bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sleep Disruption Among Older Men and Risk of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Sigurdardottir Lara G. , Valdimarsdottir Unnur A. , Mucci Lorelei A. , Fall Katja , Rider Jennifer R. , Schernhammer Eva , Czeisler Charles A. , Launer Lenore , Harris Tamara , Stampfer Meir J. , Gudnason Vilmundur , Lockley Steven W.
Published: May 2013

Background: Although positive associations have consistently been reported between sleep disruption and breast cancer, less is known about its potential role in prostate cancer.

Methods: Within the prospective AGES-Reykjavik cohort study, we followed 2,102 men recruited in 2002–2006 until the end of 2009. Participants answered questions on sleep disruption. Information on the occurrence of prostate cancer was obtained through record linkages across the Icelandic Cancer Registry. We used Cox regression models with 95% confidence intervals (CI) to estimate HRs of prostate cancer by symptoms of sleep disruption.

Results: During follow-up, 135 men (6.4%) were diagnosed with prostate cancer. Compared with men without sleep disruption, those with problems falling and staying asleep were at significantly increased risk of prostate cancer [HR, 1.7 (95% CI, 1.0–2.9) and 2.1 (95% CI, 1.2–3.7)], respectively, with increasing sleep disruption severity. When restricted to advanced prostate cancer (≥ stage T3 or lethal disease), these associations became even stronger [HR 2.1 (95% CI, 0.7–6.2) and 3.2 (95% CI, 1.1–9.7)]. The results did not change after excluding from the analyses men who woke up during the night, indicative of nocturia, suggesting limited risk of reverse association.

Conclusions: Our data suggest that certain aspects of sleep disruption may confer an increased risk of prostate cancer and call for additional, larger studies with longer follow-up times.

Impact: Prostate cancer is one of the leading public health concerns in men; if confirmed in future studies, the association between sleep disruption and prostate cancer risk may open new avenues for prevention. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(5); 872–9. ©2013 AACR.
A NOTCH3 Transcriptional Module Induces Cell Motility in Neuroblastoma
Authors: van Nes Johan , Chan Alvin , van Groningen Tim , van Sluis Peter , Koster Jan , Versteeg Rogier
Published: May 2013

Purpose: Neuroblastoma is a childhood tumor of the peripheral sympathetic nervous system with an often lethal outcome due to metastatic disease. Migration and epithelial–mesenchymal transitions have been implicated in metastasis but they are hardly investigated in neuroblastoma.

Experimental Design: Cell migration of 16 neuroblastoma cell lines was quantified in Transwell migration assays. Gene expression profiling was used to derive a migration signature, which was applied to classify samples in a neuroblastoma tumor series. Differential expression of transcription factors was analyzed in the subsets. NOTCH3 was prioritized, and inducible transgene expression studies in cell lines were used to establish whether it functions as a master switch for motility.

Results: We identified a 36-gene expression signature that predicts cell migration. This signature was used to analyse expression profiles of 88 neuroblastoma tumors and identified a group with distant metastases and a poor prognosis. This group also expressed a known mesenchymal gene signature established in glioblastoma. Neuroblastomas recognized by the motility and mesenchymal signatures strongly expressed genes of the NOTCH pathway. Inducible expression of a NOTCH intracellular (NOTCH3-IC) transgene conferred a highly motile phenotype to neuroblastoma cells. NOTCH3-IC strongly induced expression of motility- and mesenchymal marker genes. Many of these genes were significantly coexpressed with NOTCH3 in neuroblastoma, as well as colon, kidney, ovary, and breast tumor series.

Conclusion: The NOTCH3 transcription factor is a master regulator of motility in neuroblastoma. A subset of neuroblastoma with high expression of NOTCH3 and its downstream-regulated genes has mesenchymal characteristics, increased incidence of metastases, and a poor prognosis. Clin Cancer Res; 19(13); 3485–94. ©2013 AACR.
Basilar Artery Atherosclerosis and Hypertensive Small Vessel Disease in Isolated Pontine Infarctions: A Study Based on High-Resolution MRI
Authors: Feng Chao , Xu Yu , Bai Xue , Hua Ting , Li Qiang , Tang Guang-Yu , Chen Yu-Juan , Liu Xue-Yuan , Huang Jing
Published: May 2013

Background: Isolated pontine infarctions are classified as paramedian pontine infarction (PPI) and lacunar pontine infarction (LPI), usually attributed to basilar artery (BA) atherosclerosis and small vessel disease (SVD), respectively. Recently, researchers found BA atherosclerotic plaques in LPI and made the pathogenesis of LPI confusing. Methods: We evaluated the presence and location of BA plaques with high-resolution MRI and SVD burden with presence of hypertension, leukoaraiosis and silent brain infarction. Results: The prevalence of BA plaques and SVD was similar between PPI and LPI, with most plaques relevant to corresponding infarctions. Some PPI had no plaques; some LPI had no obvious SVD. Conclusion: SVD and BA plaques with or without lumen stenosis were both possible causes of PPI and LPI.
Association between Neuropeptide Y Gene Polymorphisms and Alcohol Dependence: A Case-Control Study in Two Independent Populations
Authors: Bhaskar L.V.K.S. , Thangaraj K. , Kumar K. Praveen , Pardhasaradhi G. , Singh Lalji , Rao V.R.
Published: May 2013

