bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patients with thymomas have an increased risk of developing additional malignancies: lack of immunological surveillance?
Authors: Granato Felice , Ambrosio Maria R , Spina Donatella , Lazzi Stefano , Rocca Bruno J , Voltolini Luca , Bongiolatti Stefano , Luzzi Luca , Gotti Giuseppe , Leoncini Lorenzo , Tosi Piero
Published: January 2012

Granato F, Ambrosio M R, Spina D, Lazzi S, Rocca B J, Voltolini L, Bongiolatti S, Luzzi L, Gotti G, Leoncini L & Tosi P  (2012) Histopathology 60, 270–277  Patients with thymomas have an increased risk of developing additional malignancies: lack of immunological surveillance?

Aims:  To assess the risk, for patients with thymoma, of developing an additional malignancy (AM).

Methods and results:  We studied 68 patients with thymomas. Based on the World Health Organization classification, the tumours were categorised as A, AB or B (B1, B2, B3) thymomas. Control populations comprised 114 patients with colorectal cancer, 108 patients with lymphoma and 123 patients with thyroid carcinoma. Patients with thymomas showed a higher risk of developing an AM (22 of 68 patients versus 11 of 114, eight of 108, and eight of 123 patients, respectively; P = 0.0002). The association between thymomas and AMs was related to the thymoma histotype, with B1, B2, B3 and AB tumours showing a higher risk of developing an AM than A thymomas (P = 0.0474).

Conclusions:  Patients affected by thymomas showed a significantly higher risk of developing additional malignancies than those in the control groups, and cases that exhibited a predominantly cortical component were more likely to develop other neoplasms. This may be related to the functions of cortical thymic epithelial cells in providing for T lymphocyte maturation through interaction with major histocompatibility complexes.
Immunohistochemical analysis of hepatocyte growth factor and c‐Met in plasma cell disease
Authors: Wader Karin F , Fagerli Unn‐Merete , Børset Magne , Lydersen Stian , Hov Håkon , Sundan Anders , Bofin Anna , Waage Anders
Published: January 2012

Wader K F, Fagerli U‐M, Børset M, Lydersen S, Hov H, Sundan A, Bofin A & Waage A  (2012) Histopathology60,443–451  Immunohistochemical analysis of hepatocyte growth factor and c‐Met in plasma cell disease

Aims:  Interaction with the bone marrow microenvironment is important for homing and survival of myeloma cells. One cytokine involved in this process is hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). HGF, by binding to the receptor tyrosine kinase c‐Met, mediates a broad range of tumour progression activities. Our aims were to investigate whether HGF and c‐Met are present in bone marrow and extramedullary tumours from patients with monoclonal plasma cell disease, and whether c‐Met is activated.

Methods and results:  Expression of HGF, c‐Met and phospho‐c‐Met was studied by immunohistochemistry in biopsies from 80 patients with monoclonal plasma cell disease. Cytoplasmic staining for HGF in plasma cells was demonstrated in 58 of 68 biopsies from multiple myeloma patients (85%), but also in biopsies from nine of 10 healthy individuals. Membranous staining for c‐Met was found in 25 of 63 multiple myeloma patients (40%) and in none of 10 healthy individuals. Membranous staining for phospho‐c‐Met was found in biopsies from 15 of 21 c‐Met‐positive myeloma patients (71%).

Conclusions:  Our data point to c‐Met expression as one of the factors that distinguishes normal from malignant plasma cells, and indicate that the HGF/c‐Met system is activated in multiple myeloma patients.
HMGA1 and HMGA2 protein expression correlates with advanced tumour grade and lymph node metastasis in pancreatic adenocarcinoma
Authors: Piscuoglio Salvatore , Zlobec Inti , Pallante Pierlorenzo , Sepe Romina , Esposito Francesco , Zimmermann Arthur , Diamantis Ioannis , Terracciano Luigi , Fusco Alfredo , Karamitopoulou Eva
Published: January 2012

Piscuoglio S, Zlobec I, Pallante P, Sepe R, Esposito F, Zimmermann A, Diamantis I, Terracciano L, Fusco A & Karamitopoulou E  (2012) Histopathology 60, 397–404  HMGA1 and HMGA2 protein expression correlates with advanced tumour grade and lymph node metastasis in pancreatic adenocarcinoma

Aims:  Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma follows a multistep model of progression through precursor lesions called pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN). The high mobility group A1 (HMGA1) and high mobility group A2 (HMGA2) proteins are architectural transcription factors that have been implicated in the pathogenesis and progression of malignant tumours, including pancreatic cancer. The aim of this study was to explore the role of HMGA1 and HMGA2 in pancreatic carcinogenesis.

Methods and results:  HMGA1 and HMGA2 expression was examined in 210 ductal pancreatic adenocarcinomas from resection specimens, combined on a tissue microarray also including 40 examples of PanIN and 40 normal controls. The results were correlated with the clinicopathological parameters of the tumours and the outcome of the patients. The percentage of tumour cells showing HMGA1 and HMGA2 nuclear immunoreactivity correlated positively with increasing malignancy grade and lymph node metastasis. Moreover, HMGA1 and HMGA2 expression was significantly higher in invasive carcinomas than in PanINs. No, or very low, expression was found in normal pancreatic tissue.

