bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrasound guided internal jugular vein access in children and infant: A meta‐analysis of published studies
Authors: SIGAUT STEPHANIE , SKHIRI ALIA , STANY IDA , GOLMAR JONATHAN , NIVOCHE YVES , CONSTANT ISABELLE , MURAT ISABELLE , DAHMANI SOUHAYL
Published: October 2009

Introduction:  Central venous catheter placement is technically difficult in pediatric population especially in the younger patients. Ultrasound prelocation and/or guidance (UPG) of internal jugular vein (IJV) access has been shown to decrease failure rate and complications related to this invasive procedure. The goal of the present study was to perform a systematic review of the advantages of UPG over anatomical landmarks (AL) during IJV access in children and infants.

Material and methods:  A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify clinical trials that focused on the comparison of UPG to AL techniques during IJV access in children and infants. Two reviewers independently assessed each study to meet inclusion criteria and extracted data. Data from each trial were combined to calculate the pooled odds ratio (OR) or the mean differences (MD), and their 95% confidence intervals [CI 95%]. I² statistics were used to assess statistics heterogeneity and to guide the use of fixed or random effect for computation of overall effects. Subgroup analysis was used to clarify the effects of the techniques used (prelocation or guidance) or the experience of practitioners.

Results:  Literature found five articles. Most of the patients were cardiac surgery patients. In comparison with AL, UPG had no effect on IJV access failure rate (OR = 0.28 [0.05, 1.47], I² = 75%, P = 0.003), the rate of carotid artery puncture (OR = 0.32 [0.06, 1.62], I² = 68%, P = 0.01), haematoma, haemothorax, or pneumothorax occurrence (OR = 0.40 [0.14, 1.13], I² = 17%, P = 0.30, OR = 0.72, OR = 0.81 [0.18, 3.73], I² = 0%, P = 0.94, respectively) and time to IJV access and haemothorax/pneumothorax occurrence. Subgroup analysis found an efficacy of ultrasound when used by novice operators or during intraoperative use.

Discussion:  This current meta‐analysis does not found the utility of ultrasound during IJV access in children and infants in increasing the success rate and in decreasing complications.
Alveolar recruitment strategy and PEEP improve oxygenation, dynamic compliance of respiratory system and end‐expiratory lung volume in pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery for congenital heart disease
Authors: SCOHY THIERRY V. , BIKKER IDO G. , HOFLAND JAN , De JONG PETER L. , BOGERS AD J.J.C. , GOMMERS DIEDERIK
Published: October 2009

Objective:  Optimizing alveolar recruitment by alveolar recruitment strategy (ARS) and maintaining lung volume with adequate positive end‐expiratory pressure (PEEP) allow preventing ventilator‐induced lung injury (VILI). Knowing that PEEP has its most beneficial effects when dynamic compliance of respiratory system (Crs) is maximized, we hypothesize that the use of 8 cm H2O PEEP with ARS results in an increase in Crs and end‐expiratory lung volume (EELV) compared to 8 cm H2O PEEP without ARS and to zero PEEP in pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery for congenital heart disease.

Methods:  Twenty consecutive children were studied. Three different ventilation strategies were applied to each patient in the following order: 0 cm H2O PEEP, 8 cm H2O PEEP without an ARS, and 8 cm H2O PEEP with a standardized ARS. At the end of each ventilation strategy, Crs, EELV, and arterial blood gases were measured.

Results:  EELV, Crs, and PaO2/FiO2 ratio changed significantly (P < 0.001) with the application of 8 cm H2O + ARS. Mean PaCO2– PETCO2 difference between 0 PEEP and 8 cm H2O PEEP + ARS was also significant (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:  An alveolar recruitment strategy with relative high PEEP significantly improves Crs, oxygenation, PaCO2– PETCO2 difference, and EELV in pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery for congenital heart disease.
Reversal of rocuronium‐induced profound neuromuscular block by sugammadex in Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: De BOER HANS D. , Van ESMOND JAN , BOOIJ LEO H.J.D. , DRIESSEN JACQUES J.
Published: October 2009

A case is reported in which a child with Duchenne muscular dystrophy received a dose of sugammadex to reverse a rocuronium‐induced profound neuromuscular block. Sugammadex is the first selective relaxant binding agent and reverses rocuronium‐ and vecuronium‐induced neuromuscular block. A fast and efficient recovery from profound neuromuscular block was achieved, and no adverse events or other safety concerns were observed.
Biodiversity in a complex world: consolidation and progress in functional biodiversity research
Authors: Hillebrand Helmut , Matthiessen Birte
Published: October 2009

