bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multitasking: Do preference and ability interact to predict performance at work?
Authors: Sanderson Kristin R. , Bruk‐Lee Valentina , Viswesvaran Chockalingam , Gutierrez Sara , Kantrowitz Tracy
Published: June 2013

This study examined the moderating role of polychronicity, the preference for multitasking, on the relationship between multitasking ability and performance. The results support the importance of fit in understanding the interaction between preference for and ability to multitask. The relationship between multitasking ability and an overall performance composite was stronger for individuals higher in polychronicity. For employees low in polychronicity, having the ability to multitask did not translate into meaningful performance differences.

Practitioner points

Overall job performance is optimal for employees with both the ability to multitask and the preference for doing so.

The relationship between multitasking ability and overall job performance is negligible for monochronic employees.
Go Slow Whoa Meal Patterns: Cafeteria Staff and Teacher Perceptions of Effectiveness in Winning With Wellness Schools
Authors: Slawson Deborah L. , Southerland Jodi , Lowe Elizabeth F. , Dalton William T. , Pfortmiller Deborah T. , Schetzina Karen
Published: June 2013

BACKGROUND

School‐based interventions hold promise for child obesity prevention. Implemented as a part of the Winning With Wellness obesity prevention project, the “Go Slow Whoa” meal pattern (GSW) was designed to promote healthier foods in school cafeterias. This investigation determined perceived program effectiveness and impact on student's food purchases.

METHODS

A mixed method design was used, including focus groups with cafeteria staff (CS), quantitative analysis of CS and teacher surveys, and pre‐post analysis of cafeteria sales. A total of 37 CS and 131 teachers from 7 schools in northeast Tennessee participated.

RESULTS

CS recognized the important role of school nutrition services in influencing student choices, yet perceived lack of administrative support for cafeteria‐based interventions and minimal interaction with teachers were barriers. CS also believed that students choose less nutritious options due to family influence. Cafeteria sales indicated that changes were made in menu planning and production, yet students' choices improved minimally. Teachers expressed moderate levels of confidence in GSW as influential in children's dietary habits.

CONCLUSIONS

Successful implementation of school‐based nutrition programs requires supportive policies, administrators, and teachers. CS should be included in program implementation efforts and the role of school nutrition services should be maximized.
Game‐Based Learning as a Vehicle to Teach First Aid Content: A Randomized Experiment
Authors: Charlier Nathalie , De Fraine Bieke
Published: June 2013

BACKGROUND

Knowledge of first aid (FA), which constitutes lifesaving treatments for injuries or illnesses, is important for every individual. In this study, we have set up a group‐randomized controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of a board game for learning FA.

METHODS

Four class groups (120 students) were randomly assigned to 2 conditions, a board game or a traditional lecture method (control condition). The effect of the learning environment on students' achievement was examined through a paper‐and‐pencil test of FA knowledge. Two months after the intervention, the participants took a retention test and completed a questionnaire assessing enjoyment, interest, and motivation.

RESULTS

An analysis of pre‐ and post‐test knowledge scores showed that both conditions produced significant increases in knowledge. The lecture was significantly more effective in increasing knowledge, as compared to the board game. Participants indicated that they liked the game condition more than their fellow participants in the traditional lecture condition.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that traditional lectures are more effective in increasing student knowledge, whereas educational games are more effective for student enjoyment. From this case study we recommend alteration or a combination of these teaching methods to make learning both effective and enjoyable.
Comparison of the pharyngeal pressure provided by two heated, humidified high‐flow nasal cannulae devices in premature infants
Authors: Collins Clare L , Holberton James R , König Kai
Published: June 2013

Aims

This study aims to determine if there is a difference in the pharyngeal pressure, measured as a surrogate for continuous positive distending airway pressure, delivered to premature infants between two commonly used heated, humidified high‐flow nasal cannulae (HHHFNC) devices: Fisher & Paykel Healthcare HHHFNC and Vapotherm 2000i.

Methods

Pharyngeal pressure measurements were taken from stable premature infants receiving HHHFNC for respiratory support. Flow rates of 2–8 L/min were studied.

