bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nutrition knowledge in relation to the eating behaviour and attitudes of Slovenian schoolchildren
Authors: Kostanjevec Stojan , Jerman Janez , Koch Verena
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– Children's eating habits are influenced by numerous social and individual factors. The present study aimed to evaluate the connection between nutrition knowledge of children and their eating habits as well as their attitudes towards healthy eating habits.

Design/methodology/approach

– The research study included 630 11-year-old children from 27 randomly selected Slovenian schools. During the research, children attended the sixth grade of the nine-year elementary school and on average were subject to 38.6 h of mandatory nutritional contents, which are planned in the curriculum of home economics. At the end of the school year, nutrition knowledge was checked with a knowledge test consisting of 27 questions. Considering the achieved results, children were classified into three knowledge categories: low, fairly good, and good nutrition knowledge. Children's eating habits were assessed with a food-frequency questionnaire, while the five-degree Likert scale was used to assess their attitudes to healthy eating habits. Differences in children's eating habits and attitudes in reference to the category of knowledge were determined through analysis of variance.

Findings

– The results demonstrated that children with better nutrition knowledge have healthier eating habits and a more positive attitude towards them than children with poor nutrition knowledge.

Originality/value

– The study results demonstrate the link between children's nutrition knowledge and attitudes on the one hand and eating habits on the other which justifies the importance of providing formal and informal nutrition education to children.
Students' need for cognition affects their information seeking behavior
Authors: Mokhtari Heidar , Davarpanah Mohammad-Reza , Dayyani Mohammad-Hossein , Ahanchian Mohammad-Reza
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of students' need for cognition (NFC) on their information seeking behavior (ISB).

Design/methodology/approach

– Out of 19,965 students enrolled in Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran, during the academic year of 2010-2011, 364 students were selected as the study sample. They were asked to complete the “need for cognition scale” and the “information seeking behavior questionnaire”.

Findings

– Students' NFC affected their ISB. The students' ISB was significantly different based on their NFC levels. It has been concluded that NFC is an important cognitive factor in directing ISB.

Originality/value

– This study makes a contribution toward enriching knowledge on psychological traits embedded in information seeking behavior. Such studies are beneficial to library and information science researchers as well as librarians and system designers.
Publishing and accessibility: past, present, and future
Authors: Spires Margaret
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the Future Publishing and Accessibility Conference held in Copenhagen, Denmark on June 13-14, 2013.

Design/methodology/approach

– This report provides a general overview of events at the conference as well as its main topics and outcomes

Findings

– The report reveals the current challenges facing all involved in providing accessible materials to persons with print disabilities. Not only is the number of titles currently fully accessible an issue, but the digital era and electronic publishing bring their own issues. Speakers each offered their own views on potential solutions

Originality/value

– This report provides librarians and researchers with a general summary of the issues surrounding accessibility and the current publishing industry as they were discussed at the conference.
Stability of language performance at 4 and 5 years: measurement and participant variability
Authors: Eadie Patricia , Nguyen Cattram , Carlin John , Bavin Edith , Bretherton Lesley , Reilly Sheena
Published: November 2013

Background

Language impairment (LI) in the preschool years is known to vary over time. Stability in the diagnosis of LI may be influenced by children's individual variability, the measurement error of commonly used assessment instruments and the cut‐points used to define impairment.

Aims

To investigate the agreement between two different age‐based versions of a language assessment instrument and the stability of the classification of LI using the two measures over a 12‐month period.

Methods & Procedures

A total of 945 participants completed the Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals (CELF—Preschool 2 or 4th Edn) at 4 and 5 years of age. Agreement and stability were analysed using Bland–Altman plots, correlation and odds ratios. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated for two thresholds of the CELF‐P2 using the diagnostic category on the child's subsequent CELF‐4.

Outcomes & Results

For all CELF scores, mean differences for the cohort between 4 and 5 years were within 1.5 scale score units. In contrast, at the individual level variability was found across the range of scores and was of a greater magnitude than previously reported. Stability in LI classification was low, with 36% of 5‐year‐olds with LI (defined as a standard score below –1.25) classified as typical at 4 years, even though odds ratios calculated from classifications at the two time points suggested that 4‐year‐olds with LI had 23 times greater odds than their typical peers to receive a diagnosis of LI at 5 years. The CELF‐P2 did not demonstrate adequate levels of diagnostic accuracy for LI at 5 years: sensitivity of 64% and specificity of 92.9%.

