bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AIMING FOR IDEAL PANCREATOBILIARY ENDOSCOPY IN JAPAN: CURRENT PROBLEMS AND EXPECTATIONS
Authors: Maguchi Hiroyuki
Published: September 2010

In the session of Endoscopy Forum Japan (EFJ) 2004, we discussed current problems and expectations in pancreatobiliary endoscopy, and confirmed that it was essential to establish the standardization of endoscopy inclusive of its techniques and tool selections, and to perform a multicenter cooperative study of high quality in Japan. To establish the standardization of endoscopy and to perform a multicenter co‐operative study, we need the support of the Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society (JGES) and related foundations, and must put a stop to competition among institutions. It has become apparent that young doctors, whose shoulders our future rests on, are surely aware of necessities of global standardization of the medical approach. In the background of such a trend, global standardization is much anticipated to promote standardization of pancreatobiliary endoscopy and its multicenter study in Japan.
DIAGNOSTIC UTILITY OF PERORAL CHOLANGIOSCOPY AND TRANSPAPILLARY INTRADUCTAL ULTRASONOGRAPHY FOR BILE DUCT CARCINOMA
Authors: Hasebe Osamu , Tateiwa Nobuyuki , Imai Yasuharu , Nagata Atsuo
Published: September 2010

Recently, new diagnostic procedures such as video peroral cholangioscopy (POCS) and transpapillary intraductal ultrasonography (IDUS) have been available for diagnosis of biliary diseases. These new modalities are especially useful for diagnosis of minute bile duct lesions on cholangiogram and correct diagnosis of lateral extension of bile duct carcinoma. In this paper, showing some effective cases of POCS and IDUS, we present our diagnostic approach for bile duct carcinoma and discuss the future prospects of POCS and IDUS.
MICROVASCULAR PATTERNS OF ESOPHAGEAL MICRO SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA ON MAGNIFYING ENDOSCOPY
Authors: Arima Hideaki , Arima Miwako , Tada Tadahiro
Published: September 2010

Background:  Recently, esophageal microcancers have been frequently diagnosed and are receiving increasing attention as initial findings of cancer. We examined whether the clinicopathological features and microvascular patterns of esophageal microcancers on magnifying endoscopy are useful for diagnosis.

Methods:  Magnifying endoscopy was performed to examine the histopathological features of 55 esophageal cancers measuring ≤10 mm in diameter (34 small cancers, 16 microcancers, and five supermicrocancers).

Results:  Although some lesions were detected only on iodine staining, most were detected on conventional endoscopic examination. Most small cancers and microcancers were m1 or m2; some were m3 or sm2. Supermicrocancers were dysplasia or m1 cancer. As for the microvascular pattern, most m1 and m2 cancers showed type 3 vessels, while most submucosal cancers showed type 4 vessels.

Conclusions:  Microvascular patterns on magnifying endoscopy are useful for the differential diagnosis of benign and malignant esophageal cancers and for estimating the depth of tumor invasion. The shape of small lesions is often altered considerably by biopsy. Residual tumor may persist unless the basal layer of the lesion is included in biopsy specimens, even in microcancers. Consequently, endoscopic mucosal resection, without biopsy, is being performed in increasing numbers of patients with lesions suspected to be cancer on the basis of their microvascular patterns.
TOTAL THYROIDECTOMY: THE TECHNIQUE OF CAPSULAR DISSECTION
Authors: Delbridge L. , Reeve T. S. , Khadra M. , Poole A. G.
Published: September 2010

Book reviews in this article:

This paper describes the technique of total thyroidectomy using capsular dissection. Total thyroidectomy is a safe straightforward anatomical procedure in which meticulous dissection can provide protection to the parathyroid glands and to the recurrent laryngeal nerve. This protection is achieved by using capsular dissection, hugging the gland and dividing the tertiary branches (i.e. the third order of division) of the vessels while dissecting the parathyroid glands with their vascular pedicles free from the thyroid surface, with minimal exposure of the recurrent laryngeal nerve and disturbance of its blood supply. Total thyroidectomy removes all visible thyroid tissue although it is permissible to leave a very small remnant of tissue (less than a fraction of a gram) in the region of the ligament of Berry in order to protect the recurrent laryngeal nerve and the blood supply to the parathyroid glands. This technique ensures that the incidence of complications, including permanent hypoparathyroidism and recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy, is reduced to a minimum.
SPONTANEOUS RENAL ALLOGRAFT RUPTURE: A DISAPPEARING PHENOMENON IN THE CYCLOSPORINE ERA?
Authors: Robertson Amanda J. , Francis David M. A. , Millar Robert J. , Clunie Gordon J. A. , Walker Rowan G.
Published: September 2010

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Spontaneous renal allograft rupture occurred in six patients in a series of 384 consecutive renal transplants performed between July 1983 and December 1990. All cases occurred in patients treated with Azathioprine and Prednisolone, and none occurred in patients immunosuppressed with Cyclosporine. Acute allograft rejection was the underlying cause of rupture. All patients underwent urgent operation and repair of the ruptured transplant. Four patients had good renal function 74–84 months after repair, while two returned to dialysis 3 and 65 months after repair because of irreversible rejection.
A BIOLOGICAL BASIS FOR RE‐STENOSIS AFTER PERCUTANEOUS TRANSLUMINAL ANGIOPLASTY: POSSIBLE UNDERLYING MECHANISMS
Authors: Tennant M. , McGeachie J. K.
Published: September 2010

