bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding NHS Policy Making in England: The Formulation of the NHS Plan, 2000
Authors: Alvarez-Rosete Arturo , Mays Nicholas
Published: January 2013

Research Highlights and Abstract

The article investigates which of two competing accounts of contemporary British policy making better captures the nature of policy making during episodes of major reform of the English NHS. The analysis of the formulation of the English NHS Plan 2000 suggests that the Asymmetric Power Model better describes the reality of NHS policy making under New Labour than the Differentiated Polity Model. Although the process of developing the Plan showed signs of a more open policy process, it was tightly controlled and personally led by the Secretary of State for Health and his close advisers, reflecting an underlying British political tradition that emphasises the idea that the NHS has to be continuously improved with change led from above by central government. However, when compared to the processes underpinning Thatcher's Ministerial Review of the NHS and the 2010 Coalition government's White Paper, if ever NHS policy making in England were to have come close to the Differentiated Polity Model, it would have been during the formulation of the 2000 NHS Plan.

Through a case study of the formulation of the English NHS Plan 2000, this article investigates which of two competing models of the British policy process—the Differentiated Polity and Asymmetric Power Models—better describes the reality of major NHS reform policy making under New Labour. The process of developing the Plan showed signs of a more open policy process, seemingly closer to the DPM. There was contestability of policy advice and limited involvement of the medical profession through its representative bodies. However, the process was tightly controlled and personally led by the Secretary of State and his advisers, with the direct involvement of the Prime Minister throughout. Two key moments of interest group involvement—the Modernisation Action Teams and the signing of the Plan by health sector organisations—were marked by power asymmetries. Overall, the APM better describes the reality of major reform policy making under New Labour.
Members are Not the Only Fruit: Volunteer Activity in British Political Parties at the 2010 General Election
Authors: Fisher Justin , Fieldhouse Edward , Cutts David
Published: January 2013

Research Highlights and Abstract

This article shows:

The importance of non-party members (supporters) in election campaigns. Party evolution rather than self-evident decline. How parties cope with falling membership to staff campaigns. The extent to which supporter activities complement and supplement those of members.

Existing research on volunteer activity in political parties has tended to focus on party membership, both in terms of numbers and activities undertaken. Recent developments in British political parties suggest however, an increasing role for party supporters—supporters of parties who are not formal members. Using data collected through surveys of election agents at the 2010 general election, this article examines the extent of supporter activity in constituency (district-level) campaigns, the extent to which active local parties stimulate supporter activity, the correlates of supporter and member activity, and whether supporter activity makes a positive and independent contribution to parties' constituency campaigns. The article provides an important opportunity to question whether the evolution of party organisations suggests that formal members may be less important than has been previously assumed in the conduct of election campaigns and the extent to which supporter activity complements that of members.
Gentrification, Education and Exclusionary Displacement in East London
Authors: Butler Tim , Hamnett Chris , Ramsden Mark J.
Published: January 2013

In this article we draw on Peter Marcuse's discussion of different types of displacement using evidence from a recent study we conducted in East London to argue that there is clear evidence of ‘exclusionary displacement’ and ‘displacement pressure’ in terms of education and specifically the choice of schooling. We show how the incoming middle classes in the Victoria Park area of inner East London have displaced not only existing poor residents but also many of the less affluent middle class from the favoured state schools in the area by adopting some schools and avoiding others. The preferred schools are often praised to the heavens whilst the shunned schools are similarly disparaged and deemed unacceptable. We suggest that it is this middle‐class dichotomization of schooling which accounts for the kind of educational displacement we have observed. The main form that this takes is direct exclusionary displacement when middle‐class pressure on favoured schools leads to local people being unable to get their children into them — normally because of ‘distance from school’ selection criteria.
Dyslexia and education in the 21st century
Authors: Prevett Pauline , Bell Sheena , Ralph Sue
Published: January 2013

This paper both reviews the other papers in this special issue and puts them in the context of the current agenda of research in dyslexia education. The pluralistic nature of the field is explored with reference to this special issue. The paper suggests a way forward for the field in terms of a developing research agenda for dyslexia education as we progress further into the 21st century.
Comparison of three interventions in the treatment of malnutrition in hospitalised older adults: A clinical trial
Authors: Campbell Katrina L. , Webb Lindsey , Vivanti Angela , Varghese Paul , Ferguson Maree
Published: January 2013

Aim

The objective of the present study was to determine the most effective method for providing oral nutrition support to hospitalised older adult patients with malnutrition using clinical and patient‐centred measures.

Methods

The present study involved consecutive assignment of 98 inpatients assessed as malnourished (Subjective Global Assessment B or C) to conventional commercial supplements (traditional, n = 33), MedPass (n = 32, 2 cal/mL supplement delivered 60 mL four times a day at medication rounds) or mid‐meal trolley (n = 33, selective snack trolley offered between meals) for two weeks. Weight change, supplement compliance, energy and protein intake (3‐day food records), quality of life (EQ‐5D), patient satisfaction and cost were evaluated.

