bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intrapatient Comparison of 308-nm Monochromatic Excimer Light and Localized Narrow-Band UVB Phototherapy in the Treatment of Vitiligo: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Verhaeghe E. , Lodewick E. , van Geel N. , Lambert J.
Published: January 2012

Background: Limited data are available about the use of 308-nm monochromatic excimer light (MEL) and localized 311-nm narrow-band ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) in the treatment of vitiligo. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of 308-nm MEL versus localized 311-nm NB-UVB in vitiligo patients. Methods: Eleven patients participated in this prospective intrapatient placebo-controlled randomized trial. In each patient, 3 lesions were selected and treated with NB-UVB, MEL and placebo during 24 sessions, respectively. Repigmentation was evaluated clinically and by objective surface measurement. Results: Twenty percent of the lesions treated with NB-UVB achieved repigmentation scores above 50%. None of the lesions treated with MEL achieved a repigmentation higher than 50% after 24 sessions. Conclusion: Localized 311-nm NB-UVB is effective in the treatment of vitiligo. It should be considered for localized vitiligo as it is easily accessible. In this study the efficacy of localized 311-nm NB-UVB was superior to 308-nm MEL.
Evidence-Based Guideline of the German Nutrition Society: Carbohydrate Intake and Prevention of Nutrition-Related Diseases
Authors: Hauner Hans , Bechthold Angela , Boeing Heiner , Brönstrup Anja , Buyken Anette , Leschik-Bonnet Eva , Linseisen Jakob , Schulze Matthias , Strohm Daniela , Wolfram Günther
Published: January 2012

The relative contribution of nutrition-related chronic diseases to the total disease burden of the society and the health care costs has risen continuously over the last decades. Thus, there is an urgent necessity to better exploit the potential of dietary prevention of diseases. Carbohydrates play a major role in human nutrition – next to fat, carbohydrates are the second biggest group of energy-yielding nutrients. Obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipoproteinaemia, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, coronary heart disease and cancer are wide-spread diseases, in which carbohydrates could have a pathophysiologic relevance. Correspondingly, modification of carbohydrate intake could have a preventive potential. In the present evidence-based guideline of the German Nutrition Society, the potential role of carbohydrates in the primary prevention of the named diseases was judged systematically. The major findings were: a high carbohydrate intake at the expense of total fat and saturated fatty acids reduces the concentrations of total, LDL and HDL cholesterol. A high carbohydrate consumption at the expense of polyunsaturated fatty acids increases total and LDL cholesterol, but reduces HDL cholesterol. Regardless of the type of fat being replaced, a high carbohydrate intake promotes an increase in the triglyceride concentration. Furthermore, a high consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages increases the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus, whereas a high dietary fibre intake, mainly from whole-grain products, reduces the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipoproteinaemia, cardiovascular disease and colorectal cancer at varying evidence levels. The practical consequences for current dietary recommendations are presented.
Efficacy and Cost of an Exercise Program for Functionally Impaired Older Patients With Heart Failure
Authors: Witham Miles D. , Fulton Roberta L. , Greig Carol A. , Johnston Derek W. , Lang Chim C. , van der Pol Marjon , Boyers Dwayne , Struthers Allan D. , McMurdo Marion E.T.
Published: January 2012

Background—

Little is known about the optimum way to deliver exercise to older, functionally impaired patients with heart failure. We tested whether an exercise program tailored to the needs of these patients could improve exercise capacity and quality of life or reduce costs to the National Health Service.

Methods and Results—

The study design was a parallel-group, single-blind, randomized controlled trial. Patients aged ≥70 years with symptomatic heart failure and left ventricular systolic dysfunction were randomized to either 24 weeks of exercise training or usual care. Six-minute walk distance was the primary outcome; markers of physical function, quality of life, health status, and daily activity were measured at baseline and 8 and 24 weeks. Carer strain and healthcare costs were also recorded. A total of 107 participants were randomized (mean age, 80 years; men, 72 [67%]). Six-minute walk distance did not improve compared to that of the control group at 8 weeks (−16.9 m; 95% CI, −41.8 to 7.9 m;
P
=0.18) or at 24 weeks (−5.3 m; 95% CI, −32.6 to 22.0 m;
P
=0.70). For secondary outcomes, only the sit-to-stand test improved significantly at 24 weeks (−6.4 s; 95% CI, −12.2 to 0.6 s;
P
=0.03); there was no difference in change for the Minnesota Living With Heart Failure score (0.1 points; 95% CI, −0.9 to 1.1 points;
P
=0.83) at 24 weeks. Carer strain did not decrease at 24 weeks (difference, −0.5 points; 95% CI, −8.3 to 7.3 points;
P
=0.80), and there was no difference in overall healthcare costs.

Conclusions—

This exercise intervention did not improve exercise capacity or quality of life in older patients with heart failure and was not cost saving to the National Health Service.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.controlled-trials.com
. Unique identifier: ISRCTN51615566.
Classification of Heart Failure in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study
Authors: Rosamond Wayne D , Chang Patricia P. , Baggett Chris , Johnson Anna , Bertoni Alain G. , Shahar Eyal , Deswal Anita , Heiss Gerardo , Chambless Lloyd E.
Published: January 2012

Background—

Population-based research on heart failure (HF) is hindered by lack of consensus on diagnostic criteria. Framingham (FRM), National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), Modified Boston (MBS), Gothenburg (GTH), and International Classification of Disease, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) code criteria, do not differentiate acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) from chronic stable HF. We developed a new classification protocol for identifying ADHF in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study and compared it with these other schemes.