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Intravascular catheterization is a commonly used diagnostic tool and percutaneous transluminal angioplasty is used to dilate stenosed blood vessels. Although these techniques are very successful diagnostically and therapeutically they may precipitate a number of acute and chronic complications. Chronic intimal changes following balloon angioplasty can result in re‐stenosis. Intimal hyperplasia can be a long‐term complication of both diagnostic and interventional vascular catheterization. This article details these long‐term structural changes, specifically relating experimental in vivo and in vitro changes to those seen clinically.
ANTIBODY RESPONSES FOLLOWING SPLENECTOMY: IMPLICATIONS FOR THE TIMING OF PROPHYLACTIC VACCINATION
Authors: Clayer M. T. R. , Drew P. A. , Jamieson G. G.
Published: September 2010

Book reviews in this article:

Antibody responses are reduced both in the short‐ and long‐term after splenectomy. It is not known if this reduction is more profound in the immediate postoperative period compared to later, and consequently, whether there would be an advantage in delaying prophylactic vaccination to ensure a greater antibody response. To investigate this, the effect of splenectomy on the primary and secondary antibody response to sheep red blood cells (SRBC) injected into the peritoneum (IP) of adult male Porton rats was measured after either splenectomy (Spx), sham splenectomy (Sham), anaesthesia only (Ans) or no procedure at all (Con).

There was no difference in the titres of antibody between the Con and the Ans rats. There was no difference in the titres of antibody between the Sham and Spx rats, but both had significantly lower titres than the Con rats.

In a separate experiment, rats were immunized 1 month or I year after splenectomy or sham‐splenectomy. One month after the operation the antibody response of the Sham rats had increased and did not differ from that of Con rats, but in rats which had been splenectomized there was a long‐term suppression of the antibody response, which did not improve for at least one year. The results suggest that, in patients requiring splenectomy for trauma and not able to be vaccinated before operation, there may be no advantage in delaying prophylactic vaccination postoperatively.
Spatial scaling of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal diversity is affected by farming practice
Authors: van der Gast Christopher J. , Gosling Paul , Tiwari Bela , Bending Gary D.
Published: September 2010

Evidence suggests that microbial communities show patterns of spatial scaling which can be driven by geographical distance and environmental heterogeneity. Here we demonstrate that human management can have a major impact on microbial distribution patterns at both the local and landscape scale. Mycorrhizal fungi are vital components of terrestrial ecosystems, forming a mutualistic symbiosis with plant roots which has a major impact on above ground ecology and productivity. We used contrasting agricultural systems to investigate the spatial scaling of the most widespread mycorrhizal fungus group, the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). Using multiple sampling sites with a maximum separation of 250 km we describe for the first time the roles which land management, environmental heterogeneity and geographical distance play in determining spatial patterns of microbial distribution. Analysis of AMF taxa–area relationships at each sampling site revealed that AMF diversity and spatial turnover was greater under organic relative to conventional farm management. At the regional scale (250 km) distance–decay analyses showed that there was significant change in AMF community composition with distance, and that this was greater under organic relative to conventional management. Environmental heterogeneity was found to be the major factor determining turnover of AMF taxa at the landscape scale. Overall we demonstrate that human management can play a key role in determining the turnover of microbial communities at both the local and regional scales.
The chinchilla eye: morphologic observations, echobiometric findings and reference values for selected ophthalmic diagnostic tests
Authors: Lima Leandro , Montiani‐Ferreira Fabaino , Tramontin Mariana , Leigue dos Santos Lucianne , Machado Marcello , Ribas Lange Rogério , Helena Abil Russ Heloisa
Published: September 2010

Purpose To carry out a descriptive investigation into the most relevant morphological features of the chinchilla eye and bony orbit, as well as to perform selected ophthalmic diagnostic tests with the aim of establishing normal anatomic and physiologic references for this species.

Method A total of 57 healthy, chinchillas were used to test most of the parameters in this investigation. Besides morphologic observations of the globe and adnexa, selected ocular tests and parameters were investigated, including blink frequency, palpebral fissure length (PFL), Schirmer tear test (STT), esthesiometry, intraocular pressure (IOP), central corneal thickness (CCT), B‐mode echobiometric measurements of the globe and culture of the normal conjunctival bacterial microbiota. Morphologic observations were made using six formalin‐fixed globes and four macerated skulls.

