bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linking environmental processes to the in situ functioning of microorganisms by high‐resolution secondary ion mass spectrometry (NanoSIMS) and scanning transmission X‐ray microscopy (STXM)
Authors: Behrens Sebastian , Kappler Andreas , Obst Martin
Published: March 2012

Environmental microbiology research increasingly focuses on the single microbial cell as the defining entity that drives environmental processes. The interactions of individual microbial cells with each other, the environment and with higher organisms shape microbial communities and control the functioning of whole ecosystems. A single‐cell view of microorganisms in their natural environment requires analytical tools that measure both cell function and chemical speciation at the submicrometre scale. Here we review the technical capabilities and limitations of high‐resolution secondary ion mass spectrometry (NanoSIMS) and scanning transmission (soft) X‐ray microscopy (STXM) and give examples of their applications. Whereas NanoSIMS can be combined with isotope‐labelling, thereby localizing the distribution of cellular activities (e.g. carbon/nitrogen fixation/turnover), STXM provides information on the location and chemical speciation of metabolites and products of redox reactions. We propose the combined use of both techniques and discuss the technical challenges of their joint application. Both techniques have the potential to enhance our understanding of cellular mechanisms and activities that contribute to microbially mediated processes, such as the biogeochemical cycling of elements, the transformation of contaminants and the precipitation of mineral phases.
Lower urinary tract symptoms and urinary incontinence in a geriatric cohort – a population‐based analysis
Authors: Wehrberger Clemens , Madersbacher Stephan , Jungwirth Susanne , Fischer Peter , Tragl Karl‐Heinz
Published: March 2012

Study Type – Symptom prevalence (prospective cohort)

Level of Evidence 1b

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

Prevalence and severity of urinary incontinence and lower urinary tract symptoms increase with age and have a considerable negative influence on quality of life.

As a result of demographic changes the proportion of octogenarians will increase in the next decades substantially, yet the literature on urinary incontinence and lower urinary tract symptoms of the oldest old is scant. This population‐based study of 85‐year‐old subjects sheds new light on this topic.

OBJECTIVES

To assess prevalence and severity of lower urinary tract function in 85‐year‐old men and women.

Little is known on the prevalence of lower urinary tract dysfunction in this geriatric age group, which is now the fastest growing sector of the population worldwide.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The Vienna Trans‐Danube Aging study (VITA) is a longitudinal, population‐based study initiated in 2000 that included men/women aged 75 years living in a well‐defined area in Vienna.

The main purpose of the VITA study was to identify risk factors for incident Alzheimer's disease.

All study participants alive in 2010 were contacted by mail to complete a detailed questionnaire on various aspects of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and urinary incontinence (UI).

RESULTS

The response rate was 68%, resulting in a total of 262 questionnaires available for analysis (men n= 96; women n= 166). All study participants were 85 years of age.

Urinary incontinence defined as any involuntary loss during the past 4 weeks was reported by 24% of men and 35% of women (P= 0.04). Stress UI was more frequent in women (39%) than in men (14%, P < 0.01), the difference for urge UI (women 35%, men 25%) was on the border of statistical significance (P= 0.05). Only four individuals (1.5%) needed permanent catheterization.

Urgency (women 56%, men 54%) and daytime frequency (women 70%, men 74%) were equally distributed (P > 0.05). Nocturia more often than twice was more prevalent in men (69%) than in women (49%) (P= 0.02). Overactive bladder, according to International Continence Society criteria, was present in 55% of women and 50% of men.

No difference regarding quality of life impairment as the result of LUTS and UI was noticed between sexes. A few co‐morbidities were identified to correlate with UI and storage symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

These data provide insights into the prevalence and severity of LUTS and UI in individuals in their eighties, to our knowledge the largest population‐based study in this age group.

Demographic changes in upcoming decades underline the importance of a thorough understanding of lower urinary tract dysfunction in a geriatric population.
Rebuilding global fisheries: the World Summit Goal, costs and benefits
Authors: Ye Yimin , Cochrane Kevern , Bianchi Gabriella , Willmann Rolf , Majkowski Jacek , Tandstad Merete , Carocci Fabio
Published: March 2012

Many of the world’s fish stocks are depleted as a result of overexploitation, pollution and habitat loss. The 2002 World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) sets a target for fisheries to maintain or restore stocks to levels that can produce the maximum sustainable yield (MSY) by 2015. We assessed the global stock status and found that 68% were at or above the MSY level in 2008 and that the 2015 target is unlikely to be met. We compiled data for eight indicators to evaluate the sustainability of fisheries and the gap to meet the WSSD target. These indicators show that the overall condition of global fisheries is declining, long‐term benefits are being compromised, and pressures on fisheries are increasing despite fisheries policy and management actions being taken by coastal States. We develop a bio‐economic model to estimate the costs and benefits of restoring overfished stocks. Our results show that the global fishing capacity needs to be cut by 36–43% from the 2008 level, resulting in the loss of employment of 12–15 million fishers and costing US$96–358 billion for buybacks. On the other hand, meeting the WSSD goal will increase annual fishery production by 16.5 million tonnes, annual rent by US$32 billion and improve biodiversity and functioning of marine ecosystems. However, progress towards rebuilding has been hindered by an unwillingness or inability to accept the short‐term socio‐economic consequences associated with rebuilding fisheries. Thus, there is a pressing need for integration of rebuilding plans into national political and economic decision‐making.
Value versus growth: Australian evidence
Authors: Gharghori Philip , Stryjkowski Sebastian , Veeraraghavan Madhu
Published: March 2012

