bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abnormal Accrual Estimates and Evidence of Mispricing
Authors: Agnes Cheng C.S. , Zishang Liu Cathy , Thomas Wayne
Published: March 2012

Abstract:  To estimate abnormal accruals, prior research employs a wide variety of models and estimation procedures. We evaluate the performance of three representative models – modified Jones model (MJ), MJ with operating cash flows (MJOCF), and MJ with return on assets (MJROA) – and two estimation procedures – industry‐specific and firm‐specific regressions. In evaluating the performance of various models, we use mispricing tests (i.e., relating current accruals to future returns) as our main test. We find that the best performing model is the firm‐specific MJOCF model followed by the industry‐specific MJROA model. However, when we use the recursive firm‐specific procedure (i.e., based on current and previous years’ information only), we do not find the firm‐specific MJOCF model outperforms the industry‐specific MJROA model. We recommend that researchers use the industry‐specific MJROA model to estimate abnormal accruals when investigating earnings management. For evaluating earnings quality that can include management estimation error, the firm‐specific MJOCF remains clearly the best model from the perspective of abnormal accrual mispricing.
A Simple Model Relating Accruals to Risk, and its Implications for the Accrual Anomaly
Authors: Khan Mozaffar
Published: March 2012

Abstract:  This paper models systematic risk as a function of mean‐reverting accruals. When the true abnormal returns are zero, but the true betas are empirically unobserved, the model predicts the anomalous pattern of empirical results on the accrual anomaly: (i) CAPM abnormal returns to an accrual hedge portfolio are positive on average, (ii) are positive in almost all years, (iii) decay as the holding period is extended beyond one year, and (iv) the Mishkin (1983) test of market efficiency is rejected. Using simulations, small and plausible degrees of risk mismeasurement also reproduce the magnitudes of prior results on the accrual anomaly.
On the use of osteoderm features in a phylogenetic approach on the internal relationships of the Chroniosuchia (Tetrapoda: Reptiliomorpha)
Authors: BUCHWITZ MICHAEL , FOTH CHRISTIAN , KOGAN ILJA , VOIGT SEBASTIAN
Published: March 2012

Abstract:  Chroniosuchians are an enigmatic Permian to Triassic group of crocodile‐like basal tetrapods. Their conspicuous dorsal osteoderm systems include most of the group’s yet documented postcranial morphological variability but have hardly been considered in cladistic approaches. Aiming at the clarification of the internal relationships of the Chroniosuchia, we have carried out a parsimony analysis including, among others, 23 morphological and osteohistological osteoderm characters and 12 chroniosuchian taxa. According to the most parsimonious trees, taxa usually referred to Chroniosuchidae form a paraphyletic succession with Madygenerpeton pustulatus and Chroniosaurus dongusensis as the basalmost chroniosuchians and Uralerpeton tverdochlebovae as the sister group of Bystrowianidae (hypothesis A). However, the concurrent hypothesis of a basal split into monophyletic subtaxa Chroniosuchidae and Bystrowianidae (hypothesis B) is only slightly less parsimonious and supported by an alternative analysis which includes embolomeres as the only reptiliomorph outgroup. Searching for the better hypothesis, we compare the respective order of branching to the order of first occurrences in the fossil record, demonstrating that hypothesis A provides a better stratigraphic fit than hypothesis B. Accordingly, the last common ancestor of the yet known chroniosuchians had a series of broad complexly interlocking ‘chroniosuchid’ osteoderms that served as a protection carapace apart from supporting the trunk during terrestrial locomotion. The later evolution of chroniosuchian carapaces was marked by a stepwise increase in flexibility and size reduction, which resulted in a loss of protective function and in a reduction in trunk support function. The flexibility increase is paralleled by the evolution of the Crocodylomorpha whose extant members do not possess as extensively interlocking osteoderm systems as some of their Mesozoic relatives.
KNOW YOUR CLIENT! INVESTOR PROFILE AND TAILOR‐MADE ASSET ALLOCATION RECOMMENDATIONS
Authors: Cavezzali Elisa , Rigoni Ugo
Published: March 2012

We study how the investor profile influences the asset allocation recommendations of professional advisors. We find the investor's perceived risk attitude influences more the mix of risky assets, whereas the socioeconomic variables influence more the cash percentage. The recommendations are consistent with a diversification behavior driven by actual asset correlations. These findings support the utility of investor advisory that may help enhance the risk and return trade‐off. The main drawback of the recommendations may consist in the degree of customization that is limited by the small number of investor characteristics actually influencing the asset allocation.
Term stillbirth in older women
Authors: Arnold Amy , Beckmann Michael , Flenady Vicki , Gibbons Kristen
Published: March 2012

Increasing numbers of women are choosing to delay pregnancy. Pregnancy in older women is associated with increased risks, of which stillbirth is one of the most devastating. This retrospective cohort study reviewed the obstetric outcomes in women aged 40 and above over an 11‐year period to determine whether maternal age is an independent risk factor for term stillbirth. The study shows that advanced maternal age is an independent risk factor for term stillbirth (odds ratio 2.42, 95% confidence interval 1.04–5.62).
Spatial and Temporal Variation in Evacuee Risk Perception Throughout the Evacuation and Return‐Entry Process
Authors: Siebeneck Laura K. , Cova Thomas J.
Published: March 2012

