the issues of non‐stationarity and co‐integration and estimate an error‐correction model in which both the short‐ and long‐run dynamics are modelled simultaneously. As far as the accommodating potential of internal migration to regional unbalances is concerned, we detect little room for such a role. Indeed, the degree of labour mobility across Italian regions cannot be active as an effective equilibrating mechanism.
NEGATIVE DEMAND SHOCKS, KNOCK‐ON EFFECTS AND EMERGENCY GOVERNMENT BAILOUTS*
Authors: CAI DAPENG , LI JIE
Published: April 2012

In this paper we consider emergency government bailouts. We show that it is welfare‐enhancing to bail out failing firms that are facing a sudden negative demand shock and would otherwise go bankrupt, when there are sufficiently large fixed production costs and knock‐on effects (the negative externalities produced by firms' failures that impact on other firms). We also suggest that subsidizing the whole industry at a uniform production subsidy generates a higher level of national welfare than merely subsidizing the failing firms.
THE EAST MEDITERRANEAN LATE BRONZE AGE GLASS TRADE WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF THE PANAZTEPE FINDS
Authors: ÇINARDALI‐KARAASLAN NAZLI
Published: April 2012

The Late Bronze Age is a period during which intensive transactions occurred in the Mediterranean and Near East. The glass trade became a real industry, exhibiting the innovations of the period from around the region. The glass finds of the Late Bronze Age consisted of valuable gifts exchanged between the elite classes of Mesopotamia, Egypt and the Aegean.

The objective of this study is to reconstruct Late Bronze Age glass trade systems in the light of archaeological data recovered from Panaztepe, located in the Izmir region of west Anatolia. The glass finds at Panaztepe are represented by examples such as necklace spacers, relief beads, and spherical and circular beads recovered from the two burial grounds. While the interior chronologies of the tombs have not been completely distinguished, it is thought that most of these finds were used during the Late Helladic III A–B periods.
CHARIOTS AND CONTEXT: NEW RADIOCARBON DATES FROM WETWANG AND THE CHRONOLOGY OF IRON AGE BURIALS AND BROOCHES IN EAST YORKSHIRE
Authors: JAY MANDY , HASELGROVE COLIN , HAMILTON DEREK , HILL J.D. , DENT JOHN
Published: April 2012

This paper presents 21 new radiocarbon dates for Iron Age burials excavated at Wetwang Slack, East Yorkshire, including three chariot burials. The dates are analysed using a Bayesian approach, along with previous dates from the cemetery and from other chariot burials in the region. The model suggests that regular burial at Wetwang spanned the third and earlier second centuries cal BC, a shorter period than once thought, whilst the chariot burials all belong to a short‐lived horizon centred on 200 cal BC. The dating of brooch types present in the burials is also reassessed. Our results imply that brooches of La Tène D form appeared in Britain in the later second century cal BC, in line with Continental evidence, but reinforcing the void in the later Iron Age sequence revealed in a recent study of decorated metalwork. Both this apparent gap and the end of the classic East Yorkshire mortuary tradition may well be manifestations of the more general changes that swept across Europe at this period, ushering in the new forms of political organization and social practices that define the Late Iron Age.
IPO Survival in a Reputational Market
Authors: Espenlaub Susanne , Khurshed Arif , Mohamed Abdulkadir
Published: April 2012

Abstract: We examine IPO survival in a ‘reputational’ market, the Alternative Investment Market (AIM), where principle‐based regulation pivots on the role of a regulatory agent, the nominated advisor (Nomad) to the IPO company. We find that Nomad reputation has a significant impact on IPO survival. IPOs backed by reputable Nomads ‘survive longer (by about two years) than those backed by other Nomads. We also find thatsurvival rates of AIM IPOs are broadly comparable to those of North American IPOs. While these results are of obvious interest to various stakeholders of AIM firms, they also provide important lessons for market places modeled on AIM including the upper‐tier of the US over‐the‐counter market (OTCQX), Italy's AIM Italia, and Japan's Tokyo AIM.
Dopaminochrome induces caspase‐independent apoptosis in the mesencephalic cell line, MN9D
Authors: Linsenbardt Andrew J. , Breckenridge Julie M. , Wilken Gerald H. , Macarthur Heather
Published: April 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 122, 175–184.