Results and Discussion Normal parameters found for selected ocular diagnostic tests were: blink frequency: 2.6 ± 0.84 blinks per 10 min; STT: 1.07 ± 0.54 mm; esthesiometry: 1.24 ± 0.46 cm; IOP: 17.71 ± 4.17 mmHg; CCT: 0.34 ± 0.03 mm; PFL: 1.44 ± 0.11 cm; anterior chamber depth: 2.01 ± 0.2 mm; axial lens thickness: 5.49 ± 0.43 mm; vitreous chamber depth (internal): 3.69 ± 0.52 mm; axial globe length: 1.14 ± 0.07 cm. The most frequent bacteria isolated from the conjunctiva wereStreptococcussp. (27.45%),Staphylococcus aureus(23.52%) and coagulase‐negativeStaphylococcus(19.60%). No statistically significant differences between left or right eyes or genders were found for any of the results. Reference data and morphologic observations obtained in this investigation will help veterinary ophthalmologists to recognize unique morphological features and more accurately diagnose ocular diseases in the chinchilla, an animal already being used as a biological model for ophthalmic studies.
CASE REPORT: Intraocular osteosarcoma in an Umbrella Cockatoo (Cacatua alba)
Authors: Fordham Margaret , Rosenthal Karen , Durham Amy , Duda Lili , Komáromy András M.
Published: September 2010

An adult, presumed intact female Umbrella Cockatoo (Cacatua alba), presented with acute hemorrhage from an intraocular mass that perforated through the right cornea. Computed tomography scanning revealed a large soft tissue mass in the right orbit, invading and displacing the globe laterally, and destroying the scleral ossicles. There was no evidence of bony changes of the orbit or extension of the mass into the optic nerve or brain. Exenteration and mass removal were performed, and osteosarcoma was diagnosed via histopathology. Radiotherapy was delivered with an orthovoltage unit to a total dose of 68 Gray delivered in 17 fractions over 6 weeks. The bird recovered well from treatment, but died 2 months after the last radiation session with neurological signs. Necropsy was not performed. To our knowledge, this is the first case of an intraocular osteosarcoma reported in a bird, and the first case of attempted treatment of osteosarcoma in a bird by a combination of surgery and radiation therapy.
Reference values for selected ophthalmic diagnostic tests and clinical characteristics of chinchilla eyes (Chinchilla lanigera)
Authors: Müller Kerstin , Mauler Daniela Alice , Eule Johanna Corinna
Published: September 2010

Objective To establish reference values for the Schirmer tear test I (STT I), the phenol red thread tear test (PRTT), the intraocular pressure (IOP) with rebound tonometry, to determine the corneal sensitivity for healthy chinchillas, and to describe clinical aspects of normal chinchilla eyes.

Animals One hundred and twenty‐two eyes of 61 healthy pet chinchillas of different age and gender were investigated.

Procedures A full ophthalmic exam including slit lamp biomicroscopy, ophthalmoscopy, measurement of STT I, PRTT, determination of the corneal touch threshold (CTT), and the measurement of the IOP (TonoVet®) was performed. The normal appearance of the lid, the iris, the lens, the fundus, and the optic nerve disc was evaluated.

Results The results of the STT I were very low and not reliable, and the measurement was discontinued. The median value of PRTT was 14.0 mm wetting/15 s (mean 14.6 ± 3.5 mm wetting/15 s). The median CTT was 32.5 mm (mean 31.2 ± 7.0 mm) respectively 1.2 g/mm2(mean 1.5 ± 0.9 g/mm2). The median IOP was 3.0 mmHg (mean 2.9 ± 1.8 mmHg). The predominating iris color was brown. The fundus pigmentation varied. Few lens alteration were seen in otherwise healthy chinchilla eyes. Most chinchillas had myelinated discs. Optic nerve cupping was present in 62% of the animals.

Conclusion Because of the small amount of tears, the PRT test is recommended for tear measurements in chinchillas. The IOP in chinchillas seems to be quiet is low in comparison to other rodents.
Gleason score concordance on biopsy‐confirmed prostate cancer: is pathological re‐evaluation necessary prior to radical prostatectomy?
Authors: Truesdale Matthew D. , Cheetham Philippa J. , Turk Andrew T. , Sartori Samantha , Hruby Gregory W. , Dinneen Eion P. , Benson Mitchell C. , Badani Ketan K.
Published: September 2010

Study Type – Diagnosis (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

What’s known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Following the updated Gleason grading system in 2005 by the International Society of Urological Pathologists (ISUP), studies demonstrated improved prediction of biochemical (PSA) progression‐free outcome by needle core biopsy specimens. To our knowledge, no studies have investigated the impact of the modified grading system on inter‐laboratory agreement of biopsy Gleason score (bGS) and the effect of re‐evaluation on accuracy in predicting the true underlying histopathology. We report that when biopsy re‐evaluation resulted in a change in bGS, there was a marked improvement in the prediction of underlying pathology as determined by prostatectomy Gleason score suggesting that when outside referral of bGS results in an equivocal clinical decision, biopsy re‐evaluation can provide clarity on the true underlying tumour architecture.

OBJECTIVES

• Gleason sum from prostate biopsy (bGS) is an important tool in classifying severity of disease, ultimately influencing clinical management.

• Commonly, pathology specimens are re‐evaluated internally prior to surgery.

• We evaluate agreement of bGS with prostatectomy Gleason sum (pGS) and the impact of re‐grading on prediction of true underlying tumor architecture.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

• Retrospective analysis of men who underwent robotic‐assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) by two surgeons from 2005–2009. Initial transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) biopsy demonstrated carcinoma at an outside lab. Specimens were re‐evaluated by our GU pathologists prior to surgery. Biopsy data were correlated with pGS.

