bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
No differences between men and women in adverse drug reactions related to psychotropic drugs: a survey from France, Italy and Spain
Authors: D'Incau Paola , Lapeyre‐Mestre Maryse , Carvajal Alfonso , Donati Monia , Salado Inés , Rodriguez Lauriane , Sáinz María , Escudero Antonio , Conforti Anita
Published: April 2013

A large number of studies have suggested that being a woman represents a potential risk factor for the development of adverse drug reactions (ADRs). The aim of this study is to further explore the differences between men and women with regard to reported ADRs, particularly those associated with psychotropic drugs. We used spontaneous reports of suspected ADRs collected by Midi‐Pyrénées (France), Veneto (Italy) and Castilla y León (Spain) Regional Pharmacovigilance Centres (January 2007–December 2009). All the reports including a psychotropic medication were selected in a first step; age distribution, seriousness and type of ADRs were compared between men and women. Reports of nonpsychotropic drugs were similarly identified and treated. The absolute number of reports and the proportion, considering population, were higher in women than in men. This was observed for all reports, but was particularly higher for psychotropic drugs (592 vs. 375; P < 0.001) than for nonpsychotropics drugs (5193 vs. 4035; P < 0.001). Antidepressants were the most reported (women, 303; men, 141; P < 0.001); the reporting rates (number of reports divided by exposed patients in the same period, estimated through sales data) for these drugs, however, were not significantly different between women (0.87 cases per 10 000 treated persons per year) and men (0.81 cases per 10 000 treated persons per year). Although there was a higher number of reports of ADRs in women, ADR reporting rates might be similar as highlighted by the case of antidepressants. Antidepressant ADRs in fact were similarly reported in men and in women. Gender differences are sometimes subtle and difficult to explore. International networks, as the one established for this study, do contribute to better analyse problems associated with medications.
The anti‐inflammatory compound BAY‐11‐7082 is a potent inhibitor of protein tyrosine phosphatases
Authors: Krishnan Navasona , Bencze Gyula , Cohen Philip , Tonks Nicholas K.
Published: April 2013

The families of protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs) and protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs) function in a coordinated manner to regulate signal transduction events that are critical for cellular homeostasis. Aberrant tyrosine phosphorylation, resulting from disruption of either PTP or PTK function, has been shown to be the cause of major human diseases, including cancer and diabetes. Consequently, the characterization of small‐molecule inhibitors of these kinases and phosphatases may not only provide molecular probes with which to define the significance of particular signaling events, but also may have therapeutic implications. BAY‐11‐7082 is an anti‐inflammatory compound that has been reported to inhibit IκB kinase activity. The compound has an α,β‐unsaturated electrophilic center, which confers the property of being a Michael acceptor; this suggests that it may react with nucleophilic cysteine‐containing proteins, such as PTPs. In this study, we demonstrated that BAY‐11‐7082 was a potent, irreversible inhibitor of PTPs. Using mass spectrometry, we have shown that BAY‐11‐7082 inactivated PTPs by forming a covalent adduct with the active‐site cysteine. Administration of the compound caused an increase in protein tyrosine phosphorylation in RAW 264 macrophages, similar to the effects of the generic PTP inhibitor sodium orthovanadate. These data illustrate that BAY‐11‐7082 is an effective pan‐PTP inhibitor with cell permeability, revealing its potential as a new probe for chemical biology approaches to the study of PTP function. Furthermore, the data suggest that inhibition of PTP function may contribute to the many biological effects of BAY‐11‐7082 that have been reported to date.
Carrier modification and its application in continuous photo‐hydrogen production using anaerobic fluidized bed photo‐reactor
Authors: Ren Hong‐Yu , Liu Bing‐Feng , Xie Guo‐Jun , Zhao Lei , Ren Nan‐Qi
Published: April 2013

Poor hydrogen production performance and low biomass limit the practical application of photo‐fermentation. To improve the immobilization capability of bacteria and hydrogen production performance, activated carbon fibers (ACFs) were modified by acidic, alkaline, and neutral solutions. The modified ACFs were further used in the anaerobic fluidized bed photo‐reactor (AFBPR) to explore its continuous operation characteristics. Results showed that among the three reagents, nitric acid was the most efficient for ACF modification, and the maximum yield and production rate of hydrogen increased between about 33.6% and 65.8% compared to the control. Furthermore, with the optimal influent glutamate concentration (10 mmol L−1) and light intensity (4000 lux), the AFBPR gave efficient and stable performance with hydrogen yield of 2.26 mol H2 mol−1 acetate and hydrogen production rate of 25.8 mL L−1 h−1. The results showed the potential of using the AFBPR with HNO3‐modified ACF carriers for the large‐scale production of bio‐hydrogen.
Mitochondrial localization of the antiviral signaling adaptor IPS‐1 is important for its induction of caspase activation
Authors: Okazaki Tomohiko , Higuchi Maiko , Gotoh Yukiko
Published: April 2013

