bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nursing unit managers, staff retention and the work environment
Authors: Duffield Christine M , Roche Michael A , Blay Nicole , Stasa Helen
Published: December 2010

Aim and objective.  This paper examined the impact of leadership characteristics of nursing unit managers, as perceived by staff nurses, on staff satisfaction and retention.

Background.  A positive work environment will increase levels of job satisfaction and staff retention. Nurse leaders play a critical role in creating a positive work environment. Important leadership characteristics of the front‐line nurse manager include visibility, accessibility, consultation, recognition and support.

Design.  Secondary analysis of data collected on 94 randomly selected wards in 21 public hospitals across two Australian states between 2004–2006.

Methods.  All nurses (n = 2488, 80·3% response rate) on the selected wards were asked to complete a survey that included the 49‐item Nursing Work Index‐Revised [NWI‐R] together with measures of job satisfaction, satisfaction with nursing and intention to leave. Subscales of the NWI‐R were calculated. Leadership, the domain of interest, consisted of 12 items. Wards were divided into those reporting either positive or negative leadership. Data were analysed at the nurse level using spss version 16.

Results.  A nursing manager who was perceived to be a good leader, was visible, consulted with staff, provided praise and recognition and where flexible work schedules were available was found to distinguish the positive and negative wards. However, for a ward to be rated as positive overall, nurse leaders need to perform well on all the leadership items.

Conclusion.  An effective nursing unit manager who consults with staff and provides positive feedback and who is rated highly on a broad range of leadership items is instrumental in increasing job satisfaction and satisfaction with nursing.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Good nurse managers play an important role in staff retention and satisfaction. Improved retention will lead to savings for the organisation, which may be allocated to activities such as training and mentorship to assist nurse leaders in developing these critical leadership skills. Strategies also need to be put in place to ensure that nurse leaders receive adequate organisational support from nursing executives.
Pulmonary tuberculosis in the West Bank, Palestinian Authority: molecular diagnostic approach
Authors: Ereqat Suheir , Bar‐Gal Gila K. , Nasereddin Abedelmajeed , Said Sawsan , Greenblatt Charles L. , Azmi Kifaya , Qaddomi Sharif E. , Spigelman Mark , Ramlawi Asad , Abdeen Ziad
Published: December 2010

Objective  To compare the effectiveness and feasibility of an insertion sequence (IS6110)‐based polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay with conventional methods of detecting Mycobacterium tuberculosis and to analyse mutations present in the hot spot region of the RNA polymerase B subunit (rpoB) gene associated with rifampin resistance by DNA sequencing.

Methods  Ninety‐five sputum samples from 84 clinically suspected cases of tuberculosis were tested for mycobacterial infections by Ziehl Neelsen smear examination, Lowenstein‐Jensen culture and IS6110‐based PCR assay.

Results  Sensitivity and specificity of the PCR were 94%; the sensitivity of culture was 65%, and of smear tests, 59%. Both smear microscopy and culture had 100% specificity. DNA sequencing data of the 305‐bp fragment of the rpoB gene for nine clinical isolates revealed one point mutation at position I572F and double mutations at position S531F in two isolates obtained from two patients who did not respond to the anti‐tuberculosis therapy.

Conclusion  IS6110‐based PCR can be used routinely in clinical laboratories for rapid detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and thus allow early diagnosis and treatment of any contacts by the cheapest method currently available in the Palestinian Authority region. Rapid detection of rifampin resistance isolates will enable efficient treatment of patients and assist in eradication of the disease in the Palestinian territories.
Impact of pre‐transplant dialysis modality on post‐transplant diabetes mellitus after kidney transplantation
Authors: Courivaud Cécile , Ladrière Marc , Toupance Olivier , Caillard Sophie , de Ligny Bruno Hurault , Ryckelynck Jean‐Philippe , Moulin Bruno , Rieu Philippe , Frimat Luc , Chalopin Jean‐Marc , Chauvé Sylvie , Kazory Amir , Ducloux Didier
Published: December 2010

Courivaud C, Ladrière M, Toupance O, Caillard S, de Ligny BH, Ryckelynck J‐P, Moulin B, Rieu P, Frimat L, Chalopin J‐M, Chauvé S, Kazory A, Ducloux D. Impact of pre‐transplant dialysis modality on post‐transplant diabetes mellitus after kidney transplantation. Clin Transplant 2011: 25: 794–799. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Post‐transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM) is a well‐known complication in renal transplant recipients (RTRs). While a number of risk factors for PTDM have been identified, the potential impact of pre‐transplant dialysis modality on subsequent development of PTDM has not yet been explored.

We performed a multicenter retrospective study on 2010 consecutive RTRs who did not have a history of diabetes prior to renal transplantation. PTDM was defined as a need for anti‐diabetic therapy in an RTR without a history of diabetes prior to transplantation. Analysis of the risk factors for development of PTDM was performed with respect to pre‐transplant dialysis modality.

A total of 137 (6.8%) patients developed PTDM; 7% in the hemodialysis group and 6.5% in the peritoneal dialysis (PD) group (p = 0.85). In the multivariate analysis, age (p < 0.001), body mass index (BMI) (p < 0.001), use of tacrolimus (p = 0.002), and rejection episodes (p < 0.001) were identified as independent risk factors for development of PTDM. Patients in the PD group were younger (p = 0.004), had lower BMI (p = 0.07), and were less likely to have a history of hepatitis C (p = 0.007) and autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (p = 0.07). Adjustment for these variables did not modify the results.

