bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of brachyspina syndrome carriers in Chinese Holstein cattle
Authors: Fang Lingzhao , Li Yanhua , Zhang Yi , Sun Dongxiao , Liu Lin , Zhang Yuan , Zhang Shengli
Published: May 2013

Brachyspina syndrome (BS) is a rare monogenic autosomal recessive hereditary disorder identified in the Holstein breed caused by a 3.3-kb deletion in the bovine Fanconi anemia complementation group I ( FANCI) gene on chromosome 21. In previous reports, the BS mutant allele was identified in North American and European Holstein populations. Because frozen semen and embryos have been imported into China from such regions during the past few years, BS has potentially spread into the dairy cattle population in China. In the present study, 206 Holstein bulls and 136 Holstein cows were tested for BS, with 10 BS carrier bulls and 3 carrier cows identified. Pedigree analysis showed that all 10 BS carrier bulls could be traced back to a common ancestor, the U.S. Holstein sire Sweet Haven Tradition. It is recommended that effective selection and mating strategies should be carried out to gradually eliminate this recessive gene from the Chinese Holstein population.
Francisella tularensis infection in a stone marten (Martes foina) without classic pathological lesions consistent with tularemia
Authors: Origgi Francesco C. , Wu Natacha , Pilo Paola
Published: May 2013

The current report describes the isolation and typing of a strain of Francisella tularensis, the causative agent of tularemia, from the spleen of a stone marten ( Martes foina) showing no classic lesions consistent with the disease. The identification of this bacterium, belonging to the World Health Organization risk 3 category and considered to have a low infectious dose, could be performed only because of an ongoing project screening F. tularensis in the environment sensu lato. The findings described herein should alert diagnostic laboratories of the possible presence of F. tularensis in clinical samples in countries where tularemia is endemic even in cases with no consistent anamnesis and from unsuspected animal species.
Robust electromechanical finite element updating for piezoelectric structures effective coupling prediction
Authors: Hamdi Mohsen , Ghanmi Samir , Benjeddou Ayech , Nasri Rachid
Published: May 2013

A robust electromechanical updating methodology for piezoelectric structures effective coupling prediction is first presented. It combines a finite element design experiment–based a priori sensitivity analysis, a response surface method–based meta-modelling and a genetic algorithm–based multi-objective optimization procedure. Then, this methodology is applied to cantilever aluminium thick plate and thin beam structures that are bonded, respectively, with two oppositely poled large and oppositely and same poled small piezoceramic patches on their upper and lower surfaces. In order to correlate corresponding first few effective modal electromechanical coupling coefficients, a mechanical updating is first considered; it consists of identifying the stiffness parameters of linear springs, modelling the clamp, so that relative deviations between the first few experimental and finite element short-circuit frequencies are minimized; then, an electric updating is considered; it consists of finding the patches’ relative transverse blocked dielectric constants that minimize the first few experimental and finite element open-circuit frequencies relative deviations. Free vibrations are simulated using ANSYS®-coupled piezoelectric three-dimensional finite element. The obtained results have partially confirmed those from a former ad hoc updating method since the sensitivity analyses led to same stiffness parameters’ irreducible number and only some effective modal electromechanical coupling coefficient test–model correlations were enhanced.
Elastic compensation of linear shape memory alloy actuators using compliant mechanisms
Authors: Scirè Mammano Giovanni , Dragoni Eugenio
Published: May 2013

This article presents a modular architecture for shape memory alloy actuators elastically compensated by thin beams loaded axially beyond their buckling limit. Starting from the exact equations for the elastic curve of the beams, an approximate procedure is developed for the engineering design of the entire compensating system. The theory of the compensator is validated successfully against a finite element model and experimental results. The experimental characterization of a complete prototype actuator shows that the forces generated by the compensated actuator are constant for both instroke and outstroke over the full range of displacements. The actuator concept proposed lends itself to modular assembly to multiply either the stroke covered (series combination) or the force generated (parallel combination).
Music
Authors: Jones Shelly M. , Pearson Dunn
Published: May 2013

A musician and a mathematics educator create and implement a set of elementary school lessons integrating music and math. Students learn the basics of music theory including identifying notes and learning their fractional values. They learn about time signatures and how to determine correct note values per measure. Students are motivated by listening to popular culture music such as Miley Cyrus and Justin Bieber and clapping to the beat. The culminating activity involves students creating their own four-bar phrase using their knowledge of time signature, note values, and fraction addition. Finally, the music teacher or capable student can sing or perform student-created phrases. The lessons described in this article provide strategies to help music educators and elementary school classroom teachers integrate music with math.
Exorcising action oriented representations: ridding cognitive science of its Nazgûl
Authors: Hutto Daniel
Published: May 2013

