bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Chinese style of HRM: exploring the ancient texts
Authors: Zheng Connie , Lamond David
Published: October 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the relevant sayings and stories of the ancient Chinese sages in relation to the style of Chinese human resource management (HRM).

Design/methodology/approach

Related texts generated from the quotations and stories from four Chinese sages, Guanzi, Hanfeizi, Xunzi and Yanzi, were translated and analyzed and their thinking regarding ruling the state and managing the people was discussed in line with the thoughts from the mainstream and modern Western management gurus such as Warren Bennis, Peter Drucker, Mary Parker Follett, Douglas McGregor, Rosabeth Moss Kanter, Elton Mayo and Jeffrey Pfeffer.

Findings

It was found that there were striking similarities in thoughts and call for actions to address key issues in HRM by both old and contemporary, east and west thinkers across 2,500 years. The main concerns are to select the right leaders and managers and recruit the right people; create attractive organisational culture and environments that promote a participative management approach to encourage, empower and engage employees to achieve desirable outcomes; uphold the people‐centred management principles; and focus on designing reward schemes that emphasise service and contribution instead of position and profits.

Originality/value

There is much to be learned from the past to address the present people management issues among modern organisations both inside China and perhaps from other parts of the world. It was as difficult to take seriously the principles‐based ruling and management approaches in ancient times as it is today. However, if these principles had been put into practice, the world would have had fewer of the corporate corruption scandals and less of the mischievous behaviour in the state that are manifested in today's society, but more productive population, effective organisations, ethical governments and harmonious environment; hence less global human suffering.
Detrital zircon geochronology and its provenance implications: responses to Jurassic through Neogene basin‐range interactions along northern margin of the Tarim Basin, Northwest China
Authors: Li Zhong , Peng Shoutao
Published: October 2009

Previously published research from the Kuqa Subbasin along northern margin of the Tarim Basin shows five tectonic‐depositional phases from Triassic to Neogene time. In order to reveal additional detailed information on the nature of provenance terrains and tectonic attributes since late Mesozoic time, five typical sandstone samples from Jurassic–Neogene strata were collected for U–Pb dating of detrital zircons. Geochronological constitution of detrital zircons of the Middle Jurassic sample is essentially unimodal and indicates major contributions from the South Tian Shan even Yili–Central Tian Shan, wherein most 370–450 Ma zircons probably resulted from tectonic accretion events between the Yili–Central Tian Shan block and South Tian Shan Ocean during Silurian and Devonian time, with sandstone provenance tectonic attributes of passive continental margin. The Lower Cretaceous sample shows a complicated provenance detrital zircon signature, with new peak ages of 290–330 Ma as well as 370(or 350)–450 Ma showing evident arc orogenic provenance tectonic attribute, probably reflecting a new provenance supply that resulted from denudation process whthin the South Tian Shan and South Tian Shan suture. There are no obvious changes within age probability spectra of detrital zircons between the Cretaceous and early Paleogene samples, which suggests that similar provenance types and basin‐range framework continued from Cretaceous to Early Paleogene time. However, unlike the Cretaceous and early Paleogene samples, an age spectra of the Miocene sample is relatively unimodal and similar to that of the Pliocene sample, with peak ages ranging between ∼392 and ∼458 Ma older than the comparable provenance ages (peak ages about 370–450 Ma) of the Middle Jurassic and Lower Cretaceous samples. Therefore, we conclude that the South Tian Shan was rapidly exhumated and the southern South Tian Shan had become the main source of clastics for the Kuqa Subbasin since the Miocene epoch.
Thyroid function and morphology in subjects with microdeletion of chromosome 22q11 (del(22)(q11))
Authors: Stagi Stefano , Lapi Elisabetta , Gambineri Eleonora , Salti Roberto , Genuardi Maurizio , Colarusso Gloria , Conti Camilla , Jenuso Rita , Chiarelli Francesco , Azzari Chiara , De Martino Maurizio
Published: October 2009

Introduction  Monoallelic microdeletion of chromosome 22q11 (22q11DS) is considered to be the commonest human microdeletion syndrome. Abnormalities of thyroid function are sporadically reported in this syndrome, but very few studies have specifically assessed this issue, and thyroid morphology has not been systematically studied.

Design  To evaluate the prevalence of abnormalities of thyroid function and morphology in a cohort of paediatric and adult patients with 22q11DS.

Methods  Thirty patients with 22q11DS (median age 9·7, range 1·5–43·9 years) were studied. In all subjects, serum free‐T3, free‐T4, TSH, thyroperoxidase, thyroglobulin, and TSHr auto‐antibodies, as well as thyroid ultrasonographic data, were evaluated and compared with age‐ and sex‐matched healthy control groups, for paediatric and adult patients.

Results  Fourteen (46·6%) patients showed thyroid hypoplasia involving the entire gland. In all the patients, the volume of the left lobe of the thyroid was significantly reduced (P < 0·01). Among the subjects with thyroid hypoplasia, 10 out of 14 (71%) showed a concomitant heart malformation, a condition that was present in five (31%) of the subjects with a normal thyroid volume (P < 0·05). Seven (23·3%) cases of subclinical hypothyroidism and one (3·3%) case of overt hypothyroidism were identified. Three (10%) patients were positive for thyroid auto‐antibodies. Of the patients with overt and subclinical hypothyroidism, five out of eight (62·5%) patients showed thyroid hypoplasia.

