bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extended resections for colorectal cancer ‐ indications for supraradical lymphadenectomy
Authors: Hohenberger P. , Du W. , Post S.
Published: November 2011

The laparoscopic approach to standard resections in colorectal cancer has proven that it may provide equal rates of R0 resections and adequate retrieval of lymph nodes as open procedures if performed by experienced hands. There might be difficulties in more advanced tumors or those with lymphatic spread beyond typical drainage areas and more extensive operations might be required. An atypical pattern of lymphatic spread often is associated with other adverse factors such as multifocality of primary cancers and adverse tumorbiological factors such as grade. Such patient subgroups may be defined beforehand and include particularly patients with underlying ulcerative colitis. Repetitively, extended lymph node dissection approaches have been advocated, however neither in randomised trails nor in meta‐analysis has a more favourable outcome of patients undergoing such extended lymphatic dissections been demonstrated. Sticking to the rules of classical dissection of lymphatic drainage basins with removal of adequate lymph node numbers is one corner stone for successful treatment of colorectal cancer. The other one refers to a detailed description of the procedure performed in order to make the surgical procedure trackable.
Laparoscopic lymphatic roadmapping with blue dye and radioisotope in colon cancer
Authors: Bianchi P. P. , Petz W. , Casali L.
Published: November 2011

Lymphatic mapping (LM) and sentinel lymph node (SLN) identification by blue dye in colon cancer is a procedure feasible during minimally invasive surgery, with good specificity, but still a low sensitivity (78% in our series). These results are in accordance with the literature and have limited more widespread diffusion of the method, both as a tool for upstaging and more controversially, as a potential roadmap to a tailored lymphadenectomy. It is possible to improve the results of LM with careful selection of patients and by the use of an intraoperative gamma camera. The preliminary results of intra‐operative lymphoscintigraphy are promising in a well‐selected small group of patients, with high levels of sensitivity and specificity. If these results are confirmed in further prospective analyses, it may be possible to undertake selected, tailored lymphadenectomy.
School‐performance indicators and subjective health complaints: are there gender differences?
Authors: Låftman Sara Brolin , Modin Bitte
Published: November 2011

Although boys and girls are generally located in the same physical school environment, it may be experienced differently by, and have varying implications for, boys and girls. Girls like school more and achieve higher school marks, but they also perceive more school‐related pressure. Based on a total sample of 8456 ninth grade pupils in Stockholm in 2004, this study uses multilevel linear regression to analyse differences between boys and girls with regard to a number of school‐performance indicators (demands, motivation, teacher support and school marks) and their association with subjective health complaints. Results showed that girls perceive more demands, show greater academic motivation, perform better in school and report more emotional support from teachers than boys. In contrast, instrumental and appraisal support from teachers are more commonly reported by boys. Associations between school‐performance indicators and subjective health complaints were slightly stronger for girls than for boys. Contextual variation in health complaints, especially between classes, was found only for girls. High achievement motivation and emotional teacher support in the school class was associated with better pupil health, suggesting that a positive climate in terms of motivation and support favours class health as a whole.
Sex, price and preferences: accounting for unsafe sexual practices in prostitution markets
Authors: Adriaenssens Stef , Hendrickx Jef
Published: November 2011

Unsafe sexual practices are persistent in prostitution interactions: one in four contacts can be called unsafe. The determinants of this are still matter for debate. We account for the roles played by clients’ preferences and the hypothetical price premium of unsafe sexual practices with the help of a large dataset of clients’ self‐reported commercial sexual transactions in Belgium and The Netherlands. Almost 25,000 reports were collected, representing the whole gamut of prostitution market segments. The first set of explanations consists of an analysis of the price‐fixing elements of paid sex. With the help of the so‐called hedonic pricing method we test for the existence of a price incentive for unsafe sex. In accordance with the results from studies in some prostitution markets in the developing world, the study replicates a significant wage penalty for condom use of an estimated 7.2 per cent, confirmed in both multilevel and fixed‐effects regressions. The second part of the analysis reconstructs the demand side basis of this wage penalty: the consistent preference of clients of prostitution for unsafe sex. This study is the first to document empirically clients’ preference for intercourse without a condom, with the help of a multilevel ordinal regression.
Combination of evidence from multiple administrative data sources: quality assessment of the Austrian register‐based Census 2011
Authors: Berka Christopher , Humer Stefan , Moser Mathias , Lenk Manuela , Rechta Henrik , Schwerer Eliane
Published: November 2011

This article investigates the quality of register data in the context of a standardized quality framework. The special focus of this work lies on the assessment of census data and how to deal with uncertainty that arises from multiple sources (registers). To take the uncertainty associated with support and conflict between several registers into account, Dempster–Shafer's theory of evidence is applied. This ‘fuzzy’ approach allows us to investigate the quality of databases with multiple underlying sources for a single attribute and to provide both quality measures and plausibility intervals.
Sample Size Estimation for Alternating Logistic Regressions Analysis of Multilevel Randomized Community Trials of Under-Age Drinking
Authors: Reboussin Beth A. , Preisser John S. , Song Eun-Young , Wolfson Mark
Published: November 2011

