bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lenalidomide efficacy in activated B‐cell‐like subtype diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma is dependent upon IRF4 and cereblon expression
Authors: Zhang Ling‐Hua , Kosek Jolanta , Wang Maria , Heise Carla , Schafer Peter H. , Chopra Rajesh
Published: December 2012

Durable responses with lenalidomide monotherapy have been reported in patients with non‐Hodgkin lymphoma. In relapsed/refractory diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL), higher responses were observed in the activated B‐cell‐like (ABC) subtype than in the germinal centre B‐cell‐like subtype. Herein, the molecular mechanisms involved in the differential efficacy of lenalidomide in DLBCL subtypes were investigated. Using DLBCL cell lines, lenalidomide treatment was found to preferentially suppress proliferation of ABC‐DLBCL cells in vitro and delay tumour growth in a human tumour xenograft model, with minimal effect on non‐ABC‐DLBCL cells. This tumouricidal effect was associated with downregulation of interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4), a hallmark of ABC‐DLBCL cells. IRF4 inhibition by lenalidomide induced downregulation of B‐cell receptor (BCR)‐dependent NF‐κB. Whereas IRF4‐specific small, interfering RNA mimicked the effects of lenalidomide reducing NF‐κB activation, IRF4 overexpression enhanced NF‐κB activation and conferred resistance to lenalidomide. These findings indicate the crucial role of IRF4 inhibition in lenalidomide efficacy in ABC cells. Furthermore, lenalidomide‐induced IRF4 downregulation required the expression of cereblon, a molecular target of lenalidomide. Taken together, these findings suggest that lenalidomide has direct antitumour activity against DLBCL cells, preferentially ABC‐DLBCL cells, by blocking IRF4 expression and the BCR‐NF‐κB signalling pathway in a cereblon‐dependent manner.
We can work it out: Group decision‐making builds social identity and enhances the cognitive performance of care residents
Authors: Haslam Catherine , Alexander Haslam S. , Knight Craig , Gleibs Ilka , Ysseldyk Renate , McCloskey Lauren‐Grace
Published: December 2012

Group‐based interventions have been argued to slow the cognitive decline of older people residing in care by building social identification and thereby increasing motivation and engagement. The present study explored the identity–cognition association further by investigating the impact of a group decision‐making intervention on cognition. Thirty‐six care home residents were assigned to one of three conditions: an Intervention in which they made decisions about lounge refurbishment as a group, a Comparison condition in which staff made these decisions, or a no‐treatment Control. Cognitive function, social identification, home satisfaction, and lounge use were measured before and after the intervention. Participants in the Intervention condition showed significant increases on all measures, and greater improvement than participants in both Comparison and Control conditions. Consistent with social identity theorizing, these findings point to the role of group activity and social identification in promoting cognitive integrity and well‐being among care residents.
Animal personality: what are behavioural ecologists measuring?
Authors: Carter Alecia J. , Feeney William E. , Marshall Harry H. , Cowlishaw Guy , Heinsohn Robert
Published: December 2012

The discovery that an individual may be constrained, and even behave sub‐optimally, because of its personality type has fundamental implications for understanding individual‐ to group‐level processes. Despite recent interest in the study of animal personalities within behavioural ecology, the field is fraught with conceptual and methodological difficulties inherent in any young discipline. We review the current agreement of definitions and methods used in personality studies across taxa and systems, and find that current methods risk misclassifying traits. Fortunately, these problems have been faced before by other similar fields during their infancy, affording important opportunities to learn from past mistakes. We review the tools that were developed to overcome similar methodological problems in psychology. These tools emphasise the importance of attempting to measure animal personality traits using multiple tests and the care that needs to be taken when interpreting correlations between personality traits or their tests. Accordingly, we suggest an integrative theoretical framework that incorporates these tools to facilitate a robust and unified approach in the study of animal personality.
An evaluation of a CAMHS outpatient service for adolescent eating disorders
Authors: Fenner Mary , Kleve Liv
Published: December 2012

Background

A CAMHS Eating Disorder (ED) service is presented together with cases referred and treated within a 3‐year period. An outcome evaluation was conducted for restrictive eating disorders.

Method

Case files were analysed to investigate service throughput as well as clinical outcomes for discharged cases (n = 39).

Results

Highly positive End of Treatment (EOT) outcomes were achieved for both anorexia nervosa (AN) and Eating Disorders Not Otherwise Specified (EDNOS). Morgan Russell scores, drop‐out and admission rates compared favourably with previous trials. User satisfaction ratings were high.