Developing effective evacuation and return‐entry plans requires understanding the spatial and temporal dimensions of risk perception experienced by evacuees throughout a disaster event. Using data gathered from the 2008 Cedar Rapids, Iowa Flood, this article explores how risk perception and location influence evacuee behavior during the evacuation and return‐entry process. Three themes are discussed: (1) the spatial and temporal characteristics of risk perception throughout the evacuation and return‐entry process, (2) the relationship between risk perception and household compliance with return‐entry orders, and (3) the role social influences have on the timing of the return by households. The results indicate that geographic location and spatial variation of risk influenced household risk perception and compliance with return‐entry plans. In addition, sociodemographic characteristics influenced the timing and characteristics of the return groups. The findings of this study advance knowledge of evacuee behavior throughout a disaster and can inform strategies used by emergency managers throughout the evacuation and return‐entry process.
Relative Risk Perception for Terrorism: Implications for Preparedness and Risk Communication
Authors: Caponecchia Carlo
Published: March 2012

Terrorism presents a significant risk that is often approached at public policy, infrastructure, or emergency management level. Public perceptions of the likelihood of terrorist events, and how this may relate to individual preparedness, are not always extensively examined. The tendency to think that negative events are less likely to happen to oneself than to the average person is known as optimism bias. Optimism bias is relevant to perceptions of terrorism, because it is thought to be related to a reduction in precaution use. Using an online survey of 164 participants, this study aimed to determine whether Sydney residents thought they had a lower likelihood of experiencing terrorist events than other Australians. Significant optimism bias was observed for witnessing terrorist events, but not for personally experiencing terrorist events. In addition, Sydney residents tended to think that terrorist attacks were more likely to occur in Sydney than another major Australian city in the next five years. At the same time, household and workplace preparedness for terrorism was quite low, as was awareness of emergency strategies in the central business district. Perceptions of high likelihood of terrorism happening in one's own city, yet low preparedness present a challenge for risk communication and emergency management strategies. The diversity of possible terrorist targets, and the simple plans that can moderate the effects of a disaster may need to be emphasized in future anti‐terrorism initiatives.
The Health Impact of Mandatory Bicycle Helmet Laws
Authors: de Jong Piet
Published: March 2012

This article seeks to answer the question whether mandatory bicycle helmet laws deliver a net societal health benefit. The question is addressed using a simple model. The model recognizes a single health benefit—reduced head injuries—and a single health cost—increased morbidity due to foregone exercise from reduced cycling. Using estimates suggested in the literature on the effectiveness of helmets, the health benefits of cycling, head injury rates, and reductions in cycling leads to the following conclusions. In jurisdictions where cycling is safe, a helmet law is likely to have a large unintended negative health impact. In jurisdictions where cycling is relatively unsafe, helmets will do little to make it safer and a helmet law, under relatively extreme assumptions, may make a small positive contribution to net societal health. The model serves to focus the mandatory bicycle helmet law debate on overall health.
A Framework for Assessing Power in Collaborative Governance Processes
Authors: Purdy Jill M.
Published: March 2012

The growing use of collaborative methods of governance raises concerns about the relative power of participants in such processes and the potential for exclusion or domination of some parties. This research offers a framework for assessing power that considers authority, resources, and discursive legitimacy as sources of power and considers the participants, the process design, and the content of collaborative governance processes as arenas for power use. A case study of a collaborative governance process is presented and analyzed using the power framework. Implications for the design of collaborative governance processes are discussed, including the benefits of a multidimensional definition of power, tools for managing power imbalances among participants, and strategies that participants can use to participate more fully in collaborative governance processes.
Blocking the Pulmonary Vein to Left Atrium Conduction in Addition to the Entrance Block Enhances Clinical Efficacy in Atrial Fibrillation Ablation
Authors: CHEN SONGWEN , MENG WEIDONG , SHENG HE DING , CHEN GANG , ZHANG FENG , YAN YIWEN , ZHU‐GE YING , LIU SHAOWEN
Published: March 2012

Background:

The unidirectional pulmonary vein (PV) to left atrium (LA) conduction after achieving PV entrance block has not been evaluated.

Methods:

Circumferential PV isolation was performed in 573 consecutive patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). The unidirectional PV to LA conduction and its influence on clinical outcomes were evaluated.

Results:

A total of 341 ipsilateral PVs (29.7%) with spontaneous activities (SAs) were documented in 231 patients (40.3%). The unidirectional PV to LA conduction was confirmed in 11 ipsilateral PVs (3.2%) of 11 patients (4.8%). Patients were classified to three groups: Group A (had unidirectional PV to LA conduction during SAs), Group B (with SAs but without PV to LA conduction), and Group C (without SAs). During a 30‐minute observation, the reconnection incidence was higher in Group A (45.4%) than in Group B (13.9%, P = 0.042) and Group C (11.5%, P = 0.018). The reconnection time was shorter in Group A (10.8 ± 9.8 minutes) than that in Group B (20.7 ± 8.0 minutes, P = 0.037) and Group C (21.2 ± 8.2 minutes, P = 0.022). All 11 PVs were successfully isolated and bidirectional block was achieved.