Background: Alcohol dependence is a chronic, progressive neurobiological brain disorder. Previous research reported an inverse association between ethanol drinking and cerebral neuropeptide Y (NPY) levels. There are conflicting results of studies on NPY gene polymorphisms in association with alcohol dependence in humans. Methods: To assess the role of the NPY gene in alcohol dependence, we genotyped three polymorphisms - in a sample of 195 subjects from the Kota population (80 alcohol dependence and 115 controls) and 141 subjects from the Badaga population (80 alcohol dependence and 61 controls). Phenotype was defined based on the DSM-IV criteria. Genotyping was performed using sequencing. Association of the NPY gene with alcohol dependence was tested by using logistic regression and haplotype analyses and linkage disequilibrium. Results: All three polymorphisms were found to be in the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in both populations. The results of our study reveal a significant association between G1258A and alcohol dependence in both the Kota and Badaga populations. The linkage disequilibrium between the markers is not strong or significant. Haplotype analysis also did not show significant association between the NPY gene and alcohol dependence. Conclusion: These data support the hypothesis that alcohol dependence is influenced by the NPY G1258A polymorphism in Indian populations.
In vivo Tissue Engineering: Mimicry of Homing Factors for Self-Endothelialization of Blood-Contacting Materials
Authors: Avci-Adali Meltem , Stoll Heidi , Wilhelm Nadja , Perle Nadja , Schlensak Christian , Wendel Hans P.
Published: May 2013

Thrombogenicity of foreign surfaces is the major obstacle in cardiovascular interventions. Despite enormous advances in biomaterials research, the hemocompatibility of blood-contacting materials is still not satisfactory and the native endothelium still represents the ideal surface for blood contact. Circulating adult endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in the human blood provide an excellent source of autologous stem cells for the in vivo self-endothelialization of blood-contacting materials. For this purpose, material surfaces can be coated with capture molecules mimicking natural homing factors to attract circulating EPCs. Hitherto, several ligands, such as aptamers, monoclonal antibodies, peptides, selectins and their ligands, or magnetic molecules, are used to biofunctionalize surfaces for the capturing of EPCs directly from patient's bloodstream onto blood-contacting materials. Subsequently, attracted EPCs can differentiate into endothelial cells and generate an autologous endothelium. The in vivo self-endothelialization of blood-contacting materials prevents the recognition of them as a foreign body; this opens up revolutionary new prospects for future clinical stem-cell and tissue engineering strategies.
Zinc Supplementation in Public Health
Authors: Penny Mary Edith
Published: May 2013

Zinc is necessary for physiological processes including defense against infections. Zinc deficiency is responsible for 4% of global child morbidity and mortality. Zinc supplements given for 10-14 days together with low-osmolarity oral rehydration solution (Lo-ORS) are recommended for the treatment of childhood diarrhea. In children aged ≥6 months, daily zinc supplements reduce the duration of acute diarrhea episodes by 12 h and persistent diarrhea by 17 h. Zinc supplements could reduce diarrhea mortality in children aged 12-59 months by an estimated 23%; they are very safe but are associated with an increase in vomiting especially with the first dose. Heterogeneity between the results of trials is not understood but may be related to dose and the etiology of the diarrhea infection. Integration of zinc and Lo-ORS into national programs is underway but slowly, procurement problems are being overcome and the greatest challenge is changing health provider and caregiver attitudes to diarrhea management. Fewer trials have been conducted of zinc adjunct therapy in severe respiratory tract infections and there is as yet insufficient evidence to recommend addition of zinc to antibiotic therapy. Daily zinc supplements for all children >12 months of age in zinc deficient populations are estimated to reduce diarrhea incidence by 11-23%. The greatest impact is in reducing multiple episodes of diarrhea. The effect on duration of diarrheal episodes is less clear, but there may be up to 9% reduction. Zinc is also efficacious in reducing dysentery and persistent diarrhea. Zinc supplements may also prevent pneumonia by about 19%, but heterogeneity across studies has not yet been explained. When analyses are restricted to better quality studies using CHERG (Child Health Epidemiology Reference Group) methodology, zinc supplements are estimated to reduce diarrheal deaths by 13% and pneumonia deaths by 20%. National-level programs to combat childhood zinc deficiency should be accelerated.
Different Long-Term Response to Growth Hormone Therapy in Small- versus Appropriate-for-Gestational-Age Children with Growth Hormone Deficiency
Authors: Meazza Cristina , Pagani Sara , Pietra Benedetta , Tinelli Carmine , Calcaterra Valeria , Bozzola Elena , Bozzola Mauro
Published: May 2013

