bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Family History of Colorectal Cancer in BRAF p.V600E-Mutated Colorectal Cancer Cases
Authors: Buchanan Daniel D. , Win Aung K. , Walsh Michael D. , Walters Rhiannon J. , Clendenning Mark , Nagler Belinda , Pearson Sally-Ann , Macrae Finlay A. , Parry Susan , Arnold Julie , Winship Ingrid , Giles Graham G. , Lindor Noralane M. , Potter John D. , Hopper John L. , Rosty Christophe , Young Joanne P. , Jenkins Mark A.
Published: March 2013

Background: Previous reports suggest that relatives of colorectal cancer (CRC)-affected probands carrying the BRAF p.V600E mutation are at an increased risk of CRC and extracolonic cancers (ECC). In this study, we estimated the association between a family history of either CRC or ECC and risk of CRC with a BRAF p.V600E mutation.

Methods: Population-based CRC cases (probands, ages 18–59 years at diagnosis), recruited irrespective of family cancer history, were characterized for BRAF p.V600E mutation and mismatch repair (MMR) status. ORs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using multivariable logistic regression.

Results: The 690 eligible probands showed a mean age at CRC diagnosis of 46.9 ± 7.8 years, with 313 (47.9%) reporting a family history of CRC and 53 (7.7%) that were BRAF-mutated. Probands with BRAF-mutated, MMR-proficient CRCs were less likely to have a family history of CRC than probands that were BRAF wild-type (OR, 0.46; 95% CI, 0.24–0.91; P = 0.03). For probands with a BRAF-mutated CRC, the mean age at diagnosis was greater for those with a CRC-affected first- or second-degree relative (49.3 ± 6.4 years) compared with those without a family history (43.8 ± 10.2 years; P = 0.04). The older the age at diagnosis of CRC with the BRAF p.V600E mutation, the more likely these probands were to show a family history of CRC (OR, 1.09 per year of age; 95% CI, 1.00–1.18; P = 0.04).

Conclusions: Probands with early-onset, BRAF-mutated, and MMR-proficient CRC were less likely to have a family history of CRC than probands that were BRAF-wild-type.

Impact: These findings provide useful insights for cancer risk assessment in families and suggest that familial or inherited factors are more important in early-onset, BRAF-wild-type CRC. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(5); 917–26. ©2013 AACR.
Bridging the Gap between Biologic, Individual, and Macroenvironmental Factors in Cancer: A Multilevel Approach
Authors: Lynch Shannon M. , Rebbeck Timothy R.
Published: March 2013

To address the complex nature of cancer occurrence and outcomes, approaches have been developed to simultaneously assess the role of two or more etiologic agents within hierarchical levels including the: (i) macroenvironment level (e.g., health care policy, neighborhood, or family structure); (ii) individual level (e.g., behaviors, carcinogenic exposures, socioeconomic factors, and psychologic responses); and (iii) biologic level (e.g., cellular biomarkers and inherited susceptibility variants). Prior multilevel approaches tend to focus on social and environmental hypotheses, and are thus limited in their ability to integrate biologic factors into a multilevel framework. This limited integration may be related to the limited translation of research findings into the clinic. We propose a “Multi-level Biologic and Social Integrative Construct” (MBASIC) to integrate macroenvironment and individual factors with biology. The goal of this framework is to help researchers identify relationships among factors that may be involved in the multifactorial, complex nature of cancer etiology, to aid in appropriate study design, to guide the development of statistical or mechanistic models to study these relationships, and to position the results of these studies for improved intervention, translation, and implementation. MBASIC allows researchers from diverse fields to develop hypotheses of interest under a common conceptual framework, to guide transdisciplinary collaborations, and to optimize the value of multilevel studies for clinical and public health activities. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(4); 485–95. ©2013 AACR.
MicroRNA Expression Signatures during Malignant Progression from Barrett's Esophagus to Esophageal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Wu Xifeng , Ajani Jaffer A. , Gu Jian , Chang David W. , Tan Weiqi , Hildebrandt Michelle A.T. , Huang Maosheng , Wang Kenneth K. , Hawk Ernest
Published: March 2013

Barrett's esophagus is the precursor lesion of esophageal adenocarcinoma, whose progression follows sequential stages. However, the low progression rate and the inadequacy and subjective interpretation of histologic grading in predicting Barrett's esophagus progression call for more objective biomarkers that can improve risk prediction. We conducted a genome-wide profiling of 754 human microRNAs (miRNA) in 35 normal epithelium, 34 Barrett's esophagus, and 36 esophageal adenocarcinoma tissues using TaqMan real-time PCR-based profiling. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering using 294 modestly to highly expressed miRNAs showed clear clustering of two groups: normal epithelium versus Barrett's esophagus/esophageal adenocarcinoma tissues. Moreover, there was an excellent clustering of Barrett's metaplasia (without dysplasia) tissues from normal epithelium tissues. However, Barrett's esophagus tissues of different stages and esophageal adenocarcinoma tissues were interspersed. There were differentially expressed miRNAs at different stages. The majority of miRNA aberrations involved upregulation of expression in Barrett's esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma tissues, with the most dramatic alterations occurring at the Barrett's metaplasia stage. Known oncomiRs, such as miR-21, miR-25, and miR-223, and tumor suppressor miRNAs, including miR-205, miR-203, let-7c, and miR-133a, showed progressively altered expression from Barrett's esophagus to esophageal adenocarcinoma. We also identified a number of novel miRNAs that showed progressively altered expression, including miR-301b, miR-618, and miR-23b. The significant miRNA alterations that were exclusive to esophageal adenocarcinoma but not Barrett's esophagus included miR-375 downregulation and upregulation of five members of the miR-17-92 and its homologue clusters, which may become promising biomarkers for esophageal adenocarcinoma development. Cancer Prev Res; 6(3); 196–205. ©2013 AACR.
The Feasibility of Caregiver-Assisted Home Nocturnal Hemodialysis
Authors: Tennankore Karthik K. , Kim S. Joseph , Chan Christopher T.
Published: March 2013