Ecology Letters(2009) 12: 1405–1419

The global decline of biodiversity caused by human domination of ecosystems worldwide is supposed to alter important process rates and state variables in these ecosystems. However, there is considerable debate on the prevalence and importance of biodiversity effects on ecosystem function (BDEF). Here, we argue that much of the debate stems from two major shortcomings. First, most studies do not directly link the traits leading to increased or decreased function to the traits needed for species coexistence and dominance. We argue that implementing a trait‐based approach and broadening the perception of diversity to include trait dissimilarity or trait divergence will result in more realistic predictions on the consequences of altered biodiversity. Second, the empirical and theoretical studies do not reflect the complexity of natural ecosystems, which makes it difficult to transfer the results to natural situations of species loss. We review how different aspects of complexity (trophic structure, multifunctionality, spatial or temporal heterogeneity, and spatial population dynamics) alter our perception of BDEF. We propose future research avenues concisely testing whether acknowledging this complexity will strengthen the observed biodiversity effects. Finally, we propose that a major future task is to disentangle biodiversity effects on ecosystem function from direct changes in function due to human alterations of abiotic constraints.
Phenotypic divergence during the invasion of Phyla canescens in Australia and France: evidence for selection‐driven evolution
Authors: Xu Cheng‐Yuan , Julien Mic H. , Fatemi Mohammad , Girod Christophe , Van Klinken Rieks D. , Gross Caroline L. , Novak Stephen J.
Published: October 2009

Rapid adaptive evolution has been advocated as a mechanism that promotes invasion. Demonstrating adaptive evolution in invasive species requires rigorous analysis of phenotypic shifts driven by selection. Here, we document selection‐driven evolution of Phyla canescens, an Argentine weed, in two invaded regions (Australia and France). Invasive populations possessed similar or higher diversity than native populations, and displayed mixed lineages from different sources, suggesting that genetic bottlenecks in both countries might have been alleviated by multiple introductions. Compared to native populations, Australian populations displayed more investment in sexual reproduction, whereas French populations possessed enhanced vegetative reproduction and growth. We partitioned evolutionary forces (selection vs. stochastic events) using two independent methods. Results of both analyses suggest that the pattern of molecular and phenotypic variability among regions was consistent with selection‐driven evolution, rather than stochastic events. Our findings indicate that selection has shaped the evolution of P. canescens in two different invaded regions.

Ecology Letters (2010) 13: 32–44
Evolutionary history and distance dependence control survival of dipterocarp seedlings
Authors: Bagchi Robert , Press Malcolm C. , Scholes Julie D.
Published: October 2009

One important hypothesis to explain tree‐species coexistence in tropical forests suggests that increased attack by natural enemies near conspecific trees gives locally rare species a competitive advantage. Host ranges of natural enemies generally encompass several closely related plant taxa suggesting that seedlings should also do poorly around adults of closely related species. We investigated the effects of adult Parashorea malaanonan on seedling survival in a Bornean rain forest. Survival of P. malaanonan seedlings was highest at intermediate distances from parent trees while heterospecific seedlings were unaffected by distance. Leaf herbivores did not drive this relationship. Survival of seedlings was lowest for P. malaanonan, and increased with phylogenetic dissimilarity from this species, suggesting that survival of close relatives of common species is reduced. This study suggests that distance dependence contributes to species coexistence and highlights the need for further investigation into the role of shared plant enemies in community dynamics.

Ecology Letters (2010) 13: 51–59
Strict cospeciation of devescovinid flagellates and Bacteroidales ectosymbionts in the gut of dry‐wood termites (Kalotermitidae)
Authors: Desai Mahesh S. , Strassert Jürgen F. H. , Meuser Katja , Hertel Horst , Ikeda‐Ohtsubo Wakako , Radek Renate , Brune Andreas
Published: October 2009

The surface of many termite gut flagellates is colonized with a dense layer of bacteria, yet little is known about the evolutionary relationships of such ectosymbionts and their hosts. Here we investigated the molecular phylogenies of devescovinid flagellates (Devescovina spp.) and their symbionts from a wide range of dry‐wood termites (Kalotermitidae). From species‐pure flagellate suspensions isolated with micropipettes, we obtained SSU rRNA gene sequences of symbionts and host. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the Devescovina spp. present in many species of Kalotermitidae form a monophyletic group, which includes also the unique devescovinid flagellate Caduceia versatilis. All members of this group were consistently associated with a distinct lineage of Bacteroidales, whose location on the cell surface was confirmed by fluorescence in situ hybridization. The well‐supported congruence of the phylogenies of devescovinids and their ectosymbionts documents a strict cospeciation. In contrast, the endosymbionts of the same flagellates (‘Endomicrobia’) were clearly polyphyletic and must have been acquired independently by horizontal transfer from other flagellate lineages. Also the Bacteroidales ectosymbionts of Oxymonas flagellates present in several Kalotermitidae belonged to several distantly related lines of descent, underscoring the general perception that the evolutionary history of flagellate–bacteria symbioses in the termite gut is complex.
Individualized magnetic resonance imaging‐based neoadjuvant chemoradiation for middle and lower rectal carcinoma
Authors: Hermanek P. , Hohenberger W. , Fietkau R. , Rödel C.
Published: October 2009

Aim  In most institutions neoadjuvant chemoradiation for middle and lower rectal carcinoma is currently given to patients with tumours of clinical stages II or III (cT3,4 and/or N1,2). The possibility of a reduction in the use of neoadjuvant chemoradiation by an individualized magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐based indication for neoadjuvant chemoradiation was analysed.

