bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recovering from Hallucinations: A Qualitative Study of Coping with Voices Hearing of People with Schizophrenia in Hong Kong
Authors: Ng Petrus , Chun Ricky W. K. , Tsun Angela
Published: December 2012

Auditory hallucination is a positive symptom of schizophrenia and has significant impacts on the lives of individuals. People with auditory hallucination require considerable assistance from mental health professionals. Apart from medications, they may apply different lay methods to cope with their voice hearing. Results from qualitative interviews showed that people with schizophrenia in the Chinese sociocultural context of Hong Kong were coping with auditory hallucination in different ways, including (a) changing social contacts, (b) manipulating the voices, and (c) changing perception and meaning towards the voices. Implications for recovery from psychiatric illness of individuals with auditory hallucinations are discussed.
Unitary and Non-Unitary Precoders for a Limited Feedback Precoded OSTBC System
Authors: Wang Haiquan , Li Yabo , Xia Xiang-Gen , Liu Shunlan
Published: December 2012

In this paper, a multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) system with finite-bit feedback first proposed by Love-Heath is considered, where a transmitted signal consists of a precode followed by an orthogonal space-time block code (OSTBC), such as Alamouti code. A new design criterion and a corresponding design method of precoders are proposed. Simulations show that the precoders obtained by our proposed criterion and method perform better than the existing ones. Furthermore, since our proposed precoders have a layered structure, their designs can be implemented in the simplest Grassmannian manifold. Moreover, a fast encoding algorithm can be applied, which can greatly reduce the complexity of codeword selection. In this paper, we also propose non-unitary precoders and their design criterion and method based on the performance analysis and the special property of an OSTBC. Interestingly, non-unitary precoders can significantly improve performance over unitary precoders.
Genes expressed by the biological control bacterium Pseudomonas protegens Pf‐5 on seed surfaces under the control of the global regulators GacA and RpoS
Authors: Kidarsa Teresa A. , Shaffer Brenda T. , Goebel Neal C. , Roberts Daniel P. , Buyer Jeffrey S. , Johnson Aaron , Kobayashi Donald Y. , Zabriskie T. Mark , Paulsen Ian , Loper Joyce E.
Published: December 2012

Gene expression profiles of the biological control strain Pseudomonas protegens Pf‐5 inhabiting pea seed surfaces were revealed using a whole‐genome oligonucleotide microarray. We identified genes expressed by Pf‐5 under the control of two global regulators (GacA and RpoS) known to influence biological control and secondary metabolism. Transcript levels of 897 genes, including many with unknown functions as well as those for biofilm formation, cyclic diguanylate (c‐di‐GMP) signalling, iron homeostasis and secondary metabolism, were influenced by one or both regulators, providing evidence for expression of these genes by Pf‐5 on seed surfaces. Comparison of the GacA and RpoS transcriptomes defined for Pf‐5 grown on seed versus in broth culture overlapped, but most genes were regulated by GacA or RpoS under only one condition, likely due to differing levels of expression in the two conditions. We quantified secondary metabolites produced by Pf‐5 and gacA and rpoS mutants on seed and in culture, and found that production profiles corresponded generally with biosynthetic gene expression profiles. Future studies evaluating biological control mechanisms can now focus on genes expressed by Pf‐5 on seed surfaces, the habitat where the bacterium interacts with seed‐infecting pathogens to suppress seedling diseases.
DNA barcoding and the taxonomy of Microgastrinae wasps (Hymenoptera, Braconidae): impacts after 8 years and nearly 20 000 sequences
Authors: Alex Smith M. , Fernández‐Triana J. L. , Eveleigh E. , Gómez J. , Guclu C. , Hallwachs W. , Hebert P. D. N. , Hrcek J. , Huber J. T. , Janzen D. , Mason P. G. , Miller S. , Quicke D. L. J. , Rodriguez J. J. , Rougerie R. , Shaw M. R. , Várkonyi G. , Ward D. F. , Whitfield J. B. , Zaldívar‐Riverón A.
Published: December 2012

Microgastrine wasps are among the most species‐rich and numerous parasitoids of caterpillars (Lepidoptera). They are often host‐specific and thus are extensively used in biological control efforts and figure prominently in trophic webs. However, their extraordinary diversity coupled with the occurrence of many cryptic species produces a significant taxonomic impediment. We present and release the results of 8 years (2004–2011) of DNA barcoding microgastrine wasps. Currently they are the best represented group of parasitoid Hymenoptera in the Barcode of Life Data System (BOLD), a massive barcode storage and analysis data management site for the International Barcoding of Life (iBOL) program. There are records from more than 20 000 specimens from 75 countries, including 50 genera (90% of the known total) and more than 1700 species (as indicated by Barcode Index Numbers and 2% MOTU). We briefly discuss the importance of this DNA data set and its collateral information for future research in: (1) discovery of cryptic species and description of new taxa; (2) estimating species numbers in biodiversity inventories; (3) clarification of generic boundaries; (4) biological control programmes; (5) molecular studies of host‐parasitoid biology and ecology; (6) evaluation of shifts in species distribution and phenology; and (7) fostering collaboration at national, regional and world levels. The integration of DNA barcoding with traditional morphology‐based taxonomy, host records, and other data has substantially improved the accuracy of microgastrine wasp identifications and will significantly accelerate further studies on this group of parasitoids.
Patient perspectives on informed consent for anaesthesia and surgery: American attitudes
Authors: BURKLE C. M. , PASTERNAK J. J. , ARMSTRONG M. H. , KEEGAN M. T.
Published: December 2012

Background

Principles of informed consent are ethically, morally, and legally grounded in physicians' responsibility to patients. This study examined patient expectations regarding the informed consent during the perioperative process, specifically risk information exchange, preferred method and timing of delivery, and the roles that patient anxiety and understanding might play.

