bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fasting‐induced oxidative stress in very long chain acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase‐deficient mice
Authors: Tucci Sara , Primassin Sonja , Spiekerkoetter Ute
Published: September 2010

Hepatopathy and hepatomegaly as consequences of prolonged fasting or illnesses are typical clinical features of very long chain acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase (VLCACD) deficiency, the most common long‐chain fatty acid β‐oxidation defect. Supplementation with medium‐chain triglycerides (MCTs) is an important treatment measure in these defects, in order to supply sufficient energy. Little is known about the pathogenetic mechanisms leading to hepatopathy. Here, we investigated the effects of prolonged fasting and an MCT diet on liver function. Wild‐type (WT) and VLCAD knockout mice were fed with either a regular long‐chain triglyceride diet or an MCT diet for 5 weeks. In both groups, we determined liver and blood lipid contents under nonfasting conditions and after 24 h of fasting. Expression of genes regulating peroxisomal and microsomal oxidation pathways was analyzed by RT‐PCR. In addition, glutathione peroxidase and catalase activities, as well as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, were examined. In VLCAD knockout mice fed with a long‐chain triglyceride diet, fasting is associated with excessive accumulation of liver lipids, resulting in hepatopathy and strong upregulation of peroxisomal and microsomal oxidation pathways as well as antioxidant enzyme activities and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances. These effects were even evident in nonfasted mice fed with an MCT diet, and were particularly pronounced in fasted mice fed with an MCT diet. This study strongly suggests that liver damage in fatty acid oxidation defects is attributable to oxidative stress and generation of reactive oxygen species as a result of significant fat accumulation. An MCT diet does not prevent hepatic damage during catabolism and metabolic derangement.
BchJ and BchM interact in a 1 : 1 ratio with the magnesium chelatase BchH subunit of Rhodobacter capsulatus
Authors: Sawicki Artur , Willows Robert D.
Published: September 2010

Substrate channeling between the enzymatic steps in the (bacterio)chlorophyll biosynthetic pathway catalyzed by magnesium chelatase (BchI/ChlI, BchD/ChlD and BchH/ChlH subunits) and S‐adenosyl‐l‐methionine:magnesium‐protoporphyrin IX O‐methyltransferase (BchM/ChlM) has been suggested. This involves delivery of magnesium‐protoporphyrin IX from the BchH/ChlH subunit of magnesium chelatase to BchM/ChlM. Stimulation of BchM/ChlM activity by BchH/ChlH has previously been shown, and physical interaction of the two proteins has been demonstrated. In plants and cyanobacteria, there is an added layer of complexity, as Gun4 serves as a porphyrin (protoporphyrin IX and magnesium‐protoporphyrin IX) carrier, but this protein does not exist in anoxygenic photosynthetic bacteria. BchJ may play a similar role to Gun4 in Rhodobacter, as it has no currently assigned function in the established pathway. Purified recombinant Rhodobacter capsulatus BchJ and BchM were found to cause a shift in the equilibrium amount of Mg‐protoporphyrin IX formed in a magnesium chelatase assay. Analysis of this shift revealed that it was always in a 1 : 1 ratio with either of these proteins and the BchH subunit of the magnesium chelatase. The establishment of the new equilibrium was faster with BchM than with BchJ in a coupled magnesium chelatase assay. BchJ bound magnesium‐protoporphyrin IX or formed a ternary complex with BchH and magnesium‐protoporphyrin IX. These results suggest that BchJ may play a role as a general magnesium porphyrin carrier, similar to one of the roles of GUN4 in oxygenic organisms.

Structured digital abstract

 MINT‐7994803:bchI (uniprotkb:P26239), bchD (uniprotkb:P26175) and bchH (uniprotkb: P26162) physically interact (MI:0915) by cosedimentation in solution (MI:0028)

 MINT‐7994743:bchJ (uniprotkb:P26169), bchI (uniprotkb:P26239), bchD (uniprotkb:P26175) and bchH (uniprotkb:P26162) physically interact (MI:0915) by cosedimentation in solution (MI:0028)

 MINT‐7994762:bchM (uniprotkb:P26236), bchH (uniprotkb:P26162), bchD (uniprotkb: P26175) and bchI (uniprotkb:P26239) physically interact (MI:0915) by cosedimentation in solution (MI:0028)
Pilot study of Myers Briggs Type Indicator personality profiling in emergency department senior medical staff
Authors: Boyd Russell , Brown Terry
Published: September 2010

Objective:  To study the viability of using the Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) in senior ED medical staff and to examine what trends, if any, in personality types exist within the speciality.

Methods:  A pilot cross‐sectional survey was undertaken during which a standard MBTI questionnaire was sent anonymously to a convenience sample of senior ED medical staff in Tasmania and South Australia. Completed surveys after a second mailing were analysed and the results collated.