Conclusions

Substantial variability across the entire range of possible CELF scores was observed in this community cohort between the ages of 4 and 5 years. The stability of LI classification was lower than that reported in previous research conducted primarily on smaller clinical cohorts. The current study's results suggest that the variability observed in developmental language pathways is the result of a combination of limitations in measurement instruments, individual children's abilities and the arbitrary nature of the boundaries defining LI.
Transcriptomic profiles of Heterobasidion annosum under abiotic stresses and during saprotrophic growth in bark, sapwood and heartwood
Authors: Raffaello Tommaso , Chen Hongxin , Kohler Annegret , Asiegbu Fred O.
Published: November 2013

The success of many wood decaying fungi lies in their ability to overcome unfavourable environmental conditions within and outside of litter and wood debris. Although so much has been learned about the ecology, taxonomy and physiology of several wood decaying basidiomycete fungi, the molecular basis for their survival in a diverse range of substrates and ecological habitats has been very little studied. Using the wood decay fungus (Heterobasidion annosum s.s.) as a model, we investigated its transcriptomic response when exposed to several environmental stressors (high and low temperature, osmotic stress, oxidative stress and nutrient starvation) and during growth on specific pine wood compartments (bark, sapwood and heartwood). Among other genes and pathways, we documented the specific induction of the major facilitator superfamily 1 and cytochrome P450 families at low temperature, and protein kinases together with transcription factors during starvation. On the other hand, during saprotrophic growth, we observed the induction of many glycosyl hydrolases, three multi‐copper oxidases (MCO), five manganese peroxidases (MnP) and one oxidoreductase which are specific for wood degradation. This is the first study providing insights on the potential mechanisms for adaptation to abiotic stresses and pine heartwood degradation in H. annosum s.s.
The Politics of Resilience from a Practitioner's Perspective: An Interview with Helen Braithwaite OBE
Authors: Brassett James , Vaughan-Williams Nick
Published: November 2013

Helen Braithwaite was appointed to the Resilience and Emergencies Division of the Department of Communities and Local Government (DCLG) in February 2011. She is responsible for the Central area which covers 15 Local Resilience Forums. Prior to this Helen was the Head of the West Midlands Regional Resilience team. Helen has also worked for West Mercia Police in specialist operations and in the emergency planning departments of Hereford and Worcester County Council and Worcestershire County Council. In 2000 Helen was seconded to the Home Office and then Cabinet Office to lead the consultation process on new civil contingencies legislation, which resulted in the Civil Contingencies Act. Helen was awarded an OBE in June 2011.
Rethinking Resilience: Articulating Community and the UK Riots
Authors: Rogers Peter
Published: November 2013

This article addresses ‘resilience’ as ‘governmentality’. Three key ‘forms’ of resilience are identified: organisational, technological and community. A focus on community resilience shows that both positive and negative forms of governmentality are possible. The positive aligns well with progressive approaches to participatory governance. The negative, emerging from the prioritisation of organisational and technological concerns, aligns well with state-centric and neoliberal tactics of crime control and citizen responsibility. This article interrogates the tension between positive and negative forms of resilience as governmentality through the lens of the UK riots in 2011.
The Future of Cyber-Resilience in an Age of Global Complexity
Authors: Herrington Lewis , Aldrich Richard
Published: November 2013

This article seeks to discuss two key challenges in the area of cyber-resilience. First, it asks: who owns UK cyber-resilience? Some 80 per cent of the UK's critical national infrastructure is in private hands and the last decade has seen efforts to legislate away some of the problem of resilience by creating legal duties for service providers. This has contributed to a new ecology for intelligence, security and resilience consisting of complex state–private citizen partnerships. However, it is unlikely that populations will accept this approach to risk-shifting when systems fail. Second, it considers what constitutes genuinely robust cyber-defence after the Stuxnet event of 2010. Arguably, any system that depends on information technology, however well protected, is now vulnerable. There is a dawning realisation that the best technical solutions offer only partial assurance. Paradoxically, in an era when the Internet seems ubiquitous, a mixture of analogue and manual systems – often called systems diversity – offers a solution. However, mixed or diverse systems are a declining legacy and not the result of design. We close by discussing the immense challenges that the growing prevalence of electronic systems will bring.
Theorising Children's Rights in Youth Justice: The Significance of Autonomy and Foundational Rights
Authors: Hollingsworth Kathryn
Published: November 2013

This paper develops a theoretical approach to children's rights in youth justice, located within a wider rights‐based theory of criminal justice which emphasises the centrality of citizens' autonomy. Understanding what is special about children's rights in the youth justice system requires an understanding of how children's autonomy differs from that of adults. One difference is that within the legal system children are not considered to be fully autonomous rights‐holders, because childhood is a time for gathering and developing the assets necessary for full autonomy. These assets should be protected by a category of ‘foundational’ rights. It is argued that an essential component of a rights‐based penal system for children is that it should not irreparably or permanently harm the child's foundational rights. The concept of foundational rights can then underpin and strengthen international children's rights standards, including those relating to the minimum age of criminal responsibility, differential sentencing for children and adults and a rights‐based system of resettlement provision.
The Succession to the Crown Act 2013: Modernising the Monarchy
Authors: Parpworth Neil
Published: November 2013