The RIG‐I‐like receptor (RLR) family of intracellular receptors detects viral nucleic acids and transmits an antiviral signal through the adaptor IPS‐1. IPS‐1 activation triggers host defense mechanisms, including rapid production of type I interferon (IFN), such as IFN‐β, and induction of apoptosis. IPS‐1 is mainly localized to mitochondria, and this localization has been proposed to be essential for inducing production of type I IFN and IFN‐stimulated genes (ISGs). However, the importance of this mitochondrial localization of IPS‐1 in executing apoptosis has remained unclear. Here, using IPS‐1 mutants that were directed to specific subcellular locations such as cytoplasm, plasma membrane and mitochondria, we found that IPS‐1's localization to mitochondria is important to activate caspase, but not to signal for IFN‐β gene induction. We also found that IPS‐1 possesses a BH3‐like motif, which is commonly found among members of the Bcl‐2 family. Mutations within this motif promoted IPS‐1‐induced caspase activation, suggesting that this domain acts as an intrinsic inhibitor domain of apoptosis induction. These results establish that the mitochondrial location of IPS‐1 is essential to its ability to induce apoptosis.
Clinicopathological features of primary leiomyosarcoma of the gastrointestinal tract following recognition of gastrointestinal stromal tumours
Authors: Yamamoto Hidetaka , Handa Mizuki , Tobo Taro , Setsu Nokitaka , Fujita Kohei , Oshiro Yumi , Mihara Yumi , Yoshikawa Yasuji , Oda Yoshinao
Published: April 2013

Aims

We aimed to elucidate the clinicopathological and immunohistochemical features of leiomyosarcoma (LMS) of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

Methods and results

We encountered seven cases of GI‐LMS in the colon (n = 4), rectum (n = 1), jejunum (n = 1) and stomach (n = 1). They ranged from 1 to 25 cm (median, 8.5 cm) in size and had high mitotic counts (median 38 per 50 high‐power fields). Morphologically, the tumours were composed mainly of spindle cells with eosinophilic cytoplasm and various degrees of nuclear atypia and pleomorphism. Immunohistochemically, the tumours were positive for α‐smooth muscle actin (86%), muscle‐specific actin (71%), desmin (86%), calponin (71%), h‐caldesmon (57%) and smoothelin (71%). All were negative for KIT, CD34, protein kinase C theta and DOG1. Local recurrence and distant metastasis occurred in one and three patients, respectively. We then reviewed 55 cases of GI‐LMS from the era following the recognition of gastrointestinal stromal tumours. Among 29 of 55 cases for whom follow‐up information was available, the estimated 5‐year overall survival rate was 51.6%; tumour size ≥5 cm was correlated significantly with shorter overall survival time (P = 0.0016), while mitotic count (≥50 or ≥100 per 50 high‐power fields) proved to be no prognostic factor.

Conclusions

GI‐LMSs have distinctive clinicopathological and immunohistochemical features and exhibit aggressive biological behaviour.
God of Life, Lead Us to Justice and Peace: Some Missiological Perspectives
Authors: Coorilos Geevarghese
Published: April 2013

The article examines the theme of the Busan Assembly from a missiological angle, especially from the perspective of “mission from the margins.” This is done, focussing on Asian contextual realities, with a specific subaltern accent on Indian missiological challenges such as casteism. The article argues that the prayer format of the assembly theme be understood essentially as cries of the marginalized peoples and the exploited nature. Christians and churches are challenged to echo these cries by joining in their struggles to affirm life, justice and peace. Links to the new WCC affirmation on mission and evangelism are also established here.
A God of Life, a Civilization of Love: Justice, Mission, and Catholic Social Teaching
Authors: Groody Daniel G.
Published: April 2013

The 10th Assembly of the World Council of Churches in Busan, Republic of Korea, presents a unique opportunity to reflect on an ecumenical theology of mission. This article draws on Roman Catholic perspectives and specifically asks how Catholic social teaching can contribute to this international and inclusive discussion. Connecting some central principles of this teaching to the core theme of the Busan assembly, the author argues that the central aim of Catholic social teaching is to proclaim a God of life and build a civilization of love. As it fosters justice and peace, the church seeks to globalize solidarity and make more visible the invisible heart of God.
Daughters of Africa Heed the Call for Justice, Peace, and Fullness of Life
Authors: Njoroge Nyambura J.
Published: April 2013

In this issue of IRM that focuses on “God of Life, lead us to justice and peace” I wish to reflect on how women in Africa have joined God of Life in saying “No” to senseless death as a way of life due to, among other things, endemic violence, insecurity, poverty, diseases, trauma, and leadership crisis. By focusing on narratives that depict African women's engagement in God's mission, I attempt to demonstrate their courage to act and to speak truth to power. Put differently, these women have heeded life‐giving messages of justice and peace in the scriptures that lead them daily to reimagining resurrection here and now against unspeakable corruption, arrogance, and total disregard for God's immeasurable gifts of love, forgiveness, kindness, unity, and fullness of life. These are ordinary women who act with extraordinary courage because they are tired of lies about themselves and about Africa. They have identified deeply entrenched injustices about women and about Africa that have condemned them to a life of endless struggle and misery. These women want more than justice and peace: They want life after birth in its abundance!
“You Have Not Sought the Lost”: A Reflection from Europe on the WCC Theme
Authors: Cruchley‐Jones Peter
Published: April 2013

