bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinicopathological analysis of a composite lymphoma containing both T‐ and B‐cell lymphomas
Authors: Suefuji Nobuko , Niino Daisuke , Arakawa Fumiko , Karube Kennosuke , Kimura Yoshizo , Kiyasu Junichi , Takeuchi Masanori , Miyoshi Hiroaki , Yoshida Maki , Ichikawa Ayako , Sugita Yasuo , Ohshima Koichi
Published: September 2012

Composite lymphomas (CLs) have been reported in 1–4.7% of all lymphomas, however, CLs containing both T‐ and B‐cell lymphomas (CTBLs) are very rare. Here, we examined the clinical and pathological features of 29 CTBLs. These CTBLs included 21 patients with angioimmunoblastic T‐cell lymphoma (AITL) and diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL), two with adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma and DLBCL, one with AITL and Follicular lymphoma, one with Lennert lymphoma and DLBCL, one with subcutaneous panniculitis‐like T‐cell lymphoma and DLBCL, one with peripheral T‐cell lymphoma (PTCL) and DLBCL, one with cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma and DLBCL, and one with PTCL and chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Eighteen of 27 patients (67%) were shown to be Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV)‐encoded RNA‐positive in their B‐cell lymphoma component. T‐cell and B‐cell clonality were confirmed by flow cytometry, Southern blot analysis, and/or polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Using Southern blot analysis, clonal immunoglobulin heavy chain (IgH) and T‐cell receptor (TCR) rearrangements were detected in 11 of 21 and 15 of 24 cases, respectively. Using PCR analysis, clonal IgH and TCR rearrangements were detected in 7 of 8 and 7 of 7 Southern blot‐negative cases, respectively. Our results suggested that PCR analysis was useful in diagnosing CTBL.
Diagnostic tools of metabolic and structural brain disturbances in neonatal non‐ketotic hyperglycinemia
Authors: Terek Demet , Koroglu Ozge Altun , Gunes Sezgin , Yalaz Mehmet , Akisu Mete , Uçar Sema Kalkan , Gokben Sarenur , Çoker Mahmut , Kultursay Nilgün
Published: September 2012

Non‐ketotic hyperglycinemia (NKH) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder of glycine metabolism. We report a newborn case of NKH and discuss the effects of this rare disease on brain metabolism and structure together with amplitude‐integrated electroencephalography, cranial magnetic resonance and magnetic resonance spectroscopy findings which are very rarely reported together so far.
Plasmakinetic bipolar versus monopolar transurethral resection of non‐muscle invasive bladder cancer: A single center randomized controlled trial
Authors: Del Rosso Alessandro , Pace Gianna , Masciovecchio Stefano , Saldutto Pietro , Galatioto Giuseppe Paradiso , Vicentini Carlo
Published: September 2012

Objectives

To compare the safety and the efficacy of plasmakinetic bipolar resectoscope versus conventional monopolar in the transurethral resection of primary non‐muscle invasive bladder cancer.

Methods

From January 2007 to December 2009, 132 patients underwent endoscopic resection for primary non‐muscle invasive bladder cancer. They were randomly assigned to two groups: 67 patients underwent a transurethral resection of the bladder with bipolar plasmakinetic energy transurethral resection of the bladder and 65 were treated with conventional monopolar transurethral resection.

Results

The mean operative time was 27 min for bipolar plasmakinetic energy transurethral resection of the bladder and 31 min for monopolar transurethral resection of the bladder. No significant differences in the mean change of hemoglobin and serum sodium level were observed. Mean catheterization time was 1.3 days and 2.3 days for bipolar plasmakinetic energy transurethral resection of the bladder and monopolar transurethral resection of the bladder, respectively. The mean hospital stay was shorter in the bipolar plasmakinetic energy transurethral resection of the bladder. Bladder perforation was reported in two cases for the monopolar transurethral resection of the bladder group and obturator nerve reflex occurred in a single case for both procedures. None of the patients experienced transurethral resection syndrome. The median time of bladder tumor recurrence after initial transurethral resection of the bladder was 12.4 months and 11.9 months for bipolar plasmakinetic energy transurethral resection of the bladder and monopolar transurethral resection of the bladder, respectively. No significant differences in the overall recurrence‐free survival rate were observed comparing the two procedures.

Conclusions

Plasmakinetic bipolar transurethral resection represents a safe and effective procedure in the management of non‐muscle invasive bladder cancer.
Reproducibility of intraocular pressure peak and fluctuation of the water‐drinking test
Authors: Hatanaka Marcelo , Alencar Luciana M , De Moraes Carlos G , Susanna Remo
Published: September 2012

Background

The water‐drinking test has been used as a stress test to evaluate the drainage system of the eye. However, in order to be clinically applicable,a test must provide reproducible results with consistent measurements. This study was performed to verify the reproducibility of intraocular pressure peaks and fluctuation detected during the water‐drinking test in patients with ocular hypertension and open‐angle glaucoma.

Design

A prospective analysis of patients in a tertiary care unit for glaucoma treatment.

Participants

Twenty‐four ocular hypertension and 64 open‐angle glaucoma patients not under treatment.

Methods

The water‐drinking test was performed in 2 consecutive days by the same examiners in patients not under treatment. Reproducibility was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient.