Conclusion:

Unidirectional entrance block with SAs in PVs may not be a good indication of complete PV isolation. Bidirectional block of the PV‐LA junction can reduce the acute PV reconnection and may reduce the chronic AF recurrence in patients undergoing circumferential PV isolation.(PACE 2012; 1–8)
Effects of LI4 Acupressure on Labor Pain in the First Stage of Labor
Authors: Hamidzadeh Azam , Shahpourian Farangis , Orak Roohangiz Jamshidi , Montazeri Akram Sadat , Khosravi Ahmad
Published: March 2012

Introduction: Complementary and alternative medicines have been used to decrease labor pain for many years. Despite reports that some of these methods reduce pain, increase maternal satisfaction, and improve other obstetric outcomes, they have received limited attention in the US medical literature. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of LI4 acupressure on labor pain in the first stage of labor, on labor duration, and on patient satisfaction.

Methods: A single, blind, randomized clinical trial was performed with eligible women (N = 100) who were at the beginning of the active phase of labor (3–4 cm dilatation of cervix with regular uterine contractions). The women in the acupressure group (n = 50) received LI4 acupressure at the onset of the active phase for the duration of each uterine contraction over a period of 20 minutes, and the women in the control group (n = 50) received a touch on this point without massage. Labor pain was measured using a structured questionnaire of a subjective labor pain scale (visual analogue scale) before the intervention, immediately after the intervention, 20 and 60 minutes after the intervention, and then every hour.

Results: There were significant differences between the groups in subjective labor pain scores immediately and 20, 60, and 120 minutes after intervention (P≤ .001). Active phase duration (3–4 cm dilatation to full dilatation) and second stage duration (full dilatation to birth) were shorter in the acupressure group. The women in the acupressure group reported greater satisfaction.

Discussion: LI4 acupressure was effective at decreasing pain and duration of labor. The participants were satisfied, and no adverse effects were noted.
Ba0.6Sr0.4TiO3–MgO Ceramic Powders with Uniform Microstructures Prepared by Aqueous Gelcasting‐Assisted Solid‐State Method
Authors: Wu Jia‐Min , Lei Wen , Wang Xiao‐Hong , Xu Min , Lu Wen‐Zhong
Published: March 2012

A novel forming method–aqueous gelcasting was used to assist conventional solid‐state method to prepare 45 wt% Ba0.6Sr0.4TiO3–55 wt% MgO (BSTM) ceramic powders. For comparison purpose, conventional solid‐state method was also used to synthesize the same powders. It is found that the BSTM ceramic powders prepared by our method are more uniform with smaller and more sphere‐like particles than those prepared by the conventional method, whereas the phase compositions are completely the same no matter what powder preparation method is adopted. In addition, the BSTM green samples and ceramics from powders prepared by our method are more uniform than those from powders prepared by the conventional method. Moreover, it is found that using this novel method to prepare BSTM ceramic powders could not only improve the dielectric properties of the BSTM ceramics, but also decrease their sintering temperature. Aqueous gelcasting–assisted solid‐state method could be a novel promising method to prepare high performance ceramic powders in the future.
Core dysfunction in schizophrenia: electrophysiology trait biomarkers
Authors: Koychev I. , El‐Deredy W. , Mukherjee T. , Haenschel C. , Deakin J. F. W.
Published: March 2012

Koychev I, El‐Deredy W, Mukherjee T, Haenschel C, Deakin JFW. Core dysfunction in schizophrenia: electrophysiology trait biomarkers.

Objective:  Core symptoms of schizophrenia, particularly in the cognitive domain are hypothesized to be due to an abnormality in neural connectivity. Biomarkers of connectivity may therefore be a promising tool in exploring the aetiology of schizophrenia. We used electrophysiological methods to demonstrate abnormal visual information processing during in patients performing a simple cognitive task.

Method:  Electrophysiological recordings were acquired from 20 chronically ill, medicated patients diagnosed with either schizophrenia or schizo‐affective disorder and 20 healthy volunteers while they conducted a working memory (WM) task.

Results:  The patient group had significantly lower accuracy on the WM task and a trend for slower responses. An early visual evoked response potential was reduced in patients. Analysis of the electroencephalographic oscillations showed a decreased phase‐locking factor (in the theta, beta and gamma bands) and signal power (theta frequency band). The beta and gamma oscillatory abnormalities were confined to two sets of correlated fronto and occipital electrodes.

Conclusion:  The findings of event‐related potential and oscillatory abnormalities in patients with schizophrenia confirm the sensitivity of early visual information processing measurements for identification of schizophrenia phenotype. The fronto‐occipital distribution of the oscillatory abnormalities replicates our findings from a schizotypal sample and implicates a possible top‐down dysfunction as a vulnerability trait.
Comparable outcomes between unrelated and related donors after reduced‐intensity conditioning allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in patients with high‐risk multiple myeloma
Authors: El‐Cheikh Jean , Crocchiolo Roberto , Boher Jean‐Marie , Furst Sabine , Stoppa Anne‐Marie , Ladaique Patrick , Faucher Catherine , Calmels Boris , Castagna Luca , Lemarie Claude , De Colella Jean‐Marc Schiano , Coso Diane , Bouabdallah Reda , Chabannon Christian , Blaise Didier
Published: March 2012

