bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HIV, disability and discrimination: making the links in international and domestic human rights law
Authors: Elliott Richard , Utyasheva Leah , Zack Elisse
Published: December 2009

Stigma and discrimination constitute one of the greatest barriers to dealing effectively with the HIV epidemic, underlying a range of human rights violations and hindering access to prevention, care, treatment and support. There is some existing protection against HIV‐based discrimination under international law, but the extent of states' obligations to address such discrimination has not been comprehensively addressed in an international instrument.

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities entered into force in May 2008. As countries ratify the convention, they are required to amend national laws and policies to give greater protection to the human rights of people with disabilities, including abolishing disability‐based discrimination by the state and protecting persons against such discrimination by others. The Disability Convention addresses many of the issues faced by people living with HIV (PLHIV) but does not explicitly include HIV or AIDS within its open‐ended definition of “disability”.

Therefore, the advent of the Disability Convention prompts us to consider the links between HIV and disability and, specifically, to consider the opportunities it and other legal mechanisms, international or domestic, may afford for advancing the human rights of PLHIV facing human rights infringements. We do so in the belief that the movement for human rights is stronger when constituencies with so many common and overlapping interests are united, and that respectful and strategic collaboration ultimately strengthens both the disability rights and the AIDS movements.

In this article, we first examine the links between HIV and disability. We then provide a brief overview of how international human rights law has treated both disability and HIV/AIDS. We note some of the different ways in which national anti‐discrimination laws have reflected the links between HIV and disability, illustrated with representative examples from a number of countries. Finally, we offer some conclusions and recommendations about ways forward for collaboration between HIV and disability rights advocates in advancing human rights at the international level, including the use of the new tool that is the Disability Convention. We hope these reflections will promote further discussion across movements, ultimately to the benefit of all persons with disabilities and/or HIV.
Articulating Scientific Reasoning Improves Student Learning in an Undergraduate Anatomy and Physiology Course
Authors: Krontiris-Litowitz Johanna
Published: December 2009

In many life science classrooms, instructors rely upon lecture presentations to efficiently present course content. Students, in this case, act as passive learners with little opportunity to test their knowledge for gaps or misconceptions. The goal of the project described here was to determine whether a collaborative quiz protocol that guided students to discuss their understanding with their peers would improve learning and academic performance. The project took place during a single semester and was composed of two studies: a preliminary study that incorporated short-answer quizzes into the curriculum and a comprehensive study that incorporated short-answer quizzes and justify/explain quizzes in which students were expected to select an answer and then justify or explain it. Students took all quizzes twice, first independently and then collaboratively with classmate(s). Learning was assessed using multiple-choice exam questions based upon quiz topics. Students scored significantly higher on exam questions associated with justify/explain quiz topics than on those associated with short-answer quiz topics.
Non-STEM Undergraduates Become Enthusiastic Phage-Hunters
Authors: Caruso Steven M. , Sandoz James , Kelsey Jessica
Published: December 2009

To increase science literacy and appreciation among nonscience majors, we offered a course in which 20 non-STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) undergraduates participated in a unique, two-semester research experience. Each student isolated and characterized his or her own bacteriophage from soil samples. One bacteriophage was selected for sequencing and together, the class annotated the genome of the newly sequenced bacteriophage. The class produced a group poster and gave PowerPoint presentations, and one student presented the joint work at a science symposium.
Transition from stress sensitivity to a depressive state: longitudinal twin study
Authors: Wichers Marieke , Geschwind Nicole , Jacobs Nele , Kenis Gunter , Peeters Frenk , Derom Catherine , Thiery Evert , Delespaul Philippe , van Os Jim
Published: December 2009

Background

Daily-life stress sensitivity is associated with depression, but prospective data are lacking.

Aims

To examine associations between baseline ecological daily-life stress sensitivity and later depression, and to identify genetic and non-genetic factors moderating the transition from stress sensitivity to depression.

Method

Daily-life stress sensitivity was assessed at baseline in twins (n= 502). One baseline and four follow-up measurements of depressive symptoms and negative life events were collected, as well as interview-based diagnoses at baseline and last follow-up. Hypothesised genetic markers were determined.

Results

Baseline stress sensitivity was associated with increased depressive symptoms at follow-up and risk of major depressive disorder. Both genetic liability and major life events moderated the probability of transition from stress sensitivity to depression.

Conclusions

Onset of depression is attributable to pre-onset ecological measurements of stress sensitivity, particularly where genetic liability is high and individuals have reached a stage where the influence of competing environmental causes is low.
Recent trends in the incidence of recorded depression in primary care
Authors: Rait Greta , Walters Kate , Griffin Mark , Buszewicz Marta , Petersen Irene , Nazareth Irwin
Published: December 2009

Background

There is a paucity of data describing how general practitioners (GPs) label or record depression.

Aims

To determine incidence and sociodemographic variation in GP-recorded depression diagnoses and depressive symptoms.

Method

Annual incidence rates calculated using data from 298 UK general practices between 1996 and 2006, adjusted for year of diagnosis, gender, age and deprivation.