The value‐growth effect is one of the most pervasive patterns in stock prices. In this study, the ability of four proxies for value‐growth, book‐to‐market, sales‐to‐price, earnings‐to‐price and cash‐flow‐to‐price to explain equity returns is analysed. The findings show that in aggregate, book‐to‐market best explains cross‐sectional variation in Australian equity returns, which in isolation suggests that it is the superior proxy for value‐growth. The analysis is taken further and the value‐growth effect is examined separately in positive and negative earnings firms. After segregating firms, it is found that in the negative earnings sample, book‐to‐market is the best value‐growth proxy and in the positive earnings sample, cash‐flow‐to‐price has the highest level of significance and is thus the superior value‐growth proxy. The economic significance of this result is telling, as the firms that report positive earnings are much larger than those that report negative earnings.
Surrogate Boycotts against Multinational Corporations: Consumers’ Choice of Boycott Targets
Authors: Balabanis George
Published: March 2012

Within the context of surrogate boycotts for multinational corporations (MNCs), the author develops a conceptual framework which examines how the interaction between expectations of boycott objectives’ attainment, the ascribed egregiousness of the principal offender and a MNC's actions, activism, concern for the boycott issue and personal sacrifices affect consumers’ likelihood to boycott a targeted MNC. The focus is on surrogate boycotts where the targeted MNCs have some involvement with the underlying issues. One of the key objectives is to determine disparities in the boycotting of different MNCs which are targets of the same surrogate boycott. Results from two real boycotts and four real boycott targets indicate that the ascribed egregiousness of the MNC's actions is the strongest determinant of boycott participation, followed by expectation related to the attainability of the boycott objectives. Those MNCs with lower product substitutability and higher consumer preferences will suffer less than other boycott targets. Despite the alleviating influences of low substitutability and consumer preferences on boycotts, MNCs need to proactively develop decision‐making frameworks for early recognition of ethically dubious issues.
The Protocol on Strategic Environmental Assessment: A Matter of Good Governance
Authors: De Mulder Jan
Published: March 2012

In this article, the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Protocol to the Espoo Convention is introduced and analyzed. As an outcome of international processes aimed at the institutional adoption of sustainable development policy, the need for strategic environmental assessment has become obvious given the experiences with environmental impact assessment as an effective environmental policy tool for projects. The introduction of SEA and the adoption of a specific international legal instrument are also situated within ongoing international good governance and (new) public management developments which aim at improving decision making. In this context, the application of SEA and the SEA Protocol is analyzed focusing on its features, approaches and opportunities.
The Twofold Life of the Word: Karl Barth's Critical Reception of the Extra Calvinisticum
Authors: Sumner Darren O.
Published: March 2012

Though the extra Calvinisticum has played an historically important role for Christology, the doctrine has been criticized not only by Lutherans and modern Christologies ‘from below’ but by some Reformed thinkers as well. This article examines the place of the extra in dogmatic thinking about the incarnation: specifically, Karl Barth's critical response to his own tradition. After examining the differences between Lutheran and Reformed construals of the relationship of the Logos asarkos to the Logos ensarkos I take up Barth's views on the extra, which over the course of his career moved from enthusiastic affirmation to a sharp critique. Finally, I suggest that Barth's mature Christology retains the best of both Protestant positions by correcting a critical inconsistency in Reformed thought. He does not reject the doctrine of the Logos asarkos, but he does suggest a way in which this is related to the life of the Logos ensarkos that marginalizes the former. Barth is right not to discard the extra, but also that it has been misused in how it is deployed in dogmatic theology.
Combining information in hierarchical models improves inferences in population ecology and demographic population analyses
Authors: Schaub M. , Kéry M.
Published: March 2012

Read the Feature Paper: Bayesian shared frailty models for regional inference about wildlife survival

Other Commentaries on this paper: Bayesian shared frailty models for regional inference about wildlife survival; ‘Each site has its own survival probability, but information is borrowed across sites to tell us about survival in each site’: random effects models as means of borrowing strength in survival studies of wild vertebrates

Response from the authors: ‘Exciting statistics’: the rapid development and promising future of hierarchical models for population ecology
Dimensions of oppositional defiant disorder in 3‐year‐old preschoolers
Authors: Ezpeleta Lourdes , Granero Roser , de la Osa Núria , Penelo Eva , Domènech Josep M.
Published: March 2012

Background:  To test the factor structure of oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) symptoms and to study the relationships between the proposed dimensions and external variables in a community sample of preschool children.

Method:  A sample of 1,341 3‐year‐old preschoolers was randomly selected and screened for a double‐phase design. In total, 622 families were assessed with a diagnostic semi‐structured interview and questionnaires on psychopathology, temperament and executive functioning completed by parents and teachers.