Conclusions:  Our results suggest that HMGA1 and HMGA2 are implicated in pancreatic carcinogenesis and may play a role in tumour progression towards a more malignant phenotype.
Gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease is associated with up‐regulation of desmosomal components in oesophageal mucosa
Authors: Wex Thomas , Mönkemüller Klaus , Stahr Antje , Kuester Doerthe , Fry Lucia C , Völkel Simone , Kandulski Arne , Roessner Albert , Malfertheiner Peter
Published: January 2012

Wex T, Mönkemüller K, Stahr A, Kuester D, Fry L C, Völkel S, Kandulski A, Roessner A & Malfertheiner P  (2012) Histopathology 60, 405–415  Gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease is associated with up‐regulation of desmosomal components in oesophageal mucosa

Aims:  Gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is associated with impaired epithelial barrier function. This study was aimed at investigating the role of desmosomal proteins in relation to GERD.

Methods and results:  Ninety‐five patients with GERD‐related symptoms (erosive, n = 51; non‐erosive, n = 44) and 27 patients lacking those symptoms were included. Endoscopic and histological characterization of oesophagitis was performed according to the Los Angeles and Ismeil–Beigi criteria, respectively. Multiple biopsies were taken from the oesophageal mucosa of each patient. Gene expression analysis of plakoglobin, desmoglein‐1, desmoglein‐2 and desmoglein‐3 was performed by quantitative real time (RT)‐polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry in the oesophageal mucosa. Routine histology revealed specific GERD‐related alterations, such as dilatation of intercellular spaces (DIS), basal cell hyperplasia (BCH), and elongation of the papillae, in the oesophageal mucosa of patients with GERD, as compared with controls (all parameters: P < 0.05). All four genes and corresponding proteins were found to be up‐regulated by between 1.7 and 8.1‐fold (transcript level, P < 0.05; protein level, P < 0.05). Induced gene expression levels of plakoglobin, desmoglein‐1 and desmoglein‐2 correlated significantly with DIS and BCH.

Conclusions:  Taken together, the uniform up‐regulation of desmosomal genes/proteins in the oesophageal mucosa of patients with GERD supports the concept of architectural and molecular changes in the desmosomal compartment in the pathogenesis of GERD.
A simple immunohistochemical algorithm predicts the risk of distant metastases in right‐sided colon cancer
Authors: Neumann Jens , Horst David , Kriegl Lydia , Maatz Susanne , Engel Jutta , Jung Andreas , Kirchner Thomas
Published: January 2012

Neumann J, Horst D, Kriegl L, Maatz S, Engel J, Jung A & Kirchner T  (2012) Histopathology 60, 416–426  A simple immunohistochemical algorithm predicts the risk of distant metastases in right‐sided colon cancer

Aims:  A test predicting distant metastases would be valuable for prognostication in colon cancer (CC). In previous studies, CC with microsatellite instability (MSI) showed a reduced risk of distant metastases. High expression of CD133 and β‐catenin, both related to cancer stem cell phenotypes, might be predictive markers for metastasis. The aim of this study was to develop a simple and robust test for risk assessment of distant metastases in CC.

Methods and results:  In a case–control study, 57 cases of right‐sided CC specimens with synchronous distant metastases were matched with 57 CC without distant metastases. Immunohistochemistry for MLH1, CD133 and nuclear β‐catenin was carried out. To define the diagnostic algorithm the tumours were first stratified according to their MLH1 expression. Loss of MLH1 expression was correlated significantly with a very low risk of distant metastases (5.3%; P = 0.00003). In MLH1‐positive cases, combined high scores of CD133 and β‐catenin were associated with a very high rate of distant metastases (94.4%), whereas the risk was intermediate for carcinomas with either low CD133 and/or low β‐catenin expression (P = 0.0007). A validation study using an independent set of 68 right‐sided CC specimens showed a clear trend towards risk stratification according to the algorithm; however, sample sizes were small, and associations were not statistically significant.

Conclusions:  By the use of three markers, this algorithm allowed identification of subgroups of right‐sided CC patients with extremely high and extremely low risk of distant metastases.
Performance of fluorescence‐based and conventional methods of occlusal caries detection in primary molars – an in vitro study
Authors: NOVAES TATIANE F. , MATOS RONILZA , GIMENEZ THAIS , BRAGA MARIANA M. , DE BENEDETTO MONIQUE S. , MENDES FAUSTO M.
Published: January 2012

International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2012; 22: 459–466

Aim.  This in vitro study aimed to test the performance of fluorescence‐based methods in detecting occlusal caries lesions in primary molars compared to conventional methods.

Design.  Two examiners assessed 113 sites on 77 occlusal surfaces of primary molars using three fluorescence devices: DIAGNOdent (LF), DIAGNOdent pen (LFpen), and fluorescence camera (VistaProof‐FC). Visual inspection (ICDAS) and radiographic methods were also evaluated. One examiner repeated the evaluations after one month. As reference standard method, the lesion depth was determined after sectioning and evaluation in stereomicroscope. The area under the ROC curve (Az), sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the methods were calculated at enamel (D1) and dentine caries (D3) lesions thresholds. The intra and interexaminer reproducibility were calculated using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and kappa statistics.

