bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interactions between a Top Order Predator and Exotic Mesopredators in the Australian Rangelands
Authors: Moseby Katherine E. , Neilly Heather , Read John L. , Crisp Helen A.
Published: January 2012

An increase in mesopredators caused by the removal of top-order predators can have significant implications for threatened wildlife. Recent evidence suggests that Australia’s top-order predator, the dingo, may suppress the introduced cat and red fox. We tested this relationship by reintroducing 7 foxes and 6 feral cats into a 37 km2fenced paddock in arid South Australia inhabited by a male and female dingo. GPS datalogger collars recorded locations of all experimental animals every 2 hours. Interactions between species, mortality rates, and postmortems were used to determine the mechanisms of any suppression. Dingoes killed all 7 foxes within 17 days of their introduction and no pre-death interactions were recorded. All 6 feral cats died between 20 and 103 days after release and dingoes were implicated in the deaths of at least 3 cats. Dingoes typically stayed with fox and cat carcasses for several hours after death and/or returned several times in ensuing days. There was no evidence of intraguild predation, interference competition was the dominant mechanism of suppression. Our results support anecdotal evidence that dingoes may suppress exotic mesopredators, particularly foxes. We outline further research required to determine if this suppression translates into a net benefit for threatened prey species.
MAPK Usage in Periodontal Disease Progression
Authors: Li Qiyan , Valerio Michael S. , Kirkwood Keith L.
Published: January 2012

In periodontal disease, host recognition of bacterial constituents, including lipopolysaccharide (LPS), induces p38 MAPK activation and subsequent inflammatory cytokine expression, favoring osteoclastogenesis and increased net bone resorption in the local periodontal environment. In this paper, we discuss evidence that the p38/MAPK-activated protein kinase-2 (MK2) signaling axis is needed for periodontal disease progression: an orally administered p38αinhibitor reduced the progression of experimental periodontal bone loss by reducing inflammation and cytokine expression. Subsequently, the significance of p38 signaling was confirmed with RNA interference to attenuate MK2-reduced cytokine expression and LPS-induced alveolar bone loss. MAPK phosphatase-1 (MKP-1), a negative regulator of MAPK activation, was also critical for periodontal disease progression. In MPK-1-deficient mice, p38-sustained activation increased osteoclast formation and bone loss, whereas MKP-1 overexpression dampened p38 signaling and subsequent cytokine expression. Finally, overexpression of the p38/MK2 target RNA-binding tristetraprolin (TTP) decreased mRNA stability of key inflammatory cytokines at the posttranscriptional level, thereby protecting against periodontal inflammation. Collectively, these studies highlight the importance of p38 MAPK signaling in immune cytokine production and periodontal disease progression.
Asymptomatic and Symptomatic Carotid Stenosis: An Obsolete Classification?
Authors: Chatzikonstantinou Anastasios , Wolf Marc E. , Schaefer Anke , Hennerici Michael G.
Published: January 2012

Since many years, clinical decisions about the management of patients with carotid stenosis have been based on the distinction between “asymptomatic” and “symptomatic” presentations. This was also reflected by the design of previous studies on the surgical versus conservative treatment and of current studies on interventional treatment versus surgery. Both terms, however, only address different phases of activity of the one and the same condition and blur the significant message that carotid stenosis is a most important marker of systemic atherosclerosis, which is accompanied by a much higher risk of cardiovascular events rather than stroke. As a consequence, early diagnosis and followup during best medical treatment, life-style management, regular cardiovascular assessment, and good control of all vascular risk factors should be recommended in all patients with carotid stenosis—whether identified in the long-lasting “silent” or short-lasting “vulnerable” period lasting only a few weeks after cerebral ischemia. Patients in this short time window benefit from additional carotid intervention, under the condition of an individually favorable benefit-risk ratio (“individual vulnerability”).
Genetic Diversity ofMelipona mandacaiaSMITH 1863 (Hymenoptera, Apidae), an Endemic Bee Species from Brazilian Caatinga, Using ISSR
Authors: Miranda Elder Assis , Batalha-Filho Henrique , Oliveira Priscila Santos , Alves Rogério Marcos Oliveira , Campos Lucio Antonio Oliveira , Waldschmidt Ana Maria
Published: January 2012

In order to evaluate the genetic diversity and structure ofMelipona mandacaia,we analyzed 104 colonies collected in 12 localities in Bahia state, northeastern Brazil, using ISSR-PCR. A total of 109 bands were obtained with a significant polymorphism of 72.47%. Estimates of genetic diversity indicated low values of heterozygosity (HeandHBvalues were 0.2616 and 0.2573, resp.). These reduced values have been reported in other studies in stingless bees and maybe justified by dispersion process in the origin of new nests. AMOVA revealed that the higher percentage of variation is within localities (70.39%). TheΦSTandθBvalues were, respectively, 0.2961 and 0.3289, thereby indicating a moderate population structuring. The correlation between genetic and geographic distances (r=0.4542;P<0.01) suggests isolation by distance. Our study contributes to describing the genetic diversity of endemic organisms from Caatinga and may help future efforts to preserve this threatened biome.
Honey Supplementation in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats Elicits Antihypertensive Effect via Amelioration of Renal Oxidative Stress
Authors: Erejuwa Omotayo O. , Sulaiman Siti A. , Ab Wahab Mohd S. , Sirajudeen Kuttulebbai N. S. , Salleh Salzihan , Gurtu Sunil
Published: January 2012