Results:  Using categorical and dimensional symptoms of ODD it was possible to confirm, cross‐informant and cross‐method, distinct dimensions for defining the structure of ODD: one made up of irritable and headstrong and the other of negative affect, oppositional behaviour and antagonistic behaviour. Specific associations with DSM‐IV disorders were found, and irritable was associated with anxiety disorders, whereas headstrong was associated with disruptive disorders, including aggressive and non‐aggressive CD symptoms. Also, negative affect was associated with anxiety disorders and non‐aggressive CD symptoms, oppositional behaviour with disruptive disorders and aggressive CD symptoms, and antagonistic behaviours with disruptive disorders and, in boys, with mood disorders. The dimensions correlated with specific scales of psychopathology, temperament and executive functioning.

Conclusions:  Oppositional defiant disorder is a heterogeneous disorder from preschool age. Different dimensions, with moderate to acceptable reliability and convergent and discriminant validity with other psychological constructs, can be identified early in life.
Correlates of the CBCL‐dysregulation profile in preschool‐aged children
Authors: Kim Jiyon , Carlson Gabrielle A. , Meyer Stephanie E. , Bufferd Sara J. , Dougherty Lea R. , Dyson Margaret W. , Laptook Rebecca S. , Olino Thomas M. , Klein Daniel N.
Published: March 2012

Background:  A growing literature indicates that the Child Behavior Checklist‐Dysregulation Profile (CBCL‐DP) identifies youths with heightened risk for severe psychopathology, comorbidity, and impairment. However, this work has focused on school‐age children and adolescents; no studies have examined whether preschool‐aged children with the CBCL‐DP exhibit a similar constellation of problems.

Method:  Using a community sample of preschoolers, we compared children with (N = 61) and without (N = 488) the CBCL‐DP on a broad range of variables assessed using multiple methods.

Results:  Univariate analyses revealed numerous differences between children with the CBCL‐DP and their peers on psychiatric symptomatology, temperament, parenting behavior, and parental personality, psychopathology, and marital functioning. In multivariate analyses, children with the CBCL‐DP exhibited greater temperamental negative affectivity and lower effortful control. They also had more depressive and oppositional defiant symptoms, as well as greater functional impairment. Parents of CBCL‐DP children reported engaging in more punitive, controlling parenting behavior than parents of non‐profile children.

Conclusions:  In a non‐clinical sample of preschoolers, the CBCL‐DP is associated with extensive emotional and behavioral dysregulation and maladaptive parenting.
A survey of the occurrence and properties of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus intermedius in water buffalo milk and dairy products in Turkey
Authors: PAMUK SEBNEM , YILDIRIM YELIZ , SEKER ESRA , GURLER ZEKI , KARA RECEP
Published: March 2012

Antimicrobial resistance, β‐lactamase activity and mecA gene of Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus intermedius isolated from raw water buffalo milk and dairy products in Turkey were determined. All strains showed resistance to at least one antibiotic but none was resistant to vancomycin. Of the 97 S. aureus and 35 S. intermedius strains, 9 (9.2%) and 2 (5.7%) were resistant to oxacillin and harboured mecA gene. β‐lactamase activity of 13.4% and 5.7% of S. aureus and S. intermedius strains was positive, respectively. Overall, 2.5% and 0.55% of the samples were contaminated with methicillin‐resistant S. aureus and S. intermedius, respectively.
Valproic acid attenuates blood–spinal cord barrier disruption by inhibiting matrix metalloprotease‐9 activity and improves functional recovery after spinal cord injury
Authors: Lee Jee Y. , Kim Hwang S. , Choi Hye Y. , Oh Tae H. , Ju Bong G. , Yune Tae Y.
Published: March 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 121, 818–829.

The disruption of blood–spinal cord barrier (BSCB) after spinal cord injury (SCI) elicits an intensive local inflammation by the infiltration of blood cells such as neutrophils and macrophages, leading to cell death and permanent neurological disability. SCI activates matrix metalloprotease‐9 (MMP‐9), which is known to induce BSCB disruption. Here, we examined whether valproic acid (VPA), a histone deacetylase inhibitor, would attenuate BSCB disruption by inhibiting MMP‐9 activity, leading to improvement of functional outcome after SCI. After moderate spinal cord contusion injury at T9, VPA (300 mg/kg) were immediately injected subcutaneously and further injected every 12 h for 5 days. Our data show that VPA inhibited MMP‐9 activity after injury, and attenuated BSCB permeability and degradation of tight junction molecules such as occludin and ZO‐1. In addition, VPA reduced the expression of inflammatory mediators including tumor necrosis factor‐α. Furthermore, VPA increased the levels of acetylated histone 3, pAkt, and heat‐shock protein 27 and 70, which have anti‐apoptotic functions after SCI. Finally, VPA inhibited apoptotic cell death and caspase 3 activation, reduced the lesion volume and improved functional recovery after injury. Thus, our results demonstrated that VPA improves functional recovery by attenuating BSCB disruption via inhibition of MMP‐9 activity after SCI.
Immune globulins and thrombotic adverse events as recorded in a large administrative database in 2008 through 2010
Authors: Daniel Gregory W. , Menis Mikhail , Sridhar Gayathri , Scott Dorothy , Wallace Anna E. , Ovanesov Mikhail V. , Golding Basil , Anderson Steven A. , Epstein Jay , Martin David , Ball Robert , Izurieta Hector S.
Published: March 2012

BACKGROUND: Thrombotic events (TEs) are rare but often serious adverse events that could occur after administration of immune globulin (IG) products. Our study objective was to assess occurrence of recorded TEs after administration of different US‐licensed IG products and investigate potential risk factors using a large administrative database.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: This is a retrospective claims‐based cohort study of individuals exposed to IG products from January 1, 2008, through September 30, 2010, using HealthCore's Integrated Research Database, a longitudinal health care database. IG products were identified by recorded Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System codes. TEs were ascertained via International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification diagnosis codes. Logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for same‐day TEs by IG product, while controlling for confounders.

