bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ambient ozone modifies the effect of tumor necrosis factor G‐308A on bronchitic symptoms among children with asthma
Authors: Lee Y.‐L. , McConnell R. , Berhane K. , Gilliland F. D.
Published: February 2009

Background:  Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α has a recognized role in respiratory pathophysiology. One genetic variant (G‐308A) in the promoter region affecting the expression of this cytokine may contribute to airway inflammatory diseases, but the studies on bronchitic symptoms were still inconclusive. Because ozone produces oxidative stress, increased airway TNF, and inflammation, the associations of the TNF‐308 polymorphism with bronchitic symptoms may vary by ambient ozone exposure.

Methods:  We studied associations of TNF‐308 genotype with bronchitic symptoms among asthmatic children in Children’s Health Study. The association of TNF G‐308A polymorphism with bronchitic symptoms was investigated and we also determined whether the associations vary with ambient ozone exposure.

Results:  Asthmatic children with TNF‐308 GG genotype had a significantly reduced risk of bronchitic symptoms with low‐ozone exposure (adjusted OR: 0.53; 95% CI: 0.31–0.91). The risk was not reduced in children living in high‐ozone communities (adjusted OR: 1.42; 95% CI: 0.75–2.70). This difference in genotypic effects between low‐ and high‐ozone environments was statistically significant among asthmatics (P for interaction = 0.01), but insignificant among nonasthmatic children.

Conclusion:  Our findings suggest a role of gene–environmental interactions on the occurrence of bronchitic symptoms among children with asthma.
Efficacy of induction therapy on acute rejection and graft outcomes in African American kidney transplantation
Authors: Hammond Emily B. , Taber David J. , Weimert Nicole A. , Egidi Maria F. , Bratton Charles F. , Lin Angello , McGillicuddy John W. , Chavin Kenneth D. , Baliga Prabhakar K.
Published: February 2009

Hammond EB, Taber DJ, Weimert NA, Egidi MF, Bratton CF, Lin A, McGillicuddy JW, Chavin KD, Baliga PK. Efficacy of induction therapy on acute rejection and graft outcomes in African American kidney transplantation. Clin Transplant 2010: 24: 40–47. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Background:  African Americans (AA) have higher rejection rates and poorer graft outcomes compared to non‐AAs. Induction therapy is yet unproven in this high risk population.

Methods:  This retrospective study compared the efficacy of induction therapy [IL‐2 receptor antibodies (IL2RA) or thymoglobulin] vs. no induction.

Results:  One hundred and seventy‐five AA patients were included in this analysis. Patients were well matched for demographic and immunologic characteristics in the non‐induction and IL2RA induction groups; the Thymoglobulin induction group had significantly higher risk patients. Significantly fewer episodes of acute rejection occurred at one yr in patients treated with thymoglobulin and IL2RA vs. no induction (18% vs. 47%, p = 0.003, 26% vs. 47%, p = 0.02). Three yr graft survival was significantly improved in the IL2RA group compared to the non‐induction group (85% vs. 68%, p = 0.032). Despite the thymoglobulin group being at high risk, they had similar graft survival rates compared to both the IL2RA group (76% vs. 85%, p = 0.18) and the non‐induction group (76% vs. 68%, p = 0.48). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that induction therapy (combining IL2RA and thymoglobulin) independently reduced the risk of both acute rejection and graft loss.

Conclusion:  The use and type of induction therapy in AA patients significantly reduces acute rejection rates and may improve long‐term graft outcomes in AA patients.
Pre‐existent portal vein thrombosis in liver transplantation: influence of pre‐operative disease severity
Authors: Doenecke A. , Tsui T‐Y. , Zuelke C. , Scherer M.N. , Schnitzbauer A.A. , Schlitt H‐J. , Obed A.
Published: February 2009

Doenecke A, Tsui T‐Y, Zuelke C, Scherer MN, Schnitzbauer AA, Schlitt H‐J, Obed A. Pre‐existent portal vein thrombosis in liver transplantation: influence of pre‐operative disease severity. Clin Transplant 2010: 24: 48–55. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Background:  Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is a surgical challenge in liver transplantation (LTx). In contrast to LTx in decompensated liver disease, which are associated with a higher morbidity and mortality, PVT influence on outcome is still under debate. To evaluate this influence at different stages of liver decompensation, we compared the outcome of patients suffering from PVT to patients with patent portal vein within different score ranges.

Methods:  We included 193 LTx (24 with PVT) in our study, transplanted between 2004 and 2007 at our institution. Patients were divided into four Model of End‐Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score groups, and outcome was compared between PVT‐ and non‐PVT patients.

Results:  In non‐decompensated liver disease (MELD <15), we found a significantly decreased survival in patients suffering from PVT (one‐yr survival 57% vs. 89%). By contrast, MELD score >15 (decompensated liver disease) leads to an equal or even better survival in PVT‐patients compared with patients without PVT (one‐yr survival 91% vs.75%), with an only slightly increased morbidity.