Methods and Results—

A sample of 1180 hospitalizations with a patient address in 4 study communities and eligible discharge codes were selected. After assessing whether the chart contained evidence of possible HF signs, 705 were fully abstracted. Two independent reviewers classified each case as ADHF, chronic stable HF, or no HF, using ARIC classification guidelines. Fifty-nine percent of cases met ARIC criteria for ADHF and 13.9% and 27.1% were classified as chronic stable HF or no HF, respectively. Among events classified as HF by FRM criteria, 68.4% were validated as ADHF, 9.6% as chronic stable HF, and 21.9% as no HF. However, 92.5% of hospitalizations with a primary ICD-9-CM 428 “heart failure” code were validated as ADHF. Sensitivities of comparison criteria to classify ADHF ranged from 38–95%, positive predictive values from 62–92%, and specificities from 19–96%.

Conclusions—

Although comparison criteria for classifying HF were moderately sensitive in identifying ADHF, specificity varied when applied to a randomly selected set of suspected HF hospitalizations in the community.
Ambient Particulate Matter and the Response to Orthostatic Challenge in the Elderly
Authors: Wellenius Gregory A. , Wilhelm-Benartzi Charlotte S. , Wilker Elissa H. , Coull Brent A. , Suh Helen H. , Koutrakis Petros , Lipsitz Lewis A.
Published: January 2012

Short-term elevations in ambient fine particulate matter (PM
2.5
) may increase resting systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressures, but whether PM
2.5
alters hemodynamic responses to orthostatic challenge has not been studied in detail. We repeatedly measured SBP and DBP during supine rest and 1 and 3 minutes after standing among 747 elderly (aged 78.3±5.3 years, mean±SD) participants from a prospective cohort study. We used linear mixed models to assess the association between change in SBP (ΔSBP=standing SBP−supine SBP) and DBP (ΔDBP) on standing and mean PM
2.5
levels over the preceding 1 to 28 days, adjusting for meteorologic covariates, temporal trends, and medical history. We observed a 1.4-mm Hg (95% CI: 0.0–2.8 mm Hg;
P
=0.046) higher ΔSBP and a 0.7-mm Hg (95% CI: 0.0–1.4 mm Hg;
P
=0.053) higher ΔDBP at 1 minute of standing per interquartile range increase (3.8 μg/m
3
) in mean PM
2.5
levels in the past 7 days. ΔSBP and ΔDBP measured 3 minutes after standing were not associated with PM
2.5
. Resting DBP (but not SBP or pulse pressure) was positively associated with PM
2.5
at longer averaging periods. Responses were more strongly associated with black carbon than sulfate levels. These associations did not differ significantly according to hypertension status, obesity, diabetes mellitus, or sex. These results suggest that ambient particles can increase resting DBP and exaggerate blood pressure responses to postural changes in elderly people. Increased vasoreactivity during posture change may be responsible, in part, for the adverse effect of ambient particles on cardiovascular health.
High Dietary Salt and Angiotensin II Chronically Increase Renal Sympathetic Nerve Activity
Authors: Guild Sarah-Jane , McBryde Fiona D. , Malpas Simon C. , Barrett Carolyn J.
Published: January 2012

Overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system has long been implicated in the hypertensive response to elevated angiotensin II (Ang II) levels. Although recent studies suggest that high dietary salt may alter cardiovascular responses to Ang II, direct evidence demonstrating chronic activation of sympathetic nerve activity is lacking. The objective of this study was to determine whether a low dose of Ang II, on a background of high salt intake, would result in a chronic increase in renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA). Arterial pressure and RSNA were recorded via telemetry. Two groups of rabbits were studied: 1 group drank a 0.9% NaCl solution and received Ang II (20 ng/kg per minute for 21 days, Salt+Ang), and the other drank tap water throughout and was not infused with Ang II (Control). In the Salt+Ang group, mean arterial pressure increased over the first week and remain elevated by 18.5±4.1 mm Hg at day 21. RSNA was not significantly different between groups on day 7 but was significantly elevated in the Salt+Ang group on day 21 (13.5±3.2% compared with 6.8±0.8% in the Control group;
P
<0.05). Baroreflex control of RSNA showed a rightward shift on day 21, but not day 7, and baroreflex responses indicated that RSNA could not be completely suppressed when arterial pressure was increased. No changes were observed in either mean arterial pressure or RSNA variables in the Control group. Our results support the hypothesis that elevated Ang II levels, in conjunction with a high salt diet, have the ability to chronically increase RSNA and, thus, potentially contribute to the maintenance of hypertension.
Effects of Estrogen on Cardiovascular Injury in Ovariectomized Female DahlS.Z-

