bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HIRING FROM HIGH‐RISK POPULATIONS: LESSONS FROM THE U.S. MILITARY
Authors: MALONE LAUREN
Published: March 2013

In this study, we evaluate the performance of waivered recruits in the U.S. military. Unlike the private sector, the military has formal standards for identifying ideal recruits and uses a formal screening process to determine those within risky populations who are most likely to succeed. (Recruits who make it through the screening process are issued a waiver.) The military's establishment of waiver categories and its tracking of waiver status provide us with a case study for determining whether such risk‐identification strategies work. Using FY99–FY08 service‐level waiver and personnel data, we evaluate whether the military recruiting strategy has been successful and whether firms should consider adopting similar screening mechanisms. We estimate the effect of waiver status on attrition and promotion, our primary performance indicators, after controlling for other quality indicators. We find that waivered recruits, on the whole, are not particularly poor performers, although their inherent riskiness does vary by service and by waiver type. (JEL J45, M51, J23)
Double lumen esophagus: A rare complication of gastroesophageal reflux disease
Authors: Samiullah Sami , Samad Fatima , Tang Ying Margie , Abdullah Neelofar , Marium Marium , Shaikh Zahf , Brelvi Zamir , Wang Weizheng
Published: March 2013

Double lumen esophagus or esophagogastric fistula is a very rare endoscopic finding. Approximately 11 cases have been reported in the past. Formation of an esophagogastric fistula is predisposed by previous esophagogastric surgery, persistent gastroesophageal reflux, esophageal ulcer or esophageal carcinoma. Dysphagia and odynophagia are common symptoms. Endoscopy is the procedure of choice for diagnosis. Symptomatic management is the mainstay of treatment. Early diagnosis andmanagement of gastroesophageal reflux is essential to prevent reflux‐related fistulas. We report the case of a 48‐year‐old man with a history of dysphagia who was found to have esophagogastric fistula on endoscopy. He was treated conservatively with proton pump inhibitors leading to symptomatic improvement.
Dose‐ranging study with the glucokinase activator AZD1656 in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus on metformin
Authors: Wilding J. P. H. , Leonsson‐Zachrisson M. , Wessman C. , Johnsson E.
Published: March 2013

Aim

To investigate the effect of glucokinase activator AZD1656 on glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) as an add‐on to metformin in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

This randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study (NCT01020123) was conducted over 4 months with an optional 2‐month extension. Patients (n = 458) with HbA1c 7.5–10% were randomized to AZD1656 20 mg (n = 40) or 40 mg (n = 52) fixed doses or 10–140 mg (n = 91) or 20–200 mg (n = 93) titrated doses, placebo (n = 88) or glipizide 5–20 mg titrated (n = 94). Patients (n = 72) with HbA1c >10 and ≤12% received open‐label AZD1656 (20–200 mg titrated). Primary outcome was placebo‐corrected change in HbA1c from baseline to 4 months of treatment.

Results

Significant reductions in HbA1c from baseline to 4 months were observed with blinded AZD1656 10–140 and 20–200 mg versus placebo [mean (95% CI) changes: −0.80 (−1.14; −0.46) and −0.81 (−1.14; −0.47) %, respectively), with similar reductions observed with glipizide. A higher percentage of patients on AZD1656 than on placebo achieved HbA1c ≤7.0 or ≤6.5 % after 4 months. Mean (s.d.) change in HbA1c for open‐label AZD1656 (20–200 mg) was −2.8 (1.19) % after 4 months. AZD1656 was well tolerated, with less hypoglycaemia than glipizide. In the extension population, HbA1c was still reduced with AZD1656 versus placebo after 6 months, but the effect of AZD1656 on glucose control was not sustained over time.

Conclusion

Addition of AZD1656 (individually titrated) to metformin gave significant improvements in glycaemic control up to 4 months, although efficacy diminished over time.
Efficacy of Pulmonary Vein Isolation on Left Atrial Function in Paroxysmal and Persistent Atrial Fibrillation and the Dependency on Its Baseline Function
Authors: Yoshida Naoyasu , Okamoto Mitsunori , Hirao Hidekazu , Suenari Kazuyoshi , Nanba Kiyomi , Kinoshita Hiroki , Matsumura Masaya , Uchida Mio , Kinoshita Mirai , Watari Yuichiro , Fukuda Yukihiro , Ueda Hironori
Published: March 2013

Background

The effects of pulmonary vein (PV) isolation in atrial fibrillation (AF) on left atrial (LA) function or PV flow have not been well documented.

Methods

We examined the LA function and PV flow before and 3–6 months after PV isolation in 67 AF patients (34 paroxysmal [PAF] and 33 persistent [CAF]) using transesophageal echocardiography.

Results

AF recurred in 6/34 patients with PAF and in 6/33 patients with CAF 6 months after PV isolation. A larger LA dimension, a lower systolic PV flow velocity, and a lower ratio of systolic to diastolic PV flow velocity were related to a higher incidence of AF recurrence. The increment of left atrial appendage (LAA) flow velocity (55% vs. 22%) and systolic PV flow velocity (57% vs. 20%) after PV isolation tended to be greater in CAF than in PAF. The changes in LAA flow velocity had reverse correlations with the baseline values before PV isolation (PAF: r = −0.73, CAF: r = −0.58). The changes in mitral flow velocity during atrial contraction in PAF had reverse correlations with the baseline values before PV isolation (r = −0.84). The changes in systolic and diastolic PV flow velocity of PAF had reverse correlations with the baseline values before PV isolation (r = −0.56, r = −0.66).