Conclusion:  Outcome in patients with PVT seems to be dependent on pre‐operative disease severity. In contrast to compensated liver disease, no influence of PVT on outcome could be found in decompensated liver disease, and should therefore not be considered as a contraindication in LTx.
A structural variant of the human interferon‐gamma gene
Authors: Thye T. , Intemann C. D. , Gyapong J. , Horstmann R. D. , Meyer C. G.
Published: February 2009

The first structural IFNG variant, G54D (c.287G>A, ss105106770), located in the second exon, was identified.
Serum measurement of thymus and activation‐regulated chemokine/CCL17 in children with atopic dermatitis: elevated normal levels in infancy and age‐specific analysis in atopic dermatitis
Authors: Fujisawa Takao , Nagao Mizuho , Hiraguchi Yukiko , Katsumata Hajime , Nishimori Hisashi , Iguchi Kosei , Kato Yoshiko , Higashiura Masahito , Ogawauchi Izumi , Tamaki Kunihiko
Published: February 2009

Elevated blood levels of thymus and activation‐regulated chemokine (TARC)/CCL17 have been observed in atopic dermatitis (AD) and may serve as a new biomarker for AD. However, the normal levels, especially in children, have not been well determined. We sought to establish an efficient enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) with a wide range of detection that would be suitable for measurement of serum TARC/CCL17 and to determine the normal ranges of this chemokine in different age groups and its diagnostic usefulness for AD. A sensitive specific ELISA for TARC/CCL17, which we previously reported, was modified to accommodate the wide range of TARC/CCL17 values often found in sera. Twenty‐seven children with AD under 6 yr of age and 25 age‐matched normal non‐atopic controls, and 18 patients with AD and 27 controls who were 6 yr and older were enrolled. The severity of AD was evaluated using the SCORAD index. The serum levels of TARC/CCL17 were measured with the ELISA, and the serum levels of IP‐10/CXCL10 were also measured. With the novel ELISA system, the assayable range of TARC/CCL17 was 14–8000 pg/ml, and the coefficient of variation at various concentrations ranged from 2.3% to 5.0%. The serum levels of TARC/CCL17 in normal individuals were significantly higher in young children, especially in the age group of 0–1 yr. The cut‐off values of TARC/CCL17 for the diagnosis of AD were 1431 pg/ml for 0–1 yr group, 803 pg/ml for 2–5 yr group and 510 pg/ml for the 6 yr and older group, with high sensitivity and specificity of 0.83 and 0.93, 0.83 and 0.92, 0.85 and 0.96, respectively. The magnitude of the decrease in the SCORAD index after treatment with topical steroids correlated significantly with the decrease in serum TARC/CCL17. There was no difference in the serum levels of IP‐10/CXCL10 between AD and the controls. The TARC/CCL17:IP‐10/CXCL10 ratio tended to be higher in the control children aged 0–1 yr than in those aged 2–5 yr. The serum level of TARC/CCL17 reflects the severity and therapeutic response in AD. The high normal levels in infants should be taken into account when assaying TARC/CCL17.
Indoor environmental risk factors and seasonal variation of childhood asthma
Authors: Han Yueh‐Ying , Lee Yung‐Ling , Guo Yueliang Leon
Published: February 2009

Seasonality of asthma may result from varying exposures. This cross‐sectional study was designed to examine the relationship between indoor environmental factors and seasonal childhood asthma. Study subjects were participants from the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) in 2004, a population‐based surveillance, which included school children aged 6–15 yr in south Taiwan. Cases included 1725 children who experienced asthma symptoms in the past 12 months and the references consisted of 19,646 children who reportedly have no asthma history. By using a moving average and principal component analysis, asthmatic children were grouped into four asthma subtypes: winter, spring, summer/fall, and perennial. Multivariate logistic regression was used to evaluate the effect of indoor environmental factors on seasonality of childhood asthma. For all asthma prevalence, a peak occurred in the winter and a nadir appeared in summer. Contributing factors of asthma for children, regardless of seasonality, included younger age, parental atopy, maternal smoking during pregnancy, breast feeding, and perceived air pollution. After adjusted for salient risk factors, water damage was significantly associated with all subtypes of asthma. Presence of cockroaches was related to the summer/fall asthma (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.12–2.55). Visible mold on the walls was associated with an increased occurrence of winter and spring asthma (aOR = 1.53, 95% CI = 1.26–1.85 and aOR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.10–1.62, respectively). Passive smoking was shown to be related to spring and summer/fall asthma. Water damage is a possible risk for childhood asthma year‐round. Cockroaches and visible mold on the walls may play essential roles for seasonality of childhood asthma in Taiwan. Plausible mechanisms and allergic effects should be further determined. Elimination of these allergens is necessary to help prevent the development of asthma.
Serum levels of fibrosis biomarkers measured early after liver transplantation are associated with severe hepatitis C virus recurrence
Authors: Micheloud D. , Salcedo M. , Bañares R. , Rincón D. , Lorente R. , Muñoz‐Fernández M.A. , Resino S.
Published: February 2009

Abstract: This prospective study analyzed the relationship between several biological markers related to liver fibrosis at 3 months and 1 year post liver transplantation in 37 patients (19 with hepatitis C virus [HCV], 18 with alcoholic liver disease). Severe HCV recurrence (HCV‐SR) was defined as fibrosis stage ≥F1 (METAVIR score) at 1 year and/or a value of hepatic venous pressure gradient ≥6 mmHg. We found HCV‐SR patients had higher values of monocyte chemotactic protein‐1 (MCP‐1), soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (sVCAM‐1), and hyaluronic acid (HA) than non‐severe HCV recurrence patients (P<0.05). Moreover, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that interferon‐inducible protein 10 (IP‐10) (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.74; confidence interval [CI] 95%: 0.49–0.91; P=0.043), MCP‐1 (AUC: 0.78; CI 95%: 0.54–0.94; P=0.007), sVCAM‐1 (AUC: 0.89; CI 95%: 0.67–0.98; P=0.005), and HA (AUC: 0.80; CI 95%: 0.55–0.94; P=0.035) have good predictive capacity for identifying severe HCV infection. The evaluation of these biomarkers may be useful in the early identification of patients in whom a more aggressive therapeutic approach could be necessary.
Fatal cross infection by carbapenem‐resistant Klebsiella in two liver transplant recipients
Authors: Mathers A.J. , Cox H.L. , Bonatti H. , Kitchel B. , Brassinga A.K.C. , Wispelwey B. , Sawyer R.G. , Pruett T.L. , Hazen K.C. , Patel J.B. , Sifri C.D.
Published: February 2009

