bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lithocholic acid downregulates vitamin D effects in human osteoblasts
Authors: Ruiz‐Gaspà S. , Guañabens N. , Enjuanes A. , Peris P. , Martinez‐Ferrer A. , Martinez de Osaba M. J. , Gonzalez B. , Alvarez L. , Monegal A. , Combalia A. , Parés A.
Published: December 2009

Eur J Clin Invest 2010; 40 (1): 25–34

Background  Osteoporosis is a common complication in chronic cholestasis. It has been proposed that retained substances such as bile acids may produce a damaging effect on bone cells. This study analyses the effects of lithocholic acid (LCA) on cell survival and vitamin D metabolism in human osteoblasts (hOB).

Materials and methods  Human osteoblasts cultures were performed with or without foetal bovine serum (FBS) or human albumin (HA) at different LCA concentrations and times with or without vitamin D.

Results  Lithocholic acid at concentrations higher than 10–5 M decreased cell survival. This effect was partially prevented by the presence of FBS or HA. Vitamin D stimulated CYP24A, BGLAP and TNFSF11 expression in hOB and these effects were modified by nontoxic LCA concentrations. LCA significantly decreased vitamin D stimulation of CYP24A, BGLAP and TNFSF11 gene expression at 72%, 79% and 56% (respectively). LCA alone has an agonistic effect, as has vitamin D, thus partially increasing CYP24A and BGLAP expression, but with no changes on TNFRSF11B expression. Equivalent effects of the LCA were observed by performing gene reporter assays using MG‐63 cells transfected with constructs containing CYP24A1 promoter regions.

Conclusions  Lithocholic acid decreases the stimulatory effect of vitamin D on CYP24A, BGLAP and TNFSF11 expression in hOB. This effect is produced through vitamin D response elements (VDREs), located in the promoter regions of these genes, suggesting that LCA acts as a mild analogous of vitamin D, interacting with the vitamin D receptor. These results may explain the potential deleterious effects of retained bile acids on hOB.
Exercise parameters in the treatment of clinical depression: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Perraton Luke G. , Kumar Saravana , Machotka Zuzana
Published: December 2009

Rationale, aims and objectives  Previous systematic reviews have concluded that exercise programmes are effective in the management of clinical depression. The aim of this review was to analyse the parameters of exercise programmes reported in the primary research, in order to provide clinicians with evidence‐based recommendations for exercise prescription for clinical depression.

Methods  A systematic review of randomized controlled trials was undertaken. Only trials that reported exercise to be effective in treating depression were included and our review was limited to adults. Appropriate databases and reference lists were searched using established keywords. Data relating to the type, intensity, frequency, duration, mode of exercise and mode of application of exercise was extracted and collated.

Results  A total of 14 randomized controlled trials were included in this review and from these trials 20 intervention arms were analysed. The majority of trials used an aerobic exercise intervention and were supervised. The most common exercise parameters were 60–80% of maximum heart rate for 30 minutes three times per week for an overall duration of 8 weeks. There is an equal volume of evidence supporting group as opposed to individually completed exercise programmes and no trends were identified which would support one mode of exercise over another.

Conclusions  Currently the primary research on this topic supports the use of aerobic exercise which is supervised in some capacity. The current evidence base supports a prescription of three 30‐minute sessions per week of aerobic exercise at 60–80% of maximum heart rate for at least 8 weeks.
The effect of strain rate on the evolution of microstructure in aluminium alloys
Authors: LESZCZYŃSKA‐MADEJ B. , RICHERT M.
Published: December 2009

Intensive deformations influence strongly microstructure. The very well‐known phenomenon is the diminishing dimension of grain size by the severe plastic deformation (SPD) methods. The nanometric features of microstructure were discovered after the SPD deformation of various materials, such as aluminium alloys, iron and others. The observed changes depended on the kind of the deformed material, amount of deformation, strain rate, existence of different phases and stacking fault energy. The influence of the strain and strain rate on the microstructure is commonly investigated nowadays. It was found that the high strain rates activate deformation in shear bands, microbands and adiabatic shear bands. It was observed that bands were places of the nucleation of nanograins in the material deformed by SPD methods. In the work, the refinement of microstructure of the aluminium alloys influenced by the high strain rate was investigated. The samples were compressed by a specially designed hammer to the deformation of ϕ= 0 ÷ 0.62 with the strain rate in the range of . The highest reduction of microbands width with the increase of the strain was found in the AlCu4Zr alloy. The influence of the strain rate on the microstructure refinement indicated that the increase of the strain rate caused the reduction of the microbands width in the all investigated materials (Al99.5, AlCu4Zr, AlMg5, AlZn6Mg2.5CuZr). A characteristic feature of the microstructure of the compressed material was large density of the shear bands and microbands. It was found that the microbands show a large misorientation to the surrounds and, except Al99.5, the large density of dislocation.
In vitro isolation of stem cells derived from human dental pulp
Authors: Agha‐Hosseini Farzaneh , Jahani Mohammad‐Ali , Jahani Mohammad , Mirzaii‐Dizgah Iraj , Ali‐Moghaddam Kamran
Published: December 2009