RESULTS: Of 11,785 individuals exposed to IG products in the study period, 122 (1%) had TE(s) recorded on the same day as IG administration. TE rates per 1000 persons exposed ranged from 6.1 to 20.5 for different IG product groups. Vivaglobin users had an increased same‐day TE risk compared to reference Gammagard Liquid users (OR, 3.56; 95% CI, 1.54‐8.23). An increased TE risk was also found with older age (≥45 years), prior TE(s), and hypercoagulable state(s).

CONCLUSION: The study suggests potentially elevated TE rates for different IG products, including subcutaneous. It also identifies important recipient TE risk factors and suggests that risk–benefit profiles should be weighed before IG administration. The observed differences may be due to various factors such as dosage, administration rates, and product manufacturing processes that warrant further evaluation.
Evaluation of blood supply operation and infectious disease markers in blood donors during the Egyptian revolution
Authors: Hussein Eiman , Teruya Jun
Published: March 2012

BACKGROUND: The Egyptian revolution took place on January 25, 2011. Millions of protesters demanded the overthrow of the Egyptian president's regime. Many people suffered from life‐threatening injuries after violent clashes between police and protesters.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: The overall management of the blood bank operation at Cairo University Hospital was described, in an attempt to evaluate blood safety and establish a standard effective plan to manage blood supply during crisis.

RESULTS: Three days after the uprising, thousands of Egyptians rushed to the hospital to alleviate the blood shortage. A total of 3425 units were collected in 3 days and thousands of donors were turned away. An error delayed processing of 1000 units and they were used as stored whole blood. Apheresis platelets were donated by protesters who were particularly motivated to donate for two victims with liver injury. The usual positive rate of hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody in Egyptian donors is 3.8%. However, the positive rate of HCV markers in the collected units was only 1.6%. The mean age of donors during the revolution was 31.7 ± 10.4 years while the usual mean age of donors is 39.2 ± 8.5 years. Operating theaters were used only for emergencies. A blood surplus developed that met the hospital needs for 1 month.

CONCLUSION: Revolution resulted in an influx of first‐time donors with a relatively low positive rate of HCV antibody. To be prepared for disasters, a systematic approach to spread donors evenly on a daily basis is needed.
Do Debt Levels Influence State Borrowing Costs?
Authors: Robbins Mark D. , Simonsen Bill
Published: March 2012

This article reports on research into the possible interest cost penalties when state governments impose increasingly high debt levels on their citizens. The potential effect of debt levels on borrowing costs is a material one, given the large amounts of state debt outstanding. At the same time that government borrowing is heavy, the demand for government obligations also appears to be strong. The authors examine state debt levels and borrowing costs over a six‐year period (2001–2006) and find little evidence of such an effect, despite rapidly growing debt burdens. Those concerned about state debt levels, the authors say, must look to sources other than investors for pressure to reduce debt issuance.
Escapement success and patterns of downstream migration of female silver eel Anguilla anguilla in the River Meuse
Authors: Verbiest Hilde , Breukelaar André , Ovidio Michaël , Philippart Jean‐Claude , Belpaire Claude
Published: March 2012

Abstract –  Downstream migration of female silver eel Anguilla anguilla (L.) was studied by remote telemetry in the lower part of the River Meuse (Belgium and the Netherlands) using a combination of nine detection stations and manual tracking. N = 31 eels (LT 64–90 cm) were implanted with active transponders and released in 2007 into the River Berwijn, a small Belgian tributary of the River Meuse, 326 km from the North Sea. From August 2007 till April 2008, 13 eels (42%) started their downstream migration and were detected at two or more stations. Mean migration speed was 0.62 m·s−1 (or 53 km·day−1). Only two eels (15%) arrived at the North Sea, the others being held up or killed at hydroelectric power stations, caught by fishermen or by predators or stopped their migration and settled in the river delta. A majority (58%) of the eels classified as potential migrants did not start their migration and settled in the River Berwijn or upper Meuse as verified by additional manual tracking.
Genetic and environmental risk factors for submucous cleft palate
Authors: Reiter Rudolf , Brosch Sibylle , Lüdeke Manuel , Fischbein Elena , Haase Stephan , Pickhard Anja , Assum Günter , Schwandt Anke , Vogel Walther , Högel Josef , Maier Christiane
Published: March 2012

Reiter R, Brosch S, Lüdeke M, Fischbein E, Haase S, Pickhard A, Assum G, Schwandt A, Vogel W, Högel J, Maier C. Genetic and environmental risk factors for submucous cleft palate.
 