Lepr
fa
/Lepr
fa

Rats as a New Animal Model of Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Murase Tamayo , Hattori Takuya , Ohtake Masafumi , Nakashima Chieko , Takatsu Miwa , Murohara Toyoaki , Nagata Kohzo
Published: January 2012

Although recent clinical trials have found an increased incidence of cardiovascular disease in women on estrogen replacement therapy, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. We have recently characterized DahlS.Z-

Lepr
fa
/Lepr
fa

(DS/obese) rats, derived from a cross between Dahl salt-sensitive and Zucker rats, as a new animal model of metabolic syndrome. We have now examined the effects of estrogen replacement on cardiac pathophysiology in ovariectomized female DS/obese (Ovx-DS/obese) rats. Animals subjected to ovariectomy at 7 weeks of age were implanted subcutaneously with a 60-day release pellet containing 0.5 mg of 17β-estradiol (E
2
) or placebo at 8 weeks. Age-matched female homozygous lean littermates (DahlS.Z-

Lepr
+
/Lepr
+

or DS/lean rats) of DS/obese rats served as controls. Animals were maintained on a normal diet and were subjected to echocardiography followed by various pathological analyses at 13 weeks of age. Ovx-DS/obese rats manifested hypertension at 7 weeks of age and thereafter and showed left ventricular (LV) fibrosis and diastolic dysfunction at 13 weeks. Treatment with E
2
attenuated hypertension in Ovx-DS/obese rats but had no effect on blood pressure in ovariectomized female DS/lean (Ovx-DS/lean) rats. E
2
treatment exacerbated LV fibrosis and diastolic dysfunction, as well as further increased cardiac oxidative stress and inflammation in Ovx-DS/obese rats, and it elicited similar effects in Ovx-DS/lean rats. E
2
reduced food intake, body weight, and visceral fat content in both Ovx-DS/obese and Ovx-DS/lean rats. E
2
treatment attenuated hypertension and obesity but exacerbated LV fibrosis and diastolic dysfunction in Ovx-DS/obese rats, with these latter effects being associated with increased cardiac oxidative stress and inflammation.
Prevalence, Clinical, and Molecular Correlates of
KCNJ5
Mutations in Primary Aldosteronism
Authors: Boulkroun Sheerazed , Beuschlein Felix , Rossi Gian-Paolo , Golib-Dzib José-Felipe , Fischer Evelyn , Amar Laurence , Mulatero Paolo , Samson-Couterie Benoit , Hahner Stefanie , Quinkler Marcus , Fallo Francesco , Letizia Claudio , Allolio Bruno , Ceolotto Giulio , Cicala Maria Verena , Lang Katharina , Lefebvre Hervé , Lenzini Livia , Maniero Carmela , Monticone Silvia , Perrocheau Maelle , Pilon Catia , Plouin Pierre-François , Rayes Nada , Seccia Teresa M. , Veglio Franco , Williams Tracy Ann , Zinnamosca Laura , Mantero Franco , Benecke Arndt , Jeunemaitre Xavier , Reincke Martin , Zennaro Maria-Christina
Published: January 2012

Primary aldosteronism is the most common form of secondary hypertension. Mutations in the
KCNJ5
gene have been described recently in aldosterone-producing adenomas (APAs). The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of
KCNJ5
mutations in unselected patients with primary aldosteronism and their clinical, biological and molecular correlates.
KCNJ5
sequencing was performed on somatic (APA, n=380) and peripheral (APA, n=344; bilateral adrenal hyperplasia, n=174) DNA of patients with primary aldosteronism, collected through the European Network for the Study of Adrenal Tumors. Transcriptome analysis was performed in 102 tumors. Somatic
KCNJ5
mutations (p.Gly151Arg or p.Leu168Arg) were found in 34% (129 of 380) of APA. They were significantly more prevalent in females (49%) than males (19%;
P
<10
−3
) and in younger patients (42.1±1.0 versus 47.6±0.7 years;
P
<10
−3
) and were associated with higher preoperative aldosterone levels (455±26 versus 376±17 ng/L;
P
=0.012) but not with therapeutic outcome after surgery. Germline
KCNJ5
mutations were found neither in patients with APA nor those with bilateral adrenal hyperplasia. Somatic
KCNJ5
mutations were specific for APA, because they were not identified in 25 peritumoral adrenal tissues or 16 cortisol-producing adenomas. Hierarchical clustering of transcriptome profiles showed that APAs with p.Gly151Arg or p.Leu168Arg mutations were indistinguishable from tumors without
KCNJ5
mutations. In conclusion, although a large proportion of sporadic APAs harbors somatic
KCNJ5
mutations, germline mutations are not similarly causative for bilateral adrenal hyperplasia.
KCNJ5
mutation carriers are more likely to be females; younger age and higher aldosterone levels at diagnosis suggest that
KCNJ5
mutations may be associated with a more florid phenotype of primary aldosteronism.
Neovascularization Is Attenuated With Aldosterone Synthase Inhibition in Rats With Retinopathy
Authors: Deliyanti Devy , Miller Antonia G. , Tan Genevieve , Binger Katrina J. , Samson Andre L. , Wilkinson-Berka Jennifer L.
Published: January 2012