• Kappa (κ) statistics for agreement and linear regression analyses were used for categorical variables. Coefficient of concordance was used for continuous variables.

RESULTS

• 100 patients had 331 positive biopsies. Agreement (κ) for bGS between outside labs and our pathologists was 0.55 (p < 0.001).

• Internal read was twice as likely to upgrade vs. downgrade outside bGS (23% vs. 11%).

• When re‐evaluation resulted in a change in bGS, agreement with pGS was κ= 0.29, vs. κ=−0.04 for agreement of initial (outside) bGS with pGS.

• When no change was made to bGS, agreement with pGS was κ= 0.40 (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

• Good reproducibility seen between outside labs and our institution on bGS. Internal pathology re‐reads correlated better with pGS than original community bGS. When re‐reads result in a change in bGS, there is a marked improvement in prediction of underlying tumor architecture confirming the value of re‐evaluating all external biopsies prior to definitive surgery.
Microstructure and cytocompatibility of collagen matrices for urological tissue engineering
Authors: Montzka Katrin , Läufer Tanja , Becker Christoph , Grosse Joachim , Heidenreich Axel
Published: September 2010

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

The gold standard in the reconstruction of the defect urinary system is still the transplantation of autologous gastrointestinal segments although numerous different types of biomaterials (natural/synthetic) have been investigated as possible replacements. However, the ideal biomaterial is still not identified.

In this study, we were able to identify the engineered collagen‐based OptiMaix® scaffolds as promising biomaterials for the reconstruction of the urinary tract.

OBJECTIVES

To analyse the in vitro cytocompatibility of several engineered collagen‐based biomaterials for tissue engineering of the urinary tract.

Tissue‐engineered implants for the reconstruction of the urinary tract are of major interest for urological researchers as well as clinicians. Although several materials have been investigated, the ideal replacement has still to be identified.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Several collagen matrices were tested.

Electron microscopy was used to visualize the microstructure of the tested matrices.

Examination of cell attachment and growth of primary porcine urothelial and smooth muscle cells were performed and cell phenotypes were analysed using immunohistochemical stains.

Urea permeability was investigated using Ussing chamber experiments.

RESULTS

The best cytocompatibility for both urinary tract‐specific cell types was obtained with OptiMaix® (Matricel GmbH, Herzogenrath, Germany) materials.

Cell‐specific phenotypes were maintained during culture as shown by immunohistochemical staining.

Furthermore, simultaneous cultivation of both cell types for 7 and 14 days significantly reduced urea permeability.

CONCLUSION

These results show the potential of OptiMaix materials in tissue engineering approaches of urinary tract tissues.
Increased maternal Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA‐IR) associated with older age at diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes in offspring
Authors: Leech N. J. , O’Sullivan J. , Avery P. , Howey C. , Burling K. , Iyer S. , Pascoe L. , Walker M. , Cheetham T.
Published: September 2010

Diabet. Med. 27, 1450–1453 (2010)

Aims  Obesity and insulin resistance have been linked to rising incidence and earlier onset of Type 1 diabetes. Inherited differences in insulin action might also influence the evolution of Type 1 diabetes. Our aim was to determine whether parental BMI and insulin resistance influences age of onset of Type 1 diabetes in their offspring.

Methods  BMI standard deviation score and age at diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes was examined in 227 children, and in 206 of these was compared with local matched control subjects. Non‐diabetic parents of a subgroup of 80 children with Type 1 diabetes were recruited. Parental BMI was compared with local adult control subjects. The relationship between parental BMI, waist–hip ratio, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR), leptin and adiponectin levels and age at diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes in offspring was examined.

Results  We found no relationship between age at diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes in children and BMI  standard deviation score (P = 0.5). Children with Type 1 diabetes and their parents were heavier than matched control subjects (mean BMI standard deviation score ± sd in children = 0.66 ± 1.06 vs. 0.32 ± 1.16 in control subjects, P = 0.002; mean parental BMI ± sd 27.7 ± 0.4 vs. 25.5 ± 0.4 kg/m2 in control subjects; P < 0.0001). Maternal HOMA‐IR accounted for 20% of variation in age at diagnosis (P < 0.001) with increasing maternal insulin resistance associated with later age at diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes.

Conclusions  Children with Type 1 diabetes and their parents have an increased BMI at diagnosis. Maternal insulin resistance is associated with later onset of Type 1 diabetes in children.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus and risk of malignancy: is there a strategy to identify a subphenotype of patients with increased susceptibility to endogenous and exogenous hyperinsulinism?
Authors: Müssig K. , Staiger H. , Kantartzis K. , Fritsche A. , Kanz L. , Häring H.‐U.
Published: September 2010

Diabet. Med. 28, 276–286 (2011)

Aims  To give an overview on the relationship between diabetes mellitus and increased cancer risk.

Methods  We identified studies evaluating the association between diabetes mellitus, its treatment with insulin and insulin analogues and malignancies, paying special attention to studies on in vitro and in vivo effects of the long‐acting analogue insulin glargine.

