bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patient satisfaction and cancer‐related distress among unselected Jewish women undergoing genetic testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2
Authors: Metcalfe KA , Poll A , Llacuachaqui M , Nanda S , Tulman A , Mian N , Sun P , Narod SA
Published: July 2010

Metcalfe KA, Poll A, Llacuachaqui M, Nanda S, Tulman A, Mian N, Sun P, Narod SA. Patient satisfaction and cancer‐related distress among unselected Jewish women undergoing genetic testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2.

It is not known to what extent participation in a genetic testing program for BRCA1 and BRCA2, which does not include an extensive pre‐test counselling session, influences cancer‐related distress, cancer risk perception and patient satisfaction. Unselected Jewish women in Ontario were offered genetic testing for three common Jewish BRCA mutations. Before testing and 1‐year post‐testing, the women completed questionnaires which assessed cancer‐related distress, cancer risk perception, and satisfaction. A total of 2080 women enrolled in the study; of these, 1516 (73%) completed a 1‐year follow‐up questionnaire. In women with a BRCA mutation, the mean breast cancer risk perception increased from 41.1% to 59.6% after receiving a positive genetic test result (p = 0.002). Among non‐carriers, breast cancer risk perception decreased slightly, from 35.8% to 33.5% (p = 0.08). The mean level of cancer‐related distress increased significantly for women with a BRCA mutation, but did not change in women without a mutation; 92.8% expressed satisfaction with the testing process. The results of this study suggest that the majority of Jewish women who took part in population genetic screening for BRCA1 and BRCA2 were satisfied with the delivery of genetic testing and would recommend testing to other Jewish women. However, women with a BRCA mutation experienced increased levels of cancer‐related distress.
Specific IgE of common foods in Chinese children with eczema
Authors: Hon Kam L. E. , Chan Iris H.‐S. , Chow Chung‐Mo , Wang Shuxin S. , Lam Christopher W.‐K. , Ng Pak‐Cheung , Leung Ting‐fan
Published: July 2010

To cite this article: Hon KLE, Chan IH‐S, Chow C‐M, Wang SS, Lam CW‐K, Ng P‐C, Leung T‐F. Specific IgE of common foods in Chinese children with eczema. Pediatric Allergy Immunology 2011: 22: 50–53.

Food atopy is important but inadequately studied among children with atopic dermatitis (AD). We evaluated whether any association existed between AD severity, quality of life, total IgE, eosinophil counts, and the number of food items sensitized. Specific IgE of ten common food items was measured for a group of consecutive AD patients (n = 85) enrolled during a randomized trial and correlated the findings with eczema severity. Twenty‐four patients (28%) were negative for any of the ten common food items. The most commonly sensitized foods were shrimp (54%), egg white (43%), wheat (42%), and peanut (41%). Atopy to beef as a protein and orange as a fruit were least common among the food items studied, even among patients positive for 8–9 IgE items. Patients with severe AD (objective SCORAD > 40) were more likely to be positive for at least one of the food items (Yates corrected p = 0.024 for ≥1 food‐specific IgE in severe vs. moderate AD, OR 3.42 and 95% CI 1.15–10.32); and for at least seven of the food items (p = 0.001 for ≥7 food‐specific IgE vs. nil with OR 11.67 and 95% CI 2.29–67.77), respectively. The Spearman coefficients between the number of positive food‐specific IgE and total SCORAD, objective SCORAD, area of AD involvement, Children’s Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI), total IgE levels, and eosinophil counts were 0.42 (p < 0.001), 0.45 (p < 0.001), 0.50 (p < 0.001), 0.17 (p = 0.116), 0.80 (p < 0.001), and 0.22 (p = 0.043), respectively. Specific IgE levels for beef correlated with all the other food‐specific IgE levels, including cow’s milk (ρ = 0.061, p < 0.001) and soy (ρ = 0.70, p < 0.001). The number of common food items sensitized correlated with disease severity, extent, and total IgE levels. IgE sensitization to beef protein is unlikely in the majority of children with AD, but its serum IgE level is associated with disease severity and risk of sensitization to other foods.
Exposure to air pollution in critical prenatal time windows and IgE levels in newborns
Authors: Herr Caroline E. W. , Ghosh Rakesh , Dostal Miroslav , Skokanova Venuse , Ashwood Paul , Lipsett Michael , Joad Jesse P. , Pinkerton Kent E. , Yap Poh‐Sin , Frost Joshua D. , Sram Radim , Hertz‐Picciotto Irva
Published: July 2010

To cite this article: Herr CEW, Ghosh R, Dostal M, Skokanova V, Ashwood P, Lipsett M, Joad JP, Pinkerton KE, Yap P‐S, Frost JD, Sram R, Hertz‐Picciotto I. Exposure to air pollution in critical prenatal time windows and IgE levels in newborns. Pediatric Allergy Immunology 2011: 22: 75–84.