Conclusions  This study confirms the presence of alterations of thyroid function in 22q11DS, and also suggests a frequent occurrence of abnormalities in thyroid morphology in these subjects. Patients with 22q11DS should be monitored for thyroid function, and thyroid ultrasound screening should be considered, especially in those patients with changes in thyroid function or congenital heart malformations. The possible relationship between developmental abnormalities in the heart and the thyroid gland should be confirmed.
Organic matter dynamics in a compost‐amended anthropogenic landfill capping‐soil
Authors: Said‐Pullicino D. , Massaccesi L. , Dixon L. , Bol R. , Gigliotti G.
Published: October 2009

The application of municipal waste compost and other organic materials may serve to improve fertility and organic carbon (C) stocks of soils used in land reclamation activities, particularly in the recovery of degraded areas at exhausted quarries, mines and landfill sites amongst others. We investigated long‐term organic matter dynamics in such anthropogenic soils by collecting samples at different depths over a 10‐year chronosequence subsequent to compost application to the top layer of a landfill capping‐soil. Variations in the stable isotope composition (13C and 15N) of the soil samples showed that, even after 10 years, amended topsoils were enriched in compost‐derived organic matter. The addition of compost to the superficial layer also resulted in an input of soluble organic compounds that was subject to leaching along the soil profile. Sorption isotherms for compost‐derived water‐extractable organic matter onto mineral materials used for landfill covering suggest that sorptive preservation was primarily responsible for the increase in C content and the shift in the C isotopic signature to values similar to that of the applied compost, in the deeper soil horizons over the 10‐year period. This was also confirmed by the accumulation of lignin‐derived phenolic compounds in the deeper horizons. Nevertheless, analysis for non‐cellulosic carbohydrates in soil samples and their respective water‐extractable fractions suggest that a proportion of the compost‐derived, labile organic matter fraction is leached through the profile and potentially lost from the soil system.
Interacting effects of management and environmental variability at multiple scales on invasive species distributions
Authors: Diez Jeffrey M. , Buckley Hannah L. , Case Bradley S. , Harsch Melanie A. , Sciligo Amber R. , Wangen Steven R. , Duncan Richard P.
Published: October 2009

1. The distribution and abundance of invasive species can be driven by both environmental variables and land management decisions. However, understanding these relationships can be complicated by interactions between management actions and environmental variability, and differences in scale among these variables. The resulting ‘context‐dependence’ of management actions may be well‐appreciated by ecologists and land managers, but can frustrate attempts to apply general management principles.

2. In this study, we quantify the effects of land management and environmental variability at different scales on the occurrence and abundance of Hieracium pilosella, a major agricultural weed in New Zealand. We used a hierarchical study design and analysis to capture relevant scales of variation in management actions and environmental heterogeneity, and test hypotheses about how these factors interact.

3. We show that fertilizing and grazing interact with environmental gradients at the scale of management application (farm paddocks) to influence the establishment and local abundance of H. pilosella.

4. We further show that H. pilosella’s relationships with fine‐scale abiotic and biotic factors are consistent with expected mechanisms driven by larger‐scale management actions. Using data on occurrence and local abundance, we tease apart which factors are important to establishment and subsequent local spread.

5.
Synthesis and applications. A major challenge for environmental scientists is to predict how invasive species may respond to ongoing landscape modifications and environmental change. This effort will require approaches to study design and analysis that can accommodate complexities such as interacting management and environmental variables at different scales. Management actions will be more likely to succeed when they explicitly account for variation in environmental context.
Gender difference of association between LDL cholesterol concentrations and mortality from coronary heart disease amongst Japanese: the Ibaraki Prefectural Health Study
Authors: Noda H. , Iso H. , Irie F. , Sairenchi T. , Ohtaka E. , Ohta H.
Published: October 2009

Abstract.  Noda H, Iso H, Irie F, Sairenchi T, Ohtaka E, Ohta H (Osaka University, Osaka, Japan; Harvard School of Public Health, Cambridge, MA, USA; Ibaraki Prefectural Office, Ibaraki; Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, Tochigi; Ibaraki Health Service Association, Ibaraki; Japan). Gender difference of association between LDL cholesterol concentrations and mortality from coronary heart disease amongst Japanese: the Ibaraki Prefectural Health Study. J Intern Med 2010; 267:576–587.

Objective.  The aim of this study was to examine whether LDL cholesterol raises the risk of coronary heart disease in a dose–response fashion in a population with low LDL‐cholesterol levels.

Design.  Population‐based prospective cohort study in Japan.

Subjects and main outcome measures.  A total of 30 802 men and 60 417 women, aged 40 to 79 years with no history of stroke or coronary heart disease, completed a baseline risk factor survey in 1993. Systematic mortality surveillance was performed through 2003 and 539 coronary heart disease deaths were identified.

Results.  The mean values for LDL‐cholesterol were 110.5 mg dL−1 (2.86 mmol L−1) for men and 123.9 mg dL−1 (3.20 mmol L−1) for women. Men with LDL‐cholesterol ≥140 mg dL−1 (≥3.62 mmol L−1) had two‐fold higher age‐adjusted risk of mortality from coronary heart disease than did those with LDL‐cholesterol <80 mg dL−1 (<2.06 mmol L−1), whereas no such association for women was found. The multivariable hazard ratio for the highest versus lowest categories of LDL‐cholesterol was 2.06 (95 percent confidence interval: 1.34 to 3.17) for men and 1.16 (0.64 to 2.12) for women.