Results  Even although the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the relationship between elevated cancer risk and Type 2 diabetes mellitus are not completely understood, hyperinsulinaemia in the presence of insulin resistance appears to be a key factor. Because of the mitogenic actions of insulin at high concentrations, hyperinsulinaemia may favour tumorigenesis. In line with this, an insulin‐based therapy is associated with an increased cancer risk, whereas an insulin‐sensitizing treatment results in a cancer risk reduction. Furthermore, alterations of the insulin receptor profile on tumour cells may contribute to an enhanced susceptibility towards insulin. Studies on the analogue insulin glargine have been controversial. In vitro data pointed to an elevated mitogenicity of insulin glargine, whereas in vivo data did not confirm cancerogenous effects. Moreover, recently published clinical studies on the association of insulin glargine (Lantus®) and cancer suggest that treatment with insulin glargine is not associated with increased cancer risk.

Conclusions  The relationship between elevated cancer risk and Type 2 diabetes mellitus has been shown by numerous epidemiological studies, with endogenous and exogenous hyperinsulinaemia in the presence of insulin resistance as potential underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. Recent clinical studies do not support an increased cancer risk in patients treated with insulin glargine.
Stepping through treatment: Reflections on an adaptive treatment strategy among methamphetamine users with depression
Authors: KAY‐LAMBKIN FRANCES J. , BAKER AMANDA L. , MCKETIN REBECCA , LEE NICOLE
Published: September 2010

Introduction and Aims. Stepped‐care has been recommended in the alcohol and other drug field and adopted in a number of service settings, but few research projects have examined this approach. This article aims to describe a pilot trial of stepped‐care methods in the treatment of methamphetamine use and depression comorbidity.

Design and Methods. An adaptive treatment strategy was developed based on recommendations for stepped‐care among methamphetamine users, and incorporating cognitive behaviour therapy/motivational intervention for methamphetamine use and depression. The adaptive treatment strategy was compared with a fixed treatment, comprising an extended integrated cognitive behaviour therapy/motivational intervention treatment. Eighteen participants across two study sites were involved in the trial, and were current users of methamphetamines (at least once weekly) exhibiting at least moderate symptoms of depression (score of 17 or greater on the Beck Depression Inventory II).

Results. Treatment delivered via the adaptive treatment (stepped‐care) model was associated with improvement in depression and methamphetamine use, however, was not associated with more efficient delivery of psychological treatment to this population relative to the comparison treatment.

Discussion and Conclusions. This pilot trial attests to the potential for adaptive treatment strategies to increase the evidence base for stepped‐care approaches within the alcohol and other drug field. However, in order for stepped‐care treatment in this trial to be delivered efficiently, specific training in the delivery and philosophy of the model is required.[Kay‐Lambkin FJ, Baker AL, McKetin R, Lee N. Stepping through treatment: Reflections on an adaptive treatment strategy among methamphetamine users with depression. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010;29;475–482]
Some new directions for research on psychological interventions for comorbid anxiety and substance use disorders
Authors: BAILLIE ANDREW J. , STAPINSKI LEXINE , CROME ERICA , MORLEY KIRSTEN , SANNIBALE CLAUDIA , HABER PAUL , TEESSON MAREE
Published: September 2010

Issues. Comorbidity between anxiety and substance use disorders is common, yet it is poorly understood and poorly treated. Approach. Narrative literature review. PsycINFO and Medline databases were searched for clinical trials of anxiety and substance use disorders using clinical queries for 2005–2009. Key Findings. There are few well‐conducted treatment outcome trials for comorbid anxiety and substance use disorders. Some recent (2005–2009) outcome literature has focused on specific mechanisms (anxiety sensitivity and tension reduction alcohol expectancies) that may underlie comorbidity between anxiety and substance use disorders and may lead to more targeted intervention. Implications and Conclusion: The research base for understanding and treating comorbid anxiety and substance use disorders needs to be broadened. In particular research is needed with a focus on: (i) specifying particular comorbid relationships between anxiety and substance use disorders; (ii) the mechanisms that may underlie and maintain those relationships; and (iii) well‐conducted evaluations of treatments that target those mechanisms.[Baillie AJ, Stapinski L, Crome E, Morley K, Sannibale C, Haber P, Teesson M. Some new directions for research on psychological interventions for comorbid anxiety and substance use disorders. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010;29;518–524]
Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) for the treatment of co‐occurring depression and substance use: Current evidence and directions for future research
Authors: HIDES LEANNE , SAMET SHARON , LUBMAN DAN I.
Published: September 2010

