bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trilateral teleoperation control of kinematically redundant robotic manipulators
Authors: Malysz Pawel , Sirouspour Shahin
Published: March 2011

Teleoperation control of kinematically redundant robots requires a strategy for resolving their redundancy. A trilateral two-master/one-slave control approach is proposed for delay-free applications in which the first master controls a primary task control frame, e.g. the slave end-effector frame; meanwhile, another master device can manipulate a secondary task frame attached to the slave robot, e.g. to avoid collision with obstacles in the task environment. Any remaining degrees of motion are resolved autonomously. Teleoperation control is achieved in three steps employing joint-space Lyapunov-based adaptive motion/force controllers, a velocity-level redundancy resolution method, and task-space coordinating reference commands. Priority can be given to either the primary or secondary control frame so that the high-priority task can be transparently carried out without interference from the other task. Whenever applicable, the lower-priority task control frame would be restricted to the natural constraints imposed by prioritization or otherwise, decoupling between the tasks is achieved with the use of an arbitrarily weighted pseudo-inverse. Experiments with a planar teleoperation system consisting of two master devices controlling a closed-chain four degree-of-motion redundant slave robot show the feasibility of the approach.
Sialic Acid and Sialyltransferase Activity in Serum and Tissues of Dogs With Mammary Tumors
Authors: Paltrinieri S. , Rossi G. , Meregalli A. , Stefanello D. , Pecile A. , Moretti P. , Rondena M.
Published: March 2011

In humans, the glycosylation pattern of serum and of membrane glycoproteins is associated with invasiveness of tumors: specifically, α2,6-sialylation and α2,3-sialylation are associated with metastasizing and nonmetastasizing tumors, respectively. In turn, the type of sialylation depends on the activity of α2,6 or α2,3 sialyltransferase (ST) enzymes. Because of the high prevalence of metastasizing tumors with biological behavior similar to the human counterpart, female dogs with metastasizing neoplasms could provide a good animal model for investigating the potential roles of sialic acid (Sia) and ST enzymes in the pathogenesis of metastatic tumors. The aims of this study were (1) to validate a solid-phase method based on lectin staining of serum and tissue homogenates to investigate sialylation and ST activity and (2) to compare the results obtained with this method and with lectin staining and to collect preliminary information on sialylation and ST activity in dogs with ( n = 8) and without ( n = 8) mammary tumors. The data recorded in healthy dogs revealed that serum and tissue glycoproteins are prevalently characterized by a α2,6 sialylation, but ST-α2,3 seems to be the most active enzyme in both samples. Sia-α2,3 and ST-α2,3 activity decreases in serum and tissues of dogs with tumors, especially in a dog with metastasis, suggesting that the equilibrium between ST-α2,6 and ST-α2,3 activity shifts toward the former, as reported in humans.
Dealing with Difference: Problems and Possibilities for Dialogue in International Relations
Authors: Tickner J. Ann
Published: March 2011

This address suggests some avenues through which IR scholars from a variety of methodological approaches and different geographical locations might better dialogue with each other in mutually respectful ways. It begins by briefly revisiting IR’s great debates since they represent the way the discipline has traditionally defined itself. It claims that these debates have centred on challenging the predominance of a US-centred discipline and its commitment to neo-positivist methodologies. Drawing on postcolonial and feminist literatures, it then offers some suggestions as to how might envisage an IR that is built on more global foundations and on a more pluralist understanding of what we define as scientific knowledge. It concludes with some thoughts on possible paths towards placing different scientific traditions on a more equal and mutually respectful footing.
Tradition and toxicity: Evidential cultures in the kava safety debate
Authors: Baker Jonathan D.
Published: March 2011

This paper examines the debate about the safety of kava ( Piper methysticum Forst. f., Piperaceae ), a plant native to Oceania, where it has a long history of traditional use. Kava became popular as an anti-anxiety treatment in Western countries in the late 1990s, but it was subsequently banned in many places due to adverse reports of liver toxicity. This paper focuses on the responses to the bans by scientists involved in kava research, contrasting their evidential culture with that employed by clinicians and regulatory officials. Cultural constructions and social negotiations of risk are shown to be context-specific, and are shaped by professional, disciplinary, and organizational factors, among others. Though the science of hepatotoxicity is uncertain enough to allow for multiple interpretations of the same data, the biomedical/clinical narrative about kava remains dominant. This case study explores the influence of these cultural, social, and political factors on the production of scientific knowledge and the assessment of benefit/risk posed by comestibles.
Early Structural and Functional Outcomes for Arthroscopic Double-Row Transosseous-Equivalent Rotator Cuff Repair
Authors: Toussaint Bruno , Schnaser Erik , Bosley Jacob , Lefebvre Yves , Gobezie Reuben
Published: March 2011

Background: The arthroscopic double-row transosseous-equivalent (TOE) rotator cuff repair is growing in popularity. The current body of literature supports this technique; however, the number of patients in these studies is relatively small. The authors conducted this study to learn more about the natural history of this construct in a large sample of patients.

