bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Compatibility of EU Biofuel Policies with Global Sustainability and the WTO
Authors: Burrell Alison , Hubertus Gay Stephan , Kavallari Aikaterini
Published: February 2012

The EU’s Renewable Energy Directive (2009/28) requires that by 2020, biofuels should account for at least 10 per cent of transport fuel consumption. EU legislation sets out sustainability criteria for biofuels to qualify for this target and procedures for verifying that they are met. Using the AGLINK‐COSIMO model, we investigate the impacts of the biofuel target on global trade flows and land use, both under the current biofuel tariff regime and assuming zero EU tariffs for biofuels. The EU’s 2020 transport fuel target increases the global area of agricultural crops by 0.9 per cent. With zero tariffs, the extra global land requirement is 21 per cent smaller, but a larger share of it falls outside the EU. This outcome sharpens the issue of how the EU’s unilateral sustainability criteria can be implemented given current international trade rules.
Does Aid Cause Trade? Evidence from an Asymmetric Gravity Model
Authors: Silva Simone Juhasz , Nelson Douglas
Published: February 2012

Anderson and vanWincoop developed what has become the standard framework for framing and interpreting empirical work using the gravity model. Their framework relies heavily on an assumption of symmetry among countries. For issues related to North‐South trade, this assumption is problematic. In this paper, we develop an asymmetric extension of the Anderson–vanWincoop framework appropriate to the analysis of North‐South trade, where Northern countries produce differentiated goods and Southern countries homogenous ones. In addition, we use an appropriately extended version of Baier and Bergtrand and Taylor linear expansion – thus permitting its estimation using (good old) OLS. The result is an empirical model that (i) is better suited to the analysis of North‐South trade, (ii) is easy to estimate and compute comparative statics, not requiring a customised NLS routine and, given the way the South is included, (iii) provides a simple explanation of zero trade flows between some country pairs, a fact still not fully explained in the literature. As an illustration of its use, we examine the empirical link between foreign aid and trade.
Fiscal Stimulus, Agricultural Growth and Poverty in Asia
Authors: Gaiha Raghav , Imai Katsushi S. , Thapa Ganesh , Kang Woojin
Published: February 2012

Recent debates on a sustainable recovery of the global economy have tended to overemphasise the ‘savings glut’ hypothesis and the unavoidable imperative of higher consumption in China and other emerging Asian countries. That oversaving and not underinvestment is coming in the way of a quicker and more durable recovery is not just simplistic but misleading from a medium‐term growth perspective for emerging Asian countries and other developing countries in this region. Drawing upon country panel data for developing countries and a subsample of Asian countries during the period 1991–2007, this study makes a case for a bold and coordinated fiscal stimulus, directed to stimulating agricultural and overall growth, and mitigation of poverty and hunger. Our simulations further suggest that poverty reduction is likely to be larger if the fiscal stimulus is directed to social spending in health and education sectors. Indeed, if our simulations of fiscal impacts have any validity, the dire predictions of millions getting trapped in poverty and hunger may turn out to be exaggerated. The prospects of a strong recovery led by fiscal stimulus are thus real and achievable.
THE NATURE OF RIGHTS DEBATE RESTS ON A MISTAKE
Authors: VAN DUFFEL SIEGFRIED
Published: March 2012

The recent debate over the nature of rights has been dominated by two rival theories of rights. Proponents of the Will Theory of rights hold that individual freedom, autonomy, control, or sovereignty are somehow to be fundamental to the concept of a right, while proponents of the Interest Theory argue that rights rather protect people's welfare. Participants in this debate commonly assume the existence of a single ‘concept’ of which both theories provide competing descriptions. The aim of this article is to show that both accounts are better understood as providing characterizations of different ‘kinds’ of rights.
Development of fetal trabecular micro‐architecture in the humerus and femur
Authors: Reissis Dimitris , Abel Richard L.
Published: February 2012

It is widely accepted that during postnatal development trabecular bone adapts to the prevailing loading environment via modelling. However, very little is known about the mechanisms (whether it is predominantly modelling or remodelling) or controls (such as whether loading influences development) of fetal bone growth. In order to make inferences about these factors, we assessed the pattern of fetal trabecular development in the humerus and femur via histomorphometric parameter quantification. Growth and development (between 4 and 9 months prenatal) of trabecular architecture (i.e. thickness, number and bone volume fraction) was compared across upper and lower limb bones, proximal and distal regions, and sexes. The data presented here indicate that during prenatal development trabeculae became thicker and less numerous, whilst bone volume fraction remained constant. This partly mimics the pattern of early postnatal development (0–2 years) described by other researchers. Thickness was reported to increase whilst number reduced, but bone volume fraction decreased. This is perhaps because the balance of bone modelling (deposition vs. resorption) changes post partum. Published histological data suggest that bone deposition slows after birth, while resorption rates remain constant. Hence, fetal development may be characterized by relatively high rates of modelling and, particularly, bone deposition in comparison to postnatal. With respect to measures of thickness, number and bone volume fraction prenatal development was not bone, site, or sex specific, whilst postnatally these measures of architecture diverge. This is despite reported developmental variation in the frequency, speed and amplitude of fetal movements (which begin after 11 weeks and continue until birth), and probably therefore loading induced by muscular contractions. This may be because prenatal limb bone micro‐architecture follows a generalised predetermined growth trajectory (or genetic blueprint), as appears to be the case for gross distribution of trabecular tissue.
Dyslexia in higher education: creating a fully inclusive institution
Authors: Mortimore Tilly
Published: February 2012

