bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DO POSITIONAL CONCERNS DESTROY SOCIAL CAPITAL: EVIDENCE FROM 26 COUNTRIES
Authors: FISCHER JUSTINA A.V. , TORGLER BENNO
Published: October 2012

Research on the effects of positional concerns on individuals' attitudes and behavior is sorely lacking. To address this deficiency, we use the International Social Survey Programme 1998 data on 25,000 individuals from 26 countries to investigate the impact of relative income position on three facets of social capital: horizontal and vertical trust as well as norm compliance. Testing relative deprivation theory, we identify a deleterious positional income effect for persons below the reference income, particularly for their social trust and confidence in secular institutions. Also often a social capital‐lowering effect of relative income advantage occurs, while a rise in absolute income almost always contributes positively. These results indicate that a rise in income inequality in a society too large is rather detrimental to the formation of social capital. (JELZ130, I300, D310)
Active Labour Market Policy by a Profit‐Maximizing Firm
Authors: Gerards Ruud , Muysken Joan , Welters Riccardo
Published: October 2012

This article investigates the effectiveness of an employment programme exclusively run by a private sector firm in order to find out whether such a programme can be beneficial to both the participating individuals and the private firm. To answer these questions, we use a unique dataset on a private employment programme covering 23 years of operations and data on 1,000 participating unemployed individuals. Using conservative estimates, we show that a private employment programme is more effective in reintegrating the unemployed than public efforts, while providing tangible benefits to the firm.
Firm‐Level Collective Bargaining and Wages in Greece: A Quantile Decomposition Analysis
Authors: Daouli Joan , Demoussis Michael , Giannakopoulos Nicholas , Laliotis Ioannis
Published: October 2012

This article analyzes the effect of firm‐level contracting on the wage structure in the Greek private sector. Using a matched employer–employee dataset for 2006, unconditional quantile regressions and relevant decomposition methods, we identify a wage premium associated with firm‐level contracting, which follows a hump‐shaped profile across the wage distribution. Further, the wage differential between workers under firm‐level and broader‐level collective agreements can be primarily attributed to the differences in the regime‐specific wage setting structure, for those below the median of the unconditional wage distribution, and to differences in worker and firm‐specific characteristics for those in the upper tail.
Institutions and Strategies: Trends and Obstacles to Recruiting Workers into Trade Unions in Poland
Authors: Czarzasty Jan , Gajewska Katarzyna , Mrozowicki Adam
Published: October 2012

In this article, we examine the role of institutional context, organizational structures and trade union strategies in tempering membership decline in the number of trade unions in Poland. Empirical data include membership statistics collected for NSZZ Solidarność and 54 affiliates of two other largest trade union confederations (OPZZ and FZZ) supplemented by semi‐structured interviews with union leaders. In a decentralized collective bargaining system in Poland, a centralized trade union confederation (NSZZ Solidarność) can more easily shift resources to efficiently organize workers than decentralized confederations, OPZZ and FZZ, whose development is mostly driven by competing trade unions representing narrower occupational groups. In conclusion, this observation is put in a broader context of the debates about trade union renewal in Eastern Europe.
Collaboration, Co‐operation or Collusion? Contrasting Employee Responses to Managerial Control in Three Call Centres
Authors: Nyberg Daniel , Sewell Graham
Published: October 2012

This article draws on ethnographic studies of three call centres in a single, medium‐sized insurance company to explore how employees responded differently to similar techniques of managerial control. Considering recent discussions of compromise in the workplace, we identify a response to control that sits between implacable resistance and supine acquiescence. We style this collusion and distinguish it from other states of compromise, such as collaboration and co‐operation. Drawing on the work ofEdwardset al., we argue that a dynamic and politically sophisticated collusive compromise can exist between parties whose control and developmental concerns are in conflict. From this position, we extend existing theories of compromise: (a) to accommodate different permutations of control and developmental concerns; and (b) to predict when collaboration, co‐operation and collusion are likely to occur under ostensibly similar conditions of managerial control.
Moral Rights, Human Rights and Social Recognition
Authors: Jones Peter
Published: October 2012

This article examines the thesis that rights are always and only conventional rights. It identifies two versions of the conventionalist thesis by distinguishing how each understands a moral right. On one view, a moral right describes a conventional right that ought to exist, irrespective of whether it actually exists; on the other view, a moral right describes an actually existing conventional right that is morally justified. The article criticises both versions of the conventionalist understanding of moral rights and human rights. It also distinguishes the kind of social recognition that contemporary conventionalists insist is a prerequisite for a right from that proposed by T. H. Green. The article concludes with a defence of the orthodox understanding of moral rights and human rights as rights that are moral in foundation and that can be conceived as rights independently of conventional rights.
Mohs micrographic surgery for basal cell carcinomas: appropriateness of ‘Rotterdam’ criteria and predictive factors for three or more stages
Authors: Flohil S.C. , van Dorst A.M.J.M. , Nijsten T. , Martino Neumann H.A. , Munte K.
Published: October 2012

Background  In the Netherlands basal cell carcinomas (BCC) are eligible for Mohs microscopic surgery (MMS) if certain criteria are fulfilled.

Objective  To study the MMS indication criteria practised at the department of dermatology of the Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam and to identify predictive factors for extensive subclinical tumour spread among BCCs eligible for MMS.

