bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corporate governance mechanisms, accounting results and stock valuation in Canada
Authors: Berthelot Sylvie , Francoeur Claude , Labelle Réal
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between corporate governance practices or mechanisms and firm value, as measured by accounting and market data.

Design/methodology/approach

Partial least square analyses were performed on a sample of 355 observations from 199 Canadian listed companies. The greater variability allowed under the Canadian principles‐based institutional setting than under the rules‐based USA SOX environment is well‐suited for these tests.

Findings

Results suggest that some governance practices, namely the percentage of independent directors on the board, the use of stock options and the frequency of board meetings are significantly and negatively related to the firm's net book value or income. However, most individual governance practices appear to have no significant impact on the firms’ market value.

Research limitations/implications

The potential interrelationships between corporate governance practices and contextual variables are not specifically taken into account, except for the firms’ industrial sector. It is also possible that certain governance mechanisms jointly impact firm value.

Practical implications

This study does not support the current emphasis by regulators on governance practices which mainly concern the monitoring function of the board as opposed to its strategic one.

Originality/value

The paper uses Canada as a laboratory where companies are “invited” rather than “required” to follow corporate governance best practices. This greater corporate discretion in the choice of governance practices provides the variability necessary to test the effect of governance on firm value. Furthermore, in the interest of triangulation, a model seldom seen in the governance literature is used to examine the impact of governance mechanisms on firm value and performance, as measured by accounting and market data.
Adjudication in Australia
Authors: Brand Michael C. , Davenport Philip
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is threefold; first, to give a background to the security of payment problem in the New South Wales construction industry and the problem giving rise to the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Amendment Act 2010 (NSW) (“2010 Amendment Act”); second, to provide an analysis of the operation of the 2010 Amendment Act; and finally, to address the main implications of the amendments for the three parties involved, namely the claimant, the respondent and the “Principal contractor”.

Design/methodology/approach

A review of the relevant literature was undertaken on the security of payment problem in the NSW construction industry and the problem giving rise to the 2010 Amendment Act. A “black‐letter” approach is adopted to analyse and explain the provisions contained in the 2010 Amendment Act. At the time of writing, no case law relevant to the amendments had been published.

Findings

The amendments brought about by the 2010 Amendment Act add appreciably to the scope of the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 1999 (NSW). The effect of the procedure under the 2010 Amendment Act is similar to that under the Contractors Debts Act 1997 (NSW). The 2010 Amendment Act enables a claimant to “freeze” money in the hands of the Principal contractor pending an adjudication, thereby increasing the chance of recovery of the adjudicated amount by the claimant. If, under this new procedure, the Principal contractor fails to “freeze” the monies, the Principal contractor will be liable (along with the respondent) for the amount owed to the claimant. There is a potential for the amendments to be used unfairly by claimants to coerce settlement of unmeritorious payment claims.

Originality/value

The analysis of the 2010 Amendment Act presented in this paper may be of interest in international jurisdictions where statutory adjudication for the construction industry has been introduced or is being contemplated.
The violent gang and the construction of masculinity amongst socially excluded young men
Authors: Baird Adam
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to help in understanding the relationship between the construction of the male identity and how social violence may be “reproduced” (using the concept ofhabitusafter Pierre Bourdieu), in poor and socially excluded contexts. The paper aims to inform debate and policy making.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on empirical data collected in 2008, in the form of life‐history interviews with male youths – including members and non‐members of gangs – from two poor and very violent neighbourhoods in Medellín, Colombia's second largest city.

Findings

Masculinities alone do not account for urban violence, but they play an integral role why violence is reproduced. In socio‐economically excluded contexts the gang becomes an attractive vehicle for “doing masculinity” for boys and young men. Youths who did not join gangs tended to have family support to develop a “moral rejection” of gangs, crime and violence during childhood, which contributed to them finding non‐gang pathways to manhood. Youths who joined gangs were less likely to develop this “moral rejection” during childhood, often due to family problems; and were more likely to admire older gang members, and perceive the gang as an attractive pathway to manhood.

Research limitations/implications

As the sole researcher a limited number of 32 individuals were interviewed.

Originality/value

There is a lack of research on masculinities and gang affiliation in the UK and across the globe. This paper provides new conceptual ideas for understanding why young men make up the vast majority of violent gang members, whilst providing an original data set from a very violent urban setting.
Understanding the dominance of Western accounting and neglect of Islamic accounting in Islamic countries
Authors: Altarawneh Ghada , Lucas Mike
Published: September 2012

Purpose

This paper seeks to explore the reasons for the dominance of Western accounting and neglect of Islamic accounting in Islamic countries, using Jordan as a case study.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reports the results of a series of interviews, using a semi‐structured questionnaire, with senior members of the accounting regulatory regime in Jordan. The interview data are supplemented by relevant secondary (documentary) data.

Findings

The paper concludes that economic dependency on developed Western nations and their international agencies is the major factor determining accounting policy and practice in Jordan.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitations of this study are the uncertainty concerning the extent to which the respondents' views are representative of accounting policy makers in Jordan, and the inevitable degree of subjectivity involved in evaluating the relative impact of economic dependency and other factors on accounting policy in Jordan.

