bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross‐cultural negotiations and power distance
Authors: Graf Andrea , Koeszegi Sabine T. , Pesendorfer Eva‐Maria
Published: September 2012

Purpose

Negotiators from Asia are increasingly confronted with exchange partners from other regions, particularly Europe. The European culture differs from the Asian culture in many regards, one major aspect being distinct levels of power distance (hierarchy versus egalitarianism). The purpose of this paper is to analyze the impact of power distance in electronic negotiations between Asia and Europe.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes an experimental study with a sample of 126 participants investigating the impact of power distance on strategies applied by Asian and European buyers and sellers in computer‐mediated negotiations.

Findings

Significant effects of power distance in electronic negotiations were identified. Culture confirms to play a significant role in negotiations. The results indicate that negotiation schemes differ depending on the cultural dimension power distance in Asia and Europe. In the hierarchical (Asian) culture, sellers show more efforts in negotiations, while buyers apply more power‐related negotiation strategies but also tend to take more responsibility. In contrast, in the egalitarian (European) culture, buyers prefer negotiation behavior spreading power.

Research limitations/implications

First, use of a student sample engaging in a negotiation simulation might restrain the generalizability of the findings. Second, the authors investigated only two cultures in Asia and Europe.

Originality/value

The paper describes an experimental study comparing negotiators from Asia and Europe in order to analyze whether culture plays a significant role in electronic negotiations between Asia and Europe. The authors focus on power distance as the main cultural dimension.
Have I got it wrong or is it them? Difficulties in access to specialist brain injury social work services
Authors: Wurr Judy
Published: September 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to highlight the challenges that case managers face in accessing appropriate statutory services and funding for young brain injured adults.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses aggregate case material, based on two years of case management with young adults with an acquired brain injury.

Findings

There is a need for separate, dedicated acquired brain injury services within local authority adult services. There should be a greater emphasis on assessments of functioning and decision‐specific mental capacity for clients with acquired brain injury rather than simplistic assumptions of capacity. Health and social welfare professionals in this field need a knowledge of the law related to benefits disregard and mental capacity, including recent case law. The statutory complaints system can provide redress where statutory services have been wrongly withheld.

Practical implications

Case managers need to keep up to date with the case law and application of health, social welfare and mental capacity legislation in order to ensure clients' rights and access to statutory services and funding.

Originality/value

This paper provides a subjective account, and analysis, of the reality of independent case managers working proactively, pragmatically and intensively across multidisciplinary and multiagency settings in the pursuit of clients' statutory rights.
Mandatory IFRS Adoption and Financial Statement Comparability
Authors: Brochet Francois , Jagolinzer Alan D. , Riedl Edward J.
Published: September 2012

This study examines whether mandatory adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) leads to capital market benefits through enhanced financial statement comparability. U.K. domestic standards are considered very similar to IFRS, suggesting any capital market benefits observed for U.K.‐domiciled firms are more likely attributable to improvements in comparability (i.e., better precision of across‐firm information) than to changes in information quality specific to the firm (i.e., core information quality). If IFRS adoption improves financial statement comparability, we predict this should reduce insiders' ability to benefit from private information. Consistent with these expectations, we find that abnormal returns to insider purchases ― used to proxy for private information ― are reduced following IFRS adoption. Similar results obtain across numerous subsamples and proxies used to isolate IFRS effects attributable to comparability. Together, the findings are consistent with mandatory IFRS adoption improving comparability and thus leading to capital market benefits by reducing insiders' ability to exploit private information.
A Chick Embryo With a yet Unclassified Type of Cephalothoracopagus Malformation and a Hypothesis for Explaining its Genesis
Authors: Maurer B. , Geyer S. H. , Weninger W. J.
Published: September 2012

Cephalothoracopagus embryos are conjoined twins, who share parts of their heads, necks and bodies. Our study aims at presenting a detailed morphological analysis of a cephalothoracopagus chick embryo of developmental stage 31. Because none of the existing theories can explain the genesis of the phenotype of this embryo, we also suggest a hypothesis, which explains it. Beside the cephalothoracopagus embryo, we investigated five control embryos. With the aid of the high‐resolution episcopic microscopy (HREM) technique, we created digital volume data and three‐dimensional (3D) computer models of the organs and arteries of the embryos. We used the 3D models for topological analysis and for measuring the diameters of the great intrathoracic arteries. The malformed embryo showed two body backs, each containing a notochord, spinal cord and dorsal aorta. The body backs continued into separated lower bodies. The embryo had a single, four‐chambered heart, single respiratory tract and single upper alimentary tract. The topology of the pharyngeal arch arteries was normal, and the diameters of these arteries were similar to that of the control embryos. We classified the embryo we investigated as a yet unknown malformation and suggest a hypothesis explaining its genesis.
Herd composition, kinship and fission–fusion social dynamics among wild giraffe
Authors: Bercovitch Fred B. , Berry Philip S. M.
Published: September 2012