Eur J Oral Sci 2012; 120: 97–103. © 2012 Eur J Oral Sci

A multifactorial aetiology with genetic and environmental factors is assumed for orofacial clefts. Submucous cleft palate (SMCP), a subgroup of cleft palates with insufficient median fusion of the muscles of the soft palate hidden under the mucosa, has a prevalence of 1:1,250–1:5,000. We described the prevalence of risk factors among 103 German patients with the subtype SMCP and genotyped 24 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from 12 candidate genes for orofacial clefts. Analysis of risk factors yielded a positive history for maternal cigarette smoking during pregnancy in 25.2% of the patients, and this was significantly more frequent than in the normal population. The group of patients differed in allele frequencies at SNP rs3917192 of the gene TGFB3 (nominal P = 0.053) and at SNP rs5752638 of the gene MN1 (nominal P = 0.075) compared with 279 control individuals. Our results indicate a potential role of maternal smoking during pregnancy for the formation of SMCP. The analysis of genetic variants hints at the contribution of TGFB3 and MN1 in the aetiology of SMCPs.
Effects of time and socio‐economic status on the determinants of oral health‐related behaviours of parents of preschool children
Authors: Van den Branden S. , Van den Broucke S. , Leroy R. , Declerck D. , Hoppenbrouwers K.
Published: March 2012

Van den Branden S, Van den Broucke S, Leroy R, Declerck D. Hoppenbrouwers K. Effects of time and socio‐economic status on the determinants of oral health‐related behaviours of parents of preschool children.
 
Eur J Oral Sci 2012; 120: 153–160. © 2012 Eur J Oral Sci

The oral health‐related beliefs of parents have an important impact on the oral health status of their children; however, they are not stable over time. This study aimed to assess the changes, over time, in the determinants of parental oral health‐related behaviour based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour and to investigate socio‐economic inequalities. The cohort consisted of the parents – mainly the mothers – of 1,057 children born in 2003 and 2004 in Flanders (Belgium). According to the Theory of Planned Behaviour, validated questionnaires, completed at children’s birth and at age 3 and 5 yr, assessed parental attitudes, social norms, perceived behavioural control, and intention towards three behaviours: dietary habits, oral hygiene habits, and dental attendance. Linear mixed‐model analyses were applied. Positive parental attitudes towards oral health‐related behaviours increased between birth and 3 yr of age, whereas the scores for subjective norms and intentions decreased. Scores remained stable for children between three and 5 yr of age. Highly educated mothers had significantly higher scores for attitudes, perceived behavioural control, and intentions than less‐educated mothers. Health promotion campaigns should take these natural changes and inequalities of dental beliefs into account when developing and evaluating interventions.
Gem1 and ERMES Do Not Directly Affect Phosphatidylserine Transport from ER to Mitochondria or Mitochondrial Inheritance
Authors: Nguyen Tammy T. , Lewandowska Agnieszka , Choi Jae‐Yeon , Markgraf Daniel F. , Junker Mirco , Bilgin Mesut , Ejsing Christer S. , Voelker Dennis R. , Rapoport Tom A. , Shaw Janet M.
Published: March 2012

In yeast, a protein complex termed the ER‐Mitochondria Encounter Structure (ERMES) tethers mitochondria to the endoplasmic reticulum. ERMES proteins are implicated in a variety of cellular functions including phospholipid synthesis, mitochondrial protein import, mitochondrial attachment to actin, polarized mitochondrial movement into daughter cells during division, and maintenance of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). The mitochondrial‐anchored Gem1 GTPase has been proposed to regulate ERMES functions. Here, we show that ERMES and Gem1 have no direct role in the transport of phosphatidylserine (PS) from the ER to mitochondria during the synthesis of phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), as PS to PE conversion is not affected in ERMES or gem1 mutants. In addition, we report that mitochondrial inheritance defects in ERMES mutants are a secondary consequence of mitochondrial morphology defects, arguing against a primary role for ERMES in mitochondrial association with actin and mitochondrial movement. Finally, we show that ERMES complexes are long‐lived, and do not depend on the presence of Gem1. Our findings suggest that the ERMES complex may have primarily a structural role in maintaining mitochondrial morphology.
A Variety of Opportunities for Immune Interactions During Trophoblast Development and Invasion
Authors: Huppertz Berthold , Berghold Veronika M. , Kawaguchi Rie , Gauster Martin
Published: March 2012

During human implantation and placentation, the direct cell to cell contact of fetal and maternal tissues gives room for a variety of immune interactions. Especially, the invasion of a subset of fetal trophoblast cells, called extravillous trophoblast, generate a very close interplay between the two individuals, enabling the attachment of the placenta to the uterine wall and the transformation of maternal spiral arteries to facilitate adequate nutrition of the fetus. During pregnancy, maternal and fetal factors closely interact to maintain pregnancy and smooth the process of delivery. At each and every stage and site, immunological interactions take place, including attachment of the blastocyst, development and invasion of trophoblast, and flow of maternal plasma and blood through the intervillous space of the placenta. Control mechanisms tightly regulate these interactions helping to evade fetal rejection by the mother. In this review, we highlight the morphological sites of development and feto‐maternal interaction to help immunological interested scientists and clinicians to develop hypotheses on the feto‐maternal immunological network during pregnancy.
Telehomecare Communication and Self‐Care in Chronic Conditions: Moving Toward a Shared Understanding
Authors: Shea Kimberly , Chamoff Breanna
Published: March 2012

Background: Remote telemonitoring of patients’ vital signs is a rapidly increasing practice. Although methods of communication in remote electronic monitoring differ from those in traditional home health care, the understanding shared by the nurse, patient, and family members remains the same: patients’ self‐care behaviors affect exacerbations of chronic health conditions. The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between communication and information integration into the daily lives of patients with chronic illnesses and offer best practice recommendations for telehomecare nurses (THN).