Issues and Approach. The high rates of co‐occurring depression and substance use, and the negative impact of this on illness course and outcomes have been well established. Despite this, few clinical trials have examined the efficacy of cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT). This paper systematically reviews these clinical trials, with an aim of providing recommendations for how future research can develop a more robust evidence base for the treatment of these common comorbidities. Leading electronic databases, including PubMed (ISI) and PsychINFO (CSA), were searched for peer‐reviewed journal articles using CBT for the treatment of co‐occurring depression and substance use. Of the 55 articles identified, 12 met inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Key Findings. There is only a limited evidence for the effectiveness of CBT either alone or in combination with antidepressant medication for the treatment of co‐occurring depression and substance use. While there is support for the efficacy of CBT over no treatment control conditions, there is little evidence that CBT is more efficacious than other psychotherapies. There is, however, consistent evidence of improvements in both depression and substance use outcomes, regardless of the type of treatment provided and there is growing evidence that that the effects of CBT are durable and increase over time during follow up. Conclusions. Rather than declaring the ‘dodo bird verdict’ that CBT and all other psychotherapies are equally efficacious, it would be more beneficial to develop more potent forms of CBT by identifying variables that mediate treatment outcomes.[Hides L, Samet S, Lubman DI. Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) for the treatment of co‐occurring depression and substance use: Current evidence and directions for future research. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010;29;508–517]
COMPETITION AND TEACHER PAY
Authors: TAYLOR LORI L.
Published: September 2010

Competition‐based school reform could have a significant impact on teacher earnings. If school districts behave as typical oligopsonists, then increased competition could lead to higher salaries. However, if teachers receive a share of the economic rents generated by the monopoly power of school districts, then increased competition could lower teacher salaries. This study uses panel data from 670 Texas school districts and more than 335,000 teachers to examine the relationship between school competition and teacher pay. The analysis suggests that an increase in competition results in higher wages for most teachers but lower wages for teachers in relatively concentrated markets. (JEL I2, J3)
EVALUATING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF CHILD SAFETY SEATS AND SEAT BELTS IN PROTECTING CHILDREN FROM INJURY
Authors: DOYLE JOSEPH J. , LEVITT STEVEN D.
Published: September 2010

Young children are required to use child safety seats, and the age threshold at which children can legally graduate to seat belts has steadily increased. This article tests the relative effectiveness of child safety seats, lap‐and‐shoulder seat belts, and lap belts in preventing injuries among motor vehicle passengers aged 2–6 yr. We analyze three large, representative samples of crashes reported to police, as well as linked hospital data. We find no apparent difference in the two most serious injury categories for children in child safety seats versus lap‐and‐shoulder belts. Child safety seats provide a statistically significant 25% reduction in the least serious injury category. Lap belts are somewhat less effective than the two other types of restraints but far superior to riding unrestrained. (JEL I18)
THE EARLY BIRD GETS THE WORM? BIRTH ORDER EFFECTS IN A DYNAMIC FAMILY MODEL
Authors: GUGL ELISABETH , WELLING LINDA
Published: September 2010

Birth order effects are found in empirical work but lack solid theoretical foundations in economics. Our new modeling approach to children provides this. Each child’s needs change as it grows, and births are sequential. Each child has the same genetic makeup and parents do not favor one child over the other. Parental childcare time lowers the caregiver’s current and future wages; this opportunity cost varies across time. Benefits also vary and when parental childcare is a public input, coresident children allow economies of scope in childcare. Birth order effects emerge from the changing benefits and costs. (JEL D13, D91, J13)
THE ROLE OF HOSPITAL COMPETITION ON TREATMENT EXPENDITURE AND OUTCOME: EVIDENCE FROM STROKE AND CARDIAC TREATMENT IN TAIWAN
Authors: LIEN HSIEN‐MING , CHOU SHIN‐YI , LIU JIN‐TAN
Published: September 2010

This article examines whether market competition affects treatment expenditure and health outcomes of stroke and cardiac treatment in Taiwan. Our measure of treatment expenditure is the hospital expenditure paid at the index admission (short term) and the sum of inpatient and outpatient expenditures paid in the subsequent year (long term). Our measure of health outcome is the probability of death in 1 and 12 months after the hospital's discharge. Our measure of competition follows the method developed by Kessler and McClellan that calculates the Herfindal index based on the predicted patient flows using exogenous variables (e.g., traveling distance to hospitals). Using data of patients hospitalized for new stroke and cardiac treatment between 1997 and 2001 in Taiwan, we find that an increase of market competition results in an insignificant impact on a patient's mortality. In terms of treatment expenditure, our results indicate that hospitals facing more competition incur higher expenditures, either the short‐ or long‐term expenditure. Finally, we find evidence showing that an increase of treatment expenditure at admission is due to a raise of length of stay and treatment intensity per day as well as the usage of expensive equipment. (JEL I11, L13, L41)
STRUCTURAL ESTIMATION OF THE OUTPUT GAP: A BAYESIAN DSGE APPROACH
Authors: HIROSE YASUO , NAGANUMA SAORI
Published: September 2010

We estimate the output gap that is consistent with a standard New Keynesian dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) model, where the output gap is defined as a deviation of output from its flexible‐price equilibrium, using Bayesian methods. Our output gap illustrates the U.S. business cycles well, compared with other estimates. We find that the main source of the output gap movements is the demand shocks, but that the productivity shocks contributed to the stable output gap in the late 1990s. The robustness analysis shows that the estimated output gap is sensitive to the specification for monetary policy rules. (JEL E30, E32, C11)
The influence of personality traits on nurses' job satisfaction in Taiwan
Authors: Chang Y.H. , Li H.‐H. , Wu C.M. , Wang P.C.
Published: September 2010

CHANG Y.H., LI H.‐H., WU C.M. & WANG P.C. (2010) The influence of personality traits on nurses' job satisfaction in Taiwan. International Nursing Review

Aim:  The purpose of this study was to empirically investigate a set of personality traits based on core self‐evaluations in relation to job satisfaction among nurses in Taiwan, and to identity important personality characteristics in contributing to nurses' satisfactory attitudes towards work.