Disability legislation demands inclusive institutional policy and practice to meet the needs of the growing numbers of students disclosing specific learning difficulties (SpLD)/dyslexia. However, surveys of provision indicate mixed levels of student satisfaction. Institutions need to be able to monitor the extent to which their practice embodies their inclusive mission statements. Fuller, Healey, Bradley and Hall developed a stage model of progress towards the fully inclusive institution which suggests that departments or individuals can remain at different stages, delaying transformation of the whole system. This case study, conducted within a small university, used documentation, interviews, questionnaires and focus groups to explore attitudes and practices at each level of the institution to establish the extent to which Fuller's model might enable identification and elimination of ‘disablist institutional practice’ and the development of the fully inclusive ethos.

Policy, management, lecturers and students were surveyed to explore attitudes and practices relevant to SpLD/dyslexia. Findings indicated that Fuller's model provided a clear and practical way of charting the institution's journey towards full inclusivity. Participants demonstrated the existence of examples of inclusive culture at all levels in University X, alongside a need for strengthened and clarified systems cementing links between management policy and the work of facilitators and lecturers. Inconsistencies in the systems connecting the levels potentially allow disablist practices to survive. Hence, identifying these gaps can facilitate their closure and promote the establishment of the fully inclusive institution.
What can homograph interpretation tell us about language status in Irish/English bilinguals?
Authors: Lyddy Fiona
Published: March 2012

This study examined how language context affects homograph interpretation by bilingual (Irish/English) adults and children. Participants categorized written words and nonwords as ‘Irish’, ‘English’, ‘Both’ (homographs) or ‘Neither’. This task was conducted through Irish or English. The homographs had a higher written frequency in Irish than in English. The results showed children were more likely to interpret the homographs as Irish, regardless of task language, while adults were equally likely to read the words as Irish or English, despite the higher frequency in Irish. Children's identification of Irish words was facilitated when the task was conducted through Irish. These findings reveal the fragile state of written Irish for L1 speakers and point to a need to support L1 Irish speakers in teaching and assessment contexts.

Diese Studie überprüfte den Effekt des Sprachzusammenhangs auf Homografdeutung, für zweisprachige (Irisch/Englisch) Erwachsene und Kinder. Die Teilnehmer mussten Wörter, echte oder fiktive, im Schriftbild als Irisch, Englisch, Beides, oder Keines von beiden bezeichnen. Die Befragung fand auf irisch oder auf englisch statt. Die Homografe waren im Schriftbild häufiger in irischen Texten. Die Ergebnisse zeigten, dass Kinder dazu tendierten, die Homografe eher als Irisch aufzufassen, egal in welcher Sprache sie befragt wurden. Zweisprachige Erwachsene dagegen fassten die Homografe gleichermaßen als Irisch oder Englisch auf, obwohl die Wörter häufiger im Irischen vorkamen. Für die Kinder wurde ferner die Identifizierung der irischen Wörter durch weitgehend übereinstimmende Aufgabenkontexte erleichtert. Die Ergebnisse deuten auf den schwachen Stand des geschriebenen Irisch bei L1‐Sprachträgern hin, und weisen auf die Notwendigkeit hin, diese L1‐Irisch‐sprechenden zu unterstützen, im Unterricht sowie bei der Bewertung.
MFG‐E8 activates proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells via integrin signaling
Authors: Wang Mingyi , Fu Zongming , Wu James , Zhang Jing , Jiang Liqun , Khazan Benjamin , Telljohann Richard , Zhao Mingming , Krug Alexander W. , Pikilidou Maria , Monticone Robert E. , Wersto Robert , Van Eyk Jennifer , Lakatta Edward G.
Published: March 2012

An accumulation of milk fat globule EGF‐8 protein (MFG‐E8) occurs within the context of arterial wall inflammatory remodeling during aging, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, or atherosclerosis. MFG‐E8 induces VSMC invasion, but whether it affects VSMC proliferation, a salient feature of arterial inflammation, is unknown. Here, we show that in the rat arterial wall in vivo, PCNA and Ki67, markers of cell cycle activation, increase with age between 8 and 30 months. In fresh and early passage VSMC isolated from old aortae, an increase in CDK4 and PCNA, an increase in the acceleration of cell cycle S and G2 phases, decrease in the G1/G0 phase, and an increase in PDGF and its receptors confer elevated proliferative capacity, compared to young VSMC. Increased coexpression and physical interaction of MFG‐E8 and integrin αvβ5 occur with aging in both the rat aortic wall in vivo and in VSMC in vitro. In young VSMC in vitro, MFG‐E8 added exogenously, or overexpressed endogenously, triggers phosphorylation of ERK1/2, augmented levels of PCNA and CDK4, increased BrdU incorporation, and promotes proliferation, via αvβ5 integrins. MFG‐E8 silencing, or its receptor inhibition, or the blockade of ERK1/2 phosphorylation in these cells reduces PCNA and CDK4 levels and decelerates the cell cycle S phase, conferring a reduction in proliferative capacity. Collectively, these results indicate that MFG‐E8 in a dose‐dependent manner coordinates the expression of cell cycle molecules and facilitates VSMC proliferation via integrin/ERK1/2 signaling. Thus, an increase in MFG‐E8 signaling is a mechanism of the age‐associated increase in aortic VSMC proliferation.
Validity of the Children's Moods, Fears and Worries Questionnaire in a clinical setting
Authors: Andrijic Vanessa , Bayer Jordana , Bretherton Lesley
Published: March 2012

Background

The Children's Moods, Fears and Worries Questionnaire (CMFWQ) is a recently developed parent‐report measure for detecting young children's internalising difficulties. This study evaluated construct and criterion‐related validity with a clinical sample.