Constitutional reform has occupied a relatively high position on the legislative agendas of successiveUKgovernments in recent decades. Yet little of it has impinged directly upon the monarchy. The Succession to the Crown Act 2013 is therefore a significant and uncommon enactment. This article commences by sketching out a little of the background to the Act, including the need for a common position across the Commonwealth Realms which recognise theQueen as their Head of State. It then proceeds to consider the Act's three central provisions. These will ensure gender equality in the royal succession, abolish the prohibition on a royal heir marrying aRoman Catholic, and recast the law on consent to Royal Marriages. As such, they are non‐controversial. Controversy remains, however, in an issue which the 2013 Act deliberately does not address; the bar on aRoman Catholic succeeding to the throne.
The Elective and Automatic Theories of Termination in the Common Law of the Contract of Employment: Conundrum Resolved?
Authors: Cabrelli David , Zahn Rebecca
Published: November 2013

If a party to an employment contract commits a repudiatory dismissal or resignation, it has long been unclear whether the other party has the option either to terminate or affirm the contract (the elective theory) or whether the former's breach operates to bring the contract of employment to an end (the automatic theory). The recent decision of the Supreme Court in Société Générale (London Branch) v Geys has finally resolved this question. By a majority, the Supreme Court held that the elective theory also applies in the context of a wrongful repudiation of the employment contract by express dismissal or resignation. This note examines the significance of Geys in the context of the common law of the contract of employment and evaluates whether a number of related issues surrounding the breach and termination of the employment contract have been resolved.
Fingermark Evidence Evaluation Based on Automated Fingerprint Identification System Matching Scores: The Effect of Different Types of Conditioning on Likelihood Ratios
Authors: Alberink Ivo , de Jongh Arent , Rodriguez Crystal
Published: November 2013

In recent studies, the evidential value of the similarity of minutiae configurations of fingermarks and fingerprints, for example expressed by automated fingerprint identification systems (AFIS), is determined by likelihood ratios (LRs). The paper explores whether there is an effect on LRs if conditioning takes place on specified fingers, fingerprints, or fingermarks under competing hypotheses: In addition, an approach is explored where conditioning is asymmetric. Comparisons between fingerprints and simulated fingermarks with eight minutiae are performed to produce similarity score distributions for each type of conditioning, given a fixed AFIS matching algorithm. Both similarity scores and LRs are significantly different if the conditioning changes. Given a common‐source scenario, “LRs” resulting from asymmetric conditioning are on average higher. The difference may reach a factor of 2000. As conditioning on a suspect's finger(print) is labor‐intensive and requires a cooperating suspect, it is recommended to just condition on the number of minutiae in the fingermark.
Alleged Biological Father Incest: A Forensic Approach
Authors: Gomes Vânia , Jardim Patrícia , Taveira Francisco , Dinis‐Oliveira Ricardo J. , Magalhães Teresa
Published: November 2013

Paternal incest is one of the most serious forms of intrafamilial sexual abuse with clinical, social, and legal relevance. A retrospective study was performed, based on forensic reports and judicial decisions of alleged cases of biological paternal incest of victims under 18 years old (n = 215) from 2003 to 2008. Results highlight that in a relevant number of cases: victims were female; the abuse begun at an early age with reiteration; the alleged perpetrator presented a history of sexual crimes against children; sexual practices were physically poorly intrusive, which associated with a forensic medical evaluation performed more than 72 h after the abuse, explain partially the absence of physical injuries or other evidence—these last aspects are different from extrafamilial cases. In conclusion, observations about paternal incest are likely to exacerbate the psychosocial consequences of the abuse and may explain the difficulty and delay in detect and disclose these cases. Few cases were legally prosecuted and convicted.
High prevalence and diversity of pre‐CTXΦ alleles in the environmental Vibrio cholerae O1 and O139 strains in the Zhujiang River estuary
Authors: Wang Duochun , Wang Xiaomei , Li Baisheng , Deng Xiaoling , Tan Hailing , Diao Baowei , Chen Jingdiao , Ke Bixia , Zhong Haojie , Zhou Haijian , Ke Changwen , Kan Biao
Published: November 2013

Toxigenic conversion of environmental Vibrio cholerae strains through lysogenic infection by the phage CTXΦ is an important step in the emergence of new pathogenic clones. The precursor form of the CTXΦ phage, pre‐CTXΦ, does not carry the cholera toxin gene. During our investigation, we frequently found pre‐CTXΦ prophages in non‐toxigenic isolates in the serogroups of O1 and O139 strains in the Zhujiang estuary. We observed high amounts of sequence variation of rstR and gIIICTX in the pre‐CTXΦ alleles as well as in the tcpA sequences within the strains. In addition, a new pre‐CTXΦ allele, with a novel rstR sequence type and hybrid RS2, was identified. Our findings show that active, complicated gene recombination and horizontal transfer of pre‐CTXΦs occurs within V. cholerae environmental strains, which creates a complex intermediate pool for the generation of toxigenic clones in the estuarine environment.
Projected inhibition of platelet aggregation with ticagrelor twice daily vs. clopidogrel once daily based on patient adherence data (the TWICE project)
Authors: Vrijens Bernard , Claeys Marc J. , Legrand Victor , Vandendriessche Eef , Van de Werf Frans
Published: November 2013

Aim

Twice daily dosing is often perceived as inferior to once daily dosing due to a higher likelihood of missing a dose. However, more important is the extent to which drug action is maintained when doses are delayed or missed. We compared the estimated inhibition of platelet aggregation (eIPA) for ticagrelor twice daily and clopidogrel once daily, based on their pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic relationships and patient dosing history data.