Parkinson’s disease is characterized by a deficiency in motor cortex modulation due to degeneration of pigmented dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra projecting to the striatum. These neurons are particularly susceptible to oxidative stress, perhaps because of their dopaminergic nature. Like all catecholamines, dopamine is easily oxidized, first to a quinone intermediate and then to dopaminochrome (DAC), a 5‐dihydroxyindole tautomer, that is cytotoxic in an oxidative stress‐dependent manner. Here we show, using the murine mesencephalic cell line MN9D, that DAC causes cell death by apoptosis, illustrated by membrane blebbing, Annexin V, and propidium iodide labeling within 3 h. In addition, DAC causes oxidative damage to DNA within 3 h, and positive terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling fluorescence by 24 h. DAC, however, does not induce caspase 3 activation and its cytotoxic actions are not prevented by the pan‐caspase inhibitor, Z‐VAD‐fmk. DAC‐induced cytotoxicity is limited by the PARP1 inhibitor, 5‐aminoisoquinolinone, supporting a role for apoptosis‐inducing factor (AIF) in the apoptotic process. Indeed, AIF is detected in the nuclear fraction of MN9D cells 3 h after DAC exposure. Taken together these results demonstrate that DAC induces cytotoxicity in MN9D cells in a caspase‐independent apoptotic manner, likely triggered by oxidative damage to DNA, and involving the translocation of AIF from the mitochondria to the nucleus.
Troubled lives: chaos and trauma in the accounts of young people considered ‘at risk’ of diagnosis of personality disorder
Authors: Gilbert Tony , Farrand Paul , Lankshear Gloria
Published: April 2012

This study explores accounts provided by 27 young people who had contact with an early intervention service for young people considered to be ‘at risk’ of diagnosis of personality disorder. These accounts, developed from semi‐structured interviews, focussed on their experiences prior to and since referral, which normally followed an episode of extremely risky behaviour such as self‐harm or a suicide attempt. Analysis provided three themes. These focussed on the chaotic lifestyles of the young people, which were punctuated by episodes of self‐harm and other risky behaviours; the unsupportive or traumatic relationships with parents and partners, which culminated in a toxic mix of isolation and self‐blame and the role of case coordinators. The lack of stable adult relationships is evident. Findings suggest the establishment of stable, supportive adult relationships with a view to providing a problem‐solving approach with the aim of guiding young people away from risky acts and their traumatic consequences may be fruitful. The challenge is to find a sustainable way of establishing such a model outside of paid relationships. The other challenge is to develop research approaches with similarly placed young people, which enable ongoing contact.
Children’s Health and Parental Labour Supply*
Authors: YAMAUCHI CHIKAKO
Published: April 2012

This paper investigates the relationship between children’s long‐term health problems and parental labour supply using the 2004, 2006 and 2008 Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC). The results from the individual Fixed Effects Model indicate that mothers of children aged 0 years in 2004 reduce their labour supply when their children start to show long‐term health problems, and their household income declines by 8 per cent, mainly due to the partners’ shift from permanent to fixed‐term work. Parents of children aged 4 years in 2004 show no change in these outcomes associated with the onset of their children’s long‐term health problems.
Improving influenza vaccination coverage in pregnancy in Melbourne 2010–2011
Authors: McCarthy Elizabeth A. , Pollock Wendy Elizabeth , Nolan Terry , Hay Sarah , McDonald Susan
Published: April 2012

Background

Seasonal influenza vaccination during pregnancy is effective in preventing serious maternal and infant respiratory illness, but published Australian audits are sparse concerning practice.

Aims

Guided by information gained from new mothers about obstacles to influenza vaccination in July 2010, an educational program for maternity staff and pregnant women was developed with the aim of improving vaccine uptake in 2011.

