bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inflammatory stress exacerbates hepatic cholesterol accumulation via disrupting cellular cholesterol export
Authors: Chen Yuyang , Chen Yao , Zhao Lei , Chen Yaxi , Mei Mei , Li Qing , Huang Ailong , Varghese Zac , Moorhead John F , Ruan Xiong Z
Published: November 2011

Background and Aim:  Both inflammation and cholesterol accumulation play important roles in the development of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease. This study was undertaken to investigate whether inflammation aggravated cholesterol accumulation via disrupting hepatic cholesterol export and we explored the underlying mechanisms.

Methods:  We used casein injection in C57BL/6J mice, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) stimulation in human hepatoblastoma cell line (HepG2) cells to induce inflammation. Intracellular cholesterol level was examined by Oil Red O staining and quantitative analysis. Bile acid level was quantified by colorimetric analysis. 3[H] cholesterol assay by scintillation counting was performed to evaluate the cholesterol efflux. The mRNA and protein expression was examined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot.

Results:  Inflammation increased cholesterol accumulation in livers of C57BL/6J mice and in HepG2 cells. High‐fat diet in mice and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) loading in HepG2 cells increased bile acid synthesis and cholesterol efflux, enhanced the mRNA and protein expression of liver X receptor α (LXRα), peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors (PPARα, γ), cholesterol 7α‐hydroxylase (CYP7A1) and ATP‐binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1). However, inflammation reduced bile acid synthesis and cholesterol efflux even in high‐fat‐diet‐fed mice and HepG2 cells in the presence of LDL loading. The enhanced effects of these genes and proteins expression due to high‐fat diet and LDL loading were inhibited by inflammation both in vivo and in vitro.

Conclusions:  Inflammation disrupted PPAR‐LXR‐CYP7A1/ABCA1‐mediated bile acid synthesis and cholesterol efflux resulting in exacerbated cholesterol accumulation in livers of C57BL/6J mice and HepG2 cells.
Acoustic characteristics of ataxic speech in Japanese patients with spinocerebellar degeneration (SCD)
Authors: Ikui Yukiko , Tsukuda Mamoru , Kuroiwa Yoshiyuki , Koyano Shigeru , Hirose Hajime , Taguchi Takahide
Published: November 2011

Background: In English‐ and German‐speaking countries, ataxic speech is often described as showing scanning based on acoustic impressions. Although the term ‘scanning’ is generally considered to represent abnormal speech features including prosodic excess or insufficiency, any precise acoustic analysis of ataxic speech has not been performed in Japanese‐speaking patients. This raises the question of what is the most dominant acoustic characteristic of ataxic speech in Japanese subjects, particularly related to the perceptual impression of ‘scanning’.

Aims: The study was designed to investigate the nature of speech characteristics of Japanese ataxic subjects, particularly ‘scanning’, by means of acoustic analysis.

Methods & Procedures: The study comprised 20 Japanese cases with spinocerebellar degeneration diagnosed to have a perceptual impression of scanning by neurologists (ataxic group) and 20 age‐matched normal healthy subjects (control group). Recordings of speech samples of Japanese test sentences were obtained from each subject. The recorded and digitized acoustic samples were analysed using ‘Acoustic Core‐8’ (Arcadia Inc.).

Outcomes & Results: Sentence duration was significantly longer in the ataxic group as compared with the control group, indicating that the speaking rate was slower in the ataxic subjects. Segment duration remained consistent in both vowels and consonants in the control group as compared with the ataxic group. In particular, the duration of vowel segments, i.e. the nucleus of Japanese mora, was significantly invariable in the control group regardless of differences between subjects as well as in segments compared with the ataxic group. In addition, the duration of phonemically long Japanese vowels was significantly shorter in the ataxic group.

Conclusions & Implications: The results indicate that the perceptual impression of ‘scanning’ in Japanese ataxic cases derives mainly from the breakdown of isochrony in terms of difficulty in keeping the length of vowel segments of Japanese invariable during speech production. In addition, the tendency toward irregular shortening of the length of phonemically long Japanese vowels is thought to reinforce the impression of ‘scanning’ in ataxic speech in Japanese cases.
Glutamatergic input is selectively increased in dorsal raphe subfield 5‐HT neurons: role of morphology, topography and selective innervation
Authors: Crawford LaTasha K. , Craige Caryne P. , Beck Sheryl G.
Published: November 2011