Results:  Of 82 senior ED medical staff surveyed, 68 returned completed questionnaires (response rate 83%). The single most common personality group in the cohort was the (Extrovert/Intuitive/Thinking/Judging) ENTJ type exhibited by 12 (17.7%, 95% CI 9.4–28.7%) clinicians in the cohort. This group is present at a rate of 3% in the general population. In terms of individual traits, Introversion was exhibited by 33 (48.5%, 95% CI 36.2–61%), Intuitive traits by 40 (58.8%, 95% CI 46.2–70.6%), Thinking traits by 40 (58.8%, 95% CI 46.2–70.6%) and Judging traits by 53 (77.9%, 95% CI 66.2–87.1%) of our cohort of senior ED medical staff.

Conclusion:  Our senior ED medical staff cohort suggests notable variations from the general population in terms of their MBTI profiles.
Factors that impact upon the time to hospital presentation following the onset of chest pain
Authors: Taylor David McD , Garewal Devinder , Carter Michael , Bailey Michael , Aggarwal Anuradha
Published: September 2010

Introduction:  Although morbidity and mortality associated with chest pain are related to time to intervention, many patients have delayed ED presentations. We aimed to assess the extent of and reasons for prehospital delay, and identify patient subgroups more at risk of delayed presentation.

Methods:  This was an analytical, cross‐sectional survey of patients with undifferentiated, potentially ischaemic chest pain, at a tertiary referral ED. Data were collected on the circumstances surrounding the chest pain incident (including components of total prehospital time) and the proportion of delayed presentations (defined as >3 h). Multiple linear regression determined variables significantly associated with prehospital time.

Results:  One hundred and fifty patients were enrolled. Mean age was 51.9 ± 15.9 years and 90 (60.0%, 95% CI 51.7–67.8) were male. The mean total prehospital time was 6.38 h (median 3.17). Seventy‐nine (52.7%, 95% CI 44.4–60.8) patients had a delayed presentation (>3 h) and those most at risk of this were those at home at pain onset and those with a history of AMI. The decision time (from onset of pain to decision to present) comprised the majority (82.8%) of total prehospital time. Factors positively associated with decision time were: waiting to see if symptoms resolved (P < 0.0001), seeking GP advice (P < 0.0001), fluctuating symptoms (P = 0.02), embarrassment (P = 0.01) and attributing symptoms to muscle problems (P = 0.04). Nine patients diagnosed with AMI had a mean total prehospital time of 10.2 h.

Conclusion:  Intensified efforts are required to promote awareness of the need to present directly to the ED upon the onset of chest pain. The factors associated with decision delay may help to inform revisions in public education initiatives.
Australasian Triage Scale: Consumer perspective
Authors: Meek Robert , Phiri Wilson
Published: September 2010

Objectives: To determine the ED consumers’ level of understanding, acceptance and desire for knowledge regarding the Australasian Triage Scale (ATS), and to determine the ED staff's attitudes towards open provision of ATS information.

Methods: Convenience sampling of 289 ED consumers and 56 staff was undertaken. Data were collected by self‐administered questionnaires.

Results: In total, 289 consumers (100%) and 45 staff (80.3%) agreed to participate. One hundred and forty‐seven (50.8%, 95% CI 45.0–56.6) consumers linked triage with determination of medical urgency. Two hundred and fourteen (74.0%, 95% CI 68.9–79.1) wanted to know their ATS category and 236 (81.7%, 95% CI 77.1–86.1) wanted ongoing waiting time information. Only 114 (39.4%, 95% CI 33.7–45.1) consumers wanted input into their triage rating. Staff felt the ATS was fair, but were uncertain about providing specific initial and ongoing ATS information. Staff were strongly against any consumer input into the triage process.

Conclusions: Patients do not understand the ATS well, and would like to be provided with more specific initial and ongoing information, but staff uncertainty needs to be overcome before consumers’ wishes can be better addressed.
Patient delay and use of ambulance by patients with chest pain
Authors: Ingarfield Sharyn L , Jacobs Ian G , Jelinek George A , Mountain David
Published: September 2010

Objective:  To identify the reasons why patients with chest pain delay in seeking hospital medical care and do or do not use an ambulance.

Methods:  One hundred and fifty‐one patients with an ED diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction or angina were interviewed about demographic characteristics, medical history, symptom onset, time taken before deciding to call an ambulance or go to hospital (delay time) and transport used. Multiple logistic regression determined independent predictors of late presentation (delay time >30 min) and ambulance use.

Results:  One hundred and twelve (74.2%, 95% CI 67.0–81.0%) patients delayed more than 30 min. Independent predictors of late presentation were: seeing a general practitioner (GP) (P = 0.001), having prior heart problems (P = 0.009) and symptoms occurring at night (P = 0.036). Eighty‐one (54.7%, 95% CI 47.0–63.0%) patients used an ambulance. Predictors of ambulance use were increased age (P = 0.025) and having ambulance insurance (P = 0.018), although there was interaction between these variables.

Conclusions:  Education programmes should continue to emphasize that chest pain is a potential medical emergency and an ambulance should be called. GPs should consider developing an action plan to manage patients presenting with chest pain.
Ovarian torsion: 10‐year perspective
Authors: White Melissa , Stella Julian
Published: September 2010

Objective:  To define the presenting symptoms and clinical progress of surgically proven cases of ovarian torsion presenting to a tertiary women's hospital.

