bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coronary Spasm Preferentially Occurs at Branch Points
Authors: Nakagawa Hitoshi , Morikawa Yoshinobu , Mizuno Yuji , Harada Eisaku , Ito Teruhiko , Matsui Kunihiko , Saito Yoshihiko , Yasue Hirofumi
Published: February 2009

Background—

Coronary spasm plays an important role in the pathogenesis of ischemic heart disease. However, similarities and differences between coronary spasm and atherosclerosis are not known. We examined the angiographic characteristics of coronary spasm in comparison with those of atherosclerosis.

Methods and Results—

Thirty-two left anterior descending arteries, 11 left circumflex arteries, and 23 right coronary arteries with spasm and atherosclerotic plaque were analyzed for the localization of spasm in comparison with that of plaque in 47 patients (38 men and 9 women, mean age 66.8�10.3 yrs). Spasm predominantly occurred at the branch point as compared with plaque in each of the 3 arteries (76.7% versus 23.3%,
P
<0.0001; 72.7% versus 9.1%,
P
<0.039; and 60.0% versus 10.0%,
P
=0.002, in the left anterior descending, left circumflex, and right coronary arteries, respectively). Spasm involved the proximal segment less frequently as compared with plaque in each of the 3 arteries (56.7% versus 93.3%,
P
<0.0001; 18.2% versus 81.8%,
P
=0.016; and 15.0% versus 75.0%,
P
<0.0001 in the left anterior descending, left circumflex, and right coronary arteries, respectively). Most spasms occurred at the nonplaque site in each of the 3 arteries (73.3%,
P
=0.018; 100%,
P
<0.0001; and 75.0%,
P
=0.041 in the left anterior descending, left circumflex, and right coronary arteries, respectively).

Conclusion—

Coronary spasm preferentially occurred at branch points and nonplaque sites, whereas the atherosclerotic lesion was predominantly localized at the nonbranch points of the curved proximal segments. Coronary spasm may thus be a manifestation of a distinct type of arteriosclerosis different from the lipid-laden coronary atherosclerosis.
Immunohistochemical Characterization of Neotissues and Tissue Reactions to Septal Defect–Occlusion Devices
Authors: Foth Rudi , Quentin Thomas , Michel-Behnke Ina , Vogt Manfred , Kriebel Thomas , Kreischer Anne , Ruschewski Wolfgang , Paul Thomas , Sigler Matthias
Published: February 2009

Background—

We sought to evaluate tissue reactions within and at the surface of devices for interventional therapy of septal defects and to identify antigen characteristics of neotissues.

Methods and Results—

Atrial or ventricular septal defect–occlusion devices (Amplatzer, n=7; Cardioseal/Starflex, n=3) were processed using a uniform protocol after surgical removal from humans (implantation time, 5 days to 4 years). Devices were fixed in formalin and embedded in methylmethacrylate. Serial sections were obtained by sectioning with a diamond cutter and grinding, thus saving the metal/tissue interface for histologic evaluation. Immunohistochemical staining was performed using conventional protocols. Superficial endothelial cells stained positive for von Willebrand factor. Within the newly formed tissues, fibroblast-like cells were identified with a time-dependent expression of smooth muscle cell maturation markers (smooth muscle actin, smooth muscle myosin, h-caldesmon, and desmin) beside extracellular matrix components. Neovascularization of the newly formed tissues was demonstrated with the typical immunohistochemical pattern of capillaries and small vessels. Inflammatory cells could be identified as macrophages (CD68+) and both T-type and B-type lymphocytes (CD3+, CD79+).

Conclusions—

This is the first presentation of results from serial immunohistochemical staining of a collection of explanted human septal-occlusion devices. A time-dependent maturation pattern of the fibroblast-like cells in the neotissues around the implants could be described. Neoendothelialization was seen in all specimens with implantation times of 10 weeks or more. The time course of neoendothelialization, as seen in our study, further supports the clinical practice of anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy for 6 months after implantation. This time interval should be sufficient to prevent thromboembolic events due to thrombus formation at the foreign surface of cardiovascular implants.
Factors Portending Endoleak Formation After Thoracic Aortic Stent-Graft Repair of Complicated Aortic Dissection
Authors: Sze Daniel Y. , van den Bosch Maurice A.A.J. , Dake Michael D. , Miller D. Craig , Hofmann Lawrence V. , Varghese Robin , Malaisrie S. Chris , van der Starre Pieter J.A. , Rosenberg Jarrett , Mitchell R. Scott
Published: February 2009

Background—

Endoleaks after stent-graft repair of aortic dissections are poorly understood but seem substantially different from those seen after aneurysm repair. We studied anatomic and clinical factors associated with endoleaks in patients who underwent stent-graft repair of complicated type B aortic dissections.