Under-age drinking is an enormous public health issue in the USA. Evidence that community level structures may impact on under-age drinking has led to a proliferation of efforts to change the environment surrounding the use of alcohol. Although the focus of these efforts is to reduce drinking by individual youths, environmental interventions are typically implemented at the community level with entire communities randomized to the same intervention condition. A distinct feature of these trials is the tendency of the behaviours of individuals residing in the same community to be more alike than that of others residing in different communities, which is herein called ‘clustering’. Statistical analyses and sample size calculations must account for this clustering to avoid type I errors and to ensure an appropriately powered trial. Clustering itself may also be of scientific interest. We consider the alternating logistic regressions procedure within the population-averaged modelling framework to estimate the effect of a law enforcement intervention on the prevalence of under-age drinking behaviours while modelling the clustering at multiple levels, e.g. within communities and within neighbourhoods nested within communities, by using pairwise odds ratios. We then derive sample size formulae for estimating intervention effects when planning a post-test-only or repeated cross-sectional community-randomized trial using the alternating logistic regressions procedure.
Foreign Direct Investment and Total Factor Productivity in China: A Spatial Dynamic Panel Analysis*
Authors: Hong Eunsuk , Sun Laixiang
Published: November 2011

This study develops a spatial dynamic model to assess the total‐factor‐productivity (TFP) effects of externalities generated by foreign direct investment (FDI). The model is capable of disentangling TFP effects from capital accumulation effects and introducing spatial interdependence based on theoretical derivation rather than spatial statistical tests. An application of this model to a panel dataset of China at the provincial level over 1980–2005 shows significantly positive impact of FDI externalities on TFP within and across regions. This finding is robust to a range of empirical specifications of our theoretical model, to different estimators, and to alternative proxies of FDI intensity variable.
Processing Trade, FDI and the Exports of Indigenous Firms: Firm‐Level Evidence from Technology‐Intensive Industries in China
Authors: Fu Xiaolan
Published: November 2011

This study examines the impact of processing trade‐foreign direct investment (FDI) on the export competitiveness of indigenous firms using disaggregated firm‐level production data and product‐level trade data from China covering the 2000–07 period. The estimation results show that processing trade‐FDI has generated significant positive information spillover effect on the export performance of indigenous firms. However, its technology spillovers effect on the development of international competitiveness in indigenous firms is limited and in fact exerts a significant depressive effect on the propensity to export in these firms. Indigenous innovation, economies of scale and productivity are found to be the main drivers of export performance in indigenous firms.
Explaining Spatial Convergence of China's Industrial Productivity*
Authors: Deng Paul D. , Jefferson Gary H.
Published: November 2011

This article investigates the conditions that may auger a reversal of China's increasingly unequal levels of regional industrial productivity during China's first two decades of economic reform. Using international and Chinese firm and industry data over the period 1995–2004, we estimate a productivity growth–technology gap reaction function. We find that as China's coastal industry has closed the technology gap with the international frontier, labour productivity growth in the coastal region has begun to slow in relation to the interior. This may serve as an early indicator of China's initial movement towards reversing growth in spatial income inequality.
Mobilising resources for union learning: a strategy for revitalisation?
Authors: Heyes Jason , Rainbird Helen
Published: November 2011

This article examines attempts by UNISON to embed a culture of learning within the workplace. The analysis, which is rooted in resource‐based mobilisation theory, shows how UNISON was able to draw on the Union Learning Fund to create new resources in the form of project workers. These project workers subsequently played a vital role in building support for learning at regional and branch levels. The article also examines ways in which UNISON activists were able to progress the learning agenda through proactive engagement with ‘opportunity structures’.
European works councils: the challenge for labour1
Authors: Waddington Jeremy
Published: November 2011

Drawing on survey evidence, this paper explores the quality of information and consultation at European works councils and developments in the support infrastructure available to representatives. The paper highlights that European works councils are an institution in process. As such, wide‐ranging developments have been implemented to improve their performance, but many of these will have to be extended in coverage if European work councils are to be exploited to better effect by labour.
Aesthetic evaluation after non‐invasive treatment for superficial basal cell carcinoma
Authors: Mosterd K. , Arits A.H.M.M. , Nelemans P.J. , Kelleners‐Smeets N.W.J.
Published: November 2011

Background Cosmetic results following non‐invasive treatments are difficult to compare. Although qualified objective scar assessment scales are available, they are not used in dermatological studies. Usually a 4‐point scale is used in dermatological scars. The reproducibility of this method has never been evaluated. Moreover, significant specific scar characteristics are lacking. The patient and observer scar assessment scale (POSAS) is a scale qualified for the assessments of surgical scars. It has proven to be as reliable as the widely used Vancouver Scar Scale, but has the advantage that it includes the patient’s opinion and specifies different scar characteristics.

Objective Both methods were used to evaluate cosmetic results following non‐invasive treatments of superficial basal cell carcinoma (BCC).

Methods A total of 54 lesions following non‐invasive treatment for BCC in 54 patients were evaluated with the traditional 4‐point scale and the POSAS.