Conclusion

The baseline LA function may affect AF recurrence as well as the improvement of LA function, and the benefit of successful PV isolation might be greater in CAF than in PAF.
Diet composition of smelt Osmerus eperlanus (Linnaeus) in brackish near‐shore ecosystem (Eru Bay, Baltic Sea)
Authors: Taal Imre , Saks Lauri , Nedolgova Snežana , Verliin Aare , Kesler Martin , Jürgens Kristiina , Svirgsden Roland , Vetemaa Markus , Saat Toomas
Published: March 2013

We present new data on seasonal diet composition of subadult and adult smelt Osmerus eperlanus in near‐shore areas of the eastern Baltic Sea (Gulf of Finland). These findings elucidate the food web structure and the ecological role of smelt in the shallow littoral zone. The seasonal diet composition and feeding activity of adult and subadult smelt in the coastal area of the Gulf of Finland were studied by examining the stomach contents of 1397 individuals collected from April to December 2009. Amphipods and mysids were the most common prey. Piscivorous feeding was also very important, particularly in larger smelt during August–October. Seven fish species were recorded in the stomach contents; gobies and sticklebacks dominated. Smelt preyed also on isopods, cladocerans, decapods, molluscs, insects, insect larvae as well as polychaete annelids. Prey composition varied monthly and depended on smelt size. The higher proportion of empty stomachs was observed during June, September and October.
Risk factors, antithrombotic treatment and outcome in retinal vein occlusion: an age‐related prospective cohort study
Authors: Sartori Maria Teresa , Barbar Sofia , Donà Annalisa , Piermarocchi Stefano , Pilotto Elisabetta , Saggiorato Graziella , Prandoni Paolo
Published: March 2013

Objectives

Antithrombotic treatment for retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is controversial, although RVO has been surmised as a predictor of a subsequent vascular event. We aimed to evaluate risk factors, the effects of antithrombotic therapy and the occurrence of subsequent vascular events in patients with a first episode of RVO, according to age of RVO onset.

Methods

In this prospective cohort study, patients with central (CRVO) and branch RVO (BRVO) confirmed by fluorescein angiography were studied; they were divided according to age. Cardiovascular risk factors and thrombophilia were evaluated. Anticoagulants or aspirin were given for at least 3 months. Patients were followed every 6–12 months and vascular events were recorded.

Results

One hundred CRVO and 32 BRVO patients were enrolled. Five of 60 (8.3%) patients <50 yr and 4/72 (5.5%) over 50 yr had a hereditary thrombophilic defect. One or more cardiovascular risk factors were found in 35 (58%) patients of the younger group, and in 66 (91%) of the older group (P < 0.001). Antithrombotic treatment led to both a satisfactory recanalization of occluded veins and visual acuity improvement especially in younger patients. Vascular events occurred in 19 (14%) cases after 4 ± 3.3 yr from RVO, more frequently in older than in younger patients (22% vs. 5%, P = 0.005).

Conclusions

Distribution of cardiovascular, but not of thrombophilic risk factors seems to be influenced by age in RVO patients. Patients with a first RVO, especially those >50 yr, are likely at risk of a subsequent vascular event.
Modulation of proprioceptive feedback during functional electrical stimulation: an fMRI study
Authors: Christensen Mark Schram , Grey Michael James
Published: March 2013

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is sometimes used as a therapeutic modality in motor rehabilitation to augment voluntary motor drive to effect movement that would otherwise not be possible through voluntary activation alone. Effective motor rehabilitation should require that the central nervous system integrate efferent commands and appropriate afferent information to update the internal models of acquired skills. Here, we investigate whether FES‐evoked (FES‐ev) and FES‐assisted (FES‐as) movement are associated with the normal integration of motor commands and sensory feedback in a group of healthy participants during functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Sensory feedback was removed with a peripheral ischaemic nerve block while the participants performed voluntary (VOL), FES‐ev or FES‐as movement during fMRI. Before the peripheral nerve block, secondary somatosensory area (S2) activation was greater for the FES‐ev and FES‐as conditions than for the VOL condition. During the ischaemic nerve block, S2 activation was reduced for the FES‐ev condition but not for FES‐as and VOL conditions. The nerve block also reduced activation during FES in the primary somatosensory cortex and other motor areas including primary motor cortex, dorsal premotor cortex and supplementary motor area. In contrast, superior parietal lobule (area 7A) and precuneus activation was reduced as a consequence of the ischaemic nerve block in the VOL condition. These data suggest FES‐related S2 activation is mainly a sensory phenomenon and does not reflect integration of sensory signals with motor commands.
Combining domain knowledge and machine learning for robust fall detection
Authors: Mirchevska Violeta , Luštrek Mitja , Gams Matjaž
Published: March 2013

This paper presents a method for combining domain knowledge and machine learning (CDKML) for classifier generation and online adaptation. The method exploits advantages in domain knowledge and machine learning as complementary information sources. Whereas machine learning may discover patterns in interest domains that are too subtle for humans to detect, domain knowledge may contain information on a domain not present in the available domain dataset. CDKML has three steps. First, prior domain knowledge is enriched with relevant patterns obtained by machine learning to create an initial classifier. Second, genetic algorithms refine the classifier. Third, the classifier is adapted online on the basis of user feedback using the Markov decision process. CDKML was applied in fall detection. Tests showed that the classifiers developed by CDKML have better performance than machine‐learning classifiers generated on a training dataset that does not adequately represent all real‐life cases of the learned concept. The accuracy of the initial classifier was 10 percentage points higher than the best machine‐learning classifier and the refinement added 3 percentage points. The online adaptation improved the accuracy of the refined classifier by an additional 15 percentage points.
Implications of the dichotomy between the spatial scales at which abalone are managed and harvested
Authors: Bedford R. A. , Hearne J. W. , Gorfine H. K.
Published: March 2013