Hypothesis: The double-row TOE rotator cuff repair will have an acceptable structural failure rate with improved clinical outcomes at 1-year follow-up.

Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods: Between June 2006 and October 2007, 225 patients underwent an all-arthroscopic rotator cuff repair at 2 surgical centers. A total of 155 TOE primary rotator cuff repairs were performed, and 154 of these patients met the inclusion criteria. Assessment of structural integrity was based on evaluation of postoperative magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography arthrogram at a minimum of 12 months after surgery. The Constant scores, visual analog pain scale, range of motion, strength, and complications were the clinical outcomes analyzed for the study. Seventeen patients (of 154) had postoperative shoulder stiffness at follow-up.

Results: The 154 patients were clinically and radiologically evaluated at a mean of 15 months postoperatively (range, 12-26.1 months). The study included 47 small (30.5%), 89 large (57.1%), and 19 massive (12.3%) rotator cuff tears. Analysis of postoperative imaging demonstrated that 92%, 83%, and 84% of the small, large, and massive rotator cuff tears, respectively, were intact. The mean Constant score improved from 44.42 points preoperatively to 80.47 points postoperatively ( P < .001). The mean preoperative pain score improved from 3.83 to 12.77 ( P < .001) postoperatively. The mean forward flexion improved from 123.06° preoperatively to 162.39° postoperatively ( P < .001). Seventeen patients (of 154) had postoperative shoulder stiffness at follow-up.

Conclusion: The short-term results of this study indicate that the clinical outcomes and structural integrity of TOE double-row rotator cuff repair (the suture-bridge technique) have results that compare favorably with those reported for other double-row suture anchor techniques employed in rotator cuff repairs. Long-term follow-up will be necessary to determine if the durability of these repairs and the structural integrity of these constructs maintain their performance over time.
Protective effects of methanol extracts from Cladonia rangiformis and Umbilicaria vellea against known mutagens sodium azide and 9-aminoacridine
Authors: Gulluce Medine , Agar Guleray , Aslan Ali , Karadayi Mehmet , Bozari Sedat , Orhan Furkan
Published: March 2011

Lichens and their various extracts have been occasionally used in the treatment of many diseases. Cladonia rangiformis and Umbilicaria vellea are two important species of these lichens and they have several biological activities. In the present study, methanol extracts of these lichens, which are grown in the Eastern Anatolia Region of Turkey, were isolated, and their mutagenic and antimutagenic properties were investigated by using AMES-Salmonella and Zea mays Root Tip Mitotic Index mutagenicity and antimutagenicity assay systems. Known mutagens sodium azide (NaN3) and 9-Aminoacridine (9-AA) were used to determine antimutagenic properties of methanol extracts. The results showed that all methanol extracts, investigated in the present study, can be considered genotoxically safe because they do not have mutagenic activity at the tested concentrations. Besides, all of them have antimutagenic activity against 9-AA known as a model intercalator agent in the AMES-Salmonella test system. The inhibition rates obtained from the antimutagenicity assays ranged from 37.07% (C. rangiformis—5 µg/plate) to 54.39% (C. rangiformis—5 µg/plate). Furthermore, all the methanol extracts have significant antimutagenic activity against NaN3 mutagenicity in Z. mays Root Tip Mitotic Index assay system. These activities are valuable towards an extension of the employ of these drugs as new phytotherapeutic or preservative ingredients.
Impact of occupational exposure to elemental mercury on some antioxidative enzymes among dental staff
Authors: Aisha Mohamed Samir  , Wael Mohamed Aref
Published: March 2011

Objectives: The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of elemental mercury exposure on renal function and antioxidative enzymes activity as a possible mechanism of renal affection among dental staff. Methods: This study was performed on a group of dental staff exposed to elemental mercury (N=32) and matched control group (N=37). Urinary and blood level of mercury, albumin α1 microgloblin in urine, glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase blood level were measured for the exposed and control group. Results: Compared to the control group, urinary and blood mercury were significantly higher in the exposed group. Glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activities in blood were significantly decreased and were negatively correlated with duration of work. Conclusion: Oxidative stress is an important molecular mechanism for renal dysfunction in mercury exposure, manifested by decreased activities of antioxidant enzymes.
Spinal Cord Calcification in an Early-Onset Progressive Leukoencephalopathy
Authors: Orcesi Simona , La Piana Roberta , Uggetti Carla , Tonduti Davide , Pichiecchio Anna , Pasin Moreno , Viselner Gisela , Comi Giacomo P. , Del Bo Roberto , Ronchi Dario , Bastianello Stefano , Balottin Umberto
Published: March 2011