Results

Incidence of diagnosed depression fell from 22.5 to 14.0 per 1000 person-years at risk (PYAR) from 1996 to 2006. The incidence of depressive symptoms rose threefold from 5.1 to 15.5 per 1000 PYAR. Combined incidence of diagnoses and symptoms remained stable. Diagnosed depression and symptoms were more common in women and in more deprived areas.

Conclusions

Depression recorded by general practitioners has lower incidence rates than depression recorded in epidemiological studies, although there are similar associations with gender and deprivation. General practitioners increasingly use symptoms rather than diagnostic labels to categorise people's illnesses. Studies using standardised diagnostic instruments may not be easily comparable with clinical practice.
Influence of perceived organisational factors on job burnout: survey of community mental health staff
Authors: Lasalvia Antonio , Bonetto Chiara , Bertani Mariaelena , Bissoli Sarah , Cristofalo Doriana , Marrella Giovanna , Ceccato Enrico , Cremonese Carla , De Rossi Moreno , Lazzarotto Lorenza , Marangon Vanna , Morandin Idana , Zucchetto Maria , Tansella Michele ,   PICOS-Veneto Group
Published: December 2009

Background

Staff burnout is a critical issue for mental healthcare delivery, as it can lead to decreased work performance and, ultimately to poorer treatment outcomes.

Aims

To explore the relative weight of job-related characteristics and perceived organisational factors in predicting burnout in staff working in community-based psychiatric services.

Method

A representative sample of 2000 mental health staff working in the Veneto region, Italy, participated. Burnout and perceived organisational factors were assessed by using the Organizational Checkup Survey.

Results

Overall, high levels of job distress affected nearly two-thirds of the psychiatric staff and one in five staff members suffered from burnout. Psychiatrists and social workers reported the highest levels of burnout, and support workers and psychologists, the lowest. Burnout was mostly predicted by a higher frequency of face-to-face interaction with users, longer tenure in mental healthcare, weak work group cohesion and perceived unfairness.

Conclusions

Improving the workplace atmosphere within psychiatric services should be one of the most important targets in staff burnout prevention strategies. The potential benefits of such programmes may, in turn, have a favourable impact on patient outcomes.
There is no place for the psychoanalytic case report in theBritish Journal of Psychiatry
Authors: Wolpert Lewis , Fonagy Peter
Published: December 2009

As evidence-based mental health and the randomised controlled trial come to dominate the content of major psychiatric journals, the status and clinical utility of single case reports have been increasingly questioned. Arguably, owing to their subjective, anecdotal nature and unsuitability for rigorous scientific testing, this is particularly true of psychoanalytic case studies. Professor Peter Fonagy and Professor Lewis Wolpert debate here whether or not there is a place for such case reports in theBritish Journal of Psychiatry.
Self-stigma, group identification, perceived legitimacy of discrimination and mental health service use
Authors: Rüsch Nicolas , Corrigan Patrick W. , Wassel Abigail , Michaels Patrick , Larson Jonathon E. , Olschewski Manfred , Wilkniss Sandra , Batia Karen
Published: December 2009

Stigma may interfere with mental health service use. We measured self-stigma and stigma-related cognitions (group identification and perceived legitimacy of discrimination) at baseline in 85 people with schizophrenia, schizoaffective or affective disorders. After 6 months, 75 (88%) had reported use of mental health services. Controlling for baseline psychopathology, perceived stigma and diagnosis, low perceived legitimacy of discrimination predicted use of counselling/psychotherapy. Strong group identification was associated with participation in mutual-help groups. More self-stigma predicted psychiatric hospitalisation. Cognitive indicators of stigma resilience may predict out-patient service use, whereas self-stigma may increase the risk of psychiatric hospitalisation.
Evolution at 150: time for truly biological psychiatry
Authors: Nesse Randolph M.
Published: December 2009

Darwin'sOn the Origin of Specieswas published 150 years ago, but evolution is just now being recognised as the missing half of a truly biological psychiatry. The general framework offered by an evolutionary perspective may be as valuable as its specific applications.
Darwin's contribution to psychiatry
Authors: Shorter Edward
Published: December 2009

This November we celebrated the sesquicentennial of the Origin of Species, a landmark in the history of biology. Yet Darwin's chief contribution to psychiatry appears in The Expression of the Emotions in Man and Animals (1872), where he describes ‘the grief muscles’, later identified as a sign of melancholic illness.
Distinct Patterns of Cytokine and Angiogenic Factor Modulation and Markers of Benefit for Vandetanib and/or Chemotherapy in Patients With Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Hanrahan Emer O. , Lin Heather Y. , Kim Edward S. , Yan Shaoyu , Du Danny Z. , McKee Kathryn S. , Tran Hai T. , Lee J. Jack , Ryan Anderson J. , Langmuir Peter , Johnson Bruce E. , Heymach John V.
Published: December 2009

Purpose

There is an unmet need for biomarkers for identifying patients likely to benefit from anticancer treatments, selecting dose, and understanding mechanisms of resistance. Plasma vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and soluble VEGF receptor 2 (sVEGFR-2) are known to be modulated by VEGF pathway inhibitors. It is unknown whether chemotherapy or VEGFR inhibitor/chemotherapy combinations induce changes in these or other cytokines and angiogenic factors (CAFs) and whether such changes could be markers of benefit.