Background/Aims: Home nocturnal hemodialysis (HNHD) has several benefits. However, patients that require caregiver assistance for dialysis may be at risk for poor outcomes. In an effort to determine if HNHD can be extended to assisted patients, an analysis of their outcomes is important. Methods: We examined a single-center cohort of patients that started and completed HNHD training between 01 January 2003 and 31 December 2010 (last follow-up 01 July 2011). Patients were classified as ‘dependent' if they required caregiver assistance for dialysis. The primary outcome was time to first hospitalization, technique failure, or death for dependent versus independent patients. Secondary outcomes included hospitalization rate and hospital days. Results: A total of 152 patients were included in this study. Dependent patients (n = 47) were older (51 vs. 42 years), more likely to have diabetic end-stage renal disease (26 vs. 8%) and had higher Charlson Comorbidity Index scores (4 vs. 3) compared to independent patients (n = 105). In an adjusted analysis there was no significant difference in the time to composite outcome for dependent versus independent patients (relative hazard 1.25; 95% confidence interval, CI, 0.76-2.04). Adjusted incidence rate ratios for hospitalizations (1.58; 95% CI 0.95-2.65) and hospital days (1.84; 95% CI 0.78-4.34) were not significantly different for dependent versus independent patients. Conclusion: Our study suggests that outcomes of caregiver-assisted versus independent HNHD patients are likely driven by differences in case mix. The need for caregiver assistance alone should not be a deterrent to HNHD.
Successful Treatment with Atomoxetine of an Adolescent Boy with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Extreme Obesity, and Reduced Melanocortin 4 Receptor Function
Authors: Pott Wilfried , Albayrak Özgür , Hinney Anke , Hebebrand Johannes , Pauli-Pott Ursula
Published: March 2013

Objective: Recent case reports suggest a link between reduced melanocortinergic tone and both obesity and attention deficit / hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). We present the case of a 13-year-old, male, obese MC4R mutation carrier with ADHD. Case Report: The boy carries a heterozygous mutation in the melanocortin 4 receptor gene (MC4R; Met281Val), that leads to a reduced receptor function. Dominant mutations of this type represent major gene effects for obesity. He participated in a lifestyle intervention program for obesity and received treatment with the selective norepinephrine re-uptake inhibitor atomoxetine for 31 months. The boy markedly reduced his BMI from 47.2 to 29.6 kg/m². Conclusion: Atomoxetine proved to efficiently reduce weight in a severely obese MC4R mutation carrier with ADHD. We briefly discuss possible mechanisms for our observation, including evidence for the functional connectivity between melanocortinergic, dopaminergic, and norepinephrinergic brain circuitries.
Dramatic and Delayed Response to Doxorubicin-Dacarbazine Chemotherapy of a Giant Desmoid Tumor: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Monneur Audrey , Chetaille Bruno , Perrot Delphine , Guiramand Jérôme , Bertucci François
Published: March 2013

Desmoid tumors are benign, slow-growing mesenchymal tumors. Aggressiveness is local with no potential for metastasis or dedifferentiation. The treatment is challenging, particularly in the case of huge intra-abdominal locations. We, herein, report on a 21-year-old patient with a giant intra-abdominal desmoid tumor occupying substantially the entire abdominal cavity. After failure of a first-line combination of celecoxib and tamoxifen, the patient was given doxorubicin-dacarbazine chemotherapy. The treatment was well tolerated, and rapidly, the clinical digestive symptoms improved. After 6 cycles, the computed tomography scan showed a partial response (regression of tumor volume by 55%). During follow-up, the tumor continued to regress: 25 months after the end of chemotherapy, the tumor volume had regressed by 95% when compared to the start of computed tomography and by 90% when compared to the end of chemotherapy. Thirty-three months after the diagnosis, the patient is alive without any symptom. Our case provides further evidence of the remarkable efficacy of a doxorubicin-dacarbazine regimen, especially in function- or life-threatening situations where a rapid response is required. We review the literature and discuss the challenging issue regarding treatment of desmoid tumors.
A Successfully Resected Case of Recurrent Lung and Liver Metastases of Rectal Cancer Treated withXELIRI + Bevacizumab Therapy
Authors: Aisu Naoya , Yoshida Yoichiro , Ishii Fuminori , Miyake Toru , Tanimura Shu , Wada Yoshito , Yamauchi Yasushi , Hoshino Seiichiro , Noritomi Tomoaki , Yamashita Yuichi
Published: March 2013