Methods and Results—

From 2000 to 2007, 37 patients underwent stent-graft repair of acute (≤14 days; n=23), subacute (15 to 90 days; n=10) or chronic (>90 days; n=4) complicated type B aortic dissections using the Gore Thoracic Excluder (n=17) or TAG stent-grafts (n=20) under an investigator-sponsored protocol. Endoleaks were classified as imperfect proximal seal, flow through fenestrations or branches, or complex (both). Variables studied included coverage of the left subclavian artery, aortic curvature, completeness of proximal apposition, dissection chronicity, and device used. Endoleaks were found during follow-up (mean, 22 months) in 59% of patients, and they were associated with coverage of the left subclavian artery (complex,
P
<0.001), small radius of curvature (type 1 and complex,
P
=0.05), and greatest length of unapposed proximal stent graft (complex,
P
<0.0001). During follow-up, 10 endoleaks resolved spontaneously, 6 required reintervention for false lumen dilatation, and 2 were stable without clinical consequences.

Conclusions—

Endoleaks are common after stent-graft repair of aortic dissection and may lead to false lumen enlargement necessitating reintervention. Anatomic complexities such as acute aortic curvature and covered side branches were associated with endoleaks, illustrating the need for dissection-specific device development.
Randomized Controlled Trials Comparing Endarterectomy and Endovascular Treatment for Carotid Artery Stenosis
Authors: Ederle Jörg , Featherstone Roland L. , Brown Martin M.
Published: February 2009

Background and Purpose—

Endovascular treatment of carotid stenosis may be an alternative to surgical endarterectomy. We conducted a systematic review of the randomized evidence to assess the benefits and risks of endovascular treatment compared to surgery.

Methods—

Cochrane registers and online databases were searched and researchers in the field contacted. Outcome events were compared using odds ratios (ORs) calculated using the Peto fixed effect and Mantel-Haenszel random effects models if there was significant heterogeneity.

Results—

Ten trials involving 3178 patients were included. Not all contributed to each analysis. The primary outcome comparison of any stroke or death within 30 days of treatment favored surgery (fixed-effects OR 1.35), the difference was not statistically significant using the random effects model. Endovascular treatment was significantly better than surgery in avoiding cranial neuropathy (OR 0.15) and myocardial infarction (OR 0.34). There was no significant difference between endovascular treatment and surgery in the following comparisons: 30-day stroke, MI, or death (OR 1.12); 30-day disabling stroke or death (OR 1.19); 30-day death (OR 0.99); 24-month death or stroke (OR 1.26); and 30-day death or stroke in endovascular patients treated with or without protection devices (OR 0.75).

Conclusions—

The data are difficult to interpret because the trials are heterogeneous. Five trials were stopped early, perhaps leading to an overestimate of the risks of endovascular treatment. The results do not support a change in clinical practice away from recommending carotid endarterectomy as the treatment of choice for suitable carotid artery stenosis but support continued recruitment in the large ongoing trials.
Progression of Mild Cognitive Impairment to Dementia
Authors: Staekenborg Salka S. , Koedam Esther L.G.E. , Henneman Wouter J.P. , Stokman Pauline , Barkhof Frederik , Scheltens Philip , van der Flier Wiesje M.
Published: February 2009

Background and Purpose—

We sought to determine the predictive value of magnetic resonance imaging measures of vascular disease (white matter hyperintensities [WMHs], lacunes, microbleeds, and infarcts) compared with atrophy on the progression of mild cognitive impairment to dementia.

Methods—

We included 152 consecutive patients with mild cognitive impairment. Baseline magnetic resonance imaging was used to determine the presence of medial temporal lobe atrophy and vascular disease (presence of lacunes, microbleeds, and infarcts was determined, and WMHs were rated on a semiquantitative scale). Patients were followed up for 2±1 years.

Results—

Seventy-two (47%) patients progressed to dementia during follow-up. Of these, 56 (37%) patients were diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, and 16 (10%) patients were diagnosed with a non-Alzheimer dementia (including vascular dementia, frontotemporal lobar degeneration, and Parkinson dementia). Converters were older and had a lower Mini-Mental State Examination score at baseline. On baseline magnetic resonance imaging, patients who progressed to a non-Alzheimer dementia showed more severe WMHs and had a higher prevalence of lacunes in the basal ganglia and microbleeds compared with nonconverters. Cox proportional-hazard models showed that, adjusted for age and sex, baseline medial temporal lobe atrophy (hazard ratio=2.9; 95% CI, 1.7 to 5.3), but not vascular disease, was associated with progression to Alzheimer’s disease. By contrast, deep WMHs (hazard ratio=5.7; 95% CI, 1.2 to 26.7) and periventricular hyperintensities (hazard ratio=6.5; 95% CI, 1.4 to 29.8) predicted progression to non-Alzheimer dementia. Furthermore, microbleeds (hazard ratio=2.6; 95% CI, 0.9 to 7.5) yielded a >2-fold increased, though nonsignificant, risk of non-Alzheimer dementia.

Conclusion—

Medial temporal lobe atrophy and markers of cerebrovascular disease predict the development of different types of dementia in mild cognitive impairment patients.
Genomics of Human Intracranial Aneurysm Wall
Authors: Shi Changbin , Awad Issam A. , Jafari Nadereh , Lin Simon , Du Pan , Hage Ziad A. , Shenkar Robert , Getch Christopher C. , Bredel Markus , Batjer H. Hunt , Bendok Bernard R.
Published: February 2009

Background and Purpose—

The pathogenesis of intracranial aneurysms (IAs) remains elusive. Most studies have focused on individual genes, or a few interrelated genes or products, at a time in human IA. However, a broad view of pathologic mechanisms has not been investigated by identifying pathogenic genes and their interaction in networks. Our study aimed to analyze global gene expression patterns in the IA wall.