Results.  At D1, visual inspection presented higher sensitivities (0.97–0.99) but lower specificities (0.18–0.25). At D3, all the methods demonstrated similar performance (Az values around 0.90). Visual and radiographic methods showed a slightly higher specificity (values higher than 0.96) than the fluorescence based ones (values around 0.88). In general, all methods presented high reproducibility (ICC higher than 0.79).

Conclusions.  Although fluorescence‐based and conventional methods present similar performance in detecting occlusal caries lesions in primary teeth, visual inspection alone seems to be sufficient to be used in clinical practice.
Microleakage and penetration of a hydrophilic sealant and a conventional resin‐based sealant as a function of preparation techniques: a laboratory study
Authors: KHOGLI AHMED ELTIGANI , CAUWELS RITA , VERCRUYSSE CHRIS , VERBEECK RONALD , MARTENS LUC
Published: January 2012

International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2013; 23: 13–22

Background.  Optimal pit and fissure sealing is determined by surface preparation techniques and choice of materials.

Aim.  This study aimed (i) to compare the microleakage and penetration depth of a hydrophilic sealant and a conventional resin‐based sealant using one of the following preparation techniques: acid etching (AE) only, a diamond bur + AE, and Er:YAG laser combined with AE, and (ii) to evaluate the microleakage and penetration depth of the hydrophilic pit and fissure sealant on different surface conditions.

Design.  Eighty recently extracted 3rd molars were randomly assigned to eight groups of ten teeth according to the material, preparation technique, and surface condition. For saliva contamination, 0.1 mL of fresh whole human saliva was used. All samples were submitted to 1000 thermal cycles and immersed in 2% methylene blue dye for 4 h. Sections were examined by a light microscope and analysed using image analysis software (Sigmascan®).

Results.  The combination of Er:YAG + AE + conventional sealant showed the least microleakage. The sealing ability of the hydrophilic sealant was influenced by the surface condition.

Conclusion.  Er:YAG ablation significantly decreased the microleakage at the tooth–sealant interface compared to the non‐invasive technique. The hydrophilic sealant applied on different surface conditions showed comparable result to the conventional resin‐based sealant.
Prevalence of demarcated hypomineralisation defects in second primary molars in Iraqi children
Authors: GHANIM AGHAREED , MANTON DAVID , MARIÑO RODRIGO , MORGAN MICHAEL , BAILEY DENISE
Published: January 2012

International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2013; 23: 48–55

Background.  Demarcated hypomineralization lesions are not uncommon in second primary molars. Data on the prevalence of hypomineralized second primary molars (HSPM) are scarce.

Aim.  To investigate the prevalence of HSPM, assess the relationship between HSPM and first permanent molars previously diagnosed with demarcated lesions and to determine the severity of HSPM in relation to dental caries severity.

Design.  A cluster sample of 809, 7‐ to 9‐year‐old children was examined. The scoring criteria proposed by the European Academy of Paediatric Dentistry for hypomineralization in permanent dentition were adapted to score HSPMs. The International Caries Detection and Assessment System was used to assess caries status in the second primary molar of the children diagnosed with demarcated defects. The examination was carried out in schools by a calibrated dentist.

Results.  Of the children examined, 53 (6.6%) had hypomineralization defects in at least one second primary molar. Combinations of affected first permanent and second primary molars were reported in 21 (39.6%) of cases. Severe carious lesions were found mostly in teeth with enamel breakdown.

Conclusions.  The prevalence of HSPM was 6.6%. Over one‐third of affected second primary molars were associated with demarcated lesions in the first permanent molars. The chance of severe caries increased with the increase in the demarcated lesion severity.
Promoting continuity of care for people with long‐term neurological conditions: the role of the neurology nurse specialist
Authors: Aspinal Fiona , Gridley Kate , Bernard Sylvia , Parker Gillian
Published: January 2012

Aspinal F., Gridley K., Bernard S. & Parker G. (2012) Promoting continuity of care for people with long‐term neurological conditions: the role of the neurology nurse specialist. Journal of Advanced Nursing68(10), 2309–2319.

Aims.  To identify service models that provided care co‐ordination for people with long‐term neurological conditions in the UK.

Background.  The successful management of long‐term neurological conditions needs sophisticated management across several health, social care and other service boundaries, as well as involvement of people with long‐term neurological conditions and their support network. Yet, fragmentation of, and limited access to, support has been evident for over 20 years.

Design.  This study employed a mixed‐method approach, including a systematic review, qualitative case studies and a quantitative national survey. This paper reports findings from the qualitative case study element of the research.

Methods.  In‐depth (qualitative) case studies were conducted in six neurology ‘service systems’ in the UK representing geographic and demographic diversity. The research took place between November 2007–May 2008. The concept of ‘continuity of care’ was used as a framework for our case studies. Qualitative methods, including telephone and face‐to‐face interviews, were used to explore people’s experience of continuity of care. Data were managed and analyzed using the Framework technique.

Findings.  Neurology nurse specialists were able to contribute to all elements of continuity of care for people with long‐term neurological conditions.