Commercial abalone divers make decisions about the location of their harvesting activities at a relatively fine scale. Management of these abalone fisheries, however, is normally conducted at a larger scale. To gauge the implications of this dichotomy, the following question was asked: Would it be worthwhile managing the fishery at a finer scale that corresponds with the harvesters' spatial preferences? To answer this, an existing abalone model was applied to a population of blacklip abalone, Haliotis rubra Leach. The model simulates both the existing practice of large scale spatial management combined with smaller scale spatial harvest and an alternative practice, whereby management and harvest are synchronised at a similarly small scale. It was concluded that the costs and effort associated with managing at a finer scale would unlikely yield benefits substantial enough to justify its implementation.
Plumbing the depths: extending ecological niche modelling and species distribution modelling in three dimensions
Authors: Bentlage Bastian , Peterson A. Townsend , Barve Narayani , Cartwright Paulyn
Published: March 2013

Aim

Ecological niche modelling (ENM) and species distribution modelling (SDM) have been used extensively to study biogeographic and macroecological patterns of terrestrial fauna and flora. Few studies to date have applied ENM and SDM to marine ecosystems, and those that have treated the marine environment as a two‐dimensional space owing to limitations of the implementations of current ENM/SDM tools. For many marine organisms, ENM/SDM should be performed in three‐dimensional space, taking into account latitude, longitude and depth. We present a case study demonstrating a strategy for three‐dimensional ENM/SDM.

Location

Open ocean; global.

Methods

We decompose the three‐dimensional structure of marine environmental and species occurrence data into a series of two‐dimensional spaces using an easy‐to‐implement transformation, after which existing ENM/SDM tools can be used to analyse the data. We demonstrate our approach by modelling the potential distribution of a deep‐sea‐dwelling jellyfish with two commonly used algorithms. Potential effects of missing data and spatial sampling biases were assessed using resampling approaches.

Results

We demonstrate that it is feasible to derive predictive models of three‐dimensional distributions of marine species using existing software tools developed with two‐dimensional terrestrial situations in mind. The strategy presented here allowed us to model the distribution of a jellyfish species that inhabits the deep sea. We assessed the effects of missing occurrence data and spatial bias of occurrence data, and found that interpolation among occurrence data‐points and extrapolation into unsampled conditions present distinct challenges that may require different modelling algorithms and interpretations.

Main conclusions

Our modified ENM/SDM approach is straightforward, and can be used to model situations that have heretofore been beyond the reach of ENM/SDM applications. In particular, geographic distributions and ecological niches of organisms inhabiting three‐dimensional habitats such as water columns in marine and freshwater environments can be modelled using the framework presented here.
Characteristics and outcomes of discharges against medical advice among hospitalised patients
Authors: Yong T. Y. , Fok J. S. , Hakendorf P. , Ben‐Tovim D. , Thompson C. H. , Li J. Y.
Published: March 2013

Background

Discharge against medical advice (DAMA) occurs when an in‐patient chooses to leave the hospital before discharge is recommended by the treating clinicians. The long‐term outcomes of patients who DAMA are not well documented.

Aim

The objective of this long‐term and hospital‐wide study is to examine characteristics of patients who DAMA, their rates of readmission and mortality after self‐discharge.

Methods

Administrative data of admissions to Flinders Medical Centre between July 2002 and June 2011 were used to compare readmissions and mortality among patients who DAMA with those who did not. The outcomes were adjusted for age, gender, emergency admission status, comorbidity, mental health diagnoses, and alcohol and substance abuse.

Results

In the study period, 1562 episodes (1.3%) of 121 986 admissions to Flinders Medical Centre were DAMA. Compared with those who did not leave against medical advice, these patients were younger, more often male, more likely of indigenous ethnicity and had less physical comorbidity, but greater mental health comorbidity. Half of the DAMA group stayed less than 3 days. In multivariate analysis, the relative risk for 7‐day, 28‐day and 1‐year readmission in the DAMA group was 2.36 (95% confidence interval (CI), 1.99–2.81; P < 0.001), 1.66 (95% CI, 1.44–1.92; P < 0.001) and 1.31 (95% CI, 1.19–1.45; P < 0.001), respectively, compared with standard discharges. Furthermore, DAMA was associated with twofold (P = 0.02), 1.4‐fold (P = 0.025) and 1.2‐fold (P = 0.049) increase in 28‐day, 1‐year and up‐to‐9‐year mortality, respectively, compared with non‐DAMA.

Conclusions

Patients who self‐discharged against medical advice carry a significant risk of readmission and mortality. Patients with characteristics of ‘at risk of DAMA’ should have greater attention paid to their care before and especially after any premature discharge.
Prognostic Gleason grade grouping: data based on the modified Gleason scoring system
Authors: Pierorazio Phillip M. , Walsh Patrick C. , Partin Alan W. , Epstein Jonathan I.
Published: March 2013

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

The Gleason scoring system is a well‐established predictor of pathological stage and oncological outcomes for men with prostate cancer. Modifications throughout the last few decades – most recently by the International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) in 2005 – have attempted to improve the correlation between biopsy and radical prostatectomy Gleason sum and better stratify patients to predict clinical outcomes.

