bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of a peer‐led self‐management programme for people with schizophrenia: protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Chan Sally Wai Chi , Li Ziqiang , Klainin‐Yobas Piyanee , Ting Steven , Chan Moon Fai , Eu Pui‐Wai
Published: November 2013

Aim

To determine the effectiveness of a peer‐led self‐management programme for people with schizophrenia in reducing psychotic symptom severity, hospital readmission and psychiatric consultation and in enhancing cognition, empowerment, functioning level, medication adherence, perceived recovery, quality of life and social support.

Background

Several self‐management programmes have been developed to empower patients with severe mental illness in achieving recovery. Research suggests that peer‐led self‐management programmes have positive effects on patient recovery. However, the existing evidence is inconclusive, due to a lack of credible evidence and long‐term follow‐up evaluations.

Design

A stratified randomized controlled trial will be conducted at six community mental health rehabilitation centres

Methods

A sample of 242 adults with schizophrenia will be recruited. A peer‐led self‐management programme, comprising six 2‐hour sessions, will be implemented in the intervention group and a standard rehabilitation programme in the control group. Outcomes will be measured at baseline, postintervention and at the 6‐ and 12‐month follow‐ups. The measures will include cognition, empowerment, functioning level, medication adherence, perceived recovery, quality of life, social support, symptom severity, hospital readmission and psychiatric consultation. A mixed effects model will be used to analyse the results. Semi‐structured interviews will be conducted to explore the peer‐trainers’ and participants’ perspectives on the programme. Research Ethics Committee approval was obtained in December 2011 and funding was obtained in January 2012.

Conclusion

This study will provide evidence on the effectiveness of a peer‐led self‐management programme for patient recovery. It will identify a clinically useful and potentially effective intervention that incorporates empowerment concept.
Acute Safety and Efficacy of a Novel Multipolar Irrigated Radiofrequency Ablation Catheter for Pulmonary Vein Isolation
Authors: DENEKE THOMAS , SCHADE ANJA , MÜLLER PATRICK , SCHMITT RAINER , CHRISTOPOULOS GEORGIOS , KRUG JOACHIM , SZÖLLÖSI GEZA , MÜGGE ANDREAS , KERBER SEBASTIAN , NENTWICH KARIN
Published: November 2013

Introduction

“Single shot” ablation devices to treat symptomatic atrial fibrillation have been engineered over the last years. Safety and efficacy also includes subclinical complications only detected with esophageal endoscopy or cerebral MRI in asymptomatic patients.

We studied the acute efficacy and safety profile of a novel multipolar irrigated RF ablation catheter (nMARQ™).

Methods and Results

Forty‐three patients underwent pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) using the novel ablation device. Patient baseline and procedural characteristics were documented. Efficacy of PVI was identified using only the nMARQ™ catheter. All patients underwent postablation endoscopic evaluation of the esophagus to document thermal damage and cerebral MRI (diffusion weight imaging, attenuated diffusion coefficient‐map) to document incidence and number of silent cerebral lesions (SCL).

Effective PVI was achieved in 98% of targeted PVs in a mean procedure time of 133 minutes. A mean of 4.8, 60‐second RF applications, per PV was needed for effective PVI. No clinical procedure‐associated complications were noted. Esophageal temperature increase >40.5 °C was noted in 22 (51%) patients and 14 of these had thermal esophageal lesions on endoscopic evaluation. A total of 26 SCLs were noted in 14 patients (33%; 1.9/patient; mean diameter of 2.3 mm, 88% of lesions were ≤3 mm).

Conclusions

PVI using the novel irrigated RF multipolar ablation device (nMARQ™) appears to be acutely effective. No clinical complications were identified. A high incidence of SCL (33%) and thermal esophageal lesions (33%) bears caution and further studies on long‐term efficacy and safety are needed.
Epicardial/Endocardial Sinus Node Ablation After Failed Endocardial Ablation for the Treatment of Inappropriate Sinus Tachycardia
Authors: JACOBSON JASON T. , KRAUS ALEXANDRIA , LEE RICHARD , GOLDBERGER JEFFREY J.
Published: November 2013

Introduction

Success of endocardial sinus node (SN) ablation for refractory inappropriate sinus tachycardia (IST) is limited by the epicardial location of the SN and potential damage to the phrenic nerve (PN). An epicardial approach may overcome these limitations.

Methods and Results

IST patients who failed endocardial ablation underwent an epicardial approach. Percutaneous pericardial access was obtained with a double wire technique for PN protection (i.e., with a balloon catheter), if needed. Earliest sinus activation was mapped and ablated with remapping for changes in P‐wave morphology or sinus rate. The endpoint was total SN ablation (patients with atrial pacing [AP]); otherwise the target was a >25% decrease in sinus rate and inversion of P‐wave axis. Five patients (all female, age 36 ± 4 years) underwent ablation. Two had prior AP, and 1 elected to have SN ablation and pacemaker during the same procedure. Three had prior endocardial ablation limited by PN proximity. Baseline sinus rate was 119 ± 20 bpm. After 35.2 ± 21.3 lesions (22.4 ± 21.7 epicardial, 12.8 ± 21.3 endocardial), 4 were in junctional rhythm, 1 in atrial rhythm at 90 bpm. This latter patient had symptom recurrence and underwent combined minimally invasive surgical/catheter SN cryoablation. Atrial tachycardia subsequently occurred and was successfully ablated. The only significant complication was pericarditis (3 patients). At last follow‐up (30.4 ± 18.4 months), all had symptom resolution. Two were AP >99%, 1 was AP 54%. Two remain in ectopic atrial rhythm with controlled rates.

