bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Tai Chi training on exercise capacity and quality of life in patients with chronic heart failure: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Pan Lei , Yan JunHong , Guo YongZhong , Yan JunHe
Published: October 2012

Aim

Whether Tai Chi (TC) is effective in the cardiac rehabilitation of patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) remains controversial. We performed a meta‐analysis to examine the effects of TC on exercise capacity and quality of life (QoL) in CHF patients.

Methods and results

PubMed and EMBASE databases were searched (up to May 2012) for relevant studies. Studies including participants with reduced left ventricular systolic function (ejection fraction ≤45%) were selected. Interventions considered were TC with or without comparisons (education or usual care). Weighted mean differences (WMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated, and heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 test. Four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (n = 242) met the inclusion criteria. TC significantly improved QoL (WMD –14.54 points; 95% CI –23.45 to –5.63). TC was not associated with a significant reduction in N‐terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide (WMD –61.16 pg/mL; 95% CI –179.27 to 56.95), systolic blood pressure (WMD –1.06 mmHg; 95% CI –13.76 to 11.63), diastolic blood pressure (WMD –0.08 mmHg; 95% CI –3.88 to 3.73), improved 6 min walking distance (WMD 46.73 m; 95% CI –1.62 to 95.09), or peak oxygen uptake (WMD 0.19 mL/kg/min; 95% CI –0.74 to 1.13).

Conclusions

TC may improve QoL in patients with CHF and could be considered for inclusion in cardiac rehabilitation programmes. However, there is currently a lack of evidence to support TC altering other important clinical outcomes. Further larger RCTs are urgently needed to investigate the effects of TC.
Epileptogenic Effect of Sevoflurane
Authors: Gibert Stephanie , Sabourdin Nada , Louvet Nicolas , Moutard Marie-Laure , Piat Veronique , Guye Marie-Laurence , Rigouzzo Agnes , Constant Isabelle
Published: October 2012

Background

Sevoflurane has become the gold standard for inhalation induction in children. However in children as in adults, epileptiform electroencephalographic signs have been described under high concentrations of sevoflurane. The aim of this study was to determine the minimal alveolar concentration (MAC) of sevoflurane associated with the occurrence of major epileptiform signs (MES) in 50% children under steady-state conditions. The MAC of MES (MAC MES) was determined in 100% oxygen and with the addition of 50% nitrous oxide or after the injection of alfentanil (ALFENTA).

Methods

Seventy-nine children (3-11 yr), undergoing elective surgery and premedicated with hydroxyzine were included. After induction by inhalation and tracheal intubation, a 10-min period with a stable expired fraction of sevoflurane was obtained. The MES were defined as rhythmic polyspikes or epileptiform discharges. Electroencephalographic recordings were blindly analyzed by two independent experts. The MAC MES were determined by the Dixon method: the concentration of sevoflurane was determined by the result from the previous patient: increase of 0.2% if MES were absent or decrease of 0.2% if MES were present. Three consecutive series were performed: (1) in 100% oxygen (MAC MESO2); (2) in 50% oxygen and 50% nitrous oxide (MAC MESN2O); and (3) in 100% oxygen with a bolus of alfentanil (MAC MESALFENTA).

Results

The MAC MESO2 was 4.3±0.1% (mean±SD), the MAC MESN2O and the MAC MESALFENTA were higher, respectively: 4.6±0.2% (P=0.01) and 4.6±0.2% (P=0.02).

Conclusions

In children premedicated with hydroxyzine, the MAC MES of sevoflurane calculated in 100% O2 corresponded to 1.75 surgical MAC. In addition, our results have demonstrated a moderate effect of nitrous oxide and alfentanil in raising the threshold of MES.
Dichlorido{2-[(3,5-diphenyl-1H-pyrazol-1-yl-κN2)methyl]pyridine-κN}palladium(II)
Authors: Spencer Lara C. , Guzei Ilia A. , Segapelo Tebogo V. , Darkwa James
Published: October 2012

The title compound, [PdCl2(C21H17N3)], is a member of a sequence of Pd, Pt and Co dichloride complexes bearing polysubstituted (pyrazol-1-ylmethyl)pyridine ligands. It is shown that there is a correlation between the steric bulkiness of the bidentate (pyrazol-1-ylmethyl)pyridine ligands and the Pd—Npyrazoledistances,i.e.the larger the ligand, the longer the bond. In contrast, no trend is observed between the steric properties of the ligand and the Pd—Npyridinebond lengths.
High-resolution structure of AKR1a4 in the apo form and its interaction with ligands
Authors: Faucher Frédérick , Jia Zongchao
Published: October 2012

Aldo-keto reductase 1a4 (AKR1a4; EC 1.1.1.2) is the mouse orthologue of human aldehyde reductase (AKR1a1), the founding member of the AKR family. As an NADPH-dependent enzyme, AKR1a4 catalyses the conversion of D-glucuronate to L-gulonate. AKR1a4 is involved in ascorbate biosynthesis in mice, but has also recently been found to interact with SMAR1, providing a novel mechanism of ROS regulation by ATM. Here, the crystal structure of AKR1a4 in its apo form at 1.64 Å resolution as well as the characterization of the binding of AKR1a4 to NADPH and P44, a peptide derived from SMAR1, is presented.
Detection and Quantitation of Trace Phenolphthalein (in Pharmaceutical Preparations and in Forensic Exhibits) by Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry, a Sensitive and Accurate Method
Authors: Sharma Kakali , Sharma Shiba P. , Lahiri Sujit C.
Published: October 2012