Methods

Five hundred patients seen in our pre‐operative clinic were surveyed by written questionnaire. Patients were asked about their level of agreement with a number of statements pertaining to informed consent and their preferences for discussion of types of risks. Anxiety concerns, impact of ability to understand complexities of care, preferences for timing, and method of presentation were assessed.

Results

Four hundred eleven of 500 surveys (82%) were completed. A majority of respondents (92% and 80%, respectively) believed the risk of common but less consequential complications and rare yet severe complications should be discussed. Only 21% agreed that anxiety generated by discussion of risks outweighed benefit and only 6% agreed that discussion of risks should be restricted based on patient inability to appreciate complexities of care. Discussion was preferred on the day of surgery, 1 week before, and 1 month before in 46%, 35%, and 16% of respondents, respectively, and independent of level of anxiety generated by such discussion (P = 0.87). Respondents preferred discussion with their anaesthesia provider alone (44%) or in combination with written information (52%) as compared with written information only (4%) (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Greater awareness of patient preferences and expectations may result in better information exchange between anaesthesia providers and their patients.
A randomized controlled trial of a smoking cessation intervention conducted among prisoners
Authors: Richmond Robyn , Indig Devon , Butler Tony , Wilhelm Kay , Archer Vicki , Wodak Alex
Published: December 2012

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy of nortriptyline (NOR) added to a multi‐component smoking cessation intervention, which included cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) and provision of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT).

Design

Randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing two study groups with blinded follow‐up at 3, 6 and 12 months. Both groups received a multi‐component smoking cessation intervention comprising two half‐hour individual sessions of CBT and NRT with either active NOR or placebo.

Setting

Prisons in New South Wales (17) and Queensland (one), Australia.

Participants

A total of 425 male prisoners met inclusion criteria and were allocated to either treatment (n = 206) or control group (n = 219).

Measurements

Primary end‐points at 3, 6 and 12 months were continuous abstinence, point prevalence abstinence and reporting a 50% reduction in smoking. Smoking status was confirmed by expired carbon monoxide, using a cut‐point of ≤10 parts per million.

Findings

Participants' demographics and baseline tobacco use were similar in treatment and control groups. Based on an intention‐to‐treat analysis, continuous abstinence between the treatment and control groups was not significantly different at 3 months (23.8 versus 16.4%), 6 months (17.5 versus 12.3%) and 12 months (11.7 versus 11.9%).

Conclusion

Adding nortriptyline to a smoking cessation treatment package consisting of behavioural support and nicotine replacement therapy does not appear to improve long‐term abstinence rates in male prisoners.
The maintenance of cultural stereotypes in the conversational retelling of narratives
Authors: Kashima Yoshihisa , Lyons Anthony , Clark Anna
Published: December 2012

Interpersonal communication plays a significant role in the maintenance of culturally shared stereotypes. This paper reports on two experiments in which two different stories were transmitted conversationally through communication chains. In both experiments, people tended to emphasize more stereotype consistent than stereotype inconsistent (SI) information, thus rendering the stories more confirming, rather than challenging, of the stereotypes. Although SI information sometimes attracted more attention in conversation, this did not translate into a greater likelihood of passing on SI information, thus keeping the story character's impression largely stereotypical even after a second retelling of the story.
The micturition switch and its forebrain influences
Authors: Griffiths D. J. , Fowler C. J.
Published: December 2012

Dr DeGroat and Wickens has reviewed the central neural mechanisms controlling the lower urinary tract with a major focus on the brain stem circuitry that mediates the switch‐like characteristics of micturition, in particular the periaqueductal grey and the pontine micturition centre (de 2012). The review culminates in a computer model of how the brainstem switch operates in animals in which forebrain influences on micturition have been removed by decerebration. In this complementary paper, we review the mechanisms of forebrain involvement in the voluntary control of human micturition and the maintenance of continence with evidence based heavily on the results of functional brain imaging experiments.
Urinary incontinence in Alzheimer's disease is associated with Clinical Dementia Rating‐Sum of Boxes and Barthel Activities of Daily Living
Authors: Na Hae Ri , Park Moon Ho , Cho Sung Tae , Lee Byung Chul , Park Suyeol , Kim Khae Hawn , Choi Jong Bo
Published: December 2012

Introduction

Urinary incontinence (UI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are common in the elderly population and have increased rapidly in recent decades. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of UI and determine the neuropsychological characteristics of patients with AD and UI.

Methods

A total of 464 patients with probable AD were recruited, and the prevalence and type of UI were evaluated. Neuropsychological evaluation was assessed using the Mini‐Mental Status Examination, Clinical Dementia Rating, Clinical Dementia Rating‐Sum of Boxes, Global Deterioration Scale, Barthel Activities of Daily Living and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living.

Results

The prevalence of UI in patients with AD was 24.8% (men 29.6%, women 23.0%). The two most common types of UI were urge incontinence (44.3%) and functional incontinence (25.3%). UI in patients with Alzheimer's disease was statistically significantly associated with Clinical Dementia Rating‐Sum of Boxes (OR 1.56, 95% CI 1.21–2.01) and Barthel Activities of Daily Living (OR 1.34, 95%CI 1.22–1.47) after adjustment for different covariates.