Oxidative stress is implicated in the pathogenesis and/or maintenance of elevated blood pressure in hypertension. This study investigated the effect of honey on elevated systolic blood pressure (SBP) in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). It also evaluated the effect of honey on the amelioration of oxidative stress in the kidney of SHR as a possible mechanism of its antihypertensive effect. SHR and Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats were randomly divided into 2 groups and administered distilled water or honey by oral gavage once daily for 12 weeks. The control SHR had significantly higher SBP and renal malondialdehyde (MDA) levels than did control WKY. The mRNA expression levels of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) were significantly downregulated while total antioxidant status (TAS) and activities of GST and catalase (CAT) were higher in the kidney of control SHR. Honey supplementation significantly reduced SBP and MDA levels in SHR. Honey significantly reduced the activities of GST and CAT while it moderately but insignificantly upregulated the Nrf2 mRNA expression level in the kidney of SHR. These results indicate that Nrf2 expression is impaired in the kidney of SHR. Honey supplementation considerably reduces elevated SBP via amelioration of oxidative stress in the kidney of SHR.
NF-B and Matrix-Dependent Regulation of Osteopontin Promoter Activity in Allylamine-Activated Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Williams E. Spencer , Wilson Emily , Ramos Kenneth S.
Published: January 2012

Repeated cycles of oxidative injury by allylaminein vivoinduce a proliferative rat vascular (aortic) smooth muscle cell (vSMC) phenotype characterized by matrix-dependent enhancement of mitogenic sensitivity, changes in cell surface integrin expression, and osteopontin (opn) overexpression. Here, we show that constitutive and mitogen-stimulated NF-κB DNA binding activity is enhanced in allylamine vSMCs. Matrix-specific changes in cellular Rel protein expression were observed in allylamine vSMCs. The NF-κB DNA binding element located at −1943 in the 5′-UTR strongly inhibitedopnpromoter activity in allylamine vSMCs, and this response was regulated by the extracellular matrix. Constitutive increases inopnpromoter activity were only seen when allylamine cells were seeded on a fibronectin substrate, and this response was independent of the NF-κB DNA binding sequence within the regulatory region. Thus, NF-κB functions as a critical regulator of the allylamine-induced proliferative phenotype in vSMCs.
Extending Local Canonical Correlation Analysis to Handle General Linear Contrasts for fMRI Data
Authors: Jin Mingwu , Nandy Rajesh , Curran Tim , Cordes Dietmar
Published: January 2012

Local canonical correlation analysis (CCA) is a multivariate method that has been proposed to more accurately determine activation patterns in fMRI data. In its conventional formulation, CCA has several drawbacks that limit its usefulness in fMRI. A major drawback is that, unlike the general linear model (GLM), a test of general linear contrasts of the temporal regressors has not been incorporated into the CCA formalism. To overcome this drawback, a novel directional test statistic was derived using the equivalence of multivariate multiple regression (MVMR) and CCA. This extension will allow CCA to be used for inference of general linear contrasts in more complicated fMRI designs without reparameterization of the design matrix and without reestimating the CCA solutions for each particular contrast of interest. With the proper constraints on the spatial coefficients of CCA, this test statistic can yield a more powerful test on the inference of evoked brain regional activations from noisy fMRI data than the conventionalt-test in the GLM. The quantitative results from simulated and pseudoreal data and activation maps from fMRI data were used to demonstrate the advantage of this novel test statistic.
Amniotic Mesenchymal Stem Cells: A New Source for Hepatocyte-Like Cells and Induction of CFTR Expression by Coculture with Cystic Fibrosis Airway Epithelial Cells
Authors: Paracchini Valentina , Carbone Annalucia , Colombo Federico , Castellani Stefano , Mazzucchelli Silvia , Di Gioia Sante , Degiorgio Dario , Seia Manuela , Porretti Laura , Colombo Carla , Conese Massimo
Published: January 2012

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a monogenic disease caused by mutations in the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, with lung and liver manifestations. Because of pitfalls of gene therapy, novel approaches for reconstitution of the airway epithelium and CFTR expression should be explored. In the present study, human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells (hAMSCs) were isolated from term placentas and characterized for expression of phenotypic and pluripotency markers, and for differentiation potential towards mesoderm (osteogenic and adipogenic) lineages. Moreover, hAMSCs were induced to differentiate into hepatocyte-like cells, as demonstrated by mixed function oxidase activity and expression of albumin, alpha1-antitrypsin, and CK19. We also investigated the CFTR expression in hAMSCs upon isolation and in coculture with CF airway epithelial cells. Freshly isolated hAMSCs displayed low levels of CFTR mRNA, which even decreased with culture passages. Following staining with the vital dye CM-DiI, hAMSCs were mixed with CFBE41o- respiratory epithelial cells and seeded onto permeable filters. Flow cytometry demonstrated that 33–50% of hAMSCs acquired a detectable CFTR expression on the apical membrane, a result confirmed by confocal microscopy. Our data show that amniotic MSCs have the potential to differentiate into epithelial cells of organs relevant in CF pathogenesis and may contribute to partial correction of the CF phenotype.
Honey-Based Mixtures Used in Home Medicine by Nonindigenous Population of Misiones, Argentina
Authors: Kujawska Monika , Zamudio Fernando , Hilgert Norma I.
Published: January 2012