A variety of social systems have evolved as a consequence of competition and cooperation among individuals. Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalissp.) societies are an anomaly because the dearth of long‐term data has produced two polar perspectives: a loose amalgamation of non‐bonded individuals that sometimes coalesce into a herd and a structured social system with a fission–fusion process modifying herd composition within a community. We analysed 34 years of data collected from a population ofThornicroft's giraffe (G. c. thornicrofti,Lydekker 1911) residing inSouthLuangwa,Zambia, to establish the nature of giraffe society. Our sample consisted of 52 individually recognized animals. We found that giraffe herd composition is based upon long‐term social associations that often reflect kinship, with close relatives significantly more likely than non‐relatives to establish herds. Mother/offspring dyads had the strongest associations, which persisted for years. Giraffe live in a complex society characterized by marked flexibility in herd size, with about 25% of the variance in herd composition owing to kinship and sex. We suggest that giraffe herds share many characteristics of fission–fusion social systems and propose that sophisticated communication systems are a crucial component regulating subgroup dynamics.
Effect of Carbon Monoxide on Bacteria‐Stimulated Cytokine Production by Placental Explants
Authors: Peltier Morgan R. , Arita Yuko , Gurzenda Ellen M. , Klimova Natalia , Koo Hschi‐Chi , Murthy Amitasrigowri , Hanna Nazeeh
Published: September 2012

Problem

Preterm birth is frequently caused by an inflammatory response to ascending infections of the reproductive tract. Carbon monoxide (CO) has potent anti‐inflammatory properties at subtoxic concentrations. Whether or not CO can modulate inflammatory responses by placental tissues is unclear.

Methods

Placental explant cultures were incubated with heat‐killed Escherichia coli or Ureaplasma parvum in the presence or absence of 250 ppm CO for 24 hr. Concentrations of cytokines relative viability of the cultures were quantified.

Results

Escherichia coli‐ and U. parvum‐stimulated IL‐1β production was significantly inhibited by CO supplementation. Escherichia coli‐stimulated, but not U. parvum‐stimulated, IFN‐γ production was inhibited by CO. While CO inhibited PGE2 production by unstimulated cells, no effects on bacteria‐stimulated prostaglandin production were detected. CO had no effect on basal or E. coli‐stimulated TNF‐α production but enhanced TNF‐α production by cultures stimulated with U. parvum. In addition, CO tended to improve the viability of the placental cultures.

Conclusions

Low concentrations of CO tended to reduce proinflammatory cytokines and to promote the production of anti‐inflammatory cytokines in a pathogen‐specific manner. These properties suggest that CO may be useful for promoting a pro‐pregnancy cytokine milieu by placental explants and may reduce the consequences of intrauterine infections.
A hypoallergenic variant of the major birch pollen allergen shows distinct characteristics in antigen processing and T‐cell activation
Authors: Kitzmüller C. , Wallner M. , Deifl S. , Mutschlechner S. , Walterskirchen C. , Zlabinger G. J. , Ferreira F. , Bohle B.
Published: September 2012

Background

BM4 is a novel genetically engineered variant of the major birch pollen allergen Bet v 1 that lacks the typical Bet v 1‐like fold and displays negligible IgE‐binding but strong T cell–activating capacity. The aim of this study was to elucidate possible differences between BM4 and Bet v 1 in internalization, antigen processing, and presentation.

Methods

Proliferative responses to BM4 and Bet v 1 of peripheral blood mononuclear cells and Bet v 1‐specific T‐cell clones were compared. Fluorescently labeled BM4 and Bet v 1 were used to study surface binding, endocytosis, and intracellular degradation by monocyte‐derived DC (mdDC). Both proteins were digested by endolysosomal extracts of mdDC. BM4‐ and Bet v 1‐pulsed mdDC were employed to assess the kinetics of activation of Bet v 1‐specific T‐cell clones and the polarization of naïve T cells.

Results

BM4 displayed a significantly stronger T cell–activating capacity than Bet v 1. Furthermore, BM4 showed increased surface binding and internalization as well as faster endolysosomal degradation compared with Bet v 1. BM4‐pulsed mdDC induced enhanced proliferative responses at earlier time‐points in Bet v 1‐specific T‐cell clones and promoted less IL‐5 production in T cells than Bet v 1‐pulsed mdDC.

Conclusion

The loss of the Bet v 1‐fold changes the protein's interaction with the human immune system at the level of antigen‐presenting cells resulting in altered T‐cell responses. By combining low IgE‐binding with strong and modulating T cell–activating capacity, BM4 represents a highly interesting candidate for specific immunotherapy of birch pollen allergy.
Honey bee (Apis mellifera) venom induces AIM2 inflammasome activation in human keratinocytes
Authors: Dombrowski Y. , Peric M. , Koglin S. , Kaymakanov N. , Schmezer V. , Reinholz M. , Ruzicka T. , Schauber J.
Published: September 2012

Background

Following allergen exposure, cytokines and other pro‐inflammatory signals play an important role in the immunological cascade leading to allergic sensitization. Inflammasomes sense exogenous and endogenous danger signals and trigger IL‐1β and IL‐18 activation which in turn shape Th2 responses. Honey bee venom (BV) allergies are very common; however, the local inflammatory cascade leading to the initiation of allergic sensitization is poorly understood. In this study, the local inflammatory cascades in skin after exposure to BV were investigated.

Methods

The mechanisms of inflammasome activation in human skin and in cultured keratinocytes upon BV exposure were analyzed by ELISA, Western blot, flow cytometry, siRNA techniques, and immunofluorescence.