Background/Aims: The role of birth weight on growth hormone (GH) therapy response in GH-deficient (GHD) children has not been fully elucidated. Therefore, we examined the growth of 23 small-for-gestational-age GHD children (SGA-GHD, 11 females and 12 males), 26 appropriate-for-gestational-age GHD children (AGA-GHD, 11 females and 15 males) during the first 5 years of GH therapy and that of 22 non-GH-treated SGA children (12 females and 10 males). Methods: We collected height and height velocity measurements yearly. Results: In AGA-GHD children, height was always greater than in the SGA groups and significantly increased from the fourth year of treatment. Height velocity was higher (SGA-GHD: 1.72 ± 0.30 standard deviation score, SDS, AGA-GHD: 2.67 ± 0.21 SDS; p = 0.039) in AGA-GHD children during the first year of treatment. The AGA-GHD group showed the highest percentage (52.4%) of subjects surpassing mid-parental height and the greatest height gain after 5 years of follow-up. Conclusion: Our results show that birth size is an important factor affecting the response to GH therapy in GHD children during the first 5 years of treatment. The paediatric endocrinologist should be aware of this factor when planning the management of GHD children born SGA.
The Double Polymethylmethacrylate Filter (DELETE System) in the Removal of Light Chains in Chronic Dialysis Patients with Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Santoro Antonio , Grazia Michele , Mancini Elena
Published: May 2013

Multiple myeloma (MM) is still one of the most common haematological diseases and is associated with a poor prognosis. It is frequently worsened by acute kidney failure that, in turn, aggravates the risk of death. In the past few years, the idea has made headway that the removal of free light chains (FLC) by means of extracorporeal blood purification systems may facilitate the recovery of renal function. Up to now, many different extracorporeal techniques have been put forward in FLC removal, such as plasma exchange, dialysis with super-flux filters, and adsorption by means of cartridge of resins. In this paper, we illustrate the use of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) dialysis membranes with a high adsorptive capacity (Toray BK-F; Toray Industries, Inc., Tokyo, Japan). We have evaluated light chain removal by means of an original dialysis procedure using a double-filter circuit made of PMMA working in sequential dialysis (DELETE system). The system provides satisfactory results in terms of FLC removal and, at the same time, ensures an adequate dialysis treatment (Kt/V >1.5) with significant reduction in urea, creatinine, and β2-microglobulin. The dual PMMA filter system combines an acceptable cost/efficiency ratio when compared with other methods and constitutes a concrete prospect in FLC removal. Its preferential setting of use is in patients with MM or with monoclonal gammopathies, who are on chronic dialysis and maintain high circulating levels of FLC.
Natural Killer Cell Dysfunction in Uremia: The Role of Oxidative Stress and the Effects of Dialysis
Authors: Peraldi Marie-Noelle , Berrou Jeannig , Métivier Fabien , Toubert Antoine
Published: May 2013

Immune deficiency is one of the numerous consequences of chronic renal failure. We can hypothesize that an abnormal natural killer (NK) cell response is present in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). To characterize the immune defect in ESRD patients, we performed a NK cell subset analysis in 66 patients with ESRD treated by hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. Compared with healthy blood donors, patients undergoing chronic dialysis showed a profound decrease in NKG2D(+) cells within both CD8(+) T cell (58 vs. 67%, p = 0.03) and NK cell (39 vs. 56%, p = 0.002) populations. We further studied NK cell subsets in 55 hemodialysis patients and 17 patients treated by peritoneal dialysis. As compared to healthy donors, all these patients had significantly decreased NKG2D-positive NK cells. Patients using PMMA membranes (BK-F) or Helixone-FX membranes had a smaller decrease in NKG2D-positive NK cells when compared to patients treated with Nephral membranes. The expression of MICA on the cell surface of monocytes, which is a marker of inflammation induced by cellular stress, was also lower in patients using BK-F membranes. In conclusion, these data suggest that a subpopulation of NK cells is decreased in patients with ESRD. This decrease is associated with high circulating levels of the HLA-related molecule MICA. The dialysis membrane can influence the modulation of both the phenotype of NK cells and MICA overexpression.
Adsorption Dialysis: From Physical Principles to Clinical Applications
Authors: Aucella Filippo , Gesuete Antonio , Vigilante Mimmo , Prencipe Michele
Published: May 2013

The uremic syndrome is characterized by the retention of various solutes that would normally be excreted by the kidneys. The substances that interact negatively with biologic functions are called uremic toxins. Over the past five decades, the membranes used for the treatment of chronic kidney disease have continuously evolved. The exposure of blood to any extracorporeal artificial surface results in the activation of several pathways within the body, including those involving coagulation and complement activation. One of the by-products of this generalized activation process is protein adsorption to the membrane surface, another phenomenon which can have a significant impact on solute removal. In fact, an array of studies showed that with increasing size of middle-sized proteins and other compounds, relatively more clearance is achieved by membrane adsorption compared with loss into the dialysate. A high adsorptive capacity, one of the main features of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) membranes, is very helpful and may both increase the total amount of solutes removed and remove different kinds of solutes. In this setting, a few studies have shown a variety of efficient clinical implications for adsorption hemodialysis, such as uremic pruritus, anemia, carpal tunnel syndrome and renal amyloidosis, immune dysfunction and improved response to vaccination. In addition, nutrition and survival were also improved using PMMA membranes.
Polymethylmethacrylate Membrane and Serum Free Light Chain Removal: Enhancing Adsorption Properties
Authors: Fabbrini P. , Sirtori S. , Casiraghi E. , Pieruzzi F. , Genovesi S. , Corti D. , Brivio R. , Gregorini G. , Como G. , Carati M.L. , Viganò M.R. , Stella A.
Published: May 2013

