bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk of cardiovascular disease after pre‐eclampsia and the effect of lifestyle interventions: a literature‐based study
Authors: Berks D , Hoedjes M , Raat H , Duvekot JJ , Steegers EAP , Habbema JDF
Published: March 2013

Objective

This study addresses the following questions. Do cardiovascular risk factors fully explain the odds ratio of cardiovascular risk after pre‐eclampsia? What is the effect of lifestyle interventions (exercise, diet, and smoking cessation) after pre‐eclampsia on the risk of cardiovascular disease?

Design

Literature‐based study.

Setting

N/A.

Population or Sample

N/A.

Methods

Data for the calculations were taken from studies identified by PubMed searches. First, the differences in cardiovascular risk factors after pre‐eclampsia compared with an uncomplicated pregnancy were estimated. Second, the effects of lifestyle interventions on cardiovascular risk were estimated. Validated risk prediction models were used to translate these results into cardiovascular risk.

Results

After correction for known cardiovascular risk factors, the odds ratios of pre‐eclampsia for ischaemic heart disease and for stroke are 1.89 (IQR 1.76–1.98) and 1.55 (IQR 1.40–1.71), respectively. After pre‐eclampsia, lifestyle interventions on exercise, dietary habits, and smoking cessation decrease cardiovascular risk, with an odds ratio of 0.91 (IQR 0.87–0.96).

Conclusions

Cardiovascular risk factors do not fully explain the risk of cardiovascular disease after pre‐eclampsia. The gap between estimated and observed odds ratios may be explained by an additive risk of cardiovascular disease by pre‐eclampsia. Furthermore, lifestyle interventions after pre‐eclampsia seem to be effective in decreasing cardiovascular risk. Future research is needed to overcome the numerous assumptions we had to make in our calculations.
The epidemiology of self‐reported intermenstrual and postcoital bleeding in the perimenopausal years
Authors: Shapley M , Blagojevic‐Bucknall M , Jordan KP , Croft PR
Published: March 2013

Objective

To obtain estimates of the rates of occurrence and spontaneous resolution of intermenstrual and postcoital bleeding, and investigate any association with underlying malignancy.

Design

Two‐year prospective cohort study with medical record review during the survey period, and for the subsequent 2 years.

Setting

Seven general practices with 67 100 registered patients.

Population

All women aged 40–54 years on the practices age–sex registers.

Methods

Baseline postal questionnaire, with follow‐up questionnaires sent to naturally menstruating respondents at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. Medical record review using computerised searches from baseline to 48 months.

Main outcome measures

Prevalence and incidence of intermenstrual and postcoital bleeding, and rate of spontaneous resolution.

Results

A total of 7121 baseline questionnaires were sent out, with an initial response rate of 66%. A total of 2104 naturally menstruating women were recruited for the prospective cohort study. The 2–year cumulative incidence of intermenstrual bleeding was 24% (95% CI 21–27%), and that of postcoital bleeding was 7.7% (95% CI 6.2–9.5%). The rates of spontaneous resolution without recurrence for 2 years were 37% (95% CI 29–45) and 51% (95% CI 40–62), respectively. Of the 785 women identified with intermenstrual and/or postcoital bleeding, only one developed uterine cancer.

Conclusion

There is a high prevalence, incidence, and spontaneous rate of resolution of intermenstrual and postcoital bleeding in naturally menstruating women during the perimenopausal years. The association of these symptoms with malignancy is weak. This is of importance to women in deciding when to consult and to those devising public health campaigns concerning symptoms of possible oncological significance.
Cost‐effectiveness of induction of labour at term with aFoley catheter compared to vaginal prostaglandin E2gel (PROBAATtrial)
Authors: van Baaren GJ , Jozwiak M , Opmeer BC , Oude Rengerink K , Benthem M , Dijksterhuis MGK , van Huizen ME , van der Salm PCM , Schuitemaker NWE , Papatsonis DNM , Perquin DAM , Porath M , van der Post JAM , Rijnders RJP , Scheepers HCJ , Spaanderman M , van Pampus MG , de Leeuw JW , Mol BWJ , Bloemenkamp KWM
Published: March 2013

Objective

To assess the economic consequences of labour induction withFoley catheter compared to prostaglandin E2gel.

Design

Economic evaluation alongside a randomised controlled trial.

Setting

Obstetric departments of one university and 11 teaching hospitals in theNetherlands.

Population

Women scheduled for labour induction with a singleton pregnancy in cephalic presentation at term, intact membranes and an unfavourable cervix; and without previous caesarean section.

Methods

Cost‐effectiveness analysis from a hospital perspective.

Main outcome measures

We estimated direct medical costs associated with healthcare utilisation from randomisation to 6 weeks postpartum. For caesarean section rate, and maternal and neonatal morbidity we calculated the incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios, which represent the costs to prevent one of these adverse outcomes.

Results

Mean costs per woman in theFoley catheter group (n = 411) and in the prostaglandin E2gel group (n = 408), were €3297 versus €3075, respectively, with an average difference of €222 (95% confidence interval −€157 to €633). In theFoley catheter group we observed higher costs due to longer labour ward occupation and less cost related to induction material and neonatal admissions.Foley catheter induction showed a comparable caesarean section rate compared with prostaglandin induction, therefore the incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio was not informative.Foley induction resulted in fewer neonatal admissions (incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio €2708) and asphyxia/postpartum haemorrhage (incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios €5257) compared with prostaglandin induction.