Discussion

UI commonly occurred in patients with AD. The Clinical Dementia Rating‐Sum of Boxes and Barthel Activities of Daily Living could be potential predictors for UI in patients with AD.
Two‐weekly dose‐adjusted (DA)‐EPOCH‐like chemotherapy with high‐dose dexamethasone plus rituximab (DA‐EDOCH14‐R) in poor‐prognostic untreated diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: García‐Suárez Julio , Flores Elena , Callejas Marta , Arribas Ignacio , Gil‐Fernández Juan‐José , Olmedilla Gabriel , Curto Natalia , Guillén Helga , Casco Celia‐Rosalva , Martín Yolanda , Burgaleta Carmen
Published: December 2012

The activity and safety of two‐weekly dose‐adjusted (DA)‐EPOCH (etoposide, prednisone, vincristine, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin)‐like chemotherapy with high‐dose dexamethasone plus rituximab (DA‐EDOCH14‐R) was explored in 20 patients with previously untreated poor prognosis diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL). The main outcomes were compared with those of 27 poor‐prognosis patients enrolled into a previous trial of 3‐weekly DA‐EPOCH‐R. Toxicity was manageable and there were no therapy‐related deaths. Three‐year progression‐free survival (PFS) was superior in the DA‐EDOCH14‐R group (95% vs. 74%, P = 0·08). Importantly, this improvement in PFS with the two‐weekly DA‐EDOCH14‐R was particularly notable in patients with an age‐adjusted International Prognostic Index of 3 (100% vs. 30%, P < 0·001).
Electroacupuncture Suppresses Mechanical Allodynia and Nuclear Factor Kappa B Signaling in Streptozotocin‐Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Shi Lei , Zhang Hong‐Hong , Xiao Ying , Hu Ji , Xu Guang‐Yin
Published: December 2012

Aims

To investigate whether electroacupuncture (EA) produced analgesic effect and whether nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) and cystathionine β synthase (CBS) involved in EA‐mediated analgesia in painful diabetic neuropathy in rats.

Methods

Diabetes was induced by an intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ) in adult female rats. Mechanical pain threshold was measured by von Frey filaments. EA was applied at acupoint Zu‐San‐Li (ST‐36) in both hindlimbs. Western blot analysis was employed to detect changes in protein levels of NF‐κB and CBS in spinal dorsal root ganglion (DRGs).

Results

Mechanical allodynia was developed 2 weeks after STZ injection and lasted for another 4 weeks. STZ injection significantly enhanced expression of p65 and CBS in lumbar L4‐6 DRGs when compared with age‐matched controls. EA markedly attenuated mechanical allodynia. Importantly, EA treatment remarkably inhibited p65 and CBS expression in DRGs. Additionally, intrathecal injection of the p65 antagonist pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate attenuated mechanical allodynia and markedly inhibited CBS expression in DRGs in STZ rats.

Conclusions

These data indicate that EA produced an analgesic effect, which might be mediated at least in a part by inhibition of NF‐κB signaling pathway in primary sensory neurons in rats with diabetes.
Risk factors associated with the metabolic syndrome in abdominal obesity
Authors: Schneider H. J. , Klotsche J. , Friedrich N. , Schipf S. , Völzke H. , Silber S. , März W. , Nauck M. , Pittrow D. , Wehling M. , Sievers C. , Lehnert H. , Stalla G. K. , Wittchen H. ‐U. , Wallaschofski H.
Published: December 2012

Obesity is associated with the metabolic syndrome. However, not all obese individuals have cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF). It is not clear how many abdominally obese individuals are free of CVRF and what distinguishes them from the group of obese individuals with CVRF. In this study, we aimed to assess the associated factors and prevalence of abdominal obesity without CVRF. In our cross‐sectional analysis, we included n = 4244 subjects from the Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP), a population‐based study and n = 6671 subjects from the Diabetes Cardiovascular Risk‐Evaluation: Targets and Essential Data for Commitment of Treatment (DETECT) study, a representative primary care study in Germany. We defined abdominal obesity by waist‐to‐height ratio (WHtR) of 0.5 or greater. We assessed how many subjects with abdominal obesity had CVRF based on the definition of the metabolic syndrome. We analysed which conditions were associated with the absence of CVRF in abdominal obesity. In SHIP and DETECT, 2652 (62.5%) and 5126 (76.8%) subjects had a WHtR ≥ 0.5. Among those with a WHtR ≥ 0.5, 9.0% and 13.8% were free of CVRF and 49.9% and 52.7% had at least two CVRF in SHIP and DETECT, respectively. In both studies, after backward elimination, age, male sex, body mass index and high liver enzymes and unemployment were consistently inversely associated with the absence of CVRF. Among abdominally obese subjects, the prevalence of metabolically healthy subjects is low. Conditions consistently associated with the absence of CVRF in abdominal obesity are younger age, female sex, low BMI, and normal liver enzymes, the latter likely reflecting the absence of steatohepatitis.
Pharmacobezoar in an obese patient with intragastric balloon: a case revealed at endoscopy
Authors: Kotzampassi K. , Grosomanidis V.
Published: December 2012