Results

In an ex vivo bee sting model, BV induced IL‐1β release suggesting the activation of inflammasomes. Indeed, in cultured keratinocytes, the BV component melittin triggered IL‐1β and IL‐18 release via the AIM2 inflammasome. AIM2 is a cytosolic DNA receptor, and mitochondrial as well as genomic DNA was detected in the cytosol of melittin‐treated keratinocytes as triggers of inflammasome activation. As a mechanism, melittin mediated destruction of mitochondrial membranes leading to the leakage of mitochondrial DNA into the cytosolic compartment.

Conclusion

These data suggest that upon BV exposure, keratinocytes are involved in an innate immune response by the activation of the AIM2 inflammasome and subsequent IL‐1β and IL‐18 release triggered by endogenous DNA. As IL‐1β and IL‐18 are involved in Th2‐ and IgE‐mediated immune reactions, these results could add to the understanding of the role of the tissue microenvironment to subsequent allergic responses.
Risk factors and outcome of HIV‐associated idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension
Authors: Schouten J. N. L. , Van der Ende M. E. , Koëter T. , Rossing H. H. M. , Komuta M. , Verheij J. , van der Valk M. , Hansen B. E. , Janssen H. L. A.
Published: September 2012

Background

Idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension (INCPH) has been reported increasingly in patients with HIV infection.

Aim

To evaluate the number of nationwide diagnosed HIV‐associated INCPH cases and to assess its clinical features, risk factors and outcome.

Methods

All HIV centres in the Netherlands were contacted and requested to notify INCPH cases diagnosed in their population. A case–control study was performed to identify the risk factors of INCPH. The cases were group‐matched for duration of follow‐up after HIV diagnosis to controls. Controls were selected from a database of HIV patients with negative screening for signs of portal hypertension on abdominal ultrasound. Univariate and multivariate conditional logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results

On 1st of July 2011, 18.085 individuals were infected with HIV in the Netherlands. Within this population, sixteen patients with clinically overt INCPH were identified. At the time of INCPH diagnosis, cases had a lower platelet count and a higher ALT level. In univariate and multivariate analyses, didanosine [OR: 1.9 (1.3–2.8)], concomitant didanosine and stavudine treatment [OR: 6.3 (2.1–19.1)] and concomitant didanosine and tenofovir treatment [OR: 5.1 (1.2–22.6)] were independently associated INCPH. During follow‐up, 4 patients died [malignancy (n = 3), liver failure (n = 1)]. A significant decline in platelets was observed after didanosine discontinuation (P = 0.003).

Conclusions

HIV‐associated clinically relevant idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension appears to be a rarely diagnosed disease. Long‐term exposure to didanosine and short‐term combination of didanosine and stavudine or tenofovir exposure are associated with idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension. Mortality in HIV‐associated idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension is mainly related to HIV‐associated disorders. Portal hypertension continues despite didanosine discontinuation.
Epidermal growth factor receptor activation and inhibition in 3D in vitro models of normal skin and human cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Commandeur Suzan , van Drongelen Vincent , de Gruijl Frank R. , El Ghalbzouri Abdoelwaheb
Published: September 2012

The transmembrane tyrosine kinase epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is considered a key player in the development of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), which is the second most common malignancy in white populations. Inhibition of EGFR with the small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitor erlotinib is currently under clinical investigation in cutaneous SCC patients. In this study, we investigated the effects of EGFR activation and inhibition on normal and malignant in vitro human skin equivalents (HSEs). In healthy HSEs, increasing EGF concentrations ranging from 5 to 50 ng/mL resulted in a dramatic decrease in epidermal proliferation as immunohistochemically assessed by Ki67 and increased epidermal stress as assessed by K17 after 2 weeks of air‐exposed culture. Also, higher concentrations of EGF induced remarkable epidermal disorganization with loss of proper stratification. Similar effects were observed in HSEs generated with cutaneous SCC cell lines SCC‐12B2 and SCC‐13. Treatment of both healthy and SCC‐HSEs with 10 μM erlotinib resulted in efficient reduction of epidermal thickness from 10 to 3 viable cell layers and counteracted EGF‐induced epidermal stress. Remarkably, erlotinib treatment caused severe desquamation in healthy HSEs, reminiscent of xerosis as a known side‐effect in patients treated with erlotinib. The presented three‐dimensional organotypic SCC models appear suitable for further investigations on the morphological and functional impacts of modifying EGFR signaling in cutaneous SCC, without burdening patients or mice. The effective inhibition of epidermal growth by erlotinib in our HSEs confirms the therapeutic potential of this tyrosine kinase inhibitor for cutaneous SCC patients.
Verbal definitions of familiar objects in blind children reflect their peculiar perceptual experience
Authors: Vinter A. , Fernandes V. , Orlandi O. , Morgan P.
Published: September 2012

Background

The aim of the present study was to examine to what extent the verbal definitions of familiar objects produced by blind children reflect their peculiar perceptual experience and, in consequence, differ from those produced by sighted children.

Methods

Ninety‐six visually impaired children, aged between 6 and 14 years, and 32 age‐matched sighted children had to define 10 words denoting concrete animate or inanimate familiar objects.

Results

The blind children evoked the tactile and auditory characteristics of objects and expressed personal perceptual experiences in their definitions. The sighted children relied on visual perception, and produced more visually oriented verbalism. In contrast, no differences were observed between children in their propensity to include functional attributes in their verbal definitions.