Honey-based mixtures used in home medicine by nonindigenous population of Misiones, Argentina. Medicinal mixtures are an underinvestigated issue in ethnomedical literature concerning Misiones, one of the most bioculturally diverse province of Argentina. The new culturally sensitive politics of the Provincial Health System is a response to cultural practices based on the medicinal use of plant and animal products in the home medicine of the local population. Honey-based medicinal formulas were investigated through interviews with 39 farmers of mixed cultural (Criollos) and Polish origins in northern Misiones. Fifty plant species and 8 animal products are employed in honey-based medicines. Plants are the most dominant and variable elements of mixtures. Most of the mixtures are food medicines. The role of honey in more than 90% of formulas is perceived as therapeutic. The ecological distribution of taxa and the cultural aspects of mixtures are discussed, particularly the European and American influences that have shaped the character of multispecies medicinal recipes.
Evaluation of the Effect of Water on Three Different Light Cured Composite Restorative Materials Stored in Water: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Biradar Basawaraj , Biradar Sudharani , MS Arvind
Published: January 2012

Objectives. The objective of this in vitro study was to investigate whether weight gain or loss in the three different composites occurs due to water absorption when they are stored in water.Methods. The composite restorative materials selected for this study included a microfine hybrid (Synergy) and two nanofilled composite restorative materials (Ceram X and Filtek Supreme Ultra). Twenty specimens of each material were fabricated of each composite material. Group A: Filtek Supreme Ultra, Group B: Synergy, Group C: Ceram X. Then all the specimens were stored in 10 ml Distilled water containing test tubes and placed in incubator at 37°C for six weeks. The weight changes of these specimens were measured daily for the first week and later once a week for next five weeks by using an electrical analytical balance.Results.The data was analyzed by one-way analysis of variance and Student'sttest. All groups showed maximum amount of water absorption in the first week than gradual decrease in the water absorption from the second to the sixth week, as compared to the first week and there is no statistically significant difference between the groups tested.Conclusion. All the composite restorative material absorbs some amount of water. The water absorption of the composite may decrease the physical and mechanical properties of the composites; hence it is necessary to consider the type of the material before starting the treatment.
Social-Cognitive Bias and Depressive Symptoms in Outpatients with Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Lahera Guillermo , Benito Adolfo , González-Barroso Ana , Guardiola Rocío , Herrera Sara , Muchada Beatriz , Cojedor Noelia , Fernández-Liria Alberto
Published: January 2012

A deficit of social cognition in bipolar disorder has been shown, even when patients are stable. This study compares the attribution of intentions (social-cognitive bias) in a group of 37 outpatients with bipolar disorder with 32 matched control subjects. Bipolar patients scored significantly higher in the Ambiguous Intentions Hostility Questionnaire, showing an angry and intentionality bias (P=.001,P=.02). Differences in blame scale and hostility bias did not reach statistical significance, but a trend was found (P=.06). Bipolar patients with depressive symptoms presented a higher score in the angry bias scale (P=.03) and aggressivity bias scale (P=.004). The global functioning (GAF) correlates significantly with intentionality (P=.005), angry (P=.027), and aggressivity (P=.020) biases. Bipolar patients show a social-cognitive bias that may play a role in their functional outcome.
Gas-Purged Headspace Liquid Phase Microextraction System for Determination of Volatile and Semivolatile Analytes
Authors: Zhang Meihua , Bi Jinhu , Yang Cui , Li Donghao , Piao Xiangfan
Published: January 2012

In order to achieve rapid, automatic, and efficient extraction for trace chemicals from samples, a system of gas-purged headspace liquid phase microextraction (GP-HS-LPME) has been researched and developed based on the original HS-LPME technique. In this system, semiconductor condenser and heater, whose refrigerating and heating temperatures were controlled by microcontroller, were designed to cool the extraction solvent and to heat the sample, respectively. Besides, inert gas, whose gas flow rate was adjusted by mass flow controller, was continuously introduced into and discharged from the system. Under optimized parameters, extraction experiments were performed, respectively, using GP-HS-LPME system and original HS-LPME technique for enriching volatile and semivolatile target compounds from the same kind of sample of 15 PAHs standard mixture. GC-MS analysis results for the two experiments indicated that a higher enrichment factor was obtained from GP-HS-LPME. The enrichment results demonstrate that GP-HS-LPME system is potential in determination of volatile and semivolatile analytes from various kinds of samples.
Antimalarial Effects of Iranian Flora Artemisia sieberi on Plasmodium berghei In Vivo in Mice and Phytochemistry Analysis of Its Herbal Extracts
Authors: Nahrevanian Hossein , Sheykhkanlooye Milan Bayram , Kazemi Masoud , Hajhosseini Reza , Soleymani Mashhadi Soudeh , Nahrevanian Shahab
Published: January 2012