The objective of this study was to analyze the mechanisms by which exposure to ambient air pollutants influences respiratory health may include altered prenatal immune development. To analyze associations between elevated cord serum Immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels and maternal air pollution exposure during each month of gestation. Total cord serum IgE was determined by the CAP system and mothers’ total IgE levels by nephelometry for 459 births in the Czech Republic from May 1994 to mid‐January 1997. Concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and particulate matter <2.5 microns in diameter (PM2.5) were measured in ambient air, and arithmetic means were calculated for each gestational month. Log binomial regression models were used to estimate prevalence ratios (PR) for elevated cord serum IgE (≥0.9 IU/ml) adjusting for district of residence, year of birth, and in further models, for maternal IgE (a surrogate for atopy) and gestational season. Heterogeneity by maternal atopy status was evaluated for associations of air pollution and of cigarette smoke. In adjusted models, PAH and PM2.5 exposures in the second month of gestation were each associated with a lower prevalence of elevated cord serum IgE. For an average increase of 100 ng/m3 of PAHs, the PR was 0.69 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.50, 0.95); for 25 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5, the PR was 0.77 (95% CI: 0.55, 1.07). Conversely, exposures later in gestation were associated with a higher prevalence of elevated cord IgE: in the fifth month, the PR for PAH exposure was 1.64 (95% CI: 1.29, 2.08), while for PM2.5 in the sixth month, it was 1.66 (95% CI: 1.30, 2.13). In analyses stratified by maternal atopy, air pollutants were associated with altered cord serum IgE only among neonates with non‐atopic mothers. Similarly, an association of cigarette smoke with elevated cord serum IgE was found only in non‐atopic mothers. PAHs and PM2.5, constituents of both ambient air pollution and cigarette smoke, appear to influence fetal immune development, particularly among infants whose mothers are not atopic.
Long‐term outcomes of pediatric living donor liver transplantation at a single institution
Authors: Oh Seak Hee , Kim Kyung Mo , Kim Dae Yeon , Lee Yeoun Joo , Rhee Kang Won , Jang Joo Young , Chang Soo Hee , Lee Sun Youn , Kim Joon‐Sung , Choi Bo Hwa , Park Sung‐Jong , Yoon Chong Hyun , Ko Gi‐Young , Sung Kyu‐Bo , Hwang Gyu‐Sam , Choi Kyu‐Taek , Yu Eunsil , Song Gi‐Won , Ha Tae‐Yong , Moon Deok‐Bog , Ahn Chul‐Soo , Kim Ki‐Hun , Hwang Shin , Park Kwang‐Min , Lee Young‐Joo , Lee Sung‐Gyu
Published: July 2010

Oh SH, Kim KM, Kim DY, Lee YJ, Rhee KW, Jang JY, Chang SH, Lee SY, Kim J‐S, Choi BH, Park S‐J, Yoon CH, Ko G‐Y, Sung K‐B, Hwang G‐S, Choi K‐T, Yu E, Song G‐W, Ha T‐Y, Moon D‐B, Ahn C‐S, Kim K‐H, Hwang S, Park K‐M, Lee Y‐J, Lee S‐G. Long‐term outcomes of pediatric living donor liver transplantation at a single institution. Pediatr Transplantation 2010: 14:870–878. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  There have only been a few studies on the long‐term outcomes and prognostic factors after pediatric LDLT. We conducted a retrospective, single‐center assessment of the outcomes as well as the demographic and clinical factors that influenced the poor outcomes in 113 children aged <16 (median age 21 months; 6 months–15.5 yr) who underwent 115 LDLTs, predominantly for biliary atresia (60.9%) and FHF (14.8%), between 1994 and 2006 at Asan Medical Center. Left lateral segment or left lobe grafts were implanted into most of these children (86.9%) according to routine procedures. The overall rates of graft survival at one, five, and 10 yr were 89.6%, 83.0%, and 81.5%, respectively, and the overall rates of patient survival were 92.9%, 86.3%, and 84.8%, respectively. Virus‐related disease (41.2%) and chronic rejection (29.4%) were the major causes of mortality. On multivariate analysis, UNOS status 1a and 1b and chronic rejection were significant risk factors for both graft and patient loss, whereas the PELD score >25 was a significant risk factor for graft loss. Patient and graft survival may be related not only to post‐operative complications, but also to the patient’s preoperative clinical condition.
Morphine, opioids, and the feline pulmonary vascular bed
Authors: KAYE A. D. , HOOVER J. M. , KAYE A. J. , IBRAHIM I. N. , FOX C. , BAJWA A. , ANWAR M. , FIELDS A. M. , BALUCH A. , HUFFMAN S. , CHILIAN W.
Published: July 2010

Background: Opioid‐induced vasodepressor responses have been reported in a variety of species and laboratory models. The aim of this study was to ascertain the relative potencies of different clinically relevant opioids compared with traditional vasodepressor agents in the feline pulmonary vascular bed. A second aim was to study the effects of morphine and to identify the receptors involved in the mediation or the modulation of these effects.

Methods: This was a prospective vehicle‐controlled study involving an intact chest preparation of adult mongrel cats. The effects of various opioids, morphine, fentanyl, remifentanil, sufentanil, and meperidine were compared with other vasodepressor agents. Additionally, the effects of l‐N5‐(1‐iminoethyl) ornithine hydrochloride (l‐NIO) (nitric oxide synthase inhibitor), nimesulide [selective cyclooxygenase (COX)‐2 inhibitor], glibenclamide (ATP‐sensitive K+ channel blocker), naloxone (non‐selective opioid receptor antagonist), and diphenhydramine (histamine H1‐receptor antagonist) were investigated on pulmonary arterial responses to morphine and other selected agonists in the feline pulmonary vascular bed. The systemic pressure and lobar arterial perfusion pressure were continuously monitored, electronically averaged, and recorded.

Results: In the cat pulmonary vascular bed of the isolated left lower lobe, morphine, remifentanil, fentanyl, sufentanil, and meperidine induced a dose‐dependent moderate vasodepressor response and it appeared that sufentanil was the most potent on a nanomolar basis. The effects of morphine were not significantly altered after administration of l‐NIO, nimesulide, and glibenclamide. However, the vascular responses to morphine were significantly attenuated following administration of naloxone and diphenhydramine.