Methods—

To our knowledge, our group was the first to perform Illumina microarray analysis on human IA via comparison of aneurysm wall and superficial temporal artery tissues from 6 consecutive patients. We adopted stringent statistical criteria to the individual genes; genes with a false discovery rate <0.01 and >2-fold change were selected as differentially expressed. To identify the overrepresented biologic pathways with the differentially expressed genes, we performed hypergeometric testing of the genes selected by relaxed criteria of
P
<0.01 and fold change >1.5.

Results—

There are 326 distinct differentially expressed genes between IA and superficial temporal artery tissues (>2-fold change) with a false discovery rate <0.01. Analysis of the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways revealed the most impacted functional pathways: focal adhesion, extracellular matrix receptor interaction, and cell communication. Analysis of the Gene Ontology also supported the involvement of another 2 potentially important pathways: inflammatory response and apoptosis.

Conclusions—

The differentially expressed genes in the aneurysm wall may shed light on aneurysm pathobiology and provide novel targets for therapeutic intervention. These data will help generate hypotheses for future studies.
Postacute Reevaluation May Prevent Dysphagia-Associated Morbidity
Authors: Heckert Kimberly D. , Komaroff Eugene , Adler Uri , Barrett Anna M.
Published: February 2009

Background and Purpose—

Accurate identification and tailored management of patients with dysphagia is necessary to prevent complications when dysphagia is present and avoid implications of dietary restriction when unnecessary. Methods of dysphagia assessment vary, and a reassessment in the postacute period is not an established standard. The aim of this retrospective study was to compare initial dysphagia assessment with dysphagia reassessment results for stroke patients admitted to our inpatient rehabilitation facility.

Methods—

We examined medical records of 226 acute stroke patients admitted to our inpatient rehabilitation facility from December 2006 to May 2007. We excluded 86 subjects, then noted the presence or absence of dysphagia based on documentation and prescribed diet and management strategies in the remaining 146 records.

Results—

Dysphagia was identified in 94 patients (64%) assessed at our facility. Of these patients, 11% (n=10) were not previously identified in acute care (nonnegligible number,
P
<0.0001). Agreement regarding presence or absence of dysphagia occurred in 85%. However, prescribed diet differed in 51% (n=75), with 12% (n=18) requiring diet downgrades on admission for rehabilitation.

Conclusions—

The necessity of dysphagia reassessment as part of routine postacute stroke rehabilitation care is not completely established. Our study supports the need for postacute reassessment as 11% of patients with dysphagia would not have been identified without reassessment and 12% required diets more conservative than prescribed in acute care. Prospective research addressing dysphagia specific outcomes is warranted to develop efficient and high-quality standards for preventing poststroke dysphagia associated morbidity.
Results of the Stroke Prevention by Aggressive Reduction in Cholesterol Levels (SPARCL) Trial by Stroke Subtypes
Authors: Amarenco Pierre , Benavente Oscar , Goldstein Larry B. , Callahan Alfred , Sillesen Henrik , Hennerici Michael G. , Gilbert Steve , Rudolph Amy E. , Simunovic Lisa , Zivin Justin A. , Welch K. Michael A.
Published: February 2009

Background and Purpose—

The SPARCL trial showed that atorvastatin 80 mg/d reduces the risk of stroke and other cardiovascular events in patients with recent stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). We tested the hypothesis that the benefit of treatment varies according to index event stroke subtype.

Methods—

Subjects with stroke or TIA without known coronary heart disease were randomized to atorvastatin 80 mg/d or placebo. The SPARCL primary end point was fatal or nonfatal stroke. Secondary end points included major cardiovascular events (MCVE; stroke plus major coronary events). Cox regression models testing for an interaction with treatment assignment were used to explore potential differences in efficacy based on stroke subtype.

Results—

For subjects randomized to atorvastatin versus placebo, a primary end point occurred in 13.1% versus 18.6% of those classified as having large vessel disease (LVD, 15.8% of 4,731 participants), in 13.1% versus 15.5% of those with small vessel disease (SVD, 29.8%), in 11.2% versus 12.7% of those with ischemic stroke of unknown cause (21.5%), in 7.6% versus 8.8% of those with TIA (30.9%), and in 22.2% versus 8.3% of those with hemorrhagic stroke (HS, 2%) at baseline. There was no difference in the efficacy of treatment for either the primary end point (LVD hazard ratio [HR] 0.70, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.49 to 1.02, TIA HR 0.81, CI 0.57 to 1.17, SVD HR 0.85, CI 0.64 to 1.12, unknown cause HR 0.87, CI 0.61 to 1.24, HS HR 3.24, CI 1.01 to 10.4;
P
for heterogeneity=0.421), or MCVEs (
P
for heterogeneity=0.360) based on subtype of the index event. As compared to subjects with LVD strokes, those with SVD had similar MCVE rates (19.2% versus 18.5% over the course of the trial), and similar overall reductions in stroke and MCVEs.