Agha‐Hosseini F, Jahani M‐A, Jahani M, Mirzaii‐Dizgah I, Ali‐Moghaddam K. In vitro isolation of stem cells derived from human dental pulp. Clin Transplant 2009: DOI: 10.1111/j.1399‐0012.2009.01137.x. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Stem cells are characterized by the ability to differentiate and to self‐renew. Stem cells derived from human dental pulp have been shown to differentiate into osteoblasts serving as a potential source of autologous bone produced in vitro. The purpose of the present study was to isolate mesenchymal stem cells from dental pulp. Dental pulp was gently extracted from 27 intact human permanent third molars of patients aged 18–25. Cow horn forceps were used to isolate intact dental pulp in sterilized condition. The pulps were cultured in a medium containing Dulbecco’s modified Eagle’s medium‐low glucose (DMEM)‐LG and Amphotericin 1%. The cells were subsequently expanded by passages, two passages were performed before they were stored in liquid nitrogen for further examination. DMEM + fetal bovine serum (FBS) 10% L‐Glutamin 0.1% + Trypsin 2.5% + ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) were used for passage. Light microscope and flow cytometry were used to study the cells. The isolated dental pulp cells expressed mesenchymal stem cell markers. The cells were negative for CD34 and CD31 and CD45 but were positive for CD13, CD44, CD90, CD166, and CD105. These results indicate that dental pulp can be use as a source of stem cells that we can isolate and culture.
Soluble cytokeratin 18 biomarkers may provide information on the type of cell death during early ischemia and reperfusion periods of liver transplantation
Authors: Ulukaya Sezgin , Ulukaya Engin , Alper Isik , Yilmaztepe‐Oral Arzu , Kilic Murat
Published: December 2009

Ulukaya S, Ulukaya E, Alper I, Yilmaztepe‐Oral A, Kilic M. Soluble cytokeratin 18 biomarkers may provide information of the type of cell death during early ischemia and reperfusion periods of liver transplantation.  Clin Transplant 2010: 24: 848–854. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Hepatocellular damage takes place as a result of ischemia and reperfusion during liver transplantation (LT). To discriminate the type of cell death and quantitate its severity may provide new insights into the mechanisms of hepatocellular damage. Therefore, we investigated the type of cell death by ELISA‐based assays in patient sera. Apoptosis was specifically assessed by measuring a novel soluble biomarker, the caspase‐cleaved cytokeratin 18, while total cell death (apoptosis and necrosis) by cytokeratin 18 released from dead (necrotic and apoptotic) cells. Twenty‐seven live (LDLT) and 14 deceased (DDLT) donor liver transplantations were analyzed before the operation, at the anhepatic stage, first, sixth and 24th hour after the reperfusion. Both apoptosis and total cell death have successfully been demonstrated although they have not been confirmed by the liver biopsy that is impossible to perform in this setting. Apoptosis was not induced in LDLT. Total cell death (primarily necrosis) only transiently appeared the first hour after the reperfusion in LDLT, while it sharply increased the first hour after the reperfusion and maintained its level in DDLT. Soluble cytokeratin 18 biomarkers seem to be useful to discriminate and quantitate the type of cell death during early ischemia and reperfusion periods of LT.
A Look Back to Move Ahead: New Directions for Research on Proactive Performance and Other Discretionary Work Behaviours
Authors: Fay Doris , Sonnentag Sabine
Published: December 2009

Over the last two decades, the multi‐dimensional notion of job performance has been fully brought to life. The differentiation between core task performance and various aspects of discretionary work behaviour is now commonly applied. A multitude of empirical studies, enhancing our knowledge of the antecedents and consequences of the different performance aspects, have recently been summarised through various meta‐analyses. We use this as an occasion for taking stock in order to identify new areas of theorising and empirical research. Focusing in particular on proactive performance aspects, the present paper identifies three themes that could inspire new research and model development. We suggest taking a new approach to the treatment of time in order to account for the dynamic nature of performance on the one hand, and to consider life‐span changes on the other, developing comprehensive models on proactivity‐enhancing interventions, and more strongly incorporating a cross‐cultural perspective.

Durant les deux dernières décennies, la notion multidimensionnelle de performance au travail a été portée sur le devant de la scène. La différence entre la performance centrale dans la tâche et divers aspects de la conduite intentionnelle au travail est désormais entrée dans les esprits. Une multitude d'études empiriques qui enrichissent nos connaissances sur les antécédents et les conséquences des multiples facettes de la performance ont récemment été globalisées dans plusieurs méta‐analyses. Nous les exploitons afin d'ouvrir de nouveaux champs recherches théoriques et empiriques. En se focalisant en particulier sur les dimensions proactives de la performance, cet article identifie trois thèmes qui pourraient inspirer de nouvelles recherches et favoriser le développement de nouveaux modèles. On propose de traiter le temps différemment afin de prendre en compte d'une part le caractère dynamique de la performance et d'autre part les changements au cours de la vie, de développer des modèles exhaustifs des interventions améliorant la proactivité, et d'intégrer plus étroitement la perspective transculturelle.
The Criterion‐Related Validities and Perceived Fairness of the Situational Interview and the Situational Judgment Test in an Iranian Organisation
Authors: Banki Sara , Latham Gary P.
Published: December 2009

The criterion‐related validity coefficients of a situational interview (SI) and a situational judgment test (SJT) were investigated in a sales department of a government‐owned automobile company in Iran. Both the SI and SJT had concurrent validity with job performance (n= 101, r= .28, r= .23, p < .05, respectively). Only the SI, however, had incremental validity over and above the SJT in predicting job performance. Furthermore, the SI fully mediated the relationship between SJT and job performance. The two methods did not differ significantly on employee motivation to perform well, perceived fairness, or test anxiety. Nevertheless, employees recommended the use of the SI over the SJT.

