bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Top priorities for alcohol regulators in the United States: protecting public health or the alcohol industry?
Authors: Mart Sarah M.
Published: January 2012

Aims  This paper describes alcohol industry involvement in the 2010 annual conference proceedings of the National Conference of State Liquor Administrators (NCSLA) in the United States.

Design  The author attended the conference, observed conference attendees and panelists and identified key themes in the panel sessions.

Setting  The NCSLA Annual Meeting took place 20–24 June 2010 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Participants  NCSLA meeting attendees and panelists were professionals from state alcohol control systems; federal government agencies; and companies representing the alcohol industry.

Measurements  The total number of conference attendees and participants were counted as well as the number of attendees and participants from regulator, industry and public health sectors.

Findings  More than two‐thirds (72.2%) of the 187 conference attendees were from alcohol producers, importers, wholesalers, retailers or their attorneys. Nearly two‐thirds (65.0%) of the 40 panelists were from the alcohol industry. The author of this paper was the only attendee, and the only panelist, representing public health policy.

Conclusions  The National Conference of State Liquor Administrators in the United States is dominated by the private, global companies that produce, import, distribute and sell alcohol, highlighting a lack of public health considerations within the Association's liquor control agenda.
Limited maximal flow rate of target‐controlled remifentanil infusion and induced cough
Authors: Min S. K. , Kim D. H. , Cho H. B. , Moon B. K. , Kim J. Y.
Published: January 2012

This study evaluated the effect of limiting maximal infusion‐pump flow rate on suppression of remifentanil‐induced cough during target‐controlled infusion. Two hundred and ten patients were randomly assigned to receive remifentanil at an effect‐site concentration of 4.0 ng.ml−1 with maximal flow rate limited to 100 (group R100), 200 (group R200), or 1200 ml.h−1 (group R1200). The number of episodes of cough were recorded and graded as mild (1–2), moderate (3–4), or severe (5 or more). The incidence of cough was 2.9% in group R100, 5.7% in group R200 and 25.7% in group R1200. Patients in group R100 and R200 had a significantly lower incidence of cough than those in group R1200 (p < 0.05). Zero, two and five patients coughed a moderate amount in groups R100, R200 and group R1200, respectively (p < 0.05). Limiting maximal infusion rate during remifentanil TCI suppressed remifentanil‐induced cough.
Some considerations on aggregate sample supports for soil inventory and monitoring
Authors: Lark R. M.
Published: January 2012

Soil monitoring and inventory require a sampling strategy. One component of this strategy is the support of the basic soil observation: the size and shape of the volume of material that is collected and then analysed to return a single soil datum. Many, but not all, soil sampling schemes use aggregate supports in which material from a set of more than one soil cores, arranged in a given configuration, is aggregated and thoroughly mixed prior to analysis. In this paper, it is shown how the spatial statistics of soil information, collected on an aggregate support, can be computed from the covariance function of the soil variable on a core support (treated as point support). This is done via what is called here the discrete regularization of the core‐support function. It is shown how discrete regularization can be used to compute the variance of soil sample means and to quantify the consistency of estimates made by sampling then re‐sampling a monitoring network, given uncertainty in the precision with which sample sites are relocated. These methods are illustrated using data on soil organic carbon content from a transect in central England. Two aggregate supports, both based on a 20 m 20 m square, are compared with core support. It is shown that both the precision and the consistency of data collected on an aggregate support are better than data on a core support. This has implications for the design of sampling schemes for soil inventory and monitoring.
A central difference method with low numerical dispersion for solving the scalar wave equation
Authors: Yang Dinghui , Tong Ping , Deng Xiaoying
Published: January 2012

In this paper, we propose a nearly‐analytic central difference method, which is an improved version of the central difference method. The new method is fourth‐order accurate with respect to both space and time but uses only three grid points in spatial directions. The stability criteria and numerical dispersion for the new scheme are analysed in detail. We also apply the nearly‐analytic central difference method to 1D and 2D cases to compute synthetic seismograms. For comparison, the fourth‐order Lax‐Wendroff correction scheme and the fourth‐order staggered‐grid finite‐difference method are used to model acoustic wavefields. Numerical results indicate that the nearly‐analytic central difference method can be used to solve large‐scale problems because it effectively suppresses numerical dispersion caused by discretizing the scalar wave equation when too coarse grids are used. Meanwhile, numerical results show that the minimum sampling rate of the nearly‐analytic central difference method is about 2.5 points per minimal wavelength for eliminating numerical dispersion, resulting that the nearly‐analytic central difference method can save greatly both computational costs and storage space as contrasted to other high‐order finite‐difference methods such as the fourth‐order Lax‐Wendroff correction scheme and the fourth‐order staggered‐grid finite‐difference method.
Angioimmunoblastic T‐cell lymphoma with hyperplastic germinal centres (pattern 1) shows superior survival to patterns 2 and 3: a meta‐analysis of 56 cases
Authors: Tan Leonard H C , Tan Soo Y , Tang Tiffany , Lim Soon T , Tan Daryl , Lim Lay C , Kam Grace L S , Loh Tze P , Tao Miriam , Koay Evelyn S C
Published: January 2012

Tan L H C, Tan S Y, Tang T, Lim S T, Tan D, Lim L C, Kam G L S, Loh T P, Tao M & Koay E S C  (2012) Histopathology 60, 570–585 Angioimmunoblastic T‐cell lymphoma with hyperplastic germinal centres (pattern 1) shows superior survival to patterns 2 and 3: a meta‐analysis of 56 cases

Aims:  Angioimmunoblastic T‐cell lymphoma (AITL) may present in patterns 1, 2 or 3, representing those with hyperplastic, regressed or effaced germinal centres (GCs), respectively, but the prognostic utility of this subclassification has not been previously validated.