Main Outcome Measures

Peak and fluctuation of intraocular pressure obtained with the water‐drinking test were analysed for reproducibility.

Results

Eighty‐eight eyes from 24 ocular hypertension and 64 open‐angle glaucoma patients not under treatment were evaluated. Test and retest intraocular pressure peak values were 28.38 ± 4.64 and 28.38 ± 4.56 mmHg, respectively (P = 1.00). Test and retest intraocular pressure fluctuation values were 5.75 ± 3.9 and 4.99 ± 2.7 mmHg, respectively (P = 0.06). Based on intraclass coefficient, reproducibility was excellent for peak intraocular pressure (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.79) and fair for intraocular pressure fluctuation (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.37).

Conclusion

Intraocular pressure peaks detected during the water‐drinking test presented excellent reproducibility, whereas the reproducibility of fluctuation was considered fair.
Experimental chronic ocular hypertension by anterior chamber injection of 0.3% carbomer solution in the rat
Authors: Kim Hwang‐Gyun , Park Jung‐Won , Park Sang‐Woo
Published: September 2012

Background

To evaluate a chronic ocular hypertensive model by anterior chamber injection of 0.3% carbomer solution in rats.

Methods

Chronic ocular hypertension was induced unilaterally by injecting 20 μL of 0.3% carbomer solution into the anterior chamber in 3‐month‐old Sprague Dawley rats. Intraocular pressure was measured everyday for 1 week and then every week for 2 months after a single or repeated injection. Retinal ganglion cell loss was assessed quantitatively using FluoroGold labelling at 2, 4 and 8 weeks after injection. Anterior chamber angle and optic nerve were examined after chronic intraocular pressure elevation.

Results

The mean and peak intraocular pressure of the injected eyes were elevated significantly higher than those of the control eyes for 6 weeks of the experiment, after a single injection of carbomer solution and a second injection at 2 weeks resulted in an 8‐week elevation of the mean and peak intraocular pressure, which was significantly higher than those of the control eyes. Elevated intraocular pressure induced retinal ganglion cell loss by approximately 21%, 27% and 38% compared with that in the control eyes at 2, 4 and 8 weeks, respectively, after a single injection. In carbomer‐injected eyes with chronic intraocular pressure elevation, the obstruction of anterior chamber angle by peripheral anterior synechia and optic nerve degeneration were observed.

Conclusions

Anterior chamber injection of 0.3% carbomer solution was an effective and reproducible method to produce chronic intraocular pressure elevation and glaucomatous neurodegeneration in rats.
Full correction and Undercorrection of Myopia Evaluation Trial: design and baseline data of a randomized, controlled, double‐blind trial
Authors: Li Shi‐Ming , Li Si‐Yuan , Liu Luo‐Ru , Guo Ji‐Yuan , Chen Wei , Wang Ning‐Li , Millodot Michel
Published: September 2012

Background

To determine the difference in the rate of myopic progression between children wearing single vision lenses with undercorrection of +0.50 D and children whose myopia is fully corrected, and to explore the factors that may influence the process.

Design

Randomized, controlled, double‐blind trial.

Participants

Two hundred children aged 7–15 years with low‐to‐moderate myopia (−1.5 D to −6.0 D), astigmatism <−1.5 D and anisometropia <1.0 D.

Methods

The children were randomly allocated to wear single vision lenses with full correction or undercorrection by +0.50 D. Ocular examinations and questionnaire surveys for myopia‐related factors will be performed every 6 months.

Main Outcome Measures

Cycloplegic autorefraction and axial length.

Results

Of 200 children, 100 (50%) were girls, 41 (21%) esophoric and 82 (42%) exophoric at near. The characteristics of gender, age, age of myopia onset, phoria, eye dominance, parental myopia, refractive error, axial length, corneal curvature, mean time spent in near work and outdoor activities between the two groups were not significantly different. The accommodative responses at 33 cm, the accommodative demands and lags at infinity were significantly different in the two groups as they were measured with full correction in one group and undercorrection in the other.

Conclusion

Full correction and Undercorrection of Myopia Evaluation Trial is a clinical trial designed to determine the effectiveness of undercorrection of myopia by +0.5 D on myopic progression in a population of school‐aged children known to be susceptible to myopia and to identify the factors influencing the process.
Topical ganciclovir treatment in patients with cytomegalovirus endotheliitis receiving penetrating keratoplasty
Authors: Su Chien‐Chia , Wang I‐Jong , Chen Wei‐Li , Lin Chang‐Pin , His Brian , Hu Fung‐Rong
Published: September 2012

Background

To report seven cases diagnosed as cytomegalovirus endotheliitis and treated with topical 2% ganciclovir following penetrating keratoplasty.

Design

A retrospectively comparative case series.

Participants

A retrospective interventional case series, including seven eyes of seven patients with cytomegalovirus endotheliitis after penetrating keratoplasty.

Methods

Clinical and immunological characteristics were studied in seven penetrating keratoplasty cases with positive quantitative polymerase chain reaction results for cytomegalovirus DNA from aqueous taps and treated with topical 2% ganciclovir.

Main Outcome Measures

Clinical features and responses to topical 2% ganciclovir.