Neovascularization is a hallmark feature of retinopathy of prematurity and diabetic retinopathy. Type 1 angiotensin receptor blockade reduces neovascularization in experimental retinopathy of prematurity, known as oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). We investigated in OIR whether inhibiting aldosterone with the aldosterone synthase inhibitor FAD286 reduced neovascularization as effectively as angiotensin receptor blockade (valsartan). OIR was induced in neonatal Sprague-Dawley rats, and they were treated with FAD286 (30 mg/kg per day), valsartan (10 mg/kg per day), or FAD286+valsartan. The cellular sources of aldosterone synthase, the mineralocorticoid receptor, and 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2 were evaluated in retinal cells involved in neovascularization (primary endothelial cells, pericytes, microglia, ganglion cells, and glia). In OIR, FAD286 reduced neovascularization and neovascular tufts by 89% and 67%, respectively, and normalized the increase in vascular endothelial growth factor mRNA (1.74-fold) and protein (4.74-fold) and was as effective as valsartan and FAD286+valsartan. In retina, aldosterone synthase mRNA was reduced with FAD286 but not valsartan. Aldosterone synthase was detected in microglia, ganglion cells, and glia, whereas mineralocorticoid receptor and 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2 were present in all of the cell types studied. Given the location of aldosterone synthase in microglia and their contribution to retinal inflammation and neovascularization in OIR, the effects of FAD286 on microglial density were studied. The increase in microglial density (ionized calcium binding adaptor protein 1 immunolabeling) in OIR was reduced with all of the treatments. In OIR, FAD286 reduced the increase in mRNA for tumor necrosis factor-α, intercellular adhesion molecule 1, vascular cell adhesion molecule 1, and monocyte chemoattractant molecule 1. These findings indicate that aldosterone inhibition may be a potential treatment for retinal neovascularization.
The 2008 Global Crisis and the East Asian Developmental States Shifts of Export-Driven Strategies
Authors: Petropoulos Sotiris
Published: January 2012

The 2008 crisis affected all regions across the globe. East Asia appeared one of the regions best positioned to overcome its impact because of the resilience of strong developmental states. The crisis has raised the question of whether the East Asian economic growth model is too dependent on high export performance. The sharp decline of private consumption in the OECD economies in 2008–2009 has affected continued economic success in East Asia. Now the challenge for East Asian developmental states is to search for a new economic strategy moving away from extreme dependence on exports.This imperative was first acknowledged by China, which has initiated an ambitious support package to stimulate domestic demand and private consumption, relying less exclusively on global foreign markets. Thus China has provided new and more accessible markets to its ASEAN neighbours, with the potential to substitute declining import capacity in Europe, Japan and the USA.A structural consequence of the global crisis indicates an acceleration in the rise of East Asia's economic integration. However, this new facilitation of export benefits for the ASEAN countries may delay or hinder long-term needed reforms to raise domestic living standards and wealth redistribution across Southeast Asia.
Industrialization of Seed Production: Implications for Agriculture in India
Authors: Mallick Sambit , Ejnavarzala Haribabu , Reddy B. Bhoopathi
Published: January 2012

Abstract

From the sociology of science perspective, this paper attempts to trace the shifts in the knowledge and its application in the context of seed production—the central input in agriculture. The paper argues that the seed production, which was once in the hands of farming communities, has become industrialized with the advent of hybrid seeds. The hybrid seed production, based on phenotypic knowledge of the plants, marks the first phase of the industrialization of seed and the genetically modified seed, based on genotypic knowledge of the plants, marks the beginning of another phase in the industrialization of seed production. This paper draws attention to controversies over genetically modified seed based on economic, social, environmental considerations. This paper also discusses the implications of these developments and the changes in the institutional arrangements that govern the production and use of the seed, as these developments have profound implications for Indian agriculture and agrarian relations.
Obesity in Europe: The Strategy of the European Union from a Public Health Law Perspective
Authors: Faeh Andrea
Published: January 2012

Abstract

In 2007 the European Commission published a White Paper on a “Strategy on nutrition, overweight and obesity”, proposing measures to impede the current trend towards a steady gain in weight by Union citizens. In this article, these ideas are discussed critically in the light of the competences of the Union and from a public health law perspective, in order to scrutinise the effectiveness of the measures and to identify shortcomings in the White Paper. One focus of this article will be European food legislation, as food is one of the leading causes of people being overweight or obese.
Surrogate Decision-making for Incompetent Elderly Patients: The Role of Informal Representatives
Authors: Gevers Sjef , Dute Joseph , Nys Herman
Published: January 2012

Abstract

Informal or unofficial representation refers to the practice (more common in some European jurisdictions than in others), that persons not designed by a court or by the patient himself, make medical decisions on the patient’s behalf in case of their incompetence. If the law provides for this, it is usually next of kin (spouse, children, brothers and sisters, etc.) who are allowed to act in such a capacity. Informal representation raises several questions. Are family members always familiar with what their relative would have wished, ready to take responsibility, and not too much reigned by their emotions? The basic legal concern is whether there are sufficient procedural and other safeguards to protect the incompetent patient from representatives who do not serve their best interests. In addressing these issues, after a brief survey of the law in the Netherlands as compared with that in Belgium, Germany and England/Wales, we will argue that informal representation as such is not at variance with international and European standards. However, an ‘informal’ approach to surrogate decision-making should always go together with sufficient protection of the incompetent patient, including procedural safeguards with regard to the decision that the patient is incompetent, limits to the decision-making power of informal representatives and effective forms of conflict resolution.
Ensemble Kalman Filter Analyses of the 29–30 May 2004 Oklahoma Tornadic Thunderstorm Using One- and Two-Moment Bulk Microphysics Schemes, with Verification against Polarimetric Radar Data
Authors: Jung Youngsun , Xue Ming , Tong Mingjing
Published: January 2012

