bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probing the Locally Generated Even and Odd Order Nonlinearity in Y–Ba–Cu–O and Tl–Ba–Ca–Cu–O (2212) Microwave Resonators Around

Authors: Jeries Brooke , Cratty Sean , Remillard S
Published: December 2012

Spatial scanning of the synchronously generated second- and third-order intermodulation distortion in superconducting resonators uncovers local nonlinearity hot spots, and possible time reversal symmetry breaking, using a simple probe fashioned from coaxial cable. It is clear that even and odd order nonlinearity in these samples do not share the same physical origins, because their temperature and static magnetic field dependences are quite different. 2nd order intermodulation distortion remains strong in these measurements as the temperature continues to drop belowTCto 77 K even though the 3rd order peaks nearTCand becomes smaller at lower temperature as predicted by the nonlinear Meissner effect. Both YBa2Cu3O7and Tl2Ba2CaCu2O8resonators of the same structure exhibit similar temperature dependence in the second order with second order remaining high at lower temperature. The YBa2Cu3O7sample has lower third-order intermodulation distortion with a pronounced peak atTC.
Angiodysplasia and bleeding in the small intestine treated by balloon‐assisted enteroscopy
Authors: Fan Guin Wei , Chen Tsung‐Hsing , Lin Wei‐Pin , Su Ming‐Yao , Sung Chang‐Mung , Hsu Chen‐Ming , Chi Cheng‐Tang
Published: December 2012

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes in patients undergoing balloon‐assisted enteroscopy (BAE) with heat probe or argon plasma coagulation and to identify risk factors for recurrent bleeding.

Methods

Data of the patients who were consecutively referred to our institution with angiodysplastic bleeding of the small intestine between August 2005 and February 2010 were reviewed. These 39 patients underwent BAE and were followed up for 6 months.

Results

In all, 31 patients had melena and 8 had hematochezia. On BAE, 26 patients received endoscopic therapy, 3 underwent surgical intervention due to endoscopic therapy failure, and 10 underwent observation because a definite source of bleeding was not identified. Ten patients (25.6%) had recurrent bleeding during follow‐up, including eight patients in the endoscopic therapy group and two in the observation group. Higher rates of recurrent bleeding were observed in association with the presence of melena initially (P = 0.028), but there were no significant differences in the rate of recurrence between patients who did and did not receive endoscopic therapy (P = 0.470). Age greater than 65 years (P = 0.058) and jejunal bleeding (P = 0.050) tended to increase the risk of recurrent bleeding compared with other factors.

Conclusions

BAE may be a beneficial approach to treat angiodysplastic bleeding in the small intestine. Elderly patients and those with melena or jejunal bleeding should be closely monitored for recurrent bleeding.
Clinical and histological features of autoantibody‐negative autoimmune hepatitis in Chinese patients: A single center experience
Authors: Wang Qi Xia , Jiang Wei Jun , Miao Qi , Xiao Xiao , Zhang Hai Yan , Huang Shan Shan , Shen Lei , Hua Jing , Li Hai , Li Shen , Qiu De Kai , Ma Xiong
Published: December 2012

Objective

This study aimed to define the clinical features of Chinese patients with autoantibody‐negative autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and to refine the diagnosis and management of these atypical patients in a single Chinese center.

Methods 

A retrospective evaluation of 167 Chinese patients with AIH was performed. Patients meeting comprehensive criteria with the absence of antinuclear antibodies, smooth muscle antibodies, liver‐kidney microsomal‐1 antibodies and antimitochondrial antibodies were defined as autoantibody‐negative patients.

Results 

In total, 17 (10.2%) of the 167 patients with AIH were autoantibody‐negative. The general status and biochemical tests between the classical and autoantibody‐negative patients were not significantly different (P > 0.05). Serum immunoglobulin G levels of the autoantibody‐negative AIH patients were lower than those of the classical AIH ones (P = 0.004). There was no significant difference in the histological inflammatory grades between the two groups; however, advanced histological stages were more common in the autoantibody‐negative AIH group (P < 0.001). In the autoantibody‐negative AIH patients, 11 (64.7%) had a possible diagnosis and 6 (35.3%) had a definite diagnosis according to the comprehensive criteria. While with the simplified criteria only 3 patients (17.6%) had a possible diagnosis, and none had a definite diagnosis of AIH. The complete biochemical remission rate was 86% within 24 months of immunosuppressive therapy, which was comparable to classical AIH (P = 0.658).

Conclusion

Autoantibody‐negative AIH is not uncommon in Chinese AIH patients, and has a good response to immunosuppressive treatment comparable to classical patients.
Income, income inequality and youth smoking in low‐ and middle‐income countries
Authors: Li David X. , Guindon G. Emmanuel
Published: December 2012

Aims

To examine the relationships between income, income inequality and current smoking among youth in low‐ and middle‐income countries.

Design

Pooled cross‐sectional data from the Global Youth Tobacco Surveys, conducted in low‐ and middle‐income countries, were used to conduct multi‐level logistic analyses that accounted for the nesting of students in schools and of schools in countries.