Methods  Pre‐operative patient and tumour characteristics were derived retrospectively between January 2nd 2006 and December 28th 2009 from 1174 patient records, accounting for 1464 BCCs. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to calculate crude and adjusted odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for one vs. two or more stages and for narrow (≤2 stages) vs. extensive subclinical spread (≥3 stages).

Results  H‐zone location [adjusted OR 1.51 (95% CI 1.16–1.96)], recurrent tumour [adjusted OR 1.50 (95% CI 1.11–2.02)], aggressive subtype [adjusted OR 1.25 (95% CI 1.01–1.56)] and tumour size ≥11 mm [adjusted OR 1.53 (95% CI 1.20–1.96)] were significantly associated with two or more stages. Predictive factors for extensive subclinical spread were recurrent tumour [adjusted OR 2.26 (95% CI 1.61–3.17)], tumour size ≥21 mm [adjusted OR 1.69 (95% CI 1.13–2.51)] and location in the H‐zone [adjusted OR 1.68 (95% CI 1.15–2.46)].

Conclusion  ‘Rotterdam’ indication criteria used for MMS are appropriate. Predictors for extensive subclinical spread are important for patients’ and surgeons’ expectations prior to the operation about time span, defect size, reconstruction and possible associated morbidity.
Roles of proteolysis in regulation of GPCR function
Authors: Cottrell GS
Published: October 2012

The enzymatic activity of peptidases must be tightly regulated to prevent uncontrolled hydrolysis of peptide bonds, which could have devastating effects on biological systems. Peptidases are often generated as inactive propeptidases, secreted with endogenous inhibitors, or they are compartmentalized. Propeptidases become active after proteolytic removal of N‐terminal activation peptides by other peptidases. Some peptidases only become active towards substrates only at certain pHs, thus confining activity to specific compartments or conditions. This review discusses the different roles proteolysis plays in regulating GPCRs. At the cell‐surface, certain GPCRs are regulated by the hydrolytic inactivation of bioactive peptides by membrane‐anchored peptidases, which prevent signalling. Conversely, cell‐surface peptidases can also generate bioactive peptides, which directly activate GPCRs. Alternatively, cell‐surface peptidases activated by GPCRs, can generate bioactive peptides to cause transactivation of receptor tyrosine kinases, thereby promoting signalling. Certain peptidases can signal directly to cells, by cleaving GPCR to initiate intracellular signalling cascades. Intracellular peptidases also regulate GPCRs; lysosomal peptidases destroy GPCRs in lysosomes to permanently terminate signalling and mediate down‐regulation; endosomal peptidases cleave internalized peptide agonists to regulate GPCR recycling, resensitization and signalling; and soluble intracellular peptidases also participate in GPCR function by regulating the ubiquitination state of GPCRs, thereby altering GPCR signalling and fate. Although the use of peptidase inhibitors has already brought success in the treatment of diseases such as hypertension, the discovery of new regulatory mechanisms involving proteolysis that control GPCRs may provide additional targets to modulate dysregulated GPCR signalling in disease.
4‐O‐methylhonokiol, a PPARγ agonist, inhibits prostate tumour growth: p21‐mediated suppression of NF‐κB activity
Authors: Lee NJ , Oh JH , Ban JO , Shim JH , Lee HP , Jung JK , Ahn BW , Yoon DY , Han SB , Ham YW , Hong JT
Published: October 2012

Background and Purpose

The effects of 4‐O‐methylhonokiol (MH), a constituent of Magnolia officinalis, were investigated on human prostate cancer cells and its mechanism of action elucidated.

Experimental Approach

The anti‐cancer effects of MH were examined in prostate cancer and normal cells. The effects were validated in vivo using a mouse xenograft model.

Key Results

MH increased the expression of PPARγ in prostate PC‐3 and LNCap cells. The pull‐down assay and molecular docking study indicated that MH directly binds to PPARγ. MH also increased transcriptional activity of PPARγ but decreased NF‐κB activity. MH inhibited the growth of human prostate cancer cells, an effect attenuated by the PPARγ antagonist GW9662. MH induced apoptotic cell death and this was related to G0‐G1 phase cell cycle arrest. MH increased the expression of the cell cycle regulator p21, and apoptotic proteins, whereas it decreased phosphorylation of Rb and anti‐apoptotic proteins. Transfection of PC3 cells with p21 siRNA or a p21 mutant plasmid on the cyclin D1/ cycline‐dependent kinase 4 binding site abolished the effects of MH on cell growth, cell viability and related protein expression. In the animal studies, MH inhibited tumour growth, NF‐κB activity and expression of anti‐apoptotic proteins, whereas it increased the transcriptional activity and expression of PPARγ, and the expression of apoptotic proteins and p21 in tumour tissues.

Conclusions and Implication

MH inhibits growth of human prostate cancer cells through activation of PPARγ, suppression of NF‐κB and arrest of the cell cycle. Thus, MH might be a useful tool for treatment of prostate cancer.
Development and Evaluation of a Modification of the Fried Frailty Criteria Using Population‐Independent Cutpoints
Authors: Saum Kai‐Uwe , Müller Heiko , Stegmaier Christa , Hauer Klaus , Raum Elke , Brenner Hermann
Published: October 2012

Objectives

To develop and evaluate a modification of the Fried frailty assessment using population‐independent cutpoints and to determine frailty prevalence of community‐dwelling elderly people in a German population.

Design

Cross‐sectional analysis of 8‐year follow‐up data of a large German cohort study.