Methods and results:  Twenty‐five cases of AITL were reviewed immunohistologically and with in‐situ hybridization for Epstein–Barr virus‐encoded RNA and polymerase chain reaction for T‐cell receptor gamma and immunoglobulin heavy chain clonality and followed for up to 120 months. Four cases had conventional hyperplastic GCs, two had floral GCs, and one had progressively transformed GCs, consistent with pattern 1 and one additional case had hyalinized GCs, consistent with pattern 2. The remaining 17 (pattern 3) cases lacked morphologically discernible GCs. The Kaplan–Meier survival distribution of pattern 1 cases (5‐year survival 83%) was superior to that of pattern 2 and 3 cases [5‐year‐survival 36% (P = 0.0417)] only when combined with the 31 cases, seven of which were pattern 1, that Attygalle et al. had followed for up to 247 months and previously published. Furthermore, the development of B‐lineage (classical Hodgkin or diffuse large‐cell) lymphoma was associated exclusively with pattern 3 (P = 0.0057).

Conclusions:  Pattern 1 represents an indolent phase/grade of AITL, unassociated with the development of secondary B‐lineage lymphoma and uninfluenced by treatment regimen.
Validity and reliability of the Portuguese version of Mandibular Function Impairment Questionnaire
Authors: CAMPOS J. A. D. B. , CARRASCOSA A. C. , MAROCO J.
Published: January 2012

Summary  The aim of this study is to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Mandibular Function Impairment Questionnaire (MFIQ) (Portuguese version). Face and content validity of the Portuguese version were performed. To assess reproducibility of the data gathered with MFIQ, it was applied to 62 individuals who completed the questionnaire on two occasions. Validity and reliability of the data gathered with MFIQ were evaluated in a sample of 249 patients. Construct‐related validity was assessed through factorial validity (by means of a confirmatory factor analysis), and convergent and discriminant validities were assessed, respectively, by the average variance extracted (AVE), composite reliability (CC) and bivariate correlations between factors. The internal consistency was estimated by the standardised Cronbach’s alpha coefficient (α) and reproducibility by the intra‐class correlation coefficient (ICC). All the items of MFIQ showed content validity. Reproducibility was excellent in both the ‘functional capacity’ dimension (D1) (ICCD1 = 0·895, 95% CI = 0·832 to 0·935) and the ‘feeding’ dimension (D2) (ICCD2 = 0·825, 95% CI = 0·726 to 0·891). Items 1, 2, 6 and 7 of D1 had factor weights below the desired cut‐off (0·5), and overall fit of the original bifactorial structure of the MFIQ was poor [(confirmatory fit index) CFI = 0·850, (goodness of fit index) GFI = 0·781, (root mean square error of approximation) RMSEA = 0·118]. Thus, these items were excluded, and the new, reduced version of the MFIQ showed good fit (CFI = 0·933, GFI = 0·879, RMSEA = 0·099). The convergent validity was adequate (AVE ≥ 0·5, CC ≥ 0·7) for both factors. However, their discriminant validity was low (AVED1  =  0·51 and AVED2 = 0·66 < ρ2D1D2 = 0·70). The internal consistency was excellent (αD1 = 0·874; αD2 = 0·918). The Portuguese version of the reduced MFIQ produced data with good validity and reliability.
Evaluation of esophageal contractile propagation using esophageal pressure topography
Authors: Pandolfino J. E. , Sifrim D.
Published: January 2012

Background  High‐resolution manometry and esophageal pressure topography have enhanced our ability to analyze esophageal motor disturbances by improving the detail and accuracy of measurements of peristaltic activity.This has been extremely helpful in the evaluation of disorders of rapid propagation as the technique is able to define important time points and physiologic landmarks that are crucial in defining peristaltic velocity and latency intervals.

Purpose  The goal of the current review will be to assess how esophageal pressure topography has impacted our ability to define important phenotypes of rapid propagation. Additionally, this review will also be utilized to complement the description of the Chicago Classification of Esophageal Motor Disorders, which is presented in this supplement issue.
Esophageal hypertensive peristaltic disorders
Authors: Roman S. , Tutuian R.
Published: January 2012

Background  Esophageal motility abnormalities include a series of manometric findings that differ to a significant degree from findings in normal, asymptomatic volunteers.

Methods  Current review summarizes conventional and high‐resolution esophageal manometry criteria used to define and characterize esophageal hypertensive motility abnormalities.

Key Results  In the conventional esophageal manometry classification scheme hypertensive esophageal motility abnormalities include nutcracker esophagus (average distal contraction amplitude >180mmHg), hypertensive lower esophageal sphincter (average resting LES pressure >45mmHg) and poorly relaxing lower esophageal sphincter (average LES residual pressure >8mmHg). The new, high resolution esophageal manometry scheme includes in the group of hypertensive peristaltic disorders hypertensive peristalsis (“nutcracker esophagus”: mean DCI >5000 mmHg*sec*cm) and hypercontractile esophagus (“jackhammer esophagus”: at least one contraction with DCI > 8,000 mmHg*sec*cm) and defines a separate group for disorders with impaired esophageal‐gastric junction relaxation (mean integrated residual (LES) pressure >15mmHg).