Methods

One hundred and ninety‐nine new mothers in July 2010 and 240 new mothers in July 2011 on postnatal wards of a tertiary obstetric hospital were interviewed about whether influenza vaccine had been offered or given and about reasons why women chose for or against vaccination during pregnancy.

Results

Influenza vaccination increased from 30% in 2010 to 40% in 2011 (P = 0.03). Fewer women cited safety concerns for themselves or their babies after the 2011 educational campaign. Comments from 90 women in 2011 give grounds for speculation that the vaccination rate could have been as high as 78% if influenza vaccination had been integrated as part of hospital‐based antenatal care.

Conclusions

Influenza vaccine coverage during pregnancy is increasing but obstacles persist, especially absent or inconsistent advice from healthcare workers and lack of ready access during routine antenatal care.
Pilot Studies to Identify the Optimum Duration of Concomitant Helicobacter pylori Eradication Therapy in Thailand
Authors: Kongchayanun Chutima , Vilaichone Ratha‐korn , Pornthisarn Bubpha , Amornsawadwattana Surachai , Mahachai Varocha
Published: April 2012

Background and Aim:  Eradication rate for Helicobacter pylori infection with standard triple therapy has globally declined including in Thailand, and new regimens are required that provide reliable high eradication rates. The study was designed to determine whether concomitant therapy administered for either 5 or 10 days would produce a ≥ 95% (grade A) treatment success in H. pylori infected Thai subjects with nonulcer dyspepsia.

Methods:  Two prospective, but separate, pilot single‐center studies were carried out during September 2009–December 2010 at Thammasat University Hospital, Thailand. H. pylori infected subjects were randomized into the two pilot studies; either 5‐day or 10‐day concomitant therapy. Thai concomitant therapy consisted of rabeprazole (20 mg) twice daily, amoxicillin 1 g twice daily, metronidazole 400 mg three times a day, and clarithromycin MR 1 g once daily. H. pylori status was assessed by 13C‐urea breath test 4 weeks after completion of the treatment. Successful treatment was defined as achieving a grade A result (≥95%) and failure by <90% cured.

Results:  A total of 110 subjects were randomized (55 to the 5‐day treatment trial and 55 to the 10‐day regimen). Baseline subject demographic and clinical characteristics were similar in both studies. All subjects completed their assigned therapies. The 10‐day concomitant treatment trial was successful in 53 of the 55 subjects (96.4%; 95% CI 87.4–99.5%). The 5‐day concomitant pilot was judged to be a failure as only 49 of 55 subjects (89.1%; 95% CI = 77.7–95.8%) were cured. The frequency of adverse events was low and similar in the two studies.

Conclusion:  The 10‐day concomitant regimen provided excellent treatment success (eradication rate >95%) and was well tolerated. Ten‐day concomitant therapy is likely to become useful first‐line H. pylori eradication in Thailand.
Developmental origin of a major difference in sensory patterning between zebrafish and bluefin tuna
Authors: Ghysen Alain , Dambly‐Chaudière Christine , Coves Denis , de la Gandara Fernando , Ortega Aurelio
Published: April 2012

The posterior lateral line system (PLL) of teleost fish comprises a number of mechanosensory organs arranged in defined patterns on the body surface. Embryonic patterns are largely conserved among teleosts, yet adult patterns are highly diverse. Although changes in pattern modify the perceptual abilities of the system, their developmental origin remains unknown. Here we compare the processes that underlie the formation of the juvenile PLL pattern in Thunnus thynnus, the bluefin tuna, to the processes that were elucidated in Danio rerio, the zebrafish. In both cases, the embryonic PLL comprises five neuromasts regularly spaced along the horizontal myoseptum, but the juvenile PLL comprises four roughly parallel anteroposterior lines in zebrafish, whereas it is a simple dorsally arched line in tuna fish. We examined whether this difference involves evolutionary novelties, and show that the same mechanisms mediate the transition from embryonic to juvenile patterns in both species. We conclude that the marked difference in juveniles depends on a single change (dorsal vs. ventral migration of neuromasts) in the first days of larval life.