bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Onychotillomania: clinicopathologic correlations
Authors: Reese Jennifer M. , Hudacek Kristin D. , Rubin Adam I.
Published: January 2013

Onychotillomania represents an unusual dermatosis affecting the nail unit. The term refers to ‘neurotic picking at a nail until it is permanently altered’. It can be difficult for dermatologists to diagnose, as typically patients will deny the self‐destructive behavior and the clinical features may mimic other inflammatory conditions affecting the nail unit. Aside from the difficulty in establishing the diagnosis clinically, the histopathologic features of onychotillomania are nonspecific. With this limited knowledge, dermatopathologists could have difficulty in correlating the clinical and histopathologic features and determining the correct diagnosis. Establishing the diagnosis is critical, as onychotillomania is sometimes associated with major depression and obsessive‐compulsive disorder, and can be a clue to uncovering these debilitating psychiatric disorders. Here we present two cases of onychotillomania and emphasize the clinical‐pathological confrontation necessary to secure the diagnosis.
Imperilled phylogenetic endemism of Malagasy lemuriformes
Authors: Gudde Renske M. , Joy Jeffrey B. , Mooers Arne O.
Published: January 2013

Aim

To highlight where in Madagascar the phylogenetically and spatially rare lemur species at risk of extinction are concentrated.

Location

Madagascar.

Methods

Phylogenetic endemism (PE) is a combined measure for apportioning a phylogenetic tree across a landscape used to identify those geographical locations that contain spatially rare phylogenetic diversity (Rosauer et al., 2009). We present a simple extension (imperilled phylogenetic endemism) that scales this phylogenetic diversity by the probability of its loss to extinction. We apply these measures to a composite phylogeny of all confirmed Malagasy lemuriform species using International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) extent of occurrence and threat status data.

Results

We find that, because nonimperilled species are scattered about the lemuriform tree, interior branches of the tree are still quite secure: this also means that areas of high phylogenetic endemism for Madagascar lemuriformes are often the same areas as those of high imperilled PE (IPE), as both are heavily weighted by branches nearer the tips. However, although the North of Madagascar holds the largest amount of spatially rare evolutionary history using both PE and IPE, there are additional pockets of imperilled history in the south and west.

Main Conclusions

Correlations of endemism and threat status with phylogenetic isolation are modest across lemurs and so are not substitutable conservation values. They might best be integrated on the landscape using IPE. As illustrated here, IPE successfully highlights areas containing species which are at once threatened with extinction and that are phylogenetically and spatially rare.
Revealing a conservation challenge through partitioned long‐term beta diversity: increasing turnover and decreasing nestedness of boreal lake metacommunities
Authors: Angeler David G.
Published: January 2013

Aim

Assessing long‐term (1992–2009) trends of littoral invertebrate and phytoplankton metacommunities in boreal lakes with emphasis on separating the nestedness and turnover components of beta diversity. Deriving implications for regional biodiversity conservation and management, based on a data‐intensive approach with high ecological realism.

Location

Sweden (Northern Europe).

Methods

A recently published method was used to partition beta diversity into species turnover and nestedness components. Regression analyses were used to test for monotonic temporal change of these diversity fractions through time. Associations between the temporal diversity patterns of taxonomic groups and environmental variables were studied using correlation analyses.

Results

Turnover of both metacommunities increased monotonically over the study period, while nestedness decreased. In invertebrates, these changes correlated mainly with regional changes in acidity, while phytoplankton responded more to changing water clarity. Nestedness and turnover patterns were inversely correlated in both groups, but neither turnover nor nestedness was correlated between invertebrates and phytoplankton. Nestedness of both groups explained a lower percentage of the partitioned variance compared with turnover.

Main conclusion

Results suggest that all lakes contribute more equally to regional diversity over time and are, as a result, all potential targets of management actions. Not only is a regional conservation strategy logistically difficult, it is also a financially expensive expectation.
The challenge of understanding the origin, pathways and extent of fungal invasions: global populations of the Neofusicoccum parvum–N. ribis species complex
Authors: Sakalidis M. L. , Slippers B. , Wingfield B. D. , Hardy G. E. St. J. , Burgess T. I.
Published: January 2013

Aim

Cryptic species in the Neofusicoccum parvum–N. ribis species complex have only recently been described, invalidating previous interpretations on host and geographical distribution. This study aimed to characterize the diversity and distribution of these species and to understand the patterns of host association, likely origins and their patterns of spread.

Location

Australia, Brazil, Cameroon, Chile, China, Colombia, Ethiopia, France, Greece, India, Indonesia, Iran, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, New Zealand, Panama, Portugal, Puerto Rico, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Swaziland, Taiwan, Thailand, Uganda, United States of America, Uruguay, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Methods

Using the unique polymorphisms that separate species within the complex, we evaluated sequence search results available in public and in our own databases. In addition, the global distribution of diversity of N. parvum was analysed using seven microsatellite markers.

Results

Neofusicoccum parvum is found in 90 hosts across six continents and 29 countries. Neofusicoccum kwambonambiense is found on four continents, six countries and on 14 hosts; N. occulatum is found on four continents, four countries and on 11 hosts; N. umdonicola is found on two continents, countries and hosts; N. cordaticola is found on three continents, countries and hosts; N. batangarum is found on two continents, three countries and three hosts; and N. ribis is found on one host in one country. Population genetic analysis of the global N. parvum population reflects admixture and repeat introductions.