Conclusions—

Atorvastatin 80 mg/d is similarly efficacious in preventing strokes and other cardiovascular events, irrespective of baseline ischemic stroke subtype.
Greater Rupture Risk for Familial as Compared to Sporadic Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms
Authors: Broderick Joseph P. , Brown Robert D. , Sauerbeck Laura , Hornung Richard , Huston John , Woo Daniel , Anderson Craig , Rouleau Guy , Kleindorfer Dawn , Flaherty Matthew L. , Meissner Irene , Foroud Tatiana , Charles E. , Moomaw J. , Connolly E. Sander
Published: February 2009

Background and Purpose—

The risk of intracranial aneurysm (IA) rupture in asymptomatic members of families who have multiple affected individuals is not known.

Methods—

First-degree unaffected relatives of those with a familial history of IA who had a history of smoking or hypertension but no known IA were offered cerebral MR angiography (MRA) and followed yearly as part of a National Institute of Neurological Diseases and Stroke-funded study of familial IA (Familial Intracranial Aneurysm [FIA] Study).

Results—

A total of 2874 subjects from 542 FIA Study families were enrolled. After study enrollment, MRAs were performed in 548 FIA Study family members with no known history of IA. Of these 548 subjects, 113 subjects (20.6%) had 148 IAs by MRA of whom 5 subjects had IA ≥7 mm. Two subjects with an unruptured IA by MRA/CT angiography (3-mm and 4-mm anterior communicating artery) subsequently had rupture of their IA. This represents an annual rate of 1.2 ruptures per 100 subjects (1.2% per year; 95% CI, 0.14% to 4.3% per year). None of the 435 subjects with a negative MRA have had a ruptured IA. Survival curves between the MRA-positive and -negative cohorts were significantly different (
P
=0.004). This rupture rate of unruptured IA in the FIA Study cohort of 1.2% per year is approximately 17 times higher than the rupture rate for subjects with an unruptured IA in the International Study of Unruptured Aneurysm Study with a matched distribution of IA size and location 0.069% per year.

Conclusions—

Small unruptured IAs in patients from FIA Study families may have a higher risk of rupture than sporadic unruptured IAs of similar size, which should be considered in the management of these patients.
Effectiveness and Safety of Transcranial Laser Therapy for Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Zivin Justin A. , Albers Gregory W. , Bornstein Natan , Chippendale Thomas , Dahlof Bjorn , Devlin Thomas , Fisher Marc , Hacke Werner , Holt William , Ilic Sanja , Kasner Scott , Lew Robert , Nash Marshall , Perez Julio , Rymer Marilyn , Schellinger Peter , Schneider Dietmar , Schwab Stefan , Veltkamp Roland , Walker Michael , Streeter Jackson
Published: February 2009

Background and Purpose—

We hypothesized that transcranial laser therapy (TLT) can use near-infrared laser technology to treat acute ischemic stroke. The NeuroThera Effectiveness and Safety Trial–2 (NEST-2) tested the safety and efficacy of TLT in acute ischemic stroke.

Methods—

This double-blind, randomized study compared TLT treatment to sham control. Patients receiving tissue plasminogen activator and patients with evidence of hemorrhagic infarct were excluded. The primary efficacy end point was a favorable 90-day score of 0 to 2 assessed by the modified Rankin Scale. Other 90-day end points included the overall shift in modified Rankin Scale and assessments of change in the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score.

Results—

We randomized 660 patients: 331 received TLT and 327 received sham; 120 (36.3%) in the TLT group achieved favorable outcome versus 101 (30.9%), in the sham group (
P
=0.094), odds ratio 1.38 (95% CI, 0.95 to 2.00). Comparable results were seen for the other outcome measures. Although no prespecified test achieved significance, a post hoc analysis of patients with a baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score of <16 showed a favorable outcome at 90 days on the primary end point (
P
<0.044). Mortality rates and serious adverse events did not differ between groups with 17.5% and 17.4% mortality, 37.8% and 41.8% serious adverse events for TLT and sham, respectively.

Conclusions—

TLT within 24 hours from stroke onset demonstrated safety but did not meet formal statistical significance for efficacy. However, all predefined analyses showed a favorable trend, consistent with the previous clinical trial (NEST-1). Both studies indicate that mortality and adverse event rates were not adversely affected by TLT. A definitive trial with refined baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale exclusion criteria is planned.
Vive la différence? Intergenerational Mobility in France and the United States during the Nineteenth and Twentieth Centuries
Authors: Bourdieu Jérôme , Ferrie Joseph P. , Kesztenbaum Lionel
Published: February 2009

Although rates of intergenerational mobility are the same in the United States and Europe today, attitudes toward redistribution, which should reflect those rates—at least in part—differ substantially. An examination of the differences in mobility between the United States and France since the middle of the nineteenth century, based on data for both countries that permit a comparison between the socioeconomic status of fathers and that of sons throughout a period of thirty years, demonstrates that the United States was a considerably more mobile economy in the past, though such differences are far from apparent today.
Social Fabrics: Wearable + Media + Interconnectivity
Authors: Ryan Susan Elizabeth
Published: February 2009

Art as a garment, fused with sensing, media and network technology, can become a powerful means for investigating current forms of social interaction and the place of the body and self in digital society. The Leonardo Social Fabrics Gallery presents new works exploring this rich mix of old and new arts and technologies.
Oriented Flows: The Molecular Biology and Political Economy of the Stew
Authors: Guardans Ramon , Czeglédy Nina
Published: February 2009