Conclusion

The study offers insight into real‐life clinical practice and as outpatient treatment is usually much less expensive than inpatient treatment, this approach has the potential to be cost‐effective.
The Influence of Grandparents on the Lives of Children and Adolescents
Authors: Dunifon Rachel
Published: December 2012

Recent trends such as increased life expectancy, decreases in family size, and the rise of both single‐parent families and maternal employment increase the potential for grandparents to play important roles in the lives of their grandchildren. In this article, I review recent research and discuss directions for research on grandparents' influence on the lives of children and adolescents. I consider the role of nonresidential grandparents in children's lives, grandparents' influence in three‐generational families, and the well‐being of families in which grandparents are raising their grandchildren. Research regarding the influence of nonresident grandparents on children is inconclusive, with several studies indicating no or negligible roles for grandparents in such families. Studies of three‐generational families suggest that children in such arrangements often fare just as well as children in married families, although these patterns vary by race. Finally, new research highlights areas of need and strength in custodial grandparent families and future research seeks to examine how these factors relate to children's well‐being.
Sociocultural Settings Influence the Emergence of Prelinguistic Deictic Gestures
Authors: Salomo Dorothe , Liszkowski Ulf
Published: December 2012

Daily activities of forty‐eight 8‐ to 15‐month‐olds and their interlocutors were observed to test for the presence and frequency of triadic joint actions and deictic gestures across three different cultures: Yucatec‐Mayans (Mexico), Dutch (Netherlands), and Shanghai‐Chinese (China). The amount of joint action and deictic gestures to which infants were exposed differed systematically across settings, allowing testing for the role of social–interactional input in the ontogeny of prelinguistic gestures. Infants gestured more and at an earlier age depending on the amount of joint action and gestures infants were exposed to, revealing early prelinguistic sociocultural differences. The study shows that the emergence of basic prelinguistic gestures is socially mediated, suggesting that others' actions structure the ontogeny of human communication from early on.
Siblings, Theory of Mind, and Executive Functioning in Children Aged 3–6 Years: New Longitudinal Evidence
Authors: McAlister Anna R. , Peterson Candida C.
Published: December 2012

Longitudinal data were obtained from 157 children aged 3 years 3 months to 5 years 6 months at Time 1. At Time 2 these children had aged an average of 12 months. Theory of mind (ToM) and executive functioning (EF) were measured at both time points. Results suggest that Time 1 ToM scores predict Time 2 EF scores. Detailed examination of sibling influences suggests that benefits—in terms of advanced ToM development—accrue to children with siblings versus without, and to those with a larger number of child‐aged siblings. Any advance in either area (ToM or EF) is likely to benefit the other, and early sibling interaction appears to act as a catalyst.
Statins enhance the effects of corticosteroids on the balance between regulatory T cells and Th17 cells
Authors: Maneechotesuwan K. , Kasetsinsombat K. , Wamanuttajinda V. , Wongkajornsilp A. , Barnes P. J.
Published: December 2012

Background

Plasticity of CD4+ lymphocyte Th17/regulatory T cell (Treg) subsets is involved in the pathogenesis of chronic airway inflammatory diseases, such as asthma. Reversal of Th17/Treg cell balance towards Treg cells may be beneficial for the suppression of chronic Th2 cell‐mediated inflammatory diseases, such as asthma. However, the effect of the combination of corticosteroids and a statin on the ratio of Treg/Th17 cells is unknown.

Objective

We investigated the in vitro effects of the combination of simvastatin and fluticasone propionate (FP) on the numbers of Treg and Th17 cells in asthmatic patients after co‐incubation with monocyte‐derived DCs (mDCs), and explored the underlying signalling pathways involved.

Methods

Using flow cytometry, we determined the effects of FP and simvastatin on Treg/Th17 balance after co‐incubation of asthmatic CD4+ T cells with mDCs. We also measured the relevant Treg and Th17‐polarizing cytokines released from mDCs and also investigated the role of indoleamine 2, 3‐dioxygenase (IDO) in this response.

Results

The combination of simvastatin and FP significantly increased Treg and concomitantly reduced Th17 cell numbers to a greater extent than FP or statin treatment alone. The enhancing effects of simvastatin on FP effects were mediated through the up‐regulation of indoleamine 2, 3‐dioxygenase and interleukin (IL)‐10, together with down‐regulation of IL‐6 and IL‐23 expression in mDCs.

Conclusion

On the basis of this in vitro model of asthma, we suggest that the combination of a statin and a corticosteroid could augment the Treg/Th17 cell ratio and thus more effectively suppress airway inflammation in asthma patients. This may be particularly relevant in the treatment of severe asthma where Th17 cells are activated and linked to neutrophilic inflammation.
Factors predicting the presence of small bowel lesions in patients with obscure gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Sakai Eiji , Endo Hiroki , Taniguchi Leo , Hata Yasuo , Ezuka Akiko , Nagase Hajime , Yamada Eiji , Ohkubo Hidenori , Higurashi Takuma , Sekino Yusuke , Koide Tomoko , Iida Hiroshi , Hosono Kunihiro , Nonaka Takashi , Takahashi Hirokazu , Inamori Masahiko , Maeda Shin , Nakajima Atsushi
Published: December 2012

Aim

To identify the predictive factors for the presence of small bowel lesions in patients with obscure gastrointestinal bleeding (OGIB).

Methods

A total of 242 patients with OGIB (overt 149: occult 93) were retrospectively included in the present study. Capsule endoscopy (CE) was carried out to investigate the small bowel, and detected lesions were classified according to the P0‐P2 system. Only P2 lesions were defined as significant lesions. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were carried out to define the predictive factors for the presence of small bowel lesions.