Conclusion.  Higher concentrations of LDL‐cholesterol were associated with an increased risk of mortality from coronary heart disease for men, but not for women, in a low cholesterol population.
Determining the negative predictive value of provocation tests with beta‐lactams
Authors: Demoly P. , Romano A. , Botelho C. , Bousquet‐Rouanet L. , Gaeta F. , Silva R. , Rumi G. , Rodrigues Cernadas J. , Bousquet P. J.
Published: October 2009

To cite this article: Demoly P, Romano A, Botelho C, Bousquet‐Rouanet L, Gaeta F, Silva R, Rumi G, Rodrigues Cernadas J, Bousquet PJ. Determining the negative predictive value of provocation tests with beta‐lactams. Allergy 2010; 65: 327–332.

Background:  The beta‐lactam allergic work‐up is mostly standardized. However, the negative predictive value of drug provocation tests is not yet well established.

Method:  A historical‐prospective multicentre cohort study was conducted in four centres (one in France, one in Portugal, two in Italy) to assess the negative predictive value of provocation tests with beta‐lactams in patients initially tested for a suspicion of drug allergy/hypersensitivity. Patients were contacted at least 6 months after the work‐up, between 2003 and 2007. A new allergic work‐up was proposed to reacting patients.

Results:  Among the 457 patients included, 365 (79.9%) were followed up (159 [79.1%] from France, 153 [82.7%] from Italy and 53 [74.6%] from Portugal). Only 118 (25.8%) were re‐exposed to the negatively tested beta‐lactam. Nine (7.6%) reported a non‐immediate (occurring more than 1 h after drug administration) reaction: five urticaria, three exanthema and one undefined cutaneous reaction. None were severe. Only four accepted a re‐challenge, negative in two cases and positive in the two others. The negative predictive value was 94.1% (89.8–98.3) (111 out of 118 patients).

Conclusion:  Although the negative predictive value of drug provocation tests may not be 100%, none of the false negative patients experienced a life‐threatening reaction. This should reassure doctors who might hesitate to prescribe beta‐lactams, even in patients with negative allergic work‐ups.
The CONSORT statement checklist in allergen‐specific immunotherapy: a GA2LEN paper
Authors: Bousquet P. J. , Brozek J. , Bachert C. , Bieber T. , Bonini S. , Burney P. , Calderon M. , Canonica G. W. , Compalati E. , Daures J. P. , Delgado L. , Demoly P. , Dahl R. , Durham S. R. , Kowalski M. L. , Malling H. J. , Merk H. , Papadopoulos N. , Passalacqua G. , Simon H. U. , Worms M. , Wahn U. , Zuberbier T. , Schünemann H. J. , Bousquet J.
Published: October 2009

The methodology of randomized clinical trials is essential for the critical assessment and registration of therapeutic interventions. The CONSORT (Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials) statement was developed to alleviate the problems arising from the inadequate reporting of randomized controlled trials. The present article reflects on the items that we believe should be included in the CONSORT checklist in the context of conducting and reporting trials in allergen‐specific immunotherapy. Only randomized, blinded (in particular blinding of patients, health care providers, and outcome assessors), placebo‐controlled Phase III studies in this article. Our analysis focuses on the definition of patients’ inclusion and exclusion criteria, allergen standardization, primary, secondary and exploratory outcomes, reporting of adverse events and analysis.
Successful rotational thromboelastometry‐guided treatment of traumatic haemorrhage, hyperfibrinolysis and coagulopathy
Authors: BRENNI M. , WORN M. , BRÜESCH M. , SPAHN D. R. , GANTER M. T.
Published: October 2009

Transfusion of allogeneic blood products is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Therefore, strategies for reducing transfusion of these products during trauma management are valuable. We report a case of severe blunt abdominal trauma, successfully treated with antifibrinolytic medication and fibrinogen concentrate. Rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) was used to identify hyperfibrinolysis and afibrinogenaemia. In order to achieve haemostasis, over a 3‐h period, the patient received a total of 1 g of tranexamic acid, 7 U of packed red blood cells, 16 g of fibrinogen concentrate (Haemocomplettan P), 3500 ml of colloids and 5500 ml of lactated Ringer's solution. Together with surgical measures, this treatment stopped the bleeding and stabilised the patient. There was no transfusion of either fresh‐frozen plasma or platelets. The limited need for allogeneic blood products is of particular interest, and clinical studies of the approach used here appear to be warranted.
The ontogeny of cross‐sex genetic correlations: an analysis of patterns
Authors: POISSANT J. , COLTMAN D. W.
Published: October 2009

The independent evolution of males and females is typically constrained by shared genetic variance. Despite substantial research, we still know little about the evolution of cross‐sex genetic covariance and its standardized measure, the cross‐sex genetic correlation (rMF). In particular, it is unclear if rMF tend to vary with age. We compiled 28 traits for which ontogenetic trends in rMF were documented. Decreases in rMF with age were observed significantly more often than increases and the mean effect size for the relationship between rMF and age was large and negative. This suggests that sexual dimorphism (SD) may typically evolve more readily for phenotypes expressed later in ontogeny and that evolutionary inferences related to the evolution of SD should be limited to the ontogenetic stage at which rMF was estimated. Knowledge about ontogenetic variation in rMF should help improving our understanding of evolutionary patterns related to SD and the resolution of intralocus sexual conflicts.
Joining the dots: The links between education and health and implications for Indigenous children
Authors: Johnston Vanessa , Lea Tess , Carapetis Jonathan
Published: October 2009