Abstract: Members of the family Enterobacteriaceae including Klebsiella have re‐emerged as major pathogens in solid organ transplantation. The recent appearance and dissemination of carbapenemase‐producing Enterobacteriaceae in Europe and the northeastern United States represents a major challenge to the treatment of enteric gram‐negative bacterial infections in immunocompromised patients; however, few reports have detailed the outcomes of such infections. Here we report 2 cases of Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC)‐producing Klebsiella infections in orthotopic liver transplant recipients, which were the index case and initial secondary case for an outbreak of KPC‐producing Enterobacteriaceae in our institution. In both instances, the pathogens were initially misidentified as being carbapenem sensitive, the infections recurred after cessation of directed therapy, and the patients ultimately succumbed to their infections.
Transcriptome dissection of gastric cancer: Identification of novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets from pathology specimens
Authors: Yasui Wataru , Oue Naohide , Sentani Kazuhiro , Sakamoto Naoya , Motoshita Junichi
Published: February 2009

Gastric cancer is the fourth most common malignancy in the world, and mortality due to gastric cancer is second only to that from lung cancer. ‘Transcriptome dissection’ is a detailed analysis of the entire expressed transcripts from a cancer, for the purpose of understanding the precise molecular mechanism of pathogenesis. Serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE) is a suitable technique for performing transcriptome dissection. Gastric cancers of different stages and histology were analyzed on SAGE, and one of the largest gastric cancer SAGE libraries in the world was created (GEO accession number GSE 545). Through SAGE, many candidate genes have been identified as potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets for the treatment of gastric cancer. Regenerating islet‐derived family, member 4 (Reg IV) participated in 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) resistance and peritoneal metastasis, and its expression was associated with an intestinal phenotype of gastric cancer and with endocrine differentiation. GW112 expression correlated with advanced tumor stage. Measurement of Reg IV and GW112 levels in sera indicated a sensitivity of 57% for detection of cancer. SPC18 participated in tumor growth and invasion through transforming tumor growth factor‐α upregulation. Palate, lung, and nasal epithelium carcinoma‐associated protein (PLUNC) was a useful marker for gastric hepatoid adenocarcinoma. Expression of SOX9, HOXA10, CDH17, and loss of claudin‐18 expression were associated with an intestinal phenotype of gastric cancer. Information obtained from transcriptome dissection greatly contributes to diagnosis and treatment of gastric cancer.
Expression of liver X receptor α and lipid metabolism in granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor‐induced human monocyte‐derived macrophage
Authors: Kazawa Toshihiro , Kawasaki Takashi , Sakamoto Azusa , Imamura Masaru , Ohashi Riuko , Jiang Shuying , Tanaka Toshiya , Iwanari Hiroko , Hamakubo Takao , Sakai Juro , Kodama Tatsuhiko , Naito Makoto
Published: February 2009

Liver X receptor (LXR) is a nuclear receptor that acts as a sterol sensor and metabolic regulator of cholesterol and lipid homeostasis. The foam cell transformation of macrophages (Mϕ) is considered a critical process in atherosclerotic lesions. The relationship, however, of the foam cell transformation of Mϕ and LXR is not fully understood. The purpose of the present study was to examine the expression of LXRα, retinoid X receptor (RXR)α, ATP‐binding cassette transporter (ABCA1), and macrophage scavenger receptor A (MSR‐A), and lipid accumulation in human monocyte‐derived Mϕ. The expression of LXRα, ABCA1, MSR‐A in 7 day cultured granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF)‐induced Mϕ (GM‐Mϕ) was significantly higher than that in 7 day cultured M‐CSF‐induced Mϕ (M‐Mϕ). The expression levels of LXRα, ABCA1 and MSR‐A protein decreased from 48 h to 5 days after the addition of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in GM‐Mϕ, but only MSR‐A protein decreased at 5 days after the addition of LPS in M‐Mϕ. Intracellular lipid accumulation was clearly observed when GM‐Mϕ was pre‐stimulated with LPS for 48 h and incubated with oxidized LDL for an additional 5 days. These findings suggest that the inhibitory activity of LXRα, ABCA1 and MSR‐A by LPS may be related to the transformation of Mϕs, especially GM‐Mϕ into foam cells.
Present situation of pTNM classification in Japan: Questionnaire survey of the pathologists of Gan‐shinryo‐renkei‐kyoten Byoin (local core cancer hospitals) on pTNM classification
Authors: Teramoto Norihiro , Tanimizu Masahito , Nishimura Rieko
Published: February 2009