Results

In patients with overt OGIB, chronic kidney disease (CKD) ≥stage 4 (odds ratio [OR] 4.03; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.45–11.1, P = 0.007) was identified as an independent predictor of the presence of vascular lesions, and a history of non‐steroidalanti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) use as that of erosive/ulcerated lesions (OR 4.73; 95% CI 1.47–15.2, P = 0.009). However, in patients with occult OGIB, no significant predictors of the presence of vascular lesions were identified, whereas a history of low‐dose aspirin (LDA) (OR 3.57; 95% CI 1.21–10.5, P = 0.02) and proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use (OR 3.18; 95% CI 1.02–9.92, P = 0.05) were identified as independent predictors of the presence of erosive/ulcerated lesions.

Conclusions

Our results indicated that bleeding pattern and clinical characteristics could contribute to predicting the origin of OGIB.
Classification of patients who experience a higher distress level to transoral esophagogastroduodenoscopy than to transnasal esophagogastroduodenoscopy
Authors: Miyake Kazumasa , Kusunoki Masafumi , Ueki Nobue , Yamada Akiyoshi , Nagoya Hiroyuki , Kodaka Yasuhiro , Shindo Tomotaka , Kawagoe Tetsuro , Gudis Katya , Futagami Seiji , Tsukui Taku , Sakamoto Choitsu
Published: December 2012

Background

In Japanese routine clinical practice, endoscopy is generally carried out without sedation. The present study aimed to identify the factors essential for appropriate selection of transnasal esophagogastroduodenoscopy (TN‐EGD) as an alternative to unsedated transoral esophagogastroduodenoscopy (TO‐EGD).

Patients and methods

Subjects in this prospective cohort study comprised consecutive outpatients who underwent EGD at a single center. Factors predicting TO‐EGD‐induced distress were evaluated on a visual analog scale (VAS) and analyzed. Patients were classified into a two‐layered system on the basis of these predictive factors, and the severity of distress between the TN‐EGD and TO‐EGD groups was compared using VAS and the change in the rate–pressure product as subjective and objective indices, respectively.

Results

In total, 728 outpatients (390 male, 338 female; mean age, 63.1 ± 0.5 years; TO‐EGD group, 630; TN‐EGD group, 98)met the inclusion criteria. Multivariate logistic regression analysis confirmed that age <65 years (P < 0.01; odds ratio [OR], 1.69; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14–2.52), gender (female; P < 0.01; OR,1.97; 95% CI, 1.34–2.91), marital status (single; P < 0.01; OR, 1.96; 95% CI, 1.18–3.27), and anxiety towards TO‐EGD (P < 0.001; OR, 3.62; 95% CI, 2.44–5.37) were independently associated with intolerance. Both indices were significantly higher in the TO‐EGD subgroup than in the TN‐EGD subgroup in the high predictive class, but not in the low predictive class.

Conclusion

Predictive factors for detecting intolerance to unsedated TO‐EGD may be useful to appropriately select patients who transpose unsedated TO‐EGD to TN‐EGD.
Self‐titration of insulin in the management of people with type 2 diabetes: a practical solution to improve management in primary care
Authors: Khunti K. , Davies M. J. , Kalra S.
Published: December 2012

Good glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is associated with a reduced risk of diabetes complications; however, achieving and maintaining glycaemic control represents a major challenge to physicians, and despite the availability of a range of antidiabetic therapies, many patients with T2DM will eventually require insulin supplementation to reach target glycaemic levels. Insulin initiation, adjustment of the insulin dose and the need for frequent assessment of blood glucose levels are often complicated by patient and physician misconceptions and concerns regarding its use. For most patients requiring insulin therapy, dose titration is carried out by physicians; however, evidence suggests that this process may not provide optimal glycaemic management for patients. Self‐monitoring of blood glucose and self‐adjustment of insulin dose (insulin self‐titration) is well established in type 1 diabetes, suggesting that similar therapeutic self‐management may be beneficial when applied to patients with T2DM. This article reviews the rationale and clinical evidence for insulin self‐titration in patients with T2DM with the aim of highlighting the importance of educating patients about insulin therapy and empowering them to manage their diabetes through self‐titration of insulin.
Information, Learning and Expectations in an Experimental Model Economy
Authors: Roos Michael W. M. , Luhan Wolfgang J.
Published: December 2012

The experimental ‘learning‐to‐forecast’ literature finds that subjects use simple linear backward‐looking models when forecasting in environments with little to no inout the economic framework. We study the formation of expectations in a laboratory economy of monopolistic firms and labour unions with almost complete knowledge of the model. We observe simple backward‐looking rules, but also a considerable share of model‐based expectations using information on the economic structure. At least for some subjects, expectations are informed by theory. As in the previous literature, we find individual prediction rules to be heterogeneous.
Comparison of Right Ventricular Systolic Function in Patients with Low Risk and Intermediate‐to‐High Risk Pulmonary Embolism: A Two‐Dimensional Strain Imaging Study
Authors: Descotes‐Genon Vincent , Chopard Romain , Morel Mathilde , Meneveau Nicolas , Schiele Francois , Bernard Yvette
Published: December 2012