The results of this study suggest that pre‐transplant dialysis modality does not have an impact on the subsequent development of PTDM in RTRs.
Tolerability of everolimus‐based immunosuppression in maintenance liver transplant recipients
Authors: Vallin Mélanie , Guillaud Olivier , Morard Isabelle , Gagnieu Marie‐Claude , Mentha Gilles , Adham Mustapha , Morelon Emmanuel , Boillot Olivier , Giostra Emiliano , Dumortier Jérôme
Published: December 2010

Vallin M, Guillaud O, Morard I, Gagnieu M‐C, Mentha G, Adham M, Morelon E, Boillot O, Giostra E, Dumortier J. Tolerability of everolimus‐based immunosuppression in maintenance liver transplant recipients. Clin Transplant 2011: 25: 660–669. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract: Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the tolerability of the conversion from calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) to everolimus (ERL) in maintenance liver transplant (LT) recipients.

Methods: From January 2005 to March 2008, ERL was introduced after LT as maintenance immunosuppressive therapy because of (i)de novoor recurrent cancer after LT, (ii) pre‐existing liver carcinoma on the liver explant or (iii) CNI toxicity. CNI dosage was progressively reduced until discontinuation.

Results: The study population included 94 patients, of mean age 57 ± 10. The mean delay between LT and ERL introduction was 5 ± 5 yr. After a mean follow‐up of 12 ± 7 months, 70% of the patients did present at least one side effect. The mean trough level of ERL was 6 μg/L at the end of follow‐up. Main side effects included hyperlipidemia (37%), dermatitis (19%), mucositis (15%), and proteinuria (18%). Biopsy‐proven acute rejection occurred in 9% of patients. Global ERL discontinuation rate was 21% (16% because of side effects).

Conclusions: The results of our experience indicate that conversion to ERL is associated with adverse effects in 70% of patients leading to drug discontinuation in 16% (and amenable to dose reduction in the remainders). Longer follow‐up periods are necessary to capture the impact of ERL fully on renal function and survival in cancer patients.
Prevention of lamivudine‐resistant hepatitis B recurrence after liver transplantation with entecavir plus tenofovir combination therapy and perioperative hepatitis B immunoglobulin only
Authors: Karlas T. , Hartmann J. , Weimann A. , Maier M. , Bartels M. , Jonas S. , Mössner J. , Berg T. , Tillmann H.L. , Wiegand J.
Published: December 2010

T. Karlas, J. Hartmann, A. Weimann, M. Maier, M. Bartels, S. Jonas, J. Mössner, T. Berg, H.L. Tillmann, J. Wiegand. Prevention of lamivudine‐resistant hepatitis B recurrence after liver transplantation with entecavir plus tenofovir combination therapy and perioperative hepatitis B immunoglobulin only. Transpl Infect Dis 2011: 13: 299–302. All rights reserved

Abstract: Combination therapy with antivirals plus hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIg) has become the standard treatment for prevention of post‐liver transplant hepatitis B virus (HBV) recurrence. However, HBIg therapy is inconvenient and expensive. Alternative therapeutic approaches with modern nucleos(t)ide analogues are limited so far. The present case report describes prevention of HBV recurrence with entecavir and tenofovir. A 48‐year‐old male patient with hepatitis B‐induced decompensated liver cirrhosis initially improved on lamivudine (LAM) until LAM resistance (rtL180M and rtM204V) emerged followed by renewed decompensation. Therefore, tenofovir was added to LAM leading to undetectable HBV DNA (<200 copies/mL). Six months later, low‐level viremia (479 copies/mL) was detected. Treatment was escalated to tenofovir plus entecavir. HBV DNA became negative again, and the patient underwent orthotopic liver transplantation. HBIg was administered during transplantation (10,000 IU) and on the second and third postoperative days (total dose 26,000 IU). Subsequently, the anti‐hepatitis B surface (HBs) titer rose to 1477 IU/L at day 4 post transplantation. Although HBIg should have been continued, the patient remained on combination therapy with tenofovir plus entecavir only. The anti‐HBs titer decreased and became negative 4 months later. However, under continued combination therapy with oral antivirals, HBV DNA and hepatitis B surface antigen remained negative during the entire follow‐up of 21 months after liver transplantation. Combination therapy with entecavir plus tenofovir may prevent post‐liver transplant hepatitis B recurrence even without HBIg maintenance therapy. This case illustrates that combination oral antiviral therapy might substitute for HBIg as indefinite prophylactic regimen due to profound antiviral efficacy and low risk of viral resistance. Efficacy and safety must be further investigated in randomized controlled trials.
Optimum dose of ginger root oil to treat sterile Mediterranean fruit fly males (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Paranhos B. J. , McInnis D. , Morelli R. , Castro R. M. , Garziera L. , Paranhos L. G. , Costa K. , Gava C. , Costa M. L. Z. , Walder J. M. M.
Published: December 2010

