bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Programmed Death Ligand 1 Is Expressed by Non–Hodgkin Lymphomas and Inhibits the Activity of Tumor-Associated T Cells
Authors: Andorsky David J. , Yamada Reiko E. , Said Jonathan , Pinkus Geraldine S. , Betting David J. , Timmerman John M.
Published: May 2011

Purpose: Programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) is expressed on antigen-presenting cells and inhibits activation of T cells through its receptor PD-1. PD-L1 is aberrantly expressed on some epithelial malignancies and Hodgkin lymphomas and may prevent effective host antitumor immunity. The role of PD-L1 in non–Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL) is not well characterized.

Experimental Design: PD-L1 expression was analyzed in cell lines and lymphoma specimens by using flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry. Functional activity of PD-L1 was studied by incubating irradiated lymphoma cells with allogeneic T cells with or without anti-PD-L1 blocking antibody; T-cell proliferation and IFN-γ secretion served as measures of T-cell activation. Similar experiments were conducted using cultures of primary lymphoma specimens containing host T cells.

Results: PD-L1 was expressed uniformly by anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) cell lines, but rarely in B-cell NHL, confined to a subset of diffuse large B-cell lymphomas (DLBCL) with activated B-cell features (3 of 28 cell lines and 24% of primary DLBCL). Anti-PD-L1 blocking antibody boosted proliferation and IFN-γ secretion by allogeneic T cells responding to ALCL and DLBCL cells. In autologous cultures of primary ALCL and DLBCL, PD-L1 blockade enhanced secretion of inflammatory cytokines IFN-γ, granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor, interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, IL-8, IL-13, TNF-α, and macrophage inflammatory protein-1α. In establishing cell lines from an aggressive PD-L1+ mature B-cell lymphoma, we also noted that PD-L1 expression could be lost under certain in vitro culture conditions.

Conclusions: PD-L1 may thwart effective antitumor immune responses and represents an attractive target for lymphoma immunotherapy. Clin Cancer Res; 17(13); 4232–44. ©2011 AACR.
Activated MET Is a Molecular Prognosticator and Potential Therapeutic Target for Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors
Authors: Torres Keila E. , Zhu Quan-Sheng , Bill Katelynn , Lopez Gonzalo , Ghadimi Markus P. , Xie Xianbiao , Young Eric D. , Liu Juehui , Nguyen Theresa , Bolshakov Svetlana , Belousov Roman , Wang Suizhau , Lahat Guy , Liu Jun , Hernandez Belinda , Lazar Alexander J. , Lev Dina
Published: May 2011

Purpose: MET signaling has been suggested a potential role in malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST). Here, MET function and blockade were preclinically assessed.

Experimental Design: Expression levels of MET, its ligand hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and phosphorylated MET (pMET) were examined in a clinically annotated MPNST tissue microarray (TMA) incorporating univariable and multivariable statistical analyses. Human MPNST cells were studied in vitro and in vivo; Western blot (WB) and ELISA were used to evaluate MET and HGF expression, activation, and downstream signaling. Cell culture assays tested the impact of HGF-induced MET activation and anti-MET–specific siRNA inhibition on cell proliferation, migration, and invasion; in vivo gel-foam assays were used to evaluate angiogenesis. Cells stably transduced with anti-MET short hairpin RNA (shRNA) constructs were tested for growth and metastasis in severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice. The effect of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor XL184 (Exelixis) targeting MET/VEGFR2 (vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2) on local and metastatic MPNST growth was examined in vivo.

Results: All three markers were expressed in MPNST human samples; pMET expression was an independent prognosticator of poor patient outcome. Human MPNST cell lines expressed MET, HGF, and pMET. MET activation increased MPNST cell motility, invasion, angiogenesis, and induced matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2) and VEGF expression; MET knockdown had inverse effects in vitro and markedly decreased local and metastatic growth in vivo. XL184 abrogated human MPNST xenograft growth and metastasis in SCID mice.

Conclusions: Informative prognosticators and novel therapies are crucially needed to improve MPNST management and outcomes. We show an important role for MET in MPNST, supporting continued investigation of novel anti-MET therapies in this clinical context. Clin Cancer Res; 17(12); 3943–55. ©2011 AACR.
Epigenetic Alteration of DNA in Mucosal Wash Fluid Predicts Invasiveness of Colorectal Tumors
Authors: Kamimae Seiko , Yamamoto Eiichiro , Yamano Hiro-o , Nojima Masanori , Suzuki Hiromu , Ashida Masami , Hatahira Tomo , Sato Akiko , Kimura Tomoaki , Yoshikawa Kenjiro , Harada Taku , Hayashi Seiko , Takamaru Hiroyuki , Maruyama Reo , Kai Masahiro , Nishiwaki Morie , Sugai Tamotsu , Sasaki Yasushi , Tokino Takashi , Shinomura Yasuhisa , Imai Kohzoh , Toyota Minoru
Published: May 2011