Les coefficients de validité critérielle d'un entretien situationnel (SI) et d'un test de jugement situationnel (SJT) ont été calculés dans le service commercial d'une entreprise publique iranienne du secteur automobile. SI et SJT présentent tous les deux une validité concurrente avec la performance professionnelle (pour N = 101, r = .28 et .23 respectivement; sign. à .05). Toutefois, seul le SI bénéficie d'une validité incrémentielle par rapport au SJT dans la prédiction de la performance professionnelle. En outre, le SI contrôle totalement la relation entre le SJT et le critère. Les deux méthodes ne diffèrent pas significativement dans l'évaluation de la motivation au travail, de l'équité perçue ou de l'anxiété. Néanmoins les salariés préféraient le SI au SJT.
Does the Capitalization of Development Costs Improve Analyst Forecast Accuracy? Evidence from the UK
Authors: Anagnostopoulou Seraina C.
Published: December 2009

It has been documented that investments in Research and Development (R&D) are associated with increased errors and inaccuracy in earnings forecasts made by financial analysts. These deficiencies have been generally attributed to information complexity and the uncertainty of the future benefits of R&D. This paper examines whether the capitalization of development costs can reduce analyst uncertainty about the future economic outcome of R&D investments, provide outsiders with a better matching of future R&D‐related revenues and costs, and therefore promote accuracy in analyst forecasts. UK data is used, because accounting rules in the United Kingdom permitted firms to conditionally capitalize development costs even before the introduction of the International Financial Reporting Standards. The choice to expense R&D rather than conditionally capitalize development costs is found to relate positively to signed analyst forecast errors. This finding is robust to controlling for the influence of other factors that may affect errors, as well as for the influence of R&D investments on forecast errors. The decision to capitalize versus expense is not observed to have a significant influence on analyst forecast revisions. The findings are interpreted as evidence that the choice to capitalize as opposed to expense may help to reduce deficiencies in analyst forecasts; hence, is informative for users of financial statements. Increased informativeness is expected to have repercussions for the effectiveness with which analysts produce earnings forecasts, and, as a result, market efficiency.
W.K. Hancock and International Relations in Australia: the Commonwealth as a Model of World Government*
Authors: Cotton James
Published: December 2009

W.K. Hancock's most important contribution to Australian international relations is his Survey of the Commonwealth, a work informed by a nuanced analysis of the theory of sovereignty sympathetic to the Grotian position of the emerging “English school”. Committed to the contemporary idea of the Commonwealth centred on a shared affirmation of liberty derived from self‐rule, Hancock also took seriously but rejected a political economy approach. Though sceptical of some of the grander claims made for the Commonwealth, he did not sufficiently confront the anomalous position of India despite evidence that this question preoccupied him. His conception of the Commonwealth is ultimately derived from the prescription of J.C. Smuts for international organisation and is thus founded on the advocacy of a species of international society as the key to international order.
Sudhir Kakar and the Socio‐Psychological Explanation of Hindu‐Muslim Communal Riots in India
Authors: Saha Santosh
Published: December 2009

Concentrated principally in four of twenty‐eight Indian states, there have been more than 33,000 Hindu‐Muslim riots since 1947. Scholars have differently explained communal violence. Some have argued that there are innate qualities in Indian society which encourage what Donald Horowitz calls “deadly ethnic riot”. Psychoanalysts have wondered if proneness to violence is ingrained in India's religion‐based culture. After assessing several existing explanatory paradigms, I examine the legitimacy of psychoanalysis and some selected aspects of other explanations, arguing that both the rational and psychological theories help explain Hindu‐Muslim conflict. I submit that Sudhir Kakar, who worked with Erik Erikson at Harvard and trained at the Sigmund Freud Institute in Frankfurt, unduly follows the elitist French social psychologist, Gustave Le Bon (1895), to present violent communities as undifferentiated masses. Specifically, Kakar's contention that Hindu males are psychologically socialized by confrontational religious values deserves close scrutiny. Methodologically, drawing on the postmodern thesis of the de‐centered subject and minimizing the significance of the master narrative, I conclude that primordial ancient hatred is not programmed in India, arguing that Kakar's insights do not speak to religion's truth, but do help us understand its manifestation and political psychology.
THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN RETRACTED: STRENGTHENING THE LINK BETWEEN PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT AND DECISION MAKING
Authors: TAYLOR JEANNETTE
Published: December 2009

Retraction: The following article from Public Administration, ‘Strengthening the link between performance measurement and decision making’, by Jeannette Taylor, published online on 18 December 2009 in Wiley Online Library (www.wileyonlinelibrary.com) and in Volume 89:3, September 2011, pp. 860–878 (DOI: 10.1111/j.1467‐9299.2009.01802.x), has been retracted by agreement between the author, the journal Editor in Chief, Arjen Boin, and Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

The retraction has been agreed due to a production error, as a duplicate version of the article, entitled ‘Strengthening the link between performance measurement and decision making’ by the same author (DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-9299.2009.01788.x) was previously published in volume 87:4 of the same journal. The publishers apologise to the author and to our readers for this error.