Conclusion: The results of the present study suggest that sufentanil appears to have slightly more potency and morphine the least of the five opioid agonists studied on a nanomolar basis. Morphine‐induced vasodilatory responses appeared to be mediated or modulated by both opioid receptor and histamine‐receptor‐sensitive pathways.
The effects of familiarity and group size on mating preferences in the guppy, Poecilia reticulata
Authors: MARIETTE M. M. , ZAJITSCHEK S. R. K. , GARCIA C. M. , BROOKS R. C.
Published: July 2010

Abstract In recent years, it has become evident that frequency dependence in the attractiveness of a particular phenotype to mates can contribute to the maintenance of polymorphism. However, these preferences for rare and unfamiliar male phenotypes have only been demonstrated in small, controlled experiments. Here, we tested the preference for unfamiliar mates in groups of six to 96 individuals over 13 days, in the guppy (Poecilia reticulata). We observed individual behaviour in situ to test whether fish discriminate two unfamiliar individuals among many familiar ones. We found that unfamiliar males and females were preferred over the familiar fishes in all groups and that this effect decayed over time. Increasing group sizes and levels of sexual activity did not hamper the preference for unfamiliar mates, providing further support for the role of frequency dependent mate choice in the maintenance of trait polymorphism in natural populations.
Apoptosis and Bcl‐2 Protein Expression in Human Placenta over the Course of Normal Pregnancy
Authors: Soni S. , Rath G. , Prasad C. P. , Salhan S. , Saxena S. , Jain A. K.
Published: July 2010

With 2 figures and 2 tables

Apoptosis plays a central role in organ development, homeostasis and immune defence in multicellular organisms and is strictly controlled in part by members of Bcl‐2 family. The Bcl‐2 is a pro‐survival molecule identified through its involvement in B‐cell lymphomas. The aim of the study was to evaluate the incidence of apoptosis in the human placenta at different stages of pregnancy and to correlate it further with Bcl‐2 expression. A total of 96 placental samples from first trimester, mid‐trimester and uncomplicated term pregnancies were collected (n = 32 + 32 + 32). M30 cyto death monoclonal antibody was used to identify apoptotic cells. The apoptosis index of first trimester placentae was 2.33 ± 1.70, mid‐ trimester was 1.77 ± 1.36 and term placenta was 1.15 ± 0.21. Bcl‐2 protein was found immunolocalized in the cytoplasm of syncytiotrophoblast. Apoptosis index was significantly reduced in term cases as compared with first trimester (P < 0.002) and mid‐trimester placentae (P = 0.01). On the contrary, Bcl‐2 expression was significantly higher at term cases than in first trimester (P < 0.0001) and mid‐trimester cases (P < 0.001). The present study divulges the importance of apoptosis in permitting normal physiological turnover of villous trophoblast and also exhibits the contribution of bcl‐2 in maintaining syncytial integrity throughout normal pregnancy.
Effect of Preserving Condition of Porcine Ovaries on the Development of In Vitro Matured Oocytes
Authors: Lin Y‐A , Tsai H‐B , Liao M‐H , Chen M‐C
Published: July 2010

Contents

The effect of preservation condition of ovaries on the in vitro maturation of the porcine oocytes was studied. Cumulus‐oocyte complexes (COCs) were obtained from the ovaries preserved in Dulbecco’s phosphate buffered saline (PBS) solution at various temperatures for different time intervals, and cultured in M199 maturation medium. Matured oocytes were obtained from the ovaries preserved in PBS for 8 h and electrically activated. The activated oocytes were then cultured in NCSU23 embryo culture medium for 16 h to observe activation or 144 h to observe embryo development. It was found that the preservation temperature affected the maturation of porcine oocytes greatly. The effect was described as a compromise of the suppressions of autolysis at physiological temperature and frostbite because of low temperature. A preservation temperature of approximately 25°C showed the maximum maturation rate for a preservation time of 8 h. Preservation temperature also affected the activation and embryo development of porcine oocytes greatly, following a trend similar to the effect of preservation temperature on the maturation. Based on maturation rate, activation rate and cleavage rate, a preservation temperature of approximately 25°C would be optimum for a preservation time of 8 h.
Endoscopic submucosal dissection for residual/locally recurrent lesions after endoscopic therapy for colorectal tumors
Authors: Kuroki Yuichiro , Hoteya Shu , Mitani Toshifumi , Yamashita Satoshi , Kikuchi Daisuke , Fujimoto Ai , Matsui Akira , Nakamura Masanori , Nishida Noriko , Iizuka Toshiro , Yahagi Naohisa
Published: July 2010

Background and Study Aim:  Residual or locally recurrent lesions may occur after endoscopic therapy for epithelial colorectal tumors. Additional endoscopic mucosal resection is difficult for large lesions. Endoscopic submucosal dissection may be useful for such lesions, but may be more technically difficult for residual/locally recurrent lesions than for primary lesions. This study evaluated the efficacy of endoscopic submucosal dissection for residual/locally recurrent lesions in comparison with primary lesions.

Method:  This retrospective case‐control investigated 34 residual/locally recurrent lesions and 384 primary lesions treated using endoscopic submucosal dissection. Tumor size, resected specimen size, procedure duration, en bloc resection rate, curative resection rate, histology, associated complications, and recurrence rate were compared between groups.