The aim of this study is pharmacochemistry of Iranian flora Artemisia sieberi and its antimalarial effects on Plasmodium berghei in vivo. This is the first application of A. sieberi for treatment of murine malaria. A. sieberi were collected at flowering stage from the Khorassan and Semnan provinces of Iran; the aerial parts were air-dried at room temperature and then powdered. The powder was macerated in methanol, filtered with Bokhner hopper and solvent was separated in rotary evaporator. Total herbal extract was subsequently processed for ether and chloroform extracts preparation. The toxicity of herbal extract was assessed on naive NMRI mice with high, average and low doses; then pathophysiological signs were assessed. Finally, the antimalarial efficacy was investigated on two groups of Plasmodium berghei infected mice. Percentage of parasitaemia and pathophysiology were also evaluated. The results of this assessment showed no toxicity even by high concentration of herbal extract. A significant reduction in percentage of parasitaemia was observed; no alterations of hepatosplenomegaly and body weight were indicated in study group. A. sieberi extracts showed antimalarial effects against murine malaria with some efficacies on reducing pathophysiology. However, there is requirement to find the major component of this herbal extract by further studies.
Technique for Percutaneous Fluoroscopically Guided G-Tube Placement in a High-BMI Patient
Authors: Best Irwin M.
Published: January 2012

Enteral feeding is still the preferred method of nutritional support even in patients with excessive body mass index. Often, this mass poses a hindrance in performing routine procedures. We present a case describing the technique used to safely place a fluoroscopically guided G-tube in a patient with a significant nutritional deficit after repair of a ruptured thoracic aneurysm. Her admission weight was in excess of 180 Kg. However, protracted respiratory insufficiency and mechanical ventilation prolonged her hospital course. The G-tube was successfully placed using a fluoroscopically guided technique. The advantages of such an approach are discussed.
Modulation of Tight Junction Structure and Function by Kinases and Phosphatases Targeting Occludin
Authors: Dörfel Max Johannes , Huber Otmar
Published: January 2012

Tight junctions (TJs) typically represent the most apical contacts in epithelial and endothelial cell layers where they play an essential role in the separation of extracellular or luminal spaces from underlying tissues in the body. Depending on the protein composition, TJs define the barrier characteristics and in addition maintain cell polarity. Two major families of integral membrane proteins form the typical TJ strand network, the tight junction-associated MARVEL protein (TAMP) family members occludin, tricellulin, and MarvelD3 as well as a specific set of claudins. Occludin was the first identified member of these tetraspanins and is now widely accepted as a regulator of TJ assembly and function. Therefore, occludin itself has to be tightly regulated. Phosphorylation of occludin appears to be of central importance in this context. Here we want to summarize current knowledge on the kinases and phosphatases directly modifying occludin, and their role in the regulation of TJ structure, function, and dynamics.
Cranial Osteology of Meiglyptini (Aves:Piciformes:Picidae)
Authors: Donatelli Reginaldo José
Published: January 2012

The Meiglyptini comprise eight species grouped into three genera:MeiglyptesandMulleripicus, with three species each, andHemicircus,with two species. The aim of the present study was to describe the cranial osteology of six species and three genera of Meiglyptini and to compare them to each other, as well as with other species of woodpeckers and other bird groups. The cranial osteology varied among the investigated species, but the most markedly distinct characteristics were: (1) a frontal overhang is only observed in the middle portion of the frontale ofH. concretus; (2) the Proc. zygomaticus and suprameaticus are thick and long in species of the genusMulleripicus, but short in other species; (3) thePes pterygoideiis relatively larger in species of the genusMulleripicus, while it is narrow, thin and relatively smaller in species of the genusMeiglyptesand indistinct inH. concretus; (4) the bony projection of the ectethmoidale is relatively short and thin in species ofMulleripicusand more developed inH. concretus. It appears that the greatest structural complexity of the cranial osteology is associated with the birds’ diet, with the frugivorousH. concretusbeing markedly different from the insectivorous species.
Neuropsychological Research in Delusional Disorder: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Ibanez-Casas Inmaculada , Cervilla Jorge A.
Published: January 2012

In recent decades, there has been a growing interest in the field of delusions, and different aspects of delusional disorder (DD) have been investigated. However, DD is still one of the most underresearched psychiatric disorders. In this paper, we review the literature on DD and most of the theoretical approaches proposed to explain the development and maintenance of delusions. DD research is infrequent, and delusions in this disorder have been scarcely investigated. We aim to establish the state of the art of delusions research to date and point to the shortage of neuropsychological studies in patients with DD. We also justify the need for future research into the neuropsychological correlates of DD as measured in patients with this disorder given that most previous research has mainly focused on other psychotic conditions.
Social Anxiety/Taijin-Kyofu Scale (SATS): Development and Psychometric Evaluation of a New Instrument
Authors: Asakura Satoshi , Inoue Takeshi , Kitagawa Nobuki , Hasegawa Mifumi , Fujii Yutaka , Kako Yuki , Nakato Yasuya , Hashimoto Naoki , Ito Koki , Tanaka Teruaki , Nakagawa Shin , Kusumi Ichiro , Koyama Tsukasa
Published: January 2012

