bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential patterns of regional neuroadrenergic cardiovascular drive in acromegalic disease
Authors: Seravalle Gino , Carzaniga Chiara , Sciortino Giovanna , Attanasio Roberto , Fatti Letizia Maria , Cozzi Renato , Montini Marcella , Vitale Giovanni , Brambilla Gianmaria , Cavagnini Francesco , Mancia Giuseppe , Grassi Guido , Scacchi Massimo
Published: March 2013

It has been shown that acromegaly is characterized by an autonomic imbalance and by marked sympathoinhibition. However, there is no information available as to whether adrenergic inhibition is confined to selected vascular districts or, rather, is generalized.

We examined 17 newly diagnosed active acromegalic patients without hyperprolactinaemia, pituitary hormone deficiencies, obstructive sleep apnoea and cardiac hypertrophy and 14 healthy subjects matched for age, sex and body mass index. For each subject, we collected information regarding anthropometric parameters and echocardiography, and collected plasma samples to investigate anterior pituitary function, glucose and lipid metabolism and plasma leptin levels.

Beat‐to‐beat mean arterial pressure, heart rate and efferent post‐ganglionic muscle and skin sympathetic nerve traffic (MSNA and SSNA, respectively; determined by microneurography) were measured. Both MSNA and SSNA were recorded in a randomized sequence over two 30 min periods. Measurements also included evaluation of SSNA responses to emotional stimulus.

In addition to significant reductions in plasma leptin levels, acromegalic patients had markedly decreased MSNA compared with the healthy controls. There were no significant differences in SSNA between the two groups, either under basal conditions or in responses to arousal stimuli. There was a significant and direct correlation between MSNA and plasma leptin levels, but not between plasma leptin and SSNA.

These data provide the first evidence that the sympathetic inhibition characterizing the early phase of acromegaly is not generalized to the entire cardiovascular system.
Molecular targets in the discovery and development of novel antimetastatic agents: Current progress and future prospects
Authors: Wong Mei S , Sidik Shiran M , Mahmud Rozi , Stanslas Johnson
Published: March 2013

Tumour invasion and metastasis have been recognized as major causal factors in the morbidity and mortality among cancer patients. Many advances in the knowledge of cancer metastasis have yielded an impressive array of attractive drug targets, including enzymes, receptors and multiple signalling pathways.

The present review summarizes the molecular pathogenesis of metastasis and the identification of novel molecular targets used in the discovery of antimetastatic agents. Several promising targets have been highlighted, including receptor tyrosine kinases, effector molecules involved in angiogenesis, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), urokinase plasminogen activator, adhesion molecules and their receptors, signalling pathways (e.g. phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase, phospholipase Cγ1, mitogen‐activated protein kinases, c‐Src kinase, c‐Met kinases and heat shock protein.

The discovery and development of potential novel therapeutics for each of the targets are also discussed in this review. Among these, the most promising agents that have shown remarkable clinical outcome are anti‐angiogenic agents (e.g. bevacizumab). Newer agents, such as c‐Met kinase inhibitors, are still undergoing preclinical studies and are yet to have their clinical efficacy proven.

Some therapeutics, such as first‐generation MMP inhibitors (MMPIs; e.g. marimastat) and more selective versions of them (e.g. prinomastat, tanomastat), have undergone clinical trials. Unfortunately, these drugs produced serious adverse effects that led to the premature termination of their development.

In the future, third‐generation MMPIs and inhibitors of signalling pathways and adhesion molecules could form valuable novel classes of drugs in the anticancer armamentarium to combat metastasis.
Ultrashort time‐to‐echo MRI of the cartilaginous endplate: Technique and association with intervertebral disc degeneration
Authors: Law Travis , Anthony Marina‐Portia , Chan Queenie , Samartzis Dino , Kim Mina , Cheung Kenneth MC , Khong Pek‐Lan
Published: March 2013

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to report the feasibility of the ultrashort time‐to‐echo (UTE) MRI technique to assess cartilaginous endplate (CEP) defects in humans in vivo and to assess their relationship with intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration.

Methods

Nine volunteer subjects (mean age = 43.9 years; range = 22–61 years) were recruited, representing 54 IVDs and 108 CEPs. The subjects underwent T2‐weighted and UTE MRI to assess for the presence and severity of IVD degeneration, and for the presence of CEP defects, respectively, from T12 to S1. IVD degeneration was graded according to the Schneiderman et al. classification on T2‐weighted MRI. CEP defects were defined on UTE MRI as discontinuity of high signal over four consecutive images and were independently assessed by two observers.