Characterization of glutamatergic input to dorsal raphe (DR) serotonin (5‐HT) neurons is crucial for understanding how the glutamate and 5‐HT systems interact in psychiatric disorders. Markers of glutamatergic terminals, vGlut1, 2 and 3, reflect inputs from specific forebrain and midbrain regions. Punctate staining of vGlut2 was homogeneous throughout the mouse DR whereas vGlut1 and vGlut3 puncta were less dense in the lateral wing (lwDR) compared with the ventromedial (vmDR) subregion. The distribution of glutamate terminals was consistent with the lower miniature excitatory postsynaptic current frequency found in the lwDR; however, it was not predictive of glutamatergic synaptic input with local activity intact, as spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic current (sEPSC) frequency was higher in the lwDR. We examined the morphology of recorded cells to determine if variations in dendrite structure contributed to differences in synaptic input. Although lwDR neurons had longer, more complex dendrites than vmDR neurons, glutamatergic input was not correlated with dendrite length in the lwDR, suggesting that dendrite length did not contribute to subregional differences in sEPSC frequency. Overall, glutamatergic input in the DR was the result of selective innervation of subpopulations of 5‐HT neurons and was rooted in the topography of DR neurons and the activity of glutamate neurons located within the midbrain slice. Increased glutamatergic input to lwDR cells potentially synergizes with previously reported increased intrinsic excitability of lwDR cells to increase 5‐HT output in lwDR target regions. Because the vmDR and lwDR are involved in unique circuits, subregional differences in glutamate modulation may result in diverse effects on 5‐HT output in stress‐related psychopathology.
The integrity of cholinergic basal forebrain neurons depends on expression of Nkx2‐1
Authors: Magno Lorenza , Kretz Oliver , Bert Bettina , Ersözlü Sara , Vogt Johannes , Fink Heidrun , Kimura Shioko , Vogt Angelika , Monyer Hannah , Nitsch Robert , Naumann Thomas
Published: November 2011

The transcription factor Nkx2‐1 belongs to the homeobox‐encoding family of proteins that have essential functions in prenatal brain development. Nkx2‐1 is required for the specification of cortical interneurons and several neuronal subtypes of the ventral forebrain. Moreover, this transcription factor is involved in migratory processes by regulating the expression of guidance molecules. Interestingly, Nkx2‐1 expression was recently detected in the mouse brain at postnatal stages. Using two transgenic mouse lines that allow prenatal or postnatal cell type‐specific deletion of Nkx2‐1, we show that continuous expression of the transcription factor is essential for the maturation and maintenance of cholinergic basal forebrain neurons in mice. Notably, prenatal deletion of Nkx2‐1 in GAD67‐expressing neurons leads to a nearly complete loss of cholinergic neurons and parvalbumin‐containing GABAergic neurons in the basal forebrain. We also show that postnatal mutation of Nkx2‐1 in choline acetyltransferase‐expressing cells causes a striking reduction in their number. These degenerative changes are accompanied by partial denervation of their target structures and results in a discrete impairment of spatial memory.
Altered apoptotic responses in neurons lacking RhoB GTPase
Authors: Barberan Sara , McNair Kara , Iqbal Khalil , Smith Nicola C. , Prendergast George C. , Stone Trevor W. , Cobb Stuart R. , Morris Brian J.
Published: November 2011

Caspase 3 activation has been linked to the acute neurotoxic effects of central nervous system damage, as in traumatic brain injury or cerebral ischaemia, and also to the early events leading to long‐term neurodegeneration, as in Alzheimer’s disease. However, the precise mechanisms activating caspase 3 in neuronal injury are unclear. RhoB is a member of the Rho GTPase family that is dramatically induced by cerebral ischaemia or neurotrauma, both in preclinical models and clinically. In the current study, we tested the hypothesis that RhoB might directly modulate caspase 3 activity and apoptotic or necrotic responses in neurons. Over‐expression of RhoB in the NG108‐15 neuronal cell line or in cultured corticohippocampal neurons elevated caspase 3 activity without inducing overt toxicity. Cultured corticohippocampal neurons from RhoB knockout mice did not show any differences in sensitivity to a necrotic stimulus – acute calcium ionophore exposure – compared with neurons from wild‐type mice. However, corticohippocampal neurons lacking RhoB exhibited a reduction in the degree of DNA fragmentation and caspase 3 activation induced by the apoptotic agent staurosporine, in parallel with increased neuronal survival. Staurosporine induction of caspase 9 activity was also suppressed. RhoB knockout mice showed reduced basal levels of caspase 3 activity in the adult brain. These data directly implicate neuronal RhoB in caspase 3 activation and the initial stages of programmed cell death, and suggest that RhoB may represent an attractive target for therapeutic intervention in conditions involving elevated caspase 3 activity in the central nervous system.
Modulation of neuromagnetic responses to face stimuli by preceding biographical information
Authors: Tsujimoto Satoshi , Yokoyama Takemasa , Noguchi Yasuki , Kita Shinichi , Kakigi Ryusuke
Published: November 2011

When we encode faces in memory, we often do so in association with biographical information regarding the person. To examine the neural dynamics underlying such encoding processes, we devised a face recognition task and recorded cortical activity using magnetoencephalography. The task included two conditions. In the experimental condition, face stimuli were preceded by biographical information regarding the person whose face was to be memorized, whereas in the control condition, nonsense syllables were presented before face stimuli. Behavioral results indicated that the biographical information about a person facilitated the recognition memory of their face. Magnetoencephalography signals showed clear visually evoked magnetic fields mainly in the occipitotemporal cortex, in response to the face stimuli that were to be encoded. The phasic peak was observed at 100–200 ms after onset of a face stimulus, which was followed by late latency deflections (200–400 ms). Comparison of the signal between conditions revealed that the preceding semantic information does modulate the neuromagnetic responses to the face stimuli. This modulation occurred primarily at the late latency component in the sensors over the occipitotemporal cortex. In addition, the effects of conditions were also observed in the signals from more anterior sensors, which occurred earlier than the effects in the occipitotemporal cortex. These results provide insights into the neural dynamics underlying the encoding of faces in association with their biographical information.
The ovarian cycle histochemistry and its relationship with hepatopancreas weight in the blue crab Callinectes danae (Crustacea: Portunidae)
Authors: Zara Fernando J. , Gaeta Henrique H. , Costa Tânia M. , Toyama Marcos H. , Caetano Flávio H.
Published: November 2011

Zara, F.J., Gaeta, H.H., Costa, T.M., Toyama, M.H. and Caetano, F.H. 2011. The ovarian cycle histochemistry and its relationship with hepatopancreas weight in the blue crab Callinectes danae (Crustacea: Portunidae). —Acta Zoologica (Stockholm) 00:1–13.