Originality/value

The paper enhances understanding of the neglect of Islamic accounting in Islamic countries and provides insights into the prospects for and barriers to wider adoption of Islamic accounting in future.
Democracy and Islam: promises and perils for the Arab Spring protests
Authors: Cook Bradley J. , Stathis Michael
Published: September 2012

Purpose

Democracy and Islam are both capable of multiple interpretations and applications. Islam possesses ideological resources that provide justification for a wide spectrum of political models. However, the compatibility of Islam and democracy relies on the critical questions of: “whose Islam” and “what Islam,” and “whose democracy” and “what democracy.” The purpose of this paper is to explore the possibilities and challenges of the recent democratic transitions in the Muslim world.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a discursive essay.

Findings

Islamic history has demonstrated that there is no monolithic construal of Islam and politics, and in fact history actually provides hope that a more representative and democratic government might result from the uprisings, with healthier, progressive elements of Islam emerging in ways that were not before possible.

Originality/value

While other observers have explored the compatibility question of Islam and democracy, very little has been written on the recent political upheavals situating the question within this context.
Examining the nature of the comorbidity between pediatric attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder and post‐traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Biederman J. , Petty C. R. , Spencer T. J. , Woodworth K. Y. , Bhide P. , Zhu J. , Faraone S. V.
Published: September 2012

Biederman J, Petty CR, Spencer TJ, Woodworth KY, Bhide P, Zhu J, Faraone SV. Examining the nature of the comorbidity between pediatric attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder and post‐traumatic stress disorder.

Objective: This study sought to address the link between attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in youth by providing a comprehensive comparison of clinical correlates of ADHD subjects with and without PTSD across multiple non‐overlapping domains of functioning and familial patterns of transmission.

Method: Participants were 271 youths with ADHD and 230 controls without ADHD of both sexes along with their siblings. Participants completed a large battery of measures designed to assess psychiatric comorbidity, psychosocial, educational, and cognitive parameters.

Results: Post‐traumatic stress disorder was significantly higher in ADHD probands vs. controls (5.2% vs. 1.7%, χ2(1) = 4.36, P = 0.04). Irrespective of the comorbidity with PTSD, ADHD subjects had similar ages at onset of ADHD, similar type and mean number of ADHD symptoms, and similar ADHD‐associated impairments. PTSD in ADHD probands was significantly associated with a higher risk of psychiatric hospitalization, school impairment, poorer social functioning and higher prevalences of mood, conduct disorder, and anxiety disorders. The mean onset of PTSD (12.6 years) was significantly later than that of ADHD and comorbid disorders (all P < 0.05). Siblings of ADHD and ADHD + PTSD probands had higher prevalences of ADHD vs. siblings of controls (35% vs. 18%, z = 4.00, P < 0.001 and 67% vs. 18%, z = 4.02, P < 0.001 respectively) and siblings of ADHD+PTSD probands had a significantly higher prevalence of PTSD compared with the siblings of ADHD and control probands (20% vs. 3% and 3%, z = 2.99, P = 0.003 and z = 2.07, P = 0.04 respectively).

Conclusion: Findings indicate that the comorbidity with PTSD in ADHD leads to greater clinical severity as regards psychiatric comorbidity and psychosocial dysfunction. ADHD is equally familial in the presence of PTSD in the proband indicating that their co‐occurrence is not owing to diagnostic error.
Modified release terbutaline (SKP1052) for hypoglycaemia prevention: a proof‐of‐concept study in people with type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Nosek L. , Cardot J.‐M. , Owens D. R. , Ibarra P. , Bagate K. , Vergnault G. , Kaiser K. , Fischer A. , Heise T.
Published: September 2012

Aims

In this randomized, single blind, cross‐over study 2.5 mg and 5 mg of the modified‐release terbutaline formulation (SKP‐1052) were compared with conventional immediate‐release terbutaline (IRT, 5 mg) and placebo on overnight blood glucose (BG) and hypoglycaemia in 30 subjects with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

Subjects received subcutaneous injections of insulin glargine (individualized doses) before dinner. SKP‐1052, IRT or placebo was administered around 21:00 hours. BG and terbutaline concentrations were monitored overnight for 10 h post‐dosing. Endpoints comprised of the nadir BG (BGn 0–10 h, primary endpoint), mean overnight BG (BGmean), morning BG (BGmorning) and hypoglycaemia rates as well as pharmacokinetic (PK) endpoints.

Results

SKP‐1052 delayed release of terbutaline by 2 h [PK‐tmax (mean ± SD) 5.0 ± 2.1 h (2.5 mg) and 4.7 ± 1.7 h (5 mg) vs. 2.6 ± 1.3 h with IRT, p < 0.01, respectively]. Compared with placebo, no significant differences were observed for BGn 0–10 h across treatments, but both 5 mg formulations showed less hypoglycaemic events [10 (IRT), 16 (SKP‐1052) vs. 33], higher BGmean (120, 114 and 95 mg/dl) and BGmorning (126, 126 and 101 mg/dl, all comparisons p < 0.05 vs. placebo). Numerically higher BG‐levels between 3 and 8 h post‐dosing were observed with 2.5 mg SKP‐1052 vs. placebo.