Conclusions & Inferences  Hypertensive motility disorders represent a heterogeneous condition subdivided into hypercontractile esophagus and hypertensive peristalsis. Further studies are required to determine the clinical relevance of this new classification.
Characterization of the expression of macrophage inflammatory protein‐1α (MIP‐1α) and C‐C chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) after kainic acid‐induced status epilepticus (SE) in juvenile rats
Authors: Zhu X. B. , Wang Y. B. , Chen O. , Zhang D. Q. , Zhang Z. H. , Cao A. H. , Huang S. Y. , Sun R. P.
Published: January 2012

X. B. Zhu, Y. B. Wang, O. Chen, D. Q. Zhang, Z. H. Zhang, A. H. Cao, S. Y. Huang and R. P. Sun (2012) Neuropathology and Applied Neurobiology38, 602–616

Characterization of the expression of macrophage inflammatory protein‐1α (MIP‐1α) and C‐C chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) after kainic acid‐induced status epilepticus (SE) in juvenile rats

Aims: To identify the potential role of macrophage inflammatory protein‐1α (MIP‐1α) with its C‐C chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) in epileptogenic brain injury, we examined their expression in juvenile rat hippocampus and explored the potential link between MIP‐1α, CCR5 and neuropathological alterations after status epilepticus (SE) induced by intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) kainic acid (KA) injection. Methods: Based on the determination of the development of spontaneous seizures initiated by SE in developing rat brain, we firstly examined hippocampal neurone damage through Nissl and Fluoro‐Jade B staining, and evaluated microglial reaction during the early phase following KA‐induced SE in 21‐day‐old rats. MIP‐1α and CCR5 protein were quantified by ELISA and Western blot respectively following mRNA by real‐time PCR. We also mapped MIP‐1α and CCR5 expression in the hippocampus by immunohistochemistry and identified their cellular sources using double‐labelling immunofluorescence. Results: In juvenile rats, KA caused characteristic neurone damage in the hippocampal subfields, with accompanying microglial accumulation. In parallel with mRNA expression, MIP‐1α protein in hippocampus was transiently increased after KA treatment, and peaked from 16 to 72 h. Double‐labelling immunofluorescence revealed that MIP‐1α was localized to microglia. Up‐regulated CCR5 remained prominent at 24 and 72 h and was mainly localized to activated microglia. Further immunohistochemistry revealed that MIP‐1α and CCR5 expression were closely consistent with microglial accumulation in corresponding hippocampal subfields undergoing degenerative changes. Conclusions: Our data indicated that MIP‐1α as a regulator, linking with the CCR5 receptor, may be involved within the early stages of the epileptogenic process following SE by i.c.v. KA injection.
Exceptional preservation processes of 3D dinosaur footprint casts in Costalomo (Lower Cretaceous, Cameros Basin, Spain)
Authors: Huerta Pedro , Fernández‐Baldor Fidel Torcida , Farlow James O. , Montero Diego
Published: January 2012

Terra Nova, 24, 136–141, 2012

Theropod dinosaur footprints at the Costalomo tracksite (Pinilla de los Moros Formation, Upper Hauterivian–Lower Barremian, western Cameros Basin, Salas de los Infantes, Burgos Province, Spain) show unusual preservation of a previously undescribed nature. The footprints occur as casts (positive epireliefs) at the top of a sandstone bed and preserve exceptional details of the top of the digit and claw morphology, and of digital interactions with the sediment during penetration and extraction from the sediment. Footprint formation and preservation occurred in the following stages: (1) The dinosaur stepped on a thin (4–8 cm thick) mud layer, its foot sinking to contact an underlying sand layer (channel fill); (2) voids left in the cohesive mud after foot withdrawal were later filled with sand; (3) subsequent deposition, burial and Alpine compression indurated the muds and the sands of both the footprint casts and the underlying channel sand layer; and (4) modern erosion exposed the footprint casts, by removing the mud above the sandstone.
The cyclin L homolog MOS12 and the MOS4‐associated complex are required for the proper splicing of plant resistance genes
Authors: Xu Fang , Xu Shaohua , Wiermer Marcel , Zhang Yuelin , Li Xin
Published: January 2012

Plant resistance (R) proteins protect cells from infections through recognizing effector molecules produced by pathogens and initiating downstream defense cascades. To mount proper immune responses, the expression of R genes has to be tightly controlled transcriptionally and post‐transcriptionally. Intriguingly, alternative splicing of the R genes of the nucleotide binding leucine‐rich repeat (NB‐LRR) type was observed in different plant species, but its regulatory mechanism remains elusive. Here, we report the positional cloning and functional analysis of modifier of snc1,12 (mos12‐1), a partial loss‐of‐function mutant that can suppress the constitutive defense responses conferred by the gain‐of‐function R gene mutant suppressor of npr1‐1 constitutive 1 (snc1). MOS12 encodes an arginine‐rich protein that is homologous to human cyclin L. A null allele of mos12‐2 is lethal, suggesting it has a vital role in plant growth and development. MOS12 localizes to the nucleus, and the mos12‐1 mutation results in altered splicing patterns of SNC1 and RPS4, indicating that MOS12 is required for the proper splicing of target R genes. MOS12 co‐immunoprecipitates with MOS4, indicating that MOS12 associates with the MOS4‐associated complex (MAC). Accordingly, splicing patterns of SNC1 and RPS4 are changed in most MAC core mutants. Our study highlights the contribution of MOS12 and the MAC in the alternative splicing of R genes, providing regulatory details on how alternative splicing is used to fine‐tune R gene expression in plant immunity.
Genital and inguinal cutaneous toxicity in male and female patients treated with sunitinib
Authors: Iacovelli Roberto , Mancini Maria Laura , Risi Emanuela , Palazzo Antonella , Cortesi Enrico
Published: January 2012

Background  Sunitinib is an orally tyrosine kinase inhibitor currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and gastrointestinal stromal tumor. Several cutaneous toxicities have been observed with Sunitinib and among those scrotal cutaneous toxicity could affect 12.5% of patients after an average 66 days of exposure to treatment.