Results

Weight change was similar across the three interventions (mean ± SD): 0.4 ± 3.8% traditional; 1.5 ± 5.8% MedPass; 1.0 ± 3.1% mid‐meal (P = 0.53). Energy and protein intakes (% of requirements) were more often achieved with traditional (107 ± 26, 128 ± 35%) and MedPass (110 ± 28, 126 ± 38%) compared with mid‐meal (85 ± 25, 88 ± 25%) interventions (P = < 0.01). Overall quality‐of‐life ratings (scale 0–100) improved significantly with MedPass (mean change, 12.4 ± 20.9) and mid‐meal (21.1 ± 19.7) interventions, however, did not change with traditional intervention (1.5 ± 18.1) (P = 0.05). Patient satisfaction including sensory qualities (taste, look, temperature, size) and perceived benefit (improved health and recovery) was rated highest for mid‐meal trolley (all P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Patients achieved recommended intake with supplements (MedPass or traditional), and despite lower cost, higher satisfaction and quality of life with selective mid‐meal trolley did not achieve recommended energy and protein intake. Future research is warranted for implementing a combination of strategies in providing oral nutrition support.
Re‐evaluation of women's nutritional needs, knowledge and behaviours in a tertiary maternity service: are we meeting women's needs yet?
Authors: Wilkinson Shelley A. , Walker Alice , Tolcher Debbie
Published: January 2013

Aim

The aim of the present study was to assess changes in nutritional awareness, knowledge and behaviours of women following nutrition service changes, implemented after a 2008 survey, in a Queensland Maternal Health Hospital.

Methods

In 2011, 356 antenatal and 138 postnatal women were surveyed for seven weeks. Results were compared with those from a previous survey in 2008 of a similar cohort of 309 antenatal and 102 postnatal women.

Results

The cohorts were similar on most demographic, anthropometric and pregnancy characteristics. Approximately half were primiparous and over one‐third had a body mass index of >25 kg/m2. Similar proportions of women accessed the nutrition services both years (4.9%, 9.6%) and felt the service met their needs (94–100%). In both survey years, women had poor diet quality, despite identifying healthy eating as a high priority. While similar proportions reported receiving written information (63.8% vs 69.6%), women surveyed in 2011 rated its appearance more favourably (3.7 ± 0.9 vs 3.9 ± 0.8; P < 0.001), found it useful (3.7 ± 0.9 vs 3.9 ± 0.8; P = 0.003) and knew of nutrition services available (10.5% vs 27.5%; P < 0.001), compared with the 2008 cohort. In 2011, women had lower gestational weight gain (12.8 ± 5.2 kg vs 14.5 ± 6.3 kg; P = 0.04) and more knew correct gestational weight gain guidelines (P = 0.005) compared with the 2008 cohort.

Conclusion

Evidence‐based service changes at the Maternal Health Hospital have effected positive change in women's gestational weight gain and service awareness and ratings. However, targeted, intensive interventions may be required to improve diet quality and manage gestational weight gain to ensure optimal pregnancy outcomes.
An investigation into the perioperative nutritional management of open colorectal surgery patients in major Australian hospitals: a comparison with the ERAS guidelines
Authors: Wykes Katie , Taylor Karen , Wilkinson Shelley A.
Published: January 2013

Aim

The present study compared the adherence of Australian hospitals with the ‘enhanced recovery after surgery’ guidelines for the management of colorectal surgery patients to inform development of a colorectal surgery care‐path.

Methods

Twelve Australian dietetic departments were approached and completed telephone interviews from June to September 2010 based on questions informed by the ‘enhanced recovery after surgery’ guidelines. Dietitians were questioned about their guideline awareness and the nutritional management of colorectal surgery patients within their facility. Current dietetic practices and perceived barriers and enablers to implementation of the ‘enhanced recovery after surgery’ guidelines were investigated.

Results

Dietitians at 10 of the 12 hospitals approached completed the interviews. Despite wide awareness of the ‘enhanced recovery after surgery’ nutrition guidelines in those surveyed and attempts to change practice, no hospital in the study had fully implemented the guidelines. Only three dietitians reported practising nutritional management of patients in accordance with more that half of the guideline elements. The most consistently implemented guideline element was the early removal of nasogastric tubes. The guideline element with the most reported difficulty were avoiding the use of bowel preparation and implementing preoperative carbohydrate supplementation. Recommendations have been presented to assist dietitians throughout Australia to close the gap between the evidence base and clinical practice.

Conclusion

A significant gap between the literature and clinical practice remains in the nutritional management of colorectal surgery patients. Acknowledgement of barriers and enablers to guideline implementation may assist in future guideline adoption.
Factors that influence consumption of fish and omega–3‐enriched foods: A survey of Australian families with young children
Authors: Rahmawaty Setyaningrum , Charlton Karen , Lyons‐Wall Philippa , Meyer Barbara J.
Published: January 2013

Aim

The present study aimed to identify factors that influence the consumption of fish and foods that are enriched with omega‐3 long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n‐3 LCPUFA), in order to inform the development of effective nutrition education strategies.

Methods

A cross‐sectional, 10‐item self‐administered survey was conducted to 262 parents of children aged 9–13 years from a regional centre in New South Wales. Parents were asked questions related to frequency of consumption, and to identify factors that either encouraged or prevented the provision of fish/seafood and/or n‐3 LCPUFA‐enriched foods for their families.