Methods:  A retrospective case review of surgically proven ovarian torsion at The Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne between 8 May 1990 and 8 May 2000.

Results:  Fifty‐two cases were identified. Median age at presentation was 33.5 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 28.7–39.3). Known risk factors at presentation were found in 16 (30.8%, 95% CI: 26.9–34.6%) cases including 6/49 (12.2%, 95% CI 11.1–12.4%) with ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. The main clinical features included: sudden pain (20/23, 87%, 95% CI 75–98.9%), nausea/vomiting (23/39, 59%, 95% CI 49.9–68.1%) and palpable abdominal mass (23/37, 62.2%, 95% CI 52.4–71.9%). Median symptom duration was 3 days (IQR: 1–7.25). Median time to diagnosis was 22 h (IQR: 7.8–55.0). The diagnosis was mostly made at surgery (36, 69.2%, 95% CI 60.5–77.9%) with clinically suspicion in 10 (19.2%, 95% CI 17.2–21.3%) and sonographic suspicion/confirmation in six (11.5%, 95% CI 10.5–12.5%) cases. Ultrasound was performed in 31 (59.6%, 95% CI 51.7–67.6%) cases. Underlying pathologies included: ovarian cysts (27, 51.9%, 95% CI 44.9–59.0%) and tumours (16, 30.8%, 95% CI 26.9–34.6%) – mostly benign. Ovarian preservation occurred in 16 (30.8%, 95% CI 26.9–34.6%) cases with no demonstrable association to patient age, time to diagnosis or known risk factors.

Conclusion:  The diagnosis of ovarian torsion remains challenging. Clinical characteristics lack sensitivity and specificity and ultrasound diagnosis is not definitive. Laparoscopy remains the investigation of choice. Despite delays in diagnosis this study demonstrates relatively high ovarian salvage rates compared with most published data.
Emergency weight estimation in Pacific Island and Maori children who are large‐for‐age
Authors: Theron Lynn , Adams Adrienne , Jansen Karl , Robinson Elizabeth
Published: September 2010

Objective:  Methods to estimate weights of children requiring resuscitation appeared to underestimate the weight of Pacific Island and Maori children. This study sought to quantify differences between real and estimated weights, study links with ethnicity and derive a new estimation method for large‐for‐age children.

Method:  Data were collected prospectively for 3 months. Weights were estimated by formulae described by Shann, Leffler, the Advanced Paediatric Life Support (APLS) formula, the Oakley resuscitation chart and the Broselow tape.

Results:  Of the 909 children included, 46% were of Pacific Island and 25% were of Maori origin. Differences between actual and estimated weights were significantly greater (P < 0.05) for the Pacific Island group using all methods of estimation. Maori differences were significantly greater than European differences using Oakley and Broselow methods (P < 0.05). The Broselow tape was the method most likely to underestimate weight in Pacific Island and Maori children. A new formula was derived from non‐linear regression analysis, leading to a new chart.

Conclusion:  Current emergency methods underestimate weight in Pacific Island and Maori children. We recommend a new chart for these children.
Two cases of amisulpride overdose: A cause for prolonged QT syndrome
Authors: Ward David Ian
Published: September 2010

Two cases of deliberate self‐poisoning with 5 g and 3.6 g of amisulpride, respectively, are reported. In both cases, QT prolongation and hypocalcaemia were noted. The QT prolongation appeared to respond to administration of i.v. calcium gluconate.
Review article: Safety profile of propofol for paediatric procedural sedation in the emergency department
Authors: Lamond David W
Published: September 2010

The use of propofol for paediatric procedural sedation (PPS) is increasing because of its favourable pharmacodynamic profile. Its paediatric use has been limited in some ED (emergency departments) because of the perceived high rate of serious adverse events in comparison with other sedation agents. A systematic literature review of propofol use for PPS outside the operating theatre environment from 1966 to 2008 was carried out to profile the adverse event rate in comparison with other procedural sedation agents. Sixty studies with a total of 17 066 paediatric propofol sedations in a variety of hospital settings were identified. The incidence of complications were: desaturation 9.3%, apnoea 1.9%, assisted ventilation 1.4%, hypotension 15.4%, unplanned intubation 0.02%, emesis post procedure 0.14%, laryngospasm 0.1% and bradycardia 0.1%. There were no reported incidents of aspiration or emesis during sedation and there were no deaths associated with procedural propofol sedation. The use of propofol for PPS is associated with a low rate of minor adverse events that are all reversible with minimal intervention and do not produce long‐term sequelae and occur at similar rates to minor adverse events experienced with other sedation agents. Major adverse events with propofol sedation are extremely rare and appropriate patient and procedure selection would decrease these risks further. The increasing use of propofol for ED PPS is supported by the current evidence because of its comparable adverse event rate to other agents.
Obesity significantly increases the difficulty of patient management in the emergency department
Authors: Kam Jeremy , Taylor David McD
Published: September 2010

Objective:  To determine which aspects of ED management are adversely affected by patient obesity, to determine the level of obesity above which management is made more difficult and to make recommendations on how these effects might be mitigated.