The sterile insect technique (SIT) is widely used as part of an integrated approach to reduce field populations of the Mediterranean fruit fly (Ceratitis capitata, Diptera: Tephritidae). Aromatherapy based on exposure to ginger root oil (GRO) volatiles is known as a method to significantly improve the sexual performance of sterile medfly males, and is being used in many mass‐rearing facilities around the world. However, the optimum dose of GRO is not well defined. This work evaluated in laboratory cages four different doses of GRO and a control (0, 0.1, 0.25, 0.5 and 0.75 ml/m3), and two different methods to hold flies prior to release (paper bags and plastic cages). The objective was to find the lowest dose that provides optimal improvement in mating performance of sterile males when competing with wild males for wild females and optimal reduction in fertility of wild females. Egg hatch, copula duration, the Relative Sterility Index (RSI), and a Competitiveness (C) value (based on RSI) were calculated for each treatment to assess male sexual performance and induction of sterility. The method used to hold flies did not influence the aromatherapy effect. The mean time spent by wild females in copula with wild males was significantly longer than with sterile males for all treatments, except when sterile males were treated with 0.1 ml of GRO/m3. Amongst all doses studied, it is recommended to apply the lowest dose, 0.1 ml of GRO/m3, since at this dose both the RSI and induced sterility reached the highest levels, and were not statistically different from the 0.25 and 0.5 GRO/m3 doses. Indeed, this dose showed a very significant improvement in the mating competitiveness of sterile males aromatically treated with GRO.
Identification of QTLs for seed dormancy in rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Xie Kun , Jiang Ling , Lu BingYue , Yang ChunYan , Li LinFang , Liu Xi , Zhang Long , Zhao ZhiGang , Wan JianMin
Published: December 2010

With 3 figures and 3 tables

Preharvest sprouting (PHS) can damage end‐use quality in a number of cereal crop species. The trait is closely related to seed dormancy, for which there is known genetic variation in rice and other cereals. A set of 122 back‐cross‐inbred lines from the cross of ‘N22’ (indica, strongly dormant) and ‘Nanjing 35’ (japonica, no‐dormant) were used to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) for seed dormancy. Three QTL were detected on chromosomes 1, 2 and 3, and the proportion of the phenotypic variance explained by each was 18%, 8% and 7%. At all three loci, the dormancy‐increasing allele was inherited from cv. ‘N22’. To map the chromosome 1 locus qSd‐1 more precisely, an advanced back‐cross (BC6F2) population was developed. The result of this population indicated that qSd‐1 is in fact a pair of distinct, linked loci qSd‐1‐1 and qSd‐1‐2, which act additively to promote dormancy. Simple Sequence Repeats (SSRs) closely linked to each of the QTL identified should allow for the marker‐assisted transfer of the dormancy shown by cv. ‘N22’ for the improvement of the PHS of low dormancy cultivars.
Characterization and developmental expression pattern of the relaxin receptor rxfp1 gene in zebrafish
Authors: Donizetti Aldo , Fiengo Marcella , del Gaudio Rosanna , Di Giaimo Rossella , Minucci Sergio , Aniello Francesco
Published: December 2010

We report the gene characterization, the cDNA cloning and the temporal and spatial expression pattern of the relaxin receptor rxfp1 gene in the zebrafish Danio rerio. The zebrafish rxfp1 gene has the same syntenic genomic organization, and a similar exon‐intron structure to the homologue human gene. Furthermore, the deduced Rxfp1 protein sequence shows a high degree of amino acid similarity when compared with the human protein and the conservation of all amino acid identity necessary for the binding with relaxin. Our results show that rxfp1 gene is active either during embryogenesis or in the adult organism, showing a wide expression pattern. Moreover, we provide the first description of rxfp1 spatial expression pattern during embryo development, showing that the transcript is already present at the early developmental stage and is distributed in all of the embryonic cells until somitogenesis. Starting at the pharyngula stage the gene expression becomes mainly restricted in the brain territories. In fact, at the larval stage, the transcript is detectable in the epiphysis, postoptic region, posterior tuberculum, hypothalamus, optic tectum, tegmentum/pons, medulla and also in the structure of a peripheral nervous system, the terminal nerve. The rxfp1 expression pattern in Danio rerio embryos is very similar to that reported in the adult mammalian brain, suggesting a pivotal role of this receptor in the neurophysiology processes already at very early developmental stages.
Primary cardiac synovial sarcoma: A case report and literature review
Authors: Yokouchi Yuki , Hiruta Nobuyuki , Oharaseki Toshiaki , Ihara Fumie , Oda Yoshinao , Ito Shingo , Yamashita Hiromasa , Ozaki Shigeyuki , Gomi Tatsuya , Takahashi Kei
Published: December 2010

Primary cardiac synovial sarcoma is a rare disease. A 51‐year‐old man visited our hospital with the chief complaint of palpitations and shortness of breath while exercising. Copious bloody pericardial effusion and a multicystic intrapericardial tumor were detected. A primary cardiac malignant tumor was suspected, an open‐chest tumor resection was performed with the objectives of diagnosis and treatment. Histologically, the tumor cells were uniformly spindle‐shaped with an ovoid or oval nucleus, they had proliferated in fascicular fashion. In addition myxoid degeneration, a hemangiopericytomatous vascular pattern and pseudorosette formation were seen in some areas of the tumor. Based on the histopathological and immunohistochemical findings and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction detection of SS18‐SSX1 fusion transcripts, a monophasic fibrous type synovial sarcoma was diagnosed. Postoperative radiation therapy was administered and there had been no recurrence 9 months after the surgery.
Initial report of glufosinate and paraquat multiple resistance that evolved in a biotype of goosegrass (Eleusine indica) in Malaysia
Authors: SENG CHUAH TSE , VAN LUN LOW , SAN CHA THYE , SAHID ISMAIL BIN
Published: December 2010