Participants

A total of 169 283 students aged 13–15 from 63 low‐ and middle‐income countries.

Measurements

Current smoking was defined as having smoked at least one cigarette in the past 30 days. Gross domestic product (GDP) per capita was our measure of absolute income. Contemporaneous and lagged (10‐year) Gini coefficients, as well as the income share ratio of the top decile of incomes to the bottom decile, were our measures of income inequality.

Findings

Our analyses reveal a significant positive association between levels of income and youth smoking. We find that a 10% increase in GDP per capita increases the odds of being a current smoker by at least 2.5%, and potentially considerably more. Our analyses also suggest a relationship between the distribution of incomes and youth smoking: youth from countries with more unequal distributions of income tend to have higher odds of currently smoking.

Conclusions

There is a positive association between gross domestic product and the odds of a young person in a low‐ and middle‐income country being a current smoker. Given the causal links between smoking and a wide range of youth morbidities, the association between smoking and income inequality may underlie a substantial portion of the health disparities observed that are currently experiencing rapid economic growth.
A randomized controlled trial of motivational interviewing to prevent risk for an alcohol‐exposed pregnancy in the Western Cape, South Africa
Authors: Rendall‐Mkosi Kirstie , Morojele Neo , London Leslie , Moodley Saiendhra , Singh Chitra , Girdler‐Brown Brendan
Published: December 2012

Aim

To test the effectiveness of motivational interviewing (MI) to reduce the risk of an alcohol exposed pregnancy (AEP) in a high‐risk population.

Design

Randomized controlled trial.

Setting

Rural population in the Western Cape, South Africa.

Participants

A total of 165 women aged 18–44 years at risk of AEP.

Intervention

Five‐session MI intervention.

Measurements

Structured questionnaires were administered pre‐intervention and at 3 and 12 months follow‐up. The primary outcome measure was AEP at 12 months. Secondary outcomes were AEP at 3 months, and alcohol use and effective contraception at 3 and 12 months.

Findings

There was a significant difference in the decline in the proportion of women at risk for an AEP in the MI group at 3 months (50 versus 24.59%; P = 0.004), maintained at 12 months (50.82 versus 28.12%; P = 0.009). In an intention‐to‐treat analysis these differences were also significant (32.93 versus 18.07%; P = 0.029; and 37.80 versus 21.69%; P = 0.024, respectively). The odds ratio for no longer being at risk of an AEP (MI versus control) at 12 months was 2.64 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.18–5.94]. In the intention‐to‐treat analysis this ratio was 2.19 (95% CI: 1.05–4.65).

Conclusions

A five‐session motivational interviewing intervention was found to be effective with women at risk of an alcohol‐exposed pregnancy, and could be implemented as part of routine primary care clinic services in similar populations. The message of ‘no alcohol in pregnancy’ should be adapted to include better family planning and early recognition of pregnancy.
Investigating the impact of nicotine on executive functions using a novel virtual reality assessment
Authors: Jansari Ashok S. , Froggatt Daniel , Edginton Trudi , Dawkins Lynne
Published: December 2012

Aims

Nicotine is known to enhance aspects of cognitive functioning in abstinent smokers, but the effects on specific areas of executive functions and in non‐smokers are inconclusive. This may be due in part to the poor sensitivity of tests used to assess executive functions. This study used a new virtual reality assessment of executive functions known as JEF (the Jansari assessment of Executive Functions) to address this issue.

Design

A 2 × 2 design manipulating group (smokers and never‐smokers) and drug [nicotine (4 mg for smokers; 2 mg for never smokers) versus placebo gum].

Setting

School of Psychology; University of East London

Participants

Seventy‐two participants (aged 18–54 years): 36 minimally deprived (2 hours) smokers and 36 never‐smokers.

Measurements

Components of executive function were measured using the virtual reality paradigm JEF, which assesses eight cognitive constructs simultaneously as well as providing an overall performance measure.

Findings

Univariate analyses of variance revealed that nicotine improved overall JEF performance, time‐based prospective memory and event‐based prospective memory in smokers (P < 0.01), but not in never‐smokers. Action‐based prospective memory was enhanced in both groups (P < 0.01) and never‐smokers out‐performed smokers on selective thinking and adaptive thinking (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Executive functioning and prospective memory as aspects of cognitive performance can be enhanced by nicotine gum in smokers who have abstained for as little as 2 hours.
Systematic review: diet–gene interactions and the risk of colorectal cancer
Authors: Andersen V. , Holst R. , Vogel U.
Published: December 2012

Background

Diet contributes significantly to colorectal cancer (CRC) aetiology and may be potentially modifiable.

Aim

To review diet–gene interactions, aiming to further the understanding of the underlying biological pathways in CRC development.

Methods

The PubMed and Medline were systematically searched for prospective studies in relation to diet, colorectal cancer and genetics.