Objective  We report the first case of a female patient who develops vulvar toxicity during sunitinib treatment.

Subjects and Methods  A 68‐year‐old female patient was treated with sunitinib at standard dose of 50 mg/daily for four weeks on and two weeks off, for advanced clear cell RCC. During week 2 of the second cycle of sunitinib, the patient reported vulvar pain and itching.

Results  Local examination revealed erythema of the outer lips and two erythematosus areas localized on the upper medial area of the legs. The sunitinib was discontinued, and the signs and symptoms disappeared completely seven days after drug interruption without any specific treatment.

Conclusion  Female genital cutaneous toxicity with sunitinib shows a similar behavior as found in males, and both should be carefully evaluated even if the treatment discontinuation is generally not required.
Paracoccidioidomycosis: chronic adult unifocal form
Authors: Nakamura Robertha , Valgas Nanashara , Bichara Raquel Murad , Brazuna Deborah , Leverone Andreia
Published: January 2012

Paracoccidioidomycosis is a highly prevalent systemic mycosis in Brazil. The primary cutaneous form is rare and occurs in the absence of pulmonary involvement. Lesions located in the distal regions of the lower limbs are not uncommon and particularly in the feet may go unnoticed or even be confused with infectious or neoplastic lesions of different etiologies. We report a case of paracoccidioidomycosis affecting the left great toe of a man, leading to complete destruction of the nail plate. Treatment was done with the sulfamethoxazole plus trimethoprim with excellent results.
Hepatic manifestations of tuberous sclerosis complex: a genotypic and phenotypic analysis
Authors: Black ME , Hedgire SS , Camposano S , Paul E , Harisinghani M , Thiele EA
Published: January 2012

Black ME, Hedgire SS, Camposano S, Paul E, Harisinghani M, Thiele EA. Hepatic manifestations of tuberous sclerosis complex: a genotypic and phenotypic analysis.

A retrospective review of the clinical records and radiological images of 205 patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) was performed to evaluate the prevalence and progression of hepatic lesions; examine the association of hepatic phenotype with genotype, age, and gender; and investigate the relationships between hepatic, renal, and pulmonary involvement. Hepatic angiomyolipomas (AML), cysts, and other benign lesions were identified in 30% of the cohort, and some lesions grew significantly over time. However, no patient had clinical symptoms or complications from hepatic lesions. TSC2 patients exhibited a higher frequency of AML compared to TSC1 patients (p = 0.037), and patients with no mutation identified exhibited a higher frequency of cysts compared to TSC2 patients (p = 0.023). Age was positively correlated with frequency of hepatic involvement (p < 0.001), whereas hepatic phenotype was independent of gender. Presence of hepatic AML was associated with presence of renal AML (p = 0.001). These findings confirm a high rate of asymptomatic hepatic lesions in TSC and further characterize the TSC phenotype.
Allele‐specific amplification of the complete HLA‐C gene from genomic DNA – a novel Cw4 allele (C*04:71) with a Cw1 motif in the peptide‐binding site
Authors: Moraru M. , Balas A. , de Pablo R. , Vicario J. L. , Vilches C.
Published: January 2012

To determine the complete sequence of a newly identified human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐C allele, we designed a method where the full genomic sequence of HLA‐C*04 was amplified in isolation from the patient second HLA‐C allele in a single polymerase chain reaction (PCR), using primers spanning its 5′‐ and 3′‐untranslated regions. The new allele, officially designated HLA‐C*04:71, differs from HLA‐C*04:01:01:01 by two single‐nucleotide polymorphisms: one determines substitution of phenylalanine for serine 9 at the B pocket of the peptide‐binding site; the second substitution is a new polymorphism in intron 5. Phe‐9 is characteristic of Cw1 alleles and its presence in C*04:71 most likely affects its peptide‐binding repertoire. The principle we have used for C*04:71 isolation could be adapted for unambiguous sequence‐based HLA‐C typing of selected samples in a clinical setting.
Feasible etiology of vanishing testis regarding disturbance of testicular development: Histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluation of testicular nubbins
Authors: Mizuno Kentaro , Kojima Yoshiyuki , Kamisawa Hideyuki , Kurokawa Satoshi , Moritoki Yoshinobu , Nishio Hidenori , Hayashi Yutaro , Kohri Kenjiro
Published: January 2012

Objectives:  To identify the causes of vanishing testis besides vascular events secondary to testicular torsion.

Methods:  A total of 102 boys with vanishing testis were treated in our hospital from 1984 to 2011. Of these cases, 91 testicular nubbins were excised. Immunohistochemical analysis of testicular nubbins was carried out using anti‐Wilms tumor 1 antibody, which is a stable marker of Sertoli cells. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was also carried out using Wilms tumor 1‐specific primers.