Several studies use macroscopic patterns of the ovarian development in crustaceans. Here, we examined the relationship between ovary histochemistry, changes in gonadosomatic and hepatosomatic indices against the macroscopic pattern of the ovarian development in Callinectes danae. Animals were collected in the south coast of São Paulo State, Brazil. Ovaries were macroscopically classified as juvenile, rudimentary, developing, intermediary, mature, and rudimentary ovigerous. Samples were fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde, processed for historesin, and stained with HE, protein, and neutral and acid polysaccharides detection. The juvenile oocytes are not enclosed by follicular cells and have fewer yolk nuclei being less intense in PAS reactivity than rudimentary oocytes. Developing oocytes show yolk granules and thick follicular cells. Yolk granules were positive for proteins and neutral polysaccharides. The intermediary stage is marked by a qualitative increase in yolk granules and the onset of chorion formation. In mature oocytes, cytoplasm is completely filled by yolk granules and the chorion is completely formed. Ovigerous ovaries have several atretic follicles and large quantities of hemocytes in the process of tissue reorganization. In C. danae, the changes in cell, goandosomatic and hepatosomatic indices coinciding with macroscopic observations and any combination of different macroscopic stages in a single pattern should be avoided.
Work‐related behaviour and experience patterns of nurses
Authors: Goetz K. , Beutel S. , Mueller G. , Trierweiler‐Hauke B. , Mahler C.
Published: November 2011

Goetz K., Beutel S., Mueller G., Trierweiler‐Hauke B. & Mahler C. (2011) Work‐related behaviour and experience patterns of nurses. International Nursing Review59, 88–93

Introduction.  Nursing working conditions are characterized by heavy workloads and extensive responsibilities. The aim of our study was to report and to compare the actual conditions of work‐related behaviour and experience patterns of nurses working on intensive care units (ICUs) and intermediate care in a reference sample of nurses.

Methods:  The study was designed as a cross‐sectional survey with a sample of ICU and intermediate care nurses in one hospital in Germany and a reference sample of nurses (n = 378). Data were analysed regarding 11 health‐relevant dimensions and four behaviour patterns examined by the questionnaire ‘Work‐Related Behaviour and Experience Patterns’. Group comparison was evaluated with independent t‐test. The survey also collected demographic data.

Results:  In total, 86 of 158 questionnaires (54.4%) were returned. ICU and intermediate care nurses mainly differed in the health dimensions ‘career ambition’ and ‘satisfaction with work’, and had equal mean scores in ‘experiences of social support’. The most common pattern for the majority in our sample was the withdrawal pattern (46.8 %). 17.7% showed the burnout pattern. One third of our sample showed a healthy pattern (25.3%).

Conclusions:  It was possible to identify clear risk patterns for our sample of ICU and intermediate care nursing staff and to demonstrate that an essential aim should be to minimize the risk of burnout by strengthening nurses' individual, as well as work‐related resources by applying a salutogenic approach. Leadership should reinforce motivational aspects to prevent staff withdrawal and to keep nurses in the workforce.
Job satisfaction and emotional subjective well‐being among Slovak nurses
Authors: Gurková E. , Čáp J. , Žiaková K. , Ďurišková M.
Published: November 2011

GURKOVÁ E., ČÁP J., ŽIAKOVÁ K. & ĎURIŠKOVÁ M. (2011) Job satisfaction and emotional subjective well‐being among Slovak nurses. International Nursing Review59, 94–100

Purpose:  The purpose of this study is to investigate job satisfaction and emotional subjective well‐being and the correlations between these two constructs among Slovak nurses.

Design:  A cross‐sectional survey was used to investigate this relationship among nurses (n = 104) working in seven public hospitals in Slovakia.

Methods:  Data were collected using a set of questionnaires that included the questionnaire to measure job satisfaction, the Positive Affect Scale, the Negative Affect Scale and a demographics form.

Findings:  Findings of this study confirmed some general satisfying and dissatisfying elements for the nursing profession across different clinical specialties and different cultures. The results also indicate that there is a positive correlation between positive emotions and job satisfaction of Slovak nurses.

Conclusion:  The paper has drawn attention to the job satisfaction and emotional well‐being among nurses. Further studies in this field, extended to different countries, work settings and nursing specialties, may help to improve subjective well‐being of nurses.