This paper provides a general overview of the literature investigating the nexus between education and health; discussing the relationship between these domains at individual, family and community levels. We then briefly examine the programme and research implications of such a framework for interventions aimed at improving education and health, with specific reference to young Indigenous Australians. We find that while education and health are inextricably linked, throughout the life course and at different levels of influence, there is less empirical work exploring this relationship in an Indigenous context. Given the gravity of literacy and numeracy failure rates in school‐based education and its potential impact on Indigenous health, we assert an urgent case for rigorous research into interventions that address the barriers to effectiveness in implementing quality educational experiences and opportunities for Indigenous children.
Ten years of pneumococcal‐associated haemolytic uraemic syndrome in New Zealand children
Authors: Prestidge Chanel , Wong William
Published: October 2009

Aim:  To describe the epidemiology, clinical features, management and outcome of pneumococcal‐associated haemolytic‐uraemic syndrome (P‐HUS) in New Zealand over the past decade.

Methods:  A retrospective chart review of children with P‐HUS from 1998 to 2007 that were prospectively reported to the New Zealand Paediatric Surveillance Unit. P‐HUS was defined as microangiopathic haemolytic anaemia (Hb <100 g/L with fragmented red blood cells), thrombocytopaenia (platelet count <130 × 109/L), acute renal impairment with oliguria and elevated plasma creatinine, and confirmed or suspected pneumococcal infection.

Results:  Eleven children (nine male, two female), predominately Maori and Polynesian (10 children) were studied. The median age was 8.5 months. The median duration of hospitalisation was 25 days. Of the infections, 10 were confirmed pneumococcal (six pneumonia, four meningitis) and one pneumonia was suspected pneumococcal (culture negative, however T activation positive). Nine patients required dialysis for a median duration of 13 days. One child with meningitis died after therapy was withdrawn because of severe neurological injury. One patient developed end stage kidney disease and two further children had evidence of persisting renal sequelae at follow‐up.

Conclusions:  Pneumococcal disease remains an important public health problem in New Zealand children, particularly those of Maori and Pacific Island ethnicity. P‐HUS should be considered in pneumococcal disease associated with severe haematological and renal abnormalities. These children should be monitored long‐term, as they are at risk of permanent renal injury.
Angiotensin‐converting enzyme gene insertion/deletion polymorphism frequency in normotensive children with a positive family history of essential hypertension
Authors: Camci Lale , Kilic Zubeyir , Dinleyici Ener Cagri , Muslumanoglu Hamza , Tepeli Emre , Ucar Birsen
Published: October 2009

Aim:  To evaluate the possible relationship between blood pressure (BP) and angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) gene insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism in normotensive children with a positive family history of essential hypertension (EHT).

Material and Methods:  Three hundred seventy‐six randomly selected normotensive schoolchildren (147 boys, 229 girls) between the ages of seven and 17 years were enrolled. Children were subdivided into a ‘first‐degree relative group’ and a ‘second‐degree relative group’ according to the presence of EHT in parents or grandparents, respectively. BP was measured twice from the right arm and the systolic BP, diastolic BP and mean BP were recorded. ACE gene I/D polymorphism was performed from all studied children and frequency od DD, ID and ID allele were analysed in each study group.

Results:  Allelic frequencies of the DD genotype of the ACE gene were higher in children with a positive history in the first‐ (36.2%) and second‐degree (38.3%) relatives for EHT than the controls (30.7%) (P < 0.05 for both). Children with a positive family history of EHT and a DD genotype, had significantly higher SBP, DBP and MBP levels (P < 0.05) than the children with ID or II genotypes.

Conclusion:  We found that the ACE gene DD genotype was common and that BP levels were higher in Turkish children with a positive family history of EHT and DD genotype. Because the presence of DD allele might be the one of the potential contributor of EHT pathogenesis, further studies needed in large cohort for long term follow‐up for EHT in children with DD allele.
Associations between short one‐leg standing time and speed of sound of calcaneal bone in a general population: The Shimanami Health Promoting Program (J‐SHIPP) study
Authors: Kido Tomoko , Tabara Yasuharu , Igase Michiya , Uetani Eri , Ochi Namiko , Miki Tetsuro , Kohara1 Katsuhiko
Published: October 2009

Aim:  Loss of bone mass is a major cause of fracture in the elderly. One‐leg standing (OLS) time has been postulated to be predictive of reduced bone mass. Here, we conducted a cross‐sectional study to clarify whether OLS time measurements are associated with the speed of sound (SOS) of calcaneal bone independent of muscle mass in the lower extremity, a major confounding factor for the association, in a community‐dwelling population of middle‐aged to elderly subjects.

Methods:  The study subjects consisted of 770 apparently healthy middle‐aged to elderly community‐residents. Quantitative assessment of calcaneal bone was done using a quantitative ultrasound technique. OLS time with eyes open was measured with a maximum time of 60 s. Femoral muscle cross‐sectional area (CSA) was measured from a computed tomography image.