This article queries the title “God of Life,” and wonders how this can be intelligible in a European context where God is not associated with life, nor is seen to bring anyone closer to justice or peace. Having outlined the conflicted context of Europe for faith, this article goes on to explore if this context might, nevertheless, offer any clues to constructing a mission theology for the God of Life. Using the parable of the prodigal son, the article begins to explore themes of lostness that subvert the typical reading of this parable and open out an alternative perspective on the experience of God as absent. This creates a fresh space in which it might be possible for the God of Life to come in new guises, bringing fresh companions inviting us to enter into a new spirit of mission.
Gender Justice in Pluralistic Societies: Challenges for Theological Education
Authors: Grüter Verena
Published: April 2013

This article discusses the Busan motto “God of Life, Lead Us to Justice and Peace” from the perspective of an intercultural and inter‐religious approach in feminist theology, which is informed by post‐colonial feminism. It argues the case of this approach as a theological core competence in religious and cultural pluralistic societies. According to the theory of secularization, women's lack of freedom is primarily the result of patriarchal religious prescriptions and thus liberation will only come through overcoming religion. However, the recent religious pluralism in formerly secular societies necessitates a radical revision of this assumption. Feminist theology in religiously and culturally pluralistic societies must not only engage in an intercultural hermeneutics, but must dialogue with non‐religious feminists in order to practise the indispensable criticism of religion.
Hosts and Guests: Hospitality as an Emerging Paradigm in Mission
Authors: Brandner Tobias
Published: April 2013

In recent years, hospitality has turned into a central term in missiological discussions integrating several aspects of missiological reflection. The essay summarizes how the dialectic between host and guest builds a central thread throughout the biblical narrative and explores how the dual role of missionaries as hosts and guests opens new dimensions of missionary existence and self‐understanding. On the one hand, the role of the missionary as guest emphasizes the missionary's vulnerability and voluntary submission to the cultural and contextual rules. It thus implies a humility that stands in contrast to any spirit of conquest. On the other hand, missionaries who understand their role as one of host show a readiness for disruption and openness to the sacramental quality of a guest that possibly allows an encounter with God. Hospitality thus re‐enacts a basic movement of faith, the movement of receiving the alien word of God. In a final reflection, the essay considers a contradiction inherent in the concept of hospitality, as pointed out by the French philosopher Jacques Derrida, the contradiction between openness to those in need of hospitality and the host's dependence on power and control in order to host people.
Dialogue and Orthodox Mission Today
Authors: Mihăiţă Nifon
Published: April 2013

Dialogue and Orthodox mission are two fundamental aspects of contemporary Orthodoxy that characterize and qualify its ecclesiastic activity. Orthodoxy is open to ecumenical dialogue, as it believes in apostolicity and the truthfulness of its doctrine. Ecumenical involvement is both the fulfilment of Christ's will and a special occasion for the Orthodox Church to promote the richness and beauty of its spiritual legacy. The Orthodox mission focuses on all aspects and current needs of Orthodox believers, including the response to contemporary secular challenges. It is based on well‐defined principles and it is systematic, its main aim being to promote our Lord's gospel.
Carbohydrate accumulation may be the proximate trigger of anthocyanin biosynthesis under autumn conditions in Begonia semperflorens
Authors: Zhang K. M. , Li Z. , Li Y. , Li Y. H. , Kong D. Z. , Wu R. H.
Published: April 2013

Many plant leaves appear red in the autumn, and many papers have focused on the environmental factors and role of anthocyanin in this process. However few papers have examined the substances that are induced during this process. We hypothesised that excess sugar accumulation directly induces anthocyanin accumulation under autumn conditions. Using two methods (restricting phloem movement and exogenous sucrose feeding), we found that both surplus photosynthate and exogenous sucrose could induce anthocyanin biosynthesis, corresponding to up‐regulation of several enzymes involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis (phenylalanine ammonia lyase, chalcone isomerase, dihydroflavonol 4‐reductase and flavonoid 3‐O‐glucosyl transferase) and in transport (glutathione S‐transferase). Our results suggest that excess carbohydrate may be the proximate trigger for induction of anthocyanin biosynthesis in autumn, but only when carbohydrates are accumulated for storage.
The Decline of Democratic Governance: An Analysis and a Modest Proposal
Authors: Marsh Ian
Published: April 2013

Why has democratic governance declined, at least in the Anglo‐American world? This essay maps the causes. It starts with the major parties, once basic agents of mass mobilisation and representation. It argues that a cascading series of developments, often involving contingent adjustments to immediate exigencies, have, in a longer perspective, created a fundamental gap between the political system and its publics. A second section then sketches paths to democratic renewal. How might this gap be closed? What other changes might be required to make this a reality? Are prospects of change fanciful?
A preliminary study on the effect of combined nicotine replacement therapy on alcohol responses and alcohol self‐administration
Authors: Udo Tomoko , Harrison Emily L.R. , Shi Julia , Tetrault Jeanette , McKee Sherry A.
Published: April 2013

Background and Objectives

Limiting alcohol consumption may help prevent alcohol‐mediated smoking relapse in heavy drinking smokers. This pilot study examined whether combining a nicotine patch with nicotine nasal spray has stronger attenuating effects on alcohol response and consumption than a nicotine patch alone.