It has been reported that many colorectal cancer (CRC) patients with synchronous or metachronous liver metastases underwent surgery subsequent to neoadjuvant combination chemotherapy with folinic acid, fluorouracil, and oxaliplatin (FOLFOX), folinic acid, fluorouracil, and irinotecan (FOLFIRI), or capecitabine and oxaliplatin (XELOX). However, there are very few reports of the use of capecitabine and irinotecan (XELIRI). We herein report a successfully resected case of recurrent lung and liver metastases of rectal cancer treated with combination chemotherapy with XELIRI + bevacizumab (BV) therapy. A 63-year-old male developed recurrence of a solitary nodule in the right lower lobe of the lung and multiple liver metastases after low anterior resection for rectal cancer 1 year previously. Partial resection of the right lower lobe of the lung was performed and treatment with XELIRI + BV was initiated. A computed tomography scan revealed a reduction in tumor size without any new lesions after four cycles of XELIRI + BV therapy. Partial hepatectomy of S1, S5, and S7 was safely performed. The patient is now undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy and has been free from recurrence for 18 months following surgery. There are only few studies with relatively low patient numbers reporting on the outcome after resection of both pulmonary and hepatic metastases of CRC. We therefore report a patient who underwent sequential resection of pulmonary and hepatic metastases with XELIRI + BV therapy.
Four Years Old, One Eye, Pars Planitis and Cataract: Surgical Challenges Give Challenging Surprises
Authors: García-Rojas Leonardo , Matiz-Moreno Humberto , Chávez-Mondragón Eduardo
Published: March 2013

Pars planitis (PP) is an intermediate form of uveitis, which, if left untreated, can result in vision loss. Although phacoemulsification with IOL implantation in eyes with PP often results in improved vision, it represents a surgical challenge due to inflammatory sequelae and the possibility of postoperative complications. This case report describes a 4-year-old male who was admitted for poor visual acuity and severe photophobia. The patient previously received vitreo-retinal surgery on his right eye due to an ‘unknown disease'. Ophthalmological evaluation revealed NLP, pupillary seclusion and band keratopathy in the right eye; echographic scans revealed funnel retinal detachment. The left eye had a visual acuity of CF at 1 foot, minimal band keratopathy, posterior synechiae and the following echographic findings: abundant vitreous opacities and increased chorioretinal thickness (1.6 mm). Complete medical and laboratory assessments found no infectious pathologies. The patient was diagnosed with PP. Anti-inflammatory and immunological therapy was given in order to control inflammation. Within four months, the inflammation was controlled. Slow motion phacoemulsification with iris-retractors was performed. During the surgery, an unexpected challenge was identified: an opaque-vascular retrolental membrane. The membrane was cauterized with diathermy. Primary posterior capsulotomy and membranectomy were performed, followed by a limited anterior vitrectomy. An in-the-bag IOL was implanted successfully, with no postoperative complications, and visual acuity improved to 20/200.
Performance of the EuroSCORE Models in Emergency Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Grant Stuart W. , Hickey Graeme L. , Dimarakis Ioannis , Cooper Graham , Jenkins David P. , Uppal Rakesh , Buchan Iain , Bridgewater Ben
Published: March 2013

Background—

Accurate risk-adjustment models are useful for clinical decision making and are important for minimizing any tendency toward risk-averse clinical practice. In cardiac surgery, emergency patients are potentially at greatest risk of inappropriate risk-averse clinical decisions. UK cardiac surgery outcomes are currently risk-adjusted with EuroSCORE models. The objective of this study was to assess the performance of the EuroSCORE models in emergency cardiac surgery.

Methods and Results—

The National Institute for Cardiovascular Outcomes Research database was used to identify adult cardiac surgery procedures performed in the United Kingdom between April 2008 and March 2011. A subset of procedures (July 2010–March 2011) was used for EuroSCORE II validation. The outcome measure was in-hospital mortality. Model calibration (Hosmer–Lemeshow test, calibration plots, calculation of calibration intercept and slope) and discrimination (area under receiver-operating characteristic curve [area under the curve]) were assessed. In total, 109 988 cardiac procedures at 41 hospitals were included, of which 3342 were defined as emergency procedures. Compared with performance in all cardiac surgery and nonemergency cardiac surgery, the logistic EuroSCORE and EuroSCORE II models had poorer discrimination (area under the curve, 0.703 and 0.690, respectively) and poorer calibration for emergency surgery. The EuroSCORE risk factors of female sex, chronic pulmonary disease, neurological disease, active endocarditis, unstable angina, recent myocardial infarction, and pulmonary hypertension were not identified as important risk factors for emergency cardiac surgery.

Conclusions—

Both EuroSCORE models demonstrated poor calibration and comparatively poor discrimination for emergency cardiac surgery. This has important implications when these models are used for clinical decision making or to adjust governance analyses.
A Pharmacist-Led, American Heart Association Heart360 Web-Enabled Home Blood Pressure Monitoring Program
Authors: Magid David J. , Olson Kari L. , Billups Sarah J. , Wagner Nicole M. , Lyons Ella E. , Kroner Beverly A.
Published: March 2013

Background—

To determine whether a pharmacist-led, Heart360-enabled, home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM) intervention improves blood pressure (BP) control compared with usual care (UC).