Results:  Subjects who could not stand 60 s on one leg (n = 192) showed significantly lower SOS (1487 ± 20, 1501 ± 24 m/s, P < 0.001). In addition, femoral muscle CSA was positively associated with SOS (male, r = 0.148, P < 0.01; female, r = 0.204, P < 0.001). However, multiple regression analysis adjusted for age, sex and muscle CSA identified short OLS time less than 60 s as an independent determinant of SOS in both male (P < 0.001) and female (P < 0.05) subjects. OLS time was significantly associated with posturograph‐measured mobility of the center of gravity. However, multiple regression analysis showed no significant correlation between balance impairment and SOS (P > 0.1).

Conclusion:  OLS time less than 60 s was significantly associated with reduced SOS independent of age, sex and muscle mass in the lower extremity.
Abbey Pain Scale: Development and validation of the Japanese version
Authors: Takai Yukari , Yamamoto‐Mitani Noriko , Chiba Yumi , Nishikawa Yuri , Hayashi Kunihiko , Sugai Yuichi
Published: October 2009

Aim:  The purpose of this study was to develop and validate the Japanese version of the Abbey Pain Scale (APS‐J), to assess pain of older adults who live in nursing homes in Japan.

Methods:  In this study, the data were collected from residents in two nursing homes in Japan to include: demographics, the Barthel Index, Folstein Mini‐Mental Examination (MMSE), APS‐J and Verbal Descriptor Scale (VDS) for pain. Two researchers independently assessed the residents' pain using the APS‐J while the residents walked or were transferred from bed to wheelchair. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) for inter‐rater and test–retest reliability, Chronbach's α‐value of the APS‐J, and correlation between the APS‐J and other variables were examined.

Results:  Data were obtained from 171 residents. The ICC for inter‐rater and test–retest reliability were 0.824 and 0.657, respectively. Internal consistency was 0.645 for the total sample and 0.719 for those with an MMSE score of 0 (n = 58). Multiple regression analysis showed that contractures (P < 0.001), previous injuries (P < 0.001), the MMSE (P = 0.003) and paralysis (P = 0.018) were independently associated with the APS‐J. The APS‐J and VDS were moderately correlated (r = 0.49; P < 0.01). The APS‐J total score and subscales, “change in body language” and “physical changes”, were significantly different among subjects with different MMSE score groups.

Conclusion:  Findings show some evidence for the reliability and validity of APS‐J.
Lesion studies targeting food‐anticipatory activity
Authors: Davidson Alec J.
Published: October 2009

Behavior ablation remains a powerful, if not cutting‐edge, approach for localization of function within the nervous system. The initial discovery of the suprachiasmatic nuclei as the site of the mammalian light‐entrainable circadian pacemaker is owed to this approach. Food‐anticipatory activity (FAA), an output of a putative feeding‐entrainable circadian pacemaker, is a behavior that has been surprisingly resilient to elimination by surgical lesion. Here we review this literature, with particular attention paid to recent studies aimed at defining the role of the dorsomedial hypothalamus in the generation of FAA. This literature is fraught with examples of inconsistent results among lesion studies, which in some cases can be accounted for by varied endpoint measures. The site of the feeding‐entrainable circadian pacemaker, if it resides in a discrete structure at all, remains unknown.
Neurogenetics of food anticipation
Authors: Challet Etienne , Mendoza Jorge , Dardente Hugues , Pévet Paul
Published: October 2009

Circadian clocks enable the organisms to anticipate predictable cycling events in the environment. The mechanisms of the main circadian clock, localized in the suprachiasmatic nuclei of the hypothalamus, involve intracellular autoregulatory transcriptional loops of specific genes, called clock genes. In the suprachiasmatic clock, circadian oscillations of clock genes are primarily reset by light, thus allowing the organisms to be in phase with the light–dark cycle. Another circadian timing system is dedicated to preparing the organisms for the ongoing meal or food availability: the so‐called food‐entrainable system, characterized by food‐anticipatory processes depending on a circadian clock whose location in the brain is not yet identified with certainty. Here we review the current knowledge on food anticipation in mice lacking clock genes or feeding‐related genes. The food‐entrainable clockwork in the brain is currently thought to be made of transcriptional loops partly divergent from those described in the light‐entrainable suprachiasmatic nuclei. Possible confounding effects associated with behavioral screening of meal anticipation in mutant mice are also discussed.
The rabbit pup, a natural model of nursing‐anticipatory activity
Authors: Caba Mario , González‐Mariscal Gabriela
Published: October 2009

Mother rabbits nurse their young once a day with circadian periodicity. Nursing bouts are brief (ca. 3 min) and occur inside the maternal burrow. Despite this limited contact mother rabbits and their pups are tuned to each other to ensure that the capacities of each party are used efficiently to ensure the weaning of a healthy litter. In this review we present behavioral, metabolic and hormonal correlates of this phenomenon in mother rabbits and their pups. Research is revealing that the circadian rhythm of locomotion shifts in parallel to the timing of nursing in both parties. In pups corticosterone has a circadian rhythm with highest levels at the time of nursing. Other metabolic and hormonal parameters follow an exogenous or endogenous rhythm which is affected by the time of nursing. In the brain, clock genes and their proteins (e.g. Per1) are differentially expressed in specific brain regions (e.g. suprachiasmatic nucleus, paraventricular nucleus) in relation to providing or ingesting milk in mothers and young, respectively. These findings suggest that circadian activities are modulated, in the mothers, by suckling stimulation and, in the young, by the ingestion of milk and/or the perception of the mammary pheromone. In conclusion, the rabbit pup is an extraordinary model for studying the entraining by a single daily food pulse with minimal manipulations. The mother offers the possibility of studying nursing as a non‐photic synchronizer, also with minimal manipulation, as suckling stimulation from the litter occurs only once daily.
Involvement of paraoxonase 1 genetic variants in Alzheimer’s disease neuropathology
Authors: Leduc Valérie , Théroux Louise , Dea Doris , Robitaille Yves , Poirier Judes
Published: October 2009