Method

The measure was completed by 30 mothers of children aged between 18 months and 7 years referred to hospital clinical psychology services.

Results

The CMFWQ demonstrated sound convergent and discriminant validity and a clinical cut‐point was established, which optimally discriminated between children with internalising problems and those within the normal range.

Conclusion

The CMFWQ has potential value for identifying young children in need of intervention for internalising problems.
Gender Differences in Patients' Perceptions of Inpatient Care
Authors: Elliott Marc N. , Lehrman William G. , Beckett Megan K. , Goldstein Elizabeth , Hambarsoomian Katrin , Giordano Laura A.
Published: February 2012

Objective

To examine gender differences in inpatient experiences and how they vary by dimensions of care and other patient characteristics.

Data Source

A total of 1,971,632 patients (medical and surgical service lines) discharged from 3,830 hospitals, July 2007–June 2008, and completing the HCAHPS survey.

Study Design

We compare the experiences of male and female inpatients on 10 HCAHPS dimensions using multiple linear regression, adjusting for survey mode and patient mix. Additional models add additional patient characteristics and their interactions with patient gender.

Principal Findings

We find generally less positive experiences for women than men, especially for Communication about Medicines, Discharge Information, and Cleanliness. Gender differences are similar in magnitude to previously reported HCAHPS differences by race/ethnicity. The gender gap is generally larger for older patients and for patients with worse self‐reported health status. Gender disparities are largest in for‐profit hospitals.

Conclusions

Targeting the experiences of women may be a promising means of improving overall patient experience scores (because women comprise a majority of all inpatients); the experiences of older and sicker women, and those in for‐profit hospitals, may merit additional examination.
Corticosteroids and β2‐agonists upregulate mitogen‐activated protein kinase phosphatase 1: in vitro mechanisms
Authors: Manetsch M , Ramsay EE , King EM , Seidel P , Che W , Ge Q , Hibbs DE , Newton R , Ammit AJ
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Airway remodelling is a consequence of long‐term inflammation and MAPKs are key signalling molecules that drive pro‐inflammatory pathways. The endogenous MAPK deactivator – MAPK phosphatase 1 (MKP‐1) – is a critical negative regulator of the myriad pro‐inflammatory pathways activated by MAPKs in the airway.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Herein we investigated the molecular mechanisms responsible for the upregulation of MKP‐1 in airway smooth muscle (ASM) by the corticosteroid dexamethasone and the β2‐agonist formoterol, added alone and in combination.

KEY RESULTS

MKP‐1 is a corticosteroid‐inducible gene whose expression is enhanced by long‐acting β2‐agonists in an additive manner. Formoterol induced MKP‐1 expression via the β2‐adrenoceptor and we provide the first direct evidence (utilizing overexpression of PKIα, a highly selective PKA inhibitor) to show that PKA mediates β2‐agonist‐induced MKP‐1 upregulation. Dexamethasone activated MKP‐1 transcription in ASM cells via a cis‐acting corticosteroid‐responsive region located between −1380 and −1266 bp of the MKP‐1 promoter. While the 3′‐untranslated region of MKP‐1 contains adenylate + uridylate elements responsible for regulation at the post‐transcriptional level, actinomycin D chase experiments revealed that there was no increase in MKP‐1 mRNA stability in the presence of dexamethasone, formoterol, alone or in combination. Rather, there was an additive effect of the asthma therapeutics on MKP‐1 transcription.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Taken together, these studies allow us a greater understanding of the molecular basis of MKP‐1 regulation by corticosteroids and β2‐agonists and this new knowledge may lead to elucidation of optimized corticosteroid‐sparing therapies in the future.
Chemical genetics and its potential in cardiac stem cell therapy
Authors: Vieira Joaquim M , Riley Paul R
Published: March 2012

Over the last decade or so, intensive research in cardiac stem cell biology has led to significant discoveries towards a potential therapy for cardiovascular disease; the main cause of morbidity and mortality in humans. The major goal within the field of cardiovascular regenerative medicine is to replace lost or damaged cardiac muscle and coronaries following ischaemic disease. At present, de novo cardiomyocytes can be generated either in vitro, for cell transplantation or disease modelling using directed differentiation of embryonic stem cells or induced pluripotent stem cells, or in vivo via direct reprogramming of resident adult cardiac fibroblast or ectopic stimulation of resident cardiac stem or progenitor cells. A major bottleneck with all of these approaches is the low efficiency of cardiomyocyte differentiation alongside their relative functional immaturity. Chemical genetics, and the application of phenotypic screening with small molecule libraries, represent a means to enhance understanding of the molecular pathways controlling cardiovascular cell differentiation and, moreover, offer the potential for discovery of new drugs to invoke heart repair and regeneration. Here, we review the potential of chemical genetics in cardiac stem cell therapy, highlighting not only the major contributions to the field so far, but also the future challenges.

LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Regenerative Medicine and Pharmacology: A Look to the Future. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2013.169.issue‐2
Detection of Alcohol Use in the Second Trimester Among Low‐Income Pregnant Women in the Prenatal Care Settings in Jefferson County, Alabama
Authors: Li Qing , Hankin Janet , Wilsnack Sharon C. , Abel Ernest L. , Kirby Russell S. , Keith Louis G. , Obican Sarah G.
Published: February 2012

Background

Prenatal alcohol use, a leading preventable cause of birth defects and developmental disabilities, remains a prevalent public health concern in the United States. This study aims to detect the proportion and correlates of prenatal alcohol use in the prenatal care settings in Alabama. Prenatal care settings were chosen because of their potential as stable locations to screen for and to reduce prenatal alcohol use within a community.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study of 3,046 women in the 22 and 23 weeks of gestation who sought prenatal care in 8 community‐based public clinics and participated in the Perinatal Emphasis Research Center project in Jefferson County, Alabama, from 1997 to 2001. Frequency and quantity of alcohol use in the past 3 months were assessed by research nurses during face‐to‐face interviews. We conducted logistic regression analyses to calculate adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of correlates of prenatal alcohol use.

Results

Participants were predominantly young, African American, and unmarried, 86.5% on Medicaid. The proportion of alcohol use in the second trimester of pregnancy was 5.1%; 0.3% of women reported 4 or more drinks on a drinking day to research nurses. Older maternal age (OR = 1.11; 95% CI = 1.08 to 1.15), use of welfare (OR = 1.43; 95% CI = 1.02 to 2.02), and male partner–perpetrated violence (OR = 2.96; 95% CI = 1.92 to 4.56) were positively associated with elevated risk of prenatal alcohol use. Protective factors included higher levels of self‐esteem (OR = 0.94; 95% CI = 0.89 to 0.98) and more years of education (OR = 0.88; 95% CI = 0.78 to 0.98).

Conclusions

Prenatal alcohol use remains a public health issue among low‐income pregnant women in Jefferson County, Alabama. Research nurses detected it in the second trimester. Future studies need to encourage screening for prenatal alcohol use in the prenatal care settings by obstetrician‐gynecologists, family physicians, nurses, and midwives. Combined interventions to educate and empower women and strengthen families are needed.
Binge Alcohol–Induced Microvesicular Liver Steatosis and Injury are Associated with Down‐Regulation of Hepatic Hdac1, 7, 9, 10, 11 and Up‐Regulation of Hdac3
Authors: Kirpich Irina , Ghare Smita , Zhang Jingwen , Gobejishvili Leila , Kharebava Giorgi , Barve Swati Joshi , Barker David , Moghe Akshata , McClain Craig J. , Barve Shirish
Published: February 2012

Background

Binge, as well as chronic, alcohol consumption affects global histone acetylation leading to changes in gene expression. It is becoming increasingly evident that these histone‐associated epigenetic modifications play an important role in the development of alcohol‐mediated hepatic injury.

Methods

C57BL/6 mice were gavaged 3 times (12‐hour intervals) with ethanol (EtOH; 4.5 g/kg). Hepatic histone deacetylase (Hdac) mRNAs were assessed by qRT‐PCR. Total HDAC activity was estimated by a colorimetric HDAC activity/inhibition assay. Histone acetylation levels were evaluated by Western blot. Liver steatosis and injury were evaluated by histopathology, plasma aminotransferase (ALT) activity, and liver triglyceride accumulation. Expression of fatty acid synthase (Fas) and carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1a (Cpt1a) was also examined. HDAC 9 association with Fas promoter was analyzed.

Results

Binge alcohol exposure resulted in alterations of hepatic Hdac mRNA levels. Down‐regulation of HDAC Class I (Hdac 1), Class II (Hdac 7, 9, 10), and Class IV (Hdac 11) and up‐regulation of HDAC Class I (Hdac 3) gene expression were observed. Correspondent to the decrease in HDAC activity, an increase in hepatic histone acetylation was observed. These molecular events were associated with microvesicular hepatic steatosis and injury characterized by increased hepatic triglycerides (48.02 ± 3.83 vs. 19.90 ± 3.48 mg/g liver, p < 0.05) and elevated plasma ALT activity (51.98 ± 6.91 vs. 20.8 ± 0.62 U/l, p < 0.05). Hepatic steatosis was associated with an increase in FAS and a decrease in CPT1a mRNA and protein expression. Fas promoter analysis revealed that binge EtOH treatment decreased HDAC 9 occupancy at the Fas promoter resulting in its transcriptional activation.