Results

Nine infants had pharyngeal pressure measurements recorded with both HHHFNC devices at flow rates of 2–8 L/min. There was no difference in pharyngeal pressures recorded between devices at flow rates of 2–6 L/min; measured pressure was linearly associated with flow (R2 = 0.9). At flow rates of 7 L/min, Vapotherm delivered a mean (standard deviation) pharyngeal pressure of 4.7 (2.2) cmH2O compared with 4.23 (2.2) cmH2O by the Fisher & Paykel device (P = 0.04). At a flow of 8 L/min, the mean pharyngeal pressure via Vapotherm was 4.9 (2.2) cmH2O compared with 4.1 (2.3) cmH2O with the Fisher & Paykel device (P = 0.05).

Conclusions

Both HHHFNC delivered similar pharyngeal pressures at flow rates of 2–6 L/min. The pressure limiter valve of the Fisher & Paykel device attenuated the pharyngeal pressures at flows of 7 and 8 L/min. Vapotherm trended towards higher delivered pharyngeal pressure at flow rates 7 and 8 L/min, but the clinical significance of the difference remains unclear.
‘Every picture tells a story’: Interviews and diaries with children with cerebral palsy about adapted cycling
Authors: Pickering Dawn , Horrocks Lyn Marie , Visser Karen Susan , Todd Gabriela
Published: June 2013

Aims

The study aims to explore the effect of participation in adapted cycling on quality of life for children with cerebral palsy (CP).

Methods

The study used a qualitative approach developing creative mosaic methods using interviews and diaries. This study had two groups of children with CP: those who participated in adapted cycling and a control group who had not yet started. Children with CP aged 2–17 years who were already cycling were invited to take part in two interviews at the beginning and end of a 6‐week period and keep a cycling diary during this time. The control group of children with CP aged 2–17 years were asked to keep a diary of physical activities over 6 weeks and to take part in one interview at the end. Welsh, English, Bengali and Arabic were the languages spoken, and some children used communication aids.

Results

Results presented here include the first 25 children's interviews and diaries. The emergent themes from the analysis are: learning a new skill, the impact on wider family and friends, social participation and future aspirations. The diaries added an emotional dimension, by illustrations drawn by the children.

Conclusion

The children who took part in adapted cycling enjoyed this experience and it improved their sense of well‐being. Some in the control group went on to participate in adapted cycling. Physiotherapists can carry out creative research to hear the voices of children and young people with CP and incorporate their views and ideas into the development of service model delivery and treatment programmes.
Cerebral blood flow is not affected during perfluorocarbon dosing with volume‐controlled ventilation
Authors: Davies Mark W , Dunster Kimble R , Fraser John F , Colditz Paul B
Published: June 2013

Aims

Perfluorocarbon administration increases cerebral blood flow. This can be mitigated by preventing a rise in carbon dioxide by adjusting pressure‐controlled ventilation. Volume‐controlled ventilation should prevent increases in arterial carbon dioxide and cerebral blood flow. This study aims to determine if cerebral blood flow is increased during administration of 10 mL/kg of perfluorocarbon while using volume‐controlled ventilation.

Methods

Two New Zealand white rabbits, ventilated with volume‐control, were each allocated to six dosing events where each dosing event was randomly allocated to one of two dosing strategies: a control group – given a sham dose of air (10 mL/kg) over 20 min; or a partial liquid ventilation group – given 10 mL/kg FC‐77 slowly over 20 min. Data were recorded for 1 min before and 30 min after the start of each dosing event. No adjustment of ventilation (except fraction of inspired oxygen) was allowed during each dosing event.

Results

There were no significant changes over time and no differences between groups for carotid blood flow (P = 0.48 at the end of the dose). There were slight increases in cortical cerebral blood flow in both groups; there was no statistically significant difference between groups (P = 0.56 at end dose and P = 0.49 at time of maximum difference). There was no difference between groups for the variability in carotid blood flow or cortical cerebral blood flow.

Conclusions

Cerebral blood flow was not significantly increased during administration of a dose of 10 mL/kg of perfluorocarbon during commencement of partial liquid ventilation when using volume‐controlled ventilation.
Autism assessment: The Melton Health model
Authors: Robertson Kerry , Stafford Tara , Benedicto Joaquin , Hocking Nigel
Published: June 2013

Aim

The following paper describes the Autism Spectrum Assessment Clinic which operates at Melton Health, a publically funded health service in Melbourne's west.