Results

Seven immunocompetent patients experienced acute anterior inflammation with graft oedema and pigmented keratic precipitates after penetrating keratoplasty. Their immunological profiles showed immunoglobulin G cytomegalovirus (+) and immunoglobulin M cytomegalovirus (–) in all cases. Topical 2% ganciclovir was prescribed every 2 to 3 h daily as induction therapy and every 4 h as long‐term maintenance therapy. All cases had undetectable cytomegalovirus DNA after follow‐up aqueous taps. Topical 2% ganciclovir preserved endothelium of cytomegalovirus‐infected grafts at early stage and also provided a steady anticytomegalovirus environment for further regrafting in failed grafts at late stage. Acute inflammation reactivated in two cases and was suppressible by steroid under topical ganciclovir. No delayed re‐epithelialization and any toxicity were observed. To date, no case treated in this way had displayed cytomegalovirus recurrence.

Conclusions

Continuous topical 2% ganciclovir and a topical steroid adjusted by anterior inflammation are suggested after penetrating keratoplasty in all cases with cytomegalovirus endotheliitis to prevent cytomegalovirus recurrence.
Novel hybrid laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy for pelvic organ prolapse with a severe paravaginal defect
Authors: Ichikawa Masao , Akira Shigeo , Mine Katsuya , Ohuchi Nozomi , Kurose Keisuke , Takeshita Toshiyuki
Published: September 2012

Abdominal sacrocolpopexy is the gold standard for treating pelvic organ prolapse (POP) because of safety and durable good results. More recently laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (LSC), a less invasive approach, has become popular. Although these surgeries are versatile and can treat almost all patients with POP, these techniques have shortcomings. Specifically, reinforcement of lateral vaginal defects are not very strong, thus patients with POP and a severe paravaginal defect are not good candidates for abdominal or laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy. To overcome this problem, we developed a novel type of LSC, which can reinforce severe paravaginal defects by using a reversed T‐shaped anterior mesh combining the advantage of transvaginal mesh surgery. We refer to this novel surgery as ‘hybrid LSC’. Thus far, eight patients have successfully undergone this surgery. Hybrid LSC is a simple and secure method, and is an alternative treatment for POP with a severe paravaginal defect.
The Relation of Moral Emotion Attributions to Prosocial and Antisocial Behavior: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Malti Tina , Krettenauer Tobias
Published: September 2012

This meta‐analytic review of 42 studies covering 8,009 participants (ages 4–20) examines the relation of moral emotion attributions to prosocial and antisocial behavior. A significant association is found between moral emotion attributions and prosocial and antisocial behaviors (d = .26, 95% CI [.15, .38]; d = .39, 95% CI [.29, .49]). Effect sizes differ considerably across studies and this heterogeneity is attributed to moderator variables. Specifically, effect sizes for predicted antisocial behavior are larger for self‐attributed moral emotions than for emotions attributed to hypothetical story characters. Effect sizes for prosocial and antisocial behaviors are associated with several other study characteristics. Results are discussed with respect to the potential significance of moral emotion attributions for the social behavior of children and adolescents.
Early Attachment Organization With Both Parents and Future Behavior Problems: From Infancy to Middle Childhood
Authors: Kochanska Grazyna , Kim Sanghag
Published: September 2012

Links between children's attachment security with mothers and fathers, assessed in Strange Situation with each parent at 15 months (N = 101), and their future behavior problems were examined. Mothers and fathers rated children's behavior problems, and children reported their own behavior problems at age 8 (N = 86). Teachers rated behavior problems at age 6½ (N = 86). Insecurity with both parents had a robust effect: “Double‐insecure” children reported more overall problems, and were rated by teachers as having more externalizing problems than those secure with at least 1 parent. Security with either parent could offset such risks, and security with both conferred no additional benefits. High resistance toward both parents in Strange Situation may confer “dual risk” for future externalizing behavior.
Does Adolescents' Disclosure to Their Parents Matter for Their Academic Adjustment?
Authors: Cheung Cecilia S.‐S. , Pomerantz Eva M. , Dong Wei
Published: September 2012

The role of adolescents' disclosure to their parents in their academic adjustment was examined in a study of 825 American and Chinese adolescents (mean age = 12.73 years). Four times over the seventh and eighth grades, adolescents reported on their spontaneous disclosure of everyday activities to their parents, the quality of their relationships with their parents, and their parents' autonomy support and control. Information about multiple dimensions of adolescents' academic adjustment (e.g., learning strategies, autonomous vs. controlled motivation, and grades) was also obtained. Both American and Chinese adolescents' disclosure predicted their enhanced academic adjustment over time. However, when American adolescents disclosed in a negative context (e.g., a poor parent–child relationship or controlling parenting), their autonomous (vs. controlled) motivation was undermined.
Trajectories of Internalizing Problems in War‐Affected Sierra Leonean Youth: Examining Conflict and Postconflict Factors
Authors: Betancourt Theresa S. , McBain Ryan , Newnham Elizabeth A. , Brennan Robert T.
Published: September 2012