Results The 4‐point scale showed the best reproducibility and had an intra‐class correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.66 (95% CI: 0.52–0.77) for a single observer and 0.85 (95% CI: 0.77–0.91) for multiple observers. The ICC of the POSAS was 0.41 (95% CI: 0.21–0.58) for a single observer and 0.67 (95% CI: 0.45–0.81) for three observers. The scar characteristics, vascularity and pigmentation were most decisive for the overall opinion.

Conclusion The use of the 4‐point scale is a valid method to compare scars of non‐invasive dermatological treatments. Supplementary registering vascularity and pigmentation can be useful in future studies.
Antibiotic‐resistant Propionibacterium acnes among acne patients in a regional skin centre in Hong Kong
Authors: Luk N.‐M.T. , Hui M. , Lee H.‐C.S. , Fu L.H. , Liu Z.H. , Lam L.Y. , Eastel M. , Chan Y.‐K.A. , Tang L.‐S.N. , Cheng T.‐S. , Siu F.‐Y.C. , Ng S.‐C. , Lai Y.‐K.D. , Ho K.‐M.
Published: November 2011

Background  There has been no study on antibiotic‐resistant Propionibacterium acnes in Hong Kong.

Objective  We investigated the prevalence and pattern of antibiotic‐resistant P. acnes and to identify any associated factors for harbouring the resistant strains.

Methods  Culture and sensitivity testing of P. acnes to commonly used antibiotics were performed. Resistance to tetracycline was defined at a minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 2 μg/mL or more; erythromycin at an MIC of 0.5 μg/mL or more; clindamycin at an MIC of 0.25 μg/mL or more according to EUCAST. For breakpoints of doxycycline and minocycline, those with an MIC of 1 μg/mL or more were defined as resistant strains.

Results  Among the 111 specimens collected from 111 patients, 86 strains of P. acnes were recovered, one from each specimen. Twenty‐five specimens had no growth. Forty‐seven (54.8%) strains were found to be resistant to one or more antibiotics. Forty‐six (53.5%), 18 (20.9%), 14 (16.3%), 14(16.3%) and 14 (16.3%) strains were resistant to clindamycin (CL), erythromycin (EM), tetracycline (TET), doxycycline (DOX) and minocycline (MR) respectively. Ten strains (11.6%) had cross resistance between the MLS antibiotics (erythromycin or clindamycin), one strain (1.2%) had cross resistance among the cyclines and 14 strains (16.4%) had cross resistance between the MLS and cycline antibiotics. Binary logistic regression showed an association between MLS antibiotic resistance with an increased age whereas cycline resistance was associated with the duration of treatment.

Conclusions  Antibiotic‐resistant P. acnes is prevalent in Hong Kong. Dermatologists should be more vigilant in prescribing antibiotics for acne patients.
Cross‐functional E3 ligases Parkin and C‐terminus Hsp70‐interacting protein in neurodegenerative disorders
Authors: Kumar Pravir , Pradhan Kaveri , Karunya R. , Ambasta Rashmi K. , Querfurth Henry W.
Published: November 2011

J. Neurochem. (2012) 120, 350–370.

The study of neurodegenerative disorders has had a major impact on our understanding of more fundamental mechanisms underlying neurobiology. Breakthroughs in the genetics of Alzheimer’s (AD) and Parkinson’s diseases (PD) has resulted in new knowledge in the areas of axonal transport, energy metabolism, protein trafficking/clearance and synaptic physiology. The major neurodegenerative diseases have in common a regional or network pathology associated with abnormal protein accumulation(s) and various degrees of motor or cognitive decline. In AD, β‐amyloids are deposited in extracellular diffuse and compacted plaques as well as intracellularly. There is a major contribution to the disease by the co‐existence of an intraneuronal tauopathy. Additionally, PD‐like Lewy Bodies (LBs) bearing aggregated α‐synuclein is present in 40–60% of all AD cases, especially involving amygdala. Amyloid deposits can be degraded or cleared by several mechanisms, including immune‐mediated and transcytosis across the blood–brain barrier. Another avenue for disposal involves the lysosome pathway via autophagy. Enzymatic pathways include insulin degradative enzyme and neprilysin. Finally, the co‐operative actions of C‐terminus Hsp70 interacting protein (CHIP) and Parkin, components of a multiprotein E3 ubiquitin ligase complex, may be a portal to proteasome‐mediated degradation. Mutations in the Parkin gene are the most common genetic link to autosomal recessive Parkinson’s disease. Parkin catalyzes the post‐translational modification of proteins with polyubiquitin, targeting them to the 26S proteasome. Parkin reduces intracellular Aβ1–42 peptide levels, counteracts its effects on cell death, and reverses its effect to inhibit the proteasome. Additionally, Parkin has intrinsic cytoprotective activity to promote proteasome function and defend against oxidative stress to mitochondria. Parkin and CHIP are also active in amyloid clearance and cytoprotection in vivo. Parkin has cross‐functionality in additional neurodegenerative diseases, for instance, to eliminate polyglutamine‐expanded proteins, reducing their aggregation and toxicity and reinstate proteasome function. The dual actions of CHIP (molecular co‐chaperone and E3 ligase) and Parkin (as E3‐ubiquitin ligase and anti‐oxidant) may also play a role in suppressing inflammatory reactions in animal models of neurodegeneration. In this review, we focus on the significance of CHIP and Parkin as inducers of amyloid clearance, as cytoprotectants and in the suppression of reactive inflammation. A case is made for more effort to explore whether neurodegeneration associated with proteinopathies can be arrested at early stages by promoting their mutual action.
Long‐term relationship between diet breadth and breeding success in a declining population of Egyptian Vultures Neophron percnopterus
Authors: MARGALIDA ANTONI , BENÍTEZ JOSÉ R. , SÁNCHEZ‐ZAPATA JOSÉ A. , ÁVILA ENRIQUE , ARENAS RAFAEL , DONÁZAR JOSÉ A.
Published: November 2011

