bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pollination mutualism between Alocasia macrorrhizos (Araceae) and two taxonomically undescribed Colocasiomyia species (Diptera: Drosophilidae) in Sabah, Borneo
Authors: Takano K. Takenaka , Repin R. , Mohamed M. B. , Toda M. J.
Published: January 2012

Two taxonomically undescribed Colocasiomyia species were discovered from inflorescences of Alocasia macrorrhizos in Kota Kinabalu City, Sabah, Borneo, Malaysia. The aims of this study were to investigate the reproductive ecology of the flies and the plant, ascertain the importance of the flies as pollinators and examine the intimate association between flowering events and life history of the flies. We conducted sampling, observations and field pollination experiments. The flies were attracted by the odour of female‐phase inflorescences in the early morning on the first day of anthesis. They fed, mated and oviposited in the inflorescences for 1 day. On the second day, the flies, covered with pollen grains, left the male‐phase inflorescences for the next female‐phase inflorescences. The immature forms of both fly species hatched, developed and pupated within the infructescences without damaging the fruits, and developed adults emerged when the mature infructescences dehisced. The flowering events and fly behaviours were well synchronized. In field pollination experiments, inflorescences bagged with a fine mesh (insect exclusion) produced almost no fruits, whereas those bagged with a coarse mesh (bee exclusion) produced as many fruits as the open‐pollinated controls. These results indicate that these flies are the most efficient and specialised pollinators for their host, A. macrorrhizos. These flies, in return, depend on A. macrorrhizos for food and habitat through most of their life cycle. This study provides a deeper insight into the less recognised, highly intimate pollination mutualism between Araceae plants and Colocasiomyia flies.
Flow experience and health‐related quality of life in community dwelling elderly Japanese
Authors: Hirao Kazuki , Kobayashi Ryuji , Okishima Kyota , Tomokuni Yumiko
Published: January 2012

This study was performed to investigate the relationship between mental state (especially flow experience [Flow Experience Checklist of Ishimura]) health‐related quality of life (Medical Outcome Study 8‐Item Short‐Form Health Survey), and stress (salivary amylase concentrations). The subjects were 119 healthy elderly persons living in rural areas who participated in a “meeting for the elderly” at a nursing home in Kagawa Prefecture, Japan. The subjects were classified into apathetic, anxious, relaxed, and flow groups. It was found that physical health was significantly better when performing important daily activities in the group who experienced flow and the relaxed group than in the group that was in an apathetic state. However, no significant relationship was observed between the degree of flow experience and stress. The present findings suggested that interventions which make the activities of daily life either “high‐challenge, high‐skill” situations or “low‐challenge, high‐skill” situations could have a positive influence on the physical health of community‐living elderly Japanese. A longitudinal study should be performed in the future.
Sipunculan phylogeny based on six genes, with a new classification and the descriptions of two new families
Authors: Kawauchi Gisele Y. , Sharma Prashant P. , Giribet Gonzalo
Published: January 2012

Kawauchi, G. Y., Sharma, P. P. & Giribet, G. (2012). Sipunculan phylogeny based on six genes, with a new classification and the descriptions of two new families. —Zoologica Scripta, 41, 186–210.

The internal phylogeny of Sipuncula has proven elusive, with the monophyly of multiple traditional groups in question. Repeated attempts to infer sipunculan relationships have attained discordant results, possibly owing to fragmentary molecular sequence data sets. We reassessed the phylogeny of Sipuncula using a six‐gene data set and with larger target amplicons of certain loci. We additionally dated the molecular phylogeny employing recently discovered fossil taxa to constrain node ages. Our multilocus data set recovers six major clades of Sipuncula across multiple analytical treatments. Some groups considered suspect in previous studies are vindicated (e.g. Aspidosiphonidae), but most traditional sipunculan families were recovered as para‐ or polyphyletic groups, especially Sipunculidae, whose members appear in three distinct clades. To redress the dissonance between the current classification and the phylogeny of Sipuncula, we provide a new classification of the group, wherein (i) we erect two new families, Siphonosomatidae fam. nov. and Antillesomatidae fam. nov.; (ii) Phascolionidae and Themistidae are synonymized with Golfingiidae, new synonymies (iii) Phascolopsis is transferred to Golfingiidae, new familial assignment; and (iv) Lithacrosiphon is synonymized with Aspidosiphon, new synonymy. We observe that the origins of all families recognized are ancient, dating at least to the Mesozoic.
Effects on bladder function of combining elocalcitol and tolterodine in rats with outflow obstruction
Authors: Streng Tomi , Andersson Karl‐Erik , Hedlund Petter , Gratzke Christian , Baroni Enrico , D'Ambrosio Daniele , Benigni Fabio
Published: January 2012

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

It has previously been shown that elocalcitol might protect bladder contractile function in experimental models and that elocalcitol has beneficial effects in patients with LUTS. In humans, elocalcitol was demonstrated with a very good safety profile but only exhibited limited efficacy on LUTS in patients with BPH and overactive bladder (OAB). Recent reports show that therapies with antimuscarinics, when combined with other drugs in clinical use, might perform better than a monotherapy in managing LUTS. It is not known how a combination of elocalcitol and an antimuscarinic performs on bladder dysfunction.