Phenolphthalein, an acid–base indicator and laxative, is important as a constituent of widely used weight‐reducing multicomponent food formulations. Phenolphthalein is an useful reagent in forensic science for the identification of blood stains of suspected victims and for apprehending erring officials accepting bribes in graft or trap cases. The pink‐colored alkaline hand washes originating from the phenolphthalein‐smeared notes can easily be determined spectrophotometrically. But in many cases, colored solution turns colorless with time, which renders the genuineness of bribe cases doubtful to the judiciary. No method is known till now for the detection and identification of phenolphthalein in colorless forensic exhibits with positive proof. Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry had been found to be most sensitive, accurate method capable of detection and quantitation of trace phenolphthalein in commercial formulations and colorless forensic exhibits with positive proof. The detection limit of phenolphthalein was found to be 1.66 pg/L or ng/mL, and the calibration curve shows good linearity (r2 = 0.9974).
Fatal Intoxications in a Forensic Autopsy Material from Epirus, Greece, During the Period 1998‐2010
Authors: Boumba Vassiliki A. , Georgiadis Minas , Mirescu Nikolae , Vougiouklakis Theodore
Published: October 2012

In this retrospective study, we report the epidemiological characteristics of all poisoning deaths in Epirus, Greece, from 1998 to 2010; we present the toxicological findings and the statistical evaluation of the results. This is the first detailed scientific report on all the officially certified poisoning deaths concerning part of the Greek population. A total of 126 poisoning fatalities were recorded, 67 of them being mono‐intoxications (53.2%). The cause of poisoning was as follows: drugs of abuse (60%); carbon monoxide (19.8%); pesticides (9.5%); corrosives (4.8%); pharmaceuticals (4.8%); and spider bite (0.8%). The most frequently detected poisonous substances were as follows: heroin (65 cases), ethanol (55), benzodiazepines (42), carbon monoxide (25), cocaine (17), cannabinoids (17) and pesticides (12). Increasing tendency in poisoning death rates was recorded, due to an increase in accidental poisoning deaths attributed mainly to drugs of abuse (total, accidental, and drugs‐of‐abuse poisoning death rates per 100,000 inhabitants per year were 1.87, 1.19, and 0.79, respectively, in the period 1998–2002 and 3.97, 3.41, and 2.55, respectively, in the period 2007–2010).
Effect of Forensic Evidence on Criminal Justice Case Processing
Authors: Peterson Joseph L. , Hickman Matthew J. , Strom Kevin J. , Johnson Donald J.
Published: October 2012

This study examined the role and impact of forensic evidence on case‐processing outcomes in a sample of 4205 criminal cases drawn from five U.S. jurisdictions. Regression analyses demonstrated that forensic evidence played a consistent and robust role in case‐processing decisions. Still, the influence of forensic evidence is time‐ and examination‐dependent: the collection of crime scene evidence was predictive of arrest, and the examination of evidence was predictive of referral for charges, as well as of charges being filed, conviction at trial, and sentence length. The only decision outcome in which forensic evidence did not have a general effect was with regard to guilty plea arrangements. More studies are needed on the filtering of forensic evidence in different crime categories, from the crime scene to its use by investigators, prosecutors, and fact‐finders, and to identify factors that shape decisions to collect evidence, submit it to laboratories, and request examinations.
Columnar‐lined esophagus in Chinese patients with proximal gastric carcinomas
Authors: Sun Qi , Huang Qin , Feng An Ning , Fan Xiang Shan , Wu Hong Yan , Mashimo Hiroshi , Zhou Qiang , Chen Jin , Lauwers Gregory Y.
Published: October 2012

Objective

To investigate the clinicopathological features of columnar‐lined esophagus (CLE) in Chinese patients.

Methods

Among 182 consecutive resections of proximal gastric cancer with residual esophageal tissue, 114 were eligible for the study. The maximal lengths of CLE and superficial esophageal glands (SEG) and the presence or absence of chronic inflammation (CI), lymphoid follicles (LF), Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, intestinal metaplasia (IM), pancreatic metaplasia (PM) and dysplasia were analyzed and compared with those in the adjacent proximal gastric mucosa.

Results

SEG were present in 110 cases with a mean length of 5.4 mm (range 1–16 mm, 90% equal to or under 10 mm and 10% between 11–16 mm). These glands were associated with CI (95%), LF (85%), H. pylori infection (42%), IM (25%), PM (36%) and dysplasia (10%). CLE was found in 65% of the cases and was associated with SEG (mean length of 4.0 mm, range 1–13 mm, 97% within 10 mm and 3% between 11–13 mm). The frequencies of CI (97%), LF (86%), H. pylori infection (65%) and PM (46%) in CLE were similar to those in the proximal stomach (CI 90%, LF 54%, H. pylori infection 58%, PM 39%). In contrast, the frequencies of IM (37%) and dysplasia (15%) in CLE were significantly lower than those in the proximal stomach (66% and 31%, respectively; P < 0.01).

Conclusions

CLE in Chinese patients was within 10 mm in length in 97% of cases, and with SEG and H. pylori infection‐related changes similar to those in the proximal stomach.
Exercise therapy improves mental and physical health in schizophrenia: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Scheewe T. W. , Backx F. J. G. , Takken T. , Jörg F. , van Strater A. C. P. , Kroes A. G. , Kahn R. S. , Cahn W.
Published: October 2012

Objective

The objective of this multicenter randomised clinical trial was to examine the effect of exercise versus occupational therapy on mental and physical health in schizophrenia patients.