Results

In a meta‐analysis, no interaction between NAT1 phenotypes and meat intake in relation to risk of CRC was found (P‐value for interaction 0.95). We found a trend towards interaction between NAT2 phenotypes and meat intake in relation to risk of CRC. High meat intake was not associated with risk of CRC among carriers of the slow NAT2 phenotype, whereas NAT2 fast acetylators with high meat intake were at increased risk of CRC (OR = 1.25; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.92–2.01) compared with slow acetylators with low meat intake (reference), P‐value for interaction = 0.07. Low meat intake in the studied populations may influence the result. Interactions between meat, cruciferous vegetables, fibres, calcium, vitamins, and alcohol and ABCB1, NFKB1, GSTM1, GSTT1, CCND1, VDR, MGTM, IL10 and PPARG are suggested.

Conclusions

A number of interactions between genetic variation and diet are suggested, but the findings need replication in independent, prospective, and well‐characterised cohorts before conclusions regarding the underlying biological mechanisms can be reached. When the above criteria are met, studies on diet–gene interactions may contribute valuable insight into the biological mechanisms underlying the role of various dietary items in colorectal carcinogenesis.
Ultrasound imaging of the serratus anterior muscle at rest and during contraction
Authors: Talbott Nancy R. , Witt Dexter W.
Published: December 2012

The purpose of this study is to describe a clinically feasible method for measuring the thickness of the serratus anterior (SA) muscle using rehabilitative ultrasound imaging (RUSI) and to determine the reliability of repeated measures of that method. An exploratory clinical measurement study using a test–retest methodology was utilized to determine the reliability of the measurements in a sample of 20 healthy subjects. While sitting with the arm flexed 120°, the SA of each subject was imaged at rest, during an active hold and while holding a three pound weight. On Day 1, images were repeated three times for each condition by the same examiner. On Day 2, Examiner 1 and Examiner 2 repeated the scans. Images were examined offline by Examiner 1 with SA thickness measured superior to the most distal rib in the image. Reliability was evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and Bland–Altman plots. The intra‐examiner reliability (same day) during rest, active hold and active hold with resistance was ICC3,3 = 0·892; ICC3,3 = 0·951; and ICC3,3 = 0·869–0·971, respectively. Intra‐examiner reliability between days ranged from ICC3,2 = 0·613 at rest to ICC3,2 = 0·736 during active hold with resistance. Interexaminer reliability was moderate during active hold (ICC2,2 = 0·526) and active hold with resistance (ICC2,2 = 0·535) and poor during rest (ICC2,2 = 0·425). This study demonstrates that SA thickness can be measured reliably using RUSI by the same examiner and suggests that active movements may increase that reliability.
Non‐invasive characterization of pore‐related and elastic properties of soils in linear Biot–Stoll theory using acoustic‐to‐seismic coupling
Authors: Shin H.‐C. , Taherzadeh S. , Attenborough K. , Whalley W. R. , Watts C. W.
Published: December 2012

Soil structure, moisture content and strength have profound effects on plant growth. Traditional methods for monitoring soil condition are invasive and therefore may affect the samples of interest. We have demonstrated the potential of a non‐invasive measurement technique for the in situ monitoring of soil physical properties in the field. When soils are regarded as porous and elastic media, sub‐surface wave propagation can be indicative of the soil status. Such propagation can be initiated by airborne sound through acoustic‐to‐seismic (A–S) coupling. Measurements of near‐surface sound pressure and acoustically induced soil particle motion can be exploited to estimate the pore‐related and elastic properties of soils. We have conducted laboratory measurements on dry and wet sand and field measurements on an arable soil growing wheat using a compression driver, microphones and a laser Doppler vibrometer. The excitation levels were chosen so as to reduce the influence of soil non‐linearity while still yielding sufficient signal‐to‐noise ratios. Measured data were compared with model predictions based on wave propagation in layered homogeneous isotropic poro‐elastic media described by linear Biot‐Stoll theory. Soil properties were estimated through an optimization process minimizing the differences between the measurements and predictions. Latin hypercube sampling was adopted to ensure uniform seeding for optimization throughout the multi‐dimensional search space. The fitted soil characteristics are air permeability, porosity, P‐/S‐wave speeds (related to bulk and rigidity moduli) and a loss factor. Layer depth was also estimated for multi‐layered samples. The current work has demonstrated that soil can be characterized non‐invasively by using A–S coupling. It is also shown that field soils can be represented adequately by multiple homogeneous layers.
Foraging behavior of Brachygastra lecheguana (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) on Banisteriopsis malifolia (Malpighiaceae): Extrafloral nectar consumption and herbivore predation in a tending ant system
Authors: Alves‐Silva Estevao , Barônio Gudryan Jackson , Torezan‐Silingardi Helena Maura , Del‐Claro Kleber
Published: December 2012