This paper reviews two main strategies for dealing with the threat posed by radically enactive/embodied cognition to traditional cognitive science. Both strategies invoke action oriented representations (AORs). They differ in emphasizing different features of AORs in their attempt to answer the REC threat – focusing on their contents and vehicles, respectively. The first two sections review the central motivations and rationales driving the ‘content’ and ‘format’ strategies in turn and raise initial concerns about the tenability of each. With respect to the ‘content’ strategy, these worries ought to make us suspicious about the explanatory value of positing AORs. Although the ‘format’ strategy has a way of answering this concern, it raises a more fundamental worry about the motivation for even believing in AORs in the first place. Although these worries cast doubt on the feasibility of invoking AORs as a means of dealing with the REC threat, they do not constitute conclusive reasons for eliminating AORs altogether. There are other, stronger reasons for supposing that we should. The third section provides a sketch of a master argument, developed elsewhere, which makes that case in full dress fashion. The final section – ‘Resurrection?’ – considers and rejects the possibility that AORs might be resurrected, even if it is agreed that the master argument cited in the third section succeeds.
Adolescent Self-Reported Health in Relation to School Factors
Authors: Nygren Karina , Bergström Erik , Janlert Urban , Nygren Lennart
Published: May 2013

The aim of the study was to examine school-related determinants of self-reported health among adolescents. Questionnaire survey data comprising 4,972 students, Grades 7 through 9, from 20 schools in northern Sweden were used. Also, complimentary data about each school were collected from the Swedish National Agency for Education. Using multilevel logistic regression analyses, results showed that most variation in self-reported health was explained by individual-level differences. Truancy, bullying, and poor relations with teachers significantly increased the odds ratio of reporting poor general health, for boys and for girls. Most variables at the school level, for example, school size and student–teacher ratio, did not render significant associations with students’ self-reported health. In conclusion, this study indicates that health promotion at school, including school health services, may benefit from focusing primarily on individual-level determinants of health, that is, students’ relations to peers and teachers, without ignoring that bullying and weak student–teacher relationships also may induce school-level interventions.
Femicide and Colonization
Authors: Shalhoub-Kervorkian Nadera , Daher-Nashif Suhad
Published: May 2013

This article explores the murder of women and girls, which we name it Femicide, among the Palestinian community living in Israel. Specifically, it analyzes how the dialectic interrelationship between informal and formal legal-social systems constructs the murders of Palestinian women. The data revealed that femicide is a crime empowered by the wider context of colonization and the increasing spatial segregation of Palestinian communities. The study confirms the need to move beyond simplistic “cultural” explanations of femicide, and pay closer attention to the ways in which the structure, politics and economy of death function in colonized spaces and contexts.
Women’s Shelters in Turkey
Authors: Diner Cagla , Toktaş Şule
Published: May 2013

Despite a long history of women’s movements and policy-making efforts to ameliorate women’s status in Turkey, the number and quality of women’s shelters are far from sufficient. This article aims to reveal the shortcomings of shelter policy through the lens of those “at work” on this important social issue using a qualitative research design. Forty semistructured in-depth interviews were conducted with municipal administrative officials, state social workers, and employees of civil society organizations that run shelters. The research findings reveal that there is a lack of effective authority that has the willpower to combat violence against women, and that it is difficult to keep shelters secure in a patriarchal society away from the male gaze. Furthermore, results indicate that there has been an erosion of social services provided by the state.
Attitudes of Palestinian Physicians Toward Wife Abuse
Authors: Haj-Yahia Muhammad M.
Published: May 2013

The article presents results from a larger survey, which examined the attitudes and perceptions of Palestinian physicians ( N = 396) toward wife abuse. The instrument was a self-administered questionnaire, with open-ended questions in which participants expressed their definitions of wife abuse, their perceptions of the causes of wife abuse, and their perceptions of appropriate interventions with wife abuse. The relevance of the sociocultural contexts of Palestinian society in particular and Arab societies in general to the participants’ responses is highlighted in the article. The limitations of the study as well as implications for theory development, future research, and professional training are discussed.
Gender-Based Violence in Egypt
Authors: Ambrosetti Elena , Abu Amara Nisrin , Condon Stéphanie
Published: May 2013

Over recent decades, Egypt has witnessed developments in gender equality. This article discusses recent changes relating to violence against women within this context. Statistical data from the Egyptian DHS surveys is used to describe trends in reported violence and in attitudes toward marital abuse, as well as to examine the survey tools used to measure violence. While findings reflect a growing awareness regarding the issue, the number of women reporting spousal violence remained stable during the study period. The results are contextualized within the political and social debate in which NGO’s and women’s rights activists play a central role.
Evaluation of the Missouri Alliance for Home Care Fall Risk Assessment Tool and Home-Based “Balanced Approach” Fall Reduction Initiative
Authors: Gallagher Rosemary , Stith Nancy , Southard Veronica
Published: May 2013

A randomized, retrospective chart review of 228 patients referred to Catholic Home Care; January 1, 2009 to June 30, 2009, was conducted to determine concurrent based validity of the Missouri Alliance for Home Care Tool (MAHC-10) with the Performance Oriented Mobility Scale (Tinetti), and to determine the benefit of the “Balanced Approach” rehabilitation program. A weak but significant negative relationship between the MAHC-10 and pre- ( r = −.21, p < .01) Tinetti scores was found. Significant differences in Tinetti scores pre and post intervention was found with mean improvement of 5.2 points ( t = −19.60, df, 181, p < .001; 95% CI[−5.72, −4.67]). Results of this study indicate the effectiveness of the MAHC-10–driven interdisciplinary program in the identification and management of fallers in the home.
Physical activity and fitness knowledge learning in physical education: Seeking a common ground
Authors: Chen Senlin , Chen Ang , Sun Haichun , Zhu Xihe
Published: May 2013

