bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Women as Benefactors at Catalan Benedictine Nunneries
Authors: Herder Michelle
Published: July 2009

This study explores secular women's gift-giving to women's monasteries as well as other institutions, through the records of two late medieval Catalan Benedictine nunneries. It examines the ways in which female donors to the nunneries created permanent legacies and affected the nuns' daily existence. From the evidence of women's wills, the study also examines women's gifts to a wider range of religious and charitable institutions. The wills tend to fall into one of a few patterns, with some female testators prioritizing legacies for their families, and others giving the bulk of their goods to charity.
Secular and Religious Women and the Abbaye aux Dames de Saintes
Authors: Church Rebecca
Published: July 2009

Monastic cartularies and the charters they contain are some of the most extensive medieval writings done under the directorship of women. Here the twelfth-century cartulary produced for Notre Dame de Saintes by Agnes of Barbezieux reveals key aspects about religious women and their secular sisters. The women who populate the charters of Saintes moved between the secular and religious worlds relatively easily, acting publicly in courts and in courtyards, sometimes secular and religious women in concert, sometimes in opposition to each other. They managed substantial economic resources as well as being recipients of pious acts of donation. Women in the monastery maintained strong connections with family members, bringing them into the monastery's circle of influence. While violence was a backdrop to many acts, the women in the cartulary successfully combatted its effects. Among tenants of the abbey, women make only limited appearances in the records in comparison to men of their economic class, but have equal economic status when they do.
Female Founders: Exercising authority in Thirteenth-century Flanders and Hainaut
Authors: Jordan Erin
Published: July 2009

The many houses of Cistercian nuns founded in Flanders and Hainaut by the mid thirteenth century produced large numbers of documents about their female founders and patrons. Although some of these abbeys owed their foundation to the countesses Jeanne and Marguerite of Flanders, analysis here concentrates on the lives and foundations of other noblewomen who continued to have power over property in the thirteenth century. Their religious patronage was often an aspect of their public (rather than private) authority.
Searching for Women in the Records of Women: Two Examples from the South German Dominicans
Authors: Lindgren Erika Lauren
Published: July 2009

The thirteenth and early fourteenth centuries saw surprising growth in the female branch of the Dominican Order in the south of Germany and broad support of these women across both gender and socio-economic lines. The records of Unterlinden in Colmar, France, and Adelhausen near Freiburg in Breisgau, Germany, show women involved in the foundation, support and daily life of these communities. It was especially in the foundation of these houses that we see such women, often widows, many of whom eventually joined the religious communities they had patronized.
Increasing Underrepresented High School Students’ College Transitions and Achievements
Authors: Cowan Pitre Charisse , Pitre Paul
Published: July 2009

The American education agenda suggests a clear commitment to the development of programs and practices to increase equitable participation in higher education. During a time when equity-based policy initiatives are under attack in the United States, governmental TRIO Programs remain one proven pathway for ensuring college preparedness and access for all students. Research reviewed in this article suggests TRIO educational opportunity programs have been successful in increasing both the higher education attendance rates and educational attainment of students from low-income, first-generation college, and underrepresented ethnic minority backgrounds. Given the increasing political debate and the recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling against voluntary school desegregation, TRIO Programs are now more critical than ever for extending higher educational opportunities to students from diverse social and economic backgrounds. Furthermore, these programs may provide a model for P-12 school leaders, individual institutions, and all education professionals interested in widening access to higher education for all of our country’s citizens. This article provides an overview of TRIO educational opportunity programs, research related to the effectiveness of these programs, and recommendations for principals, teachers, and professional staff.
Finding the Kieran Way
Authors: Pitter Robert
Published: July 2009

Environmental and health issues top the political agendas of all levels of Canadian government. Environmental groups are most concerned about climate change and reducing related anthropogenic greenhouse gases. Health advocates are concerned about Canada's growing rate of obesity and ensuing health problems. In this era of lifestyle politics, Anthony Giddens suggests governments and community groups need to collaborate to address these issues. In Nova Scotia, however, the government's collaboration with off-highway vehicle groups to develop a trail system is under attack from an active transportation group, the Kieran Pathways Society. By identifying social, political, and economic discourses, this case demonstrates how lifestyles politics have not only supplanted emancipatory politics but also neglect ecocentric values. Thus, Giddens' “Third Way” may not resolve today's environmental issues.
An Exploration of the Co-production of Performance Running Bodies and Natures Within “Running Taskscapes”
Authors: Howe P. David , Morris Carol
Published: July 2009

This article explores the interrelationship between particular “natural” spaces and the production of middle- and long-distance performance running bodies. It argues that running bodies and nature are actively co-produced, thus blurring the commonly made distinction between the “social” and the “natural”. In doing so, the article extends the geography of sports literature by adopting a “post-constructivist” perspective on nature as elucidated in Tim Ingold's concepts of “dwelling” and “taskscape”. This illuminates the (re)production of sporting bodies through the materiality of nature and in turn contributes to research on embodiment within sports studies that highlights the importance of space and the natural environment. The article draws on ethnographic material and textual sources to illuminate the running taskscape associated with the production of performance running bodies and highlights how three forms and functions of nature are co-produced through this mode of dwelling.
Identification of Athletes at Future Risk of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Ruptures by Neuromuscular Screening
Authors: Zebis Mette K. , Andersen Lars L. , Bencke Jesper , Kjær Michael , Aagaard Per
Published: July 2009

Background

A high percentage of female athletes who sustain an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture suffer serious long-term consequences such as osteoarthritis and disability. Thus, identification of risk factors has high clinical relevance in the prevention of ACL rupture.