Conclusions

Foley catheter and prostaglandin E2labour induction generate comparable costs.
From doubly labelled water to half‐life; validating radio‐isotopic rubidium turnover to measure metabolism in small vertebrates
Authors: Tomlinson Sean , Maloney Shane K. , Withers Philip C. , Voigt Christian C. , Cruz‐Neto Ariovaldo P.
Published: March 2013

The doubly labelled water method (DLW) is widely used to measure field metabolic rate (FMR), but it has some limitations. Here, we validate an innovative technique for measuring FMR by comparing the turnover of isotopic rubidium (86Rb kb) with DLW depletion and the rate of CO2 production () measured by flow‐through respirometry (FTR) for two dunnart species (Marsupialia: Dasyuridae), Sminthopsis macroura (17 g) and Sminthopsis ooldea (10 g).

The rate of metabolism as assessed by (FTR) and 86Rb kb was significantly correlated for both species (S. macroura, r2 = 0·81, P = 1·19 × 10−5; S. ooldea, r2 = 0·63, P = 3·84 × 10−4), as was from FTR and DLW for S. macroura (r2 = 0·43, P = 0·039), but not for S. ooldea (r2 = 0·29, P = 0·168). There was no relationship between from DLW and 86Rb kb for either species (S. macroura r2 = 0·22, P = 0·169; S. ooldea r2 = 0·21, P = 0·253). We conclude that 86Rb kb provided useful estimates of metabolic rate for dunnarts.

Meta‐analysis provided different linear relationships between and 86Rb kb for endotherms and ectotherms, suggesting different proportionalities between metabolic rate and 86Rb kb for different taxa. Understanding the mechanistic basis for this correlation might provide useful insights into the cause of these taxonomic differences in the proportionality. At present, it is essential that the relationship between metabolic rate and 86Rb kb be validated for each taxon of interest.

The advantages of the 86Rb technique over DLW include lower equipment requirements and technical expertise, and the longer time span over which measurements can be made. The 86Rb method might be particularly useful for estimating FMR of groups for which the assumptions of the DLW technique are compromised (e.g. amphibians, diving species and fossorial species), and groups that are practically challenging for DLW studies (e.g. insects).
“Not to Be Aware Anymore”: Indigenous Sumatran Ideas and Shamanic Experiences of Changed States of Awareness/Consciousness
Authors: Porath Nathan
Published: March 2013

Anthropologists working on altered states of consciousness (ASC) have suggested that we should do away with psychologizing concepts and use people's own terms for these experiences. With material drawn from the Orang Sakai of Sumatra this paper shows that practitioners who utilizeASCdo recognize the alteration of states of awareness as preconditions for numinous interactions. Also critically discussed is the termASC.
Conflict monitoring and adaptation in individuals at familial risk for developing bipolar disorder
Authors: Patino Luis R , Adler Caleb M , Mills Neil P , Strakowski Stephen M , Fleck David E , Welge Jeffrey A , DelBello Melissa P
Published: March 2013

Objective

To examine conflict monitoring and conflict‐driven adaptation in individuals at familial risk for developing bipolar disorder.

Methods

We recruited 24 adolescents who had a parent with bipolar disorder and 23 adolescents with healthy parents. Participants completed an arrow version of the Eriksen Flanker Task that included trials with three levels of conflict: neutral, congruent, and incongruent flanks. Differences in performance were explored based upon the level of conflict in the current and previous trials.

Results

Individuals at risk for developing bipolar disorder performed more slowly than youth with healthy parents in all trials. Analyses evaluating sequential effects revealed that at‐risk subjects responded more slowly than youth of healthy parents for all trial types when preceded by an incongruent trial, for incongruent trials preceded by congruent trials, and for neutral and congruent trials when preceded by neutral trials. In contrast to the comparison group, at‐risk adolescents failed to display a response time advantage for incongruent trials preceded by an incongruent trial. When removing subjects with attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), differences between groups in response time fell below significant level, but a difference in sequence modulation remained significant. Subjects at risk for bipolar disorder also displayed greater intra‐subject response time variability for incongruent and congruent trials compared with the comparison adolescents. No differences in response accuracy were observed between groups.