Methods

Drug dosing histories of 5014 patients prescribed cardiovascular medications (primarily antihypertensive medicines) were extracted from an electronically compiled dosing history database. eIPA levels were simulated for 677 twice daily and 677 once daily dosing histories over a 30 day period, based on published onset/offset models for ticagrelor and clopidogrel IPA characteristics.

Results

While many patients treated twice daily missed at least one dose in 30 days, only 25.7% missed two consecutive doses. By comparison, 46.8% of patients treated once daily missed at least one dose. Simulations based on patient adherence over time showed that the average mean eIPA for ticagrelor twice daily remained significantly higher than for clopidogrel once daily (81.1% vs. 55.0%, P < 0.001). Ticagrelor twice daily patients had an eIPA below 10% for 0.20% of the 30 day period compared with 2.05% for clopidogrel once daily (P = 0.0001).

Conclusions

The projected level of platelet inhibition remained higher for ticagrelor twice daily than clopidogrel once daily, mainly due to the higher eIPA level achieved with ticagrelor and the relatively low likelihood of missing two consecutive twice daily doses. This modelling and simulation study suggests a therapeutic benefit of ticagrelor over clopidogrel when taking into account the most common dosing omissions.
A case‐control study: are urological procedures risk factors for the development of infective endocarditis?
Authors: Mohee Amar R. , West Robert , Baig Wazir , Eardley Ian , Sandoe Jonathan A.T.
Published: November 2013

Objective

To evaluate the association between urological procedures and the development of infective endocarditis (IE), as there are case‐reports linking urological procedures to IE but evidence of a causal relationship is lacking and no major guidelines advise prophylaxis to prevent development of IE during transurethral urological procedures. No case‐control study has been undertaken to examine the relationship between urological procedures and the development of IE.

Patients and Methods

Retrospective evaluation of the IE database at our institution.

The population consisted of patients diagnosed with enterococcal, staphylococcal, Streptococcus bovis‐group and oral streptococcal IE over a 10‐year period.

Possible risk factors for the development of IE, including urological procedures were collected.

A case‐control design was used and univariable and multivariable analyses were carried out. Missing data was accounted for using the multiple imputations method.

Results

We included 384 patients with IE.

There was a statistical association between the development of enterococcal IE and preceding urological procedures (odds ratio 8.21, 95% confidence interval 3.54–19.05, P < 0.05).

Increasing age and being an intravenous drug user were also associated with enterococcal IE.

Haemodialysis and the presence of an intracardiac device were associated with the development of coagulase‐negative staphyloccal IE.

Conclusion

This is the first study to show a statistical association between urological procedures and the development of IE.

The bacteraemia leading to IE may be a result of the urological procedures or a consequence of the underlying urological pathology causing recurrent subclinical bacteraemias.
Prognostic value of microRNA expression pattern in upper tract urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Izquierdo Laura , Ingelmo‐Torres Mercedes , Mallofré Carmen , Lozano Juan José , Verhasselt‐Crinquette Marie , Leroy Xavier , Colin Pierre , Comperat Eva , Roupret Morgan , Alcaraz Antonio , Mengual Lourdes
Published: November 2013

Objective

To examine the microRNA (miRNA) expression pattern in tumour samples from patients with progressing and non‐progressing upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) in order to identify putative miRNAs that may be used as prognostic markers.

Patients and Methods

We conducted a multicentre, retrospective study of formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissue samples from 150 patients with UTUC who had undergone radical nephroureterectomy.

Global miRNA expression patterns were analysed in 18 selected samples from patients with UTUC using TaqMan arrays.

The differential expression of five key miRNAs was validated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction in an independent cohort of 132 samples from patients with UTUC.

Models to predict tumour progression and cancer‐specific survival that included miRNA expression patterns were developed by Cox regression analysis.

Results

Twenty‐six miRNAs were found to be aberrantly expressed between samples from patients with progressing and non‐progressing UTUC and five of these were selected for subsequent studies.

The regression analysis identified tumour stage and miR‐31 and miR‐149 expression as independently associated with tumour progression and tumour stage and miR‐149 expression as independently associated with cancer‐specific survival.

The risk scores derived from these miRNA models were able to discriminate two groups with a highly significantly different probability of tumour progression (hazard ratio [HR] 4.78; P < 0.001) and death (HR 276; P = 0.004).

Conclusions

There is a differential miRNA expression pattern between patients with progressing and non‐progressing UTUC.