Conclusions

Combined epicardial/endocardial SN ablation is a viable approach for patients with severely symptomatic IST after a failed endocardial attempt.
Association of RNASEL and 8q24 variants with the presence and aggressiveness of hereditary and sporadic prostate cancer in a hispanic population
Authors: San Francisco Ignacio F. , Rojas Pablo A. , Torres‐Estay Verónica , Smalley Susan , Cerda‐Infante Javier , Montecinos Viviana P. , Hurtado Claudia , Godoy Alejandro S.
Published: November 2013

To study the association between the polymorphisms Arg462Gln and Asp541Glu from the RNASEL gene (1q25), and the polymorphisms rs620861, rs1447295, rs6983267, rs7837328 from the chromosome 8q24 with the risk of presenting prostate cancer (PCa) and its clinical characteristics in a Hispanic (Chilean) population. The study was performed on 21 control patients and 83 patients diagnosed with PCa. Polymorphisms were analysed from blood samples through real‐time PCR by using TaqMan probes, and the genetic analysis was performed with the SNPStats program. Also, a comparison was performed between clinical characteristics of PCa and the presence of the different polymorphism genotypes by using the Minitab software. There was a significant association between the genotype G/G from the polymorphism rs6983267 with an overall increased risk of PCa, in patients both with or without family history of PCa (OR = 4.47, 95% CI = 1.05–18.94, P = 0.034 and OR = 3.57, 95% CI = 0.96–13.35, P = 0.037, respectively). Regarding clinical parameters, patients carrying the genotype C/C from the polymorphism Asp541Glu had significantly higher prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) levels than patients carrying the other genotypes (P = 0.034). Moreover, patients with the genotype G/G of rs6983267 had higher PSA levels (P = 0.024). The polymorphism rs6983267 from region 3 of the chromosome 8q24 appears to be a prominent risk factor for PCa and a biomarker for cancer aggressiveness in the group of patients who presented higher levels of PSA at the time of diagnosis.
Doxorubicin‐eluting beads versus conventional transarterial chemoembolization for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Huang Kaijun , Zhou Qian , Wang Rong , Cheng Donghui , Ma Yi
Published: November 2013

Background and Aim

Doxorubicin‐eluting bead transarterial chemoembolization (DEB‐TACE) is a novel locoregional treatment for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, to date, the benefits of DEB‐TACE versus conventional transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) remain unclear. This meta‐analysis was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the two treatments for patients with unresectable HCC.

Methods

We searched for relevant articles by means of computerized bibliographic search and complementary manual search. Objective tumor response, overall survival, and adverse events were then calculated and analyzed.

Results

A total of seven clinical studies with 700 participants were included in the current meta‐analysis. Significantly better objective tumor response was found for DEB‐TACE than for conventional TACE (OR = 1.92, 95% CI [1.34, 2.77]; P = 0.0004), with relative risk difference of 0.15 [0.07, 0.24] (P = 0.0003). One‐year and 2‐year survival rates were statistically significantly higher for DEB‐TACE compared with conventional TACE (Peto OR, 95% CI: 0.64 [0.46, 0.89], P = 0.007; 0.61 [0.47, 0.80], P = 0.0003, respectively). Peto ORs of 6‐month and 3‐year survival were 0.72 [0.46, 1.14] (P = 0.16) and 0.77 [0.55, 1.06] (P = 0.11), respectively, showing no difference statistically. However, we could still find a tendency favoring DEB‐TACE. Adverse side effects were similar in both groups, with postembolization syndrome occurring most commonly.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis shows that DEB‐TACE provides significantly better tumor response compared with conventional TACE. One‐year and 2‐year survival are better with DEB‐TACE. In addition, DEB‐TACE is as safe as conventional TACE. Therefore, DEB‐TACE is a better choice for HCC patients for whom curative treatments like liver transplantation and liver resection are not suitable.
Comparison of long‐term effectiveness and complications of radiofrequency ablation with hepatectomy for small hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Fang Yong , Chen Wei , Liang Xiao , Li Da , Lou HaiZhou , Chen Renbiao , Wang Kaifeng , Pan HongMing
Published: November 2013

Background and Aim

To determine and compare the adverse events and long‐term effectiveness for patients with small hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) (≤ 3 cm) treated by percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or hepatectomy.

Methods

Small HCC from 120 patients were randomized into either percutaneous RFA therapy or hepatectomy group, and the effectiveness and complications of two treatment modalities were analyzed. The complications of post‐RFA or hepatectomy, the complete treatment rate, treatment‐related mortality, and disease‐free and overall survival rate were followed up and conducted.

Results

In patients with small HCC, complete remission rates were achieved in 95% and 96.7% in the percutaneus RFA and hepatectomy groups, respectively (P > 0.05). Hepatic function at day‐7 status post‐treatment, including albumin and bilirubin levels, were significantly worse in the hepatectomy group (P < 0.01). Compared with the RFA group, the incidence of postoperative complications (27.5% vs 5.0%) and hospital stay (11.8 ± 3.1 vs 4.3 ± 1.5) were significantly higher in the hepatectomy group (P < 0.01). After a mean follow‐up of 40 months, 22 patients (36.6%) in the RFA group and 21 patients (35.0%) in the hepatectomy group developed a recurrence (P > 0.05). There was no significant difference of the disease‐free and overall survival rates at 1, 2, and 3 years between the RFA group and the surgical hepatectomy group (P = 0.443 and P = 0.207, respectively).