REFERENCE

Taylor, J. (2011), Strengthening the Link Between Performance Measurement and Decision Making. Public Administration, 89: 860–878. doi: 10.1111/j.1467‐9299.2009.01802

Many public agencies now face dual pressures to meet external accountability demands on one hand, and improve their internal performance on the other. This begs the question whether the demands that are made on public agencies to externally report on their performance have a limited or wide ranging impact on the utilization of performance indicators (PIs) for internal improvements. This article addresses this question via a small group of public agencies and public accountability authorities in Australia. It also examines the main factors that affect the use of PIs for decision making. The evidence suggests that the agencies use PIs more for meeting external reporting requirements than for achieving internal improvements. Various constraints on the use of PIs were identified, mainly technical problems, and to a lesser extent, political and organizational issues.
Quality of sleep in primary focal dystonia: a case–control study
Authors: Avanzino L. , Martino D. , Marchese R. , Aniello M. S. , Minafra B. , Superbo M. , Defazio G. , Abbruzzese G.
Published: December 2009

Background:  Sleep disturbances are common in patients with movement disorders. Evaluating quality of sleep is of primary importance because of the effect that nocturnal and daytime sleep abnormalities exert on general health status. However, quality of sleep has never been addressed in detail in patients with dystonia. The aim of this case–control study was to analyse quality of sleep in patients with the two most common forms of primary focal dystonia, blepharospasm (BSP) and cervical dystonia (CD).

Methods:  We evaluated quality of sleep (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, PSQI) and excessive daytime sleepiness (Epworth Sleepiness Scale, ESS) in 98 patients with focal adult‐onset dystonia (52 with BSP; 46 with CD) and in a group of 56 age‐and gender‐matched healthy subjects. The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) was used for the evaluation of depressive symptomatology.

Results:  Quality of sleep was impaired (significantly higher PSQI scores) in both groups of patients. However, differences in PSQI scores between patients with CD and control subjects were partly confounded by BDI scores, whereas differences in PSQI scores between patients with BSP and control subjects were not influenced by BDI. Excessive daytime sleepiness was not significantly more frequent than in control subjects in either patients with BSP or patients with CD.

Conclusions:  This study suggests that the assessment and treatment of insomnia‐related complaints should be considered in global management plans of patients with focal dystonia, particularly in those affected by BSP.
Why Theological Hermeneutics Needs Rhetoric: Augustine's De doctrina Christiana
Authors: ANDREWS JAMES
Published: December 2009

To define theological interpretation, this article appeals to Augustine's De doctrina christiana. The article argues against the claim that De doctrina is a rhetorical handbook and asserts instead that the treatise can best be described as an ‘expanded hermeneutics’, that is, a hermeneutics that includes rhetoric. The discussion highlights that rhetoric is defined loosely as ‘communication’: the focus is on the target audience, not the mode of delivery. De doctrina is put into dialogue with a contemporary proponent of theological interpretation, Stephen Fowl, to highlight its distinctiveness. The article concludes that the paradigm for theological interpretation is the sermon.
The public pension system in Taiwan: Equity issues within and between systems
Authors: Shao Ai Ju
Published: December 2009

This article analyses the challenges facing the New Public Service Pension Fund System in Taiwan, China. After less than two decades of operation, this young system is facing financial imbalance and is embroiled in controversy regarding the generosity of its benefits provisions. The article first introduces Taiwan's different systems for old‐age security, with a focus on that for general public‐sector employees. It then addresses the financial challenges facing the general public‐sector pension system, including the rising cost of its benefits for all taxpayers. Finally, a number of possible reform directions are suggested, including lowering benefit levels, making qualifying criteria more stringent, or establishing a new system. With regards to the latter, any proposed new system must seek to satisfy the goal of longer‐term financial soundness while realizing optimal fairness among all stakeholders including taxpayers.
The ratification of ILO Conventions and the provision of unemployment benefits: An empirical analysis
Authors: Kim Wonik
Published: December 2009

This article tests the relationship between the ratification of International Labour Organization (ILO) Conventions and the provision of unemployment benefits. Statistical tests focus on two related issues: why countries ratify ILO Conventions on unemployment benefits, and whether ratification influences government spending on unemployment benefits. The main findings are that democracy, region, income, and globalization are the main factors influencing why countries ratify ILO Conventions on unemployment benefits. In turn, the ratification of ILO Conventions is systematically associated with higher spending if countries have ratified more than two Conventions.
The first case of alloantibody against human platelet antigen‐15b in Japan: possible alloimmunization by a hydatidiform mole
Authors: Matsuhashi Mika , Tsuno Nelson H. , Kawabata Michiru , Yokoyama Tomokazu , Tazaki Yukiko , Takashima Takeshi , Oda Hidetaka , Kuroda Yukari , Nagayoshi Yuji , Morita Shoji , Shibata Yoichi , Santoso Sentot , Takahashi Koki
Published: December 2009