Conclusions

Adolescents at risk for developing bipolar disorder displayed specific deficits in cognitive flexibility, which might be useful as a potential marker related to the development of bipolar disorder.
The Evolution of the Design Management Field: A Journal Perspective
Authors: Erichsen Pia Geisby , Christensen Poul Rind
Published: March 2013

Based on a literature survey of the development of concepts supplemented by a selective literature review for the years 2000 to 2010, this article aims to trace the dynamic development of the field of design management – a cross‐disciplinary research field seeking to establish itself in its own right. The framework of this research is evolutionary theory, and our analysis are based on two prime design management journals followed by a comparative review two adjunct journalsThe Design JournalandCreativity and Innovation Management. The challenge is to avoid being overwhelmed by the established paradigms and logics dominating the field of management research. As far as this limited study of adjunct journals indicates, design management as a field of study has not yet been able to acquire attention outside the design research community.
Evaluation of Hypoglycemic and Antioxidative Effects of Synthesized Peptide MC62
Authors: Yang Baowei , Chen Wei , Jin Jing , Mei Yicheng , Wang Xuekun , Chen Hong , Yan Sijia , Ru Meng , Gu Guolong , Deng Xin , Qian Hai , Huang Wenlong
Published: March 2013

Diabetes mellitus has been considered as a major health problem in the world today. This study aimed to investigate the hypoglycemic and antioxidative effects of peptide MC62 which was synthesized by solid‐phase peptide synthesis method against diabetes induced by streptozotocin. MC62 was administered daily and injected intraperitoneally to the diabetic mice at a dose of 1 μmol/kg body weight for 20 days. The levels of fasting blood glucose and HbA1C, pancreatic islet damage, and associated changes in antioxidative activities were evaluated in streptozotocin‐induced diabetic mice used the exenatide as positive control. After the administration of MC62 together with exenatide for 20 days, the elevated fasting blood glucose and HbA1C levels were reduced, and antioxidative activities were restored. It was confirmed with the histological finding that MC62 prevented the islet from damage in diabetic mice. This indicated that MC62 can prevent mice from hyperglycemia which may be associated with oxidative stress. It also suggested that MC62 could be used as a safe alternative hypoglycemic candidate for treatment of diabetes.
Vascular and Neuronal Protection Induced by the Ocular Administration of Nerve Growth Factor in Diabetic‐Induced Rat Encephalopathy
Authors: Tirassa Paola , Maccarone Mattia , Florenzano Fulvio , Cartolano Sara , De Nicolò Sara
Published: March 2013

Background

Based on our previous findings on the efficacy of ocular applied nerve growth factor as eye drops (oNGF) to act in brain and counteract neuronal damage, we hypothesized that oNGF treatment might revert neuronal atrophy occurring in diabetic brain also by controlling neurotrophin system changes. The major NGF brain target areas, such as the septum and the hippocampus, were used as an experimental paradigma to test this hypothesis.

Methods

Bilateral oNGF treatment was performed twice a day for 2 weeks in full‐blown streptozotocin‐treated adult male rats. The forebrain distribution of cholinergic and endothelial cell markers and NGF receptors were studied by confocal microscopy. The septo‐hippocampal content of NGF mature and precursor form and NGF receptors expression were also analyzed by Elisa and Western blot.

Results

oNGF treatment recovers the morphological alterations and the neuronal atrophy in septum and normalized the expression of mature and pro‐NGF, as well as NGF receptors in the septum and hippocampus of diabetic rats. In addition, oNGF stimulated brain vascularization and up‐regulated the TRKA receptor in vessel endothelium.

Conclusions

Our findings confirm that reduced availability of mature NGF and NGF signaling impairment favors vascular and neuronal alterations in diabetic septo‐hippocampal areas and corroborate the ability of oNGF to act as a neuroprotective agent in brain.
The impact of C4d and microvascular inflammation before we knew them
Authors: Verghese Priya , Dunn Ty , Najafian Behzad , Kim Youngki , Matas Arthur
Published: March 2013

It is important to identify prognostically important morphologic criteria in post‐transplant management to tailor therapy and improve outcomes. Therefore, using biopsies carried out for cause <1‐yr post‐transplant, from an era when C4d staining and microvascular inflammation (MVI) were not clinically utilized, we studied the importance of C4d and MVI on graft survival. Snap‐frozen first renal allograft biopsy specimens (done for cause) in the first post‐transplant year from 1996 to 2001 were stained/examined for C4d, and pathology re‐examined by a separate blinded pathologist. Graft outcomes in patients with and without MVI and/or C4d were compared.

Of 128 patients, 39 (30.5%) biopsies were C4d+ and 89 (69.5%) were C4d−; 67 (52.3%) had no MVI (MVI−) while 61 (47.7%) had glomerulitis, peritubular capillaritis, or both (MVI+). There were no significant demographic differences between MVI+ and MVI− patients. A greater proportion of C4d+ biopsies was MVI+ (67%) than MVI− (33%; p = 0.004). C4d positivity had no impact on death‐censored graft survival (DCGS). In contrast DCGS was worse in MVI+ than MVI− regardless of presence/absence of C4d (p = 0.005).

In biopsies for cause carried out <1‐yr post‐transplant, MVI is associated with decreased DCGS, independent of the presence of C4d.
Recent population declines in Afro‐Palaearctic migratory birds: the influence of breeding and non‐breeding seasons
Authors: Morrison Catriona A. , Robinson Robert A. , Clark Jacquie A. , Risely Kate , Gill Jennifer A.
Published: March 2013

Aim

Recent, rapid population declines in many Afro‐Palaearctic migratory bird species have focussed attention on changing conditions within Africa. However, processes influencing population change can operate throughout the annual cycle and throughout migratory ranges. Here, we explore the evidence for impacts of breeding and non‐breeding conditions on population trends of British breeding birds of varying migratory status and wintering ecology.

Location

Great Britain (England & Scotland).