Main conclusions

This study illustrates the unfettered and frequent movement of latent pathogens across international borders. Amongst the species in the N. parvum–N. ribis complex, N. parvum is the most widespread and has been reported on the majority of the hosts studied. The current dispersal of N. parvum and its sister species is probably due to repeated introductions of plant material into new growing areas, with Eucalyptus and Vitis vinifera being two prominent candidates for material transfer.
Fine‐scale regional distribution modelling of rare and threatened species: bridging GIS Tools and conservation in practice
Authors: Lyet Arnaud , Thuiller Wilfried , Cheylan Marc , Besnard Aurélien
Published: January 2013

Aim

Snakes are more vulnerable to extinction than many other taxa. Additionally, their secretive behaviour makes it difficult to acquire the baseline ecological knowledge required to reliably evaluate extinction risks. Consequently, the conservation status of snakes has only been assessed for small populations; reliable methods for large‐scale evaluation remain to be tested. In this study, we explored how habitat‐suitability models (HSMs) could be used to provide relevant information to help assess extinction risks and formulate appropriate conservation strategies for the Orsini's viper (Vipera ursinii), a rare, endangered snake species.

Location

Provence‐Alpes‐Côte d'Azur region in south‐eastern France (c. 30,000 km²).

Methods

We developed a high‐resolution HSM (50 × 50 m) using a large sample of species presence data and nine climatic and land cover predictors. We used this model to predict the potential distribution of the Orsini's viper as well as to investigate the main environmental drivers explaining this distribution. We also assessed the geographical barriers between local populations and tested whether forest cutting would reduce fragmentation.

Results

The occurrence of the Orsini's viper was strongly correlated with the annual cumulative temperature and with vegetation cover type. The total extent of suitable habitat covered 2.98% of the study area and was highly fragmented into 1417 distinct areas. Among these areas of suitable habitat, 21 were confirmed to have the species. These represented 22,134 ha and a potential carrying capacity of 168,000 individuals.

Main conclusions

Our HSM was consistent with the past assessment of the distribution of the Orsini's viper. Our HSM represents a sound benchmark for the distribution of the species and can provide a powerful tool to help with the search of new populations, the identification of areas for habitat restoration, the test conservation strategies and effects of climate change. We found that forest cutting may lead to reconnect close isolated areas of suitable habitat.
Hypoglycaemia‐induced changes in regional brain volume and memory function
Authors: Kirchhoff B. A. , Lugar H. M. , Smith S. E. , Meyer E. J. , Perantie D. C. , Kolody B. C. , Koller J. M. , Arbelaez A. M. , Shimony J. S. , Hershey T.
Published: January 2013

Background

Hypoglycaemic events can be a serious complication of insulin therapy in Type 1 diabetes mellitus. Severe hypoglycaemic exposure can lead to episodic memory impairments, including anterograde amnesia. However, relatively little is known regarding the long‐term impact of severe hypoglycaemia on brain structure in Type 1 diabetes mellitus. The goals of the present study were to gain a greater understanding of the long‐term effects of severe hypoglycaemia exposure on brain structure and the neural correlates of memory impairments in Type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Case report

Regional grey and white matter volume and total white matter lesion volume were quantified in an individual with long‐standing hypoglycaemia‐induced anterograde amnesia and compared with age‐ and gender‐matched healthy controls. Our patient has significant reductions in grey matter volume in the hippocampus, thalamus and pallidum, and significant reductions in white matter volume in the splenium, isthmus of the cingulate and cerebellum. He also has a significantly larger total white matter lesion volume than controls.

Conclusion

This case study highlights the potential of hypoglycaemia for permanent deleterious effects on brain structure and memory function. Our results suggest that subcortical grey matter, periventricular white matter and posterior white matter may be most susceptible to injury from hypoglycaemia exposure, and that structural damage to the hippocampus and isthmus of the cingulate may play a central role in hypoglycaemia‐induced memory impairments.
Primary‐care observational database study of the efficacy of GLP‐1 receptor agonists and insulin in the UK
Authors: Hall G. C. , McMahon A. D. , Dain M.‐P. , Wang E. , Home P. D.
Published: January 2013

Aims

We investigated use and efficacy of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) receptor agonists in UK practice.

Methods

People starting a GLP‐1 receptor agonist (exenatide, liraglutide) or insulin (glargine, detemir, NPH) after a regimen of two or three oral glucose‐lowering agents were identified from The Health Information Network observational primary care database (2007–2011). Mean change in HbA1c and body weight were compared at 1 year between cohorts, adjusting for baseline characteristics.