Pharmacobezoar formation is a very rare complication that occurs in cases of altered gastrointestinal motility or to a background of disturbed anatomy of the gastrointestinal tract. The case of an obese and depressed patient treated by an intragastric balloon for weight loss, who was revealed to have a pharmacobezoar during endoscopy for early balloon removal, is presented. The possible causes of pharmacobezoar formation in such a patient treated with an intragastric balloon are discussed.
Diminished trkA receptor signaling reveals cholinergic‐attentional vulnerability of aging
Authors: Parikh Vinay , Howe William M. , Welchko Ryan M. , Naughton Sean X. , D'Amore Drew E. , Han Daniel H. , Deo Monika , Turner David L. , Sarter Martin
Published: December 2012

The cellular mechanisms underlying the exceptional vulnerability of the basal forebrain (BF) cholinergic neurons during pathological aging have remained elusive. Here we employed an adeno‐associated viral vector‐based RNA interference (AAV‐RNAi) strategy to suppress the expression of tropomyosin‐related kinase A (trkA) receptors by cholinergic neurons in the nucleus basalis of Meynert/substantia innominata (nMB/SI) of adult and aged rats. Suppression of trkA receptor expression impaired attentional performance selectively in aged rats. Performance correlated with trkA levels in the nMB/SI. trkA knockdown neither affected nMB/SI cholinergic cell counts nor the decrease in cholinergic cell size observed in aged rats. However, trkA suppression augmented an age‐related decrease in the density of cortical cholinergic processes and attenuated the capacity of cholinergic neurons to release acetylcholine (ACh). The capacity of cortical synapses to release ACh in vivo was also lower in aged/trkA‐AAV‐infused rats than in aged or young controls, and it correlated with their attentional performance. Furthermore, age‐related increases in cortical proNGF and p75 receptor levels interacted with the vector‐induced loss of trkA receptors to shift NGF signaling toward p75‐mediated suppression of the cholinergic phenotype, thereby attenuating cholinergic function and impairing attentional performance. These effects model the abnormal trophic regulation of cholinergic neurons and cognitive impairments in patients with early Alzheimer's disease. This rat model is useful for identifying the mechanisms rendering aging cholinergic neurons vulnerable as well as for studying the neuropathological mechanisms that are triggered by disrupted trophic signaling.
Worldwide trends in fishing interest indicated by internet search volume
Authors: Wilde G. R. , Pope K. L.
Published: December 2012

There is a growing body of literature that shows internet search volume on a topic, such as fishing, is a viable measure of salience. Herein, internet search volume for ‘fishing’ and ‘angling’ is used as a measure of public interest in fishing, in particular, recreational fishing. An online tool, Google Insights for Search, which allows one to study internet search terms and their volume since 2004, is used to examine trends in interest in fishing for 50 countries. Trends in normalised fishing search volume, during 2004 through 2011, varied from a 72.6% decrease (Russian Federation) to a 133.7% increase (Hungary). Normalised fishing search volume declined in 40 (80%) of the countries studied. The decline has been relatively large in English‐speaking countries, but also has been large in Central and South American, and European countries. Analyses of search queries provide a low‐cost means of gaining insight into angler interests and, possibly, behaviour in countries around the world.
Predicting long‐term carbon mineralization and trace gas production from thawing permafrost of Northeast Siberia
Authors: Knoblauch Christian , Beer Christian , Sosnin Alexander , Wagner Dirk , Pfeiffer Eva‐Maria
Published: December 2012

The currently observed Arctic warming will increase permafrost degradation followed by mineralization of formerly frozen organic matter to carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4). Despite increasing awareness of permafrost carbon vulnerability, the potential long‐term formation of trace gases from thawing permafrost remains unclear. The objective of the current study is to quantify the potential long‐term release of trace gases from permafrost organic matter. Therefore, Holocene and Pleistocene permafrost deposits were sampled in the Lena River Delta, Northeast Siberia. The sampled permafrost contained between 0.6% and 12.4% organic carbon. CO2 and CH4 production was measured for 1200 days in aerobic and anaerobic incubations at 4 °C. The derived fluxes were used to estimate parameters of a two pool carbon degradation model. Total CO2 production was similar in Holocene permafrost (1.3 ± 0.8 mg CO2‐C gdw−1 aerobically, 0.25 ± 0.13 mg CO2‐C gdw−1 anaerobically) as in 34 000–42 000‐year‐old Pleistocene permafrost (1.6 ± 1.2 mg CO2‐C gdw−1 aerobically, 0.26 ± 0.10 mg CO2‐C gdw−1 anaerobically). The main predictor for carbon mineralization was the content of organic matter. Anaerobic conditions strongly reduced carbon mineralization since only 25% of aerobically mineralized carbon was released as CO2 and CH4 in the absence of oxygen. CH4 production was low or absent in most of the Pleistocene permafrost and always started after a significant delay. After 1200 days on average 3.1% of initial carbon was mineralized to CO2 under aerobic conditions while without oxygen 0.55% were released as CO2 and 0.28% as CH4. The calibrated carbon degradation model predicted cumulative CO2 production over a period of 100 years accounting for 15.1% (aerobic) and 1.8% (anaerobic) of initial organic carbon, which is significantly less than recent estimates. The multiyear time series from the incubation experiments helps to more reliably constrain projections of future trace gas fluxes from thawing permafrost landscapes.
Increasing global agricultural production by reducing ozone damages via methane emission controls and ozone‐resistant cultivar selection
Authors: Avnery Shiri , Mauzerall Denise L. , Fiore Arlene M.
Published: December 2012