The present study suggests that concomitant use of secosteroids and antimuscarinics has additive beneficial effects on obstruction‐related functional changes in an experimental model. If confirmed also in a clinical setting, this could allow for individual dose adjustments to improve efficacy in obstruction‐related LUTS, and possibly reduce unwanted adverse activities by antimuscarinic therapy.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effects of tolterodine on urodynamics in elocalcitol‐ or vehicle‐treated rats with partial urethral obstruction (PUO).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

After ethical approval, 20 female Sprague–Dawley rats were subjected to PUO and treated (gavage) for 14 days (once daily) with elocalcitol (75 µg/kg) or vehicle.

Cystometries were performed on day 15 in awake rats before and after i.v. administration of tolterodine (1, 10 and 100 µg/kg).

RESULTS

No differences in bladder weights or body/bladder weight ratios were noted between groups. Tolterodine dose‐dependently increased micturition intervals and volumes and bladder capacity in both elocalcitol‐ (n= 11) and vehicle‐treated rats (n= 9).

In elocalcitol‐treated rats, flow pressure (FP) was dose‐dependently reduced (12–20%) by tolterodine, whereas no effect on FP was noted in vehicle‐treated animals (P < 0.05).

Flow compliance (FC) was increased by tolterodine by 21–54% in vehicle‐treated rats, and by 47–131% (P < 0.05 vs vehicle) in elocalcitol‐treated animals. Maximal tension vs bladder weight was improved in elocalcitol‐treated rats in comparison to vehicle (P < 0.05).

The area under the curve (AUC) was reduced by tolterodine with 11–16% in vehicle‐treated rats and 26–30% in elocalcitol ‐treated rats (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Elocalcitol‐treatment improved the effects of tolterodine on bladder compliance at the start of flow.

The effects of tolterodine on AUC suggest that elocalcitol exerts additional beneficial actions on PUO‐induced functional changes during the filling phase of micturition.

The reduction of FP and increase in FC by elocalcitol and tolterodine could have translational value and, if valid in humans, support combined therapy in benign prostatic obstruction (BPO)‐related lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).
A systematic review and mixed treatment comparison of pharmacological interventions for the treatment of obesity
Authors: Gray L. J. , Cooper N. , Dunkley A. , Warren F. C. , Ara R. , Abrams K. , Davies M. J. , Khunti K. , Sutton A.
Published: January 2012

The study aims to compare anti‐obesity interventions in a single evidence synthesis framework. Electronic databases were searched for randomized controlled trials of orlistat, rimonabant or sibutramine reporting weight or body mass index (BMI) change from baseline at 3, 6 or 12 months. A mixed treatment comparison was used to combine direct and indirect trial evidence. Ninety‐four studies involving 24,808 individuals were included; 83 trials included data on weight change and 41 on BMI change. All results are in comparison with placebo. The active drugs were all effective at reducing weight and BMI. At 3 months, orlistat reduced weight by −2.65 kg (95% credibility interval −4.00 kg, −1.31 kg). For sibutramine, 15 mg gave a greater reduction than 10 mg at 12 months, −6.35 kg versus −5.42 kg, respectively. Rimonabant reduced weight by −11.23 kg at 3 months and −4.55 kg at 12 months. Lifestyle advice alone also reduced weight at 6 and 12 months, but was less effective than the pharmacological interventions. In conclusion, modest weight reductions were seen for all pharmacological interventions. Those interventions which have now been withdrawn from use (sibutramine and rimonabant) seem to be the most effective, implying that there may be a place in clinical practice for similar drugs if side effects could be avoided.
The Equality Effects of the ‘Hyper‐formalization’ of Selection
Authors: Noon Mike , Healy Geraldine , Forson Cynthia , Oikelome Franklin
Published: January 2012

This paper explores how formalization of employee selection procedures for the purpose of ensuring equality of opportunity can become so extensive that the intended outcome of fairness is undermined. Drawing on empirical evidence from a large media organization, the analysis reveals the detrimental impact of formalization in relation to the recruitment of ethnic minority staff. While the existing literature describes how, during recruitment of employees, the circumvention of formal equality procedures can occur through managerial neglect and manipulation, the analysis in this paper shows that, paradoxically, circumvention can also occur through compliance with procedures. This new category takes three forms (robotic, defensive and malicious) and appears under conditions of excessive formalization – the term hyper‐formalization is coined to describe this. The paper develops new concepts that add to understanding of the limitations of equality and diversity procedures, and brings fresh challenges to some of the liberal assumptions about the efficacy and desirability of formalization for achieving fairness.
MEANINGFUL LIVES?
Authors: Vitrano Christine
Published: January 2012