Background: Taijin-kyofu (TK), especially the ‘convinced' subtype of TK (c-TK; also known as the ‘offensive' subtype of TK), is described as a Japanese culture-bound syndrome similar to social anxiety disorder (SAD). Recently, in Western countries, the symptoms of c-TK have been investigated in patients with SAD. We developed the Social Anxiety/Taijin-Kyofu Scale (SATS), a 12-item structured clinician-rated instrument designed to rate the severity of TK symptoms, and examined its reliability and validity. Methods: The SATS was administered to 15 patients with c-TK diagnosed using the traditional Japanese TK criteria. Interviews used to score patients' symptoms were recorded on videotape. Additionally, the Clinical Global Impression-Severity Scale (CGI-S) was administered to assess convergent validity. Interrater reliability was assessed on 15 videotaped interviews; the interviews were independently rated by 10 other raters. Test-retest re-liability was assessed on 15 videotaped interviews by the same rater at an interval of more than 4 weeks. Results: The SATS had high internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.97) and good interrater reliability (ICC = 0.88-0.93) and test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.94-0.99). The SATS total score correlated with the CGI-S scores (r = 0.77, p < 0.0001). Conclusion: The SATS appears to be a reliable and valid measure of the symptoms of TK.
Normal Aging and Decision Making: The Role of Motivation
Authors: Depping Miriam K. , Freund Alexandra M.
Published: January 2012

The main argument of this review is that motivational development associated with normal aging affects decision making. With increasing age, the ratio of gains to losses becomes more and more unfavorable. Reflecting the increasing losses in resources, goal orientation changes from a predominant orientation towards gains in young adulthood to an increasingly stronger orientation towards the prevention of loss in older adulthood. As goals serve as reference points for the evaluation of decision outcomes, this change in goal orientation across adulthood might also affect decision making. The decision-making literature has recognized that choices are influenced by goal orientation. However, little research has been conducted on how goals influence the decision-making process in general and with regard to aging in particular. To date, findings on decision making and aging remain inconsistent and are in need of a developmental framework. With regard to applications, a better understanding of the aging decision maker can provide insight into how to improve communication efforts about issues like advance care planning, medical treatment, and housing options.
Hysterectomy, Oophorectomy, Estrogen, and the Risk of Dementia
Authors: Rocca Walter A. , Grossardt Brandon R. , Shuster Lynne T. , Stewart Elizabeth A.
Published: January 2012

Background: The long-term cognitive effects of hysterectomy and oophorectomy remain controversial. Objective: To explore the association of hysterectomy and oophorectomy with the subsequent risk of cognitive impairment or dementia. Methods: We combined the results from two cohort studies graphically and conducted additional analyses. Results: Combined results from the Mayo Clinic Cohort Study of Oophorectomy and Aging and from a Danish nationwide cohort study suggest that the extent of gynecologic surgery may correlate with a stepwise increase in the risk of cognitive impairment or dementia. Compared with women with no gynecologic surgeries, the risk of cognitive impairment or dementia was increased in women who had hysterectomy alone, further increased in women who had hysterectomy with unilateral oophorectomy, and further increased in women who had hysterectomy with bilateral oophorectomy. The risk increased with younger age at the time of the surgery. Conclusion: We hypothesize that both hysterectomy and oophorectomy may have harmful brain effects via direct endocrinological mechanisms or other more complex mechanisms. Estrogen deficiency appears to play a key role in these associations, and estrogen therapy may partly offset the negative effects of the surgeries.
Expression of Renal Cystic Genes in Patients with HNF1B Mutations
Authors: Faguer Stanislas , Decramer Stéphane , Devuyst Olivier , Lengelé Jean-Philippe , Fournié Gilbert J. , Chauveau Dominique
Published: January 2012

Background/Aims: HNF1B nephropathy is characterized by dominantly inherited renal hypodysplasia with few cysts, slow renal decline and hypomagnesemia. Mice with antenatal inactivation of HNF1B are characterized by polycystic kidneys, renal failure and a profound decrease in cystic gene (Pkhd1, Umod, Pkd2) expression. Mice with inactivation after postnatal day 10 have no renal phenotype. Methods: Quantification of mRNA expression of HNF1B, six of its potential target genes (PKHD1, PKD1, PKD2, IFT88, TMEM27 and UMOD) and three genes involved in the Mg2+ renal homeostasis (ATP1A1, FXYD2 and CLDN16) in the urinary sediment of 11 individuals with mutation of HNF1B and in 9 controls (non-invasive assessment of the renal transcriptome). Results: As compared to controls, no difference was observed in the urinary mRNA amount of HNF1B and the renal cystic genes. A significant increase in the expression of ATP1A1, which encodes the α1-subunit of the Na+/K+-ATPase, was identified in HNF1B patients consistent with its role in Mg2+ homeostasis. Conclusion:Assessment of mRNA expression in urinary sediment is a non-invasive method applicable to gain insights into the pathophysiology of inherited nephropathies in humans. HNF1B nephropathy is generally not associated with postnatal down-expression of renal cystic genes in human, a finding consistent with mouse models.
IgG4-Related Skin Disease, a Mimic of Angiolymphoid Hyperplasia with Eosinophilia
Authors: Hamaguchi Yasuhito , Fujimoto Manabu , Matsushita Yukiyo , Kitamura-Sawada Seiko , Kawano Mitsuhiro , Takehara Kazuhiko
Published: January 2012