Meeting the projected 50% increase in global grain demand by 2030 without further environmental degradation poses a major challenge for agricultural production. Because surface ozone (O3) has a significant negative impact on crop yields, one way to increase future production is to reduce O3‐induced agricultural losses. We present two strategies whereby O3 damage to crops may be reduced. We first examine the potential benefits of an O3 mitigation strategy motivated by climate change goals: gradual emission reductions of methane (CH4), an important greenhouse gas and tropospheric O3 precursor that has not yet been targeted for O3 pollution abatement. Our second strategy focuses on adapting crops to O3 exposure by selecting cultivars with demonstrated O3 resistance. We find that the CH4 reductions considered would increase global production of soybean, maize, and wheat by 23–102 Mt in 2030 – the equivalent of a ~2–8% increase in year 2000 production worth $3.5–15 billion worldwide (USD2000), increasing the cost effectiveness of this CH4 mitigation policy. Choosing crop varieties with O3 resistance (relative to median‐sensitivity cultivars) could improve global agricultural production in 2030 by over 140 Mt, the equivalent of a 12% increase in 2000 production worth ~$22 billion. Benefits are dominated by improvements for wheat in South Asia, where O3‐induced crop losses would otherwise be severe. Combining the two strategies generates benefits that are less than fully additive, given the nature of O3 effects on crops. Our results demonstrate the significant potential to sustainably improve global agricultural production by decreasing O3‐induced reductions in crop yields.
Der Sozialschutz im Dienst einer dauerhaften Integration: Ein Muss für Europa angesichts der Krise
Authors: Euzéby Chantal
Published: December 2012

Auszug

In der Europäischen Union stellt sich nach dem sozialen Abbau infolge der explodierenden Schulden der Mitgliedsstaaten die entscheidende Frage, wie dem drohenden gesellschaftlichen Ausschluss vorgebeugt werden kann. Mögliche Ansätze liegen im Schnittpunkt zwischen der Arbeitsmarkt‐ und Weiterbildungspolitik und den Reformen, mit denen die Sozialschutzsysteme an die neuen sozioökonomischen Gegebenheiten angepasst werden sollen (Bevölkerungsalterung, instabile Familien, verbreitete Arbeitslosigkeit, prekäre Beschäftigungsverhältnisse, Armut trotz Arbeit, anhaltende oder zunehmende soziale Ungleichheiten). In diesem Artikel versuchen wir zu zeigen, dass die Förderung des Sozialschutzes unter dem Leitgedanken der sozialen Investition ein ausgezeichnetes Mittel ist, um lebenslange Chancengleichheit, dauerhafte wirtschaftliche Leistungsfähigkeit (Gewinn an struktureller Wettbewerbsfähigkeit) und gesellschaftlichen Zusammenhalt im Interesse des allgemeinen Wohlergehens miteinander zu verbinden. Im Vordergrund steht die Förderung der allgemeinen und individuellen Menschenrechte auf Mobilität und lebenslange Weiterbildung, die zur Kompensation der Anforderungen der Arbeitsmarktflexibilität als neue soziale Grundrechte eingeführt werden könnten. Der Artikel unterstreicht auch, wie wichtig es wäre, diese Rechte innerhalb der Europäischen Union in einer erweiterten sozialen Grundsicherung zu verankern. Damit würde dem Risiko gesellschaftlichen Ausschlusses in der Union dauerhaft vorgebeugt, und die wirtschaftliche und soziale Integration, die mit der überarbeiteten Lissabon‐Strategie (2003‐2005) eingeleitet wurde, würde gefördert, und Vertrauen und Hoffnung der europäischen Bürger könnten gestärkt werden.
Herausforderungen bei der Beurteilung und Entschädigung von psychischem Stress unter dem nigerianischen Employee's Compensation Act von 2010
Authors: Atilola Olayinka
Published: December 2012

Auszug

Nigeria hat eine sehr junge Bevölkerung und die Anzahl Stellen auf dem formellen Arbeitsmarkt sind begrenzt, weshalb sich die Suche nach formeller Beschäftigung schwierig gestaltet und zu ausbeuterischen Arbeitsbedingungen führen kann. Um der prekären Situation der nigerianischen Arbeitnehmer entgegenzuwirken, trat im Dezember 2010 ein neues Gesetz, der Employee's Compensation Act (ECA), in Kraft. Eine Besonderheit des ECA ist, dass er auch Zahlungen bei Beeinträchtigungen der psychischen Gesundheit oder „psychischem Stress“ vorsieht, der im Rahmen eines Beschäftigungsverhältnisses auftritt. Im vorliegenden Artikel werden die Stärken und Schwächen der Bestimmungen des ECA untersucht, vor allem die Bedingungen für den Nachweis psychischer Schäden bei Entschädigungsansprüchen. Die allgemeineren Auswirkungen des ECA auf die Entwicklung von Entschädigungsrichtlinien bei psychischen Erkrankungen in Subsahara‐Afrika werden erörtert und Vorschläge für eine zukünftige Überarbeitung des ECA aufgeführt.
Study of the vulvar skin in healthy Japanese women: components of the stratum corneum and microbes
Authors: Miyamoto Toshinobu , Akiba Syunichi , Sato Noriko , Fujimura Tsutomu , Takagi Yutaka , Kitahara Takashi , Takema Yoshinori , Iizuka Hajime , Sengoku Kazuo
Published: December 2012

Background  Although the physiological conditions of vulvar skin in Caucasian populations have been characterized, little is known about these conditions in Japanese women.