Spinal cord calcifications are an unusual finding in pediatric neurology. We here describe a young child who presented severe psychomotor delay, tetraplegia, deafness, and anemia. Neuroradiological investigations revealed severe leukodystrophy and unusual calcifications in the cerebral white matter and all along the medullary pathways. Common infectious and metabolic diseases were ruled out. A mild reduction in the activity of several respiratory chain complexes was documented on muscle biopsy. Of interest, we found an intronic variant in DARS2, a gene involved in mitochondrial DNA translation, responsible for the syndrome of leukoencephalopathy with brainstem and spinal cord involvement and high brain lactate. In our opinion, our case, and probably 2 previously reported Japanese siblings with a picture very similar to that of our patient, could represent a new, progressive leukoencephalomyelopathy.
Interoperability of eGovernment for Building Intergovernmental Integration in the European Union
Authors: Criado J. Ignacio
Published: March 2011

This article investigates the interoperability of eGovernment policy in the European Union (EU). Are the EU institutions building up regional integration through the interoperability of eGovernment policy? To address this issue, the article analyzes the evolution of interoperability policy making from its inception in 1995 to date. It also outlines the principal implementation instruments deployed by the EU institutions to foster interoperability across member states’ public administrations, as well as employing a sample of key case studies to illustrate them. Results confirm the existence of an integrated approach to the interoperability of eGovernment policy fostered at EU level. They also corroborate the utilization of the open method of coordination (OMC) as the governance system operating within this policy field. Finally, and more importantly, this work pinpoints the growing role of interoperability policy for advancing the regional integration process within the multilevel and mutinational governance system epitomized by the EU.
Between the cultural foundations of welfare and welfare attitudes: The possibility of an in-between level conception of culture for the cultural analysis of welfare
Authors: Jo Nam K.
Published: March 2011

In spite of the recent increasing attention on culture within welfare studies, empirical evidence of the impact of culture on social policy still appears to be rare. This article argues that culture has been conceptualized either too abstractly in studies of the cultural foundations of welfare or too concretely in the welfare attitudes approach to examine the causal impact of culture on social policy empirically. Instead, it is suggested that an in-between level conception of culture, as the stable cultural context for policy-making, is more fruitful for the cultural analysis of welfare both theoretically and empirically. In an attempt to support this with an empirical analysis across about 20 welfare states, using data from all three waves of the European Values Study and other sources, it is found that the stable cultural context (culture) matters substantially in the popular perception of the cause of poverty (public opinion) and in budgetary allocation to welfare support for unemployment (welfare policy decision).
Ostracism
Authors: Williams Kipling D. , Nida Steve A.
Published: March 2011

Ostracism means being ignored and excluded by one or more others. Despite the absence of verbal derogation and physical assault, ostracism is painful: It threatens psychological needs (belonging, self-esteem, control, and meaningful existence); and it unleashes a variety of physiological, affective, cognitive, and behavioral responses. Here we review the empirical literature on ostracism within the framework of the temporal need-threat model.
A kinder, gentler counter-terrorism
Authors: Gilmore Jonathan
Published: March 2011

The current US counterinsurgency approach, introduced in 2006, has been highlighted as representing a significant shift in the US military’s approach to operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Restraint in the use of force, a focus on development projects and increased awareness of local cultures might be interpreted as signalling the emergence of a more reflective and empathetic US military, with greater acceptance of human security principles. This article contests such an interpretation, arguing that US counterinsurgency contains a range of characteristics that render it an unsuitable tool for addressing the underlying social and political problems of Iraq or Afghanistan, as well as an inappropriate platform for the realization of human security principles. Counterinsurgency retains a significant role for high-impact war-fighting, remains firmly embedded within the narrative of the War on Terror, and is likely to lead to the disempowerment of local populations. Taken together, these interlinked characteristics make the US counterinsurgency model an unlikely vehicle for the development of a long-term positive peace in the societies within which it is being applied and risks seriously compromising the credibility of future attempts to help protect the security and well-being of individuals and groups beyond one’s own national borders.
On making war possible
Authors: Wasinski Christophe
Published: March 2011

The purpose of this article is to expose the existence of a recurring military grand narrative in the modern state-centric world. This narrative rests on techniques for codifying military discipline that appeared after the Middle Ages. It was then framed and diffused intertextually in classical military treatises thanks to the rediscovery of certain developments and concepts in the fields of geometry and perspective. According to the rules of this narrative, military actions are mostly described by mentioning the location and movements of (friendly or enemy) units deployed on a given terrain. This produced a geographical representation of war that is still largely relied upon by soldiers in contemporary armies (it will especially be found in current computerized systems available in contemporary military headquarters). The consequences of this narrative are manifold: (1) it participated in and assisted the reification and dehumanization of individuals as soldiers; (2) it acts as a rhetorical tool that rationalizes and naturalizes warfare; (3) and it strongly contributes to definitions of what war is in the modern state-centric world. In this way, it makes war possible.
Mapping security–development
Authors: Stern Maria , Öjendal Joakim
Published: March 2011