Field and glasshouse studies have confirmed the presence of a glufosinate‐ and paraquat‐resistant goosegrass biotype that has infested a bitter gourd field in Air Kuning, Perak, Malaysia. Glufosinate and paraquat had been applied at least six times per year to the affected fields (originally a rubber plantation) for more than four consecutive years. Paraquat had been used since 1970 for weed control in the rubber plantation. An on‐site field trial revealed that the control of the goosegrass plants, measuring 20–35 cm in height, ranged from 20 to 35% 3 weeks after being treated with each herbicide at twice the recommended rate. Dose–response tests were conducted in the glasshouse, using seedlings at the three‐to‐four‐leaf stage that had been obtained from the plants that had received repeated exposure to these herbicides and a biotype with no history of any herbicide resistance. The comparison of the GR50 (the herbicide rate that is required to reduce the shoot fresh weight by 50%) of the seedlings indicated that the resistant biotype of goosegrass is 3.4‐fold and 3.6‐fold more resistant than the susceptible biotype following treatment with glufosinate and paraquat, respectively. This study has demonstrated the world's first field‐evolved instance of multiple resistance in goosegrass to two non‐selective herbicides, glufosinate and paraquat.
Mulberry leaf water extract inhibits bermudagrass and promotes wheat growth
Authors: HAQ RAZIA ABDUL , HUSSAIN MUMTAZ , CHEEMA ZAHID ATA , MUSHTAQ MUHAMMAD NAEEM , FAROOQ MUHAMMAD
Published: December 2010

Allelopathy has the potential to tackle the concerns associated with the indiscriminate use of synthetic herbicides. In search of a natural herbicide, the effects of mulberry (Morus alba) leaf water extracts on bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) and wheat (Triticum aestivum) were investigated. Four concentrations of extract (25, 50, 75, and 100%) were compared with a control (distilled water). The results revealed that the pregermination application of 100% mulberry leaf water extract resulted in the complete inhibition of bermudagrass and wheat germination. However, postemergence, two foliar sprays suppressed only the growth of bermudagrass and promoted wheat growth. The effect of the mulberry leaf water extract was concentration dependent. It is evident that the postemergence application of mulberry leaf water extract has the scope for use as natural herbicide for the control of bermudagrass and to promote the growth and yield of wheat.
Is the ultrasound‐estimated bladder weight a reliable method for evaluating bladder outlet obstruction?
Authors: Almeida Fernando G. , Freitas Danielo G. , Bruschini Homero
Published: December 2010

Study Type – Diagnostic (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

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

Based on the observation of bladder mass increase in BOO animal models, it has been suggested that it could be possible to determine the presence of male bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) by ultrasound estimated bladder weight (UEBW). In the present study, we tried to reproduce the results correlating UEBW and BOO without success. Furthermore, we could not find any correlation of UEBW and IPSS.

Despite some studies emphasizing the value of UEBW as an efficient non‐invasive method to evaluate lower urinary tract obstruction, our data demonstrate that UEBW did not present any individual correlation with clinical and urodynamic BOO.

OBJECTIVE

• To evaluate the correlation between ultrasound‐estimated bladder weight (UEBW) in patients with different degrees of bladder outlet obstruction (BOO).

METHODS

• We evaluated 50 consecutive non‐neurogenic male patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) referred to urodynamic study (UDS). All patients self‐answered the International Prostate Score Symptoms (IPSS) questionnaire. After the UDS, the bladder was filled with 150 mL to determine UEBW.

• Patients with a bladder capacity under 150 mL, a previous history of prostate surgery or pelvic irradiation, an IPSS score <8, a bladder stone or urinary tract infection were excluded.

• After a pressure–flow study, the Schafer linear passive urethral resistance relation nomogram was plotted to determine the grade of obstruction: Grades I–II/VI were defined as mild obstruction, Grades III–IV/VI as moderate obstruction, and Grades V–VI/VI as severe obstruction.

RESULTS

• The UEBW was 51.7 ± 26.9, 54.1 ± 30.0 and 54.8 ± 28.2 in patients with mild, moderate and severe BOO, respectively (P= 0.130). The UEBW allowed us to define four groups: (i) UEBW <35 g; (ii) 35 g ≤ UEBW < 50 g; (iii) 50 g ≤ UEBW < 70 g; and (4) UEBW ≥ 70 g.

• We did not find any differences in age, prostate weight, IPSS, PVR, cystometric bladder capacity, presence of detrusor overactive and degree of obstruction in the aforementioned groups.