Methods

Within‐ and between‐species variation in population trends is quantified for 46 bird species with differing migration strategies.

Results

Between 1994 and 2007, rates of population change in Scotland and England differed significantly for 19 resident and 15 long‐distance migrant species, but were similar for 12 short‐distance migrant species. Of the six long‐distance migrant species that winter in the arid zone of Africa, five are increasing in abundance throughout Britain. In contrast, the seven species wintering in the humid zone of Africa are all declining in England, but five of these are increasing in Scotland. Consequently, populations of both arid and humid zone species are increasing significantly faster in Scotland than England, and only the English breeding populations of species wintering in the humid zone are declining.

Main conclusions

Population declines in long‐distance migrants, especially those wintering in the humid zone, but not residents or short‐distance migrants suggest an influence of non‐breeding season conditions on population trends. However, the consistently less favourable population trends in England than Scotland of long‐distance migrant and resident species strongly suggest that variation in the quality of breeding grounds is influencing recent population changes. The declines in humid zone species in England, but not Scotland, may result from poorer breeding conditions in England exacerbating the impacts of non‐breeding conditions or the costs associated with a longer migration, while better conditions in Scotland may be buffering these impacts.
Progression to insulin for patients with diabetes mellitus on dual oral antidiabetic therapy using the US Department of Defense Database
Authors: Rascati K. , Richards K. , Lopez D. , Cheng L.‐I. , Wilson J.
Published: March 2013

Aim

To compare ‘progression to insulin’ for three cohorts on oral antidiabetic medication combinations: metformin/sulphonylurea (Met/SU), metformin/thiazolidinedione (Met/TZD) and sulphonylurea/thiazolidinedione (SU/TZD).

Methods

Retrospective cohort analysis design was used. The subjects were US nationwide members of military and their families. A total of 5608 patients who were on antidiabetic monotherapy for at least 1 year before adding a second agent to their medication regimen between October 2001 and September 2008 participated in this study. Mean age ranged from 64 to 71 years among the cohorts. Cox regression compared the progression to insulin, adjusting for demographics, months of follow‐up and co‐morbidities [measured with Chronic Disease Score (CDS)].

Results

By the end of the 2‐ to 6‐year follow‐up period, 14.3% of the Met/TZD cohort, 23.6% of the Met/SU cohort and 28.2% of the SU/TZD cohort had insulin added to their regimen. Those in the Met/SU cohort had a 1.8 times higher probability of progression to insulin than those in the Met/TZD cohort [odds ratio (OR) = 1.80, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.51–2.14), and those in the SU/TZD cohort had a 2.5 times higher probability of progression to insulin than those in the Met/TZD cohort (OR = 2.51, 95% CI = 2.04–3.08).

Conclusion

When sensitizers were paired (Met/TZD), a lower percentage of patients progressed to insulin during the study period, as opposed to patients who used a combination of a secretagogue with a sensitizer (SU/TZD or Met/SU).
An orb‐weaver spider eludes plant‐defending acacia ants by hiding in plain sight
Authors: GARCIA LORIANN C. , STYRSKY JOHN D.
Published: March 2013

Myrmecophily is uncommon in spiders and adaptations that allow spider infiltration of ant colonies are poorly studied. Here, a novel interaction between the orb‐weaver spider, Eustala oblonga Chickering, and the acacia ant, Pseudomyrmex satanicus Wheeler, in central Panama is documented.

These spiders occupy webs at night, but spend most of the day crouched directly against the surface of their host acacias (Acacia melanocerus Fabaceae) amidst the plant‐defending ants. Detailed behavioural observations indicated that the spiders generally occupied areas on the acacias patrolled more actively by ants, but were attacked only if the spiders moved, which happened very infrequently. We hypothesized, therefore, that the spiders avoid ant aggression behaviourally by being still and not reacting to encounters by patrolling ants.

We tested this hypothesis experimentally by comparing ant responses to moving versus immobilised E. oblonga and moving versus immobilised individuals of another plant‐inhabiting, orb‐weaver spider (Argiope argentata Fabricius) not naturally found on ant‐acacias. Consistent with the hypothesis, ants responded significantly more aggressively to moving spiders of both species than to immobilised spiders.

Further, moving E. oblonga utilised a particular method of escape in which they suspended themselves on a dragline until ant activity waned before returning to the plant surface and crouching quietly without further agitating the ants. In contrast, moving A. argentata attempted to outrun the ants, thus, continuing to agitate them until the spiders were killed or dropped to the ground.