Results

Thirty‐seven out of 108 (34.3%) CEPs had defects, which mainly occurred at T12/L1, L1/L2 and L4/L5 (P = 0.008). Multivariate logistic regression revealed that lower body mass index (P = 0.009) and younger (P = 0.034) individuals had a decreased likelihood of having CEP defects. A statistically significant association was found to exist between the presence of CEP defects and IVD degeneration (P = 0.036). A higher prevalence of degenerated IVDs with CEP defects was found at L4/5 and L5/S1, while degenerated IVDs with no CEP defects were found throughout the whole lumbar region. Mean IVD degeneration scores of the L4/5 and L5/S1 levels with CEP defects were higher in comparison with those with no CEP defects.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates the feasibility of using UTE MRI in humans in vivo to assess the integrity of the CEP. A statistically significant association was found to exist between the presence of CEP defects and IVD degeneration. In the lower lumbar region, more severe degeneration was found to occur in the IVDs with CEP defects than in those without defects.
Fluid Divination: Movement, Chaos, and the Generation of “Noise” in Afro‐Cuban Spiritist Oracular Production
Authors: Santo Diana Espirito
Published: March 2013

An examination of oracles in popular forms of Cuban espiritismo invites a rethinking of the role of “randomness” and “context” in the anthropology of divination. Through an analysis of the ways by which spirit mediums develop as persons, and their implications for the mechanics of divination, I argue that among espiritistas the meaning of particular configurations cannot be separated from the event that brings them about. Relatively simple in their properties (e.g. water), spiritist oracles function to provide impulse to a perceived metaphysical universe that requires the generation of movement in order to achieve instantiation. The argument is that this movement provides a background of chaos essential to the purpose of divination. To demonstrate this, I forward an analogy to the language of electronic voice phenomena in parapsychology, in particular with its concept of “noise.” In both EVP and espiritismo, “noise” is the substance that allows spirits to communicate.
Different ways of subcutaneous tissue and skin closure at cesarean section: a randomized clinical trial on the long‐term cosmetic outcome
Authors: Huppelschoten Aleida G. , van Ginderen Johanna C. , van den Broek Krista C. , Bouwma Anne E. , Oosterbaan Herman P.
Published: March 2013

Objective

To study the effect of subcutaneous tissue closing and the effect of two different skin closure methods at cesarean section on long‐term cosmetic results.

Design

Randomized controlled trial.

Setting

A large teaching hospital in the Netherlands.

Population

Women undergoing a cesarean section.

Methods

Women undergoing a cesarean section were assigned to subcutaneous tissue closure or not, and skin closure with staples or intracutaneous sutures. Operating time, postoperative pain and incidence of complications were recorded. Long‐term cosmetic result was assessed 1 year postoperatively through the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) and Numeric Rating Scale (NRS).

Main outcome measures

The POSAS for subjective and objective scar rating and the NRS to provide an overall opinion on appearance of the scar 1 year after surgery.

Results

Of the 218 women randomized, data from 145 women could be analysed after 1 year of follow‐up. No significant differences were detected in long‐term cosmetic outcome between the different closure methods. Except for operating time, no differences in other secondary outcome measures were found.

Conclusions

At cesarean section, closing the subcutaneous tissue or not and using staples or intracutaneous sutures results in an equivalent long‐term cosmetic appearance of the scar.
Meta‐analysis: colonoscopic post‐polypectomy bleeding in patients on continued clopidogrel therapy
Authors: Gandhi S. , Narula N. , Mosleh W. , Marshall J. K. , Farkouh M.
Published: March 2013

Background

Current guidelines recommend the cessation of clopidogrel therapy 5 days and 7–10 days prior to colonoscopic polypectomy. Recent studies have advocated for continued clopidogrel as post‐polypectomy bleeding (PPB) rates have been similar to those in the general population not on antithrombotic therapy.

Aim

To assess colonoscopic post‐polypectomy bleeding in patients on continued clopidogrel therapy.

Methods

A literature search was conducted for studies that investigated PPB in patients on continued clopidogrel therapy. The primary outcome of interest was the pooled relative risk ratio (RR) of colonoscopic PPB in patients on continued clopidogrel therapy vs. controls. Secondary outcomes were a comparison of immediate and delayed colonoscopy PPB in patients on continued clopidogrel therapy vs. controls.

Results

Five observational studies included 574 subjects on continued clopidogrel therapy and 6169 control subjects. The pooled RR for PPB on continued clopidogrel therapy was 2.54 (95% CI 1.68–3.84, P < 0.00001). For immediate PPB there was a nonsignificant pooled RR of 1.76 (95% CI 0.90–3.46, P = 0.10), and delayed PPB there was a significant pooled RR of 4.66 (95% CI 2.37–9.17, P < 0.00001).

Conclusions

The results of this meta‐analysis suggest that continued clopidogrel increases the risk of delayed but not immediate post‐polypectomy bleeding. Clopidogrel interruption in individuals with coronary artery disease predisposes to serious acute ischaemic events. In high‐risk patients, endoscopists should be cognisant of these risks and consider deferring elective colonoscopy and polypectomy until it is considered safe to interrupt clopidogrel therapy.
Decorin activates Akt downstream of IGF‐IR and promotes myoblast differentiation
Authors: Suzuki Keisuke , Kishioka Yasuhiro , Wakamatsu Jun‐ichi , Nishimura Takanori
Published: March 2013