In the Brazilian savanna many plant species bear regular associations with patrolling ants that are aggressive towards insect herbivores. However, not only ants but also several species of predatory wasps are attracted to plants due to the extrafloral nectaries (EFNs). Such wasps feed on both herbivores and plant exudates. In this study we describe the foraging behavior of the social Polistinae wasp Brachygastra lecheguana in the extrafloral nectaried shrub Banisteriopsis malifolia, and investigated the influence of patrolling ants Camponotus blandus on the activity of the wasp. Brachygastra lecheguana fed on the endophytic larvae of Anthonomus (Curculionidae) beetles that developed inside flower buds. The wasp lacerated the bud layers to reach the beetle larvae located at the bud core. The wasp visits to Ba. malifolia were statistically related to the abundance of flower buds and beetles. Ant exclusion experiments revealed that the hunting behavior of B. lecheguana on beetles was not related to the absence of C. blandus. However we found that wasps spent more time consuming extrafloral nectar on branches where ants were excluded. This is the first study reporting extrafloral nectar consumption by B. lecheguana, as well as the predation on herbivores in natural areas. In cerrado vegetation, ants benefit the plant by reducing insect herbivores, and our study provides evidence that the B. lecheguana – Ba. malifolia system represents a potential interaction where the wasp may also benefit the host plant. The value of this wasp species as a plant‐guard is discussed.
Regulators of synaptic transmission: Roles in the pathogenesis and treatment of epilepsy
Authors: Casillas‐Espinosa Pablo M. , Powell Kim L. , O’Brien Terence J.
Published: December 2012

Synaptic transmission is the communication between a presynaptic and a postsynaptic neuron, and the subsequent processing of the signal. These processes are complex and highly regulated, reflecting their importance in normal brain functioning and homeostasis. Sustaining synaptic transmission depends on the continuing cycle of synaptic vesicle formation, release, and endocytosis, which requires proteins such as dynamin, syndapin, synapsin, and synaptic vesicle protein 2A. Synaptic transmission is regulated by diverse mechanisms, including presynaptic modulators of synaptic vesicle formation and release, postsynaptic receptors and signaling, and modulators of neurotransmission. Neurotransmitters released presynaptically can bind to their postsynaptic receptors, the inhibitory γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic receptors or the excitatory glutamate receptors. Once released, glutamate activates a variety of postsynaptic receptors including α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA), N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA), kainate, and metabotropic receptors. The activation of the receptors triggers downstream signaling cascades generating a vast array of effects, which can be modulated by a numerous auxiliary regulatory subunits. Moreover, different neuropeptides such as neuropeptide Y, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), somatostatin, ghrelin, and galanin, act as regulators of diverse synaptic functions and along with the classic neurotransmitters. Abnormalities in the regulation of synaptic transmission play a critical role in the pathogenesis of numerous brain diseases, including epilepsy. This review focuses on the different mechanisms involved in the regulation of synaptic transmission, which may play a role in the pathogenesis of epilepsy: the presynaptic modulators of synaptic vesicle formation and release, postsynaptic receptors, and modulators of neurotransmission, including the mechanism by which drugs can modulate the frequency and severity of epileptic seizures.
Condition‐Dependent Choosiness For Highly Attractive Songs In Female Canaries
Authors: Lerch Alexandre , Rat‐Fischer Lauriane , Nagle Laurent
Published: December 2012

Partner choice in animals has evolved under the effects of intra‐ and inter‐sexual selection. Even if a consensus between females is often observed towards some males, certain females can drastically change their mating decision. Different conditions such as early learning, mate‐choice copying, prior experience or subtle intrinsic factors can interfere with the decision. One of them is body condition of the females at the time of choosing. In this experiment, the flight feathers of female canaries Serinus canaria were cut, thus decreasing their flight ability. After a short period in a flight room, two types of artificial songs containing different tempi of the test ‘A’ phrase (16 vs. 8 syllables per second) were played to these females. It is known that only A phrases with a high tempo provoke a high level of sexual response in females. Female preference was evaluated by counting the number of Copulation Solicitation Displays (CSDs). The results show that, in both (normal and physically reduced) conditions, females prefer songs containing an A16 phrase. However, the strength of this preference is lower in females with compromised body condition than in females from the control group, suggesting a decreased choosiness in the poor body condition females.
Selective Eavesdropping Behaviour in Three Neotropical Bat Species
Authors: Übernickel Kirstin , Tschapka Marco , Kalko Elisabeth K. V.
Published: December 2012

Knowledge of interspecies information transfer in mammals is scarce compared with other taxa. We investigated whether eavesdropping on echolocation calls of bats may be used by sympatric bats with similar feeding ecology. We performed playback experiments with three free‐ranging neotropical bat species, broadcasting search phase calls or feeding buzzes of conspecifics and heterospecifics belonging either to the same or to another bat family. Both the greater fishing batNoctilio leporinusand the lesser bulldog batNoctilio albiventris(Noctilionidae) reacted with repeated approaches in response to playbacks of search phase calls and feeding buzzes from conspecifics and also to congeneric feeding buzzes.Noctilio leporinusalso were attracted by search phase calls from its sister speciesN. albiventris. In contrast, the sac‐winged batSaccopteryx bilineata(Emballonuridae) did not react to any playback sequences presented. Our results support the existence of eavesdropping behaviour for both species ofNoctilio. We suggest that information transfer via eavesdropping may depend mainly on species‐specific traits, including foraging style and social behaviour (territoriality, group foraging), and on distribution and density of prey. Call design had only a minor influence on the reaction.
Altered Oceanic pH Impairs Mating Propensity in a Pipefish
Authors: Sundin Josefin , Rosenqvist Gunilla , Berglund Anders
Published: December 2012