Evidence suggests that the genes involved in brain lipid homeostasis are of particular relevance for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) etiology. Among these genes, that encoding paraoxonase 1 (PON1) has gained newfound interest from a public health perspective, as recent studies have suggested that PON1 L55M and Q192R genetic variants might affect individual susceptibility to environmental events, such as exposure to cholinesterase inhibitors. Cholinesterase inhibitor therapy being the treatment of choice for patients with mild to moderate AD, we sought to answer two main questions: (i) are these genetic variants associated with increased AD risk, earlier age of onset/death, or shorter AD duration; and (ii) do they affect the neuropathological hallmarks of AD? This genetic study used a large cohort of clinical and autopsy‐confirmed AD cases and age‐matched, cognitively intact controls from the Douglas Hospital Brain Bank, Quebec, Canada (n = 1066). The evidence presented here suggests multiple gender‐specific effects of PON1 polymorphisms on AD etiopathology. The L55M Met allele exerts an AD risk‐enhancing effect only in men (P < 0.001), whereas both men and women carrying the M55M/Q192Q genotype exhibit increased survival (2.5 years, P < 0.05) and later age of onset (1.5 years, P < 0.05). These genetic variants are also individually and significantly associated, sometimes in opposite directions for both genders, with β‐amyloid levels (P < 0.001), senile plaque accumulation (P < 0.001) and choline acetyltransferase activity (P < 0.05) in, respectively, two of two, five of six, and three of six brain areas. These results suggest an involvement of the PON1 gene in AD etiopathology and responses to treatment.
Effect of topical 1% tropicamide on Schirmer tear test results in clinically normal horses
Authors: Selk Ghaffari Masoud , Sabzevari Amin , Radmehr Behrad
Published: October 2009

Objective  To observe the effect of topical 1% tropicamide on equine tear production as measured by Schirmer I tear test.

Materials and methods  Fourteen adult horses received one drop of 1% tropicamide ophthalmic solution in one eye and the opposite eye served as the control. The tear production in both eyes was tested at 1, 2, 4, 6, and 24 h after 1% tropicamide administration.

Results  Measurements made 1 h after treatment revealed a significant reduction in Schirmer tear test values in tropicamide treated eyes (P = 0.002). The observed decrease in tear production was maintained up to 4 h after treatment (P = 0.002). Although tropicamide‐induced decrease in STT values was observed in the treated eyes, the contralateral eyes did not show significant changes in Schirmer tear test results.

Conclusion  Single dose of topical 1% tropicamide resulted in statistically significant reduction in Schirmer tear test values in clinically normal horses.
Detection rate and factors predictive the presence of prostate cancer in patients undergoing ultrasonography‐guided transperineal saturation biopsies of the prostate
Authors: Novara Giacomo , Boscolo‐Berto Rafael , Lamon Claudio , Fracalanza Simonetta , Gardiman Marina , Artibani Walter , Ficarra Vincenzo
Published: October 2009

Study Type – Diagnostic (case series) Level of Evidence 4

OBJECTIVES

To assess the prostate cancer detection rate and predictive factors for prostate cancer after transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS)‐guided transperineal saturation re‐biopsies of the prostate, using a 24‐core scheme.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We evaluated 143 consecutive patients undergoing TRUS‐guided transperineal saturation re‐biopsy of the prostate using a 24‐core scheme. The inclusion criteria were a previous negative biopsy and a prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) level of ≥10.0 ng/mL, or of 4.0–10.0 ng/mL with a free/total ratio of <20% or an abnormal digital rectal examination or previous high‐grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN) or atypical small acinar proliferation (ASAP).

RESULTS

The mean (sd) age of the patients was 66.5 (6.1) years and the median (interquartile range) PSA level was 9.0  (6.1–12.8) ng/mL. The number of previous biopsies was one in 59% of patients, two in 26% and three or more in 15%. We detected prostate cancer in 26%, ASAP in 5.6% and HGPIN in 2.1%. The cancer detection rate was 47%, 25.5% and 14% for prostate volumes of <40, 40–60 and ≥60 mL, respectively (P = 0.002). On a multivariate analysis the total prostate volume (40–60 vs <40 mL, hazard ratio 5.683; >60 vs <40 mL, hazard ratio 6.965; P = 0.01) was the only significant predictor of prostate cancer at saturation biopsy.