Three waves of data from a prospective longitudinal study in Sierra Leone were used to examine internalizing trajectories in 529 war‐affected youth (ages 10–17 at baseline; 25% female). Latent class growth analyses identified 4 trajectories: A large majority of youth maintained lower levels of internalizing problems (41.4%) or significantly improved over time (47.6%) despite very limited access to care, but smaller proportions continued to report severe difficulties 6 years postwar (4.5%) or their symptoms worsened (6.4%). Continued internalizing problems were associated with loss of a caregiver, family abuse and neglect, and community stigma. Despite the comparative resilience of most war‐affected youth in the face of extreme adversity, there remains a compelling need for interventions that address family‐ and community‐level stressors.
A Longitudinal Study of School Belonging and Academic Motivation Across High School
Authors: Neel Cari Gillen‐O' , Fuligni Andrew
Published: September 2012

This longitudinal study examined how school belonging changes over the years of high school, and how it is associated with academic achievement and motivation. Students from Latin American, Asian, and European backgrounds participated (N = 572; age span = 13.94–19.15 years). In ninth grade, girls' school belonging was higher than boys'. Over the course of high school, however, girls' school belonging declined, whereas boys' remained stable. Within‐person longitudinal analyses indicated that years in which students had higher school belonging were also years in which they felt that school was more enjoyable and more useful, above and beyond their actual level of achievement. Results highlight the importance of belonging for maintaining students' academic engagement during the teenage years.
The Influence of the Type of Relationship on the Generation of Innovations in Buyer–Supplier Collaborations
Authors: Clauß Thomas
Published: September 2012

Recent research pointed at the potential of buyer–supplier collaborations for joint innovation generation. However, studies reveal mixed results. Since multiple contingency factors influence the results of cooperation, this study analyses different relationship patterns as a context for joint innovation generation and problem solving. A comprehensive model of buyer–supplier relationships is conceptualized drawing on social psychology literature. Based on a sample of 250 small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) from the German machinery construction sector, buyer–supplier relationships are empirically classified into four distinct types. These then are related to the innovation outcomes. The results indicate that a relational context fosters joint innovation generation and problem solving. Interestingly, a high degree of formalization, if it is legitimated, can also lead to innovation. Sporadic superficial interactions as well as interactions dominated by tension hinder joint innovation generation, though. The results help managers to consider the potential innovative outcomes when making decisions about supplier cooperation.
Evaluation of sexual function in patients presenting with Behçet’s disease with or without depression
Authors: Gül I.G. , Kartalcı Ş. , Cumurcu B.E. , Karıncaoğlu Y. , Yoloğlu S. , Karlıdağ R.
Published: September 2012

Aim  Sexual dysfunction has been found in many disorders that are chronic or disabling. The aim of this study was to evaluate the sexual satisfaction levels, sexual function and their relationship with the mental state in a group of patients being followed‐up with a diagnosis of Behçet’s disease (BD).

Method  A total of 50 BD patients and 50 control‐group subjects were administered the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS), Golombok Rust Sexual Satisfaction Scale (GRISS) and Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale (ASEX).

Results  The ASEX, GRISS total, HDRS and HARS scores were significantly higher in the patient group than the control subjects (P = 0.0001, P = 0.007, P = 0.0001, P = 0.0001 respectively). Sexual dissatisfaction was seen in 40 (80%) of the patient‐group and 16 (32%) of the control‐group subjects according to the GRISS (P = 0.0001). Female study participants had higher mean scores than the control subjects for the ASEX, GRISS total scores and the GRISS satisfaction, avoidance, vaginismus and orgasm subscale scores (P = 0.0001, P = 0.002, P = 0.02, P = 0.001, P = 0.006, P = 0.03 respectively). Male study participants had different mean scores for the controls regarding the ASEX scores and the GRISS impotence, premature ejaculation, satisfaction and frequency subscale scores (P = 0.01, P = 0.01, P = 0.0001, P = 0.03, P = 0.007 respectively).

Discussion  The negative effect of the disorder on the biological and functional status and daily living activities in BD patients also influences the patients’ sexual experiences and satisfaction. The negative effects of chronic diseases such as BD should therefore be defined and the disorder evaluated from a wide perspective during the treatment process.
Efficacy and safety of methantheline bromide (Vagantin®) in axillary and palmar hyperhidrosis: results from a multicenter, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Müller C. , Berensmeier A. , Hamm H. , Dirschka T. , Reich K. , Fischer T. , Rzany B.
Published: September 2012

Background  Focal hyperhidrosis can severely affect quality of life. So far, knowledge on the effect of systemic therapy of focal hyperhidrosis is limited.

Objective  To assess the efficacy and safety of methantheline bromide (MB) in the treatment of axillary and palmar‐axillary hyperhidrosis.

Methods  A multicenter controlled randomized double‐blind clinical trial was conducted in patients with axillary or palmar‐axillary hyperhidrosis defined by a sweat production >50 mg/5 min. Patients received 3 × 50 mg MB daily or placebo over a period of 28 ± 1 days. Main outcome criterion was the reduction of sweat as measured by gravimetry on day 28 ± 1. Quality of life was assessed by Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Score (HDSS).

Results  A total of 339 patients were randomly assigned to receive MB or placebo. On day 28 ± 1, the mean axillary sweat production was 99 mg for MB and 130 mg for placebo compared with 168 mg and 161 mg respectively at baseline (P = 0.004). Patient′s HDSS score decreased in the MB group from 3.2 to 2.4 compared with 3.2 to 2.7 for placebo (P = 0.002). Similar results could be obtained for the DLQI with 9.7 for MB and 12.2 for placebo, which decreased from 16.4 or 17 respectively (P = 0.003). Tolerability was good for both groups. The most frequent adverse event was dry mouth.