Conclusions

Deregulation of hepatic Hdac expression likely plays a major role in the binge alcohol‐induced hepatic steatosis and liver injury by affecting lipogenesis and fatty acid β‐oxidation.
Physiological Regulation at 9 Months of Age in Infants Prenatally Exposed to Cigarettes
Authors: Schuetze Pamela , Eiden Rina D. , Colder Craig R. , Gray Teresa R. , Huestis Marilyn A.
Published: February 2012

The primary purpose of this study was to examine the association between prenatal cigarette exposure and physiological regulation at 9 months of age. Specifically, we explored the possibility that any association between prenatal cigarette exposure and infant physiological regulation was moderated by postnatal environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) exposure or infant gender. We evaluated whether male infants with prenatal cigarette exposure or infants who were also exposed to ETS after birth had the highest levels of physiological dysregulation. Respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) was obtained from 206 (142 exposed and 64 nonexposed) infants during a baseline period and during procedures designed to elicit both positive and negative affect. There was a significant suppression of RSA during the negative affect task for nonexposed infants, but not for exposed infants. Postnatal ETS exposure did not moderate this association; however, gender did moderate this association such that boys with prenatal cigarette exposure had a significant increase in RSA rather than the suppression seen among both nonexposed boys and girls. These results provide additional support for the idea that boys are particularly vulnerable to the effects of prenatal cigarette exposure.
Predictors of Atrio‐Ventricular Conduction Disease, Long‐Term Outcomes in Patients with Myotonic Dystrophy Types I and II
Authors: HA ANDREW H. , TARNOPOLSKY MARK A. , BERGSTRA T. GRAHAM , NAIR GIRISH M. , AL‐QUBBANY ATIF , HEALEY JEFF S.
Published: March 2012

Background:
 Patients with myotonic dystrophy (DM) have an annual mortality of approximately 3.5%, one‐third of which is sudden cardiac death. The predictors of cardiac conduction disease in these patients are incompletely defined.

Methods:
 A single‐center cohort study included 211 patients with DM type 1 (DM1) and 25 DM type 2 (DM2). A severe electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormality was defined as a PR interval of ≥240 ms or QRS duration of ≥120 ms.

Results:
 A severe ECG abnormality was found in 24% of DM1 patients and 17% of DM2 patients. Among DM1 patients, those with a severe ECG abnormality were older (41.6 ± 14.6 vs 35.4 ± 12.6 years) and more likely to have hypertension (13.2% vs 4.2%, P = 0.038), heart failure (4.4% vs 0%, P = 0.056), atrial arrhythmias (6.6% vs 0.7%, P < 0.001), a higher number of trinucleotide repeats (689 ± 451 vs 474 ± 322, P = 0.01), and a family history of sudden cardiac death (26.7% vs 5.6%, P < 0.001) or pacemaker implantation (20% vs 0.7%, P < 0.001). Pacemakers or defibrillators were implanted in 14% of all patients, including 65% of patients with severe ECG abnormalities. During 57 ± 46 months, 13 patients died (1.16% per year), including three patients who died suddenly, two of whom had normally functioning pacemakers.

Conclusion:
 In DM1, atrio‐ventricular conduction disease is associated with increasing age, concomitant cardiovascular disease, nucleotide repeat length, and family history. The systematic identification of conduction disease and aggressive use of prophylactic pacemakers is associated with low rate of sudden cardiac death. (PACE 2012; 35:1262–1269)
Diagnostic Pacing Maneuvers for Supraventricular Tachycardias: Part 2
Authors: VEENHUYZEN GEORGE D. , QUINN F. RUSSELL , WILTON STEPHEN B. , CLEGG ROBIN , MITCHELL L. BRENT
Published: March 2012

The approach to supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) diagnosis can be complex because it involves synthesizing baseline electrophysiologic features, features of the SVT, and the response(s) to pacing maneuvers. In this two‐part review, we will mainly explore the latter while recognizing that neither of the former can be ignored, for they provide the context in which diagnostic pacing maneuvers must be correctly chosen and interpreted. Part 1 involved a detailed consideration of ventricular overdrive pacing, since this pacing maneuver provides the diagnosis in the majority of cases. In Part 2, other diagnostic pacing maneuvers that might be helpful when ventricular overdrive pacing is not diagnostic or appropriate, including attempts to reset SVT with single atrial or ventricular beats, para‐Hisian pacing, apex versus base pacing, and atrial overdrive pacing, are discussed, as are some specific diagnostic SVT challenges encountered in the electrophysiology lab. There is considerable literature on this topic, and this review is by no means meant to be all‐encompassing. Rather, we hope to clearly explain and illustrate the physiology, strengths, and weaknesses of what we consider to be the most important and commonly employed diagnostic pacing maneuvers, that is, those that trainees in cardiac electrophysiology should be well familiar with at a minimum.(PACE 2012; 35:757–769)
Bayesian Influence Measures for Joint Models for Longitudinal and Survival Data
Authors: Zhu Hongtu , Ibrahim Joseph G. , Chi Yueh‐Yun , Tang Niansheng
Published: March 2012