Between 2000 and 2009 we studied the diet and breeding success of Egyptian Vultures Neophron percnopterus in southern Spain. Wild species accounted for 74.9% of prey items (n = 1071) with a predominance of mammals (62.3%), followed by birds (20.8%) and reptiles (13.1%). Spatially, the diet was highly varied and not restricted to carcasses of livestock; wild Rabbits Oryctolagus cuniculus accounted for 54% of the overall remains. The spatial variability may reflect regional and local disparity in the availability of main prey. The temporal relationship between variation in trophic diversity and Vulture nesting productivity (both values showing a long‐term decrease) might suggest a causal link between variation in diet and reproductive output. We hypothesize that high turnover rates could explain productivity variation as a consequence of the recruitment of less experienced individuals to the breeding population. This could in turn generate covariation between diet and reproductive output.
The effect of Jacobin CuckooClamator jacobinusparasitism on the body mass and survival of young in a new host species
Authors: RIDLEY AMANDA R. , THOMPSON ALEX M.
Published: November 2011

The southern African subspecies of Jacobin CuckooClamator jacobinus serratusis a brood parasite of a range of host species. While Jacobin Cuckoos do not evict host young, previous research has found that host young rarely survive the nestling period. Here we provide the first records of Jacobin Cuckoo parasitism of a new host species, the Southern Pied BabblerTurdoides bicolor. We investigate rates of brood parasitism and the survival of host young. The Southern Pied Babbler is one of the largest recorded hosts for Jacobin Cuckoos and, unusually, we find that host young tend to survive the nestling period and maintain similar body mass to host young in unparasitized broods. However, host young were less likely to survive to independence than young raised in unparasitized nests, suggesting a post‐fledging reproductive cost to hosts.
The diet of migrant Red Kites Milvus milvus during a Water Vole Arvicola terrestris outbreak in eastern France and the associated risk of secondary poisoning by the rodenticide bromadiolone
Authors: COEURDASSIER MICHAEL , POIRSON CLAIRE , PAUL JEAN‐PHILIPPE , RIEFFEL DOMINIQUE , MICHELAT DOMINIQUE , REYMOND DAVID , LEGAY PHILIPPE , GIRAUDOUX PATRICK , SCHEIFLER RENAUD
Published: November 2011

Poisoning by pesticides is considered one of the primary threats to the Red Kite Milvus milvus. We studied the diet of this raptor in an area of eastern France where the rodenticide bromadiolone is widely used to control Water Vole Arvicola terrestris outbreaks. A high degree of specialization for Water Voles was noted, as their remains were identified in all 119 pellets collected in autumn 2008, whereas other small rodent species and insects occurred in 27 and 9% of pellets, respectively. We estimated that Water Voles constituted 94% of the total biomass ingested by Red Kites under these conditions. Based on these data, the risk of secondary poisoning due to feeding on poisoned voles was assessed. Acute exposure on a single day was not considered a risk for Kites, but exposure to poisoned voles over 1 week represented the maximal risk for the Red Kite; the calculated dose of bromadiolone ingested by a Red Kite was 137 times higher than the toxicological benchmark for birds. A field survey in the studied area detected four dead Red Kites and one moribund bird in autumn 2008 but did not confirm that the cause of death was bromadiolone poisoning. We suggest that professional monitoring is needed to assess the impact of rodenticides on Red Kites in areas where voles are controlled.
Mutual Fund Family Size and Mutual Fund Performance: The Role of Regulatory Changes
Authors: BHOJRAJ SANJEEV , JUN CHO YOUNG , YEHUDA NIR
Published: November 2011