Mikulicz’s disease is considered one of the IgG4-related diseases that are characterized by elevated serum IgG4 concentrations and the immunohistochemical finding of IgG4-positive plasma cells. The IgG4-related diseases often exhibit a wide variety of eosinophil infiltration. A 66-year-old male with Mikulicz’s disease developed multiple, nonpruritic, red papules on the left opisthotic region 2 years after diagnosis. A biopsy of the skin lesions revealed follicle-like formation in the dermis and subcutaneous tissue containing nodular lymphocytic infiltration with numerous eosinophils and plasma cells, predominately around venules, mimicking angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia (ALHE). Immunohistochemically, most IgG-expressing plasma cells were positive for IgG4 (IgG4/IgG ratio = 72%). Our patient appeared to have a condition associated with the IgG4-related diseases. Caution should be exercised in diagnosing skin lesions of the IgG4-related diseases, which are confusingly similar in appearance and histology to ALHE.
Prevalence of Antibiotic Resistance in Fecal Flora of Patients Undergoing Transrectal Ultrasound-Guided Prostate Biopsy in Thailand
Authors: Siriboon Suwatthiya , Tiengrim Surapee , Taweemongkongsup Tawatchai , Thamlikitkul Visanu , Chayakulkeeree Methee
Published: January 2012

Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of antibiotic resistance in fecal flora of patients undergoing transrectal ultrasound-guided needle biopsy of the prostate (TRUSB) and the factors associated with such antibiotic resistance. Methods: A prospective study of patients undergoing TRUSB was conducted. Rectal swabs were performed and sent for cultures and antibiotic susceptibility testing before TRUSB. Clinical characteristics were determined. Results: 287 Gram-negative isolates from 144 patients were identified, 80.1% were Escherichia coli and 13.9% were Klebsiella pneumoniae. 27 patients who received antibiotics within 3 months exhibited higher prevalence of organisms with extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL) production (40.7 vs. 22.2%) and ceftriaxone-resistance (48.1 vs. 28.2%). 134 patients received a short-course antibiotic prophylaxis in which fluoroquinolone (FQ) contributed to 89.6% of cases. Patients who received antibiotic prophylaxis showed a higher prevalence of organisms resistant to ceftriaxone (34.3 vs. 0%), ciprofloxacin (90.3 vs. 30%) and FQ (95.5 vs. 50%) and a trend of more ESBL production (27.6 vs. 0%). Conclusions: Previous antimicrobial use and prophylaxis with FQ are correlated with a higher prevalence of FQ and ceftriaxone resistance and ESBL production. A single dose of ceftriaxone without short-course FQ use is recommended as antibiotic prophylaxis in TRUSB.
Tropical Cyclone Genesis Factors in Simulations of the Last Glacial Maximum
Authors: Korty Robert L. , Camargo Suzana J. , Galewsky Joseph
Published: January 2012

Large-scale environmental factors that favor tropical cyclogenesis are calculated and examined in simulations of the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) from the Paleoclimate Modelling Intercomparison Project Phase 2 (PMIP2). Despite universally colder conditions at the LGM, values of tropical cyclone potential intensity, which both serves as an upper bound on thermodynamically achievable intensity and indicates regions supportive of the deep convection required, are broadly similar in magnitude to those in preindustrial era control simulation. Some regions, including large areas of the central and western North Pacific, feature higher potential intensities at the LGM than they do in the control runs, while other regions including much of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans are lower. Changes in potential intensity are strongly correlated with the degree of surface cooling during the LGM. Additionally, two thermodynamic parameters—one that measures midtropospheric entropy deficits relevant for tropical cyclogenesis and another related to the time required for genesis—are broadly more favorable in the LGM simulation than in the preindustrial era control. A genesis potential index yields higher values for the LGM in much of the western Pacific, a feature common to nearly all of the individual models examined.
To Kill a Thief
Authors: Dilts Andrew
Published: January 2012

This essay argues that the thief, a liminal figure that haunts the boundary of political membership and the border between the law of reason and the law of beasts, drives Locke’s accounts of the foundation of the commonwealth and the right to rebellion in the Second Treatise of Government. Locke’s political theory is best read through punishment as a theory of subject formation, which relies on an unstable concept of proportionality to produce this liminal figure in order to secure the member as a “stable” political subject.
Human Papillomavirus Outcomes in an Access‐to‐Care Laryngeal Cancer Cohort
Authors: Stephen Josena K. , Chen Kang Mei , Shah Veena , Havard Shaleta , Lu Mei , Schweitzer Vanessa P. , Gardner Glendon , Worsham Maria J.
Published: January 2012

Objective

Human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly HPV16, is a causative agent for 25% of head and neck squamous cell cancer, including laryngeal squamous cell cancer (LSCC). HPV‐positive (HPV+ve) patients, particularly those with oropharyngeal SCC, have improved prognosis. For LSCC patients, this remains to be established. The goal was to determine stage and survival outcomes in LSCC in the context of HPV infection.

Study Design

Historical cohort study.

Setting

Primary care academic health system.