Methods: The original study used the Social Relations Model to examine relationships within 43 triads composed of patients with chronic conditions, home helpers, and their nurse involved in telehomecare at three Veterans Health Administration sites. This secondary descriptive and correlational analysis compared 43 patients’ and nine THNs’ ratings of themselves and each other on communication (frequency, timeliness, and understanding) and the use of patients’ daily telemonitored information.

Results: There was almost no correlation between patients’ perception of THNs’ communication (frequency [r= 0.05], timeliness [r= 0.09], and understandability [r= 0.03]) and patients’ integration of information into daily health practices. However, significant correlations were found between the THNs’ perception of patients’ communication frequency and timeliness, and integration, (p= 0.02; p < 0.001) respectively.

Conclusions: This study suggests that frequent phone communication may lead the remote THN to believe patients are integrating blood pressure, weight, and other information into daily self‐care behaviors, when in fact the patient reports that they are not. The influence of a halo effect on the THN may cloud an accurate perception of what is actually occurring. Remote communication may require more attention to THNs educating patients about shared understandings when using telemonitoring. Best practices for THN should include explicit goals and intentions for telemonitored home care with individualized instructions about how to use the information for self‐care.
Is advanced age a barrier to effective cancer treatment? The experience of nonagenarians receiving radiation therapy
Authors: THOMPSON Aimee , CONE Rebecca , GAO Helen , HAMMOND Elizabeth , FRASER David , BACK Michael F
Published: March 2012

Aim:  Decision‐making about elderly patients is difficult due to the absence of clinical experience or evidence‐based results to develop optimal treatment plans. This study aims to determine the tolerability and impact of radiation therapy (RT) when delivered to patients aged >89 years.

Methods:  A retrospective review was conducted on all nonagenarian patients (defined as aged 90 years or over) managed with RT between 2005 and 2007. Patients' records were reviewed in regard to their characteristics, the presence of significant medical comorbidities, performance status, management intent, cancer diagnosis and RT modality. Outcome end‐points were overall survival and the tolerability of RT (presence of grade 3 or 4 morbidity, hospital admission or treatment interruption).

Results:  Between 2005 and 2007, 2762 new courses of RT were delivered to patients at the Northern Sydney Cancer Centre, of whom 55, or 2%, were nonagenarians. Median age at treatment was 92 years, with range 90–104 years. A total of 56% were managed with radical intent, 31% had significant comorbidities, 55% had non‐skin primary tumors and 78% received linac‐based treatment. The mean follow up for survivors was 19.8 months (10.2–41.8 months). RT was well tolerated, with 89% completing planned RT and only 18% requiring interruption. One patient was hospitalized due to RT toxicity. Median survival post‐RT was 13.0 months, with 56% of patients alive at 12 months. Survival duration was associated with radical management intent (P= 0.001), cutaneous primary site (P= 0.001) and female gender (P= 0.043).

Conclusion:  Nonagenarian patients receiving treatment had satisfactory tolerability and achieved expected survival rates post‐RT.
Mortality within 30 days of receiving systemic anti‐cancer therapy at a regional oncology unit: What have we learned?
Authors: YOONG Jaclyn , SEAH Jo‐An , HAMILTON Katherine , TEO Lee Na , CHONG Geoffrey
Published: March 2012

Aims:  Benefits to patients from systemic anti‐cancer therapies (SACT) occur at a cost of significant toxicities that can be life threatening. Published data of SACT mortality outside clinical trials is limited with no published Australia data. We aim to establish local outcomes at a regional Victorian oncology center to allow comparison with limited international data.

Methods:  An audit was undertaken at Ballarat Health Services to analyze all deaths occurring within 30 and 60 days of receiving SACT (cytotoxic chemotherapy and targeted therapy) for epithelial malignancies and hematological malignancies (excluding acute leukemia), over a 12‐month period. Hormonal therapy was excluded.

Results:  Between 1 January and 31 December 2008, 378 patients received SACT. In total 13 deaths (3.4%) occurred within 30 days following SACT. Three deaths (23%) were definitely treatment‐related – neutropenic sepsis, pneumocystis pneumonia and bowel perforation, respectively. Eight deaths (62%) were definitely unrelated to treatment. Most deaths were due to disease progression (six patients) For two patients (15%), the cause of death was unknown. Most patients were treated with palliative intent. Most patients were receiving first‐line treatment (seven patients, 50%). A further five deaths (1.3%) occurred 31–60 days after SACT, four of which were due to disease progression.