Methods:  This was a cross‐sectional survey of patients and the staff caring for them in a single ED. Doctors, nurses and radiographers managing consecutive patients, during a range of enrolment periods, completed a self‐administered questionnaire. Each was asked to record how the level of their patient's obesity increased the difficulty of specific management items, using a Likert scale. Staff also provided recommendations to mitigate the effects of obesity for each patient, if applicable. For each management item, body mass index (BMI) and management difficulty were correlated (Spearman's rank correlation).

Results:  Seven hundred and fifty patients and their ED carers were enrolled. Patient BMI was positively correlated with all aspects of ED clinical management examined (correlation coefficient range 0.28–0.57, P < 0.001). BMI most strongly correlated with difficulty in finding anatomical landmarks, venous pressure measurement, physical examination, patient positioning and procedures generally, especially cannulation and venipuncture (coefficient > 0.5, P < 0.001). Doctors reported more difficulties than nurses and radiographers. Generally, management difficulty did not increase until the BMI was in the obese or morbidly obese range. Most staff recommendations related to issues of patient mobility including equipment, staffing and bariatric devices.

Conclusion:  Patient obesity significantly increases the difficulty of ED patient management. Staff recommendations to mitigate these effects were few but may inform changes in ED practice.
Tram‐related trauma in Melbourne, Victoria
Authors: Mitra Biswadev , Al Jubair Jubair , Cameron Peter A , Gabbe Belinda J
Published: September 2010

Objectives:  To establish the incidence and pattern of injuries in patients presenting to hospital with tram‐related injuries.

Methods:  Data on tram‐related injury pertaining to 2001–2008 calendar years were extracted from three datasets: the population‐based Victorian State Trauma Registry for major trauma cases, the Victorian Emergency Minimum Dataset for ED presentations and the National Coroners' Information System for deaths. Incidence rates adjusted for the population of Melbourne, and trends in the incidence of tram‐related ED presentations and major trauma cases, were analysed and presented as incidence rate ratios (IRR).

Results:  There were 1769 patients who presented to ED after trauma related to trams in Melbourne during the study period. Of these, 107 patients had injuries classified as major trauma. There was a significant increase in the rate of ED presentations (IRR 1.03, P= 0.010) with falls (46%) the most commonly reported mechanism. Most falls occurred inside the trams. There was also a significant increase in the incidence rates of major trauma cases (IRR 1.12, P= 0.006) with pedestrians accounting for most major trauma cases.

Conclusions:  Most cases of trauma related to trams have minor injuries and are discharged following ED management. Primary prevention of falls in trams and the separation of pedestrians from trams are key areas requiring immediate improvement. In the face of increasing trauma associated with trams, continuing safety surveillance and targeted public safety messages are important to sustain trams as safe and effective mode of transport.
Preparedness for short‐term isolation among Queensland residents: Implications for pandemic and disaster planning
Authors: Aitken Peter , Leggat Peter A , Brown Lawrence H , Speare Richard
Published: September 2010

Objective:  Short‐term isolation might occur during pandemic disease or natural disasters. We sought to measure preparedness for short‐term isolation in an Australian state during pandemic (H1N1) 2009.

Methods:  Data were collected as part of the Queensland Social Survey (QSS) 2009. Two questions related to preparedness for 3 days of isolation were incorporated into QSS 2009. Associations between demographic variables and preparedness were analysed using χ2, with P < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results:  Most respondents (93.6%; confidence interval [CI] 92.2–94.9%) would have enough food to last 3 days, but only 53.6% (CI 50.9–56.4%) would have sufficient food and potable water if isolated for 3 days with an interruption in utility services. Subpopulations that were less likely to have sufficient food and potable water reserves for 3 days' isolation without utility services included single people, households with children under 18 years of age, people living in South‐East Queensland or urban areas, those with higher levels of education and people employed in health or community service occupations.

Conclusions:  The majority of Queensland's population consider themselves to have sufficient food supplies to cope with isolation for a period of 3 days. Far fewer would have sufficient reserves if they were isolated for a similar period with an interruption in utility services. The lower level of preparedness among health and community service workers has implications for maintaining the continuity of health services.
Reporting Valid and Reliable Overall Scores and Domain Scores
Authors: Yao Lihua
Published: September 2010

In educational assessment, overall scores obtained by simply averaging a number of domain scores are sometimes reported. However, simply averaging the domain scores ignores the fact that different domains have different score points, that scores from those domains are related, and that at different score points the relationship between overall score and domain score may be different. To report reliable and valid overall scores and domain scores, I investigated the performance of four methods using both real and simulation data: (a) the unidimensional IRT model; (b) the higher‐order IRT model, which simultaneously estimates the overall ability and domain abilities; (c) the multidimensional IRT (MIRT) model, which estimates domain abilities and uses the maximum information method to obtain the overall ability; and (d) the bifactor general model. My findings suggest that the MIRT model not only provides reliable domain scores, but also produces reliable overall scores. The overall score from the MIRT maximum information method has the smallest standard error of measurement. In addition, unlike the other models, there is no linear relationship assumed between overall score and domain scores. Recommendations for sizes of correlations between domains and the number of items needed for reporting purposes are provided.
Deliberation and Global Governance: Liberal, Cosmopolitan, and Critical Perspectives
Authors: Smith William , Brassett James
Published: September 2010