Method  Assessment of the pathological and oncological principles indicating for neoadjuvant treatment was used to determine the prognostic importance of the distance between the tumour and the circumferential resection margin and pretherapeutic assessment using modern MRI.

Results  Based on the results of pretreatment MRI scanning, a proposal is presented for the treatment of middle and lower rectal carcinoma with neoadjuvant chemoradiation. Adopting this proposal, the frequency of neoadjuvant chemoradiation decreased from 70% to 35% and the early and late adverse effects of this therapy were reduced. In contrast, the expected locoregional recurrence rate increased from 6% to 11% if all quality criteria were met and to 18% if not.

Conclusion  An MRI‐based indication for neoadjuvant chemoradiation is justified only for centres with regular quality assurance of MRI, surgery, radiotherapy and pathology. The proposal needs confirmation by long‐term follow up and by prospective studies with larger numbers of patients.
Can Nutritional Label Use Influence Body Weight Outcomes?
Authors: Drichoutis Andreas C. , Nayga, Jr. Rodolfo M. , Lazaridis Panagiotis
Published: October 2009

Many countries around the world have already mandated, or plan to mandate, the presence of nutrition related information on most pre‐packaged food products. Health advocates and lobbyists would like to see similar laws mandating nutrition information in the restaurant and fast‐food market as well. In fact, New York City has already taken a step forward and now requires all chain restaurants with 15 or more establishments anywhere in US to show calorie information on their menus and menu board. The benefits were estimated to be as much as 150,000 fewer obese New Yorkers over the next five years.

The implied benefits of the presence of nutrition information are that consumers will be able to observe such information and then make informed (and hopefully healthier) food choices. In this study, we use the latest available dataset from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2005–2006) to explore whether reading such nutrition information really has an effect on body weight outcomes. In order to deal with the inherent problem of cross‐sectional datasets, namely self‐selection, and the possible occurrence of reverse causality we use a propensity score matching approach to estimate causal treatment effects.

We conducted a series of tests related to variable choice of the propensity score specification, quality of matching indicators, robustness checks, and sensitivity to unobserved heterogeneity, using Rosenbaum bounds to validate our propensity score exercise. Our results generally suggest that reading nutrition information does not affect body mass index. The implications of our findings are also discussed.
Beautiful Politicians
Authors: King Amy , Leigh Andrew
Published: October 2009

Are beautiful politicians more likely to be elected? To test this, we use evidence from Australia, a country in which voting is compulsory, and in which voters are given ‘How‐to‐Vote’ cards, depicting photos of the major party candidates, as they arrive to vote. Using raters chosen to be representative of the electorate, we assess the beauty of political candidates from major political parties, and then estimate the effect of beauty on voteshare for candidates in the 2004 federal election. Beautiful candidates are indeed more likely to be elected, with a one standard deviation increase in beauty associated with a 1 ½– 2 percentage point increase in voteshare. Our results are robust to several specification checks: adding party fixed effects, dropping well‐known politicians, using non‐Australian beauty raters, omitting candidates of non‐Anglo appearance, controlling for age, and analyzing the ‘beauty gap’ between candidates running in the same electorate. The marginal effect of beauty is larger for male candidates than for female candidates, and appears to be approximately linear. Consistent with the theory that returns to beauty reflect discrimination, we find suggestive evidence that beauty matters more in electorates with a higher share of apathetic voters.
The two‐dimensional cutting stock problem within the roller blind production process
Authors: De Gelder E. R. , Wagelmans A. P. M.
Published: October 2009

In this article, we consider a two‐dimensional cutting stock problem encountered at a large manufacturer of window covering products. The problem occurs in the production process of made‐to‐measure roller blinds. We develop a solution method that takes into account the characteristics of the specific problem. In particular, we deal with the fact that fabrics may contain small defects that should end up with the waste. Comparison with previous practice shows significant waste reductions.
Racial Disparities in Risks of Mortality in a Sample of the US Medicare Population
Authors: Zhou Yijie , Dominici Francesca , Louis Thomas A.
Published: October 2009

Racial disparities in risks of mortality adjusted for socio-economic status are not well understood. To add to the understanding of racial disparities, we construct and analyse a data set that links, at individual and zip code levels, three government databases: Medicare, the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey and US census. Our study population includes more than 4 million Medicare enrollees residing in 2095 zip codes in the north-east region of the USA. We develop hierarchical models to estimate the black–white disparities in risk of death, adjusted for both individual level and zip code level income. We define the population level attributable risk AR, relative attributable risk RAR and odds ratio OR of death comparing blacks versus whites, and we estimate these parameters by using a Bayesian approach via Markov chain Monte Carlo sampling. By applying the multiple-imputation method to fill in missing data, our estimates account for the uncertainty from the missing individual level income data. Results show that, for the Medicare population being studied, there is a statistically and substantively significantly higher risk of death for blacks compared with whites, in terms of all three measures AR, RAR and OR, both adjusted and not adjusted for income. In addition, after adjusting for income we find a statistically significant reduction in AR but not in RAR and OR.
Estimating Infectious Disease Parameters from Data on Social Contacts and Serological Status
Authors: Goeyvaerts Nele , Hens Niel , Ogunjimi Benson , Aerts Marc , Shkedy Ziv , Van Damme Pierre , Beutels Philippe
Published: October 2009