Hypothesis

Noninjured athletes with low knee flexor electromyography (EMG) preactivity and high knee extensor EMG preactivity during sidecutting are at increased risk of future ACL rupture.

Study Design

Cohort study (prognosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods

Fifty-five elite female athletes (team handball and soccer) aged 24 ± 5 years with no history of ACL injury were tested for EMG preactivity of vastus lateralis and medialis, rectus femoris, semitendinosus, and biceps femoris during a standardized side-cutting maneuver. The incidence of ACL ruptures was registered in the following 2 match seasons.

Results

During the subsequent 2 match seasons, 5 athletes sustained a confirmed noncontact ACL rupture. Before injury, all 5 players displayed a neuromuscular pattern that differed from the noninjured players, characterized by reduced EMG preactivity for the semitendinosus (ST) and elevated EMG preactivity for the vastus lateralis (VL) ( P < .01). On the basis of these findings, a high-risk zone was defined as one standard deviation above the mean VL-ST difference. In our population, 5 of 10 subjects with a VL-ST difference in this zone sustained an ACL injury during the study period.

Conclusion

In the present study, currently noninjured female athletes with reduced EMG preactivity of the ST and increased EMG preactivity of the VL during side cutting were at increased risk of future noncontact ACL rupture. Our data indicate that a high-risk zone can be used to identify noninjured players at high risk of future ACL rupture. Consequently, individual preventive efforts can be introduced in time. However, large prospective studies are needed to confirm this finding before definitive clinical recommendations can be made.
Study on Nanosilica Reinforced Stereolithography Resin
Authors: Haitao Liu  , Jianhua Mo
Published: July 2009

Modified nanosilica was filled into stereolithography (SL) resin by means of mechanical and ultrasonic dispersion. While the concentration of SiO 2 was below 3 wt%, viscosity measurement showed that the nanoparticles were well dispersed in the resin. Then these modified photosensitive resins were applied to SL prototyping. The results of experiments indicated that, compared with the unmodified resin, the critical exposure of the modified resins increased and their penetration depth decreased. In addition, the mechanical properties of cured specimens increased, and glass transition temperature and the thermal stability of cured specimens were also improved.
Hairstylists’ Relationships and Helping Behaviors With Older Adult Clients
Authors: Anderson Keith A. , Cimbal Andrea M. , Maile Jeffrey J.
Published: July 2009

The “kind ear” provided by hairstylists (stylists) can be an important source of informal social support for their clients, yet little empirical research exists that examines this resource. In this study, the authors investigated the relationships and helping behaviors of stylists with one particular group of clients— older adults. Forty ( N = 40) stylists from 31 randomly selected salons completed mail-based surveys. Stylists reported that their relationships with older clients were generally very close. When these older clients raised problems and concerns, stylists employed several different helping techniques, including showing sympathy and support. Stylists also reported that they were able to recognize symptoms of depression, dementia, and self-neglect. Finally, a number of stylists indicated that they would be interested in receiving formal training in mental health. These findings point toward the potential inclusion of stylists in community gatekeeper programs that provide an important link between informal and formal helping networks.
Cryopreservation of Cells in 3D Constructs Based on Controlled Cell Assembly Processes
Authors: Sui Shaochun , Wang Xiaohong , Liu Peiyao , Yan Yongnian , Zhang Renji
Published: July 2009

Cryopreservation technology plays an important role in conserving three dimensional (3D) constructs containing cells. Besides preserving the characteristics of the construct, it can also save a lot of resources in many aspects, such as cell culture space, culture vessel, culture medium etc. Otherwise, the biological properties of the cells and the 3D geometrical configuration will disappear with the death of cells and breakage of configuration. Consequently, a cryopreservation method for the 3D construct fabricated with a controlled cell assembling technology was studied. 10% dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) was incorporated into the adipose-derived stem cell (ADSC)/gelatin/ alginate/fibrinogen mixture before assembling. Results indicate that the 3D construct containing cells can be preserved below —80°C for more than 1 week. After the construct underwent the thawing process, cell viability and proliferation ability were regained. This technique holds potential to be used widely in tissue engineering and organ manufacturing fields.
Informing, involving or engaging? Science communication, in the ages of atom-, bio- and nanotechnology
Authors: Kurath Monika , Gisler Priska
Published: July 2009