CONCLUSION

• Despite the fact that some studies have emphasized the value of UEBW as an efficient non‐invasive method for evaluating lower urinary tract obstruction, our study suggests that UEBW does not present any individual correlation with LUTS or objective measurements of BOO.
The extent of tumour fat invasion affects survival in patients with renal cell carcinoma and venous tumour thrombosis
Authors: Bertini Roberto , Roscigno Marco , Freschi Massimo , Angiolilli Diego , Strada Elena , Petralia Giovanni , Sozzi Francesco , Capitanio Umberto , Cremonini Anna , Rigatti Patrizio
Published: December 2010

Study Type – Prognosis (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

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

Several studies have investigated the role of renal fat invasion in RCC with neoplastic thrombus. Our study confirmed that the simultaneous presence of TFI and VTT was associated with higher risk of CSM than the presence of VTT alone.

We demonstrated for the first time that patients with either PFI or RSFI had a two‐fold increased risk of CSM compared with patients with VTT alone. Moreover, the combination of PFI and RSFI was associated with a three‐fold risk of CSM.

OBJECTIVE

• To investigate the effect of presence and extent of tumour fat invasion (TFI) – perinephric invasion (PFI), renal sinus fat invasion (RSFI) or both PFI and RSFI – on cancer‐specific mortality (CSM) in patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and venous tumour thrombus (VTT).

METHODS

• We examined 184 consecutive patients with RCC with VTT treated with nephrectomy between 1987 and 2007. Associations with CSM were evaluated by univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazard models.

RESULTS

• Median follow up was 21 months. The 5‐year CSM‐free survival estimates were 75%, 36% and 20% in patients with VTT without TFI, those with VTT with PFI or RSFI, and those with VTT with both PFI and RSFI, respectively (P < 0.001). In multivariable analyses, presence of either PFI or RSFI was associated with a two‐fold increased risk of CSM, whereas presence of both PFI and RSFI was associated with a three‐fold increased risk of CSM, relative to VTT‐only cases.

• The inclusion of the variable describing the presence and extent of TFI in a base model including pT stage, Fuhrman grade and presence of nodal disease and metastatic disease significantly increased the accuracy in predicting CSM (+2.1%; P < 0.001) in patients with VTT.

CONCLUSIONS

• Patients affected by RCC with VTT and TFI have a higher risk of CSM relative to cases with VTT only. Patients with both PFI and RSFI showed increased CSM compared with patients with either PFI or RSFI.

• Our results suggest TFI should be accurately evaluated and included in routine pathological reports to provide better patient risk stratification.
Long‐term results of percutaneous nephrolithotomy for treatment of staghorn stones
Authors: EL‐Nahas Ahmed R. , Eraky Ibrahim , Shokeir Ahmed A , Shoma Ahmed M. , EL‐Assmy Ahmed M. , EL‐Tabey Nasr A. , EL‐Kappany Hamdy A. , EL‐Kenawy Mahmoud R.
Published: December 2010

Study Type – Therapy (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

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

Short‐term results; as stone‐free and complication rates; of percutaneous nephrolithotomy for treatment of staghorn stones.

Long‐term results of PNL; as recurrence rate and differential renal functional changes for treatment of staghorn stones with focus.

OBJECTIVE

• To study long‐term results of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) for treatment of staghorn stones.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

• The records of patients who underwent PNL for staghorn stones between January 1998 and January 2008 were retrospectively reviewed.

• Patients who completed follow‐up for one year or more were included. Follow‐up with KUB and renal ultrasonography were performed every 3–6 months.

• Renal radioisotopic scan was performed for patients who had already undergone this study before doing PNL.

RESULTS

• The study included 122 patients (69 male and 53 female) with mean age 47.6 ± 14.5 years (5–74). They underwent 126 PNL.

• Perioperative complications were encountered in 28 procedures (22%). The mean period of follow‐up was 3.5 ± 2.3 years (1–11.3). Among 71 stone‐free kidneys, 18 (25%) developed stone recurrence. Of 55 kidneys with residuals at the start of follow‐up, 36 (65%) showed growth of these residuals.

• Preoperative and postoperative renograms were performed for 71 patients.

• At the last follow‐up, differential GFR was stable in 53 (74.5%), improved in 12 (17%) and deteriorated in 6 (8.5%). Among patients with deteriorated renal function, 3 had undergone embolization to control severe bleeding, one developed secondary UPJO, and one had recurrent stone obstructing the kidney.

CONCLUSION

• Long‐term functional results of PNL for staghorn stones are satisfactory as 91.5% of kidneys showed stable or improved GFR. Long‐term follow‐up is mandatory especially for patients with residual stones.
Metachronous renal tumours after surgical management of oncocytoma
Authors: Childs M. Adam , Breau Rodney H. , Umbreit Eric C. , Lohse Christine M. , Cheville John C. , Thompson R. Houston , Blute Michael L. , Leibovich Bradley C.
Published: December 2010

Study Type – Therapy (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

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

Oncocytoma is a benign renal tumour that cannot be differentiated from renal cell carcinoma radiographically. Follow‐up after surgery for oncocytoma is highly variable and the natural history of surgically treated renal oncocytoma is poorly defined. We sought to assess the risk of metachronous renal tumours in a cohort of patients treated surgically for renal oncocytoma.