Conclusion  Fifty milligrams methantheline bromide three times a day is an effective and safe treatment of axillary hyperhidrosis.
Controlling access to oil roads protects forest cover, but not wildlife communities: a case study from the rainforest ofYasuníBiosphereReserve (Ecuador)
Authors: Suárez E. , Zapata‐Ríos G. , Utreras V. , Strindberg S. , Vargas J.
Published: September 2012

Through the analysis of a case study fromAmazonianEcuador, this paper evaluates the impacts of two oil‐road management approaches on the structure and composition of wildlife communities (large‐ or medium‐sized mammals and game bird species). In a free‐access road, where forest has been cleared and fragmented by colonists, fewer species were found, together with wildlife density estimates that were almost 80% lower than on a control site without human disturbance. In contrast, on the road where access control has been enforced, habitat destruction has been minimal, but several wildlife species showed reductions in their populations, apparently related to changes in the subsistence practices of localWaorani hunters that settled along the road after its construction. In this area, economic subsidies and free transportation from the oil companies, access to the road, more efficient hunting technologies, and market incentives have increased the impacts of hunting by theWaorani, resulting in depletion of the local wildlife populations. Our research suggests that construction of roads in oil extraction areas must be avoided if at all possible. The alternative management of controlling access can be effective for short‐term habitat protection, but not for wildlife conservation, especially when oil industry practices alter the social dynamics of local indigenous groups.
Combined Polymorphisms in Oxidative Stress Genes Predict Coronary Artery Disease and Oxidative Stress in Coronary Angiography Patients
Authors: Heslop Claire L. , Tebbutt Scott J. , Podder Mohua , Ruan Jian , Hill John S.
Published: September 2012

Oxidative stress has been implicated in all stages of atherosclerosis, but how inherited variations in oxidative stress genes influence the severity of cardiovascular disease is not known. We tested associations between polymorphisms in candidate oxidative stress genes, plasma oxidative stress biomarkers, and cardiovascular mortality in an angiography cohort.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across 15 genes were selected by linkage disequilibrium tagging. Genotyping was performed using customized arrayed primer extension micro‐arrays, with automated genotype calling methods. Effects of SNPs and haplotypes on plasma oxidative stress and coronary artery disease (CAD) were estimated using a stochastic estimation maximization algorithm. Proportionate hazards analyses were used to determine effects of single and combined genetic markers on cardiovascular mortality risk, and on the following oxidative stress biomarkers: myeloperoxidase (MPO), nitrotyrosine, oxidized low‐density lipoprotein, and antioxidant capacity.

Oxidative stress gene SNPs associated with CAD were combined into an oxidative stress risk allele score, which predicted disease presence (1.5‐fold risk increase per allele, P < 0.001). Combined risk alleles were also associated with elevated plasma MPO (P < 0.003), an oxidative stress biomarker that predicts cardiovascular mortality.

Genetic markers that represent lifetime oxidative stress burden may implicate specific oxidative stress pathways in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, and offer therapeutic opportunities.
Coexistence of plant and algal energy dissipation mechanisms in the moss Physcomitrella patens
Authors: Gerotto Caterina , Alboresi Alessandro , Giacometti Giorgio M. , Bassi Roberto , Morosinotto Tomas
Published: September 2012

Although light is the source of energy for photosynthetic organisms, it causes oxidative stress when in excess. Plants and algae prevent reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation by activation of nonphotochemical quenching (NPQ), which dissipates excess excitation energy as heat. Although NPQ is found in both algae and plants, these organisms rely on two different proteins for its activation, Light harvesting complex stress‐related (LHCSR) and Photosystem II subunit S (PSBS). In the moss Physcomitrella patens, both proteins are present and active.

Several P. patens lines depleted in or over‐expressing PSBS and/or LHCSR at various levels were generated by exploiting the ability of Physcomitrella to undergo homologous recombination.

The analysis of the transgenic lines showed that either protein is sufficient, alone, for NPQ activation independently of the other, supporting the idea that they rely on different activation mechanisms. Modulation of PSBS and/or LHCSR contents was found to be correlated with NPQ amplitude, indicating that plants and algae can directly modulate their ability to dissipate energy simply by altering the accumulation level of one or both of these proteins.

The availability of a large range of P. patens genotypes differing in PSBS and LHCSR content allowed comparison of their activation mechanisms and discussion of implications for the evolution of photoprotection during land colonization.
Cream cheese as a symbiotic food carrier using Bifidobacterium animalis Bb‐12 and Lactobacillus acidophilus La‐5 and inulin
Authors: Alves Larissa L , Richards Neila S P S , Mattanna Paula , Andrade Diego F , S Rezer Adriano P , Milani Liana I G , Cruz Adriano G , Faria José A F
Published: September 2012