Motivation to learn is a disposition developed through exposure to learning opportunities. Guided by the expectancy-value theory of Eccles and Wigfield (1995), this study examined the extent to which expectancy belief and task value influenced elementary school students’ physical activity and knowledge learning in physical education (PE). Students ( N = 753) from 15 US public schools contributed student-level and class-level data. With a 2-level design, the data were analyzed using hierarchical linear modeling. Physical activity ( t = 3.18; p < .01) positively predicted fitness knowledge. Attainment value (i.e. perception of importance) as the only expectancy-value construct, significantly predicted fitness knowledge ( t = 3.07; p < .01), when physical activity was held constant. As the physical activity intensity increased, the positive prediction of attainment value to knowledge attenuated and then turned negative ( t = –3.10; p < .01). The study indicated that although a physically-active context helps students to make sense of fitness knowledge, a vigorous context shifts their motivation away from cognitive learning, toward physical participation. To resolve the difficulty of attaining learning objectives both physically and cognitively, PE teachers may want to maintain an active learning context with moderate physical intensity. Future research should address the effect of learner motivation on dual or multiple learning outcomes in PE.
Multibody modelling of a TB31 and a TB32 crash test with vertical portable concrete barriers: Model verification and sensitivity analysis
Authors: Amato Giuseppina , O’Brien Fionn , Ghosh Bidisha , Simms Ciaran K
Published: May 2013

In this article the multibody simulation software package MADYMO for analysing and optimizing occupant safety design was used to model crash tests for Normal Containment barriers in accordance with EN 1317. The verification process was carried out by simulating a TB31 and a TB32 crash test performed on vertical portable concrete barriers and by comparing the numerical results to those obtained experimentally. The same modelling approach was applied to both tests to evaluate the predictive capacity of the modelling at two different impact speeds. A sensitivity analysis of the vehicle stiffness was also carried out. The capacity to predict all of the principal EN1317 criteria was assessed for the first time: the acceleration severity index, the theoretical head impact velocity, the barrier working width and the vehicle exit box. Results showed a maximum error of 6% for the acceleration severity index and 21% for theoretical head impact velocity for the numerical simulation in comparison to the recorded data. The exit box position was predicted with a maximum error of 4°. For the working width, a large percentage difference was observed for test TB31 due to the small absolute value of the barrier deflection but the results were well within the limit value from the standard for both tests. The sensitivity analysis showed the robustness of the modelling with respect to contact stiffness increase of ±20% and ±40%. This is the first multibody model of portable concrete barriers that can reproduce not only the acceleration severity index but all the test criteria of EN 1317 and is therefore a valuable tool for new product development and for injury biomechanics research.
In their own time and space
Authors: Kemp Linzi J , Williams Paul
Published: May 2013

In today’s globalized business environment, managers regularly interact with employees from different cultures. Since meetings are endemic to all business organizations, better understanding of the way meetings are conducted in diverse cross-cultural settings may increase organizational effectiveness. This study investigated business meetings in the United Arab Emirates, a country where ethnic diversity across the workforce is prevalent. The Gulf Arab region offers an eclectic mix of different cross-cultural interactions, when business meetings are being conducted. Using qualitative methods of inquiry, we collected data about meetings held in three large organizations, each with a diverse cross-cultural workforce. This study uses the conceptual framework of ‘organizational rituals’ to explore the nature of meeting behaviour. Findings suggest that behaviours in organizational meetings in the Gulf Arab states have many differences when compared with the norms of traditional ‘western-style’ meetings. Specifically, it was found that meeting times were treated rather flexibly in this cultural setting, with lateness, interruptions and a lack of time boundaries. Similarly, meeting space was fluid in this environment, with regular disruptions, open doors, and haphazard seating. Another observation is that the ethnic origin of the chairperson of the meeting determines many of the participant behaviours at these meetings. The main contribution of this research study is in identifying ritualistic behaviours that are very different to those of typical meetings held in western countries and reflect an eclectic mix of different cross-cultural interactions.
From passive to active dialogue? Aboriginal lands, development and métissage in Québec, Canada
Authors: Desbiens Caroline , Rivard Étienne
Published: May 2013

Over the last decade, northern Québec (Canada) has been the stage of tremendous changes regarding the active role played by Aboriginal peoples in matters of planning and territorial development. This gradual rise, if incomplete, of the Aboriginal agency greatly impacts, as we shall argue here, on the identities and territorialities of both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities, through new policies, legislation, treaty processes, institutions (public or private) devoted to development, territorial governance or the increasing number of cross-cultural partnerships and investments. The goal of this paper is to offer a critical portrait of the recent changes affecting the relations between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities in northern Québec, and discuss the limits of the cross-cultural dialogue in which they are engaged. This argument is an attempt to show how development and planning are rich grounds for understanding the state and the economy as ontological. It will be illustrated through the recent emergence of the Québec government’s Plan Nord (‘Northern Plan’), an ambitious program of development, and the treaty process involving three Innu First Nations in the regions of Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean and Côte-Nord. Conceived of as a dynamic form of cross-cultural dialogue shaped by power relations, the concept of métissage (hybridity) grounds our analysis and highlights the challenges of multicultural territorial planning. If Québec is presently engaging in a renewed cross-cultural dialogue with First Nations, the final result of this dialogue, however, remains uncertain.
Endothelial dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes post acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Lumsden Natalie G , Andrews Karen L , Bobadilla Maria , Moore Xiao L , Sampson Amanda K , Shaw James A , Mizrahi Jacques , Kaye David M , Dart Anthony M , Chin-Dusting Jaye PF
Published: May 2013