Methods

A retrospective audit of 234 children assessed between 2007 and 2012 in the Autism Spectrum Assessment Clinic was undertaken. Characteristics of the children assessed (age, sex, locality, referral source) were examined along with characteristics of the clinic (clinicians, assessment outcome).

Results

A detailed description of the model is provided, including evident changes since the clinic began. Data were split between the 2007 to 2009 and 2010 to 2012 time periods to reflect changes in the operation of the clinic. Overall, 48 girls and 186 boys were assessed with a mean age of 71 months; the average waiting time between referral and assessment was 136.6 days. Across the two time periods, the proportion of children receiving a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder increased from 43.1% to 66.3%. Changes are evident in the referral sources between the two time periods, and in the disciplines of clinicians involved in the assessment.

Conclusions

The research illustrates an assessment model, within the Victorian public health context, which currently operates effectively according to best‐practice guidelines. This research begins to fill a gap between localised clinical practice and the dissemination of this information to a wider audience, allowing for comparison for other assessment providers. It is hoped that we can contribute more broadly to future assessment processes becoming more consistent, reproducible and equitable for children suspected of having autism spectrum disorders.
Comparison of stool microbiota compositions, stool alpha1‐antitrypsin and calprotectin concentrations, and diarrhoeal morbidity of Indonesian infants fed breast milk or probiotic/prebiotic‐supplemented formula
Authors: Oswari Hanifah , Prayitno Lamtorogung , Dwipoerwantoro Pramita G , Firmansyah Agus , Makrides Maria , Lawley Blair , Kuhn‐Sherlock Barbara , Cleghorn Geoffrey , Tannock Gerald W
Published: June 2013

Aim

The composition of faecal microbiota of babies is known to be influenced by diet. Faecal calprotectin and α1‐antitrypsin concentrations may be associated with mucosal permeability and inflammation. We aimed to assess whether there was any difference after consumption of a probiotic/prebiotic formula on faecal microbiota composition, calprotectin and α1‐antitrypsin levels, and diarrhoea in comparison with breast milk‐fed Indonesian infants.

Methods

One hundred sixty infants, 2 to 6 weeks old, were recruited to the study. They were either breastfed or formula fed (80 per group). Faecal samples were collected at recruitment and 3 months later. Bacterial groups characteristic of the human faecal microbiota were quantified in faeces by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Calprotectin and α1‐antitrypsin concentrations were measured using commercial kits. Details of diarrhoeal morbidity were documented and rated for severity.

Results

The compositions of the faecal microbiota of formula‐fed compared with breast milk‐fed children were similar except that the probiotic strain Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis DR10 was more abundant after 3 months consumption of the formula. Alpha1‐antitrypsin levels were higher in breastfed compared with formula‐fed infants. The occurrence of diarrhoea did not differ between the groups of babies.

Conclusion

Feeding Indonesian babies with a probiotic/prebiotic formula did not produce marked differences in the composition of the faecal microbiota in comparison with breast milk. Detrimental effects of formula feeding on biomarkers of mucosal health were not observed.
A REVIEW OF PERMO‐TRIASSIC RESERVOIR ROCKS IN THE ZAGROS AREA, SW IRAN: INFLUENCE OF THE QATAR‐FARS ARCH
Authors: Esrafili‐Dizaji B. , Rahimpour‐Bonab H.
Published: June 2013

Four “supergiant” and numerous giant gasfields have been discovered in the Zagros area of SW Iran. The gasfields are concentrated in the eastern part of the foldbelt, in Fars Province and the adjacent offshore, and produce from Permo‐Triassic carbonates equivalent to the Khuff Formation. The carbonates belong to the upper member of the Dalan Formation and the overlying Kangan Formation. Reservoir rock quality is strongly influenced by tectonic setting and depositional environment, and also by diagenesis. The highest quality reservoirs occur in oolitic shoal facies; fracturing (especially in onshore fields) and dolomitisation (in offshore fields) have also influenced reservoir quality. Anhydrite plugging is common in reservoirs in offshore fields, while calcite cementation is dominant in onshore reservoirs.

Facies variations in the Dalan‐Kangan Formations appear to correspond to syndepositional palaeohighs and depocentres. In the Eastern Zagros (Fars area), thickening of the Dalan Formation corresponds to a Mid‐Late Permian depocentre referred to here as the Permian Fars Basin. As a result of sea level fall, this depocentre evolved into a hypersaline lagoon with evaporite deposition (Nar Member). In the Triassic, the depocentre evolved into a palaeohigh as indicated by thinning and facies changes in the Kangan Formation.