Results

Salmon, canned tuna, prawn and take‐away fish were the most commonly eaten variants of fish/seafood, at approximately once a month. Perceived health benefits and the influence of media and health professionals in health promotion were identified as the primary motivators for consumption of fish/seafood and foods enriched with n‐3 LCPUFA. Among families who consume fish, taste was valued as having a major positive influence, as well as preferences of individual family members, but the latter was perceived as an obstacle in non‐fish consumers. Price was the main barrier to consumption of fresh, but not canned, fish and n–3‐enriched foods, in both those that do and do not consume these foods.

Conclusion

Despite Australian parents’ knowledge of the health benefits n‐3 LCPUFA, only a fifth of households meet the recommended two serves of fish per week, hence nutrition education strategies are warranted.
Pilot intervention in an economically disadvantaged community: The back‐to‐basics after‐school healthy lifestyle program
Authors: Burrows Tracy , Bray James , Morgan Philip J. , Collins Clare
Published: January 2013

Aim

The objective of the present study was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of an after‐school obesity prevention strategy for families.

Methods

Ten children aged 5–12 years and their parents/guardians from an economically disadvantaged area participated in an after‐school healthy lifestyle program, which was run over a school term. It consisted of five face‐to‐face sessions that were run fortnightly with an additional social barbeque session at program completion.

Results

Feasibility was demonstrated by successful recruitment, retention (80%) and collection of a high percentage of usable data (96% at baseline, 80% at follow up). Acceptability was demonstrated by a session attendance of 83%, 100% positive enjoyment response. There was no significant change in anthropometrics, child or adult fruit and vegetable intake with no or little effect on all other dietary variables.

Conclusions

The present study illustrated an approach to the translation of a program used in an evidence‐based efficacious clinical trial into a sustainable community setting.
Genomes of replicatively senescent cells undergo global epigenetic changes leading to gene silencing and activation of transposable elements
Authors: De Cecco Marco , Criscione Steven W. , Peckham Edward J. , Hillenmeyer Sara , Hamm Eliza A. , Manivannan Jayameenakshi , Peterson Abigail L. , Kreiling Jill A. , Neretti Nicola , Sedivy John M.
Published: January 2013

Replicative cellular senescence is an important tumor suppression mechanism and also contributes to aging. Progression of both cancer and aging include significant epigenetic components, but the chromatin changes that take place during cellular senescence are not known. We used formaldehyde assisted isolation of regulatory elements (FAIRE) to map genome‐wide chromatin conformations. In contrast to growing cells, whose genomes are rich with features of both open and closed chromatin, FAIRE profiles of senescent cells are significantly smoothened. This is due to FAIRE signal loss in promoters and enhancers of active genes, and FAIRE signal gain in heterochromatic gene‐poor regions. Chromatin of major retrotransposon classes, Alu, SVA and L1, becomes relatively more open in senescent cells, affecting most strongly the evolutionarily recent elements, and leads to an increase in their transcription and ultimately transposition. Constitutive heterochromatin in centromeric and peri‐centromeric regions also becomes relatively more open, and the transcription of satellite sequences increases. The peripheral heterochromatic compartment (PHC) becomes less prominent, and centromere structure becomes notably enlarged. These epigenetic changes progress slowly after the onset of senescence, with some, such as mobilization of retrotransposable elements becoming prominent only at late times. Many of these changes have also been noted in cancer cells.
The dynamic relationship between social norms and behaviors: the results of an HIV prevention network intervention for injection drug users
Authors: Latkin Carl , Donnell Deborah , Liu Ting‐Yuan , Davey‐Rothwell Melissa , Celentano David , Metzger David
Published: January 2013

Aims

Social norms are a key source of influence on health behaviors. This study examined changes in social norms and relationships between HIV injection risk behaviors and social norms among injection drug users (IDUs) involved in an experimental intervention.

Design

Randomized clinical trial.

Setting

An HIV Prevention Trials Network study, Philadelphia, USA.

Participants

IDUs, called indexes, and their social network members, who were drug or sex partners, were recruited for an HIV prevention intervention and followed for up to 30 months (n = 652). Indexes were randomized into a peer education intervention or control condition.

Measurements

Outcomes of injection‐related HIV risk behaviors (sharing needles, sharing cookers, sharing cotton, front‐/back‐loading) were measured every 6 months and the social norms of these four risk behaviors were assessed every 12 months.

Findings

There was a statistically significant intervention effect on all four social norms of injection behaviors, with participants in the intervention reporting less risky social norms compared with controls (changes in mean score: needles, −0.24, P = 0.007; cookers, −0.33, P = .004; cottons, −0.28, P = .0165; front‐/back‐loading, −0.23, P = .002). There was also a statistically significant bidirectional association with social norms predicting injection risk behaviors at the next assessment and risk behaviors predicting social norms at the subsequent visit.