pTNM classification is the most important element of surgical pathology. Internationally, the International Union against Cancer (UICC)‐TNM is the standard TNM classification. In the present study questionnaires about the pTNM were sent to the pathology divisions of 288 institutions designated as Gan‐shinryo‐renkei‐kyoten Byoin (local core cancer hospitals) on the basis of the Cancer Control Act. The questionnaire consisted mainly of questions about the TNM. There were 78 respondents, including 70 qualified pathology specialists, with a mean of 18.4 years of experience. The recognition rate of the important basic rules of the UICC‐TNM were as follows: ‘When in doubt, select the lower’: 63.6% (49/77); ‘Direct invasion to a lymph node is an N component’: 61.0% (47/77); ‘Only the extension of an invasive cancer is a T component’: 45.5% (35/77). Few respondents knew the UICC criteria for judging whether multiple pulmonary lesions represent metastatic or multiple primary lesions. Only 26 (36.4%) of 77 pathologists were informed about cTNM routinely, suggesting that neither pathologists nor clinicians possess adequate knowledge about pTNM classification in many institutions. It is recommended that pathologists be informed about the rules and importance of pTNM through education, the revised Japanese classification of cancers, and self‐assessment of their own institutes.
Malignant adenomyoepithelioma of the breast combined with invasive lobular carcinoma
Authors: Honda Yumi , Iyama Ken‐ichi
Published: February 2009

Presented herein is the first case of malignant adenomyoepithelioma (malignant AME) of the breast combined with invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) in a 53‐year‐old woman. Histologically, the tumor was composed of nodular proliferation of biphasic epithelial and myoepithelial carcinoma, partially surrounded by ILC. Interestingly, ILC metastasized to the axillary lymph nodes, while biphasic epithelial and myoepithelial carcinoma hematogenously metastasized to the lung and the kidney. On immunohistochemistry the biphasic carcinoma consisted of cytokeratin (CK) 8/18‐positive/CK5/6‐positive/smooth muscle actin (SMA)‐negative inner carcinoma cells and CK8/18‐positive/CK5/6‐positive/SMA‐positive outer carcinoma cells. The monophasic ILC cells had a CK8/18‐positive/CK5/6‐negative/SMA‐negative staining pattern. Although it is unclear whether both ILC and biphasic epithelial and myoepithelial carcinoma originated from AME or whether ILC occurred independently of malignant AME, this is an exceptionally rare case, which might give rise to a special consideration of the histogenesis of breast cancer.
Carcinoma in a solitary intraductal papilloma of the breast
Authors: Yamaguchi Rin , Horii Rie , Maki Keiko , Maeda Ichiro , Date Yuko , Nakamura Takashi , Miyagi Yumi , Iwase Takuji , Akiyama Futoshi
Published: February 2009

Herein is reported a rare case of carcinoma arising from papilloma of the breast. A 63‐year‐old postmenopausal woman noticed a nodule approximately 1 cm in diameter in her left breast. Ultrasonography indicated a mass with a solid pattern within an intracystic tumor measuring 1.5 × 1.5 × 1.4 cm in diameter located near the left nipple. On total image analysis malignancy could not be denied, therefore lumpectomy with resection of the surrounding tissue was performed. Histologically the tumor consisted of cancerous and papilloma components. The cancer cells had high‐grade nuclear atypia, were irregular, and contained abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm with a thin vascular stalk. In contrast, the tumor cells had no atypia, and had a thick stroma in the papilloma components. Both lesions could be distinguished clearly from each other. In addition, a transition from papillary to cancerous elements in some areas was seen. An additional partial mastectomy was performed after the lumpectomy but no carcinoma foci were noted in the excised tissue. Possible occurrence of cancerous change in solitary intraductal papilloma of the breast was suspected.
Lipohypertrophy: does it matter in daily life? A study using a continuous glucose monitoring system
Authors: Overland J. , Molyneaux L. , Tewari S. , Fatouros R. , Melville P. , Foote D. , Wu T. , Yue D. K.
Published: February 2009

Aims:  To use continuous glucose monitoring (CGMS) to compare glucose profiles in people with type 1 diabetes following injection of insulin into an area affected by lipohypertrophy vs. an area not affected by lipohypertrophy.

Methods:  Eight patients with type 1 diabetes underwent 72 h of CGMS while following a standardized diet and injecting all insulin either into an area with or without lipohypertrophy. Patients underwent two testing periods in random order, separated by 4 days. On day 1 of each test subjects were admitted for measurement of insulin and plasma glucose levels immediately prior to, and hourly for 4 h following, a standardized lunch.

Results:  Insulin area under the curve (AUC)0–4 h was similar for both test periods; 656; interquartile range (IQR): 518–1755 (normal tissue) vs. 602; IQR: 382–1436 (lipohypertrophic tissue), z = 1.7, p = 0.09. There was also no difference in the median time to maximal insulin concentration (Timemax 2 h; IQR: 2–3 h; z = 0.6; p = 0.6). There was a 37.5% increase in mean plasma glucose levels following a standardized meal; however this was not significant between sites (AUC0–4 ht = −1.7; p = 0.1). Moreover, there was no difference in CGMS profiles (AUC1–72 ht = −0.9; p = 0.4) across the 72‐h monitoring period. Overall the prevalence of hypoglycaemia (CGMS readings < 4 mmol/l) was similar between injection sites (11.6 vs. 10.6%, p = 0.1).