The performance of ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) analysis is investigated for the tornadic supercell on 29–30 May 2004 in Oklahoma using a dual-moment (DM) bulk microphysics scheme in the Advanced Regional Prediction System (ARPS) model. The comparison of results using single-moment (SM) and DM microphysics schemes evaluates the benefits of using one over the other during storm analysis. Observations from a single operational Weather Surveillance Radar-1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) are assimilated and a polarimetric WSR-88D in Norman, Oklahoma (KOUN), is used to assess the quality of the analysis.

Analyzed reflectivity and radial velocity in the SM and DM experiments compare favorably with independent radar observations in general. However, simulated polarimetric signatures obtained from analyses using a DM scheme agree significantly better with polarimetric signatures observed by KOUN in terms of the general structure, location, and intensity of the signatures than those generated from analyses using an SM scheme.

These results demonstrate for the first time for a real supercell storm that EnKF data assimilation using a numerical model with an adequate microphysics scheme (i.e., a scheme that predicts at least two moments of the hydrometeor size distributions) is capable of producing polarimetric radar signatures similar to those seen in observations without directly assimilating polarimetric data. In such cases, the polarimetric data also serve as completely independent observations for the verification purposes.
The Paradox of Revenge in Conflicts
Authors: Amegashie J. Atsu , Runkel Marco
Published: January 2012

The authors consider a two-period game of conflict between two factions, which have a desire for revenge. It is shown that, in contrast to conventional wisdom, the desire for revenge need not lead to escalation of the conflict. The subgame-perfect equilibrium is characterized by two effects: a value of revenge effect (i.e., the benefit of exacting revenge) and a self-deterrence effect (i.e., the fear of an opponent’s desire to exact revenge). The authors construct examples where the equilibrium is such that the self-deterrence effect paradoxically outweighs the value effect and thereby decreases the factions’ aggregate effort below the level exerted in the no-revenge case. This paradox of revenge is more likely, the more elastically the benefit of revenge reacts to the destruction suffered in the past and the more asymmetric is the conflict. The authors discuss the implications of revenge-dependent preferences for welfare economics, evolutionary stability, and their strategic value as commitment devices.
Individual-Level Predictors of Community Aftercare Completion
Authors: Houser Kimberly A. , Salvatore Christopher , Welsh Wayne N.
Published: January 2012

The importance of prison treatment for substance-using offenders in reducing recidivism and relapse has garnered much attention and acceptance over the past 30 years. The role of community aftercare as a continuum of the treatment process has been broadly acknowledged as essential in enhancing posttreatment success. However, our understanding of individual-level factors influencing a client’s willingness to participate and engage in aftercare remains limited. This article presents findings of individual-level factors found to be associated with successful completion of aftercare among a sample of 259 ex-offenders admitted to aftercare following 12 months of in-prison drug treatment.
Phrynoderma
Authors: Ocón Julia , Cabrejas Carmen , Altemir Jara , Moros Manuel
Published: January 2012

Biliopancreatic diversion is a predominantly malabsorptive bariatric procedure that can lead to the development of several nutrition complications, including fat‐soluble vitamin deficiencies. Routine supplementation with vitamins and trace elements and a strict medical follow‐up are essential to prevent these nutrition risks. Vitamin A deficiency is common after bariatric surgery but rarely causes clinical symptoms. Case reports have described ophthalmological and fetal complications associated with vitamin A deficiency after malabsorptive bariatric surgery. Phrynoderma is a type of follicular hyperkeratosis located on the extensor surfaces of the extremities whose main cause is vitamin A deficiency. The simultaneous occurrence of phrynoderma and ocular symptoms secondary to hypovitaminosis A after bariatric surgery is exceptional. The authors describe a man who presented follicular hyperkeratosis with nyctalopia and xerophthalmia that had appeared 1 year after biliopancreatic diversion. He admitted poor compliance with diet and daily supplementation of vitamins and oligoelements. Serum vitamin A levels were decreased. Treatment with high doses of vitamin A was associated with a clear improvement of cutaneous and ocular lesions with complete resolution after 2 months. The patient was readmitted 2 years later because of the reappearance of cutaneous lesions and micronutrient deficiency. Revisional bariatric surgery was performed. The authors review and discuss the relationship between phrynoderma, malnutrition, and vitamin A deficiency.
The Great Delusion: Post-Colonial Language Policy for Mission and Development in Africa Reviewed
Authors: Harries Jim
Published: January 2012