Conclusion.  Their specialist knowledge about the condition and local services, flexibility, co‐ordinating role, and their holistic and collaborative approach to practice, are key factors in nurse specialists promoting continuity of care. Nurse specialists exist in many different clinical areas and in many countries. Findings about the importance of their role in promoting continuity of care have important implications for UK and international policy and practice.
Sensilla on the antennal funiculus of the horse stomach bot fly, Gasterophilus nigricornis
Authors: ZHANG D. , WANG Q. K. , HU D. F. , LI K.
Published: January 2012

Gasterophilus nigricornis (Loew) (Diptera: Oestridae) is one of the most damaging obligate parasites of equids in Kalamaili, Xinjiang, China. The main olfactory organs of this stomach bot fly are paired antennae that bear microscopic sensillar structures. The external morphology of the antennal funiculus and sensilla of male G. nigricornis were studied using stereopic microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. A cross‐sectional view of the funiculus shows it to be triangular, with an anterodorsal surface, a dorsolateral margin and a posteroventral surface. Almost the entire surface of the funiculus is densely covered with microtrichiae. Small patches lacking these microtrichiae appear as depressions or pits in the surface of the funiculus. Six distinct types of sensilla are recorded, including one trichoid, three basiconic, one auriculate and one clavate sensilla. Trichoid sensilla are the most abundant, followed by the basiconic, auriculate and clavate types in descending order. Only auriculate sensilla are found in pits on the funiculus. Distributions of different sensilla types located on the antennal funiculus are provided. These results are compared with equivalent findings in several other fly species. In addition, the possible functions of the various sensilla types are discussed.
Solid‐state vs water‐perfused catheters to measure colonic high‐amplitude propagating contractions
Authors: Liem O. , Burgers R. E. , Connor F. L. , Benninga M. A. , Reddy S. N. , Mousa H. M. , Di Lorenzo C.
Published: January 2012

Background  Solid‐state (SS) manometry catheters with portable data loggers offer many potential advantages over traditional water‐perfused (WP) systems, such as prolonged recordings in a more physiologic ambulatory setting and the lack of risk for water overload. The use of SS catheters has not been evaluated in comparison with perfused catheters in children. This study aims to compare data provided by SS and WP catheters in children undergoing colonic manometry studies.

Methods  A SS catheter and a WP catheter were taped together such that their corresponding sensors were at the same location. Simultaneous recordings were obtained using the SS and WP catheters (both 8 channels, 10 cm apart) in 15 children with severe defecation disorders referred for colonic manometry. Signals were recorded for a minimum of 1 h during fasting, 1 h after ingestion of a meal, and 1 h after the administration of bisacodyl. Solid‐state signals from the data logger were analyzed against the perfused signals. All high‐amplitude propagated contractions (HAPCs), the most recognizable and interpreted colonic motor event, were evaluated for spatial and temporal features including their durations, amplitudes, and propagation velocities.

Key Results  A total of 107 HAPCs were detected with SS and 91 with WP catheters. All WP‐HAPC were also observed with SS. Linear regression analysis showed that SS catheters tended to give higher readings in the presence of amplitudes <102 mmHg and lower reading with amplitudes >102 mmHg. An opposite trend was found for the duration of contractions. No significant difference was found for HAPC velocity.

Conclusions & Inferences  SS catheters are more sensitive in recording HAPCs in children with defecation disorders compared with the more traditional WP assembly. There is a difference in measurements of amplitude between the two systems. Solid‐state catheters offer potential advantages over WP catheters in children, being portable, safer to use, and may provide data over a more prolonged period.
Predictors of acid suppression success in patients with chronic laryngitis
Authors: Wang A. J. , Liang M. J. , Jiang A. Y. , Lin J. K. , Xiao Y. L. , Peng S. , Chen J. , Wen W. P. , Chen M. H.
Published: January 2012

Background  Up to 50% of the patients suspected of reflux laryngitis syndrome failed to respond to acid suppression therapy. However, predictors of acid suppression success have not been determined.

Methods  Consecutive patients with chronic laryngitis were enrolled prospectively. All the patients underwent laryngoscopy, esophagogastroduodenoscopy and 24‐h multichannel intraluminal impedance and pH (MII‐pH) monitoring before receiving rabeprazole 10 mg b.i.d. for 3 months. Patient was considered as a responder to acid suppression if the chief laryngeal complaint score during the last week since last interview had decreased by at least 50% after the start of therapy compared with baseline. Cox regression analysis was used to determine the independent predictors of acid suppression success.

Key Results  Of 92 patients (age 42.4 ± 14.3 years, 50 women), 42 (45.7%) responded to acid suppression after 3 months. Gastroesophageal reflux disease was defined in 22 patients, of whom 19 patients had pathological distal esophageal acid exposure and 5 were defined as erosive esophagitis. The time to response showed a significant hazard ratio for patients with increased distal esophageal acid exposure time (β: 0.93; HR: 2.55; 95% CI: 1.24–5.24; P = 0.011) and increased laryngopharyngeal bolus exposure time (BET; β: 0.96; HR: 2.61; 95% CI: 1.36–5.00; P = 0.004). The latter had the best Youden Index (0.34) and accuracy (68.5%).