Although conventional colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for detecting colorectal tumors, accurate staging is often difficult because advanced histology may be present in small colorectal lesions. We collected DNA present in mucosal wash fluid from patients undergoing colonoscopy and then assessed the methylation levels of four genes frequently methylated in colorectal cancers to detect invasive tumors. We found that methylation levels in wash fluid were significantly higher in patients with invasive than those with noninvasive tumors. Cytologic and K-ras mutation analyses suggested that mucosal wash fluid from invasive tumors contained greater numbers of tumor cells than wash fluid from noninvasive tumors. Among the four genes, levels of mir-34b/c methylation had the greatest correlation with the invasion and showed the largest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC = 0.796). Using cutoff points of mir-34b/c methylation determined by efficiency considerations, the sensitivity/specificity were 0.861/0.657 for the 13.0% (high sensitivity) and 0.765/0.833 for the 17.8% (well-balanced) cutoffs. In the validation test set, the AUC was also very high (0.915), the sensitivity/specificity were 0.870/0.875 for 13.0% and 0.565/0.958 for 17.8%. Using the diagnostic tree constructed by an objective algorithm, the diagnostic accuracy of the invasiveness of colorectal cancer was 91.3% for the training set and 85.1% for the test set. Our results suggest that analysis of the methylation of DNA in mucosal wash fluid may be a good molecular marker for predicting the invasiveness of colorectal tumors. Cancer Prev Res; 4(5); 674–83. ©2011 AACR.
Lung-Cancer Chemoprevention by Induction of Synthetic Lethality in Mutant KRAS Premalignant Cells In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Huang Shaoyi , Ren Xiaoyang , Wang Lai , Zhang Ling , Wu Xiangwei
Published: May 2011

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in both men and women in the United States, with a low 5-year survival rate despite improved treatment strategies. These data underscore the great need for effective chemoprevention of this cancer. Mutations and activation of KRAS occur frequently in, and are thought to be a primary driver of the development of, non–small cell lung cancers (NSCLC) of the adenocarcinoma subtype. In this study, we developed a new approach for the chemoprevention of NSCLC involving specific targeting of apoptosis in mutant KRAS cells. This approach is based on a synthetic lethal interaction among TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL), the second mitochondria-derived activator of caspase Smac/DIABLO (Smac), and KRAS. Mutational activation of KRAS modulated the expression of TRAIL receptors by upregulating death receptors and downregulating decoy receptors. Furthermore, oncogenic KRAS repressed cellular FADD-like interleukin 1β–converting enzyme (FLICE)-like inhibitory protein (c-FLIP) expression through activation of Erk/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-mediated activation of c-Myc. Smac overcame KRAS-induced cell-survival signaling by antagonizing X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP). Therefore, the combination of TRAIL and a small molecule mimic of Smac induced apoptosis specifically in mutant KRAS cells without harming normal cells. We further showed that short-term, intermittent in vivo treatment with TRAIL and Smac mimic induced apoptosis in tumor cells and reduced tumor burden in a murine model of KRAS-induced lung cancer. These results reflect the potential benefit of a selective therapeutic approach for the chemoprevention of NSCLC. Cancer Prev Res; 4(5); 666–73. ©2011 AACR.
Aspirin and Familial Adenomatous Polyposis: Coming Full Circle
Authors: Chan Andrew T.
Published: May 2011

This perspective discusses the clinical trial reported by Burn and colleagues in this issue of the journal (beginning on page 655), which assessed aspirin and resistant starch for the prevention of colorectal adenomas in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). The findings are examined in the context of previous clinical trials of aspirin in patients with sporadic adenomas and of sulindac or celecoxib in patients with FAP. This newly reported work raises important considerations of a role for aspirin in the clinical management of FAP patients and adds to considerations of a role for aspirin in the chemoprevention of colorectal cancer among broader populations. Cancer Prev Res; 4(5); 623–7. ©2011 AACR.
Association of Operating Time and Gastrectomy with Initiation of Postoperative Oral Food Intake
Authors: Kuwabara Kazuaki , Matsuda Shinya , Ishikawa Koichi B. , Horiguchi Hiromasa , Fujimori Kenji
Published: May 2011

Background: Fast-track programs optimizing perioperative care have been initiated along with the advancement of laparoscopic colorectal surgery. To clarify that these programs were evidence based for gastrectomy cases, we assessed the effect of operating time and gastrectomy type [open partial (OPG), open total (OTG), laparoscopic partial (LPG) and laparoscopic total (LTG)] on postoperative commencement of oral food intake. Methods: Among 14,465 cases of gastrectomy across 837 hospitals, we examined the demographics, comorbidity, complications, postoperative epidural analgesia, rehabilitation and teaching status. The impact of gastrectomy type and operating time on postoperative fasting period was assessed using mixed regression models to distill off the hospital practice belief. Results: We identified 2,775 laparoscopic gastrectomies and 10,064 partial gastrectomies, 2,485 of which were conducted via laparoscopy. Operating time was shortest in OPG and longest in LTG. The fasting period was shortest in LPG and longest in OTG. Longer operating time prolonged the fasting period, except for LTG. Postoperative epidural analgesia and earlier rehabilitation, but not laparoscopic gastrectomy, were associated with a shortened fasting period. Conclusion: When developing a fast-track program for gastrectomy, clinicians should recognize the impact of longer operating time and perioperative care rather than that of gastrectomy type on oral intake.
Drain versus No-Drain after Gastrectomy for Patients with Advanced Gastric Cancer: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Liu Hai Peng , Zhang You Cheng , Zhang Yu Long , Yin Lan Ning , Wang Jun
Published: May 2011