Our results suggest that E. oblonga may be able to inhabit ant‐defended acacias essentially by hiding in plain sight.
A Proposed Framework for Evaluating Alignment Studies
Authors: Davis‐Becker Susan L. , Buckendahl Chad W.
Published: March 2013

Evaluating the multiple characteristics of alignment has taken a prominent role in educational assessment and accountability systems given its attention in the No Child Left Behind legislation (NCLB). Leading to this rise in popularity, alignment methodologies that examined relationships among curriculum, academic content standards, instruction, and assessments were proposed as strategies to evaluate evidence of the intended uses and interpretations of test scores. In this article, we propose a framework for evaluating alignment studies based on similar concepts that have been recommended for standard setting (Kane). This framework provides guidance to practitioners about how to identify sources of validity evidence for an alignment study and make judgments about the strength of the evidence that may impact the interpretation of the results.
A Synthesis of the Peer‐Reviewed Differential Bundle Functioning Research
Authors: Banks Kathleen
Published: March 2013

The purpose of this article was to present a synthesis of the peer‐reviewed differential bundle functioning (DBF) research that has been conducted to date. A total of 16 studies were synthesized according to the following characteristics: tests used and learner groups, organizing principles used for developing bundles, DBF detection methods used, and types of bundles that indicated statistically significant DBF in the hypothesized direction on multiple occasions. The article concludes with a list of suggestions to individuals who conduct DBF research. For example, effect size guidelines should be established for interpreting the amount of DBF in bundles of items assessed with simultaneous item bias test (SIBTEST), given that it is the most commonly used DBF procedure. This would reduce our reliance on statistical significance testing. General effect size guidelines are needed as well as guidelines for special circumstances like small sample cases. Other useful suggestions are offered as well.
Exploring the Role of Trust in the Deal–Making Process for Early–Stage Technology Ventures
Authors: Scarbrough Harry , Swan Jacky , Amaeshi Kenneth , Briggs Tony
Published: March 2013

The deal–making process requires entrepreneurial actors to create and maintain wide networks of weak ties while simultaneously developing stronger collaborative ties that will enable opportunities to be realized. We currently lack an adequate account of how these activities are integrated by deal–makers under conditions of risk and uncertainty. In an empirical study of deal making in early–stage technology ventures, we find that deal–makers rely on different forms of trust in the early and later phases. Based on this study, we develop a process model and propositions on the role of trust in integrating strong and weak ties in deal making.
Fixing the Leak: Unemployment Incidence before and after a Major Reform of Unemployment Benefits in Germany
Authors: Dlugosz Stephan , Wilke Ralf A. , Stephan Gesine
Published: March 2013

We present first empirical results on the effects of a large scale reduction in unemployment benefit entitlement lengths on unemployment inflows in Germany. We show that this highly disputed element of the Hartz-Reforms in 2006 induced a rush of workers and firms to take advantage of the previous legislation in its last days. Furthermore, we find a considerable decline in transitions to unemployment and an increase in employment rates among older workers after the reform. Our results provide new evidence for the importance of changes in unemployment inflows for the analysis of changes in unemployment outflows.
The effects of simulated summer‐to‐winter grazing management on herbage production in a grass–clover sward
Authors: Phelan P. , Casey I. A. , Humphreys J.
Published: March 2013

The effects of summer‐to‐winter simulated grazing management factors, namely defoliation interval (INT: 21, 42, 56 or 84 d), defoliation height (DH: 2·7, 3·6, 5·3 or 6·0 cm) and final defoliation date (FIN: 23 September, 4 November or 16 December) on herbage production in a grass–clover sward were studied. Treatments were imposed between July and December 2008, with all plots under common management in the following March to June 2009. The 42‐d INT achieved the highest (P < 0·001) total herbage yield at 11·00 t DM ha−1. Shorter (21 d) and longer (56–84 d) intervals reduced annual clover herbage yield and biological nitrogen fixation estimates. Lowering DH from 6·0 to 2·7 cm in the summer‐to‐winter period increased sward clover content and clover herbage yield through to the following June, 6 months after treatments ended. Delaying FIN from 23 September to 16 December had no significant effect on annual clover, grass or total herbage yield. Spring–summer clover herbage yield was positively correlated with spring–summer clover stolon mass (R2 = 0·54, P < 0·001) and, to a lesser extent, light penetration through the sward in the previous winter (R2 = 0·16, P < 0·05). A 42‐d INT with low DH (2·7–3·5 cm) is therefore recommended for grass–clover swards.
Pain and hospice care in nursing home residents with dementia and terminal cancer
Authors: Monroe Todd B , Carter Michael A , Feldt Karen S , Dietrich Mary S , Cowan Ronald L
Published: March 2013

Aim

One condition associated with severe end‐of‐life pain that can lead to a poor quality of death is cancer. Cancer pain in people with dementia is of particular concern because of communication problems that occur with worsening disease. The aim of the current pilot study was to examine the association between hospice enrolment, dementia severity and pain among nursing home residents who died from advanced cancer.

Methods

Between‐groups cross‐sectional chart audits of 55 nursing home residents with dementia who died from cancer were carried out.

Results

A total of 45% of residents were in hospice at the end‐of‐life. Residents in hospice were more likely to receive an opioid (80% vs 43%, P = 0.005); but less likely to show severe cognitive impairment (20% vs 50%, P = 0.050). Enrolment in hospice was associated with an increased likelihood of receiving an opioid after controlling for level of cognitive impairment (OR = 3.9, 95% CI = 1.1–14.0, P = 0.037). Lower levels of cognitive functioning were associated with a decreased likelihood of receiving an opioid after controlling for enrolment in hospice (OR = 0.3, 95% CI = 0.1–0.8, P = 0.030). Notably, 40% of nursing home residents with dementia who died from cancer did not receive any opioid during this time.