Introduction: Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) membranes can adsorb a wide variety of uremic toxins including serum free light chains (sFLC). However, limited data are available regarding the clinical use of PMMA in multiple myeloma patients and its maximum adsorption capacity in this setting. Aim: This study aimed to measure the capacity of PMMA to adsorb sFLC and identify strategies to improve its efficiency in clinical practice. Methods: Ten patients with dialysis-dependent renal failure and high levels of sFLC were included in the study. Five patients received standard PMMA hemodialysis (HD; n = 18), while in the other 5 patients a new technique called enhanced adsorption dialysis (EAD) was used, which involves PMMA dialyzer replacement after 2 h (n = 19). In all patients, sFLC were measured at the beginning and at the end of each dialysis session to calculate the difference between start and end of treatment and the percentage removal. Results: PMMA membranes reduced sFLC in both the PMMA HD and EAD groups. PMMA HD showed similar efficiency on κ and λ percentage removal (22.3 and 21.0%, respectively, n.s.) but, in contrast, had a significantly greater effect on the delta of sFLC in κ [1,555 mg/l (-511 to +6,027)] versus λ [390 mg/l (120-650)] treatments (p = 0.007). EAD treatments only partially increased percentage removal of κ sFLC (22.3-31.0%, p = 0.38), while they had a significantly great effect on λ (21.0-53.1%, p = 0.003). A positive linear correlation was found between delta sFLC and pre-HD sFLC concentrations in PMMA HD κ treatments (r = 0.68, p < 0.02) but not for λ treatments (r = 0.54, p = 0.21), while the analysis of patients receiving EAD demonstrated a strong positive correlation for both κ and λ subtypes (r = 0.81 and r = 0.85, respectively, p < 0.008). In EAD sessions, a positive linear correlation was shown between blood flow during treatment and percentage removal of sFLC (r = 0.58, p = 0.02); however, with PMMA HD such a correlation was not observed (r = 0.28, p = 0.25). Conclusions: PMMA membranes can efficiently adsorb sFLC, but the process is limited by membrane saturation and is different between κ and λ sFLC. The new EAD technique can greatly improve λ removal but only partially act on κ sFLC. Therefore, EAD should be considered a valid economic treatment option without side effects in particular subsets of patients for the removal of sFLC.
Asphyxiation with a Fentanyl Patch
Authors: Mansfield Aaron S. , Jatoi Aminah
Published: May 2013

Narcotics are frequently prescribed to alleviate pain in patients with serious medical illnesses such as cancer. Because of their nonoral route of administration, fentanyl patches are now being frequently prescribed. However, the widespread use of fentanyl patches has been associated with medication errors and misuse [Butts and Jatoi: J Opioid Manag 2011;7:35-45]. The transdermal delivery of fentanyl may lead to unusual, unanticipated complications. Herein, we describe a fentanyl patch complication, which, to our knowledge, has not been previously reported.
Blood Pressure Response to Patterns of Weather Fluctuations and Effect on Mortality
Authors: Aubinière-Robb Louise , Jeemon Panniyammakal , Hastie Claire E. , Patel Rajan K. , McCallum Linsay , Morrison David , Walters Matthew , Dawson Jesse , Sloan William , Muir Scott , Dominiczak Anna F. , McInnes Gordon T. , Padmanabhan Sandosh
Published: May 2013

Very few studies have looked at longitudinal intraindividual blood pressure responses to weather conditions. There are no data to suggest that specific response to changes in weather will have an impact on survival. We analyzed >169 000 clinic visits of 16 010 Glasgow Blood Pressure Clinic patients with hypertension. Each clinic visit was mapped to the mean West of Scotland monthly weather (temperature, sunshine, rainfall) data. Percentage change in blood pressure was calculated between pairs of consecutive clinic visits, where the weather alternated between 2 extreme quartiles (Q
1
–Q
4
or Q
4
–Q
1
) or remained in the same quartile (Q
n
–Q
n
) of each weather parameter. Subjects were also categorized into 2 groups depending on whether their blood pressure response in Q
1
–Q
4
or Q
4
–Q
1
were concordant or discordant to Q
n
–Q
n
. Generalized estimating equations and Cox proportional hazards model were used to model the effect on longitudinal blood pressure and mortality, respectively. Q
n
–Q
n
showed a mean 2% drop in blood pressure consistently, whereas Q
4
–Q
1
showed a mean 2.1% and 1.6% rise in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, respectively. However, Q
1
–Q
4
did not show significant changes in blood pressure. Temperature-sensitive subjects had significantly higher mortality (1.35 [95% confidence interval, 1.06–1.71];
P
=0.01) and higher follow-up systolic blood pressure (1.85 [95% confidence interval, 0.24–3.46];
P
=0.02) compared with temperature-nonsensitive subjects. Blood pressure response to temperature may be one of the underlying mechanisms that determine long-term blood pressure variability. Knowing a patient’s blood pressure response to weather can help reduce unnecessary antihypertensive treatment modification, which may in turn increase blood pressure variability and, thus, risk.
Probation worker responses to turbulent conditions: Constructing identity in a tainted occupation
Authors: Worrall Anne , Mawby Rob C
Published: May 2013