Conclusions

Through social network interventions it is feasible to change both injection risk behaviors and associated social norms. However, it is critical that social network interventions focus on publically highlighting behavior changes, as changing social norms without awareness of behaviors change may lead to relapse of risk behaviors.
Associations between area‐level disadvantage and DMFT among a birth cohort of Indigenous Australians
Authors: Jamieson LM , Do LG , Bailie RS , Sayers SM , Turrell G
Published: January 2013

Background

Individual‐level factors influence DMFT, but little is known about the influence of community environment. This study examined associations between community‐level influences and DMFT among a birth cohort of Indigenous Australians aged 16–20 years.

Methods

Data were collected as part of Wave 3 of the Aboriginal Birth Cohort study. Fifteen community areas were established and the sample comprised 442 individuals. The outcome variable was mean DMFT with explanatory variables including diet and community disadvantage (access to services, infrastructure and communications). Data were analysed using multilevel regression modelling.

Results

In a null model, 13.8% of the total variance in mean DMFT was between community areas, which increased to 14.3% after adjusting for gender, age and diet. Addition of the community disadvantage variable decreased the variance between areas by 4.8%, indicating that community disadvantage explained one‐third of the area‐level variance. Residents of under‐resourced communities had significantly higher mean DMFT (β  =  3.86, 95% CI 0.02, 7.70) after adjusting for gender, age and diet.

Conclusions

Living in under‐resourced communities was associated with greater DMFT among this disadvantaged population, indicating that policies aiming to reduce oral health‐related inequalities among vulnerable groups may benefit from taking into account factors external to individual‐level influences.
Stress analysis of different post‐luting systems: a three‐dimensional finite element analysis
Authors: Romeed SA , Dunne SM
Published: January 2013

Background

The longevity of endodontically treated teeth is usually determined by the adequacy of root canal treatments, coronal seal and favourable stress distribution within the remaining tooth tissues. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of post material and luting cement on the biomechanics of endodontically treated teeth using three‐dimensional finite element analysis (3‐D FEA).

Methods

A 3 mm section of endodontically treated canine tooth was scanned and reconstructed for 3‐D modelling and FE analyses. A metal post (MP) and a glass fibre post (GFP) were tested individually with four luting cements [zinc phosphate (ZPH), glass ionomer (GI), resin modified glass ionomer (RMGI) and resin based cements (RC)]. A push‐out test was conducted by subjecting all models to 100 N perpendicular loading at the post.

Results

The maximum stresses generated along the MP‐cement interface were significantly higher than corresponding stresses in the GFP‐cement interface regardless of the cement type. GFP generated seven times higher stresses within the root dentine than metal posts when ZPH and GI were used, and three times higher when RMGI and RC were used. The displacement of GFP was double (50 μ) the displacement of MP (20 μ) in all groups.

Conclusions

The low elastic modulus of GFP generated lower stresses along its interface and higher stresses within the root dentine, therefore the probability of debonding and root fracture in the GFP group was lower.
The Economic impact of public agricultural research and development in the United States
Authors: Andersen Matthew A. , Song Wenxing
Published: January 2013

In this article, we examine the relationship between public investments in agricultural research and development and the productivity‐enhancing benefits they generate. Knowledge productivity functions are estimated for U.S. agriculture using data on multifactor productivity and public knowledge stocks. We examine the time‐series properties of the data and compare alternative econometric estimation procedures. The results are used to calculate economic performance measures such as internal rates of return and benefit‐cost ratios. The real rate of return to public investments in agricultural research and development in the United States is in the range of 8–10% per annum.
Political Quid Pro Quo Agreements: An Experimental Study
Authors: Großer Jens , Reuben Ernesto , Tymula Agnieszka
Published: January 2013

We experimentally study the common wisdom that money buys political influence. In the game, one special interest (i.e., a corporate firm) has the opportunity to influence redistributive tax policies in her favor by transferring money to two competing candidates. The success of the investment depends on whether or not the candidates are willing and able to collude on low‐tax policies that do not harm their relative chances in the elections. In the experiment, successful political influence never materializes when the firm and candidates interact just once. By contrast, it yields substantially lower redistribution in about 40% of societies with finitely repeated encounters. However, investments are not always profitable, and profit sharing between the firm and candidates depends on prominent equity norms. Our experimental results shed new light on the complex process of buying political influence in everyday politics and help explain why only relatively few firms do actually attempt to influence policymaking.
Delayed first otoacoustic emissions test decreases failure on neonatal hearing screening after caesarean delivery
Authors: Smolkin Tatiana , Awawdeh Sharehan , Blazer Shraga , Mick Orna , Makhoul Imad R
Published: January 2013

Aim

Caesarean delivery (CD) was associated with a 3.2‐fold higher failure on 1st otoacoustic emissions (OAE) hearing test. We aimed to verify whether postponing 1st OAE beyond 48 h in CD infants decreases hearing screening failure.

Methods

We compared two groups of CD infants as to failure on 1st OAE test: early‐1st OAE (n = 560): 1st OAE at 12‐ to 48‐h‐olds and late‐1st OAE (n = 566): 1st OAE at 48‐ to 132‐h‐olds.