Conclusion:  The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effect of injecting into lipohypertrophic tissue is small in comparison to the usual clinical variation observed with insulin injections.
New fossil evidence of the early diversification of bees: Paleohabropoda oudardi from the French Paleocene (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Anthophorini)
Authors: Michez Denis , De Meulemeester Thibaut , Rasmont Pierre , Nel André , Patiny Sébastien
Published: February 2009

Phylogenetic relationships among and within the major groups of bees (Apoidea Apiformes) were recently reconsidered using extensive molecular and morphological datasets. The next step in the study of bee evolution will consist in estimating the antiquity of the nodes within the inferred topologies. We describe here the third oldest bee fossil, Paleohabropoda oudardi gen. n. sp. N. (Apidae, Apinae, Anthophorini) from the Paleocene of Menat (France, Puy‐de‐Dôme; 60 Myr). Phylogenetic analysis of 17 morphological characters and morphometric analysis of the wing shape were used to recover, respectively, its taxonomic position and morphological affinities. Our results indicate that Paleohabropoda oudardi gen. n. sp. n. clearly belongs to the Anthophorini. Paleohabropoda is therefore the oldest fossil that can be confidently date and place to an extant tribe. Its wing shape is surprisingly close to the extant genus Habropoda. The discovery of Paleohabropoda oudardi gen. n., sp. n. brings further evidence for the Cretaceous diversification of major lineages of bees and for strong constancy of wing shape within the Anthophorini.
FAIRE DE SON HISTOIRE UNE BOUCLE (NOIRE): WAYS OF LOOKING AT TRISTAN TZARA
Authors: LEGGE ELIZABETH
Published: February 2009

A close examination of pictorial and verbal portraits of Tzara, by both himself and others (Breton, Louis Aragon, Picabia, Germaine Everling, Man Ray, Hans Arp) – as filtered in the art and texts of the dadas and their critics through adaptations of cabbalism, Tao‐inflected Africanism, spirit photography and Maurice Barrès's ponderously mystical nationalism – yields a peculiar portrait of Paris dada, and of Tristan Tzara's ethical role within it. Anti‐Semitic slurs against Tzara, used as weapons in dada power politics, while construable as a knowingly disingenuous use of cliché and caricature, raise questions of idiom. Raoul Hausmann's Mechanical Head: the Spirit of Our Time (1919) is analysed as an exemplary approach to dada portraiture, in which constellations of contradictory readymade attributes and associations, including anti‐Semitic stereotypes, configure a tragicomic array of received social constructions, revolutionary aspirations, prejudices and ambivalences that constitute individuals as social actors within and outside dada.
REALISM AND THE BOUNDARIES OF GENRE IN DUTCH ART
Authors: SMITH DAVID R.
Published: February 2009

This essay examines the critical, though largely unrecognized, role of generic parody in Dutch art of the seventeenth century. These often subtle parodies point beyond prevailing definitions of realism as surface description to reveal the deeper ‘surplus’ of reality that lies beneath a given generic convention. As Bakhtin has shown, genres are inherently ideological and exemplary. By undermining their conventions, Dutch artists were also often undermining their accompanying didactic messages and moral norms. They thereby contribute to a multi‐layered, frequently ambivalent, form of realism that is at the heart of what is most novel and most ‘modern’ in Dutch art.
YUANMING YUAN/VERSAILLES: INTERCULTURAL INTERACTIONS BETWEEN CHINESE AND EUROPEAN PALACE CULTURES
Authors: THOMAS GREG M.
Published: February 2009

This article examines intercultural interactions between Europe and China in the eighteenth century. It focuses on China's greatest imperial palace, Yuanming Yuan, detailing its pivotal importance in contact with Europe. The first section compares Yuanming Yuan with Versailles in order to demonstrate that beneath their mutually exotic appearances lay similarities in how systems of art, architecture and gardens were deployed to reinforce structurally similar court societies. The second section argues that it was this systemic compatibility that made it possible for French and British cultural agents to make sense of Chinese arts through the playful distortions of chinoiserie. Mirroring Europe, the Chinese court simultaneously appropriated European arts in a symmetrical phenomenon of ‘Européenerie’. This case study shows that unlike many later Orientalist relationships, the unique compatibility between China and Europe in the eighteenth century made it possible for each society to make the other culturally meaningful.
Dynamic Capabilities: Current Debates and Future Directions
Authors: Easterby‐Smith Mark , Lyles Marjorie A. , Peteraf Margaret A.
Published: February 2009

The field of dynamic capabilities has developed very rapidly over the last ten years. In this paper we discuss the evolution of the concept, and identify two major current debates around the nature of dynamic capabilities and their consequences. We then review recent progress as background to identifying the contributions of the seven papers in this special issue, and discuss the relative merits of qualitative and quantitative studies for investigating dynamic capabilities. We conclude with recommendations for future research arguing for more longitudinal studies which can examine the processes of dynamic abilities over time, and for studies in diverse industries and national contexts.
From Resource Base to Dynamic Capabilities: an Investigation of New Firms
Authors: McKelvie Alexander , Davidsson Per
Published: February 2009

Despite the numerous observations that dynamic capabilities lie at the source of competitive advantage, we still have limited knowledge as to how access to firm‐based resources and changes to these affect the development of dynamic capabilities. In this paper, we examine founder human capital, access to employee human capital, access to technological expertise, access to other specific expertise, and access to two types of tangible resources in a sample of new firms in Sweden. We empirically measure four dynamic capabilities and find that the nature and effect of resources employed in the development of these capabilities vary greatly. For the most part, there are positive effects stemming from access to particular resources. However, for some resources, such as access to employee human capital and access to financial capital, unexpected negative effects also appear. This study therefore provides statistical evidence as to the varying role of resources in capability development. Importantly, we also find that changes in resource bases have more influential roles in the development of dynamic capabilities than the resource stock variables that were measured at an earlier stage of firm development. This provides empirical support for the notion of treating the firm as a dynamic flow of resources as opposed to a static stock. This finding also highlights the importance of longitudinal designs in studies of dynamic capability development. Further recommendations for future empirical studies of dynamic capabilities are presented.
Bending over Backwards? Using a Pluralistic Framework to Explore the Management of Flexible Working in the UK Police Service
Authors: Dick Penny
Published: February 2009