Methods

Twenty‐two non‐alcohol dependent heavy drinking smokers completed the double‐blind cross‐over, placebo‐controlled study (21 mg nicotine patch + nicotine or placebo nasal spray). Six hours after 21mg nicotine patch application, subjective and physiological responses to a priming drink (0.3 g/kg) were assessed, followed by two 1‐hr alcohol self‐administration periods, with possible consumption of up to 4 drinks per period (each 0.15 g/kg). Nasal spray (1 mg [active] or 0 mg [placebo] per dose) was administered 10 min prior to the priming dose and each self‐administration period.

Results

Active nasal spray did not increase serum nicotine levels, compared with placebo administration. The number of drinks consumed did not differ by the nasal spray conditions. However, positive subjective responses to the priming drink were lower in the active nasal spray condition than the placebo nasal spray condition. During the self‐administration period, urge to drink was also lower in the active spray condition than the placebo condition.

Conclusions and Scientific Significance

Augmenting the nicotine patch with nicotine nasal spray attenuated positive subjective alcohol response and craving and suggests that future studies should investigate whether these findings translate to a clinical setting. (Am J Addict 2013;22:590–597)
Characteristics of medical inpatients with acute pain and suspected non‐medical use of opioids
Authors: Suzuki Joji , Meyer Fremonta , Wasan Ajay D.
Published: April 2013

Objective

The purpose of this study was to characterize medical inpatients with acute pain suspected of non‐medical opioid use.

Method

Medical inpatients treated with opioids for acute pain referred for psychiatric consultation were administered questionnaires including the Screener and Opioid Assessment for Pain Patients (SOAPP) and the Hospital Misuse Checklist (HMC), developed for this study.

Results

The nine subjects referred for evaluation of possible non‐medical opioid use, compared to the 23 subjects referred for other reasons, were younger (37.7 vs. 51.3, t = 2.81, p = .012), more likely to score positive on the SOAPP (100% vs. 47.8%, Fisher's p < .05) and report lifetime histories of any substance use disorder (SUD) (88.9% vs. 30.4%, χ2 = 9.7, p = .002). No differences were found on items on the HMC.

Conclusions

The results of this preliminary study indicate that medical inpatients with suspected non‐medical use of opioids resemble chronic pain outpatients misusing opioids. Further research is needed to better characterize this patient population and to validate the HMC measure. (Am J Addict 2013;22:515–520)
Periodontal disease epidemiology – learned and unlearned?
Authors: Baelum Vibeke , López Rodrigo
Published: April 2013

The notion of periodontal disease being the major cause of tooth loss among adults was rooted in the focal infection paradigm that dominated the first half of the 20th century. This paradigm was established largely by personal opinions, and it was not until the development of periodontal indices in the mid‐1950s that periodontal epidemiology gained momentum. Unfortunately, the indices used suffered from a number of flaws, whereby the interpretation of the research results took the form of circular reasoning. It was under this paradigm that therapeutic and preventive intervention for periodontal diseases became entirely devoted to oral hygiene, as poor oral hygiene and older age were understood to explain nearly all the variation in disease occurrence. In the early 1980s, studies appeared that contradicted the concepts of poor oral hygiene as the inevitable trigger of periodontitis and of linear and ubiquitous periodontitis progression, whereby periodontal epidemiology was led into a relatively short‐lived high‐risk era. At this time, it became evident that old scourges continue to haunt periodontology: the inability to agree in operational clinical criteria for a periodontitis diagnosis and the inability to devise both a meaningful and a useful classification of periodontal diseases based on nominalist principles. The meager outcome of the high‐risk era led researchers to resurrect the focal infection paradigm, which is now dressed up as periodontal medicine. Unfortunately, these developments have left the core of periodontology somewhat disheveled and deserted.
Targeting childhood obesity in schools: an examination of the stability and utility of the Value Added Index
Authors: Moreno‐Black G. , Stockard J.
Published: April 2013

What is already known about this subject

High rates of childhood obesity and overweight have promoted interest in school‐based interventions.

Procter's Value Added Index (VAI) identifies schools with higher‐than‐predicted rates of obesity.

What this study adds

The VAI can be calculated with much simpler techniques than those proposed by Procter and associates.

VAI data from a span of 4 years indicated that rank orderings of schools vary widely over time.

This casts doubt on the utility of the VAI measure for targeting policy interventions, and we suggest that using a simpler method would be more effective, especially when obesity rates are high.

Background

High rates of childhood obesity and overweight have promoted interest in school‐based interventions. As a way to identify schools with high unexpected prevalence of obesity and the greatest need, Procter and associates developed a ‘Value Added Index’ (VAI). It compares rates of obesity in entry level and advanced students in elementary schools, quantifying the extent to which rates for advanced students are higher than what would be expected given entry level rates and socio‐demographic characteristics.

Methods

This paper replicates their analysis using data over a 4 year time span from 17 schools in the western United States. Our analysis compared results obtained with the relatively complicated mixed‐model approach, which was used by Procter and associates, and a more simple linear regression, which could be easily used by local school officials. Results were also compared across the 4 years for which data were available.

Results

Identical results were found when the two methods were compared. There was little stability in the rank ordering of schools, based on the VAI, from 1 year to another.