This single visit study examined whether endothelial function, in addition to cardiovascular (CV) risk factors and plasma microparticle content, was normalised in 15 patients with type 2 diabetes + acute coronary syndrome (ACS) (6 weeks–6 months post cardiac event) undergoing standard clinical care compared to 16 sex- and age-matched healthy controls.

Results:

While total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels were well controlled in the patients with type 2 diabetes + ACS, residual CV risk profiles such as increased body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure, glucose levels and triglycerides and lower high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels were still apparent. Endothelium-dependent responses to acetylcholine (ACh) were significantly lower in type 2 diabetes + ACS patients compared to controls. Correspondingly, the reactive hyperaemic index (RHI) was lower in the patient cohort. Endothelial microparticle (EMP) levels (CD31+, CD41−) were 40% lower in the patient cohort. Simultaneous analysis of platelet microparticle (PMP) levels (CD41+) showed no difference between cohorts.

Conclusions:

Patients with type 2 diabetes suffering from recent ACS exhibit residual CV risk factors despite being on standard clinical care. In addition, these patients continue to present with endothelial dysfunction despite having lower levels of EMPs.
Self-rated health predicts outcome in patients with type 2 diabetes and myocardial infarction: A DIGAMI 2 quality of life sub-study
Authors: Venskutonyte Laura , Brismar Kerstin , Öhrvik John , Rydén Lars , Kjellström Barbro
Published: May 2013

The Diabetes mellitus Insulin-Glucose Infusion in Acute Myocardial Infarction (DIGAMI) 2 Quality of Life (QoL) sub-study included 465 patients with type 2 diabetes and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) followed for 2 years. Self-rated health was reported by the rating scale (RS), graded 0 = death to 100 = perfect health. Prospective associations between RS and all-cause mortality, cardiovascular (CV) death and cardiovascular events (CVEs = CV death, non-fatal AMI, stroke) were assessed. Median age was 68 years (range 59–74), 68% male. Patients experiencing CVE ( n = 132) or death ( n = 71) had lower RS compared with patients free from events: 60 (50–79) versus 70 (55–81) ( p < 0.001) and 60 (50–75) versus 70 (51–80) ( p = 0.008). The RS score predicted CVE [hazard ratio (HR); 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.87; 0.80–0.95] and all-cause mortality (0.86; 0.76–0.97), and corresponding HRs after adjustment were 0.90; 0.83–0.99 and 0.90; 0.79–1.02, respectively. A low self-rated health is of prognostic importance in patients with type 2 diabetes and AMI and may serve as an easily obtainable indicator of high risk for CVEs supplementing traditional risk factors.
Process evaluation of a school-based overweight and obesity screening strategy in adolescents
Authors: Bonsergent Emilie , Thilly Nathalie , Legrand Karine , Agrinier Nelly , Tessier Sabrina , Lecomte Edith , Aptel Evelyne , Collin Jean-François , Briançon Serge ,   for the PRALIMAP Group
Published: May 2013

The PRALIMAP ( PRomotion de l’ALIMentation et de l’Activité Physique) trial highlights the effectiveness of implementing a screening strategy in high schools to prevent overweight/obesity among adolescents. The strategy comprises three steps: i) body measurements to detect overweight/obese adolescents, ii) a medical interview with each adolescent identified to discuss the findings, and iii) an adapted care management consisting of seven group educational sessions. A process evaluation was conducted in the PRALIMAP trial to assess the effective implementation of the screening strategy activities, and the participation of adolescents and school professionals in them, from a qualitative and a quantitative point of view. The present paper describes the process and the implementation of the screening strategy as performed in the PRALIMAP trial, and discusses the feasibility of such an intervention in high school settings. The ability of nurses to explain the screening results improved with the addition of specialist support. The ability of adolescents to take part in the screening strategy improved when the adapted care management was conducted inside schools and could be increased even further if the waiting time between the three steps could be minimised.
Opinions et pratiques d’un panel de médecins généralistes français vis-à-vis de la vaccination
Authors: Massin Sophie , Pulcini Céline , Launay Odile , Flicoteaux Rémi , Sebbah Rémy , Paraponaris Alain , Verger Pierre , Ventelou Bruno
Published: May 2013