Much has been written in England and Wales about the changing nature of work with offenders in the community, focusing primarily on the consequences of the political and managerialist pressures to which the probation service has been subjected in the past few decades. There has been little research, however, on probation workers themselves, their cultures and values and the extent to which these have changed. Drawing on funded research on the occupational cultures of probation workers, we explore the motivations, values and job expectations of present and former workers. Arguing that probation work is a ‘tainted’ or ‘dirty’ occupation and that the probation service operates in turbulent political, social and economic conditions, we consider how probation workers respond to these adverse circumstances to make their work meaningful and fulfilling, or just to cope. We propose that probation workers’ responses can be understood using Hirschman’s (1970) ‘exit, voice, loyalty, and neglect’ model, together with the later developments of ‘cynicism’ and ‘expedience’. However, these models of organizational behaviour do not capture the most controversial aspect of probation work, namely, that of voluntary risk-taking or ‘edgework’ ( Lyng, 1990 ). While probation workers may be generally regarded as being unlikely edgeworkers, we argue that it is possible to identify elements of edgework in probation work and that it is only by acknowledging this that we can obtain a complete picture of what it means to be a probation worker in an uncertain and potentially uncontrollable environment.
Haste makes waste: Deliberative improvements for serious crime legislation
Authors: Ayling Julie
Published: May 2013

Too often the making of laws on serious crime is conducted in haste. Unnecessary, ineffective or invalid laws on serious crime have major negative impacts on both individuals and societies. The processes that permit the creation of such laws clearly need reforming. In order to slow down and bring more rationality to the legislative process for serious crime, a clear and mandatory ex ante deliberative system that enables a thorough assessment of the costs and benefits of legislating and of particular legislative approaches is needed. This article draws on work by Dryzek to identify the elements of a deliberative system – authenticity, inclusiveness and the quality of being consequential. It assesses Australia’s current legislative processes for serious crime against this deliberative standard and concludes that they rarely meet it. Several practical steps that could be taken to incorporate deliberation into serious crime lawmaking are suggested: the creation of guides to legislative approaches for use by policy makers, the introduction of an ex ante impact assessment process (termed a Serious Crime Legislation Impact Assessment or SCLIA), and the establishment of actor networks registers to facilitate consultative processes. The adoption of such a deliberative system would result in better, more evidence-based and impact-sensitive serious crime legislation.
Topical Laser Application Enhances Enamel Fluoride Uptake and Tribological Properties
Authors: Jeng Y.-R. , Lin T.-T. , Huang J.-S. , Peng S.-R. , Shieh D.-B.
Published: May 2013

Topical fluoride treatment prevents dental caries. However, the resulting calcium-fluoride-like deposits are soft and have poor wear resistance; therefore, frequent treatment is required. Lasers quickly heat surfaces and can be made portable and suitable for oral remedies. We examined the morphology, nanohardness, elastic modulus, nanowear, and fluoride uptake of fluoride-treated enamel followed by CO2 laser irradiation for 5 and 10 sec, respectively. We found that laser treatments significantly increased the mechanical properties of the calcium-fluoride-like deposits. The wear resistance of the calcium-fluoride-like deposits improved about 34% after laser irradiation for 5 sec and about 40% following irradiation for 10 sec. We also found that laser treatments increased fluoride uptake by at least 23%. Overall, laser treatment significantly improved fluoride incorporation into dental tissue and the wear resistance of the protective calcium-fluoride layer.
Effect of Allergen Sensitization on External Root Resorption
Authors: Murata N. , Ioi H. , Ouchi M. , Takao T. , Oida H. , Aijima R. , Yamaza T. , Kido M.A.
Published: May 2013

In orthodontic tooth movement (OTM), we should be concerned about external root resorption (ERR) as an undesirable iatrogenic problem, but its mechanisms are not fully understood. Since our previous epidemiologic studies found that patients with allergic diseases showed higher rates of ERR during orthodontic treatment, we explored the possible effect of allergic sensitization on ERR. In ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized Brown–Norway rats, the amounts of ERR and OTM were greater than those in animals subjected to orthodontic force alone. The expression levels of RANKL and pro-inflammatory cytokines were increased in the periodontal tissues of sensitized rats with OTM, compared with control rats. Furthermore, leukotriene B4 (LTB4), a potent lipid mediator of allergic inflammation, and enzymes of the 5-lipoxygenase pathway, the biosynthetic pathway of leukotrienes, were also up-regulated. We found that low doses of aspirin suppressed ERR in allergen-sensitized rats, as well as the expressions of RANKL, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and LTB4. The present findings indicate that allergen sensitization has adverse effects on ERR under OTM, and that aspirin is a potential therapeutic agent for combating ERR.
The New Public Management Theory in the British Health Care System
Authors: Simonet Daniel
Published: May 2013