BACKGROUND: The involvement of the human platelet antigen (HPA)‐15 system in neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (NAIT) has been reported in various populations, but not in the Japanese population. In Japan, the mixed passive hemagglutination assay (MPHA) is used for detection of HPA alloantibodies. However, most of the reported cases of HPA‐15 incompatibility are based on the monoclonal antibody immobilization of platelet antigen (MAIPA) assay or immunoprecipitation; thus there is a possibility that HPA‐15 alloantibodies are not efficiently detected by the MPHA, and currently, the causative antibody is not detectable in approximately half of the suspected NAIT cases in Japan.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: We examined the sera of mothers from NAIT cases, previously with undetected HPA antibodies by MPHA, using the MAIPA technique. Sera from 90 mothers of suspected NAIT were tested by MAIPA for the presence of anti‐HPA‐15 alloantibodies.

RESULTS: Anti‐HPA‐15b was detected in one case. This case was a mother in the first pregnancy diagnosed as hydatid mole–coexisting fetus, and the baby was born with suspected NAIT. The familial analysis revealed compatibility of HPA‐15 genotype between the mother and the baby (both HPA‐15a/a), but incompatibility with the paternal one (HPA‐15a/b). The hydatid mole's tissue was genotyped as HPA‐15b positive. Besides anti‐HPA‐15b, maternal sera contain strong HLA Class I antibody

CONCLUSIONS: Here we reported the first case of anti‐HPA‐15 in Japan. Alloimmunization against the hydatid mole seems to be responsible for the production of HPA‐15b alloantibody. This antibody, however, did not apparently involve in the development of NAIT of the newborn, the coexisting anti‐HLA Class I being the possible cause.
Pharmacokinetic Sub‐Study in the SPIRIT III Randomized and Controlled Trial of XIENCE V® Everolimus Eluting Coronary Stent System
Authors: WANG QING , PIERSON WESLEY , SOOD POORNIMA , BOL CORNELIS , CANNON LOUIS , GORDON PAUL , SAUCEDO JORGE , SUDHIR KRISHNANKUTTY
Published: December 2009

Background:

Drug‐eluting stents (DES) are widely used for treatment of coronary artery disease with benefit of reduced restenosis compared to bare metal stents. The XIENCE V
®
Everolimus Eluting Coronary Stent System is a second‐generation DES system for better deliverability while maintaining safety and efficacy profiles. The present pharmacokinetic sub‐study from the SPIRIT III Randomized and Controlled Trial (RCT) was to evaluate systemic exposure of patients to everolimus and to further demonstrate safety following implantation of XIENCE V
®
stents with everolimus doses ranging from 53 to 181 μg.

Methods and Results:

Drug concentrations in whole blood were determined at multiple time points using a validated analytical method with a limit of quantification of 0.1 ng/mL. Individual Cmax ranged from 0.17 to 2.40 ng/mL and occurred between 0.07 and 1.88 hours across all dose levels. Both mean and individual Cmax values were below the trough blood concentrations of everolimus (Certican®) for inhibition of organ transplant rejection. The last time point at which drug concentrations could be quantified ranged from 12 to 168 hours postimplantation in individual patients. In most cases, the blood levels dropped below the limit of quantification after 72 hours.

Conclusions:

This study confirms that the XIENCE V
®
stent causes a limited and systemic exposure to everolimus. The presumed localized and efficient delivery of everolimus to target vessels coupled with limited and transient systemic drug exposure contributes to the safety and effectiveness of the XIENCE V
®
EECSS in patients of SPIRIT III RCT for longer than 2 years. (J Interven Cardiol 2010;23:26–32)
A New Stent Design for the Treatment of True Bifurcation Lesions: H‐Side Branch Stents
Authors: HONG MYEONG‐KI , SHIM JAE‐MIN , YOUN YOUNG‐JIN , LEE KYUNG‐HOON , KIM JUNG‐SUN , KO YOUNG‐GUK , LEE SEUNG‐HWAN , CHOI DONGHOON , YOON JUNGHAN , JANG YANGSOO
Published: December 2009

Background:

There has been much debate for the adequate treatment strategies for true bifurcation lesions. The purpose of this study is to introduce and test a novel stent design for the treatment of true bifurcation lesions.

Methods:

This side branch stent is composed of three parts: proximal, connecting, and distal parts. The distal part for the side branch vessel has a slope‐side stent margin for circumferential coverage of the ostium and one radio‐opaque marker for targeting the carina. The proximal part with two radio‐opaque markers operates for safe stent delivery and useful guidance for a more precise placement of the distal part on the side branch ostium. Results of the in vitro test in the acrylic resin‐made bifurcation phantom model were evaluated with microcomputer tomography. Animal experiments with this new stent platform were also performed in five pigs.