Aim: Right ventricular (RV) dysfunction is key for risk stratification in pulmonary embolism (PE). The goal of this study was to compare RV strain values between low and intermediate‐to‐high risk PE patients assessed by two‐dimensional (2D) strain imaging. Methods: The inclusion criterion was a diagnosis of PE confirmed by thoracic computed tomography scan with contrast medium, or by scintigraphy perfusion lung scan. Risk stratification of PE was defined as high when there was hemodynamic instability; intermediate when there were signs of RV dysfunction on echocardiography; and/or elevated troponin I and/or brain natriuretic peptide and low when none of these criteria were present. All patients underwent echocardiography at admission. Apical four‐chamber images were analyzed off line using both conventional and 2D strain imaging. Results: Sixty‐two patients (mean age 66 years) were prospectively recruited: 33 with low risk PE, 29 with intermediate‐to‐high risk PE. Global 2D RV strain differed significantly between groups (−13.1% vs. −18.7%, P < 0.01), as did free wall (−12.7% vs. −20.2%, P < 0.016) and septal wall (−13.5% vs. −17.2%, P < 0.01). When the RV was divided into segments, we observed a similar reduction in absolute strain value in the mid and apical free wall segments and in the apical septal wall (−20.3 ± −7.6 vs. −11.8 ± 8.9%; P < 0.01 and −19.6 ± 6.9 vs. −7.4 ± 9.1%; P < 0.01, and −17.7 ± 7.0 vs. 9.9 ± 8.0; P < 0.01, respectively). 2D strain and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion were significantly related (r2 = 0.35, P < 0.01). Conclusions: Peak RV longitudinal 2D strain is reduced in patients with intermediate‐to‐high risk PE, especially in the apical and mid segments of the free wall. Global and regional RV longitudinal 2D strain is altered in patients with intermediate‐to‐high risk PE as compared with low risk PE.
Wake‐promoting actions of noradrenergic α1‐ and β‐receptors within the lateral hypothalamic area
Authors: Schmeichel Brooke E. , Berridge Craig W.
Published: December 2012

Central norepinephrine exerts potent wake‐promoting effects, in part through the actions of noradrenergic α1‐ and β‐receptors located in the medial septal and medial preoptic areas. The lateral hypothalamic area (LHA), including the lateral hypothalamus, perifornical area and adjacent dorsomedial hypothalamus, is implicated in the regulation of arousal and receives a substantial noradrenergic innervation. To date the functional significance of this innervation is unknown. The current studies examined the degree to which noradrenergic α1‐ and β‐receptor stimulation within the rat LHA modulates arousal. Specifically, these studies examined the wake‐promoting effects of intra‐tissue infusions (250 nL) of the α1‐receptor agonist phenylephrine (10, 20 and 40 nmol) and the β‐receptor agonist isoproterenol (3, 10 and 30 nmol) in rats. Results show that stimulation of LHA α1‐receptors elicits robust and dose‐dependent increases in waking. In contrast, β‐receptor stimulation within the LHA had relatively modest arousal‐promoting actions. Nonetheless, combined α1‐ and β‐receptor stimulation elicited additive wake‐promoting effects. Arousal‐promoting hypocretin/orexin (HCRT)‐synthesising neurons are located within the LHA. Therefore, additional immunohistochemical studies examined whether α1‐receptor‐dependent waking is associated with an activation of HCRT neurons as measured by Fos, the protein product of the immediate–early gene c‐fos. Analyses indicate that although intra‐LHA α1‐receptor agonist infusion elicited a robust increase in Fos immunoreactivity (ir) in this region, this treatment did not activate HCRT neurons as measured by Fos‐ir. Collectively, these observations indicate that noradrenergic α1‐receptors within the LHA promote arousal via actions that are independent of HCRT neuronal activation.
A Hegelian Dialogue on the Micro‐Foundations of Organizational Routines and Capabilities
Authors: Foss Nicolai J. , Heimeriks Koen H. , Winter Sidney G. , Zollo Maurizio
Published: December 2012

This paper aims to further the alignment among different theoretical approaches and future scholarship on the complex themes related to the micro‐foundational processes characterizing the emergence and development of organizational routines and capabilities. It has been constructed with a typical Hegelian structure represented by a thesis, an antithesis and an attempt of a synthesis, each presented by different scholars, primed by a common set of questions related to the role of individual actors in shaping organizational change processes. The dialogue is introduced by Koen Heimeriks, followed by Sidney Winter proposing the ‘thesis’ for an evolutionary perspective on the problem, and an ‘antithesis’ is offered by Nicolai Foss with a number of critical points made from different economics and social science perspectives. Finally, Maurizio Zollo offers an attempt of a synthesis between the two positions with some proposals for conceptual and empirical advancement. The dialogue points to a convergence on the usefulness of evolutionary theory as a theoretical lens, but also on the need to add to the central notion of routinized behavior, other stable organizational traits of evolutionary relevance, such as the cognitive, motivational and identity‐based antecedents to behavior, as well as key dimensions of intentionality and consciousness of change, which have been so far given either implicit or axiomatic roles. An overarching model of firm evolution that includes these micro‐level factors in the context of more collective‐level dynamics might help forging collaborative work across different schools of thought, as well as bridging the two levels of analysis in a way that is both theoretically well‐grounded and empirically testable.
West syndrome caused by ST3Gal‐III deficiency
Authors: Edvardson Simon , Baumann Anna‐Maria , Mühlenhoff Martina , Stephan Oliver , Kuss Andreas W. , Shaag Avraham , He Liqun , Zenvirt Shamir , Tanzi Raimo , Gerardy‐Schahn Rita , Elpeleg Orly
Published: December 2012