The authors argue that living organisms establish long-range links over space and time by building and maintaining highly oriented flows and asymmetric interfaces. They use the example of stew as a familiar process in which this network of oriented dynamic perturbations in space and time can be observed.
Truth and Beauty at the Nanoscale
Authors: Toumey Chris
Published: February 2009

New forms of science sometimes raise issues about the relation between an object and an image of the object. What is a faithful reproduction? How do technical processes affect the image? Nanoscale images evoke these issues. To enhance our visual knowledge of nanoscale objects, the author revisits early cubist theory. This leads to suggestions in a neo-cubist spirit for making and seeing nanoscale images.
illa rudem cursu prima imbuit Amphitriten (Catul. 64.11): The Dynamic Intertextual Connotations of a Metonymy
Authors: Michalopoulos Andreas
Published: February 2009

This paper examines the role and importance of Amphitrite in Catullus c. 64, the epyllion on the wedding of Peleus and Thetis. Catullus intends to conjure up Amphitrite's rich mythological background for the needs of his poem. Amphitrite's story contains thematic elements that recur in both narratives of c. 64, namely the main story of Peleus and Thetis, and the embedded story of Theseus and Ariadne. At the same time Amphitrite's meaningful presence in the prologue of c. 64 is a pointer to Bacchylides' Dithyramb 17, which treats Theseus' outbound journey to Crete and the test of his divine paternity, imposed by Minos. The several points of contact between B. Dith. 17 and Catul. c. 64 show that this Greek poem is an important subtext for c. 64, which has gone unnoticed so far.
Argentina
Authors: Mairal Héctor A.
Published: February 2009

Argentina does not have a general class action statute, but a 1994 constitutional reform allowed actions that defend collective interests and other third generation rights (e.g., the right to a healthy environment), granting standing to associations and to the Ombudsman. The Supreme Court restricted these actions to the protection of truly collective interests, thus rejecting them when they were brought to defend multiple homogeneous interests (e.g., small damages for many consumers). A recent amendment of the Consumer Protection Law allows the Ombudsman, as well as associations, to sue for damages caused to consumers and grants erga omnes effect to the judgment. Similar rules are included in federal and provincial laws that protect the environment.
Belgium
Authors: Storme Matthias E. , Terryn Evelyne
Published: February 2009

Belgium illustrates the traditional European civil law tradition of emphasis on principles of civil litigation based on individual rights and standing. That tradition, requiring legislative rather than judicial authorization, has blocked general reform of collective representation and led to gradual recognition of individual and rather complex exceptions, overlaid by EU measures. No innovative reforms have yet crystallized.
Canada
Authors: Kalajdzic Jasminka , Bogart W.A. , Matthews Ian
Published: February 2009

Most of the provinces and the Federal Court have adopted class action procedures influenced by the U.S. model, with certification and opt out, but differing rules on costs apply. A significant number of cases are brought, most of which settle. There are unresolved transborder issues.
Germany
Authors: Baetge Dietmar
Published: February 2009

Although strong traditional principles have stifled reform of multiple procedures beyond joinder and consolidation, injunction claims by associations and commercial organizations have for some decades been more active in Germany than many European states. Since 2000, innovative experiments have been under way with a special model case procedure for investor claims and assignment of claims in antitrust. Both these approaches are likely to prove inadequate, but debates on reform remain cautious.
Italy
Authors: Silvestri Elisabetta
Published: February 2009

Italy has specific, sectoral representative procedures familiar in other European states, especially on consumer protection. Lengthy debate resulted in a general law being passed in 2007, which was postponed by a new government in 2008.
Poland
Authors: Tulibacka Magdalena
Published: February 2009

Poland is grappling with the need to create an efficient market economy and democratic civil society. The socialist legacy includes mistrust of judicial control and strong reliance on public prosecutors, and some social organizations, in representative litigation. A new draft Act on group litigation adopts a careful but informed approach to modern problems, based on opt in, with strong judicial management and a number of antiabuse mechanisms.
South Africa
Authors: Plasket Clive
Published: February 2009

The Constitution of South Africa provides simply for claimants to represent anyone who cannot act, or a group, or the public interest. In the absence of more detailed procedural rules on how these rights are to operate, the courts have had to grapple with issues on standing within a difficult socioeconomic and political background.
Spain
Authors: Gutiérrez de Cabiedes Pablo
Published: February 2009

Compensation is widely claimed within public criminal prosecutions, not within civil proceedings. In addition to procedures on defending general consumer interests, Spain introduced a notable reform in 2000, providing for damages claims to be brought collectively in consumer cases, particularly by consumer associations.
Switzerland
Authors: Baumgartner Samuel P.
Published: February 2009

Switzerland has the traditional Austro-German representative association procedures. Debate on adoption of other models, given the opportunity of the introduction of a first federal Code of Civil Procedure, reveals considerable cautious conservatism toward reform.
Group Litigation in Singapore
Authors: Pinsler Jeffrey
Published: February 2009