CONCLUSIONS

TRUS‐guided transperineal saturation re‐biopsy of the prostate using a 24‐core scheme resulted in a high cancer detection rate also in patients who had had two or more previous biopsies. The total prostate volume was the only predictor of prostate cancer.
The prognostic significance of bladder neck invasion in prostate cancer: is microscopic involvement truly a T4 disease?
Authors: Ploussard Guillaume , Rotondo Sylvain , Salomon Laurent
Published: October 2009

Since the widespread of prostate‐specific antigen‐based screening, prostate cancer at clinical stage T4 has become rare. Most bladder invasion is actually detected on radical prostatectomy specimens as a microscopic bladder neck involvement (BNI). The 2002 Tumour‐Node‐Metastasis (TNM) classification system classified prostate cancer with BNI within a unified pT4 category and rendered it equivalent to invasion into the pelvic wall musculature or external sphincter; this decision is controversial. Various series have assessed the clinical relevance and the effect of BNI on prognosis. This evidence‐based review provides evidence that BNI should be assigned within the subset of pT3 stage, and that further improvement of the actual TNM staging system should be considered. However, BNI remains strongly associated with adverse pathology and should be regarded as a factor that worsens the prognosis of the underlying tumour stage.
Contrast‐enhanced colour Doppler‐targeted vs a 10‐core systematic repeat biopsy strategy in patients with previous high‐grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia
Authors: Mitterberger Michael , Horninger Wolfgang , Aigner Friedrich , Pinggera Germar M. , Rehder Peter , Steiner Eberhard , Wiunig Christian , Reissigl Andreas , Frauscher Ferdinand
Published: October 2009

Study Type – Diagnosis (case series) Level of Evidence 4

OBJECTIVE

To compare the results of contrast‐enhanced colour Doppler (CECD)‐targeted prostate biopsy with a systematic 10‐core grey‐scale biopsy scheme in patients initially diagnosed with high‐grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN), as although HGPIN is thought to be a precursor to invasive adenocarcinoma, its diagnosis is no longer considered an indication for repeat prostate biopsy and patients should be followed by prostate‐specific antigen levels and a digital rectal examination.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 104 patients (aged 45–78 years) diagnosed with HGPIN on initial prostate needle biopsy were referred for a repeat biopsy within 6 months. Two independent examiners evaluated each patient; one used CECD‐targeted biopsy (up to five cores) into hypervascular regions in the peripheral zone only, and subsequently the second took a systematic 10‐core grey‐scale biopsy. Cancer detection rates of both techniques were compared.

RESULTS

Overall, 26 of the 104 men (25%) had prostate cancer in the repeated biopsy. Using the CECD technique cancer was detected in 21% (22 of 104). The positive re‐biopsy rate using the systematic technique was 9.6% (10 of 104; P < 0.001). The total incidence of HGPIN with no evidence of tumour on re‐biopsy was 8.7% (nine of 104). The Gleason score in all 22 cancers detected with the CECD technique varied between 6 and 8. The systematic technique detected cancers with Gleason scores of 6 or 7. There were no adverse events or complications.

CONCLUSION

CECD increased the detection rate of prostate cancer, and using fewer biopsy cores than the systematic biopsy technique in patients previously diagnosed with HGPIN.
The effect of Gleason score on the predictive value of prostate‐specific antigen doubling time
Authors: Tollefson Matthew K. , Blute Michael L. , Rangel Laureano J. , Bergstralh Erik J. , Boorjian Stephen A. , Karnes R. Jeffrey
Published: October 2009

Study Type – Prognosis (individual cohort series) Level of Evidence 2b

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the influence of the pathological Gleason score on the predictive value of the prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) doubling time (DT), as this variable predicts a patient’s risk of disease progression both before and after definitive therapy for prostate cancer, and there is an inverse correlation between the Gleason score and PSA production.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We evaluated all men treated with radical prostatectomy (RP) between 1990 and 1999 who did not receive neoadjuvant or adjuvant therapy. We identified 2296 patients who had multiple PSA values available before RP, and 1323 who had biochemical recurrence after RP and had at least two PSA values available before starting secondary therapy. Systemic progression and cancer‐specific survival (CSS) rates were estimated using the Kaplan‐Meier method and Cox proportional hazard regression models.

RESULTS

A PSA DT of <18 vs >18 months predicted a lower 10‐year systemic progression‐free survival for patients with tumours having a pathological Gleason score of <7 (98% vs 99%, P = 0.005), 7 (82% vs 91%, P = 0.003) and 8–10 (57% vs 73%, P = 0.042). A PSA DT after RP of <12 months was significantly associated with a lower 10‐year systemic progression‐free survival for patients with tumours having a Gleason score of <7 (77% vs 94%, P < 0.001) and 7 (61% vs 86%, P < 0.001), but not 8–10 (61% vs 75%, P = 0.11). The ability of PSA DT before and after RP to predict systemic progression and CSS decreased with increasing Gleason score.

CONCLUSIONS

The PSA DT remains associated with outcome both before and after RP across increasing pathological Gleason scores, although the predictive ability of PSA DT is diminished in Gleason 8–10 cancers.
The relationship between age at time of surgery and risk of biochemical failure after radical prostatectomy
Authors: Barlow LaMont J. , Badalato Gina M. , Bashir Talha , Benson Mitchell C. , McKiernan James M.
Published: October 2009

Study Type – Therapy (case series) Level of Evidence 4

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effects of age at radical prostatectomy (RP) on recurrence‐free survival (RFS) in patients with prostate cancer stratified by established preoperative risk factors (such as prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) level, Gleason score, and tumour stage), as increasing age has been associated with more indolent behaviour in some cancers.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis of men treated with RP from 1988 to 2008 was conducted. Patients were divided into two groups by age at the time of RP, and RFS rates were analysed using Kaplan–Meier survival curves. The subgroups were stratified by preoperative PSA level, biopsy Gleason score, and clinical stage; multivariate analyses with Cox proportional hazards models were used to identify independent predictors of recurrence. Recurrence was defined as a single PSA level of ≥0.2 ng/mL at least 28 days after RP.