Results

Compared with early‐1st OAE group, the failure rate among late‐1st OAE infants was significantly sixfold lower (20.5% vs. 3.4%), with sixfold lower need for repeated tests: 205 vs. 34 tests/1000 CD neonates (p < 0.001). The failure rate decreased with increasing age in both groups (p < 0.001). Univariate analysis: timing of 1st OAE (late vs. early) was significantly associated with failure on 1st OAE. Multivariable analysis: late (48–132 h) 1st OAE test was associated with a 7.7‐fold lower risk for failure of 1st OAE, OR (95% CI): 0.13 (0.08–0.21).

Conclusion

Among CD infants, the risk for failure in late‐1st OAE group (>48 h) was 7.7‐fold lower, with a sixfold lower need for repeated hearing tests. Delaying 1st OAE in CD infants beyond 48 h of age (preferably between 48 and 132 h) decreases neonatal OAE screening failure.
Clinical progress in the two years following a course of exclusive enteral nutrition in 109 paediatric patients with Crohn's disease
Authors: Cameron F. L. , Gerasimidis K. , Papangelou A. , Missiou D. , Garrick V. , Cardigan T. , Buchanan E. , Barclay A. R. , McGrogan P. , Russell R. K.
Published: January 2013

Background

Exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) is an effective first line treatment for active paediatric Crohn's disease (CD).

Aim

To examine the effect of EEN on short‐ and long‐term clinical outcome together with anthropometric measurements.

Methods

Retrospective case‐note review in newly diagnosed CD (<16 years) who completed 8 weeks of EEN. Demographics, anthropometry, disease characteristics and inflammatory markers were collected at EEN initiation and at 1, 2, 6, 12 & 24 months post treatment initiation. EEN response was determined by a patient global assessment.

Results

One hundred and nine patients were included (Males 68; Median age: 11.2 years). After 8 weeks EEN, 65 were in remission, 32 improved and 12 had no improvement. By 4 weeks, mean weight/BMI z‐score (s.d.) increased (P < 0.02) and between 4 and 8 weeks (P < 0.05). Baseline inflammatory markers all improved significantly by week 4 (albumin, CRP and platelets; all P < 0.01) and ESR (P < 0.00001). 63/109(58%) relapsed during follow‐up. 44/63(70%) patients completed a second course of EEN with similar response rate, but lower weight gain (3.3 vs. 5.1 kg, P < 0.05). Height z‐score did not change significantly over the 24 months. Introduction of azathioprine within 6 months of diagnosis did not improve height outcomes at 24 months.

Conclusions

Weight and BMI z‐score improved with EEN and changes are sustained to 2 years, but height z‐score did not. Seventy per cent of patients who relapsed during 2‐year follow‐up managed a 2nd course of EEN. The optimal therapeutic strategies for length of EEN course and to improve linear growth are awaited.
A fibrinogen concentrate Haemocomplettan® (Riastap®) or a Factor XIII concentrate Fibrogammin® combined with a mini dose of tranexamic acid can reverse the fibrin instability to fibrinolysis induced by thrombin‐ or FXa‐inhibitor
Authors: He Shu , Johnsson Hans , Zabczyk Michal , Hultenby Kjell , Cao Honglie , Blombäck Margareta
Published: January 2013

To assess whether Haemocomplettan® (fibrinogen concentrate) or Fibrogammin® (Factor XIII concentrate) can be used to manage bleeding complications of antithrombotic treatment, we examined a normal plasma pool spiked with AR‐H067637 (thrombin inhibitor) or rivaroxaban (activated factor X‐inhibitor), to which one of the concentrates was added. Fibrin network permeability (Ks), images of Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Clot Lysis Time (CLT) were examined. Both inhibitors increased the Ks levels, which could be fully or partly reversed by Haemocomplettan® or Fibrogammin® respectively. However, these modified clots with tightened network remained non‐resistant to fibrinolysis, shown as unaffected CLT. Tranexamic acid at a very low concentration (0·4 mg/ml) aided the two concentrates to stabilize the clots, where the prolongation of CLT was more pronounced for a lower dose than a higher dose of Haemocomplettan® while Fibrogammin® brought the greatest delay to CLT out of all additions. These observations were partly supported by SEM images, displaying alterations of fibrin fibre arrangement known to influence fibirinolysis. The in vitro data suggest that Haemocomplettan® or Fibrogammin® given in combination with a mini dose of tranexamic acid may slow down the natural clearance of fibrin clot by plasmin and thus prevent patients from haemorrhagic complications during antithrombotic therapy.
Sorting nexin 2‐mediated membrane trafficking of c‐Met contributes to sensitivity of molecular‐targeted drugs
Authors: Ogi Sayaka , Fujita Hideaki , Kashihara Masaki , Yamamoto Chizuko , Sonoda Kahori , Okamoto Isamu , Nakagawa Kazuhiko , Ohdo Shigehiro , Tanaka Yoshitaka , Kuwano Michihiko , Ono Mayumi
Published: January 2013