The critical and considered response by Simon Reid-Henry (2011) reinforces our sense that the widespread attention being given to the ‘security–development nexus’ in the realm of policy warrants careful and critical scrutiny. Perhaps most significantly, Reid-Henry’s review article draws attention to the need to engage in the difficult – and often overlooked – questions of methodology: how can we creatively study the different ways in which the ‘nexus’ is being practised, negotiated and resisted in distinct sites – and to what effect? His comments therefore add much to our collective (yet necessarily disparate) efforts to develop an array of creative methodologies for the study of the ‘nexus’. Continuing the spirit of constructive critique, we engage with some of his main lines of argument. It is vital, we believe, to remember that there are many ways of exploring the politics of security–development, each requiring different road maps. Furthermore, as Véronique Pin-Fat reminds us, even the astute and committed pursuance of any given map may blind us to ‘finding’ what we are looking for.
Primary Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma of the Prostate in Adults
Authors: Bisceglia Michele , Magro Gaetano , Carosi Illuminato , Cannazza Vito , Ben Dor David
Published: March 2011

This study reports on a case of an adult patient with embryonal rhadomyosarcoma of the prostate and comprehensively reviews the world literature on this subject. The patient was a 49-year-old man with advanced stage disease, who initially underwent transurethral tumor resection and after diagnosis was given courses of chemotherapy prior to undergoing radical cystoprostatevesiculectomy. The tumor underwent histological examination supplemented by immunohistochemical analysis. After surgery, the patient experienced a huge pelvic recurrence and eventually died of disease 1 year after the original diagnosis. The world literature was reviewed based both on a PubMed/Medline search and the reference lists of all the available publications on this subject and only 24 cases of primary embryonal prostatic rhabdomyosarcoma have been found in the world literature in adult males (≥18 years). Embryonal rhadomyosarcoma of the prostate in adults is a very rare and aggressive disease. The long-term disease-specific survival rate is poor. Stage influences the outcome. Early diagnosis and complete surgical resection offer patients the best chance of improved survival.
Pilomatrix Carcinoma of the Clitoris
Authors: Gazic Barbara , Sramek-Zatler Simona , Repse-Fokter Alenka , Pizem Joze
Published: March 2011

Pilomatrix carcinoma, a malignant counterpart of pilomatrixoma, is a rare skin neoplasm composed of basaloid and shadow cells that characterize differentiation toward the hair matrix. The authors present a case of pilomatrix carcinoma of the clitoris, a very unusual location not previously reported. Diagnostic criteria and differential diagnoses are discussed. Pilomatrix carcinoma should be differentiated from benign pilomatrixoma and other carcinomas with shadow cells, including basal cell carcinoma with matrical differentiation and metastases of visceral carcinomas with shadow cells.
Combined Carcinoid Tumor and Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Lung: Expanding the Spectrum of Combined Tumors of Lung
Authors: Owens Christopher L. , Fraire Armando E.
Published: March 2011

Combined lung cancers containing both small cell and non—small cell carcinoma elements are uncommon but well recognized. Lung tumors with neuroendocrine differentiation form a group of histologically distinct tumors with differing clinical behavior ranging from low-grade tumors with good prognosis (typical carcinoid) to intermediate-grade tumors (atypical carcinoid) to high-grade tumors with poor prognosis (small cell carcinoma and large cell neuroendocrine tumors). The authors report clinical findings and pathologic findings in a case of combined carcinoid tumor and squamous cell carcinoma of lung. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of such a case in the peer reviewed literature, thus broadening the spectrum of combined lung tumors.
Unusual Helicobacter Pylori in Gastric Resection Specimens: An Old Friend With a New Look
Authors: Aggarwal Nidhi , Snyder Patricia , Owens Scott R.
Published: March 2011

Immunohistochemical staining is useful in the diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori—induced gastritis. The authors encountered gastric resection specimens with an unusual pattern of reactivity on H pylori immunostains where the typical morphology of the organism was not recognizable, but the characteristic chronic gastritis associated with infection was present. The authors sought to explore this phenomenon by retrospectively reviewing and immunostaining 28 gastric resection specimens for H pylori. Six cases with large clumps of immunohistochemically positive but morphologically unrecognizable material were identified on light microscopy, corresponding on electron microscopy to clusters of predominantly coccoid H pylori, some located intracellularly. Such organisms were not identifiable without immunohistochemistry, and the phenomenon was not encountered in gastric biopsies. The authors conclude that this staining pattern reflects true H pylori infection that is not diagnosable without immunohistochemistry. Based on its occurrence only in resections, it may be the result of hypoxic or other stress induced when the mucosa is not promptly fixed.
Adenomatoid Tumor of the Testis With Intratesticular Growth
Authors: Alexiev Borislav A. , Xu Lauren F. , Heath Jonathon E. , Twaddell William S. , Phelan Michael W.
Published: March 2011

Adenomatoid tumor of the male genitourinary tract is a rare benign neoplasm thought to be of mesothelial origin. In exceptional cases, these lesions may involve the testicular parenchyma, of which there are only 9 published cases in the literature. The authors describe a rare case of a testicular tumor in a 41-year-old male with normal tumor markers. Histopathology and immunohistochemical studies revealed an adenomatoid tumor with intratesticular growth. No involvement of the epididymis or testicular membranes was identified. The morphological clues leading to the correct diagnosis of adenomatoid tumor and the possible histogenesis and differential diagnosis are discussed.
Lymph Node Correlations and Thresholds in Colorectal Cancer Specimens
Authors: Minhas Jatinder S. , Igali Laszlo
Published: March 2011