This article analyzes health care reforms in the United Kingdom following the introduction of New Public Management (NPM) theory–inspired reforms. NPM has taken root deeply in the United Kingdom. This article looks at its impact on health care markets on the performance of health care organizations and on patients. It further seeks to address whether NPM prevents wastage and opportunism in health care. And finally, this article seeks to confirm whether rationality and accountability are greater under NPM or not. This article concludes that NPM reforms have failed to deliver on their own goals. There have been significant undesirable side effects and misfits between policy announcements and NPM implementation. Still, NPM adoption in health care has contributed to changing the Anglo-Saxon model of capitalism.
Entrepreneur ambidexterity: A study of entrepreneur behaviours and competencies in growth-oriented small and medium-sized enterprises
Authors: Volery Thierry , Mueller Susan , von Siemens Björn
Published: May 2013

This article uses the sociological method of structured observation to explore the every day behaviour of entrepreneurs from an exploration-exploitation perspective. Six entrepreneurs leading successful growth-oriented businesses were observed for a four-day period and 2305 ‘units of action’ performed by the entrepreneurs were recorded. Six behavioural patterns that allowed them, their management team or the organisation as a whole to pursue ambidexterity were identified. In contrast with the existing high-level approaches of ambidexterity, this study provides a synthesis of entrepreneur behaviours and competencies to achieve ambidexterity at the operating level.
Evaluation of the Teacher–Student Relationship Inventory in American High School Students
Authors: Suldo Shannon M. , McMahan Melanie M. , Chappel Ashley M. , Bateman Lisa P.
Published: May 2013

This study provided an independent examination of the Teacher Student Relationship Inventory (TSRI), a teacher report measure developed in Singapore. A total of 500 American high school students were rated by 84 teachers. Exploratory factor analysis supported the existence of three factors representing instrumental help, satisfaction, and conflict; 11 of 14 items emerged as relatively pure indicators. Evidence of concurrent validity was provided through correlations, in the expected directions, between students’ ratings of their overall relationships with their teachers (teacher support and negative attitudes towards teachers) and TSRI satisfaction and conflict scores; instrumental help was unrelated to student perceptions of general teacher–student relations. Criterion-related validity was established through significant correlations in the expected directions between TSRI satisfaction and conflict scores and multiple indicators of students’ psychological and academic functioning. Instrumental help co-occurred with greater academic achievement but also with more teacher-observed symptoms of psychopathology. Findings provide initial support for use of the TSRI with American adolescents and suggest teacher-rated satisfaction as particularly relevant to students’ academic and psychological functioning.
Using Teacher Ratings to Track the Growth and Development of Young Children Using the Teaching Strategies GOLD® Assessment System
Authors: Lambert Richard G. , Kim Do-Hong , Burts Diane C.
Published: May 2013

An important consideration in determining the validity of an observational assessment measure for young children is the variability attributed to the child versus that ascribed to the assessor or to some other factor such as classroom context. The Teaching Strategies GOLD® assessment system was used to elicit teacher ratings of a national sample of 21,592 children (age 12-51 months). Teacher ratings of child development and learning were associated in expected directions with both child demographic characteristics and classroom composition variables. Children with disabilities started behind their typically developing peers and grew slower, girls showed an advantage in some areas over boys, and English language learners (ELLs) were rated lower at the beginning of the year and showed some faster rates of growth than their native English-speaking peers.
The trade-off between choice and equity: Swedish policymakers’ arguments when introducing patient choice
Authors: Fredriksson Mio , Blomqvist Paula , Winblad Ulrika
Published: May 2013

How do policymakers deal with the tension between choice and equity in healthcare? An analysis and critical examination of Swedish policymakers’ arguments when introducing legislated choice of primary care provider in 2010 shows that even when deciding on a reform with a potentially great impact on distribution of health resources, implications for equity were not systematically addressed. Effects with regards to current patterns of healthcare consumption in the population as well as existing inequalities in health outcomes were not adequately addressed. Neither was the primary are choice reform, which is based on the values of consumerism and individual choice, problematized in relation to current healthcare legislation such as the Health and Medical Services Act. Given that the values of equity and social solidarity have had such a prominent place in Swedish health policy and discourse in past decades, this is a surprising finding. In conclusion, we argue that because inequalities in health constitute one of the main challenges for public health today, the impact of healthcare reforms on equity should receive more attention in policymaking.
Spatial interdependencies and welfare state generosity in Western democracies, 1960–2000
Authors: Schmitt Carina , Obinger Herbert
Published: May 2013

For many years comparative welfare state research has been afflicted with a sort of methodological nationalism in the sense that countries were treated as independent units. In line with the recent ‘spatial turn’ in comparative public policy studies, this paper examines with regard to three welfare state programmes whether, in the post-war period, the provision of social rights in 18 Western democracies was shaped by benefit generosity in other countries. We show that diffusion is present but varies by programme and over time. Rather surprisingly, we find that policy diffusion was particularly relevant during the Golden Age.
Osteonectin Expression in Surrounding Stroma of Craniopharyngiomas
Authors: Ebrahimi Azadeh , Honegger Juergen , Schluesener Hermann , Schittenhelm Jens
Published: May 2013