Based on these clinical outcomes and the excellent prognosis for patients with low Gleason scores, we recommend Gleason grades incorporating a prognostic grade grouping which accurately reflect prognosis and are clearly understood by physicians and patients alike.

Objective

To investigate pathological and short‐term outcomes since the most recent Gleason system modifications by the International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) in an attempt to divide the current Gleason grading system into prognostically accurate Gleason grade groups.

Patients and Methods

We queried the Johns Hopkins Radical Prostatectomy Database (1982–2011), approved by the institutional review board, for men undergoing radical prostatectomy (RP) without a tertiary pattern since 2004 and identified 7869 men.

Multivariable models were created using preoperative and postoperative variables; prognostic grade group (Gleason grade ≤6; 3 + 4; 4 + 3; 8; 9–10) was among the strongest predictors of biochemical recurrence‐free (BFS) survival.

Results

Significant differences were noted among the Gleason grade groups at biopsy; differences were noted in the race, PSA level, clinical stage, number of positive cores at biopsy and the maximum percentage of positive cores among the Gleason grade groups at RP.

With a median (range) follow‐up of 2 (1–7) years, 5‐year BFS rates for men with Gleason grade ≤6, 3 + 4, 4 + 3, 8 and 9–10 tumours at biopsy were 94.6, 82.7, 65.1, 63.1 and 34.5%, respectively (P < 0.001 for trend); and 96.6, 88.1, 69.7, 63.7 and 34.5%, respectively (P < 0.001), based on RP pathology.

Conclusions

The 2005 ISUP modifications to the Gleason grading system for prostate carcinoma accurately categorize patients by pathological findings and short‐term biochemical outcomes but, while retaining the essence of the Gleason system, there is a need for a change in its reporting to more closely reflect tumour behaviour.

We propose reporting Gleason grades, including prognostic grade groups which accurately reflect prognosis as follows: Gleason score ≤6 (prognostic grade group I); Gleason score 3+4=7 (prognostic grade group II); Gleason score 4+3=7 (prognostic grade group III); Gleason score 4+4=8 (prognostic grade group (IV); and Gleason score 9–10 (prognostic grade group (V).
The Environmental Impacts of the Victorian Gold Rushes: Miners' Accounts during the First Five Years
Authors: Frost Warwick
Published: March 2013

Research into the environmental impacts of gold rushes has tended to be limited, with only a small number of broad descriptive studies. This article provides a new approach in three ways. First, it is confined to a specific small time period – the initial five years – rather than trying to cover all aspects of a long period. Second, it analyses the environmental impacts in terms of the activities undertaken by the miners. A focus on activities was chosen in preference to types of impact as a means of centring attention on humans as agents of change. Third, it utilises a wide range of accounts by miners to examine the changes they observed.
The Industrial Impact of Monetary Shocks During the Inflation‐Targeting Era in Australia
Authors: Vespignani Joaquin L.
Published: March 2013

In this article, we analyse the industrial impacts of monetary shocks since the introduction of inflation targeting in Australia in 1990. These impacts are quantified by constructing a structural vector autoregressive model for a small open economy. Our results show that construction and manufacturing industries exhibit a significant reduction in gross value added after an unanticipated rise in the official cash rate. However, the finance and insurance industry, and the mining industry, seem to be unaffected by these shocks.
Allergies in Germany – prevalence and perception by the public
Authors: Augustin Matthias , Franzke Nadine , Beikert Florian C. , Stadler Rudolf , Reusch Michael , Schmitt Jochen , Schäfer Ines
Published: March 2013

Background

During the recent decades allergies have become more frequent all over the world. However, it is unclear how important the topic of allergies is for the general German population and how appropriately patients with allergies are treated.

Patients and methods

A telephone survey was performed on a representative random sample of n = 1,004 adults in Germany. The survey was performed by the Forsa Institute for Social Research and Statistical Analysis, Berlin, Germany, in the period from 31 January to 2 February 2012.

Results

Of the interviewees 52% responded that the topic of allergies concerned them; in 33% actually an allergy had been diagnosed by a physician. The proportion of allergies in the population correlated with the level of school education and was higher among people with a higher educational status. No differences in allergy rates were found between Eastern and Western Germany. Among allergic persons, 53% reported to be burdened by their allergy, 48% suffered from impaired performance because of their allergic symptoms. Among people suffering from pollen allergy, only 28% received sublingual immune therapy, with which 70% were satisfied. While 58% practiced self‐medication, only 21% of the allergic persons were treated with anti‐allergic drugs during their allergy flares.

Conclusions

Allergic diseases are a common, often burdensome problem in the German population, but nevertheless the medical treatment of people affected is still insufficient. The proportion of patients receiving sublingual immune therapy as causal treatment is comparatively low. Active steps are needed to improve the utilization behavior of patients, e. g. to take advice of an allergy specialist.
Allopatric distribution, ecology and conservation status of thePilosella alpicolagroup (Asteraceae)
Authors: Šingliarová Barbora , Šuvada Róbert , Mráz Patrik
Published: March 2013