Conclusions

Compared with IRT SKP‐1052 delays release of terbutaline. 2.5 mg SKP‐1052 led to numerically higher BG 3 to 8 h post‐dose without fasting hyperglycaemia while 5 mg SKP‐1052 resulted in fasting hyperglycaemia vs. placebo. Future studies will investigate optimized doses of SKP‐1052 for nocturnal hypoglycaemia prevention.
Neurofuzzy models to automate the grading of old‐age depression
Authors: Chattopadhyay Subhagata
Published: September 2012

Manual grading of depression is sometimes difficult due to the subjective signs‐symptoms. The aim of this paper is to automate the process of depression grading using a neurofuzzy model (NFM). Two hundred and seventy real‐world depression cases are considered in this work. Each case has seven symptoms, which are obtained according to DSM‐IV‐TR. Each case is graded as ‘mild’ or ‘moderate’. However, in practice, the boundaries of ‘mild’ and ‘moderate’ grading are fuzzy in nature. The paper attempts to solve this fuzzy overlapping zone of these grades. To reduce the number of symptoms, significantly correlated symptoms are mined using a paired t‐test. Then, two NFMs have been developed. NFM‐1 has been developed with all seven symptoms, while only significantly correlated symptoms have been used to construct the NFM‐2 model. Two fuzzy membership functions, such as triangular membership function (TRMF) and Gaussian membership function (GMF) have been considered to note with which better fuzzification could be achieved. The paper concludes that NFM‐1 with GMF is the best model with average predicting accuracy of 94.4% and robustness.
Millimeter‐scale resolution of trace metal distributions in microbial mats from a hypersaline environment in Baja California, Mexico
Authors: Huerta‐Diaz M. A. , Delgadillo‐Hinojosa F. , Siqueiros‐Valencia A. , Valdivieso‐Ojeda J. , Reimer J. J. , Segovia‐Zavala J. A.
Published: September 2012

Microbial mats from two ponds with different salinities from the saltern of Guerrero Negro (Mexico) points toward millimeter‐scale coherent variations in trace metal (Me) concentrations (Cd, Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn). Total, HCl‐leachable and pyrite‐associated Me showed a trend of increasing concentrations with increasing depth suggesting gradual addition of reactive Me probably as a result of metal sulfide precipitation at depth. The trends in Me profiles can be ascribed to the establishment and maintenance of microzones that promote geochemical processes, bacterial population distributions, and differential mass transport within the mats. Degrees of trace metal pyritization (1 ± 1% for Zn to 24 ± 7% for Cd) as well as metals associated with the pyrite fraction (<1.4–36 ± 18 nmol g−1 for Zn and Mn, respectively) were low, as expected from a reactive Fe‐limited system like Guerrero Negro. Calculated enrichment factors showed that Ni (2.6 ± 2.1), Co (5.5 ± 4.0), Pb (9.4 ± 7.4), and Cd (57 ± 39) were, on average, enriched in the microbial mats of Guerrero Negro. Natural enrichments of Cd, Pb, and Co in sediments along the coast of Baja California and metabolical requirements of Co and Ni by the predominant cyanobacteria in the Guerrero Negro mats may explain these enrichments. Metal characteristics in microbial mats could be advantageously used as biosignatures to identify their presence in the geological record or in other planetary systems.
Review: interventions to increase influenza vaccination among healthcare workers in hospitals
Authors: Hollmeyer Helge , Hayden Frederick , Mounts Anthony , Buchholz Udo
Published: September 2012

Please cite this paper as: Hollmeyer et al. (2012) Review: interventions to increase influenza vaccination among healthcare workers in hospitals. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses 7(4), 604–621.

Annual influenza vaccination rates among hospital healthcare workers (HCW) are almost universally low despite recommendations from WHO and public health authorities in many countries. To assist in the development of successful vaccination programmes, we reviewed studies where interventions aimed to increase the uptake of influenza vaccination among hospital HCW. We searched PUBMED from 1990 up to December 2011 for publications with predetermined search strategies and of pre‐defined criteria for inclusion or exclusion. We evaluated a large number of ‘intervention programmes’ each employing one or more ‘intervention components’ or strategies, such as easy access to vaccine or educational activities, with the goal to raise influenza vaccine uptake rates in hospital HCW during one influenza season. Included studies reported results of intervention programmes and compared the uptake with the season prior to the intervention (historical control) or to another intervention programme within the same season that started from the same set of baseline activities. Twenty‐five studies performed in eight countries met our selection criteria and described 45 distinct intervention programmes. Most studies used their own facility as historical control and evaluated only one season. The following elements were used in intervention programmes that increased vaccine uptake: provision of free vaccine, easy access to the vaccine (e.g. through mobile carts or on‐site vaccination), knowledge and behaviour modification through educational activities and/or reminders and/or incentives, management or organizational changes, such as the assignment of personnel dedicated to the intervention programme, long‐term implementation of the strategy, requiring active declination and mandatory immunization policies. The number of these components applied appeared to be proportional to the increase in uptake. If influenza uptake in hospital HCW is to be increased on sustained basis, hospital managers need to be committed to conduct a well‐designed long‐term intervention programme that includes a variety of co‐ordinated managerial and organizational elements.
Analytical detection of influenza A(H3N2)v and other A variant viruses from the USA by rapid influenza diagnostic tests
Authors: Balish Amanda , Garten Rebecca , Klimov Alexander , Villanueva Julie
Published: September 2012