In dynamic models of infectious disease transmission, typically various mixing patterns are imposed on the so-called ‘who acquires infection from whom’ matrix. These imposed mixing patterns are based on prior knowledge of age-related social mixing behaviour rather than observations. Alternatively, we can assume that transmission rates for infections transmitted predominantly through non-sexual social contacts are proportional to rates of conversational contact which can be estimated from a contact survey. In general, however, contacts reported in social contact surveys are proxies of those events by which transmission may occur and there may be age-specific characteristics that are related to susceptibility and infectiousness which are not captured by the contact rates. Therefore, we model transmission as the product of two age-specific variables: the age-specific contact rate and an age-specific proportionality factor, which entails an improvement of fit for the seroprevalence of the varicella zoster virus in Belgium. Furthermore, we address the effect on the estimation of the basic reproduction number, using non-parametric bootstrapping to account for different sources of variability and using multimodel inference to deal with model selection uncertainty. The method proposed makes it possible to obtain important information on transmission dynamics that cannot be inferred from approaches that have been traditionally applied hitherto.
Trends in uptake of recently approved antiretrovirals within a national healthcare system
Authors: Belperio PS , Mole LA , Boothroyd DB , Backus LI
Published: October 2009

Objective

The aim of the study was to describe Veterans Healthcare Administration (VHA) system‐wide uptake of three HIV protease inhibitors: atazanavir, darunavir and tipranavir.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study evaluated VHA uptake of three target antiretrovirals and lopinavir/ritonavir in each complete 90‐day quarter since approval to December 2007 using VHA HIV Clinical Case Registry data. We assessed uptake using number of new prescriptions, number of providers and facilities prescribing target agents, provider type, clinic type, facility size and location within four US regions.

Results

Overall, 6551 HIV‐infected veterans received target antiretrovirals. Uptake was generally greatest within the first year after Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval, and then slightly declined and plateaued. Geographically, early adoption of new antiretroviral drugs tended to occur in the Western USA, as evidenced by comparison of uptake patterns of new antiretrovirals to use of all antiretroviral agents. A small percentage of prescribers of all antiretrovirals were responsible for new prescriptions for target medications, particularly for darunavir and tipranavir. Providers at almost 50% of VHA facilities were prescribing these agents within the first year.

Conclusions

Uptake of new antiretrovirals in the VHA generally reflected overall prescribing of all antiretrovirals, suggesting a lack of VHA impediments to new antiretrovirals in the healthcare system. Some regional variation in uptake among the targeted antiretrovirals occurred over time but tended to resolve after the first several months. Providers responsible for early prescribing of the target medications were limited to a fraction of providers who tended to be physicians who practised in infectious disease (ID) clinics at medium‐sized facilities.
Retrospective analysis of systemic treatments for psoriasis patients attending a Psocare center in Florence. Relevance of biological drugs use and comorbidities
Authors: Prignano F , Pescitelli L , Ricceri F , Lotti T
Published: October 2009

Background  Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition associated with several risk factors and comorbidities.

Methods  The present study outlines patient and therapy profiles emerging from the analysis of 471 patients affected by plaque psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Results  In our sample, the age of onset and first diagnosis of PsA is significantly higher than plaque psoriasis and about 65% of the patients are either smoker or ex‐smokers, while 79% are not drinkers. We also report a different distribution in the use of systemic treatments compared to the Psocare report 2007, with a tendency for a larger use of biologics over classical systemic drugs and in particular etanercept is the main treatment for PsA, and efalizumab for plaque psoriasis. All biological treatments used in the study significantly reduced PASI score. The main comorbidity associated both with plaque psoriasis and with PsA was hypertension, while hyperlipidaemia was frequently present in patients under biologics treatment. Finally, a strong association between type II diabetes and PsA was also reported.

Conclusions  Current treatments have to consider general health conditions and patients habits. In this picture, biological drugs are emerging as the therapy of choice for their good efficacy in the long term management of psoriasis.
Depression and Language Acculturation Correlate With Smoking Among Older Asian American Adolescents in New York City
Authors: Rosario‐Sim Maria G. , O'Connell Kathleen A.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT
Objective: To explore the correlates of smoking status among a sample of Asian American adolescents in New York City (NYC).