Results

Baseline characteristics of GLP‐1 receptor agonist (n = 1123) vs. insulin (n = 1842) users were HbA1c 78 vs. 84 mmol/mol (9.3 vs. 9.8%) and BMI 38.2 vs. 30.9 kg/m2. The GLP‐1 receptor agonist cohort was younger, had shorter diabetes duration and follow‐up, less microvascular disease and heart failure, higher estimated glomerular filtration rate and more use of oral glucose‐lowering agents. Lower HbA1c reduction on GLP‐1 receptor agonist [7 vs. 13 mmol/mol (0.6 vs. 1.2%) (n = 366 vs. 892)] was not statistically significant [adjusted mean difference −1.4 (95% CI −4.1, 1.2) mmol/mol], except in the highest HbA1c quintile [>96 mmol/mol (>10.9%); adjusted mean difference −17.8 (−28.6, −7.0) mmol/mol]. GLP‐1 receptor agonist users lost weight [−4.5 vs. +1.5 kg; adjusted mean difference 4.7 (3.7, 5.8) kg; n = 335 vs. 634]. A UK 6‐month target reduction for GLP‐1 receptor agonists of 11 mmol/mol (1.0%) HbA1c and 3% weight was reached by 24.9% of those continuing treatment.

Conclusions

Those starting GLP‐1 receptor agonists are heavier with better glycaemic control than those starting basal insulin. Subsequently, they have improved weight change, with similar HbA1c reduction unless baseline HbA1c is very high. The UK 6‐month GLP‐1 receptor agonist target is usually not reached.
Macroevolutionary perspectives to environmental change
Authors: Condamine Fabien L. , Rolland Jonathan , Morlon Hélène
Published: January 2013

Predicting how biodiversity will be affected and will respond to human‐induced environmental changes is one of the most critical challenges facing ecologists today. Here, we put current environmental changes and their effects on biodiversity in a macroevolutionary perspective. We build on research in palaeontology and recent developments in phylogenetic approaches to ask how macroevolution can help us understand how environmental changes have affected biodiversity in the past, and how they will affect biodiversity in the future. More and more paleontological and phylogenetic data are accumulated, and we argue that much of the potential these data have for understanding environmental changes remains to be explored.
Evolution of suicide as a defence strategy against pathogens in a spatially structured environment
Authors: Berngruber Thomas W. , Lion Sébastien , Gandon Sylvain
Published: January 2013

Suicide upon infection by lytic phages is known in several bacteria species and represents an effective defence strategy to limit phage spread. However, the ecological conditions favouring the evolution of such a radically altruistic behaviour are unclear. Here, we model the feedback of epidemiology on host evolution in a spatially structured environment and we generate several specific predictions on altruistic suicide evolution. We test these predictions experimentally by competing E. coli cells carrying the suicide gene Lit against non‐carrier cells in the presence or in the absence of the lytic phage T6. We show that in accord with our theoretical analysis altruistic suicide is only favoured in the presence of the phage in spatially structured environments at intermediate levels of mixing. Our work provides a general explanation for the evolution of altruistic defence strategies against pathogens. We discuss the implications of these results for oncolytic virus therapy.
Identification of the hydroxyapatite‐binding domain of salivary agglutinin
Authors: Bikker Floris J. , Cukkemane Nivedita , Nazmi Kamran , Veerman Enno C. I.
Published: January 2013

The salivary agglutinin glycoprotein (SAG) is present in saliva but is also part of the salivary pellicle, playing a seemingly paradoxical role with regard to bacterial homeostasis. On the one hand, SAG aggregates bacteria in solution, thereby preventing bacterial colonization. On the other hand, when bound to the tooth surface, SAG facilitates bacterial colonization and microbial growth. The protein part of SAG is predominantly composed of conserved scavenger receptor cysteine‐rich (SRCR) domains. Previously it was found that bacterial binding and aggregation is mediated via a single peptide loop, designated SRCRP2 (P2), within the SRCR domains of SAG. The current data suggest that the SRCR domains also harbour a hydroxyapatite (HA)‐binding moiety, SRCRP3 (P3). The observation that P2 and P3 individually play unique roles in the function of SAGs contributes to our understanding of the dual role of SAGs in bacterial binding. Inspired by the bacterial‐modulating capacity of SAGs, we created a P3–polyethylene glycol (PEG) conjugate. It was found that a P3 coating resulted in an increased antifouling activity of 20% compared with the uncoated surface in vitro. An additional PEG moiety resulted in an antifouling activity of up to 40% and 30% for Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus epidermidis, respectively.
Somatosensory profiling of intra‐oral capsaicin and menthol in healthy subjects
Authors: Lu Shengyi , Baad‐Hansen Lene , List Thomas , Zhang Zhenting , Svensson Peter
Published: January 2013

This study was designed to investigate the effect of surrogate orofacial pain models on the quantitative sensory testing (QST) profile in healthy participants. Capsaicin, menthol, or saline (control) were applied topically onto the gingiva of 15 healthy subjects for 15 min. During application, the subjects rated pain intensity on a score of 0–10, on an electronic visual analog scale (VAS). A standardized intra‐oral QST protocol was performed before and immediately after application. Data obtained before and after application were compared using rank‐sum tests, and QST profiles were made after Z‐transformation. Application of capsaicin caused moderate levels of pain (VASpeak = 6.0 ± 0.7), and application of menthol produced mild levels of pain (VASpeak = 1.8 ± 0.6). Capsaicin induced hypersensitivity to warmth, heat pain and cold pain and hyposensitivity to mechanical stimuli. Menthol induced hypersensitivity to cold and warmth. Saline caused hypersensitivity to heat pain and hyposensitivity to mechanical stimuli. However, somatosensory profiles from Z‐scores demonstrated sensory gains regarding warmth detection and heat pain only after application of capsaicin. In conclusion, a standardized battery of QST showed somatosensory changes after application of capsaicin, menthol and saline to the gingiva. However, the Z‐score‐based profiles may only reflect the most prominent somatosensory changes and thus represent a conservative approach for evaluation of data.
Combining geometric morphometrics, molecular phylogeny, and micropaleontology to assess evolutionary patterns in Mallomonas (Synurophyceae: Heterokontophyta)
Authors: Siver P. A. , Wolfe A. P. , Rohlf F. J. , Shin W. , Jo B. Y.
Published: January 2013