Study limitations:  Participants came from a limited number of hospitals in Slovakia. A larger sample from different hospitals in Slovakia could have enhanced the generalizability of the results and increased the power of the study to detect significant differences and associations.
Diversity and demographic heterogeneity of Australian nursing students: a closer look
Authors: Salamonson Y. , Ramjan L. , Lombardo L. , Lanser L.H. , Fernandez R. , Griffiths R.
Published: November 2011

SALAMONSON Y., RAMJAN L., LOMBARDO L., LANSER L.H., FERNANDEZ R. & GRIFFITHS R. (2011) Diversity and demographic heterogeneity of Australian nursing students: a closer look. International Nursing Review59, 59–65

Background:  In the last decade, there has been a rapid growth of international students undertaking nursing studies in Australian universities. At the same time, nursing courses continue to attract local students from a diversity of backgrounds.

Aim:  The aim of this study is to examine first year nursing students by enrolment classification and country of birth: i) international; ii) local, overseas‐born; and iii) local, Australian‐born student, and demographic differences of academic performance at the 12‐month follow‐up.

Methods:  A prospective, correlational design was used to identify nursing student characteristics as predictors of academic performance in a large university in the western region of Sydney.

Results:  Of the 806 students enrolled in the course, 540 (67%) completed the survey and consented to data linkage. Fifty‐six per cent of the 540 participants were born overseas, of which 38% were local and 18% were international students. Local, overseas‐born students originated from 55 different countries, in contrast to international students who were representative of only 16 different countries. International students were younger, spent less time in paid work and were more likely to have a close friend in the same course. Although age was positively related to academic performance, local, overseas‐born and international enrolment classifications, and hours in paid work during semester were negatively associated to academic performance.

Conclusion:  This study has taken a closer look at an important issue that requires further examination, given that international and local, overseas‐born students were two distinctive groups. Although both groups underperformed academically compared with Australian‐born students, the differences in characteristics between local, overseas‐born students and international students suggest that these two student groups are likely to experience different challenges during their nursing studies in Australia.
Filipina mothers' perceptions about childbirth at home
Authors: Hadwiger M.C. , Hadwiger S.C.
Published: November 2011

Hadwiger M.C. & Hadwiger S.C. (2011) Filipina mothers' perceptions about childbirth at home. International Nursing Review59, 125–131

Background:  The maternal mortality rate (MMR) in the Philippines has not dropped significantly since the Millennium Development Goals were established by the World Health Organization in 2000 to decrease MMR by 75% by 2015. Authorities have attributed high MMRs in developing countries to the absence of professional birth attendants during childbirth.

Aim and study design:  The aim of this qualitative study was to describe perceptions of using a traditional birth attendant among Filipina women from less urban Iloilo neighbourhoods in the Philippines who used a traditional birth attendant for their deliveries. Qualitative interviews and confirmatory visits were done with 26 Filipina mothers from three municipalities peripheral to Iloilo City.

Results:  Conventional content analysis revealed themes (patterns) of (1) mothers' folk beliefs (for the welfare of my baby, during labor, trust in God), (2) mothers' care for . . . (healthy pregnancy, recovery after childbirth), and (3) preference for childbirth at home with paltera– a traditional birth attendant – (no money, personal comfort, unfriendly hospitals).

Discussion:  Transferability of these findings encompassed relatively rural areas near Iloilo City. Findings revealed the significance of economics on Filipina mothers' preference for a traditional birth attendant during childbirth. Mothers voiced professionals' behaviour and attitudes as another deterrence. Cultural practices of mothers were categorized into harmless, beneficial and harmful. A second phase of this research programme will address perceptions of professional birth attendants from the same municipalities.
Universal screening for domestic violence in a department of obstetrics and gynaecology: a patient and carer perspective
Authors: Ben Natan M. , Ben Ari G. , Bader T. , Hallak M.
Published: November 2011

BEN NATAN M., BEN ARI G., BADER T. & HALLAK M. (2011) Universal screening for domestic violence in a department of obstetrics and gynaecology: a patient and carer perspective. International Nursing Review59, 108–114

Aim:  This study aimed to examine the effect of knowledge, department routine, and attitudes of physicians and nurses on the identification of female victims of domestic violence in Israel, as well as the patients' attitudes regarding the screening process.

Background:  Every seventh woman in Israel is reported to have been victimized by her intimate partner at least once in her lifetime. Routine screening for intimate partner violence is endorsed by the Ministry of Health in Israel; however screening rates in healthcare settings remain low.

Methods:  Correlative, cross‐sectional design was utilized based on a sample of 100 physicians and nurses from an obstetrics and gynaecology department in a central Israel hospital and a stratified simple random sampling to recruit 100 former female patients.

Findings:  Both medical and nursing staffs were reluctant to screen women for domestic violence, although the patients interviewed for the study claimed that screening is crucial for preventing domestic violence. Past experience with assessing violence and intention to screen were the most significant predictors of screening behaviour. Several factors impede screening by medical and nursing staff, although it is legally mandated.

Discussion:  Nurses' and physicians' screening of women about domestic violence is a fundamental intervention with implications for health care in general and basic human rights in particular; however attitudes and beliefs must also be considered.