Lymph node yield is a key factor in enabling the accurate determination of prognosis in colorectal cancer patients. The Royal College of Pathologists guidelines state a “minimum” recommended mean number of 12 lymph nodes. In this study of 391 patients, the authors aim to determine the optimal node counts in patients with colorectal cancer, examine for correlations between maximum tumor diameter and lymph node yield, and examine for correlations between lymph node yield and involved node numbers. Furthermore, the authors aim to examine the impact of specimen type on the harvested node numbers and assess whether the personal differences between surgeons and pathologists have significant influence on node yield. A moderate positive correlation between maximum tumor diameter and final lymph node yield was noted (Spearman’s correlation coefficient = .328, P = .0001). There was significant variation shown by pathologists (Kruskal–Wallis test P = .001) and by differing specimen type (Kruskal–Wallis test P = .029) on the lymph node yield.
An Adult Case of Melanotic Xp11 Translocation Renal Cancers: Distinct Entity or Sub-entity?
Authors: Varinot Justine , Camparo Philippe , Beurtheret Sylvain , Barreda Eleodoro , Compérat Eva
Published: March 2011

Melanotic Xp11 translocation renal cancer is a recently recognized aggressive epithelioid neoplasm with features overlapping between PEComa, carcinoma, and melanoma, in which TFE3 gene fusions coexist with melanin synthesis. These findings support the idea that melanotic Xp11 translocation renal cancer is a distinct variant of the MiT/TFE3 family neoplasms. The authors describe a pigmented renal tumor occurring in a 30-year-old woman with distinct morphology and immunohistochemical characteristics as Xp11 translocation renal cancer.
Multiple Exposures: Scientific Controversy, the Media, and Public Responses to Bisphenol A
Authors: Brewer Paul R. , Ley Barbara L.
Published: March 2011

The controversy surrounding the potential health effects of bisphenol A (BPA) has recently spread from the scientific arena to mass mediated public debate. This study presents a theoretical account of low-information rationality to explain why media use (including newspaper use and online health information use) and confidence in key actors (including business, the Food and Drug Administration, and scientists) may predict public responses to BPA. It then analyzes survey data to examine how these factors are related to familiarity with BPA, concern about it, support for a ban on it, and behaviors to reduce exposure to it.
Retinal vein thrombosis in a patient with metastatic colon cancer receiving XELOX chemotherapy combined with bevacizumab pre-hepatic resection
Authors: Gilbar Peter , Sorour Natacha
Published: March 2011

Retinal vein thrombosis is a common vascular occlusive disorder of the retina responsible for varying degrees of vision impairment. It is an adverse effect rarely associated with cancer and its treatment. We report the case of a patient with metastatic colon cancer who developed central retinal vein thrombosis (CRVT) in the right eye following two cycles of chemotherapy with capecitabine and oxaliplatin (XELOX) plus bevacizumab given prior to hepatic resection. Despite cessation of chemotherapy, vision has not improved. The etiology of the CRVT in this case is not clear due to risk factors for venous thrombotic events including colonic malignancy and previous major surgery. However, the proximity of chemotherapy administration to the initial development of symptoms suggests the possibility of a medication-related cause, with bevacizumab and capecitabine the most likely suspects.
Mind/Body Theory and Practice in Tibetan Medicine and Buddhism
Authors: Ozawa De Silva Chikako , Ozawa-De Silva Brendan Richard
Published: March 2011

The model of mind and body in Tibetan medical practice is based on Buddhist theory, and is neither dualistic in a Cartesian sense, nor monistic. Rather, it represents a genuine alternative to these positions by presenting mind/body interaction as a dynamic process that is situated within the context of the individual’s relationships with others and the environment. Due to the distinctiveness, yet interdependence, of mind and body, the physician’s task is to heal the patient’s mind (blo-gso) as well as body. This in turn emphasizes the central importance of ‘compassion’ in the physician/patient relationship. This article investigates how Tibetan medical practitioners understand and enact the mind/ body and physician/patient relationships, and how this relates to theoretical explications of these relationships in Tibetan medical and Buddhist teachings. Furthermore, Tibetan medicine provides an interesting model for comparison with embodied theories of cognition, which see consciousness, the body and its environment as integral parts of a complex, dynamical cognitive system.
The Invisible Woman: The Bioaesthetics of Engineered Bodies
Authors: Sharp Lesley A.
Published: March 2011