The stability of cream cheeses as a symbiotic food carrier, through supplementation with different concentrations of probiotic bacteria Bifidobacterium animalis Bb‐12 and Lactobacillus acidophilus La‐5 and the prebiotic ingredient inulin was investigated. Physicochemical parameters, pH values, total solids, fat and protein levels and the viable counts of the starter lactic culture Streptococcus thermophilus and probiotic cultures, were carried out at 1, 15, 30 and 45 days of refrigerated storage (8 ± 0.5 °C). Different physicochemical characteristics were observed in all formulations. S. thermophilus showed good viability in all the trials (6.66–9.38 log cfu/g), whereas B. animalis remained above 6 log cfu/g in all the trials during the period evaluated. However, L. acidophilus showed an accentuated decline, registering values of 3.1 log cfu/g at the end of the period studied. The results suggested that cream cheese was an adequate food matrix for supplementation with probiotic bacteria, in particular B. animalis, and the prebiotic ingredient, showing potential as a symbiotic food.
Children's attitudes towards ADHD, depression and learning disabilities
Authors: Bellanca Faye Francesca , Pote Helen
Published: September 2012

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression and general learning disabilities (LD) are common difficulties for British primary school children. It has been found that characteristics associated with these difficulties can result in negative attitudes and stigma from other children, causing problems with peer relationships. Furthermore, problematic peer relations can intensify the difficulties associated with these disorders.

Packages such as ‘Tackling Stigma: A Practical Toolkit’ aim to combat stigma in schools. However, these packages have not been based on evidence regarding children's attitudes towards different disorders. This study aims to explore children's attitudes towards ADHD, depression and LD from a conative (measure of social distance) and cognitive (measure of positive or negative attributes ascribed to a person) perspective.

Participants were 273 children (M= 9.2 years). Vignettes were used to describe a child with ADHD, depression, or LD or a ‘normal’ child. The Shared Activities Questionnaire was utilised to assess conative attitudes, and the Adjective Checklist was utilised to assess cognitive attitudes.

Results showed that children generally displayed more negative attitudes to vignettes describing mental health difficulties (MHD) (ADHD and depression) than LD. Children had more negative attitudes towards the ADHD (externalising disorder) vignette than the depression vignette (internalising disorder). Younger children had more positive conative attitudes than older children. Those who had previous contact with children with ADHD, depression and LD had more positive attitudes.

These findings can enhance current stigma reduction interventions through contributing a deeper understanding of children's attitudes towards the most common MHD and LD in childhood.
Nursing power as viewed by nursing professionals
Authors: Katriina Peltomaa , Sari Viinikainen , Anja Rantanen , Christina Sieloff , Paula Asikainen , Tarja Suominen
Published: September 2012

Background:  The concept of nursing power has not been extensively reported in the nursing literature. Power is an extremely abstract concept, making it difficult to define and study. However, when defined as the capacity to achieve goals, power becomes a significant resource in nursing.

Aims:  The aim of this study was to describe how nursing professionals perceive the level of nursing group power in public healthcare organizations. Additionally, the connections between the background variables and nursing group power were analysed.

Methods:  The participants in the study consisted of 289 Finnish nurses working in the specialist healthcare sector in Finland. The Sieloff‐King Assessment of Group Outcome Attainment within Organizations© (SKAGOAO) instrument was utilized to assess the level of nursing group power within the selected organizations.

Findings:  According to the present study, nursing professionals rated the outcome attainment (mean, 1.93), as well as goals/outcome competency (mean, 2.24), as very good. The position of nursing (mean, 2.55) as part of the healthcare service system was considered fairly respected. The role of nursing (mean, 2.54) was also considered to be at a good level. As regards to the actualization of power or outcome attainment capacity, respondents gave the lowest ratings to controlling the effects of environmental forces (mean, 2.75), resources (mean, 3.48), communication competency (mean, 3.00) and group supervisor’s outcome attainment competency (mean, 2.87). Age, education, type of employment and work experience had an impact on how nursing group power was perceived.

Conclusions:  The results of the present study indicated that the nurses perceived the lowest levels of group power in relation to the subscales of controlling the effects of environmental forces, resources, communication competency and group supervisor’s outcome attainment competency.
Being perceived as a ‘visitor’ in the nursing staff's working arena – the involvement of relatives in daily caring activities in nursing homes in an urban community in Sweden
Authors: Holmgren Jessica , Emami Azita , Eriksson Lars E. , Eriksson Henrik
Published: September 2012

Background

It is both complex and difficult for relatives when a loved one moves into a nursing home and many relatives are not prepared for the realities these new situations entail. Little attention has been paid to scrutinising the involvement of relatives in patient care, particularly in relation to the structures and routines of nursing homes or to the staff's reasoning concerning their involvement.

Aim

To describe, from a gender perspective, how nursing staff's routines and reasoning act to condition the involvement of relatives in nursing homes.

Methods

Focused ethnographic fieldwork was conducted in a medium‐sized urban community in central Sweden in three different nursing homes.

Results

The nursing staff assigns a certain code of conduct to all relatives they perceived as ‘visitors’ in their working arena. This code of conduct was related to the routines and subcultures existing among the nursing staff and stemmed from a division of labour; the underlying concept of ‘visitor’ predetermined the potential for relatives' involvement. This involvement is explicitly related to the general gendered characteristics that exist in the nursing staff's perception of the relatives.