ThePilosella alpicolagroup comprises four morphologically distinct and geographically vicariant alpine taxa. We performed a thorough herbarium revision and literature survey to infer their distributional pattern(s).Pilosella alpicolas.s. occurs in the Alps in two disjunct areas: the Swiss Valais Alps and the Italian Dolomites. Historical records come also from the Austrian Alps (Gurktaler Alps and Hohe Tauern) and from one site from the Alpes Maritimes (Col de Larche), but the localities have not been recently confirmed.Pilosella rhodopea, a Balkan subendemic taxon, is quite widespread in Bulgaria (Stara planina Mts, Rila Mts and Pirin Mts), but is more rare in Albania, Greece and Macedonia. Interestingly, this species has also been recorded at two isolated sites in the Romanian southern Carpathians (the Căpăţînii and Cozia Mts). This occurrence underlines the floristic affinities of this part of the Carpathians to the Balkan flora. Only two localities ofP. serbica, based on voucher specimens, have been recorded so far; Kopaonik Mts in Serbia and the Prokletije Mts in Montenegro. The records from other ranges are related toP. rhodopea. Pilosella ullepitschii, the detailed distribution of which has already been published, is a Carpathian endemic with its core area of distribution in the western Carpathians (Slovakia and Poland). Three isolated localities are also known in the eastern Carpathians (Nemira Mts) and one locality in the southern Carpathians (Bucegi Mts). The possible causes of disjunctions between and within species ranges are briefly discussed. Based on the distributional data, population sizes and ecology, we evaluate the conservation status of theP. alpicolataxa and propose their inclusion in national Red Lists.
Reforming Marriage: A Comparative Approach
Authors: Shrage Laurie
Published: March 2013

In this article, I examine the case for privatising marriage and replacing civil marriage with inclusive civil union policies. I argue against this proposal because of its likely detrimental impact on the social standing of women and girls. In order to assess the importance of civil marriage historically and cross‐culturally, I examine a contemporary debate over marriage reform in some predominantly Islamic societies in regard to temporary marriage. I also propose a policy to protect the interests of children of both married and unmarried parents, so that this issue will be less of a stumbling block to proposals for inclusive civil marriage.
Comparison of cytokine gene polymorphism in drug‐induced maculopapular eruption, urticaria and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS)
Authors: Barbaud A. , Waton J. , Herbeth B. , Bursztejn A.C. , Bollaert M. , Schmutz J.L. , Guéant‐Rodriguez R.M. , Namour F. , Guéant J.L. , Aimone‐Gastin I.
Published: March 2013

Background

Polymorphisms of genes controlling cytokine production have not been studied in the genetic susceptibility to cutaneous adverse drug reactions (CADR).

Objectives

The objective was to determine whether polymorphisms in nine cytokine genes were associated to the occurrence of drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) compared to drug‐induced maculopapular eruption or urticaria and to controls without drug intolerance.

Methods

Results from 118 patients with a well‐definedCADRwere compared to 236 controls without drug intolerance living in the same area of France. We assessed nine polymorphisms: interleukin (IL)1‐alpha‐889C>T (rs 1800587),IL1‐beta‐511C>T (rs 16944),IL1‐RNintron‐2‐VNTR(rs2234663),IL2‐330T>G (rs 2069762),IL4‐33C>T (rs 2070874),IL5‐745C>T (rs 2069812),IL10‐592C>A (rs 1800872),IL16‐295T>C (rs 4778889) and tumour necrosis factor‐alpha‐308G>A (rs 1800629).

Results

Three polymorphisms exhibited a significant association withCADR(P < 0.05). The combination of theIL1‐RN‐A2 andIL1‐beta‐511C alleles was statistically different between cases and controls (P = 0.007) and the A2C haplotype was associated with susceptibility toCADR, particularly in drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) patients (odds ratio = 3.22; 95% confidence interval = 1.23–8.41;P = 0.016). The frequency of theIL10‐592A allele was higher inDRESSpatients than in controls (dominant modelCCvs.CA + AA:P = 0.035). These abnormalities were not evident in maculopapular eruptions or urticaria.

Conclusions

This is the first study showing thatIL1‐cluster polymorphisms and haplotypes and theIL10‐592A allele (a lowIL10 producer) are associated withDRESS. These gene variants may decrease drug tolerance and promote herpes virus reactivation.
Outcomes for type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with diverse regimens
Authors: Huang Mei‐Chuan , Hung Chich‐Hsiu , Stocker Joel , Lin Li‐Chuan
Published: March 2013

Aims and objectives

To compare the levels of self‐care behaviour, social support and quality of life among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients who underwent three regimens: taking medicine, taking‐medicine‐while dieting and taking‐medicine‐while‐dieting‐with exercise.

Background

Diabetes treatment is a critical concern worldwide. However, studies on self‐care behaviour, social support and quality of life based on diabetes patients' diverse regimens are few.

Design

This study was a cross‐sectional design.

Methods

We enroled 127 outpatients aged over 40 years who visited a metabolism clinic at a medical centre in Southern Taiwan. The Self‐care Behaviour Scale, Social Support Scale and Quality of Life Scale were used to collect data.

Results

The results indicated that patients with a combined regimen of taking‐medicine‐while‐dieting‐with‐regular exercise had the highest score at the levels of social support, self‐care behaviour and quality of life.