Decorin, a small leucine‐rich proteoglycan, plays an important role in cellular activities through modification of growth factors. It also acts as a signaling molecule to non‐muscle cells through epidermal growth factor receptor or insulin‐like growth factor I receptor (IGF‐IR). However, it is unclear if decorin acts as a signaling molecule to myogenic cells. In this study, we investigated the effect of decorin on the differentiation of myoblasts and the signaling via IGF‐IR to myogenic cells. C2C12 myoblasts cultured in media containing decorin for 72 h showed more extensive formation of multinucleated myotubes than control cells cultured in the same media without decorin. The protein expressions of myogenin and myosin heavy chian were higher in decorn‐treated cells than in control cells. These results suggest that decorin enhances the differentiation of myoblasts. Western blot analysis and immunocytochemistry showed that IGF‐IR was expressed in myoblasts and myotubes. Furthermore, Akt, which is downstream of IGF‐IR, was more phosphorylated in myoblasts cultured in media containing decorin than those in media without decorin. These results suggest that decorin activates Akt downstream of IGF‐IR and enhances the differentiation of myogenic cells.
In Utero and Lactational Exposure to Fluoxetine in Wistar Rats: Pregnancy Outcomes and Sexual Development
Authors: Müller Juliane C. , Boareto Ana C. , Lourenço Emerson L. B. , Zaia Renata M. , Kienast Mariana F. , Spercoski Katherinne M. , Morais Rosana N. , Martino‐Andrade Anderson J. , Dalsenter Paulo R.
Published: March 2013

This study evaluated the reproductive effects of fluoxetine exposure in utero and during lactation on pregnancy outcomes and the sexual development of offspring. Pregnant Wistar rats were treated daily with fluoxetine (0.4, 1.7 and 17 mg/kg/day) or distilled water by gavage from gestation day (GD) 7 to lactation day (LD) 21. A significant reduction in maternal body weight was observed during pregnancy and lactation in dams exposed to 17 mg/kg fluoxetine. Hormone analysis revealed an increase in progestagen and glucocorticoid metabolites on GD 15 and oestrogen and progestagen metabolites on LD 7 in dams treated with 17 mg/kg fluoxetine. Oestrogen metabolites also were increased on LD 7 in dams treated with 0.4 mg/kg fluoxetine. Besides that, an increase in the weight of the adrenal glands and a reduction in uterine weight in dams exposed to highest dose of fluoxetine were observed. Finally, pup birthweight and the viability and weaning indices also were reduced in animals exposed to 17 mg/kg fluoxetine. Overall, maternal hormonal changes were only observed at the highest dose tested, which also induced maternal and foetal toxicity. No significant changes were seen in dams or offspring exposed to therapeutic‐like doses.
Occupational outcome in bipolar disorder is not predicted by premorbid functioning and intelligence
Authors: Schoeyen Helle K , Melle Ingrid , Sundet Kjetil , Aminoff Sofie R , Hellvin Tone , Auestad Bjoern H , Morken Gunnar , Andreassen Ole A
Published: March 2013

Objectives

Bipolar disorder (BD), over the long term, can manifest a variety of outcomes depending on a number of different conditions. There is a need for further knowledge regarding preventive factors as well as predictors of the disabling course of the disorder. Studies regarding the impact on functional outcome of premorbid and current general intellectual function [intelligence quotient (IQ)] and premorbid functioning in BD patients are sparse. The present study addressed the role of premorbid functioning [assessed with the Premorbid Adjustment Scale (PAS)], intelligence, course of illness, and sociodemographics on occupational outcome in BD.

Methods

Bipolar disorder patients were recruited consecutively from psychiatric units (outpatient and inpatient) in four major hospitals in Oslo, Norway [(N = 226: 64.4% bipolar I disorder (BD‐I); 30.1% bipolar II disorder (BD‐II); 5.5% bipolar disorder not otherwise specified (BD‐NOS); 38.6% males]. The associations between current IQ, premorbid IQ [assessed using the National Adult Reading Test (NART)], PAS, clinical and sociodemographic characteristics, and receipt of disability benefit were analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses.

Results

The number of hospitalizations for depressive episodes and illness duration was associated with a higher risk of receipt of disability benefit. PAS, premorbid and current IQ, as well as decline in IQ, did not explain the higher risk of receipt of disability benefits.

Conclusions

Severe clinical course of BD was associated with receipt of disability benefit. Occupational outcome was unrelated to PAS, premorbid and current IQ, as well as decline in IQ. This suggests that the persistence of severe clinical symptoms, rather than global cognitive functioning, determines occupational outcome in BD and emphasizes the protective potential of early and continuous clinical treatment.
Characteristics of patients diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder compared with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder
Authors: Pagel Tobias , Baldessarini Ross J , Franklin Jeremy , Baethge Christopher
Published: March 2013

Objectives

Information on basic demographic and clinical characteristics of schizoaffective disorder is sparse and subject to sampling bias and low diagnostic reliability. In the present study we aimed to: (i) estimate the demographic and clinical descriptors in schizoaffective disorder patients and (ii) compare the findings with those with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Methods

To minimize sampling bias and low reliability, we systematically reviewed studies that simultaneously compared schizoaffective, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder patients. We estimated demographic, clinical, and psychometric characteristics based on weighted pooling, and compared disorders by meta‐analysis. We also estimated whether schizoaffective disorder is closer to schizophrenia or to bipolar disorder.