Science communication has shifted considerably in Europe over the last decades. Three technology controversies on atoms, genes, and nanoscale sciences and nanotechnologies (NST) turned the style of communication from one-way information, participation and dialogues to the idea of an early and more democratic engagement of the public. Analyzing science communication developing over the three controversies, this article shows that what happened in one technology field fed forward to and contributed to shaping the subsequent field and that communication was initiated at a progressively earlier stage of technology development. The article concludes with an empirical analysis of six public engagement projects in NST, saying that the shift towards more democratic engagement of the public hasn’t been as profound and complete as has been thought. This is particularly due to the continuing adoption of a simplistic contrast structure that opposes science and the public as two self-contained, antagonistic social entities.
Taxonomy, biodiversity and their publics in twenty-first-century DNA barcoding
Authors: Ellis Rebecca , Waterton Claire , Wynne Brian
Published: July 2009

We examine the crafting of publics in the global Barcoding of Life Initiative (BOLI)—seen as crucial for re-invigorating, and democratizing, early-twenty-first-century taxonomic sciences and hence for actually achieving biodiversity protection. Our approach to the issue of publics differs from that of conventional public understanding of or engagement with science work. Combining science and technology studies with critical political theory allows us to examine the discursive and material formation of publics occurring within the science of DNA barcoding. Co-productionist theory suggests BOLI to be actively crafting its prospective publics imaginatively, as an integral part of its self-composition as public science. Drawing on the work of Laclau’s On Populist Reason, we examine how such normatively weighted abstract publics are necessarily chronically incomplete, with an unavoidable tension between the universal and the particular.
Studies on Micro- to Macroscopic Mechanical Behavior of Porous Polymer under Compaction
Authors: Riku Isamu , Mimura Koji , Tomita Yoshihiro
Published: July 2009

The 2D extended homogenization model based on molecular chain network theory is employed to investigate the micro-to macroscopic mechanical behavior of polymer with randomly distributed voids under macroscopic compaction. A parametric study is performed to quantify the effect of the volume fraction of voids and the macroscopic stress triaxiality of loading conditions on the compaction behavior of porous polymer. The results suggest that the onset of localized shear band at the ligament between voids leads to the macroscopic yield of porous polymer. Furthermore, the microscopic localized shear deformation behavior is promoted in the polymer with high-volume fraction of voids under high macroscopic stress triaxiality loading condition, which results in the early appearance of the macroscopic yield. After the macroscopic yield, a remarkable strain hardening is shown in the macroscopic response of porous polymer under high macroscopic stress triaxiality loading condition, which is due to the onset and propagation of a large number of shear bands at the ligaments between voids. On the other hand, microscopic buckling develops at the narrowest ligament in the polymer with high-volume fraction of voids under high macroscopic stress triaxiality loading condition, which leads to the relative low macroscopic deformation resistance. Furthermore, to develop the macroscopic constitutive model of polymer with high-volume fraction of voids under high macroscopic stress triaxiality loading condition, a modified Gurson model is proposed which takes account of microscopic buckling and gives a good agreement with the unit cell computational results.
A Multiscale Failure Model for Analysis of Thin Heterogeneous Plates
Authors: Oskay Caglar , Pal Ghanshyam
Published: July 2009

This manuscript presents a new multiscale framework for the analysis of failure of thin heterogeneous structures. The new framework is based on the asymptotic homogenization method with multiple spatial scales, which provides a rigorous mathematical basis for bridging the microscopic scales associated with the periodic microstructure and thickness, and the macroscopic scale associated with the in-plane dimensions of the macrostructure. The proposed approach generalizes the Caillerie—Kohn—Vogelius elastostatic heterogeneous plate theory for failure analysis when subjected to static and dynamic loads. Inelastic fields are represented using the eigendeformation concept. A computationally efficient n-partition computational homogenization model is developed for simulation of large scale structural systems without significantly compromising on the solution accuracy. The proposed model is verified against direct 3D finite element simulations and experimental observations under static and dynamic loads.
High-Grade Astrocytomas Show Increased Nestin and Wilms’s Tumor Gene (WT1) Protein Expression
Authors: Rushing Elisabeth J. , Sandberg Glenn D. , Horkayne-Szakaly Iren
Published: July 2009

Wilms’s tumor gene (WT1) is overexpressed in a variety of hematologic malignancies and solid tumors. Recently, WT1 protein has been considered as a molecular target of cancer immunotherapy for several solid tumors and as a tool for monitoring minimal residual disease in leukemia patients. There are only few investigations on WT1 expression in central nervous system neoplasms, which suggest that the WT1 gene may play an important role in tumorigenesis of primary astrocytic tumors and that high-grade tumors express high levels of WT1 proteins. We examined 50 low-grade and high-grade gliomas using tissue microarray and immunohistochemical methods to identify WT1 protein, P53, Ki-67, GFAP, NFP, EGFR, nestin, and Neu-N expression. WT1 and nestin shared overlapping expression in all gliomas and were increased in high-grade examples, highlighting their potential use as diagnostic and prognostic tumor markers. Our results support the combined role of WT1 and nestin in glial tumorigenesis and progression.
Pathologic and Clinical Features of Hodgkin Lymphoma—Like Posttransplant Lymphoproliferative Disease
Authors: Krishnamurthy Smita , Hassan Anjum , Frater John L. , Kreisel Friederike H. , Paessler Michele E.
Published: July 2009