Method:  A cross‐sectional survey research was conducted with self‐reported questionnaires. The participants were 314 nurses (89% response rate) in two regional hospitals in Taiwan. Among them, 99% were female (n = 311), 54.5% (n = 171) ranging between 21 and 30 years old, 37.9% (n = 119) ranging between 31 and 40 years old, 44.6% (n = 140) are registered nurse, 29.3% (n = 92) are licensed vocational nurse and 52.9% were married (n = 166). In addition, ethical research requirements for conducting research on human subjects were fulfilled for all of the participants in the study.

Analysis:  Data were analysed using SPSS version 14.0 software (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). A number of data analysis procedures were conducted including descriptive statistics, Pearson product‐moment correlation and multiple regression analysis. The selection of the predictor variables was performed with the level of significance P < 0.05 and the adjusted explained variance was used to examine statistical explanatory power.

Results:  Personality traits of optimism, self‐esteem, proactive personality, self‐efficacy and negative affectivity significantly contributed to job satisfaction.

Conclusions:  The findings of this study confirmed the importance of taking personality variables into consideration during the process of evaluating job satisfaction. Job satisfaction should not only be related to extrinsic factors but also associated with individual differences of dispositional tendency. Nurses with positive evaluation and expectation towards self and others tend to report higher job satisfaction. The results of this study are consistent with previous studies. The implications for nursing managements are discussed.
Empathy: the effects of undergraduate nursing education in Turkey
Authors: Ozcan C.T. , Oflaz F. , Sutcu Cicek H.
Published: September 2010

OZCAN C.T., OFLAZ F. & SUTCU CICEK H. (2010) Empathy: the effects of undergraduate nursing education in Turkey. International Nursing Review

Aim:  To evaluate the empathic skills and the empathetic tendency of nursing students throughout their years of undergraduate education.

Background:  Empathy is a major component of the relationships between patients and nurses, and is an observable and teachable skill that nurses are claimed to possess.

Methods:  A cross‐sectional study was designed to determine the differences in the empathic skills and tendency of nursing students in the successive years of undergraduate nursing education. A longitudinal study was also designed to evaluate the changes between the beginning and the end of the nursing education in the same group. All the registered students were asked to participate in the study. The total population was 466 nursing students of whom 438 participated (94%) in the cross‐sectional study and 81 in the longitudinal study. The Empathic Communication Skills Scale (ECSS) and the Empathic Tendency Scale (ETS) were used to collect data.

Findings:  An increase in the ECSS and a decrease in the ETS were observed in both the cross‐sectional and longitudinal studies. Comparing the years, fourth‐year students have higher empathic skills level, whereas newly registered students have a higher empathic tendency score (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:  The findings have shown that empathic skills developed during undergraduate nursing education. However, empathetic tendency has shown a decline during these educational years. The decrease in empathetic tendency during undergraduate education should be taken into account, and educators and researchers should consider possible reasons for this outcome. Further research is indicated.
Evidence on the role of accounting conservatism in monitoring managers’ investment decisions
Authors: Ahmed Anwer S. , Duellman Scott
Published: September 2010

Watts (2003), among others, argues that conservatism helps in corporate governance by mitigating agency problems associated with managers’ investment decisions. We hypothesize that if conservatism reduces managers’ex ante incentives to take on negative net present value projects and improves the ex post monitoring of investments, firms with more conservative accounting ought to have higher future profitability and lower likelihood (and magnitude) of future special items charges. Consistent with this expectation, we find that firms with more conservative accounting have (i) higher future cash flows and gross margins and (ii) lower likelihood and magnitude of special items charges than firms with less conservative accounting.
EXCLUSIVE QUALITY*
Authors: ARGENTON CÉDRIC
Published: September 2010

In the case of vertically differentiated products, Bertrand competition at the retail level does not prevent an incumbent upstream firm from using exclusivity contracts to deter the entry of a high‐quality rival. Indeed, because of differentiation, the incumbent's inferior product is not eliminated upon entry. Due to the resulting competitive pressure, a retailer who considers rejecting the exclusivity contract expects to earn much less than the incumbent's monopoly rents. Thus, in equilibrium, the incumbent can always offer high enough an upfront payment to induce all retailers to sign the contract and achieve exclusion. This is true under linear pricing for intermediate levels of entry costs, and with two‐part tariffs even in the absence of entry costs.
THE IMPACT OF INITIAL FINANCIAL STATE ON FIRM DURATION ACROSS ENTRY COHORTS*
Authors: HUYNH KIM P. , PETRUNIA ROBERT J. , VOIA MARCEL
Published: September 2010