This paper demonstrates the importance of the use of indigenous languages in formal contexts for the future of Africa’s peoples. Inter-cultural communication using one language wrongly assumes that the unfamiliar can be expressed using familiar terms. This author argues that long-term immersion by a Westerner amongst a non-Western people is a singular means of acquiring insights about them. Long-term participant observation forms the basis of the research for this article. When communicated globally, anti- racism strategies are found to be problematic in their apparent denial of realities of non-Western cultures. The failure of many African communities to recognize and deal with the peculiarities of their own cultural contexts has potentially tragic consequences. Use of European languages (especially in Africa) is contributing to enormous dependence on the West and/or magic, and to gross under-development. Vulnerable intercultural exposure using non-Western languages and resources with concentrated efforts at understanding people’s theologies is advocated as the way forward.
Differences in Household Saving Between non-Hispanic White and Hispanic Households
Authors: Fisher Patti J. , Hsu Chungwen
Published: January 2012

This study uses the 2007 Survey of Consumer Finances to empirically explore differences in saving behavior between Hispanic ( N = 533) and non-Hispanic White ( N = 2,473) households. The results of the logistic regression model show that self-employed Hispanics were more likely to save, while self-employment was not significant for Whites. Being unbanked is the only variable that had a significantly negative relationship with saving for both groups. The results indicate that the model of saving applied to U.S. households may not be appropriate in studies focusing on the saving behaviors of Hispanics. In the empirical model estimated in the current article, only age, being unbanked, and self-employment have significant relationships with the saving behaviors of Hispanics, while many variables were significant for White households.
Developing multi-agency teams: implications of a national programme evaluation
Authors: Simkins Tim , Garrick Ros
Published: January 2012

This paper explores the factors which influence the effectiveness of formal development programmes targeted at multi-agency teams in children’s services. It draws on two studies of the National College for School Leadership’s Multi-Agency Teams Development programme, reporting key characteristics of the programme, short-term outcomes in terms of learning and longer-term outcomes in relation to team performance and the factors that seemed to influence programme success. Locating the programme initially in relation to concepts of teams and team learning which implicitly underpin work in this area, it concludes that in current multi-agency contexts the conditions necessary for developing ‘true’ teams often do not exist and therefore development programmes need to take account of the specific contexts within which inter-agency work takes place.
Thermal stability of γ-irradiated chlorinated isobutylene–isoprene copolymer/chlorosulphonated polyethylene rubber blend/carbon black nanocomposites
Authors: Marković Gordana , Jovanović Vojislav , Samaržija-Jovanović Suzana , Marinović-Cincović Milena , Budinski-Simendić Jaroslava
Published: January 2012

In this study, the effect of γ-rays on the mechanical and thermal properties of polymer composites based on chlorinated isobutylene–isoprene rubber/chlorosulphonated polyethylene rubber blend with varying contents of carbon black (CB) filler was investigated. The samples were irradiated at ambient conditions with 100, 200 and 400 kGy radiation doses. Tensile strength and hardness are increasing with CB content and radiation dose is increasing, while elongation at break is decreasing. Loss of mass of 0.5, 10 and 30% was calculated for the samples from their respective thermogravimetric curves. The thermal stability of the nanocomposites was improved by both the degree of loading with filler and the cross-linking induced by γ-irradiation.
Everybody Was in the French Resistance … Now!: American Representations of the French Resistance
Authors: Reid Donald
Published: January 2012

An examination of American representations of the Resistance since World War II in American press and film reveals that they have evolved according to French−American relations and American attitudes towards France and the French people. Admired during the war for forms of civilian resistance absent in recent American history, resisters re-emerged for American New Left readers of existentialism as models of engagement. However, in the ensuing conservative, gallophobic period in the United States, the French Resistance lost this iconic status and is treated ironically or rendered absent.
The role of scientific knowledge in shaping public attitudes to GM technologies
Authors: Mielby Henrik , Sandøe Peter , Lassen Jesper
Published: January 2012

Depending on the perceived balance of risk and benefit, and on the perceived unnaturalness, some applications of gene technology appear more acceptable to the public than others. This study asks whether a person’s knowledge of biology affects their assessment of these factors differently. A random sample of the Danish population ( n = 2000) was presented with questionnaires. The respondent’s knowledge was measured by a number of textbook questions on biology. The results indicated that knowledge increases the likelihood that a person will have differentiated opinions on medical and agricultural applications, but decreases the likelihood that he or she will differentiate between cisgenic and transgenic cereals. We discuss the implication that knowledge makes people more likely to base their acceptance on judgements of risks and benefits, rather than on judgements of naturalness. The article concludes that the effect of knowledge on acceptance cannot be generalised wholesale from one application, or method, to others.
G.E.D. in 3 Voices
Authors: Davis C. Amelia
Published: January 2012

In this piece, the author experiments with re-presenting particular stories through poetic texts that contextualize and honor difference in experience between GED students and instructors. These poetic re-presentations stem from an ongoing study that explores (a) adult basic education instructors’ perceptions of their pedagogy and interaction with their students, and (b) adult student experiences in GED classes as well as perceptions of their instructors. The poems are constructed entirely from the words of the participants to capture the tenor of self-disclosure and experience that was shared with the author and to draw the reader toward these experiences. The poems are written in three columns, representing three voices—two students and one instructor. The author hopes that as the reader moves along the text in a weaving pattern, one voice is not privileged over the others as similar and divergent views are expressed.
The Theatre of Emblems: On the Optical Apparatus and the Investiture of Persons
Authors: Goodrich Peter
Published: January 2012