Because of its rarity, pathologic and clinical features of Hodgkin lymphoma—like posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder (HL-like PTLD) are not well understood, and it is unclear whether its biological behavior is more closely related to classical Hodgkin disease or to monomorphic B-cell PTLD. The authors compared 6 cases of HL-like PTLD with 5 cases of monomorphic B-cell PTLD for differences in histology, immunophenotype, and clinical behavior. Histologically, all cases of HL-like PTLD resembled classical HL with typical Reed—Sternberg (RS) cells and a cellular background mimicking mixed cellularity subtype. CD45 was absent on RS-like cells, but the expression pattern of B-cell-associated markers Oct-2 and BOB.1 resembled monomorphic B-cell PTLD. Whereas Epstein—Barr virus early RNA expression is normally restricted to RS cells of classical HL, it was expressed in both RS-like cells and background lymphocytes in HL-like PTLD. Although all patients diagnosed with monomorphic B-cell PTLD show no evidence of disease following treatment, half of the patients with HL-like PTLD relapsed or died, indicating a more aggressive clinical behavior. The findings suggest that HL-like PTLD represents a distinct clinicopathologic entity with an aggressive clinical course.
CDX2 Expression in Yolk Sac Component of Testicular Germ Cell Tumors
Authors: Bing Zhanyong , Pasha Theresa , Tomaszewski John E. , Zhang Paul
Published: July 2009

CDX2 has been detected in the majority of colorectal adenocarcinoma cases and may be useful in determining the sites of origin of tumors. In this study, the authors evaluated CDX2 expression in germ cell tumors (GCTs) by immunohistochemistry. Forty cases of testicular GCTs and 8 cases of metastatic GCTs were retrieved for study. In the 40 cases of testicular GCTs, 13 were pure seminomas and 27 mixed GCTs. Yolk sac tumor (YST) was identified by morphology and glypican 3 staining in 20 testicular mixed GCTs. Of these 20 cases, 8 cases showed 1+ positivity for CDX2. Other primitive components of GCTs were negative. For the 6 cases of metastatic mixed GCT with YST, 4 cases were positive, 2+ in 2 cases and 1+ in 2 cases. The positivity of CDX2 in GCTs warrants including YST in the differential diagnosis of adenocarcinoma of unknown origin.
Comparison of Subtypes of Penile Squamous Cell Carcinoma From High and Low Incidence Geographical Regions
Authors: Chaux Alcides , Lezcano Cecilia , Cubilla Antonio L. , Tamboli Pheroze , Ro Jae , Ayala Alberto
Published: July 2009

There is a worldwide geographical variation in the incidence of penile squamous cell carcinoma (PSCC); some subtypes are HPV-related (warty, basaloid) while others (keratinizing variants) are not. The aims of this study were to compare the distribution of different histological subtypes of PSCC from regions of low (Paraguay, 144 cases) and high (USA, 157 cases) incidence and to identify and compare tumors with and without warty and/or basaloid morphology. The distribution of subtypes in the Paraguayan and the American series was: usual, 49.3 and 46.5%; verrucous, 8.3 and 7.6%; papillary NOS, 7.6 and 5.7%; warty, 6.9 and 8.3%; basaloid, 4.2 and 7.0%; sarcomatoid, 0.7 and 0.6%; adenosquamous, 3.5 and 0.6%; and mixed, 19.4 and 23.6%, respectively. The distribution of mixed PSCC was: warty-basaloid, 50.0 and 59.5%; usual-verrucous, 21.4 and 21.6%; usual-warty, 14.3 and 8.1%; usual-basaloid, 7.1 and 0.0%; usual-papillary, 3.6 and 5.4%; and others, 3.6 and 5.4%, respectively. In conclusion, we found no geographical difference in the incidence of histological subtypes ( p = 0.6501), mixed PSCC ( p = 0.5937) or HPV-related tumors ( p = 0.2505). Geographical variation may be the result of staging variation at clinical presentation or of pathological diagnosis. The identification of similar histological subtypes in both series validates this classification approach for penile cancer. The tendency for typical SCC to mix with verrucous and papillary carcinomas and of the basaloid to preferentially mix with benign condyloma and condylomatous (warty) carcinomas would support the hypothesis of the existence of an etiologically different dual population of penile tumors.
Elastofibromatous Changes in Tissues From Spinal Biopsies. A Degenerative Process Afflicting a Small but Important Subset Of Patients Operated for Spinal Canal Compression: Report of 18 Cases
Authors: Daum Ondrej , Ferda Jiri , Curik Romuald , Choc Milan , Mukensnabl Petr , Michal Michal
Published: July 2009