Background and Objectives: A wide range of outcomes are seen in the literature on the use of drains after gastrectomy. However, there is little consensus on whether or not drains are beneficial in patients with gastric cancer. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to evaluate drain versus no-drain after gastrectomy by using evidence from available randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Methods: We searched PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Embase, VIP, and CNKI for the terms ‘gastric cancer’, ‘gastrectomy’ and ‘drains’ used in combination with the medical subject headings. RCTs were considered. Meta-analysis was performed by RevMan 5.0 software. Results: Four RCTs involving 438 patients were included. There were no differences between the drain and no-drain groups in the incidence of wound infection, postoperative pulmonary infection, intra-abdominal abscess, mortality, number of postoperative days until passing of flatus and initiation of soft diet. Both the incidence of postoperative complications and the length of hospital stay for patients in the no-drain group after gastrectomy were lower than in the drain group (p = 0.03, 95% CI 0.32, 0.95) and (p = 0.009, 95% CI –1.21, –0.18), respectively. Conclusion: Avoiding the use of abdominal drains may reduce drain-related complications and shorten hospital stay after gastrectomy.
Elective Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: The Effect of Age on Conversions, Complications and Long-Term Results
Authors: Lill Sven , Rantala Arto , Vahlberg Tero , Grönroos Juha M.
Published: May 2011

Background/Aims: The purpose of the present study was to analyze the appropriateness and long-term results of elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy in the treatment of gallstone disease in the elderly. Methods: We studied all elderly (≧75 years) patients (n = 80) who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy at our institution during the years 1992–2001. Two control groups (65–74 years and <65 years) included the same amount of patients. For determining the long-term results, we asked the patients to specify their overall satisfaction with the results of the procedure (very satisfied, satisfied, no effect, worse). Results: There were no statistically significant differences in mean operative time (61, 65, 72 min) or conversions to open surgery (6, 11, 16%) between the age groups (<65, 65–74, ≧75 years). The mean hospitalization time (2.1, 3.3, 4.4 days) and complications (0, 11, 13%) increased with the age of the patients. Neither severe complications nor mortality were encountered. The vast majority of the patients were very satisfied or satisfied with the long-term results of the procedure in all age groups (97% <65 years, 83% 65–74 years, 80% ≧75 years). Conclusion: Elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy is also a safe and feasible operation with good long-term results in the elderly.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patient Well-Being and Its Relationship with Clinical and Patient-Reported Outcomes: A Real-Life Observational Study
Authors: Braido Fulvio , Baiardini Ilaria , Balestracci Sara , Menoni Stefania , Balbi Francesco , Ferraioli Gianluca , Bocchibianchi Sara , Canonica Giorgio Walter
Published: May 2011

Background: Quality of life is an umbrella concept that refers to all aspects of a person’s life, including health status and well-being. While health status measure focuses on the impact of the disease on physical functioning, well-being represents the self-representation of the emotional states related to the disease itself. Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the psychological well-being and its determining factors in a real-life chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) population and to evaluate if patients with a different well-being differ in illness perception, health status and alexithymia. Methods: Psychological well-being (Psychological General Well-Being Index), health status (SF-36), illness perception (Illness Perception Questionnaire), alexithymia (Toronto Alexithymia Scale), as well as clinical parameters were assessed in COPD out-patients. Results: One hundred and sixty-four patients, with a mean forced expiratory volume in 1 s of 58.5%, were recruited. Forty percent of them had a moderately/severely impaired well-being, not correlated with forced expiratory volume in 1 s and the Charlson index value but significantly with the Medical Research Council score (p = 0.0001) that appeared to be the dominant factor. Patients with impaired well-being showed a different illness perception in terms of correct identification of symptoms, disease consequences, emotional representation and confidence in treatment compared with those having a positive well-being. The latter presented a lower alexithymia prevalence and a better health status. Conclusions: In order to minimize the disease-negative effects on patients’ lives, assessment of well-being and its determining factors, as well as planning specific behavioural, educational and therapeutic interventions seem to be relevant and useful.
A Rare Case of Aortic Valve Myxoma: An Unusual Cause of Embolic Stroke
Authors: Koyalakonda Shiva Prasad , Mediratta Neeraj Kumar , Ball Jeffrey , Royle Martin
Published: May 2011

Aortic valve myxoma is an extremely rare cardiac tumour. We describe a 60-year-old woman found to have an aortic valve myxoma and a patent foramen ovale (PFO) presenting as a stroke. In view of the recurrent cerebral ischaemic events, the aortic valve myxoma was surgically removed and the PFO was closed. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of aortic valve myxoma with a PFO. We also highlight the importance of identifying a possible cardiac source of embolism in a stroke patient and considering this rare tumour as a cause in patients with a cryptogenic stroke.
Pretreatment Serum Level of 15-kDa Granulysin Might Have a Prognostic Value in Patients with Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Park Yong , Choi Yoon Ji , Park Se Jong , Lee Se Ryeon , Sung Hwa Jung , Park Kyong Hwa , Kim Soek Jin , Choi Chul Won , Jung Kwang Yoon , Kim Byung Soo
Published: May 2011