Methods  Skin of the labia, groin, mons pubis, and inner thigh was examined in 40 healthy Japanese women outwith their menstrual period. Skin moisture, skin pH, ceramide content and inflammatory cytokine proteins of the stratum corneum, and bacterial flora were assessed.

Results  Skin moisture was found to be significantly lower in the labia than at the other three sites examined. No differences were found in skin pH. A significant difference in ceramide content was observed between the groin and inner thigh. The ratio of interleukin‐1α (IL‐1α) and interleukin‐1α receptor antagonist (IL‐1Ra) was significantly higher in the labia than in the other sites. Numbers of total bacteria, Staphylococcus epidermis, and Lactobacillus spp. were greater in the labia and mons pubis sites compared with the inner thigh. Prevotella spp. were found only in the labia.

Conclusions  In Japanese women, the skin at the labia is drier and more inflammatory than the skin at the groin, mons pubis, and inner thigh; this cannot be explained by the ceramide content and/or pH of the stratum corneum. Prevotella spp. may perform a key role in the vulvar skin of Japanese women.
Chinese perCapitaIncomeDistribution, 1992–2007: ARegionalPerspective
Authors: Villaverde José , Maza Adolfo
Published: December 2012

This paper explores the regional per capita income distribution inChina between 1992 and 2007. The spatial dependence present in the raw data is removed using a filtering technique. A non‐parametric approach is applied to the filtered data to show that regional inequalities have been roughly stable, the distribution shape has changed very little and mobility within the distribution has been relatively low. Finally, the paper investigates the impact of various economic and social factors on the evolution of regional income distribution. Primary sector employment, physical capital, trade openness and foreign direct investment are all found to be key determinants of regional income distribution.
The distributional effects of the Hilmer reforms on the Australian gas industry*
Authors: Verikios George , Zhang Xiao‐guang
Published: December 2012

We analyse changes in the Australian gas industry during 1990s that were motivated by the Hilmer Reforms. We estimate the effects on real household income of the changes by combining a computable general equilibrium model with a microsimulation model. Although the structural changes were significant in their effects on the gas industry, they are estimated to have had minor effects on real household income in all Australian regions owing to the small size of the gas industry and household gas consumption at that time, and low importance of gas as an input to other industries. The changes are estimated to have slightly increased income inequality owing to the redistribution of income from labour to other primary factors.
Gender, Institutions and Rural Transformation in Latin America
Authors: FORSTNER KATHRIN
Published: December 2012

Guest Editor: Kathrin Forstner
Compositional Analyses of Mortars from the Late Antique Site of Son Peretó (Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain): Archaeological Implications
Authors: Miriello D. , Bloise A. , Crisci G. M. , Cau Ontiveros M. Á. , Pecci A. , Riera Rullan M.
Published: December 2012

The paper presents the mineralogical, petrographic and chemical analyses of mortars from an Early Christian complex found in Mallorca (Balearic Islands) and dated to between the fifth and the eighth centuries ad. We characterized several mortars found at the site, in order to gather information on the raw materials used, as well as on the technology of production, and similarities among the samples. The analyses were aimed at solving specific archaeological questions regarding the building phases of the site and, in particular, the synchronic or diachronic presence of two baptismal basins in the same Christian complex.
Expression Pattern, Ethanol‐Metabolizing Activities, and Cellular Localization of Alcohol and Aldehyde Dehydrogenases in Human Small Intestine
Authors: Chiang Chien‐Ping , Wu Chew‐Wun , Lee Shiao‐Pieng , Ho Ji‐Lin , Lee Shou‐Lun , Nieh Shin , Yin Shih‐Jiun
Published: December 2012

Background

Alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) are principal enzymes responsible for metabolism of ethanol (EtOH). Functional polymorphisms of ADH1B, ADH1C, and ALDH2 genes occur among racial populations. This study aimed to systematically determine the functional expressions and cellular localization of ADH and ALDH family members in human small bowel.

Methods

One hundred and seventeen surgical specimens of duodenal mucosae, 34 jejunal mucosal specimens, and 14 paired specimens of stomach, duodenum, and jejunum from same individuals were investigated. The isozyme/allozyme expression patterns of ADH and ALDH were identified by isoelectric focusing, and the ADH/ALDH activities were assayed spectrophotometrically. The protein contents of ADH/ALDH isozymes were determined by immunoblotting using the corresponding purified class‐specific antibodies, and the cellular localizations were detected by immunohistochemistry and histochemistry.

Results

The activities of ADH1C*1/*1 allelotype were significantly higher than those of the ADH1C*1/*2 allelotype in duodenum (p < 0.001) and in jejunum (p < 0.05); and the activity of ADH2‐expressing phenotype was significantly higher than that of the ADH2‐missing phenotype in duodenum (p < 0.05). The activities of ALDH2‐inactive phenotype were not significantly different from those of the ALDH2‐active phenotype in duodenum and jejunum. Stomach exhibited significantly lower ADH activity (p < 0.05), and duodenum displayed significantly lower ALDH activity (p < 0.001) comparing the paired gastric, duodenal, and jejunal mucosae of same individuals. Gender and age did not significantly influence the ADH and ALDH activities in duodenum. The isozyme protein contents in duodenum and jejunum were in the following decreasing order: ALDH1A1, ADH1/ALDH2, ADH3, ADH2, and ALDH3A1. Villous epithelial cells, cryptic Paneth cells, and Brunner's gland ductal cells revealed a greater immunostaining intensity with ADH1, ALDH1A1, and ALDH2.