The identification of new miRNAs associated with a high probability of tumour recurrence and cancer‐specific survival in patients with UTUC and their combination in a robust, easy‐to‐use and reliable algorithm may help tailor treatment and surveillance strategies in these patients.
Myosin Va is required for the transport of fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) granules
Authors: Lindsay Andrew J. , McCaffrey Mary W.
Published: November 2013

Background Information

Fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) is a selective RNA binding protein that functions as a translational inhibitor. It also plays a role in directing the transport of a subset of mRNAs to their site of translation and several recent reports have implicated microtubule motor proteins in the transport of FMRP–messenger ribonucleoprotein (mRNP) granules in neurons. Earlier work reported the association of the actin‐based motor protein myosin Va with FMRP granules.

Results

Here, we follow up on this finding and confirm that myosin Va does in fact associate with FMRP and is required for its correct intracellular localisation. FMRP is concentrated in the perinuclear region of myosin Va‐null mouse melanoma cells which contrasts starkly with the evenly distributed punctate pattern observed in wild‐type cells. Similarly, overexpression of a dominant‐negative mutant of myosin Va results in the accumulation of FMRP in large aggregate‐like structures. FRAP experiments demonstrate that FMRP is largely immobile in the absence of myosin Va.

Conclusions

Combining these data, we propose a model in which myosin Va and kinesin play key roles in the assembly and subsequent transport of FMRP granules along microtubules to the periphery of the cell. Myosin Va captures the complex onto peripheral actin structures and mediates the local delivery of the FMRP granule to the site of mRNA translation.
Regulation of PKD1‐mediated Golgi to cell surface trafficking by Gαq subunits
Authors: Coria A. Soledad , Masseroni M. Luján , Díaz Añel Alberto M.
Published: November 2013

Background Information

Heterotrimeric GTP‐binding proteins play a key role in cell trafficking regulation. Above all, specific Gβγ subunits have been shown to be a major component of a signal transduction pathway, which also involves phospholipases C (PLC), protein kinases C (PKC) and D (PKD), whose main function is to regulate transport between Golgi and plasma membrane. It was the involvement of PLC which led us to study the role of the other member of this G protein family, the α subunits, in the regulation of membrane fission at the Golgi apparatus.

Results

Among constitutive active (QL) variants of different G protein α subunit sub‐families, only GαqQL subunits were able to induce Golgi fragmentation, a phenotype that mainly reflects a membrane fission increase at this organelle. This phenotype was not observed with a GαqQL palmitoylation mutant, showing the need for a membrane‐bounded subunit. Besides, GαqQL‐dependent Golgi fission was blocked by specific PLC and PKC inhibitors, and in the presence of a PKD1‐kinase dead variant. In addition, GαqQL was the only α subunit capable of inducing PKD1 phosphorylation. Finally, Vesicular Stomatitis Virus thermosensitive mutant glycoprotein (VSVG tsO45) transport assays have demonstrated that GαqQL acts directly on Golgi membranes to regulate trafficking between this organelle and plasma membrane.

Conclusions

All these results indicate Gαq subunits for the first time as a regulator of PKD‐mediated intracellular trafficking between Golgi apparatus and plasma membrane, opening new perspectives in the understanding of internal trafficking regulation by external signals through G protein‐coupled receptors.
Using Genetic Profiles of African Forest Elephants to Infer Population Structure, Movements, and Habitat Use in a Conservation and Development Landscape in Gabon
Authors: EGGERT L. S. , BUIJ R. , LEE M. E. , CAMPBELL P. , DALLMEIER F. , FLEISCHER R. C. , ALONSO A. , MALDONADO J. E.
Published: November 2013

Conservation of wide‐ranging species, such as the African forest elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis), depends on fully protected areas and multiple‐use areas (MUA) that provide habitat connectivity. In the Gamba Complex of Protected Areas in Gabon, which includes 2 national parks separated by a MUA containing energy and forestry concessions, we studied forest elephants to evaluate the importance of the MUA to wide‐ranging species. We extracted DNA from elephant dung samples and used genetic information to identify over 500 individuals in the MUA and the parks. We then examined patterns of nuclear microsatellites and mitochondrial control‐region sequences to infer population structure, movement patterns, and habitat use by age and sex. Population structure was weak but significant, and differentiation was more pronounced during the wet season. Within the MUA, males were more strongly associated with open habitats, such as wetlands and savannas, than females during the dry season. Many of the movements detected within and between seasons involved the wetlands and bordering lagoons. Our results suggest that the MUA provides year‐round habitat for some elephants and additional habitat for others whose primary range is in the parks. With the continuing loss of roadless wilderness areas in Central Africa, well‐managed MUAs will likely be important to the conservation of wide‐ranging species.

Utilización de Perfiles Genéticos de Elefantes Africanos para Inferir su Estructura Poblacional, Movimientos y Uso del Hábitat en un Paisaje con Conservación y Desarrollo en Gabón Resumenfgs
Relationship between frequency of surveillance colonoscopy and colorectal cancer prevention
Authors: Kawamura Takuji , Oda Yasushi , Murakami Yoshitaka , Kobayashi Kiyonori , Matsuda Koji , Kida Mitsuhiro , Tanaka Kiyohito , Kawahara Yosuke , Koizumi Wasaburo , Yasuda Kenjiro , Tajiri Hisao
Published: November 2013

Background and Aim

The impact of frequent colonoscopy on colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unclear. The present study aimed to determine the relationship between frequency of surveillance colonoscopy and CRC prevention.