Conclusions

Preliminary results suggest that hospice enrolment might be influenced by the facility or region of this particular country. Hospice enrolment predicts more opioid pain treatment in residents with dementia and terminal cancer; however, no resident with very severe dementia and terminal cancer was placed in hospice care. Severely cognitively impaired nursing home residents requiring opioids are at great risk of suffering from untreated advanced cancer pain. New methods are urgently required to improve end‐of‐life palliative care for nursing home residents with terminal cancer and severe dementia. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2013; 13: 1018–1025.
Src homology phosphotyrosyl phosphatase‐2 expression is an independent negative prognostic factor in human breast cancer
Authors: Muenst Simone , Obermann Ellen C , Gao Feng , Oertli Daniel , Viehl Carsten T , Weber Walter P , Fleming Timothy , Gillanders William E , Soysal Savas D
Published: March 2013

Aims

Src homology phosphotyrosyl phosphatase‐2 (SHP2) is a ubiquitously expressed phosphatase that plays an essential role in the downstream signalling pathways of multiple growth factor receptors, thus representing a potential target for cancer therapy. Recent studies suggest that SHP2 contributes to tumour initiation, progression and metastasis in breast cancer, yet the impact of SHP2 expression on prognosis in human breast cancer has not been evaluated.

Methods and results

To explore further the role of SHP2 in breast cancer, we conducted an immunohistochemical study using a tissue microarray encompassing 1401 formalin‐fixed breast cancer specimens with detailed clinical annotation and outcome data. Of 1401 evaluable breast cancers, 651 (46%) were positive for SHP2. SHP2 expression was associated positively with tumour grade, lymph node status and tumour stage. In univariate survival analysis, cases with SHP2 expression had a significantly worse overall survival (OS). In multivariate analysis, SHP2 remained an independent negative prognostic factor for OS. SHP2 expression was a negative prognostic factor for OS in the luminal A and the luminal B HER2− intrinsic subtypes.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate for the first time that SHP2 is an independent predictor of survival in breast cancer, suggesting that SHP2 may be a potential target for therapy.
Cutaneous PEComa does not harbour TFE3 gene fusions: immunohistochemical and molecular study of 17 cases
Authors: Llamas‐Velasco Mar , Mentzel Thomas , Requena Luis , Palmedo Gabriele , Kasten Robert , Kutzner Heinz
Published: March 2013

Aims

The family of perivascular epithelioid cell tumours (PEComas) comprises a related group of mesenchymal tumours of uncertain origin that show both smooth muscle and melanocytic differentiation markers. TFE3 nuclear immunoreactivity may be viewed as a supporting marker, as it has been found in a subset of visceral PEComas. We immunohistochemically analysed 17 cases of primary cutaneous PEComas for TFE3, and five of them also for SOX‐10, and also analysed them by FISH for TFE3 rearrangement.

Methods and results

PEComas presented as skin‐coloured tumours, in 12 women and five men, with a median age of 49.5 years. Tumours showed either a mixed clear cell–epithelioid cell pattern or a monomorphous clear cell pattern. None of the primary cutaneous PEComas showed detectable TFE3 or SOX‐10 positivity. FISH assay for TFE3 rearrangement yielded negative results in all of the tested tumours.

Conclusions

Cutaneous PEComas are mostly composed of clear cells, and, unlike a subset of visceral and deep‐seated PEComas, cutaneous PEComas consistently lack TFE3 expression. Owing to the lack of SOX‐10 expression, a neural crest origin could not be shown.
Habermas, Virtue Epistemology, and Religious Justifications in the Public Sphere
Authors: Epstein Jeffrey
Published: March 2013

Jürgen Habermas's recent challenge to secular citizens calling for greater inclusivity of religious justifications in the public sphere opens new epistemological debates that could benefit from the rich insights of feminist epistemologists. Despite certain theoretical tensions, there is some common ground between Habermas and recent work in feminist epistemology. Specifically, this article explores the shared interests between Habermas and one feminist theorist in particular, Miranda Fricker. I choose Fricker because her formulation of the epistemological and ethical hybrid virtues of testimonial justice and hermeneutical justice provide efficacious theoretical and practical tools capable of deepening the epistemological basis of Habermas's challenge to secular citizens. After a detailed analysis of Habermas's and Fricker's respective epistemological positions, I argue that Fricker's analysis provides a rich framework for thinking through questions of power, identity, and credibility with respect to religious justifications in the public sphere. In conclusion, this article emphasizes the importance of fostering more robust and just epistemic communities capable of countering the social, political, and ethical injustices of epistemic disauthorization and marginalization.
Evolutionary units of Coraebus elatus (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) in central and eastern Europe – implications for origin and conservation
Authors: Kajtoch Łukasz , Kubisz Daniel , Gutowski Jerzy M. , Babik Wiesław
Published: March 2013

The distribution of steppe‐like habitats and, consequently, species dependent on these habitats in Eurasia is currently highly fragmented beyond the zone of continental climate, as a result of unfavourable climatic conditions and anthropogenic transformation of the environment. This patchy distribution may pose a threat for persistence of steppic species, especially in central Europe. To develop conservation strategies, it is essential to collect information on genetic structure of the species occupying this kind of habitats.