Conclusions

In patients with small HCC, percutaneous RFA showed similar local control and long‐term survival compared with hepatectomy. Importantly, percutaneous RFA are accompanied with a lower complication rate and shorter hospital stay day.
Polymorphisms in the vitamin D receptor gene and risk of primary biliary cirrhosis: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Yuan‐jun , Tang Ya‐wei , Shi Yong‐quan , Han Shuang , Wang Jing‐bo , Zhou Xin‐min , Chen Yu , Wu Zhi‐dan , Han Zhe‐yi , Han Ying , Wu Kai‐chun , Fan Dai‐ming
Published: November 2013

Background and Aim

Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is a chronic and progressive cholestatic autoimmune liver disease. Although many studies have evaluated the association between many functional polymorphisms in the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene and PBC risk, debates still exist. Our aim is to evaluate the association between VDR gene polymorphisms, including TaqI (rs731236), BsmI (rs1544410), and ApaI (rs7975232), and the risk of PBC by a systematic review.

Methods

We searched literatures in PubMed, SCOPUS, and EMBASE until July 2013. We calculated pooled odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using a fixed effects model or a random effects model for the risk to PBC associated with different VDR gene polymorphisms. And the heterogeneity assumption decided the effect model.

Results

A total of six relevant studies, with 1322 PBC cases and 2264 controls, were included in this meta‐analysis. The results indicated that TaqI (rs731236) polymorphism was significantly associated with PBC risk (for T vs t OR = 0.75, 95% CI 0.63, 0.89, Pz = 0.001; TT + Tt vs tt OR = 0.62, 95% CI 0.44, 0.86, Pz = 0.005; OR = 0.74, 95% CI 0.58, 0.94, Pz = 0.016 for recessive model), while ApaI (rs7975232) or BsmI (rs1544410) polymorphism did not.

Conclusion

Based on current evidences from published studies, the cumulative effect of TaqI polymorphism in VDR was significantly associated with PBC. Larger studies with mixed ethnicity subjects and stratified by clinical and sub clinical characteristics are needed to validate our findings.
X‐ray repair cross‐complementing 1 polymorphism and prognosis of platinum‐based chemotherapy in gastric and colorectal cancer: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Wu Hongju , Xu Chongan , Chen Gang , Wang Jingru
Published: November 2013

Background and Aim

The relationships between the X‐ray repair cross‐complementing 1 (XRCC1) Arg399Gln polymorphism (rs25487, G > A) and responses to platinum‐based chemotherapy of gastric and colorectal cancer patients are controversial. Therefore, we performed a meta‐analysis to assess the relationships.

Methods

We retrieved the relevant articles from MEDLINE and EMBASE databases. Fourteen studies with 1618 gastric and colorectal cancer patients were included. Primary outcomes included response rate (RR), progression‐free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). Odds ratio (OR) or hazard ratio with 95% confidence interval (CI) were estimated. All analyses were performed using the Stata software version 11.0 and Review Manager (v5.0).

Results

In the dominant model, the A allele of XRCC1 Arg399Gln polymorphism was associated with reduced RR to platinum‐based chemotherapy in all gastric and colorectal cancer patients (A/G + A/A vs G/G OR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.55–0.96) and in Asians (OR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.44–0.89) but not in Caucasians (OR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.60–1.42). In addition, stratified analysis for different types of cancers indicated a marginally significant decrease of RR in colorectal cancer patients (OR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.46–1.00) but not in gastric cancer patients (OR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.53–1.15). However, we did not observe a significant association between XRCC1 Arg399Gln polymorphism and hazard for PFS and OS for gastric and colorectal cancer patients in all tested models.

Conclusions

XRCC1 Arg399Gln polymorphism may be a valuable genetic marker for platinum‐based chemotherapy of gastric and colorectal cancer patients, and more well‐designed studies with large samples are needed to confirm our findings.
Extrahepatic stem cells mobilized from the bone marrow by the supplementation of branched‐chain amino acids ameliorate liver regeneration in an animal model
Authors: Okabayashi Takehiro , Shima Yasuo , Sumiyoshi Tatsuaki , Kozuki Akihito , Iiyama Tatsuo , Tokumaru Teppei , Namikawa Tsutomu , Sugimoto Takeki , Takezaki Yuka , Maeda Hiromichi , Kobayashi Michiya , Hanazaki Kazuhiro
Published: November 2013

Background and Aims

In recent years, bone marrow (BM)‐derived stem cell repopulation of injured organs has been increasingly observed; however, the extent to which it occurs and its clinical relevance remain unclear. Here, we investigated on the potential of extrahepatic stem cells to become hepatocytes using the treatment of the oral supplementation of branched‐chain amino acids (BCAA).

Methods

In the first, Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats were administered BCAA to promote liver regeneration; in the second, syngenic liver transplantations using wild‐type SD rats that do not express green fluorescent protein (GFP) as syngenic donors and GFP‐transgenic SD rats as recipients to confirm that an extrahepatic source of cells (GFP+) could repopulate the transplanted (GFP–) liver were performed.