The paper develops a critical analysis of deliberative approaches to global governance. After first defining global governance and with a minimalist conception of deliberation in mind, the paper outlines three paradigmatic approaches: liberal, cosmopolitan, and critical. The possibilities and problems of each approach are examined and a common concern with the scope for “deliberative reflection” in global governance is addressed. It is argued that each approach, to varying degrees, foregrounds the currently underdetermined state of knowledge about global governance, its key institutions, agents, and practices. In doing so, the question “ What is global governance?” is retained as an important and reflective element of ongoing deliberative practices. It is suggested that this constitutes the distinctive and vital insight of deliberative approaches to global governance.
An Ethic of Political Reconciliation
Authors: Philpott Daniel
Published: September 2010

The core proposition of this article is that reconciliation, both as a process and an end state, is a concept of justice. Its animating virtue is mercy and its goal is peace. These concepts are expressed most deeply in religious traditions, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The idea of justice as right relationship is also found in the contemporary restorative justice movement, an approach to criminal justice that has emerged in the past generation.

For contemporary political orders addressing past war, genocide, and authoritarianism, the holistic justice of reconciliation involves not only the legal guarantee and actual practice of human rights and the laws of war but also a redress of the range of wounds that political injustices inflict. Reconciliation is achieved through a set of six political practices that seek to restore a measure of human flourishing. A secondary fruit of these practices is an increase in the legitimacy that citizens bequeath to their governing institutions or to their state's relationship with other states.

The article takes a close look at two of the practices that are often thought to be at odds in addressing past injustices—punishment and forgiveness—and argues that when viewed as practices that reflect and participate in a restorative concept of justice, punishment and forgiveness become compatible in principle—with important implications for the politics of facing past evil
Public Accountability and the Public Sphere of International Governance
Authors: Steffek Jens
Published: September 2010

In much of the current literature on global and European governance, “public accountability” has come to mean accountability to national executives, to peers, to courts, and even to markets. I argue that such a re-conceptualization of “public accountability” as an umbrella term blurs a crucial dimension of the original concept: the critical scrutiny of citizens and the collective evaluation of government through public debate. In this article I critically discuss the advance of managerial and administrative notions of accountability that accompanied the steep rise of the governance concept. I advocate a return to a conception of public accountability as accountability to the wider public. I investigate the prospects for such public accountability beyond the state, which depends upon the emergence of a transnational public sphere, consisting of media and organized civil society. The function of such a transnational public sphere is to put pressure on governance institutions in case of massive maladministration, and to make sure that emergent political concerns and demands are recognized in the process of international policy making.
Deliberation and Global Criminal Justice: Juries in the International Criminal Court
Authors: Gastil John , Lingle Colin J. , Deess Eugene P.
Published: September 2010

The jury system is one of the oldest deliberative democratic bodies, and it has a robust historical record spanning hundreds of years in numerous countries. As scholars and civic reformers envision a democratic global public sphere and international institutions, we advocate for the inclusion of juries of lay citizens as a means of administering justice and promoting deliberative norms. Focusing specifically on the case of the International Criminal Court, we show how juries could bolster that institution's legitimacy by promoting public trust, increasing procedural fairness, foregrounding deliberative reasoning, and embodying democratic values. Juries would present novel logistical, philosophical, and legal problems, but we show how each of these might be overcome to make juries a viable element of global governance.
Self and Other: Continental and Classical Chinese Thought
Authors: Burik Steven
Published: September 2010

Traditionally, metaphysical notions of self and other presuppose a dualism that underlies much of Western philosophy. This dualism is opposed by accounts of self and other in recent continental philosophy and classical Chinese philosophy, which I compare. I argue that the self is seen in continental and Chinese thought as embedded in (ethical) relations and language, and not as transcendent or prior in the metaphysical sense to them. I argue for this by focussing on three themes: self and language, self as relational and embedded in the world or contextual environment, and self and the particular other. These three themes show that the complexity and dynamic of the self‐other relation is much more realistically conveyed by continental and classical Chinese thought than by the traditional metaphysical account.
Fixed‐ versus Variable‐domain Interpretations of Tarski’s Account of Logical Consequence
Authors: Mancosu Paolo
Published: September 2010

In this article I describe and evaluate the debate that surrounds the proper interpretation of Tarski’s account of logical consequence given in his classic 1936 article ‘On the concept of logical consequence’. In the late 1980s Etchemendy argued that the familiar model theoretic account of logical consequence is not to be found in Tarski’s original article. Whereas the contemporary account of logical consequence is a variable‐domain conception – in that it calls for a reinterpretation of the domain of variation of the quantifiers when evaluating logical consequence –, no such reinterpretation is found in Tarski’s original account, which was rather based on a ‘fixed‐domain’ conception. Etchemendy’s claims have sparked a debate on Tarski’s conception of logical consequence with important contributions by, among others, Bach, Bays, Corcoran, Gómez‐Torrente, Mancosu, Ray, Sagüillo, and Sher.
“A Better Crop of Boys and Girls”: The School Gardening Movement, 1890–1920
Authors: Kohlstedt Sally Gregory
Published: September 2010