Method

Sixty‐three patients with schizophrenia were randomly assigned to 2 h of structured exercise (n = 31) or occupational therapy (n = 32) weekly for 6 months. Symptoms (Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale) and cardiovascular fitness levels (Wpeak and VO2peak), as assessed with a cardiopulmonary exercise test, were the primary outcome measures. Secondary outcome measures were the Montgomery and Åsberg Depression Rating Scale, Camberwell Assessment of Needs, body mass index, body fat percentage, and metabolic syndrome (MetS).

Results

Intention‐to‐treat analyses showed exercise therapy had a trend‐level effect on depressive symptoms (P = 0.07) and a significant effect on cardiovascular fitness, measured by Wpeak (P < 0.01), compared with occupational therapy. Per protocol analyses showed that exercise therapy reduced symptoms of schizophrenia (P = 0.001), depression (P = 0.012), need of care (P = 0.050), and increased cardiovascular fitness (P < 0.001) compared with occupational therapy. No effect for MetS (factors) was found except a trend reduction in triglycerides (P = 0.08).

Conclusion

Exercise therapy, when performed once to twice a week, improved mental health and cardiovascular fitness and reduced need of care in patients with schizophrenia.
Methylation of IL‐2 promoter at birth alters the risk of asthma exacerbations during childhood
Authors: Curtin J. A. , Simpson A. , Belgrave D. , Semic‐Jusufagic A. , Custovic A. , Martinez F. D.
Published: October 2012

Background

Epigenetic modifications may have a role in asthma susceptibility.

Objective

To investigate whether epigenetic modification at birth of a CpG site necessary for the regulation of IL‐2 transcription (IL‐2 Site1) is associated with the development of asthma during childhood.

Methods

Methylation of IL‐2 Site1 was assessed in cord blood from 303 children (225 with atopic mothers); as controls, we measured methylation of a site not important in the transcription of IL‐2 (IL‐2 Site7) and methylation of the LINE‐1 repetitive element. Children were followed to the age of 8 years. Information on severe asthma exacerbations and hospital admissions was collected from child's primary care medical record. To account for potential confounding by bronchiolitis, we used exacerbations/hospitalizations after age 1 year as primary outcomes.

Results

There were 49 severe exacerbations amongst 33 children, and 22 hospital admissions amongst 11 children. The risk of asthma exacerbation increased 1.07‐fold (95% CI 1.01–1.14, P = 0.03) and the risk of hospital admission increased 1.12‐fold (95% CI 1.04–1.20, P = 0.002) for each one per cent increase in IL‐2 Site1 methylation. Children who were admitted to hospital at any time‐point had significantly higher IL‐2 Site1 methylation than children not admitted to hospital (P = 0.007). There was a significant interaction between age at exacerbation (P = 0.03) or hospital admission (P = 0.02) and methylation, with the effect of methylation increasing with increasing age. Methylation of the control IL‐2 Site7 or LINE‐1 was not a significant predictor of asthma exacerbations/hospital admission, and we found no association between IL‐2 Site1 methylation and hospital admissions for other reasons (0.99 [0.92–1.06]). Cord blood mononuclear cell phytohemagglutinin‐stimulated lymphoproliferative responses decreased significantly with increasing IL‐2 Site1 methylation (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Increasing methylation in cord blood of a functional CpG site in the IL‐2 promoter is associated with increased likelihood of severe asthma exacerbations and hospital admissions for asthma/wheeze between ages of 2 and 8 years.
Differential effects of topical corticosteroid and calcineurin inhibitor on the epidermal tight junction
Authors: Lee Sang E. , Choi Yuri , Kim Song‐Ee , Noh Eun B. , Kim Soo‐Chan
Published: October 2012

Tight junction (TJ) is one of the functional barriers present in the skin. Although topical corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors are used widely for atopic dermatitis, the effect of these agents on TJs has not been reported. We investigated the structural changes of TJs in mice skin after application of 0.05% clobetasol propionate or 0.1% tacrolimus ointment for 10 days. Clobetasol caused epidermal thinning and decreased collagen density. Basal transepidermal water loss was significantly increased in clobetasol‐treated versus vehicle‐ or tacrolimus‐treated skin. Confocal immunofluorescence showed that clobetasol altered the structure of claudin‐1,‐4 and occludin. Tacrolimus also caused morphological alteration of occludin. Western blot and real‐time PCR revealed that clobetasol significantly decreased claudin‐1,‐4 and occludin, whereas tacrolimus did not significantly affect claudin‐1 and ‐4 but downregulated occludin to a lesser extent compared to clobetasol. In conclusion, we suggest that downregulation of TJ proteins expression is another pathomechanism of corticosteroid‐induced permeability barrier disruption.
Climate warming and precipitation redistribution modify tree–grass interactions and tree species establishment in a warm‐temperate savanna
Authors: Volder Astrid , Briske David D. , Tjoelker Mark G.
Published: October 2012