West syndrome consists of infantile spasms, hypsarrhythmia, and developmental arrest. Most patients remain mentally retarded and many develop Lennox‐Gastaut syndrome. Using homozygosity mapping followed by exome sequencing we identified an ST3GAL3 mutation in three infants with West syndrome. ST3GAL3 encodes a sialyltransferase involved in the biosynthesis of sialyl‐Lewis epitopes on cell surface–expressed glycoproteins. The mutation affected an essential sialyl‐motif and abolished enzymatic activity. Abnormalities in proteins involved in forebrain γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic synaptic growth and function were recently proposed to account for infantile spasms. Dysfunctional ST3GAL3 may thus result in perturbation of the posttranslational sialylation of proteins in these pathways.
Absence of a Context‐General Behavioural Syndrome in a Solitary Predator
Authors: Nyqvist Marina J. , Gozlan Rodolphe E. , Cucherousset Julien , Robert Britton J.
Published: December 2012

The correlation of seemingly unrelated behaviours into behavioural syndromes has been established in a wide range of species and taxa. However, most studies report on short‐term behavioural correlations without insight into individual consistency or temporal stability of the behavioural syndrome. Here, we examine the individual repeatability of single behaviours, and the presence and temporal stability of a context‐general behavioural syndrome in a solitary piscivorous predator, the pike (Esox lucius). Behavioural measurements on the same individuals were quantified independently through time and across three contexts: activity in the presence of a competitor, exploration of a novel environment and boldness under predation risk. There was no indication of a temporally stable behavioural syndrome, consisting of boldness, activity and exploration, nor were individuals consistent in the separate behaviours, contradicting the general assertion of its taxonomic prevalence. Furthermore, the study did not provide support for size or growth‐dependent behaviour in this size‐dimorphic species in conditions of limited food availability. The study highlights the importance of independent multiple observations of individual behaviour across time or contexts when measuring behavioural repeatability and covariation.
Resection of a premaxilla and rostral portion of the maxilla in a horse
Authors: Cousty M. , Tricaud C.
Published: December 2012

A 5‐year‐old, 520 kg Standardbred mare was admitted for an osteosarcoma of the right premaxilla. Two horizontal incisions of the labial mucosa and lingual surface were made 1 cm around the ulceration from the canine tooth to the premaxillary symphysis. The premaxilla and rostral portion of the maxilla were transected 1 cm caudal to the canine tooth with an oscillating saw. The maxillary symphysis was transected using an oscillating saw and a hammer. The wound was closed by primary intention and healed without complication. The cosmetic appearance of the mare was good. The mare was able to prehend hay and grain and grazed without difficulty and the tongue did not protrude. The neoplasm had not recurred 18 months after the surgery. A premaxilla and rostral portion of the adjacent maxilla can be resected to treat horses for a unilateral lesion of the premaxilla but care must be taken to avoid the palatine and incisive arteries which lie within the interincisive canal.
The Critical Importance of Understanding Cultural Diversity from a Global Perspective for Family and Consumer Sciences Research and Practice
Authors: Trask Bahira S. , Anguiano Ruben Viramontez
Published: December 2012

As the demographics of the United States and the rest of the world shift and global processes grow in importance, it is critical to examine the impact of these issues in the family and consumer sciences (FCS) and related fields. This special issue of the Family and Consumer Sciences Research Journal focuses on cultural diversity from a global perspective. It highlights the importance of understanding worldwide social trends and the new opportunities and challenges that are emerging in an increasingly interrelated world. This issue also serves as a platform for an interdisciplinary exploration of the intersection of FCS‐related fields and the social transformation in which we find ourselves. It aims to generate a discussion on how the interface between FCS research and global phenomena is applied to practice with the intent of preparing professionals for an increasingly diverse world.
Perceived Cultural Housing Differences and Residential Satisfaction: A Case Study of Korean Sojourners
Authors: Lee Eunsil , Park Nam‐Kyu
Published: December 2012

A sojourner is an individual who visits or lives in another country for a brief period with no intention of permanently remaining in the host country. Based on a model by Marans and Rodgers (Metropolitan America in Contemporary Perspective, 1975, 299), sojourners' residential satisfaction is hypothesized to be dependent on their perception of particular housing aspects, which is affected by their personal characteristics. The purpose of this study was to examine the residential satisfaction of Korean sojourners in one city in the United States. Using a mixed methods design, cultural housing differences were identified through 10 in‐depth interviews and data from 235 surveys. The results indicated that perceived cultural housing differences significantly influenced physical housing perception, neighborhood perception, and attachment, which significantly influenced residential satisfaction. Future research should include a wide variety of ethnic groups in an attempt to support and extend the findings of this study.
Sibling Roles Represented in Children's Books about Chinese–US Family Adoption
Authors: Fitzpatrick Jacki , Kostina‐Ritchey Erin
Published: December 2012