Contemporary ethical theorists have sought criteria to identify meaningful lives. A central issue that divides accounts is whether the concept of meaningfulness rests on objective values. My own view is that each side in the controversy is partially right and partially wrong. I believe objective values are needed for the concept of a meaningful life but that no successful account of such values has yet been offered. Lacking such an account, the concept of a meaningful life should be replaced by more useful terminology. I shall contrast my view with that of Susan Wolf though my goal is not primarily critical but, instead, the development of a different and, I believe, more useful approach.
Spatiotemporal Quantile Regression for Detecting Distributional Changes in Environmental Processes
Authors: Reich Brian J.
Published: January 2012

Climate change may lead to changes in several aspects of the distribution of climate variables, including changes in the mean, increased variability and severity of extreme events. We propose the use of spatiotemporal quantile regression as a flexible and interpretable method for simultaneously detecting changes in several features of the distribution of climate variables. The spatiotemporal quantile regression model assumes that each quantile level changes linearly in time, permitting straightforward inference on the time trend for each quantile level. Unlike classical quantile regression which uses model-free methods to analyse a single quantile or several quantiles separately, we take a model-based approach which jointly models all quantiles, and thus the entire response distribution. In the spatiotemporal quantile regression model, each spatial location has its own quantile function that evolves over time, and the quantile functions are smoothed spatially by using Gaussian process priors. We propose a basis expansion for the quantile function that permits a closed form for the likelihood and allows for residual correlation modelling via a Gaussian spatial copula. We illustrate the methods by using temperature data for the south-east USA from the years 1931–2009. For these data, borrowing information across space identifies more significant time trends than classical non-spatial quantile regression. We find a decreasing time trend for much of the spatial domain for monthly mean and maximum temperatures. For the lower quantiles of monthly minimum temperature, we find a decrease in Georgia and Florida, and an increase in Virginia and the Carolinas.
Automated Feature Extraction from Profiles with Application to a Batch Fermentation Process
Authors: Andersen Stina W. , Runger George C.
Published: January 2012

An automated approach to extract interpretable features of univariate or multivariate profiles (functional data) is proposed. A landmark alignment algorithm is modified and the alignment is combined with piecewise linear approximations. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (lasso) regression is used for selecting the most important intercepts and slopes and yields an alternative to partial least squares to model a response associated with the profiles. Latent variables can be difficult to interpret but our extracted features simply correspond to slopes and intercepts of particular parts of the profiles. Also, features that relate to the degree of warping between a given profile and a reference can be extracted as predictors. Selection criteria for the number of knots and common knot locations between profiles are developed. We apply our proposed method to batch fermentation data where the profiles consist of on-line measurements of process variables and the corresponding yield of the process. The extracted features have good interpretability (with large dimensional reduction) and in combination with the lasso have prediction accuracy which is comparable with that of partial least squares applied to the original profiles. Also our proposed feature extraction method is applied to publicly available data where near infrared spectra define the profiles and the prediction accuracy of our feature lasso method is comparable with those of more complicated alternatives.
“Voice Within Voice”: Members’ Voice Responses to Dissatisfaction with Their Union
Authors: GAHAN PETER
Published: January 2012

While the role of unions as collective voice is well understood, how union members themselves voice their preferences within their union is not. This study represents an important step in understanding this critical dimension of the union–member relation. Using survey data from an Australian union, I investigate how union members voice dissatisfaction with their union. Union loyalty, perceived opportunities to voice, union responsiveness, and collectivist ideology predicted willingness to voice directly to the union. Perceived union support and instrumentality did not predict members’ willingness to voice directly to the union but were associated with other voice responses.
Globalization, Domestic Institutions, and Enforcement of Labor Law: Evidence from Latin America
Authors: RONCONI LUCAS
Published: January 2012

This paper provides new measures of government enforcement of labor regulations in eighteen Latin American countries between 1985 and 2009, and explores how it is affected by external and domestic factors. The results suggest that governments react to the competitive pressures produced by trade opening by turning a blind eye to noncompliance, but increase enforcement in response to higher FDI. Governments also react to the demands of their constituent base to keep their support and reinforce partisan affinities, and workers are more effective in more democratic systems.
Psychic skin: psychotic defences, borderline process and delusions
Authors: Schmidt Martin
Published: January 2012

Abstract:  In this paper, I apply the concept of psychic skin to analytic work with people suffering from personality disorders and psychoses. When psychoses emerge, the defensive skin which protects the ego is breached and violent unconscious forces rip through the personality. Some of the patients diagnosed as schizophrenic with whom I work have identified with archetypal characters such as Christ, Satan, John Lennon and the Queen. I attempt to show how the adoption of these inflated personas can serve as secondary psychic skins. Such delusional identifications can provide a protective shield to hide the denuded self and prevent intrusion from the external world. Through clinical example, I try to demonstrate how these archetypal ‘second skins’ can preserve life until internal and external conditions make it possible for the self to emerge. I contrast such psychotic identifications with ‘thin‐skinned’ and ‘thick‐skinned’ narcissism as well as ‘defences of the self’ in borderline states where the psychic skin may be damaged but does not disintegrate. I also look at the ways in which Jung's own personal experience was different from this and how he managed to avert psychotic breakdown.
‘To Paint the Portrait of a Bird’: analytic work from the perspective of a ‘developmental’ Jungian
Authors: Morgan Helen
Published: January 2012