Professional reduced‐hours working is a form of flexible working that runs counter to the increasing trend of employer‐led flexibility, and exemplifies the rise of the so‐called ‘idiosyncratic’ employment deal. Although an emerging body of literature, there is evidence to suggest that despite the claim that professional reduced‐hours working provides ‘better’ part‐time employment than usually typifies this pattern, it actually confers considerable costs to both individuals and organizations. Some academics have called for a more strategic approach to the introduction and management of professional reduced‐hours working, in order to combat these problems. Utilizing a pluralistic perspective on the employment relationship, I draw on data from research in three metropolitan UK police forces to argue that the needs of the part‐time employee and the organization will be difficult to integrate. Showing how the negotiation context of the employment relationship has changed and resulted in a power shift from the manager to the part‐timer, I argue that the best that can be achieved is a minimal integration of the needs of both parties, and draw out the theoretical and practical implications of this position.
Women, Gendered Work and Gendered Violence: So Much More than a Job
Authors: Seymour Kate
Published: February 2009

This article explores the experiences of individuals who work with men who are violent, focusing in particular on the differential gendered impacts of this area of practice. Violence intervention is widely recognized as work that is difficult, demanding and, frequently, confronting. It is less often recognized that such work is not only experienced differently by men and women, but significantly, that it may weigh more heavily, with impacts that are both broader and more profound, on the women working in this area. Building upon an understanding of the gendered nature of work and the workplace, this research reveals the distinctively gendered nature and impact of work with men who are violent, highlighting the complex interplay of gendered individuals, in the gendered workplace, in relation to a specifically gendered activity, that of men's violence.
Trapezius motor evoked potential in evaluations of corticospinal tract lesions
Authors: Chan Y.‐C. , Yeh I.‐B. , Kannan T. A. , Wilder‐Smith E.
Published: February 2009

Background:  We wanted to know whether trapezius motor evoked potentials (MEPs) are helpful in the evaluation of corticospinal (CS) lesions above the fifth cervical segment (C5) and compared trapezius MEP measurements in patients with and without radiological evidence of CS lesions.

Methods:  Trapezius MEPs were routinely recorded in all MEP studies performed in our hospital. Patients who had MEP studies as well as brain and cervical spine imaging were retrospectively assigned to two groups. Group 1 had radiological evidence of CS lesion above the level of C5 whilst group 2 did not.

Results:  Forty‐nine patients were included in the study. Twenty‐eight patients were assigned to group 1 and 21 patients to group 2. The frequencies of abnormal values in the two groups were compared. Twelve (43%) patients in group 1 and three (14%) in group 2 had prolonged MEP latencies. Thirteen patients in group 1 had indentation or impingement of the cervical cord by intervertebral discs as the only relevant radiological abnormality. Seven (54%) of these patients were found to have prolonged trapezius MEP latencies, providing functional correlates to the radiological abnormalities.

Conclusions:  Our study gives evidence to the usefulness of trapezius MEP study in the evaluation of CS lesions.
Brachial arterial flow mediated dilation in acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Santos‐García D. , Blanco M. , Serena J. , Arias S. , Millán M. , Rodríguez‐Yáñez M. , Leira R. , Dávalos A. , Castillo J.
Published: February 2009

Background and purpose:  Brachial arterial flow‐mediated dilation (FMD) reflects endothelium‐dependent vasodilation function. FMD is diminished in patients with endothelial dysfunction (ED). Our aim was to investigate the relationship between FMD and outcome for patients with acute ischemic stroke.

Methods:  We measured FMD in 120 consecutive patients (58.3% male, median age 73 years) with acute ischemic stroke within the first 48 h of onset of the stroke, using high‐resolution ultrasonography. FMD was calculated as the relationship between basal diameter of the brachial artery before (d1) and after (d2) transient vascular occlusion (300 mmHg for 4 min) was measured using a sphygmomanometer (FMD = d2 − d1/d1 × 100). Poor outcome was defined as modified Rankin Scale at 3 months >2. FMD was categorized according to ROC analysis and we defined ED as FMD ≤ 4.5%.

Results:  Thirty‐three patients (27.5%) had ED. Median % FMD was 9.12 (7.48). FMD negatively correlated to stroke severity (P = 0.045). Median FMD was significantly lower [4.5 (2.3, 10.3) vs. 9.4 (5.6, 15.1), P = 0.003] for patients with poor outcome (n = 38). The adjusted odds ratio of poor outcome for FMD ≤ 4.5% was 3.03 (95% CI, 1.09–27.3).

Conclusions:  Impaired FMD in patients with acute ischemic stroke is associated with poor outcome.
TARDBP (TDP‐43) sequence analysis in patients with familial and sporadic ALS: identification of two novel mutations
Authors: Del Bo R. , Ghezzi S. , Corti S. , Pandolfo M. , Ranieri M. , Santoro D. , Ghione I. , Prelle A. , Orsetti V. , Mancuso M. , Sorarù G. , Briani C. , Angelini C. , Siciliano G. , Bresolin N. , Comi G. P.
Published: February 2009

Background and purpose:  Increasing evidence suggests a direct role of the TAR DNA‐binding protein 43 (TDP‐43) in neurodegeneration. Mutations in the TARDBP gene, which codes for TDP‐43, have been recently reported in familial and sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) cases.