Conclusions

The results are discussed in line with embodied views of cognition that postulate mandatory perceptuomotor processing of words during access to their meaning.
Testosterone concentrations in young pubertal and post‐pubertal obese males
Authors: Mogri Muniza , Dhindsa Sandeep , Quattrin Teresa , Ghanim Husam , Dandona Paresh
Published: September 2012

Objective

Obesity in adult males is associated with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. We evaluated the effect of obesity on plasma testosterone concentrations in pubertal and post‐pubertal young males.

Design and methods

Morning fasting blood samples were obtained from 25 obese [body mass index (BMI) ≥95th percentile] and 25 lean (BMI <85th percentile) males between the ages 14–20 years with Tanner staging ≥4. Total (TT) and free testosterone (FT) and estradiol concentrations were measured by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry and equilibrium dialysis. Free testosterone was also calculated using SHBG and albumin. C‐reactive protein (CRP), insulin and glucose concentrations were measured and homoeostasis model of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) was calculated.

Results

After controlling for age and Tanner staging, obese males had a significantly lower total testosterone (10·5 vs 21·44 nmol/l), free testosterone (0·22 vs 0·39 nmol/l) and calculated free testosterone (0·26 vs 0·44 nmol/l) concentrations as compared to lean males (P < 0·001 for all). Obese males had higher CRP concentrations (2·8 vs 0·8 mg/l; P < 0·001), and HOMA‐IR (3·8 vs 1·1; P < 0·001) than lean males. Free testosterone concentrations were positively related to age and negatively to BMI, HOMA‐IR and CRP concentrations. Total and free estradiol concentrations were significantly lower in males with subnormal testosterone concentrations.

Conclusion

Testosterone concentrations of young obese pubertal and post‐pubertal males are 40–50% lower than those with normal BMI. Obesity in young males is associated with low testosterone concentrations, which are not secondary to an increase in estradiol concentrations. Our results need to be confirmed in a larger number of subjects.
The prevalence and relevance of adrenal masses in patients with sporadic gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (GEP‐NET)
Authors: Kanakis George , Kamp Kimberly , Tsiveriotis Konstantinos , Feelders Richard A. , Zormpala Alexandra , de Herder Wouter W. , Kaltsas Gregory
Published: September 2012

Objective

The widespread application of abdominal computerized tomography (CT) imaging has revealed that 0·98–4·0% of individuals harbour adrenal lesions (incidentalomas). There is, however, paucity of information regarding the prevalence of adrenal lesions in patients with gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (GEP‐NETS). Purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of adrenal lesions in patients with GEP‐NETS and identify their radiological features and clinical significance.

Design

The prevalence of adrenal lesions was estimated retrospectively in 438 patients with GEP‐NETS who underwent abdominal imaging. Secretory status and changes in size were documented during subsequent follow‐up. MEN‐1 patients and ectopic ACTH‐secreting tumours were excluded.

Results

Adrenal lesions were detected in 32 (8·4%) of 383 patients included. The majority (22 patients – 69%) were located at the left adrenal gland and the mean size was 23·6 mm. In two patients, one with a well and another with a poorly differentiated tumour, clinicopathological features suggested adrenal metastases. During a mean follow‐up period of 69·5 months, no subsequent growth of any adrenal lesion was observed. Endocrine evaluation documented subclinical glucocorticoid hypersecretion in 4 cases (14%). The presence of adrenal lesions did not correlate to distant metastases, however, they were observed more frequently in patients with G3 tumours.

Conclusion

The prevalence of adrenal lesions in patients with GEP‐NETs was found to be higher than the general population and mostly represent benign adrenal adenomas (except patients with G3 tumours). Nevertheless, individualized assessment of imaging characteristics should be still considered.
Impact of different synthetic bone fillers on healing of extraction sockets: an experimental study in dogs
Authors: Hong Ji‐Youn , Lee Jung‐Seok , Pang Eun‐Kyoung , Jung Ui‐Won , Choi Seong‐Ho , Kim Chong‐Kwan
Published: September 2012

Objectives

The objective of this study was to elucidate the socket healing process and biodegradation of incorporating synthetic bone fillers followed by grafting of the fresh extraction socket.

Materials and methods

Third premolars in four quadrants of eight beagle dogs were extracted and randomly treated with either one of hydroxyapatite (HA), biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP), β‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP), or no graft (C). Histologic observations and histomorphometric analysis at three zones (apical, middle, and coronal) of the socket were performed. Socket area (S) and the proportions of newly formed bone (%NB), residual biomaterials (%RB), and fibrovascular connective tissue (%FCT) at 2, 4, and 8 weeks were measured. The numbers of osteoclast‐like multinucleated cells (No.OC) were also determined at the three zones.

Results

%NB was significantly higher in control group compared with the grafted groups at all healing periods. %NB of HA and BCP increased with time, whereas %RB showed different patterns that decreased in BCP, unlike the minimal change observed in HA. %NB of β‐TCP showed smallest portion compared with other grafted groups at 2 and 4 weeks, however, significantly increased at 8 weeks. %RB of β‐TCP was less than HA and BCP at all healing periods. Numbers of multinucleated cells were greater in BCP and β‐TCP, followed by HA and smallest in control group.