Conclusions & Inferences  The success of acid suppression on chronic laryngitis could be predicted using reflux parameters detected by MII‐pH, among which increased laryngopharyngeal BET is the best.
Applicability and intercalibration of macrophyte quality indices to characterise the ecological status of Mediterranean transitional waters: the case of the Venice lagoon
Authors: Curiel Daniele , Falace Annalisa , Bandelj Vinko , Rismondo Andrea
Published: January 2012

In the framework of the WFD 2000/60/EC intercalibration process the updated versions of the EEI and R‐MaQI, proposed by Italy and Greece for the transitional waters, have been applied to the macrophytes of the Venice lagoon to test their comparability and relationships with the pressure gradients. Submerged macrophytes were collected during spring 2007 at 60 sites spread within the lagoon. At each site, five random samples were collected and the total coverage of benthic macrophytes in the field was estimated based on a number of tests of the bottom. To assess seagrass epiphytes, five shoots were collected for each replicate. Physico‐chemical data were collected in the water column at 14 sites selected to reflect the main hydro‐geomorphological and trophic gradients of the lagoon. The analyses performed indicated that the two metrics appeared to be weakly intercalibrated and only the 30% of the sampling sites displayed the same quality class. The main differences fell into the Moderate and Low classes and the two indices provided discordant results in the intermediate and confined areas of the lagoon. In contrast, the two indices showed good affinity in the marine areas of inlets, which are characterised by seagrass meadows and late‐successional macroalgae. Similar results were evidenced also in a redundancy analysis by the different relationships between quality classes and the physico‐chemical gradients. The main reason for this seems to be the heterogeneity of species–environment relationships inside the groups of species on which the indices are based. Critical aspects of methodological differences and applicability of the macrophyte indices proposed by Italy and Greece for the transitional waters of the Mediterranean eco‐region are discussed.
After 80 years absence, Wuthathi people plan for the return and management of ancestral homelands on Cape York Peninsula
Authors: Wallis Ray , Wallis Arnold , Picone Andrew
Published: January 2012

The Wuthathi people from the Shelburne Bay area on the north‐east coast of Cape York Peninsula have been displaced from their ancestral homelands since the late 1930s. Despite not having a permanent presence, Wuthathi have continued to access their ancestral country and connection remains unbroken. Through both Native Title and the Queensland Government’s land tenure reform process, much of the Wuthathi homelands will be returned as either Aboriginal freehold land or as Aboriginal‐owned national park. Wuthathi have Native Title over their sea estate that includes the exclusive use of a number of islands. The completion of Native Title and tenure reform will allow Indigenous management to return to the landscape from which it has been absent for nearly 100 years. In preparation for their return to country, the Wuthathi developed an integrated culture and conservation programme over 8 years ago that addressed cultural and natural conservation imperatives. Wuthathi are now moving into the implementation phase where Native Title has been determined. This study presents outcomes of a workshop, held in October 2010, that identified a range of barriers preventing sound ecological and cultural land management. For example, while funding for multiple land and sea cultural and natural resource management projects is secured, operational funding, management infrastructure and resources are lacking. With Wuthathi people dispersed across many hundreds of kilometres and no permanent infrastructure on country, planning and executing current management projects are severely limited.
Achieving highly successful multiple agency collaborations in a cross‐cultural environment: experiences and lessons from Dhimurru Aboriginal Corporation and partners
Authors: Hoffmann Benjamin D. , Roeger Steve , Wise Phil , Dermer Jane , Yunupingu BaluPalu , Lacey Daryl , Yunupingu Djäwa , Marika Banula , Marika Mandaka , Panton Bill
Published: January 2012

Summary  Creating effective collaborations to address complex environmental management issues is becoming increasingly important, yet there is surprisingly little published to guide such collaborations. Dhimurru Aboriginal Corporation has a long and successful history of engaging external collaborators and pioneering the ‘both ways’ approach to environmental management. Many of these partnerships have been highly successful, achieving nationally recognised environmental outcomes. Here, we present Dhimurru and some of its key collaborative projects in the context of these successes, drawing from our experiences in those collaborations to identify lessons learnt about how best to create these successful multi‐organisational partnerships in a cross‐cultural environment. Specifically we detail four attributes of Dhimurru’s management philosophy, and eight key lessons that we believe have been most important for creating these successful partnerships. Notably, we detail numerous novel ways in which Dhimurru proactively prevents problems and promotes collaboration. Such lessons should help provide a basis for developing policies and practices for effective multi‐agency, cross‐cultural collaborations.
Australian approaches for managing ‘country’ using Indigenous and non‐Indigenous knowledge
Authors: Ens Emilie J. , Finlayson Max , Preuss Karissa , Jackson Sue , Holcombe Sarah
Published: January 2012