Craniopharyngioma is an epithelial tumor of the sellar region with a high survival rate but a high rate of recurrence, especially in children. Hypothalamic involvement, tumor recurrence, and multiple treatments result in clinical deterioration and impaired quality of life. Using immunohistochemistry, we investigated the expression pattern of osteonectin, a marker of tumor invasion and aggressive behavior, in 43 cases of craniopharyngioma. We observed a positive correlation of osteonectin expression in connective-type stromal tissue surrounding the epithelial tumor cells of craniopharyngioma with the extent of central nervous system infiltration and recurrence rate ( P < .001). Given the previous success of chemotherapeutic agents that target the tumor microenvironment, our findings on osteonectin expression in stroma of craniopharyngiomas might, hopefully, be a guide to find newer prognostic markers capable of estimating the risk of progression or recurrence. They may also aid in the development of therapeutics that target tumor microenvironment to improve patient outcome.
Subcapital Oblique Osteotomy for Correction of Bunionette Deformity
Authors: Cooper Minton Truitt , Coughlin Michael J.
Published: May 2013

Background:

Many procedures have been described for correction of bunionette deformity. For symptomatic type I deformity, the authors have routinely performed a subcapital oblique osteotomy of the fifth metatarsal. The purpose of this study was to report the medium-term results of this procedure.

Methods:

This is a retrospective review of patients who underwent subcapital oblique osteotomy for correction of type I bunionette deformity. Patients were evaluated radiographically and clinically. Sixteen feet in 14 patients were available at final follow-up.

Results:

At a mean 2.9-year follow-up, 88% of patients had good or excellent clinical result, 88% of patients had no limitation in activity, and mean pain score on a visual analog scale was 1.6 out of 10. Radiographically, a statistical difference was found when we compared the preoperative and 6-week follow-up fifth metatarsophalangeal angle; however, no statistical difference was found in the fourth to fifth intermetatarsal angle at any time or in comparison of the preoperative and final follow-up fifth metatarsophalangeal angles.

Conclusion:

We found the subcapital oblique osteotomy of the fifth metatarsal to provide reliable clinical results for correction of painful type I bunionette deformity.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
Dual-Process Theories of Higher Cognition
Authors: Evans Jonathan St. B. T. , Stanovich Keith E.
Published: May 2013

Dual-process and dual-system theories in both cognitive and social psychology have been subjected to a number of recently published criticisms. However, they have been attacked as a category, incorrectly assuming there is a generic version that applies to all. We identify and respond to 5 main lines of argument made by such critics. We agree that some of these arguments have force against some of the theories in the literature but believe them to be overstated. We argue that the dual-processing distinction is supported by much recent evidence in cognitive science. Our preferred theoretical approach is one in which rapid autonomous processes (Type 1) are assumed to yield default responses unless intervened on by distinctive higher order reasoning processes (Type 2). What defines the difference is that Type 2 processing supports hypothetical thinking and load heavily on working memory.
A Case Study
Authors: Osman Magda
Published: May 2013

Dual-process theories of higher order cognition (DPTs) have been enjoying much success, particularly since Kahneman’s 2002 Nobel prize address and recent book Thinking, Fast and Slow (2009). Historically, DPTs have attempted to provide a conceptual framework that helps classify and predict differences in patterns of behavior found under some circumstances and not others in a host of reasoning, judgment, and decision-making tasks. As evidence has changed and techniques for examining behavior have moved on, so too have DPTs. Killing two birds with one stone, Evans and Stanovich (2013, this issue) respond to five main criticisms of DPTs. Along with addressing each criticism in turn, they set out to clarify the essential defining characteristics that distinguish one form of higher order cognition from the other. The aim of this commentary is to consider the defining characteristics of Type 1 and Type 2 processing that have been proposed and to suggest that the evidence can be taken to support quantitative differences rather than qualitatively distinct processes.
Outcome measures and their measurement properties for trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis: a systematic literature review
Authors: Marks M. , Schoones J. W. , Kolling C. , Herren D. B. , Goldhahn J. , Vliet Vlieland T. P. M.
Published: May 2013

The objective was to identify all outcome measures used in studies on trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis (TMC OA) and evaluate their measurement properties. In a two-step systematic literature review, we first identified studies including TMC OA patients and extracted all outcome measures. They were categorized according to the Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT) core set for OA including five dimensions: pain, physical function, global assessment, imaging, and quality of life (QoL). Secondly, we retrieved articles on the measurement properties of the identified outcome measures for TMC OA patients. First, 316 articles including 101 different outcome measures were identified, addressing the OMERACT pain and function domains most frequently but under-representing QoL. Second, 12 articles investigating measurement properties of 12 outcome measures were identified. The methodological quality of these studies was poor to fair, implying that based on the literature no recommendations to use any of the outcome measures can yet be made.
From a Distance …
Authors: Sassenrath Claudia , Sassenberg Kai , Scholl Annika
Published: May 2013