Results

We identified 50 studies that included 18312 patients. Most characteristics of the 2684 schizoaffective disorder patients fell between those of 4814 diagnosed with bipolar disorder and 10814 with schizophrenia. However, the schizoaffective group had the highest proportion of women (52%), had the youngest age at illness onset (23.3 ± 3.8 years), and had the highest standardized ratings of psychosis and depression. Differences in pooled parameters between schizoaffective versus schizophrenia and versus bipolar disorder subjects were similar. Values for patients with schizoaffective disorders mostly were intermediate between schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. However, the majority of studies showed schizoaffective patients to be more like schizophrenia than bipolar disorder patients in seven out of nine demographic and clinical categories as well as in five out of eight psychometric measures. These results remained similar when we restricted the analyses to studies with psychotic bipolar disorder patients only or to studies using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)‐IIIR and DSM‐IV only.

Conclusions

The present study provided estimates of important characteristics of schizoaffective disorder – as balanced as possible in summarizing the findings from observational studies as unbiased as possible. The results did not support the hypothesis that schizoaffective disorder is primarily an affective disorder. The stronger resemblance of schizoaffective disorder to schizophrenia than to bipolar disorder needs further investigation.
Management of venous thromboembolism – controversies and the future
Authors: Keeling David , Alikhan Raza
Published: March 2013

Despite the availability of comprehensive evidence‐based guidelines there are difficult and controversial areas in the management of venous thromboembolism. Institutions and even countries disagree on the importance of calf vein thrombosis, with some rigorously detecting and treating it and others deliberately not looking for it. The need to treat proximal deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism is accepted but which patients with an unprovoked first event should have long‐term anticoagulation has become a difficult clinical decision. We are uncertain how to reduce the incidence of post‐thrombotic syndrome seen in a substantial number of patients. How hard to look for an undiagnosed underlying cancer has become a contentious issue particularly in the United Kingdom following the recent publication of a guideline from the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence. Whilst we are wrestling with these dilemmas we are entering an era of new anticoagulants and have to solve the logistical problems of introducing them into clinical practice despite cost pressures. These issues will be explored in this review.
Detection of novel genetic variation in autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa
Authors: Borràs E , de Sousa Dias M , Hernan I , Pascual B , Mañé B , Gamundi MJ , Delás B , Carballo M
Published: March 2013

We explored an approach to detect disease‐causing sequence variants in 448 candidate genes from five index cases of autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (adRP) by sequence DNA capture and next‐generation DNA sequencing (NGS). Detection of sequence variants was carried out by sequence capture NimbleGen and NGS in a SOLiD platform. After filtering out variants previously reported in genomic databases, novel potential adRP‐causing variants were validated by dideoxy capillary electrophoresis (Sanger) sequencing and co‐segregation in the families. A total of 55 novel sequence variants in the coding or splicing regions of adRP candidate genes were detected, 49 of which were confirmed by Sanger sequencing. Segregation of these variants in the corresponding adRP families showed three variants present in all the RP‐affected members of the family. A novel mutation, p.L270R in IMPDH1, was found to be disease causing in one family. In another family a variant, p.M96T in the NRL gene was detected; this variant was previously reported as probably causing adRP. However, the previously reported p.A76V mutation in NRL as a cause of RP was excluded by co‐segregation in the family. We discuss the benefits and limitations of our approach in the context of mutation detection in adRP patients.
Endothelial Progenitor Cells Contribute to Neointima Formation in Rabbit Elastase‐Induced Aneurysm after Flow Diverter Treatment
Authors: Li Zi‐Fu , Fang Xing‐Gen , Yang Peng‐Fei , Huang Qing‐Hai , Zhao Wen‐Yuan , Liang Chong , Zhao Rui , Liu Jian‐Min
Published: March 2013

Aims

Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are involved in vascular repair and homeostasis after vascular injuries. In this study, we aimed to explore whether bone marrow (BM)‐derived EPCs contribute to neointima formation and reendothelialization in rabbit elastase‐induced aneurysm after flow diverter treatment.

Methods

Elastase‐induced aneurysms were created in New Zealand male rabbits. Three weeks after model creation, flow diverter was implanted to cover the induced aneurysm neck. Autologous EPCs were isolated from bone marrow, expanded ex vivo, double labeled with Hoechst 33,342 and CFSE(carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester), and transplanted transvenously into the rabbits. The rabbits were assigned into three groups. The first group received autologous transfusion of double‐labeled EPCs from the first day after stent implantation, and the second group received transfusion from the fifteenth day. The autologous transfusion was given at a 3‐day interval and continued for 2 weeks. Fluorescence‐labeled cells were tracked under fluorescence microscope at the aneurysm neck and parent artery in the two groups. The third group was established as control group without EPCs transplantation. Scanning electron microscope was used to investigate the reendothelialization rate between the former two groups and the control group.