Synurophytes, also known as scaled chrysophytes, are ecologically important algae that produce an array of siliceous structures upon which their taxonomy is based. Despite occupying a key position within the photosynthetic heterokonts, the evolutionary history of synurophytes remains poorly constrained. Here, modern and Middle Eocene siliceous scales of the morphotaxon Mallomonas insignis are used as a model to investigate synurophyte evolutionary patterns. Structural details of scale morphology were examined comparatively with scanning electron microscopy and scored for geometric morphometric analyses to assess the stability of shape characters. Although consistent size differences exist (modern scales are larger than Eocene counterparts), the populations cannot be differentiated on the basis of shape or microstructural detail, implying considerable evolutionary stasis in scale morphology. A time‐calibrated relaxed molecular clock analysis using a three‐gene concatenated data set (27 strains) suggests that the M. insignis lineage predates the available fossil record, having diverged from closest congeneric taxa in the Cretaceous (≥94 Ma). However, the molecular analysis also implies that considerable genetic variability is present within several morphotaxa of Mallomonas, implying that substantial genetic variability has arisen despite the retention of uniform scale morphologies, and resulting in the widespread occurrence of cryptic taxa. Results from the synurophyte lineage are consistent with the notion of protracted ghost ranges (>10 Ma) implied by the molecular phylogenies of other algal groups, together pointing to the paucity of the fossil record of these organisms on these timescales.
Biochar in bioenergy cropping systems: impacts on soil faunal communities and linked ecosystem processes
Authors: McCormack Sarah A. , Ostle Nick , Bardgett Richard D. , Hopkins David W. , Vanbergen Adam J.
Published: January 2013

Biochar amendment of soil and bioenergy cropping are two eco‐engineering strategies at the forefront of attempts to offset anthropogenic carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Both utilize the ability of plants to assimilate atmospheric CO2, and are thus intrinsically linked with soil processes. Research to date has shown that biochar and bioenergy cropping change both aboveground and belowground carbon cycling and soil fertility. Little is known, however, about the form and function of soil food webs in these altered ecosystems, or of the consequences of biodiversity changes at higher trophic levels for soil carbon sequestration. Hitherto studies on this topic have been chiefly observational, and often report contrasting results, thus adding little mechanistic understanding of biochar and bioenergy cropping impacts on soil organisms and linked ecosystem processes. This means it is difficult to predict, or control for, changes in biotic carbon cycling arising from biochar and bioenergy cropping. In this study we explore the potential mechanisms by which soil communities might be affected by biochar, particularly in soils which support bioenergy cropping. We outline the abiotic (soil quality‐mediated) and biotic (plant‐ and microbe‐mediated) shifts in the soil environment, and implications for the abundance, diversity, and composition of soil faunal communities. We offer recommendations for promoting biologically diverse, fertile soil via biochar use in bioenergy crop systems, accompanied by specific future research priorities.
Markers of inflammation and CD8 T‐cell activation, but not monocyte activation, are associated with subclinical carotid artery disease in HIV‐infected individuals
Authors: Longenecker CT , Funderburg NT , Jiang Y , Debanne S , Storer N , Labbato DE , Lederman MM , McComsey GA
Published: January 2013

Objectives

The aim of the study was to explore the relationships between lymphocyte and monocyte activation, inflammation, and subclinical vascular disease among HIV‐1‐infected patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART).

Methods

Baseline mean common carotid artery (CCA) intima‐media thickness (IMT) and carotid plaque (IMT > 1.5cm) were evaluated in the first 60 subjects enrolled in the Stopping Atherosclerosis and Treating Unhealthy Bone with Rosuvastatin in HIV (SATURN‐HIV) trial. All subjects were adults on stable ART with evidence of heightened T‐cell activation (CD8+CD38+HLA‐DR+ ≥ 19%) or increased inflammation (high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein ≥ 2mg/L). All had fasting low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol ≤ 130mg/dL.