Results:

In vitro test and microcomputer tomography showed complete coverage of the side branch ostium circumferentially with stent struts, and the absence of stent struts in the main vessel above the side branch ostium level. This side branch stents were successfully deployed in all 5 pigs. The results of animal experiments were also similar to those of in vitro tests.

Conclusions:

In vivo and vitro tests demonstrated the effective modality of this side branch stent for the treatment of true bifurcation lesions. (J Interven Cardiol 2010;23:54–59)
Integrating Horizontal Gene Transfer and Common Descent to Depict Evolution and Contrast It with “Common Design”1
Authors: PAZ‐Y‐MIÑO C. GUILLERMO , ESPINOSA AVELINA
Published: December 2009

ABSTRACT. Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) and common descent interact in space and time. Because events of HGT co‐occur with phylogenetic evolution, it is difficult to depict evolutionary patterns graphically. Tree‐like representations of life's diversification are useful, but they ignore the significance of HGT in evolutionary history, particularly of unicellular organisms, ancestors of multicellular life. Here we integrate the reticulated‐tree model, ring of life, symbiogenesis whole‐organism model, and eliminative pattern pluralism to represent evolution. Using Entamoeba histolytica alcohol dehydrogenase 2 (EhADH2), a bifunctional enzyme in the glycolytic pathway of amoeba, we illustrate how EhADH2 could be the product of both horizontally acquired features from ancestral prokaryotes (i.e. aldehyde dehydrogenase [ALDH] and alcohol dehydrogenase [ADH]), and subsequent functional integration of these enzymes into EhADH2, which is now inherited by amoeba via common descent. Natural selection has driven the evolution of EhADH2 active sites, which require specific amino acids (cysteine 252 in the ALDH domain; histidine 754 in the ADH domain), iron‐ and NAD+ as cofactors, and the substrates acetyl‐CoA for ALDH and acetaldehyde for ADH. Alternative views invoking “common design” (i.e. the non‐naturalistic emergence of major taxa independent from ancestry) to explain the interaction between horizontal and vertical evolution are unfounded.
Taking an Undergraduate Nutrition Course Results in Favorable Attitudes Toward a Healthful Diet and Improved Intake of Several Key Nutrients
Authors: Pawlak Roman , Cerutti Chandra Speight , Quinton Rena
Published: December 2009

The purpose of this research was to assess the impact of introductory undergraduate nutrition course on students’ attitudes toward healthy diet and on students’ intake of nutrients. A pre and post‐test design was used to assess changes in self‐reported nutrient intake. Open‐ended questions were asked to elicit responses about how/whether the course had any impact on their attitudes toward foods and dietary behavior. A statistically significant increase in fiber, folate, potassium, and calcium intake were observed, comparing post to pre‐test. A decrease in saturated fat intake in terms of energy percentage was observed. Increased awareness of the impact of diet on health was reported by students. A desire to increase intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and to decrease intake of fat and sugar was also reported. Students reported a willingness to eat less fast food and candies as well as drink fewer sodas. Thus, in this study a college nutrition course did effectively increase awareness of a healthy diet as well as change in attitude and modify dietary behavior.
Relationships Among Selected Demographic Variables and Adolescent Psychosocial Well‐Being
Authors: Wilburn Victor R. , Smith Delores E.
Published: December 2009

This study investigated the relationships among self‐esteem, social competence, stress, social support (family and peer), gender, and ethnicity among urban, rural, and suburban adolescents. The participants in this study were drawn from a nationally representative sample of adolescent youth. Analyses of data revealed that there were significant relationships between self‐esteem, social competence, stress, and social support. Significant differences within gender were found between self‐esteem, social competence, peer support, and stress. Also, there were significant ethnic differences in self‐esteem and peer support. Regression analyses revealed that both family and peer support accounted for a significant degree of the variation on self‐esteem and significant family and peer effects. No significant distinctions between geographic locations and the psychosocial variables were indicated.
Early History and Evolution of Nutrition Science in the United States of America
Authors: Pucciarelli Deanna L.
Published: December 2009

Nutrition Science in the 21st century dates back to at least before the 5th century BCE. Whereas early theories on the relationship between food and health outcomes were founded on philosophical thought or divine intervention, today's nutritionists source their advice from empirical evidence. This essay delineates and reconstructs nutrition science as the discipline evolves and progresses through scientific stages of change in early North America.
The Socioeconomic Factors in the Teaching of Needlecraft in 19th‐Century Malta
Authors: Portelli Lorraine
Published: December 2009

This article outlines the socioeconomic factors concerning the inception of the teaching of needlework in public and private educational institutions in Malta. In the 19th century, when Malta was a British colony, the local population faced very difficult economic conditions, which brought about widespread poverty. The teaching of basic needlework skills came to be seen as a way of improving the social conditions of the poorer classes by promoting domestic thrift and opening job opportunities for females. The study gives an account of the stages in which needlework became an integral part of the school curriculum, by analyzing the syllabi followed in Maltese schools. It also considers the importance given to teacher training, both for the teaching of girls and for the career prospects of female teachers in the light of the socioeconomic requirements of Maltese society in the 19th century.
How Domestic Skills Turn Out to be the Art of Everyday Life: Phenomenological Attitude as a Research Method in the Field of Home Economics
Authors: Heinilä Henna Sinikka
Published: December 2009