We report a large cohort of oncocytoma patients following surgical management. This study defines the risk of metachronous renal tumours after surgical treatment of renal oncocytoma. Our findings suggest that patients with metachronous renal tumours after treatment of renal oncocytoma may have a smaller risk of renal cell carcinoma compared with patients presenting with a primary renal mass. Our findings did not support concern for increased risk of renal cell carcinoma following surgical treatment of primary renal oncocytoma.

OBJECTIVE

• To assess the risk of metachronous renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and benign renal tumours after surgical treatment of primary renal oncocytoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

• Patients treated for primary renal oncocytoma between 1970 and 2007 were identified. Tumours were reviewed by a urological pathologist and patients were followed for subsequent renal tumours.

RESULTS

• Of 424 patients with a median follow up of 7.1 year, 17 (4.0%) patients were diagnosed with a metachronous renal tumour at a median of 3.0 years (range 0.3–16 years). Of the 17 metachronous tumours, eight were oncocytoma, four were RCC and five were not resected or biopsied.

• Eleven metachronous tumours occurred after solitary unilateral oncocytoma, five occurred after multifocal unilateral oncocytoma, and one occurred after multifocal bilateral oncocytoma.

• Estimated 10‐year tumour‐free and RCC tumour‐free survival was 94.8% and 98.7%, respectively. Patients with primary multifocal oncocytoma were at higher risk of metachronous tumour (hazard ratio 4.0; P = 0.007). Initial oncocytoma size (hazard ratio 1.1; P = 0.11) was not highly associated with risk of tumour recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

• To our knowledge, we report the largest cohort of oncocytoma after surgical management. Metachronous renal neoplasm in a patient with previous oncocytoma is more likely to be benign compared with patients who present with a renal tumour for the first time. Multifocal primary oncocytoma is associated with metachronous renal tumours.

• Overall, the risk of metachronous RCC in a patient with an oncocytoma is similar to that of the general population, which does not support the use of routine cross‐sectioning imaging surveillance.
The influence of family history on prostate cancer risk: implications for clinical management
Authors: Madersbacher Stephan , Alcaraz Antonio , Emberton Mark , Hammerer Peter , Ponholzer Anton , Schröder Fritz H. , Tubaro Andrea
Published: December 2010

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

A family history of prostate cancer has long been identified as an important risk factor for developing the disease. This risk factor can be easily assessed in clinical practice and current guidelines recommend to initiate prostate cancer early detection 5 years earlier (i.e. around the age of 40 years) than in men without a positive family history.

This review elucidates the close association between the proximity of relatedness, greater number of affected family members and earlier age at diagnosis of the family members and prostate cancer risk. The evidence for prostate cancer risk reduction by 5α‐reductase inhibitors has potential to expand management options for men at high risk for developing prostate cancer beyond more frequent and/or earlier surveillance.

• The most recent evidence for the link between a family history of prostate cancer and individual risk for future disease was examined, with the aim of understanding what the existence and nature of a family history of prostate cancer does to a man’s risk of developing the disease.

• Our findings highlighted the clear association between a family history of prostate cancer and increased risk of developing the disease; with a greater proximity of relatedness, greater number of family members affected and/or earlier age at diagnosis of the family member elevating risk further.

• These findings have important clinical implications for the identification and subsequent management of men deemed to be at increased risk of developing prostate cancer. The evidence for prostate cancer risk reduction with the mono 5α‐reductase inhibitor (5ARI) finasteride in a low‐risk population and, more recently, with the dual 5ARI dutasteride in a population at increased risk of developing the disease, has potential to expand management options for men at risk of developing prostate cancer beyond more frequent and/or earlier surveillance.

• Given that family history can be easily assessed in routine clinical practice, it should be regarded as an important parameter to consider alongside PSA level for prostate cancer risk assessment.
COMPARING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF REGULATION AND PRO‐SOCIAL EMOTIONS TO ENHANCE COOPERATION: EXPERIMENTAL EVIDENCE FROM FISHING COMMUNITIES IN COLOMBIA
Authors: LOPEZ MARIA CLAUDIA , MURPHY JAMES J. , SPRAGGON JOHN M. , STRANLUND JOHN K.
Published: December 2010

This paper presents the results from a series of framed field experiments conducted in fishing communities off the Caribbean coast of Colombia. The goal is to investigate the relative effectiveness of exogenous regulatory pressure and pro‐social emotions in promoting cooperative behavior in a public goods context. The random public revelation of an individual's contribution and its consequences for the rest of the group leads to significantly higher public good contributions and social welfare than regulatory pressure, even under regulations that are designed to motivate fully efficient contributions.(JELC93, H41, Q20, Q28)
Maternal and paternal plasma, salivary, and urinary oxytocin and parent–infant synchrony: considering stress and affiliation components of human bonding
Authors: Feldman Ruth , Gordon Ilanit , Zagoory‐Sharon Orna
Published: December 2010