Savanna tree–grass interactions may be particularly sensitive to climate change. Establishment of two tree canopy dominants, post oak (Quercus stellata) and eastern redcedar (Juniperus virginiana), grown with the dominant C4 perennial grass (Schizachyrium scoparium) in southern oak savanna of the United States were evaluated under four climatic scenarios for 6 years. Tree–grass interactions were examined with and without warming (+1.5 °C) in combination with a long‐term mean rainfall treatment and a modified rainfall regime that redistributed 40% of summer rainfall to spring and fall, intensifying summer drought. The aim was to determine: (1) the relative growth response of these species, (2) potential shifts in the balance of tree–grass interactions, and (3) the trajectory of juniper encroachment into savannas, under these anticipated climatic conditions. Precipitation redistribution reduced relative growth rate (RGR) of trees grown with grass. Warming increased growth of J. virginiana and strongly reduced Q. stellata survival. Tiller numbers of S. scoparium plants were unaffected by warming, but the number of reproductive tillers was increasingly suppressed by intensified drought each year. Growth rates of J. virginiana and Q. stellata were suppressed by grass presence early, but in subsequent years were higher when grown with grass. Quercus stellata had overall reduced RGR, but enhanced survival when grown with grass, while survival of J. virginiana remained near 100% in all treatments. Once trees surpassed a threshold height of 1.1 m, both tiller number and survival of S. scoparium plants were drastically reduced by the presence of J. virginiana, but not Q. stellata. Juniperus virginiana was the only savanna dominant in which neither survival nor final aboveground mass were adversely affected by the climate scenario of warming and intensified summer drought. These responses indicate that climate warming and altered precipitation patterns will further accelerate juniper encroachment and woody thickening in a warm‐temperate oak savanna.
Diagnostic tests in urology: urine cytology
Authors: Lavallée Luke T. , Fergusson Dean , Dahm Philipp , Scales Jr Charles D. , Witiuk Kelsey , Breau Rodney H.
Published: October 2012

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Urine cytology is frequently used by urologists to evaluate patients with microscopic or gross haematuria. The results of urine cytology can be used as impetus to perform or triage further diagnostic studies, e.g. cystoscopy.

The impact of urine cytology results on patient care warrants clarifying. This evidence‐based medicine article explores how positive or negative urine cytology will impact the probability that a patient has urothelial carcinoma of the bladder before cystoscopy.
Penile length and girth restoration in severe Peyronie's disease using circular and longitudinal grafting
Authors: Egydio Paulo H. , Kuehhas Franklin E. , Sansalone Salvatore
Published: October 2012

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

The association between Peyronie's disease (PD) and erectile dysfunction (ED) is reported to be 20–70%. Frequently, men who suffer from both ED and PD do not respond to erectogenic medication. In such cases, a simple straightening operation does not provide any benefit to the patient, as inadequate rigidity still impedes sexual intercourse. For these patients, surgical correction of the curvature should be performed with simultaneous penile prosthesis implantation. Penile prosthesis implantation guarantees a functional straight penis. Almost all patients report adequate rigidity for sexual intercourse postoperatively; however, in up to 50% of cases, patients are dissatisfied with the postoperative penile length. In cases of penile prosthesis implantation for PD, a simultaneous penile lengthening procedure should be performed to increase postoperative satisfaction rates.

We report our experience using a novel method for restoration of penile length and girth in patients with PD by grafting. Our study shows that penile prosthesis implantation with concomitant penile lengthening and girth restoration based on circumferential tunica albuginea incision is highly effective for extensive penile shaft reconstruction to correct severe penile shortening and narrowing, resulting in maximum penile length gain and girth restoration, regardless of plaque characteristics.

OBJECTIVE

To report patient outcomes and satisfaction with our technique for penile length and girth restoration in severe Peyronie's disease (PD).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between November 2006 and November 2011, 105 men with severe PD and erectile dysfunction (ED) underwent surgical correction using our new approach.

The technique consists of penile prosthesis implantation with concomitant penile lengthening and girth restoration through circular and longitudinal incisions in the tunica albuginea according to geometric principles.

RESULTS

The overall patient satisfaction rate was 89.4%.

The mean (sd; range) functional penile length gain was 3.6 (0.7; 2–5) cm. Patient satisfaction with penile length gain was 95.2%.

Three patients (2.9%) developed retraction with residual curvature of up to 30°, but no re‐operation was necessary.

In one (1%) patient, the prosthesis had to be removed because of wound infection.

At a mean (sd; range) follow‐up of 18.2 (5.9; 6–46) months, 104 patients (99%) were able to have sexual intercourse.

CONCLUSIONS

Our surgical approach for penile length and girth restoration leads to high patient satisfaction rates and excellent functional outcomes.

Our surgical approach is a safe and valid therapeutic method for the treatment of severe PD associated with ED.
Applying Co‐occurrence Text Analysis with ALCESTE to Studies of Impression Management
Authors: Illia Laura , Sonpar Karan , Bauer Martin W.
Published: October 2012

This paper reviews the potential role of co‐occurrence text analysis using ALCESTE, a computerized text analysis program. Using an illustrative case study from the biometric industry, we demonstrate that this method offers a number of advantageous features, including the provision of visual outputs which are useful for interpreting results, the ability to study longitudinally the effectiveness of impression management at the inter‐organizational level of analysis and the possibility of studying large textual data sets without using predefined dictionaries. Meanwhile, key limitations of the method include its limited versatility, its tedious data‐cleaning process and its ineffectiveness in identifying the centrality or tonality of the discourse. Our overall conclusion is that the introduction and more widespread use of this method in management is timely, particularly for scholars interested in studying narrative fidelity and frame amplification.
Towards unions 2.0: rethinking the audience of social media engagement
Authors: Panagiotopoulos Panagiotis
Published: October 2012