Conclusions

Our results cast doubts on the utility of the VAI for policy makers and suggest policy makers consider a universalistic, rather than targeted, approach to interventions.
A freshwater fish defies ancient mountain ranges and drainage divides: extrinsic and intrinsic influences on the evolutionary history of a recently identified galaxiid
Authors: Chakona Albert , Swartz Ernst R. , Gouws Gavin , Bloomer Paulette
Published: April 2013

Aim

A river hierarchy model has been proposed for stream‐dwelling taxa, where genetic structure is expected to reflect geographical proximity and connectivity of river systems. However, many exceptions and deviations from this model have been detected. The present study tested three biogeographical hypotheses (River Hierarchy, Palaeoriver Systems and Interdrainage Dispersal) to assess how a recently identified galaxiid, Galaxias sp. ‘nebula’, came to have a wide distribution across multiple currently isolated river systems in the Cape Floristic Region of South Africa.

Location

Seventeen river systems in the Cape Floristic Region at the southern tip of Africa.

Methods

We analysed mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I and cytochrome b sequences from across the entire distribution of Galaxias sp. ‘nebula’ and compared divergence times between populations with known geological and climatic events to explain the observed geographical patterns of genetic diversity.

Results

The data revealed historical divergence between the Olifants, Berg and southward‐draining river systems. The phylogeographical analyses revealed that range expansion occurred across currently isolated river systems, with some haplotypes being shared between geographically distant river systems. Molecular dating revealed recent divergence times between populations from isolated river systems (c. 4000–1,200,000 years ago).

Main conclusions

The phylogeographical pattern of Galaxias sp. ‘nebula’ indicates that drainage basin boundaries have historically not played a dominant long‐term role in structuring this lineage. River captures are not widespread and frequent enough to explain the observed genetic patterns. Galaxias sp. ‘nebula’ has been able to disperse between proposed palaeoriver systems. Interdrainage dispersal via episodic freshwater connections during periods of increased rainfall during the Pleistocene and Holocene epochs seems to have played an important role in allowing this lineage to attain and maintain its wide contemporary distribution.
Genetic variants in the IL12B gene are associated with inflammatory bowel diseases in the Korean population
Authors: Moon Chang Mo , Shin Dong‐Jik , Son Nak‐Hoon , Shin Eun‐Soon , Hong Sung Pil , Kim Tae Il , Kim Won Ho , Cheon Jae Hee
Published: April 2013

Background and Aim

Recent genomic studies have identified genetic variants in the IL12B gene, which encodes the p40 subunit shared by interleukin 12 and interleukin 23, as susceptibility loci for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The study aimed to identify additional novel genetic variants in IL12B and investigated whether variants confer susceptibility to the development of Crohn's disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC) in the Korean population.

Methods

To detect single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in IL12B, direct sequencing of all coding exons, exon‐intron boundaries, promoter region, and 5′ untranslated region was performed in 24 randomly selected samples. Selected haplotype‐tagging SNPs were subsequently genotyped in 493 IBD patients (245 patients with CD and 248 with UC) and 504 healthy controls.

Results

Two haplotype‐tagging SNPs (rs2288831 and rs919766) were selected through direct sequencing and were genotyped. Of them, SNP rs2288831 in the IL12B gene was significantly associated with CD susceptibility in allelic association analysis (odds ratio = 1.30; 95% confidence interval 1.04–1.62; P = 0.019). This significant association with CD was also observed for a haplotype consisting of SNP rs919766 and rs2288831 (odds ratio = 1.29; 95% confidence interval 1.03–1.60; P = 0.025). However, none of IL12B SNPs were associated with UC susceptibility. Finally, no specific associations between genetic variants and disease phenotype of CD were identified.

Conclusions

This study is first to identify SNP rs2288831 in the IL12B gene as a susceptible variation for CD. Further studies in other ethnic groups are warranted to validate the association of this genetic variant with IBD.
Pre‐emptive treatment of fungal infection based on plasma β‐D‐glucan levels after gastric surgery for gastric cancer in elderly patients
Authors: Namikawa Tsutomu , Kitagawa Hiroyuki , Yamatsuji Tomoki , Naomoto Yoshio , Kobayashi Michiya , Hanazaki Kazuhiro
Published: April 2013

Background and Aim

Invasive fungal infection (IFI) related to surgery in elderly patients is often associated with high morbidity and mortality. The aim of the present study was to determine 1,3‐β‐D‐glucan (βDG) levels after gastric cancer surgery in elderly patients and to prospectively evaluate the efficacy of pre‐emptive antifungal therapy using βDG as an aid for the early diagnosis of IFI.

Methods

In all, 81 patients aged ≥ 70 years who had undergone gastric cancer surgery between 2009 and 2011 were prospectively enrolled in the study. Patients with plasma βDG levels > 11 pg/mL (the cut‐off value) were randomly assigned to either receive antifungal treatment or not (n = 13 in each group). Postoperative outcomes were assessed using various clinical parameters.

Results

After gastric cancer surgery, plasma βDG levels were ≥ 11 pg/mL in 26 of 81 elderly patients (32.1%). Of the βDG‐positive patients, significantly more had stages III and IV rather than stages I and II disease (44.1% vs 23.4%, respectively; P = 0.049). Fever on postoperative day 8 was significantly reduced in the pre‐emptive antifungal‐treated group than in the control group (36.8°C vs 37.2°C, respectively; P = 0.045). However, there were no significant differences in mortality, morbidity, βDG levels, white blood cell count, and C‐reactive protein levels between the two groups.