The purpose of this study was to assess the results of allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo‐SCT) after reduced‐intensity conditioning (RIC) from matched related donors (MRD) and unrelated donors (URD) in 40 patients with high‐risk multiple myeloma (MM) in a single centre. Seventeen (43%) (Group 1) and 23 patients (57%) (Group 2) had URD and MRD, respectively. Thirty‐nine patients (98%) received one or more autologous transplantation. The median follow‐up was 22 months (1–49). None of our patient experienced a graft rejection. The cumulative incidence of grade II–IV acute GVHD was higher (47%) for the URD vs. (17%) for the MRD (P = 0.092). The cumulative incidence of chronic GVHD was no different between the two groups (24% vs. 30%, respectively). At 2 yr, the TRM probabilities were lower in the unrelated group 12% vs. 22% in the related group (P = 0.4). Also at 2 yrs, for patients receiving unrelated transplantation overall and progression‐free survivals, 59% and 42%, respectively compared to patients with related donor transplantation, 66% and 44% (P = 0.241). In conclusion, these results suggest that URD in MM is feasible. The small number of patients with URD emphasizes the need to delineate indications and perform prospective protocols.
Homeobox C5 expression is associated with the progression of 4‐nitroquinoline 1‐oxide‐induced rat tongue carcinogenesis
Authors: Moon Sung‐Min , Ahn Mee‐Young , Kwon Seong‐Min , Kim Soo‐A , Ahn Sang‐Gun , Yoon Jung‐Hoon
Published: March 2012

J Oral Pathol Med (2012) 41: 470–476

Background:  Aberrant expression of homeobox genes (HOX), normally required for the differentiation of a particular tissue, has been reported in several types of cancer, but poorly addressed in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The present study investigated the expression of HOXC5 in OSCC and identified molecular biomarker whose expression is associated with the multistep oral carcinogenesis.

Methods:  The expression of HOXC5, proliferation cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and Bcl‐2 was examined by RT‐PCR and Western blot analysis and confirmed by immunohistochemistry and transferase‐mediated dUTP nick end‐labeling (TUNEL) assay in a 4‐nitroquinoline 1‐oxide (4NQO)‐induced rat tongue carcinogenesis model.

Results:  Homeobox genes C5 was overexpressed in SCC tissues, but not in normal tissues by RT‐PCR and Western blot analysis. Along with the progress of multistep carcinogenesis, the levels of HOXC5 expression of mRNA and protein significantly increased during the dysplasia (moderate to severe dysplasia) when compared with normal and hyperplasia. The levels of PCNA and Bcl‐2 were sequentially increased from hyperplasia to dysplasia and SCC. By immunohistochemistry, HOXC5 expression was significantly increased in dysplasia, whereas PCNA expression was gradually increased during tongue carcinogenesis. TUNEL‐positive cells were increased until dysplasia, but reduced in SCC.

Conclusions:  These results indicate that overexpression of HOXC5 is correlated with oral carcinogenesis and strongly contributed to the development of OSCC. HOXC5 may be a useful biomarker and has an emerging therapeutic target of OSCC.
Atypical antipsychotics – effects of amisulpride on salivary secretion and on clozapine‐induced sialorrhea
Authors: Godoy T , Riva A , Ekström J
Published: March 2012

Oral Diseases (2012) 18, 680–691

Objective:  Amisulpride is suggested for treatment of clozapine‐induced sialorrhea. However, objective measurements of its effectiveness are lacking and, preclinically, amisulpride has no effect. We currently hypothesise that amisulpride acts by reducing the nervous‐ rather than the clozapine‐driven salivary secretion.

Material and Methods:  Effects of intravenous amisulpride (as well as of clozapine and raclopride, a dopamine D2/D3 antagonist) were investigated in rats, including those subjected to chronic preganglionic parasympathetic denervation (submandibular glands) or combined postganglionic parasympathetic and sympathetic denervation (parotid glands). In duct‐cannulated glands, secretion was evoked reflexly, at low and maximum flow rates, and by electrical stimulation of the parasympathetic and sympathetic innervations, and administration of autonomimetics (including substance P).

Results:  Unlike clozapine, amisulpride had no effect on the reflexly evoked secretion at maximum rate. With respect to reflex secretion at low rate and to the secretion evoked by muscarinic, α‐adrenergic, β‐adrenergic and substance P receptors, amisulpride (in contrast to raclopride) dose dependently potentiated the responses. Amisulpride had no effect on gland blood flow.

Conclusions:  No support for any inhibitory influence of amisulpride was found. Conversely, amisulpride universally enhanced secretion, suggesting that amisulpride is a potential drug for dry‐mouth treatment. The mechanism behind the potentiation is currently unknown.
The effect of growth hormone on sleep‐related cardio‐respiratory control in Prader–Willi syndrome
Authors: Katz‐Salamon M , Lindgren AC , Cohen G
Published: March 2012

Aim:  To evaluate the effects of growth hormone (GH) treatment on control of breathing, heart rate and blood pressure during sleep in Prader–Willi Syndrome (PWS).

Study design:  in a prospective clinical case series study, sixteen consecutive PWS patients (median age 16 months at enrolment) were followed‐up 6 months (2–32 months) after commencing GH treatment. We compared heart rate (HR), Pulse Transit Time (PTT; an index of blood pressure, BP) and ventilatory responses to standard chemostimuli (4% CO2 and 100% O2) during quiet sleep prior to and after commencing GH treatment.