Studies in mammals have implicated the neuropeptide oxytocin (OT) in processes of bond formation and stress modulation, yet the involvement of OT in human bonding throughout life remains poorly understood. We assessed OT in the plasma, saliva, and urine of 112 mothers and fathers interacting with their 4–6‐month‐old infants. Parent–infant interactions were micro‐coded for parent and child’s social behaviors and for the temporal coordination of their socio‐affective cues. Parents were interviewed regarding their attachment to the infant and reported on bonding to own parents, romantic attachment, and parenting stress. Results indicated that OT in plasma (pOT) and saliva (sOT) were inter‐related and were unrelated to OT in urine (uOT). pOT and sOT in mothers and fathers were associated with parent and child’s social engagement, affect synchrony, and positive communicative sequences between parent and child. uOT was related to moments of interactive stress among mothers only, indexed by the co‐occurrence of infant negative engagement and mother re‐engagement attempts. pOT and sOT were associated with mothers’ and fathers’ attachment relationships throughout life: to own parents, partner, and infant, whereas uOT correlated with relationship anxiety and parenting stress among mothers only. Similar to other mammals, OT is involved in human attachment and contingent parenting. The dual role of OT in stress and affiliation underscores its complex involvement in processes of social bonding throughout life.
Early development of object unity: evidence for perceptual completion in newborns
Authors: Valenza Eloisa , Bulf Hermann
Published: December 2010

The present study aimed to investigate whether perceptual completion is available at birth, in the absence of any visual experience. An extremely underspecified kinetic visual display composed of four spatially separated fragments arranged to give rise to an illusory rectangle that occluded a vertical rod (illusory condition) or rotated so as not to elicit perceptual grouping (control condition) was constructed. After newborns’ ability to detect the particular kind of rod‐and‐box display used in the present study had been probed (Experiment 1), they were habituated to the illusory rod‐and‐box display (Experiment 2), to the control display that did not contain illusory contours (Experiment 3), and to a standard real rod‐and‐box display akin to those used in previous infants’ studies (Experiment 4). Newborns perceived the rod as a connected unit either in the illusory condition (Experiment 2) or in the real condition (Experiment 4), as documented by a preference for a broken rod over a complete rod during the test phase, but not when the occluder was absent (Experiment 3). In all experiments newborns showed no preference between the two test stimuli (control condition), avoiding the possibility that newborns have a spontaneous preference for one test display over the other. Overall, the results of the present study provide evidence that the ability to achieve object unity (1) stems from intrinsic properties of the human perceptual system and (2) is operative from birth, given the right conditions.
CheckViz: Sanity Check and Topological Clues for Linear and Non‐Linear Mappings
Authors: Lespinats Sylvain , Aupetit Michaël
Published: December 2010

Multidimensional scaling is a must‐have tool for visual data miners, projecting multidimensional data onto a two‐dimensional plane. However, what we see is not necessarily what we think about. In many cases, end‐users do not take care of scaling the projection space with respect to the multidimensional space. Anyway, when using non‐linear mappings, scaling is not even possible. Yet, without scaling geometrical structures which might appear do not make more sense than considering a random map. Without scaling, we shall not make inference from the display back to the multidimensional space. No clusters, no trends, no outliers, there is nothing to infer without first quantifying the mapping quality. Several methods to qualify mappings have been devised. Here, we propose CheckViz, a new method belonging to the framework of Verity Visualization. We define a two‐dimensional perceptually uniform colour coding which allows visualizing tears and false neighbourhoods, the two elementary and complementary types of geometrical mapping distortions, straight onto the map at the location where they occur. As examples shall demonstrate, this visualization method is essential to help users make sense out of the mappings and to prevent them from over interpretations. It could be applied to check other mappings as well.
DEMAND EXPANSION AND ELASTICITY IMPROVEMENT AS COMPLEMENTARY MARKETING GOALS
Authors: HALMENSCHLAGER CHRISTINE , MANTOVANI ANDREA , TROEGE MICHAEL
Published: December 2010

Consider a marketing division of a monopoly that faces two marketing options: market enlargement and elasticity improvement. These options are conceived in terms of the target of the firm's advertising campaigns: potential new consumers versus existing consumers. Using a CES demand function in a simple model, we show that the two activities are complementary, so that for some cost configurations, the firm will find it profitable to jointly implement the two options together when either option alone would result in a loss. The same joint implementation conclusion also holds for consumer surplus, and hence a fortiori also under a social welfare objective.
CAUGHT IN A STRANGLEHOLD? ADVERTISING: WHAT ELSE?
Authors: LINNEMER LAURENT
Published: December 2010

I analyze a quality signaling problem by a monopoly introducing a new experience good. A high‐quality type aims to signal itself to consumers but can be imitated by a low‐quality type with either a low or a high cost. In the unique separating equilibrium after deletion of dominated strategies, the high‐quality type separates through a marketing mix of price and dissipative advertising. Advertising is used despite the absence of repeat purchases or informed consumers.
R&D WITH SPILLOVERS: MONOPOLY VERSUS NONCOOPERATIVE AND COOPERATIVE DUOPOLY
Authors: STEPANOVA ANNA , TESORIERE ANTONIO
Published: December 2010

This paper compares industry profit and R&D propensity for a duopoly conducting either noncooperative or cooperative R&D and a monopoly, using two different basic models of strategic R&D. One postulates spillovers in R&D inputs and predicts that equilibrium joint profit and R&D levels are always larger under monopoly. The other postulates spillovers in R&D outputs and sometimes predicts that joint profit and R&D levels are larger under either of the alternative scenarios. In addition, unlike input spillovers, spillovers in R&D outputs sometimes exert a positive effect on both effective and private noncooperative R&D levels.
The effect of disgust on oral immune function
Authors: Stevenson Richard J. , Hodgson Deborah , Oaten Megan J. , Barouei Javad , Case Trevor I.
Published: December 2010