Conclusions

Pre‐emptive antifungal treatment based on βDG after gastric surgery in elderly patients may help reduce the incidence of postoperative fever and suppress IFI. However, this needs to be confirmed in a larger prospective randomized, controlled trial.
IL‐1β and TNF‐α induce neurotoxicity through glutamate production: a potential role for neuronal glutaminase
Authors: Ye Ling , Huang Yunlong , Zhao Lixia , Li Yuju , Sun Lijun , Zhou You , Qian Guanxiang , Zheng Jialin C.
Published: April 2013

Glutaminase 1 is the main enzyme responsible for glutamate production in mammalian cells. The roles of macrophage and microglia glutaminases in brain injury, infection, and inflammation are well documented. However, little is known about the regulation of neuronal glutaminase, despite neurons being a predominant cell type of glutaminase expression. Using primary rat and human neuronal cultures, we confirmed that interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), two pro‐inflammatory cytokines that are typically elevated in neurodegenerative disease states, induced neuronal death and apoptosis in vitro. Furthermore, both intracellular and extracellular glutamate levels were significantly elevated following IL‐1β and/or TNF‐α treatment. Pre‐treatment with N‐Methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist MK‐801 blocked cytokine‐induced glutamate production and alleviated the neurotoxicity, indicating that IL‐1β and/or TNF‐α induce neurotoxicity through glutamate. To determine the potential source of excess glutamate production in the culture during inflammation, we investigated the neuronal glutaminase and found that treatment with IL‐1β or TNF‐α significantly upregulated the kidney‐type glutaminase (KGA), a glutaminase 1 isoform, in primary human neurons. The up‐regulation of neuronal glutaminase was also demonstrated in situ in a murine model of HIV‐1 encephalitis. In addition, IL‐1β or TNF‐α treatment increased the levels of KGA in cytosol and TNF‐α specifically increased KGA levels in the extracellular fluid, away from its main residence in mitochondria. Together, these findings support neuronal glutaminase as a potential component of neurotoxicity during inflammation and that modulation of glutaminase may provide therapeutic avenues for neurodegenerative diseases.
EXPERIMENTAL LABOR MARKETS AND POLICY CONSIDERATIONS: INCOMPLETE CONTRACTS AND MACROECONOMIC ASPECTS
Authors: Casoria Fortuna , Riedl Arno
Published: April 2013

This survey focuses on experimental labor markets investigating two aspects that are important for a better understanding of labor market relations and their consequences for labor market policies. The first part of the survey is dedicated to papers that assess the prevalence of reciprocal considerations in incomplete labor contracts. The second part summarizes the relatively small but growing experimental literature exploring labor market issues in macroeconomics and public finance studying the interaction between taxation and labor market outcomes.
Ingratiation in the Workplace: The Role of Subordinate and Supervisor Political Skill
Authors: Wu Long‐Zeng , Kwan Ho Kwong , Wei Li‐Qun , Liu Jun
Published: April 2013

Over two decades, social influence researchers have called for a study that would examine how, why, and when influence tactics are effective. Informed by balance theory, the present study proposes that subordinate and supervisor political skill impacts the effectiveness of ingratiation attempts. The results from a survey of 228 supervisor–subordinate dyads inChinese firms indicated that subordinates with high political skill are less likely to have their exhibited ingratiation behaviour perceived by their supervisors; however, supervisors with high political skill are likely to perceive ingratiation behaviour demonstrated by their subordinates. Moreover, the most successful condition for enabling subordinates to hide ingratiation from their supervisors is when the subordinates are politically astute and the supervisors are not. Furthermore, when supervisors perceive ingratiation behaviour, they rate low on the job performance and promotability of their subordinates; these low ratings are explained by the undermined personal reputation of the subordinates due to their ingratiation detected.
Randomised controlled trial of single phototherapy with reflecting curtains versus double phototherapy in term newborns with hyperbilirubinaemia
Authors: Abd Hamid Intan Juliana , M Iyen Mohd Igbal@Iqbal , Ibrahim Nor Rosidah , Abd Majid Noorizan , Ramli Noraida , Van Rostenberghe Hans
Published: April 2013

Aim

The use of reflecting curtains with single phototherapy has not yet been directly compared with double phototherapy (DP). The objective of this study is to compare the efficacy of single phototherapy with reflecting curtains (SPRC) and DP in treating neonatal jaundice.

Methods

This randomised controlled trial involved 160 term newborns with severe neonatal jaundice in the first 2 weeks of life. The subjects were randomised in two groups: the intervention group receiving SPRC (n = 80) and a control group receiving DP (n = 80). Because of post‐hoc exclusions, 78 subjects resulted in each group, respectively. The primary outcome was mean decrease in total serum bilirubin (TSB) levels after 4 h of phototherapy. The secondary outcomes were mean decrease in TSB levels after 10 h of phototherapy and duration of phototherapy.