This article is based on my doctoral dissertation (2007) “Poiesis of everyday life—inquiry of domestic skills as a way of being‐in‐the‐world in the light of existentialist‐hermeneutics phenomenology.” The aim is to highlight the methodological possibilities that are part of the phenomenological philosophy. Included in this article are theoretical considerations that can be divided in three steps. Firstly, I describe the ontological starting point, which is unique to phenomenological thinking. Secondly, I bring out the method of arranging the research questions in line for ontological facts. Lastly, I present an example of how to grasp domestic skills in a phenomenological way. As conclusion, I present the ontological model of domestic skills as the art of everyday life.
Graduate Research Completed in Family and Consumer Sciences During 2008 and Arranged by Topic
Authors: Dodor Bernice , Pickard Mary J.
Published: December 2009

In an effort to create a compendium of graduate‐level research completed in Family and Consumer Sciences during 2008, contacts were made with 35 colleges and universities known to have graduate programs. More than 50 individuals were contacted by e‐mail, and college and university websites were consulted to identify new contacts when e‐mail was returned as undeliverable. Nineteen universities reported 154 theses and 75 dissertation titles for inclusion in this listing. These research efforts are reported by topic and as master’s theses and doctor’s dissertations. The collection of this information should be of value to graduate students who are contemplating their research focus and by researchers seeking to identify unpublished graduate research within program areas.
A taxonomy of biological information
Authors: Wagner Richard H. , Danchin Étienne
Published: December 2009

Reproduction, and thus information transfer across generations, is the most essential process of life, yet biologists lack a consensus on terms to define biological information. Unfortunately, multiple definitions of the same terms and other disagreements have long inhibited the development of a general framework for integrating the various categories of biological information. Currently, the only consensus is over two general categories, genetic information, which is encoded in DNA, and non‐genetic information, which is extracted from the environment. Non‐genetic information is the key to understanding gene‐environment interactions and is the raw material of fields such as developmental plasticity, behavior, communication, social learning and cultural evolution. In effect, differences in information possessed by individuals produce phenotypic variation. We thus define biological information as ‘factors that can affect the phenotype in ways that may influence fitness’. This definition encompasses all information that is potentially relevant to organisms, which includes the physical environment. Biological information can be acquired passively from genes or via processes such as epigenetics, parental effects and habitat inheritance, or actively by organisms sensing facts about their environment. The confusion over definitions mainly concerns non‐genetic information, which takes many more forms than genetic information. Much of the confusion derives from definitions based on how information is used rather than on the facts from which it is extracted. We recognize that a fact becomes information once it is detected. Information can thus be viewed analogously to energy in being either potential or realized. Another source of confusion is in the use of words outside their usual meanings. We therefore present intuitive definitions and classify them according to categories of facts in a hierarchical framework. Clarifying these concepts and terms may help researchers to manipulate facts, allowing a fuller study of biological information.
Inclusive heritability: combining genetic and non‐genetic information to study animal behavior and culture
Authors: Danchin Étienne , Wagner Richard H.
Published: December 2009

Phenotypic variance results from variation in biological information possessed by individuals. Quantitative geneticists often strive to partition out all environmental variance to measure heritability. Behavioral biologists and ecologists however, require methods to integrate genetic and environmental components of inherited phenotypic variance in order to estimate the evolutionary potential of traits, which encompasses any form of information that is inherited. To help develop this integration, we build on the tools of quantitative genetics and offer the concept of ‘inclusive heritability’ which identifies and unifies the various mechanisms of information transmission across generations. A controversial component of non‐genetic information is animal culture, which is the part of phenotypic variance inherited through social learning. Culture has the unique property of being transmitted horizontally and obliquely, as well as vertically. Accounting for cultural variation would allow us to examine a broader range of evolutionary mechanisms. Culture may, for instance, produce behavioral isolating mechanisms leading to speciation. To advance the study of animal culture, we offer a definition of culture that is rooted in quantitative genetics. We also offer four testable criteria to determine whether a trait is culturally inherited. These criteria may constitute a conceptual tool to study animal culture. We briefly discuss methods to partition out cultural variance. Several authors have recently called for ‘modernizing the modern synthesis’ by including non‐genetic factors such as epigenetics and phenotypic plasticity in order to more fully explain phenotypic evolution. Here, we further propose to broaden the concept of inheritance by incorporating the cultural component of behavior. Applying the concept of inclusive heritability may advance the integration of multiple forms of inheritance into the study of evolution.
Functional movement test scores improve following a standardized off‐season intervention program in professional football players
Authors: Kiesel K. , Plisky P. , Butler R.
Published: December 2009