Methods

From April 2010 to April 2011, patients who underwent surveillance colonoscopy after screening and polypectomy in four Japanese endoscopy centers were enrolled in this multicenter historical cohort study. Patients were classified into the following two groups according to the findings of past colonoscopy: a low‐risk group (no neoplasia or 1–2 cumulative adenomas <10 mm) and an increased‐risk group (advanced adenoma or ≥3 cumulative adenomas). The relationship between colonoscopy frequency within the previous 5 years and the prevalence of advanced neoplasia in each group was analyzed using multiple logistic regression.

Results

The final analysis included 2391 patients. In the low‐risk group, the odds ratios for advanced adenoma in patientsundergoing moderately frequent colonoscopy (2–3 times within the previous 5 years), and frequent colonoscopy (≥4 times within 5 years) were 0.33 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.14–0.81) and 0.21 (95% CI, 0.02–1.60), respectively, compared with infrequent colonoscopy (once or not at all within 5 years). In the increased‐risk group, the respective odds ratios were 0.48 (95% CI, 0.28–0.83) and 0.28 (95% CI, 0.12–0.64).

Conclusions

Although frequent colonoscopy provides benefits against advanced adenoma, the optimal benefit was achieved at 2–3 times. With very frequent colonoscopy (i.e. ≥4 times within 5 years), the additional risk reduction for advanced adenoma was relatively small.
Pilot study of ‘Scissorhands’ technique for gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection using novel gel and endoscopic scissors in a porcine model (with video)
Authors: Khashab Mouen A. , Saxena Payal , Sharaiha Reem , Messallam Ahmed , Akshintala Venkata S. , Singh Vikesh K. , Lennon Anne Marie , Canto Marcia I. , Kalloo Anthony N. , Pasricha Pankaj J.
Published: November 2013

Background and Aim

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a complex procedure and is associated with significant risks. The aims of this pilot study were to study feasibility and procedural times of gastric ESD using a novel gel and endoscopic scissors in a porcine model.

Methods

Simulated 3‐cm gastric submucosal lesions were created in a porcine model. Subsequently, viscous gel was injected into the created bleb. A needle knife was used to create an initial incision when needed. Endoscopic scissors were then used for circumferential incision around the simulated submucosal lesions. The inserted coil (i.e. submucosal lesion) was then removed. The submucosal surface was carefully examined for signs of injury. Procedural times were recorded.

Results

ESD was carried out in four consecutive pigs using the ‘Scissorhands’ technique. A small submucosal incision was created a using needle knife in the first pig and electrocauterywas not used in the remaining three pigs. Circumferential incision using the scissors was done successfully in all pigs. Submucosal dissection was not required in any case. ‘Auto‐dissection’ of created lesions by the gel was noted to be complete in all cases. Inserted coils were noted in the submucosal space during all experiments and were removed. All lesions were successfully resected en bloc. The mean procedure time was 19 min (range 13–22 min).

Conclusion

The combined technique of endoscopic scissors for circumferential incision and viscous gel for submucosal dissection permitted easy, safe and efficient gastric ESD. Electrocautery may be avoided and its consequent adverse events (e.g. perforation).
Allogeneic adipose stem cell therapy in acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Rigol Montserrat , Solanes Núria , Roura Santiago , Roqué Mercè , Novensà Laura , Dantas Ana Paula , Martorell Jaume , Sitges Marta , Ramírez José , Bayés‐Genís Antoni , Heras Magda
Published: November 2013

Background

Stem cell therapy offers a promising approach to reduce the long‐term mortality rate associated with heart failure after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). To date, in vivo translational studies have not yet fully studied the immune response to allogeneic adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (ATMSCs). We analysed the immune response and the histological and functional effects of allogeneic ATMSCs in a porcine model of reperfused AMI and determine the effect of administration timing.

Design

Pigs that survived AMI (24/26) received intracoronary administration of culture medium after reperfusion (n = 6), ATMSCs after reperfusion (n = 6), culture medium 7 days after AMI (n = 6) or ATMSCs 7 days after AMI (n = 6). At 3‐week follow‐up, cardiac function, alloantibodies and histological analysis were evaluated.

Results

Administration of ATMSCs after reperfusion and 7 days after AMI resulted in similar rates of cell engraftment; some of those cells expressed endothelial, smooth muscle and cardiomyogenic cell lineage markers. Delivery of ATMSCs after reperfusion compared with that performed at 7 days was more effective in increasing: vascular density (249 ± 64 vs. 161 ± 37 vessels/mm2; P < 0·01), T lymphocytes (1 ± 0·4 vs. 0·4 ± 0·3% of area CD3+; P < 0·05) and expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF; 32 ± 7% vs. 20 ± 4% of area VEGF+; P < 0·01). Allogeneic ATMSC‐based therapy did not change ejection fraction but generated alloantibodies.