Summary  This paper synthesises the lessons learnt and challenges encountered when applying Indigenous and non‐Indigenous knowledge and methods in natural and cultural resource management (NCRM) in northern and central Australia. We primarily draw on the papers within this special issue of Ecological Management & Restoration, which originated largely from the Indigenous land management symposium at the 2010 Ecological Society of Australia conference. Many of the papers and therefore this article discuss practical experiences that offer insight for enhanced on‐ground cross‐cultural NCRM and can inform broader thinking and theoretical critiques. A wider literature is also drawn upon to substantiate the points and broaden the scope of the synthesis. Four key themes for consideration in collaborative cross‐cultural NCRM are discussed. They are as follows: 1. The differences in environmental philosophy between Indigenous and non‐Indigenous cultures which profoundly shape perceptions of environmental management; 2. Cross‐cultural awareness of Indigenous and non‐Indigenous knowledge and methods; 3. The mechanics of two‐way approaches to ecological research and managing country (NCRM as perceived by Indigenous people) and 4. Operational challenges for Indigenous NCRM organisations. To conclude, we point out five broad principles for managing country using Indigenous and non‐Indigenous knowledge: (i) Recognise the validity of both Indigenous and non‐Indigenous environmental philosophies; (ii) Create more opportunities for improved cross‐cultural understanding, respect and collaborations; (iii) Involve Indigenous people and their knowledge and interests at all stages of the Indigenous NCRM project or research (including planning, design, implementation, communication and evaluation); (iv) Ensure that time and continuity of effort and resources are available (to undertake participatory processes and for trust‐building and innovation) and (v) Establish high‐level political support through legal and policy frameworks to maintain continuity of government commitment to Indigenous NCRM.
Simple approach to improving vancomycin dosing in intensive care: a standardised loading dose results in earlier therapeutic levels
Authors: Truong J. , Levkovich B. J. , Padiglione A. A.
Published: January 2012

Background:  Patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) often have sub‐therapeutic vancomycin levels in the initial stages of therapy. Loading doses have been demonstrated to overcome this problem.

Aim:  The aim of this study was to determine the impact of a standardised loading dose and increased clinician awareness of under‐dosing on the achievement of early therapeutic vancomycin trough concentrations in the ICU.

Methods:  A pre‐ and post‐intervention observational study was conducted in the ICU following the introduction of a 2‐g vancomycin loading dose and demonstration of local under‐dosing. All initial vancomycin trough levels were examined, except those from neurosurgical patients. Primary outcome measures were the proportion of patients achieving therapeutic vancomycin levels and mean trough concentrations. A year after introduction, a review was conducted to further assess the impact and sustainability of the intervention.

Results:  There were 31 courses of vancomycin in the pre‐intervention period (no loading doses given) and 21 courses in the post‐intervention period, of which 11 had a loading dose. In the pre‐intervention group, 13% of courses achieved therapeutic concentrations. This increased to 33% in the post‐intervention group (P= 0.08). A statistically significant increase in mean trough concentration, from 9.8 ± 6.6 mg/L to 14.9 ± 6.3 mg/L (P= 0.01), between the pre‐ and post‐intervention groups was observed. During the follow‐up period, results were similar to the post‐intervention audit.

Conclusion:  A standardised loading dose is a simple and sustainable intervention that may improve early achievement of therapeutic vancomycin levels in critically ill patients. The clinical significance of this requires further study.
Phenomenology of squalor, hoarding and self‐neglect: an Australian aged care perspective
Authors: Lee S. M. , LoGiudice D.
Published: January 2012

Aged care health professionals in Australia are increasingly referred patients whose standard of cleanliness and self‐care has deteriorated to levels resulting in public health concern. This paper describes three illustrative case studies of people referred to an Australian Aged Care Assessment Service who present with ‘Diogenes Syndrome’. The diversity and complexity of these cases reflect variable underlying diagnoses. Symptoms of self‐neglect, hoarding and domestic squalor and combinations thereof may provide a more useful classification system of the older person who presents in such circumstances than the frequently used term Diogenes syndrome. Practical guidelines are required for appropriate assessment and management of these conditions.
Application of the small punch test to determine the fracture toughness of metallic materials
Authors: CÁRDENAS E. , BELZUNCE F. J. , RODRÍGUEZ C. , PEÑUELAS I. , BETEGÓN C.
Published: January 2012

A new methodology to determine the elasto‐plastic fracture toughness, JIc, by means of notched small punch tests (SPT) samples is reported. Standard SPT samples were used after being longitudinally notched machined from the centre of one side of the sample to the centre of the opposite side, producing a notch depth‐to‐thickness ratio a/t= 0.4.

The onset of crack initiation was experimentally determined directly from the experimental load‐displacement plot of the test and also with the aid of scanning electron microscope observations performed on different samples, with tests being interrupted at different percentages of the maximum registered load. The test was also modelled using finite element analysis and the J‐integral was evaluated as a contour integral in ABAQUS. The obtained results were compared with the critical J values of the steel determined using standard tests (J–R curves) and the differences found were duly justified.
A Finite Fracture Mechanics approach to the asymptotic behaviour of U‐notched structures
Authors: CARPINTERI A. , CORNETTI P. , SAPORA A.
Published: January 2012

A Finite Fracture Mechanics (FFM) criterion is formalized to predict the critical failure loads of brittle U‐notched specimens, subjected to mode I loading. The criterion, recently applied to V‐notched structures, requires the contemporaneous fulfilment of stress requirements and energy conditions for fracture to propagate: the stress field ahead of the notch tip and the stress intensity factor related to a crack stemming from the root are involved. Both the apparent fracture toughness and the critical crack advancement result to be structural parameters. For sufficiently slender notches, the root radius becomes the only relevant geometric dimension. The consistency of the approach is proved by the comparison with experimental data available in the Literature.
Rectangular Tensile Sheet with Double Edge Notch Cracks
Authors: YAN X. , LIU B.
Published: January 2012