Aim: Granulysin (cytolytic molecules of cytotoxic T lymphocytes and natural killer cells) is synthesized as cytosolic 9-kDa and secretary 15-kDa isoforms. We evaluated the prognostic significance of the pretreatment serum level of 15-kDa granulysin in patients with diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Patients and Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 88 DLBCL patients treated homogeneously with standard chemotherapy. The granulysin level was quantified in pretreatment samples. Results: The granulysin level in DLBCL patients was significantly lower than that in healthy controls (522 ± 496 vs. 1,945 ± 1,696 pg/ml; p < 0.0001), and the level in patients who experienced recurrence within 3 years was significantly lower than that of patients without recurrence (305 ± 337 vs. 720 ± 607 pg/ml; p = 0.001). Patients with granulysin levels higher than the median level showed significantly longer progression-free and overall survival according to univariate analysis (p = 0.031 and p = 0.014, respectively). In multivariate analysis, the granulysin level was an independently significant prognostic factor of overall survival (p = 0.018; hazard ratio, 0.521; 95% confidence interval, 0.188–0.841). Conclusions: Pretreatment serum level of 15-kDa granulysin may be a valuable prognostic marker in DLBCL patients treated with standard chemotherapy.
Tumescent Liposuction: Partitioning of Lidocaine at a Lower Dose (252 mg/l)
Authors: Wang Gang , Cao Weigang
Published: May 2011

Background: The popularity of large-volume liposuction and the toxicity of lidocaine have led to a reduction of lidocaine dosage in tumescent liposuction. We have gradually reduced the concentration of lidocaine from 500 to 252 mg/l over the past decade. Objective: To evaluate the partitioning and the recovery of lidocaine at a lower concentration in tumescent liposuction. Methods: 10 consecutive patients’ aspirate samples were analysed for the lidocaine concentration in the fat and the fluid component, the percentage of injected lidocaine removed by aspiration and its partition coefficient in fat versus fluid. Results: 7.5% of the injected lidocaine was removed; its partition coefficient was 0.21. Conclusion: 7.5% of the total lidocaine was aspirated in tumescent liposuction. The fat uptake of lidocaine was lower than in previous reports, which was of particular interest for future studies on lidocaine toxicity for the safety of the patients undergoing tumescent liposuction.
Atrioventricular Conduction Disturbance Characterization in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation With the CoreValve Prosthesis
Authors: Rubín José M. , Avanzas Pablo , del Valle Raquel , Renilla Alfredo , Ríos Enrique , Calvo David , Lozano Iñigo , Anguera Ignasi , Díaz-Molina Beatriz , Cequier Angel , Morís de la Tassa César
Published: May 2011

Background—

Atrioventricular (AV) block is one of the most frequent complications of CoreValve transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of CoreValve implantation on AV conduction.

Methods and Results—

Electrophysiological study was performed immediately before and after CoreValve implantation in 18 consecutive, permanent pacemaker-free patients. An electrode was placed on the His bundle during valve implantation, and data were continuously recorded during the procedure. With surface ECG, a median (first, third quartile) QRS width of 96 (84, 116) to 150 (121, 164) ms (
P
=0.001) and PR interval of 180 (159, 216) to 210 (190, 240) ms (
P
=0.008) were significantly prolonged, and QRS axis was left deviated 30° (−32°, 46°) to −20° (−60°, 2°) (
P
=0.005). With intracardiac electrograms, the AH (97 [70, 123] to 115 [96, 135] ms,
P
=0.021) and HV (52 [42, 55] to 60 [50, 70] ms,
P
=0.002) intervals were increased. At the end of the procedure, we observed significant ECG- or electrophysiological study-persistent conduction disturbances in 14 (78%) patients. Five patients experienced transient changes (2 AV blocks and 3 left bundle branch blocks).

Conclusions—

CoreValve implantation worsens AV conduction in most patients, either transiently or permanently. This worsening is the result of direct damage either on the His bundle or on the AV node.
National Unified Operational Prediction Capability Initiative
Authors: Sandgathe S. , O'Connor W. , Lett N. , McCarren D. , Toepfer F.
Published: May 2011

No abstract available.
Typhoon Track Changes Associated with Global Warming
Authors: Wang Ruifang , Wu Liguang , Wang Chao
Published: May 2011

Increasing tropical cyclone (TC) influence in the subtropical East Asia and decreasing TC activity in the South China Sea over the past few decades have been researched in previous studies. The singular value decomposition (SVD) of observational data and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) climate change simulations in the Fourth Assessment Report (AR4) shows that the observed TC track changes are linked to the leading SVD mode of global sea surface temperature (SST) warming and the associated changes in large-scale steering flows. The selected five IPCC models can generally simulate the leading mode in their ensemble control run and prediction, suggesting the possible persistence of the reported track changes by 2040.
Targeting Lynch Victims
Authors: Bailey Amy Kate , Tolnay Stewart E. , Beck E. M. , Laird Jennifer D.
Published: May 2011