En France, la couverture vaccinale est insuffisante. Les médecins généralistes étant des acteurs essentiels de la politique vaccinale, il est utile de connaître leurs opinions et pratiques à ce sujet. Nous avons interrogé 1431 médecins généralistes français et 98% se déclaraient favorables à la vaccination dans leur pratique quotidienne. Leurs couvertures vaccinales étaient de 73% pour l’hépatite B, 64% pour la coqueluche et 77% pour la grippe saisonnière. Les médecins se trouvaient très efficaces pour obtenir l’adhésion pour le vaccin ROR (Rougeole-Oreillons-Rubéole) chez les enfants de moins de deux ans et la grippe saisonnière chez les adultes de moins de 65 ans à risque, mais beaucoup moins pour l’hépatite B chez les adolescents. La mise en place d’un registre national informatisé des vaccinations et de messages de promotion vaccinale différenciés par vaccin semblent les deux voies prioritaires pour améliorer la couverture vaccinale.
Self-efficacy and implementation intentions-based interventions on fruit and vegetable intake among adults: impact at 12-month follow-up
Authors: Guillaumie Laurence , Godin Gaston , Manderscheid Jean-Claude , Spitz Elisabeth , Muller Laurent
Published: May 2013

This study tested the effect of theory-based interventions designed to increase fruit and vegetable intake (FVI). Adults ( n = 291) were randomized into four groups: implementation intentions (II) group; self-efficacy (SE) group; combination of implementation intentions and self-efficacy (II+SE) group; and a control group receiving written information on nutrition. They were reassessed at 1, 3, 6 and 12 month follow-up. This study found that short interventions such as SE and II+SE can achieve significant differences in FVI at six-month follow-up compared to the control group. However, this effect was not maintained at 12-month follow-up. Practitioners should add materials or follow up meetings to ensure maintenance of behavioral change.
Implementation and assessment of an early home-based intervention on infant attachment organisation: the CAPEDP attachment study in France
Authors: Tereno Susana , Guedeney Nicole , Dugravier Romain , Greacen Tim , Saïas Thomas , Tubach Florence , Guédeney Antoine
Published: May 2013

Attachment is a long-term emotional link between infants and their mothers. Attachment quality influences subsequent psychosocial relationships, the ability to manage stress and, consequently, later mental health. Home intervention programmes targeting infant attachment have been implemented in several contexts with varying degrees of efficacy. Within the CAPEDP study (Parental Skills and Attachment in Early Childhood: reduction of risks linked to mental health problems and promotion of resilience), a subsample of 120 families were recruited with the objective of assessing the impact of this home-visiting programme on infant attachment organisation using the Strange Situation Procedure. The present paper describes the methodology used in this ancillary study.
Analyse des tensions perçues par les soignants hospitaliers dans la pratique de l’éducation thérapeutique : implications pour leur supervision
Authors: Le Rhun Anne , Gagnayre Rémi , Moret Leïla , Lombrail Pierre
Published: May 2013

La mise en œuvre des programmes d’éducation thérapeutique en France suscite chez les soignants des tensions. Ces tensions résultent du décalage perçu entre la réalité des pratiques d’éducation thérapeutique et les représentations qu’ils en ont. Cette étude descriptive qualitative vise à caractériser la nature de ces tensions. En 2009, 27 entretiens semi-directifs ont été réalisés auprès de soignants du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nantes (France). A partir de la théorie ancrée, l’analyse des entretiens a mis en évidence 3 types de tensions : tensions dialogiques, tensions cognitives et tensions d’impuissance d’action. Cette étude interroge les conditions d’une supervision des soignants.
Efficiency of brief interventions on alcohol-related risks in occupational medicine
Authors: Michaud Philippe , Kunz Véronique , Demortière Gérald , Lancrenon Sylvie , Carré Agnès , Ménard Colette , Arwidson Pierre
Published: May 2013

Aim. To evaluate the effectiveness of brief interventions (BIs) in reducing alcohol use among hazardous drinkers consulting their occupational doctors. Materials and methods. Design: Randomized controlled trial with 12-month follow-up, conducted between November 2004 and September 2006. Setting: Fifteen French regional occupational medicine centers with 147 doctors and 157 assistants who were trained in BI and screening with the AUDIT questionnaire. Participants: We invited 33,488 individuals to fill out AUDIT. These patients were eligible if their scores were 6–12 for women and 7–12 for men, indicating hazardous drinking without dependence (found in 7.1% of respondents). Intervention: After randomization, BIs (informative advice using motivational approach, with 10-minute average duration) were performed by the occupational doctors. The control group received information booklets from the doctors’ assistants. Measurements: Situations were evaluated 12 months after inclusion. Outcome measures: AUDIT scores, self-reported alcohol consumption (SRAC) and biological assays. The main criteria were the differences observed between groups for SRAC, the AUDIT score at follow-up, and any reduction in score between inclusion and final assessment. Success of intervention, which was defined as an AUDIT score below the hazardous drinking threshold at follow-up, was considered to analyze the variables associated with the efficiency of intervention. Results. The analyzed sample included 787 persons, among whom 435 were met again 12 months later. In the BI group, we found a lower AUDIT score ( p = 0.01), a higher reduction in reported consumptions (–60 g/week versus −44g/week, p = 0.04) and in AUDIT scores ( p = 0.009). In the control group, 44.8% reduced their AUDIT scores below hazardous drinking thresholds, as compared to 51.6% in the BI group ( p = 0.15). Success was associated with a significant reduction in biological and clinical indices. Conclusions. Though the high attrition rate led to careful conclusions, BIs seem to be efficient in occupational medicine, in comparison with written information, which also seems to influence drinking behavior.
The ‘Ossébo’ intervention for the prevention of injurious falls in elderly women: background and design
Authors: Dargent-Molina Patricia , Khoury Fabienne El , Cassou Bernard
Published: May 2013

This paper reviews the literature that contributed to the design of the ‘Ossébo’ intervention and describes the study that is underway.