Methods:  To further define the spectrum and frequency of TARDBP mutations, we present genetic analysis data on TARDBP in 314 ALS mainly Italian patients, including 16 subjects with non‐SOD1 familial ALS.

Results:  We identified four heterozygous missense mutations in five unrelated ALS patients (1.6%). Two of these mutations (p.G348C and p.A382T) were detected in carriers coming from families with an autosomal dominant transmission of different geographic origin (Belgian and Italian, respectively). The Belgian pedigree showed several affected members within five generations and with variable clinical features. Two novel mutations (p.G294V and p.G295S) were identified in two sporadic cases.

Conclusion:  The identification of five ALS patients carrying TARDBP alterations extends the spectrum of TARDBP mutations and supports the pathological role of TDP‐43 in motor neurone disease. Our findings provide evidence that TARDBP mutations are not frequent in Italian sporadic ALS patients (1%); however, combined with the literature, our data further support TARDBP mutations as a relevant cause of familial ALS.
Paroxysmal Hemicrania in Children—Symptoms, Diagnostic Criteria, Therapy and Outcome
Authors: Blankenburg M , Hechler T , Dubbel G , Wamsler C , Zernikow B
Published: February 2009

Whereas paroxysmal hemicrania (PH) is studied extensively in adults, even case reports of PH in children are rare. We present the first prospective follow-up study on PH in children. Our aim was to investigate whether differences exist between paediatric and adult patients. We assessed all children with chronic headache who were referred to our paediatric out-patient pain clinic within 3 years based on interviews and validated questionnaires. Among 628 patients we found five children with PH (0.8%) and three with probable PH (0.5%), in total 1.3%. Pain characteristics, autonomic symptoms and treatment response to indomethacin were similar to adult PH patients. Our results demonstrate that the International Headache Society classification of PH is also applicable to children. We suspect that PH has been underdiagnosed in children and therefore suboptimally treated thus far.
Corporate Governance in the Context of Crises: Towards a Stakeholder Theory of Crisis Management
Authors: Alpaslan Can M. , Green Sandy E. , Mitroff Ian I.
Published: February 2009

In this paper, we take a step towards developing a stakeholder theory of crisis management. We argue that, in the context of crises, adopting the principles of a stakeholder model of corporate governance will lead companies to engage more frequently in proactive and/or accommodating crisis management behaviour even if these crisis management behaviours are not perceived to maximize shareholder value. We also propose a mechanism that may explain why the stakeholder model may be associated with more successful crisis management outcomes. We conclude by challenging the efficacy of the shareholder view in crisis and crisis‐like situations, and call for further theoretical and empirical research.
Enhancing Organizational Resilience Through Emergency Planning: Learnings from Cross‐Sectoral Lessons
Authors: Crichton Margaret T. , Ramsay Cameron G. , Kelly Terence
Published: February 2009

After every emergency exercise or actual incident, reports are circulated that usually identify lessons that have been learned from the event. This paper identifies recurring themes from the lessons learned that can be widely applied across sectors. Typically, lessons are expressed in a form that is specific to the actual event that has transpired, the sector in which it has occurred, and the aims of the reporting organization. Reports relating to seven incidents that have occurred in the United Kingdom and internationally, from a range of sectors and with varying parameters, have been reviewed. It is concluded that organizations can become wiser by looking at incidents outside their own sector and by using these recurring themes to explore the resilience of their emergency plans. Recommendations are also made for best practices to improve the learning of lessons within organizations.
A classification system for hip disease in cerebral palsy
Authors: ROBIN JONATHAN , GRAHAM H KERR , BAKER RICHARD , SELBER PAULO , SIMPSON PAM , SYMONS SEAN , THOMASON PAM
Published: February 2009

In population‐based studies, hip displacement affects approximately one‐third of children with cerebral palsy (CP). Given the extreme range of clinical phenotypes in the CP spectrum, it is unsurprising that hip development varies from normality, to dislocation and degenerative arthritis. Numerous radiological indices are available to measure hip displacement in children with CP; however, there is no grading system for assessing hip status in broad categorical terms. This makes it difficult to audit the incidence of hip displacement, determine the relationship between hip displacement and CP subtypes, assess the outcome of intervention studies, and to communicate hip status between health care professionals. We developed a categorical, radiographic classification of hip morphology based on qualitative indices and measurement of the key continuous variable, the migration percentage of Reimers. One hundred and thirty‐four radiographs were reviewed of 52 female and 82 male adolescents with CP who were at, or close to, skeletal maturity (mean age 16y 1mo [SD 1y 4mo] range 14y to 19y 1mo). Twenty‐nine were classified at Gross Motor Function Classification System level I, 25 at level II, 27 at level III, 24 at level IV, and 29 at level V. A classification system was developed to encapsulate the full spectrum of hip morphology in CP, with and without intervention.
Declines in Woodland Salamander Abundance Associated with Non‐Native Earthworm and Plant Invasions
Authors: MAERZ JOHN C. , NUZZO VICTORIA A. , BLOSSEY BERND
Published: February 2009