This article presents the first evidence based on a newly-compiled database of known lynch victims. Using information from the original census enumerators’ manuscripts, we identify individual- and household-level characteristics of more than 900 black males lynched in 10 southern states between 1882 and 1929. First, we use the information for successfully linked cases to present a profile of individual- and household-level characteristics of a large sample of lynch victims. Second, we compare these characteristics with a randomly-generated sample of black men living in the counties where lynchings occurred. We use our findings from this comparative analysis to assess the empirical support for alternative theoretical perspectives on the selection of individuals as victims of southern mob violence. Third, we consider whether the individual-level risk factors for being targeted as a lynch victim varied substantially over time or across space. Our results demonstrate that victims were generally less embedded within the social and economic fabric of their communities than were other black men. This suggests that social marginality increased the likelihood of being targeted for lynching. These findings are generally consistent across decades and within different sociodemographic contexts.
No More Tears? Maternal Involvement During the Newborn Screening Examination
Authors: Ganda Augustine Josie , Fara Ibrahim Laila , Natchimutu Kannan , Ryan C. Anthony
Published: May 2011

Background. Babies often show signs of discomfort and distress by crying during the neonatal screening examination (NSE). The authors hypothesized that supporting the baby with maternal participation may reduce infant crying during NSE. The objective of this study was to document incidental infant crying during NSE, before and after training residents, on maternal involvement and infant comfort techniques to help. Methods. A total of 20 NSEs of normal newborn babies by pediatric residents were observed (video-recorded) following informed consent of the doctor and the baby’s mother. The examining doctors were then taught how to use maternal participation and developmental care (MPDC) comfort techniques to support the baby during NSE. Mothers were shown how to focus on their baby’s needs by supporting the baby’s head (preventing atonic neck reflexes) and, if necessary, providing nonnutritive sucking to the baby and an encouraging, repetitive low-tone voices to sooth the baby. A further 14 NSEs on different babies were video-recorded using these techniques. The video recordings were analyzed by independent observers for total length of crying and duration of crying during specific components of the NSE. Mothers in both groups were given a questionnaire to assess their opinions of the NSE. Results. The median length of crying was significantly longer in the pre-MPDC group (93.5 seconds; range 0-198 seconds) compared with the post-MPDC infants (0 seconds; range 0-123 seconds; P = .001). Only 1 of 20 infants in the pre-MPDC did not cry during NSE compared with 8 of 14 babies in the post-MPDC group. Conclusion. Newborn infants cry less and mothers were more satisfied with NSEs when shown simple support and comfort techniques for their babies.
Pediatric Volleyball-Related Injuries Treated in US Emergency Departments, 1990-2009
Authors: Pollard Katherine A. , Shields Brenda J. , Smith Gary A.
Published: May 2011

This study describes the epidemiology of pediatric volleyball-related injuries treated in US hospital emergency departments. Data for children younger than 18 years obtained from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission from 1990 through 2009 were analyzed. An estimated 692 024 volleyball-related injuries to children younger than 18 years occurred during the study period. The annual number of injuries declined significantly by 23% during the study period; however, the annual injury rate remained unchanged, and the number of volleyball-related concussions/closed head injuries increased significantly. Upper (48%) and lower (39%) extremity injuries occurred most frequently, as did strains/sprains (54%). Contact with the net/pole was associated with concussions/closed head injury our findings indicate opportunities for making volleyball an even safer sport for children. Protective padding, complying with US volleyball standards, should cover all volleyball poles and protruding hardware to prevent impact-related injuries.
Low-Skill Employment Opportunity and African American-White Difference in Recidivism
Authors: Bellair Paul E. , Kowalski Brian R.
Published: May 2011

Previous contextual analyses of recidivism are limited by a focus on traditional disadvantage indicators. The authors examine whether those indicators, including poverty, family composition, high school dropout, and unemployment explain disproportionate involvement in serious criminal recidivism among African American relative to White ex-prisoners. Given the fundamental necessity of finding employment after release, the authors move beyond traditional measures and investigate the availability of low-skill employment opportunity in the industries that prior research suggests are most likely to hire ex-prisoners (retail and manufacturing). To address the issue, the authors collected and geo-coded data for a representative sample of 1,568 Ohio ex-prisoners released on community supervision during the first six months of 1999. Contextual analysis reveals that race difference in serious recidivism is explained by low-skill employment opportunity in manufacturing and that it is contingent on levels of neighborhood disadvantage and unemployment.
Post-socialist Urban Trends: New Patterns and Motivations for Migration in the Suburban Areas of Rīga, Latvia
Authors: Krisjane Zaiga , Berzins Maris
Published: May 2011

Suburbanisation is the most typical characteristic of the spatial distribution of the population in many countries of central and eastern Europe. Furthermore, a characterisation of residents is of key importance in explaining the process of suburbanisation. The study contributes to an understanding of post-socialist suburbanisation by clarifying the motivations and groups behind the population shift to the suburbs. The analysis is based on an extensive survey of the Rīga metropolitan area, Latvia. The results show that suburbanisation is a socially polarised process and that those with high and low social status are more likely to move to the suburbs than those with middle social status. Similarly, the motivations behind suburban in-migration present a distinctive and complex portrait of the on-going suburbanisation processes. Housing choice was found to be a key motivation for suburban migrants.
Neighbourhood Disorder and Social Cohesiveness among Immigrants in a New Destination
Authors: Oropesa R. S.
Published: May 2011