Methods

Thirty-five plasma CAFs were analyzed using multiplexed bead arrays and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays from 123 patients with non–small-cell lung cancer in a randomized phase II study who received vandetanib, a VEGFR and epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor, monotherapy carboplatin and paclitaxel (CP), or the combination (VCP). Changes in CAFs at days 8, 22, and 43 from baseline were correlated with progression risk.

Results

VEGF increased and sVEGFR-2 decreased by day 43 in the vandetanib arm, whereas a distinct pattern was observed in the CP and VCP arms, with significant decreases in interleukin (IL) -12, IL-1 receptor antagonist, and matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) and increased macrophage chemoattractant protein 1. In each treatment arm, changes in different markers were associated with progression risk. For example, increases in IL-8 with VCP, MMP-9 with CP, and VEGF with vandetanib monotherapy were associated with increased progression risk, and increase in intercellular adhesion molecule 1 with vandetanib was associated with decreased risk.

Conclusion

Vandetanib and chemotherapy treatment led to distinct patterns of CAF changes; the combination resembled chemotherapy alone. Changes in specific CAFs correlated with clinical outcome, but markers differed for each treatment arm. CAF profiling may provide insights into the biologic effects of treatment and identify drug-specific markers of activity and clinical benefit.
Phase I Study of Intravenous Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Trap, Aflibercept, in Patients With Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Lockhart A. Craig , Rothenberg Mace L. , Dupont Jakob , Cooper Wendy , Chevalier Paul , Sternas Lars , Buzenet Giliane , Koehler Elizabeth , Sosman Jeffrey A. , Schwartz Lawrence H. , Gultekin David H. , Koutcher Jason A. , Donnelly Edwin F. , Andal Ric , Dancy Isabelle , Spriggs David R. , Tew William P.
Published: December 2009

Purpose

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) Trap (aflibercept) is an angiogenesis inhibitor comprising portions of the extracellular domains of human VEGF receptors 1 and 2 fused to the Fc portion of human immunoglobulin G. This phase I study was designed to evaluate the safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of VEGF Trap administered intravenously (IV) every 2 weeks.

Patients and Methods

Patients with refractory solid tumors or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma with adequate organ function were eligible. Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic markers included measurement of plasma VEGF bound to VEGF Trap and free VEGF Trap. Dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) was incorporated to measure the biologic effects of the drug on tumor vascularity and permeability.

Results

The study enrolled 47 patients at doses ranging from 0.3 to 7.0 mg/kg IV every 2 weeks. Dose-limiting toxicities were rectal ulceration and proteinuria at the 7.0 mg/kg dose. Other mechanism-specific toxicities included hypertension. On the basis of these observations and on pharmacokinetics, the recommended phase II dose of VEGF Trap as a single agent is 4 mg/kg every 2 weeks. Three RECIST (Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors) –defined partial responses were observed, one at the 3.0 mg/kg and two at the 7.0 mg/kg dose level. Maximum plasma concentration of free VEGF Trap increased proportionally with dose. Maximal VEGF-bound VEGF Trap complex levels were reached at doses ≥ 2.0 mg/kg. Changes in volume transfer constant measured by DCE-MRI at baseline and at 24 hours after administration indicate a possible dose-related change in this pharmacodynamic marker.

Conclusion

IV VEGF Trap was well tolerated at the dose levels tested. Pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic markers were indicative of VEGF blockade.
Revised TN Categorization for Colon Cancer Based on National Survival Outcomes Data
Authors: Gunderson Leonard L. , Jessup John Milburn , Sargent Daniel J. , Greene Frederick L. , Stewart Andrew K.
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The sixth edition of American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) Cancer Staging Manual for colon cancer subdivided stage II into IIA (T3N0) and IIB (T4N0) and stage III into IIIA (T1-2N1M0), IIIB (T3-4N1M0), and IIIC (anyTN2M0). Subsequent analyses supported revised substaging of stage III because of improved survival for T1-2N2 versus T3-4N2 and T4N1 survival was more similar to T3-4N2 than to T3N1. The AJCC Hindgut Taskforce sought population-based validation that depth of invasion and nodal status interact to affect survival.

Patients and Methods

Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) population-based data from January 1992 to December 2004 for 109,953 colon cancer patients were compared with National Cancer Data Base (NCDB) data on 134,206 patients. T4N0 cancers were stratified by tumors that perforate visceral peritoneum (T4a) versus tumors that invade or are adherent to adjacent organs or structures (T4b). N1 and N2 were stratified by number of involved positive lymph nodes (N+): N1a/N1b (1 v 2-3), N2a/N2b (4 to 6 v ≥ 7). Five-year observed and relative survival data were obtained for each TN category.

Results

SEER colon cancer analyses confirm that patients with T1-2N0 cancers have better survival than T3N0, T3N0 better than T4N0, T1-2N2 better than T3-4N2, and T4bN1 similar to T4N2. Patients with T4a lesions have better survival than T4b by N category. The number of positive nodes affects survival for each T category.