We investigated the genetic structure and diversity of central and eastern Coraebus elatus (F.) populations using sequences of mtDNA and an anonymous fragment of the nuclear genome. Both markers exhibited similar pattern, indicating the presence of four or five highly differentiated evolutionary units (2.1–3.2% sequence divergence in mtDNA and 0.7–2.1% in the nuclear marker) encompassing populations from the Caucasus, the Azov Sea coasts, central Europe with the Balkans (with further substructuring) and probably western Europe. These clusters should be considered evolutionary significant units for the conservation biology of this species, and may form the basis for a future taxonomic revision.

Pattern of C. elatus diversity suggests that this species presently occupies not only continental ‘warm‐stage’ refugia formerly described in Pontic and Pannonian areas but also cryptic steppic ‘warm‐stage’ refugia in north‐central Europe.

In line with other studies on steppic beetles, our data strongly suggest that such species are strongly structured genetically, with very limited genetic variation within populations, which may have very serious consequences for their persistence in the future.
Measurement of the Stress in Oxide Scales Developed Upon Oxidation of a Pt‐Based Alloy in Air at 1250°C
Authors: Odusote Jamiu Kolawole , Cornish Lesley Alison , Chown Lesley Heath , Erasmus Rudolph Marthinus
Published: March 2013

The nature and magnitude of stress in the scales formed on Pt‐11Al‐3Cr‐2Ru (at.%) alloy oxidized in air at 1250°C, for up to 500 h, were determined. This is to establish their long‐term viability during high‐temperature applications. Residual stress in the scales was measured using luminescence piezospectroscopy and found to be compressive. It decreased gradually with increased oxidation time, before reaching a constant value. The compressive stress was also found to be lower than those of other Ni‐ and Fe‐based superalloys. Thus, the current alloy has a promising potential for high‐temperature applications.
Multilayer Ultrabroadband Piezocomposite Transducer: Fabrication and Characterization
Authors: Uzgur Erman
Published: March 2013

The broad bandwidth is essential for the ultrasonic transducers because of two main reasons: Firstly, the image axial resolution can be improved by broad bandwidth, and secondly, the ultrasound scanning flexibility can be improved by operating the transducer over a wide range of frequencies. Particularly, nonlinear applications such as biomedical imaging that requires transmitting and receiving in different frequencies can utilize broadband characteristics of transducer efficiently. In this study, a dual‐layer piezocomposite transducer was designed by combining two 1–3 piezocomposite transducers with various thicknesses to couple their resonance frequencies and to increase the bandwidth. PZFlex code was used to determine the most promising layer thicknesses for elements of multilayer structure coupling. Finite element analysis showed that the best thickness combination is 1.2 mm and 2 mm. After fabricating multilayer transducers by traditional dice and fill method, their characteristics were examined under water by Labview automated measurement system. Relative sound pressure produced by the transducer was obtained, and their bandwidth was examined at −3 and −6 dB. By varying the individual active layer thicknesses, acoustic impedance of the backing layer and coupling material the best promising broadband transducer design was reported. In addition, ringing characteristics of the transducers were identified by performing the pulse–echo testing. Multilayer transducer with 1.2 mm and 2 mm layer thicknesses and 6 MRayls backing layer gave the best performance in terms of bandwidth and ringing characteristics.
Translation as a test of language vitality
Authors: Tosi Arturo
Published: March 2013

All the papers in this collection examine various aspects of the theory and practices of the translation system adopted by the EU institutions as an instrument to implement their policy of multilingualism. My own paper adopts an ecological perspective with a view to providing an overview of how translation, rather than being a neutral operation free of ideological implications, can seriously impact on the ecosystem of the languages involved. This is certainly the case when a translation approach neglects the resources of the target language and ignores the models of its native speakers. In this sense, translation can function as a test of language vitality and a mirror of an organisation's real commitment to multilingualism.
European integration: connectives in EU legislation
Authors: Visconti Jacqueline
Published: March 2013

Multilingualism and diversity in legal culture delay the process of European legal integration. While most of the literature on multilingualism and translation in the legal domain focuses on nouns or noun phrases, such as contract or due diligence, this article is concerned with connectives, such as notwithstanding or subject to. Despite the fact that semantic equivalence is a prerequisite for both interpretation and implementation of EU legislation, such connectives are used inconsistently in both primary and secondary legislation. This paper argues that it is possible to achieve a better understanding of the semantic differences in law by adopting a comparative text linguistics approach, and offers strategies on how to tackle the problem on both a theoretical and a practical level.
Factors that Influence Perceptions of Greenhouse Gas Assurance Provider Quality
Authors: Green Wendy , Taylor Stuart
Published: March 2013

This study investigates the key factors that influence perceptions of greenhouse gas (GHG) assurance provider quality. A survey questionnaire was completed by 53 participants, including all three parties to the GHG assurance relationship (i.e., preparers, users and assurers of GHG emissions reports) who rated the importance of 34 factors to their perception of assurance provider quality. Results indicate that perceptions of assurance provider quality in the GHG setting are primarily influenced by the ethics and integrity of the assurer as well as the assurance, GHG emissions and regulatory knowledge of the assurance team leader and the assurance team. Less importance was placed on the experience and industry‐specific knowledge of the assurer and on the degree of communication between the assurer and the client. It is also found that there are significant differences in the factors that influence the perception of GHG assurance provider quality between preparers, users and assurers.
CEO Inside Debt and Audit Fees
Authors: Sun Fang , Wu Fengyun , Li Sherry F.
Published: March 2013