Dominican immigrants are increasingly turning away from traditional metropolitan gateways to settle in relatively small and medium-sized cities in the Northeast US. This study examines their views about neighbourhood social disorder and cohesiveness in Reading, Pennsylvania. The results indicate that residents are divided about the pervasiveness of disorder-related problems in their neighbourhoods. Moreover, views about social disorder have implications for social cohesiveness, but neither of these dimensions of urban life can be understood apart from immigrant incorporation. Among those who live in areas without disorder, naturalised citizens are especially likely to feel that they live in a tight-knit neighbourhood and to interact with neighbours. The study concludes with an examination of perceptions of neighbourhood safety.
Different Effects of Ethnic Diversity on Social Capital: Density of Foundations and Leisure Associations in Amsterdam Neighbourhoods
Authors: Vermeulen Floris , Tillie Jean , van de Walle Robert
Published: May 2011

This article examines the effect of ethnic diversity on social capital in Amsterdam neighbourhoods by looking at the effects of the ethnic diversity of a neighbourhood on the social networks that underpin civil society. A distinction is made between homogeneous, more individually oriented social networks, on the one hand, and horizontal heterogeneous networks on the other. The density of foundations—i.e. the number of foundations in a neighbourhood—is used as the indicator for the first type of networks and the density of leisure associations for the latter type. In addition, the study looks at the effect of a changing context in Amsterdam in which ethnic diversity has increasingly come to be perceived as problematic by inhabitants and local politicians. The results indeed show that ethnic diversity has a different effect on both forms of civil society: the horizontal heterogeneous networks suffer more from ethnic diversity than the homogeneous networks.
Sharing Moral Values: Anticipated Ingroup Respect as a Determinant of Adherence to Morality-Based (but Not Competence-Based) Group Norms
Authors: Pagliaro Stefano , Ellemers Naomi , Barreto Manuela
Published: May 2011

This research examines how moral values regulate the behavior of individual group members. It argues that group members behave in line with moral group norms because they anticipate receiving ingroup respect when enacting moral values that are shared by ingroup members. Data from two experimental studies offer evidence in support. In Study 1 ( N = 82), morality-based (but not competence-based) ingroup norms determined whether members of a low-status group opted for individual versus collective strategies for status improvement. This effect was mediated by anticipated ingroup respect and emerged regardless of whether group norms prescribed collectivistic or individualistic behavior. These effects were replicated in Study 2 ( N = 69), where no comparable effect was found as a result of moral norms communicated by a higher status outgroup. This indicates that social identity implications rather than interdependence or more generic concerns about social approval or importance of cooperation drive these effects.
Parental beliefs about emotions are associated with early adolescents’ independent and interdependent self-construals
Authors: Her Pa , Dunsmore Julie C.
Published: May 2011

We assessed linkages between parents’ beliefs and their children’s self-construals with 60 7th and 8th graders. Early adolescents completed an open-ended, Self-Guide Questionnaire and an independent and interdependent reaction-time measure. The self-guide responses were coded for independent and interdependent traits. Parents reported beliefs about the danger of emotions and parental guidance of emotions. When parents were high in beliefs about danger of emotions, and about parental guidance, early adolescents more rapidly responded to traits, especially interdependent traits. When parents were low in beliefs about both danger of emotions and parental guidance, daughters, but not sons, included fewer independent and interdependent traits in their self-construals. Girls responded faster to interdependent traits and included more interdependent and fewer independent traits in their self-construals than boys.
Histologic and Cytologic Detection of Endocrine and Reproductive Tract Effects of Exemestane in Female Rats Treated for up to Twenty-eight Days
Authors: Mirsky Michael L. , Sivaraman Lakshmi , Houle Christopher , Potter David M. , Chapin Robert E. , Cappon Gregg D.
Published: May 2011

The objective of this study was to determine the shortest period of time necessary to detect histologic evidence of estrous cycle disruption in Sprague-Dawley rats treated for up to 28 days with the aromatase inhibitor exemestane at 1,000 mg/kg. Rats were evaluated on day 5, 8, 15, or 29. Vaginal mucification, uterine and cervical epithelial atrophy, uterine luminal epithelial vacuolation, decreased uterine granulocytes, and hypertrophy/hyperplasia of mammary ducts and alveoli were noted by day 5 and persisted throughout the study. From day 8 to day 29, absence of recent basophilic corpora lutea, increased atresia of antral follicles, interstitial cell hyperplasia, and increased luteinized follicles were present in the ovaries of treated rats. Vaginal smears detected persistent diestrus, confirming estrous cycle disruption between days 5 and 8. Ovary and uterine weights were largely unaffected. Serum hormone levels were not useful due to the study design employed. Other effects of exemestane included decreased adrenal weights and decreased cell size in both the adrenal zona fasciculata and the pituitary pars distalis. While early histologic changes were evident on day 5, only after 8 days of treatment were findings considered sufficient to clearly identify exemestane-induced estrous cycle disruption using microscopy alone.
Effects of a Motivational Interviewing Intervention to Decrease Prenatal Alcohol Use
Authors: Osterman Robin L. , Dyehouse Janice
Published: May 2011