Design and Sample: This descriptive, correlational study compared current smokers and current nonsmokers in terms of age, gender, ethnicity, academic performance, acculturation, depressive symptoms, smoking history, and parental, sibling, and peer smoking. The convenience sample included 328 Asian American adolescents, ages 16–19, who lived in NYC, and were recruited from members, friends, and affiliates of 6 organizational sources.

Measures: The study used demographic, depression (Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression scale), English language acculturation, and smoking opportunity survey questionnaires.

Results: Statistical analyses revealed that being older, being more English‐language acculturated, having poor academic performance, increased depressive symptoms, and having siblings and peers who smoked were significantly associated with current smoking.

Conclusions: Asian American adolescents initiate smoking later than other groups. Depressive symptoms were at high levels in the sample and were correlated with smoking. Thus, for Asian American adolescents, smoking prevention programs should be extended to later grades, with particular attention to low‐performing students and those who are more acculturated. Likewise, programs that identify and assist adolescents with depressive symptoms may be useful in smoking prevention.
A Grounded Theory Study of Action/Interaction Strategies Used When Taiwanese Families Provide Care for Formerly Suicidal Patients
Authors: Sun Fan‐Ko , Long Ann , Huang Xuan‐Yi , Chiang Chun‐Ying
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT
Objectives: There is a dearth of evidence on the care that families provide to their relatives after they have been discharged from hospital following an attempted suicide.

The aim of this study was to explore ex‐patients' and family caregivers' perceptions of the care provided at home following hospital discharge.

Design and Sample: A qualitative approach using Grounded Theory was adopted. Suicidal ex‐patients (n=15) and family caregivers (n=15) were contacted in the south of Taiwan.

Measures: Data were collected through interviews and the data were analyzed using open, axial, and selective coding.

Results: A substantive theory was developed from the findings. However, for the purpose of this paper, the section of the paradigm model named the action/interaction strategies is presented and discussed. Three categories emerged in the action/interaction section relating to the family care of relatives who had been suicidal. They were: (1) “guarding the person day and night,” which helped to ensure that their relatives felt safe; (2) “maintaining the activities of daily living,” which promoted their physical health and recovery; and (3) “creating a nurturing environment,” which facilitated their mental and emotional healing.

Conclusions: Public health nurses could use the findings of this study as a theoretical map when providing health information to family caregivers during home visits.
Population Health Surveillance Practice of Public Health Nurses
Authors: Meagher‐Stewart Donna , Edwards Nancy , Aston Megan , Young Linda
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT
Objective: To report the population health surveillance functions of public health nurses and to describe factors that impede these functions.

Design and Sample: An interpretive qualitative study was conducted in Public Health Service areas in Eastern Canada. Participants were public health nurses (n=55) with an average of 14.5 years of pertinent work experience.

Measures: Semistructured face‐to‐face, telephone interviews, and focus groups were conducted, transcribed, coded, and analyzed.

Results: The nurses in this study used ecosocial population health surveillance functions that included multilevel societal influences on health. Extensive interprofessional and intersectoral networks were foundational to their surveillance work, allowing them to monitor what was occurring in the community and transfer this knowledge into various systems to contribute toward improved health outcomes. However, the nurses did not acknowledge the significance of their population health surveillance work, and documentation structures did not support these surveillance functions.

Conclusion: New surveillance methods and documentation structures that reflect an ecosocial surveillance approach are needed that are more consistent with public health nurses' population‐focused practice.
The San Francisco Collaborative: An Evaluation of a Partnership Between Three Schools of Nursing and a Public Health Department
Authors: Landry Lynette , Lee Rosemary , Greenwald Judy
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT
Many factors are contributing to a decline in the number of nurses who opt to choose public health nursing as a career option. One factor is the lack of preceptors in public health, which has led to the placement of nursing students in nontraditional clinical settings. Thus, many nursing students are not exposed to public health nursing while still in school. Graduating students may not have a clear idea of what a public health nurse is or does. The purpose of the study was to describe a collaborative project between three schools of nursing aimed at increasing interest in public health nursing among undergraduate nursing students. The study method involved analysis of student, faculty, and staff feedback received after an orientation to public health nursing. Nursing students found the experience valuable. Participation in the collaborative project has increased clinical experiences for nursing students in public health, increased exposure of nursing students to public health nursing, and has led to opportunities for both students and faculty within an urban public health department.
Psychometric Assessment of the Brazilian Version of the Breastfeeding Self‐Efficacy Scale
Authors: Oriá Mônica O. B. , Ximenes Lorena B. , de Almeida Paulo C. , Glick Doris F. , Dennis Cindy‐Lee
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT Objectives:The purpose of this study was to translate and psychometrically assess the Breastfeeding Self‐Efficacy Scale (BSES) among women living in Fortaleza, CE, Brazil, and examine the relationship between breastfeeding self‐efficacy (BSE) and maternal demographic variables.

Design and Sample:This methodological study is the first translation of BSES conducted in South America. The psychometric assessment of the original study was replicated. This methodological study enrolled a group (sample of judgment) of 117 pregnant women.