Discussion

The study's limitations are primarily concerned with shortcomings associated with a research presence during the fieldwork. The discussion focuses on the dimensions of power structures observed in the nursing home routines and the staff's reasoning based on their gendered assumptions. We argue that it is important to develop mechanisms that provide opportunities for nursing staff in elderly care to reflect on these structures without downplaying the excellent care they provide. We stress the importance of further exploring these issues concerning relatives and their involvement in nursing homes to facilitate the transition from informal caregiver to ‘visitor’.
The usable leftover one‐dimensional cutting stock problem—a priority‐in‐use heuristic
Authors: Cherri Adriana Cristina , Arenales Marcos Nereu , Yanasse Horacio Hideki
Published: September 2012

We consider a one‐dimensional cutting stock problem in which the material not used in the cutting patterns, if large enough, is kept for use in the future. Moreover, it is assumed that leftovers should not remain in stock for a long time, hence, such leftovers have priority‐in‐use compared to standard objects (objects bought by the industry) in stock. A heuristic procedure is proposed for this problem, and its performance is analyzed by solving randomly generated dynamic instances where successive problems are solved in a time horizon. For each period, new demands arise and a new problem is solved on the basis of the information about the stock of the previous periods (remaining standard objects in the stock) and usable leftovers generated during those previous periods. The computational experiments show that the solutions presented by the proposed heuristic are better than the solutions obtained by other heuristics from the literature.
CHALLENGES IN THE ANALYSIS OF HETEROGENEOUS POTTERY BYLA–ICP–MS: A COMPARISON WITH INAA*
Authors: WALLIS N. J. , KAMENOV G. D.
Published: September 2012

Tempers added to pottery have the potential to obscure geographical variation in the chemistry of exploited clay resources when analysed using bulk methods. A pilot study was conducted to assess the possibility of usingLA–ICP–MSto analyse clay matrix in pottery with extremely subtle partitions between INAA chemical groups.LA–ICP–MSwas used to analyse the clay matrix of 32 pottery samples from seven Middle and Late Woodland period (c.ad200–800) sites in north‐east Florida and results were compared to data from INAA of the same samples. The results reveal many of the challenges in analysing highly heterogeneous materials withLA–ICP–MS. However, the study also generated data that are potentially useful in the determination of pottery provenance. In some respects,LA–ICP–MSof clay matrix replicated the chemical variation recorded by INAA, and in other respects the results are divergent. The similarities and differences between these results are explained by specific differences between the methods and the materials analysed (matrix versus bulk analysis). Suggestions for improving the method are discussed.
‘Refugee’ or ‘returnee’? The ethnic geopolitics of diasporic resettlement in China and intergenerational change
Authors: Ho Elaine Lynn‐Ee
Published: September 2012

The interrelationship between forced migration, return migration and ethnicity remains relatively unexplored in current scholarship. By using the case of China’s resettlement policy towards diasporic Chinese descendants expelled from Southeast Asia during 1949–1979 and examining their contemporary situation, this paper highlights the way scholarship on forced migration and ethnically privileged (return) migration can mutually enrich one another. The paper, first, examines the geopolitical context of Chinese forced migration and the premises of China’s preferential policy towards co‐ethnics, which labelled the ‘refugees’ as ‘returnees’ intentionally. It argues that metaphors of extraterritorial ethnic kinship and ‘return’ are used to justify ethnic privilege but the co‐ethnics experienced socio‐spatial exclusion in China because of their cultural distinctiveness. Second, the paper explores the impact of the post‐1980s reforms on the rural overseas Chinese farms in which the co‐ethnics were resettled. This discussion suggests that the rescaling of governance brought about policies that capitalise upon their distinctive Southeast Asian identities to reinvent the farms as economic zones and tourism sites. The sustainability of this economic strategy is, however, questioned in the third part of the paper, which considers intergenerational change now happening on the farms. It argues that international migration histories are transitioning to new internal migration flows. Such migration succession trends may transform the ethnically privileged status of the farms and their inhabitants. The qualitative findings in this paper direct broader inquiry into the complex ethnic geopolitics underpinning mobilisations of diasporic belonging and also the implications of intergenerational change.
Mitochondria in traumatic brain injury and mitochondrial‐targeted multipotential therapeutic strategies
Authors: Cheng Gang , Kong Rong‐hua , Zhang Lei‐ming , Zhang Jian‐ning
Published: September 2012

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major health and socioeconomic problem throughout the world. It is a complicated pathological process that consists of primary insults and a secondary insult characterized by a set of biochemical cascades. The imbalance between a higher energy demand for repair of cell damage and decreased energy production led by mitochondrial dysfunction aggravates cell damage. At the cellular level, the main cause of the secondary deleterious cascades is cell damage that is centred in the mitochondria. Excitotoxicity, Ca2+ overload, reactive oxygen species (ROS), Bcl‐2 family, caspases and apoptosis inducing factor (AIF) are the main participants in mitochondria‐centred cell damage following TBI. Some preclinical and clinical results of mitochondria‐targeted therapy show promise. Mitochondria‐ targeted multipotential therapeutic strategies offer new hope for the successful treatment of TBI and other acute brain injuries.
In vivo pharmacological interactions between a type II positive allosteric modulator of α7 nicotinic ACh receptors and nicotinic agonists in a murine tonic pain model
Authors: Freitas K , Negus SS , Carroll FI , Damaj MI
Published: September 2012

Background and Purpose

The α7 nicotinic ACh receptor subtype is abundantly expressed in the CNS and in the periphery. Recent evidence suggests that α7 nicotinic ACh receptor (nAChR) subtypes, which can be activated by an endogenous cholinergic tone comprising ACh and the α7 agonist choline, play an important role in chronic pain and inflammation. In this study, we evaluated whether type II α7 positive allosteric modulator PNU‐120596 induces antinociception on its own and in combination with choline in the formalin pain model.