Conclusion

This SEER population-based colon cancer analysis is highly consistent with rectal cancer pooled analysis and SEER rectal cancer analyses, supporting the shift of T1-2N2 lesions from IIIC to IIIA/IIIB, shifting T4bN1 from IIIB to IIIC, subdividing T4/N1/N2, and revising substaging of stages II/III. Survival outcomes by TN category for colon and rectal cancer are strikingly similar.
Complete Mesocolic Excision With Central Vascular Ligation Produces an Oncologically Superior Specimen Compared With Standard Surgery for Carcinoma of the Colon
Authors: West Nicholas P. , Hohenberger Werner , Weber Klaus , Perrakis Aristoteles , Finan Paul J. , Quirke Philip
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The plane of surgery in colonic cancer has been linked to patient outcome although the optimal extent of mesenteric resection is still unclear. Surgeons in Erlangen, Germany, routinely perform complete mesocolic excision (CME) with central vascular ligation (CVL) and report 5-year survivals of higher than 89%. We aimed to further investigate the importance of CME and CVL surgery for colonic cancer by comparison with a series of standard specimens.

Methods

The fresh photographs of 49 CME and CVL specimens from Erlangen and 40 standard specimens from Leeds, United Kingdom, for primary colonic adenocarcinoma were collected. Precise tissue morphometry and grading of the plane of surgery were performed before comparison to histopathologic variables.

Results

CME and CVL surgery removed more tissue compared with standard surgery in terms of the distance between the tumor and the high vascular tie (median, 131 v 90 mm; P < .0001), the length of large bowel (median, 314 v 206 mm; P < .0001), and ileum removed (median, 83 v 63 mm; P = .003), and the area of mesentery (19,657 v 11,829 mm2; P < .0001). In addition, CME and CVL surgery was associated with more mesocolic plane resections (92% v 40%; P < .0001) and a greater lymph node yield (median, 30 v 18; P < .0001).

Conclusion

Surgeons in Erlangen routinely practicing CME and CVL surgery remove more mesocolon and are more likely to resect in the mesocolic plane when compared with standard excisions. This, along with the associated greater lymph node yield, may partially explain the high 5-year survival rates reported in Erlangen.
Fertility of Male Survivors of Childhood Cancer: A Report From the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study
Authors: Green Daniel M. , Kawashima Toana , Stovall Marilyn , Leisenring Wendy , Sklar Charles A. , Mertens Ann C. , Donaldson Sarah S. , Byrne Julianne , Robison Leslie L.
Published: December 2009

Purpose

This study was undertaken to determine the effect of treatment for childhood cancer on male fertility.

Patients and Methods

We reviewed the fertility of male Childhood Cancer Survivor Study survivor and sibling cohorts who completed a questionnaire. We abstracted the chemotherapeutic agents administered, the cumulative dose of drug administered for selected drugs, and the doses and volumes of all radiation therapy from medical records. Risk factors for siring a pregnancy were evaluated using Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

The 6,224 survivors age 15 to 44 years who were not surgically sterile were less likely to sire a pregnancy than siblings (hazard ratio [HR], 0.56; 95% CI, −0.49 to 0.63). Among survivors, the HR of siring a pregnancy was decreased by radiation therapy of more than 7.5 Gy to the testes (HR, 0.12; 95% CI, −0.02 to 0.64), higher cumulative alkylating agent dose (AAD) score or treatment with cyclophosphamide (third tertile HR, 0.42; 95% CI, −0.31 to 0.57) or procarbazine (second tertile HR, 0.48; 95% CI, −0.26 to 0.87; third tertile HR, 0.17; 95% CI, −0.07 to 0.41). Compared with siblings, the HR for ever siring a pregnancy for survivors who had an AAD score = 0, a hypothalamic/pituitary radiation dose = 0 Gy, and a testes radiation dose = 0 Gy was 0.91 (95% CI, 0.73 to 1.14; P = .41).

Conclusion

This large study identified risk factors for decreased fertility that may be used for counseling male cancer patients.
Natural Gas Accumulation in Eastern China
Authors: Dai Jinxing , Hu Guoyi , Ni Yunyan , Li Jian , Luo Xia , Yang Chun , Hu Anping , Zhou Qinghua
Published: December 2009

There are various genetic types of natural gas in eastern China, which are mainly of biogenic gas, abiogenic alkane gas and abiogenic CO2. Large biogenic gas fields discovered at present are mainly distributed in Ying-Qiong basin (Ya13- 1, Ledong22–1, Dongfang1–1), Pearl River Mouth basin (Panyu30–1), Eastern China Sea basin (Chunxiao gas field) and Taixi basin (Tiezhanshan gas field) in the continental shelf, and carbon isotope of ethane is heavier than −28‰, which shows that the gas is coal-derived. Large abiogenic alkane gas fields are distributed in the deep part of Songliao basin (Xingcheng gas field, etc), and the natural gas is characterized by heavy isotope (δ13C1>−30‰), negative carbon isotope series and R/Ra>0.5. CO2 gas fields distribute widely from Songliao basin in the north to Ying-Qiong basin in the south, and total 35 CO2 gas fields have been discovered in these areas with CO2 content more than 60% and d13Cco2 heavier than −28‰.
Strategy Development and Determination of Barriers for Thermal Energy and Electricity Generation from Agricultural Biomass in Turkey
Authors: Bascetincelik Ali , Ozturk H. Huseyin , Ekinci Kamil , Kaya Durmuş , Kacira Murat , Karaca Cengiz
Published: December 2009