The only form of group litigation recognized by the Singapore Rules of Court at present is the representative action. The adequacy of the procedure, and the possible introduction of a wider group/class action mechanism, is being considered. The litigation in Tan Chin Seng & Others v. Raffles Town Club Pte Ltd [2002] SGHC 278 (High Court) and Tan Chin Seng and Others v. Raffles Town Club Pte Ltd (No 2) [2003] 3 SLR 307 (Court of Appeal) provides a useful example of representative proceedings and will be considered.
Group and Aggregate Litigation in the United States
Authors: Pace Nicholas M.
Published: February 2009

While a class action such as one brought under Federal Rules of Civil Procedure Rule 23 is certainly the most well-known mechanism for aggregating large numbers of similar claims, other approaches include mass joinder of parties, mass consolidation of separate cases, or “multidistrict litigation” transfer of federal cases from across the country into a single action for pretrial processing; corporate reorganizations under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code; large-scale inventories of clients controlled by a single attorney; government-initiated enforcement actions; and “private attorneys general” litigation brought on behalf of the general public.
Is Chávez Populist?
Authors: Hawkins Kirk A.
Published: February 2009

This article pushes forward our understanding of populism by developing one of the more underappreciated definitions of populism, populism as discourse. It does so by creating a quantitative measure of populist discourse suitable for cross-country and historical analysis. The article starts by laying out the discursive definition of populism in the context of existing definitions. It then operationalizes this definition through a holistic grading of speeches by current chief executives and a few historical figures. The result is a data set of elite-level populist discourse in more than 40 current and past governments from a variety of countries across the world, with special focus on Latin America. This measurement has high reliability comparable to standard human-coded content analysis, compares well to common understandings of actual cases of populism, and is a reasonably efficient technique even in small samples.
‘We work together, we eat together’
Authors: Strümpell Christian
Published: February 2009

Among themselves and within their families, workers of a public sector power project in Orissa, constantly and intentionally, violate the restrictions on inter-caste contact that they perceive as prevailing in their various villages of origin. Subscribing to the teleology of modernisation, the workers dichotomise the industrial settlement and the village as ‘modern’ and ‘backward’ sites, respectively. Their withdrawal into these ‘backward’ villages for weddings and other rituals is explained with reference to the ‘outside’, peripheral character of the settlement. I argue that this conceptualisation hints at a spatial limitation of the institution of caste, and has, at the very least, facilitated the creation of a ‘modern’, caste-negating working class.
Understanding acculturation among second-generation South Asian Muslims in the United States
Authors: Ali Syed
Published: February 2009

This article addresses an understudied area in studies of immigration—why patterns of acculturation of second-generation immigrants vary. To address this question, I draw on ethnographic research conducted among second-generation South Asian Muslims in New York City. Sociologists generally assume that acculturation is an inevitable process, and that it proceeds from less to more. I argue that acculturation is a more complex process that varies over time and situation for individuals, and can even go from more to less acculturation. Building on Judith Harris's group socialisation theory and Murray Milner Jr.'s theory of status relations, I propose that acculturation is a dynamic status process, and that we can better understand variations in patterns of acculturation of individuals by looking at their peers—the kinds of intimate associations that individuals make, and the kinds of peer group norms to which individuals conform.
‘Paying back to society’
Authors: Naudet Jules
Published: February 2009

This article discusses the way upward social mobility is subjectively experienced by Dalits in India. It proposes a phenomenological analysis of upward social mobility, looking particularly at the way in which upwardly mobile persons deal with the tension between their group of origin and their new group. The main argument is that a moral imperative to ‘pay back to society’ structures the experience of a sharp change in class and status. The specificity of the experience of upward social mobility in the Indian context seems to be that it is not characterised by a tendency to forget the group of origin in order to better acculturate to the new group, nor is it characterised by feelings of ‘being ashamed’ of the group of origin, and even less by a sentiment of ‘guilt’ about abandoning this group. On the contrary, the perpetuation of a link with the group of origin (i.e., the caste group) seems to completely shape the experience of mobility. After showing that the basis of this particular ethos of mobility is caste, the article ends with a discussion of the way in which caste renders it difficult to define social mobility in the Indian context.
Whatever Happens in the Laboratory Stays in the Laboratory: The Prevalence and Prevention of Participant Crosstalk
Authors: Edlund John E. , Sagarin Brad J. , Skowronski John J. , Johnson Sara J. , Kutter Joseph
Published: February 2009

Foreknowledge in research participants can undermine the validity of psychological research. Three studies examined a potentially major source of foreknowledge: participant crosstalk in an undergraduate subject pool. Participants in all three studies attempted to win extra experimental credit by guessing the number of beans in a jar—a nearly impossible task without foreknowledge of the answer. Participants guessing incorrectly were told the correct answer by the experimenter. In Study 1, 23 of 809 participants showed clear evidence of having received the correct answer from a prior participant. In Study 2, a classroom-based treatment asking students not to talk about experiments to other students significantly reduced crosstalk rates. In Study 3, a laboratory-based treatment supplemented the classroom-based treatment. After revealing the number of beans in the jar, the experimenter obtained a verbal commitment from participants that they would not tell anyone about the experiment. The combined treatment nearly eliminated crosstalk.
Employee, Partner, and Mother
Authors: Kostiainen Elisa , Martelin Tuija , Kestilä Laura , Martikainen Pekka , Koskinen Seppo
Published: February 2009