Conclusions

The present study is the first to demonstrate that allogeneic ATMSCs elicit an immune response and, when administered immediately after reperfusion, are more effective in increasing VEGF expression and neovascularization.
Tissue‐specific promoter usage and diverse splicing variants of found in neurons, an ancestral Hu/ELAV‐like RNA‐binding protein gene of insects, in the direct‐developing insect Gryllus bimaculatus
Authors: Watanabe T. , Aonuma H.
Published: November 2013

Hu/ELAV‐like RNA‐binding proteins (RBPs) are involved in the post‐transcriptional regulation of RNA metabolism including splicing, transport, translational control and turnover. The Hu/ELAV‐like RBP genes are predominantly expressed in neurons, and are therefore used as common neuronal markers in many animals. Although the expression patterns and functions of the Hu/ELAV‐like RBP genes have been extensively studied in the model insect Drosophila melanogaster, little is known in basal direct‐developing insects. In the present study, we performed an identification and expression analysis of the found in neurons (fne) gene, an ancestral insect Hu/ELAV‐like RBP gene, in the cricket Gryllus bimaculatus. Contrary to expectation that the Gryllus fne transcript would be predominantly expressed in the nervous system, expression analysis revealed that the Gryllus fne gene is expressed broadly. In addition, we discovered that alternative promoter usage directs tissue‐specific and embryonic stage‐dependent regulation of fne expression, and that alternative splicing contributes to the generation of diverse sets of fne transcripts. Our data provide novel insights into the evolutionary diversification of the Hu/ELAV‐like RBP gene family in insects.
Comparative analyses of salivary proteins from three aphid species
Authors: Vandermoten S. , Harmel N. , Mazzucchelli G. , De Pauw E. , Haubruge E. , Francis F.
Published: November 2013

Saliva is a critical biochemical interface between aphids and their host plants; however, the biochemical nature and physiological functions of aphid saliva proteins are not fully elucidated. In this study we used a multidisciplinary proteomics approach combining liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry and two‐dimensional differential in‐gel electrophoresis/matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight/mass spectrometry to compare the salivary proteins from three aphid species including Acyrthosiphon pisum, Megoura viciae and Myzus persicae. Comparative analyses revealed variability among aphid salivary proteomes. Among the proteins that varied, 22% were related to DNA‐binding, 19% were related to GTP‐binding, and 19% had oxidoreductase activity. In addition, we identified a peroxiredoxin enzyme and an ATP‐binding protein that may be involved in the modulation of plant defences. Knowledge of salivary components and how they vary among aphid species may reveal how aphids target plant processes and how the aphid and host plant interact.
Adult men's beliefs, values, attitudes and experiences regarding contraceptives: a systematic review of qualitative studies
Authors: Hoga Luiza AK , Rodolpho Juliana RC , Sato Priscila M , Nunes Michelly CM , Borges Ana LV
Published: November 2013

Aims and objectives

To explore the men's beliefs, values, attitudes and experiences towards contraceptives.

Background

The promotion of male participation in contraceptive practices requires the knowledge and consideration of the beliefs, values, attitudes and experiences involved. The systematic review of the literature focusing on these themes can be useful for the evidence‐based health care.

Design

A systematic review of qualitative studies.

Methods

Studies published between 1994 until 2011 (inclusive) were included. The participants included men from all cultures, ethnic backgrounds and religions who have expressed their beliefs, values, attitudes and experiences regarding male contraceptives. The databases CINAHL, PubMed, PsycINFO, SciELO, LILACS and MedCarib were explored. The appraisal of primary studies, carried out through the JBI‐QARI (Qualitative Assessment and Review Instrument) resulted in the inclusion of 16 studies in this systematic review.

Results

The set of statements of beliefs, values, attitudes and experiences regarding contraceptives resulted in five synthesis: (1) contraceptive behaviour is influenced by religious, family and social backgrounds; (2) gendered, male‐centred values predominate in contraceptive behaviours; (3) the sense of invulnerability influences contraceptive behaviours; (4) strong obstacles should be overcome to use contraceptives; (5) behaviours, decision‐making and experiences regarding male contraceptives.

Conclusions

The male beliefs and values regarding contraceptives are strongly influenced by religious, family and social backgrounds, and their attitudes in this scope are male centred.

Relevance to clinical practice

A deeper male consciousness regarding contraceptive responsibility should be promoted. It requires the knowledge of the men's personal backgrounds regarding contraceptives because they can be diverse according to family, social and cultural contexts. The consideration of the men's personal perspective is essential in the planning and implementation of reproductive health care. These aspects are essential for the concretisation of the evidence‐based health care, a current challenge worldwide.
Perceived learning needs of Syrian patients postcoronary artery bypass graft surgery
Authors: Omari Ferdous , Al‐Zaru Ibtisam , AL‐Yousef Rasha H
Published: November 2013

Aims and objectives

To describe the perceived learning needs of Syrian patients who underwent coronary artery bypass graft surgery before hospital discharge and to examine the differences in the mean scores of the categories (subscales) of the modified Cardiac Patients Learning Needs Inventory according to the demographic characteristics of the participants.