Setting

Saarland, Germany.

Participants

Three thousand one hundred twelve community‐dwelling adults aged 59 and older.

Measurements

Frailty was operationalized using modified Fried frailty criteria. Criteria were categorized according to quintiles (lowest‐quintile approach) or using population‐independent cutpoints derived from the literature (population‐independent approach). Agreement and construct validity of frailty classification according to both approaches were evaluated according to weighted kappa (κ) and Spearman rank correlation (rSp). Associations between frailty and covariates were assessed using multiple logistic regression models.

Results

Although more participants were identified as frail according to the population‐independent index (8.9%) than the lowest‐quintile index (6.5%), agreement and correlation of frailty classification using both approaches was high (κ = 0.75 and rSp = 0.84). Sex differences in frailty prevalence were more pronounced when the population‐independent approach was used (women 11.4%; men 6.1%). Similarly strong significant associations with sociodemographic, lifestyle, and medical factors such as older age, female sex, smoking, and obesity were seen for both approaches.

Conclusion

The modified Fried index using literature‐derived cutpoints independent from the frailty criteria distributions in the underlying study population showed good correlation with the lowest‐quintile approach and enables prevalence estimates that are directly comparable between different populations.
Gay–Straight Alliances Are Associated With Student Health: A Multischool Comparison of LGBTQ and Heterosexual Youth
Authors: Poteat V. Paul , Sinclair Katerina O. , DiGiovanni Craig D. , Koenig Brian W. , Russell Stephen T.
Published: October 2012

Few studies have examined school‐based factors associated with variability in the victimization and health of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth. Among 15,965 students in 45 Wisconsin schools, we identified differences based on Gay–Straight Alliance (GSA) presence. Youth in schools with GSAs reported less truancy, smoking, drinking, suicide attempts, and sex with casual partners than those in schools without GSAs, with this difference being more sizable for LGBTQ than heterosexual youth. GSA‐based differences were greatest for sexual minority girls on reported sex while using drugs. GSA effects were nonsignificant for general or homophobic victimization, grades, and school belonging. Findings suggest that GSAs could contribute to attenuating a range of health risks, particularly for LGBTQ youth.
Online Texts and Conventional Texts: Estimating, Comparing, and Reducing the Greenhouse Gas Footprint of two Tools of the Trade
Authors: Gattiker Thomas F. , Lowe Scott E. , Terpend Regis
Published: October 2012

Many universities are endeavoring to understand and reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions—or carbon footprints. Hard‐copy textbooks are (perhaps surprisingly) a large component of this footprint. Because they are “virtual,” electronic texts (e‐texts) are often considered environmentally superior to conventional hard‐copy texts. However, such claims lack thorough empirical validation. An effective tool for evaluating environmental impacts of products and services is lifecycle assessment (LCA). This article enumerates the steps in the lifecycles of conventional (hard copy) texts and e‐texts and it reports the potential GHG footprints of these activities. However, the actual footprint of most products and services depends on how individuals actually use them. Therefore, our second objective is to report survey results regarding actual student behaviors. Combining LCA and survey data, we estimate the GHG emissions of representative e‐texts and conventional texts; and we compare the two. This allows us to provide insight into the question, which alternative is best? Just as importantly, our analysis also identifies three levers that administrators, faculty and students can use to reduce text‐related GHG emissions.
A Cultural Comparison of Trust in eLearning Artifacts
Authors: Simmons Lakisha L. , Simmons Chris B. , Hayek Mario , Parks Rachida , Mbarika Victor W.
Published: October 2012

A significant body of literature focuses on learning mediated by technology (eLearning). We conceptually develop and empirically test a model of trust antecedents with online undergraduate students. Contributing to the student eLearning success literature, we posit that eLearning students require the support of technologies and trust in those technologies to feel satisfied with their learning and perceive that they will have a positive learning outcome. This study considers the effect of culture by comparing the trust and satisfaction of American and Latin American students in eLearning technologies. By conducting this study in two countries that differ in terms of national culture power distance and individualism, we learned that culture directly and significantly impacts trust in learning technologies. Culture also significantly changes the strength of the relation between trust and satisfaction. Future research directions and implications for researchers and higher education instructors are discussed.
President Obama, the Senate, and the Polarized Politics of Treaty Making*
Authors: Peake Jeffrey S. , Krutz Glen S. , Hughes Tyler
Published: October 2012

Objective

We examine President Obama's use of international agreements as he pursued his foreign policy agenda during his first three years in office. While President Obama uses executive agreements at similar levels as previous presidents, he has used the treaty mechanism far less often. This presents an interesting puzzle: Why has Obama used so few treaties when his own party controls the Senate?

Methods

We address this puzzle by analyzing Obama alongside other presidents in analyses of treaty use and in presidents’ experience with treaty delay employing ordinary least squares (OLS) and maximum likelihood estimation regression techniques. We also utilize the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START) and Obama's use of treaty priority lists as qualitative case studies.

Results

The various findings together suggest that the rise of partisan polarization, including conservatives’ propensity to oppose significant treaties, factors into Obama's decisions to use treaties when completing major diplomacy.