Results

Treatment of the oral supplementation of BCAA for 2–3 weeks before transplantation to promote liver regeneration resulted in greater than 7 days graft volume, with extensive spotty conversion of a small wild‐type graft to the recipient GFP+ genotype. The treatment by oral supplementation of BCAA resulted in higher levels of CD34+SDF+c‐kit+ stem cells in the blood and liver after liver transplantation. Liver repopulation could be achieved with hepatocytes that bone marrow‐derived from stem cells proliferated.

Conclusions

We have identified extrahepatic stem cell migration from the BM to the injured liver as a mechanism underlying liver regeneration that supports hepatocyte proliferation in diseased liver. Our results suggested that BCAA is able to mobilize a population of BM‐derived cells that contribute to hepatic regeneration.
Dexamethasone in outcome of patients with hepatitis B virus‐related acute‐on‐chronic liver failure
Authors: Chen Jun‐Feng , Wang Ke‐Wei , Zhang Shao‐Quan , Lei Zi‐Ying , Xie Jun‐Qiang , Zhu Jian‐Yun , Weng Wei‐Zhen , Gao Zhi‐Liang , Lin Bing‐Liang
Published: November 2013

Background and Aim

Acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF) caused by hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a severe disease with high mortality. Immune injury plays an important role during the early stage of the disease. Our research aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of dexamethasone therapy for patients with HBV‐related ACLF.

Methods

A total of 134 inpatients with HBV‐induced ACLF were enrolled from January 2009 to December 2012. All the patients received the standard medicine treatment (SMT), among whom 31 cases underwent additional dexamethasone injection for three times (dexamethasone treatment [DMT] Group). A total of 35 patients (SMT Group) matched for baseline characters served as controls. Both the groups were followed up for 12 weeks. The survival rates, liver functions, and complications were recorded.

Results

The 12‐week cumulative survival rates were 45.7% (16/35)and 48.4% (15/31) for SMT Group and DMT Group, respectively, and no significant differences were found (P = 0.959). There were no dramatic differences in liver function and model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) score at 1, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks between two groups. There were no significant differences in the incidence of complications (i.e. infection, gastrointestinal bleeding, encephalopathy, hepatorenal syndrome, and ascites) from 1 to 12 weeks between Group SMT and Group DMT. More than 40 ages, MELD score more than 28 and encephalopathy were independent risk factors for the mortality of patients.

Conclusions

Dexamethasone cannot improve liver functions and 12‐week survival rates of patients with HBV‐related ACLF. Age, MELD score, and encephalopathy are independent risk factors.
Insight into the mode of action of 2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4‐D) as an herbicide
Authors: Song Yaling
Published: November 2013

2,4‐Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4‐D) was the first synthetic herbicide to be commercially developed and has commonly been used as a broadleaf herbicide for over 60 years. It is a selective herbicide that kills dicots without affecting monocots and mimics natural auxin at the molecular level. Physiological responses of dicots sensitive to auxinic herbicides include abnormal growth, senescence, and plant death. The identification of auxin receptors, auxin transport carriers, transcription factors response to auxin, and cross‐talk among phytohormones have shed light on the molecular action mode of 2,4‐D as a herbicide. Here, the molecular action mode of 2,4‐D is highlighted according to the latest findings, emphasizing the physiological process, perception, and signal transduction under herbicide treatment.
Practice leadership and active support in residential services for people with intellectual disabilities: an exploratory study
Authors: Beadle‐Brown J. , Mansell J. , Ashman B. , Ockenden J. , Iles R. , Whelton B.
Published: November 2013

Background

We hypothesised that a key factor determining the quality of active support was ‘practice leadership’ – provided by the first‐line manager to focus staff attention and develop staff skills in providing direct support to enable people with intellectual disabilities to have a good quality of life. This exploratory study focused on what levels of practice leadership were found and its role in explaining variation in active support.

Method

Relevant aspects of management, including practice leadership, were assessed by questionnaires administered to staff in residential settings alongside observational measures of active support and resident engagement in meaningful activity. Relationships between these variables were explored using regression and post hoc group comparisons.

Results

There was wide variation, with average levels of practice leadership being low, though improving over the period studied. Practice leadership had a significant impact on active support, but was fully mediated by the effect of quality of management. When the quality of management was higher better practice leadership did produce a significant difference in active support. However, higher quality of management on its own did not produce better active support.

Conclusions

A number of limitations are acknowledged and further research is required. Practice leadership appears to be an important factor in enabling staff to provide active support but as part of generally good management. Given the rather low levels found, attention needs to be given to the training, career development and support of practice leaders and also to how to protect their time from their many other responsibilities.
Long‐Term Results after Carotid Stent Implantation
Authors: RADU HEIKE , BERTOG STEFAN C. , ROBERTSON GREG , FRANKE JENNIFER , RABE KASJA , HORNUNG MARIUS , VASKELYTE LAURA , HOFMANN ILONA , SIEVERT HORST
Published: November 2013

Background

Though carotid artery stenting (CS) has gained popularity as an alternative to carotid endarterectomy, studies examining long‐term results are limited.

Methods

All consecutive patients who underwent unilateral CS between 7/1993 and 8/2005 with no or non‐significant contralateral stenosis were included. Follow‐up with duplex sonography and/or angiography and neurological assessment was performed at 6 and/or 12 months. Thereafter, annually, a questionnaire was sent to the patients and their referring physicians.