Methods and Results—

This randomized, controlled trial was conducted in 10 Kaiser Permanente Colorado clinics. Overall, 348 patients with BP above recommended levels were randomized to the HBPM (n=175) or UC (n=173) groups. There were no statistically significant differences in baseline characteristics between the groups; however, there was a trend toward a higher baseline BP for the HBPM group compared with the UC group (148.8 versus 145.5 mm Hg for systolic BP; 89.6 versus 88.0 mm Hg for diastolic BP). At 6 months, the proportion of patients achieving BP goal was significantly higher in the HBPM group (54.1%) than in the UC group (35.4%;
P
<0.001). Compared with the UC group, the HBPM group experienced a −12.4-mm Hg larger (95% confidence interval, −16.3 to −8.6) reduction in systolic BP and a −5.7-mm Hg larger (95% confidence interval, −7.8 to −3.6) reduction in diastolic BP. The impact of the intervention on BP reduction was even larger for the subgroup of patients with diabetes mellitus or chronic kidney disease. The HBPM group had more e-mail and telephone contacts and greater medication regimen intensification. The proportion of patients reporting high satisfaction with hypertension care was significantly greater in the HBPM group (58%) than in the UC group (42%),
P
<0.001.

Conclusions—

A pharmacist-led, Heart360-supported, home BP monitoring intervention led to greater BP reductions, superior BP control, and higher patient satisfaction than UC.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01162759
. Unique identifier: NCT01162759.
Dissecting the Molecular Relationship Among Various Cardiogenic Progenitor Cells
Authors: Dey Devaveena , Han Leng , Bauer Michael , Sanada Fumihiro , Oikonomopoulos Angelos , Hosoda Toru , Unno Kazumasa , De Almeida Patricia , Leri Annarosa , Wu Joseph C.
Published: March 2013

Rationale:

Multiple progenitors derived from the heart and bone marrow (BM) have been used for cardiac repair. Despite this, not much is known about the molecular identity and relationship among these progenitors. To develop a robust stem cell therapy for the heart, it is critical to understand the molecular identity of the multiple cardiogenic progenitor cells.

Objective:

This study is the first report of high-throughput transcriptional profiling of cardiogenic progenitor cells carried out on an identical platform.

Method and Results:

Microarray-based transcriptional profiling was carried out for 3 cardiac (ckit
+
, Sca1
+
, and side population) and 2 BM (ckit
+
and mesenchymal stem cell) progenitors, obtained from age- and sex-matched wild-type C57BL/6 mice. Analysis indicated that cardiac-derived ckit
+
population was very distinct from Sca1
+
and side population cells in the downregulation of genes encoding for cell–cell and cell–matrix adhesion proteins, and in the upregulation of developmental genes. Significant enrichment of transcripts involved in DNA replication and repair was observed in BM-derived progenitors. The BM ckit
+
cells seemed to have the least correlation with the other progenitors, with enrichment of immature neutrophil–specific molecules.

Conclusions:

Our study indicates that cardiac ckit
+
cells represent the most primitive population in the rodent heart. Primitive cells of cardiac versus BM origin differ significantly with respect to stemness and cardiac lineage–specific genes, and molecules involved in DNA replication and repair. The detailed molecular profile of progenitors reported here will serve as a useful reference to determine the molecular identity of progenitors used in future preclinical and clinical studies.
Low Plasma Arginine:Asymmetric Dimethyl Arginine Ratios Predict Mortality After Intracranial Aneurysm Rupture
Authors: Staalsø Jonatan Myrup , Bergström Anita , Edsen Troels , Weikop Pia , Romner Bertil , Olsen Niels Vidiendal
Published: March 2013

Background—

Asymmetrical dimethylarginine (ADMA), an endogenous inhibitor of nitric oxide synthases, predicts mortality in cardiovascular disease and has been linked to cerebral vasospasm after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). In this prospective study, we assessed whether circulating ADMA, arginine:ADMA ratio, and nitrite/nitrate levels were associated with survival and cerebral vasospasm in SAH patients.

Methods—

One hundred and eleven patients were observed day 1 to 15 after SAH, with serial measurements of transcranial Doppler flow velocities (V
MCA
) and plasma biomarkers. Clinical status was assessed by the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies grading scale.

Results—

Overall 30-day mortality was 18%, but differed between patients grouped by low, midrange, and high arginine:ADMA ratio in the first week after SAH. Mortality rates were 14/37, 1/37, and 5/37 in the 3 groups, respectively (
P
-logrank=0.0003). Cox regression showed that low versus midrange or high arginine:ADMA was associated with a hazard ratio of 4.1 independent of World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies grade (95% confidence interval, 1.5–10.9;
P
=0.006). ADMA or arginine:ADMA had no association to V
MCA
, but there was an inverse relationship between V
MCA
and nitrite/nitrate levels (
P
<0.0001). The
NOS3
894G/G genotype was associated with 15% lower V
MCA
(
P
=0.01). ATbG-
NOS3
haplotype homozygosity was associated with up to 64% higher nitrite/nitrate levels (
P
=0.003).

Conclusions—

This study suggests that plasma arginine:ADMA ratios predict mortality after SAH. Both clinical and physiological measures of changes in cerebral hemodynamics are coupled to the nitric oxide system.
De Novo and Recurrent Aneurysms in Pediatric Patients With Cerebral Aneurysms
Authors: Koroknay-Pál Päivi , Niemelä Mika , Lehto Hanna , Kivisaari Riku , Numminen Jussi , Laakso Aki , Hernesniemi Juha
Published: March 2013

Background and Purpose—

Long-term angiographic follow-up studies on pediatric aneurysm patients are scarce.