Conclusions

The partisan context of the Senate provides a substantial constraint on presidents looking to cement important new foreign policies through international agreements.
Phase Evolution upon Aging of Air‐Plasma Sprayedt′‐Zirconia Coatings: I—Synchrotron X‐Ray Diffraction
Authors: Lipkin Don M. , Krogstad Jessica A. , Gao Yan , Johnson Curtis A. , Nelson Warren A. , Levi Carlos G.
Published: October 2012

Phase evolution accompanying the isothermal aging of free‐standing air‐plasma sprayed (APS) 7–8 wt% yttria‐stabilized zirconia (8YSZ) thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) is described. Aging was carried out at temperatures ranging from 982°C to 1482°C in air. The high‐temperature kinetics of the phase evolution from the metastablet′phase into a mixture of transformable Y‐rich (cubic) and Y‐lean (tetragonal) phases are documented through ambient temperature X‐ray diffraction (XRD) characterization. A Hollomon–Jaffe parameter (HJP),T[27 + ln(t)], was used to satisfactorily normalize the extent of phase decomposition over the full range of times and temperatures. Comparison to vapor depositedTBCs reveal potential differences in the destabilization mechanism inAPScoatings. Furthermore, the lattice parameters extracted from Rietveld refinement of theXRDpatterns were used to deduce the stabilizer concentrations of the respective phases, which suggest a retrograde tetragonal solvus over the temperature range studied. In concert with a complementary microstructural study presented in Part II, this effort offers new insights into the mechanisms governing the phase evolution and raises implications for the high‐temperature use of 8YSZceramics.
Carbothermal Synthesis of Submicrometer Zirconium Carbide from Polyzirconoxane and Phenolic Resin by the Facile One‐Pot Reaction
Authors: Yan Chunlei , Liu Rongjun , Cao Yingbin , Zhang Changrui , Zhang Deke
Published: October 2012

Zirconium carbide (ZrC) was synthesized by solution‐based processing using versatile starting reagents including zirconium oxychloride octahydrate (ZrOCl2·8H2O, ZOC), acetylacetone (Hacac), and phenolic resin. Polyzirconoxane (PZO), obtained by chelation of Hacac to zirconium, was used to combine with phenolic resin to form a precursor for ZrC. It generated ZrC at a relatively low temperature (1550°C) and in a low C/Zr molar ratio of 2 assuming that phenolic resin was the only carbon source. As a comparison, synthesis of ZrC only using ZOC and phenolic resin was also conducted. Besides, the pyrolysis of PZO was carried out and the transformation mechanism during the pyrolysis was studied, during which ZrC was obtained at 1550°C in flowing argon. The conversions from as‐synthesized preceramic precursors to ceramics were studied by means of FTIR, DSC‐TG, SEM, EDS, and XRD.
Enhancement of Eu3+ Luminescence by Ag Species (Ag NPs, ML‐Ag,Ag+) in Oxyfluoride Glasses
Authors: Wei RongFei , Li JingJing , Gao JiaYu , Guo Hai
Published: October 2012

Enhanced Eu3+ luminescence by three Ag species in transparent Ag–Eu3+ co‐doped oxyfluoride glasses was investigated systematically. Under 464 nm excitation, enhancement of Eu3+ luminescence (four times) is attributed to local‐field surface plasmon resonance (SPR) effect of Ag nanoparticles (NPs). Under 350 nm excitation, significant enhancement of Eu3+ emission (540 times) is assigned to energy transfer (ET) from very small molecule‐like, nonplasmonic Ag particles (ML‐Ag) to Eu3+. Under 270 nm excitation, big enhancement of Eu3+ luminescence (75 times) is ascribed to ET from isolated Ag+ to Eu3+. Our research may extend the understanding of interactions between Ag species and Eu3+.
LPA5 receptor plays a role in pain sensitivity, emotional exploration and reversal learning
Authors: Callaerts‐Vegh Z. , Leo S. , Vermaercke B. , Meert T. , D'Hooge Rudi
Published: October 2012

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a bioactive lipid acting on the nervous system through at least 6 different G protein‐coupled receptors. In this study, we examined mice lacking the LPA5 receptor using an extensive battery of behavioral tests. LPA5‐deficient mice showed decreased pain sensitivity in tail withdrawal, faster recovery in one inflammatory pain procedure (complete Freund's adjuvant‐induced inflammation) and attenuated responses under specific neuropathic pain conditions. Notably, deletion of LPA5 also induced nocturnal hyperactivity and reduced anxiety in the mutant mice. Several exploratory tasks revealed signs of reduced anxiety in LPA5 knockout mice including increased visits to the arena center and reduced thigmotaxis in the open field, and more open arm entries in the elevated plus maze. Finally, LPA5 knockout mice also displayed marked reduction in social exploration, although several other tests indicated that these mice were able to respond normally to environmental stimuli. While learning and memory performance was not impaired in LPA5‐deficient mice, we found differences, e.g., targeted swim strategy and reversal learning, as well as scheduled appetitive conditioning that might indicate differential motivational behavior. These results imply that LPA5 might be involved in both nociception and mechanisms of pain hypersensitivity, as well as in anxiety‐related and motivational behaviors. These observations further support the proposed involvement of LPA signaling in psychopathology.
Interstitial ectopic pregnancy presenting after failed termination of pregnancy
Authors: Egan Daniel J , Li May , Lewiss Resa E
Published: October 2012