Results

Two‐hundred and seventy‐nine patients underwent CS. In 99% of procedures stent delivery was successful. The periprocedural major and minor stroke rates were 2.2%, respectively. The periprocedural major stroke or death rate was 2.9%. Median clinical follow‐up was 49 ± 32 months (range: 30 days–12.1 years). Excluding perioperative (<30 days) events, the annual major and minor stroke rate was 1.3% and the annual ipsilateral major and minor stroke rate was 0.6%. In symptomatic and asymptomatic patients, the annual major and minor stroke rates were 2.2% and 0.8%, respectively, and the ipsilateral major and minor stroke rates were 1.1% and 0.3%, respectively. There was no significant difference between ipsilateral and contralateral major or minor strokes at long‐term follow‐up. At last sonographic follow‐up (median 36 ± 32 months), restenosis rates for symptomatic and asymptomatic stenoses were 5% and 3%, respectively.

Conclusion

The results of our study demonstrate very low long‐term cerebral event rates after CS supporting the long‐term safety of CS. Importantly, there was no significant difference in long‐term ipsilateral versus contralateral cerebral events lending support to the hypothesis of plaque stabilization.
Genetic variation in toll‐like receptors and retinoic acid‐inducible gene I and outcome of hepatitis C virus infection: a candidate gene association study
Authors: Clausen L. N. , Ladelund S. , Weis N. , Bukh J. , Benfield T.
Published: November 2013

We evaluated the effects of genetic variation in toll‐like receptors (TLR), retinoic acid‐inducible gene I (RIG‐I) and their signalling pathways on spontaneous hepatitis C virus (HCV) resolution. We screened 95 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 22 genes. SNPs significantly associated with resolution in the discovery cohort were genotyped in a validation cohort. Multivariate logistic regression adjusted for sex, hepatitis B surface antigen, HIV infection and the interleukin‐28B rs12979860 SNP was performed in the combined cohort. Haplotype reconstruction and linkage disequilibrium analysis were performed. srs2233437, rs730775 and rs28362857 in Inhibitor of NF‐kB ε (IkBε) and rs352140 in TLR9 were associated with spontaneous HCV resolution (P ≤ 0.05) in the discovery cohort (n = 308). In the validation cohort (n = 216), we replicated a significant association with HCV resolution for two SNPs in the IkBε, rs2233437 and rs730775. Presence of one or two of the variant allele in rs2233437 had more than twofold higher odds of resolution in adjusted logistic regression (adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 2.6; (95% CI, 1.4, 4.8) P = 0.002). We identified polymorphisms in the IkBε gene associated with spontaneous HCV resolution in two independent cohorts.
The spatio‐temporal distribution of wild and domestic ungulates modulates lynx kill rates in a multi‐use landscape
Authors: Gervasi V. , Nilsen E. B. , Odden J. , Bouyer Y. , Linnell J. D. C.
Published: November 2013

Depredation on livestock and competition with hunters for game species are prominent among the conflicts that the return of large carnivores generates in multi‐use landscapes. The relative magnitude of the conflict strongly depends on what prey selection patterns predators will adopt once established in a new area. We explored prey selection and kill rates from 24 Eurasian lynx Lynx lynx in Southern Norway, between 2006 and 2011, using Global Positioning System collars. We recorded 603 lynx predation events on a wide range of prey species, ranging from passerines to large ungulates. During summer, domestic sheep were the most frequent prey, representing 64% of the ungulates killed, for an average kill rate of 8.2/100 days, whereas roe deer Capreolus capreolus were killed in about 33% of cases (kill rate = 4.2/100 days). In winter, when sheep were unavailable, roe deer were the most frequent prey, accounting for about 73% of the kills, for an average kill rate of 9.4/100 days, whereas red deer were found at 17% of the kill sites, corresponding to a kill rate of 2.2/100 days. Lynx‐killed prey provided an average of 400 kg of meat per 100 days, irrespective of prey density. In both seasons, the proportion of each species killed by lynx was determined by the combined effect of all prey densities, so that the density of wild ungulates had the potential to affect the rate of depredation on sheep, to the same extent as the abundance of sheep could influence the kill rate on wild ungulates. Our results underline the complexity of carnivore–ungulate trophic interactions in multi‐use landscapes where livestock and wildlife co‐occur, and suggest that changes in densities of prey, predators or both may produce undesired outcomes, if such complexity is not taken into account during the decision‐making process for management and conservation.
Culturally Appropriate Education: Insights From Educational Neuroscience
Authors: Zhou Jiaxian , Fischer Kurt W.
Published: November 2013

Culturally appropriate education focuses on educational competence needed in a global world and respect for different world views of learners and teachers from different cultural contexts. The relationship between gene, brain, and culture is complex and dynamical. Cultural experience and learning sculpts the anatomy and function of the human brain and shapes human behavior. This neuroplasticity is the basis of educability in human beings. Education reform should reflect cultural diversity and embed teaching practices into the cultural history of a nation and should promote positive inclusion of minority and indigenous history so as to maximize successful adoption by teachers and parents. This tenet is at the core of the concept of “culturally appropriate education.” Successful educational reform and pedagogy require that teachers become culturally and neuroscientifically literate.
Dissonance Between Parent‐Selected Bedtimes and Young Children's Circadian Physiology Influences Nighttime Settling Difficulties
Authors: LeBourgeois Monique K. , Wright Kenneth P. , LeBourgeois Hannah B. , Jenni Oskar G.
Published: November 2013