Conclusions:  Screening women about domestic violence is an intervention not usually implemented by physicians and nurses. Understanding barriers to screening may help form feasible policies for improving the quality of services offered to women.
Procedures for an instrument development study: the Botswana experience
Authors: Magowe M.K.M.
Published: November 2011

MAGOWE M.K.M. (2012) Procedures for an instrument development study: the Botswana experience. International Nursing Review59, 281–288

Background:  Health protective sexual communication (HPSC) between sexual partners can contribute to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention, but women face difficulties with HPSC because of cultural and gender issues.

Purpose:  To present the procedures for an instrument development study conducted in Botswana between 2006 and 2008 on different aspects of HPSC. The study was guided by the theory of planned behaviour constructs.

Methods:  A literature review and a qualitative pilot study among young women aged 18–35 years in Gaborone city clinics generated items for the measures. Eleven measures were developed and evaluated for content validity. The measures were translated and evaluated by three typical participants for cultural relevance and acceptance. A quantitative pilot among ten women and a larger quantitative study among 280 other young women followed in 13 Gaborone city clinics for internal consistency reliability, and construct validity based on principal components analysis. All women who met selection criteria consented and responded to all questions. Research protocols were strictly adhered to.

Results:  Eight measures were reliable, with Cronbach's alphas between 0.69 and 0.95. Underlying factors were extracted for these. Two measures were unreliable, one with spuriously low reliability due to its brevity. Some significant relationships were identified between measures.

Discussion of findings:  The results highlighted the importance of HPSC, the significant influence of the male sexual partners and other relatives, and the need to integrate HPSC at all levels of HIV/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome prevention and research, focusing on the effectiveness of HPSC.
From Militant Particularism to Anti‐neoliberalism? The Anti‐Enron Movement in India
Authors: Ahmed Waquar
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  The memorandum of understanding between Enron and the Maharashtra State Electricity Board, signed on 20 June 1992, set in motion the Dabhol Power Project, the largest corporate‐led venture in Indian history. But even while the project was gaining official clearance, it attracted considerable local opposition on environmental and livelihood related grounds. Additionally, the fact that Enron was awarded the contract by the Congress Party led state government of Maharashtra, in the absence of procedural transparency and open bidding, entangled the project in deep controversy. This paper, based on fieldwork, examines opposition to the Dabhol Power Project. I particularly focus on the relevance of militant particularism, and the importance of counter‐hegemony of the working class and/or the subaltern counter‐public in the context of multi‐scaled manifestations of neoliberal power.
Bilingualism and Academic Achievement
Authors: Han Wen‐Jui
Published: November 2011

Using the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, Kindergarten Cohort, this study examines the role that bilingualism plays in children’s academic developmental trajectories during their early school years, with particular attention on the school environment (N = 16,380). Growth‐curve results showed that despite starting with lower math scores in kindergarten, Mixed Bilingual children fully closed the math gap with their White English Monolingual peers by fifth grade. However, because non‐English‐Dominant Bilinguals and non‐English Monolinguals started kindergarten with significantly lower reading and math scores compared to their English Monolingual peers, by fifth grade the former groups still had significantly lower scores. School‐level factors explained about one third of the reductions in the differences in children’s academic performance.
On the New Social Relations around and beyond Food. Analysing Consumers' Role and Action in Gruppi di Acquisto Solidale (Solidarity Purchasing Groups)
Authors: Brunori Gianluca , Rossi Adanella , Guidi Francesca
Published: November 2011

This article aims at analysing the features and the dynamics of those alternative agri‐food networks in which consumers act as initiators. Drawing on a survey of ongoing initiatives at national level and on evidence from empirical fieldwork in a specific territorial context showing a variegated and dynamic reality at this regard (Tuscany), the article analyses consumers' evolving attitudes and behaviour, around and even beyond food, unfolding during their involvement in these initiatives. In particular, it focuses on the experience of the solidarity‐based purchasing groups, consumers' organisations promoted by groups of citizens aiming at getting control of the food they consume. Using an actor–network perspective, the article analyses how purchasing and consumption routines change when consumers join these initiatives. The article also discusss the potential of these initiatives as drivers of change along with the following questions: to what extent do these initiatives challenge dominant food practices and system governance? On what basis are these initiatives sustainable and are replicable in different contexts? How can they foster other forms of civic engagement? In this regard, the article tests a transition management approach, considering solidarity‐based purchasing groups as socio‐technical niches within broader socio‐technical regimes in a macro landscape characterised by the globalisation of the food system. In particular, it analyses the critical points where niches enter in conflict with existing socio‐technical regimes, and the way in which these groups act to remove legal, technological and cultural barriers to their development.
Discussion on assessing quality of administrative data
Authors: Holmberg Anders
Published: November 2011

The paper discusses the role, challenges and methods available to National statistical organisations to document and assess the quality of their administrative data.
Regression Analysis under Probabilistic Multi‐Linkage
Authors: Kim Gunky , Chambers Raymond
Published: November 2011

Linkage errors can occur when probability‐based methods are used to link records from two distinct data sets corresponding to the same target population. Current approaches to modifying standard methods of regression analysis to allow for these errors only deal with the case of two linked data sets and assume that the linkage process is complete, that is, all records on the two data sets are linked. This study extends these ideas to accommodate the situation when more than two data sets are probabilistically linked and the linkage is incomplete.
THE CONTEMPORARY U.S. TORTURE DEBATE IN CHRISTIAN HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Gushee David P.
Published: November 2011