The present work deals with determining barriers for thermal energy and electricity generation from agricultural biomass in Turkey. Strategy development and determination of barriers were investigated in accordance with the work program requirements for the project entitled “Exploitation of Agricultural Waste in Turkey” under the European Life Third Countries Program. The study has been organized and presented according to the following three phases: (i) market barriers for electricity and thermal energy generation (ii) identification of barriers to the promotion of agricultural waste exploitation in Turkey, and (iii) conclusions for strategy development.
Mature and functional viral miRNAs transcribed from novel RNA polymerase III promoters
Authors: Diebel Kevin W. , Smith Anna L. , van Dyk Linda F.
Published: December 2009

Murid herpesvirus 4 (MuHV-4) microRNAs were previously cloned from latently infected tumor cells and predicted to be processed from a series of RNA polymerase III primary transcripts. We detected maturely processed MuHV-4 miRNAs within total RNA from lytically infected cells in vitro and infected tissues ex vivo, using a highly sensitive reverse ligation meditated RT-PCR strategy. We determined that the MuHV-4 microRNAs are biologically active during infection by a luciferase reporter system. We experimentally demonstrated that transcription of the MuHV-4 microRNAs is by RNA polymerase III by α-amanitin insensitivity and by specific deletion of the RNA polymerase III type 2-like promoter elements of MuHV-4, resulting in the complete loss of miRNA detection and function. Finally, we demonstrate that these 10 viral miRNAs, each transcribed from highly conserved and novel polymerase III promoter elements, vary markedly in their relative abundance and activity.
Curiosity and exploratory behaviour towards possible and impossible events in children and adults
Authors: Subbotsky Eugene
Published: December 2009

In four experiments with 4‐, 6‐, and 9‐year‐old children and adults, the hypothesis was tested that, all other conditions being equal, a novel and unusual event elicits stronger curiosity and exploratory behaviour if its suggested explanation involves an element of the supernatural than if it does not (the impossible over possible effect – the I/P effect). Participants were shown an unusual phenomenon (a spontaneous disintegration of a physical object in an apparently empty box) framed in the context of either a magical (the impossible event) or scientific (the possible event) explanation.

In the verbal trial, participants showed a clear understanding of the difference between the effect of genuine magic and the effect of a trick. In the behavioural trial, both children and adults showed the I/P effect. They were more likely to run the risk of losing their valuable objects in order to explore the impossible event than the possible event. Follow‐up experiments showed that the I/P effect couldn't be explained as an artifact of the different degrees of cost of exploratory behaviour in the possible and impossible conditions or as a result of misinterpreting magic as tricks. The I/P effect emerged when the cost of exploratory behaviour was moderate and disappeared when the cost was perceived as too high or too low.
Exploring the Influence of Race Relations and Public Safety Concerns on Public Support for Racial Profiling during Traffic Stops
Authors: Higgins George , Gabbidon Shaun , Vito Gennaro
Published: December 2009

The purpose of the present study was to explore hypotheses related to the influence of race relations and perceptions of safety on public opinion regarding racial profiling in traffic stops. Using a representative sample of the United States of America, our results indicate that views regarding race relations influenced public opinion on racial profiling in traffic stops, but perceptions of safety did not influence this view.
Felonious Line-of-Duty Officer Deaths (1995–1999): The Impact of Tenure and Age
Authors: Tucker-Gail Kasey A. , Selman Donna , Kobolt James R. , Hill Tara
Published: December 2009

This article examines officer age and employment tenure variables in the FBI Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted summary from 1995 to 1999. During this time frame, 309 incidents of felonious officer deaths were reported to the FBI. The purpose of this paper is to identify patterns in the data for application within law enforcement when considering training needs over the life cycle of an officer's career, and to conduct original, exploratory research in the field. The research concludes that the combination of 0–4 years of experience combined with the ages 30–39 years was particularly deadly for the years 1995–1999. Finally, based on the findings, considerations for hiring, training and data collection are made.
Pal Joey: reconstructing a Classic Rodgers and Hart Score
Authors: Christman Paul
Published: December 2009

This article describes the restoration of the score to the Rodgers and Hart Broadway musicalPal Joey. Details of methodology are provided as well as specific reference to lyrics and songs in the reconstruction process. Information concerning the original production and subsequent versions is outlined for historical reference.
Did the Ancients Know the Artichoke?
Authors: wright clifford a.
Published: December 2009

This article, by examining the genetic, iconographical, historical, and linguistic evidence, supports the argument that the cultivated artichoke (Cynara cardunculus L. var. scolymus (L.) Fiori) developed from the cardoon (C. cardunculus L. var. altilis DC) and that the artichoke was unknown in the Greco-Roman world and was most probably developed by Arab or Arab-Sicilian horticulturalists in the early medieval period——that is, between the seventh and tenth centuries A.D., probably in Sicily. The article considers genetic variability and the relationships between cultivars and wild taxa, as well as the problem of synonymy, the fact that a plant can take different names according to where it is cultivated. The article examines both classical Latin and medieval Arab and European writers who wrote about artichokes or cardoons and explores the linguistic problems associated with those plants' Arabic or Persian names.
Food Taboos in Precolonial and Contemporary Cameroon: A Historical Perspective
Authors: fomine forka leypey mathew
Published: December 2009