The sorting nexin (SNX) family is a diverse group of cytoplasmic and membrane‐associated proteins that are involved in membrane‐trafficking steps within the endocytotic network. SNX1 and SNX2 are components of the mammalian retromer complex and they also play critical roles in the membrane trafficking of growth factor receptors including epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and c‐Met. The human lung cancer cell lines, which harbor activating mutations in the kinase domain of EGFR gene, are sensitive to EGFR‐targeted drugs gefitinib or erlotinib. However, a lung cancer cell line harboring gene amplification of c‐Met is sensitive to the c‐Met‐targeted drug SU11274 but not to EGFR‐targeted drugs. C‐Met overexpression is identified as one of the bypass mechanisms for acquired resistance to EGFR‐targeted drugs. Here we show that the siRNA‐mediated knockdown of SNX2 decreases the cell‐surface localization of c‐Met, but not that of EGFR, resulting in lysosomal degradation of the c‐Met protein. SNX2 specifically interacts with c‐Met and treatment with lysosomal inhibitors almost completely annihilates downregulation of c‐Met protein by SNX2 knockdown. Therefore, silencing of SNX2 markedly alters sensitivity to anticancer drugs targeted to c‐Met (SU11274) and EGFR (gefitinib and erlotinib) through promotion of compensatory activation of the EGFR pathway in lung cancer cells. These findings suggest that development of drugs targeting SNX2 could be useful in overcoming drug resistance to EGFR‐targeted drugs in lung cancer cells harboring c‐Met gene amplification.
Roles and mechanisms of cellular senescence in regulation of tissue homeostasis
Authors: Ohtani Naoko , Hara Eiji
Published: January 2013

Cellular senescence is the state of irreversible cell cycle arrest that can be induced by a variety of potentially oncogenic stimuli and has therefore long been considered to suppress tumorigenesis, acting as a guardian of homeostasis. However, surprisingly, emerging evidence reveals that senescent cells also promote secretion of a series of inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, growth factors and matrix remodeling factors, which alter the local tissue environment and contribute to chronic inflammation and cancer. This newly identified senescence phenotype, termed the senescence‐associated secretory phenotype (SASP) or the senescence‐messaging secretome (SMS), is induced by DNA damage that promotes the induction of cellular senescence. All of these senescence‐associated secreting factors are involved in homeostatic disorders such as cancer. Therefore, it is quite possible that accumulation of senescent cells during the aging process in vivo might contribute to age‐related increases in homeostatic disorders. In this review, current knowledge of the molecular and cellular biology of cellular senescence is introduced, focusing on its positive and negative roles in controlling tissue homeostasis in vivo.
Maternal postnatal mental health and later emotional–behavioural development of children: the mediating role of parenting behaviour
Authors: Giallo R. , Cooklin A. , Wade C. , D'Esposito F. , Nicholson J. M.
Published: January 2013

Background

Maternal postnatal mental health difficulties have been associated with poor outcomes for children. One mechanism by which parent mental health can impact on children's outcomes is via its effects on parenting behaviour.

Method

The longitudinal relationships between maternal postnatal distress, parenting warmth, hostility and child well‐being at age seven were examined for 2200 families participating in a population‐based longitudinal study of Australian children.

Results

The relationship between postnatal distress and children's later emotional–behavioural development was mediated by parenting hostility, but not parenting warmth, even after accounting for concurrent maternal mental health. Postnatal distress was more strongly associated with lower parenting warmth for mothers without a past history of depression compared with mothers with a past history of depression.

Conclusions

These findings underscore the contribution of early maternal well‐being to later parenting and child outcomes, highlighting the importance of mental health and parenting support in the early parenting years. Implications for policy and practice are discussed.
An investigation of the impact of regular use of the Wii Fit to improve motor and psychosocial outcomes in children with movement difficulties: a pilot study
Authors: Hammond J. , Jones V. , Hill E. L. , Green D. , Male I.
Published: January 2013

Background

Children with Developmental Co‐ordination Disorder (DCD) experience poor motor and psychosocial outcomes. Interventions are often limited within the healthcare system, and little is known about how technology might be used within schools or homes to promote the motor skills and/or psychosocial development of these children. This study aimed to evaluate whether short, regular school‐based sessions of movement experience using a commercially available home video game console (Nintendo's Wii Fit) would lead to benefits in both motor and psychosocial domains in children with DCD.

Methods

A randomized crossover controlled trial of children with movement difficulties/DCD was conducted. Children were randomly assigned to an intervention (n = 10) or comparison (n = 8) group. The intervention group spent 10 min thrice weekly for 1 month using Wii Fit during the lunch break, while the comparison group took part in their regular Jump Ahead programme. Pre‐ and post‐intervention assessments considered motor proficiency, self‐perceived ability and satisfaction and parental assessment of emotional and behavioural problems.

Results

Significant gains were seen in motor proficiency, the child's perception of his/her motor ability and reported emotional well‐being for many, but not all children.

Conclusions

This study provides preliminary evidence to support the use of the Wii Fit within therapeutic programmes for children with movement difficulties. This simple, popular intervention represents a plausible method to support children's motor and psychosocial development. It is not possible from our data to say which children are most likely to benefit from such a programme and particularly what the dose and duration should be. Further research is required to inform across these and other questions regarding the implementation of virtual reality technologies in therapeutic services for children with movement difficulties.
‘Everybody just thinks I'm weird’: a qualitative exploration of the psychosocial experiences of adolescents with Tourette syndrome
Authors: Wadman R. , Tischler V. , Jackson G. M.
Published: January 2013

Background

Research suggests Tourette syndrome (TS) can have a negative impact on quality of life. To date, little research has examined the perspectives of young people with this condition in depth.