Egocentric anchoring, that is, overimputing one’s own perspective onto others constitutes a major obstacle for successful perspective taking. Accordingly, differentiating between the self and others is beneficial for perspective taking because it highlights the inadequacy of egocentric anchoring. The current research tested whether activating avoidance motivational orientation enhances perspective-taking performance (compared to approach motivational orientation), because self-other differentiation is facilitated under avoidance orientation. Supporting these predictions, two experiments showed that inducing avoidance motivational orientation (compared to approach orientation) either via goal framing or via the respective arm position enhances perspective-taking performance. Using experimental causal chain design, Study 3a supported the hypothesis that avoidance motivational orientation fosters self-other differentiation, while Study 3b showed that fostering self-other differentiation experimentally enhanced perspective-taking performance. The findings are discussed with regard to the role of psychological distance in perspective taking.
Recent progress toward epigenetic therapies: the example of mixed lineage leukemia
Authors: Neff Tobias , Armstrong Scott A.
Published: May 2013

The importance of epigenetic gene regulatory mechanisms in normal and cancer development is increasingly evident. Genome-wide analyses have revealed the mutation, deletion, and dysregulated expression of chromatin-modifying enzymes in a number of cancers, including hematologic malignancies. Genome-wide studies of DNA methylation and histone modifications are beginning to reveal the landscape of cancer-specific chromatin patterns. In parallel, recent genetic loss-of-function studies in murine models are demonstrating functional involvement of chromatin-modifying enzymes in malignant cell proliferation and self-renewal. Paradoxically, the same chromatin modifiers can, depending on cancer type, be either hyperactive or inactivated. Increasingly, cross talk between epigenetic pathways is being identified. Leukemias carrying MLL rearrangements are quintessential cancers driven by dysregulated epigenetic mechanisms in which fusion proteins containing N-terminal sequences of MLL require few or perhaps no additional mutations to cause human leukemia. Here, we review how recent progress in the field of epigenetics opens potential mechanism-based therapeutic avenues.
EBV-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma of the elderly
Authors: Ok Chi Young , Papathomas Thomas G. , Medeiros L. Jeffrey , Young Ken H.
Published: May 2013

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) of the elderly, initially described in 2003, is a provisional entity in the 2008 World Health Organization classification system and is defined as an EBV-positive monoclonal large B-cell proliferation that occurs in patients >50 years of age and in whom there is no known immunodeficiency or history of lymphoma. These tumors are more common in Asia but also occur in North America and Europe at a low frequency. These neoplasms exhibit a morphologic continuum, from polymorphous to monomorphous, but morphologic features do not correlate with prognosis as all patients have a clinically aggressive course. Most EBV-positive DLBCL of the elderly patients have an activated B-cell immunophenotype and are characterized by prominent nuclear factor-κB activation. Cytogenetic complexity is usually low. In this review, we comprehensively delineate the data emerging from analyses of EBV latency program, microRNA-mediated EBV viral oncogenesis, functional genomics of EBV and its biology, and differential diagnosis challenge for EBV-positive DLBCL of the elderly. It is hoped that the improved understanding of these tumors will lead to the development of novel therapeutic approaches, enhance the effectiveness of clinical trials, and improve prognosis.
Gene-based single nucleotide polymorphism discovery in bovine muscle using next-generation transcriptomic sequencing
Authors: Djari Anis , Esquerré Diane , Weiss Bernard , Martins Frédéric , Meersseman Cédric , Boussaha Mekki , Klopp Christophe , Rocha Dominique
Published: May 2013

Background

Genetic information based on molecular markers has increasingly being used in cattle breeding improvement programmes, as a mean to improve conventionally phenotypic selection. Advances in molecular genetics have led to the identification of several genetic markers associated with genes affecting economic traits. Until recently, the identification of the causative genetic variants involved in the phenotypes of interest has remained a difficult task. The advent of novel sequencing technologies now offers a new opportunity for the identification of such variants. Despite sequencing costs plummeting, sequencing whole-genomes or large targeted regions is still too expensive for most laboratories. A transcriptomic-based sequencing approach offers a cheaper alternative to identify a large number of polymorphisms and possibly to discover causative variants. In the present study, we performed a gene-based single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) discovery analysis in bovine Longissimus thoraci, using RNA-Seq. To our knowledge, this represents the first study done in bovine muscle.

Results

Messenger RNAs from Longissimus thoraci from three Limousin bull calves were subjected to high-throughput sequencing. Approximately 36–46 million paired-end reads were obtained per library. A total of 19,752 transcripts were identified and 34,376 different SNPs were detected. Fifty-five percent of the SNPs were found in coding regions and ~22% resulted in an amino acid change. Applying a very stringent SNP quality threshold, we detected 8,407 different high-confidence SNPs, 18% of which are non synonymous coding SNPs. To analyse the accuracy of RNA-Seq technology for SNP detection, 48 SNPs were selected for validation by genotyping. No discrepancies were observed when using the highest SNP probability threshold. To test the usefulness of the identified SNPs, the 48 selected SNPs were assessed by genotyping 93 bovine samples, representing mostly the nine major breeds used in France. Principal component analysis indicates a clear separation between the nine populations.

Conclusions

The RNA-Seq data and the collection of newly discovered coding SNPs improve the genomic resources available for cattle, especially for beef breeds. The large amount of variation present in genes expressed in Limousin Longissimus thoracis, especially the large number of non synonymous coding SNPs, may prove useful to study the mechanisms underlying the genetic variability of meat quality traits.