Biomechanical engineering is marked by highly experimental efforts to craft mechanical devices that might one day alleviate the scarcity of transplantable organs in the USA. A pronounced desire among bioengineers involves melding humans with machines, bearing the promise of perfecting the natural yet messy flaws of the ‘natal’ body. Not all bodies are considered equal within this field, however. Visual renderings of heart devices — as an unusual sort of body prosthesis — foreground a specialized aesthetic, where the well-toned male form defines an idealized generic of beauty and perfection. This analysis considers the moral underpinnings of the embodied aesthetic in specific reference to engineers’ efforts to fabricate implantable ‘artificial’ hearts. Of central concern are the sociomoral consequences of a standardized male beauty, set alongside the striking absence — or invisibility — of the female form within this rarified field of science.
Related languages, convergence and replication: Faroese-Danish
Authors: Petersen Hjalmar P.
Published: March 2011

The aim of this article is to present examples of a number of types of changes in Faroese that have come about under the influence of Danish. The majority of the residents of the Faroe Islands are bilingual in Faroese (L1) and Danish (L2). This has resulted in many loanwords, convergence and replication. The main topic of this article is convergence and replication, and we subscribe to a definition of convergence that stresses it as a one-way phenomenon, which involves the abstract level structure of a source language, and the surface-level patterns coming from the recipient language.
Register-based research: Some methodological considerations
Authors: Olsen Jørn
Published: March 2011

Aims: Collecting new research data is often time consuming and expensive and it may be difficult to recruit volunteers to provide data for research. We should therefore make sure that we do not collect data that already are available and in the Nordic countries we have an opportunity to use national registers for certain types of research. In some situations using these population-based registers is preferable to collecting primary data since selection bias due to nonresponders is not a problem in these registers. Methods: Register-based data can be used in most designs available in observational studies and even add important data to randomised trials. Getting access to using the valuable data sources stored in national registers is much easier now that it was in the past. However, we still need better documentation and we should to a much larger extent be able to use research files that combine data from two or more of the Nordic countries. Linking primary research data to public registers will also provide new research opportunities. Results: Nordic registers have been used in several landmark papers over the years. Conclusions: Register-based research can be done without risk of unwanted disclosure of personal data and it involves no invasive procedures. It is a valuable gift given by the people to be used for the people.
Effect on motivation, perceived competence, and activation after participation in the ‘‘Ready to Act’’ programme for people with screen-detected dysglycaemia: A 1-year randomised controlled trial, Addition-DK
Authors: Maindal Helle Terkildsen , Sandbæk Annelli , Kirkevold Marit , Lauritzen Torsten
Published: March 2011

Aim: To investigate the reach of the ‘‘Ready to Act’’ programme and the 1-year effects on psychological determinants of healthy behaviour: motivation, perceived competence, and activation level. Methods: A total of 509 adults with dysglycaemia were recruited from general practioners (GPs) in the intensive arm of the Danish Anglo-Danish-Dutch Study of Intensive Treatment in People with Screen-Detected Diabetes in Primary Care (ADDITION) study, a type 2 diabetes screening programme. The participants were randomised to the ‘‘Ready to Act’’ programme added on top of GP care (n = 322) or to GP care (n = 187). The core components of the programme were motivation, action experience, informed decision-making, and social involvement conducted in two one-to-one sessions and eight group-meetings (18 hours). The reach of the programme was measured by the proportion of people who signed up. Outcomes were changes in treatment motivation (Treatment Self-Regulation Questionnaire, TSRQ), perceived competence (Perceived Competence Scale, PCS), and activation in chronic care (Patient Activation Measure, PAM). Effect size was the difference between 1-year changes in the randomisation groups analysed by intention-to-treat. Results: A total of 142 (44%) of 322 signed up and 123 (87%) of these completed. At 1 year, the difference in autonomous motivation for behavioural treatment (TSRQ) between the randomisation groups was 1.0 (95% CI 0.1 to 2.0), and the difference in perceived competence changes in healthy diet (PCS-d) was 1.5 (95% CI 0.2 to 2.7). No differences were observed for activation (PAM) between the groups. Subgroup analysis revealed men to benefit more from the intervention than women. Conclusions: The programme is a promising health-promoting component in prevention and care for people with screen-detected dysglycaemia, as it attracted four of 10 people and had effects on motivation and perceived competence.
Health-Related Services Provided by Public Health Educators
Authors: Johnson Hans H. , Becker Craig M.
Published: March 2011

This study identifies the health-related services provided by public health educators. The investigators, with the help of practicing public health educators, created the list of health-related services. Respondents received questionnaires in 2001 and 2007. Thus, this study determined the changes in health-related services provided over a 6-year period. Respondents ranked up to five health-related services by the amount of time spent delivering each health-related service. The list of health-related services presented in a 2001 survey and a 2007 survey were identical. As in 2001, this list in the 2007 survey captured the breadth of health-related services provided, with one exception. In 2007, several participants wrote-in “emergency preparedness/bioterrorism.” The types of health-related services provided did not change over the 6-year period; however, the ranking of these services did change. Most notably, nutrition education and involvement with physical activity moved up in the ranking in 2007.
Promotores as Researchers
Authors: Nelson Atiba , Lewy Robin , Dovydaitis Tiffany , Ricardo Francine , Kugel Candace
Published: March 2011