This study examined the presence of protector and educator sibling roles in children's books about adoption of Chinese daughters by US families. A qualitative content analysis was conducted on a sample of 27 books. The books were coded independently by two researchers. Directional coding (Hsieh & Shannon, 2005) for the presence/absence of protector and educator roles was conducted. The results indicated that the protector role was evident when siblings were (i) caring about adoptees’ entry into the families, (ii) providing comfort when adoptees were scared, and (iii) intervening when adoptees were bullied. The educator role was evident when siblings were (i) seeking to bridge linguistic barriers, (ii) preparing to teach adoptees about China, and (iii) explaining birth/adoptive parent distinctions. Implications of this study are offered for family and consumer science researchers and practitioners/service providers.
Electron backscatter diffraction investigation of length‐fast chalcedony in agate: implications for agate genesis and growth mechanisms
Authors: FRENCH M. W. , WORDEN R. H. , LEE D. R.
Published: December 2012

Agates of volcanic origin contain a range of silica minerals, with chalcedony and quartz arranged in concentric bands. Although agates are abundant worldwide, little is known about the genesis of their characteristic banding patterns. Current hypotheses suggest the bands result either from precipitation from convecting siliceous hydrothermal influxes or by in situ crystallization of a silica gel. This study combines the use of a variety of analytical techniques, including electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), cathodoluminescence (CL), and Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy, to characterize the silica minerals present and investigate their spatial and crystallographic relationships in the banding arrangement. Microstructural and spectroscopic observations reveal that chalcedony bands are composed of amorphous silica that also contains nanocrystalline and later‐formed microcrystalline quartz. Nano‐ and microcrystalline quartz grew with a‐axes perpendicular to the growth substrate, typical of length‐fast chalcedony. The bands formed as a result of discrete influxes of silica‐rich fluid. Within these individual bands, there is a sequence of minerals: chalcedony‐A (with amorphous silica and nanocrystalline quartz) → chalcedony‐MQ (with microcrystalline quartz) → quartz. This sequence is reflected in the degree of crystallinity, crystal orientations and water content and is analogous to a diagenetic cycle; the initial chalcedony portion of the band commences with amorphous silica with nanocrystalline quartz followed by fibrous microcrystalline quartz crystals; chalcedony then grades into larger equiaxial mesoquartz crystals. This paragenetic sequence suggests a viable model for the growth of chalcedony in agates.
Liver exhibits thermal variations according to the stage of fibrosis progression: A novel use of modulated‐differential scanning calorimetry for research in hepatology
Authors: Escobedo Galileo , Arjona‐Román José Luis , Meléndez‐Pérez Rosalía , Suárez‐Álvarez Karina , Guzmán Carolina , Aguirre‐García Jesús , Gutiérrez‐Reyes Gabriela , Vivas Oscar , Varela‐Fascinetto Gustavo , Rodríguez‐Romero Adela , Robles‐Díaz Guillermo , Kershenobich David
Published: December 2012

Aim

Liver fibrosis results in a disproportion of the hepatic composition and architecture, characterized by a progressive accumulation of fibrillar proteins at the liver parenchyma. Modulated‐differential scanning calorimetry (mDSC) is an experimental methodology able to determine the specific thermal signature from any biological substance, based on the variation in heat flow and heat capacity. As these physicochemical properties are directly influenced by compositional and structural changes, we decided to study the thermal behavior of the liver during fibrosis using mDSC.

Methods

Liver fibrosis was induced in rats by bile duct ligation or carbon tetrachloride administration. Degree of liver fibrosis was determined by histological examination using the Masson‐trichrome stain, accompanied by hepatic expression of α‐smooth muscle actin. The thermal analysis was performed in a modulated‐differential scanning calorimeter using 20 mg of fresh liver mass.

Results

The liver showed a characteristic thermal signature in control animals, which progressively differed among mild (F1), moderate (F2) and advanced (F3–F4) liver fibrosis. For heat flow, the hepatic thermal signature from F3–F4 rats exhibited significant differences when compared with F1, F2 and controls. In terms of heat capacity, liver specimens provided a specific thermal signature for each stage of disease, characterized by a transition temperature onset at 95°C for controls, whereas in F1, F2 and F3–F4 animals this temperature significantly decreased to 93°C, 84°C and 75°C, respectively.

Conclusion

Because the liver shows a differential thermal signature according to the degree of fibrosis, mDSC could be a novel tool in the study of liver fibrosis progression.
Immigrant women's experiences and views on the prevention of cervical cancer: a qualitative study
Authors: Grandahl Maria , Tydén Tanja , Gottvall Maria , Westerling Ragnar , Oscarsson Marie
Published: December 2012

Background

Many Western countries have cervical cancer screening programmes and have implemented nation‐wide human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programmes for preventing cervical cancer.

Objective

To explore immigrant women's experiences and views on the prevention of cervical cancer, screening, HPV vaccination and condom use.