This paper deals with the rectangular tensile sheet with symmetric double edge notch cracks. Such a crack problem is called an edge notch crack problem for short. By using a hybrid displacement discontinuity method (a boundary element method), two edge notch models are analyzed in detail. By changing the geometrical forms and parameters of the edge notch, and by comparing the stress intensity factors (SIFs) of the edge notch crack problem with those of the double edge cracked plate tension specimen (DECT), which is a model frequently used in fracture mechanics, the effect of the geometrical forms and parameters of the edge notch on the SIFs of the DECT specimen, is revealed. Some geometric characterestic parameters are introduced here, which are used to formulate the notch length and the branch crack length, which are to be determined in mechanical machining of the DECT specimen So we can say that the geometric characterestic parameters and the formulae used to determine the notch length and the branch crack length presented in this paper perhaps have some guidance role for mechanical machining of the DECT specimen.
Transferability of specimen J–R curve to straight pipe with circumferential surface flaw
Authors: SAHU M. K. , CHATTOPADHYAY J. , DUTTA B. K.
Published: January 2012

Specimen J–R curve is extensively used for structural integrity of large components. It is well known that J–R curve heavily depends on constraint level ahead of crack tip in remaining ligament. In earlier work, it was demonstrated that J–R curve from Three Point Bending (TPB) specimen is transferable to straight pipe with circumferential through wall crack. In this paper, the transferability of J–R curve is investigated from TPB specimen to pipe with circumferential surface crack. A 16 in. diameter pipe with circumferential surface crack and TPB specimen machined from same piping material (SA333Gr6 Steel) are tested. Consequently, 3D finite element analysis (FEA) has been performed on surface cracked pipe and TPB specimen. Crack‐initiation load is also predicted for surface cracked pipe by FEA and compared with experimental result. J–R curve is calculated for the pipe using experimental data, that is, load, load line displacement and crack growth. J–R curve of pipe is compared with TPB specimen and it is found that the pipe is predicting much higher J–R curve than TPB. This difference of J–R curve is investigated by evaluating stress triaxiality in remaining ligament for both cases. Stress triaxiality is quantified using triaxiality factor (h) ahead of crack tip for pipe and TPB specimen. It is found that the TPB specimen has considerably higher constraint level than pipe with surface crack, which is well supported by trend of J–R curves for specimen and pipe. A study has also been carried out to investigate the effect of internal pressure on the stress triaxiality. It is found that there is negligible difference in stress triaxiality because of internal pressure. The stress triaxiality is re‐established as a qualitative parameter to assess the transferability of J–R curve from specimen to component.
Stress singularities of contact problems with a frictional interface in anisotropic bimaterials
Authors: CHEN HUA‐PENG , GUO Z. , ZHOU X.
Published: January 2012

This paper develops an effective approach to analyse the asymptotic displacement and stress fields near the singular points in laminated anisotropic composite joints with a fictional contact along the interface. The Ting's theory, extended from the Stroh's formulation for anisotropic elasticity problems, is employed to represent the asymptotic fields near the singular points of the contact problems. The characteristic equations of the contact problems are constructed from the boundary conditions, where the continuity conditions at the frictional interface governed by the Coulomb's law of friction are considered. The order of stress singularities and the asymptotic fields near the singular points are determined by solving the developed non‐linear coupled characteristic equations for the general contact problems of friction in anisotropic bimaterials from an iterative procedure. Only real values of root representing the order of stress singularities are found for the general frictional contact problems. In the special case when the frictional contact exists in two half plane composite laminates, stress singularities may appear if the material constants satisfy certain requirements. Explicit solutions for the root of the characteristic equations and the asymptotic fields for the special case can be directly obtained without requiring the iterative procedure. The theoretical and numerical results show that both the friction coefficient within the slip interface and the wedge angle of anisotropic materials have significant effects on the stress singularities for the frictional contact problems. Further investigations are undertaken for several special cases, including studies for isotropic materials that are confirmed by existing theoretical results and experimental data available.
Interactive effects of body‐size structure and adaptive foraging on food‐web stability
Authors: Heckmann Lotta , Drossel Barbara , Brose Ulrich , Guill Christian
Published: January 2012

Ecology Letters (2012)

Body‐size structure of food webs and adaptive foraging of consumers are two of the dominant concepts of our understanding how natural ecosystems maintain their stability and diversity. The interplay of these two processes, however, is a critically important yet unresolved issue. To fill this gap in our knowledge of ecosystem stability, we investigate dynamic random and niche model food webs to evaluate the proportion of persistent species. We show that stronger body‐size structures and faster adaptation stabilise these food webs. Body‐size structures yield stabilising configurations of interaction strength distributions across food webs, and adaptive foraging emphasises links to resources closer to the base. Moreover, both mechanisms combined have a cumulative effect. Most importantly, unstructured random webs evolve via adaptive foraging into stable size‐structured food webs. This offers a mechanistic explanation of how size structure adaptively emerges in complex food webs, thus building a novel bridge between these two important stabilising mechanisms.
Tax Morale and Tax Compliance from the Firm's Perspective
Authors: Alm James , McClellan Chandler
Published: January 2012