The community health worker, known as promotor in the Hispanic community, is an accepted member of the public health team whose core role is that of bridging target communities with health services. However, the promotor’s role in research has not been considered a core function of their work. This article will present the promotor in the additional role of researcher, as conceived by the Migrant Clinicians Network for the Hombres Unidos Contra La Violencia Familiar (Men United Against Family Violence) sexual violence/intimate partner violence project. The Hombres Unidos project used promotores as survey facilitators, gathering male Hispanic farmworkers’ perspectives on the sensitive topic of sexual violence and intimate partner violence. This article demonstrates that when trained, the promotores’ linguistic and cultural competence make them a valuable addition to the research team, especially when collecting sensitive information.
The Value of Partnerships in State Obesity Prevention and Control Programs
Authors: Hersey James , Kelly Bridget , Roussel Amy , Curtis LaShawn , Horne Joseph , Williams-Piehota Pamela , Kuester Sarah , Farris Rosanne
Published: March 2011

State health departments funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity Program collaborate with multiple partners to develop and implement comprehensive obesity prevention and control programs. A mixed-methods evaluation of 28 state programs over a 5-year period assessed states’ progress on program requirements, including developing statewide partnerships and coordinating with partners to support obesity prevention and control efforts. States with greater partnership involvement leveraged more funding support for their programs, passed more obesity-related policies, and were more likely to implement obesity interventions in multiple settings. Case studies provided guidance for establishing and maintaining strong partnerships. Findings from this study offer emerging evidence to support assumptions about the centrality of partnerships to states’ success in obesity program development and implementation and related health promotion activities.
Coverage Policy for Neurorehabilitation
Authors: Weinrich Michael , Stuart Mary
Published: March 2011

Background. Coverage policy ultimately determines the delivery of services. This article summarizes the authors’ effort to ascertain the extent of publically available information on coverage for neurorehabilitation services internationally. Objective. Present available data on neurorehabilitation coverage and examine the needs for further research in this area. Methods. Review of published literature, review of government Web sites, survey of World Federation of NeuroRehabilitation (WFNR) program chairs, and attendees of the 2010 World Congress of NeuroRehabilitation. Results. A wide variation in coverage was found internationally. Data are not routinely accessible. Conclusions. Informed policy requires current data. There is an opportunity for the WFNR to provide leadership in policy for neurorehabilitation services by assembling and maintaining current data on coverage policy internationally.
Exercise training restores the endothelial response to vascular growth factors in patients with stable coronary artery disease
Authors: Beck Ephraim B , Erbs Sandra , Möbius-Winkler Sven , Adams Volker , Woitek Felix J , Walther Thomas , Hambrecht R , Mohr Friedrich-Wilhelm , Stumvoll Michael , Blüher Matthias , Schuler Gerhard , Linke Axel
Published: March 2011

Objective: Exercise training partially corrects endothelial dysfunction in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Growth factors like vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) as well as erythropoietin (EPO) are known to modulate the bioavailability of nitric oxide and, thereby, contribute to the maintenance of a normal vascular tone. The aim of the present study was to determine the impact of 4 weeks of exercise training on circulating growth factors and to elucidate their involvement in the training-induced changes in vasomotion in patients with CAD.

Methods and results: A total of 39 patients were enrolled (training group: n = 20; control group: n = 19). At start of study and after 4 weeks, average peak flow velocity (APV) of the left internal mammary artery (LIMA) in response to acetylcholine was measured invasively in the treatment and control groups. Serum concentrations of VEGF and EPO were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. After exercise training, LIMA APV in response to acetylcholine was increased by 93% (from 69 ± 17% at start of study to 133 ± 16% at 4 weeks, p < 0.01 vs. start of study and control). At start of study, there was no association between any of the vascular growth factors and endothelial function. However, after exercise training a close correlation was apparent between the acetylcholine-induced change in APV and EPO ( r = 0.69, p < 0.01) and VEGF ( r = 0.76, p < 0.01) serum concentrations. In the control group, these correlations were not evident and there was no change in endothelial function either.

Conclusion: Exercise training improves agonist-mediated endothelium-dependent vasodilatation in CAD, partially through a restoration of the endothelial response to EPO and VEGF.
Critique and Renewal in the Sociology of Music: Bourdieu and Beyond
Authors: Prior Nick
Published: March 2011

This paper reviews the status, position and legacy of Bourdieu in the sociology of music, the waxing and waning of his influence and the recent move away from Bourdieu towards something like a post-critical engagement with musical forms and practices. The idea is to show the reaction to and treatment of Bourdieu’s ideas as a gauge of where we are in the sociology of culture, the various strands of influence that emanate from his work, and to assess what is at stake in a ‘post-Bourdieu’ moment when a position once considered progressive and critical now acts as the foil against which new work is being conducted. The article engages with some recent contributions to the music/society debate from figures in the UK and France, and points to the ways these contributions move debates on musico-social relations into territories more sensitive to the complex mediating qualities of music. Such work is better placed, it is argued, to represent music as an animating force in everyday life, including its specific mediating qualities ‘in action’. At the same time, however, the construction of a new sociology of music is not without its perils. The article will conclude with some potential problems with these approaches, and take stock of what might be lost as well as gained by adherence to them.
‘After Luhmann’: Dirk Baecker’s Sociology of Culture and Art
Authors: Laermans Rudi
Published: March 2011