Pregnant women frequently present to the ED for complaints related to the first trimester of pregnancy. The emergency physician must confirm the presence of an intrauterine pregnancy for many such complaints. Bedside ultrasound with well‐delineated criteria has become standard practice for many emergency physicians for this purpose. In the following case report, an interstitial pregnancy was identified by the emergency physician using bedside sonography in a 29‐year‐old woman presenting 2 weeks after dilation and aspiration for termination of pregnancy. The ED physician identified an inappropriately thin endomyometrial mantle raising suspicion for the diagnosis of an interstitial pregnancy. The case illustrates the importance of this uterine wall measurement given the otherwise normal appearance of a pregnancy within the uterus.
Silicon Volatility From Alumina and Aluminosilicates Under Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Operating Conditions
Authors: Gentile Paul S. , Sofie Stephen W. , Key Camas F. , Smith Richard J.
Published: October 2012

Thermodynamic equilibrium modeling indicates that the introduction of H2O in oxidizing environments decreases Si stability due to formation of volatile hydroxide and oxy hydroxides. 3Al2O3·2SiO2 mullite bond offers only slight improvement over pure silica as the thermodynamic activity of silica in mullite is near unity. In reducing atmospheres Si stability is improved by the presence of H2O and Al2O3, transitioning from SiO and silane as the dominant volatile species to hydroxides, oxy hydroxides, and SiO with increasing water vapor partial pressure. Empirical studies reveal initial rapid releases of Si from stationary solid oxide fuel cell refractory materials followed by slower solid‐state diffusion limited release.
Fabrication of Full‐Density Mg‐Ferrite/Fe–Ni Permalloy Nanocomposites with a High‐Saturation Magnetization Density of 1 T
Authors: Hirota Ken , Obatal; and?> Motoki , Kato Masaki , Taguchi Hideki
Published: October 2012

Dense nanocomposites consisting of spinel Mn‐doped Mg‐ferrite and permalloy, (Mg[Fe1 − xMnx]2O4(0 ≤ x ≤ 0.4)/53Fe–47Ni), have been fabricated from powder mixtures of MgO/α‐Fe2O3/MnO and N2‐atomized metal particles utilizing high‐pressure cold isostatic press (CIP), pulsed electric current pressure sintering (PECPS), and capsule‐free hot isostatic pressing (HIP). Metal particles were coated with the mixed oxide powders homogeneously under high shear compression in Ar. The coated powders were densified into relative densities of 83–85% by high pressure CIPing (1 GPa). They were then presintered at 823 K for 3 min under uniaxial pressure of 100 MPa in Ar using a PECPS. The pre‐sintered bodies had relative densities of 93–95% composed of spinel ferrite and permalloy; the mixed metal oxides were changed into magnesium ferrites by heating briefly at low temperature. Then, HIP (1123 K/6 h/196 MPa‐Ar) was adopted to densify the pre‐sintered bodies into a nearly full density; furthermore, a sintering atmosphere control was performed using ferrite muffles to maintain both phases. Sintered materials consisting of granular metal particles (φ 8.5 μm) isolated and surrounded by a thin ferrite discontinuous layer (0.2–1.3 μm) with a relative density ≥99.5% revealed both a saturation magnetization density ≥1 T and moderate permeability values of 30–35 at 1 MHz.
Body Mass Index and Risk of Total and Type-Specific Stroke in Chinese Adults: Results from a Longitudinal Study in China
Authors: Wang Chunxiu , Liu Yunhai , Yang Qidong , Dai Xiuying , Wu Shengping , Wang Wenzhi , Ji Xunming , Li Lin , Fang Xianghua
Published: October 2012

Background

The prevalence rate of overweight and obese has been escalating over the past two decades in China. Even so, the association between obesity and stroke still remains unclear to some extent.

Aims

The aim of this study was to elucidate the association between body mass index and stroke in a large Chinese population cohort.

Methods

A cohort of 26 607 Chinese people, aged over 35 years, was investigated in 1987. Baseline information of body weight and height was used to calculate BMI (weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared, kg/m2). Cox proportional hazards model was fitted to estimate hazard ratios of stroke adjusted for age, educational level, smoking and alcohol consumption.

Results

The 11-year follow-up revealed (241 149 person-years) a total of 1108 stroke events (614 ischemic, 451 hemorrhagic, and 44 undefined stroke). Body mass index ≥ 30·0 was an independent risk factor for stroke both in men and women. Compared with normal weight, hazard ratios for total stroke were 0·74 in men underweight (95% confidence interval: 0·53∼1·03), 1·63 overweight (95% confidence interval: 1·35∼1·96), and 2·20 with obesity (95% confidence interval: 1·47∼3·30); and with ischemic stroke, hazard ratios were 0·52 in those underweight (95% confidence interval: 0·30∼0·89), 208 overweight (95% confidence interval: 1·65∼2·62), and 3·80 with obesity (95% confidence interval: 2·47∼5·86). In women, the corresponding hazard ratios for total stroke were 0·79 underweight (95% confidence interval: 0·58∼1·07), 1·42 overweight (95% confidence interval: 1·16∼1·73), and 1·57 with obesity (95% confidence interval: 1·06∼2·31); and for those with ischemic stroke, 0·92 underweight (95% confidence interval: 0·59∼1·43), 1·90 overweight (95% confidence interval: 1·44∼2·50), and 2·42 with obesity (95% confidence interval: 1·50∼3·93). There appeared an evident dose-response relationship between body mass index and the risk of developing stroke, which still appeared, however, adjusted low for hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease. Decreased risk for stroke in the leanest group was confined to men only. No association was found between body mass index and hemorrhagic stroke in both genders.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that body mass index was an independent risk factor for total and ischemic stroke but not for hemorrhagic stroke in both genders. Association between body mass index and stroke was extremely mediated by hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease. Decreased risk for the leanest group was confined to men.
Successful management of an arytenoid chondrosarcoma in a dog
Authors: Muraro L. , Aprea F. , White R. A. S.
Published: October 2012