Measures:BSES and maternal sociodemographic variables were studied.

Results:The Cronbach's α coefficient for the translated BSES was .88. Significant differences in BSES scores were found among mothers with a previous satisfactory breastfeeding experience (M=145.81;SD=±6.82,p=.0001). Significant relationships were found among prenatal BSE and maternal age (r=.228;p=.01), educational level (r=.234;p=.01), and marital status (r=.183;p=.04). No relationship was found among BSE and maternal occupation, family income, or number of pregnancies.

Conclusions:Altogether, our findings suggest that BSES translated into Portuguese may be a reliable and valid measure to assess maternal BSE in Brazilian culture. Minor changes may be needed to use it in other Portuguese‐speaking countries, such as Portugal and Mozambique.
Ethanol Upregulates iNOS Expression in Colon Through Activation of Nuclear Factor‐kappa B in Rats
Authors: Wang Chao , Wang Shuanglian , Qin Junfang , Lv Yinglian , Ma Xuelian , Liu Chuanyong
Published: October 2009

Background:  Alcohol inhibits colonic motility but the mechanism is unknown. The goal of this study was to test the possibility that nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) is involved in the upregulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression induced by ethanol in colon.

Methods:  The isometric contraction of longitudinal muscle strips of proximal colon (LP) was monitored by polygraph. Western blot analysis was used to measure the amount of iNOS and I‐κB in the cytoplasm and P65 in the nucleus. Immunohistochemistry was applied to locate iNOS in colon.

Results:  Ethanol (87mM) inhibited the contraction of LP. Pretreatment of S‐methylisothioure (SMT) (1 mM), a specific iNOS inhibitor, Pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC) (10 mM) and BAY11‐7082(10 mM), specific inhibitors of NF‐κB significantly reversed the inhibitory effect of ethanol on LP contraction. Ethanol increased the amount of iNOS and content of NO in colon, and these effects were attenuated by pretreatment of PDTC. Following ethanol administration, the amount of I‐κB in the cytoplasm decreased, but that of P65, the subunit of NF‐κB in the nucleus, increased. The iNOS was located in the cell body of myenteric plexus in colon.

Conclusion:  Ethanol inhibited the contraction of LP in colon mainly through activation of NF‐κB, the subsequent upregulation of iNOS expression and increase of NO release in myenteric plexus.
Maternal Alcohol Use During Pregnancy Causes Systemic Oxidation of the Glutathione Redox System
Authors: Gauthier Theresa W. , Kable Julie A. , Burwell Leandrea , Coles Claire D. , Brown Lou Ann S.
Published: October 2009

Background:  Increased systemic oxidant stress contributes to a variety of maternal complications of pregnancy. Although the antioxidant glutathione (GSH) and its oxidized component glutathione disulfide (GSSG) have been demonstrated to be significantly altered in the adult alcoholic, the effects of maternal alcohol use during pregnancy on oxidant stress in the postpartum female remain under investigation. We hypothesized that maternal alcohol use would increase systemic oxidant stress in the pregnant female, evidenced by an oxidized systemic GSH redox potential.

Methods:  As a subset analysis of a larger maternal language study, we evaluated the effects of alcohol consumption during pregnancy on the systemic GSH redox status of the postpartum female. Using an extensive maternal questionnaire, postpartum women where queried regarding their alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Any drinking, the occurrence of drinking >3 drinks/occasion, and heavy drinking of >5 drinks/occasion during pregnancy were noted. Using HPLC, maternal plasma samples were analyzed for GSH, oxidized GSSG and the redox potential of the GSH/GSSG antioxidant pair calculated.

Results:  Maternal alcohol use occurred in 25% (83/321) of our study sample. Two in ten women reported consuming >3 drinks/occasion during pregnancy, while 1 in 10 women reported consuming alcohol at >5 drinks/occasion. Any alcohol use during pregnancy significantly decreased plasma GSH (p < 0.05), while alcohol at >3 drinks/occasion or >5 drinks/occasion significantly decreased plasma GSH concentration (p < 0.05), increased the percent of oxidized GSSG (p < 0.05), and substantially oxidized the plasma GSH redox potential (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:  Alcohol use during pregnancy, particularly at levels >3 drinks/occasion, caused significant oxidation of the systemic GSH system in the postpartum women. The clinical ramifications of the observed alcohol‐induced oxidation of the GSH redox system on high risk pregnancies or on the exposed offspring require more accurate identification and further investigation.
The role of the elution in antibody investigations
Authors: Yazer Mark H. , Triulzi Darrell J.
Published: October 2009

BACKGROUND: The direct antiglobulin test (DAT) commonly detects immunoglobulin G (IgG) molecules or complement fragments on the red blood cell (RBC) surface. If IgG antibodies are present then elution procedures can be performed to identify the specificity of these antibodies. Our reference laboratory performs elutions on the RBCs of those patients who have received cellular blood products in the past 30 days and have either a newly identified positive DAT with anti‐IgG or the agglutination strength is increased over a previous DAT and if ordered by a clinician regardless of transfusion history. This study questioned how frequently elutions contributed novel serologic information under our reference laboratory's current policy or whether elutions should be performed in more selective serologic conditions.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Recipients whose RBCs underwent eluate testing were identified from the blood bank's database and information about the antecedent DAT and antibody detection test and eluate was recorded.