Results

Seventy‐eight per cent of patients were men and 65% were African‐American. Median (interquartile range) age and CD4 count were 47 (43, 52) years and 648 (511, 857) cells/μL, respectively. All had HIV‐1 RNA < 400 HIV‐1 RNA copies/mL. Mean CCA‐IMT was correlated with log‐transformed CD8+CD38+HLA‐DR+ percentage (r = 0.326; P = 0.043), and concentrations of interleukin‐6 (r = 0.283; P = 0.028), soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule (sVCAM; r = 0.434; P = 0.004), tumour necrosis factor‐α receptor‐I (TNFR‐I; r = 0.591; P < 0.0001) and fibrinogen (r = 0.257; P = 0.047). After adjustment for traditional cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors, the association with TNFR‐I (P = 0.007) and fibrinogen (P = 0.033) remained significant. Subjects with plaque (n = 22; 37%) were older [mean (standard deviation) 51 (7.7) vs. 43 (9.4) years, respectively; P = 0.002], and had a higher CD8+CD38+HLA‐DR+ percentage [median (interquartile range) 31% (24, 41%) vs. 23% (20, 29%), respectively; P = 0.046] and a higher sVCAM concentration [mean (standard deviation) 737 (159) vs. 592 (160) ng/mL, respectively; P = 0.008] compared with those without plaque. Pro‐inflammatory monocyte subsets and serum markers of monocyte activation (soluble CD163 and soluble CD14) were not associated with CCA‐IMT or plaque.

Conclusions

Participants in SATURN‐HIV have a high level of inflammation and immune activation that is associated with subclinical vascular disease despite low serum LDL cholesterol.
Estimating abundance of the federally endangeredMitchell's satyr butterfly using hierarchical distance sampling
Authors: Hamm Christopher A.
Published: January 2013

Estimates of animal abundance are essential to conservation biology and are sorely lacking for many endangered species in the United States of America. This lack of knowledge may disproportionately affect butterflies in theUSA, which form the largest group of federally protected insects (20 of 62 species).

The Mitchell's satyr butterfly,Neonympha mitchellii mitchellii, is a federally endangered species found at 18 highly isolated sites in the EasternUSA. Currently, surveys are conducted by meandering through habitat and recording the number of butterflies observed. These surveys are efficient in terms of staffing and time, but the data from these surveys cannot be used to estimate abundance. Mark release recapture surveys generate estimates of demographic parameters and have been conducted, albeit infrequently, and require high staffing levels and weeks of fieldwork to generate estimates with reasonable error.

I employed hierarchical distance sampling along line transects to estimateN. m. mitchelliiabundance at one site in lower Michigan,USA. This method requires one observer to traverse a series of transects at a walking pace and record the number of butterflies observed and their perpendicular distance to the transect line. My results suggest that this method is as cost efficient as meander surveys, but generates reasonable estimates of butterfly abundance.
Novel Layered Hydroxyapatite/Tri‐Calcium Phosphate–Zirconia Scaffold Composite with High Bending Strength for Load‐Bearing Bone Implant Application
Authors: Yang Jing‐Zhou , Sultana Rumana , Hu Xiao‐Zhi , Ichim Paul
Published: January 2013

The integration of biological and mechanical requirements remains a challenge in developing porous hydroxyapatite (HA) and tri‐calcium phosphate (TCP) scaffolds for load‐bearing bone implant application. With the newly developed slip‐deposition and coating‐substrate co‐sintering technique, a strong layered HA/TCP‐zirconia scaffold composite structure was successfully fabricated. The bending strength (321 MPa) of this composite can match upper strength limit of the natural compact bone. The HA‐based scaffold coating has multiple scale porous structures with pore size ranging 1–10 and 20–50 μm. The zirconia‐based substrate is also porous with submicropores. Focus ion beam micrographs show most of the micropores in the coating are interconnected. Microindentation and primarily adhesive strength tests demonstrate that the scaffold coating strongly bonds with the zirconia based substrate. In vitro cell culture study indicates that the coatings have no cytotoxicity. It is evident that the strong layered HA–zirconia scaffold composite offers new implant options for bone repairs requiring immediate load bearing capacity.
A review to inform understanding of the use of food safety messages on food labels
Authors: Hall Clare , Osses Felipe
Published: January 2013

Food labels are central for communicating information about food products to consumers, and thus are important for imparting food safety messages, particularly as a high proportion of food‐borne illnesses are caused by poor domestic food handling practices. This paper reviews studies investigating consumers' responses to labels, emphasizing findings related to food safety messages. The evidence is contradictory but consumers do use labels. However, as labels contain so much diverse information it can be difficult for consumers to identify the important food safety messages. There is some confusion over terms relating to spoilation dates, and information such as cooking guidelines that are generally ignored. Like many behaviours, use of labels is influenced by a wide range of factors including attitudes, knowledge, experience, socio‐demographic characteristics, trust in message providers and label design. Recommendations are for more research into the use of food safety information on labels, observational studies to inform understanding of this issue and clarification for consumers about what information is important to food safety.
Current status of long‐term indwelling urinary catheter management by visiting nurses
Authors: Maeda Shuko , Takiuti Takako , Komatsu Taeko , Kohno Yumiko , Kyuji Kazuyo
Published: January 2013