SummaryThis article develops a variety of influence measures for carrying out perturbation (or sensitivity) analysis to joint models of longitudinal and survival data (JMLS) in Bayesian analysis. A perturbation model is introduced to characterize individual and global perturbations to the three components of a Bayesian model, including the data points, the prior distribution, and the sampling distribution. Local influence measures are proposed to quantify the degree of these perturbations to the JMLS. The proposed methods allow the detection of outliers or influential observations and the assessment of the sensitivity of inferences to various unverifiable assumptions on the Bayesian analysis of JMLS. Simulation studies and a real data set are used to highlight the broad spectrum of applications for our Bayesian influence methods.
Bolus Formation and Disintegration during Digestion of Food Carbohydrates
Authors: Bornhorst Gail M. , Singh R. Paul
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  The first step in the digestion process is mastication, or chewing, when food is broken down, lubricated with saliva, and formed into a cohesive mass known as the food bolus. Upon swallowing, the bolus moves to the stomach and undergoes further breakdown during gastric digestion. The subject of this review is the formation of the food bolus and its subsequent breakdown in the stomach. Bolus formation has been widely studied, especially in terms of food particle size and lubrication. However, information about bolus disintegration is limited, and this review focuses on the breakdown of bread and starch‐based foods. Bolus formation and disintegration are key steps in the overall digestion process, as they control the rate at which ingested food components and nutrients are absorbed and released into the body. Information on the rate kinetics of bolus disintegration is necessary in developing a quantitative understanding of the food digestion process.
Genetically Modified Crops Expressing 35S‐Thaumatin II Transgene: Sensory Properties and Food Safety Aspects
Authors: Szwacka Maria , Burza Wojciech , Zawirska‐Wojtasiak Renata , Gośliński Michał , Twardowska Aleksandra , Gajc‐Wolska Janina , Kosieradzka Iwona , Kiełkiewicz Małgorzata
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  Obesity and diabetes have led consumers to increasingly seek out products containing low‐calorie sweeteners. In this context, the intense sweeteners, especially plant proteins that interact with the taste receptors, are playing a growing role. Among the sweet‐tasting proteins thaumatin seems the most promising. Production of thaumatin by transgenic plants might be an interesting alternative to the extraction of this product from the natural source. Another possible application of the unusual properties of thaumatin is to produce transgenic plants containing a protein capable of inducing a sweet taste phenotype. The taste of 5 crop species, cucumber, pear, potato, strawberry, and tomato, was improved by expressing the thaumatin II gene under control of the 35S promoter. Only in the case of transgenic cucumber were sensory assessments carried out for several cultivation cycles. Also, processed fruits of transgenic cucumber, as well as fresh‐cut transgenic cucumber salads, were the subject of sensory analysis. Transgenic cucumber expression of the thaumatin II gene resulted not only in sweeter taste, in comparison with the control, but also in higher aroma acceptability. Therefore, the authors of this article have summarized sensory properties of transgenic crops expressing the thaumatin II gene, placing special emphasis on the sensory characteristics of transgenic cucumber. Consumers often perceive disparagingly food deriving from genetically modified (GM) plants, partly because of some concerns about unintended effects. To address such concerns, this article also summarizes the food safety evaluation of transgenic crops expressing the thaumatin II gene. Future research directions are suggested.
The Tale of Sushi: History and Regulations
Authors: Hsin‐I Feng Cindy
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  This article is an exploration of the history of sushi consumption in the United States and how the ingredients of sushi are regulated. The article delineates the course of sushi's culinary history in Japan, and will attempt to present an overview on the incremental process by which sushi as a cuisine evolved from a humble street food with scarce recognition to an immensely sophisticated popular cuisine in Japan and America. After describing and analyzing the historical background of sushi, the article will present the underpinnings of the confounding set of etiquettes that center the art of consuming sushi. This article will also examine sushi as an exemplary form of successful, multi‐directional product of globalization. It is intriguing to observe sushi as a circulating global commodity that internalizes and promotes regional dietary preferences and cultural practices. The second half of the article will discuss both the health benefits and health hazards associated with the sushi cuisine. While the seafood, seaweed, and seasoning involved with eating sushi have high nutritional value, sushi consumers need to be aware of the perilous nature of mercury poisoning and the biological contaminants that are embedded in improperly processed sushi fish. The FDA's current consumer advisory scheme on mercury poisoning is incomprehensible, conflicts with the guidelines that Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) delineates, and its inspection and surveillance guidelines are in practice difficult to enforce. The last section of the article will trace the development of the Seafood Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) plan and compare its prospective policy visions and practical guidelines with the Hong Kong Food and Environmental Hygiene Department's (FEHD) Sushi Surveillance Guidelines.
Biofilm Formation in Milk Production and Processing Environments; Influence on Milk Quality and Safety
Authors: Marchand Sophie , De Block Jan , De Jonghe Valerie , Coorevits An , Heyndrickx Marc , Herman Lieve
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  Bacteria in milk have the ability to adhere and aggregate on stainless steel surfaces, resulting in biofilm formation in milk storage tanks and milk process lines. Growth of biofilms in milk processing environments leads to increased opportunity for microbial contamination of the processed dairy products. These biofilms may contain spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms. Bacteria within biofilms are protected from sanitizers due to multispecies cooperation and the presence of extracellular polymeric substances, by which their survival and subsequent contamination of processed milk products is promoted. This paper reviews the most critical factors in biofilm formation, with special attention to pseudomonads, the predominant spoilage bacteria originating from raw milk. Biofilm interactions between pseudomonads and milk pathogens are also addressed, as emerging risks and future research perspectives, specifically related to the milk processing environment.
On the Varieties and Particularities of Cultural Experience
Authors: Hollan Douglas
Published: February 2012

I argue that certain varieties of psychoanalysis and cultural phenomenology are not antithetical, and that indeed, their respective foci and methodologies each have strengths that balance out the other's limitations. Put more strongly, the two perspectives need one another. Experience should not be reduced to solipsism, nor should specific individuals, each marked by their own “pinch of destiny” and experiential heaviness, be lost in the haze of ever receding future horizons. The unfolding of self‐awareness and experience is indeed an autopoietic, recursive process whose complexities surely escape any single perspective. [cultural phenomenology, psychoanalysis, pinch of destiny, varieties of cultural experience, subjectivity]
On Inaccessibility and Vulnerability: Some Horizons of Compatibility between Phenomenology and Psychoanalysis
Authors: Throop C. Jason
Published: February 2012