Methods—

We gathered long-term clinical and angiographic follow-up data on all pediatric aneurysm patients (≤18 years at diagnosis) treated at the Department of Neurosurgery, Helsinki University Central Hospital, between 1937 and 2009.

Results—

Fifty-nine patients with cerebral aneurysms in childhood had long-term clinical and radiological follow-up (median, 34 years; range, 4–56 years). Twenty-four patients (41%) were diagnosed with altogether 25 de novo and 11 recurrent aneurysms, with 9 (25%) of the aneurysms being symptomatic. New subarachnoid hemorrhage occurred in 7 patients; 4 of these patients died. Eight patients (33%) had multiple new aneurysms. The annual rate of hemorrhage was 0.4%, and the annual rate for the development of de novo or recurrent aneurysm was 1.9%. There were no de novo aneurysms in 7 patients with previously unruptured aneurysms. However, 1 recurrent aneurysm was diagnosed. Current and previous smoking (risk ratio, 2.44; 95% confidence interval, 1.07–5.55) was the only statistically significant risk factor for de novo and recurrent aneurysm formation in patients with previous subarachnoid hemorrhage, whereas hypertension, sex, or age at onset had no statistically significant effect. Smoking was also a statistically significant risk factor for new subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Conclusions—

Patients with ruptured intracranial aneurysms in childhood have a high risk for new aneurysms and new subarachnoid hemorrhage, especially if they start to smoke as adults. Life-long angiographic follow-up is mandatory.
Crucial Evidence: Hobbes on Contractual Obligation
Authors: Venezia Luciano
Published: March 2013

Abstract

In this paper, I will introduce the notions of crucial argument and crucial evidence in the philosophy of intellectual history (broadly construed, including the history of political thought). I will use these concepts and take sides in an important controversy in Hobbes studies, namely whether Hobbes holds a prudential or a deontological theory of contractual obligation. Though there is textual evidence for both readings, I will argue that there is especially relevant evidence – crucial evidence – for interpreting Hobbes’s account in a deontological fashion.
Taxonomy of the super-cryptic Hyperolius nasutus group of long reed frogs of Africa (Anura: Hyperoliidae), with descriptions of six new species
Authors: CHANNING A. , HILLERS A. , LÖTTERS S. , RÖDEL M.-O. , SCHICK S. , CONRADIE W. , RÖDDER D. , MERCURIO V. , WAGNER P. , DEHLING J.M. , DU PREEZ L. H. , KIELGAST J. , BURGER M.
Published: March 2013

Specimens from across the range of the Hyperolius nasutus species group were sequenced for two mitochondrial genes and one nuclear gene. Advertisement calls were recorded from the same specimens where possible, and morphological characters were compared. Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood produced a tree indicating 16 clades. The clades show little or no overlap in combinations of 16S sequence difference, shared tyr haplotypes, advertisement call parameters, snout profiles and webbing. On the basis of these data we recognise H. acuticeps, H. adspersus, H. benguellensis, H. dartevellei, H. igbettensis, H. nasutus, H. nasicus, H. poweri, H. viridis and describe six new species: Hyperolius friedemanni sp. nov. Mercurio & Rödel, Hyperolius howelli sp. nov. Du Preez & Channing, Hyperolius inyangae sp. nov. Channing, Hyperolious jacobseni sp. nov. Channing, Hyperolius rwandae sp. nov. Dehling, Sinsch, Rödel & Channing, and Hyperolius lupiroensis sp. nov. Channing. Hyperolius lamottei is confirmed to be outside the H. nasutus group clade. Hyperolius granulatus, H. oxyrhynchus, H. punctulatus and H. sagitta are assigned as junior synonyms. As our results are based on a small number of specimens, these hypotheses await testing with larger sample sizes and more characters. A species distribution model suggests where outlier populations might be found.
Contribution to the knowledge of Chinese Phasmatodea I: A review of Neohiraseini (Phasmatodea: Phasmatidae: Lonchodinae) from Hainan Province, China, with descriptions of one new genus, five new species and three new subspecies, and redescriptions of Pseudocentema Chen, He & Li and Qiongphasma Chen, He & Li
Authors: HO GEORGE WAI-CHUN
Published: March 2013

This study deals with three genera, seven species and four subspecies of the tribe Neohiraseini Hennemann & Conle, 2008 from Hainan Province, China. The genera Pseudocentema Chen, He & Li, 2002 and Qiongphasma Chen, He & Li, 2002 are revised and redescribed, including descriptions of four new species, P. liui spec. nov., Q. bispinosus spec. nov., Q. huishanensis spec. nov. and Q. wuzhishanense spec. nov., and three new subspecies, Q. bispinosus bispinosus subspec. nov., Q. b. minor subspec. nov. and Q. jianfengense obtusicristata subspec. nov. First descriptions are given for the male and egg of Pseudocentema bispinatum Chen & He, 2002 and for the female of Q. jianfengense jianfengense Chen & He, 2002 sen. str. A new genus, Neoqiongphasma gen. nov., is established for N. diaoluoshanensis spec. nov., distinguished from Pseudocentema by its spinose thorax and from Qiongphasma by its unarmed head.
Review of the bamboo-feeding species of tribe Evacanthini (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) with description of two new species from China
Authors: YANG LIN , CHEN XIANG-SHENG , LI ZI-ZHONG
Published: March 2013