Elastofibroma is a tumorlike lesion occurring usually in the subscapular region of elderly females. In this study, 18 cases of elastofibromatous tissue retrieved from the spinal canal were analyzed to elucidate its frequency and possible clinical associations. The patients included 8 men and 10 women with a mean age of 63.4 years (range, 40-84 years). The elastic nature of the material was confirmed by Weigert’s elastic stain and immunohistochemically. Elastofibroma was diagnosed in 6 patients, and elastofibroma-like tissue was found in 11 samples. The finding of elastofibromatous tissue was associated with clinical diagnosis of juxtaarticular cysts (3 cases), thickening of ligamentum flavum (4 cases), extradural expansion (2 cases), metastatic involvement of the dorsal spine (3 cases), and a vertebral fracture (1 case). Two cases were located above the transpedicular fixation. Elastofibromatous tissue may be found in approximately 2.6% of all spinal biopsies and it may take part in compression of spinal cord and nerve roots.
Skip Lesion of DIN (DCIS) in the Nipple in a Case of Breast Cancer
Authors: Tramm Trine , Zuckerman Kaye , Tavassoli Fattaneh A.
Published: July 2009

The authors present a case of breast cancer with a skip lesion of DIN 1 (ductal carcinoma in situ [DCIS] grade 1) in the nipple, leaving the base of the nipple free of disease. During the surgical procedure of nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) a frozen section evaluation of the base of the nipple and areola complex is often carried out to ascertain absence of any intraepithelial (in situ) or invasive neoplasms that could lead to nipple recurrences if left behind. This case illustrates a situation where a frozen section would have given a false-negative prediction of nipple involvement if the patient had been selected for NSM. This case illustrates the need to adhere to strict criteria for selecting patients eligible for NSM and to consider the use of additional preoperative and intraoperative measurements and methods to refine the selection of candidates for NSM and enhance the oncological safety of the procedure.
Thyroid Transcription Factor-1 and “Basal Marker”—Expressing Small Cell Carcinoma of the Breast
Authors: Erşahin Çağatay , Bandyopadhyay Sudeshna , Bhargava Rohit
Published: July 2009

Small cell carcinoma of the breast is a very rare entity that is histologically indistinguishable from small cell carcinomas of other organs. The presence of an in situ component is the most important feature that indicates the primary nature of the breast tumor. Thyroid transcription factor-1 (TTF-1) is a marker specific to lung and thyroid but is also expressed in small cell carcinoma of pulmonary and extrapulmonary origin. TTF-1 expression in breast small cell carcinoma has been reported only rarely. This reported case is unique because of the characteristic morphological features and immunohistochemical profile. The invasive tumor demonstrated neuroendocrine differentiation morphologically and immunohistochemically, expressed by TTF-1, EGFR, and basal-type cytokeratins. An unequivocal in situ component was identified intimately admixed with the invasive carcinoma. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of breast small cell carcinoma showing the expression of “basal markers.”
Evaluation of creatinine-based formulas in dosing adjustment of cancer drugs other than carboplatin
Authors: Jennings Sarah , de Lemos Mário L , Levin Adeera , Murray Nevin
Published: July 2009

Background. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is often used to determine initial dosing of renally excreted cancer drugs. GFR can be calculated using the Cockcroft-Gault (CG) or the modified diet in renal diseases (MDRD) study formulas, both of which are based on serum creatinine levels. The MDRD formula is more accurate in noncancer patients, does not require patient weight, and is reported automatically by all laboratories in British Columbia, Canada. We previously showed that the CG and MDRD formulas have similar accuracy for carboplatin dosing in patients with gynecological malignancies. We now examine dosing of all renally excreted cancer drugs in the general cancer population. Since this setting does not include routine measurement of GFR, we report the concordance of estimates of GFR derived from the CG and MDRD formulas.

Methods. Patient data were collected retrospectively at the BC Cancer Agency. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients who would have received a different initial dose due to difference in the GFR. Each patient’s dose was determined from dose adjustment tables stated in specific treatment protocols. The secondary outcome was concordance of the GFR derived from CG and MDRD, using the method of Bland and Altman. A difference of >30% was assumed to be clinically significant because this difference would usually lead to dose adjustment based on reclassification of renal function.

Results. A total of 313 patients were evaluated, with 40% male. The median age was 56 years, weight 67.5 kg, height 166 cm, and serum creatinine 74 µmol/L (0.84 mg/dL). The median GFR derived from the CG and MDRD formulas were 86.8 mL/min (mean 91 mL/min, SD ± 30 mL/min) and 87.6 mL/min (mean 88 mL/min, SD ± 26 mL/min), respectively. A total of 8.6% (27/313) of patients would have received a different dose due to difference in the GFR; of these, 67% (18/27) would have received a higher dose. A difference of >30% in GFR was found in 17.9% (56/313) of patients.

Conclusions. There is good concordance of the GFR derived from the CG and MDRD formulas for most cancer patients, with less than 10% of patients expected to receive a different initial dose of chemotherapy. The MDRD formula may be a reasonable alternative to the CG formula for dosing of cancer drugs which are renally excreted or nephrotoxic. J Oncol Pharm Practice (2010) 16: 113—119.
Relational Rewards and Communicative Planning: Understanding Actor Motivation
Authors: Olsson Amy Rader
Published: July 2009

This article uses a collective action approach to analyse the risk of social dilemmas in communicative planning processes. If actors are self-interested and lack a predisposition to co-operation and communication, they may choose to free ride or under-contribute to the non-excludable outputs of voluntary communicative planning processes that lack reprisals for defection or under-contribution. To motivate their participation, actors must expect some exclusive additional reward. This analysis leads to a suggestion that communicative planning may create social capital networks that offer valuable relational rewards, in varying amounts, to some or all interdependent stakeholders. The value of relational rewards is their potential to reduce transaction costs in future collective actions. The expectation of relational rewards may be a selective incentive powerful enough to counteract the social dilemmas inherent in communicative planning processes in pursuit of normative goals such as inclusive-ness and diversity. However, the existence of relational rewards may facilitate strategic action as much as communicative action.
Relationship between leisure-time physical activity and metabolic syndrome using varying definitions: 1999-2004 NHANES
Authors: Churilla James R. , Fitzhugh Eugene C.
Published: July 2009

Purpose: To examine the relationship between leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and the metabolic syndrome in the U.S. adult population.