Results:  Most testicular nubbins were associated with inguinal lesion (51 patients, 56.0%). Light microscopy showed that 11 patients (12.5%) had seminiferous tubules (with germ cells in three patients [3.4%]), and 77 patients lacked seminiferous tubules, some of which had calcification (26 patients, 29.5%), and/or deposition of hemosiderin (21 patients, 23.9%). Immunohistochemical analysis showed Wilms tumor 1 expression not only in the Sertoli cells of the seminiferous tubules in the seminiferous tubule‐positive patients, but also in the interstitium of testicular nubbins in the seminiferous tubule‐negative patients. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction showed Wilms tumor 1 messenger ribonucleic acid expression in the testicular nubbins of both seminiferous tubule‐positive and tubule‐negative patients.

Conclusions:  The presence of Wilms tumor 1‐positive cells in the interstitium of vanishing testis lacking seminiferous tubules suggests that the disturbance of testicular development after Sertoli cell differentiation and during testicular tubule formation might be involved in the etiology of vanishing testis.
Massive transfusion in trauma: blood product ratios should be measured at 6 hours
Authors: Sisak Krisztian , Soeyland Kathleen , McLeod Monique , Jansen Melanie , Enninghorst Natalie , Martin Andrew , Balogh Zsolt J.
Published: January 2012

Background:  Most potentially preventable haemorrhagic deaths occur within 6 h of injury. Conventionally, blood component therapy delivery is measured by 24‐h cumulative totals and ratios. The study aim was to examine the effect of a massive transfusion protocol (MTP) on early (6 h) balanced component therapy.

Methods:  An 88‐month retrospective clinical study at a level 1 trauma centre was undertaken, examining consecutive trauma patients receiving ≥10 units of packed red blood cells (PRBCs) within 24 h, before (pre‐MTP) and after implementation of MTP. Demographic data, injury severity score (ISS), abbreviated injury scale (AIS), shock parameters, coagulation profile, the need for surgical intervention (<24 h), mortality and intensive care unit length of stay were collected. The ratios of blood products given by 6 h, by 24 h and the time between administrations of components was collected and analysed.

Results:  Pre‐MTP and MTP patients had similar demographics, shock severity and initial laboratory findings. Despite MTP patients having had a higher ISS (42 ± 12 versus 36 ± 12, P < 0.05) and AIS head score (2.6 ± 1.8 versus 1.6 ± 2.0, P < 0.05), there was no difference in mortality. Area under the curve (AUC) of the MTP period showed earlier delivery of higher median ratios of fresh frozen plasma (FFP)/PRBC (P= 0.004). Similar findings were found for cryoprecipitate/PRBC and platelet/PRBC ratios. By 24 h, the AUC for FFP/PRBC ratios were no different.

Discussion:  Implementation of MTP resulted in earlier balanced transfusion. The difference between the FFP/PRBC ratios of the two types of resuscitations levelled by 24 h. The efficacy of component therapy delivery should be measured earlier than 24 h.
The new brain: concepts, challenges, and opportunities for mental health nursing
Authors: Buchanan David Andrew
Published: January 2012

The new paradigm that the brain is able change itself (neuroplasticity) is acknowledged and teased out in terms of the ramifications for mental illnesses. Parallel studies in pain (central sensitization) and mirror neurones are examined to conceptually clarify these ramifications in relation to mental health, and to expand our understanding of empathy and social inclusion beyond good ideas to being a part of our nature. The paper then focuses on making clear what the concepts, challenges, and opportunities for mental health nursing might be; even advancing possibilities for recovery through better understanding the third space or intersubjective. What ramifications this has for mental health nursing is reviewed in terms of a paradigm change and the necessity for conceptual clarity, as it relates to the uniqueness of the person right before our very eyes. The author contends that to embrace this new paradigm is not only necessary but ethically obligatory, as it opens up new possibilities for understanding ourselves and this changeable person.
Resection of colorectal liver metastases in the elderly: does age matter?
Authors: Cook E. J. , Welsh F. K. S. , Chandrakumaran K. , John T. G. , Rees M.
Published: January 2012

Aim  Despite the incidence of colorectal cancer increasing with age the proportion of patients undergoing surgery for colorectal liver metastases decreases dramatically in the elderly. Is this referral or selection bias justified?

Method  A prospective database of resection for colorectal liver metastases at a single centre was retrospectively analysed to compare the outcome in patients aged ≥ 75 years (group E) with those aged < 75 years (group Y). Data were analysed using the Kaplan–Meier method with Cox regression modelling.

Results  Of 1443 resections, 151 (10.5%) in group E were compared with 1292 (89.5%) in group Y. The two groups were matched apart from higher American Society of Anesthesiology scores (P = 0.001) and less use of chemotherapy (P = 0.01) in the elderly. Perioperative morbidity and 90‐day mortality were higher in the elderly compared with the younger group (32.5%vs 21.2%, P = 0.02, and 7.3%vs 1.3%, P = 0.001). In the last 5 years, mortality in the elderly improved and was no longer significantly different from that of the younger patients [n = 2/76 (2.6%) vs n = 9/559 (1.6%); P = 0.063]. The 5‐year survival was similar in groups E and Y for cancer‐specific (41.4%vs 41.6%, P = 0.917), overall (37.0%vs 38.2%) and median (44.1 months vs 43.6 months, P = 0.697) survival respectively.