Anthropogenic disturbance is currently altering the environment of terrestrial as well as aquatic organisms. Those changes affect a variety of animal behaviours, which in turn may cause changes in species interactions, population dynamics and evolutionary processes. In marine ecosystems, nutrient enrichment may elevate pH, while it is reduced by carbon dioxide‐induced ocean acidification. These two processes are not expected to balance one another but rather to affect the environment at different times and scales. We here show experimentally that an increase in water pH has a negative effect on mating propensity in the broad‐nosed pipefish Syngnathus typhle, whereas lowered pH did not elicit the same detrimental effect. This study provides, to our knowledge, the first evidence that mating propensity is impaired by an increase in pH, suggesting that anthropogenic nutrient enrichment in aquatic ecosystems may change the processes of sexual selection and population dynamics solely on the basis of altered water pH.
Outcomes of an Intensive Couple Relationship Education Program with Fragile Families
Authors: Wilde Jason L. , Doherty William J.
Published: December 2012

Couple relationship education (CRE) has been proposed as one means to help fragile families stabilize their relationships. The current research is one of the first studies to look at the outcomes of a CRE program with fragile families in the areas of couple stability and marriage formation. Data were from the Family Formation Project, a federal and state funded program working with fragile family couples (n = 96) in a metropolitan area. A historical cohort control group quasi‐experimental research design was used with a matched control group from the Fragile Family and Child Well‐being Study. The intervention consisted of in‐home education and support, group educational events, and social service referrals. Findings showed that couples had the same rate of couple stability as the control group but an increased rate of marriage. These findings suggest that CRE can help fragile families achieve marriage when that is their goal, but that some fragile families may need more than CRE to help them stabilize their relationship, or they may be better off separating.
Referral and management options for patients with chronic kidney disease: perspectives of patients, generalists and specialists
Authors: Wilson Charlotte , Campbell Stephen M. , Luker Karen A. , Caress Ann‐Louise
Published: December 2012

Background

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is increasing in prevalence and significance as a global public health issue. Appropriate management of CKD stages 3–4 in either generalist or specialist care is essential in order to slow disease progression. As various consulting options between services may be used, it is important to understand how patients and practitioners view these options.

Objective

To elicit patient and practitioner views and preferences on the acceptability and appropriateness of referral practices and consulting options for CKD stage 3–4.

Design

A mixed methods approach involving a semi‐structured interview and structured rating exercise administered by telephone.

Setting & participants

Adult (18+) patients with CKD stage 3–4 were recruited via their General Practitioner (GP). Practitioners were recruited from both general and specialist services.

Results

Sixteen patients and twenty‐two practitioners participated in the study between July and September, 2011. Both patients and practitioners preferred ‘GP with access to a specialist’ and least preferred ‘Specialist Review’. Computer review and telephone review were acceptable to participants under certain conditions. Practitioners favoured generalist management of patients with CKD 3. Specialists recommended active discharge of patients with stabilised stage 4 back to generalist care. Both generalists and specialists strongly supported sharing patients' medical records via electronic consultation systems.

Conclusion

Participants tended to prefer the current model of CKD management. Suggested improvements included; increasing the involvement of patients in referral and discharge decisions; improving the adequacy of information given to specialists on referral and encouraging further use of clinical guidelines in practice.
Family as a whole: elective surgery patients’ perception of the meaning of family involvement in decision making
Authors: Lin Mei‐Ling , Pang Mei‐Che S , Chen Ching‐Huey
Published: December 2012

Aims and objectives.  This study aimed to explore patient perception of the meaning of family involvement in elective surgery decision making in Taiwan.

Background.  Informed consent is based on respecting patient autonomy. However in cultures where family plays a key role in medical decision making, a patient’s perspective of family involvement has not been fully investigated.

Design and methods.  Based on a phenomenological approach, this study conducted semistructured interviews to elicit the experiences of 10 elective surgery patients in southern Taiwan who had family present during their surgery decision making. An adapted version of Colaizzi’s (1978) method was used to analyse narratives.

Results.  Three themes emerged from the elective surgery patients’ perception of the meaning of family involvement in their surgery decision‐making process: (1) Primacy of family well‐being, (2) family as information broker, and (3) family as patient advocate. Patients articulated reciprocal relationships amongst family members, and they expressed overall family well‐being as their ultimate concern when making their treatment decision. The essence of the elective surgery patients’ perception of the meaning of family involvement in decision making was ‘family as a whole’.