An eight‐year‐old Doberman pinscher was presented with a four‐week history of inspiratory stridor, dysphonia, inappetence and weight loss. Inspiratory stridor was apparent and became more pronounced during gentle compression of the larynx. Previous investigations, including laryngoscopy, had revealed the presence of a left‐sided arytenoid mass. Histological examination of pinch biopsies was not diagnostic. The mass was removed by resection of the arytenoid cartilage through a ventral laryngotomy allowing salvage of the cuneiform process. Histological examination of the laryngeal mass was consistent with a chondrosarcoma, grade I, infiltrating the arytenoid cartilage. Re‐examination at 12 months showed complete resolution of the clinical signs and no signs of metastatic disease. To the authors’ knowledge this is the first report of successful surgical intervention for laryngeal chondrosarcoma. This case demonstrates that resection via a ventral laryngotomy may be a viable and curative therapeutic option for some sarcomas of the larynx.
Effects of Gender and Sex Hormones on Disease Susceptibility of Channel Catfish to Edwardsiella ictaluri
Authors: Peterson Brian C. , Davis Kenneth B.
Published: October 2012

The use of monosex populations for aquaculture is becoming widely used for several species. The current studies determined if there were any differences between male and female channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, in disease susceptibility to Edwardsiella ictaluri, one of the most important pathogenic bacteria in catfish culture. Disease challenge experiments were carried out on fingerling channel catfish fed 17β‐estradiol or testosterone before the challenge, and on all male and on sibling all female fingerlings. All male populations were produced by mating YY males with normal XX females. Sibling females were produced by hormonally sex reversing a subpopulation of six of the all male families. Weight gain or specific growth rate did not differ in fish fed testosterone or estrogen. Fish fed the highest dose of estrogen (50 mg/kg) had a significant higher mortality (P < 0.05), while mortality was similar in catfish fed 10 and 50 mg/kg of testosterone compared to controls. There were no differences in mortality between sibling males and females. These data indicate no increased disease susceptibility to E. ictaluri between males and females or due to exogenous sex hormones. Production of all male catfish for culture can proceed without concern for disease susceptibility to E. ictaluri.
Relationships of Maximum Length, Length at First Sexual Maturity, and Growth Performance Index in Nature with Absolute Growth Rates of Intensive Cultivation of Some Tropical Marine Fish
Authors: Alvarez‐Lajonchère Luis , Ibarra‐Castro Leonardo
Published: October 2012

Growth rate is one of the main biological criteria for selecting tropical marine fishes for intensive culture. Relationships of maximum observed length (MOL), length at first sexual maturity, growth performance index (Φ′), and juvenile absolute growth rate during nursery with growth rate during grow‐out periods were studied and their equations were calculated for 30 tropical or subtropical marine fish species. All equations were positive and their correlation coefficients were significant (P < 0.01). Three nomographs were made to obtain gross estimates of probable growth rates on intensive fish culture using the above relationships. Species with MOL of 100 cm or larger, length at first sexual maturity of 35 cm or more, Φ′ of 2.90 or more, and growth during the nursery period of or above 0.3 g/d, would be expected to have growth rates of at least 2 g/d during the grow‐out period. These criteria could help to identify species with best potential for intensive cultivation as a first step before a full evaluation and selection process is carried out.
Dietary Vitamin C Requirement of Fingerling, Cirrhinus mrigala (Hamilton), Based on Growth, Feed Conversion, Protein Retention, Hematological Indices, and Liver Vitamin C Concentration
Authors: Zehra Seemab , Khan Mukhtar A.
Published: October 2012

This study was conducted to quantify dietary vitamin C requirement of fingerling, Cirrhinus mrigala, (0.79 ± 0.07 g; 3.51 ± 0.15 cm) by feeding casein‐gelatin based purified diets (400 g/kg crude protein; 3.45 kcal/g digestible energy) containing nine levels of vitamin C as l‐ascorbyl‐2‐polyphosphate (0.0, 5, 15, 25, 35, 45, 55, 75, and 95 mg vitamin C equivalent/kg diet) to triplicate groups of fish to apparent satiation for 16 wk. Absolute weight gain (AWG, g/fish), feed conversion ratio (FCR), protein retention efficiency (PRE%), RNA/DNA ratio, hemoglobin (Hb, g/dL), and hematocrit value (Hct%) were taken as the response criteria to determine vitamin C requirement of mrigal. Fish fed diet with 35 mg/kg vitamin C had significantly higher AWG (9.94 g/fish), FCR (1.39), PRE (27.72%), RNA/DNA ratio (4.18), Hb (11.15 g/dL), and Hct (34.44%) values. However, liver vitamin C concentration was found to be higher (64.92 µg/g wet tissue) in diet containing 45 mg vitamin C/kg. Broken‐line regression analysis of AWG data estimated the requirement of 35.65 mg/kg, whereas that of the liver vitamin C concentration data projected the requirement to 41.99 mg/kg.
Lipid Metabolic Response, Peroxidation, and Antioxidant Defence Status of Juvenile Lined Seahorse, Hippocampus erectus, Fed with Highly Unsaturated Fatty Acids Enriched Artemia Nauplii
Authors: Yin Fei , Tang Baojun , Zhang Dong , Zou Xiong
Published: October 2012