Much recent research has investigated whether values, social norms, and attitudes differ across countries and whether these differences have measurable effects on economic behavior. One area in which such studies are particularly relevant is tax compliance, and a factor that has been suggested as a factor in compliance behavior is “tax morale”, or the intrinsic motivation to pay taxes. However, all of this work on tax morale has focused on individuals, not on firms. In this paper, we use information from the Business Environment and Enterprise Performance Survey and also from the World Enterprise Survey for a wide range of countries over several years of data to examine a firm's tax morale and the subsequent impact on firm tax compliance. We use these data first to examine a firm's perception of taxes as an obstacle to doing business. Importantly, once we control for the various factors that affect this perception, what is left is a measure that we believe is a measure of the firm's tax morale, as a driver of the firm's view of the appropriateness of cheating on taxes. With this measure of tax morale, we are then able to examine in a second stage estimation how our estimated firm tax morale affects the compliance decisions of the firm. Ultimately, our results allow us to identify factors that allow the government to improve its efforts to increase firm tax compliance.
Effect of Free Media on Views Regarding Nuclear Energy after the Fukushima Accident
Authors: Yamamura Eiji
Published: January 2012

Using cross‐country data, this paper investigates how freedom of media influenced views regarding the security of nuclear energy after the Fukushima accident in Japan. Key findings are: (1) citizens are less likely to agree that nuclear power plants are properly secured against accidents with the presence of a free media and higher levels of freedom of expression; and (2) freedom of expression and free media are positively associated with the presence of nuclear plants. These findings indicate that sufficient information leads citizens to both understand the risk of nuclear energy and to accept the existence of nuclear plants.
Cognitive and Socioemotional Caregiving in Developing Countries
Authors: Bornstein Marc H. , Putnick Diane L.
Published: January 2012

Enriching caregiving practices foster the course and outcome of child development. This study examined 2 developmentally significant domains of positive caregiving—cognitive and socioemotional—in more than 127,000 families with under‐5 year children from 28 developing countries. Mothers varied widely in cognitive and socioemotional caregiving and engaged in more socioemotional than cognitive activities. More than half of mothers played with their children and took them outside, but only a third or fewer read books and told stories to their children. The GDP of countries related to caregiving after controlling for life expectancy and education. The majority of mothers report that they do not leave their under‐5s alone. Policy and intervention recommendations are elaborated.
Housing Quality and Access to Material and Learning Resources Within the Home Environment in Developing Countries
Authors: Bradley Robert H. , Putnick Diane L.
Published: January 2012

This study examined home environment conditions (housing quality, material resources, formal and informal learning materials) and their relations with the Human Development Index (HDI) in 28 developing countries. Home environment conditions in these countries varied widely. The quality of housing and availability of material resources at home were consistently tied to HDI; the availability of formal and informal learning materials a little less so. Gross domestic product (GDP) tended to show a stronger independent relation with housing quality and material resources than life expectancy and education. Formal learning resources were independently related to the GDP and education indices, and informal learning resources were not independently related to any constituent indices of the overall HDI.
Give Us This Day Our Daily Breadth
Authors: Duncan Greg J.
Published: January 2012

As with any discipline, the field of child development progresses by both deepening and broadening its conceptual and empirical perspective. The rewards to refinement are impressive, but there is little need for encouragement in this area, since existing disciplines, universities, and funding agencies reward depth. The current study makes the case for breadth: for combining insights from different disciplines and methods in synergistic ways. Examples include influences of family poverty on children, inequality and child development, and methods for assessing impacts of policies. Drawing together disparate ideas from different research traditions can be not only time consuming and frustrating but also deeply rewarding, both scientifically and personally. The study closes with thoughts about how departments, universities, funding agencies, and Society for Research in Child Development itself might promote interdisciplinary inquiry.
Quantile Regression Estimator for GARCH Models
Authors: LEE SANGYEOL , NOH JUNGSIK
Published: January 2012

Abstract.  In this article, we study the quantile regression estimator for GARCH models. We formulate the quantile regression problem by a reparametrization method and verify that the obtained quantile regression estimator is strongly consistent and asymptotically normal under certain regularity conditions. We also present our simulation results and a real data analysis for illustration.
Polynomial Histograms for Multivariate Density and Mode Estimation
Authors: JING JUNMEI , KOCH INGE , NAITO KANTA
Published: January 2012

Abstract.  We consider the problem of efficiently estimating multivariate densities and their modes for moderate dimensions and an abundance of data. We propose polynomial histograms to solve this estimation problem. We present first‐ and second‐order polynomial histogram estimators for a general d‐dimensional setting. Our theoretical results include pointwise bias and variance of these estimators, their asymptotic mean integrated square error (AMISE), and optimal binwidth. The asymptotic performance of the first‐order estimator matches that of the kernel density estimator, while the second order has the faster rate of O(n−6/(d+6)). For a bivariate normal setting, we present explicit expressions for the AMISE constants which show the much larger binwidths of the second order estimator and hence also more efficient computations of multivariate densities. We apply polynomial histogram estimators to real data from biotechnology and find the number and location of modes in such data.