Results

In the first group, double‐positive EPCs were found in 3/5 rabbits and mainly located in the subendothelial space and around the stent struts. In the second group, double‐positive EPCs were found in 2/5 rabbits and mainly located on the surface of neointima. More endothelial‐like cells were observed on the neointima of aneurysm neck and stented parent artery in the groups with EPCs transplantation than control group without EPCs transplantation, but the difference on the number of these cells did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions

BM‐derived EPCs participate in neointima formation and reendothelialization in elastase‐induced aneurysm after flow diverter treatment. The EPCs may differentiate into different cell types according to the stages of neointima formation in vivo.
Bayesian Decision‐Network Modeling of Multiple Stakeholders for Reef Ecosystem Restoration in the Coral Triangle
Authors: VARKEY DIVYA A. , PITCHER TONY J. , McALLISTER MURDOCH K. , SUMAILA RASHID S.
Published: March 2013

Proposals for marine conservation measures have proliferated in the last 2 decades due to increased reports of fishery declines and interest in conservation. Fishers and fisheries managers have often disagreed strongly when discussing controls on fisheries. In such situations, ecosystem‐based models and fisheries‐stock assessment models can help resolve disagreements by highlighting the trade‐offs that would be made under alternative management scenarios. We extended the analytical framework for modeling such trade‐offs by including additional stakeholders whose livelihoods and the value they place on conservation depend on the condition of the marine ecosystem. To do so, we used Bayesian decision‐network models (BDNs) in a case study of an Indonesian coral reef fishery. Our model included interests of the fishers and fishery managers; individuals in the tourism industry; conservation interests of the state, nongovernmental organizations, and the local public; and uncertainties in ecosystem status, projections of fisheries revenues, tourism growth, and levels of interest in conservation. We calculated the total utility (i.e., value) of a range of restoration scenarios. Restricting net fisheries and live‐fish fisheries appeared to be the best compromise solutions under several combinations of settings of modeled variables. Results of our case study highlight the implications of alternate formulations for coral reef stakeholder utility functions and discount rates for the calculation of the net benefits of alternative fisheries management options. This case study may also serve as a useful example for other decision analyses with multiple stakeholders.

Modelo de Red de Decisión Bayesiana de Múltiples Actores Interesados en la Restauración de Ecosistemas de Arrecife en el Triángulo de Coral
A Transactional and Collaborative Approach to Reducing Effects of Bottom Trawling
Authors: GLEASON MARY , FELLER ERIKA M. , MERRIFIELD MATT , COPPS STEPHEN , FUJITA ROD , BELL MICHAEL , RIENECKE STEVE , COOK CHUCK
Published: March 2013

Private‐sector financial and legal transactions have long been used to protect terrestrial habitats and working landscapes, but less commonly to address critical threats in marine environments. Transferrable and marketable fishing privileges, including permits and quotas, make it possible to use private‐sector transactions as conservation strategies to address some fishery management issues. Abating the effects of bottom trawling on the seafloor and bycatch and discard associated with the practice has proven challenging. On the Central Coast of California, The Nature Conservancy (TNC), Environmental Defense Fund, local fishers and local, state, and federal authorities worked collaboratively to protect large areas of the seafloor from bottom trawling for groundfish while addressing economic impacts of trawl closures. Contingent on the adoption of trawl‐closure areas by a federal regulatory agency, TNC used private funds to purchase federal groundfish trawl permits and vessels from willing sellers. Trawl‐closure areas were designed collaboratively by combining regional biological diversity and fisheries data with local fishers’ knowledge. The private transactional strategy was designed to remedy some deficiencies in previous federal buyouts, to mitigate economic impacts from trawl closures, and to carefully align with a public regulatory process to protect “essential fish habitat” under the Magnuson‐Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. This collaborative effort protected 1.5 million ha (3.8 million acres) of seafloor, reduced trawl effort in the area by 50%, and set a precedent for collaborative partnerships between conservation and fishing interests. This is the first time a large conservation organization has taken an ownership position in a fishery and demonstrates how nongovernmental organizations can invest in fisheries to improve environmental and economic performance.

Un Método Transaccional y Colaborativo para Reducir los Efectos de la Pesca de Arrastre de Fondo
Methods for designing characterisation targets for digital cameras
Authors: Chou Yi‐Fan , Luo M Ronnier , Li Changjun , Cheung Vien , Lee San‐Liang
Published: March 2013

Characterisation targets usually include a set of physical coloured samples. A characterisation model can be derived between the colorimetric values (tristimulus values) and camera responses (RGB values) taken from an imaging device such as a digital camera capturing the colours in the target. The performance of such a model is highly dependent upon the number of colours and the colour region in the characterisation target. An ideal characterisation target should provide accurate model prediction without requiring too many samples. In this paper, a computational method is presented for colour selections to train a camera characterisation model based on a fourth‐order polynomial model including 35 terms. Compared with other available methods, the newly developed method performed better. It is proposed that this method be applied to generate generic targets in terms of colorimetric values. These targets should work reasonably well for a wide range of materials.
Realist review to understand the efficacy of culturally appropriate diabetes education programmes
Authors: Pottie K. , Hadi A. , Chen J. , Welch V. , Hawthorne K.
Published: March 2013

Aims

Minority populations often face linguistic, cultural and financial barriers to diabetes education and care. The aim was to understand why culturally appropriate diabetes education interventions work, when they work best and for whom they are most effective.