Conclusions

ADH and ALDH isozymes are differentially expressed in the various cell types of duodenum and jejunum. The results suggest that proximal small intestine can substantively contribute to first‐pass metabolism of EtOH under certain conditions and that cytotoxic acetaldehyde and EtOH perturbation of retinol metabolism might play an etiological role in the pathogenesis of small bowel.
Relationship Between Longitudinal Measures of Renal Function and Onset of Dementia in a Community Cohort of Older Adults
Authors: O'Hare Ann M. , Walker Rod , Haneuse Sebastian , Crane Paul K. , McCormick Wayne C. , Bowen James D. , Larson Eric B.
Published: December 2012

Objectives

To evaluate the association between dynamic measures of renal function ascertained over time and onset of dementia.

Design

Prospective community cohort study.

Setting

Group Health, Seattle, Washington.

Participants

Two thousand nine hundred sixty‐eight adults aged 65 and older followed for the development of dementia over a median of 6.0 years (interquartile range 3.1–10.1 years).

Measurements

Time‐varying measures of renal function were constructed based on 49,340 serum creatinine measurements and included average estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), eGFR trajectory, and variability in eGFR around this trajectory over 5‐year exposure windows. The association between these three eGFR exposure measures and risk of dementia was estimated using a Cox regression model adjusted for other participant characteristics. Time‐varying measures of urine protein by dipstick were also adjusted for in sensitivity analyses.

Results

Participants with a lower eGFR had a higher incidence of dementia, but this did not reach statistical significance in adjusted analyses (omnibus P = .14). There were trends toward a higher adjusted incidence of dementia in participants with positive eGFR trajectories (omnibus P = .07) and greater variability in eGFR (omnibus P = .04) over time. The results of sensitivity analyses, including those in which time‐varying measures of proteinuria were included, were consistent with those of the primary analysis.

Conclusion

In a community cohort of older adults followed for a median of 6 years, strong associations were not found between measures of kidney disease severity and progression and incident dementia.
Huddling house sparrows remain euthermic at night, and conserve body mass
Authors: Burns Darren John , Ben‐Hamo Miriam , Bauchinger Ulf , Pinshow Berry
Published: December 2012

An advantage of huddling in the cold is that the individual animals involved can maintain body temperature while saving energy. Since house sparrows Passer domesticus biblicus store little fat, but inhabit relatively cold climates, we tested the hypothesis that they huddle at night. While recording body temperature and body mass of 18 house sparrows when they were either caged individually, or free in an aviary, we observed that when free in the aviary, the sparrows huddled at low ambient temperatures and more birds huddled, in tighter and tighter formation, as ambient temperature decreased. However, their body temperatures were not significantly different from when they spent the night individually caged. When free to huddle, the birds lost significantly less body mass during the course of a day than when individually caged. This reduction in body mass loss may be of particular importance during periods of adverse environmental conditions, especially for small birds that manage their energy budgets on a daily basis.
Progressive nodular histiocytosis
Authors: Hilker Olaf , Kovneristy Alexander , Varga Rita , Neubert Thorsten , Wesselmann Ulrich , Flaig Michael J. , Ruzicka Thomas , Burgdorf Walter , Lehmann Percy
Published: December 2012

Progressive nodular histiocytosis (PNH) represents a very rare type of non‐Langerhans cell histiocytosis (NLCH). It can be distinguished from other types by the occurrence of yellow to red‐brown papules and nodules measuring a few centimeters in size. Histologically the nodules represent spindle‐cell xanthogranulomas. We report on two new cases of PNH with novel clinical symptoms. In the first case, the patient had microcytic anemia due to massive iron deposition in the nodules and a progressively worsening limp due to involvement of the soles. The complex therapeutic challenge was effectively managed by successive surgical ablation of all visible lesions. The second patient had epibulbar infiltrates. The clinical variability of PNH leads to considerable overlap with other forms of NLCH.
Gender Differences in the Association between Parental Divorce during Childhood and Stroke in Adulthood: Findings from a Population-Based Survey
Authors: Fuller-Thomson Esme , Dalton Angela D.
Published: December 2012

Background

Although there is a substantial literature examining the mental health consequences of parental divorce, less attention has been paid to possible long-term physical health outcomes.

Aims

The aim of this study was to examine the gender-specific association between childhood parental divorce and later incidence of stroke, while controlling for age, race ethnicity, socioeconomic status, health behaviors, diabetes, social support, marital status, mental health, and health care utilization.

Methods

Secondary analysis of the population-based Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey; logistic regression analyses were conducted. The final sample included 4074 males and 5886 females. Respondents were excluded if they had experienced parental addictions to drugs or alcohol, any form of childhood abuse (physical, sexual, or emotional), or witnessed domestic violence.

Results

A threefold risk of stroke was found for males who had experienced parental divorce before the age of 18 in comparison with males whose parents had not divorced [age- and race ethnicity-adjusted model odds ratio (OR) = 2·99, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1·79, 4·98; fully adjusted model OR = 3·01, 95% CI = 1·68, 5·39]. Parental divorce was not significantly associated with stroke among women (fully adjusted OR = 1·64, 95% CI = 0·89, 3·02). Conclusions There is a robust association between parental divorce and stroke among males, even after adjustment for many known risk factors and the exclusion of respondents who had experienced parental addictions or family violence. Further research is needed to investigate plausible pathways linking parental divorce and stroke in males.
Yield of CT perfusion for the evaluation of transient ischaemic attack
Authors: Kleinman Jonathan T. , Mlynash Michael , Zaharchuk Greg , Ogdie Alyshia A. , Straka Matus , Lansberg Maarten G. , Schwartz Neil E. , Singh Paul , Kemp Stephanie , Bammer Roland , Albers Gregory W. , Olivot Jean-Marc
Published: December 2012

Background

Magnetic resonance diffusion-weighted imaging and perfusion-weighted imaging are able to identify ischaemic ‘footprints’ in transient ischaemic attack. Computed tomography perfusion (CTP) may be useful for patient triage and subsequent management. To date, less than 100 cases have been reported, and none have compared computed tomography perfusion to perfusion-weighted imaging (PWI). We sought to define the yield of computed tomography perfusion for the evaluation of transient ischaemic attack.