We examine the impact of CEO inside debt on audit fees. Prior research finds that managerial ownership of debt (such as defined‐benefit pensions and other deferred compensation) reduces debtholders' demand for accounting conservatism. One consequence of using less conservative accounting is an increased likelihood of GAAP violation, which in turn increases audit effort and audit fees. Thus the level of CEO inside debt may be positively associated with audit fees. However, to the extent that inside debt mitigates stockholder‐debtholder conflicts, it is also possible that inside debt leads to decreased audit risk and lower audit fees. We find significant positive relations between inside debt and audit fees, suggesting that auditors consider inside debt as a factor that requires additional audit effort.
Harmonisation of Audit Practice: Empirical Evidence from Going‐Concern Reporting in the Nordic Countries
Authors: Sormunen Nina , Jeppesen Kim K. , Sundgren Stefan , Svanström Tobias
Published: March 2013

The study uses a sample of 2,941 bankrupt firms from Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden in the period 2007 to 2011, and investigates the harmonisation of audit behaviour in terms of going‐concern reporting. Even though the Nordic countries have similar legal systems and, for all practical purposes, identical audit requirements regarding going‐concern reporting, the study findings show significant differences in going‐concern reporting before bankruptcy between the Nordic countries. One key result is that Danish and Norwegian companies get a going‐concern opinion prior to bankruptcy more frequently than companies in Sweden and Finland. Although, this is an interesting finding, it should be interpreted with caution, particularly as it has not been possible to empirically test the reasons behind this variation. Potential reasons are discussed, such as differences in when the going‐concern standard was introduced and implemented in each country. Alternatively, the formal requirement for becoming an authorised or approved auditor, the demand for continuing education and the risk of disciplinary sanctions could all drive national variance in reporting quality in favour of a higher quality in Denmark and Norway compared to Sweden and Finland. Finally, the study findings also indicate that differences in audit reporting behaviour are moderated by international audit firm networks.
Electrical stimulation versus extracorporeal magnetic innervation for urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy
Authors: Terzoni Stefano , Montanari Emanuele , Mora Cristina , Ricci Cristian , Destrebecq Anne Lucie
Published: March 2013

Nurses use several conservative methods for treating urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy. Functional electrical stimulation (FES) has a recognized role, while extracorporeal magnetic innervation (ExMI) is still under evaluation in the international guidelines. Few data are available in literature, regarding comparisons between these two treatments. The aim of the study is to compare electrical stimulation and magnetic innervation for treating urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy. Twenty‐two patients treated with ExMI and 18 treated with FES were enrolled in a retrospective study. ExMI was available for 6 weeks; the number of times ExMI was required by the patients to reduce their leakages to 10 g/d or less was compared. The groups had comparable age and body mass index. Initial leakages showed clinically relevant differences (median = 80 g/d in the ExMI patients and 150 g/d in the FES group). After 6 weeks, 71·9% of ExMI patients and 29·2% of FES patients had completed rehabilitation. The difference was statistically significant even after adjusting the analyses for initial leakages (p = 0·008). Six patients treated with ExMI had already undergone FES, with no clinically relevant results after five sessions (leakages reduction <50 g/d). The difference remained even after removing the data of these patients from the analysis (p = 0·004). Both FES and ExMI produce muscle strengthening, which is just one step of rehabilitation. Our findings suggest the possibility of using ExMI instead of FES to reduce the times required to improve muscular performance. Pelvic muscle exercises remain essential to develop the ability to automatically perform the contractions needed to avoid leakages.
Diagnostic and prognostic morphometric features in WHO2003 invasive endometrial stromal tumours
Authors: Feng Weiwei , Malpica Anais , Yinhua Yu , Janssen Emiel , Gudlaugsson Einar , Zhou Xianrong , Baak Jan P A
Published: March 2013

Aims:  The aim of this study was to determine the value of morphometric features in distinguishing mild and moderate atypia and predicting the recurrence of World Health Organization 2003‐defined endometrial stromal sarcoma and highly malignant undifferentiated endometrial sarcoma.

Methods and results:  Nuclear and cytological size, shape and arrangement were morphometrically evaluated in 41 cases with consensus no/mild (n = 38) or moderate (n = 3) atypia. None of the cases showed necrosis. The prognostic value of these features in predicting recurrence was also assessed. Seven features differed. The mean and standard deviation of the nuclear volume and the distance between the nuclei were the best discriminators between the no/mild and moderate atypia, with the maximum of the nuclear volume being a practically and rapidly evaluable alternative. With the use of these features, all mild and moderate atypias were correctly classified. Seven cases recurred. The distance between the nuclei and the percentage of nuclei with one neighbour (assessed with morphometric minimum spanning tree analysis) predicted recurrence.

Conclusions:  In invasive endometrial stromal tumours, morphometric features are useful diagnostic support tools for distinguishing mild from moderate atypia and predicting recurrence.