We examine whether the previously documented positive association between fund family size and fund performance is affected by significant regulatory changes (i.e., Regulation Fair Disclosure (Reg FD), the Global Settlement (GS), and increased scrutiny as a result of trading scandals) that have occurred in the last decade. Using Reg FD as a beginning point for these structural changes, we find that, while fund family size was positively associated with fund performance in the period prior to the regulatory changes, this advantage is significantly weaker in the period subsequent to the regulatory changes. Consistent with the weakened advantage of fund family size in fund performance, we find that the greater stock‐picking skill of larger fund families, measured using the earnings announcement returns of the stocks they trade, also weakened subsequent to the regulatory changes. Using narrower event windows around the regulatory changes, we find that the previously documented superior return of large fund families was partly attributable to selective disclosure. We also find that fund families implicated in the trading scandals experienced a decline in their performance during the scandal period. Finally, we examine the role of large investment banks in providing an advantage to large fund families. Family size was positively associated with the extent to which funds traded in the same direction as forecast revisions by analysts from large investment banks in the period prior to Reg FD and the GS and this association declined significantly after the two regulatory events.
Family‐Based Association Study of Chromosome 6p12.2‐p21.1 Migraine Locus
Authors: Oterino Agustín , Toriello Maria , Castillo Jesus , González‐Quitanilla Vicente , Sánchez‐Velasco Pablo , Alonso Ana , Ruiz‐Lavilla Nuria , Pascual Julio
Published: November 2011

Background.— One of the genome‐wide linkage studies performed in migraine has yielded a significant linkage of migraine (with and without aura) with markers located at 6p12.2‐21.1. This locus (named MIGR3) has not been replicated in the only genome‐wide association scan study performed to date or in previous genome‐wide linkage studies.

Objective.— Our objective had been to replicate the MIGR3 locus performing a family‐based association study.

Methods.— A sample of 594 subjects belonging to 134 migraine families of diverse complexity underwent genotyping for the markers previously published as linked at 6p12.2‐21.1 migraine locus. Family‐based association test, under different models of inheritance, and also the model‐free TDT analysis were performed.

Results.— The best result was obtained with the D6S1650 marker under the additive model (rank [S observed] = 265.0; permuted P = .0006), using family‐based association test program (HBAT subprogram). Similar results were obtained with the model‐free TDTPHASE algorithm (P < .0001, corrected). Nominal significant P values were obtained for D6S1630, D6S452, and D6S257. After correction for multiple testing with the stratified false‐discovery rate, all markers showed significant association (P < .0001).

Conclusion.— We corroborated that the MIGR3 locus at 6p12 is a genetic risk for migraine with and without aura.

(Headache 2012;52:393‐399)
Electronic Play, Study, Communication, and Adolescent Achievement, 2003–2008
Authors: Hofferth Sandra L. , Moon Ui Jeong
Published: November 2011

Adolescents’ time spent messaging, exploring websites, and studying on the computer increased between 2003 and 2008. Using data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics Child Development Supplement, this study examines how such changes have influenced individual achievement and behavior from childhood to adolescence. Greater communications and Internet web time proved detrimental to vocabulary and reading whereas the increased use of computer games was associated with increased reading and problem‐solving scores, particularly for girls and minority children. Increased use of the computer for studying was associated with increased test scores for girls, but not boys. The consequences are more benign than many feared. Groups that have traditionally used the computer less (girls, minority children) appear to benefit from greater use.
Attempted Medical Management of Suspected Ascending Colon Displacement in Horses
Authors: McGovern Kate F. , Bladon Bruce M. , Fraser Barny S.L. , Boston Raymond C.
Published: November 2011

Objective

To determine the success of medical management of suspected displacement of the ascending (large) colon in horses.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Animals

Horses (n = 127) with suspected large colon displacement.

Methods

Medical records (January 1998–September 2008) of horses admitted for colic were reviewed. Suspected large colon displacement was diagnosed from clinical examination and in some cases, subsequent surgical examination. Medically managed horses were exercised and administered intravenous fluids and analgesia. Horses with suspected left dorsal displacement (LDD) of the large colon were also administered phenylephrine.

Results

Medical management had a high success rate for treatment of suspected right dorsal displacement (RDD) (64%) and LDD (76%) of the large colon; 4 horses died (1) or were euthanatized (3) and 36 horses had surgery. Of 127 horses treated medically or surgically for a colon displacement, 94% survived to hospital discharge.

Conclusions

Horses with suspected RDD or LDD of the large colon may respond to medical management including exercise.
Early Reherniation of Disk Material in Eleven Dogs with Surgically Treated Thoracolumbar Intervertebral Disk Extrusion
Authors: Hettlich Bianca F. , Kerwin Sharon C. , Levine Jonathan M.
Published: November 2011

Objective

To report findings and outcomes of dogs with reherniation of nuclear material within 7 days of hemilaminectomy for acute thoracolumbar (TL) intervertebral disk extrusion.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Animals

Chondrodystrophic dogs (n = 11).

Methods

Dogs with acute neurologic decline within 1 week of surgical decompression for TL disk extrusion were identified. Advanced imaging was used to document extradural spinal cord compression at the previous surgery site. Ten dogs had a 2nd decompressive surgery to remove extruded nuclear material.

Results

All dogs had acute neurologic deterioration (average, 2 neurologic grades) 2–7 days after initial hemilaminectomy. Computed tomography (CT; n = 10) or myelography (n = 1) documented extradural spinal cord compression compatible with extruded disk material at the previous hemilaminectomy site. Dogs that had a 2nd surgical decompression improved neurologically within 24 hours and were paraparetic at discharge. The single dog that did not have decompressive surgery did not regain deep nociception during 185‐day follow‐up.