Experimental Approach

We assessed the effects of PNU‐120596 and choline and the nature of their interactions in the formalin test using an isobolographic analysis. In addition, we evaluated the interaction of PNU‐120596 with PHA‐54613, an exogenous selective α7 nAChR agonist, in the formalin test. Finally, we assessed the interaction between PNU‐120596 and nicotine using acute thermal pain, locomotor activity, body temperature and convulsing activity tests in mice.

Key Results

We found that PNU‐120596 dose‐dependently attenuated nociceptive behaviour in the formalin test after systemic administration in mice. In addition, mixtures of PNU‐120596 and choline synergistically reduced formalin‐induced pain. PNU‐120596 enhanced the effects of nicotine and α7 agonist PHA‐543613 in the same test. In contrast, PNU‐120596 failed to enhance nicotine‐induced convulsions, hypomotility and antinociception in acute pain models. Surprisingly, it enhanced nicotine‐induced hypothermia via activation of α7 nAChRs.

Conclusions and Implications

Our results demonstrate that type II α7 positive allosteric modulators produce antinociceptive effects in the formalin test through a synergistic interaction with the endogenous α7 agonist choline.
Silibinin inhibits VEGF secretion and age‐related macular degeneration in a hypoxia‐dependent manner through the PI‐3 kinase/Akt/mTOR pathway
Authors: Lin CH , Li CH , Liao PL , Tse LS , Huang WK , Cheng HW , Cheng YW
Published: September 2012

Background and Purpose

Hypoxia‐mediated neovascularization plays an important role in age‐related macular degeneration (AMD). There are few animal models or effective treatments for AMD. Here, we investigated the effects of the flavonoid silibinin on hypoxia‐induced angiogenesis in a rat AMD model.

Experimental Approach

Retinal pigmented epithelial (RPE) cells were subjected to hypoxia in vitro and the effects of silibinin on activation of key hypoxia‐induced pathways were examined by elucidating the hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1 alpha (HIF‐1α) protein level by Western blot. A rat model of AMD was developed by intravitreal injection of VEGF in Brown Norway rats, with or without concomitant exposure of animals to hypoxia. Animals were treated with oral silibinin starting at day 7 post‐VEGF injection and AMD changes were followed by fluorescein angiography on days 14 and 28 post‐injection.

Key Results

Silibinin pretreatment of RPE cells increased proline hydroxylase‐2 expression, inhibited HIF‐1α subunit accumulation, and inhibited VEGF secretion. Silibinin‐induced HIF‐1α and VEGF down‐regulation required suppression of hypoxia‐induced phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. In the rat model of AMD, silibinin administration prevented VEGF‐ and VEGF plus hypoxia‐induced retinal oedema and neovascularization.

Conclusion and Implications

The effects of silibinin, both in vitro and in vivo, support its potential as a therapeutic for the prevention of neovascular AMD.
Effects of Weighting Schemes on the Identification of Wildlife Corridors Generated with Least‐Cost Methods
Authors: PARKS SEAN A. , MCKELVEY KEVIN S. , SCHWARTZ MICHAEL K.
Published: September 2012

The importance of movement corridors for maintaining connectivity within metapopulations of wild animals is a cornerstone of conservation. One common approach for determining corridor locations is least‐cost corridor (LCC) modeling, which uses algorithms within a geographic information system to search for routes with the lowest cumulative resistance between target locations on a landscape. However, the presentation of multiple LCCs that connect multiple locations generally assumes all corridors contribute equally to connectivity, regardless of the likelihood that animals will use them. Thus, LCCs may overemphasize seldom‐used longer routes and underemphasize more frequently used shorter routes. We hypothesize that, depending on conservation objectives and available biological information, weighting individual corridors on the basis of species‐specific movement, dispersal, or gene flow data may better identify effective corridors. We tested whether locations of key connectivity areas, defined as the highest 75th and 90th percentile cumulative weighted value of approximately 155,000 corridors, shift under different weighting scenarios. In addition, we quantified the amount and location of private land that intersect key connectivity areas under each weighting scheme. Some areas that appeared well connected when analyzed with unweighted corridors exhibited much less connectivity compared with weighting schemes that discount corridors with large effective distances. Furthermore, the amount and location of key connectivity areas that intersected private land varied among weighting schemes. We believe biological assumptions and conservation objectives should be explicitly incorporated to weight corridors when assessing landscape connectivity. These results are highly relevant to conservation planning because on the basis of recent interest by government agencies and nongovernmental organizations in maintaining and enhancing wildlife corridors, connectivity will likely be an important criterion for prioritization of land purchases and swaps.

Efectos de los Esquemas de Ponderación sobre la Identificación de Corredores para Vida Silvestre Generados con Métodos Menos Costosos