In the 1890s progressive educators like John Dewey proposed expansive ideas about integrating school and society. Working to make the boundaries between classroom learning and pupils' natural environment more permeable, for example, Dewey urged teachers to connect intellectual and practical elements within their curricula. Highly visible and widespread examples of this integrative goal were the school gardens that flourished from the 1890s well into the twentieth century. Evidence of their presence is recorded in newspapers, national magazines, and annual school reports whose illustrations typically portrayed well-dressed children cultivating large gardens next to impressive urban school buildings. Whether in large cities or country settings, school gardens were expressions of modern and progressive education of the sort encouraged by Dewey. Gardens were encouraged in theory and in practice not only at the laboratory school affiliated with the University of Chicago but also in normal schools across the country (Figure 1).
Preserving and Strengthening Together: Collective Strategies of U.S. Women's College Presidents
Authors: Thomas Auden D.
Published: September 2010

Women's colleges in the 1970s and 1980s faced highly uncertain futures. Soaring popularity of coeducation left them with serious enrollment downturns, and challenges from proposed equal rights legislation threatened to render illegal their single-sex admissions policies. These perilous external conditions drew together the presidents of U.S. women's colleges in new ways as they sought to preserve and strengthen their individual institutions and to secure a future for women's colleges as an institutional type.
Gender‐based equal opportunities policy and practice in small firms: the impact of HR professionals1
Authors: Woodhams Carol , Lupton Ben
Published: September 2010

This article assesses the impact of HR qualified professionals on the adoption of gender‐based equal opportunities policies and practices in small businesses. Earlier research has shown a low level of take‐up of equal opportunities initiatives in small firms. This article explores whether the presence of an HR professional in small to medium‐sized enterprises is associated with a greater level of take‐up of (a) gender‐based equality policies and (b) gender‐based equality practices than in small to medium‐sized enterprises that do not have such expertise. In doing so, the authors draw on empirical data from a recent European Social Fund sponsored study of equal opportunities policy and practice in small to medium‐sized enterprises in the UK. The main finding is that the presence of an HR professional is associated with a greater level of take‐up of formal equality policies, but not with the implementation of equality practices. The authors explore possible reasons for this and consider the implications for the HR profession and the promotion of equality of opportunity in the small business sector.
A hard sell? The prospects for apprenticeship in British retailing
Authors: Lewis Paul , Ryan Paul , Gospel Howard
Published: September 2010

We consider the prospects for apprenticeship in British retailing in terms of the contribution of apprenticeship to intermediate skills and the contribution of large employers to the Advanced Apprenticeship (AA) programme. Evidence is taken from interviews with training and HR managers from 17 large employers. We find that AA is for the most part unpopular with large retailers, who prefer to acquire intermediate skills through the upgrade training of existing employees through bespoke, in‐house training programmes and, to a lesser degree, via the recruitment of skilled workers. The one exception to this rule is to be found in the convenience stores sub‐sector of retailing, where the breadth of skills supplied by AA fits in well with employers' requirements. Even here, however, the scale of Apprenticeship is limited both in terms of the numbers of Apprentices being trained and also in terms of employers' own investment in the training of their Apprentices.
Organisational practices and the post‐retirement employment experience of older workers
Authors: Armstrong‐Stassen Marjorie
Published: September 2010

This study compared people aged 50 to 65 who had retired and returned to work (n = 90), who remained in their career jobs (n = 198), and who retired and remained out of the workforce (n = 321). The significant differences between post‐retirement and career employment were associated with the HR practices within organisations and were not related to the characteristics of the organisations in which post‐retirement and career jobs were found. The HR practices were rated as especially important in influencing the decision of retirees to return to work. The findings suggest that people in post‐retirement jobs are drawn to organisations that provide HR practices tailored to the needs and desires of older workers. The results also indicate that if employers expect to address labour shortages by encouraging retirees back into the workforce, they are going to have to implement those HR practices that are important to this group.
China's Sustained Economic Growth: Do Direct R&D Spillovers Matter?
Authors: Jiang Renai , Cai Hong , Li Yali , Li Hong
Published: September 2010

Using data from 1986–2005, the present paper estimates the impact of direct knowledge spilled over from G‐7 countries on China's economy. We use telephone line penetration rates and personnel flows to estimate the direct spillover effect. Our results show that direct knowledge spillovers through telecommunication networks and personnel flows are important components of international R&D spillovers in China. These direct channels of spillover effectively accelerate China's economic growth. Therefore, China should invest more in human capital and in its telecommunication network to enhance the absorptive capacity of direct R&D spillovers, and to increase communication with other nations, in particular the USA and Japan. More subsidies to domestic R&D research and purchase of intermediate goods will help to raise China's R&D intensity.
China's Penetration of the Korean Market: Stylized Facts and Welfare Effect
Authors: Kang Kichun , Ahn Byung Chul
Published: September 2010