Conclusions

Early reherniation at the site of previous hemilaminectomy can produce acute deterioration of neurologic function and should be investigated with diagnostic imaging. Repeat decompressive surgery can lead to functional recovery.
Acquired cytochrome C oxidase impairment in apheresis platelets during storage: a possible mechanism for depletion of metabolic adenosine triphosphate
Authors: Diab Yaser A. , Thomas Adia , Luban Naomi L.C. , Wong Edward C.C. , Wagner Stephen J. , Levy Richard J.
Published: November 2011

BACKGROUND: Intracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels decline significantly during storage of platelet (PLT) products, in part due to PLT degranulation. However, metabolic ATP stores also become depleted during storage through an unclear mechanism. Since both anaerobic glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation are important for PLT ATP production, it is possible that the reduction in metabolic ATP reflects impaired oxidative phosphorylation. To assess this, we evaluated the kinetic activity and protein expression of cytochrome C oxidase (CcOX) in stored apheresis PLTs.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Apheresis PLTs were collected and stored with agitation at 22 ± 2°C for 7 days. In vitro measurements of PLT metabolic state, function, and activation were performed on Days 0, 2, 4, and 7 of storage. Total PLT ATP content, steady‐state CcOX kinetic activity, and protein immunoblotting for CcOX Subunits I and IV were also performed using isolated PLT mitochondria from simultaneously collected samples.

RESULTS: Intra‐PLT ATP and steady‐state PLT CcOX activity declined significantly and in a progressive manner throughout storage while steady‐state levels of CcOX I and IV protein remained unchanged. Time‐dependent decline in CcOX activity correlated with progressive ATP depletion over time.

CONCLUSION: During storage of apheresis PLTs for 7 days, the parallel decline in CcOX function and intra‐PLT ATP suggests development of an acquired impairment in PLT oxidative phosphorylation associated with perturbed ATP homeostasis in stored PLTs.
Does Reported Policy Activity Reduce Contributions to Nonprofit Service Providers?
Authors: Nicholson‐Crotty Jill
Published: November 2011

There is a growing recognition that charitable organizations are important actors in the policy process, but research has not, to date, systematically investigated whether reporting policy activity influences private giving to such organizations. This article develops the argument that reported lobbying should be positively related to donations because organizations seeking policy change consider such activities to be vital to their clients and missions and communicate that belief to potential donors. This article tests for the relationship between reported lobbying activities and private giving in analyses of 501(c)(3) organizations that filed Internal Revenue Service form 990 s in fiscal years 2000 and 2001. The results suggest that organizations that report policy activity receive more donations in the following fiscal year, with some variation across service type. The article concludes with a discussion of the implications for the policy process and scholars of nonprofit organizations.
The Goldilocks Solution: Exploring the Relationship between Trust and Participation in Resource Management within the New Zealand Commercial Rock Lobster Fishery
Authors: Yandle Tracy , Hajj Nadya , Raciborski Rafal
Published: November 2011

Our understanding of the role natural resource users, and the governing institutions they create, has grown considerably in recent years. At the same time, our understanding of the role of trust in human interactions continues to grow. We use the case of New Zealand rock lobster (jasus edwardsii and Jasus verrauxi)to ask the question “What is the role of trust in an individual's decision to participate in natural resource management institutions?” Using data from a survey of constituents of the commercial rock lobster fishery, our analysis shows an inverted “U” relationship between trust and participation. We suggest that this may be described as a “Goldilocks solution” in which having both too much and too little trust is problematic; but a healthy level of is “just right.” Theoretical and policy implications of these findings and directions for future research are explored.
Can Affirmative Motivations Improve Compliance in Emissions Trading Programs?
Authors: Raymond Leigh , Cason Timothy N.
Published: November 2011