Design

An exploratory qualitative study. The Health Belief Model (HBM) was used as a theoretical framework.

Setting and participants

Eight focus group interviews, 5–8 women in each group (average number 6,5), were conducted with 50 women aged 18–54, who studied Swedish for immigrants. Data were analysed by latent content analysis.

Results

Four themes emerged: (i) deprioritization of women's health in home countries, (ii) positive attitude towards the availability of women's health care in Sweden, (iii) positive and negative attitudes towards HPV vaccination, and (iv) communication barriers limit health care access. Even though the women were positive to the prevention of cervical cancer, several barriers were identified: difficulties in contacting health care due to language problems, limited knowledge regarding the relation between sexual transmission of HPV and cervical cancer, culturally determined gender roles and the fact that many of the women were not used to regular health check‐ups.

Conclusion

The women wanted to participate in cervical cancer prevention programmes and would accept HPV vaccination for their daughters, but expressed difficulties in understanding information from health‐care providers. Therefore, information needs to be in different languages and provided through different sources. Health‐care professionals should also consider immigrant women's difficulties concerning cultural norms and pay attention to their experiences.
‘The thing is not knowing’: patients' perspectives on surveillance of an indeterminate pulmonary nodule
Authors: Wiener Renda Soylemez , Gould Michael K. , Woloshin Steven , Schwartz Lisa M. , Clark Jack A.
Published: December 2012

Background

The hundreds of thousands of patients found to have a potentially malignant pulmonary nodule each year are faced with tremendous uncertainty regarding what the nodule is and how it should be evaluated.

Objective

To explore patients’ responses to the detection and evaluation of a pulmonary nodule.

Design

Qualitative study based on four focus‐group discussions. We performed inductive analysis using principles of grounded theory to identify themes relating to responses to the nodule and strategies to manage uncertainty.

Setting and participants

Twenty‐two patients from two medical centres who were undergoing surveillance for an indeterminate pulmonary nodule.

Results

Patient responses to an indeterminate pulmonary nodule were varied and evolved over time. Although almost all patients reported an initial fear about cancer, subsequent depictions of the nodule diverged into four types defined on two dimensions: cognitive (‘it's cancer’ vs. ‘I don't know what it is’ vs. ‘it's nothing serious’) and emotional (anxiety vs. equanimity). Most eventually accepted that the nodule was unlikely to be malignant; however, some remained anxious, convinced the nodule could turn into cancer at any time and should be aggressively monitored for life. Patients used results of surveillance tests as well as their own strategies (e.g. vigilance for symptoms, information‐seeking, contemplating and controlling modifiable risk factors, avoidance, faith) to manage uncertainty.

Conclusions

Surveillance for a pulmonary nodule can weigh heavily on some patients for months or years. Our findings may help clinicians prepare patients with a newly detected pulmonary nodule for the burden of the prolonged uncertainty of surveillance.
Effect of calcium hydroxide and endodontic irrigants on fibre post bond strength to root canal dentine
Authors: Renovato S. R. , Santana F. R. , Ferreira J. M. , Souza J. B. , Soares C. J. , Estrela C.
Published: December 2012

Aim

To analyse the effect of calcium hydroxide paste, endodontic irrigants and time of application on the bond strength of fibre posts to root canal dentine.

Methodology

Seventy bovine incisors were divided into 7 groups according to removal of calcium hydroxide and distilled water (CHW) (immediate – I; 21 days – 21 days; 6 months – 6 months) and endodontic irrigant (1% sodium hypochlorite – SH; 1% sodium hypochlorite + 17% EDTA – SHE). Fibre posts were cemented (RelyX U100), after which the roots were serially sectioned and submitted to a micro‐push‐out test. Data were analysed using two‐way anova followed by the Tukey's and the Dunnett's tests (α = 0.05).

Results

The CHW groups were not significantly different from the control group in 13 of the 18 associated factors (P > 0.05). There were significant reductions in bond strength in the cervical (P = 0.0216) and middle (P = 0.0017) thirds of the root at 6 months in groups irrigated with SH. Irrigation with SHE reduced the bond strength significantly in the middle (P = 0.0488) and apical (P = 0.0252) thirds of the roots in the immediate groups and in the middle third (P = 0.0287) in the 21‐day group. Bond strength was greater in the cervical than in the apical thirds of all immediate and 21‐day groups (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Bond strength of groups that received CH paste was similar to that found in the control group in 13 of the 18 associated factors. EDTA and SH reduced bond strength in specimens in the immediate (middle and apical thirds) and 21‐day (middle third) groups. There was a significant reduction in bond strength in the groups irrigated with SH and tested at 6 months (cervical and middle thirds). There was a predominance of adhesive failures between resin cement and dentine in all groups.
Silodosin versus naftopidil in Japanese patients with lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia: A randomized multicenter study
Authors: Shirakawa Toshiro , Haraguchi Takahiro , Shigemura Katsumi , Morishita Shinichi , Minayoshi Kohji , Miyazaki Jiro , Yamada Yuji , Miyake Hideaki , Tanaka Kazushi , Fujisawa Masato
Published: December 2012