Background:

Falls and fall-related injuries are a major cause of morbidity and mortality among older people. Extensive research into falls prevention has established physical exercise as an efficient method to reduce falls, but the effect of exercise on serious injuries caused by falls remains unclear. Moreover, populations that would benefit most from these interventions, as well as factors that determine adherence to exercise remain underreported.

The Ossébo intervervention:

‘Ossébo’ is an on-going multicenter randomized controlled trial, aiming to assess the effect of a two-year community-based group physical exercise program on the prevention of falls among women aged 75–85 years old. The primary outcome examined is the rate of falls and injurious falls: secondary outcomes include functional capacities, fear of falling and quality of life. This study will help determine the effectiveness of a large scale falls prevention program and the factors that can potentially assist its success.
Hammertoe Surgery and the Trim-It Drill Pin
Authors: Cicchinelli Luke D.
Published: May 2013

Digital deformities are some of the most frequent complaints of patients seeking a surgical solution after the failure of conservative care. A thorough assessment of the actual level of deformity is important to ensure a lasting surgical correction. This article details the options for correcting hammertoe, clawtoe and mallet toe deformities with Trim it Drill pin and the Spin pin.

Levels of Evidence: Level 5
Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle in Athletes
Authors: Mayer Stephanie W. , Joyner Patrick W. , Almekinders Louis C. , Parekh Selene G.
Published: May 2013

Context:

Stress fractures of the foot and ankle are a common problem encountered by athletes of all levels and ages. These injuries can be difficult to diagnose and may be initially evaluated by all levels of medical personnel. Clinical suspicion should be raised with certain history and physical examination findings.

Evidence Acquisition:

Scientific and review articles were searched through PubMed (1930-2012) with search terms including stress fractures and 1 of the following: foot ankle, medial malleolus, lateral malleolus, calcaneus, talus, metatarsal, cuboid, cuneiform, sesamoid, or athlete.

Study Design:

Clinical review.

Level of Evidence:

Level 5.

Results:

Stress fractures of the foot and ankle can be divided into low and high risk based upon their propensity to heal without complication. A wide variety of nonoperative strategies are employed based on the duration of symptoms, type of fracture, and patient factors, such as activity type, desire to return to sport, and compliance. Operative management has proven superior in several high-risk types of stress fractures. Evidence on pharmacotherapy and physiologic therapy such as bone stimulators is evolving.

Conclusion:

A high index of suspicion for stress fractures is appropriate in many high-risk groups of athletes with lower extremity pain. Proper and timely work-up and treatment is successful in returning these athletes to sport in many cases. Low-risk stress fracture generally requires only activity modification while high-risk stress fracture necessitates more aggressive intervention. The specific treatment of these injuries varies with the location of the stress fracture and the goals of the patient.
The Role of Sleep in Interpersonal Conflict
Authors: Gordon Amie M. , Chen Serena
Published: May 2013

This research examined the impact of a basic biological process—namely, sleep—on relationship conflict, specifically testing whether poor sleep influences the degree, nature, and resolution of conflict. In Study 1, a 14-day daily experience study, participants reported more conflict in their romantic relationships following poor nights of sleep. In Study 2, we brought couples into the laboratory to assess the dyadic effects of sleep on the nature and resolution of conflict. One partner’s poor sleep was associated with a lower ratio of positive to negative affect (self-reported and observed), as well as decreased empathic accuracy for both partners during a conflict conversation. Conflict resolution occurred most when both partners were well rested. Effects were not explained by stress, anxiety, depression, lack of relationship satisfaction, or by partners being the source of poor sleep. Overall, these findings highlight a key factor that may breed conflict, thereby putting relationships at risk.
CpG pretreatment enhances antiviral T-cell immunity against cytomegalovirus
Authors: Ong Monique L. , Wikstrom Matthew E. , Fleming Peter , Estcourt Marie J. , Hertzog Paul J. , Hill Geoffrey R. , Andoniou Christopher E. , Degli-Esposti Mariapia A.
Published: May 2013

Key Points

Fully functional CD8 T-cell responses, control of infection, and protection from organ pathology are attained without cross-presentation. Direct presentation generates responses that limit disease and ensure host survival despite the presence of immunomodulatory viral proteins.
New MLLT10 gene recombinations in pediatric T-acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Brandimarte Lucia , Pierini Valentina , Di Giacomo Danika , Borga Chiara , Nozza Filomena , Gorello Paolo , Giordan Marco , Cazzaniga Giovanni , te Kronnie Geertruy , La Starza Roberta , Mecucci Cristina
Published: May 2013