Conclusions.  Patients’ concern for overall family well‐being and their perspective that family plays a supportive role in transmitting information and acting as patient advocate during the decision‐making process may both enhance and restrict individual patient autonomy. In cultures where family is central in decision making, appropriately involving the family in medical decisions should not be overlooked.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Understanding and acknowledging the important roles of family in medical decision making from the patients’ perspective can enable health professionals to more effectively communicate with patients and their family. Then, health professionals can empower the individual who is making the medical decision based on his or her own needs.
Weak Convergence of the Wild Bootstrap for the Aalen–Johansen Estimator of the Cumulative Incidence Function of a Competing Risk
Authors: BEYERSMANN JAN , TERMINI SUSANNA DI , PAULY MARKUS
Published: December 2012

Abstract. We give a rigorous study of weak convergence of the wild bootstrap for non‐parametric estimation of the cumulative event probability of a competing risk. The data may be subject to independent left‐truncation and right‐censoring. Inclusion of left‐truncation is motivated by a study on pregnancy outcomes. The wild bootstrap includes as one case a popular resampling technique, where the limit distribution is approximated by repeatedly generating standard normal variates, while the data are kept fixed. Simulation results and a data example are also presented.
A Novel Method for Transcranial Doppler Microembolic Signal Monitoring at the Vertebrobasilar Junction in Vertebral Artery Dissection Patients
Authors: Yamaoka Y. , Ichikawa Y. , Kimura T. , Sameshima T. , Ochiai C. , Morita A.
Published: December 2012

BACKGROUND

Vertebral artery dissection (VAD) is one of the most important etiologies in young stroke patients. VAD causes ischemic stroke by embolism and transcranial Doppler (TCD) monitoring can detect microemboli originating from the dissection point as high intensity transient signals (HITS). We developed a simple but novel method of TCD monitoring at the vertebrobasilar junction in VAD patients.

METHODS

We placed a Welder TCD headband upside down on the patient's head and rotated it by 90°. Then we fixed a pulsed‐wave 2‐MHz TCD probe to the headband and put it on the suboccipital paramedian area of the patient. With a patient in the lateral decubitus position, the vertebrobasilar junction was identified at a depth of approximately 80 mm.

RESULTS

We examined 11 patients with VAD and detected HITS in 2 patients (18%). In 1 patient HITS disappeared after heparinization, and in the other patient HITS disappeared after treatment with aspirin. All of 9 HITS‐negative patients and 1 of 2 HITS‐positive patients experienced no ischemic recurrence during hospitalization.

CONCLUSION

We successfully detected HITS at the vertebrobasilar junction in VAD patients, which may lead not only to an appropriate choice of antithrombotic drugs but also to individual evaluation of early risk of ischemic recurrence.
Is Birdsong Music?
Authors: Araya-Salas Marcelo
Published: December 2012

The nightingale, the lark ascending; the cuckoo, the dawn chorus; since ancient times man has found beauty in birdsong. It appeals to our senses. It inspires composers. But is it music? Marcelo Araya-Salas listens to the nightingale wren and tries to find out if it is singing in tune.
The L'Aquila Earthquake: Science or Risk on Trial?
Authors: Prats Jordi
Published: December 2012

On April 6th 2009 a major earthquake devastated the Italian town of L'Aquila, with the loss of 309 lives. In October this year six scientists and a government official were sentenced to 6 years each for providing “Significance, incomplete and contradictory information” on the probability and risk of an earthquake and for falsely reassuring the population. Jordi Prats examines the case.
Breast Implants: The Scandal, the Outcry, and Assessing the Risks
Authors: Spiegelhalter David , Knight Stuart , Sant Tony
Published: December 2012

The PIP scandal broke last year: thousands of women had received substandard breast implants that contained industrial-grade gel and were liable to leak. What were the risks? Should the implants be removed? Amid huge public outcry, David Spiegelhalter, Stuart Knight and Tony Sant were asked urgently to report.
Statistics of Statisticians: Critical Masses for Research Groups
Authors: Kenna Ralph , Berche Bertrand
Published: December 2012

If you work in a group of researchers, how big should your group be? Too small, and you have no one to bounce ideas off – and you may face extinction by funding cuts. Big groups bring fertile interactions and better-quality work. So is bigger always better? And does it depend on what you are researching?Ralph Kenna and Bertrand Berche have found out …
Graciela Bevacqua
Authors: Carriquiry Alicia
Published: December 2012

Graciela Bevacqua found herself at the centre of astonishing pressures from the government of Argentina to manipulate official statistics. As head of the national statistics institute, she refused to publish falsified inflation indices; she faced fines and threats of imprisonment. Alicia Carriquiry spoke to her. Here is what it feels like to be harassed by the government whose people you are trying to serve.
Fisher and The Millionaire: The Statistician and the Calculator
Authors: Ross Gavin
Published: December 2012

R. A. Fisher had what you could call a desktop computer, but it was rather too large for a desk. Gavin Ross describes the Millionaire
Effects of Arginine‐Deficient and Replete Diets on Growth Performance, Digestive Enzyme Activities and Genes Expression of Black Sea Bream, Acanthopagrus schlegelii, Juveniles
Authors: Zhou Fan , Zhou Jing , Shao Qingjun , Wang Yue , Li Hui , Gao Song , Hua Ying
Published: December 2012