The U.S. turn toward torture tested the moral resources of all faiths, but perhaps especially of Christianity, which has the greatest number of adherents in the United States. This moral crucible revealed that American Christian scholars and leaders were generally blind to the resources available in relation to the resources available to address torture in a study of scripture, early Christian experience under empire, Christian abuses of suspected heretics, and the just war theory, all of which are considered here. Uses of just war theory have revealed a fracture in that theory between deontological/virtue orientations and consequentialist reasoning, the latter proving susceptible to exploitation in defense of torture. Just war theory also revealed a lacuna of explicit reasoning about torture through the centuries, in a world where torture has so often been an instrument of state power.
THE LASH IS MIGHTIER THAN THE SWORD1: Torture and Citizenry in Medieval Muslim Jurisprudence
Authors: Ahmed Rumee
Published: November 2011

Medieval Muslim scholars unequivocally prohibited the torture of prisoners of war out of a concern for maintaining theoretical constructs about the boundaries of the Muslim and non‐Muslim communities. Muslim scholars worried that the torturing prisoners of war would compromise values and ideals predicated on such constructs, and that the demands of citizenship trumped any benefit to the Muslim community that might accrue from torture.
ANTIVOLUNTARISM AND THE BIRTH OF AUTONOMY
Authors: Erdelack Wesley
Published: November 2011

Traditionalist and radical orthodox critiques of the Enlightenment assert that the modern discourse on moral self‐government constitutes a radical break with the theocentric model of morality which preceded it. Against this view, this paper argues that the conceptions of autonomy emerged from the effort to reconcile commitments within the Christian tradition. Through an analysis of the moral thought of the Cambridge Platonist Ralph Cudworth, this paper contends that distinctively Christian theological concerns concerning moral accountability to God and the character of divine‐human moral relationships produced a theory of moral autonomy which anticipates that of Kant. This paper highlights the role of anti‐voluntarism in the creation of this moral standpoint, and argues that the resultant moral view is an “internalization” of the voluntarist model of sovereignty.
FORGETTING AND THE TASK OF SEEING: Ordinary Oblivion, Plato, and Ethics
Authors: Rapp Jennifer R.
Published: November 2011

The gaps, fissures, and lapses of attention in a life—what I call “ordinary oblivions”—are fertile fragilities that present a compelling source for ethics. Plato, not Aristotle, is the ancient philosopher specially poised to speak to this feature of human life. Drawing upon poet C. K. Williams's idea that forgetting is a “looking away” that makes possible “beginning again,” I present a Platonic approach to ethics as an alternative to Aristotelian or virtue ethics. Plato's Phaedrus is a key source text for this alternate picture; from it I suggest how we might construe Iris Murdoch's “task of seeing” in terms of the engagement with written form. Poetry is a central locale for such engagement, and thus suggests a kind of ethical praxis that arises from the theoretical emphases of my examination of forgetting, the unmoored self, remade other‐regard, and sacred sources.
Compliance with Buprenorphine Medication‐Assisted Treatment and Relapse to Opioid Use
Authors: Tkacz Joseph , Severt Jamie , Cacciola John , Ruetsch Charles
Published: November 2011

Opioid dependence (OD), often characterized as a chronic relapsing disorder, affects millions of people worldwide. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of compliance with buprenorphine on reducing relapse among a sample of patients in treatment for OD. Patients new to buprenorphine (N = 703) completed the Addiction Severity Index (ASI) at baseline, and at 1, 2, and 3 months postbaseline. The ASI is a semistructured interview designed to measure problem severity in seven functional areas known to be affected by alcohol and drug dependence. Compliance was defined as taking buprenorphine medication on at least 22 of the past 28 days (80%), while relapse classification was based on resumed use of opioids during the follow‐up period (months 2 and 3). Relapse was regressed onto demographic indicators, baseline ASI composite scores, and compliance with buprenorphine. Noncompliant patients were over 10 times more likely to relapse than those who were compliant (exp β= 10.55; p < .001). Neither demographics nor baseline ASI composite scores were predictive of relapse (p's > .05). Compliance with medication‐assisted treatment supports abstinence, essential for patient recovery. Understanding the factors that drive treatment compliance and noncompliance may assist providers in supporting patient compliance and recovery. (Am J Addict 2011;21:55–62)
Implications of the Frequent Hemodialysis Network‐Daily Trial
Authors: Raphael Kalani L. , Cheung Alfred K.
Published: November 2011

Despite many years of experience with hemodialysis, the outcomes of maintenance dialysis patients remain poor. The Frequent Hemodialysis Network‐Daily (FHN‐Daily) Trial found that six times per week in‐center short hemodialysis decreased left ventricular mass and improved self‐reported physical functioning over a 1‐year intervention period compared with conventional thrice‐weekly dialysis. Despite the promising results, caution is needed in the projection of these intermediate outcomes to hard clinical endpoints, such as cardiovascular events and death.
Intensified Daily Dialysis: The Best Chronic Dialysis Option for Children?
Authors: Fischbach Michel , Fothergill Helen , Zaloszyc Ariane , Menouer Soraya , Terzic Joelle
Published: November 2011