Methods

Six 14‐ to 16‐year‐olds with TS took part in semi‐structured interviews to explore the perceived impact of this condition on self and on relationships with others. The transcripts were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Results

The young people felt that TS was a constant presence in their lives, but one they have learnt to cope with well. Most had developed supportive friendships but encountered problems when interacting with the wider peer network. Specific concerns around meeting new people and future employment were voiced.

Conclusions

The adolescents described specific ways in which TS affects quality of life and social interactions, and the effort it can take to cope effectively with this condition.
Prior use of immunomodulatory drugs improves the clinical outcome of endoscopic balloon dilation for intestinal stricture in patients with Crohn's disease
Authors: Honzawa Yusuke , Nakase Hiroshi , Matsuura Minoru , Higuchi Hirokazu , Toyonaga Takahiko , Matsumura Kayoko , Yoshino Takuya , Okazaki Kazuichi , Chiba Tsutomu
Published: January 2013

Background

Endoscopic balloon dilation is a promising procedure to improve symptoms of intestinal stricture in patients with Crohn's disease (CD). However, the long‐term efficacy of endoscopic balloon dilation combined with immunomodulatory drugs remains unclear. The aim of the present study is to investigate whether prior use of immunomodulatory drugs affects the clinical outcome of endoscopic balloon dilation for intestinal stricture in CD.

Patients and Methods

Between January 2004 and December 2011, 83 dilations were carried out in 25 patients with CD. Median follow‐up period was 46 months. Patients were categorized into two groups based on their medications at the first endoscopic balloon dilation: early immunomodulatory drug‐induction group (early IM‐induction group) in which patients were already treated with immunomodulatory drugs before the dilation; and post‐immunomodulatory drug‐induction group (post‐IM‐induction group) in which patients were not yet treated withimmunomodulatory drugs before dilation. We compared the long‐term cumulative non‐surgical rate and the mean number of dilation procedures per patient between early and post‐IM‐induction groups to clarify the influence of prior use of immunomodulatory drugs on the clinical outcome of endoscopic balloon dilation.

Results

There was a significant difference in the mean number of dilation procedures per patient between the early IM‐induction and post‐IM‐induction groups (P = 0.04), although no significant difference in the cumulative non‐surgical rate was observed between the two groups (P = 0.14).

Conclusion

Prior use of immunomodulatory drugs may improve the clinical outcome of endoscopic balloon dilation for intestinal stricture in CD.
Relation between bile acid reflux into the stomach and the risk of atrophic gastritis and intestinal metaplasia: A multicenter study of 2283 cases
Authors: Matsuhisa Takeshi , Arakawa Tetsuo , Watanabe Tetsuo , Tokutomi Tadashi , Sakurai Kouichi , Okamura Seisuke , Chono Shinji , Kamada Tomoari , Sugiyama Atsushi , Fujimura Yoshinori , Matsuzawa Kenji , Ito Masanori , Yasuda Mitsugu , Ota Hiroyoshi , Haruma Ken
Published: January 2013

Background

The relationship between bile acid reflux into the stomach and the risk of atrophic gastritis and intestinal metaplasia is still not well understood. Towards obtaining a better understanding, concentrations of bile acids were measured.

Patients and Methods

This study was carried out with the participation of 14 facilities in Japan, and 2283 samples were collected. The subjects with bile acid concentrations equal to or higher than the limit of detection were divided into four groups of equal size (group A: 0–25%, group B: 26–50%, group C: 51–75%, and group D: 76–100%). Thus, including the control group, there were five groups in total. The odds that the control group would develop atrophic gastritis and intestinal metaplasia was set as 1,and the odds ratios (OR) in groups A, B, C and D were calculated based on the odds in the control group.

Results

Regarding the development of atrophic gastritis, no increased risk was observed in either the Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)‐positive or ‐negative cases. The OR for the development of intestinal metaplasia were significantly higher, for both cases with and without H. pylori infection, in group D.

Conclusion

High concentrations of bile acid seem to be associated with an elevated risk of intestinal metaplasia.
Relationship of Multidirectional Myocardial Strain with Radial Thickening and Ejection Fraction and Impact of Left Ventricular Hypertrophy: A Study in a Community‐Based Cohort
Authors: Russo Cesare , Jin Zhezhen , Homma Shunichi , Rundek Tatjana , Elkind Mitchell S.V. , Sacco Ralph L. , Di Tullio Marco R.
Published: January 2013

Background

Left ventricular (LV) systolic strain provides additional prognostic value to LV ejection fraction (LVEF) and wall motion analysis. However, the relationship between myocardial multidirectional strain and LVEF, and the effect of LV hypertrophy on this relationship, are not completely understood especially in unselected populations.

Methods

LV global longitudinal (εL) and circumferential (εC) systolic strain analysis was performed by two‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography in 215 participants from a community‐based study. LV radial wall thickening was measured as global radial strain (εR), and LVEF was assessed by biplane Simpson's method.