Methods

This review used a critical realist approach to examine culturally appropriate diabetes interventions. Beginning with the behavioural model and access to medical care, it reanalysed 11 randomized controlled trials from a Cochrane systematic review and related programme and training documents on culturally appropriate diabetes interventions. The analysis examined context and mechanism to understand their relationship to participant retention and statistically improved outcomes.

Results

Minority patients with language barriers and limited access to diabetes programmes responded to interventions using health workers from the same ethnic group and interventions promoting culturally acceptable and financially affordable food choices using local ingredients. Programme incentives improved retention in the programmes and this was associated with improved HbA1c levels at least in the short term. Adopting a positive learning environment, a flexible and less intensive approach, one‐to‐one teaching in informal settings compared with a group approach in clinics led to improved retention rates.

Conclusions

Minority and uninsured migrants with unmet health needs showed the highest participation and HbA1c responses from culturally appropriate programmes.
Occurrence of Phytophthora cinnamomi in cork oak forests in Italy
Authors: Scanu B. , Linaldeddu B. T. , Franceschini A. , Anselmi N. , Vannini A. , Vettraino A. M.
Published: March 2013

An increasing decline and mortality of cork oak trees have been recently observed in central Italy and Sardinia Island. Following surveys conducted in three declining cork oak forests, a Phytophthora species was consistently isolated from soil samples collected from trees displaying different level of decline. Based on morphological features, growth rates at different temperatures and analysis of DNA sequences of the ITS region, all isolates were identified as Phytophthora cinnamomi Rands. This pathogen caused large brownish lesions on inoculated freshly cut branches of cork oak. It was re‐isolated from all infected tissues. These findings represent the first report of P. cinnamomi on cork oak trees in Italy.
Assessing a Critical Aspect of Construct Continuity When Test Specifications Change or Test Forms Deviate from Specifications
Authors: Liu Jinghua , Dorans Neil J.
Published: March 2013

We make a distinction between two types of test changes: inevitable deviations from specifications versus planned modifications of specifications. We describe how score equity assessment (SEA) can be used as a tool to assess a critical aspect of construct continuity, the equivalence of scores, whenever planned changes are introduced to testing programs. We also report on how SEA can be used as a quality control check to evaluate whether tests developed to a static set of specifications remain within acceptable tolerance levels with respect to equatability.
A comparison between pre‐ and post exercise administration of omeprazole in the treatment of equine gastric ulcer syndrome: A blinded, randomised, clinical trial
Authors: Sykes B. W. , Sykes K. M. , Hallowell G. D.
Published: March 2013

Reasons for performing the study

A recent study suggested that the duration of acid suppression achieved with once‐daily administration of omeprazole is as short as 12 h and that administration of omeprazole prior to exercise may be superior compared with administration at other times of the day in the treatment of equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS).

Objectives

The primary objective of the study was to investigate whether the administration of omeprazole prior to exercise resulted in better healing ofEGUScompared with administration post exercise. A secondary objective was to investigate the differences between the response of squamous and glandularEGUSto omeprazole therapy.

Study design

A randomised, blinded, clinical trial.

Methods

Twenty‐five horses withgrade ≥2/4squamousEGUSwere identified by gastroscopy. The glandular mucosa was also scored. Horses were randomly assigned to receive 4.0 mg/kg bwt of omeprazoleper osonce daily either 1–4 h prior to high‐intensity exercise (PREgroup; 13 horses) or 1–4 h after exercise (POSTgroup; 12 horses). Gastroscopy was repeated at approximately 25 days.

Results

No differences were observed between the pre‐ and post exercise treatment groups. Overall, healing was observed in 80% of squamous ulcers vs. 21% of glandular ulcers (P = 0.0002), and improvement was seen in 96% of squamous ulcers vs. 53% of glandular ulcers (P = 0.001). Worsening was observed in the glandular mucosa of 13% of horses.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that the timing of administration does not affect ulcer healing. Furthermore, the study demonstrates that the response of glandular ulceration to omeprazole therapy is inferior to that of the squamous mucosa.
Bond behaviour of high‐strength concrete flexural member under low cyclic fatigue loading
Authors: Abbass W. , Siddiqi Z. A. , Aslam F. , Hussain R. R. , Ahmed S.
Published: March 2013

Use of high‐strength concrete can lead to more economical design reducing the material requirements, weight of structure and extended service life of structure. The effect of fatigue loading is more prominent on the structures using high‐strength concrete. Bond between concrete and reinforcing bars is a major factor affecting the performance and sustainability of reinforced concrete structures. Less research is available on the effect of low cyclic fatigue loading on the bond strength of high‐strength concrete. In this research, reinforced concrete beams (1165 × 150 × 225 mm) were tested under low cyclic loading with different stress range levels. It can be concluded that the bond strength of high‐strength concrete is more than for normal‐strength concrete. Low‐cyclic fatigue loading decreased the bond strength under monotonic loading by about 43–45%. Energy dissipation during cycling is found to be good. At higher cycles, energy dissipation decreased because of local damages in front of bar ribs. With the increase in number of cycles, change in slip behaviour was found.
Prescribing patterns of proton pump inhibitors in older hospitalized patients in a Scottish health board
Authors: Jarchow‐MacDonald Anna Amrit , Mangoni Arduino A
Published: March 2013

Aim

Proton‐pump inhibitors (PPI) are extensively prescribed worldwide. However, little information is available on PPI prescribing patterns, associated clinical and demographic factors, and potential drug–drug interactions in frail older patients.