Abstract:  Jungians who are trained in the so‐called ‘Developmental School’ straddle the two worlds of psychoanalysis and classical Jungian thinking. This is not always an easy position in which to be, but if the tensions can be held it is potentially a rich and creative way of working. In this paper I attempt to explore this position using the poem, ‘To Paint the Portrait of a Bird’ by Jacques Prévert as a metaphor for the analytic endeavour. From this perspective I hope to illustrate the importance of being able on the one hand to hold and maintain a clear frame for the careful and detailed exploration of the transference within which the more malign aspects of the psyche might be expressed, and, on the other, to allow the alchemical process of mutual transformation that lies outside the conscious understanding of the analytic couple.
The hermeneutic background of C. G. Jung
Authors: Smythe William E. , Baydala Angelina
Published: January 2012

Abstract:  Hermeneutics has been central to the practice of Jung's psychology from the beginning, although he never fully and consistently developed a hermeneutic method of inquiry and the literature addressing this aspect of his psychology is not extensive. In this paper1 we undertake a critical re‐examination of Jung's relationship to hermeneutic thought, based on his explicit references to hermeneutics in the Collected Works and his theoretical development of the notion of archetypes. Although Jung did not consistently formulate a hermeneutic approach to inquiry, his theoretical development of archetypes is rich in hermeneutic implications. In particular, his notion of the archetype as such can be understood hermeneutically as a form of non‐conceptual background understanding. Some implications of this construal of archetypes for Jungian hermeneutics as a form of inquiry are considered.
Functional assessment of high‐grade ICA stenosis with duplex ultrasound and transcranial Doppler
Authors: Zachrisson Helene , Fouladiun Marita , Blomstrand Christian , Holm Jan , Volkmann Reinhard
Published: January 2012

Background:  Duplex ultrasound (DUS) has shown a >90% accuracy compared to angiography, concerning the degree of internal carotid artery (ICA) stenosis. However, uncertainty may occur in a severe stenosis, in which peak systolic velocity (PSV) may decrease owing to high flow resistance or high backward pressure. We investigated intracranial collateral flows using transcranial Doppler (TCD) to further evaluate the hemodynamic significance of high‐grade ICA stenosis.

Methods:  In this retrospective study, 320 consecutive symptomatic patients were examined. The degree of ICA stenosis and collateral capacity in the circle of Willis was investigated by DUS and TCD. In addition, magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) was added in a subgroup of 204 patients. The criterion for hemodynamic significant ICA stenosis was established collateral flow.

Results:  In 91% of all symptomatic vessels (291 vessels), an ICA stenosis of ≥70% was found. Established collateral flow always indicated precerebral carotid artery disease of ≥70%. Furthermore, in 11% of the whole study material, collateral reserve capacity was found despite high‐grade (≥70%) ICA stenosis. PSV in ICA <2·5 m s−1 was combined with established collateral flow and MRA stenosis of ≥70% in 9% (19 arterial systems). In 4%, doubt existed concerning the degree of stenosis after DUS.

Conclusion:  Transcranial Doppler helps to determine whether an ICA stenosis is of hemodynamic significance and to assess collateral patterns. Established collateral blood flow will help to identify patients with ≥70% (ECST) carotid artery disease. TCD might be of value when flow velocity criteria combined with plaque assessment by DUS are inclusive. Other diagnostic methods may also be considered.
Postoperative ambulation in thoracic surgery patients: standard versus modern ambulation methods
Authors: Nesbitt Jonathan C , Deppen Stephen , Corcoran Richard , Cogdill Shari , Huckabay Sarah , McKnight Drew , Osborne Breanne F , Werking Kristin , Gardner Megan , Perrigo Laurel
Published: January 2012

Aim:A single‐subject study of two methods of postoperative ambulation of patients recovering from thoracic surgery.

Background:During the postoperative setting, patients are often burdened by their condition that reduces their ability to ambulate. This problem is compounded by the addition of devices that make walking more cumbersome. To simplify the process of ambulation during the postoperative period, an intravenous pole/walker (IVPW) was specifically designed to allow all patient devices and attachments to accompany the patient during ambulation, without the need for supplemental caregiver assistance.

Methods:The IVPW method of ambulation was compared with standard method of ambulation (SMA) in a single‐subject clinical trial. Thirty‐nine consecutive thoracic surgery patients with at least an IV and chest tube were ambulated using alternatively either the IVPW or the SMA. Immediately following the ambulation periods, the patient and patient's health care worker assessed both methods using satisfaction surveys consisting of several questions about the episodes of ambulation and the number of health care workers needed to assist during ambulation.

Results:Patient satisfaction was significantly higher in the ability of the IVPW to provide support and assist in ambulation in comparison with the SMA (p< 0·001). Nurses felt the IVPW both facilitated and provided a safer method for ambulation compared with the SMA (p< 0·001). On average, one less employee was required during ambulation with the IVPW (p< 0·001).