China's penetration of the world market has been impressive. This paper uses highly disaggregated Korean import data (from 1992 to 2008) to examine China's penetration of the Korean market in the context of the composition of value (the extensive and intensive margins) and the product type (homogeneous and differentiated) in trade. The increase in Chinese imports has been attributed to the rapid increase in the import of new products (the extensive margin) and of existing products (the intensive margin). However, the growth rate of new products decelerated in the 2000s. The growth in the intensive margin was due to quantity, not price. Chinese imports to Korea did not improve over the period in terms of quality. Although Chinese products became cheaper, they were more differentiated over time. Welfare gains were realized through the expanded introduction of new products from China. However, much of the gains from Korea's Chinese product import boom were realized in earlier years (1992–2000) because even though imported products became more differentiated, the increase in the extensive margin was lower in more recent years (2001–2008).
R&D, Human Capital Investment and Productivity: Firm‐level Evidence from China's Electronics Industry
Authors: Yang Chih‐Hai , Lin Chun‐Hung , Ma Daw
Published: September 2010

Using firm‐level panel data covering 2005–2007, the present paper examines the effects of R&D and human capital investment on productivity in China's electronics industry. It is found that both R&D and on‐the‐job training positively contribute to total factor productivity (TFP). Firms' investment in employees' health insurance and pensions, which are components of workers' compensation, generate a productivity‐enhancing effect, supporting the efficiency wage hypothesis. The estimated impact of R&D on productivity varies among different forms of ownership, and foreign‐owned enterprises experience higher R&D efficiency than state or private enterprises. After controlling for potential endogenous causality between TFP and R&D, the above findings remain unchanged. We also find that on‐the‐job training can improve the quality of human capital and is helpful in promoting productivity. Therefore, establishing indigenous technological capability through various technological sources is quite important, and the government should devote further effort to investing in human capital.
The impact of insulin resistance on woman's health and potential treatment options
Authors: Lois Konstantinos , Valsamakis Georgios , Mastorakos Georgio , Kumar Sudhesh
Published: September 2010

Insulin resistance (IR) is causatively related to metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes, both of which increase the risk of adverse cardiovascular events; in women in particular, severe IR affects the reproductive system causing subfertility and health problems to the mother and the fetus. To date lifestyle modification is the mainstay of treatment, whereas antiobesity drugs and bariatric surgery have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and many surrogate metabolic defects, real reduction in cardiovascular endpoints has yet to be proved. Increasing attention is being directed to the role of the central nervous system in the modulation of IR, as well as to the use of recombinant adipocytokines for IR management. The scope of this article is to cast light on the detrimental effects of IR on metabolism and the body systems in women as well as to highlight the current therapeutic approach, drugs in progress, and future therapeutic perspectives.
Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ and ‐δ polymorphisms in women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Christopoulos P. , Mastorakos G. , Gazouli M. , Deligeoroglou E. , Katsikis I. , Diamanti‐Kandarakis E. , Panidis D. , Creatsas G.
Published: September 2010

The aim of the study was to examine the frequency and relationship of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR)‐γ and PPAR‐δ gene polymorphisms to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) characteristics. We conducted a case‐control study protocol, which included 183 PCOS women and 148 healthy volunteers. Genetic, clinical, hormonal, and metabolic characteristics of PCOS patients and controls were estimated and compared. Genotype and allele frequencies did not differ significantly. The Pro12Ala polymorphism in exon 2 of the PPAR‐γ gene was found in low frequency. Regarding the polymorphism in exon 6, the T‐allele carrier PCOS women had significantly lower total testosterone levels. Regarding the +294T/C polymorphism in the exon 4 of the PPAR‐δ gene, the C‐allele carrier PCOS women had significantly higher fasting glucose levels. In conclusion, the PPAR‐γ gene polymorphisms do not appear to affect the risk for PCOS, except for the reduced testosterone levels. The +294T/C polymorphism in the exon 4 of the PPAR‐δ gene seems to cause an increase in fasting glucose levels.
Evidence‐based management of poor ovarian response
Authors: Venetis Christos A. , Kolibianakis Efstratios M. , Tarlatzi Theoni B. , Tarlatzis Basil C.
Published: September 2010

Poor ovarian response is not infrequent and represents one of the major therapeutic challenges in in vitro fertilization. Although several tests have been proposed, which aim at predicting poor response to ovarian stimulation, available data are conflicting regarding their accuracy and clinical usefulness. Even though several therapeutic approaches have been explored, a single effective strategy has not yet been established. One of the major limitations of interpreting the relevant literature is the wide variability in the definitions used for poor ovarian response. Regarding the interventions that have been proposed to improve the probability of pregnancy in poor responders, limited evidence from relevant randomized controlled trials suggests that addition of growth hormone during ovarian stimulation, as well as performing embryo transfer on day 2 instead of day 3, might be beneficial. Further randomized control trials are warranted to reliably determine which would be the best approach for treating poor ovarian response.
Fertility drugs and ovarian cancer risk: a critical review of the literature
Authors: Vlahos Nikos F. , Economopoulos Konstantinos P. , Creatsas George
Published: September 2010