Methods

Data on clinical and demographic characteristics, and full medication exposure were collected in a consecutive series of 361 older patients (age 84 ± 7 years) admitted to two acute geriatric admission units (Aberdeen, National Health Service Grampian) between 1 February 2010 and 30 June 2010. A set of predetermined criteria was used to assess appropriateness of PPI prescribing.

Results

PPI were prescribed in 148 patients (41.0%). Inappropriate overprescribing was observed in 127 patients (35.2% of the study population, 85.8% of patients prescribed PPI). PPI were inappropriately not prescribed in 20 patients (48.8% of patients with an indication for PPI treatment). Regression analysis showed that the total number of non‐PPI prescribed drugs (OR 1.08; 95%CI 1.01–1.15) and a higher Charlson Comorbidity Index (OR 1.08; 95%CI 1.001–1.16) were independently associated with inappropriate PPI overprescribing. Potential drug–drug interactions were found in 75 patients (22.8% of the study population), mainly in patients with PPI overprescribing.

Conclusions

Inappropriate PPI prescribing is common in frail older hospitalized patients, and might increase the risk of drug–drug interactions. Polypharmacy and comorbidity were independently associated with inappropriate PPI prescribing in this group. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2013; 13: 1002–1009.
Potentially inappropriate medicines in a cohort of community‐dwelling older people in New Zealand
Authors: Nishtala Prasad S , Bagge Michael L , Campbell A John , Tordoff June M
Published: March 2013

Aim

To examine independent factors associated with potentially inappropriate medicines (PIM) among 316 community‐dwelling people aged ≥75 years living in Dunedin.

Methods

People aged ≥75 years living in the community in Dunedin, New Zealand, taking ≥1 prescription medicines, randomly sampled from the electoral roll, were interviewed about their medicine‐taking practices. A medication inventory comprising prescription and non‐prescription medicines was taken from each participant at the time of the interview. Participants used a median of seven prescription medicines (range 1–19) and one non‐prescription medicine (0–14). PIM were identified using the updated 2012 Beers criteria.

Results

PIM were identified in 42.7% (n = 135) older people. A total of 23 (7.2%) took two PIM, five (1.5%) took three PIM, four (1.2%) took four PIM and one (0.3%) took five PIM. Of the 184 total PIM identified, the top three drug classes were non‐COX‐selective non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (24.0%), tricyclic antidepressants (16.8%) and benzodiazepines (14.6%). Polypharmacy (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 2.06, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03–4.12) and the use of any psychotropic drug use (OR 22.05, 95% CI 5.80–83.84) were associated with PIM exposure. In the Poisson regression model, the risk of taking a PIM significantly decreased with age (OR 0.95, CI 0.91–0.99) and increased as the number of drugs prescribed increased (OR 1.11, CI 1.08–1.15).

Conclusion

The prevalence of PIM is relatively high in community‐dwelling older people aged ≥75 years living in New Zealand. PIM defined by the Beers criteria might be a useful initial screening tool, before efforts to stop unsafe medication use or replace with safer alternatives are initiated. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; 14: 89–93.
Vitamin K: Novel molecular mechanisms of action and its roles in osteoporosis
Authors: Azuma Kotaro , Ouchi Yasuyoshi , Inoue Satoshi
Published: March 2013

Vitamin K is a fat‐soluble vitamin, which is involved in blood coagulation mediated by maintaining the activity of coagulation factors in the liver. Vitamin K also has extrahepatic actions and has been shown to prevent bone fractures in clinical studies. In addition, epidemiological studies suggest that a lack of vitamin K is associated with several geriatric diseases, including osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, dementia and arteriosclerosis. It has also been shown that vitamin K contributes to the prevention and treatment of some kinds of malignancies. Recently, we discovered a novel role for vitamin K as a ligand of the nuclear receptor, steroid and xenobiotic receptor (SXR), and its murine ortholog, pregnane X receptor (PXR). In addition to its established roles as a cofactor of γ‐glutamyl carboxylase (GGCX) in mediating post‐transcriptional modifications, vitamin K has a different mode of action mediated by transcriptional regulation of SXR/PXR target genes. Analysis of bone tissue from PXR‐deficient mice showed that the bone protective effects of vitamin K are partially mediated by SXR/PXR‐dependent signaling. The discoveries of a novel mode of vitamin K action have opened up new possibilities that vitamin K might be useful for prevention or treatment of a variety of diseases that affect the geriatric population. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; 14: 1–7.
HuR cytoplasmic expression is associated with increased cyclin A expression and inferior disease‐free survival in patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs)
Authors: Wei Yu‐Ching , Chou Fong‐Fu , Li Chien‐Feng , Li Wei‐Ming , Chen Yen‐Yang , Lan Jui , Li Shau‐Hsuan , Fang Fu‐Min , Hu Tsung‐Hui , Yu Shih‐Chen , Eng Hock‐Liew , Uen Yih‐Huei , Tian Yu‐Fang , Wang Jui‐Chu , Huang Hsuan‐Ying
Published: March 2013