Subjects and Methods

In 79 patients with primary LSCC, HPV was determined using real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. χ2 or Fisher exact test was used to test the association of HPV+ve with 21 risk factors including race, stage, gender, age, smoking, alcohol, treatment, and health insurance. Kaplan‐Meier and log‐rank tests were used to study the association of HPV and LSCC survival outcome.

Results

HPV16 was detected in 27% of LSCC patients. Caucasian American (CA) patients had higher HPV prevalence (33%) than did African American (AA) LSCC patients (16%; P =. 058). HPV was significantly associated with gender (P =. 016) and insurance type (P =. 001). There were no differences in survival between HPV+ve and HPV‐negative (HPV‐ve) patients. There was no association with HPV and other risk factors including stage (early vs late).

Conclusion

We found a high prevalence of HPV in men and a lower prevalence of HPV infection in AA compared with CA. Despite the strikingly better survival of patients with HPV+ve oropharyngeal tumors, even when adjusted for smoking, this correlation does not seem to hold true in the larynx. Larger multiethnic LSCC cohorts are needed to more clearly delineate HPV‐related survival across ethnicities.
Evaluation of the Different Transcervical Approaches for Zenker Diverticulum
Authors: Mantsopoulos Konstantinos , Psychogios Georgios , Künzel Julian , Zenk Johannes , Iro Heinrich , Koch Michael
Published: January 2012

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of open surgical techniques in the treatment of Zenker diverticulum.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Academic tertiary referral center.

Subjects and Methods

Fifty‐four patients with Zenker diverticulum were treated using a transcervical approach. Three with a Brombart I diverticulum underwent a simple myotomy of the cricopharyngeal muscle. Myotomy was combined with a diverticulum inversion in 14 patients and myotomy with diverticulectomy was performed in 37 patients. The surgical procedures were compared with regard to mean anesthesia time, duration of hospitalization, overall complication rate and rate of serious complications, recurrence rate, and follow‐up results.

Results

Hospitalization times were significantly shorter in the inversion group (P =. 024). No statistically significant differences were observed between the transcervical modalities for any of the other variables investigated.

Conclusions

Inversion is an effective modality and is by definition less traumatic than traditional diverticulectomy. Although the size of the diverticulum appeared to be a helpful criterion, careful intraoperative evaluation is the key element in deciding which transcervical procedure should be used. In the authors’ view, inversion always should be considered if the individual anatomy of the diverticulum sac (in terms of pharyngeal pouch size and intactness of the mucosa) allows it.
Prenatal Development of the Maxillary Sinus
Authors: Nuñez‐Castruita Alfredo , López‐Serna Norberto , Guzmán‐López Santos
Published: January 2012

Objective

To review the prenatal development of the maxillary sinus under the perspective of the sinus surgery.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Basic embryology laboratory.

Subjects and Methods

Morphometry and morphology of the maxillary sinus and its ostium were studied under stereomicroscopy in 100 human fetuses from the 9th to the 37th week. Fetuses were obtained from the Fetal Collection of the School of Medicine of the Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León. Approval was granted by the Ethics Committee. Statistics were applied.

Results

The maxillary sinus begins its development at the 10th week. On the 37th week, the anterior‐posterior diameter has a mean of 4.36 mm; ossification of the medial wall was absent, and the floor was located below the attachment of the inferior turbinate. Septa and recesses were temporarily observed. Some variations in shape were observed; however, only the oval shape persisted. Maxillary sinus hypoplasia was not found, although asymmetry was present in 30% of cases. The ostium was located at the anterior third of the ethmoid infundibulum; its final dimensions were 1.96 mm in length and 0.44 mm in width. The mean length between the ostium to the lamina papyracea and nasolacrimal duct was 1 mm. One case of double maxillary sinus was observed. Significant difference between the variables, in accordance with the age, was found (P =. 02).

Conclusion

Knowledge of prenatal development of the maxillary sinus improves the perspective of the sinus surgeon and helps the understanding of postnatal anatomy, especially in children.
Introduction
Authors: Misra Joya
Published: January 2012

In this introduction to Gender & Society’s symposium on Patricia Hill Collins’s path-breaking work on intersectionality, I reflect on how the symposium contributors have used intersectional perspectives in their own work, and on how Collins’ conceptualizations have shaped interdisciplinary scholarship more broadly. I also take this opportunity to present my own vision as the new editor of Gender & Society, and to reextend this journal’s longstanding welcome to all who work to expand and deepen our understanding of the workings and effects of gender, in societies around the globe.
Towards Experiential Urbanism
Authors: Lehtovuori Panu
Published: January 2012

Architecture and urban design are usually seen as tools of dominant spatial practices. They are either believed to mask the interests of power and money, or to represent aesthetic concerns that have little to offer for critical theory of space. I counter this view by showing that through rethinking the conception of space in architecture and urban design, as well as the notion of design itself, it is possible to outline a critical and emancipatory design practice, experiential urbanism. I apply Henri Lefebvre’s spatial thinking in the scale of urban design, bridging his broad societal and historical concerns and architects’ interest in experiential space. Through the exemplary case of Makasiinit in Helsinki, Finland, I show how material urban artifacts can play a role in the dialectic of space and how people and their relations produce urban atmospheres. Experiential urbanism is conceptualized as a professional practice that supports emerging public spaces.
Growth of Firms in Manufacturing Sector
Authors: Ali Jamali Mohammad , Md Nor Nor Ghani
Published: January 2012