Results:  Procedure duration tended to be longer (85 ± 53 min vs 73 ± 55 min) and tumors were significantly smaller (20 ± 13 mm vs 33 ± 20 mm; P < 0.001) in the residual/locally recurrent group, compared with primary lesions. Both groups showed similar percentages of en bloc (100% vs 97.4%) and curative resection (88.4% vs. 83.6%). Perforation rate was significantly higher in the residual/locally recurrent group (14.7% vs 4.4%, P < 0.05). However, emergency surgery was only needed in 1 of 5 cases in the residual/locally recurrent group, with the remaining 4 cases conservatively managed using endoclips.

Conclusions:  Endoscopic submucosal dissection for residual/locally recurrent lesions was curative and efficacy. This procedure could help to avoid surgical resection and frequent follow‐up examinations in many patients.
Intracranial hemorrhage: Clinical and demographic features of patients with late hemorrhagic disease
Authors: Pirinccioglu Ayfer Gözü , Gurkan Fuat , Bosnak Mehmet , Acemoglu Hamit , Davutoglu Mehmet
Published: July 2010

Background:  This retrospective study presents clinical, demographical features and radiological findings as well as outcomes of 31 infants with intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) due to vitamin K deficiency and hence evaluates the risk factors involved.

Methods:  Thirty‐one cases (17 males and 14 females) having a mean age of 52.52 ± 20.80 days with intracranial hemorrhage due to late hemorrhagic disease of the newborn (LHDN), hospitalized in our clinics were included in the study. Cranial computerized tomography (CT) was performed in all patients for the diagnosis and evaluation of ICH.

Results:  It was found that the most frequent presenting symptoms were pallor (77.4%), seizures (58%), altered consciousness (58%), vomiting (44%) and poor feeding (35%). Pulsatile fontanel was found in 61% and bulging in 26%. Seven (22.5%) patients had prior history of antibiotic usage. All patients (93.5%) except two were breast fed. Sixteen (51.6%) were delivered at home. Eighteen (58%) had a history of single‐dose vitamin K prophylaxis on the first day of delivery. Parenchymal (44%), subdural (39%) or subarachnoidal (22.5%) bleeding was observed. Seven (22.6%) were exitus. During the follow‐up period (ranging from 3 months to 18 months) neurological examination findings were recorded.

Conclusion:  Our results indicate that it may be questionable whether single‐dose vitamin K prophlaxis at birth is adequate for the prevention of LHDN and if a different timing of this prophylaxis should be made for the exclusively breast fed infants.
Sudden infant death syndrome: How much mothers and health professionals know
Authors: Yikilkan Hulya , Ünalan Pemra Cobek , Cakir Erkan , Ersu Refika Hamutcu , Cifcili Serap , Akman Mehmet , Uzuner Arzu , Dagli Elif
Published: July 2010

Background:  Behavioral risk factors are associated with sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Education about the risk factors of SIDS is important for prevention. Our aim was to determine the knowledge and attitude of parents and health professionals about SIDS.

Methods:  A total of 174 health professionals and 150 mothers were enrolled in this study. Mothers' data were collected by telephone interview and health‐care professionals were interviewed by the same investigator.

Results:  Only 39% of mothers were aware of SIDS. Forty‐six percent of the mothers preferred a supine sleeping position for their infant and 16% of the parents were bed‐sharing with their infants. Seventy‐three percent of health professionals selected side, 17% supine and 10% prone sleeping position as the safest sleeping position. Frequencies for awareness of risk factors were: bed‐sharing (75%), soft bedding (70%), pillow use (52%), toys in bed (90%), high room temperature (67%) and smoking (88%). Total knowledge score of health professionals who selected supine sleeping position as the safest was significantly higher (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:  Most of the mothers were unaware of SIDS and less than half preferred a supine sleeping position for their infant. Only 72% of health professionals recommended a certain sleeping position during family interviews. Health professionals are more often recommending the side sleeping position or prone. Education of families and health professionals for the risk factors of SIDS may reduce the number of deaths from SIDS in Istanbul.
A rare case of multiple schwannomas presenting with scrotal mass: A probable case of schwannomatosis
Authors: Ikari Ryo , Okamoto Keisei , Yoshida Tetsuya , Johnin Kazuyoshi , Okabe Hidetoshi , Okada Yusaku
Published: July 2010

We report a rare case of multiple schwannomas presenting with scrotal mass. In the present case, a scrotal schwannoma developed in a 66‐year‐old man with a history of brain tumor surgery. Investigating the patient's past history lead to the diagnosis as probable schwannomatosis. Patients with schwannomatosis are at increased risk of developing multiple schwannomas and these patients need regular surveillance. In this regard, the present case highlights the importance of thorough history taking in patients with scrotal schwannoma.
“Out of sight”: Sexuality and women with enduring mental illness
Authors: Davison Joanna , Huntington Annette
Published: July 2010

Sexuality is a complex and fundamental aspect of a person's health and mental well‐being, yet mental health professionals generally seem reluctant to discuss sexuality related issues and few research studies have specifically explored the sexuality of women with enduring mental illness. The aim of this qualitative research was to gain a deeper understanding about the sexuality experiences of this group of women. Eight women were interviewed individually, and then together as a focus group. Working from a feminist theoretical perspective, the interview transcripts were analysed thematically. All the women considered sexuality an essential component of their identity. However, powerful interlocking systems controlled and influenced how the women expressed their sexuality, often marginalizing, and positioning them as ‘Other’, and rendering their sexuality hidden and unseen. The experiences of this group of women highlight the need for mental health professionals to recognize sexuality as an important aspect of a person's care and recovery, and to create a culture that is supportive of a person's sexuality and sexual expression. Incorporating sexuality related issues into clinical practice offers mental health professionals a significant opportunity to make a positive difference.
Noradrenergic modulation of behavioral odor detection and discrimination thresholds in the olfactory bulb
Authors: Escanilla Olga , Arrellanos Adolfo , Karnow Alexandra , Ennis Matthew , Linster Christiane
Published: July 2010