Results:  Growth hormone treatment increased arterial oxygenation during sleep but did not significantly improve breathing stability (apnoea‐hypopnoea index remained unchanged). GH treatment did not alter ventilatory, HR and PTT chemoreceptor‐mediated responsiveness (p = 0.23–0.97) but did significantly improve the coupling between and HR and PTT, indicating that HR and BP rose (or fell) in parallel after but not before GH therapy (p = 0.01).

Conclusion:  Growth hormone treatment improves arterial oxygenation and cardiovascular function during sleep; these changes are not owing to improved (stronger) chemoreflex‐mediated autonomic drive.
Inhibition of Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase and Soluble Guanylate Cyclase Prevents Depression‐Like Behaviour in Rats Exposed to Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress
Authors: Yazir Yusufhan , Utkan Tijen , Aricioglu Feyza
Published: March 2012

Depression is the most common psychiatric disorder. It is well established that endogenous nitric oxide (NO) contributes to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS)‐induced depression. The aim of this study was to investigate brain‐derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) expression in CUMS‐induced depression‐like behaviour in rats. Rats were exposed to CUMS for 5 weeks. A specific and selective nNOS inhibitor, 3‐bromo‐7‐nitroindazole (3‐Br‐7‐NI; 20 mg/kg/day, i.p.), and a specific soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) inhibitor, 1H‐(1,2,4)oxadiazolo(4,3‐a)quinoxalin‐1‐one (ODQ; 10 mg/kg/day, i.p.), were administered during CUMS. The forced swimming test (FST) was used to assess despair and sucrose consumption, and sucrose preference test was used to assess anhedonia that are the main symptoms of the depression. We show that both 3‐Br‐7‐NI and ODQ administration during CUMS suppressed CUMS‐induced, depression‐like behavioural changes, including reduced sucrose preference, body‐weight and locomotor activity as well as increased immobility time in the FST. CUMS also significantly decreased BDNF protein levels in the CA1 and CA3 regions of the hippocampus, which was reversed by 3‐Br‐7‐NI and ODQ administration. Our findings suggest a novel role for nNOS and sGC‐cGMP in the development of the CUMS model of depression.
Correlation of Coronary Artery Calcification With Pre‐Hemodialysis Bicarbonate Levels in Patients on Hemodialysis
Authors: Oka Machiko , Ohtake Takayasu , Mochida Yasuhiro , Ishioka Kunihiro , Maesato Kyoko , Moriya Hidekazu , Hidaka Sumi , Kobayashi Shuzo
Published: March 2012

Coronary artery calcification (CAC) leads to a significant increase in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Metabolic acidosis, which is common in HD patients, promotes bone resorption in human and animals as a result of buffer function of bone, and calcium and phosphate elute from bone into blood stream. However, the effect of acidosis on CAC in HD patients has never been precisely investigated. This is a cross‐sectional observational study performed in a single center. One hundred and seven prevalent HD patients (35 women and 72 men) underwent electron‐beam computed tomography (EBCT) to evaluate CAC score (CACS), and then we evaluated associated factors of CACS with clinical and laboratory parameters including pre‐HD pH and bicarbonate levels. Pre‐HD pH and bicarbonate levels were 7.35 ± 0.04, and 17.6 ± 1.8mmol/L, respectively. The pre‐HD pH had no significant correlation to CACS (r = −0.025, P = 0.81). CACS was significantly negatively correlated with pre‐HD bicarbonate levels (r = −0.329, P = 0.0009) and serum albumin levels (r = −0.298, P = 0.0467), while it was positively correlated with age (r = 0.319, P = 0.0008) and HD duration (r = 0.385, P = 0.0004). Serum levels of calcium, phosphorus, intact parathyroid hormone, and use of phosphorus binders were not related to CACS. Multivariate analysis indicated that plasma pre‐HD bicarbonate level was independently associated with CACS. The present study showed that blood levels of pre‐HD bicarbonate were significantly associated with CAC in HD patients. Further studies are needed to confirm these results and to determine whether correction of metabolic acidosis prevents the development of CAC, one of the features of accelerated atherosclerosis in HD patients.
Upper Limb Disability in Hemodialysis Patients: Evaluation of Contributing Factors Aside From Amyloidosis
Authors: Capitanini Alessandro , Galligani Claudio , Lange Sara , Cupisti Adamasco
Published: March 2012

This cross‐sectional case‐control study evaluated upper limb muscle strength and shoulder mobility in hemodialysis (HD) patients with arteriovenous fistula or graft. Twenty‐five adult patients on thrice‐a‐week HD treatment for 6 months at least, were selected for the study. In all the patients and control subjects, handgrip tests and tests of range of motion in the upper extremities were evaluated by physiotherapy tests. Patients on HD showed lower muscle strength than age and sex matched subjects without severe chronic kidney disease (right: 30.1 ± 11.6 vs 40.5 ± 15.1 kg, P < 0.001; left 29.1 ± 12.9 vs 40.7 ± 11.1 kg, P < 0.01), and a reduced range of shoulder mobility. The presence of fistula or graft was associated with a greater limitation of both active (74.0 ± 18.3 vs 85.2 ± 8.8 °, P < 0.01) and passive (82.2 ± 9.9 vs 87.2 ± 6.6 °, P < 0.05) extra‐rotation than the contralateral limb, with a higher prevalence of impingement (72 vs 36%, P < 0.05). Muscle strength was related to albumin and inversely to age; whereas β2‐microglobulin and CRP serum levels were associated with impairment of passive and active extra‐rotation of the shoulder that was free from the fistula or graft. In summary, patients on HD have a reduced range of shoulder mobility and marked reduction of muscle strength. The abnormalities are more prevalent in upper limbs with fistula or grafts. The arteriovenous fistula or graft may worsen the disability of the patient's upper limbs presumably due to the obligate position required during the HD sessions. Proper pre‐ and post‐dialysis exercise programs should be implemented to maintain mobility and strength of the upper limbs.
The Effects of Acculturation on Healthy Lifestyle Characteristics Among Hispanic Fourth‐Grade Children in Texas Public Schools, 2004‐2005
Authors: Lind Catherine , Mirchandani Gita G. , Castrucci Brian C. , Chávez Noel , Handler Arden , Hoelscher Deanna M.
Published: March 2012