RESULTS: In total 648 eluates were evaluated and 82 of 648 (12.7%) revealed a novel antibody not present in the serum (an informative eluate). In 2 of 82 informative eluates non–anti‐A/B alloantibodies that were not present in the serum were detected: one example each of anti‐D and anti‐E. Both were associated with a microscopically positive antecedent DAT. The rate of an informative eluate was higher when the antibody detection test was negative.

CONCLUSION: The strength of the DAT does not indicate the likelihood of an informative eluate. Performing an eluate when the antibody detection test is positive has limited value.
Immune hemolytic anemia due to cimetidine: the first example of a cimetidine antibody
Authors: Arndt Patricia A. , Garratty George , Brasfield Farah M. , Vemuri Swarajyal L. , Asuncion Devi J.
Published: October 2009

BACKGROUND: Although there have been a few reports of immune hemolytic anemia (IHA) thought to be due to cimetidine, none of them provided proof (e.g., serologic detection of anti‐cimetidine and/or repeat of IHA upon drug rechallenge). One report used cimetidine as an example of how temporal associations of drug administration and hemolytic anemia are not proof of a cause‐effect relationship.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A 63‐year‐old cancer patient developed IHA on two occasions after receiving cimetidine (with and without chemotherapy). Serologic methods included testing cimetidine‐treated red blood cells (RBCs) as well as testing untreated RBCs in the presence of cimetidine.

RESULTS: The patient's direct antiglobulin test was positive (C3 only) and a serum antibody to cimetidine was detected by both testing methods. An eluate from the patient's RBCs was nonreactive. Cimetidine‐treated RBCs were optimally prepared at room temperature and needed to be tested on the day of preparation.

CONCLUSIONS: This is the first reported case of IHA due to a cimetidine antibody where a drug‐dependent antibody was demonstrated. The patient had IHA after receiving cimetidine on two separate occasions.
Periods without agitation diminish platelet mitochondrial function during storage
Authors: Skripchenko Andrey , Myrup Andrew , Thompson‐Montgomery Dedeene , Awatefe Helen , Moroff Gary , Wagner Stephen J.
Published: October 2009

BACKGROUND: Prolonged periods without agitation produce platelet (PLT) storage lesions that result in reduced in vitro assay parameters and an increase of apoptotic markers during storage. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of periods without agitation on PLT mitochondrial function, blood gases, and activation.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Apheresis PLT units (n = 12) were collected using a cell separator and each was equally divided among five storage bags (50 mL of PLT suspension in 300‐mL nominal volume containers). Four bags were held without agitation for 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours in a standard shipping box at room temperature and the fifth bag was continuously agitated. PLTs were assayed for standard in vitro PLT assays as well as for mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), accumulation of reactive oxygen species, Annexin V binding, mitochondrial mass, and activity of mitochondrial reduction power (MRP) immediately after removal of units from the shipping container on Days 1, 2, 3, 4, and 7.

RESULTS: Increasing periods without agitation resulted in increased superoxide anion generation and PLT activation as well as reduced PLT MMP and MRP. Increasing periods without agitation resulted in increasing Annexin V binding. PLTs that had undergone periods without agitation showed increased oxygen and carbon dioxide levels immediately after storage without agitation. The superoxide anion generation was highly correlated with the loss of MMP, increasing Annexin V binding, and pH decline.

CONCLUSIONS: PLTs, if stored without agitation, produce a lesion that leads PLTs to apoptosis. The severity of the lesion depends on the length of the period without agitation. Prolonged periods without agitation induce formation of superoxides and depolarization of MMP along with a presentation of apoptotic markers.
Characterizing the Noncancer Toxicity of Mixtures Using Concepts from the TTC and Quantitative Models of Uncertainty in Mixture Toxicity
Authors: Price Paul S. , Hollnagel Heli M. , Zabik Jack M.
Published: October 2009

This article explores the use of an approach for setting default values for the noncancer toxicity, developed as part of the Threshold of Toxicological Concern (TTC), for the evaluation of the chronic noncarcinogenic effects of certain chemical mixtures. Individuals are exposed to many mixtures where there are little or no toxicological data on some or all of the mixture components. The approach developed in the TTC can provide a basis for conservative estimates of the toxicity of the mixture components when compound‐specific data are not available. The application of this approach to multiple chemicals in a mixture, however, has implications for the statistical assumptions made in developing component‐based estimates of mixtures. Specifically, conservative assumptions that are appropriate for one compound may become overly conservative when applied to all components of a mixture. This overestimation can be investigated by modeling the uncertainty in toxicity standards. In this article the approach is applied to both hypothetical and actual examples of chemical mixtures and the potential for overestimation is investigated. The results indicate that the use of the approach leads to conservative estimates of mixture toxicity and therefore its use is most appropriate for screening assessments of mixtures.
Using Probabilistic Modeling to Evaluate Human Exposure to Organotin in Drinking Water Transported by Polyvinyl Chloride Pipe
Authors: Fristachi Anthony , Xu Ying , Rice Glenn , Impellitteri Christopher A. , Carlson‐Lynch Heather , Little John C.
Published: October 2009