Methods: The sample (N=5,620) in this cross-sectional study included adults aged 20 years and older. Physical activity was measured in two ways: a six-level measure based upon those reporting no LTPA and quintiles of LTPA, and a three-level categorical measure, according to participants who were found to be inactive, insufficiently active, and those meeting the current public health PA recommendation. SAS and SUDAAN were used for the statistical analysis.

Results: When utilising the AHA/NHLBI criteria, adults acquiring between 736 and 1,360 MET·minutes per week (MET·min·wk-1) of LTPA were found to be 35% (OR 0.65; 95% CI 0.48, 0.88) less likely to meet the metabolic syndrome diagnosis criteria compared with those reporting no LTPA. However, protection (OR 0.70; 95% CI 0.51, 0.96) started earlier when utilising the WHO criteria (393—737 MET·min·wk-1). Significant inverse associations (OR 0.54; 95% CI 0.44, 0.66) and (OR 0.61; 95% CI 0.48, 0.77) for WHO and AHA/NHLBI criteria respectively, were also found for the metabolic syndrome when examining LTPA by the current public heath PA recommendation. In addition, the overall age-adjusted prevalence of the metabolic syndrome among U.S. adults was estimated to be 21.9% and 36.3% for the WHO and AHA/ NLHBI definitions respectively.

Conclusion: Our findings estimate that adults engaging in a level of LTPA similar to the current public health recommendation may have a decreased risk of developing the metabolic syndrome. Also, depending on the definition used, between one in three and one in five U.S. adults are estimated to have the metabolic syndrome.
From the Margins to the Center
Authors: Bryant-Davis Thema , Chung Heewoon , Tillman Shaquita
Published: July 2009

The trauma of sexual assault is heightened for many women by the interlocking experience of societal traumas such as racism, sexism, and poverty. The mental health effects of sexual assault are mediated by race and ethnicity. The investigators explore the experiences of African American, Asian American, Latina, and Native American female survivors of sexual assault. The sociohistorical context of intergenerational trauma in the lives of ethnic minorities is a part of the context for the contemporary experience of sexualized violence. Racial and ethnic dynamics related to sexual assault prevalence, mental health effects, and disclosure are examined. Literature related to cultural beliefs, community attitudes, and perceived social support in relation to sexualized violence are also reviewed. Finally, practice, research, and policy implications are discussed.
Altitude or Hot Air?
Authors: Chumacero Rómulo A.
Published: July 2009

This article uses several econometric models to evaluate the determinants of the outcomes of the World Cup Qualifying matches played in South America. It documents the relative importance of home-field advantage and other factors. Contrary to popular belief, altitude appears not to be an important factor behind the outcome or score of a match.
Rectourethral Fistula Stenting: A Technique for Better Fistula Visualization and Efficient Repair
Authors: Mahdy Ayman , Weiss Eric , Ghoniem Gamal M.
Published: July 2009

In this study, the authors present a technical tip for better and easier visualization of rectourethral fistula both during dissection and fistula closure. In this technique, a small-caliber ureteral catheter is used for catheterization of the fistulous tract under direct urethroscopic guidance. Five cases were treated using this technique. All cases had either brachytherapy as a monotherapy or combined brachytherapy and external beam radiotherapy. All cases had the fistula completely healed except for one failed case that had a 2-cm fistula.
Implementation of a Direct-From-Recovery-Room Discharge Pathway: A Process Improvement Effort
Authors: Ehrenfeld Jesse M. , Seim Andreas R. , Berger David L. , Sandberg Warren S.
Published: July 2009

Background. The authors describe a process improvement effort to achieve direct-from-recovery-room discharge for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy patients— without prior patient selection. Methods. The authors developed and implemented a new pathway, and then measured the learning curve (ie, success rate over time for direct discharge) and compared patients achieving direct discharge with patients admitted after surgery. Results. The learning curve between the first patient and steady-state performance was 56 patients. A total of 80% of patients achieved direct discharge. Directly discharged patients were younger ( P < .001), had lower ASA physical status classifications ( P < .005), and left the recovery room earlier in the day ( P < .0001). However, elderly patients and those with high ASA scores frequently could be directly discharged from the recovery room. Conclusions. Through small team based rapid cycle process improvement, direct-from-recovery-room discharge of laparoscopic cholecystectomy patients can be achieved in an unselected patient population with a short learning curve.
Changes seen in the aging kidney and the effect of blocking the renin—angiotensin system
Authors: Inserra Felipe , Basso Nidia , Ferder Marcelo , Userpater Marcelo , Stella Inés , Paglia Nora , Inserra Pablo , Tenembaum David , Ferder León
Published: July 2009

Background: The objective was to evaluate structural changes of glomeruli during aging and the role of chronic renin—angiotensin system inhibition (RASi) on these changes; starting RASi on Wistar rats at two different moments: the first group after weaning and the second at the midpoint of their lifespan (12 months).