Key Points

In pediatric T-ALL, MLLT10 emerged as a promiscuous gene, maintaining the critical leukemogenic OM-LZ domain in all fusions. MLLT10 gene fusions were associated with a specific expression profile within the HOXA subgroup of pediatric T-ALL.
Results of the AIEOP AML 2002/01 multicenter prospective trial for the treatment of children with acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Pession Andrea , Masetti Riccardo , Rizzari Carmelo , Putti Maria Caterina , Casale Fiorina , Fagioli Franca , Luciani Matteo , Lo Nigro Luca , Menna Giuseppe , Micalizzi Concetta , Santoro Nicola , Testi Anna Maria , Zecca Marco , Biondi Andrea , Pigazzi Martina , Rutella Sergio , Rondelli Roberto , Basso Giuseppe , Locatelli Franco
Published: May 2013

Key Points

Risk-adapted therapy and broad use of HSCT resulted in a significant improvement in outcome. AUTO- or ALLO-HSCT in high-risk patients resulted in a cumulative incidence of leukemia relapse superimposable to that of SR.
Systemic inflammation, depression and obstructive pulmonary function: a population-based study
Authors: Lu Yanxia , Feng Lei , Feng Liang , Nyunt Ma Shwe , Yap Keng Bee , Ng Tze Pin
Published: May 2013

Background

Levels of Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C-creative protein (CRP) indicating systemic inflammation are known to be elevated in chronic diseases including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and depression. Comorbid depression is common in patients with COPD, but no studies have investigated whether proinflammatory cytokines mediate the association between pulmonary function and depressive symptoms in healthy individuals with no known history of obstructive pulmonary diseases.

Methods

In a population-based sample (n = 2077) of individuals aged 55 and above with no known history of obstructive pulmonary disease in the Singapore Longitudinal Ageing Study (SLAS), we analyzed the relationships between IL-6 and CRP, depressive symptoms (GDS-15 ≥5) and obstructive pulmonary function (FEV1% predicted and FEV1/FVC% predicted).

Results

High serum levels of IL-6 and CRP were associated with greater prevalence of depressive symptoms (p < 0.05). High IL-6, high CRP and depressive symptoms were independently associated with decreased FEV1% predicted and FEV1/FVC% predicted after adjusting for smoking status, BMI and number of chronic inflammatory diseases. Increasing grades of combination of inflammatory markers and/or depressive symptoms was associated with progressive increases in pulmonary obstruction. In hierarchical models, the significant association of depressive symptoms with pulmonary obstruction was reduced by the presence of IL-6 and CRP.

Conclusions

This study found for the first time an association of depressive symptoms and pulmonary function in older adults which appeared to be partly mediated by proinflammatory cytokines. Further studies should be conducted to investigate proinflammatory immune markers and depressive symptoms as potential phenotypic indicators for chronic obstructive airway disorders in older adults.
Targeting self-renewal pathways in myeloid malignancies
Authors: Sands William A , Copland Mhairi , Wheadon Helen
Published: May 2013

A fundamental property of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) is the ability to self-renew. This is a complex process involving multiple signal transduction cascades which control the fine balance between self-renewal and differentiation through transcriptional networks. Key activators/regulators of self-renewal include chemokines, cytokines and morphogens which are expressed in the bone marrow niche, either in a paracrine or autocrine fashion, and modulate stem cell behaviour. Increasing evidence suggests that the downstream signaling pathways induced by these ligands converge at multiple levels providing a degree of redundancy in steady state hematopoiesis. Here we will focus on how these pathways cross-talk to regulate HSC self-renewal highlighting potential therapeutic windows which could be targeted to prevent leukemic stem cell self-renewal in myeloid malignancies.
De novo CD5-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphomas show high specificity for cyclin D2 expression
Authors: Igawa Takuro , Sato Yasuharu , Takata Katsuyoshi , Iwaki Noriko , Tanaka Takehiro , Asano Naoko , Maeda Yoshinobu , Orita Yorihisa , Nakamura Naoya , Nakamura Shigeo , Yoshino Tadashi
Published: May 2013

D cyclins positively regulate the cell cycle and mediate the pathogenesis of some lymphomas. Cyclin D1 overexpression is the hallmark of mantle cell lymphoma, whereas cyclins D2 and D3 are reportedly not as specific to certain lymphomas as cyclin D1. In this study, cyclin D2 was found to be overexpressed in 98% of de novo CD5-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphomas (DLBCLs) (50/51) and in 28% of CD5-negative DLBCLs (14/51). A statistically significant difference was observed between these two groups (p<0.0001). In contrast, no statistical difference was found in the cyclin D3 expression between CD5-positive (18/51) and CD5-negative (24/51) DLBCLs (p=0.23). Based on these findings, cyclin D2 is therefore considered to be closely associated with de novo CD5-positive DLBCLs. This insight may be useful for overcoming the inferior survival of this aggressive lymphoma.

Virtual slides

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here:http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/1382856320966453
Plasma uric acid and tumor volume are highly predictive of outcome in nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients receiving intensity modulated radiotherapy
Authors: Lin Hui , Lin Huan-Xin , Ge Nan , Wang Hong-Zhi , Sun Rui , Hu Wei-Han
Published: May 2013

Background

The combined predictive value of plasma uric acid and primary tumor volume in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients receiving intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) has not yet been determined.