Food taboos are observed in all traditional societies, especially in Cameroon where certain ethnic groups attach a lot of importance to them due to cultural reasons. Taboos related to culture are more subject to change (due to the level of literacy that prevails in the society and cultural contact) than those related to religion, which sparingly change. For instance, all Cameroonian Muslims avoid eating pork due to the belief that pork consumption will defile them. The taboos related to royal status also change sparingly. For example, among the Mbo, any hunter who kills the leopard compulsorily hands it to the paramount chief; and similarly among the Wawa, any hunter who kills a python is compelled to give it to the chief. These royal animal gifts are indicative of the prerogatives that traditional rulers enjoy in Cameroon.

This study of Cameroon food taboos has revealed the tremendous change that has occurred in women's social status in Cameroon. Cameroonian women no longer observe the precolonial taboo imposed on them that forbade them from eating eggs, gizzards, and other foods. They have moved from their marginalized positions and even serve as ministers in the Government of Cameroon.
Perry
Authors: ripe cherry
Published: December 2009

Perry is a fermented beverage made from the juice of particular varieties of primitive pears. These fruit are inedible and are thought to be closely related to wild pears. Like cider, perry can be dry or sweet, sparkling or still, and it can have an alcohol content as high as 8.5 percent. Some of the finer bottle-fermented artisanal perrys have been likened to Champagne. (Perry should not be confused with ““pear cider,”” an over-sweet, industrial product frequently made from pear concentrate, often with the flavor of bubblegum.)

Traditionally made in the Three Counties of Herefordshire, Worcestershire, and Gloucestershire surrounding the Malvern Hills near the Welsh border, perry is such a geographically specific product that it has been granted PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) status by the European Union. It is also in the Slow Food Presidia, which protects gastronomic heritage and traditions. More than 100 varieties of perry pear are still extant, with quaint names such as Late Treacle, Merrylegs, Painted Lady, and Stinking Bishop.

Historically a farmer would plant an orchard comprising up to six varieties of perry pears, not only for blending purposes to achieve a preferred flavor, but also to stagger the flowering period to prevent the entire crop from suffering simultaneous frost damage, and to spread the load at harvest time in late autumn. Each farm would make perry for consumption by family and farm workers, as it was a safer alternative to possibly contaminated drinking water. A perry orchard would also provide pasture underneath its boughs for sheep and cattle until just prior to harvest, to prevent the stock from eating the fallen fruit.

In recent years there has been a marked revival of interest in this traditional beverage. These days there are more than half a dozen artisan producers, although production is limited by the supply of fruit, as perry pear trees can take up to forty years to reach maturity.
Aquaporin 9 expression in the developing rat epididymis is modulated by steroid hormones
Authors: Pastor-Soler Núria M , Fisher Jane S , Sharpe Richard , Hill Eric , Van Hoek Alfred , Brown Dennis , Breton Sylvie
Published: December 2009

Fluid and solute transport across the epithelium of the male excurrent duct is important for sperm maturation and storage. Aquaporin 9 (AQP9), which allows permeation of water and neutral solutes, is abundant throughout the male reproductive tract, where it is expressed at the apical membrane of rat epididymal principal cells as early as at 1 week of age. We evaluated the effect of neonatal exposure to: 1) a GNRH antagonist (GNRHa); 2) diethylstilbestrol (DES); 3) ethinyl estradiol (EE); 4) DES plus testosterone (DES+TE); and 5) the anti-androgen flutamide on AQP9 expression in the epididymis of peripubertal rats. Control groups received the vehicle alone. In 25-day-old rats, quantification of the mean pixel intensity of immunofluorescence-stained sections showed a significant decrease in AQP9 staining in the apical membrane of epididymal principal cells after treatments with GNRHa, DES, or flutamide, compared to controls. These results were confirmed by western blotting. While EE induced a marked decrease in AQP9 levels by western blotting, the decrease in AQP9-associated fluorescence was not significant compared to controls. DES+TE-treated rats showed levels of AQP9 protein similar to controls, indicating maintenance of AQP9 expression by testosterone treatment in the presence of DES. Our data show that expression of AQP9 in the developing rat epididymis is downregulated by neonatal DES, GNRHa, EE, and flutamide, and that the effects mediated by estrogens can be prevented by testosterone administration.
Successful transfer of day 10 horse embryos: influence of donor–recipient asynchrony on embryo development
Authors: Wilsher Sandra , Clutton-Brock Amber , Allen W R
Published: December 2009