This article focuses on growth, one of the important aspects of firm behaviour, in Iran’s manufacturing sector with regard to large firms and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). It attempts to analyze the factors that have had an effect on the firms’ growth in this period and tries to show the differences between SMEs and large firms in pattern of growth by using generalized method of moment (GMM) estimator for 137 sub-sectors (4-digit International Standard of Industrial Classification of All Economic Activities [ISIC] code) during 1995–2002. The evidences suggest that some elements such as growth in previous year, minimum efficient scale, total factor productivity, export, capital–labour ratio, import, technology usage, sunk cost and age have effect on firms’ growth in both SMEs and large firms. In Iran manufacturing sector, some specific variables such as oil and ownership are important for growth of firms. Moreover, the result implies that the pattern of growth for SMEs and large firms is different.
Human Resource Occupation
Authors: Mathew Anita T.
Published: January 2012

This article highlights the need for newer competencies required in human resource (HR) occupation, and the perception of organizational leaders and HR managers of these competencies on firm performance. The article tries to emphasize that an average functional depth of HR would not suffice and that there is the need to acquire newer skill-sets and technologies to keep pace with the changing socio-economic environment. The article critically analyzes an empirical study conducted in select 124 organizations cross sector with 303 HR heads/HR representatives and 327 line heads/non-HR respondents in India to deconstruct the competencies in the HR occupation in India.
Perception of Entrepreneurial Orientation and Emotional Intelligence
Authors: Pradhan Rabindra Kumar , Nath Papri
Published: January 2012

The present study examined the relationship between emotional intelligence and entrepreneurial orientation on a sample of 301 students (future techno-managers) randomly selected from different departments of engineering and management of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, India. All the respondents were administered on the scales of emotional intelligence and entrepreneurial orientation. The findings of the study showed positively significant correlation among the variables of emotional intelligence and entrepreneurial orientation. Regression analysis revealed significant contribution of emotional intelligence in predicting entrepreneurial orientation. The future implications of the study have been discussed in the light of empirical findings and in the context of effective entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial management.
First-Aid Algorithms in Dental Avulsion
Authors: Baginska Joanna , Wilczynska-Borawska Magdalena
Published: January 2012

Almost one fourth of traumatic dental injuries occur at schools or in their surroundings. Prevalence of tooth avulsion varies from 0.5% to 16% of all cases of dental trauma. Children with dental avulsion may seek help from school nurses so they should be able to provide first-aid treatment. However, many studies showed that the general level of knowledge of medical staff concerning tooth avulsion is unsatisfactory and that it could be improved by educational activities. This article attempts to give short algorithms of first-aid management of avulsed tooth.
Evaluation models and evaluation use
Authors: Contandriopoulos Damien , Brousselle Astrid
Published: January 2012

The use of evaluation results is at the core of evaluation theory and practice. Major debates in the field have emphasized the importance of both the evaluator’s role and the evaluation process itself in fostering evaluation use. A recent systematic review of interventions aimed at influencing policy-making or organizational behavior through knowledge exchange offers a new perspective on evaluation use. We propose here a framework for better understanding the embedded relations between evaluation context, choice of an evaluation model and use of results. The article argues that the evaluation context presents conditions that affect both the appropriateness of the evaluation model implemented and the use of results.
The mixing of methods: A three-step process for improving rigour in impact evaluations
Authors: Ton Giel
Published: January 2012

This article describes a systematic process that is helpful in improving impact evaluation assignments, within restricted budgets and timelines. It involves three steps: a rethink of the key questions of the evaluation to develop more relevant, specific questions; a way of designing a mix of research methods to generate evidence that supports more valid conclusions; and a step that aims to make evaluation outputs more useful. The approach is illustrated through two examples: one on measuring income impacts in an irrigated horticulture programme in Nepal, Zambia and Ethiopia; and another on the assessment of changes in organizational capacities for collective marketing by smallholders in Bolivia. The article demonstrates that this simple, straightforward and structured three-step process helped to reduce the tendency to one-method designs. Enhanced critical reflection within the team allowed for greater sensitivity to validity threats and the creativity to find ways to handle them.
A Multimethod Approach to Identifying Norms and Normative Expectations Within a Corporate Hierarchy: Evidence from the Financial Services Industry
Authors: Burks Stephen V. , Krupka Erin L.
Published: January 2012

We use an incentive-compatible economic experiment and surveys in the field at a large financial services firm to identify the norms for on-the-job behavior among financial advisers and their leaders, and the normative expectations each group has of the other. We examine whistle-blowing on a peer, an incentive clash between serving the client and earning commissions, and a dilemma about fiduciary responsibility to a client. We find patterns of agreement among advisers, among leaders, and between the two groups, that are consistent with company guidelines identified ex ante. However, we also find measurable differences between what leaders expect and the actual norms of advisers. When there is such a mismatch we are able to distinguish miscommunication from ethical disagreement between leaders and advisers. Finally, we show that when advisers' personal ethical opinions do not match group norms, this mismatch is correlated with job dissatisfaction and lying for money in a second experiment.

This paper was accepted by Brad Barber, Teck Ho, and Terrance Odean, special issue editors.