Results

The mean decrease in TSB after 4 h of phototherapy in the intervention group was similar for the intervention and the control groups (23.46 ± 27.03 vs. 22.43 ± 27.38 μmol/L; P = 0.81). Also, after 10 h, it was similar in both groups (56.06 ± 31.36 vs. 58.17 ± 31.71 μmol/L, respectively; P = 0.67). Cox proportional hazards regression analysis indicated that there was no statistically significant difference in duration of phototherapy in both intervention (SPRC) and control (DP) (x2 change 0.393, P = 0.531; hazard ratio 1.060; 95% confidence interval 0.883–1.273). There were no significant adverse events noted.

Conclusions

This study suggested that single phototherapy with reflecting curtain is as effective as DP in the treatment of neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia requiring intensive phototherapy.
An evaluation of portable sleeping spaces for babies following the Christchurch earthquake of February 2011
Authors: Cowan Stephanie , Bennett Sharon , Clarke Judith , Pease Anna
Published: April 2013

Aim

To describe how recipients of portable sleeping spaces (PSSs) for babies received and used these devices, offered as emergency baby beds in earthquake‐ravaged Christchurch, New Zealand, 2011.

Method

The PSS package responded to increased risk to babies from disrupted living and sleeping conditions in families. ‘Door‐to‐door’ distribution offered easy access to those in need. A subgroup of recipients gave feedback via a survey.

Results

From 642 families who received PSSs between March and August, 139 were invited to complete a survey on usage and 100 (72%) responded. Risks identified were ‘earthquake related’ (82%), bed‐sharing (41%), smoking in pregnancy (26%) and prematurity or low birthweight (11%). PSSs were used for same‐bed co‐sleeping by 87%. They were used even though most families (96%) also had a cot or bassinet. Features most appreciated were ‘having baby close’ (90%), ‘peace of mind’ (88%) and portability (74%).

Conclusion

PSSs were acceptable to parents and used as instructed. Enabling physical protection of babies when same‐bed co‐sleeping, they gave peace of mind to parents. PSSs could be considered in ordinary times for protecting babies from sudden infant death.
Quality of life in older adults with aortic stenosis: a narrative review
Authors: Horrocks Judith , Closs José , Astin Felicity
Published: April 2013

Background

Aortic stenosis in older adults can lead to symptoms of breathlessness, dizziness, syncope and angina. While surgical AVR is the optimum treatment, it is not suitable for frail older people who may have other significant comorbidities. TAVI provides a safer alternative. There is evidence that aortic valve replacement reduces mortality and morbidity, but less is known about its effect on quality of life (QoL) in older adults.

Aims and objectives

To carry out a narrative review of the existing literature on quality of life (QoL) after surgical aortic valve replacement (AVR) or transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVI) with the aim of identifying what is known about QoL pre‐ and postvalve replacement.

Conclusions

There is some evidence that QoL improves after aortic valve replacement, but there are significant gaps in our knowledge. There are no studies that compare QoL after TAVI vs. surgical AVR; thus, we do not know the relative effect of the different procedures on QoL. The literature does not adequately explore why some people have improved QoL after aortic valve replacement and others do not. There appears to be some evidence that the existence of comorbidities may negatively influence QoL after valve replacement, but there is not enough consistent data on comorbidities to explore this further. Study designs are heterogeneous and prevent any meta‐analysis of findings.

Implications for practice

Decision‐making processes regarding the suitability of patients for aortic valve replacement should include an assessment of the potential effects on overall QoL, rather than just relief of cardiac‐related symptoms. Consideration of patients' social, emotional and physical needs both before and after valve replacement is essential if health services are serious about improving QoL as well as mortality and morbidity.
Human Security and Development: Divergent Approaches to Burma/Myanmar
Authors: Howe Brendan M. , Jang Suyoun
Published: April 2013

This paper contends that the human security/development nexus lies at the heart of contemporary approaches to peace‐building and development. The paper addresses not only the consequences of human security policy prioritization as a development objective by Canada and Japan, but also the hypothesis that different understandings or interpretations of human security are reflected differently in the policy domain. Burma/Myanmar, one of the least developed, and, in terms of human security, most vulnerable states in the world, is used as a case study to address these different policy implementations.
Chinese Nuclear Doctrine, Weapons and Policies
Authors: Grinter Lawrence E.
Published: April 2013

As the governments of the United States and Russia reduce their nuclear weapons inventories through negotiated arms control agreements, the Chinese government remains outside this strategic weapons trend while also continuing to modernize the People's Republic of China (PRC)'s nuclear weapons arsenal. Chinese policy, therefore, presents a number of dilemmas for global arms control. For example, given the PRC's lack of transparency, could Beijing be secretly building new missiles and warheads inside China's many miles of tunnels, and going for a first‐strike capability or, in keeping with the PRC's announced doctrine of “minimal deterrence,” is Beijing simply hardening and modernizing the weapons capabilities it already has? This paper explores the public information and the debates about China's nuclear weapons as well as PRC nuclear proliferation behavior and agreements. The paper concludes with suggestions for encouraging more PRC nuclear transparency with the goal of producing a more stable situation.
The South China Sea Disputes: Is High Politics Overtaking?
Authors: Karim Mohd Aminul
Published: April 2013