Conclusions

Within the limit of this study, bone formation of the extraction socket was delayed in the sockets grafted with synthetic bone fillers and showed different healing process according to the biodegradation patterns.
Prognostic factors determining survival in patients with node positive differentiated thyroid cancer: a retrospective cross‐sectional study
Authors: Gulcelik M.A. , Ozdemir Y. , Kadri Colakoglu M. , Camlibel M. , Alagol H.
Published: September 2012

Objective

The prognostic factors for the disease‐free status and overall survival among patients who had differentiated thyroid cancer with cervical lymph node metastasis were evaluated to develop a better understanding of the possible effects of lymph node metastasis on the disease process.

Design

The data from 101 patients who underwent modified radical neck dissection to determine the presence of cervical node positive differentiated thyroid cancer was evaluated and disease‐free survival and overall survival rates were calculated. Prognostic factors predicting these survival rates were evaluated.

Setting

This research took place between July of 1994 and December of 2006 in the Department of General Surgery at Ankara Oncology Training and Research Hospital.

Participants

One hundred and one patients underwent a modified radical neck dissection after the cervical nodes were assessed as positive for the presence of cancer.

Main Outcome Measures

Ten‐year disease‐free survival and overall survival rates were measured.

Results

We calculated the 10‐year disease‐free survival rate at 67.3% and the overall survival rate at 86.1%. Age, thyroidal extracapsular invasion, vascular invasion, metastasis, age, completeness of resection, size score and TNM staging were found to be relevant to disease‐free survival and overall survival in both the univariate and the multivariate analyses. While the age, metastasis, extent of disease score was relevant to disease‐free survival and overall survival in the univariate analysis, this association is not found in the multivariate analysis. The histological type of the tumour was not predictive of disease‐free survival, but the follicular type was closely related to the prognosis for overall survival.

Conclusion

Cervical node metastasis in thyroid carcinoma slightly reduces overall survival. Prognostic factors can help identify high‐risk patients and point towards an adequate therapeutic approach.
Clinicopathological risk factors of Stage II colon cancer: results of a prospective study
Authors: Santos C. , López‐Doriga A. , Navarro M. , Mateo J. , Biondo S. , Martínez Villacampa M. , Soler G. , Sanjuan X. , Paules M. J. , Laquente B. , Guinó E. , Kreisler E. , Frago R. , Germà J. R. , Moreno V. , Salazar R.
Published: September 2012

Aim  Adjuvant 5‐fluorouracil based chemotherapy has demonstrated benefit in Stage III colon cancer but still remains controversial in Stage II. The aim of this study was to analyse the prognostic impact of clinicopathological factors that may help guide treatment decisions in Stage II colon cancer.

Method  Between 1996 and 2006 data from patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer at Hospital Universitari Bellvitge and its referral comprehensive cancer centre Institut Català d′Oncologia/L’Hospitalet were prospectively included in a database. We identified 432 patients with Stage II colon cancer operated on at Hospital Universitari Bellvitge. The 5‐year relapse‐free survival (RFS) and colon‐cancer‐specific survival (CCSS) were determined.

Results  The 5‐year RFS and CCSS were 83% and 88%, respectively. Lymphovascular or perineural invasion was associated with RFS [hazard ratio (HR) 1.84; 95% CI 1.01–3.35]. Gender (women, HR 0.48; 95% CI 0.23–1) and lymphovascular or perineural invasion (HR 3.51; 95% CI 1.86–6.64) together with pT4 (HR 2.79; 95% CI 1.44–5.41) influenced CCSS. In multivariate analysis pT4 and lymphovascular or perineural invasion remained significantly associated with CCSS. We performed a risk index with these factors with prognostic impact. Patients with pT4 tumours and lymphovascular or perineural invasion had a 5‐year CCSS of 61%vs the 93% (HR 5.87; 95 CI 2.46–13.97) of those without any of these factors.

Conclusion  pT4 and lymphatic, venous or perineural invasion are confirmed as significant prognostic factors in Stage II colon cancer and should be taken into account in the clinical validation process of new molecular prognostic factors.
Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract in low transsphincteric fistulae: a new technique to avoid fistulotomy
Authors: van Onkelen R. S. , Gosselink M. P. , Schouten W. R.
Published: September 2012

Aim  To date fistulotomy is still the treatment of choice for patients with a transsphincteric fistula passing through the lower third of the external anal sphincter, because it is a simple, effective and safe procedure with a minimal risk of incontinence. However, data suggest that the risk of impaired continence following division of the lower third of the external anal sphincter is not insignificant, especially in female patients with an anterior fistula and patients with diminished anal sphincter function. It has been shown that ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) is a promising sphincter‐preserving technique. Therefore, we questioned whether LIFT could replace fistulotomy in patients with a low transsphincteric fistula.

Method  A consecutive series of 22 patients with a low transsphincteric fistula of cryptoglandular origin underwent LIFT. Continence scores were determined using the Rockwood Fecal Incontinence Severity Index.

Results  Median follow‐up was 19.5 months. Primary healing was observed in 18 (82%) patients. In the four patients without primary healing, the transsphincteric fistula was converted into an intersphincteric fistula. These patients underwent subsequent fistulotomy with preservation of the external anal sphincter. The overall healing rate was 100%. Six months after surgery, the median incontinence score was not changed significantly.