Conclusion  In the elderly liver resection for metastatic disease can be performed with acceptable mortality and morbidity with as good a prospect of survival as for younger patients.
Diagnostic accuracy of narrow‐band imaging for the differentiation of neoplastic from non‐neoplastic colorectal polyps: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Wu L. , Li Y. , Li Z. , Cao Y. , Gao F.
Published: January 2012

Aim  Narrow‐band imaging (NBI) is a novel imaging technology that makes the superficial vasculature of gastrointestinal mucosa visible. However, the real accuracy for the differentiation of neoplastic from non‐neoplastic polyps by NBI for the colorectum is still unknown.

Method  A meta‐analysis was carried out of studies which assessed the precision of NBI in the diagnosis of colorectal neoplastic polyps. Searches included PubMed and Embase and two reviewers independently assessed their quality with a modified version of the quadas and stard tools. The study pooled estimates of sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) and area under the curve (AUC).

Results  There were 11 relevant original papers which fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The pooled sensitivity and specificity were 0.92 (95% CI 0.90–0.93) and 0.83 (95% CI 0.81–0.86) respectively. The AUC for NBI was 0.95 [SE 0.01; DOR 53.72 (95% CI 35.66–80.92)]. The sensitivity and specificity were 0.92 (95% CI 0.90–0.94) and 0.81 (95% CI 0.78–0.84) with magnification, and 0.91 (95% CI 0.88–0.93) and 0.86 (95% CI 0.82–0.89) without magnification. For the mucosal pattern sensitivity and specificity were 0.90 (95% CI 0.85–0.940) and 0.88 (95% CI 0.82–0.93), and for vascular pattern intensity they were 0.92 (95% CI 0.90–0.94) and 0.88 (95% CI 0.83–0.91).

Conclusion  Narrow‐band imaging, with or without magnification, has a high diagnostic precision for colorectal neoplastic polyps using either vascular pattern intensity or mucosal pattern assessment as the measure.
Haemoglobin A1c cut‐off point to identify a high risk group of future diabetes: results from the Omiya MA Cohort Study
Authors: Kato M. , Noda M. , Suga H. , Nakamura T. , Matsumoto M. , Kanazawa Y. ,   for the Omiya MA Cohort Study Group
Published: January 2012

Diabet. Med. 29, 905–910 (2012)

Aims  Using the HbA1c level to define diabetes has several advantages and these advantages also apply to define a high‐risk group. However, the risk of diabetes increases as HbA1c increases and a certain degree of arbitrariness in the cut‐off for the high risk group is unavoidable. The aim of this study was to determine the HbA1c cut‐off for defining a high‐risk group that corresponds to the fasting plasma glucose cut‐off by comparing the risk of diabetes against the fasting plasma glucose and HbA1c levels in the Japanese population.

Methods  A retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from annual health examinations performed in Omiya city. A total of 11 271 subjects between the ages of 40 and 79 years without diabetes at baseline were followed for up to 7 years. According to the new diagnostic criteria, diabetes was defined as an fasting plasma glucose level ≥ 7 mmol/l or an HbA1c level ≥ 48 mmol/mol (≥ 6.5%) or a self‐report. The HbA1c cut‐off corresponding to the fasting plasma glucose cut‐off was determined using the incidence, hazard ratio, and a receiver operating characteristic analysis.

Results  Eight hundred and sixty subjects developed diabetes. The incidence, hazard ratio, and receiver operating characteristic analysis all indicated that an HbA1c cut‐off of 39 mmol/mol (5.7%) corresponded to an fasting plasma glucose level of 5.6 mmol/l.

Conclusions  Our results suggested that the HbA1c cut‐off for high‐risk of diabetes should be 39 mmol/mol (5.7%), consistent with the American Diabetes Association recommendation. Further research is needed to determine whether our results are applicable to other populations.
The risk of overall mortality in patients with Type 2 diabetes receiving different combinations of sulfonylureas and metformin: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Pantalone K. M. , Kattan M. W. , Yu C. , Wells B. J. , Arrigain S. , Nutter B. , Jain A. , Atreja A. , Zimmerman R. S.
Published: January 2012

Diabet. Med. 29, 1029–1035 (2012)

Aims  Sulfonylureas have been shown to increase mortality when used in combination with metformin. This may not be a class effect of sulfonylureas, but rather secondary to differences in properties inherent to the individual sulfonylureas (hypoglycaemic risk, sulfonylurea receptor selectivity and effects on myocardial ischemic preconditioning). The purpose of this study was to assess the risk of overall mortality in patients with Type 2 diabetes treated with different combinations of sulfonylureas and metformin.

Methods  A retrospective cohort study was conducted using an academic health center enterprise‐wide electronic health record system to identify 7320 patients with Type 2 diabetes (3768 initiators of glyburide (glibenclamide) and metformin, 2277 initiators of glipizide and metformin and 1275 initiators of glimepiride and metformin), ≥ 18 years of age and not on insulin or a non‐insulin injectable at baseline. The patients were followed for mortality by documentation in the electronic health record and Social Security Death Index. Multivariable Cox models with propensity analysis were used to compare cohorts.

Results  No statistically significant difference in overall mortality risk was observed among the different combinations of sulfonylureas and metformin: glimepiride and metformin vs. glipizide and metformin (HR 1.03; 95% CI 0.89–1.20), glimepiride and metformin vs. glyburide (glibenclamide) and metformin (HR 1.08; 95% CI 0.90–1.30), or with glipizide and metformin vs. glyburide (glibenclamide) and metformin (HR 1.05; 95% CI 0.95–1.15).