A large number of Western women today occupy the roles of an employee, a partner, and a mother. The three life spheres may spell contradictory expectations, demands, and rewards. The aim of this article is to examine self-rated health (SRH) and psychological distress of Finnish women aged 30 to 49 years. In addition to the number of roles the respondent occupies, the quality and the characteristics of each role are analyzed. The employee role is most strongly associated with SRH, whereas job control (jc) is the most important work characteristic. The partner role and, in more detail, support from partner determines psychological distress most significantly. Multiple-role occupancy is associated with good SRH. This, however, appears to be a cumulative effect of the individual roles and mostly not due to interactions between the roles the women occupy.
Characterization of Hepatic Mitochondrial Injury Induced by Fatty Acid Oxidation Inhibitors
Authors: Vickers Alison E.M.
Published: February 2009

Impairment of liver mitochondrial β-oxidation is an important mechanism of drug-induced liver injury. Four inhibitors of fatty acid oxidation were compared in short-term rat in vivo studies in which the rats were administered one or four doses. The hepatocellular vacuolation represented ultrastructural mitochondrial changes. Urine nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy revealed that both FOX988 and SDZ51-641 induced a persistent dicarboxylic aciduria, suggesting an inhibition of mitochondrial β-oxidation and incomplete fatty acid metabolism. Etomoxir caused minimal mitochondrial ultrastructural changes and induced only transient dicarboxylic aciduria. CPI975 served as a negative control, in that there were no significant perturbations to the mitochondrial ultrastructural morphology or in the urine NMR composition; however, compound exposure was confirmed by the up-regulation of liver gene expression compared to vehicle control. The liver gene expression changes that were altered by the compounds were indicative of mitochondria, general and oxidative stress, and peroxisomal enzymes involved in β-oxidation, suggestive of a compensatory response to the inhibition in the mitochondria. In addition, both FOX988 and SDZ51-641 up-regulated ribosomal genes associated with apoptosis, as well as p53 pathways linked with apoptosis. In summary, metabonomics and liver gene expression provided mechanistic information on mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired fatty acid oxidation to further define the clinical pathology and histopathology findings of hepatotoxicity.
Reflections On Societal Change, Adjustments, and Responses
Authors: Friedlander Dov , Okun Barbara S.
Published: February 2009

Building on Davis (1963) and subsequent work, we propose a conceptual framework that provides a guide for the organization of empirical demographic research. Our approach is based on the notion that changes in nuptiality, fertility, and migration are not objectives in and of themselves, but means for reducing welfare gaps—defined as the gaps between actual welfare and that which could be attained with altered demographic and/or other behavior. We clarify theoretical issues concerning three levels of analysis. At the highest level, societal change leads to welfare gaps for families and/or individuals. In turn, behavioral adjustments are made to reduce these gaps. Finally, demographic responses at the community level result when large numbers of families and/or individuals adjust behavior in a particular manner. We consider and exemplify relationships among demographic and other responses in historical, agricultural contexts.
Wither Business Ideology: Revisiting Veblen's Theory of Engineers as Revolutionary Actors
Authors: Öncü Ahmet
Published: February 2009

Each major work of Veblen is a theoretical step taken further towards the solution of the problem already posed in The Theory of the Leisure Class: the continuity of the habit of invidious comparison that renders humans self-centric agents. Veblen, by juxtaposing “engineers” to the pecuniary class, sought to illustrate a contingency for the negation of invidious comparison, which may eradicate the legitimacy of business ideology and its reckless and futile end of accumulation of personal wealth.
Exploring Intersections of Identity With Native American Women Leaders
Authors: Barkdull Carenlee
Published: February 2009

How do Native American women in social welfare leadership roles construct their identities as women, indigenous people, and human service professionals, and from what sources do they draw strength to remain resilient in the face of personal and political challenges? From this qualitative study conducted with four Native American women leaders working in a reservation community in Colorado, five major themes were identified: (a) knowing “who I am,” (b) turning points, (c) walking in two worlds (biculturalism), (d) call to service, and (e) women are the backbone (gender and matrilineality). The intersections of race, gender, and place are highlighted. Implications for social work research, practice, and education are also explored.
Exploring Vegetation Patterns Along an Undefined Boundary
Authors: Gang Gong  , Tiller Jim
Published: February 2009

Combining historical land survey field notes and modern Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technique, this essay explores the vegetation pattern in eastern Harrison County in Texas along the Texas—Louisiana border in 1838, the year that marked the beginning of major influx of Anglos into this region. The analysis confirms that the vegetation cover prior to the influx was significantly different from what is there today. This article also demonstrates how GIS can be used to assist in historical research.
Does Caregiver Knowledge Matter for Hospice Enrollment and Beyond? Pilot Study of Minority Hospice Patients
Authors: Chung Kyusuk , Essex Elizabeth Lehr , Samson Linda
Published: February 2009