Conclusion

The study results could offer evidence‐based knowledge for healthcare professionals to guide and promote social support, self‐care behaviour and quality of life for people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

Relevance to clinical practice

These findings will help healthcare professionals to establish appropriate nursing strategies for type 2 diabetes patients who need to exercise regularly as part of their daily care to enhance their self‐care behaviour, social support and quality of life.
EXPERIMENTAL MARKETS WITH FRICTIONS
Authors: Camera Gabriele , Casari Marco , Bigoni Maria
Published: March 2013

Decentralized and impersonal exchange is fundamental to contemporary economies, where many interactions take place among individuals with low levels of information about their counterpart. We review the experimental literature about markets with frictions, where strangers interact in pairs formed at random in economies of indefinite duration. We focus on the impact of communication on the efficiency of the outcome and report results of a new experiment.
Auxin and cytokinin relationships in 24 microalgal strains1
Authors: Stirk Wendy A. , Ördög Vince , Novák Ondřej , Rolčík Jakub , Strnad Miroslav , Bálint Péter , van Staden Johannes
Published: March 2013

Endogenous auxins and cytokinins were quantitated in 24 axenic microalgal strains from the Chlorophyceae, Trebouxiophyceae, Ulvophyceae, and Charophyceae. These strains were in an exponential growth phase, being harvested on day 4. Acutodesmus acuminatus Mosonmagyaróvár Algal Culture Collection‐41 (MACC) produced the highest biomass and Chlorococcum ellipsoideum MACC‐712 the lowest biomass. The auxins, indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA) and indole‐3‐acetamide (IAM) were present in all microalgal strains. No other auxin conjugates were detected. IAA and IAM concentrations varied greatly, ranging from 0.50 to 71.49 nmol IAA · g−1 DW and 0.18 to 99.83 nmol IAM · g−1 DW, respectively. In 19 strains, IAA occurred in higher concentrations than IAM. Nineteen cytokinins were identified in the microalgal strains. Total cytokinin concentrations varied, ranging from 0.29 nmol · g−1 DW in Klebsormidium flaccidum MACC‐692 to 21.40 nmol · g−1 DW in Stigeoclonium nanum MACC‐790. The general trend was that cis‐zeatin types were the predominant cytokinins; isopentenyladenine‐type cytokinins were present in moderate concentrations, while low levels of trans‐zeatin‐type and very low levels of dihydrozeatin‐type cytokinins were detected. Ribotides were generally the main cytokinin conjugate forms present with the cytokinin free bases and ribosides present in similar but moderate levels. The levels of O‐glucosides were low. Only one N‐glucoside was detected, being present in nine strains in very low concentrations. In 15 strains, the auxin content was 2‐ to 4‐fold higher than the cytokinin content.
Patellar ligament‐bone autograft for reconstruction of a distal patellar ligament defect in a dog
Authors: Farrell M. , Fitzpatrick N.
Published: March 2013

A 3 · 5‐year‐old whippet was presented 4 weeks after sustaining a traumatic injury to the right stifle joint. A penetrating injury had resulted in patellar ligament (PL) rupture. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a normal appearing proximal half of the PL and absence of normal fibres within the distal half of the ligament. Surgical repair involved reconstruction of the defect using an autogenous graft harvested from the medial third of the ipsilateral PL. This repair was augmented with a pedicle hamstring graft. A transarticular external skeletal fixator was used to protect the repair for 4 weeks. Seven months after surgery, the dog was able to exercise normally without lameness. To the author's knowledge, this is the first veterinary report of PL grafting of a PL defect, and the first report of surgical augmentation using a hamstring graft.
A randomized controlled trial adding fluvastatin to peginterferon and ribavirin for naïve genotype 1 hepatitis C patients
Authors: Bader T. , Hughes L. D. , Fazili J. , Frost B. , Dunnam M. , Gonterman A. , Madhoun M. , Aston C. E.
Published: March 2013

Fluvastatin or simvastatin has demonstrable antiviral activity against hepatitis C virus (HCV) as monotherapy. The safety and efficacy of adding fluvastatin or simvastatin to peginterferon/ribavirin for 48 weeks was tested in HCV genotype 1 naïve‐to‐treatment veterans. Thirty‐seven naïve‐to‐treatment genotype 1 HCV patients were randomized to either a control group (n = 20) to receive peginterferon alfa plus ribavirin or an experimental group (n = 18) to similarly receive peginterferon alfa plus ribavirin as well as fluvastatin 20 mg/day. In addition, seven patients who presented for HCV treatment already were on simvastatin and could not be withdrawn. These simvastatin users were not randomized but were entered into a concurrent prospective pilot arm. There were no unique safety issues with fluvastatin or simvastatin when these drugs were given with peginterferon/ribavirin for 48 weeks. Thirteen of 25 statin patients achieved sustained viral response (SVR), while 5 of 20 control patients achieved SVR. Analysis of SVR by intention‐to‐treat showed P = 0.078. In this phase 2 study, there were no safety issues with the addition of fluvastatin or simvastatin to peginterferon and ribavirin for 48 weeks. There was a trend towards improvement in SVR when fluvastatin or simvastatin was administered with peginterferon/ribavirin. The size of the groups did not reach the prestudy size thought needed to show significant difference (type II error). These results support the significant results of two other larger randomized controlled trials reported using the same dose of fluvastatin in naïve‐to‐treatment genotype 1 HCV patients.
Curcuminoids Limit Neutrophil‐Mediated Reperfusion Injury in Experimental Stroke by Targeting the Endothelium
Authors: Funk Janet L. , Frye Jennifer B. , Davis‐Gorman Grace , Spera Allison L. , Bernas Michael J. , Witte Marlys H. , Weinand Martin E. , Timmermann Barbaba N. , McDonagh Paul F. , Ritter Leslie
Published: March 2013

Objective

We sought to test the hypothesis that turmeric‐derived curcuminoids limit reperfusion brain injury in an experimental model of stroke via blockade of early microvascular inflammation during reperfusion.