The leaching of organotin (OT) heat stabilizers from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes used in residential drinking water systems may affect the quality of drinking water. These OTs, principally mono‐ and di‐substituted species of butyltins and methyltins, are a potential health concern because they belong to a broad class of compounds that may be immune, nervous, and reproductive system toxicants. In this article, we develop probability distributions of U.S. population exposures to mixtures of OTs encountered in drinking water transported by PVC pipes. We employed a family of mathematical models to estimate OT leaching rates from PVC pipe as a function of both surface area and time. We then integrated the distribution of estimated leaching rates into an exposure model that estimated the probability distribution of OT concentrations in tap waters and the resulting potential human OT exposures via tap water consumption. Our study results suggest that human OT exposures through tap water consumption are likely to be considerably lower than the World Health Organization (WHO) “safe” long‐term concentration in drinking water (150 μg/L) for dibutyltin (DBT)—the most toxic of the OT considered in this article. The 90th percentile average daily dose (ADD) estimate of 0.034 ± 2.92 × 10−4μg/kg day is approximately 120 times lower than the WHO‐based ADD for DBT (4.2 μg/kg day).
Public Enterprise Reforms in the United States and the People's Republic of China: A Drift toward Constitutionalization and Departmentalization of Enterprise Management
Authors: Chan Hon S. , Rosenbloom David H.
Published: October 2009

Does globalization foster administrative convergence? Is that the case with public enterprise reform in the United States and the People’s Republic of China? Few analyses compare public enterprise reform in the two countries because of their vast differences in regulatory approaches, public policy, and government structure. This article contrasts how American and Chinese public enterprises are developed, defined, and managed, along with their emerging control infrastructures This the resulting strengths and weaknesses. While vast differences remain apparent between the two countries, this essay provides insights into why those gaps persist, and may even continue to grow.
Budgeting for Accountability: A Comparative Study of Budget Reforms in the United States during the Progressive Era and in Contemporary China
Authors: Ma Jun , Hou Yilin
Published: October 2009

Budgeting is an important mechanism for ensuring public accountability. How do budget reforms in the United States during the Progressive Era compare to those in contemporary China? Are administrative and legislative budget controls essential to an effective, efficient government? Though the two countries differ in many respects, significant parallels between their budget reforms are evident. In the United States, electoral accountability alone does not guarantee overall government accountability if proper budgetary institutions are absent. China’s recent budget reform reveals that it is possible to develop accountability, absent open elections, but with limitations and constraints. Lessons on budgeting and accountability for other developing and transitional countries are drawn from this comparative study.
Personal Income Tax Policy in China and the United States: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Xu Hua , Cui Huiyu
Published: October 2009

Personal income tax has grown in importance in China’s revenue system. Revenue from personal income tax was more than 2 trillion RMB yuan for the first half of 2008, a 27 percent increase from the previous year. And while similarities exist between China and the United States, distinctive features separate the two. Hua Xu of Auburn University at Montgomery and Huiyu Cui of Dongbei University of Finance and Economics underscore the need for equitable personal income tax reform in China. Using lessons from the United States, an agenda for future research on tax policy is outlined.
Civil Service Development in China and America: A Comparative Perspective
Authors: Tsao King Kwun , Worthley John Abbott
Published: October 2009

How has reform changed Chinese and American civil service systems in light of China’s landmark reform in 1993 by contrast to the aftermath of the U.S. Civil Service Act of 1883? While there are significant differences, remarkable administrative and political similarities also emerge. Particularly salient is the role of educational systems in the civil service development of both countries. Surprisingly, this comparative analysis finds a common struggle to balance professional expertise with political accountability and control. King Kwun Tsao of the Chinese University of Hong Kong and John Abbott Worthley of Seton Hall University argue that further comparative research is essential to hone an improved understanding of China specifically as well as civil service systems generally.
Chinese Foreign Policy Making: A Comparative Perspective
Authors: Hao Yufan , Hou Ying
Published: October 2009

As one of the fastest growing economies in the world, many wonder what kind of international behavior an increasingly powerful China will demonstrate in the future. Will it be a responsible state on the world stage? The article aims to understand Chinese foreign policy making from a comparative perspective. By using the neoclassical realist approach, key features of Chinese foreign policy as well as possible future alternatives for its implementation are outlined. The essay concludes that significant changes in Chinese foreign policy in recent years are remarkably similar to those of other major powers.