Conclusion:  Our local outcome data are comparable to limited current international data. This type of audit reviews local outcomes and identifies factors contributing to mortality in order to improve standards of care. We encourage similar audits to establish national benchmarks of 30‐day mortality rate.
Diagnosis prevention and treatment for PICC‐related upper extremity deep vein thrombosis in breast cancer patients
Authors: XING Lei , ADHIKARI Vishnu Prasad , LIU Hong , KONG Ling Quan , LIU Sheng Chun , LI Hong Yuan , REN Guo Sheng , LUO Feng , WU Kai Nan
Published: March 2012

Aim:  To study the incidence, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC)‐related upper extremity deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in breast cancer patients using a PICC catheter for chemotherapy.

Methods:  The data of the incidence, diagnosis and treatment of PICC‐related upper extremity DVT in 187 breast cancer patients using a PICC catheter for chemotherapy, from August 2009 to July 2011 were retrospectively analyzed.

Results:  In total 188 PICC were inserted between August 2009 and July 2011 and followed up for a total of 14 399 catheter‐days (median placement, 76.6 days; range, 1 to 170 days). Four (2.1%) of 188 PICC were removed as a result of PICC‐related upper extremity DVT in 14 to 112 catheter‐days, at a rate of 0.28/1000 catheter‐days.

Conclusion:  The use of PICCs in breast cancer patients for chemotherapy is safe and effective. However, some patients may develop catheter‐related upper extremity DVT. In order to minimize complications, we should pay attention to its early symptoms and signs, as well as the timely removal of the catheter and appropriate anti‐coagulant treatment.
A female‐produced short‐range sex pheromone in the egg parasitoid Trissolcus brochymenae
Authors: Salerno Gianandrea , Frati Francesca , Iacovone Alessia , Conti Eric , Peri Ezio , Colazza Stefano
Published: March 2012

The potential for short‐range sex pheromone communication by the egg parasitoid wasp Trissolcus brochymenae (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae) was investigated in closed arena bioassays. Males of this parasitoid showed more antennal drumming and more frequent mounting behaviour on 1‐ to 2‐d‐old virgin females compared with 8‐d‐old virgin females. Male copulation attempts were fewer with previously mated females than with virgin females. Males courted and made copulation attempts with 1‐ to 2‐d‐old female cadavers, but not with male cadavers or with female cadavers rinsed in organic solvents of different polarities. Male attraction to female cadavers was re‐established by treating cadavers with acetone extracts of females, but not with ether or hexane extracts. In experiments using female cadavers dissected into head, mesosoma, and gaster, and then reassembled using one unwashed body section and two body sections washed in acetone, males were attracted only to the reassembled cadavers with an unwashed mesosoma. These findings suggest that (1) courtship behaviour in males of T. brochymenae is triggered by a short‐range sex pheromone produced by females; (2) the age and the physiological condition of females (virgin/mated) influence pheromone release or production; (3) the female's mesosoma is the source of the sex pheromone; and (4) polar components of the sex pheromone play a major role in influencing male behaviour. Our results suggest that quasi‐gregarious egg parasitoids are selected for short‐range rather than long‐range sex pheromones.
Impact of geomorphology and fluoride genesis on groundwater quality along the Bay of Bengal of Srikakulam District, Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: Kumar Kotra Krishna
Published: March 2012

Coastal groundwaters are always a circumspect for qualitative fluctuations by the virtue of their complex segregation of the plain and uplands with sporadic intrusions of marine water. Moreover, the impact of geomorphology by virtue of natural and anthropogenic phenomenon plays a significant role in deciding their state. Added to these, the fluoride concentrations do share their part in finalizing their potable status. To evaluate the extent of these impacts on the quality of groundwater, 50 water samples of bore and open well were geochemically assessed along the coast of Bay of Bengal of Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh, India. The expansive correlative geochemical interpretation of the results revealed the groundwaters' status, mechanisms controlling the genesis of principal chemical species, reserves, type, drainage pattern and intrusion zones in the area. Mineral species and spatial distribution of fluoride were commutated. Based on the results, initiation of recommendations by the Groundwater Board, besides public awareness, helped the study in reaching its goal.
The larger exercise stroke volume in endurance‐trained men does not result from increased left ventricular early or late inflow or tissue velocities
Authors: Carrick‐Ranson G. , Doughty R. N. , Whalley G. A. , Walsh H. J. , Gamble G. D. , Baldi J. C.
Published: March 2012

Aim

To determine whether the larger exercise stroke volume in senior endurance‐trained athletes results from an attenuation of age‐related alterations in left ventricular (LV) early diastolic filling or a more vigorous late filling.

Methods

Body composition (DEXA), VO2peak, stroke volume (CO2 rebreathing) and Doppler measures of early and late mitral inflow and mitral annular velocities were collected at seated upright rest and heart rate–matched exercise (100 and 120 bpm) in trained and untrained younger (18–30 years) men and trained and untrained older (60–80 years) healthy men.