There is evidence that medications used for ovarian stimulation and in vitro fertilization may be associated with ovarian cancer. In this review, we attempt to describe this relationship according to the most recent epidemiologic data and to present the possible mechanisms on the molecular level that could potentially explain this correlation. Currently there is no proven relationship between any type of ovarian cancer and drugs used for infertility treatment. Overall, infertile women have increased risk for ovarian malignancies. Nulligravidas that received treatment are at increased risk for ovarian malignancy as compared to women that conceived after treatment. More studies with the appropriate statistical power and follow‐up time, as well as with better adjustment for confounding factors, which coexist in infertile patients, are required to evaluate accurately the long‐term effects of these drugs and procedures.
Evaluation and management of adolescent amenorrhea
Authors: Deligeoroglou Efthimios , Athanasopoulos Nikolaos , Tsimaris Pandelis , Dimopoulos Konstantinos D. , Vrachnis Nikolaos , Creatsas G.
Published: September 2010

During the first years of menstruation it is not rare for a girl to present with an irregular menstrual pattern. The complete absence or cessation of menses, which is defined as amenorrhea, requires careful evaluation and management. It is divided into primary and secondary types that describe the occurrence of amenorrhea before and after menarche, respectively. The list of causes is long and includes anatomical or functional anomalies of the genital tract, hormonal disorders, and multifactorial reasons. The most common causes are hypothalamic amenorrhea, polycystic ovarian syndrome, hyperprolactinemia, and ovarian failure. A thorough medical history and careful clinical examination of the young girl is absolutely essential. The distinction between primary and secondary amenorrhea, together with the presence, or not, of secondary sexual characteristic development will guide the physician to the differential diagnosis of amenorrhea. Essential laboratory examinations include follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH), and prolactin measurements; while in the presence of acne or hirsutism, androgen levels should also be measured. Management should focus on the restoration of ovulatory cycles and the prevention of short‐ and long‐term consequences of hormonal imbalance.
Perinatal mortality in diabetic pregnancy
Authors: Vitoratos N. , Vrachnis N. , Valsamakis G. , Panoulis K. , Creatsas G.
Published: September 2010

Perinatal mortality rate (PMR) is one of the most important perinatal health indicators. PMR in diabetic pregnancies varies throughout the world and is higher than the background PMR. The prevalence of pregestational diabetes is increasing and is associated with an elevated risk of congenital malformations, macrosomia, preeclampsia, and preterm delivery. The incidence of PMR in preexisting diabetes mellitus ranges considerably, with congenital abnormalities and preterm labor the main factors contributing to the higher PMR. Women with gestational diabetes mellitus or impaired glucose tolerance are a mixed group that may have low to a high PMR, especially if they require insulin in their pregnancy. All the known diabetic women should plan their pregnancies and optimize glycemic control periconceptually and throughout pregnancy, as this reduces the frequency of congenital abnormalities, obstetric complications, and perinatal mortality.
Establishing consensus criteria for the diagnosis of diabetes in pregnancy following the HAPO study
Authors: Hadar Eran , Hod Moshe
Published: September 2010

The current diagnostic criteria for gestational diabetes mellitus are controversial because they lack correlation to maternal and perinatal outcome. The results of the hyperglycemia and adverse pregnancy outcome (HAPO) study demonstrate a linear association between increasing levels of fasting, 1‐ and 2‐h plasma glucose post a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test to several significant outcome endpoints, such as birth weight above the 90th percentile, cord blood serum C‐peptide level above the 90th percentile, primary cesarean delivery, clinical neonatal hypoglycemia, premature delivery, shoulder dystocia or birth injury, intensive neonatal care admission, hyperbilirubinemia, and preeclampsia. A consensus report by the IADPSG, based on a vigorous assessment of the HAPO results and other studies, recommended an endorsement of risk‐based, internationally accepted criteria for the diagnosis and classification of diabetes in pregnancy. This review follows the steps from defining the problem to the endpoint of achieving a worldwide policy change.
Effectiveness of phytoestrogens in climacteric medicine
Authors: Al‐Azzawi Farook , Wahab May
Published: September 2010

The increased interest in phytoestrogens in the management of menopausal symptoms followed the publication of the Women's Health Initiative study. A wide‐spread perception that these plant‐derived compounds are equivalent to estrogen was established. These compounds evolved to fulfill the needs of plant physiological processes and are natural for the plant cells but not natural to the human cell. Epidemiological data suggest a possible protective effect of phytoestrogen if consumed during adolescence, but later on in life this effect is not clear. The utility of phytoestrogen as a “natural and safe” alternative to estrogen in alleviating vasomotor symptoms has failed the test in randomized clinical trials. Because many breast cancer sufferers seek in phytoestrogen a relief of estrogen deficiency symptoms, the possible interaction of such remedies with risk of recurrence of breast cancer or interference with tamoxifen action should not be overlooked.