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of black sea bream, Acanthopagrus schlegelii, juveniles fed with arginine‐deficient and replete diets. One hundred and eighty fish were randomly allocated into three arginine level diets with triplicate groups: T1, 1.88% (arginine deficient diet without supplementation); T2, 2.49% (supplemented with 0.6% arginine); and T3, 3.13% (supplemented with 1.2% arginine) of dietary arginine, respectively. The results showed that the daily growth increments of fish in T1 group was significantly lower than those of fish fed T2 and T3 diets, while no significant differences were observed between two replete arginine treatments. Fish fed with replete arginine diets had higher pepsin/trypsin activities in stomach, foregut, and midgut. Amylase activities in stomach and foregut were also enhanced in the arginine groups than the T1 group. Arginine and

EAA content of dorsal muscle increased significantly with dietary increasing arginine levels. The relative mRNA expression levels of growth hormone receptor gene in liver and insulin‐like growth factor‐I (IGF‐I) gene in dorsal muscle were stimulated significantly by dietary arginine supplementation, but no significant differences were observed between T2 and T3 diets. IGF‐I expression in liver was markedly increased with dietary increasing arginine level. The present findings indicated that black sea bream fed with replete arginine diets could improve growth performance by enhancing pepsin/trypsin and amylase enzymes activities, as well as stimulating growth‐related genes expression level.
Growth, Reproductive Performances, and Brood Quality of Long Snout Seahorse, Hippocampus guttulatus, Fed Enriched Shrimp Diets
Authors: Palma Jorge , Andrade José P. , Bureau Dominique P.
Published: December 2012

This investigation examined the effect of using enriched shrimp (Atlantic ditch shrimp, Palaemonetes varians) diets on growth of long snout seahorse, Hippocampus guttulatus, and its effect on the reproduction rate and brood quality. Three diets were (1) natural wild‐caught shrimp (natural shrimp diet‐control diet), (2) wild‐caught shrimp fed an artificial feed for 10 d (enriched shrimp diet), and (3) wild‐caught shrimp fed one large meal of artificial diet and immediately frozen (ingested artificial feed shrimp diet). These diets were fed to seahorses during a 12‐wk growth trial. At the end, significant differences on the final wet weight were found between seahorses fed the three different treatments (P < 0.009). Seahorses fed ingested artificial feed shrimp diet had more broods (9), generated more juveniles per brood (299 ± 87), and significantly bigger juveniles (12.4 ± 1 mm) than seahorses fed natural shrimp diet and enriched shrimp diet. Significant differences in the morphometry of juveniles hatched from parents fed the three different dietary treatments (Wilk's λ = 0.2, F(6,460) = 47.41, P < 0.0001) were also found. Results indicate that the combined use of a natural diet (shrimp) and an artificial diet benefit growth and feed utilization by seahorses and have a direct impact on the reproductive rate and brood quality of H. guttulatus.
Diffusion and Stress Coupling Effect during Oxidation at High Temperature
Authors: Dong Xuelin , Fang Xufei , Feng Xue , Hwang Keh‐Chih
Published: December 2012

We report the diffusion and stress coupling effect during oxidation. An analytical model is developed for the stress and diffusion coupling effect based on equilibrium relationship and diffusion equation considering for the stress effect. Compressive stress will generate during the oxidation due to the growth strain. This growth stress can modify the diffusion coefficient; therefore, the oxidation kinetics is also affected. The coupling effect reduces both the oxidation rate and the stress. The proposed model is applied to predict the oxidation evolution for SiC and its consistence with the experimental data demonstrates the theoretical analysis.
Towards an understanding of the lives of families affected by stroke: a qualitative study of home carers
Authors: Cecil Rosanne , Thompson Kate , Parahoo Kader , McCaughan Eilis
Published: December 2012

Aim

To explore caring and coping among carers of stroke survivors and identify factors that had an impact on their lives.

Background

Informal carers carry the main responsibility for the care of stroke survivors in the community, which can have a detrimental effect on the health and well‐being of carers. However, the circumstances of caring differ for each carer: this study identifies the diverse factors that can cause caring to be burdensome for some carers and less so for others.

Design

Qualitative descriptive study.

Methods

A convenience sample of 30 carers of stroke survivors were interviewed in 2008–2010, following hospital discharge of the stroke survivor.

Results

The impact that the stroke event had on the participants of this study varied enormously. Not only did the health status and well‐being of the stroke survivors vary greatly but it was also clear that many different factors had an influence on the impact of the stroke on the carer and on how each of them coped. Nine thematic categories were identified, which fell into three broad categories: (1) the impact of the stroke event on the carer; (2) the extrinsic factors that support the caring scenario; and (3) the intrinsic factors that help a carer to cope with the new role.

Conclusions

This study provided an insight into the circumstances where caring for stroke survivors takes place. These factors that have an impact on caring and carers should inform the nursing assessment of needs of carers of stroke survivors in the community.
Informed consent for blood tests in people with a learning disability
Authors: Goldsmith Lesley , Woodward Val , Jackson Leigh , Skirton Heather
Published: December 2012

Aim

This article is a report of a study of informed consent in people with a learning disability. The aims of the study were to explore the information needs of people with mild‐to‐moderate learning disabilities with respect to consent for blood tests and to identify ways of facilitating informed consent.