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Artemia nauplii enriched with different concentrations of highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFAs) on the lipid metabolic response, peroxidation, and antioxidant defence status of the lined seahorse (Hippocampus erectus) juveniles. Twenty‐day‐old juveniles were fed Artemia nauplii enriched with four different concentrations (0.0 µL/L [control, A], 13.5 µL/L [B], 27.0 µL/L [C], and 54.0 µL/L [D]) of HUFAs (two thirds DHA and one third EPA) for 30 d. The activities of lipase and lipoproteinlipase of the juveniles significantly increased with increasing HUFA concentration; however, the activities of malate dehydrogenase and lactate content decreased with increasing HUFA concentration. Alkaline phosphatase activity and pyruvic acid content were not significantly different among the three treatments and the control. Malonaldehyde content was significantly negatively related to the enrichment concentrations (in Treatments A, B, and C); however, it increased significantly in Treatment D. The activities of superoxide dismutase in Treatments A and B were significantly higher than that in Treatments C and D. Catalase activity increased significantly from the control to Treatment C, then decreased significantly in Treatment D. Glutathione peroxidase activities increased significantly with increasing concentration of HUFAs, and peaked in Treatment D. The results indicate that dietary HUFAs are able to modify some enzymatic activities, and moderate dietary HUFA supplementation significantly promotes lipid metabolism and reduces lipid peroxidation products by enhancing antioxidant defence in the juveniles. However, excess HUFAs may result in adverse effects on the enzymatic activities in the juveniles, which might be related to oxidative stress.
The Predation of Artemia Nauplii by the Larvae of the Amazon River Prawn, Macrobrachium amazonicum (Heller, 1862), is Affected by Prey Density, Time of Day, and Ontogenetic Development
Authors: Maciel Cristiana R. , New Michael B. , Valenti Wagner C.
Published: October 2012

The present study analyzed the effects of prey density, the time of day, and ontogenetic development on the predation of Artemia nauplii by the larvae of the Amazon river prawn, Macrobrachium amazonicum, as well as possible synergy among these factors. Larvae were raised in 120‐L tanks with biological filter systems, and fed on recently hatched Artemia nauplii, using two feeding management protocols: (a) fed once per day at 2000 h (high density – HD) and (b) half of the ration provided at 2000 h, complemented at 0800 h the following day by a replacement of the nauplii consumed up to a maximum of the full ration (low density with replacement – LDWR). Each treatment consisted of six replicates. The consumption of nauplii was estimated prior to the feeding times. Consumption varied according to time of day, ontogenetic development, and feeding protocol. The larvae ingested more nauplii during the daytime at most developmental stages. Ingestion rates were similar during the day under both treatments, but at night the higher density of prey in the HD treatment caused a higher encounter rate and increased ingestion of nauplii by the larvae. Among the performance indicators only survival was greater in HD in comparison with LDWR; productivity and dry weight were similar. The results indicate a circadian trophic rhythm in M. amazonicum, with the encounter rate being an important mechanism for the capture of prey during the night. A second mechanism – probably the visual system – aids the perception of prey during the daytime. Based on these results, we suggest that feeding captive Amazon river prawn larvae only once a day would be appropriate and economically beneficial. Further work is necessary to determine the most effective time that this single feed should be applied.
Effect of Photoperiod Manipulation on Growth Performance, Physiological and Hematological Indices in Juvenile Persian Sturgeon, Acipenser persicus
Authors: Falahatkar Bahram , Poursaeid Samaneh , Efatpanah Iraj , Meknatkhah Bahman , Biswas Amal
Published: October 2012

The effect of five different light regimes on growth, stress and hematological indices was studied in Persian sturgeon, Acipenser persicus. Fish with average weight of 645.3 ± 11.2 g were subjected to different photoperiods (24 L, 12 L:12 D, 16 L:8 D, 8 L:16 D and 24 D) for 8 wk. Blood samples were collected at the end of the experiment for measuring cortisol, glucose and hematological features. The whole growth parameters showed no significant difference. Plasma cortisol concentration was significantly higher in 12 L:12 D, while the lowest level was observed in fish exposed to 24 D. No significant changes were observed among the treatments for glucose concentration. Lactate concentration varied significantly among the treatments. Some hematological indices including hematocrit and number of white blood cells were affected by different light regimes, but the others (hemoglobin and number of red blood cells) were not affected significantly. The results showed that photoperiod manipulation can alters some stress‐related metabolites and may enhance growth rate in fish exposing to continuous darkness.
Effect of Dietary Fish Meal Replacement by Canola Meal on Growth Performance and Hepatic Intermediary Metabolism of Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia Strain of Nile Tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, Reared in Fresh Water
Authors: Luo Zhi , Liu Cai‐Xia , Wen Hua
Published: October 2012