The mammalian main olfactory bulb (MOB) receives a significant noradrenergic input from the locus coeruleus. Norepinephrine (NE) is involved in the acquisition of conditioned odor preferences in neonatal animals and in some species‐specific odor‐dependent behaviors. Thus far, the role of NE in odor processing in adult rats remains less studied. We investigated the role of noradrenergic modulation in the MOB on odor detection and discrimination thresholds using behavioral and computational modeling approaches. Adult rats received bilateral MOB injections of vehicle, NE (0.1–1000 μm), noradrenergic receptor antagonists and NE + receptor antagonists combined. NE infusion improved odor detection and discrimination as a function of NE and odor concentration. The effect of NE on detection and discrimination magnitude at any given odor concentration varied in a non‐linear function with respect to NE concentration. Receptor antagonist infusion demonstrated that α1 receptor activation is necessary for the modulatory effect of NE. Computational modeling showed that increases in the strength of α1 receptor activation leads to improved odor signal‐to‐noise ratio and spike synchronization in mitral cells that may underlie the behaviorally observed decrease of detection and discrimination thresholds. Our results are the first to show that direct infusion of NE or noradrenergic receptor antagonists into a primary sensory network modulates sensory detection and discrimination thresholds at very low stimulus concentrations.
Altered metabolic and neurochemical responses to chronic unpredictable stressors in ghrelin receptor‐deficient mice
Authors: Patterson Z. R. , Ducharme R. , Anisman H. , Abizaid A.
Published: July 2010

Ghrelin, a hormone produced by the stomach, is generally associated with feeding responses and the regulation of food intake. Recent evidence, however, suggests that ghrelin is also a stress hormone, given that it is released following acute and chronic stressors. The present study examined the role of ghrelin in producing normal metabolic and neurochemical responses to chronic stress. This was achieved by examining these responses in mice with targeted deletions of the ghrelin receptor gene (GHSR KO mice), and comparing them with the same responses in their wild‐type (WT) littermates. As expected, WT stressed mice decreased their caloric intake, body weight gain and caloric efficiency while maintaining adiposity. GHSR KO mice, however, did not show these alterations despite having normal glucocorticoid responses to stress. In parallel with these changes, chronic unpredictable stress caused changes in norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin in a number of brain regions. Of these, norepinephrine neurotransmission in the arcuate nucleus and prefrontal cortex was differentially altered in GHSR KO mice. Within the nucleus acumbens, dopamine utilization was increased in WT mice but not in GHSR KO mice. Finally, there were strain differences in serotonin neurotransmission that may explain interstrain body weight and adiposity differences. These results suggest that the metabolic changes necessary to deal with the energetic challenge presented by repeated exposure to stressors do not occur in GHSR KO mice, and they are discussed within the context of the potential vulnerability to stress‐induced pathology.
Number of prostate cancer risk alleles may identify possibly ‘insignificant’ disease
Authors: Helfand Brian T. , Loeb Stacy , Kan Donghui , Catalona William J.
Published: July 2010

Study Type – Prognosis (case series) Level of Evidence 4

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether the cumulative effects of five prostate cancer risk alleles (three single‐nucleotide polymorphisms [SNPs] on chromosome 8Q24 and two SNPs on chromosome 17a) could help to identify possibly ‘insignificant’ disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We genotyped 629 men of European ancestry who underwent radical prostatectomy at our institution between 2002 and 2007. Possibly ‘insignificant’ CaP was defined using the Ohori criteria (organ‐confined, tumour volume <0.5 mL, Gleason pattern ≤4). Statistical analysis was used to compare patients with ‘insignificant’ and all other ‘significant’ cancer based upon genotype. Carrier status for the 5 SNPs were compared between patients with ‘insignificant’ disease and a separate population of 801 controls without CaP.

RESULTS

Overall, 38 (6.0%) patients with CaP met the Ohori criteria for ‘insignificant’ disease. Men with ‘significant’ cancer had a greater frequency of any of the five risk alleles than either patients with ‘insignificant’ disease or controls. None of the individual alleles genotyped on chromosomes 8 or 17 distinguished between ‘significant’ and ‘insignificant’ CaP. However, carriers of two or more risk alleles were more likely to have ‘significant’ disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Although no single risk allele distinguished ‘insignificant’ CaP, ‘insignificant’ disease was nearly three times as likely among carriers of ≤ one risk allele. Future studies are needed to further elucidate the cumulative relationship between CaP risk alleles and CaP aggressiveness.
Dispensing patterns and financial costs of glucose‐lowering therapies in the UK from 2000 to 2008*
Authors: Currie C. J. , Peters J. R. , Evans M.
Published: July 2010

Diabet. Med. 27, 744–752 (2010)

Introduction  A variety of influences determine prescribing behaviour. The purpose of this study was to characterize the pattern of dispensing for glucose‐lowering and monitoring in the UK from 2000 to 2008, inclusively.