RESULTS

In all, 1984 patients met inclusion criteria and were divided into groups 1 (1325 men aged 40–64 years) and 2 (659 men aged ≥65 years). The 5‐year RFS rates were 80.6% (confidence interval, CI 78.0–82.9%) and 75.6% (CI 71.5–79.1%) for groups 1 and 2, respectively. In the univariate model, advanced age was significantly associated with an increased overall risk of recurrence (hazard ratio, HR 1.30, P = 0.012). However, in multivariate analyses accounting for PSA level, Gleason score, and clinical stage, age was not an independent predictor of recurrence (HR 1.04, P = 0.76).

CONCLUSION

Older patients who undergo RP appear to have an increased risk of recurrence. However, age is not an independent predictor of recurrence when accounting for PSA level, grade, and stage.
Genetic and environmental effects on the continuity of ejaculatory dysfunction
Authors: Jern Patrick , Santtila Pekka , Johansson Ada , Sandnabba N. Kenneth
Published: October 2009

Study Type – Symptom prevalence (retrospective cohort) Level of Evidence 2b

OBJECTIVES

To investigate temporal continuity in ejaculatory dysfunction by comparing self‐reported experiences of premature ejaculation (PE) at first intercourse with self‐reported PE and delayed ejaculation at present, and to clarify whether and to what extent genetic or environmental factors affect continuity in ejaculatory dysfunction, as previous studies indicate moderate heritability for PE at first intercourse.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

The study comprised retrospective self‐reported data on ejaculatory performance at first sexual intercourse and a concurrent self‐report of the same at the time of data collection in a population‐based sample of 2633 Finnish twins and their siblings aged 18–48 years (mean 26.63, sd 4.68). The continuity of ejaculatory function was assessed by correlation and multiple regression. Reasons for continuity were separated into genetic and environmental sources using twin‐model fitting.

RESULTS

Ejaculatory function, particularly PE, was stable over time. Genetic effects accounted for ≈30% of the variance in PE both at first intercourse and when measured at data collection. Unshared environmental effects accounted for most of the variance (≈70%). Genetic effects were almost identical between the sample occasions, but there was a substantial discrepancy between unshared environmental effects affecting PE at first intercourse and unshared environmental effects affecting PE later in life. Age effects were generally negligible. Data were self‐reported and retrospective, and thus vulnerable to response bias.

CONCLUSIONS

Ejaculatory dysfunction seems to be temporally stable both in the short and long term. Genes that contribute to the variance in PE at first intercourse are similar to those that contribute to the variance in PE later in life, whereas there are, in this regard, substantial differences in the unshared environmental factors that are a cause of PE.
Urban disaster recovery: a measurement framework and its application to the 1995 Kobe earthquake
Authors: Chang Stephanie E.
Published: October 2009

This paper provides a framework for assessing empirical patterns of urban disaster recovery through the use of statistical indicators. Such a framework is needed to develop systematic knowledge on how cities recover from disasters. The proposed framework addresses such issues as defining recovery, filtering out exogenous influences unrelated to the disaster, and making comparisons across disparate areas or events. It is applied to document how Kobe City, Japan, recovered from the catastrophic 1995 earthquake. Findings indicate that while aggregate population regained pre‐disaster levels in ten years, population had shifted away from the older urban core. Economic recovery was characterised by a three to four year temporary boost in reconstruction activities, followed by settlement at a level some ten per cent below pre‐disaster levels. Other long‐term effects included substantial losses of port activity and sectoral shifts toward services and large businesses. These patterns of change and disparity generally accelerated pre‐disaster trends.
Targeting vulnerability after the 2005 earthquake: Pakistan's Livelihood Support Cash Grants programme
Authors: Zaidi Sarah , Kamal Ahsan , Baig‐Ansari Naila
Published: October 2009

The 7.6 magnitude (Richter scale) earthquake that struck northern Pakistan on 8 October 2005 was devastating. This paper gauges success in targeting vulnerable families during the transition from relief to reconstruction through cash assistance provided by the Livelihood Support Cash Grants (LSCG) programme. Families without a male member, with a disabled male member aged between 18 and 60 years or with more than five children, defined as vulnerable, were provided with USD 50 per month for six months via a bank transfer. The LSCG scheme enrolled around 750,000 families and selected 267,402 vulnerable families to whom it disbursed a total of USD 86.95 million. Using a community‐based survey, this paper assesses leakage and under‐coverage (exclusion). Approximately 30 per cent of families received the cash grant. However, only one in two was eligible for the benefit, and one in two deserving families was excluded. This is a matter of grave concern.
Financing of internal displacement: excerpts from the Sri Lankan experience
Authors: Amirthalingam Kopalapillai , Lakshman Rajith W.D.
Published: October 2009

This paper investigates how internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Batticaloa, Sri Lanka, financed their first year of displacement. We conducted extensive fieldwork in August 2007 in numerous welfare centres in Batticaloa that have received persons displaced from the Mutur divisional secretariat (DS) in the Trincomalee district. The sample was selected from the village of Sampur in Mutur DS. The displaced from Sampur are of Tamil origin and our findings reveal certain coping strategies that may be particular to this community, including the selling or mortgaging of gold jewellery to address the effects of displacement. We found that the IDPs in this region rely heavily on jewellery and other forms of savings to ensure their survival. There is also strong evidence to support the critically important coping role played by livelihoods. These coping strategies have enabled the IDP households in the present sample to live marginally above the poverty line.