Results

Ageing had a greater effect than training status on seated rest mitral inflow and tissue Doppler imaging parameters, as shown by a lower peak early‐to‐late mitral inflow velocity ratio (E/A ratio) and slower peak early mitral annular velocity (Em) in older compared with younger men. Exercise stroke volume was unaffected by healthy ageing; however, Em, an index of early LV lengthening rate and relaxation, was slower (P < 0.001), while measures of atrial systole were increased (P < 0.001) during exercise in older men. Stroke volume during exercise was larger in the trained men (P < 0.001); however, early and late mitral inflow and tissue velocities were not different between trained and untrained men.

Conclusion

The larger exercise stroke volume in trained older male athletes does not seem to be related to faster filling or lengthening velocities during early or late filling. Thus, a larger, more compliant left ventricle in combination with an increased blood volume may explain the larger LV filling volumes in trained seniors.
Effect of α‐thalassaemia on exercise‐induced oxidative stress in sickle cell trait
Authors: Faёs C. , Martin C. , Chirico E. N. , Féasson L. , Oyonno‐Enguelle S. , Dubouchaud H. , Francina A. , Thiriet P. , Pialoux V. , Messonnier L.
Published: March 2012

Aim

Alpha‐thalassaemia is known to reduce intra‐erythrocyte HbS (sickle haemoglobin) concentration in sickle cell trait (SCT) subjects. Because HbS was shown to increase oxidative stress, the purpose of this study was to assess the effects of the coexistence of α‐thalassaemia and SCT on oxidative stress markers and nitric oxide (NO) metabolism after an acute physical exercise.

Methods

Forty subjects (age: 23.5 ± 2.21 years), SCT carriers (HbAS) or healthy subjects (HbAA), with (‐αT) or without (‐NαT) an associated α‐thalassaemia took part in the study. Plasma markers of oxidative stress [advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), protein carbonyl, malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitrotyrosine], anti‐oxidant defences and NO metabolism (NOx) were measured at rest (Trest), immediately following an incremental maximal exercise test (Tex) and during recovery (T1h, T2h and T24h).

Results

Malondialdehyde expressed as the percentage of changes from baseline was significantly higher in the HbAS‐NαT compared with HbAS‐αT during recovery (+36.3 ± 14.1% vs. −1.8 ± 13.2% at T1h, P = 0.02; +36.6 ± 13.4% vs. −11.4 ± 12.5% at T2h, P = 0.004 and +24.1 ± 12.3% vs. −14.4 ± 11.5% at T24h, P = 0.02 in HbAS‐NαT vs. HbAS‐αT). Compared with HbAS‐NαT, HbAS‐αT had a higher NOx change from baseline at Tex (−23.4 ± 20.6% vs. +57.7 ± 19.3%, respectively; P = 0.005) and lower nitrotyrosine change from baseline at T1h (+7.2 ± 22.2% vs. +93.5%±29.3%, respectively; P = 0.04).

Conclusion

All these data suggest that the presence of α‐thalassaemia may blunt the higher level of oxidative stress and the impaired bioavailability of NO observed in the SCT carriers.
Does IPO Pricing Reflect Public Information? New Insights from Equity Carve‐Outs
Authors: Ghosh Chinmoy , Petrova Milena , Feng Zhilan , Pattanapanchai Maneechit
Published: March 2012

We examine the efficiency of initial public offering (IPO) pricing using a sample of over 300 equity carve‐outs from 1985 to 2009. The partial adjustment theory posits that the initial return of IPOs is predictable based on private information, but public information is fully incorporated. Prospect theory is consistent with both private and public information not being fully incorporated in the offer price. Our analysis confirms that both price update and initial return of carve‐out IPOs can be predicted based on the parent firm's returns during the prepricing and preissuing periods. Further, postissue ownership of the parent firm is associated with significantly higher price update and initial return, while IPOs where the majority of the proceeds are paid out register lower initial return. The size of the subsidiary and relative size of the offering are also significantly related to price update and initial return. These findings are consistent with prospect theory.
Shoulder Arthrodesis: Functional Outcome and Morbidity after Combined Plate/screw Fixation versus Screw Fixation Alone
Authors: Bosmans Bas , Van Der List Maarten , Gosens Taco , Verhaar Jan
Published: March 2012

Background

Shoulder arthrodesis is a unique procedure, which has shifted from a well-established procedure for osteoarthritis to a salvage procedure. In the present retrospective study, functional outcome and morbidity in shoulder arthrodesis using combined plate/screw fixation versus screw fixation alone were evaluated.

Materials and Methods

Shoulder arthrodesis was performed on 28 shoulders: 16 cases with only cancellous screws and 12 cases with combined plate/screw fixation. At a mean follow-up of 6.8 years (range 1 years to 20.4 years), patients were invited for clinical follow-up, with evaluations of visual analogue scale for pain, function and satisfaction, Constant–Murley scores, and recorded complications.

Results

All patients had severe limitations in the use of their shoulder, although they had little pain and were satisfied. The overall Constant–Murley score increased significantly from 33.4 to 52.2. In eight cases with combined plate/screw arthrodesis and nine with screw arthrodesis, there was persistent pain, which resolved after removal of osteosynthesis material. Non-union was only found in five patients with screw arthrodesis.

Conclusions

Although the risk of a second operation for removal of osteosynthesis material in combined plate/screw arthrodesis is equal to screw fixation alone, for complete glenohumeral fusion, a combined plate/screw fixation appears to be superior to screw fixation alone.