We examined the level of hospice knowledge of caregivers of minority elderly hospice patients and determined how it influences the hospice enrollment decision and the decision on the use of hospice services after enrollment. Based on qualitative analysis of medical records and interviews with caregivers of minority elderly hospice patients who received personal care from paid caregivers (eg, other than family caregivers), we found that hospice knowledge increased access to hospice among minority patients who otherwise would not opt for hospice or enroll too late for comprehensive hospice care services. Furthermore, the highest level of knowledge—acquired through caregivers' health care occupations—appears to influence hospice care after hospice enrollment. Caregivers with that level of knowledge made requests for changes in site of care and/or additional services that may enhance the quality of hospice care that their loved ones receive.
Review Article: Aneurysmal Bone Cysts of the Jaws
Authors: Sun Z.J. , Sun H.L. , Yang R.L. , Zwahlen R.A. , Zhao Y.F.
Published: February 2009

Aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) is a osteolytic bone lesion that rarely involves the jaws. To date, a total of 92 cases of JABCs have been described in detail in English literature. They prevalently occur in the first 2 decades (72.8%) with slight female predilection. It affects the mandible more often (68.5%) with a predominant location in the mandibular ramus (31.3%) and its posterior regions (20.4%). A painless (54.7%) or painful (43.2%) bone swelling is the most frequent clinical sign. Radiologically 93.8% of the lesions present as a radiolucency; in 69.4% multilocular in appearance. 15.2% of JABCs were secondary in nature, including 8 cases associated with fibrous dysplasia. The recurrence rate (13.3%) did not differ significantly when comparing the surgical technique (curettage, 15.2%; resection, 11.8%). JABCs are known for their different clinical and radiographic features, therefore often posing a diagnostic dilemma. Some JABC's may be secondary in nature. Careful curettage is considered to be suitable as treatment for JABCs.
Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis of the Appendix
Authors: AbdullGaffar Badr
Published: February 2009

Diverticulosis of the appendix is a relatively rare pathological finding. The majority are acquired pseudodiverticula. True congenital diverticula are very rare. Appendiceal diverticulosis is usually an incidental finding and clinically asymptomatic. When symptomatic, it is usually complicated by acute or chronic diverticulitis with or without acute appendicitis. It presents with atypical abdominal signs and symptoms, mostly in adult males. Appendiceal diverticulitis is a distinct entity with several clinical and pathological differences from acute appendicitis. It has a more rapid progression to perforation and a higher rate of mortality. Therefore, appendiceal diverticulitis should be considered in the clinical differential diagnosis, especially in adult males with chronic abdominal pain. Appendiceal diverticulosis demonstrates a significant association with obstructing or incidental appendiceal neoplasms. It may play an important role in the development of pseudomyxoma peritonei, which is associated with appendiceal mucinous tumors. Therefore, meticulous gross examination and thorough histological examination of the entire appendicectomy specimen are essential. When discovered either by preoperative radiological investigations or during an exploratory operation, prophylactic appendicectomy is advocated to prevent the risk of complications and to rule out the possibility of a coexisting neoplasm.
A Taxometric Investigation of DSM-IV Major Depression in a Large Outpatient Sample
Authors: Ruscio John , Brown Timothy A. , Meron Ruscio Ayelet
Published: February 2009

Most taxometric studies of depressive constructs have drawn indicators from self-report instruments that do not bear directly on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition (DSM-IV) diagnostic construct of major depressive disorder (MDD). The present study examined the latent structure of MDD using indicator sets constructed from a semistructured clinical interview, self-report questionnaires, and a combination of the two. Taxometric analyses were performed in a large sample of outpatients with primary mood or anxiety disorders. For clinical rating data, results were more consistent with taxonic than dimensional structure, an interpretation supported by additional data obtained from 27 independent raters and objective indices of curve fit. Questionnaire indicators yielded inconclusive results, and combined rating— questionnaire indicators yielded results suggestive of taxonic structure. The findings highlight the importance of assessment in the study of a construct's latent structure and extend recent findings suggesting that MDD may be taxonic.
The Use of Video Modeling via a Video iPod and a System of Least Prompts to Improve Transitional Behaviors for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders in the General Education Classroom
Authors: Cihak David , Fahrenkrog Cynthia , Ayres Kevin M. , Smith Catherine
Published: February 2009

This study evaluated the efficacy of video modeling delivered via a handheld device (video iPod) and the use of the system of least prompts to assist elementary-age students with transitioning between locations and activities within the school. Four students with autism learned to manipulate a handheld device to watch video models. An ABAB withdrawal design was used to evaluate a functional relation between video modeling and the percentage of independent transitions by the student. The data indicate that all participants began transitioning more independently after the intervention was introduced and that their performance decreased with withdrawal of intervention. These results are presented in the context of how a portable video delivery system can aid students who spend considerable portions of their day in general education settings where traditional means of delivering video models (e.g., televisions and computers) may not be as accessible.
The `impossible vanity': uses and abuses of empathy in qualitative inquiry
Authors: Watson Cate
Published: February 2009

Empathy is a notoriously slippery term. While within current discourses of qualitative research, empathy is widely held to be `a good thing' (as the appropriate ethical relation between the researcher and participant) there may perhaps be more suspicion about its use as an analytical method in research practices, and in the use of rhetorical strategies in research narratives whose aim is to evoke empathy in the reader, both of which may be regarded as bordering on manipulation and thus arguably ethically ambiguous. This article sets out to examine empathy as both a tool and goal of qualitative research, surfacing and questioning some of the tacitly held assumptions that underpin the appeal to empathy and exploring these in the context of my research into institutional identities.