Conclusion:The IVPW provided better support and was perceived as a safer method for ambulation compared with the SMA. The IVPW also required one less person to assist with ambulation.

Relevance to clinical practice:Facilitation of ambulation in the postoperative setting can impact nursing care and patient satisfaction.
Concomitant Use of Triptan, and SSRI or SNRI After the US Food and Drug Administration Alert on Serotonin Syndrome
Authors: Sclar David A. , Robison Linda M. , Castillo Leigh V. , Schmidt Jennifer M. , Bowen Kurt A. , Oganov Ambartsum M. , Skaer Tracy L. , Kogut Stephen J.
Published: January 2012

Objective.— The present study was designed to discern the prevalence of concomitant use of a 5‐hydroxytryptamine receptor agonist (triptan), and a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) or a selective serotonin/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) after the US Food and Drug Administration issued an alert regarding serotonin syndrome in 2006 and to contrast findings with data published prior to the federal warning.

Background.— In July 2006, the US Food and Drug Administration warned patients and health‐care professionals to be aware that use of a triptan in combination with an SSRI or SNRI may result in a potentially life‐threatening problem known as serotonin syndrome. In 2010, the American Headache Society published a position paper noting that there existed conflicting and insufficient information to discern the risk of serotonin syndrome with the use of triptan, and SSRI or SNRI, and that said Class IV data were not to be used as the basis for limiting the prescribing of triptan with SSRI or SNRI (Level U). Clinicians were cautioned as to the seriousness of serotonin toxicity and that monitoring was warranted.

Methods.— We used weighted data from the US National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey for years 2007 and 2008 to derive national estimates of the number of office‐based physician–patient encounters (visits), documenting the concomitant use of triptan, and SSRI or SNRI. Results are compared with previously published findings for the years 2003 and 2004.

Results.— During the time‐frame 2007‐2008, an annualized mean of 5,256,958 patients were prescribed a triptan (vs 3,874,367 in 2003‐2004, a 35.7% increase), and 68,603,600 patients were prescribed an SSRI or SNRI (vs 50,402,149 in 2003‐2004, a 36.1% increase). An annualized mean of 1,319,763 patients were simultaneously prescribed or continued use of triptan, along with SSRI or SNRI (vs 694,276 in 2003‐2004, a 90.1% increase).

Conclusion.— Our study documents that 1.8% (1,319,763/73,860,558) of patients in 2007‐2008 were prescribed triptan, and SSRI or SNRI (vs 1.3% in 2003‐04, an increase of 38.5%). While this is a small fraction overall, the actual number of patients on a nationwide basis is substantial. What remains missing from the literature is documentation as to the number of cases of serotonin syndrome and resulting consequences (clinical and economic) because of the concomitant use of triptan, and SSRI or SNRI in the time‐frame 2007‐2008. Absent in these data, it remains difficult to assess the risk benefit associated with the use of triptan, and SSRI or SNRI.
Nonpharmacological Approaches to the Management of Chronic Pain in Community‐Dwelling Older Adults: A Review of Empirical Evidence
Authors: Park Juyoung , Hughes Anne K.
Published: January 2012

The objective of this literature review is to gain insight into the efficacy of nonpharmacological interventions in chronic pain management in community‐dwelling older adults. An extensive search of pertinent databases was performed to identify reports of studies of nonpharmacological (physical and psychosocial) pain interventions. The review identifies intervention studies that used randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and summarizes existing evidence of effectiveness of nonpharmacological interventions. A literature search yielded 28 RCT intervention studies (18 for physical interventions and 10 for psychosocial interventions) that met inclusion criteria and are included in this review. Twenty‐one studies (75%) identified in this review demonstrated statistically significant differences (P < .05) in pain scores between nonpharmacological interventions and no intervention or sham interventions; the intervention groups showed lower pain intensity. More research is needed to determine the best format, intensity, duration, and content of such treatments, as well as their efficacy in the older adult population. Methodological limitations are identified in many of the studies, such as low statistical power due to sample size and imprecise measurement, lack of reliable sham controls, and inadequate blinding. Future intervention studies of nonpharmacological pain therapies may require larger sample sizes, control for comorbidities, and long‐term follow‐up.
Shared Orthography: Do Shared Written Symbols Influence the Perception of L2 Sounds?
Authors: PYTLYK CAROLYN
Published: January 2012

This research investigates whether English speakers who learn Mandarin Chinese via a familiar orthography differ from those who learn via a non‐familiar orthography in their perception of English–Mandarin sound pairs. Canadian English speakers (n= 32) participated in a series of experimental tasks. The tasks included pre‐ and posttest perception tests and language classes where the participants learned Mandarin through 1 of 3 means: Pinyin, the familiar orthography; Zhuyin, the non‐familiar orthography; or no orthography. The results indicate that the 3 learning groups exhibited similar perceptual performances. These results are discussed in terms of the strength of the established first language (L1) orthographic system, the cognitive load, and the length of time required for the development of new symbol–sound associations. The data suggest that Mandarin instruction via Zhuyin does not appear to have an advantage over instruction via Pinyin, as conflict between 2 orthographic systems appears to neutralize any potential benefits. This is the first systematic study to investigate the potential influence of the L1 orthographic code on second language speech perception.
A Participative Inquiry in a TESOL Program: Development of Three NNES Graduate Students’ Legitimate Peripheral Participation to Fuller Participation
Authors: SAMIMY KEIKO , KIM SOONHYANG , AH LEE JEONG , KASAI MASATAKA
Published: January 2012