Please cite this paper as:Balishet al.(2012) Analytical detection of influenza A(H3N2)v and other A variant viruses from the USA by rapid influenza diagnostic tests. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses 7(4), 491–496.

Background The performance of rapid influenza diagnostic tests (RIDTs) that detect influenza viral nucleoprotein (NP) antigen has been reported to be variable. Recent human infections with variant influenza A viruses that are circulating in pigs prompted the investigation of the analytical reactivity of RIDTs with these variant viruses.

Objectives To determine analytical reactivity of seven FDA‐cleared RIDTs with influenza A variant viruses in comparison with the reactivity with recently circulating seasonal influenza A viruses.

Methods Tenfold serial dilutions of cell culture–grown seasonal and variant influenza A viruses were prepared and tested in duplicate with seven RIDTs.

Results All RIDTs evaluated in this study detected the seasonal influenza A(H3N2) virus, although detection limits varied among assays. All but one examined RIDT identified the influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus. However, only four of seven RIDTs detected all influenza A(H3N2)v, A(H1N2)v, and A(H1N1)v viruses. Reduced sensitivity of RIDTs to variant influenza viruses may be due to amino acid differences between the NP proteins of seasonal viruses and the NP proteins from viruses circulating in pigs.

Conclusions Clinicians should be aware of the limitations of RIDTs to detect influenza A variant viruses. Specimens from patients with influenza‐like illness in whom H3N2v is suspected should be sent to public health laboratories for additional diagnostic testing.
Cytochrome P450s and cytochrome P450 reductase in the olfactory organ of the cotton leafworm Spodoptera littoralis
Authors: Pottier M.‐A. , Bozzolan F. , Chertemps T. , Jacquin‐Joly E. , Lalouette L. , Siaussat D. , Maïbèche‐Coisne M.
Published: September 2012

Cytochrome P450 enzymes (P450s) are involved in many physiological functions in insects, such as the metabolism of signal molecules, adaptation to host plants and insecticide resistance. Several P450s have been reported in the olfactory organs of insects, the antennae, and have been proposed to play a role in odorant processing and/or xenobiotic metabolism. Despite recent transcriptomic analyses in several species, the diversity of antennal P450s in insects has not yet been investigated. Here, we report the identification of 37 putative P450s expressed in the antennae of the pest moth Spodoptera littoralis, as well as the characterization of a redox partner, cytochrome P450 reductase (CPR). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that S. littoralis P450s belong to four clades defined by their conservation with vertebrate P450s and their cellular localization. Interestingly, the CYP3 and CYP4 clans, which have been described to be mainly involved in the metabolism of plant compounds and xenobiotics, were largely predominant. More surprisingly, two P450s related to ecdysteroid metabolism were also identified. Expression patterns in adult and larval tissues were studied. Eight P450s appeared to be specific to the chemosensory organs, ie the antennae and proboscis, suggesting a specific role in odorant and tastant processing. Moreover, exposure of males to a plant odorant down‐regulated the transcript level of CPR, revealing for the first time the regulation of this gene by odorants within insect antennae. This work suggests that the antennae of insects are a key site for P450‐mediated metabolism of a large range of exogenous and endogenous molecules.
Assessing bias against overweight individuals among nursing and psychology students: an implicit association test
Authors: Waller Tabitha , Lampman Claudia , Lupfer‐Johnson Gwen
Published: September 2012

Aim and objectives.  To determine the implicit or unconscious attitudes of Nursing and Psychology majors towards overweight individuals in medical and non‐medical contexts.

Background.  Obesity is a leading health concern today, which impacts both physical and psychological health. Overweight individuals confront social biases in many aspects of their lives including health care. Examining the views of Nursing and Psychology students may reveal implicit attitudes towards overweight individuals that may lead to prejudiced behaviours.

Design.  A mixed design experiment with one between‐subjects variable (student major: Nursing or Psychology) and one within‐subjects variable (condition: congruent or incongruent) was used to assess implicit attitudes in two convenience samples of Nursing and Psychology students.

Methods.  A computerised implicit association test was used to determine implicit attitudes towards overweight individuals in medical and non‐medical contexts. A total of 90 students from Nursing (n = 45) and Psychology (n = 45) were recruited to complete an implicit association test. Reaction times in milliseconds between the congruent trials (stereotype consistent) and incongruent trials (stereotype inconsistent) were compared with determine adherence to social stereotypes or weight bias.