A total of 78 day 10 horse embryos were transferred non-surgically to recipient mares that had ovulated 9, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2 or 1 day after (negative asynchrony), on the same day (synchronous), or 2 or 4 days before (positive asynchrony) the donor (n=6 or 8 mares per group). Pregnancy rates between 100% (6/6) and 63% (5/8) were seen in recipient mares that were between +2 and −6 days asynchronous. Embryo survival to the heartbeat stage declined in recipients that were −7 days asynchronous and no embryos survived in recipients that were −9 days asynchronous. Irrespective of uterine asynchrony, cessation of embryo mobility and fixation at the base of a uterine horn occurred when the conceptus was ∼17 days old. Conceptus growth and development was slowed when embryos were placed in negatively asynchronous uteri. At the greatest degree of negative asynchrony at which embryos survived to the heartbeat stage, i.e. −7 and −6 days, development of the embryo proper and allantois was retarded. Luteostasis was achieved in recipient mares when day 10 embryos were transferred to recipient mares at any stage of asynchrony between −9 and +2 days with respect to the donor. These results indicate that in the horse, there is a wide window for establishment of pregnancy following embryo transfer to asynchronous recipients. Although progesterone priming of the uterus to a stage equivalent to that of the transferred embryo does not appear to be a prerequisite for embryo survival, it does nonetheless influence embryonic development.
Rate of Adaptation in Large Sexual Populations
Authors: Neher R A , Shraiman B I , Fisher D S
Published: December 2009

Adaptation often involves the acquisition of a large number of genomic changes that arise as mutations in single individuals. In asexual populations, combinations of mutations can fix only when they arise in the same lineage, but for populations in which genetic information is exchanged, beneficial mutations can arise in different individuals and be combined later. In large populations, when the product of the population size N and the total beneficial mutation rate Ub is large, many new beneficial alleles can be segregating in the population simultaneously. We calculate the rate of adaptation, v, in several models of such sexual populations and show that v is linear in NUb only in sufficiently small populations. In large populations, v increases much more slowly as log NUb. The prefactor of this logarithm, however, increases as the square of the recombination rate. This acceleration of adaptation by recombination implies a strong evolutionary advantage of sex.
The Power of the Methods for Detecting Interlocus Gene Conversion
Authors: Mansai Sayaka P , Innan Hideki
Published: December 2009

Interlocus gene conversion can homogenize DNA sequences of duplicated regions with high homology. Such nonvertical events sometimes cause a misleading evolutionary interpretation of data when the effect of gene conversion is ignored. To avoid this problem, it is crucial to test the data for the presence of gene conversion. Here, we performed extensive simulations to compare four major methods to detect gene conversion. One might expect that the power increases with increase of the gene conversion rate. However, we found this is true for only two methods. For the other two, limited power is expected when gene conversion is too frequent. We suggest using multiple methods to minimize the chance of missing the footprint of gene conversion.
FRQ-Interacting RNA Helicase Mediates Negative and Positive Feedback in the Neurospora Circadian Clock
Authors: Shi Mi , Collett Michael , Loros Jennifer J , Dunlap Jay C
Published: December 2009

The Neurospora circadian oscillator comprises FREQUENCY (FRQ) and its transcription activator, the White Collar Complex (WCC). Repression of WCC's transcriptional activity by FRQ via negative feedback is indispensable for clock function. An unbiased genetic screen that targeted mutants with defects in negative feedback regulation yielded a fully viable arrhythmic strain bearing a novel allele of FRQ-interacting RNA helicase (frh), an essential gene that encodes a putative exosome component protein. In the allele, frhR806H, clock function is completely disturbed, while roles of FRQ-interacting RNA helicase (FRH) essential for viability are left intact. FRHR806H still interacts with FRQ, but interaction between the FRQ–FRHR806H complex (FFC) and WCC is severely affected. Phosphorylation of WC-1 is reduced in the mutant leading to constantly elevated WCC activity, which breaks the negative feedback loop. WCC levels are considerably reduced in the mutant, especially those of WC-1, consistent both with loss of positive feedback (FRQ-dependent WC-1 stabilization) and with a reduced level of the FRQ-mediated WCC phosphorylation that leads to high WCC activity accompanied by rapid transcription-associated turnover. FRH overexpression promotes WC-1 accumulation, confirming that FRH together with FRQ plays a role in WC-1 stabilization. Identification of a viable allele of frh, displaying virtually complete loss of both negative and positive circadian feedback, positions FRH as a core component of the central oscillator that is permissive for rhythmicity but appears not to modulate periodicity. Moreover, the results suggest that there are clock-specific roles for FRH that are distinct from the predicted essential exosome-associated functions for the protein.
Histone H3K4 and K36 Methylation, Chd1 and Rpd3S Oppose the Functions of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Spt4–Spt5 in Transcription
Authors: Quan Tiffani Kiyoko , Hartzog Grant Ashley
Published: December 2009

Spt4–Spt5, a general transcription elongation factor for RNA polymerase II, also has roles in chromatin regulation. However, the relationships between these functions are not clear. Previously, we isolated suppressors of a Saccharomyces cerevisiae spt5 mutation in genes encoding members of the Paf1 complex, which regulates several cotranscriptional histone modifications, and Chd1, a chromatin remodeling enzyme. Here, we show that this suppression of spt5 can result from loss of histone H3 lysines 4 or 36 methylation, or reduced recruitment of Chd1 or the Rpd3S complex. These spt5 suppressors also rescue the synthetic growth defects observed in spt5 mutants that also lack elongation factor TFIIS. Using a FLO8 reporter gene, we found that a chd1 mutation caused cryptic initiation of transcription. We further observed enhancement of cryptic initiation in chd1 isw1 mutants and increased histone acetylation in a chd1 mutant. We suggest that, as previously proposed for H3 lysine 36 methylation and the Rpd3S complex, H3 lysine 4 methylation and Chd1 function to maintain normal chromatin structures over transcribed genes, and that one function of Spt4–Spt5 is to help RNA polymerase II overcome the repressive effects of these histone modifications and chromatin regulators on transcription.
International Perspectives
Authors: Ramji Siddarth
Published: December 2009