Methods: Thirty rats were divided, after weaning, into three groups of 10: group 1: control (C); group 2 : 30 mg/kg/day losartan (L); group 3 : 10 mg/kg/day enalapril (E). At 18 months, rats were placed in metabolic cages to evaluate proteinuria, then killed. Another group of 24 rats, 12 months old, were divided into three groups of eight: group 1: C; group 2: L; group 3: E. At 18 months the same procedure described above was carried out. Finally, a third group of 20 rats was studied as healthy controls and killed: 10 rats at 7 months and ten at 12 months of age. Tissue samples were collected after sacrifice. To evaluate glomerular fibrotic changes, both focal and periglomerular sclerosis, and mesangial matrix expansion, a scoring scale was established. We also evaluated anti-α-SM-actin and anti-collagen-III immunolabeling. Glomerular area was measured using an image analyzer.

Results: Proteinuria and serum creatinine increased with age but were reduced in treated animals. Main glomerular changes present in 18-month-old rats were reduced by half in treated animals. Glomerular area showed significant increase with normal aging and all treatment strategies protected against it.

Conclusion: RAS plays a central role in natural process of renal aging, probably by producing effects influencing the biology of aging, the effects of which can be attenuated by RASi.
Sparklebunnies are go!
Authors: Clapham David
Published: July 2009

“Let's help those who want to help themselves,” advocates David Clapham, Senior Environmental Health Officer at Bradford County Council and intrepid explorer
Pathogenic role of angiotensin II and oxidised LDL in obstructive sleep apnoea
Authors: Kizawa T. , Nakamura Y. , Takahashi S. , Sakurai S. , Yamauchi K. , Inoue H.
Published: July 2009

A sustained elevation of oxidative stress in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) might help to explain their increased risk for cardiovascular diseases. We tested the hypothesis that the values of oxidative stress are increased in otherwise healthy subjects with OSAS when compared with closely matched control subjects.

We performed a prospective study of 38 subjects who did not have OSAS and 37 patients with OSAS. Plasma indices of angiotensin (Ang) II, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), oxidised low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL), and circulating endothelial precursor cells (CEPs) were measured in OSAS patients and in matched controls. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were obtained from both groups and co-cultured with endothelial cells to examine the effects on tube formation.

The OSAS group showed increased levels of Ang II, VEGF, oxLDL and CEPs, which were decreased after nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) treatment.In vitro, PBMCs from the OSAS group induced tube formation. Ang II, oxLDL, and Ang II-stimulated PBMCs induced lectin-like oxLDL receptor (LOX-1) expression and VEGF receptor-2 activation on endothelial cells, respectively.

These observations suggest an important role of Ang II and oxLDL-mediated LOX-1 upregulation in endothelial cell injury in patients with OSAS.
Effect of sleeping alone on sleep quality in female bed partners of snorers
Authors: Blumen M. , Quera Salva M. A. , d'Ortho M-P. , Leroux K. , Audibert P. , Fermanian C. , Chabolle F. , Lofaso F.
Published: July 2009

The aim of the present study was to objectively measure the effect of sleeping alone for one night on sleep quality in female bed partners of male snorers.

Females complaining of poor sleep due to snoring by their bed partner and having no known hearing loss or snoring were included in a prospective multicentre cross-sectional study. 23 females underwent one polysomnography recording while sleeping with their bed partner and another while sleeping alone. Their sleep parameters were compared between the two nights.

We excluded seven couples because the female partner snored for >10% of the sleep time (n = 6) or had obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (n = 1). In the remaining 16 females, sleep time, sleep efficiency, arousal index and percentages of deep sleep (stages 3–4) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep were not significantly different between the two nights. Percentages of light sleep (non-REM stage 2) and awakening index were lower when sleeping alone (p = 0.023 and p = 0.046, respectively).

Sleep quality was decreased and sleep fragmentation increased in females sleeping with male snorers. Some females had unrecognised snoring. However, our data do not suggest that objective sleep quality improves substantially in the female nonsnoring partner when she sleeps alone for one night.
Interaction of T-cell and antigen presenting cell co-stimulatory genes in childhood IgE
Authors: Bottema R. W. B. , Postma D. S. , Reijmerink N. E. , Thijs C. , Stelma F. F. , Smit H. A. , van Schayck C. P. , Brunekreef B. , Koppelman G. H. , Kerkhof M.
Published: July 2009

It is likely that multiple genes contribute to immunoglobulin (Ig)E production. Co-stimulatory molecules are crucial for the cross-talk between antigen presenting cells and T-lymphocytes which drives the IgE response.