Early emissions trading programs have obtained a very high rate of compliance, in part by using continuous emissions monitors (CEMs) that automatically record emissions data on a 24‐hour basis. As they expand into a wider range of pollutants and sources, however, such policies will have to rely on less automated forms of self‐reporting. This article asks if improved “affirmative motivations” for compliance based on perceptions of a policy's fairness could reduce the likelihood of underreporting, thereby lowering verification costs without unduly jeopardizing environmental integrity. Using a computerized laboratory emissions trading market, we find that many subjects reported emissions honestly in situations where dishonest reporting would have been more profitable, as well as a statistically significant association of affirmative motivations based on perceptions of a policy's fairness with honest reporting. These results suggest that designing an emissions trading program to increase its perceived fairness among users has the potential to increase honest emissions reporting and reduce monitoring costs.
Introducing a Semi‐Automatic Method to Simulate Large Numbers of Forensic Fingermarks for Research on Fingerprint Identification
Authors: Rodriguez Crystal M. , de Jongh Arent , Meuwly Didier
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  Statistical research on fingerprint identification and the testing of automated fingerprint identification system (AFIS) performances require large numbers of forensic fingermarks. These fingermarks are rarely available. This study presents a semi‐automatic method to create simulated fingermarks in large quantities that model minutiae features or images of forensic fingermarks. This method takes into account several aspects contributing to the variability of forensic fingermarks such as the number of minutiae, the finger region, and the elastic deformation of the skin. To investigate the applicability of the simulated fingermarks, fingermarks have been simulated with 5–12 minutiae originating from different finger regions for six fingers. An AFIS matching algorithm was used to obtain similarity scores for comparisons between the minutiae configurations of fingerprints and the minutiae configurations of simulated and forensic fingermarks. The results showed similar scores for both types of fingermarks suggesting that the simulated fingermarks are good substitutes for forensic fingermarks.
A Test for Carrion Fly Full Siblings: A Tool for Detecting Postmortem Relocation of a Corpse*,†,‡
Authors: Picard Christine J. , Wells Jeffrey D.
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  We propose a genetic test for full sibship for a pair of carrion flies that could reveal the postmortem relocation of a corpse. A carrion fly larva is sometimes left behind when a corpse is moved. The discovery of full sibling larvae of approximately the same developmental stage at two locations would strongly suggest that a corpse was moved between those two sites. Distributions of pairwise comparisons of relatedness (R) coefficients were generated using amplified fragment length polymorphism profiles for nine samples of laboratory‐generated full siblings as well as for a reference sample of nonfull sibling Phormia regina (Diptera: Calliphoridae). The mean relative R coefficient, a pairwise measure of the proportion of shared alleles, was 0.479 (±0.289 SD) for full siblings, close to the theoretical expectation of 0.5. A likelihood ratio (LR) test was based on observed distributions of R. R >0.55 corresponded to an LR >1000 favoring full sibship for that pair of individuals.
Vapor‐phase Staining of Cyanoacrylate‐Fumed Latent Fingerprints Using p‐Dimethylaminobenzaldehyde
Authors: Takatsu Masahisa , Shimoda Osamu , Teranishi Hiroyoshi
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  Contrasting or enhancing of cyanoacrylate ester‐fumed latent fingerprints deposited on solvent‐sensitive materials such as oil marker writings and rough surface materials such as unglazed earthenware is not easy by conventional dye solutions dipping or dye powder dusting. In this study, a new vapor‐phase staining method using p‐dimethylaminobenzaldehyde (DMAB) is proposed for staining such materials. DMAB has high volatility and selective absorbability to cyanoacrylate‐fumed fingerprints, so that cyanoacrylate‐treated samples can be easily stained by leaving them simply in a closed container along with DMAB crystals for 48–96 h at room temperature or in conjunction with the use of mild heating. The stained fingerprint could be excited by UV irradiation (365 nm), and the fluorescent fingerprint was photographed through a UV cut‐off filter (420 nm). The new method achieved minimally destructive fluorescent staining for the solvent‐sensitive samples and the rough surfaced samples.
A cutaneous vascular neoplasm with hobnail microscopic morphology and unusual gross features
Authors: Wachter David Lukas , Agaimy Abbas
Published: November 2011

Vascular tumors are categorized into benign hemangiomas, frankly malignant angiosarcomas and tumors with intermediate biological behavior (hemangioendotheliomas). The latter group includes hemangioendotheliomas of the epithelioid, kaposiform, retiform and composite subtypes. Furthermore, a heterogeneous group of both benign and intermediate vascular tumors exhibits a peculiar hobnail cell morphology. This heterogeneous group encompasses hobnail hemangioma, retiform hemangioendothelioma, papillary intralymphatic angioendothelioma and a subset of angiosarcoma. We herein present a case of a cutaneous vascular neoplasm with hobnail morphology and unusual gross features.

Wachter DL, Agaimy A. A cutaneous vascular neoplasm with hobnail microscopic morphology and unusual gross features.
Comparative population dynamics of large and small mammals in the Northern Hemisphere: deterministic and stochastic forces
Authors: Wang Guiming M. , Hobbs N. Thompson , Slade Norman A. , Merritt Joseph F. , Getz Lowell L. , Hunter Malcolm , Vessey Stephen H. , Witham Jack , Guillaumet Alban
Published: November 2011

Deterministic feedbacks within populations interact with extrinsic, stochastic processes to generate complex patterns of animal abundance over time and space. Animals inherently differ in their responses to fluctuating environments due to differences in body sizes and life history traits. However, controversy remains about the relative importance of deterministic and stochastic forces in shaping population dynamics of large and small mammals. We hypothesized that effects of environmental stochasticity and density dependence are stronger in small mammal populations relative to their effects in large mammal populations and thus differentiate the patterns of population dynamics between them. We conducted an extensive, comparative analysis of population dynamics in large and small mammals to test our hypothesis, using seven population parameters to describe general dynamic patterns for 23 (14 species) time series of observations of abundance of large mammals and 38 (21 species) time series for small mammals. We used state‐space models to estimate the strength of direct and delayed density dependence as well as the strength of environmental stochasticity. We further used phylogenetic comparative analysis to detect differences in population dynamic patterns and individual population parameters, respectively, between large and small mammals. General population dynamic patterns differed between large and small mammals. However, the strength of direct and delayed density dependence was comparable between large and small mammals. Moreover, the variances of population growth rates and environmental stochasticity were greater in small mammals than in large mammals. Therefore, differences in population response to stochastic forces and strength of environmental stochasticity are the primary factor that differentiates population dynamic patterns between large and small mammal species.
Expression of the novel NUP98/PSIP1 fusion transcripts in myelodysplastic syndrome with t(9;11)(p22;p15)
Authors: Yamamoto Katsuya , Nakamachi Yuji , Yakushijin Kimikazu , Funakoshi Yohei , Okamura Atsuo , Kawano Seiji , Matsuoka Hiroshi , Minami Hironobu
Published: November 2011