Results.  A statistically significant implicit bias towards overweight individuals was detected in both subject groups and in both target settings (medical vs. non‐medical). Stronger weight bias was found when the stimulus targets were female than male.

Conclusions.  Findings from this study expand understanding of the implicit attitudes and social biases of Nursing and Psychology students. The views held by these future healthcare professionals may negatively impact patient care.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Providing education and support to overweight individuals is central to Nursing practice in a society struggling to manage obesity. Negative stereotypes or beliefs about these individuals may result in poor patient care. Therefore, nurses and other healthcare professionals must be aware of personal biases and work to develop methods to address weight‐related issues in a therapeutic manner.
Deep sequencing reveals extensive variation in the gut microbiota of wild mosquitoes from Kenya
Authors: Osei‐Poku J. , Mbogo C. M. , Palmer W. J. , Jiggins F. M.
Published: September 2012

The mosquito midgut is a hostile environment that vector‐borne parasites must survive to be transmitted. Commensal bacteria in the midgut can reduce the ability of mosquitoes to transmit disease, either by having direct anti‐parasite effects or by stimulating basal immune responses of the insect host. As different bacteria have different effects on parasite development, the composition of the bacterial community in the mosquito gut is likely to affect the probability of disease transmission. We investigated the diversity of mosquito gut bacteria in the field using 454 pyrosequencing of 16S rRNA to build up a comprehensive picture of the diversity of gut bacteria in eight mosquito species in this population. We found that mosquito gut typically has a very simple gut microbiota that is dominated by a single bacterial taxon. Although different mosquito species share remarkably similar gut bacteria, individuals in a population are extremely variable and can have little overlap in the bacterial taxa present in their guts. This may be an important factor in causing differences in disease transmission rates within mosquito populations.
Quercetin improves hepatic fibrosis reducing hepatic stellate cells and regulating pro‐fibrogenic/anti‐fibrogenic molecules balance
Authors: Hernández‐Ortega Luis Daniel , Alcántar‐Díaz Blanca Estela , Ruiz‐Corro Luis Alberto , Sandoval‐Rodriguez Ana , Bueno‐Topete Miriam , Armendariz‐Borunda Juan , Salazar‐Montes Adriana María
Published: September 2012

Background and Aim

Development of hepatic cirrhosis involves oxidative stress, inflammation, hepatic stellate cells (HSC)s activation and fibrosis. On the other hand, quercetin, a natural flavonoid is a potent antioxidant and activator of superoxide dismutase and catalase. The aim was to determinate the effect of quercetin on HSCs and development of hepatic fibrosis.

Methods

Wistar male rats were chronically intoxicated with CCl4 for 8 weeks and concomitantly treated with 100 mg/kg per day of quercetin. Oxidative state, inflammation and fibrosis were evaluated. Effect of quercetin on apoptosis of HSC was determined by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP nick end labeling reaction.

Results

Sixty percent of reduction in fibrosis index was observed with quercetin treatment compared with control animals. Considerable reduction on hepatic enzymes was detected in the quercetin group. Expression of pro‐fibrotic genes (transforming growth factor‐β [TGF‐β], Collagen 1α [Col‐1α] and connective tissue growth factor [CTGF]) were decreased by quercetin. Quercetin increased gene expression and functional activity of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and catalase. Inflammatory index was highly reduced as determined by H‐E staining and pro‐inflammatory cytokines expression and nuclear factor‐κB activation were also inhibited. A significant reduction of 65% on activated HSC number was detected when rats were treated with quercetin. Quercetin also induced activation of matrix metalloproteinases MMP2 and MMP9 contributing to decreased index of fibrosis.

Conclusions

Treatment with quercetin reduces oxidation and inflammation and also prevents liver fibrosis, through induction of HSC apoptosis and activation of MMPs.
Fatty liver reduces hepatitis B virus replication in a genotype B hepatitis B virus transgenic mice model
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Pan Qin , Duan Xiao‐Yan , Liu Qiang , Mo Guo‐Yu , Rao Gui‐Rong , Fan Jian‐Gao
Published: September 2012

Background and Aim

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) overlapping with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is undergoing a rapid increase in China. Therefore, the establishment and character of an animal model with both NAFLD and chronic HBV infection has become an urgent task.

Methods

Mice with chronic HBV genotype B infection were established with a microinjection of oocytes. Transgenic and nontransgenic mice were then randomized into groups of NAFLD + HBV, HBV, NAFLD, and control and were treated with high‐fat diets or common forage. At 8, 16, and 24 weeks, characteristics of NAFLD were evaluated by physical indices, liver function tests, glycolipid metabolism, and histopathological scoring. Viral dynamics were also analyzed by HBV‐DNA and HBV‐related antigens.

Results

Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) were expressed, and HBV‐DNA was replicated in HBV transgenic mice at different stages in the serum and liver. Hepatic steatosis was only induced after exposure of the mice to high‐fat diets, and no obvious pathological changes occurred in the HBV group from 8 to 24 weeks. Compared to mice with HBV alone, significant reductions in serum levels of HBV‐DNA, HBsAg and HBeAg occurred in the NAFLD + HBV group after 24 weeks (all P < 0.05). Nevertheless, the NAFLD and NAFLD + HBV groups shared comparable physical and metabolic disorders and similar steatotic, inflammatory and fibrotic characteristics in the liver.