The bamboo-feeding species of tribe Evacanthini are reviewed. They include 9 genera and 13 species: Angustella leucostriata Li & Wang, 1991, Boundarus nigronotus Zhang, Zhang & Wei, 2010a, Carinata kelloggii (Baker, 1923), C. nigrofasciata Li & Wang, 1994a, Convexana fleura Chen, Yang & Li, 2012, Evacanthus repexus Distant, 1908, Onukia guttata Li & Wang, 1991, O. nigra Li & Wang, 1991, Parapythamus suiyangensis Li & Li, 2011, Taperus fasciatus Li & Wang, 1994b, T. luchunensis Zhang, Zhang & Wei, 2010b and the two new species, Bundera bambusana sp. nov. and Paraonukia wangmoensis sp. nov. The new species are described and all the species are photographed and illustrated. A key to these 13 species is also given.
A review of the ecology and distribution of Protoribates (Oribatida, Oripodoidea, Haplozetidae) in Alberta, Canada, with the description of a new species
Authors: WALTER DAVID EVANS , LATONAS SARAH
Published: March 2013

The oribatid mite genus Protoribates Berlese (Haplozetidae) is reviewed for North America and the genus diagnosis is revised to account for the North American species, Protoribates robustior (Jacot, 1937) is redescribed and newly reported from western North America and a new species from Alberta is described. Protoribates haughlandae sp. n. is bisexual, heterotridactylous, and lives primarily in the peat soils of fens and bogs. Protoribates robustior is all-female, monodactylous, and occurs primarily in dry forests or in dry, treeless sites dominated by grasses, sedges, and shrubs. Both species feed on fungal hyphae and spores, but P. haughlandae also is an opportunistic predator and/or necrophage of small arthropods and P. robustior gut contents often include material that resembles plant cell walls. Examination of type specimens confirms that Protoribates prionotus (Woolley, 1968) is a junior synonym of the widespread Protoribates lophotrichus (Berlese, 1904). A key to differentiate Lagenobates from Protoribates and to identify the 7 species of the latter that are known or reported from North America is provided.
The Continuum of Hydroclimate Variability in Western North America during the Last Millennium
Authors: Ault Toby R. , Cole Julia E. , Overpeck Jonathan T. , Pederson Gregory T. , St. George Scott , Otto-Bliesner Bette , Woodhouse Connie A. , Deser Clara
Published: March 2013

The distribution of climatic variance across the frequency spectrum has substantial importance for anticipating how climate will evolve in the future. Here power spectra and power laws (β) are estimated from instrumental, proxy, and climate model data to characterize the hydroclimate continuum in western North America (WNA). The significance of the estimates of spectral densities and β are tested against the null hypothesis that they reflect solely the effects of local (nonclimate) sources of autocorrelation at the monthly time scale. Although tree-ring-based hydroclimate reconstructions are generally consistent with this null hypothesis, values of β calculated from long moisture-sensitive chronologies (as opposed to reconstructions) and other types of hydroclimate proxies exceed null expectations. Therefore it may be argued that there is more low-frequency variability in hydroclimate than monthly autocorrelation alone can generate. Coupled model results archived as part of phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) are consistent with the null hypothesis and appear unable to generate variance in hydroclimate commensurate with paleoclimate records. Consequently, at decadal-to-multidecadal time scales there is more variability in instrumental and proxy data than in the models, suggesting that the risk of prolonged droughts under climate change may be underestimated by CMIP5 simulations of the future.
Diagnosing Northern Hemisphere Jet Portrayal in 17 CMIP3 Global Climate Models: Twentieth-Century Intermodel Variability
Authors: Delcambre Sharon C. , Lorenz David J. , Vimont Daniel J. , Martin Jonathan E.
Published: March 2013

The present study focuses on diagnosing the intermodel variability of nonzonally averaged NH winter jet stream portrayal in 17 global climate models (GCMs) from phase three of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP3). Relative to the reanalysis, the ensemble-mean 300-hPa Atlantic jet is too zonally extended and located too far equatorward in GCMs. The Pacific jet varies significantly between modeling groups, with large biases in the vicinity of the jet exit region that cancel in the ensemble mean. After seeking relationships between twentieth-century model wind biases and 1) the internal modes of jet variability or 2) tropical sea surface temperatures (SSTs), it is found that biases in upper-level winds are strongly related to an ENSO-like pattern in winter-mean tropical Pacific Ocean SST biases. The spatial structure of the leading modes of variability of the upper-level jet in the twentieth century is found to be accurately modeled in all 17 GCMs. Also, it is shown that Pacific model biases in the longitude of EOFs 1 and 2 are strongly linked to the modeled longitude of the Pacific jet exit, indicating that the improved characterization of the mean state of the Pacific jet may positively impact the modeled variability. This work suggests that improvements in model portrayal of the tropical Pacific mean state may significantly advance the portrayal of the mean state of the Pacific and Atlantic jets, which will consequently improve the modeled jet stream variability in the Pacific. To complement these findings, a companion paper examines the twenty-first-century GCM projections of the nonzonally averaged NH jet streams.
Action Programs for Ethnic Minorities
Authors: Podsiadlowski Astrid , Reichel Astrid
Published: March 2013