ABSTRACT

Patients with indwelling catheters at home are more likely to receive home‐visit nursing care. However, the condition of patients with indwelling catheters among those receiving home‐visit nursing care, as well as the actual status of catheter management practised by visiting nurses, has not been studied. The aim of this study was to study the condition of long‐term indwelling urinary catheter users receiving home‐visit nursing care and the status of catheter management by visiting nurses. Thirty visiting nurses with experience in home‐visit nursing care for patients with long‐term indwelling catheters participated in this study. The questionnaire covered (1) attributes of visiting nurses, (2) the condition of indwelling catheter users, and (3) the state of implementation of catheter management by visiting nurses and difficulties experienced. It was found that patients receiving home‐visit nursing care had used indwelling catheters for a prolonged period for both disease management and other reasons, and they developed various abnormal symptoms and complications such as urinary tract infection. A high percentage of visiting nurses implemented all the items of observation, practice, guidance and cooperation in catheter management. Items of catheter management that caused difficulty for visiting nurses included detection of urinary tract infection or other complications, catheter insertion, obtaining catheter replacement supplies, encouraging ingestion of water and cooperation with physicians. This study concludes by throwing light on the condition of long‐term indwelling urinary catheter users receiving home‐visit nursing care, and the status of catheter management by visiting nurses.
Nurse assessment of residents' pain in a long‐term care facility
Authors: Ben Natan M. , Ataneli M. , Admenko A. , Har Noy R.
Published: January 2013

Background

Chronic pain experienced by residents in long‐term care is a common complaint that is often underdiagnosed and inadequately treated. This in part may be due to poor nursing practice in pain assessment.

Aim

To identify factors predicting nurses' performance of pain assessment among older long‐term care residents. Furthermore, it will examine the relationship between ageist attitudes and practices and attitudes about pain assessment of older adults.

Methods

A descriptive correlation survey was carried out among 104 nurses working in a long‐term care facility. The survey measured nurses' pain assessment practices and attitude about pain assessment, and attitudes to older people. Linear regression was used to examine associations between the variables.

Findings

Our results show that nurse assessment is directly and positively correlated with their general knowledge about pain obtained in pre‐service nursing studies, but not with knowledge obtained during in‐service training. Nurses with a positive, non‐ageist attitude towards older adults are more likely to have higher levels of awareness of the need to perform pain assessment.

Key conclusions and implications for practice

Concerning implementation, we suggest increasing pain assessment training as part of pre‐service nursing education. The necessary training should focus on improving attitudes towards older adults, removing negative myths associated with them and increasing appreciation of the importance of pain assessment.
Clinical utility of the prostate cancer gene 3 (PCA3) urine assay in Japanese men undergoing prostate biopsy
Authors: Ochiai Atsushi , Okihara Koji , Kamoi Kazumi , Oikawa Takehiro , Shimazui Toru , Murayama Shin‐Ichiro , Tomita Kyoichi , Umekawa Tohru , Uemura Hirotsugu , Miki Tsuneharu
Published: January 2013

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

It is known that a prostate cancer gene 3 (PCA3) urine assay is superior to serum PSA level or PSA‐related indices for predicting a positive biopsy result in European and US men.

This is the first report on PCA3 in a large cohort of Japanese men. The diagnostic value of the PCA3 score in Japanese men was similar to those reported in European and US men. The study concludes that a combination of PSA density and PCA3 score may be useful for selecting patients who could avoid an unnecessary biopsy.

Objective

To examine the diagnostic performance of the prostate cancer gene 3 (PCA3) score for prostate cancer in Japanese men undergoing prostate biopsy.

Patients and Methods

This Japanese, multicentre study included 647 Asian men who underwent extended prostate biopsy with elevated prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) and/or abnormal digital rectal examination (DRE).

Urine samples were collected after DRE.

The PCA3 score was determined using a PROGENSA PCA3 assay and correlated with biopsy outcome. Its diagnostic accuracy was compared with that of serum PSA level, prostate volume (PV), PSA density (PSAD), and free/total PSA ratio (f/t PSA).

Results

A total of 633 urine samples were successfully analysed (the informative rate was 98%). Median PSA was 7.6 ng/mL.

Biopsy revealed cancer in 264 men (41.7%). The PCA3 score for men with prostate cancer was significantly higher than that for men with negative biopsies (median PCA3 score: 49 vs. 18; P < 0.001). The rate of positive biopsy was 16.0% in men with a PCA3 score of <20 and 60.6% in those with a PCA3 score of ≥50.

Using a PCA3 score threshold of 35, sensitivity and specificity were 66.5 and 71.6%, respectively.

The area under the curve of the PCA3 score was significantly higher than that of the f/t PSA in men with PSA 4–10 ng/mL (0.742 vs 0.647; P < 0.05).

In men with PSAD < 0.15 and PCA3 < 20, only three (4.2%) out of 72 men had prostate cancer.

Conclusions

The PCA3 score was significantly superior to f/t PSA in predicting a positive biopsy result for prostate cancer in Japanese men with PSA 4–10 ng/mL.