The aim of this article is to examine the implications of high politics in the South China Sea disputes, which basically involve the United States, and other claimant countries, such as Vietnam and the Philippines on one side, and China on the other. The two main actors, namely China and the United States, appear to be re‐assertive. All the claimant countries are asking for their stakes, which involve their sovereignty, and sovereign and maritime rights. The fall‐out is the polarization of the stakeholders and greater military build‐up. Overt military confrontation is a remote possibility at the moment, mainly because of overriding considerations, such as interdependence in economy and a trend towards regionalism. Nevertheless, the array of sophisticated military forces and the vital national interests of the stakeholders in the Sea tend to portend a problematic frontier. This article indicates certain policy implications and attempts to develop the framework of a scenario that is likely to emerge premised on high politics.
Neither Reluctant nor Aggressive Legalism: East Asian Countries under the World Trade Organization Dispute Settlement Mechanism
Authors: Moon Don
Published: April 2013

This article explores the distinctive features of East Asian countries' involvement in the World Trade Organization (WTO) dispute‐settlement mechanism (DSM). Existing studies are divided into two opposing groups according to what they argue. The “passive legalism” argument emphasizes the reluctant attitude of East Asian countries, and tends to underestimate their involvement in the WTO DSM. On the other hand, the “aggressive legalism” argument highlights the drastic shift in East Asian countries' behavior from passive avoidance to aggressive utilization of the WTO DSM, and tends to overestimate East Asian countries' status in the system. Analyzing WTO dispute data, this article criticizes the limitations of both arguments and suggests responsive legalism or adaptive legalism as a more accurate concept for describing East Asian countries' legal attitude and behavior under the WTO DSM.
Show me The Money! do Financial Rewards for Performance Enhance or Undermine The Satisfaction from Emotional Labor?
Authors: Grandey Alicia A. , Chi Nai‐Wen , Diamond Jennifer A.
Published: April 2013

Does satisfaction from performing emotional labor (EL)—maintaining positive emotions with customers as part of the job—depend on the  financial rewards available for good service? According to a “controlling perspective” of rewards, satisfaction from performing EL may be undermined by financial incentives, but based on a “valuing perspective” of rewards, the relationship should be enhanced. We contribute to the literatures on EL and performance‐contingent rewards with a “full‐cycle” inquiry of this question conducted with (a) a field survey of diverse occupations in the United States, (b) an experimental call center simulation with U.S. college students, and (c) a multilevel study of Taiwanese sales firms. Overall, financial rewards for service performance enhanced, rather than undermined, satisfaction from EL requirements and effort (i.e., surface acting) with customers. Performing EL by modifying feelings (i.e., deep acting) was positively related to job satisfaction regardless of rewards, beyond personality traits. Results have implications for reward structures and enhancing job satisfaction with this increasingly common form of labor.
Cultivation and Hybridization Alter the Germination Behavior of Native Plants Used in Revegetation and Restoration
Authors: Schröder Roland , Prasse Rüdiger
Published: April 2013

Native plants are increasingly used for revegetation and restoration. These plants are cultivated for several generations at plant nurseries and often they are of unknown provenance. Therefore, cultivated plants often differ from their wild progenitors in life‐history traits. Using germination behavior as example, we tested the assumption that cultivated plants have different life‐history traits than their uncultivated progenitors. Cultivated as well as wild individuals of Plantago lanceolata and Lotus corniculatus, two species frequently used in revegetation, were tested in a common garden experiment as well as in incubators for their germination behavior. We observed significantly faster and more abundant germination in cultivated varieties. Using artificial crossings, we found that also hybrids of cultivated varieties and wild relatives germinate faster and more abundant than the wilds. As wild plants acquire their life‐history traits by natural selection, we have to assume that they represent the optimal adaptation to the environmental conditions. If these traits are changed by cultivation or by hybridization between cultivated varieties and local populations, the long‐term survival probabilities of local populations may be altered. Therefore, the use of cultivated varieties of native plants should be avoided in revegetation.
Does Seeding After Wildfires in Rangelands Reduce Erosion or Invasive Species?
Authors: Pyke David A. , Wirth Troy A. , Beyers Jan L.
Published: April 2013

Mitigation of ecological damage caused by rangeland wildfires has historically been an issue restricted to the western United States. It has focused on conservation of ecosystem function through reducing soil erosion and spread of invasive plants. Effectiveness of mitigation treatments has been debated recently. We reviewed recent literature to conduct a meta‐analysis of seeding after wildfires to determine if seedings may (1) protect ecosystems against soil erosion and (2) reduce invasion or abundance of undesirable nonnative plant species. Effectiveness of postfire seedings was examined in 8 erosion and 19 invasive species cases. Seeding has little effect on erosion during the first year after fire and is highly dependent upon initial establishment and coverage of species in successive years. Among all seeding cases, 28% reduced, 67% were neutral, and 5% increased invasive species abundance. Older seedings were more likely to show reductions in invasives than younger seedings. Seedings with high plant establishment were more likely to reduce invasives than those with low establishment. Studies are needed that examine (1) frequency of adequate establishment of postfire seedings and causal factors of success or failure, (2) long‐term impacts of seeding along a range of initial establishment and concomitant plant coverage over time as it relates to erosion and abundance of invasive plant species, and (3) auxiliary treatments designed to increase likelihood of germination and establishment given the inevitable variability of environmental conditions. These studies would aid land managers in deciding when postfire treatments are required and their likely level of success.