This study determined the effectiveness of motivational interviewing (MI) to decrease prenatal alcohol use, while examining mechanisms of behavior change based on self-determination theory that may have evoked decreases in drinking behaviors. In all, 67 pregnant women who reported previous-year alcohol use were randomly assigned to an MI intervention or comparison group, with 56 women completing all study procedures. Both groups were assessed at baseline and 4- to 6-week follow-up for alcohol use and mechanisms of behavior change (basic psychological needs satisfaction and autonomous motivation). Only the MI group received the intervention after baseline assessments. Although MI was not found effective in decreasing prenatal drinking behaviors in this study, nonspecific factors were identified, such as treatment structures, participant motivation for improvement, and provider qualities, which may have influenced these results. More research is needed to determine theory-based specific and nonspecific factors that drive effective nursing interventions to decrease alcohol use during pregnancy.
Nurses’ Information Management and Use of Electronic Tools During Acute Care Handoffs
Authors: Staggers Nancy , Clark Lauren , Blaz Jacquelyn W. , Kapsandoy Seraphine
Published: May 2011

Little evidence is available about nurses’ use of electronic tools during handoffs. This qualitative study explored information management and use of electronic tools during nursing handoffs. The sample included 93 handoffs by 26 nurses on 5 medical/surgical units in 2 western hospitals with a robust electronic health record (EHR). Data collection included audiotaping handoffs, semi-structured interviews, observations, and fieldnotes. The dataset was inductively coded into 33 categories and 5 themes: good nurse expectations for handoffs, paper forms are best, information at a glance, only pertinent information please, and information tools that work. Two-thirds of the nurses abandoned use of the leadership-endorsed electronic handoff form, preferring personal paper forms. The findings suggest effective electronic solutions will require extensive contextually-based information, information integrated across EHR modules and portable, electronic support throughout shifts. This is a call to action for leaders and informaticists as they select and design future electronic tools.
Influence of Unit-Level Staffing on Medication Errors and Falls in Military Hospitals
Authors: Breckenridge-Sproat Sara , Johantgen Meg , Patrician Patricia
Published: May 2011

This study examined unit-level associations of nurse staffing and workload, and the effect of the practice environment on adverse patient events. A secondary analysis was conducted of a longitudinal data set of 23 Army inpatient units from the Military Nursing Outcomes Database. Generalized Linear Mixed Modeling accommodated nested, nonparametric data. Staff category was found to be a significant predictor of medication errors and patient falls, but the relationship varied by unit type. Patient census had no effect on either outcome; however, a higher patient acuity was associated with an increase in both adverse events. The nursing practice environment mediated medication errors but not falls, in all unit types. Skill mix is important; however, additional components of staffing need consideration in producing positive patient outcomes.
Sentinel Node Biopsy for Head and Neck Melanoma
Authors: de Rosa Nicole , Lyman Gary H. , Silbermins Damian , Valsecchi Matias E. , Pruitt Scott K. , Tyler Douglas M. , Lee Walter T.
Published: May 2011

Objective

This systematic review was conducted to examine the test performance of sentinel node biopsy in head and neck melanoma, including the identification rate and false‐negative rate.

Data Sources

PubMed, EMBASE, ASCO, and SSO database searches were conducted to identify studies fulfilling the following inclusion criteria: sentinel node biopsy was performed, lesions were located on the head and neck, and recurrence data for both metastatic and nonmetastatic patients were reported.

Review Methods

Dual‐blind data extraction was conducted. Primary outcomes included identification rate and test performance based on completion neck dissection or nodal recurrence.

Results

A total of 3442 patients from 32 studies published between 1990 and 2009 were reviewed. Seventy‐eight percent of studies were retrospective and 22% were prospective. Trials varied from 9 to 755 patients (median 55). Mean Breslow depth was 2.53 mm. Median sentinel node biopsy identification rate was 95.2%. More than 1 basin was reported in 33.1% of patients. A median of 2.56 sentinel nodes per patient were excised. Sentinel node biopsy was positive in 15% of patients. Subsequent completion neck dissection was performed in almost all of these patients and revealed additional positive nodes in 13.67%. Median follow‐up was 31 months. Across all studies, predictive value positive for nodal recurrence was 13.1% and posttest probability negative was 5%. Median false‐negative rate for nodal recurrence was 20.4%.

Conclusion

Sentinel node biopsy of head and neck melanoma is associated with an increased false‐negative rate compared with studies of non–head and neck lesions. Positive sentinel node status is highly predictive of recurrence.
Repair of Focal Cartilage Defects with Scaffold-Assisted Autologous Chondrocyte Grafts
Authors: Kreuz Peter C. , Müller Sebastian , Freymann Undine , Erggelet Christoph , Niemeyer Philipp , Kaps Christian , Hirschmüller Anja
Published: May 2011

Background

Scaffold-assisted autologous chondrocyte implantation is a clinically effective procedure for cartilage repair, but biomechanical evaluations are still missing.

Purpose

This study was conducted to assess the clinical efficacy, including biomechanical analyses, of BioSeed-C treatment for traumatic and degenerative cartilage defects of the knee.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

The authors evaluated the midterm clinical and biomechanical outcome of BioSeed-C, a cell-based fibrin-polymer graft for the treatment of cartilage defects. Clinical outcome at 4-year follow-up was assessed in 52 patients with full-thickness cartilage defects, International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) stage III and IV. Clinical scoring was performed preoperatively and 48 months after implantation using the Lysholm score, the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, the ICRS score, the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and the Noyes score. Cartilage regeneration was assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using the Henderson-Kreuz score. Biomechanical evaluation was performed by isokinetic strength measurements, comparing healthy and operated knee of each patient.