An 8‐wk feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the potential of replacing fish meal with canola meal in experimental diets for genetically improved farmed tilapia (GIFT) strain of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus (mean initial weight: 20.0 ± 0.62 g, means ± SD), reared in fresh water. Six isonitrogenous (30% crude protein) and isolipidic (10%) diets were formulated with canola meal included at six levels of 0 (control), 11, 22, 33, 44, and 55%, replacing 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, and 75% fish meal, respectively. Growth performance and feed utilization showed no significant differences among the treatments. In general, dietary canola meal supplementation showed significant effect on hepatic composition of tilapia, but not muscle composition. Viscerosomatic index tended to increase with increasing dietary canola meal levels from 0 to 44%, and then declined when dietary canola meal levels further increased from 44 to 55%. Dietary fish meal replacement by canola meal significantly influenced several hepatic enzymatic activities, including succinate dehydrogenase, lactate dehydrogenase, malic dehydrogenase, lipoprotein lipase, and hepatic lipase, suggesting that dietary fish meal replacement by canola meal had significant effects on nutrient metabolism in the liver. Based on the information above, 75% of dietary fish meal could be replaced by canola meal with no effect on growth performance of GIFT strain of Nile tilapia. Use of canola meal in practical diets for GIFT stain of Nile tilapia may allow producers and feed mills to formulate more economical diets.
Study of the Oxidative State, as a Marker of Welfare, on Gilthead Sea Bream, Sparus aurata, Subjected to Handling Stress
Authors: Sanz Ana , Furné Miriam , Trenzado Cristina E. , de Haro Carolina , Sánchez‐Muros M. J.
Published: October 2012

In this study, we investigated the effect of repeated handling on the oxidative state of gilthead sea bream, Sparus aurata. We determined the activity of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), glutathione transferase (GST), and DT‐diaphorase (DTD) in liver, digestive tract, brain, gills, and white muscle. We also measured the lipid‐peroxidation level (malondialdehyde – MDA – concentration) and the glucose 6‐phosphate dehydrogenase activity (G6PDH). The results show that repeated low‐intensity handling on gilthead sea bream alter the oxidative status of tissues such as liver, digestive tract, and muscle in the last term can affect its welfare. The brain in a situation of handling stress is protected from oxidative damage by the activity of antioxidant enzymes. Finally, the concentration of MDA in tissues can be a good candidate as a biomarker of stress and welfare in fish.
Indirect supportive evidence for diagnosis of tuberculosis‐related uveitis: from the tuberculin skin test to the new interferon gamma release assays
Authors: Llorenç Víctor , González‐Martin Julian , Keller Johannes , Rey Amanda , Pelegrín Laura , Mesquida Marina , Adán Alfredo
Published: October 2012

Purpose:  To evaluate clinical and paraclinical parameters for the indirect diagnosis of tuberculosis‐related uveitis (TRU).

Methods:  Prospective 2‐year study in a tertiary referral centre. Patients with clinically suspected TRU were recruited. Demographical and clinical data were recorded. QuantiFERON®‐TB Gold (QFT), tuberculosis skin test (TST) and pulmonary X‐ray were performed, and other possible uveitis aetiologies were ruled out. Further investigations were also performed case by case after consultation. After final assessment, standard antituberculosis therapy was started if TRU was considered highly probable. Finally, diagnosis of TRU was established according to current criteria and set as gold standard. Strength of association for TRU was determined by odds ratio and compared by appropriate tests. Concordance and binary classification tests were also assessed.

Results:  The study included 103 patients, 54 men and 49 women. Mean age 45.6 years. Sixty‐eight patients were Spanish‐born and 35 were foreign‐born. Final diagnosis included 33 (32%) cases of TRU and 70 (67%) cases with other diagnoses. Asian origin (OR = 3.50, p = 0.046), previous tuberculosis (TB) contact (OR = 2.61, p = 0.026), TB in the past (OR = 6.18, p = 0.004) and associated retinal vasculitis (OR = 7.85, p < 0.001) were significantly related to TRU. Sensitivity (S) and specificity (Sp) of the TST and QFT did not differ significantly (S 87% versus 90% and Sp 85% versus 82%, respectively) with fair agreement (k = 0.607).

Conclusion:  In a Western urban multi‐ethnic population, patients from Asia, TB history or contact in the past and vasculitis are at higher risk of TRU. TST and QF are complementary providing enough S and Sp to support the diagnosis.
Global Health and the New Bottom Billion: What do Shifts in Global Poverty and Disease Burden Mean for Donor Agencies?
Authors: Glassman Amanda , Duran Denizhan , Sumner Andy
Published: October 2012

After a decade of rapid growth in average incomes, many countries have attained middle income country (MIC) status. At the same time, poverty has not fallen as much as one might expect and as a result most of the world’s poor now live in MICs. In fact, there are up to a billion poor people or a ‘new bottom billion’ living not in the world’s poorest countries but in MICs. Not only has the global distribution of poverty shifted to MICs, so has the global disease burden. This article examines the implications of this ‘new bottom billion’– the fact that up to a billion of the world’s poorest people now live in MICs – for global health efforts, and recommends a tailored middle income strategy for the Global Fund and GAVI. The article describes trends in the global distribution of poverty, preventable infectious diseases, and health aid response to date; revisits the rationale for health aid through agencies like GAVI and the Global Fund; and proposes a new MICs strategy and components, concluding with recommendations.

Policy Implications

 Eliminating the country income threshold as an across‐the‐board criterion for allocating global health funding.

 Setting up regional pooled procurement or pricing mechanisms.

 Building evidence based, priority setting institutions in MICs.

 Establishing increased accountability mechanisms and providing technical support for MICs.

 Increasing the allocative efficiency of health aid while ensuring equity.