Methods

Consecutive patients with a discharge diagnosis of possible or definite transient ischaemic event who underwent computed tomography perfusion were included in this study. The presence of an ischaemic lesion was assessed on non-contrast computed tomography, automatically deconvolved CTPTMax (Time till the residue function reaches its maximum), and when available on diffusion-weighted imaging and PWITMax maps.

Results

Thirty-four patients were included and 17 underwent magnetic resonance imaging. Median delay between onset and computed tomography perfusion was 4.4 h (Interquartile range [IQR]: 1.9-9.6), and between computed tomography perfusion and magnetic resonance imaging was 11 h (Interquartile range: 3.8-22). Noncontrast computed tomography was negative in all cases, while CTPTMax identified an ischaemic lesion in 12/34 patients (35%). In the subgroup of patients with multimodal magnetic resonance imaging, an ischaemic lesion was found in six (35%) patients using CTPTMax versus nine (53%) on magnetic resonance imaging (five diffusion-weighted imaging, nine perfusion-weighted imaging). The additional yield of CTPTMax over computed tomography angiography was significant in the evaluation of transient ischaemic attack (12 vs. 3, McNemar, P = 0.004).

Conclusions

CTPTMax found an ischaemic lesion in one-third of acute transient ischaemic attack patients. Computed tomography perfusion may be an acceptable substitute when magnetic resonance imaging is unavailable or contraindicated, and has additional yield over computed tomography angiography. Further studies evaluating the outcome of patients with computed tomography perfusion lesions in transient ischaemic attack are justified at this time.
Immune regulation in idiopathic bronchiectasis
Authors: Boyton Rosemary J. , Altmann Daniel M.
Published: December 2012

Bronchiectasis is a complex pathological endpoint arrived at through a diverse interplay between lung infection and altered immune function. It comprises irreversible, abnormal dilatation of one or more bronchi, with chronic airway inflammation and is associated with recurrent chest infections, airflow obstruction, chronic cough, excessive sputum production, and malaise. Many pathogens are associated with this disease, including chronic bacterial infections, nontuberculous mycobacteria, and aspergillis. However, the etiology is poorly defined. Disease‐associated genes indicate a likely contribution to disease mechanism both from innate and adaptive immunity. The role of immune mechanisms is highlighted by the occurrence of bronchiectasis in a subset of patients with rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease as well as diseases of immune dysregulation such as combined variable immune deficiency, transporter associated with antigen processing (TAP) deficiency syndrome, and hyper‐IgE syndrome. Recent evidence indicates a possible role of excessive natural killer cell activation in pathogenesis.
The impact of azole resistance on aspergillosis guidelines
Authors: Georgiadou Sarah P. , Kontoyiannis Dimitrios P.
Published: December 2012

Azole resistance in Aspergillus species may be on the rise, with significant potential implications for the management of invasive aspergillosis. The main mechanism of azole resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus is via alterations of the target enzyme CYP51A. Such azole resistance is either primary or secondary (in the setting of prior azole exposure) and can be derived either from single or multiple mutations. Irrespective of the amino acid substitution type in CYP51A, azole‐resistant Aspergillus isolates are always itraconazole resistant. There is significant variability among studies and centers in the prevalence of azole resistance, and this is a multifactorial issue. Nevertheless, the exact frequency of azole resistance is unknown, in part because of the low culturability of the fungus in patients with aspergillosis. This work aims to provide an overview of the current knowledge in Aspergillus azole resistance and raises questions for future research and practical implications in the management of aspergillosis.
Application of diagnostic markers to invasive aspergillosis in children
Authors: Roilides Emmanuel , Pana Zoi‐Dorothea
Published: December 2012

Early mycological detection of Aspergillus species is the cornerstone for a prompt diagnosis, appropriate treatment strategies, and improved survival of patients with invasive aspergillosis (IA), irrespective of age. However, the currently available laboratory tests for the diagnosis of IA include culture with direct microscopy, histology, and antigenic markers, such as galactomannan and β‐1, 3‐d‐glucan, Aspergillus spp. DNA detection by PCR, and imaging studies, such as high‐resolution CT scan. However, all need further validation, especially in children. In this review we focus on the diagnosis of IA emphasizing the current perspectives, difficulties in interpretation, and the need of further evaluation from a pediatric point of view.
EPINICIAN AND THE POLIS
Authors: ALONI ANTONIO
Published: December 2012

The paper draws up a map situating the surviving epinicia in the various cities where they were performed and discussing the eventual relationship between said performances and the civic context (or part of it) to which they were addressed. This issue is approached on various levels. In particular, the nature of the city is considered and, with a special attention to clients and recipients of the epinicion, an attempt is made to assess the extent to which the city is a strong political structure, featuring a collective identity and shared values and demanding loyal behaviour towards fellow citizens.