Objectives:  The t(9;11)(p22;p15) is a very rare but recurrent translocation in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) blast crisis. The translocation results in a fusion gene between NUP98 at 11p15 and PSIP1 encoding two transcriptional coactivators, p52 and p75, at 9p22. Here, we describe the first case of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) with t(9;11)(p22;p15).

Patient:  A 64‐yr‐old woman presented pancytopenia, trilineage dysplasia, and 9.2% blasts in the bone marrow, indicating the diagnosis of MDS.

Results:  G‐banding and spectral karyotyping showed 46,XX,t(9;11)(p22;p15)[20]. Reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and nucleotide sequencing detected four types of NUP98/PSIP1‐p52 and two types of NUP98/PSIP1‐p75 fusion transcripts. Essentially, the NUP98 exon 12 or exon 11 by alternative splicing was fused in‐frame with the PSIP1 exon 8. Real‐time quantitative (RQ) PCR for NUP98/PSIP1/GAPDH demonstrated a 4‐log decrease after cord blood transplantation and a 2‐log increase at relapse.

Conclusions:  The fusion genes combining NUP98 exon 11/12 with PSIP1 exon 8, which have never been detected in other AML/CML cases, may be implicated in the pathogenesis of MDS. Furthermore, RQ‐PCR for NUP98/PSIP1 could be useful to monitor minimal residual disease.
Coexpression of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐2α, TWIST2, and SIP1 may correlate with invasion and metastasis of salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Chenchen , Liu Jeffrey , Tang Yaling , Zhu Guiquan , Zheng Min , Jiang Jian , Yang Jing , Liang Xinhua
Published: November 2011

J Oral Pathol Med (2012) 41: 424–431

Background:  Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of salivary gland is characterized by advanced local invasion and distant metastasis. Intratumoral hypoxia was reported to be associated with epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) regulators. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF)‐2α, TWIST2, and SIP1 expression and the invasion and metastasis in ACC of salivary gland.

Method:  In vitro we first detected the expression of HIF‐2α, TWIST2, and SIP1 in two ACC cell lines by Western blot and real‐time RT‐PCR. Then, in vivo, a retrospective investigation of 121 patients with ACC from Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University between 1996 and 2005 was carried out using immunohistochemistry to analyze the association between the expression of these three factors and clinical–pathological factors of patients.

Results:  The protein and mRNA levels of HIF‐2α, TWIST2, and SIP1 in the high‐metastasis cell line (ACC‐M) were much higher than those of the low‐metastasis cell line (ACC‐2). The positive expression of HIF‐2α, TWIST2, and SIP1 (71.07%, 42.98%, and 38.02%, respectively) was associated with the perineural invasion, the local recurrence, and distant metastasis of patients with ACC (P < 0.05). The patients with the positive coexpression of the three factors had a lower survival rate than those with the negative expression (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:  It is proposed that the elevated expression of HIF‐2α, TWIST2, and SIP1 can contribute to invasion and metastasis of ACC, and there might be some correlation between the hypoxia microenvironment and EMT in ACC.
Region‐specific deletions of RIM1 reproduce a subset of global RIM1α−/− phenotypes
Authors: Haws M. E. , Kaeser P. S. , Jarvis D. L. , Südhof T. C. , Powell C. M.
Published: November 2011

The presynaptic protein RIM1α mediates multiple forms of presynaptic plasticity at both excitatory and inhibitory synapses. Previous studies of mice lacking RIM1α (RIM1α−/− throughout the brain showed that deletion of RIM1α results in multiple behavioral abnormalities. In an effort to begin to delineate the brain regions in which RIM1 deletion mediates these abnormal behaviors, we used conditional (floxed) RIM1 knockout mice (fRIM1). By crossing these fRIM1 mice to previously characterized transgenic cre lines, we aimed to delete RIM1 selectively in the dentate gyrus (DG), using a specific preproopiomelanocortin promoter driving cre recombinase (POMC‐cre) line , and in pyramidal neurons of the CA3 region of hippocampus, using the kainate receptor subunit 1 promoter driving cre recombinase (KA‐cre). Neither of these cre driver lines was uniquely selective to the targeted regions. In spite of this, we were able to reproduce a subset of the global RIM1α−/− behavioral abnormalities, thereby narrowing the brain regions in which loss of RIM1 is sufficient to produce these behavioral differences. Most interestingly, hypersensitivity to the pyschotomimetic MK‐801 was shown in mice lacking RIM1 selectively in the DG, arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus and select cerebellar neurons, implicating novel brain regions and neuronal subtypes in this behavior.