Conclusion  Low transsphincteric fistulae can be treated successfully by LIFT, without affecting faecal continence. Division of the lower part of the external anal sphincter is no longer necessary in the treatment of low transsphincteric fistulae, which is essential for patients with compromised anal sphincters.
Periodontal healing complications following extrusive and lateral luxation in the permanent dentition: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Hermann Nuno Vibe , Lauridsen Eva , Ahrensburg Søren Steno , Gerds Thomas Alexander , Andreasen Jens Ove
Published: September 2012

Purpose

To analyze the risk of tooth loss and complications in periodontal ligament (PDL) healing following extrusive and lateral luxation in the permanent dentition.

Materials and methods

Eighty‐two permanent teeth (78 patients) with extrusive luxation and 179 teeth (149 patients) with lateral luxation were included in the study. All teeth were examined according to a standardized protocol including clinical, photographic, and radiographic registration. Follow‐up controls were performed at regular intervals (3, 6 weeks, 6 months, 1, 5, and 10 years).

Statistics: The risk of repair‐related resorption (surface resorption), infection‐related resorption (inflammatory resorption), ankylosis‐related resorption (replacement resorption), marginal bone loss, and tooth loss was analyzed with the Kaplan–Meier method. Differences among subgroups were analyzed with log‐rank test and Cox regression.

Results

The risk of periodontal healing complications was estimated after 3 years.

Extrusive luxation: For immature root development, infection‐related resorption was 2.4% (95% confidence interval (CI): 0–6.9%). For mature root development, repair‐related resorption was 15.6% (95% CI: 4.4–26.7%), infection‐related resorption was 5.1% (95% CI: 0–11.7%), and marginal bone loss was 17.5% (95% CI: 6.2–28.8%). No teeth showed ankylosis‐related resorption, and no teeth were lost in the observation period.

Lateral luxation: For immature root development, repair‐related resorption was 2.1% (95% CI: 0–6.1%), infection‐related resorption was 2.1% (95% CI: 0–6.1%). For mature root development, repair‐related resorption was 29.5% (95% CI: 20.5–38.5%), infection‐related resorption was 2.6% (95% CI: 0–6.4%), ankylosis‐related resorption was 0.8% (95% CI: 0–2.3%), marginal bone loss was 6.9% (95% CI: 2.2–11.6%).

Conclusion

The risk of severe periodontal healing complications in teeth with extrusive and lateral luxation injuries is generally low. Marginal bone loss and repair‐related resorption occurred significantly more often in teeth with mature rather than immature root development. Marginal bone loss was associated with injuries involving multiple teeth.
Establishment of an optimized ex vivo system for artificial root canal infection evaluated by use of sodium hypochlorite and the photodynamic therapy
Authors: Hecker S. , Hiller K.‐A. , Galler K. M. , Erb S. , Mader T. , Schmalz G.
Published: September 2012

Aim

To establish a refined model of artificially infected root canals and confirm its suitability as a sensitive ex vivo method to assess the efficacy of disinfecting agents. Disinfection was evaluated using sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), either blocked or unblocked by sodium thiosulphate, and a recently promoted method of disinfection, the antibacterial photodynamic therapy (PDT).

Methodology

The roots of bovine incisors were sectioned into three parts, the canals of coronal and middle regions were filled with a suspension of Enterococcus faecalis and the apical region with culture medium. After 7 days, coronal sections were disinfected using NaOCl (0.5%, 1.0% and 3.0% for 30, 60 and 600 s) or a system for photoactivated chemotherapy (PACT; Cumdente, Tübingen, Germany) for antibacterial PDT. Apical sections served as sterile controls and middle sections as bacterial growth controls. In half of the NaOCl‐treated specimens, disinfection was arrested. Dentine chips from biopsies at different depths from the central canal towards the periphery were plated and assessed for colony‐forming units (CFU). Disinfection was considered biologically relevant if the reduction of CFU was at least three log10 orders of magnitude.

Results

Colony‐forming units of 103–104 in growth controls indicated effective artificial infection. A biologically relevant reduction of CFU was accomplished with unblocked NaOCl, but not after blocking with NaOCl nor with PDT.

Conclusions

The system reliably detected disinfection of the root canal and dentinal tubules and proved suitable for ex vivo testing of root canal disinfection. The effect of NaOCl depended on the duration of impact. Under the present experimental conditions, the antibacterial PDT system did not achieve sufficient disinfection.
A Meta‐analysis of intradermal versus intramuscular influenza vaccines: Immunogenicity and Adverse Events
Authors: Marra Fawziah , Young Flora , Richardson Kathryn , Marra Carlo A.
Published: September 2012

Please cite this paper as: Marra et al. (2012) A Meta‐analysis of intradermal versus intramuscular influenza vaccines: immunogenicity and adverse events. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses 7(4), 584–603.

Objective  To determine immunogenicity and safety of intradermal (ID) influenza vaccines compared with intramuscular (IM) administration and effect of dose and age.

Design  Meta‐anlysis.

Setting  Systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials on influenza vaccines.

Sample  Randomized, controlled trials comparing ID seasonal split‐virus influenza vaccines with 15 μg IM control in subjects 18 years of age or older and assessed antibody response at 21–28 days post‐vaccination were considered for inclusion.