While the existing literature has documented the positive impact of new discourses and interventions on nonnative English speaker (NNES) graduate students through Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)‐related courses (Brutt‐Griffler & Samimy, 1999; Kamhi‐Stein, 1999; Pavlenko, 2003), long‐term effects of those interventions have not been yet reported. Using a participative inquiry method (Reason, 1994a) over a 3.5‐year period, we, as NNESs, co‐researchers, co‐participants, and co‐authors, documented 3 NNES graduate students’ journey from legitimate peripheral participation to fuller participation in a TESOL program. The study explores 2 main research questions: (a) How did the NNES seminar empower 3 NNES graduate students as academic and professional members of TESOL communities? (b) In addition to the NNES seminar, what kinds of interventions were available and how did the inventions help the 3 NNES TESOL graduate students maintain/reinforce their empowered selves throughout their journey in academic and professional communities? Based on the research findings, pedagogical implications are discussed regarding NNESs’ empowerment and mentoring relationships.
Linking Local Food Systems and the Social Economy? Future Roles for Farmers' Markets in Alberta and British Columbia*
Authors: Wittman Hannah , Beckie Mary , Hergesheimer Chris
Published: January 2012

Abstract

Often organized as grassroots, nonprofit organizations, many farmers' markets serve as strategic venues linking producers and consumers of local food while fulfilling multiple social, economic, and environmental objectives. This article examines the potential of farmers' markets to play a catalyst role in linking local food systems to the social economy in western Canada. We used the Delphi method of inquiry to solicit and synthesize perspectives on the future role of farmers' markets within local food systems and the social economy from farmers' market vendors, market managers, and policy and government representatives in each province. We found that negotiations over the definition of local food systems, the dynamics of supply and demand relationships, and perceptions of “authenticity” affect the positionality of farmers' markets in relation to other marketing channels within regional food systems. Stakeholders engaged in this Delphi inquiry strategized ways to scale up local food systems beyond current limits while also maintaining the “authentic experience” offered by farmers' markets that has helped to fuel increased consumer interest, demand, and growth. Results confirm the need for further investigation of the relationship between the social economy, infrastructure, and authenticity in the development of local food systems.
In Search of Housing: Urban Families in Rural Contexts*
Authors: Clark Sherri Lawson
Published: January 2012

Abstract

Researchers have been following a trend posited by the renowned anthropologist Janet Fitchen, which examines the increasing movement of low‐income people to rural communities drawn not necessarily by labor market forces, but by the characteristics and amenities found in rural towns. This study adds to that literature by focusing on the ways in which public housing availability, changes in housing policy, and rural economic restructuring create opportunities for low‐income families to relocate from urban to rural communities in search of affordable housing. Data collected from an ethnographic sample addressed the following questions: (1) what motivates individuals and families to leave their urban neighborhoods and relocate to rural towns and (2) what challenges do individuals and families have in sustaining stable housing in rural communities? Two main sets of literature relevant to this discussion include studies of patterns of residential mobility and explanations of rural economic restructuring. Both form the conceptual approach of this article by offering a framework to better understand the housing choices and behaviors of low‐income families and the contexts in which these actions are situated.
Multicenter Study of Predictors of Suicide Screening in Emergency Departments
Authors: Ting Sarah A. , Sullivan Ashley F. , Miller Ivan , Espinola Janice A. , Allen Michael H. , Camargo Carlos A. , Boudreaux Edwin D. ,   on behalf of the Emergency Department Safety and Follow‐up Evaluation (ED‐SAFE) Investigators
Published: January 2012

Objectives:  The objective was to provide estimates and predictors of screening for suicide in emergency departments (EDs).

Methods:  Eight geographically diverse U.S. EDs each performed chart reviews of 100 randomly selected patients, ages 18 years or older, with visits in October 2009. Trained chart abstractors collected information on patient demographics, presentation, discharge diagnosis, suicide screening, and other mental health indicators. Univariate logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with suicide screening.

Results:  The cohort of 800 patients had a median age of 41 years (interquartile range = 27 to 53 years) with 57% female, 16% Hispanic, 58% white, 23% black or African American, and 10% other race. Suicide screenings were documented for 39 patients (4.9%; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 3.4% to 6.4%). Of those screened, 23 (2.9% of total sample; 95% CI = 1.7% to 4.0%) were positive for suicidal ideation or behavior. Approximately 90% of those screened had documented complaints of a psychiatric nature at triage. About one‐third had either documentation of alcohol abuse (33%) or intentional illegal or prescription drug misuse (36%).