Objectives

Silodosin is a novel drug that is highly selective to subtype alpha 1A and, since 2006, has been used in Japan for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia. This study aimed to compare the clinical effects of the alpha‐adrenoceptor antagonist, silodosin, with those of naftopidil in patients presenting lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Methods

This was a randomized, open‐label, controlled multicenter study carried out in Japan. Overall, 121 participants with lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia were randomized to receive silodosin (4 mg twice daily) or naftopidil (50 mg once daily) for 4 or 8 weeks. Patients were divided into four groups: the alpha‐blocker‐naive groups received silodosin (35 patients) or naftopidil (33 patients) and the drug‐switching groups changed from tamsulosin to silodosin (26 patients) or naftopidil (27 patients). The outcomes parameters were the International Prostate Symptom Score, quality of life, maximum urinary flow rate and post‐void residual urine volume. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant by using the Wilcoxon signed‐rank and rank‐sum tests, and analysis of covariance.

Results

In all the groups, silodosin and naftopidil significantly improved the total International Prostate Symptom Score and quality of life. However, silodosin obtained significantly better improvement in total International Prostate Symptom Score in the alpha‐blocker‐naive patients at 4 and 8 weeks. The maximum urinary flow rate and residual urine did not change significantly in all the treatment groups.

Conclusions

The present study confirms the clinical usefulness of silodosin in the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Probiotics in luminal gastroenterology: the current state of play
Authors: Andrews J. M. , Tan M.
Published: December 2012

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the use of probiotics in various areas of gastrointestinal (GI) health. Probiotics are defined as live microorganisms that provide beneficial health effects on the host when administered in adequate amounts. Various probiotics have been shown to suppress bacterial growth, modulate the immune system and improve intestinal barrier function. However, despite several studies with promising results, most trials are small and many have substantial methodological limitations. However, with better targeting and appropriate randomised controlled trials, this area may soon yield important therapeutic strategies to optimise GI health. Here, we review the current knowledge of probiotics of relevance to luminal GI health.
Branching the risks: architectural plasticity and bet‐hedging in Mediterranean annuals
Authors: Shemesh H. , Novoplansky A.
Published: December 2012

It has been suggested that architectural plasticity in shoot size and number allows plants to manage environmental risks. Simpler structures require shorter development times and fewer resources, which secure minimal fitness even under risky and unfavourable conditions. Here we tested the hypothesis that the magnitude of such architectural plasticity depends on the species' developmental strategy. Specifically, species with late reproduction were expected to express the highest levels of architectural plasticity in response to environmental cues predicting high probability of abrupt deterioration in growth conditions. This hypothesis was tested by comparing Mediterranean and semi‐arid populations of three species, which differed in growth strategy:Trifolium purpureum, a determinate and late flowerer, andEmex spinosaandHippocrepis unisiliquosathat flower indeterminately throughout the season. All plants were exposed to varying levels of water availability and competition, but onlyT. purpureumdisplayed plastic architectural responsiveness to the experimental manipulations. In contrast, the early and extended step‐by‐step flowering of bothE. spinosaandH. unisiliquosareflected a relatively deterministic bet‐hedging reproductive schedule, whereby minimum fitness is secured even under adverse conditions. These two opposing strategies gave contrasting results, withE. spinosaandH. unisiliquosadisplaying reduced efficiency under favourable conditions under whichT. purpureumhad the highest reproductive efficiency. The evolutionary interplay between deterministic risk‐averse and plastic risk‐prone growth strategies might reflect contrasts in the probability and severity of environmental risks, and the costs of missed opportunities.
Discrimination of female schizophrenia patients from healthy women using multiple structural brain measures obtained with voxel‐based morphometry
Authors: Ota Miho , Sato Noriko , Ishikawa Masanori , Hori Hiroaki , Sasayama Daimei , Hattori Kotaro , Teraishi Toshiya , Obu Satoko , Nakata Yasuhiro , Nemoto Kiyotaka , Moriguchi Yoshiya , Hashimoto Ryota , Kunugi Hiroshi
Published: December 2012

Aim

Although schizophrenia and control subjects differ on a variety of neuroanatomical measures, the specificity and sensitivity of any one measure for differentiating between the two groups are low. To identify the correlative pattern of brain changes that best discriminate schizophrenia patients from healthy subjects, discriminant analysis techniques using voxel‐based morphometry were applied.

Methods

The first analysis was conducted to obtain a statistical model that classified 105 female healthy subjects and 38 female schizophrenia patients. First, the differences in gray matter and cerebrospinal fluid volume between the patients and healthy subjects were evaluated using optimized voxel‐based morphometry. Then, a discriminant analysis reflecting the results of this evaluation was adopted. The second analysis was performed to prospectively validate the statistical model by successfully classifying a new group that consisted of 23 female healthy subjects and 23 female schizophrenia patients.

Results

The use of these variables resulted in correct classification rates of 0.72 in the control subjects and 0.76 in the schizophrenia patients. In the second validation analysis using these variables, correct classification rates of 0.70 in the control subjects and 0.74 in the schizophrenia patients were achieved.

Conclusion

Schizophrenia patients have structural deviations in multiple brain areas, and a combination of structural brain measures can distinguish between patients and controls.