Results  A total of 13 trials were included. The pooled immunogenicity outcomes did not differ significantly between the IM and ID vaccine groups for the H1N1 (ratio of GMTR: 0·92, 95% confidence interval 0·77–1·09; seroconversion: 0·94, 0·86–1·02; seroprotection: 0·97, 0·94–1·00) and B strains (GMTR: 0·93, 0·80–1·08; seroconversion: 0·91, 0·80–1·04; seroprotection: 0·97, 0·91–1·03). For the H3N2 strain, there was no significant difference in GMTR (0·97, 0·80–1·18); however, there was a lower pooled seroconversion (0·89, 0·80–0·99) and seroprotection rate (0·98, 0·96–0·99) for ID recipients. There was a statistically significant association between increasing doses of the ID vaccination with increasing immunogenicity response (P = 0·01). There were no differences in adverse event rates within 3 days post‐vaccination for ID versus IM. But for adverse events occurring 7 days post‐vaccination, ID vaccination was associated with a greater incidence of local events but not systemic events.

Conclusions  There was no significant difference in immunologic response when comparing ID with IM administration of the influenza vaccination in the overall population, but higher doses of ID vaccine in the older adult population produced a better response.
Mazaedium evolution in the Ascomycota (Fungi) and the classification of mazaediate groups of formerly unclear relationship
Authors: Prieto Maria , Baloch Elisabeth , Tehler Anders , Wedin Mats
Published: September 2012

Calicioid or mazaediate fungi constitute a heterogeneous assemblage of fungi sharing the presence of a mazaedium. These fungi were once treated as an order (Caliciales) of the Ascomycota but many are now known to be nested within the Arthoniomycetes, Eurotiomycetes, Lecanoromycetes and Leotiomycetes. In this study we employ multigene phylogenetic analyses of main mazaediate groups (based on nuclear 18S, 28S, 5.8S rDNA, mitochondrial 16S, and the protein coding RPB1 and Mcm7) of 116 taxa corresponding to most major groups of the inoperculate ascomycetes (“Leotiomyceta”) and a selection of Pezizomycetes, to trace the evolution of the mazaedium in the Pezizomycotina (the “Euascomycetes”). In particular, we studied the placement of three calicioid groups of uncertain position, Calycidiaceae, Coniocybaceae and Microcaliciaceae. Here, we show that the Calycidiaceae is closely related to the Sphaerophoraceae in the Lecanoromycetidae (Lecanoromycetes), as supported by overall morphology and the production of sphaerophorin. The Coniocybaceae constitute an early divergent line in the inoperculate ascomycetes and here we propose to recognize this group formally as the new class and order Coniocybomycetes, Coniocybales. The Microcaliciaceae is nested within the Ostropomycetidae (Lecanoromycetes). Both Coniocybaceae and Microcaliciaceae, although highly distinctive, lack morphological similarities to related main fungal groups. Ancestral state reconstruction suggests that the ancestor of all inoperculate ascomycetes and the ancestor of all main inoperculate ascomycete groups, with the exception of the Coniocybomycetes, was non‐mazediate, and thus confirms the large amount of parallel evolution and independent gains of the mazaedium in the history of the Ascomycota.
Methyljasmonate displays in vitro and in vivo activity against multiple myeloma cells
Authors: Klippel Steffen , Jakubikova Jana , Delmore Jake , Ooi Melissa , McMillin Douglas , Kastritis Efstathios , Laubach Jacob , Richardson Paul G. , Anderson Kenneth C. , Mitsiades Constantine S.
Published: September 2012

Jasmonates, plant stress hormones, have been demonstrated to be effective in killing various types of cancer cells. We therefore tested if methyljasmonate (MJ) has activity against multiple myeloma (MM) in vitro and in vivo. MM cell lines and primary MM tumour cells responded to MJ in vitro at concentrations that did not significantly affect normal haematopoietic cells, without stroma‐mediated resistance. Brief MJ exposures of MM cells caused release of Hexokinase 2 (HK2) from mitochondria, rapid ATP depletion, perturbation of major intracellular signalling pathways, and ensuing mainly apoptotic cell death. Sensitivity to MJ correlated with lower cellular glucose consumption and lactate production, as well as lower intracellular protein levels of HK2, phosphorylated Voltage‐dependent anion channel 2/3 (pVDAC2/3) and Aldo‐keto reductase family 1 member C1 (AKR1C1), which represent potential biomarkers of responsiveness to MJ treatment, especially as AKR1C1 transcript levels also correlate with clinical outcome in bortezomib‐ or dexamethasone‐treated MM patients. Interestingly, MJ synergized with bortezomib in vitro and prolonged survival of immunocompromised mice harbouring diffuse lesions of MM.1S cells compared to vehicle‐treated mice (P = 0·0046). These studies indicate that jasmonates represent a new, promising strategy to treat MM.
Exploring the underlying factors influencing e‐learning adoption in nurse education
Authors: Petit dit Dariel Odessa , Wharrad Heather , Windle Richard
Published: September 2012

Aims

To report a study undertaken to explore the underlying factors influencing e‐learning adoption in nurse education.

Background

Despite e‐learning's high profile it has not been readily integrated into teaching practice in nurse education. Previous research has identified generic, cross‐disciplinary factors but has left out ‘soft’ factors.