Results

Clinical evaluation showed significant improvement in the Lysholm (from 51.8 preoperatively to 80.7 at 48 months postoperatively), IKDC (from 47.5 to 71.5), ICRS (from 3.8 to 2.0), KOOS (subcategory pain from 62 to 78, symptoms from 68 to 76, activities of daily living from 68 to 85, sports from 19 to 55, and quality of life from 30 to 55), and Noyes (from 31 to 59) scores ( P ≤ .001) 48 months after implantation of BioSeed-C compared with the preoperative situation. The MRI evaluations showed moderate to complete defect filling in 43 of 44 treated patients. Two patients without improvement in the clinical and MRI scores received a total knee endoprosthesis after 4 years. Isokinetic evaluation showed significantly reduced maximum strength capacities for knee flexion and extension at the operated knee compared with the healthy knee ( P < .05).

Conclusion

The clinical outcomes 4 years after graft implantation are good despite a persisting strength deficit. Implanting Bio-Seed-C is a promising treatment option for cartilage defects of the knee. More emphasis should be put on the rehabilitation of muscular strength.
Exploring the Link Between Procedural Fairness and Union Membership in the Federal Government
Authors: Rubin Ellen V.
Published: May 2011

Little research focuses on how management in the public sector influences outcomes relevant to unions, such as membership rates. Membership is a particularly vexing union problem in right-to-work environments, such as the federal government, where no requirements exist for any dues payments. This research addresses the association between perceptions of the fairness of management decisionmaking procedures and the propensity to pay union dues in the federal government. An increase in the perception that management makes decisions fairly is associated with a decreased likelihood that a federal employee will choose to be a member of a union. Likewise, minorities appeared more likely than non-minorities to be union members, when controlling for other factors.
Structures in Public Human Resource Management
Authors: Selden Sally Coleman , Wooters Robert
Published: May 2011

This article explains an emerging trend in state human resource management, the adoption of shared services. According to a 2007 survey of state governments ( n = 42), approximately 38% of states adopted a shared services model between 2005 and 2007 and another 26% of other states are considering adopting shared services. Shared services is a blended model which addresses challenges associated with dominantly decentralized and centralized human resource management systems by capitalizing on new technologies and sharing expertise. The study finds that both organizational and political factors drive adoption.
Glass Walls in Urban Planning
Authors: Johnson Bonnie J. , Crum-Cano Belinda D.
Published: May 2011

“Glass walls,” or patterns of male/female segregation by job type, have been found in federal, state, and local government employment. Research shows women are more often employed in government agencies that deal in redistributive policies, such as housing, but less commonly in either regulatory (enforcement) or distributive (public works) agencies. The authors question whether the same patterns go beyond government jobs to influence a profession closely tied to government, namely, urban planning. Based on this study, the good news is the almost total lack of glass walls in planning’s private sector, but there is still room for progress in the public sector, namely, in transportation, management, infrastructure, and law. Examining this phenomenon is important because the planning profession values equality, fairness, and social justice, particularly in public policy.
Analysis of the Mitochondrial Complex I-V Enzyme Activities of Peripheral Leukocytes in Oxidative Phosphorylation Disorders
Authors: Ma Yan-Yan , Zhang Xue-Lin , Wu Tong-Fei , Liu Yu-Peng , Wang Qiao , Zhang Yao , Song Jin-Qing , Wang Yu-Jie , Yang Yan-Ling
Published: May 2011

Mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation defects are a common cause of mitochondrial diseases, which are characterized by multiorgan involvement and clinically heterogeneous manifestations. Diagnosis is difficult because of the lack of clinically feasible methods. In this study, mitochondrial complex I-V enzyme activity was measured in 64 patients with suspected mitochondrial disease and 200 healthy controls. Spectrophotometric assay was used for the analysis of mitochondrial complex I-V enzyme activity in peripheral leukocytes. Diagnosis was based on clinical presentation, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), muscle pathology, and point mutation screening in mitochondrial DNA. The differential diagnosis of aminoacidopathies, organic acidurias, and fatty acid β-oxidation defects was made. Thirty-five patients (54.7%) were diagnosed with Leigh syndrome based on characteristic brain MRI. Complex enzyme activity in controls was found to be stable. A deficiency in the oxidative phosphorylation was found in 29 patients (45.3%). Twenty (31.2%) patients had isolated complex defects, complex I deficiency (n = 2, 3.1%), complex II deficiency (n = 3, 4.7%), complex III deficiency (n = 5, 7.8%), complex IV deficiency (n = 5, 7.8%), and complex V deficiency (n = 5, 7.8%). Nine patients were found to have combined deficiencies, 3 (4.7%) had combined deficiencies of complex I and IV, 2 (3.1%) had combined deficiencies of complex III and V, and 2 (3.1%) had a combined deficiency of complex I and V. In conclusion, the peripheral leukocyte oxidative phosphorylation enzyme activity assay was found to be a reliable method for the diagnosis of mitochondrial diseases.