Methods

Male Sprague Dawley rats subjected to MCAO/R were treated with turmeric‐derived curcuminoids (vs. vehicle) 1 hour prior to reperfusion (300 mg/kg ip). Neutrophil adhesion to the cerebral microcirculation and measures of neutrophil and endothelial activation were assayed during early reperfusion (0–4 hours); cerebral infarct size, edema, and neurological function were assessed at 24 hours. Curcuminoid effects on TNFα‐stimulated human brain microvascular endothelial cell (HBMVEC) were assessed.

Results

Early during reperfusion following MCAO, curcuminoid treatment decreased neutrophil rolling and adhesion to the cerebrovascular endothelium by 76% and 67% and prevented >50% of the fall in shear rate. The increased number and activation state (CD11b and ROS) of neutrophils were unchanged by curcuminoid treatment, while increased cerebral expression of TNFα and ICAM‐1, a marker of endothelial activation, were blocked by >30%. Curcuminoids inhibited NF‐κB activation and subsequent ICAM‐1 gene expression in HBMVEC.

Conclusion

Turmeric‐derived curcuminoids limit reperfusion injury in stroke by preventing neutrophil adhesion to the cerebrovascular microcirculation and improving shear rate by targeting the endothelium.
ISDra2 transposition in Deinococcus radiodurans is downregulated by TnpB
Authors: Pasternak Cécile , Dulermo Rémi , Ton‐Hoang Bao , Debuchy Robert , Siguier Patricia , Coste Geneviève , Chandler Michael , Sommer Suzanne
Published: March 2013

Transposable elements belonging to the recently identified IS200/IS605 family radically differ from classical insertion sequences in their transposition mechanism by strictly requiring single‐stranded DNA substrates. This IS family includes elements encoding only the transposase (TnpA), and others, like ISDra2 from Deinococcus radiodurans, which contain a second gene, tnpB, dispensable for transposition and of unknown function to date. Here, we show that TnpB has an inhibitory effect on the excision and insertion steps of ISDra2 transposition. This inhibitory action of TnpB was maintained when ISDra2 transposition was induced by γ‐irradiation of the host cells and required the integrity of its putative zinc finger motif. We also demonstrate the negative role of TnpB when ISDra2 transposition was monitored in a heterologous Escherichia coli host, indicating that TnpB‐mediated inhibition does not involve Deinococcus‐specific factors. TnpB therefore appears to play a regulatory role in ISDra2 transposition.
Homologs ofFT,CENandFDrespond to developmental and environmental signals affecting growth and flowering in the perennial vine kiwifruit
Authors: Varkonyi‐Gasic Erika , Moss Sarah M. A. , Voogd Charlotte , Wang Tianchi , Putterill Joanna , Hellens Roger P.
Published: March 2013

FLOWERING LOCUST(FT) andCENTRORADIALIS(CEN) homologs have been implicated in regulation of growth, determinacy and flowering.

The roles of kiwifruitFTandCENwere explored using a combination of expression analysis, protein interactions, response to temperature in high‐chill and low‐chill kiwifruit cultivars and ectopic expression inArabidopsisandActinidia.

The expression and activity ofFTwas opposite from that ofCENand incorporated an interaction with a FLOWERING LOCUS D (FD)‐likebZIPtranscription factor. Accumulation ofFTtranscript was associated with plant maturity and particular stages of leaf, flower and fruit development, but could be detected irrespective of the flowering process and failed to induce precocious flowering in transgenic kiwifruit. Instead, transgenic plants demonstrated reduced growth and survival rate. Accumulation ofFTtranscript was detected in dormant buds and stem in response to winter chilling. In contrast,FDin buds was reduced by exposure to cold.CENtranscript accumulated in developing latent buds, but declined before the onset of dormancy and delayed flowering when ectopically expressed in kiwifruit.

Our results suggest roles forFT,CENandFDin integration of developmental and environmental cues that affect dormancy, budbreak and flowering in kiwifruit.
The family of ammonium transporters (AMT) in Sorghum bicolor: two AMT members are induced locally, but not systemically in roots colonized by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi
Authors: Koegel Sally , Ait Lahmidi Nassima , Arnould Christine , Chatagnier Odile , Walder Florian , Ineichen Kurt , Boller Thomas , Wipf Daniel , Wiemken Andres , Courty Pierre‐Emmanuel
Published: March 2013

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi contribute to plant nitrogen (N) acquisition. Recent studies demonstrated the transport of N in the form of ammonium during AM symbiosis. Here, we hypothesize that induction of specific ammonium transporter (AMT) genes in Sorghum bicolor during AM colonization might play a key role in the functionality of the symbiosis.

For the first time, combining a split‐root experiment and microdissection technology, we were able to assess the precise expression pattern of two AM‐inducible AMTs, SbAMT3;1 and SbAMT4. Immunolocalization was used to localize the protein of SbAMT3;1.

The expression of SbAMT3;1 and SbAMT4 was greatly induced locally in root cells containing arbuscules and in adjacent cells. However, a split‐root experiment revealed that this induction was not systemic. By contrast, a strictly AM‐induced phosphate transporter (SbPt11) was expressed systemically in the split‐root experiment. However, a gradient of expression was apparent. Immunolocalization analyses demonstrated that SbAMT3;1 was present only in cells containing developing arbuscules.