The concept of the person is linked most often, within the Western tradition, to the theatre. The etymology of the word goes back to the actor’s mask and thence to the stage and by extension to the great unraveling of public life that occurs within the variegated histrionic domains of the social. Lawyers borrowed from and competed with the theatre. Acting, the adoption of roles, the scrivening of instruments, the collection of books, the staging of spectacles, of trial and scaffold, pillar and column, throne and vestment, were intrinsic to the development of juridical culture. Taking up Esposito’s cue, this essay traces the ambivalence and tensions of the person through the longer term history of law’s dependence not only on the theatrical remit of personality but also upon its theologico-legal roots. The juristic person developed in early modern common law as a duality because of the hierarchy of laws, spiritual and temporal, which the person had in turn to reflect. Within this dual realm, the person was always a complex function with liturgical, legal and theatrical aspects. In common law, curiously and emblematically, the person was originally a parson, a priest, and so representative of a parish, the ecclesia or community of which he was literally the living emblem. Using the example of Anglican ecclesiastical law, to which common law was attached, the investiture of parsons is examined as a specific instance of the institution of personality and of the theatre of becoming and acting as a person.
Emerging Issues in the Cross-Cultural Study of Empathy
Authors: Hollan Douglas
Published: January 2012

Especially since the discovery of mirror neurons, scholars in a variety of disciplines have made empathy a central focus of research. Yet despite this recent flurry of interest and activity, the cross-cultural study of empathy in context, as part of ongoing, naturally occurring behavior, remains in its infancy. In the present article, I review some of this recent work on the ethnography of empathy. I focus especially on the new issues and questions about empathy that the ethnographic approach raises and the implication of these for the study of empathy more generally.
Comment: Towards a More Ecologically Valid Assessment of Empathy
Authors: Dziobek Isabel
Published: January 2012

The multifaceted nature of empathy requires a comprehensive conceptualization of core and related emotional and mindreading processes. Here I argue that new paradigms are needed that allow for a more ecologically valid and parametric assessment of empathy subprocesses and their neuronal correlates. Towards that goal, cognitive neuroscience studies should make use of audiovisual stimuli that more closely approximate real-life settings and include online social interaction paradigms.
Author reply: The Definition and Morality of Empathy
Authors: Hollan Douglas
Published: January 2012

I respond to two basic questions raised by my commentators: (a) What is the proper definition of empathy?; (b) What is the morality of empathy?
Author reply: Understanding Empathy by Modeling Rather Than Organizing Its Contents
Authors: Preston Stephanie D. , Hofelich Alicia J.
Published: January 2012

Perception–action approaches are sometimes criticized because empathy takes cognitive forms and people do not overtly imitate or feel all observed states. These complaints reflect a misunderstanding of the framework, which we tried to clarify through a review that bridged social and neuroscientific views. Far from “simple fixes,” these misunderstandings appear to reflect deeply rooted differences in the way that each discipline conceptualizes science and the mind. We address the important points made by the commentators and reiterate the need to incorporate rich, phenomenological descriptions into academic works so that we may prevent such conceptual cross-talk in the future. The open exchange of ideas across fields is often difficult, but essential to an integrated, scientific view of empathy.
A phase 2 study of the safety, tolerability, and pharmacodynamics of FBS0701, a novel oral iron chelator, in transfusional iron overload
Authors: Neufeld Ellis J. , Galanello Renzo , Viprakasit Vip , Aydinok Yesim , Piga Antonio , Harmatz Paul , Forni Gian Luca , Shah Farrukh T. , Grace Rachael F. , Porter John B. , Wood John C. , Peppe Jennifer , Jones Amber , Rienhoff Hugh Young
Published: January 2012

This was a 24-week, multicenter phase- 2 study designed to assess safety, tolerability, and pharmacodynamics of FBS0701, a novel oral chelator, in adults with transfusional iron overload. Fifty-one patients, stratified by transfusional iron intake, were randomized to FBS0701 at either 14.5 or 29 mg/kg/d (16 and 32 mg/kg/d salt form). FBS0701 was generally well tolerated at both doses. Forty-nine patients (96%) completed the study. There were no drug-related serious adverse events. No adverse events (AEs) showed dose-dependency in frequency or severity. Treatment-related nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea were each noted in < 5% of patients. Mean serum creatinine did not change significantly from Baseline or between dose groups. Transaminases wer increased in 8 (16%), three of whom acquired HCV on-study from a single blood bank while five had an abnormal baseline ALT. The 24 week mean change in liver iron concentration (ΔLIC) at 14.5 mg/kg/d was +3.1 mg/g (dw); 29% achieved a decrease in LIC. Mean ΔLIC at 29 mg/kg/d was −0.3 mg/g (dw); 44% achieved a decrease in LIC (P < .03 for ΔLIC between doses). The safety and tolerability profile at therapeutic doses compare favorably to other oral chelators. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01186419.
UPDG: U tilities package for data analysis of P ooled D NA G WAS
Authors: Ho Daniel WH , Yap Maurice KH , Yip Shea Ping
Published: January 2012

Background

Despite being a well-established strategy for cost reduction in disease gene mapping, pooled DNA association study is much less popular than the individual DNA approach. This situation is especially true for pooled DNA genomewide association study (GWAS), for which very few computer resources have been developed for its data analysis. This motivates the development of UPDG (U tilities package for data analysis of P ooled D NA G WAS).