This paper aims to examine how trade union members perceive opportunities for online engagement and what the differences are between traditional and online audiences. The empirical work is based on a survey of members of a Greek union in the banking sector. The findings outline the characteristics of an audience that is likely to support information sharing and networking activities on the web. For this audience, traditional levels of loyalty and union participation were not strongly related with perceptions about the union's online presence. Instead, Internet skills and experiences had a dominant effect. The implications of this study suggest that trade unions have to actively seek knowledge about the characteristics of their new audience and adapt communications strategies accordingly.
The Younger Dryas climatic conditions in the Za Mnichem Valley (Polish High Tatra Mountains) based on exposure‐age dating and glacier‐climate modelling
Authors: Makos Michał , Nitychoruk Jerzy , Zreda Marek
Published: October 2012

Cosmogenic 36Cl was measured in bedrock and moraine boulders in the Za Mnichem Valley (High Tatra Mountains). The post‐LGM deglaciation of the study area occurred about 15.9 ka ago. The northernmost part of the valley slopes was ice‐free around 15 ka ago. The terminal moraine on the valley threshold was finally stabilized 12.5 ka ago during the Younger Dryas cold event (Greenland Stadial 1). At that time, the Za Mnichem glacier was 1.3 km long and had an area of 0.57 km2. The AAR equilibrium line of the glacier was located at 1990 m a.s.l., which corresponds to an ELA depression of ∼500 m compared to today. The mean summer temperature was colder by 4°–4.5°C than the present‐day temperature. The mean annual temperature was colder by 6°C than today. Such conditions suggest a decrease of the annual precipitation by ∼15–25% compared with the present‐day annual average. These data indicate a probable uniform temperature change across central and western Europe, with the precipitation being the most significant factor affecting the mass balance of mountain glaciers. The spatial distribution of balance data suggests increasing continentality towards the east during the Younger Dryas.
Drawing the Necessary Line: A Review of Dating Domestic Violence Statutes around the United States
Authors: Greenlees Geoffrey Thomas
Published: October 2012

Orders of protection help combat dating violence by ensuring a period of separation between the victim and the abuser. The prevalence of dating violence is similar to that of spousal abuse and the effects on the nonmarried victims are just as severe. Some jurisdictions in the United States do not offer victims in dating relationships protective orders and two states restrict orders for same‐sex couples only. Other state statutes are inadequate. A uniform statute that permits participants in dating relationships access to protective orders should be implemented across the country.

Key Points for the Family Court Community:

See and understand the changes in dating domestic violence statutes

Up to date as of 2011 with 2012 amendments to state statutes
“So, You Think You Have a History?”: Taking a Q from Lesbian and Gay Studies in Writing Education History
Authors: Graves Karen
Published: October 2012

At first I thought he was a baseball fan from Cleveland. As he came closer I saw the cross on his blue and red cap, and I realized I had seen this guy before. I was staffing a GOHI exhibit at the Columbus gay pride parade. GOHI is the Gay Ohio History Initiative, a group of volunteers who formed a partnership with the Ohio Historical Society in 2006 to “preserve, archive, and curate Ohio's LGBT history and culture.” Interestingly, the “preeminent history preservation organization” in Ohio is serving as a model of collaboration for public educational institutions concerning lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) history. This may strike one as curious given that two out of three Ohio voters supported a constitutional ban on marriage equality in 2004 even though the state legislature had already adopted a similar measure. The state also does not prohibit employment or housing discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. Yet Columbus maintains a national reputation as a “gay-friendly” city, suggesting that the political terrain in Ohio is as mixed as ever. The old saw—“As goes Ohio so goes the nation”—still seems pertinent.
Understanding how HR systems work: the role of HR philosophy and HR processes
Authors: Monks Kathy , Kelly Gráinne , Conway Edel , Flood Patrick , Truss Katie , Hannon Enda
Published: October 2012

Despite the proliferation of studies of HR systems, there are still substantial gaps in our understanding of how such systems actually work. This article, by focusing on the neglected areas of HR philosophy and HR processes in the composition of HR systems, and by using a qualitative, employee‐centred approach in the collection and analysis of data, provides new insights into the working of HR systems. Using data from interviews with 56 knowledge workers employed in the information and communications technology sector in Ireland and the UK, we explore employee‐level reactions to two different types of HR systems. We highlight the various ways in which HR processes interact with HR practices and the different outcomes that may result, and we identify the key role of HR philosophy in HR system operation.
Viability and Activity of Bifidobacteria During Refrigerated Storage of Yoghurt ContainingMangifera pajangFibrous Polysaccharides
Authors: Al‐Sheraji Sadeq Hasan , Ismail Amin , Manap Mohd Yazid , Mustafa Shuhaimi , Yusof Rokiah Mohd
Published: October 2012

Abstract: The viability and activity ofBifidobacterium pseudocatenulatumG4,B. longumBB 536 and yoghurt cultures (Lactobacillus delbrueckiissp.bulgaricusandStreptococcus thermophilus) were studied in yoghurt containing 0.75%Mangefira pajangfibrous polysaccharides (MPFP) and inulin. Growth of probiotic organisms, their proteolytic activities, the production of short chain fatty acids (lactic, acetic and propionic) and the pH of the yoghurt samples were determined during refrigerated storage at 4 °C for 28 d.B. pseudocatenulatumG4 andB. longumBB 536 showed better growth and activity in the presence of MPFP and inulin, which significantly increased the production of short chain fatty acids as well as the proteolytic activity of these organisms.