Our results show that the SbAMT3;1 and SbAMT4 genes are expressed in root cortical cells, which makes them ready to accommodate arbuscules, a process of considerable importance in view of the short life span of arbuscules. Additionally, SbAMT3;1 might play an important role in N transfer during AM symbiosis.
Malignant transformation of oral leukoplakia in a well‐defined cohort of 144 patients
Authors: Brouns EREA , Baart JA , Karagozoglu KH , Aartman IHA , Bloemena E , van der Waal I
Published: March 2013

Objectives

Oral leukoplakia is a potentially malignant disorder of the oral mucosa. The aim of this retrospective study was to identify the factors that possibly predict malignant transformation in a well‐defined cohort of patients with a long‐term follow‐up. All leukoplakias were staged according to a clinicopathological classification and staging system. Furthermore, a certainty factor has been used with which the diagnosis has been established.

Material and methods

The group consisted of 144 patients. The size, presence and degree of epithelial dysplasia were incorporated into a clinicopathological classification and staging system. Initial management consisted of surgical excision, CO2 laser vaporisation or observation only. The mean follow‐up period was 51.2 months (s.d. = 39.33, range 12–179 months).

Results

In 16 of 144 patients (11%), malignant transformation occurred between 20 and 94 months (mean 57.0 months) after the first visit, the annual malignant transformation rate being approximately 2.6%. A large size of the lesion (≥ 4 cm) showed to be the only statistically significant predictor of malignant transformation (P = 0.034).

Conclusion

A size of ≥ 4 cm showed to be the only significant predicting factor of malignant transformation in oral leukoplakia. No other epidemiological, aetiological, clinical or histopathological parameters were of statistical significance.
Beneficial long‐term effects of multiprofessional assessment vs. rehabilitation program in patients with musculoskeletal pain
Authors: Bileviciute‐Ljungar Indre , Norrefalk Jan‐Rickard
Published: March 2013

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the differences in outcomes of long‐term multiprofessional intervention in patients suffering from musculoskeletal pain.

Methods

Eighty‐eight patients with persistent musculoskeletal pain who either experienced multiprofessional rehabilitation (44) or underwent a mutiprofessional assessment of their ability to work (44) were followed up after either 5 or 10 years. Data on pain intensity, health perception and physical function collected in either 1998 or 2003, were compared with data taken from patients in 2008. Patients were also interviewed regarding pain diagnoses and additional multiprofessional interventions that occurred after 1998 or 2003.

Results

Results indicate that patients who participated in multiprofessional rehabilitation were younger in both 5‐ and 10‐year follow‐up groups and remained at work longer when compared to assessment group. When comparing the rehabilitation vs. assessment groups, no differences in pain intensity, health perception, and physical function were found at the 5‐ and 10‐year follow‐up. Reduced pain intensity was reported by both rehabilitation and assessment groups at the 5‐year follow‐up. Functional status was improved in the assessment group after 10 years.

Conclusion

These results indicate that multiprofessional assessment may also have beneficial effects in patients with musculoskeletal pain when measuring long‐term outcomes.
Leaf shape × sowing density interaction affects chickpea grain yield
Authors: Abbo Shahal , Goren Ofer , Saranga Yehoshua , Langensiepen Matthias , J. Bonfil David
Published: March 2013

Modifying plant architecture is considered a promising breeding option to enhance crop productivity. Modern chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) cultivars with either compound (wild‐type) or simple leaf shapes are commercially grown but the relationships between leaf shape and yield are not well understood. In this study, a random sample of ‘Kabuli’ type progeny lines of both leaf types, derived from two crosses between modern American simple leaf cultivars and early‐flowering wild‐type breeding lines, were planted at different sowing densities. Leaf area development and final grain yield in genotypes of the two leaf types responded differently to changes in sowing densities. Compound leaf lines attained higher leaf area indices and higher grain yields at both low and high sowing densities. Yield responses of the simple leaf lines to increasing sowing density were significantly higher compared to compound leaf genotypes in two of three field experiments. The prospects for utilizing the simple leaf trait as a breeding target for short‐season growing areas are discussed.
Comparative effects of respiratory stimulants on hypoxic neuronal cell injury in SH‐SY5Y cells and in hippocampal slice cultures from rat pups
Authors: Tanaka Kaori , Ishitsuka Yoichi , Kurauchi Yuki , Yamaguchi Keitaro , Kadowaki Daisuke , Irikura Mitsuru , Katsuki Hiroshi , Irie Tetsumi
Published: March 2013

Background

This study was conducted to clarify whether respiratory stimulants used to treat apnea of prematurity (AOP) attenuate or aggravate hypoxia‐induced neuronal damage.

Methods

A human neuroblastoma cell line, SH‐SY5Y cells, and hippocampal slice cultures from rat pups were exposed to hypoxia to induce cell injury. The effects of respiratory stimulants on cell injury were evaluated.

Results

Theophylline and doxapram did not have any effects against cell injury induced by hypoxia in SH‐SY5Y cells and hippocampal slice cultures of rat pups, while caffeine protected these cells and the slice cultures from hypoxia. The protective effects of caffeine in SH‐SY5Y cells disappeared with co‐treatment by the adenosine A2A receptor agonist, CGS21680, and were mimicked by the adenosine A2AR antagonist, SCH58261. Meanwhile, co‐treatment with phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase/AKT pathway inhibitors did not affect the protective effects of caffeine. Hydroxy radical scavenging activity of caffeine were not observed at the concentrations that produced cytoprotective activity, and radical scavengers did not have any effects on the cell injury induced by hypoxia in SH‐SY5Y cells.

Conclusions

Caffeine significantly attenuated cell injury induced by hypoxia in SH‐SY5Y cells and hippocampal slice cultures of rat pups, at least partly through A2AR antagonism. Caffeine can protect neuronal cells from injury induced by hypoxemia, and may be a beneficial treatment for AOP with neuroprotective potential.