Children receiving chronic hemodialysis (HD) three times a week have many obstacles to overcome. Not only do they have to endure dietary restrictions, but they also need to take various medications on a daily basis, which contribute to anorexia. Children on such conventional dialysis programs often have poorly controlled blood pressure (which can lead to left ventricular hypertrophy and/or left ventricular dysfunction) and impaired statural growth. Therefore, the need for more frequent and/or intensive dialysis is recognized. Nevertheless despite limited center experience, daily dialysis is currently most often limited as a rescue treatment. When performed, daily intensified HD provides a modality for preserving cardiovascular health and promoting normal growth in children. Therefore, the time spent on chronic dialysis preserves their chances of the best possible outcome.
Presidential Address: Mathematics in economics and econometrics
Authors: Zinde‐Walsh Victoria
Published: November 2011

Abstract The paper discusses the choices of mathematical approaches in economics and econometrics, in particular, approaches that either (a) aim for a sharp result or (b) use the least restrictive assumptions. It is argued that, while the choice (a) often necessitates strong mathematical assumptions, choice (b) may lead to only partial identification and may require using less familiar mathematical techniques. This is discussed in the context of the problem of defining a probability density: existence may fail in function spaces; even after imposing assumptions that ensure existence, the problem is not well posed. A density function may not exist for economic variables as a consequence of institutional rigidity such as an income supplement. The apparatus of generalized functions provides the general solution to identification and well‐posedness of density, but at the cost of less sharp results and greater mathematical complexity.
Assessing the impact of a wage subsidy for single parents on social assistance
Authors: Lacroix Guy , Brouillette Dany
Published: November 2011

Abstract This paper studies the impact of a wage subsidy program aimed at long‐term social assistance recipients in Quebec. The program closely mimics the Self‐Sufficiency Project and was implemented for a trial period of one year in 2002.We focus on the labour market transitions of the targeted population starting one year before the implementation of the program and until the end of 2005. Our results show that the duration of spells off social assistance increased, while the duration of social assistance spells decreased slightly. The response to the program varies considerably with both observed and unobserved characteristics.
Inflation, nominal portfolios, and wealth redistribution in Canada
Authors: Meh Césaire A. , Terajima Yaz
Published: November 2011

Abstract This paper quantifies the redistributional effects of inflation in Canada that arise through the revaluation of nominal assets and liabilities. We find that the effects are non‐trivial even for low inflation episodes. The main winners are young, middle‐class households with mortgage debt. The government receives a windfall gain from its long‐term debt. The old, the rich or the middle‐aged, middle‐class lose, largely owing to their holdings of bonds and non‐indexed defined benefit pension assets. Finally, our Canada‐U.S. comparison reveals that the extent of redistributions can be quite different even between countries of similar economic and legal environments.
Use of Contrast Echocardiography to Detect Displacement of the Needle during Pericardiocentesis
Authors: Salazar Miguel , Mohar Dilbahar , Bhardwaj Rahul , Schuetz Joseph , Chandraratna Premindra A.N.
Published: November 2011

Bedside pericardiocentesis is a safe and routinely practiced procedure. We report a case in which echocardiography‐guided pericardiocentesis was performed urgently for cardiac tamponade. In this case, there was displacement of the periocardiocentesis needle that was only detected by change in the color of aspirated fluid and confirmed by the use of contrast echocardiography. We proscribe the use of routine echocardiographic monitoring during pericardiocentesis to avoid this type of complication. (Echocardiography 2012;29:E60‐E61)
Indexed Left Atrial Volume Is Superior to Left Atrial Diameter in Predicting Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence after Successful Cardioversion: A Prospective Study
Authors: Marchese Procolo , Malavasi Vincenzo , Rossi Luca , Nikolskaya Natalia , Donne Grazia Delle , Becirovic Mirza , Colantoni Alessandra , Luciani Antonio , Modena Maria Grazia
Published: November 2011

Background: Although indexed left atrial volume (iLAV) is the most accurate measure of left atrial size, it has not been evaluated prospectively as predictor of recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AFib) after successful cardioversion (CV). Methods: We prospectively selected 76 patients (mean age 66.1 ± 13.6 years, 65.8% men) with AFib who underwent successful CV. Baseline clinical and echocardiographic characteristics were obtained before CV. LAV was measured using Simpson's method and indexed to body surface area. All patients were scheduled for follow‐up visit at 1, 6, 12 months, and then annually. A 24‐hour Holter ECG was performed within 6 months and each time the patients reported symptoms suggestive of arrhythmia. Results: The 52 patients (68.4%) with AFib recurrence had larger iLAV (35.5 ± 8.9 mL/m2 vs 27.0 ± 6.7 mL/m2, P < 0.001). Anteroposterior LA diameter was not associated with AFib relapse (OR 1.08, 95% CI: 0.96–1.21, P = 0.09). Each unit increase in iLAV was associated with a 1.15‐fold increased risk of recurrence (OR 1.15, 95% CI: 1.06–1.25, P < 0.001). In a multivariable model, iLAV remained the only independent predictor of relapse (adjusted OR 1.14, 95% CI: 1.02–1.28, P = 0.02). The area under ROC curves, generated to compare LA diameter, and iLAV as predictors of AFib recurrence were 0.56 (SE 0.07) versus 0.78 (SE 0.05), respectively (P = 0.003). Conclusion: This is the first prospective study to show that larger iLAV, as a more accurate measure of LA remodeling than anteroposterior diameter, is strongly and independently associated with a higher risk of AFib recurrence after CV. (Echocardiography 2012;29:276‐284)
Echocardiographically Detected Fibrinous Sheaths Associated with Central Venous Catheters
Authors: Sinno Mohamad C.N. , Alam Mohsin
Published: November 2011