Conclusions  Our results did not identify an increased mortality risk among the different combinations of sulfonylureas and metformin, suggesting that overall mortality is not substantially influenced by the choice of sulfonylurea.
Audit of insulin detemir in pregnancy: a retrospective case series
Authors: Shenoy V. V. , Cook S. J. , Parry A. F. , McIntyre H. D.
Published: January 2012

Diabet. Med. 29, 958–959 (2012)
Who Listens to the Grass Roots? A Field Experiment on Informational Lobbying in the UK
Authors: Richardson Liz , John Peter
Published: January 2012

Research on interest groups indicates that elected representatives respond positively to the informational content of a lobby campaign; but scholars also acknowledge that this claim is hard to evaluate because of the methodological challenges of establishing whether influence occurred or not. To test for the impact of informational lobbying, we deploy an experimental design, recruiting citizen interest groups in eight local authority areas to campaign on a matter of importance to them. These groups sent either information-rich or information-poor lobbying letters to 248 randomly selected local councillors in their areas, and we monitored the responses. Descriptive statistics and regressions with clustered standard errors show that the informational content of the letter does not make a difference to the response overall. But the information-rich treatment affected the quality of the response, encouraging councillors to pass on the letter to another expert or professional. Our findings indicate that elected representatives in English local government use a cue from an informational lobby to defer to other professional elites rather than to engage with the lobbyist's request. These findings have implications for the study of lobbying influence in other jurisdictions.
Lane‐Changing Behavior on Urban Streets: An “In‐Vehicle” Field Experiment‐Based Study
Authors: Sun Daniel (Jian) , Elefteriadou Lily
Published: January 2012

Abstract:  Lane‐changing behavior has received increasing attention during the recent years in traffic flow modeling. Researchers have developed various algorithms to model the maneuvers on both highways and urban streets. However, the majority of these models was derived and validated using data such as vehicle trajectories, without many considerations of driver characteristics. In this study, an instrumented vehicle‐based experiment was carefully designed to observe the drivers’ action under various urban lane‐changing scenarios. The personal background data, and “in‐vehicle” driver behavior and trajectory data were obtained from the experiment, and used to classify 40 drivers into four general groups according to the lane‐changing maneuvers performed in an urban street environment. Additional comparisons and analysis were conducted to confirm the categorization results. The article concludes by providing recommendations related to the implementation of study findings into micro‐simulators, such as using only four driver types in CORSIM instead of the existing 10 types, to better replicate driver behavior in urban street networks.
From “Either‐Or” to “When and How”: A Context‐Dependent Model of Culture in Action
Authors: ABRAMSON COREY M.
Published: January 2012

In this article, I outline a framework for the sociological study of culture that connects three intertwined elements of human culture (cultural motivations, resources, and meanings) and demonstrates the concrete contexts under which each most critically influences actions and their subsequent outcomes. In contrast to models that cast motivations, resources, and meanings as competing explanations of how culture affects action, I argue that these are fundamental constituent elements of culture that are inseparable, interdependent, and simultaneously operative. Which element provides the strongest link to action, and how this link operates, must be understood as a function of the actor's position within wider social contexts. I argue that on average motivations have the most discernable link to action within a social strata, cultural resources provide the strongest link across strata, and meanings have the greatest direct influence when codified and sanctioned. I then offer a reframing and synthesis that reintegrates previously “competing” theories of culture into a more holistic context‐dependent model of culture in action. Finally, I use evidence from prior empirical research, as well as new data from an ongoing ethnographic study of health behaviors among the aged, to show how various elements of culture are concretely linked to action in eight different social contexts. In doing so, I provide a roadmap for the transition out of the “either‐or” logic underlying much of cultural theory and reemphasize the importance of the classical sociological concern for “when” and “how” various aspects of culture influence action and outcomes in concrete social contexts.
Synergistic inhibitory effect of nicotine plus oral contraceptive on mitochondrial complex‐IV is mediated by estrogen receptor‐β in female rats
Authors: Raval Ami P. , Dave Kunjan R. , Saul Isabel , Gonzalez Gabriel J , Diaz Francisca
Published: January 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 121, 157–167.

Chronic nicotine and oral contraceptive (NOC) exposure caused significant loss of hippocampal membrane‐bound estrogen receptor‐beta (ER‐β) in female rats compared with exposure to nicotine alone. Mitochondrial ER‐β regulates estrogen‐mediated mitochondrial structure and function; therefore, investigating the impact of NOC on mitochondrial ER‐β and its function could help delineate the harmful synergism between nicotine and OC. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that NOC‐induced loss of mitochondrial ER‐β alters the oxidative phosphorylation system protein levels and mitochondrial respiratory function. This hypothesis was tested in hippocampal mitochondria isolated from female rats exposed to saline, nicotine, OC or NOC for 16 days. NOC decreased the mitochondrial ER‐β protein levels and reduced oxygen consumption and complex IV (CIV) activity by 34% and 26% compared with saline‐ or nicotine‐administered groups, respectively. We also observed significantly low protein levels of all mitochondrial‐encoded CIV subunits after NOC as compared with the nicotine or saline groups. Similarly, the silencing of ER‐β reduced the phosphorylation of cyclic‐AMP response element binding protein, and also reduced levels of CIV mitochondrial‐encoded subunits after estrogen stimulation. Overall, these results suggest that mitochondrial ER‐β loss is responsible for mitochondrial malfunction after NOC.
A tale of two teens: disciplinary boundaries and geographical opportunities in youth consumption and sustainability research
Authors: Collins Rebecca , Hitchings Russell
Published: January 2012