With increasing globalization and migration the workplace is becoming more and more culturally diverse. Although cultural diversity is found worldwide, handling of diversity as a corporate social responsibility (CSR) varies depending on national as well as organizational contexts. This article presents cross-national research linking macro level and meso level of analysis to identify national and organizational factors influencing an organization’s implementation of action programs for ethnic minorities. Utilizing techniques of multilevel modelling with 1,865 organizations from 10 countries, the study analyses the influence of normative and economic reasons as well as managerial discretion to act socially responsible. The patterns of influencing factors identified suggest that the main reasons are neither economic nor normative ones. The factors go beyond and represent rather social reasons. This article gives an overview of relevant predictors that increase the likelihood of action programs in organizations. Societal decision makers can find the direct relevance of political decisions and public perceptions on actions taken that address issues of interethnic group relations in organizations.
Under Positive Pressure
Authors: Helmig Bernd , Spraul Katharina , Ingenhoff Diana
Published: March 2013

This study tests a model that links stakeholder pressure to the implementation of corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities and market performance. Stakeholder groups and competitors might exert pressure on companies to implement CSR, which could lead to positive effects on market performance. Using structural equation modeling (SEM), the authors find that stakeholders and competitors exert pressure differently. The effect of CSR implementation on market performance is moderated by market dynamism: It affects market performance more in dynamic environments. The authors discuss implications for both companies and stakeholders.
Not welcome here: Discrimination towards women who wear the Muslim headscarf
Authors: Ghumman Sonia , Ryan Ann Marie
Published: March 2013

This study addresses discrimination that individuals who wear religious attire encounter during the hiring process. We build from the relational demography literature and contemporary research on discrimination in the workplace to propose possible discriminatory effects against Hijabis (Muslim women who wear the headscarf). Specifically, we conduct a field experiment in which confederates portraying Hijabis or not applied for jobs at stores and restaurants. Evidence for formal discrimination (job call backs, permission to complete application), interpersonal discrimination (perceived negativity, perceived interest), and low expectations to receive job offers in the workplace was found for Hijabi confederates. Furthermore, Hijabis were less likely to receive call backs when there was low employee diversity compared to when there was high employee diversity. Implications of these findings with regards to Hijabis and organizations are discussed.
“Nothing Better or Worse Than Being Black, Gay, and in the Band”
Authors: Carter Bruce Allen
Published: March 2013

This collective case study examined the experiences of four African American gay band students attending historically Black colleges or universities (HCBUs) in the southern United States. This study explored influences that shaped the participants’ identities as they negotiated numerous complex sociocultural discourses pervasive and challenging to gay African American band students. Utilizing participative inquiry, participants were asked to read, reflect on, and respond to historical and current research literature concerning the schooling experiences of Black students. Their responses were analyzed within a multifaceted theoretical framework, including poststructual theory, critical race theory, critical theory, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or questioning (LGBT2Q) studies. Present throughout the participants’ descriptions was an ever-evolving and renegotiated gay African American identity within the HBCU band setting. Findings indicate that the construction of an African American gay male identity within an HBCU band setting was a source of tremendous consternation concurrent with positive experiences of acceptance and community. Numerous implications for music educators in K–12 settings are provided, including recognizing and stemming bullying and harassment in classroom settings.
The Young Musicians of Motown
Authors: McCarthy Marie
Published: March 2013

This article focuses on the music education and enculturation of Motown musicians who grew up in greater Detroit. The early musical lives of Motown musicians are described—in the home environment, in schools and in black urban neighborhoods. Schools are shown to be spaces of musical nurturance, both in the context of the formal curriculum and in the school culture at large. The story provides a positive example of urban music education that can inform and inspire music education today. It helps identify factors that strengthen relationships between school and community; it highlights the ecological nature of school music located within a complex network of social and cultural institutions that contribute to music education; and it illustrates how schools and individual teachers can provide a space for students to perform music of popular idioms. It also provides evidence of the power of music in the lives of students as well as of the capacity of young people to generate and contribute to musical culture and to effect social change through their music-making.
A Virtual Composer in Every Classroom
Authors: Hoffman Adria R. , Carter Bruce A.
Published: March 2013

Previous generations applauded grant-funded programs that brought living composers into the lives of K–12 music students. The current economic climate, however, limits opportunities similar to those enjoyed in the past. We designed a virtual composer-in-residence experience that uses technology to overcome the barriers of funding limitations and geography. This article describes ways such a program can be implemented in an elementary or high school classroom. Included is information about technological considerations, criteria for finding a composer, and some ideas on planning, implementation, and evaluation.
Perspectives of Aging Among Persons Living With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Low Gail , Ross Carolyn , Stickland Michael , Wilson Donna , Wong Eric
Published: March 2013

Among pulmonary rehabilitation attendees, we explored their tendency to downplay versus acknowledge physical and psychosocial health limitations, and the subsequent impact either strategy had on how they perceive their own aging process. Participants ( N = 87) were 44 to 82 years of age, and diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire measured their health limitations. The Attitudes to Aging Questionnaire captured their perspectives of aging. Participants downplayed their symptoms and psychosocial impact, and remained most positive about psychosocial loss and carefully reserved about psychological growth. Acknowledged activity impairment had negative consequences, however, for their perspectives of physical change. These findings signify a balanced identity and perspective of aging that supports the Identity Process Theory. We encourage nurses and other practitioners, and researchers in pulmonary rehabilitation setting, to use this theory to better understand how people with COPD adapt to aging.
Salivary Morbidity and Quality of Life following Radioactive Iodine for Well‐Differentiated Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Dingle Isaac F. , Mishoe Ashley E. , Nguyen Shaun A. , Overton Lewis J. , Gillespie M. Boyd
Published: March 2013

Objective

Determine the prevalence of sialadenitis in a group of patients treated with radioactive iodine (RAI) for well‐differentiated thyroid cancer and assess whether RAI treatment is associated with a reduction in swallowing‐related or global head and neck quality of life.