Several million catheters are annually placed in the United States and worldwide for a multitude of clinical conditions. Potential delayed complications relating to central venous catheters include infections, thrombosis and fibrin sheath formation. Fibrin sheaths form frequently around central catheters but seldom cause clinical symptoms by themselves that warrant further investigation. It is likely that with the advent of echocardiographic imaging techniques, these “sleeves” get detected more often, which may result in early and correct diagnosis of this potential hazardous condition. Retained fibrin sleeves can cause malfunction of indwelling catheters, can persist after removal of the catheter, and be a nidus for thrombus formation or vegetation with a potential for distal embolization. Future research directed at creating new coatings with cytotoxic or cytostatic agents is warranted to reduce the incidence of fibrin sheath formation and hence prevent potential complications. We report three cases of persistent fibrin sheaths forming at the site of previously inserted tunneled catheters two of which were complicated by thrombus formation and vegetations. (Echocardiography 2012;29:E56‐E59)
Immunohistochemical expression of Rho GTPases in ameloblastomas
Authors: Modolo Filipe , Biz Michelle Tillmann , de Sousa Suzana Machado , Fachinelli Rodolfo de Lima , Crema Virgínia Oliveira
Published: November 2011

J Oral Pathol Med (2012) 41: 400–407

Rho GTPases are proteins that regulate cell cycle, shape, polarization, invasion, migration, and apoptosis, which are important characteristics of normal and neoplastic cells. Rho GTPases expression has been reported in normal tooth germ and several pathologies; however, it has not been evaluated in ameloblastomas. The aim of this study was to analyze the expression and distribution of RhoA, RhoB, Rac1, and Cdc42 Rho GTPases in solid and unicystic ameloblastomas. Three‐micrometer sections from paraffin‐embedded specimens were evaluated by using an avidin–biotin immunohistochemical method with antibodies against the proteins mentioned above. RhoA and RhoB staining was observed in a high number of cells (P < 0.05) and greater intensity in non‐polarized ones. Rac1 was not observed, and Cdc42 did not show any statistical differences between the number of non‐polarized and basal positive cells (P > 0.05). Upon comparing the studied ameloblastomas, a higher number of positive cells in the unicystic variant was observed than that in the solid one (P < 0,05). The results obtained suggest that these GTPases could play a role in the ameloblastoma neoplastic epithelial cell phenotype determination (polarized or non‐polarized), as well as in variant (solid or unicystic) and subtype (follicular or plexiform) determination. Furthermore, they could participate in solid ameloblastoma invasion mechanisms.
Kyphectomy for congenital kyphosis due to meningomyelocele: a case treated with a modified approach to skin healing
Authors: Kose Kamil Cagri , Inanmaz Mustafa Erkan , Uslu Mustafa , Bal Emre , Caliskan Islam
Published: November 2011

This study is a case report of a meningomyelocele patient with congenital kyphosis who was treated with kyphectomy and a special approach to soft tissue healing. The objective of this study is to show a step by step approach to surgical treatment and postoperative care of a meningomyelocele patient with congenital kyphosis. In meningomyelocele the incidence of kyphosis is around 12–20%. It may cause recurrent skin ulcerations, impaired sitting balance and respiratory compromise. Kyphectomy has first been described by Sharrard. This surgery is prone to complications including pseudoarthrosis, skin healing problems, recurrence of deformity and deep infections. A 15‐year‐old male presented with congenital kyphosis due to meningomyelocele. He had back pain, deformity and bedsores at the apex of the deformity. The wound cultures showed Staphylococcus epidermidis colonisation at the apex. He was given appropriate antibiotic prophylaxis. During surgery, the apex of the deformity was exposed through a spindle‐shaped incision. After instrumentation and excision of the apex, correction was carried out by cantilever technique. Two screws were inserted to the bodies of L3 and T11. After the operation, the skin was closed in a reverse cross fashion. He was sent to hyperbaric oxygen treatment for prevention of a subsequent skin infection and for rapid healing of skin flaps post operation. The patient's deformity was corrected from a preoperative Cobb angle of 135°–15° postoperative. The skin healed without any problems. Preoperative culture and appropriate antibiotic prophylaxis, spindle‐shaped incision, reverse cross‐skin closure and postoperative hyperbaric oxygen treatment can be useful adjuncts to treatment in congenital kyphosis patients with myelomeningocele to prevent postoperative wound healing and infection problems. Reduction screws and intracorporeal compression screws help to reduce the amount of screws and aid in corection of the deformity.
Removal of ectopic mandibular third molar teeth: literature review and a report of three cases
Authors: Ahmed N.M. , Speculand B.
Published: November 2011

This article reviews 23 published cases of ectopic mandibular third molar teeth. We report three further cases and discuss the surgical approaches which can be used for their removal.