Conclusion

High‐fat diets and transgenic operations on the HBV genotype B induced a rodent model of NAFLD overlapping with chronic HBV infection, and this model reduces the HBV viral factors but not the metabolic and histologic features.
Role of splenectomy in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and hypersplenism
Authors: Kim Sung Hoon , Kim Do Young , Lim Jin Hong , Kim Seung Up , Choi Gi Hong , Ahn Sang Hoon , Choi Jin Sub , Kim Kyung Sik
Published: September 2012

Introduction

Hypersplenism with thrombocytopenia is a common complication of cirrhosis with portal hypertension. We evaluated the role of splenectomy in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in terms of the improvement of biochemical indices and liver volume.

Methods

Nineteen patients with HCC underwent liver resection and splenectomy from January 2000 to December 2009. Thirty‐nine patients who underwent liver resection during the same period were enrolled as case‐matched controls. We performed a retrospective review of prospectively collected data. We analysed the results of biochemical tests, disease‐free survival and overall survival and measured the liver volume before and at 90 days after operation.

Results

Preoperative white blood cell counts (P = 0.001), platelet counts (P = 0.021), total bilirubin (P ≤ 0.001) and prothrombin time by international normalized ratio (P = 0.043) were significantly different. However, these results had converged to similar levels 90 days after the operation. The degree of increment in liver volume were similar (P = 0.763). In splenectomy group, portal vein thrombosis developed in eight patients and all patients except one recovered using only conservative treatments. There was an operative mortality because of liver failure by thrombosis.

Conclusions

Although splenectomy may induce thrombosis, liver failure and subsequent mortality, splenectomy may improve liver function and expand the indication of liver resection if postoperative management is conducted conservatively.
Oncologic clearance with preservation of reconstructive options: literature review and the ‘delayed reconstruction after pathology evaluation (DRAPE)’ technique
Authors: Behan Felix C. , Rozen Warren M. , Kwee Melissa M. , Kapila Shivam , Fairbank Sian , Findlay Michael W.
Published: September 2012

Intraoperative frozen section and Mohs' micrographic surgery (MMS) are two techniques used to ensure oncological clearance without resorting to unnecessarily wide margins that might compromise reconstructive options for definitive wound closure. In addition to some technical issues, these techniques are suboptimal for resection of tumours such as melanoma, where specific tissue margins at histopathology are required to ensure minimal risk of local recurrence. We describe a technique that minimizes the amount of tissue excised and uses definitive paraffin sections interpreted in a pathology laboratory in order to delay reconstruction until after clear oncologic margins are obtained. This ‘delayed reconstruction after pathology evaluation (DRAPE)’ technique is particularly directed at extensive and complicated skin lesions, located in areas of the body that can be difficult to reconstruct and are prone to disfigurement and/or loss of function. A review of the literature is undertaken, establishing the role of each technique in achieving clear surgical margins. A case example is presented, highlighting the role of the DRAPE approach. The DRAPE technique is presented as a useful option for high‐risk lesions, especially within aesthetically sensitive regions or for complex reconstructions, and when reconstruction can be reasonably delayed while tumour clearance is established.
Multidimensional health‐transition patterns among a middle‐aged and older population
Authors: Chang Wen‐Chiung , Lu Feng‐Ping , Lan Tzuo‐Yun , Wu Shwu‐Chong
Published: September 2012

Aim:  Previous studies on health transition have focused on single‐dimension outcomes and minimally evaluated heterogeneity. This study aimed to explore heterogeneous and multidimensional health‐transition patterns on comorbidity, frailty and disability while examining the factors predicting different patterns of health transition.

Methods:  This study drew on data from a nationwide and longitudinally‐followed sample of 5131 Taiwanese aged 50 years and older who were interviewed in 1996, 1999, 2003 and 2007. Latent class analysis (LCA) and multinomial logistic regression were applied to identify health‐transition patterns and their predictors.

Results:  We identified six health‐transition classes by applying LCA, including “persistently healthy”, “well‐managed comorbidity”, “originally comorbid and gradually deteriorating to disability”, “deteriorating gradually and died in late stage of the follow‐up period”, “deteriorating and died in middle stage of the follow‐up period”, and “originally comorbid and died in early stage of the follow‐up period”. Using the “well‐managed comorbidity” class as the reference group, men had higher probabilities of being in the categories of dying in the follow‐up period, but a lower risk of deteriorating to disability. Younger baseline age, higher education, having social engagement and non‐smoking were predictors of “persistently healthy” and were associated with a lower risk of deteriorating to disability and death. Having a spouse and health examinations were associated with a lower risk of death, and also a lower probability of “persistently healthy”.