Practical Application: This is the first study reported on produce synbiotic yoghurt as a functional food for specified health uses contains bifidobacteria andM. pajangfibrous polysaccharides.M. pajangfibrous polysaccharides can be used as a prebiotic particularly in dairy products to increase the viability and activity of bifidobacteria which can be used as probiotic to exert health benefit to the human by yoghurt that is considered common use in society; thus, the benefits of synbiotic yoghurt are readily accessible to the member of society.
The Effect of Antibrowning Agents on Inhibition of Potato Browning, Volatile Organic Compound Profile, and Microbial Inhibition
Authors: Mosneaguta Ruslan , Alvarez Valente , Barringer Sheryl A.
Published: October 2012

Abstract:  Burbank and Norkotah potato slices were dipped into 3% sodium acid sulfate (SAS), citric acid (CA), sodium erythorbate (SE), malic acid (MA), sodium acid pyrophosphate (SAPP), or a combination of SAS‐CA‐SE. Browning by polyphenol oxidase (PPO) obtained from potato extract with 0.04 to 0.016 g/mL of antibrowning solutions at pH 2.0 to 6.9 were measured by UV‐Vis spectroscopy. The color of slices dipped in antibrowning solutions at pHs 2 to 7 and stored at 4 °C for 15 d was measured every 5 d by colorimeter. Headspace analysis of volatiles in raw and cooked potato samples was performed by selected ion flow tube mass spectrometer (SIFT‐MS) and soft independent modelling by class analogy (SIMCA) analysis of the calculated odor activity values (OAV) determined interclass distances. Microbial growth was measured at 15 d. At unadjusted pHs (1.1 to 7.1), the PPO browning of the control and samples with SAPP was not significantly different, SAS, CA, and MA produced some inhibition and SE and SAS‐CA‐SE prevented browning. At pH 5 to 7, only SE and SAS‐CA‐SE were effective browning inhibitors. Based on the color of potato slices, SE was the most effective at pH 2 to 7, but SAS was most effective at unadjusted pH. Cooking increased volatile levels in the treated potatoes and decreased differences between volatile profiles. Differences between cooked samples may not be noticeable by the consumer because volatiles with high discriminating powers have low OAVs. SAS, CA, and SAS‐CA‐SE treatments inhibited microbial growth but SAPP, control, and SE did not, most likely due to pH.

Practical Application:  Antibrowning agents inhibit polyphenol oxidase, increasing shelf life and consumer acceptability of processed raw potato products by preserving the color. Their effectiveness was shown to be mainly due to a pH effect, except SE, which was not pH dependent. MA, CA, and SAS‐CA‐SE are better acidulants for inhibition of color change as well as growth of spoilage bacteria, yeast, and mold than SAPP, the industry standard.
Development of Polyclonal Antibody‐Based Indirect Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay for the Detection of Alicyclobacillus Strains in Apple Juice
Authors: Wang Zhouli , Yue Tianli , Yuan Yahong , Cai Rui , Guo Caixia , Wang Xin , Niu Chen
Published: October 2012

Abstract:  A sort of specific polyclonal anti‐Alicyclobacillus antibody was generated by immunizing New Zealand white rabbits, and a sensitive indirect enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was developed for Alicyclobacillus detection in apple juice. A set of experimental parameters such as concentration of antigen, dilutions of the antibody and goat anti‐rabbit IgG‐horseradish peroxidase conjugate, selection of the blocking reagent, incubation time, and temperature was optimized. The cross‐reactivity of the antibody was evaluated by ELISA and the result was consistent with Western blot analysis. The detection limit of the ELISA was about 105 colony forming units (CFU)/mL in apple juice samples. Samples were detected by ELISA and conventional culture method, and the ELISA results gave a good agreement with the results obtained by plating on Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris medium agar. ELISA takes a total detection time of 6 to 7 h, which is less than the time of conventional techniques requiring more than 24 to 48 h. These results indicated that the established ELISA was a potential useful analytical method for detection of Alicyclobacillus in apple juice.
Survival of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG as Influenced by Storage Conditions and Product Matrixes
Authors: Klu Yaa Asantewaa Kafui , Williams Jonathan H. , Phillips Robert D. , Chen Jinru
Published: October 2012

Abstract:  Mortality resulting from diarrhea especially that occurs in children younger than 5 y of age ranks 3rd among all deaths caused by infectious diseases worldwide. Probiotics such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG are clinically shown to effectively reduce the incidence of diarrhea in children. A food substrate is one of the major factors regulating the colonization of microorganisms in human gastrointestinal tracts. Peanut butter is a nutritious, low‐moisture food that could be a carrier for probiotics. In this study, we observed the influence of storage conditions and product matrixes on the survival of L. rhamnosus GG. Cells of L. rhamnosus GG were inoculated into full fat or reduced fat peanut butter at 107 CFU/g. Inoculated peanut butter was stored at 4, 25, or 37 °C for 48 wk. Samples were drawn periodically to determine the populations of L. rhamnosus GG. Results showed that there was no significant decrease in the viable counts of L. rhamnosus GG in products stored 4 °C. The survivability of L. rhamnosus GG decreased with increasing storage temperature and time. Product matrixes did not significantly affect the survival of L. rhamnosus GG except at 37 °C. Populations of L. rhamnosus GG were preserved at >6 logs in products stored at 4 °C for 48 wk and at 25 °C for 23 to 27 wk. At 37 °C, the 6‐log level could not be maintained for even 6 wk. The results suggest that peanut butter stored at 4 and 25 °C could serve as vehicles to deliver probiotics.