The combination of PSAD and PCA3 score may be useful for selecting patients who could avoid an unnecessary biopsy.
Transfer Payments without Growth: Evidence for German Regions, 1992–2005
Authors: Koetter Michael , Wedow Michael
Published: January 2013

After German reunification, interregional subsidies accounted for approximately 4% of gross fixed capital investment in the new federal states (i.e. those which were formerly part of the German Democratic Republic). We show that, between 1992 and 2005, infrastructure and corporate investment subsidies had a negative net impact on regional economic growth and convergence. This result is robust to both the specification of spatially weighted control variables and the use of instrumental variable techniques to control for the endogeneity of subsidies. Our results suggest that regional redistribution was ineffective, potentially due to a lack of spatial concentration to create growth poles.
Intratracheal Antitumor Necrosis Factor‐α Antibody Attenuates Lung Tissue Damage Following Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Qi Danni , Gao Ming‐Xin , Yu Yang
Published: January 2013

The aim of this study is to investigate the protective effect and underlying mechanism of antitumor necrosis factor‐α antibody (TNF‐α Ab) on lung tissue injury after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Twenty‐eight healthy New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into four groups. Group I received only an open chest operation. Groups II–IV all received CPB. Furthermore, groups III and IV received post‐CPB endotracheal intubation with phosphate buffered saline or TNF‐α Ab (2400 pg/kg), respectively. Perioperative blood neutrophil count, TNF‐α level, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were determined in both the right and left atriums. Lung water content, TNF‐α messenger RNA, protein, apoptosis in situ, and pathomorphological changes were also measured. The results show that TNF‐α Ab can significantly inhibit leukocyte accumulation, reduce secretion of TNF‐α and MDA, decrease lung tissue apoptosis, and attenuate post‐CPB pathomorphological changes. TNF‐α Ab administration, however, cannot suppress the expression of TNF‐α, suggesting that the protective effects of TNF‐α Ab originate from inhibiting the numerous biological functions of TNF‐α. Intratracheal TNF‐α Ab administration demonstrates a notable protective effect against lung injury after CPB.
Inhibition of the PI3K/AKT Pathway Reduces Tumor Necrosis Factor‐Alpha Production in the Cellular Response to Wear Particles In Vitro
Authors: Huang Jian‐bin , Ding Yue , Huang Dong‐sheng , Liang An‐jing , Zeng Wei‐ke , Zeng Zhan‐peng , Qin Chu‐qiang , Barden Bertram
Published: January 2013

Joint replacement is the most effective treatment for end‐stage osteoarticular disease. However, macrophage‐mediated aseptic loosening of joint prosthesis severely hampers the clinical effects of joint replacement. Until now, the mechanism by which macrophages regulate the secretion of inflammatory cytokines after particle stimulation is not clear. It is well known that the PI3K/AKT pathway participates in multiple cellular processes, including cell growth, survival, and inflammation. However, whether the PI3K/AKT pathway participates in the proinflammatory response of macrophages after particle stimulation and secondary aseptic loosening is still unknown. In this study, ceramic and titanium particles of different sizes were prepared to stimulate macrophages. LY294002, a specific inhibitor of PI3K, was pretreated prior to particle stimulation. The expression of tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) and all the subunits of PI3K and AKT were detected by real‐time polymerase chain reaction, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and Western blot. The result showed that LY294002 could suppress the RNA and protein expression of TNF‐α in RAW264.7 cells after stimulation of different particles. The subunits of PI3K (p110β and p85β), followed by activation of phosphor‐AKT (Ser473), participated in the regulation of activating macrophages by wear particles, ultimately resulting in the secretion of TNF‐α.
Transforming the Norwegian Dwelling Stock to Reach the 2 Degrees Celsius Climate Target
Authors: Pauliuk Stefan , Sjöstrand Karin , Müller Daniel B.
Published: January 2013

Residential buildings account for about one‐third of the final energy demand in Norway. Many cost‐effective measures for reducing heat losses in buildings are known, and their implementation may make the building sector one of the largest contributors to climate change mitigation.

To determine the sectoral emission reduction potential, we model a complete transformation of the dwelling stock by 2050 by applying both renovation and reconstruction with different energy standards. We propose a new dynamic stock model with an optimization routine to identify and prioritize buildings with the highest energy saving potential. We combine material flow analysis (MFA) and life cycle assessment (LCA) techniques to extend the sectoral boundary beyond direct household emissions.

Despite an expected population growth of almost 50% between 2000 and 2050, sectoral carbon emissions in that period may drop between 30% and 40% for scenarios where the stock is completely transformed by either reconstruction or renovation to the passive house standard. Due to its lower upstream impact, renovation leads to a lower sectoral carbon footprint than reconstruction.

Full transformation, however, is not sufficient to achieve an emissions reduction of 50% or more, as required on average to limit global warming to 2 degrees Celsius, because hot water generation, appliances, and lighting will dominate the sectoral footprint once the stock has been transformed. A first estimate of the additional impact of realistic energy efficiency and lifestyle changes in the nonheating part of the sector reveals a maximal total reduction potential of about 75%.
Racial Disparities in Left Main Stenting: Insights from a Real World Inner City Population
Authors: MOHAMAD TAMAM , PANAICH SIDAKPAL S. , ALANI ANAS , BADHEKA APURVA , SHENOY MAITHILI , MOHAMAD BASHAR , KANAAN EYAS , ALI OMAIMA , ELDER MAHIR , SCHREIBER THEODORE L.
Published: January 2013

Background

Left main coronary artery (LMCA) disease is associated with significant cardiovascular mortality. The data on patient characteristics' predicting outcomes after LMCA revascularization is sparse.