Background

The recent political agenda for social change in theUKhas emphasized the right of people with a learning disability to have more autonomy and make their own decisions. As in other countries, there has also been a shift towards shared decision‐making in healthcare practice.

Design

Qualitative study using an ethnographic approach.

Methods

An ethnographic approach was used for this qualitative study. Phase 1 involved observation of six participants with a learning disability having a routine blood test in general practice, followed by semi‐structured interviews with 14 participants with a learning disability in Phase 2. Data were collected between February 2009–February 2010.

Findings

The data showed that consent procedures were often inadequate and provision of information to patients prior to a blood test was variable. People with a learning disability expressed clearly their information requirements when having a routine blood test; this included not wanting any information in some cases.

Conclusions

Healthcare practitioners and people with a learning disability need to be familiar with current consent law in their own country to facilitate valid consent in the healthcare context. This study demonstrated the value of qualitative research in exploring the knowledge and attitudes of people with learning disability.
Psychological aspects of male fertility treatment
Authors: Mikkelsen Alice Toft , Madsen Svend Aage , Humaidan Peter
Published: December 2012

Aims

To explore and to identify the possible need for psychological communicative support in men undergoing fertility treatment.

Background

Male infertility affects many aspects of a man's life and may cause a life crisis. Although infertility treatment is now commonplace in men, they often feel remote and disconnected from the treatment process.

Design

A descriptive survey.

Methods

A questionnaire with structured and open‐ended questions was completed by 210 Danish men undergoing fertility treatment. The questionnaire covered three issues: individual perception of male infertility, gender equality issues, and communication with health professionals in the clinic. Data were collected during 2008.

Findings

Of the participants, 28% believed that their reduced sperm quality affected their perception of masculinity. 46% stated that equal involvement between partners was a very important element of the treatment; however, 63% said that the health professionals communicated primarily with their female partner. Finally, 62% found that there was a need for a deeper dialogue with the nurses concerning male infertility and 72% lacked information about the psychological consequences of male infertility. In general, participants wanted a more open and balanced dialogue about infertility treatment and the role of the male partner during this process.

Conclusion

Infertile men want health professionals to view them on equal terms with their partner. When treating the infertile man, there is a further need to develop more inclusive communication skills.
Humour in adult cancer care: a concept analysis
Authors: Tanay Mary Anne Lagmay , Roberts Julia , Ream Emma
Published: December 2012

Aims

To report an analysis of the concept of humour in adult cancer care.

Background

Humour is a form of communication which is present in the adult cancer setting. Numerous studies show the multi‐dimensional value of humour in cancer care. A clear conceptual understanding, however, of what it represents is lacking.

Design

Walker and Avant's framework was used to guide this concept analysis.

Data sources

Literature searches included bibliographic databases, internet, and manual searches.

Review methods

Literature published from 1990 to the present was reviewed. Thematic analysis was carried out to identify critical attributes and antecedents.

Results

Based on the analysis, a definition of humour in adult cancer nursing is proposed. Humour is a subjective emotional response, resulting from the recognition and expression of incongruities of a comic, absurd and impulsive situation, remark, character, or action, which enhances feelings of closeness or togetherness when shared in the context of trust between the patient and nurse and may be used as a coping mechanism in a stressful situation such as the adult cancer care setting.

Conclusion

The analysis provides an understanding of the concept of humour in the adult cancer setting and includes a theoretical illustration of its critical attributes. This concept analysis provides a forum for discussion with reference to the use of humour in adult cancer nursing care. Further exploration is recommended to determine the meaning of humour and its nature across different care settings.
Liver‐specific protein 2: a Plasmodium protein exported to the hepatocyte cytoplasm and required for merozoite formation
Authors: Orito Yuki , Ishino Tomoko , Iwanaga Shiroh , Kaneko Izumi , Kato Tomomi , Menard Robert , Chinzei Yasuo , Yuda Masao
Published: December 2012

The liver stage is the first stage of the malaria parasite that replicates in the vertebrate host. However, little is known about the interplay between the parasite liver stage and its host cell, the hepatocyte. In this study, we identified an exported protein that has a critical role in parasite development in host hepatocytes. Expressed sequence tag analysis of Plasmodium berghei liver‐stage parasites indicated that transcripts encoding a protein with an N‐terminal signal peptide, designated liver‐specific protein 2 (LISP2), are highly expressed in this stage. Expression of LISP2 was first observed 24 h after infection and rapidly increased during the liver‐stage schizogony. Immunofluorescent staining with anti‐LSP2 antibodies showed that LISP2 was carried to the parasitophorous vacuole and subsequently transported to the cytoplasm and nucleus of host hepatocytes. Gene targeting experiments demonstrated that majority of the LISP2‐mutant liver‐stage parasites arrested their development during formation of merozoites. These results indicate that exported LISP2 is involved in parasite–host interactions required for the development of liver‐stage parasites inside hepatocytes. This study demonstrated that mid‐to‐late liver‐stage malarial parasites have a system for exporting proteins to the host cell as intraerythrocytic stages do and presumably to use the proteins to modify the host cell and improve the environment.