Methods

In this retrospective study, plasma uric acid level was measured after treatment in 130 histologically-proven NPC patients treated with IMRT. Tumor volume was calculated from treatment planning CT scans. Overall (OS), progression-free (PFS) and distant metastasis-free (DMFS) survival were compared using Kaplan-Meier analysis and the log rank test, and Cox multivariate and univariate regression models were created.

Results

Patients with a small tumor volume (<27 mL) had a significantly better DMFS, PFS and OS than patients with a large tumor volume. Patients with a high post-treatment plasma uric acid level (>301 μmol/L) had a better DMFS, PFS and OS than patients with a low post-treatment plasma uric acid level. Patients with a small tumor volume and high post-treatment plasma uric acid level had a favorable prognosis compared to patients with a large tumor volume and low post-treatment plasma uric acid level (7-year overall OS, 100% vs. 48.7%, P <0.001 and PFS, 100% vs. 69.5%, P <0.001).

Conclusions

Post-treatment plasma uric acid level and pre-treatment tumor volume have predictive value for outcome in NPC patients receiving IMRT. NPC patients with a large tumor volume and low post-treatment plasma uric acid level may benefit from additional aggressive treatment after IMRT.
RNAi mediated down regulation of myo-inositol-3-phosphate synthase to generate low phytate rice
Authors: Ali Nusrat , Paul Soumitra , Gayen Dipak , Sarkar Sailendra Nath , Datta Swapan K , Datta Karabi
Published: May 2013

Background

Phytic acid (InsP6) is considered as the major source of phosphorus and inositol phosphates in cereal grains. Reduction of phytic acid level in cereal grains is desirable in view of its antinutrient properties to maximize mineral bioavailability and minimize the load of phosphorus waste management. We report here RNAi mediated seed-specific silencing of myo-inositol-3-phosphate synthase (MIPS) gene catalyzing the first step of phytic acid biosynthesis in rice. Moreover, we also studied the possible implications of MIPS silencing on myo-inositol and related metabolism, since, first step of phytic acid biosynthesis is also the rate limiting step of myo-inositol synthesis, catalyzed by MIPS.

Results

The resulting transgenic rice plants (T3) showed a 4.59 fold down regulation in MIPS gene expression, which corresponds to a significant decrease in phytate levels and a simultaneous increment in the amount of inorganic phosphate in the seeds. A diminution in the myo-inositol content of transgenic plants was also observed due to disruption of the first step of phytic acid biosynthetic pathway, which further reduced the level of ascorbate and altered abscisic acid (ABA) sensitivity of the transgenic plants. In addition, our results shows that in the transgenic plants, the lower phytate levels has led to an increment of divalent cations, of which a 1.6 fold increase in the iron concentration in milled rice seeds was noteworthy. This increase could be attributed to reduced chelation of divalent metal (iron) cations, which may correlate to higher iron bioavailability in the endosperm of rice grains.

Conclusion

The present study evidently suggests that seed-specific silencing of MIPS in transgenic rice plants can yield substantial reduction in levels of phytic acid along with an increase in inorganic phosphate content. However, it was also demonstrated that the low phytate seeds had an undesirable diminution in levels of myo-inositol and ascorbate, which probably led to sensitiveness of seeds to abscisic acid during germination. Therefore, it is suggested that though MIPS is the prime target for generation of low phytate transgenic plants, down-regulation of MIPS can have detrimental effect on myo-inositol synthesis and related pathways which are involved in key plant metabolism.
Environment, behavior and physiology: do birds use barometric pressure to predict storms?
Authors: Breuner Creagh W. , Sprague Rachel S. , Patterson Stephen H. , Woods H. Arthur
Published: May 2013

Severe storms can pose a grave challenge to the temperature and energy homeostasis of small endothermic vertebrates. Storms are accompanied by lower temperatures and wind, increasing metabolic expenditure, and can inhibit foraging, thereby limiting energy intake. To avoid these potential problems, most endotherms have mechanisms for offsetting the energetic risks posed by storms. One possibility is to use cues to predict oncoming storms and to alter physiology and behavior in ways that make survival more likely. Barometric pressure declines predictably before inclement weather, and several lines of evidence indicate that animals alter behavior based on changes in ambient pressure. Here we examined the effects of declining barometric pressure on physiology and behavior in the white-crowned sparrow, Zonotrichia leucophrys. Using field data from a long-term study, we first evaluated the relationship between barometric pressure, storms and stress physiology in free-living white-crowned sparrows. We then manipulated barometric pressure experimentally in the laboratory and determined how it affects activity, food intake, metabolic rates and stress physiology. The field data showed declining barometric pressure in the 12–24 h preceding snowstorms, but we found no relationship between barometric pressure and stress physiology. The laboratory study showed that declining barometric pressure stimulated food intake, but had no effect on metabolic rate or stress physiology. These data suggest that white-crowned sparrows can sense and respond to declining barometric pressure, and we propose that such an ability may be common in wild vertebrates, especially small ones for whom individual storms can be life-threatening events.