Aims

HuR is an RNA‐binding protein that post‐transcriptionally modulates the expression of various target genes involved in carcinogenesis, such as CCNA2, which encodes cyclin A. The aim of this study was to evaluate the significance of HuR expression and subcellular localization in a large cohort of gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs).

Methods and results

HuR immunostaining was assessable for nuclear and cytoplasmic expression in 341 cases on tissue microarrays of primary GISTs, of which 318, 296 and 193 cases were also characterized for Ki67 labelling, cyclin A immunoexpression, and KIT and PDGFRA receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) genotypes, respectively. The results of HuR nuclear and cytoplasmic expression were correlated with disease‐free survival (DFS) and clinicopathological, immunohistochemical and RTK genotypic variables. HuR cytoplasmic expression was present in 42% of primary GISTs, and was significantly related to epithelioid histology, larger tumour size, NIH risk category, and nuclear expression of Ki67 and cyclin A. Importantly, HuR cytoplasmic expression (P < 0.001) and cyclin A overexpression (P < 0.001) were strongly associated with worse DFS. Both variables remained independently predictive of adverse outcome [P = 0.020 and risk ratio (RR) 2.605 for cytoplasmic HuR; P = 0.026 and RR 2.763 for cyclin A].

Conclusions

HuR cytoplasmic expression not only correlates with adverse prognosticators and cyclin A overexpression, but also independently predicts worse DFS, indicating a causative role in conferring tumour aggressiveness.
Is ELF more effective and fair than translation? An evaluation of the EU's multilingual regime
Authors: Gazzola Michele , Grin François
Published: March 2013

The management of multilingualism in the European Union (EU) has become an increasingly debated issue. Some argue that ‘English as a lingua franca’ (ELF) should help solve many of the attendant challenges. The claim is sometimes made that ELF, as a multilingual way of using English, is no longer dependent upon the practices and representations of native speakers and therefore poses no threat to linguistic diversity or to fairness. In this article, we question the relevance of the concept of ELF from a language policy perspective, showing that the socioeconomic implications of using ELF are no different from those of using English only. We examine the costs associated with alternative language regimes for the EU, showing that a reduction in the direct costs of European multilingualism through the imposition of a single language merely shifts costs towards citizens whose mother tongue is not English, and that re‐labelling it as ‘ELF’ makes no difference. The use of translation and interpreting, though not free, remains more effective (and at a reasonable cost) than a monolingual regime based on English alone; it also more fair than a monolingual regime which unavoidably privileges native speakers.
Social media and the institutional illusions of EU communication
Authors: Koskinen Kaisa
Published: March 2013

Fifteen years ago, the illusions of equality and equivalence were identified as cornerstones of EU translation. This paper revisits these concepts from a contemporary point of view. Several new official languages have been introduced, a new communication policy has been adopted, and social media tools have entered the field of EU communication. Particular emphasis is placed on virtual linguistic landscapes in the EU blogosphere and social media networks, and on the emerging language policy identifiable from the language practices in them. The analysis of language choices in Commissioners' blogs, the European Commission's Facebook profile, EUtube and EuroparlTV indicates that, to further the aim of creating a European public sphere, communication practices are shifting from the policy of multilingualism towards a hegemonic language policy where English dominates.
The challenges of ‘translating’ polite discourse for theEUmultilingual community
Authors: Magistro Elena
Published: March 2013

The empirical study presented in this paper is about the rendering of linguistic politeness in the institutional translation of theEuropeanUnion (EU). The analysis examines specifically one aspect of politeness – (im)personalization – in a bilingual corpus ofEUtexts (i.e.English originals and Italian translations). Its underlying goal is to highlight a further dimension – pragmatic – in theEU's challenge of preserving institutional multilingualism while speaking with a single voice. Due to the sociocultural grounding of politeness, the way polite discourse is rendered can ultimately shed light on the impact ofEUtranslation policy and practice over the sociolinguistic ecosystem of theEUand over the cultural and identity perceptions of Europeans.
Statutory leave entitlements across developed countries: Why US workers lose out on work–family balance
Authors: Block Richard N. , Park Joo‐Young , Kang Young‐Hee
Published: March 2013

Using a composite index of legal provisions for annual and family leave in western Europe, the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan and the Republic of Korea, the authors rank legislative support for this aspect of work–family balance. The United States ranks last: its employers are not required to grant annual leave and employees can take no more than 12 weeks' family leave per year. The United States' comparatively low labour standards, the authors argue, may be due to the dominance of a market‐based conception of employment and the assumption of equal employer–employee bargaining power, neither of which is fully shared by the other industrialized democracies.