Disgust motivates avoidance of pathogen sources, but whether its role in disease avoidance extends into activating the immune system is unexplored. This was tested here by comparing oral immune markers before and after a disgust induction, relative to neutral and negative induction control groups. The disgust group, but not controls, revealed an oral inflammatory response, with increased salivary tumor necrotizing factor alpha and albumin, as well as a down‐regulation of immunoglobulin A (SIgA) secretion. It has been hypothesized that disgust evolved in animals to clear toxins from the oral cavity by gaping and increased salivary flow. Our data suggest down‐regulated SIgA secretion may be a vestige of this response so as to conserve protein, while the inflammatory reaction may reflect an adaptive response to disease threat, selectively triggered by disgust. The broader implications of these data for a discrete neuro‐gut‐immune axis are examined.
Images and the ethics of inclusion and exclusion: learning through participatory photography in education
Authors: Kaplan Ian , Miles Susie , Howes Andy
Published: December 2010

Participatory research methods directly engage with the topics that they set out to address. It is therefore no surprise that participatory research practice on the topic of educational inclusion and exclusion raises ethical issues for the participatory researcher that are themselves about inclusion and exclusion. This paper describes and analyses a pilot postgraduate course on the use of participatory photography in this area, and uses this analysis to illustrate the value of sensitive and reflexive participative research as a powerful educational practice.

A multi‐ethnic and multinational group of students attended the course and explored the use of images as a qualitative research tool as a means to further developing their own sociocultural perspectives on inclusion.

As a method, participatory photography was able to support students to represent their own perspectives on issues such as inclusion and diversity. Just as importantly, it facilitated inclusive teaching and learning, making it easy for students to take an active role in ongoing evaluation of the course and in devising their own assessment criteria. More significantly still, a deep exploration of practices of inclusion and exclusion was facilitated by the ethical issues that were raised and addressed during the research process.
Methamphetamine oxidatively damages parkin and decreases the activity of 26S proteasomein vivo
Authors: Moszczynska Anna , Yamamoto Bryan K.
Published: December 2010

J. Neurochem. (2011)116, 1005–1017.

Methamphetamine (METH) is toxic to dopaminergic (DAergic) terminals in animals and humans. An early event in METH neurotoxicity is an oxidative stress followed by damage to proteins and lipids. The removal of damaged proteins is accomplished by the ubiquitin‐proteasome system (UPS) and the impairment of this system can cause neurodegeneration. Whether dysfunction of the UPS contributes to METH toxicity to DAergic terminals has not been determined. The present investigation examined the effects of METH on functions of parkin and proteasome in rat striatal synaptosomes. METH rapidly modified parkin via conjugation with 4‐hydroxy‐2‐nonenal (4‐HNE) to decrease parkin levels and decreased the activity of the 26S proteasome while simultaneously increasing chymotrypsin‐like activity and 20S proteasome levels. Prior injections of vitamin E diminished METH‐induced changes to parkin and the 26S proteasome as well as long‐term decreases in DA and its metabolites’ concentrations in striatal tissue. These results suggest that METH causes lipid peroxidation‐mediated damage to parkin and the 26S proteasome. As the changes in parkin and 26S occur before the sustained deficits in DAergic markers, an early loss of UPS function may be important in mediating the long‐term degeneration of striatal DAergic terminals via toxic accumulation of parkin substrates and damaged proteins.
Relationships between coping, coping resources and quality of life in patients with chronic illness: a pilot study
Authors: Kristofferzon Marja‐Leena , Lindqvist Ragny , Nilsson Annika
Published: December 2010

Scand J Caring Sci; 2011; 25; 476–483
 
Relationships between coping, coping resources and quality of life in patients with chronic illness: a pilot study

Background:  In Sweden there are approximately about 3500 end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) and 250 000 chronic heart failure (CHF) patients.

Objectives:  The original purpose of the study was to determine differences between two groups of patients with chronic illness (ESRD and CHF) regarding the following study variables: coping, sense of coherence (SOC), self‐efficacy and quality of life (QOL). Following this, the aim was to explore the relationships between demographic variables (sex, age, educational level and living area) and QOL as well as between coping, SOC, self‐efficacy and QOL for the combined sample of patients with ESRD and CHF.

Methods:  A comparative and correlative design was used with a sample of 100 patients (n = 41 ESRD, n = 59 CHF). The data were collected during 2004, using four standardized questionnaires and regression analyses were conducted.

Results:  No significant differences were found between the two groups. Positive correlations were identified between SOC, general self‐efficacy and QOL, whereas negative correlations emerge between emotion‐focused coping, SOC, general self‐efficacy and QOL. SOC, general self‐efficacy and emotion‐focused coping explained 40% of the variance in QOL. Those with low SOC and general self‐efficacy showed negative correlations between emotion‐focused coping and QOL, whereas no such correlations were shown for those with high values on SOC and general self‐efficacy.

Conclusions:  The present results on coping and QOL correspond with previous research regarding how other groups with chronic illness handled their daily life. Preliminary results indicate that how individuals tackle their present situation is more important than which chronic illness they have. Women used more emotion‐focused coping than men, which constitute an important finding for further research.