The purpose of this study was to determine if an off‐season intervention program was effective in improving Functional Movement Screen™ (FMS) scores in professional American football players. Pre‐ and post‐intervention FMS scores were obtained on 62 subjects who completed a 7‐week off‐season intervention program. A repeated measures ANOVA was conducted to determine the effectiveness of the training program on FMS scores. A chi‐square was performed to determine if there were a greater number of players who met the injury threshold and if asymmetries were reduced following intervention. Logistic regression was used to predict what factors were associated with failure (post‐test score of <14). There was a positive main effect for time (P<0.01) and a greater number of individuals with a score >14 following the intervention. At post‐test, 41 players were free of asymmetry as compared with 31 at the pre‐test. The strongest predictor of program failure was a low squat score at pre‐test. This study demonstrated that fundamental movement characteristics do change with a standardized intervention. Further research is required to determine if injury risk is reduced when a player's score improves beyond the established cut‐off of 14 and/or asymmetry is resolved.
Skyscraper running: physiological and biomechanical profile of a novel sport activity
Authors: Minetti A. E. , Cazzola D. , Seminati E. , Giacometti M. , Roi G. S.
Published: December 2009

Skyscraper running is here analyzed in terms of mechanical and metabolic requirements, both at the general and at the individual level. Skyscraper runners' metabolic profile has been inferred from the total mechanical power estimated in 36 world records (48–421 m tall buildings), ranked by gender and age range. Individual athlete's performance (n=13) has been experimentally investigated during the Pirelli Vertical Sprint, with data loggers for altitude and heart rate (HR). At a general level, a non‐linear regression of Wilkie's model relating maximal mechanical power to event duration revealed the gender and age differences in terms of maximum aerobic power and anaerobic energy resources particularly needed at the beginning of the race. The total mechanical power was found to be partitioned among: the fraction devolved to raise the body center of mass , the need to accelerate the limbs with respect to the body , and running in turns between flights of stairs . At the individual level, experiments revealed that these athletes show a metabolic profile similar to middle‐distance runners. Furthermore, best skyscraper runners maintain a constant vertical speed and HR throughout the race, while others suddenly decelerate, negatively affecting the race performance.
An examination of serotonin and psychological variables in the relationship between exercise and mental health
Authors: Wipfli B. , Landers D. , Nagoshi C. , Ringenbach S.
Published: December 2009

Research has revealed that exercise is effective for reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. The mechanisms by which these reductions occur, however, have not been widely studied. To examine several potential theories, a prospective, randomized, 7‐week exercise intervention was conducted. Untrained participants were randomly assigned to an aerobic exercise group or to a stretching‐control group. Participants completed several questionnaires to assess psychological variables, including measures of depression and anxiety, and blood was drawn at pre‐ and post‐test to measure serum serotonin levels. A mixed‐design ANOVA revealed that the exercise group had lower levels of depression than the stretching‐control group after the intervention. The exercise group also showed a larger percentage decrease in serotonin than the stretching‐control group. This reduction in blood serotonin after exercise is similar to the effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Additionally, percent change in serotonin was found to partially mediate the relationship between exercise and depression.
Job guarantees – easing the pain of long‐term unemployment
Authors: Gregg Paul
Published: December 2009

Paul Gregg assesses the effectiveness of policies that use work experience for getting young Britons back into jobs and draws out some lessons for the design of the proposed ‘Young Person's Guarantee’
Enough of ‘tough’: Youth Justice in Scotland
Authors: Juetten Nico
Published: December 2009

How can we build an effective youth justice system that enjoys public confidence while recognising that children must be redeemable?Nico Juetten presents a view from Scotland, considering the challenges to the children's hearings system
Parathyroid Gland Ultrasound Patterns and Biochemical Findings After One‐year Cinacalcet Treatment for Advanced Secondary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Vulpio Carlo , Bossola Maurizio , De Gaetano Annamaria , Maresca Giulia , Di Stasio Enrico , Zagaria Luca , Luciani Giovanna , Giordano Alessandro , Castagneto Marco
Published: December 2009

Cinacalcet efficacy is limited in severe secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) and its effect on parathyroid gland (PTG) volume and morphology have not been sufficiently investigated. We evaluated the effect of cinacalcet treatment for one year on the laboratory parameters of calcium–phosphorus metabolism and PTG ultrasound (US) patterns in hemodialysis (HD) patients with severe SHPT and US results indicative of nodular hyperplasia. Thirteen HD patients with severe SHPT (intact parathyroid hormone >700 pg/mL), US/scintigraphic evidence of at least one PTG with a diameter >7 mm, and high surgical risk or refusal of surgery were included. The patients were treated with cinacalcet. The initial dose of 30 mg was increased up to 180 mg once daily. At baseline and after one year of cinacalcet treatment a neck US was performed, providing data on 22 parathyroid glands in eight patients. The mean diameter at baseline and at one year was 12.6 ± 5.9 and 13.0 ± 5.3 mm, respectively (P = 0.46). Similarly, the mean volume at baseline and at one year was 513.4 ± 416.3 and 556.8 ± 480.8 mm3, respectively (P = 0.18). The US structural score remained unchanged in 16 parathyroid glands and increased in 6 (P < 0.03), while the vascular score remained unchanged in 16 parathyroid glands and decreased in 6 (P = 0.25). Thus it can be concluded that cinacalcet treatment for one year in HD patients with severe SHPT is not associated with significant changes in parathyroid gland US patterns.