The German sociologist Dirk Baecker is one of the most prominent voices within contemporary social systems theory and German sociology, but is not well known within the wider circles of international sociology. He follows in the footsteps of Niklas Luhmann, yet in marked contrast with his ‘sociological master’ Baecker also gives ample attention to the notion of culture. This paper first summarizes some of the main lines in his writings on the notion of culture and on contemporary culture. It then continues with a succinct presentation of Baecker’s approach to artistic communication against the background of this more general characterization of the relationship between the individual and society, conscious sensory perception and communication, in terms of an ‘aesthetic coupling’. It will be shown that a recurrent figure of thought links up Baecker’s various considerations on culture and art, i.e. the inclusion of the excluded.
Difficulties with access in percutaneous renal surgery
Authors: Rais-Bahrami Soroush , Friedlander Justin I. , Duty Brian D. , Okeke Zeph , Smith Arthur D.
Published: March 2011

Percutaneous renal surgery provides a minimally invasive approach to the kidney for stone extraction in a number of different clinical scenarios. Certain clinical cases present inherent challenges to percutaneous access to the kidney. Herein, we present scenarios in which obtaining and/or maintaining percutaneous access is difficult along with techniques to overcome the challenges commonly encountered. Also, complications associated with these challenging percutaneous renal surgeries are discussed.
Comprehensive evaluations of the adverse effects of drugs: importance of appropriate study selection and data sources
Authors: Loke Yoon K. , Golder Su P. , Vandenbroucke Jan P.
Published: March 2011

While systematic reviews and meta-analyses are at the top of the evidence hierarchy, most of the methodology has focused on assessing treatment benefit. Hence, we propose a structured framework for the initial steps of searching and identifying relevant data sources so that adverse effects can be evaluated in a comprehensive, unbiased manner. The unique methodological challenges stem from the difficulties of addressing diverse outcomes encompassing common, mild symptoms to rare, fatal events. Retrieval of the most appropriate studies should be specifically tailored to fit the nature of the adverse effects, according to the primary objective and study question. In our framework, the structure of the review takes different forms depending on whether the main aim is on scoping/hypothesis generation, or evaluating statistically the magnitude of risk (hypothesis testing), or clarifying characteristics and risk factors of the adverse effect. The wide range of data sources covering adverse effects all have distinct strengths and limitations, and selection of appropriate sources depends on characteristics of the adverse effect (e.g. background incidence and effect size of the drug, clinical presentation, time of onset after drug exposure). Reviewers need to retrieve particular study designs that are most likely to yield robust data on the adverse effects of interest, rather than rely on studies that cannot reliably detect adverse effects, and may yield ‘false negatives’. Type II errors (a particular problem when evaluating rare adverse effects) can lull us into a false sense of security (e.g. wrongly concluding that there was no significant difference in harm between drug and control, with the drug erroneously judged as safe). Given the rapid rate at which methodological improvements occur, this proposed framework is by no means definitive, but aims to stimulate further debate and discussion amongst the pharmacoepidemiological and systematic review communities to reach a common consensus on the best methods.
Vav guanine nucleotide exchange factors link hyperlipidemia and a prothrombotic state
Authors: Chen Kan , Li Wei , Major Jennifer , Rahaman Shaik Ohidar , Febbraio Maria , Silverstein Roy L.
Published: March 2011

Platelet hyperactivity associated with hyperlipidemia contributes to development of a pro-thrombotic state. We previously showed that oxidized LDL (oxLDL) formed in the setting of hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis initiated a CD36-mediated signaling cascade leading to platelet hyperactivity. We now show that the guanine nucleotide exchange factors Vav1 and Vav3 were tyrosine phosphorylated in platelets exposed to oxLDL. Pharmacologic inhibition of src family kinases abolished Vav1 phosphorylation by oxLDL in vitro. Coimmunoprecipitations revealed the tyrosine phosphorylated form of src kinase Fyn was associated with Vav1 in platelets exposed to oxLDL. Using a platelet aggregation assay, we demonstrated that Vav1 deficiency, Fyn deficiency, or Vav1/Vav3 deficiency protected mice from diet-induced platelet hyperactivity. Furthermore, flow cytometric analysis revealed that Vav1/Vav3 deficiency significantly inhibited oxLDL-mediated integrin αIIbβIII activation of platelets costimulated with ADP. Finally, we showed with an in vivo carotid artery thrombosis model that genetic deletion of Vav1 and Vav3 together may prevent the development of occlusive thrombi in mice fed a high-fat diet. These findings implicate Vav proteins in oxLDL-mediated platelet activation and suggest that Vav family member(s) may act as critical modulators linking a prothrombotic state and hyperlipidemia.