Conclusions:  Heterogeneous and multidimensional health‐transition patterns exist in middle‐aged and older populations. Several factors might have an effect on health‐transition patterns. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2013; 13: 571–579.
Skin structure and hair morphology of different body parts in the Common Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pipistrellus)
Authors: Madej Jan P. , Mikulová Lucie , Gorošová Alexandra , Mikula Štěpán , Řehák Zdeněk , Tichý František , Buchtová Marcela
Published: September 2012

The bat skin shows an unusual morphology that corresponds to flying adaptations but also performs multiple functions including a protective barrier against microbes and parasites. Here, we compare the microscopic structure of the skin and hairs collected from the membranes with other body parts in the Common Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pipistrellus) in relation to parasite availability. Statistical analysis of whole‐skin thickness revealed two main groups according to body regions; the first with thin skin (wing and tail membrane) and the second with thick skin (head and dorsum, abdomen, footpad). The density of hair was evaluated by a novel method, and it revealed that the density was significantly higher in the head region than in dorsal and ventral body parts. These differences possibly play a role for bat ectoparasites when choosing the preferred region of their host. Along the axis of each hair, the scale morphology was found to be variable. Hair morphology, however, did not vary among body regions. Mast cells were numerous in the hairy areas around vessels and hair follicles of the dorsum and abdomen, which are easily accessible to ectoparasites. Increased numbers of mast cells in hair‐bearing skin are part of the host adaptation system in parasite‐preferred locations.
Targeting the androgen receptor signalling axis in castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC)
Authors: Tsao Che‐Kai , Galsky Matthew D. , Small Alexander C. , Yee Tiffany , Oh William K.
Published: September 2012

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

Castration resistance has been appreciated for decades, and several mechanisms theorising on this effect have been proposed. A rich pipeline of novel agents, including abiraterone and MDV3100, have provided proof of principle that novel agents targeting the AR signalling pathway with superior selectivity and activity than predecessors have yielded significant clinical benefit for patients with metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer.

Our review provides an update in the development of several novel agents targeting the AR signalling pathway now in clinical testing, as well as review novel therapies in development with distinct mechanisms of action showing promising preclinical activity.

Despite undergoing local therapy with curative intent, 20–30% of patients with prostate cancer will ultimately development metastatic disease, leading to morbidity and mortality.

Androgen‐deprivation therapy (ADT) for men with metastatic prostate cancer results in transient clinical benefit, but ultimately, cancers progress despite castrate levels of serum testosterone, a clinical state classically referred to as ‘hormone refractory’ disease.

In this review, we examine mechanisms of resistance to ADT that have redefined our understanding of the more appropriately termed ‘castration resistant’ disease, and have paved the way for a new generation of therapeutics targeting the androgen signalling axis in advanced prostate cancer.
The Beatles' Politics
Authors: Collins Marcus
Published: September 2012

Research Highlights and Abstract

This article argues that the Beatles did much to legitimise pop as a means of political expression, to devise organisational structures to support such political activity and to politicise those who produced and consumed pop music. critiques the Beatles' political motives, attitudes, techniques and accomplishments. explains why the Beatles' political development was a process of trial and error in which they sought out strategies and ideologies to their liking. explores how the Beatles' politicisation altered existing conceptions of politics and pop.

This article argues that the Beatles were instrumental in bringing together the hitherto divergent and mutually uncomprehending realms of politics and pop. Though not innovative political theorists, the Beatles were inventive political strategists who rehearsed virtually every technique subsequently used by politicised musicians. They practised consciousness-raising, lobbying, patronage, abstentionism and civil disobedience. They founded utopian institutions and considered the relative merits of anarchy, democracy and revolutionary socialism. The multitude of political strategies adopted by the Beatles testified to their difficulties in finding one congruent with their outlook and temperament. Furthermore, the anti-authoritarianism which formed the one consistent aspect of their political worldview was simplistic and their solutions were correspondingly unrealistic. They nevertheless did much to legitimise pop music as a means of political expression, to devise organisational structures to support such political activity and to politicise those who produced and consumed pop.
Visions for literacy: parents’ aspirations for reading in children with Down syndrome
Authors: Ricci Leila , Osipova Anna
Published: September 2012

Although children with Down syndrome (DS) can learn to read, few studies have explored parental perspectives on the reading development of this group of children. This article, written by Leila Ricci and Anna Osipova, from California State University, explores visions and expectations regarding reading held by parents of children with Down syndrome in the US. Parents of 50 children with DS (aged three to 13 years) completed a survey about their children's interest in reading and responded to open‐ended questions inquiring about their views on their children's reading development. A majority of parents in this study described their children's positive attitude toward reading, stated their reading‐related goals for their children, defined their children's relative strengths in reading, and shared strategies used in the home to promote literacy in this population. Parents pay close attention to and have high expectations for their children's reading achievement, and thereby would benefit from partnerships with informed educators willing and capable of teaching reading to children with DS.
Right Ventricular Function Predicts Clinical Response to Specific Vasodilator Therapy in Patients with Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Giusca Sorin , Jurcut Ruxandra , Coman Ioan Mircea , Ghiorghiu Ioana , Catrina Daniela , Popescu Bogdan A. , Dima Laura , Ginghina Carmen
Published: September 2012