BACKGROUND: Childhood obesity is a national epidemic that disproportionately affects Hispanic children. Evidence suggests that increased acculturation among this population adversely affects diet and other healthy lifestyle characteristics, leading to higher rates of overweight and obesity. Healthy lifestyle characteristics must be understood in order to prevent or decrease overweight and obesity among Hispanic children.

METHODS: Using the School Physical Activity and Nutrition (SPAN) study, we examined cross‐sectional data on healthy lifestyle characteristics collected in Texas public schools from Hispanic fourth‐grade children in 2004–2005. We calculated adjusted odds ratios and associated confidence intervals using multivariate logistic regression analyses to analyze the association between acculturation and healthy lifestyle characteristics among Spanish‐speaking Hispanic children compared to English‐speaking Hispanic children.

RESULTS: Spanish‐speaking Hispanic boys consumed more milk and fruit than English‐speaking Hispanic boys (milk: adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.7, p = .02; fruit: AOR: 2.5, p = .0001). The likelihood that Spanish‐speaking Hispanic boys and girls did not know that there is a relationship between overweight and health problems were 2 times greater (boys: AOR: 1.7, p = .03; girls: AOR: 2.2, p = .006) than their English‐speaking Hispanic counterparts. Likelihood of weight loss attempts was greater among Spanish‐speaking Hispanic boys than English‐speaking Hispanic boys (AOR: 1.9, p = .04).

CONCLUSIONS: Results are mixed. Lower levels of acculturation appear to be associated with both positive and negative healthy lifestyle characteristics, depending on sex. These findings have important implications for school health policies and programs and should be distributed to school administrators.
A Conceptual Model for Training After‐School Program Staffers to Promote Physical Activity and Nutrition
Authors: Weaver Robert Glenn , Beets Michael W. , Webster Collin , Beighle Aaron , Huberty Jennifer
Published: March 2012

BACKGROUND: After‐school programs (ASPs, 3 pm to 6 pm) have been called upon to increase the amount of daily physical activity children accumulate and improve the nutritional quality of the snacks served. To this end, state and national physical activity and nutrition (PAaN) policies have been proposed. Frontline staff who directly interact with children on a daily basis are charged with the responsibility to meet policy goals. Without appropriate skills, staffers' ability to achieve such goals is limited. The gap between policies and improvements in PAaN must be bridged through professional development training. This article describes the development of an ASP staff professional development training program.

METHODS: A systematic review was performed to identify relevant theoretical perspectives, empirical evidence, and recommended best practices relating to promoting PAaN of children.

RESULTS: A comprehensive professional development framework was developed that incorporated the key elements identified from the review. These elements were distilled into 5 primary categories and conceptually referred to as the 5 Ms: mission—clearly defined policy/standards for PAaN; motivate—providing choices, developmentally appropriate activities, feedback, and encouragement; manage—structuring and managing the environment for safety, routines, and discipline; monitor—ongoing evaluation of PAaN; and maximize—incorporating all former Ms.

CONCLUSIONS: The application of this training framework should lead to improved implementation and eventual achievement of policy goals for PAaN in ASPs. These competencies need to be developed in all ASPs if widespread improvements in PAaN within the ASP setting are to be realized.
Intentional marginal excision of canine limb soft tissue sarcomas followed by radiotherapy
Authors: Demetriou J. L. , Brearley M. J. , Constantino‐Casas F. , Addington C. , Dobson J.
Published: March 2012

Objectives:To evaluate the outcome in a group of dogs treated with postoperative radiotherapy following intentional marginal excision of soft tissue sarcomas from their limbs and to assess parameters for prognostic significance.

Method:Patients that had had intentional marginal excision of limb soft tissue sarcomas followed by radiotherapy were selected. A coarse fractionated protocol of four once weekly 8 to 9 Gy by 4 MV x‐rays was used. The time to local recurrence was determined. Tumour grade, size, site, number of surgeries, surgeon and time from last surgery to radiotherapy were evaluated as potential prognostic indicators.

Results:Fifty‐six cases were included. Minor surgical complications occurred in four patients (7%). Tumour recurred locally in 10 dogs (18%). Fourteen dogs died from tumour‐related causes (25%). From Cox proportional hazard analysis time from surgery to radiotherapy was the only predictor of tumour recurrence (P=0·039); hazard ratio 8·63. Delaying radiotherapy beyond 4 weeks was associated with improved outcomes. Three dogs developed serious but non‐life‐threatening local complications; wound dehiscence, self‐trauma and osteonecrosis of underlying bone.