Methods  Open source data were used from the four UK prescription pricing agencies. Historical patterns of dispensing change were analysed in England, thus data are for England unless otherwise stated. Costs were adjusted for price inflation and reported in UK£ at 2008 prices.

Results  The total cost in the UK in 2008 was £702 239 000: £22 897 000 (3.2%) for Northern Ireland, £37 681 000 (5.3%) for Wales, £57 146 000 (8.1%) for Scotland and £590 514 000 (83.4%) for England. As a per cent of the overall primary care drug budget for each region, this represented 6.9% overall and then 5.8, 6.5, 5.9 and 7.1%, respectively. In England, diabetes‐related dispensing costs increased from £290m to £591m. All glucose‐lowering drug classes increased in volume, except the α‐glucoside inhibitors and the prandial glucose regulators. Insulin costs increased from £128m to £286m. Insulin glargine metrics increased year‐on‐year, whereas neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH) declined. Analogue insulin increased (2.6 million to 33.9 million prescription items), whereas human insulin declined (21.0 million to 10.3 million).

Discussion  The costs of dispensing for diabetes increased markedly between 2000 and 2008 to represent an annual cost to the NHS of £708m, or 7% of budget. Costs increased at a higher rate than volume. Changes in prescribing appeared to reflect commercial factors more than clinical evidence. Diabetes dispensing patterns need to be better controlled and costs contained.
THE WELFARE IMPACT OF TRADE LIBERALIZATION
Authors: CHO SANG‐WOOK (STANLEY) , DIAZ JULIAN P.
Published: July 2010

This paper analyzes the distributional welfare impact of trade liberalization reforms on heterogeneous households. We develop a static applied general equilibrium model, and using a Social Accounting Matrix and Household Expenditure Survey, we calibrate it to match Slovenian data. We simulate the case of Slovenia joining the EU and quantify its welfare impact on households that differ in terms of age, income, and education. Additionally, we compare this benchmark case with two alternative scenarios: (1) a free trade agreement between Slovenia and the EU and (2) a custom union arrangement where tariff revenues are rebated proportionally to the households. We find that while trade liberalization leads to falling consumer prices, increased production in the export sectors, and aggregate welfare gains, the differentiated welfare impacts across heterogeneous households vary in their degrees. (JEL D58, F14, F15)
Fisheries buybacks: a review and guidelines
Authors: Squires Dale
Published: July 2010

Buybacks of fishing vessels, licences, access and other rights, and gear, sometimes called decommissioning schemes, have traditionally been a key policy tool to address overcapacity, overexploitation of fish stocks, and distributional issues in fisheries. Two more issues can be added, sustainable use of ecosystems and conservation of biodiversity (i.e. ecological public goods and services) and providing a transition to a more rationalized fishery. This study discusses reasons for buybacks; examines consequences; considers asymmetric information, design of buyback auctions and other design issues; buybacks as a transition to a rationalized industry with strong property rights and governance, financing and transnational fisheries; draws out key lessons from the international experience; and provides an overall evaluation.
Ownership and ownership concentration: which is important in determining the performance of China’s listed firms?
Authors: Ma Shiguang , Naughton Tony , Tian Gary
Published: July 2010

This article investigates the impact of ownership and ownership concentration on the performance of China’s listed firms. By recognizing the differences between ownership and ownership concentration and between total ownership concentration and tradable ownership concentration, we find that ownership concentration is more powerful than any category of ownership in determining firm performance; tradable ownership concentration has a more significant and positive influence on firm performance than total ownership concentration; the highest level of firm performance is approached when a firm is characterized by both total ownership concentration and tradable ownership concentration. Thus, we propose a conclusion that ownership concentration enhances firm performance regardless of who the concentrated owners are.
Price momentum in the New Zealand stock market: a proper accounting for transactions costs and risk*
Authors: Trethewey Sam , Crack Timothy Falcon
Published: July 2010

We test for recently reported momentum profits in New Zealand using a practitioner technique that we have not yet seen in the academic literature. This technique simultaneously weighs returns, risk and transactions costs at each portfolio rebalance, rather than blindly chasing returns and then accounting for risk and transactions costs after the fact. We reverse the findings of the earlier literature because our gross profits are more than fully consumed once transactions costs are properly accounted for. Although we focus on momentum trading in New Zealand, our practitioner technique is broadly applicable to investigations of trading anomalies.
Expression and recovery of biologically active recombinant Apolipoprotein AIMilano from transgenic safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) seeds
Authors: Nykiforuk Cory L. , Shen Yin , Murray Elizabeth W. , Boothe Joseph G. , Busseuil David , Rhéaume Eric , Tardif Jean‐Claude , Reid Alexandra , Moloney Maurice M.
Published: July 2010

Apolipoprotein AI Milano (ApoAIMilano) was expressed as a fusion protein in transgenic safflower seeds. High levels of expression corresponding to 7 g of ApoAIMilano per kilogram of seed have been identified in a line selected for commercialization. The ApoAIMilano fusion protein was extracted from seed using an oilbody‐based process and matured in vitro prior to final purification. This yielded a Des‐1,2‐ApoAIMilano product which was confirmed by biochemical characterization including immunoreactivity against ApoAI antibodies, isoelectric point, N‐terminal sequencing and electrospray mass spectrometry. Purified Des‐1,2‐ApoAIMilano readily associated with dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine in clearance assays comparable to Human ApoAI. Its biological activity was assessed by cholesterol efflux assays using Des‐1,2‐ApoAIMilano:1‐palmitoyl‐2‐oleoyl phosphatidylcholine complexes in vitro and in vivo. This study has established that high levels of biologically functional ApoAIMilano can be produced using a plant‐based expression system.
Adaptation to novel accents by toddlers
Authors: White Katherine S. , Aslin Richard N.
Published: July 2010