Background

Knowledge about the learning needs of patients who underwent coronary artery bypass graft surgery can help nurses in coronary care units to provide them with the information that they need. This might improve their quality of life through decreasing complications, length of stay in the hospital and hospital readmissions.

Design

A descriptive design was used for this study.

Methods

A convenience sample of 135 patients participated in this study and completed the demographic form and the modified Cardiac Patients Learning Needs Inventory.

Results

Information about chest and leg wound care, complications, medication and physical activity was the most important learning needs. There were significant differences between patients' perceptions of learning needs and their age, chronic illnesses and their working status.

Conclusion

Syrian patients who underwent coronary artery bypass graft surgery were able to identify their learning needs that should be the focus of nursing practice.

Relevance to clinical practice

Meeting the needs of patients who underwent coronary artery bypass graft surgery should be emphasised in nursing practice. Meeting these needs might enhance their self‐care behaviours.
A Technical Note on the Use of Choquet Integral to Analyze Consumer Preferences: Application to Meat Consumption
Authors: Alfonso Leopoldo
Published: November 2013

This paper deals with the use of the Choquet integral to analyze meat consumer preferences. First, we present the method in comparison with multiple linear regression. Second, we illustrate the application in a data set of panelist evaluation of fresh pork loin chops for three attributes (color, lean content and overall acceptability) and purchase intention. Kappalab and Rfmtool packages for the GNU R statistical system were used for data analysis. The Choquet integral allowed to analyze the contribution of each attribute and their combinations, overcome the problems of multicollinearity in linear regression, and showed a similar or better predictive ability than linear model. In conclusion, the Choquet integral can be considered a complementary tool of usual statistical analysis of food consumer preferences.

Practical Applications

This paper suggests the use of the Choquet integral as a complementary statistical tool that can facilitate the analyses of complex sensory evaluations and the behavior of consumers. The Choquet integral allows estimating the importance of different sensorial attributes on the final consumer decision taking into account the dependencies existing between them. It allows a better understanding of the relationships existing between sensorial attributes especially in the presence of multicollinearity. Furthermore, the comparison of the behavior of different groups of consumers can be performed easily.
Description of the use of contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography in four dogs with pancreatic tumours
Authors: Vanderperren K. , Haers H. , Van der Vekens E. , Stock E. , Paepe D. , Daminet S. , Saunders J. H.
Published: November 2013

Canine pancreatic tumours are rare compared to human medicine and the detection and differentiation of pancreatic neoplasia is challenging with B‐mode ultrasonography, which often leads to late clinical diagnosis and poor prognosis. This case report describes the findings of contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography in four dogs with pancreatic adenocarcinoma or insulinoma. B‐mode ultrasonography of the pancreas revealed a hypoechoic nodule in three dogs and heterogenous tissue in one dog. Contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography was able to differentiate between two tumour types: adenocarcinomas showed hypoechoic and hypovascular lesions, whereas insulinomas showed uniformly hypervascular lesions. Contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography findings were confirmed by cytology and/or histopathology. The results demonstrated that contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography was able to establish different enhancement patterns between exocrine (adenocarcinoma) and endocrine (insulinoma) tumours in dogs.
Necrotizing Meningoencephalitis in Atypical Dog Breeds: A Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Cooper J.J. , Schatzberg S.J. , Vernau K.M. , Summers B.A. , Porter B.F. , Siso S. , Young B.D. , Levine J.M.
Published: November 2013

Background

Canine necrotizing meningoencephalitis (NME) is a fatal, noninfectious inflammatory disease of unknown etiology.NMEhas been reported only in a small number of dog breeds, which has led to the presumption that it is a breed‐restricted disorder.

Hypothesis/Objectives

Our objective was to describe histopathologically confirmedNMEin dog breeds in which the condition has not been reported previously and to provide preliminary evidence thatNMEaffects a wider spectrum of dog breeds than previously reported.

Animals

Four dogs withNME.

Methods

Archives from 3 institutions and from 1 author's (BS) collection were reviewed to identify histopathologically confirmed cases ofNMEin breeds in which the disease has not been reported previously. Age, sex, breed, survival from onset of clinical signs, and histopathologic findings were evaluated.

Results

Necrotizing meningoencephalitis was identified in 4 small dog breeds (Papillon, Shih Tzu, Coton de Tulear, and Brussels Griffon). Median age at clinical evaluation was 2.5 years. Histopathologic abnormalities included 2 or more of the following: lymphoplasmacytic or histiocytic meningoencephalitis or encephalitis, moderate‐to‐severe cerebrocortical necrosis, variable involvement of other anatomic locations within the brain (cerebellum, brainstem), and absence of detectable infectious agents.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Until now,NMEhas only been described in 5 small dog breeds. We document an additional 4 small breeds previously not shown to developNME. Our cases further illustrate thatNMEis not a breed‐restricted disorder and should be considered in the differential diagnosis for dogs with signalment and clinical signs consistent with inflammatory brain disease.