Results

εR was significantly associated with εC (β = −0.56, P < 0.01) and with εL (β = −0.18, P < 0.01). The contribution of εL to εR was especially evident in subjects with lower εC and in presence of LV hypertrophy (β = −0.30, P < 0.01). εL and εC were significantly associated with LVEF (β = −0.36 and β = −0.49, both P < 0.01) independent of LV mass and other confounders, and their interaction significantly improved the prediction of LVEF (R2‐change = 0.14) but not of εR (R2‐change = 0.002).

Conclusions

εR is mainly related to εC with a smaller contribution of εL, which becomes especially evident in subjects with lower εC and in presence of LV hypertrophy. Therefore, radial thickening may not detect subclinical LV longitudinal function reduction in normal ventricles and when εC is preserved. While a reduction in εL has a limited impact on εR, it exerts a greater effect on global LVEF, therefore for a more accurate LVEF prediction both εL and εC need to be considered.
Cross‐sensitization between cocaine and acute restraint stress is associated with sensitized dopamine but not glutamate release in the nucleus accumbens
Authors: Garcia‐Keller C. , Martinez S. A. , Esparza M. A. , Bollati F. , Kalivas P. W. , Cancela L. M.
Published: January 2013

Repeated administration of psychostimulant drugs or stress can elicit a sensitized response to the stimulating and reinforcing properties of the drug. Here we explore the mechanisms in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) whereby an acute restraint stress augments the acute locomotor response to cocaine. This was accomplished by a combination of behavioral pharmacology, microdialysis measures of extracellular dopamine and glutamate, and Western blotting for GluR1 subunit of the α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) glutamate receptor (AMPAR). A single exposure to restraint stress 3 weeks before testing revealed that enduring locomotor sensitization to cocaine was paralleled by an increase in extracellular dopamine in the core, but not the shell subcompartment, of the NAc. Wistar rats pre‐exposed to acute stress showed increased basal levels of glutamate in the core, but the increase in glutamate by acute cocaine was blunted. The alterations in extracellular glutamate seem to be relevant, as blocking AMPAR by 6‐cyano‐7‐nitroquinoxaline‐2,3‐dione microinjection into the core prevented both the behavioral cross‐sensitization and the augmented increase in cocaine‐induced extracellular dopamine. Further implicating glutamate, the locomotor response to AMPAR stimulation in the core was potentiated, but not in the shell of pre‐stressed animals, and this was accompanied by an increase in NAc GluR1 surface expression. This study provides evidence that the long‐term expression of restraint stress‐induced behavioral cross‐sensitization to cocaine recapitulates some mechanisms thought to underpin the sensitization induced by daily cocaine administration, and shows that long‐term neurobiological changes induced in the NAc by acute stress are consequential in the expression of cross‐sensitization to cocaine.
The short‐ and long‐term fitness consequences of natal dispersal in a wild bird population
Authors: Nevoux Marie , Arlt Debora , Nicoll Malcolm , Jones Carl , Norris Ken
Published: January 2013

Dispersal is a key process in population and evolutionary ecology. Individual decisions are affected by fitness consequences of dispersal, but these are difficult to measure in wild populations. A long‐term dataset on a geographically closed bird population, theMauritius kestrel, offers a rare opportunity to explore fitness consequences. Females dispersed further when the availability of local breeding sites was limited, whereas male dispersal correlated with phenotypic traits. Female but not male fitness was lower when they dispersed longer distances compared to settling close to home. These results suggest a cost of dispersal in females. We found evidence of both short‐ and long‐term fitness consequences of natal dispersal in females, including reduced fecundity in early life and more rapid aging in later life. Taken together, our results indicate that dispersal in early life might shape life history strategies in wild populations.
The biogeography of marine plankton traits
Authors: Barton Andrew D. , Pershing Andrew J. , Litchman Elena , Record Nicholas R. , Edwards Kyle F. , Finkel Zoe V. , Kiørboe Thomas , Ward Ben A.
Published: January 2013

Changes in marine plankton communities driven by environmental variability impact the marine food web and global biogeochemical cycles of carbon and other elements. To predict and assess these community shifts and their consequences, ecologists are increasingly investigating how the functional traits of plankton determine their relative fitness along environmental and biological gradients. Laboratory, field and modelling studies are adopting this trait‐based approach to map the biogeography of plankton traits that underlies variations in plankton communities. Here, we review progress towards understanding the regulatory roles of several key plankton functional traits, including cell size, N2‐fixation and mixotrophy among phytoplankton, and body size, ontogeny and feeding behaviour for zooplankton. The trait biogeographical approach sheds light on what structures plankton communities in the current ocean, as well as under climate change scenarios, and also allows for finer resolution of community function because community trait composition determines the rates of significant processes, including carbon export. Although understanding of trait biogeography is growing, uncertainties remain that stem, in part, from the paucity of observations describing plankton functional traits. Thus, in addition to recommending widespread adoption of the trait‐based approach, we advocate for enhanced collection, standardisation and dissemination of plankton functional trait data.