Word recognition is a balancing act: listeners must be sensitive to phonetic detail to avoid confusing similar words, yet, at the same time, be flexible enough to adapt to phonetically variable pronunciations, such as those produced by speakers of different dialects or by non‐native speakers. Recent work has demonstrated that young toddlers are sensitive to phonetic detail during word recognition; pronunciations that deviate from the typical phonological form lead to a disruption of processing. However, it is not known whether young word learners show the flexibility that is characteristic of adult word recognition. The present study explores whether toddlers can adapt to artificial accents in which there is a vowel category shift with respect to the native language. Nineteen‐month‐olds heard mispronunciations of familiar words (e.g. vowels were shifted from [a] to [æ]: ‘dog’ pronounced as ‘dag’). In test, toddlers were tolerant of mispronunciations if they had recently been exposed to the same vowel shift, but not if they had been exposed to standard pronunciations or other vowel shifts. The effects extended beyond particular items heard in exposure to words sharing the same vowels. These results indicate that, like adults, toddlers show flexibility in their interpretation of phonological detail. Moreover, they suggest that effects of top‐down knowledge on the reinterpretation of phonological detail generalize across the phono‐lexical system.
Lifestyle factors and ghrelin: critical review and implications for weight loss maintenance
Authors: Adams C. E. , Greenway F. L. , Brantley P. J.
Published: July 2010

Ghrelin, the only known appetite‐stimulating hormone in humans, may be one factor involved in increased appetite, cravings and food intake following weight loss. Innovative strategies for suppressing ghrelin and decreasing appetite during weight loss maintenance are needed. Recent research has highlighted relationships between ghrelin, stress and lifestyle factors. The purposes of the current review are to (i) describe the current status of knowledge about ghrelin and lifestyle factors; (ii) critically examine research in this area, highlighting inconsistencies and methodological issues and (iii) discuss future directions and implications for obesity treatment. Based on Literature search using PsycINFO and Medline databases, we reviewed experimental studies on relationships between ghrelin, stress, exercise and sleep. Ghrelin levels are positively related to stress hormones, and stress management interventions including exercise and sleep may help to reduce acylated ghrelin and corresponding appetite. Behavioural interventions may offer a practical, cost‐effective alternative for reducing or stabilizing ghrelin levels after initial weight loss. Adding behavioural techniques designed to reduce ghrelin to traditional weight loss maintenance protocols may help individuals to maintain weight loss. Future directions for investigating relationships between ghrelin and behavioural factors, examining the efficacy of behavioural programmes in reducing ghrelin and improving weight loss maintenance are discussed.
Collective Bargaining, Inter‐Sectoral Heterogeneity and Competitiveness: A Cross‐National Comparison of Macroeconomic Performance
Authors: Traxler Franz , Brandl Bernd
Published: July 2010

Research on the performance effects of bargaining remains inconclusive. One reason for this is neglect of heterogeneity of the bargainers, namely differences in exposure to world markets and their implications for international competitiveness. Since the effects of bargaining on competitiveness depend on coping with productivity differentials between the exposed and sheltered sector, we discuss how distinct bargaining structures interact with these differentials. Exposed‐sector pattern setting is predicted to be the only bargaining structure that is sensitive to productivity differentials. The findings from time series cross‐sectional analysis corroborate the expected impact on labour costs and the current balance, whereas no employment effects are discernible.
Underwriting Relationships and Analyst Independence in Europe
Authors: McKnight Phillip J. , Tavakoli Manouchehr , Weir Charlie
Published: July 2010

This paper examines the accuracy of security analysts’ earnings forecasts and stock recommendations for firms in 13 European countries. We document at least three key findings. First, we find strong evidence that lead and co‐lead underwriter analysts’ earnings estimates and stock recommendations are significantly more optimistic than those provided by unaffiliated analysts. Second, we find that lead and co‐lead underwriter analysts’ earnings forecast and stock recommendations are significantly more optimistic for underwriter stocks than for those they provide for other stocks. Third, we also find evidence that these biases found within earnings forecasts and stock recommendations are not driven by one particular country. In short, these findings suggest that affiliated analysts are more optimistic perhaps to maintain investment banking relations.
The Validity of Examination Essays in Higher Education: Issues and Responses
Authors: Brown Gavin T. L.
Published: July 2010

The use of timed, essay examinations is a well‐established means of evaluating student learning in higher education. The reliability of essay scoring is highly problematic and it appears that essay examination grades are highly dependent on language and organisational components of writing. Computer‐assisted scoring of essays makes use of language features and has demonstrated strong similarity to human ratings. Studies of examiner behaviour show that attention to content and language features contributes to grading decisions. However, given the time constraints on essay examinations, an overemphasis on language aspects may weaken the validity of essay examination grades. This article suggests alternative approaches to the standard essay prompt which should raise the validity of essay tasks and scoring in higher education. Suggested options include redesigning tasks so that organisational and language features are less influential in scoring and the use of content maps.
Rethinking the Assessment of Female Offenders
Authors: CAULFIELD LAURA
Published: July 2010