Recent theories of industry dynamics emphasize the role of financial frictions in determining post entry performance of firms. Testing these theories has been difficult because of the lack of financial data on small, young and private firms. Using a unique data set, T2LEAP, this paper considers the survival of new firms in Canadian manufacturing from a financial perspective. Duration analysis quantifies the effects of firm, industry and aggregate factors. Findings show that nonlinear effects are found with firm leverage. Finally, likelihood decompositions offer insights into the contributing factors to firm hazard for nine entry cohorts during the period 1985–1997.
SURVIVAL AND GROWTH IN RETAIL AND SERVICE INDUSTRIES: EVIDENCE FROM FRANCHISED CHAINS*
Authors: KOSOVÁ RENÁTA , LAFONTAINE FRANCINE
Published: September 2010

Using data on franchised chains, which are the type of single‐product entities emphasized in industry dynamics models, we show that age and size affect growth and survival even after controlling for chain characteristics and unobserved chain‐specific efficiency. This implies that age and size affect firm growth and survival for reasons other than those emphasized in learning‐type models. We also find that several chain characteristics affect growth and survival directly, and thus controlling for firm characteristics is important. Finally, we find that chain size increases rather than decreases exit among young chains, and chains converge in size over time.
TIME CONSISTENCY AND SELLER COMMITMENT IN INTERTEMPORAL MOVIE DISTRIBUTION: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY OF THE VIDEO WINDOW*
Authors: WATERMAN DAVID , WEISS ANDREW A.
Published: September 2010

We study the determinants of the ‘video window’ (the interval between a movie's theatrical and video releases), based on a sample of 1,157 films released on video between 1988 and 1997. For subsets of films having shorter theater run lengths (1 to 17 weeks), windows were generally longer than, and largely invariant to, measures of the time required to exhaust the theater market. One interpretation of our results is that U.S. movie distributors resolved a time consistency problem by coordinating their behavior to maintain longer windows than would have otherwise resulted, but different explanations are also plausible.
The October 1988 Elia Prefecture Earthquake (SW Greece): Seismic Environment, Building Types and Damage Patterns
Authors: POMONIS ANTONIOS
Published: September 2010

Earthquake disasters occur frequently in Greece, causing serious building damage and considerable loss of life. The latest event, on 16 October 1988, though not one of the most destructive, caused considerable damage. Strong motion records have been obtained near to the damaged region and this provides the opportunity to assess the extent of damage to various building types, and compare it with damage caused during another recent earthquake. The common characteristics of each building type are given, along with the typical damage patterns. Comments are also made about the seismicity of Greece and earthquake damage during this century. The building type distribution in various parts of the country is also discussed, with a view to future earthquake disaster prevention and mitigation.
Humanitarian Emergencies and Military Help: Some Conceptual Observations
Authors: GORDENKER LEON , WEISS THOMAS G.
Published: September 2010

In 1988 the International Peace Academy, New York, sponsored a study exploring the interface between security and the delivery of humanitarian aid. The aim was to evaluate the possible use of military help to support humanitarian relief workers during armed conflicts. As part of this pioneering work, the authors of this paper discuss the conceptual questions that must be raised before dealing with the associated practical difficulties. It examines those circumstances in which foreign military organizations might offer help in humanitarian emergencies; the nature of contemporary examples of humanitarian need that result in international responses; and the importance of factors which affect how these are perceived. The paper then analyses the pertinent functions that military units might undertake and finally examines the constraints that would apply if such forces were to become involved.
Three‐Dimensional Modeling of Tailings Beach Shape
Authors: Fitton T. G. , Bhattacharya S. N. , Chryss A. G.
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  Tailings (mining waste) disposal is a significant consideration for the mining industry, with the majority of the ore processed in most mining operations ending up as tailings. This creates large volumes of tailings, which must be handled and stored responsibly to avoid potential environmental catastrophes. The most common form of tailings storage facility is the impoundment, where tailings are contained within a basin, with beaches forming around the perimeter of the impoundment and a pond standing in the middle. A relatively new method of tailings storage is to create a “stack,” whereby the tailings solids form a large heap, with the discharge of tailings slurry from the apex of the heap. This method of tailings storage is finding greater popularity as the industry seeks to reduce the amount of water discharged with the tailings, and usually features the discharge of non‐segregating tailings slurry that flows turbulently in its own self‐formed channel down the tailings beach. It is of significant interest for mine operators and tailings engineers to be able to predict the shape of the beach that forms in either of these disposal scenarios. The key to being able to do this relies on a method of prediction of the beach slope. In this article two new beach shape models are presented for the three‐dimensional (3‐D) geometric modeling of the beach surface of a tailings stack that has been formed through the variable discharge of a non‐segregating slurry that periodically changes in its composition, whereby the overall discharge output is defined as a sequence of smaller finite periods of steady uniform discharge, each having its own resulting beach slope. A beach slope model previously presented by the authors has been used here to predict the applicable beach slope for each finite discharge regime. The shape models presented here present two different methods for the compounding of the individual tailings deposits that are generated by each of these finite discharge regimes. Historic tailings discharge data is run through both models, and the shapes predicted by the models are compared with aerial survey data of real tailings stacks. This work not only presents a method of tailings stack shape prediction, but also a plausible theory for explaining the concavity of tailings beaches. The models also have the potential to be developed further for the 3‐D modeling of tailings beaches formed in other types of storage facilities, such as impoundments or valleys.