Meeting the commitment to reach the Millennium Developmental Goal of reducing infant mortality rate to less than 30 in India is only possible through improved neonatal survival. The formidable hurdles that contribute to the high neonatal mortality include domiciliary births aided by unskilled birth attendants, low exclusive breastfeeding rates, high burden of low-birthweight infants, poor care-seeking practices for sick children (with female infants receiving less care), and high cost of care for sick newborns compared with family incomes. Creating models of community and domiciliary newborn care and establishing low-cost newborn care units at district health facilities have reduced neonatal mortality significantly. Taking these experiments to scale appears to be the road map for India to reduce its burden of neonatal deaths.
Triglyceride Metabolism in the Neonate
Authors: Marron-Corwin Mary , Hailu Elizabeth
Published: December 2009

Lipid infusion is an integral part of neonatal parenteral nutrition. In its absence, essential fatty acid deficiency can result as early as 3 days after birth. Triglyceride values are followed to monitor lipid tolerance. Acceptable values range between 150 and 200 mg/dL (1.7 and 2.3 mmol/L). This case of hypertriglyceridemia resulting from rapid lipid infusion in an extremely low-birthweight infant demonstrates a rapid decrease in the triglyceride concentration with no intervention. None of the common adverse effects of hypertriglyceridemia were noted. The case also highlights the importance of correctly positioning and regularly evaluating infusion pump tubing to assure the correct rate of lipid infusion.
Delayed Identification of Pediatric Abuse-Related Fractures
Authors: Ravichandiran Nisanthini , Schuh Suzanne , Bejuk Marta , Al-Harthy Nesrin , Shouldice Michelle , Au Hosanna , Boutis Kathy
Published: December 2009

OBJECTIVES: Because physicians may have difficulty distinguishing accidental fractures from those that are caused by abuse, abusive fractures may be at risk for delayed recognition; therefore, the primary objective of this study was to determine how frequently abusive fractures were missed by physicians during previous examinations. A secondary objective was to determine clinical predictors that are associated with unrecognized abuse.

METHODS: Children who were younger than 3 years and presented to a large academic children's hospital from January 1993 to December 2007 and received a diagnosis of abusive fractures by a multidisciplinary child protective team were included in this retrospective review. The main outcome measures included the proportion of children who had abusive fractures and had at least 1 previous physician visit with diagnosis of abuse not identified and predictors that were independently associated with missed abuse.

RESULTS: Of 258 patients with abusive fractures, 54 (20.9%) had at least 1 previous physician visit at which abuse was missed. The median time to correct diagnosis from the first visit was 8 days (minimum: 1; maximum: 160). Independent predictors of missed abuse were male gender, extremity versus axially located fracture, and presentation to a primary care setting versus pediatric emergency department or to a general versus pediatric emergency department.

CONCLUSIONS: One fifth of children with abuse-related fractures are missed during the initial medical visit. In particular, boys who present to a primary care or a general emergency department setting with an extremity fracture are at a particularly high risk for delayed diagnosis.
Hereditary Spherocytosis in Neonates With Hyperbilirubinemia
Authors: Christensen Robert D. , Henry Erick
Published: December 2009

OBJECTIVES: Hereditary spherocytosis (HS) is the most common inherited hemolytic disease among people of Northern European decent. Neonates with HS can develop significant hyperbilirubinemia, but we suspect that HS is underrecognized as a cause of neonatal jaundice.

METHODS: We used electronic record repositories of Intermountain Healthcare to identify all neonates with a diagnosis of HS in a recent 5-year period. We compared these with the number of new HS cases anticipated on the basis of national prevalence and also with the number who had elevations in mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), red cell distribution width (RDW), and bilirubin. We compared MCHC and RDW values of neonates who had direct antiglobulin test–positive (DAT[+]) and DAT(−) results and jaundice with values of neonates who had HS.

RESULTS: Eight neonates received a diagnosis of HS; however, we may have failed to diagnose 90% of cases. To assess whether some with a missed diagnosis of HS developed significant hyperbilirubinemia, we examined records of all 670 with a bilirubin level of ≥20 mg/dL. Records of the 20 with the highest MCHC and RDW values suggested that HS was present but unrecognized in at least 7. Follow-up revealed a subsequent diagnosis of HS in 5; the other 2 are no longer in our health system. MCHC and RDW values were highest in those with HS, intermediate in the DAT(+) group, and lowest in the DAT(−) group. An MCHC of ≥36.0 g/dL had 82% sensitivity and 98% specificity for identifying HS.

CONCLUSION: We speculate that HS is underrecognized as a cause of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. We speculate further that an MCHC of ≥36.0 g/dL can alert caregivers to the possibility of HS.