In this article I examine the relationship between psychodynamic and phenomenological accounts of subjective experience. In so doing, my goal is not to displace the integrity of either phenomenology or psychoanalysis as historically, theoretically, and practically unique traditions in the human sciences and philosophy. It is instead to propose that a distinctly anthropological application and extension of phenomenology articulated in the context of the ethnographic encounter may reveal new points of contact between them. [ethnographic epoché, experience, intersubjectivity, phenomenology, psychoanalysis]
Commentary: Interdisciplinary Dialogue: A Site of Estrangement
Authors: Corin Ellen
Published: February 2012

In this article I address two broad questions: how can we best imagine a dialogue between psychoanalysis and anthropology in relation to subjectivity? And which are key elements of a psychoanalytic approach that have the potential to challenge anthropology and open interesting avenues of collaboration? In relation to the first question, I contend that dialogue has to take place not at border zones but between the most specific and conceptually advanced topics in each discipline. Building on French psychoanalysis, I emphasize several points: a dynamic notion of the Unconscious conceived as a field of struggle among competing forces, implying that the Subject is divided and nontransparent; the notion of Kulturarbeit conceived by Freud as a work of transformation of basic human drives that operates together at the individual and at the collective levels, inviting a revision of the status of culture in psychoanalysis; and an interpretative stance that builds on free associations and floating attention and operates in decomposing the apparent coherence and rationality of discourse. I present anthropology and psychoanalysis as sharing an interest in the “site of the stranger” and in the destabilizing power of Otherness. Their dialogue reveals additional textures both in ethnography and in psychoanalytic concepts. [psychoanalysis, Otherness, Kulturarbeit, interpretation, interdisciplinarity]
Solid and Liquid Phase Sintering of Submicrometer Carbides with Different Cobalt Contents
Authors: Soares Eduardo , Malheiros Luis F. , Sacramento Joaquim , Valente Manuel A. , Oliveira Filipe J.
Published: March 2012

Hardmetal wear tools industry has observed a consistent increase in new applications and market interest for submicrometer carbides, despite the fabrication issues related with powder processing and sintering that subsist on these new materials. New technologies with lower temperature exposure and high heating rates or optimizing the current sintering process are imperative to improve their quality and consistency. As the new sintering technologies in study are costly for industrial use and still limited in terms of flexibility, we studied and developed in this work a combined sintering approach to maximize the densification of submicrometer grades (WC 0.6 μm and WC 0.4 μm) with 3.5 and 12 wt% Co while controlling the deleterious grain growth. Sintering at solid and liquid phase was performed with vacuum sintering and post‐sintering performed using Hot‐Isostatic‐Pressing. Thermal cycles were designed based on thermal analyses experiments performed to the powders allowing to design a densification process at lower temperatures to maximize microstructural homogeneity, densification, and reduce grain growth using current industrial technologies, reflected in high hardness and mechanical strength obtained.
Neuropsychological correlates of insight in obsessive–compulsive disorder
Authors: Kashyap H. , Kumar J. K. , Kandavel T. , Reddy Y. C. J.
Published: February 2012

Kashyap H, Kumar JK, Kandavel T, Reddy YCJ. Neuropsychological correlates of insight in obsessive–compulsive disorder.

Objective:  There are limited data on neuropsychological correlates of poor insight in obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD). We hypothesize that poor insight may be associated with greater impairment in tasks of conflict resolution/response inhibition and possibly impairment in a task of verbal learning and memory.

Method:  Insight and neuropsychological functions were assessed in 150 subjects with DSM‐IV OCD. The neuropsychological data of 177 healthy control subjects were used for comparison.

Results:  Insight score correlated significantly with the Stroop Interference Test for conflict resolution/response inhibition (P = 0.002), and showed trends for significance with the Controlled Oral Word Association (COWA) average for verbal fluency (P = 0.021) and delayed recall on the Auditory Verbal Learning Test (AVLT) for verbal memory (P = 0.015). On regression analysis, the AVLT delayed recall, the COWA average, the Matrix score, the Yale‐Brown Obsessive–Compulsive Scale total score, and current antipsychotic use emerged as significant predictors of poorer insight.

Conclusion:  Poor insight is associated with greater impairments in conflict resolution/response inhibition, verbal memory, and fluency. Individuals with poorer insight may have difficulty in appropriately processing conflicting information, updating their memory with corrective information, and then accessing this corrective information to modify their irrational beliefs.
Antisocial behavioral syndromes and 3‐year quality‐of‐life outcomes in United States adults
Authors: Goldstein R. B. , Dawson D. A. , Smith S. M. , Grant B. F.
Published: February 2012

Goldstein RB, Dawson DA, Smith SM, Grant BF. Antisocial behavioral syndromes and 3‐year quality‐of‐life outcomes in United States adults.

Objective:  To examine 3‐year quality‐of‐life (QOL) outcomes among United States adults with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders – Fourth Edition (DSM‐IV) antisocial personality disorder (ASPD), syndromal adult antisocial behavior without conduct disorder (CD) before age 15 [adulthood antisocial behavioral syndrome (AABS), not a DSM‐IV diagnosis], or no antisocial behavioral syndrome at baseline.