ClinicalSignificance:Intentional marginal excision followed by hypofractionated radiotherapy is a viable option for canine limb soft tissue sarcomas, providing good long‐term clinical outcomes and low morbidity.
Social Justice and the Creative City: Class, Gender and Racial Inequalities
Authors: Leslie Deborah , Catungal John Paul
Published: March 2012

Richard Florida’s creative class theory has recently been adopted by many municipal governments as a key urban economic development policy. This trend, as others have noted, has significant implications for social justice in the creative city, particularly by continuing and even deepening class inequality. This paper shares in the spirit of these class‐based critiques, but goes beyond them to argue that gender and racial equality is also at stake in the creative city. We point in particular to three particular geographies of the creative city – (1) the conceptual spaces of the creative class idea, (2) the workplaces of the cultural and creative industries and (3) the amenity and public landscapes of the creative city – as sites where class, gender and racial inequalities are maintained and exacerbated as a result of creativity‐led urban economic development policies.
Effect of Cocoa Butter Structure on Oil Migration
Authors: Maleky Fatemeh , McCarthy Kathryn L. , McCarthy Michael J. , Marangoni Alejandro G.
Published: March 2012

Abstract:  Oil migration from a high oil content filling into adjacent chocolate causes changes in product quality. The objective of this study was to quantify the oil migration from a cream filling system into cocoa butter, which provided a model for the behavior of chocolate‐enrobed confectionery products with a soft, creamy center. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to monitor spatial and temporal changes of liquid lipid content. A multislice spin echo pulse sequence was used to acquire images with a 7.8 ms echo time and a 200 ms repetition time using a 1.03 T Aspect Imaging MRI spectrometer. Samples were prepared as a 2‐layer model system of cocoa butter and model cream filling. Three methods were used to prepare the cocoa butter: static, seeded, and sheared. Samples were stored at 25 °C for a time frame of 56 d. The rate of oil migration was quantified by a kinetic expression based on the linear dependence of oil uptake by cocoa butter and the square root of the time. Samples showed distinctly different rates of oil migration, as evidenced by quantitative differences in the kinetic rate constant.

Practical Application:  This work will be helpful to elucidate the influence of crystallization process and structural properties such as crystal nanostructure and crystal habit on the migration of oil through a crystalline fat matrix.
Effect of the Type of Oil on the Evolution of Volatile Compounds of Taralli During Storage
Authors: Giarnetti Mariagrazia , Caponio Francesco , Paradiso Vito M , Summo Carmine , Gomes Tommaso
Published: March 2012

Abstract:  Baking process leads to a huge quantity of newly formed volatile compounds, which play a major role in developing the flavor of the final product. The aim of this work was to investigate on the evolution of the volatile profile of taralli as a function of both the kind of oil used in the dough and the storage time. The volatile compounds from the taralli were extracted by headspace solid‐phase microextraction and analyzed by gas‐chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Forty‐four volatile compounds were identified in taralli, most of which produced by thermically induced reactions occurring during baking process, such as volatiles deriving from Maillard reaction and/or sugar degradation and lipid oxidation. The results obtained demonstrated the essential role played by the type of oil on the formation and on the release of volatile compounds. The volatile compounds significantly increased during storage and their individual levels were in most cases significantly lower in taralli made with extra virgin olive oil than in those made with refined oils. Finally, the taralli made with extra virgin olive oil, compared with those prepared with other vegetable oils, showed to be more resistant to oxidation, probably due to the presence of natural antioxidants.
Underspecification of Cognitive Status in Reference Production: Some Empirical Predictions
Authors: Gundel Jeanette K. , Hedberg Nancy , Zacharski Ron
Published: March 2012

Within the Givenness Hierarchy framework of Gundel, Hedberg, and Zacharski (1993), lexical items included in referring forms are assumed to conventionally encode two kinds of information: conceptual information about the speaker’s intended referent and procedural information about the assumed cognitive status of that referent in the mind of the addressee, the latter encoded by various determiners and pronouns. This article focuses on effects of underspecification of cognitive status, establishing that, although salience and accessibility play an important role in reference processing, the Givenness Hierarchy itself is not a hierarchy of degrees of salience/accessibility, contrary to what has often been assumed. We thus show that the framework is able to account for a number of experimental results in the literature without making additional assumptions about form‐specific constraints associated with different referring forms.
Using high throughput sequencing to explore the biodiversity in oral bacterial communities
Authors: Diaz P.I. , Dupuy A.K. , Abusleme L. , Reese B. , Obergfell C. , Choquette L. , Dongari‐Bagtzoglou A. , Peterson D.E. , Terzi E. , Strausbaugh L.D.
Published: March 2012