Conclusions:  The presence of known psychiatric problems and substance use had the strongest associations with suicide screening, yet even patients presenting with these indicators were not screened for suicide. Understanding factors that currently influence suicide screening in the ED will guide the design and implementation of improved suicide screening protocols and related interventions.

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2012; 1–5 © 2012 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine
Emergency Medical Services Education in Emergency Medicine Residency Programs: A National Survey
Authors: Katzer Robert , Cabanas Jose G. , Martin‐Gill Christian ,   for the SAEM Emergency Medical Services Interest Group
Published: January 2012

Objectives:  Emergency medical services (EMS) was recently approved as a subspecialty by the American Board of Medical Specialties, highlighting the core content of knowledge that encompasses prehospital emergency patient care. This study aimed to describe the current state of EMS education at emergency medicine (EM) residency programs in the United States.

Methods:  The authors distributed an online survey containing multiple‐choice and free‐response questions pertaining to resident EMS education to the directors of EM residency programs in the United States between July 21 and September 10, 2010.

Results:  Of 154 programs, 117 (75%) responded to the survey, and 108 (70%) completed the survey by answering all required questions. Of completed surveys, 82 programs (76%) reported the cumulative time devoted to EMS didactic education during the course of residency training, a median of 20 hours (range = 3 to 300 hours; interquartile range [IQR] = 12 to 36 hours). There is a designated EMS rotation in 89% of programs, with a median duration of 3 weeks (range = 1 to 9 weeks; IQR = 2 to 4 weeks). Most programs involve residents on EMS rotations strictly as in‐field observers (63%), some as in‐field providers (20%), and the rest with some combination of the two roles. Ground ride‐along is required in 94% of programs, while air ride‐along is mandatory in 4% and optional in 81% of programs. Direct medical oversight (DMO) certification is required in 41% of residency programs, but not available in 26% of program jurisdictions. Residents in 92% of programs provide DMO. In those programs, most residents (77%) provide DMO primarily while working in the emergency department (ED), 13% during dedicated EMS or medical oversight shifts, and 4% during a combination of these shifts. Disaster‐preparedness was most frequently listed as the component programs would like to add to their EMS curricula.

Conclusions:  There is a wide range in the didactic, online, and in‐field EMS educational experiences provided as part of EM training. Most residents participate in ground ride‐along activities, provide DMO, and have a dedicated EMS rotation. Disaster‐preparedness is the most common desired addition to existing EMS rotations.

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2012; 19:1–6 © 2012 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine
Influence of epigenetic modifications of the interleukin‐10 promoter on IL10 gene expression
Authors: Larsson Lena , Thorbert‐Mros Sara , Rymo Lars , Berglundh Tord
Published: January 2012

Larsson L, Thorbert‐Mros S, Rymo L, Berglundh T. Influence of epigenetic modifications of the interleukin‐10 promoter on IL10 gene expression. Eur J Oral Sci 2012; 120: 14–20. © 2012 Eur J Oral Sci

Epigenetic modifications of DNA and its associated proteins influence gene expression. The ‐1087 interleukin‐10 (IL10) gene polymorphism is associated with differences in IL10 expression. The objectives of this study were to analyze the effect of DNA methylation and histone modifications on IL10 gene expression, the differences in epigenetic modifications between GG and AA genotypes of the ‐1087 IL10 gene polymorphism, and the methylation pattern in the region close to the ‐1087 position. Using B cells obtained from subjects with GG and AA genotypes we demonstrated that treatment with histone deacetylase inhibitors and 5‐aza‐2‐deoxycytidine resulted in an increase in the production of IL10 mRNA. The chromatin immunoprecipitation assay revealed that stimulation with lipopolysaccharide resulted in a higher fold increase in the acetylation of histone H4 and in the methylation of histone H3 for GG genotype cells than for AA genotype cells. The increase in acetylation of histone H3 was larger for AA genotype cells than for GG genotype cells. For unstimulated cells the acetylation and methylation of histone H3 were higher for GG genotype cells than for AA genotype cells, while AA genotype cells had a higher increase in acetylation of histone H4. DNA methylation assays revealed that the three CpG sites distal to the ‐1087 site were methylated in blood cells and gingival tissues.
Peptidoglycan and lipopolysaccharide synergistically enhance bone resorption and osteoclastogenesis
Authors: Kishimoto T. , Kaneko T. , Ukai T. , Yokoyama M. , Ayon Haro R. , Yoshinaga Y. , Yoshimura A. , Hara Y.
Published: January 2012

Kishimoto T, Kaneko T, Ukai T, Yokoyama M, Ayon Haro R, Yoshinaga Y, Yoshimura A, Hara Y. Peptidoglycan and lipopolysaccharide synergistically enhance bone resorption and osteoclastogenesis. J Periodont Res 2012; 47: 446–454. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Background and Objective:  Peptidoglycan (PGN) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) are bacterial cell wall constituents that are able to induce bone resorption by stimulating Toll‐like receptor (TLR) 2 and TLR4, respectively. The fragments of PGN also stimulate inflammatory responses via nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain (NOD) 1 and NOD2, although there are differences in the NOD‐stimulatory activities between gram‐positive and gram‐negative PGNs. The TLR and NOD signaling pathways are known to engage in cross‐talk to enhance the production of inflammatory cytokines. In the present study, we investigated the effects of gram‐negative and gram‐positive PGNs on bone resorption and osteoclastogenesis in the presence or absence of LPS.