Abstract:  Factors that negatively affect the quality of wildlife habitat are a major concern for conservation. Non‐native species invasions, in particular, are perceived as a global threat to the quality of wildlife habitat. Recent evidence indicates that some changes to understory plant communities in northern temperate forests of North America, including invasions by 3 non‐native plant species, are facilitated by non‐native earthworm invasion. Furthermore, non‐native earthworm invasions cause a reduction in leaf litter on the forest floor, and the loss of forest leaf litter is commonly associated with declines in forest fauna, including amphibians. We conducted a mark‐recapture study of woodland salamander abundance across plant invasion fronts at 10 sites to determine whether earthworm or plant invasions were associated with reduced salamander abundance. Salamander abundance declined exponentially with decreasing leaf litter volume. There was no significant relationship between invasive plant cover and salamander abundance, independent of the effects of leaf litter loss due to earthworm invasion. An analysis of selected salamander prey abundance (excluding earthworms) at 4 sites showed that prey abundance declined with declining leaf litter. The loss of leaf litter layers due to non‐native earthworm invasions appears to be negatively affecting woodland salamander abundance, in part, because of declines in the abundance of small arthropods that are a stable resource for salamanders. Our results demonstrate that earthworm invasions pose a significant threat to woodland amphibian fauna in the northeastern United States, and that plant invasions are symptomatic of degraded amphibian habitat but are not necessarily drivers of habitat degradation.
Earthworm Invasion as the Driving Force Behind Plant Invasion and Community Change in Northeastern North American Forests
Authors: NUZZO VICTORIA A. , MAERZ JOHN C. , BLOSSEY BERND
Published: February 2009

Abstract:  Identification of factors that drive changes in plant community structure and contribute to decline and endangerment of native plant species is essential to the development of appropriate management strategies. Introduced species are assumed to be driving causes of shifts in native plant communities, but unequivocal evidence supporting this view is frequently lacking. We measured native vegetation, non‐native earthworm biomass, and leaf‐litter volume in 15 forests in the presence and absence of 3 non‐native plant species (Microstegium vimineum, Alliaria petiolata, Berberis thunbergii) to assess the general impact of non‐native plant and earthworm invasions on native plant communities in northeastern United States. Non‐native plant cover was positively correlated with total native plant cover and non‐native earthworm biomass. Earthworm biomass was negatively associated with cover of native woody and most herbaceous plants and with litter volume. Graminoid cover was positively associated with non‐native earthworm biomass and non‐native plant cover. These earthworm‐associated responses were detected at all sites despite differences in earthworm species and abundance, composition of the native plant community, identity of invasive plant species, and geographic region. These patterns suggest earthworm invasion, rather than non‐native plant invasion, is the driving force behind changes in forest plant communities in northeastern North America, including declines in native plant species, and earthworm invasions appear to facilitate plant invasions in these forests. Thus, a focus on management of invasive plant species may be insufficient to protect northeastern forest understory species.
Antagonists in Mutual Antipathies: A Person‐Oriented Approach
Authors: Güroğlu Berna , Haselager Gerbert J. T. , Van Lieshout Cornelis F. M. , Scholte Ron H. J.
Published: February 2009

This study investigated the heterogeneity of mutual antipathy relationships. Separate cluster analyses of peer interactions of early adolescents (mean age 11 years) and adolescents (mean age of 14) yielded 3 types of individuals in each age group, namely Prosocial, Antisocial, and Withdrawn. Prevalence analysis of the 6 possible combinations of types of individuals constituting mutual antipathy dyads yielded antipathy dyad types. The majority of these dyads consisted of a combination of 2 dissimilar types of individuals. Implications of the high prevalence of the Antisocial–Withdrawn antipathy dyad type are discussed.
Trajectories of Depressed Mood From Early Adolescence to Young Adulthood: The Effects of Pubertal Timing and Adolescent Dating
Authors: Natsuaki Misaki N. , Biehl Michael C. , Ge Xiaojia
Published: February 2009

The effects of pubertal timing and adolescent dating on trajectories of depressed mood from early adolescence to young adulthood were examined among youths who participated in the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health. Results showed that for both boys and girls, the trajectories of depressed mood between the ages of 12 and 23 took an inverse U‐shape with its peak in mid‐adolescence. Furthermore, pubertal timing was a significant predictor of depressed mood at age 12. The pubertal timing effect was nonlinear, suggesting that at age 12, early and late maturing youths were at risk of experiencing elevated levels of depressed mood. The adverse effect of off‐time maturation gradually dissipated over time. Moreover, in early adolescence, teenagers, particularly girls, were adversely affected by dating, and off‐time physical maturation exacerbated the negative effects of dating. However, the interactive effect of dating and pubertal timing gradually decreased with age. Our findings underscore the importance of examining junctures of biological and social challenges in adolescence to gain better understandings of young people's emotional experiences over time.
Punks, Goths, and Other Eye‐Catching Peer Crowds: Do They Fulfill a Function for Shy Youths?
Authors: Bešić Nejra , Kerr Margaret
Published: February 2009

Adolescent peer crowds such as Punks and Goths are mainly identified by their strikingly unusual or even shocking appearances. Although many studies find these crowds, few have tried to explain why some youths take on these startling or shocking appearances. We hypothesized that an off‐putting appearance is a way to cope with behavioral inhibition by limiting social contacts. Using data from 1,200 7th–11th graders, we compared peer crowds characterized by their startling appearance (“Radical” crowds) with three theoretically relevant comparison groups. Results showed that youths affiliating with Radical crowds were more inhibited than other youths, including those in crowds previously shown to be shy or socially anxious. Inhibited Radicals, however, had poorer emotional adjustment than inhibited youths in other crowds. If Radical styles are a way for inhibited youths to cope by limiting social contacts, the strategy does not seem to be beneficial for emotional adjustment.