Nighttime settling difficulties (i.e., bedtime resistance, sleep‐onset delay) occur in about 25% of young children and are associated with attentional, behavioral, and emotional problems. We examined whether the timing of internal (endogenous) circadian melatonin phase (i.e., dim light melatonin onset; DLMO) and its relationship with parent‐selected bedtimes were related to nighttime settling behaviors. Fourteen regularly napping preschoolers (8 females; 30–36 months) participated in a 6‐day protocol (parent‐report of nighttime settling, actigraphic assessment of sleep onset latency, evening salivary DLMO). Average DLMO clock time was 07:40 p.m. ± 00:48 minutes, occurring 29 minutes ± 32 minutes prior to bedtime (lights‐out). Children with later DLMOs had longer sleep‐onset latencies (r  =  .62) and poorer success in falling asleep (r  =  −.59). Children whose bedtimes were closer to their DLMO had longer sleep‐onset latencies (r  =  .72) and increased bedtime resistance (r  =  −.54). We conclude that dissonance between parent‐selected bedtimes and children's circadian physiology may contribute to the development of nighttime settling difficulties in early childhood.
Obesity‐Related Hormones in Low‐Income Preschool‐Age Children: Implications for School Readiness
Authors: Miller Alison L. , Lumeng Carey N. , Delproposto Jennifer , Florek Brian , Wendorf Kristin , Lumeng Julie C.
Published: November 2013

Mechanisms underlying socioeconomic disparities in school readiness and health outcomes, particularly obesity, among preschool‐aged children are complex and poorly understood. Obesity can induce changes in proteins in the circulation that contribute to the negative impact of obesity on health; such changes may relate to cognitive and emotion regulation skills important for school readiness. We investigated obesity‐related hormones, body mass index (BMI), and school readiness in a pilot study of low‐income preschoolers attending Head Start (participating in a larger parent study). We found that the adipokine leptin was related to preschoolers' BMI z‐score, the appetite‐regulating hormones ghrelin and glucagon‐like peptide 1 (GLP‐1), and pro‐inflammatory cytokines typically associated with early life stress; and that some of these obesity‐related biomarkers were in turn related to emotion regulation. Future work should evaluate how obesity may affect multiple domains of development, and consider modeling common physiological pathways related to stress, health, and school readiness.
Becoming conscious: the science of mindfulness
Authors: Paulson Steve , Davidson Richard , Jha Amishi , Kabat‐Zinn Jon
Published: November 2013

Many of us go through our daily lives on autopilot, not fully aware of our conscious experiences. In a discussion moderated by Steve Paulson, executive producer and host of To the Best of Our Knowledge, neuroscientists Richard Davidson and Amishi Jha and clinical mindfulness expert Jon Kabat‐Zinn explore the role of consciousness in mental and physical health, how we can train our minds to be more flexible and adaptable, and cutting‐edge neuroscience findings about the transformation of consciousness through mindfulness and contemplative practice. The following is an edited transcript of the discussion that occurred February 6, 2013, 7:00–8:15 PM, at the New York Academy of Sciences in New York City.
THE VISIBLE HAND OF THE STATE: ON THE ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF INTEREST GROUPS
Authors: FRAUSSEN BERT
Published: November 2013

To understand dynamics within communities of organized interests, researchers have primarily studied organizational births and deaths. The organizational development of established interest organizations has received far less attention. This article claims that the evolution of interest groups' organizational features is strongly affected by evolving resource dependencies with the state. A life‐history case study of an environmental interest organization is used to substantiate this argument empirically. The findings demonstrate that resource dependence relations with state actors critically shape organizational development, but that this dependence affects an organization's mission, structure, and strategy in different ways. This conclusion highlights the vital role of government patronage in the survival and maintenance of interest organizations.
UNDERSTANDING WELFARE CRISES: THE ROLE OF IDEAS
Authors: KUISMA MIKKO
Published: November 2013

This symposium explores the role of ideas in welfare crises and transformations. Some of the key concerns are introduced in this article. First, it is argued that, rather than developing intentionalist accounts that explore ways in which elites use ideas as strategic tools, we should also pay attention to how ideas are expressed in public philosophies, collective memories, and logics of appropriateness. Second, it argues that crisis narratives are too often discussed in terms of ‘times of crises’. In other words, crises are seen as events frozen in time and that a more temporally nuanced approach to crises is required in order to achieve a deeper understanding of their role in welfare reform. Finally, as the role of individual responsibility increases and the role of the state decreases, ideational accounts of welfare crises need to take seriously the impact of reform on everyday lived experiences of the citizenry.
The sedative effects and the attenuation of cardiovascular and arousal responses during anesthesia induction and intubation in pediatric patients: a randomized comparison between two different doses of preoperative intranasal dexmedetomidine
Authors: Wang Shan‐Shan , Zhang Ma‐Zhong , Sun Ying , Wu Chi , Xu Wen‐Yin , Bai Jie , Cai Mei‐Hua , Lin Lin
Published: November 2013

Objective

Premedication with intranasal dexmedetomidine (DEX) has shown to be an effective sedative in pediatric patients. This prospective, randomized, and controlled investigation was designed to evaluate whether the difference in intranasal DEX dosing would produce different beneficial effects on the attenuation of cardiovascular and arousal responses during anesthesia induction and intubation.