Results

UPDG represents a generalized framework for data analysis of pooled DNA GWAS with the integration of Unix/Linux shell operations, Perl programs and R scripts. With the input of raw intensity data from GWAS, UPDG performs the following tasks in a stepwise manner: raw data manipulation, correction for allelic preferential amplification, normalization, nested analysis of variance for genetic association testing, and summarization of analysis results. Detailed instructions, procedures and commands are provided in the comprehensive user manual describing the whole process from preliminary preparation of software installation to final outcome acquisition. An example dataset (input files and sample output files) is also included in the package so that users can easily familiarize themselves with the data file formats, working procedures and expected output. Therefore, UPDG is especially useful for users with some computer knowledge, but without a sophisticated programming background.

Conclusions

UPDG provides a free, simple and platform-independent one-stop service to scientists working on pooled DNA GWAS data analysis, but with less advanced programming knowledge. It is our vision and mission to reduce the hindrance for performing data analysis of pooled DNA GWAS through our contribution of UPDG. More importantly, we hope to promote the popularity of pooled DNA GWAS, which is a very useful research strategy.
miRNA arm selection and isomiR distribution in gastric cancer
Authors: Li Sung-Chou , Liao Yu-Lun , Ho Meng-Ru , Tsai Kuo-Wang , Lai Chun-Hung , Lin Wen-chang
Published: January 2012

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-protein-coding RNAs. miRNA genes need several biogenesis steps to form function miRNAs. However, the precise mechanism and biology involved in the mature miRNA molecules are not clearly investigated. In this study, we conducted in-depth analyses to examine the arm selection and isomiRs using NGS platform.

Methods

We sequenced small RNAs from one pair of normal and gastric tumor tissues with Solexa platform. By analyzing the NGS data, we quantified the expression profiles of miRNAs and isomiRs in gastric tissues. Then, we measured the expression ratios of 5p arm to 3p arm of the same pre-miRNAs. And, we used Kolmogorov-Smirnov (KS) test to examine isomiR pattern difference between tissues.

Results

Our result showed the 5p arm and 3p arm miRNA derived from the same pre-miRNAs have different tissue expression preference, one preferred normal tissue and the other preferred tumor tissue, which strongly implied that there could be other mechanism controlling mature miRNA selection in addition to the known hydrogen-bonding selection rule. Furthermore, by using the KS test, we demonstrated that some isomiR types preferentially occur in normal gastric tissue but other types prefer tumor gastric tissue.

Conclusions

Arm selections and isomiR patterns are significantly varied in human cancers by using deep sequencing NGS data. Our results provided a novel research topic in miRNA regulation study. With advanced bioinformatics and molecular biology studies, more robust conclusions and insight into miRNA regulation can be achieved in the near future.
Quantification and clustering of phenotypic screening data using time-series analysis for chemotherapy of schistosomiasis
Authors: Lee Hyokyeong , Moody-Davis Asher , Saha Utsab , Suzuki Brian M , Asarnow Daniel , Chen Steven , Arkin Michelle , Caffrey Conor R , Singh Rahul
Published: January 2012

Background

Neglected tropical diseases, especially those caused by helminths, constitute some of the most common infections of the world's poorest people. Development of techniques for automated, high-throughput drug screening against these diseases, especially in whole-organism settings, constitutes one of the great challenges of modern drug discovery.

Method

We present a method for enabling high-throughput phenotypic drug screening against diseases caused by helminths with a focus on schistosomiasis. The proposed method allows for a quantitative analysis of the systemic impact of a drug molecule on the pathogen as exhibited by the complex continuum of its phenotypic responses. This method consists of two key parts: first, biological image analysis is employed to automatically monitor and quantify shape-, appearance-, and motion-based phenotypes of the parasites. Next, we represent these phenotypes as time-series and show how to compare, cluster, and quantitatively reason about them using techniques of time-series analysis.

Results

We present results on a number of algorithmic issues pertinent to the time-series representation of phenotypes. These include results on appropriate representation of phenotypic time-series, analysis of different time-series similarity measures for comparing phenotypic responses over time, and techniques for clustering such responses by similarity. Finally, we show how these algorithmic techniques can be used for quantifying the complex continuum of phenotypic responses of parasites. An important corollary is the ability of our method to recognize and rigorously group parasites based on the variability of their phenotypic response to different drugs.

Conclusions

The methods and results presented in this paper enable automatic and quantitative scoring of high-throughput phenotypic screens focused on helmintic diseases. Furthermore, these methods allow us to analyze and stratify parasites based on their phenotypic response to drugs. Together, these advancements represent a significant breakthrough for the process of drug discovery against schistosomiasis in particular and can be extended to other helmintic diseases which together afflict a large part of humankind.