Design

The study adopted an exploratory descriptive design.

Methods

Q‐methodology was used to explore e‐learning adoption in a Division of Nursing located in an institution of Higher Education in the UK. Between September–December 2009, 38 participants were recruited to participate in Q‐sorts and post‐sort interviews. The Q‐sort data were factor analysed and the interviews were coded to their respective factors to develop in‐depth narratives.

Findings

Four factors were identified: ‘E‐learning advocates’ saw e‐learning's potential to improve nurse education and prepare future nurses for their evolving role; the ‘Humanists’ had avoided e‐learning because they valued human interaction; the ‘Sceptics’ doubted that technology could improve learning outcomes; and the ‘Pragmatics,’ only used e‐learning as a tool to post lecture notes online to supplement what they covered in class.

Conclusion

The findings point to the variety of responses existing among nurse academics faced with integrating e‐learning into their teaching. Moving beyond the binary labels commonly attributed to those considered either ‘early adopters’ or ‘laggards,’ the findings contribute to the literature by revealing a wider breadth of views and responses towards technology. Acknowledging these views can inform future e‐learning strategies and lead to improvement in e‐learning use in nurse education.
Out of Borneo: Neogene diversification of Sundaic freshwater crabs (Crustacea: Brachyura: Gecarcinucidae: Parathelphusa)
Authors: Klaus Sebastian , Selvandran Sathyajothi , Goh Jun W. , Wowor Daisy , Brandis Dirk , Koller Peter , Schubart Christoph D. , Streit Bruno , Meier Rudolf , Ng Peter K. L. , Yeo Darren C. J.
Published: September 2012

Aim

We investigate the biogeographical history of the species‐rich Sundaic freshwater crab genus Parathelphusa (family Gecarcinucidae). In particular, we ask to what extent eustatic sea‐level fluctuations influenced diversification and species distribution. We test the prediction that sea‐level fluctuations in the course of the Pleistocene glaciations increased speciation rates.

Location

Malay Peninsula, Greater Sunda Islands (Borneo, Java, Sumatra, Sulawesi), Bali and the Philippines (Palawan, Mindoro).

Methods

Phylogenetic inference calculations were based on partial mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COX1), 16S ribosomal RNA and nuclear histone subunit 3 (H3) genes using maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony and Bayesian approaches. Divergence time estimation was performed with beast based on external substitution rates. Biogeographical analyses were conducted with a parametric likelihood method (Lagrange) and a Bayesian method (BayesTraits). Lineage diversification was studied with a lineage‐through‐time plot, and a maximum likelihood approach as implemented in the R package laser.

Results

We propose a Late Miocene age for the most recent common ancestor of Parathelphusa, with an ancestral range covering Borneo and the adjacent part of Sundaland. The evolution of six lineages pre‐dates the Pliocene, five of them occurring on Borneo. Subsequent dispersal during the Miocene and Pliocene extended the range of Parathelphusa to the Philippines, Sulawesi, the Malay Peninsula and Sumatra, and, during the Late Pliocene and Pleistocene, to Java. Pleistocene divergence occurred between species from the Malay Peninsula and Sumatra, Java and Sumatra, and Java and Borneo.

Main conclusions

Although low sea levels during the Pleistocene in all probability facilitated the dispersal of freshwater crabs among the Greater Sunda islands (excluding Sulawesi, which is not part of the Sunda Shelf), there is no complete Pleistocene geographical admixture of species, and pre‐Pleistocene biogeographical patterns were retained. Furthermore, Pleistocene vicariance did not lead to an increased diversification rate in Parathelphusa. Instead, single colonization events out of Borneo during the Neogene, followed by species radiation (e.g. on Palawan and Sulawesi), contributed substantially to species diversity in Parathelphusa. This involved the crossing of marine barriers such as the Wallace Line.
Migration strategy affects avian influenza dynamics in mallards (Anas platyrhynchos)
Authors: Hill Nichola J. , Takekawa John Y. , Ackerman Joshua T. , Hobson Keith A. , Herring Garth , Cardona Carol J. , Runstadler Jonathan A. , Boyce Walter M.
Published: September 2012

Studies of pathogen transmission typically overlook that wildlife hosts can include both migrant and resident populations when attempting to model circulation. Through the application of stable isotopes in flight feathers, we estimated the migration strategy of mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) occurring on California wintering grounds. Our study demonstrates that mallards‐ a principal host of avian influenza virus (AIV) in nature, contribute differently to virus gene flow depending on migration strategy. No difference in AIV prevalence was detected between resident (9.6%), intermediate‐distance (9.6%) and long‐distance migrants (7.4%). Viral diversity among the three groups was also comparable, possibly owing to viral pool mixing when birds converge at wetlands during winter. However, migrants and residents contributed differently to the virus gene pool at wintering wetlands. Migrants introduced virus from northern breeding grounds (Alaska and the NW Pacific Rim) into the wintering population, facilitating gene flow at continental scales, but circulation of imported virus appeared to be limited. In contrast, resident mallards acted as AIV reservoirs facilitating year‐round circulation of limited subtypes (i.e. H5N2) at lower latitudes. This study supports a model of virus exchange in temperate regions driven by the convergence of wild birds with separate geographic origins and exposure histories.