Material and Methods:  We injected Escherichia coli PGN or Staphylococcus aureus PGN with or without LPS into mouse gingiva, and histopathologically assessed alveolar bone resorption by tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase staining. We also stimulated osteoclast precursors from mouse bone marrow macrophages with these PGNs in vitro and assessed osteoclastogenesis. The cells were also stimulated with synthetic ligands for NOD1; γ‐D‐glutamyl‐meso‐DAP NOD2; muramyl dipeptide or TLR2; Pam3CSK4 with or without LPS to analyse the signaling cross‐talk.

Results:  S. aureus PGN, but not E. coli PGN, induced alveolar bone resorption, as did LPS. However, PGN from both sources significantly enhanced the bone resorption in the mice co‐injected with LPS. Both types of PGNs induced osteoclastogenesis and accelerated osteoclastogenesis when the cells were co‐stimulated with LPS in vitro. All synthetic ligands synergistically induced osteoclastogenesis by co‐stimulation with LPS.

Conclusion:  Gram‐positive or gram‐negative PGN worked synergistically with LPS to induce bone resorption and osteoclastogenesis, possibly by co‐ordinating the effects of TLR2, NOD1, NOD2 and TLR4 signaling.
MOVING BEYOND GENERALIZATIONS AND STEREOTYPES TO DEVELOP INDIVIDUALIZED APPROACHES FOR WORKING WITH FAMILIES AFFECTED BY PARENTAL INCARCERATION
Authors: Genty Philip M.
Published: January 2012

Competing narratives about incarcerated parents and their children are provided by the Adoption and Safe Families Act (“ASFA”) and the Children of Incarcerated Parents Bill of Rights (“Bill of Rights”). Both the “child‐at‐risk” narrative of ASFA and the “good mother” narrative of the Bill of Rights are stereotyped and oversimplified and contribute, in opposite ways, to misperceptions about incarcerated parents and their children by suggesting a uniformity of situations and appropriate responses that does not actually exist. The time‐driven approach of ASFA—and many state termination of parental rights statutes—is overly rigid, while the Bill of Rights overlooks important differences among families, as well as tensions and trade‐offs among policy choices. In actuality, the situations of the parents and children involved vary widely and defy easy analysis and solutions. We should therefore be taking an individualized, qualitative approach that is nuanced and based on actual information about incarcerated parents and their children, rather than a quantitative, categorical approach based on generalized and simplistic assumptions. Only if we recognize and grapple with the complexities of parental incarceration can we develop sound legal and social policy to meet the needs of these families.
RISK AND PROTECTIVE FACTORS FOR SECONDARY GIRLS OF INCARCERATED PARENTS
Authors: Newell Dee Ann A.
Published: January 2012

In a review of the literature on child gender and gender‐specific effects for children of incarcerated parents, the present paper examines what we do and do not know about gender‐specific protective and risk factors for children of incarcerated parents. The nuanced effects of parental separation based on child gender are offered, drawn from secondary level girls in an all‐female support group operated at a secondary school in Little Rock, Arkansas for the past six years. Other programs are examined that evidence gender‐specific effects for boys and girls in those programs. A few basic statistical indices suggest that the gender of an adolescent separated from his or her incarcerated parents has differential impacts to be better studied and possibly considered in service programming. The results may enhance the outcomes for the girls, and perhaps the boys.
Novel roles for the IgG Fc glycan
Authors: Anthony Robert M. , Wermeling Fredrik , Ravetch Jeffrey V.
Published: January 2012

IgG antibodies trigger leukocyte activation and inflammation by forming immune complexes that crosslink activating Fcγ receptors (FcγRs). This is essential to combat infection, but detrimental if antibodies target or cross‐react with autoantigens. The high specificity and long serum half‐life of IgG antibodies confers tremendous therapeutic potential. Indeed, antibodies have been successfully employed to target cancers, autoreactive B cells, and pro‐inflammatory cytokines. Conversely, IgG antibodies can also initiate anti‐inflammatory responses. In the form of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), IgGs are routinely administered to treat inflammatory autoimmune diseases. Importantly, the N‐linked glycans on the IgG Fc are absolutely required for initiating these IgG effector functions. In fact, the Fc glycan composition dictates IgG affinity to individual FcγRs, and in a broader sense, binding to different FcγRs classes: activating, inhibitory, and anti‐inflammatory (dendritic cell‐specific ICAM‐3 grabbing nonintegrin, DC‐SIGN). The Fc glycan requirements to initiate and suppress inflammation will be discussed herein.