Methods

A retrospective study of 227 patients with LMCA disease documented on coronary angiography from March 2000 to December 2008. Data included demographic variables, co‐morbidities, cardiac function, and medications. Race was self‐identified. The study outcome was a composite end‐point including myocardial infarction (MI) and all‐cause mortality. Cox proportional hazard analysis was performed to study the effect of various patient attributes including race and gender on the composite end‐point.

Results

Baseline characteristics were specifically compared between individuals who had the study outcome versus those who did not. Mean age was higher in the group with study outcomes when compared to the group without any outcomes (64.3 ± 11.8 years versus 59.2 ± 13.6 years; p = 0.013). After the final multivariate regression analysis, only African American (AA) race and age were found to be independent predictors of adverse cardiac outcome at the end of the first year (race—hazard ratio (HR) 3.82, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.38–10.62, p = 0.010; age—HR 1.08, 95% CI 1.04–1.13, p < 0.001) and at the end of the study (race—HR 2.71, 95% CI 1.44–5.10, p = 0.002; age—HR 1.03, 95% CI 1.01–1.08, p = 0.017).

Conclusion

In our study of patients with unprotected LMCA disease, AA race, and age were significantly predictive of poor prognosis following revascularization, while gender had no predictive value in prognosticating cardiovascular mortality.
Vocational and skill shortages in Vietnamese manufacturing and service sectors, and some plausible solutions
Authors: Montague Alan
Published: January 2013

The competition for talent is global. Reducing skill shortage problems boosts employment participation with a flow‐on effect to the health and well‐being of societies. Employment distributes a society's wealth among its citizens with a level of equity. This paper focuses on skill shortages in the labour force in Vietnam (in particular professional and technical qualifications) and basic capabilities in the manufacturing and service sectors. This is a qualitative research study involving an extensive literature review using secondary data. It concludes that skills shortages present significant challenges for the Vietnamese government. Plausible solutions to these identified challenges include focusing on substantial revisions to the national education and training systems in consultation with numerous associated stakeholders. The problem is both a national and an institutional human resource management (HRM) issue; such consultation should involve government policy‐makers, industry associations, unions, educational and HRM specialists.
Institutional influences on firm level HRM: some evidence from the Vietnamese garment and footwear sectors
Authors: MacIntosh Malcolm
Published: January 2013

The paper examines the changing institutional framework within which export manufacturing takes place in Vietnam and its influence on the management of export oriented companies. The paper draws on research undertaken in two companies in the garment and footwear sectors respectively. The paper examines the context of export oriented manufacturing within a framework defined by international treaty arrangements, supply chain relationships and the framework of employment relations law and institutions, as a basis for understanding the range of HR issues which managers in export oriented companies must face. This overview suggests that the economic development pathway being pursued by the Vietnamese government imposes a range of obligations on export companies. The paper observes that there are strong pressures for institutional reform emanating from foreign‐owned export companies, but that the process of institutional development is yet to deal with bargaining systems and conflict resolution in a way which provides a reliable basis for companies in export industries.
Whither Integrity I: Recent Faces of Integrity1
Authors: Scherkoske Greg
Published: January 2013

Despite the fact that most of us value integrity, and despite the fact that we readily understand one another when we talk and argue about it, integrity remains elusive to understand. Considerable scholarly attention has left troubling disagreement on fundamental issues: Is integrity in fact a virtue? If it is, what is it a virtue of? Why exactly should we value integrity? What is the appropriate way to have concern for one’s own integrity? Is having integrity compatible with having significant moral flaws? After an overview of common ‘data points’ or platitudes concerning integrity, this article outlines six distinct views of integrity that have been defended and draws attention to problems each has accommodating these data points.
An Hegelian in Strange Costume? On Peirce’s Relation to Hegel I
Authors: Stern Robert
Published: January 2013

This paper considers the relation between the American pragmatist Charles Sanders Peirce (1839–1914) and the German idealist G. W. F. Hegel (1770–1831). While Peirce engaged with Hegel’s thought quite extensively, his often critical comments on the latter have made it hard to see any genuine common ground between the two; recent ways of reading Hegel, however, suggest how this might be possible, where the connections between their respective metaphysical positions and views of the categories are explored here. Issues relating to their epistemology and philosophies of languages are considered in a companion article.
Teleosemantics: Etiological Foundations
Authors: Häggqvist Sören
Published: January 2013

Teleosemantics is a naturalistic research programme in the philosophy of mind and language. Its ambition is to achieve a reduction, first, of mental content to teleological function; second, of teleological function to non‐teleological notions. This article explores the second step, particularly as envisaged by Millikan’s etiological theory of function.
Two‐Dimensional Semantics and Sameness of Meaning
Authors: Schroeter Laura
Published: January 2013

In recent years, two‐dimensional (2D) semantics has been used to develop a broadly descriptivist approach to meaning that seeks to accommodate externalists’ counterexamples to traditional descriptivism. The 2D possible worlds framework can be used to capture a speaker’s implicit dispositions to identify the reference of her words on the basis of empirical information about her actual environment. Proponents of 2D semantics argue that this aspect of linguistic understanding plays the core theoretical role of meanings: 2D semantics allows us to specify a reference‐fixing criterion implicit mastery of which constitutes semantic competence a particular meaning.