Study Design

Retrospective self‐administered questionnaire study.

Setting

Academic, tertiary care, National Cancer Institute–designated cancer center.

Subjects and Methods

Surviving patients seen for well‐differentiated thyroid cancer were identified by review of the cancer center registry. Patients were mailed a baseline questionnaire, the M. D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory (MDADI), the University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire (UW‐QOL), and the Xerostomia‐Related Quality of Life Scale (XeQOLS).

Results

The study included 121 women and 24 men, with a mean age of 52 years. Radioactive iodine exposure was correlated with an increase in sialadenitis and was dose dependent (R2 = 0.335, P <. 001). Sialadenitis was 2.47 times more likely to occur in patients who received greater than 150 mCi when compared with those who received less than 150 mCi (P =. 04). Radioactive iodine exposure of over 150 mCi was also associated with a reduction in the recreation domain of the UW‐QOL (P =. 04), the daily swallowing domain of the MDADI (P =. 02), and the psychological/personal, pain, and social domains of the XeQOLS (P =. 03,. 03, and. 04, respectively).

Conclusion

Patients treated with RAI exhibited an increased risk for sialadenitis as well as a reduction in swallowing‐related and global head and neck quality of life. Our findings suggest these patients should be screened for salivary morbidity and may benefit from both pre‐RAI prophylaxis and post‐RAI intervention.
The use of non-invasive ventilation at end of life in patients with motor neurone disease: A qualitative exploration of family carer and health professional experiences
Authors: Baxter Susan K , Baird Wendy O , Thompson Sue , Bianchi Stephen M , Walters Stephen J , Lee Ellen , Ahmedzai Sam H , Proctor Alison , Shaw Pamela J , McDermott Christopher J
Published: March 2013

Background:

Non-invasive ventilation improves quality and quantity of life in patients with motor neurone disease who have respiratory failure. Use of non-invasive ventilation may, however, result in complex clinical issues for end-of-life care, with concerns as to whether and how it should be withdrawn.

Aim:

This study aimed to describe carer and health professional experiences of end-of-life care of motor neurone disease patients using non-invasive ventilation.

Design/participants:

This article reports data from qualitative interviews with family carers and professionals following the death of patients with motor neurone disease who were using non-invasive ventilation in the final phase of the disease.

Results:

Ten of the 20 patients initiated on non-invasive ventilation were using it in the end-of-life phase of their disease, with 5 using it for 24 h/day. Interviews were carried out with nine family carers and 15 professionals. Nine recurring themes were identified in the data. Both carers and health-care professionals perceived that the terminal phase of motor neurone disease was unexpectedly rapid and that this often led to unplanned interactions with the emergency services. Carers of patients who used non-invasive ventilation perceived non-invasive ventilation as aiding patient comfort and anxiety at the end of life.

Conclusions:

The use of non-invasive ventilation was described as beneficial and was not perceived by carers or most professionals to have adversely impacted patient’s end-of-life experience. This study highlights variation in patient wishes regarding usage towards the end of life, uncertainty regarding appropriate management among professionals and the importance of disseminating end-of-life wishes.
Optimal effective concentration of ropivacaine for postoperative analgesia by single-shot femoral–sciatic nerve block in outpatient knee arthroscopy
Authors: Yao Jun , Zeng Zhen , Jiao Zhi-Hua , Wang Ai-Zhong , Wang Jing , Yu Ang
Published: March 2013

Objective

To compare analgesic and mobility effects of different ropivacaine concentrations in femoral–sciatic nerve block, for postoperative analgesia in knee arthroscopy.

Methods

Outpatients (American Society of Anesthesiologists physical classification status of I or II), scheduled for elective knee arthroscopy, were randomly allocated to one of seven groups, prospectively investigating different concentrations of ropivacaine (0.12%; 0.14%; 0.16%; 0.18%; 0.20%; 0.22% or 0.50%), for ultrasound-guided femoral–sciatic nerve block procedures for postoperative analgesia. Visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores and motor block evaluation scales were observed at 4, 8, 16 and 24 h postsurgery.

Results

In total, 105 patients were enrolled; results were analysed for 103. VAS scores for the 0.12%, 0.14% and 0.16% groups were significantly different from the 0.50% group. There were no significant differences between the 0.18%, 0.20%, 0.22% and 0.50% groups: half maximal effective concentrations and 95% maximal effective concentrations of ropivacaine were 0.158 (95% confidence intervals [CI] 0.149, 0.167) and 0.198 (95% CI 0.186, 0.221), respectively. Rates of motor blockade (Bromage score or hip motor function scale > 0) were significantly different between the 0.50% group and all other ropivacaine doses.

Conclusion

The 0.20% ropivacaine dose for femoral–sciatic nerve block in knee arthroscopy provided satisfactory postoperative analgesia, while preserving ability of motion.