Methods

Forty children, aged from 3 to 6 years, of American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I or II and scheduled for elective adenotonsillectomy randomly received intranasal DEX 1 μg·kg−1 (group D1) or 2 μg·kg−1 (group D2) 30 min before anesthesia induction. Anesthesia was induced with sevoflurane in oxygen flow. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) as measurements of cardiovascular response and bispectral index (BIS) as an index of arousal response were recorded every 5 min after intranasal DEX administration and measured every 1 min for 5 min after intubation. Sedation status, behavior scores, and mask induction scores were also assessed.

Results

Mean arterial pressure did not show statistical differences during the anesthesia induction, but did demonstrate significantly milder responses to laryngoscopy and intubation in group D2 compared with group D1. Change in HR was consistent with MAP during laryngoscopy and intubation. Patients who received 2 μg·kg−1 DEX presented with deeper sedation and less anxiety by the assessments of the alertness scale, behavior score, and BIS scores. Group D2 dosing achieved more favorable scores in children undergoing mask induction.

Conclusion

Intranasal DEX 2 μg·kg−1 administered 30 min before anesthesia induction provides considerable effect to attenuate the increase in MAP caused by intubation response. Changes in HR and BIS also demonstrate that this kind of premedication provides effective attenuation of intubation response. And preoperative intranasal DEX 2 μg·kg−1 produces optimal‐sedation, more favorable anesthesia induction course in pediatric patients. Premedication of intranasal DEX is a considerable way to blunt cardiovascular and arousal responses to endotracheal intubation.
Exploring the experience of hearing voices from a first person perspective: A meta‐ethnographic synthesis
Authors: Holt Lucy , Tickle Anna
Published: November 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this review was to identify, appraise, and synthesize the current peer‐reviewed qualitative literature which explores the phenomenon of hearing voices from a first person perspective.

Methods

A comprehensive systematic search of the literature was conducted. Seven studies utilizing various qualitative methodologies met the criteria to be included in the synthesis. An appraisal tool (Walsh & Downe, 2005, J. Adv. Nurs., 50, 204–211) was used to assess their quality. A meta‐ethnographic approach was used to synthesize the data extracted from them.

Results

The interpretation of the findings suggested five key themes: identity of the voice(s), power of the voice(s), impact of hearing voices on relationships, relationship with the voice(s), and the distinction between thoughts and voices. The identity of the voices seemed inextricably linked to the perceived power the voice(s) wielded over the voice hearer. The quality of the studies included in the synthesis varied greatly.

Conclusions

The findings of this synthesis highlight the importance of the voice hearer's individual frame of reference for understanding their experience. Clinical implications include the need for mental health professionals to explore an individual's understanding of their experience of hearing voices and address the perceived power of the voice(s). Further research is indicated in this area with a focus of improving the quality of qualitative research studying this phenomenon.

Practitioner points

There are multiple frames of reference in which to understand an individual's experience of hearing voices.

Mental health professionals should attend to the meaning and understanding voice hearers give to the experience.
Tennessee Health Plan Tobacco Cessation Coverage
Authors: Kolade Folasade M.
Published: November 2013

Objective

To evaluate the smoking cessation coverage available from public and private Tennessee health plans.

Design and Sample

Cross‐sectional study. The sampling frame for private plans was a register of licensed plans obtained from the Tennessee Commerce Department. Government websites and reports provided TennCare data.

Measures

Data were abstracted from plan manuals and formularies for benefit year 2012. Classification of coverage included comprehensive—all seven recommended medications plus individual and group counseling; moderate—at least two forms of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) plus bupropion and varenicline and one form of counseling; inadequate—at least one treatment, or none—no medications or counseling, or coverage only for pregnant women.

Results

Of nine private plans, one provided comprehensive coverage; two, moderate coverage; four, inadequate coverage, as did TennCare; and two plans provided no coverage. Over 362,800 smokers had inadequate access to cessation treatments under TennCare, while 119,094 smokers had inadequate or no cessation coverage under private plans.

Conclusion

In 2012, Tennessee fell short of Healthy People goals for total managed care and comprehensive TennCare coverage of smoking cessation. If Tennessee mandates that all health plans provide full coverage, 481,900 smokers may immediately be in a better position to quit.
Distributed Decisions in Networks: Laboratory Study of Routing Splittable Flow
Authors: Rapoport Amnon , Gisches Eyran J. , Mak Vincent
Published: November 2013

We study network games in which users choose routes in computerized networks susceptible to congestion. In the “unsplittable” condition, route choices are completely unregulated, players are symmetric, each player controls a single unit of flow and chooses a single origin–destination ( O– D) path. In the “splittable” condition, which is the main focus of this study, route choices are partly regulated, players are asymmetric, each player controls multiple units of flow and chooses multiple O–D paths to distribute her fleet. In each condition, users choose routes in two types of network: a basic network with three parallel routes and an augmented network with five routes sharing joint links. We construct and subsequently test equilibrium solutions for each combination of condition and network type, and then propose a Markov revision protocol to account for the dynamics of play. In both conditions, route choice behavior approaches equilibrium and the Braess Paradox is clearly manifested.
Evidence for seed transmission and symptomless growth of Ramularia collo‐cygni in barley (Hordeum vulgare)
Authors: Havis N. D. , Nyman M. , Oxley S. J. P.
Published: November 2013