Our understanding of how and why young people consume, and thus how easy it might be to encourage more sustainable modes of consumption amongst this group, is currently patchy and somewhat hampered by the preoccupations of those who have concerned themselves with this subject so far. This paper substantiates this claim by presenting two caricatures of how youth consumption has previously been framed. We suggest geographical studies are well placed to establish the degree to which each holds true in specific spatial and material contexts and thereby demonstrate how such studies could usefully contribute to wider scholarship on this topic.
Declines in Employer‐Sponsored Insurance between 2000 and 2008: Examining the Components of Coverage by Firm Size
Authors: Vistnes Jessica , Zawacki Alice , Simon Kosali , Taylor Amy
Published: January 2012

Objective

To examine trends in employer‐sponsored health insurance coverage rates and its associated components between 2000 and 2008, to provide a baseline for later evaluations of the Affordable Care Act, and to provide information to policy makers as they design the implementation details of the law.

Data Sources

Private sector employer data from the 2000, 2001, and 2008 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey‐Insurance Component (MEPS‐IC).

Study Design

We examine time trends in employer offer, eligibility, and take‐up rates. We add a new dimension to the literature by examining dependent coverage and decomposing its trends. We investigate heterogeneity in trends by firm size.

Data Collection

The MEPS‐IC is an annual survey, sponsored by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality and conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau. The MEPS‐IC obtains information on establishment characteristics, whether an establishment offers health insurance, and details on up to four plans.

Principal Findings

We find that coverage rates for workers declined in both small and large firms. In small firms, coverage declined due to a drop in both offer and take‐up rates. In the largest firms, offer rates were stable and the decline was due to falling take‐up rates. In addition, enrollment shifted toward single coverage and away from dependent coverage in both small and large firms. For small firms, this shift was due to declining offer and take‐up rates for dependent coverage. In large firms, offers of dependent coverage were stable but take‐up rates dropped. Within the category of dependent coverage, the availability of employee‐plus‐one plans increased in all firm size categories, but take‐up rates for these plans declined in small firms.
Deployment of a Mixed‐Mode Data Collection Strategy Does Not Reduce Nonresponse Bias in a General Population Health Survey
Authors: Beebe Timothy J. , McAlpine Donna D. , Ziegenfuss Jeanette Y. , Jenkins Sarah , Haas Lindsey , Davern Michael E.
Published: January 2012

Objective

To assess nonresponse bias in a mixed‐mode general population health survey.

Data Sources

Secondary analysis of linked survey sample frame and administrative data, including demographic and health‐related information.

Study Design

The survey was administered by mail with telephone follow‐up to nonrespondents after two mailings. To determine whether an additional mail contact or mode switch reduced nonresponse bias, we compared all respondents (N = 3,437) to respondents from each mailing and telephone respondents to the sample frame (N = 6,716).

Principal Findings

Switching modes did not minimize the under‐representation of younger people, nonwhites, those with congestive heart failure, high users of office‐based services, and low‐utilizers of the emergency room but did reduce the over‐representation of older adults.

Conclusions

Multiple contact and mixed‐mode surveys may increase response rates, but they do not necessarily reduce nonresponse bias.
Attachment styles as predictors of Facebook‐related jealousy and surveillance in romantic relationships
Authors: MARSHALL TARA C. , BEJANYAN KATHRINE , DI CASTRO GAIA , LEE RUTH A.
Published: January 2012

Facebook has become ubiquitous over the past 5 years, yet few studies have examined its role within romantic relationships. Two studies tested attachment anxiety and avoidance as predictors of Facebook‐related jealousy and surveillance (i.e., checking a romantic partner's Facebook page). Study 1 found that anxiety was positively associated, and avoidance negatively associated, with Facebook jealousy and surveillance. The association of anxiety with Facebook jealousy was mediated in part by lower trust. Study 2 replicated this finding, and daily diary results further showed that over a 1‐week period, anxiety was positively associated, and avoidance negatively associated, with Facebook surveillance. The association of anxiety with greater surveillance was mediated in part by daily experiences of jealousy.
Aspects of Workplace Flexibility and Mothers’ Satisfaction with Their Husbands’ Contributions to Household Labor*
Authors: Alger Vanessa M. , Crowley Jocelyn Elise
Published: January 2012

This article explores whether mothers’ perceived control over their own workplace flexibility options has any relationship to their satisfaction with their husbands’ contributions to household labor in the United States. We hypothesize that flexibility enhances their ability to more adeptly engage in role management in multiple life areas, thus enabling them to be more satisfied with their partners’ domestic input as well. We use a unique data set of 1,078 randomly sampled women involved in mothers’ organizations that generally attract members based on their current level of participation in the paid labor market. We then link nine distinct workplace flexibility policies with mothers’ satisfaction related to their husbands’ participation in all household tasks, as well as a subset of female‐typed tasks. We find that across both arrays of tasks, mothers with more perceived control over work‐related schedule predictability and those that had the ability to secure employment again after an extended break had higher levels of satisfaction with their husbands’ participation in household labor. In addition, short‐term time off to address unexpected needs was important for all tasks considered together only.