Introduction: We followed patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) receiving specific vasodilator therapy and tested for predictors of clinical outcome. Methods: Thirty‐two patients (mean age 39 ± 15 years, 22 women, diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension; PH): 29 with PAH and 3 patients with inoperable chronic thromboembolic PH received therapy with either bosentan, sildenafil, or both and were evaluated with clinical parameters, biomarkers (B‐type natriuretic peptide values), and echocardiography before receiving specific medication and every 3 months thereafter. A right heart catheterization was performed at baseline. A composite endpoint of death, worsening of functional class, or the need of a second vasodilator agent was used to define the clinical nonresponders. Results: Patients were followed for 14 months (7.5–21). The endpoint was reached by 15 patients: four patients died (two idiopathic PAH and two PAH in context of Eisenmenger syndrome), seven patients showed 1 functional class worsening, and four patients needed to be switched to combination therapy. Patients who remained clinically stable or improved had at baseline a better cardiac output with a less remodeled right ventricle (RV) and better functioning RV (all P < 0.05). A RV fractional area change (RVFAC) lower than 25.7% and a RV global strain value higher than −13.4% predict with 87% sensitivity and 83% specificity (AUC 87.3%, P = 0.001) and 73% sensitivity and 91% specificity (AUC 84.2%, P = 0.003), respectively, patients who will deteriorate clinically under specific vasodilator therapy. A multivariate model showed RVFAC to be the only independent predictor of the endpoint with a HR of 0.87 (0.8–0.96), P = 0.007. Conclusions: Over an average period of 1 year, almost half of patients showed signs of clinical deterioration despite specific vasodilator therapy. Parameters of right ventricular morphology and function had prognostic value in these patients.
California Featherwork: Considerations for Examination and Preservation
Authors: Gleeson Molly , Pearlstein Ellen , Marshall Bradley , Riedler Renée
Published: September 2012

Birds, and by extension, feathers, hold a central role in California's Native American cultures. Feathers are utilized in a variety of ways and are selected based on the cultural significance and availability of the birds, aesthetics, tribal preferences and tradition, and intended use. Featherworking is a cumulative process, and some items are augmented and repaired during their lifetime. Feathers are increasingly understood as complex materials, and although items of featherwork contain significant evidence that provides information on tribal values, use, cultural adaptations, and condition changes occurring since collection, few resources exist to assist museums in interpreting this information. Therefore, research was undertaken to document the cultural contexts of California feathered regalia and baskets and to start linking this information with scientific knowledge and collecting practices to ultimately enable better interpretation and preservation of California featherwork in museum collections. [Native America, California, feathers, baskets, regalia, preservation, birds]
Judgment‐Based Scoring by Teachers as Professional Development: Distinguishing Promises from Proof
Authors: Goldberg Gail Lynn
Published: September 2012

The engagement of teachers as raters to score constructed response items on assessments of student learning is widely claimed to be a valuable vehicle for professional development. This paper examines the evidence behind those claims from several sources, including research and reports over the past two decades, information from a dozen state educational agencies regarding past and ongoing involvement of teachers in scoring‐related activities as of 2001, and interviews with educators who served a decade or more ago for one state's innovative performance assessment program. That evidence reveals that the impact of scoring experience on teachers is more provisional and nuanced than has been suggested. The author identifies possible issues and implications associated with attempts to distill meaningful skills and knowledge from hand‐scoring training and practice, along with other forms of teacher involvement in assessment development and implementation. The paper concludes with a series of research questions that—based on current and proposed practice for the coming decade—seem to the author to require the most immediate attention.
Uncovered self‐expandable metallic stent placement as a first‐line palliative therapy in unresectable malignant duodenal obstruction
Authors: Ahn Hyung Su , Hong Su Jin , Moon Jong Ho , Ko Bong Min , Choi Hyun Jong , Han Jae Pil , Park Jin Seok , Kang Myung Soo , Cho Joo Young , Lee Joon Seong , Lee Moon Sung
Published: September 2012

Objective

To report treatment outcomes and complications of uncovered self‐expandable metallic stents (SEMS) as a first‐line therapy for inoperable malignant duodenal obstructions in our hospital.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed in patients who had undergone placement of uncovered SEMS as a first‐line therapy for inoperable malignant duodenal obstruction from August 2001 to July 2011. Treatment outcomes and complications of the procedures were investigated.

Results

In total, 47 patients (25 men; mean age 65 years) underwent the procedure. The technical and clinical success rates were 93.6% and 83.0%, respectively. Early complications occurred in 8 patients, including two guidewire‐induced micro‐perforations and six pancreatitis. All these 8 patients recovered with conservative treatment. Six late complications requiring additional procedures consisted of five stent occlusions due to tumor ingrowth and one stent migration. Four stent occlusions and one migration were treated by the placement of an additional covered stent and the remaining case was treated by balloon dilatation. The median primary stent patency period and median survival period after primary stent placement were 103 days and 131 days, respectively.

Conclusions

Uncovered SEMS placement is effective as a first‐line palliative therapy for inoperable malignant duodenal obstruction. Complications such as stent occlusion or migration can be easily managed with additional covered SEMS.