We evaluated gene–gene interactions of haplotype tagging polymorphisms in a pathway of 24 co-stimulatory genes in relation to serum IgE levels. We assessed this at ages 1–2 yrs and 6–8 yrs in 3,062 Dutch children from a pooled data set of three birth cohorts: PIAMA (Prevention and Incidence Asthma and Mite Allergy), PREVASC (Prevention of Asthma in Children) and KOALA (Child, parents and health: lifestyle and genetic constitution).

Single- and multi-locus associations with serum IgE levels (3rdversus1st tertile) were evaluated by Chi-squared tests and the multifactor dimensionality reduction (MDR) method in the following co-stimulatory genes:VTCN1,TNFRSF4,TNFRSF18,TNFRSF14,TNFSF18,TNFSF4,CD28,CTLA4,ICOS,PDCD1,BTLA,CD80,CD86,HLA-G,CD274,PDCD1LG2,CD276,LILRA4,LILRB1,LILRB2,LILRB4,CD40,ICOSLG, andCD40LG. We found multiple statistically significant single-locus(S)and multi-locus(M)associations for the genesVTCN1SM,TNFSF18SM,TNFSF4S,CD28S,CTLA4M,ICOSS,BTLAM,CD80M,CD86SM,CD274SM,PDCD1LG2M,LILRA4SM,LILRB4M, andCD40SMwith serum IgE. Two-locus interactions ofCD86withVTCN1andCD274withLILRA4were confirmed by logistic regression.

In conclusion, serum IgE levels are regulated by multiple gene–gene interaction effects in the co-stimulatory pathway. We suggest using research strategies that model multiple gene–gene interactions in genetic studies.
Bleomycin induces pleural and subpleural fibrosis in the presence of carbon particles
Authors: Decologne N. , Wettstein G. , Kolb M. , Margetts P. , Garrido C. , Camus P. , Bonniaud P.
Published: July 2009

The pathological changes in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) typically start in subpleural lung regions, a feature that is currently not explained. IPF, as well as bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis, are more common in smokers. We hypothesised that carbon particles, which are major components of cigarette smoke that are transported to alveoli and pleural surface, might be involved in the development of subpleural fibrosis through interaction with pleural mesothelial cells.

Carbon particles were administered to mice in combination with bleomycin through intratracheal and/or intrapleural injection and fibrosis was assessed using histomorphometry.

Carbon administered to the chest cavity caused severe pleural fibrosis in the presence of bleomycin, whereas bleomycin alone had no fibrogenic effect. The pleural response was associated with progressive fibrosis in subpleural regions, similar to IPF in humans. Matrix accumulation within this area evolved through mesothelial-fibroblastoid transformation, where mesothelial cells acquire myofibroblast characteristics. In contrast, carbon did not exaggerate bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis after combined intratracheal administration.

This represents a novel approach to induce a robust experimental model of pleural fibrosis. It also suggests that carbon particles might be involved as a cofactor in the initiation and/or progression of (subpleural) pulmonary and pleural fibrosis. Mesothelial cells appear to be critical contributors to this fibrotic process.
Arginine deficiency augments inflammatory mediator production by airway epithelial cells in vitro
Authors: Fan Xiao-Yun , van den Berg Arjen , Snoek Mieke , van der Flier Laurens G , Smids Barbara , Jansen Henk M , Liu Rong-Yu , Lutter René
Published: July 2009

Background

Previously we showed that reduced availability of the essential amino acid tryptophan per se attenuates post-transcriptional control of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 leading to hyperresponsive production of these inflammatory mediators by airway epithelial cells. Availability of the non-essential amino acid arginine in the inflamed airway mucosa of patients with asthma is reduced markedly, but it is not known whether this can also lead to an exaggerated production of IL-6 and IL-8.

Methods

IL-6 and IL-8 were determined by ELISA in culture supernatants of NCI-H292 airway epithelial-like cells and normal bronchial epithelial (NHBE) cells that were exposed to TNF-α, LPS or no stimulus, in medium with or without arginine. Arginine deficiency may also result from exposure to poly-L-arginine or major basic protein (MBP), which can block arginine uptake. Epithelial cells were exposed to these polycationic proteins and L-14C-arginine uptake was assessed as well as IL-6 and IL-8 production. To determine the mode of action, IL-6 and IL-8 mRNA profiles over time were assessed as were gene transcription and post-transcriptional mRNA degradation.

Results

For both NCI-H292 and NHBE cells, low arginine concentrations enhanced basal epithelial IL-6 and IL-8 production and synergized with TNF-α-induced IL-6 and IL-8 production. Poly-L-arginine enhanced the stimulus-induced IL-6 and IL-8 production, however, blocking arginine uptake and the enhanced IL-6 and IL-8 production appeared unrelated. The exaggerated IL-6 and IL-8 production due to arginine deficiency and to poly-L-arginine depend on a post-transcriptional and a transcriptional process, respectively.

Conclusion

We conclude that both reduced arginine availability per se and the presence of polycationic proteins may promote airway inflammation by enhanced pro-inflammatory mediator production in airway epithelial cells, but due to distinct mechanisms.