Practical Application:  Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG is clinically shown to effectively reduce the incidence of diarrhea in children. A food substrate is one of the major factors regulating the colonization of microorganisms in human gastrointestinal tracts. Peanut butter is a nutritious, low‐moisture food that could be a carrier for probiotics. In this study, we demonstrated the influence of storage conditions and product matrixes on the survival of L. rhamnosus GG. Results suggest that peanut butters could be effective delivery systems for probiotics and that probitic peanut butter could be used as one of the strategies to control diarrhea and malnutrition in developing countries.
Race, Ethnicity, and U.S. House Incumbent Evaluations
Authors: Branton Regina P. , Cassese Erin C. , Jones Bradford S.
Published: October 2012

This article considers evaluations of U.S. House incumbents under conditions of racial/ethnic congruence and incongruence. We consider whether different racial groups have ordered preferences among nondescriptive alternatives. We pose two theoretical models of descriptive representation and test them using pooled National Election Study data. After controlling for the propensity to recall the Member of Congress, we find the extent of favoritism towards descriptive representatives varies across groups, as does the preference ordering among representatives of different racial and ethnic identification. No evidence of race‐based judgment is uncovered among African Americans, while Latinos and Whites demonstrate preferences based on race and ethnicity.
Institutional Change and Legislative Vote Consensus in New Zealand
Authors: Williams Brian D.
Published: October 2012

In this research note, I discuss results from a recent study assessing the impact that New Zealand's electoral and legislative system reforms had on levels of vote consensus achieved in the House of Representatives. Using a new legislative vote data set spanning from 1987 to 2007, I find evidence that the institutional changes fostered an increase in consensual legislative vote outcomes. I also provide a brief theoretical explanation of the developments and address a few issues concerning the measure of consensus used and the interpretation of the data.
Renal Sympathetic Denervation for Treatment of Resistant Hypertension: A Systematic Review
Authors: Gosain Priyanka , Garimella Pranav S. , Hart Peter D. , Agarwal Rajender
Published: October 2012

Catheter‐based renal sympathetic denervation (RSD) is a novel technique that is being investigated as treatment for resistant hypertension. To systematically evaluate the existing literature on the safety and efficacy of RSD in persons with resistant hypertension, online searches of Medline and the Cochrane Library Database (up to June 2012) were performed. Randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and conference proceedings published in English language were included. Nineteen studies (N=683 persons) were included. Follow‐up duration ranged from 1 to 24 months. All studies reported significant reductions in systolic and diastolic pressures. Maximal reduction of blood pressure ranged from 18 mm Hg to 36 mm Hg (systolic) and 9 mm Hg to 15 mm Hg (diastolic). Sustained benefit of blood pressure reduction at 12 months was seen in 5 studies. No worsening of renal function was reported and there were few procedure‐related adverse events such as pseudoaneurysm formation, hypotension, and bradycardia. Data from short‐term studies suggest that RSD is a safe and effective therapeutic option in carefully selected patients with resistant hypertension. Long‐term studies with large patient populations are needed to study whether this benefit is sustained with a demonstrable difference in cardiovascular disease event rates.
Low Nadir CD4 Cell Count Predicts Sustained Hypertension in HIV‐Infected Individuals
Authors: Manner Ingjerd W. , Trøseid Marius , Oektedalen Olav , Baekken Morten , Os Ingrid
Published: October 2012

Hypertension is associated with cardiovascular disease in the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–infected population. The authors aimed to test the hypothesis whether advanced immunosuppression with low nadir CD4 lymphocyte cell count is a predictor of sustained hypertension in HIV‐infected individuals. In a longitudinal study of an HIV cohort of 434 patients (43±11 years, 72% men, 71% Caucasians), standardized blood pressure was measured in duplicate during 3 clinical visits both at baseline and after 3.4±0.8 years. The lowest CD4 cell count in the individual history was recorded as nadir CD4. Both nadir CD4 cell count <50 cells/μL and duration of antiretroviral therapy (ART) were associated with sustained hypertension, and the highest proportion of hypertensive patients was observed in those who had both nadir CD4 cell count <50 cells/μL and prolonged ART duration. Nadir CD4 cellcount <50 cells/μL was an independent predictor of hypertension (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 2.48; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.27–4.83), as was ART duration (adjusted OR, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.03–1.24). The predictive power of ART duration was more pronounced in patients with nadir CD4 cell count <50 cells/μL. Delaying ART initiation until a state of advanced immunosuppression might add to and even fuel the cardiovascular risk associated with ART. J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2012; 00:00–00 ©2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Patterns of Nonadherence to Antihypertensive Therapy in Primary Care
Authors: Grigoryan Larissa , Pavlik Valory N. , Hyman David J.
Published: October 2012