Abstract: This article provides a critical examination of the applicability of need and risk assessments to female offenders. Recent research has suggested that ‘gender‐informed’ measures are likely to be a more valid tool than existing methods when classifying offender need and risk. The author suggests that a serious evaluation of how we assess the need and risk of women incarcerated in England and Wales is needed, with focus on the criminogenic needs of women, the context of their lives, and their pathways into crime. While an entirely new method of assessment focused on women may be required, it seems equally likely that a more simple ‘reweighting’ of existing methods such as the Offender Assessment System (OASys) may be sufficient – focused on both gender‐mutual and female‐specific needs.
Characteristic microstructure of curved human hair
Authors: Nagase S. , Shinozaki T. , Tsuchiya M. , Tsujimura H. , Masukawa Y. , Satoh N. , Itou T. , Koike K.
Published: July 2010

Vol. 43, No.3 (2009) pp.201–208

Hair appearance is affected by several factors, such as hair shape, color and optical properties relating to hair luster. For example, recently, we have found that meandering (curved) hair fibers increase with aging and cause the disordered alignment of hair fibers, resulting in a decrease in hair luster in older women. It is, therefore, important to understand the relationship between hair shape and its microstructure to control the fiber alignment and then the hair appearance. In this study, we have investigated the characteristic microstructure of curved human hair with microscopic methods and the following results were obtained: (i) The permeation behavior of fluorescein isothiocyanate into curved hair was asymmetrical. The permeation rate was faster from the convex‐side but slower from the concave‐side of the curved hair. This difference in permeation rate suggests structural and/or compositional differences between the convex‐ and concave‐sides. (ii) Transmission electron microscopic (TEM) observations revealed that macrofibril morphology is different between the convex‐ and concave‐sides. The macrofibrils in the convex‐side are relatively smaller and dispersed in inter‐macrofibrillar material, while those in the concave‐side are relatively larger and fused together. (iii) TEM observations also suggested that the alignment structure of intermediate filaments in the convex‐side is helical or twisted in each macrofibril, while that in the concave‐side is approximately parallel to the fiber axis. (iv) The amino acid analyses of the convex‐ and concave‐halves of the curved hair fibers revealed that Cys is lower and Asp, Glu and Gly are higher in the convex‐half. Interestingly, these results of the TEM observation and the amino acid analysis are analogous to the difference between ortho‐ and para‐cortical cells in wool fibers, suggesting the universal structure of curved mammalian hair.
Sun & skin, not always good friends – how cosmetics improve their relationship
Authors: Cousy A.
Published: July 2010

IFSCC Magazine, 12 (4) 381–385 (2009)

Synopsis

This review explores the difficult relationship between sun and skin. The various significant factors in this substantial problem include in particular the gene pool, the cells’ physiological conditions, biochemical reactions (e.g. reactive oxygen species), biophysical modifications of aging (e.g. skin slackness) and social behavior. Facts regarding the risks related to sun exposure need constant updating and clearly dermatological recommendations should be mindful to include all populations, particularly the high‐risk groups (due to their low skin phototype or their location on the globe). It is obvious to most researchers that far too much misleading information and incorrect extrapolations are being continuously disseminated. There currently exists an overwhelming need for public debate and a global agreement put in place to advise individuals on the correct methods and products to efficiently protect themselves from the harmful effects of sunbeams. These recommendations should also take into account other global health concerns like Vitamin D deficiencies. Possible goals are to develop international homogeneity in the evaluation of broad‐spectrum sunscreen products and to target efficient campaigns for communication when necessary. These measures need to be coordinated in such a way that the problems with sun protection will be solved in order to avoid any dramas existing in current paradigms.
Central and storage carbon metabolism of the brown alga Ectocarpus siliculosus: insights into the origin and evolution of storage carbohydrates in Eukaryotes
Authors: Michel Gurvan , Tonon Thierry , Scornet Delphine , Cock J. Mark , Kloareg Bernard
Published: July 2010

Featured paper: See Commentary p1
Dysregulation of striatal dopamine release in a mouse model of dystonia
Authors: Bao Li , Patel Jyoti C. , Walker Ruth H. , Shashidharan Pullanipally , Rice Margaret E.
Published: July 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 114, 1781–1791.

Dystonia is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary movements. We examined striatal dopamine (DA) function in hyperactive transgenic (Tg) mice generated as a model of dystonia. Evoked extracellular DA concentration was monitored with carbon‐fiber microelectrodes and fast‐scan cyclic voltammetry in striatal slices from non‐Tg mice, Tg mice with a positive motor phenotype, and phenotype‐negative Tg littermates. Peak single‐pulse evoked extracellular DA concentration was significantly lower in phenotype‐positive mice than in non‐Tg or phenotype‐negative mice, but indistinguishable between non‐Tg and phenotype‐negative mice. Phenotype‐positive mice also had higher functional D2 DA autoreceptor sensitivity than non‐Tg mice, which would be consistent with lower extracellular DA concentration in vivo. Multiple‐pulse (phasic) stimulation (five pulses, 10–100 Hz) revealed an enhanced frequency dependence of evoked DA release in phenotype‐positive versus non‐Tg or phenotype‐negative mice, which was exacerbated when extracellular Ca2+ concentration was lowered. Enhanced sensitivity to phasic stimulation in phenotype‐positive mice was reminiscent of the pattern seen with antagonism of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Consistent with a role for altered cholinergic regulation, the difference in phasic responsiveness among groups was lost when nicotinic receptors were blocked by mecamylamine. Together, these data implicate compromised DA release regulation, possibly from cholinergic dysfunction, in the motor symptoms of this dystonia model.