High throughput sequencing of 16S ribosomal RNA gene amplicons is a cost‐effective method for characterization of oral bacterial communities. However, before undertaking large‐scale studies, it is necessary to understand the technique‐associated limitations and intrinsic variability of the oral ecosystem. In this work we evaluated bias in species representation using an in vitro‐assembled mock community of oral bacteria. We then characterized the bacterial communities in saliva and buccal mucosa of five healthy subjects to investigate the power of high throughput sequencing in revealing their diversity and biogeography patterns. Mock community analysis showed primer and DNA isolation biases and an overestimation of diversity that was reduced after eliminating singleton operational taxonomic units (OTUs). Sequencing of salivary and mucosal communities found a total of 455 OTUs (0.3% dissimilarity) with only 78 of these present in all subjects. We demonstrate that this variability was partly the result of incomplete richness coverage even at great sequencing depths, and so comparing communities by their structure was more effective than comparisons based solely on membership. With respect to oral biogeography, we found inter‐subject variability in community structure was lower than site differences between salivary and mucosal communities within subjects. These differences were evident at very low sequencing depths and were mostly caused by the abundance of Streptococcus mitis and Gemella haemolysans in mucosa. In summary, we present an experimental and data analysis framework that will facilitate design and interpretation of pyrosequencing‐based studies. Despite challenges associated with this technique, we demonstrate its power for evaluation of oral diversity and biogeography patterns.
Analysis of Structure and Composition of Bacterial Core Communities in Mature Drinking Water Biofilms and Bulk Water of a Citywide Network in Germany
Authors: Henne Karsten , Kahlisch Leila , Brettar Ingrid , Höfle Manfred G.
Published: March 2012

The bacterial core communities of bulk water and corresponding biofilms of a more than 20-year-old drinking water network were compared using 16S rRNA single-strand confirmation polymorphism (SSCP) fingerprints based on extracted DNA and RNA. The structure and composition of the bacterial core community in the bulk water was highly similar (>70%) across the city of Braunschweig, Germany, whereas all biofilm samples contained a unique community with no overlapping phylotypes from bulk water. Biofilm samples consisted mainly ofAlphaproteobacteria(26% of all phylotypes),Gammaproteobacteria(11%), candidate division TM6 (11%),Chlamydiales(9%), andBetaproteobacteria(9%). The bulk water community consisted primarily ofBacteroidetes(25%),Betaproteobacteria(20%),Actinobacteria(16%), andAlphaproteobacteria(11%). All biofilm communities showed higher relative abundances of single phylotypes and a reduced richness compared to bulk water. Only biofilm communities sampled at nearby sampling points showed similar communities irrespective of support materials. In all of our bulk water studies, the community composition determined from 16S rRNA was completely different from the 16S rRNA gene-based community composition, whereas in biofilms both molecular fractions resulted in community compositions that were similar to each other. We hypothesize that a higher fraction of active bacterial phylotypes and a better protection from oxidative stress in drinking water biofilms are responsible for this higher similarity.
Importance of Micromonospora spp. as Colonizers of Cellulose in Freshwater Lakes as Demonstrated by Quantitative Reverse Transcriptase PCR of 16S rRNA
Authors: de Menezes Alexandre B. , McDonald James E. , Allison Heather E. , McCarthy Alan J.
Published: March 2012

The relative abundance of micromonosporas in the bacterial communities inhabiting cellulose baits, water columns, and sediments of two freshwater lakes was determined by quantitative PCR (qPCR) of reverse-transcribed 16S rRNA.
Micromonospora
spp. were shown to be significant members of the active bacterial population colonizing cellulosic substrates in the lake sediment, and their increased prevalence with greater depth was confirmed by enumeration of CFU.
Evidence of Host-Associated Populations of Cryptosporidium parvum in Italy
Authors: Drumo Rosanna , Widmer Giovanni , Morrison Liam J. , Tait Andy , Grelloni Vincenzo , D'Avino Nicoletta , Pozio Edoardo , Cacciò Simone M.
Published: March 2012

Recent studies have revealed extensive genetic variation among isolates of
Cryptosporidium parvum
, an Apicomplexan parasite that causes gastroenteritis in both humans and animals worldwide. The parasite's population structure is influenced by the intensity of transmission, the host-parasite interaction, and husbandry practices. As a result,
C. parvum
populations can be panmictic, clonal, or even epidemic on both a local scale and a larger geographical scale. To extend the study of
C. parvum
populations to an unexplored region, 173 isolates of
C. parvum
collected in Italy from humans and livestock (calf, sheep, and goat) over a 10-year period were genotyped using a multilocus scheme based on 7 mini- and microsatellite loci. In agreement with other studies, extensive polymorphism was observed, with 102 distinct multilocus genotypes (MLGs) identified among 173 isolates. The presence of linkage disequilibrium, the confinement of MLGs to individual farms, and the relationship of many MLGs inferred using network analysis (eBURST) suggest a predominantly clonal population structure, but there is also evidence that part of the diversity can be explained by genetic exchange. MLGs from goats were found to differ from bovine and sheep MLGs, supporting the existence of
C. parvum
subpopulations. Finally, MLGs from isolates collected between 1997 and 1999 were also identified as a distinct subgroup in principal-component analysis and eBURST analysis, suggesting a continuous introduction of novel genotypes in the parasite population.
Scaling Down the Analysis of Environmental Processes: Monitoring Enzyme Activity in Natural Substrates on a Millimeter Resolution Scale
Authors: Baldrian Petr , Větrovský Tomáš
Published: March 2012

Natural environments often show high levels of spatial heterogeneity. With a methodology based on the immobilization of fluorescent substrates, the distribution of extracellular enzymes can be studied at a 2.3-mm resolution with a detection limit of 1.8 nmol · h
−1
· cm
−2
. The method is applicable to environmental samples such as wood, litter, soil, or fungal colonies.