Nonadherence to medications is an important cause of poor blood pressure control. Long‐acting antihypertensive agents could theoretically be beneficial in partially adherent patients, who are commonly seen in contemporary practice. Little has been reported about the duration of drug holidays (DHs) in treated hypertensives outside of generally compliant patients in phase 4 clinical trials. The authors described patterns of nonadherence to single and multiple antihypertensives in a random sample of 120 primary care patients with uncontrolled hypertension. Adherence to up to 3 antihypertensives was measured by electronic monitoring. Frequencies of single‐day omissions and DHs of 2 consecutive days (DH2), 3 days (DH3), or ≥4 days (DH ≥4) for each drug were calculated. Overall, 89 (74%) of patients had at least a 1‐day omission. A single day omission was found in 61.4% of the patients taking 1 drug, followed by DH ≥4 (28.1%), DH2 (26.3%), and DH3 (8.8%). In patients using multiple drugs, single‐day omissions were also most common, followed by DH ≥4, DH2, and DH3. Omissions of ≤3 days comprise on average 74% of all omissions. Although encouraging full adherence remains important, it may be prudent to prescribe long‐acting antihypertensive agents, which can compensate for the majority of dose omissions. J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2012; 00:00–00. ©2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Activation of the insulin‐like growth factor‐1 receptor alters p27 regulation by the epidermal growth factor receptor in oral squamous carcinoma cells
Authors: Jameson Mark J. , Taniguchi Linnea E. , VanKoevering Kyle K. , Stuart Menachem M. , Francom Christian R. , Mendez Rolando E. , Beckler Andrew D. , Carlson Hans T. , Thomas Christopher Y. , Khalil Ashraf A.
Published: October 2012

Background

Although oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCCs) commonly overexpress the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) exhibit poor efficacy clinically. Activation of the insulin‐like growth factor‐1 receptor (IGF1R) induces resistance of OSCC cells to EGFR‐TKIs in vitro. This study seeks to evaluate the changes in cell cycle status in OSCC cells in response to gefitinib and IGF1R activation.

Methods

SCC‐25 OSCC cells were used for in vitro analyses.

Results

Gefitinib caused a 50% reduction in S‐phase population, and IGF1R activation caused a 2.8‐fold increase; combined treatment yielded a baseline S‐phase population. Gefitinib treatment increased the cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor p27, and this was not abrogated by IGF1R activation. pT157‐p27 was noted by immunoblot to be decreased on gefitinib treatment, but this was reversed with IGF1R activation. T157 phosphorylation contributes to cytoplasmic localization of p27 where it can promote cell proliferation and cell motility. Using both subcellular fractionation and immunofluorescence microscopy techniques, IGF1R stimulation was noted to increase the relative cytoplasmic localization of p27; this persisted when combined with gefitinib.

Conclusions

IGF1R activation partially reverses the cell cycle arrest caused by gefitinib in OSCC cells. While IGF1R stimulation does not eliminate the gefitinib‐induced increase in total p27, its phosphorylation state and subcellular localization are altered. This may contribute to the ability of the IGF1R to rescue OSCC cells from EGFR‐TKI treatment and may have important implications for the use of p27 as a biomarker of cell cycle arrest and response to therapy.
Brain magnetic resonance in experimental acute‐on‐chronic liver failure
Authors: Chavarria Laia , Oria Marc , Romero‐Giménez Jordi , Alonso Juli , Lope‐Piedrafita Silvia , Cordoba Juan
Published: October 2012

Background & Aim

Acute‐on‐chronic liver failure is the term that refers to sustained liver injury with acute decompensation, usually induced by a precipitating factor. A common link between ensuing failures of various organs is impairment of the vascular supply, which may also induce vasogenic oedema in the brain. The aim of this study was to perform magnetic resonance (MR) study of the brain in a rat model combining bile duct ligation (BDL) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration to investigate brain oedema in liver failure.

Methods

Bile duct‐ligated rats underwent in vivo brain MR imaging at 4, 5 and 6 weeks, and after superimposed administration of LPS. The MR techniques applied enabled assessment of brain metabolites, and intra‐ or extracellular water distribution. Brain water content was assessed by gravimetry.

Results

MR spectroscopy showed an increase in brain glutamine and a decrease in myo‐inositol and choline in relation to progression of liver disease. BDL rats showed a slight, progressive increase in the amount of cortical brain water that was significant after LPS injection. These changes did not modify the apparent diffusion coefficient, supporting a mixed origin of brain oedema (vasogenic and cytotoxic).

Conclusions

The mechanisms leading to the development of brain oedema in an experimental liver disease model were related to the time course of liver failure and to pro‐inflammatory stimuli. MR findings support the presence of cytotoxic and vasogenic mechanisms in induced brain oedema in BDL rats exposed to LPS.
Low-temperature Al–Ge bonding for 3D integration
Authors: Crnogorac Filip , Pease Fabian R. W. , Birringer Ryan P. , Dauskardt Reinhold H.
Published: October 2012

Low-temperature aluminum–germanium (Al–Ge) bonding has been investigated for monolithic three-dimensional integrated circuit (3DIC) applications. As upper layer devices of a monolithic 3DIC are fabricated in situ, a suitable technique for providing high-quality semiconducting material without inflicting damage to underlying circuits below is needed. Here, the authors demonstrate a method of attaching high-quality single-crystal Si (100) and Ge (100) islands (3–3000 μm in size) onto amorphous SiO2 substrates using both eutectic (435 °C) and subeutectic (400 °C) Al–Ge bonding. The 30 min, 3DIC compatible process utilizes Al–Ge bilayer films as thin as 157 nm to form void-free bonds strong enough to withstand SmartCut® hydrogen splitting of the donor wafer. The fracture energy of the Al–Ge bond was measured to be GC = 50.5 ± 12.7 J/m2, as measured by the double cantilever beam thin-film adhesion measurement technique.