Ramularia collo‐cygni (Rcc) is becoming an increasing problem for barley growers across Europe. However, the life cycle of the pathogen is only slowly being elucidated. In this study, Rcc DNA was detected in a number of harvested seed samples from 1999 to 2010, with mean levels peaking in winter barley samples in 2009. A number of experiments were carried out to determine whether the pathogen could move from barley seed to seedlings, and also from seed through the developing plant and into the subsequent generation of seed, both in controlled experiments and in field trials. Results from testing of seed indicated that the fungus is widespread at the end of the growing season in harvested grain samples and can be transmitted to developing plants from infected seed stock. Examination of infected seedlings did not reveal the presence of spores but fungal structures were found within the leaf. The location of the fungus within seed was examined, with Rcc DNA found in both embryo and non‐embryo tissue. The implications for barley production of the pathogen being seedborne are discussed.
Storage time affects umbilical cord blood viability
Authors: Guttridge Martin G. , Soh Teck Guan , Belfield Heli , Sidders Chris , Watt Suzanne M.
Published: November 2013

Background

Cryopreserved umbilical cord blood (CB) is increasingly used as a cell source to reconstitute marrow in hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients. Delays in cryopreservation may adversely affect cell viability, thereby reducing their potential for engraftment after transplantation.

Study Design and Methods

The impact of delayed cryopreservation for up to 3 days on the viability of both CD45+ and CD34+ cell populations in 28 CB donations with volumes of 58.40 ± 15.4 mL (range, 39.4‐107.4 mL) was investigated to establish whether precryopreservation storage time could be extended from our current time of 24 to 48 hours in line with other CB banks. Viability was assessed on 3 consecutive days, both before and after cryopreservation, by flow cytometry using 7‐aminoactinomycin D (7‐AAD) and annexin V methods.

Results

The results using 7‐AAD and annexin V indicated the viability of CD34+ cells before cryopreservation remained high (>92.33 ± 4.11%) over 3 days, whereas the viability of CD45+ cells decreased from 86.36 ± 4.97% to 66.24 ± 7.78% (p < 0.0001) by Day 3. Storage time significantly affected the viability of CD34+ cells after cryopreservation. Using 7‐AAD, the mean CD34+ cell viability decreased by approximately 5% per extra day in storage from 84.30 ± 6.27% on Day 1 to 79.01 ± 7.44% (p < 0.0057) on Day 2 and to 73.95 ± 7.54% (p < 0.0001) on Day 3. With annexin V staining CD34+ cell viability fell by approximately 7% per extra day in storage from 77.17 ± 8.47% on Day 1 to 69.56 ± 13.30% (p < 0.0194) on Day 2 and to 62.89 ± 15.22% (p < 0.0002) on Day 3.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that extended precryopreservation storage adversely affects viability and should be avoided.
Quality of red blood cells washed using an automated cell processor with and without irradiation
Authors: Hansen Adele L. , Turner Tracey R. , Yi Qi‐Long , Acker Jason P.
Published: November 2013

Background

Sterile washing of red blood cells (RBCs) and use of an additive solution permits longer postwash storage. The effect of irradiation during this extended storage time is unclear.

Study Design and Methods

RBCs were washed 14 days after collection using an automated cell processor and stored in saline‐adenine‐glucose‐mannitol. To determine how long washed and irradiated RBCs could be stored, units were irradiated 1, 4, 5, and 7 days after washing and in vitro quality was assessed. Determined limits of postwash storage time for washed and washed and irradiated RBCs were validated. Quality assessment included percent recovery, hemoglobin (Hb), hemolysis, extracellular K+, and adenosine triphosphate. Immunoglobulin (Ig)A levels were measured in the nonirradiated arm.

Results

RBCs irradiated 1 and 4 days after washing had unacceptably high hemolysis by Day 7 postwash, not meeting the acceptance criterion (<0.8% hemolysis in 98% of units with 95% confidence). Therefore, a 48‐hour maximum storage time after irradiation was chosen. Storage limits tested in the validation phase were as follows: washing on Day 14 and subsequent storage for 7 days (washed RBCs) and washing on Day 14, irradiation on Day 19, and subsequent storage for 48 hours (washed and irradiated RBCs). All units met criteria for Hb, hematocrit, hemolysis, and sterility for washed RBCs. However, RBCs were washed with less than 2 L of saline, and IgA levels in 27 of 40 units were too high to be suitable for transfusion to IgA‐deficient recipients.

Conclusion

The extended expiry for washed and washed and irradiated RBCs met requirements for all indications except transfusion to IgA‐deficient recipients.
Non-Newtonian Liquid-Gas Non-Uniform Stratified Flow With Interfacial Level Gradient Through Horizontal Tubes
Authors: Li Haiwang , Neng Wong Teck , Skote Martin , Duan Fei
Published: November 2013

This paper presents the predictions of the axial distribution of liquid level and interfacial level gradient (ILG) for nonuniform non-Newtonian liquid-gas flow in horizontal tubes. The non-Newtonian liquid is described using power-law model, while the model of Heywood and Charles for uniform non-Newtonian liquid-gas two-phase flow, which was developed based on one dimensional energy equation, is extended to describe nonuniform stratified flow by incorporating the effect of interfacial level gradient. Two different critical liquid levels are found from the energy equation and are adopted as boundary condition to calculate the interfacial level distribution upstream of the channel exit. The results from the model are compared with the published numerical and experimental data. The results show that the model can predict the interfacial level distribution and interfacial level gradient for nonuniform stratified flow. Low liquid velocity, low gas velocity and high liquid viscosity are beneficial for forming a nonuniform flow with interfacial level gradient. The difference between the analytical model and the published data is smaller than 10%.