Method:  Face‐to‐face interviews (n = 34 653). Psychiatric disorders were assessed using the Alcohol Use Disorder and Associated Disabilities Interview Schedule – DSM‐IV Version. Health‐related QOL was assessed using the Short‐Form 12‐Item Health Survey, version 2 (SF‐12v2). Other outcomes included past‐year Perceived Stress Scale‐4 (PSS‐4) scores, employment, receipt of Supplemental Security Income (SSI), welfare, and food stamps, and participation in social relationships.

Results:  Antisocial personality disorder and AABS predicted poorer employment, financial dependency, social relationship, and physical health outcomes. Relationships of antisociality to SSI and food stamp receipt and physical health scales were modified by baseline age. Both antisocial syndromes predicted higher PSS‐4, AABS predicted lower SF‐12v2 Vitality, and ASPD predicted lower SF‐12v2 Social Functioning scores in women.

Conclusion:  Similar prediction of QOL by ASPD and AABS suggests limited utility of requiring CD before age 15 to diagnose ASPD. Findings underscore the need to improve prevention and treatment of antisocial syndromes.
Assessing cognitive changes in the elderly: Reliable Change Indices for the Mini‐Mental State Examination
Authors: Stein J. , Luppa M. , Maier W. , Wagner M. , Wolfsgruber S. , Scherer M. , Köhler M. , Eisele M. , Weyerer S. , Werle J. , Bickel H. , Mösch E. , Wiese B. , Prokein J. , Pentzek M. , Fuchs A. , Leicht H. , König H.‐H. , Riedel‐Heller S. G. ,   for the AgeCoDe Study Group
Published: February 2012

Stein J, Luppa M, Maier W, Wagner M, Wolfsgruber S, Scherer M, Köhler M, Eisele M, Weyerer S, Werle J, Bickel H, Mösch E, Wiese B, Prokein J, Pentzek M, Fuchs A, Leicht H, König H‐H, Riedel‐Heller SG for the AgeCoDe Study Group. Assessing cognitive changes in the elderly: Reliable Change Indices for the Mini‐Mental State Examination.

Objective:  The diagnosis of dementia includes evidence of decline in cognitive functioning over time measured by objective cognitive tasks. Normative data for changes adjusted for the impact of socio‐demographic factors on cognitive test performance are lacking to interpret changes in Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) test scores.

Method:  As part of the German Study on Ageing, Cognition and Dementia in Primary Care Patients (AgeCoDe Study), a sample of 1090 cognitively healthy individuals, aged 75 years and older, was assessed at 1.5‐year intervals over a period of 4.5 years using the MMSE. Age‐ and education‐specific Reliable Change Indices (RCIs) were computed.

Results:  Age and education were significantly associated with MMSE test performance, and gender indicated no impact. Across different age and education subgroups, changes from at least 2 up to 3 points indicated significant (i.e., reliable) changes in MMSE test scores at the 90% confidence level. Furthermore, the calculation of RCIs for individual patients is demonstrated.

Conclusion:  This study provides age‐ and education‐specific MMSE norms based upon RCI methods to interpret cognitive changes in older age groups. The computation of RCI scores improves the interpretation of changes in MMSE test scores by controlling for measurement error, practice effects, or regression to the mean.
Chlorhexidine decreases the risk of ventilator‐associated pneumonia in intensive care unit patients: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Özçaka Ö. , Başoğlu Ö. K. , Buduneli N. , Taşbakan M. S. , Bacakoğlu F. , Kinane D. F.
Published: February 2012

Özçaka Ö, Başoğlu ÖK, Buduneli N, Taşbakan MS, Bacakoğlu F, Kinane DF. Chlorhexidine decreases the risk of ventilator‐associated pneumonia in intensive care unit patients: a randomized clinical trial. J Periodont Res 2012; 47: 584–592. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Background and Objective:  The aim was to evaluate whether oral swabbing with 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX) decreases the risk of ventilator‐associated pneumonia (VAP) in intensive care unit (ICU) patients.

Material and Methods:  Sixty‐one dentate patients scheduled for invasive mechanical ventilation for at least 48 h were included in this randomized, double‐blind, controlled study. As these patients were variably incapacitated, oral care was provided by swabbing the oral mucosa four times/d with CHX in the CHX group (29 patients) and with saline in the control group (32 patients). Clinical periodontal measurements were recorded, and lower‐respiratory‐tract specimens were obtained for microbiological analysis on admission and when VAP was suspected. Pathogens were identified by quantifying colonies using standard culture techniques.

Results:  Ventilator‐associated pneumonia developed in 34/61 patients (55.7%) within 6.8 d. The VAP development rate was significantly higher in the control group than in the CHX group (68.8% vs. 41.4%, respectively; p = 0.03) with an odds ratio of 3.12 (95% confidence interval = 1.09–8.91). Acinetobacter baumannii was the most common pathogen (64.7%) of all species identified. There were no significant differences between the two groups in clinical periodontal measurements, VAP development time, pathogens detected or mortality rate.

Conclusion:  The finding of the present study, that oral care with CHX swabbing reduces the risk of VAP development in mechanically ventilated patients, strongly supports its use in ICUs and indeed the importance of adequate oral hygiene in preventing medical complications.