The results of this study draw attention to variations in the reservoir quality of the Dalan‐Kangan Formations. Much of this variation was due to the influence of the Qatar‐Fars Arch.
Challenges of the Harmonization and Ratification of Convention on the Rights of Persons With Disabilities by Japan
Authors: Osamu Nagase
Published: June 2013

There are 130 ratifications by national governments around the world of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), adopted by the United Nations in December 2006. However, Japan has yet to ratify the CRPD. The author examined the social, political, and legal context in Japan, affecting the ratification of the CRPD and contrasted the approach taken by Japan with those of other countries that have ratified the CRPD and then embarked on local reforms. The author notes that in Japan, the disability rights movement has insisted that significant policy changes be undertaken before the government ratifies the CRPD. Consequently, in 2010, the Japanese government prepared a roadmap for ratification of the CRPD, which consisted of (1) a fundamental revision undertaken in 2011 of the Basic Law for Persons with Disabilities, including the fundamental principles of community living, prohibition of disability discrimination, and international partnerships; (2) a revision of services legislation in 2012; and (3) proposed for 2013, an establishment of an independent law to prohibit disability discrimination. Other areas of legislation and policy that underwent review include the education of children with disabilities, the prevention of abuse of persons with disabilities, and support to carers and the political rights of persons under adult guardianship. The author notes that there are a number of challenges ahead for the implementation of the CRPD and consequently the promotion of community living. However, it is posited that the comprehensive legislative and policy reform undertaken by the government of Japan, prior to ratification of the CRPD, will lay important foundations to enable Japan to fully comply with and take a leadership role in the implantation of the CRPD.
The World Report on Disability and People With Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Officer Alana , Shakespeare Tom
Published: June 2013

The World Report on Disability was requested by the World Health Assembly, the governing body of the World Health Organization (WHO). Because disability is broader than health, WHO partnered with the World Bank. The World Report was published in 2011 and provides a comprehensive scientific analysis on the global situation of people with disability that can support the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability. Progress since the global launch of the Report in June 2011 has shown areas of awareness raising, policy development, funding, research, and technical support. Yet gaps exist, and there is a need to better inform policy and practice with particular reference to intellectual disability. The World Report on Disability makes nine recommendations: enable access to mainstream policies, systems, and services; invest in specific programs and services for people with disabilities; adopt a national disability strategy and plan of action; involve people with disabilities; improve human resource capacity; provide adequate funding and improve affordability; increase public awareness and understanding of disability; improve disability data collection; and strengthen and support research on disability. The World Report on Disability has increased awareness and understanding of issues affecting people with disability, and is serving to focus government attention on policies and programs that will support the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability, 2006. Particularly in the world's poorest countries, people with intellectual disabilities are disproportionately disadvantaged. The World Report is an important tool to build a global commitment to the promotion of inclusion for all persons with disabilities, and especially those with intellectual disability.
Effects of Tadalafil on Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Secondary to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and on Erectile Dysfunction in Sexually Active Men with Both Conditions: Analyses of Pooled Data from Four Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Tadalafil Clinical Studies
Authors: Porst Hartmut , Roehrborn Claus G. , Secrest Roberta J. , Esler Anne , Viktrup Lars
Published: June 2013

Introduction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) and lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia (LUTS/BPH) are common in aging males and frequently occur together. Tadalafil has demonstrated efficacy in treating both conditions.

Aim

The study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of tadalafil 5 mg once daily vs. placebo over 12 weeks in treating both LUTS/BPH and ED in sexually active men. We also assessed relationships of baseline disease severity and prostate specific antigen (PSA) to outcomes.

Methods

Data were pooled from four multinational, randomized studies of men ≥45 years with LUTS/BPH, with analyses restricted to sexually active men with ED. Randomization (baseline) followed a 4-week placebo run-in; changes from baseline were assessed vs. placebo using analysis of covariance.

Main Outcome Measures

International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), IPSS subscores, Quality-of-Life Index (IPSS-QoL), BPH Impact Index (BII), and International Index of Erectile Function-Erectile Function (IIEF-EF) Domain score were used in this study.

Results

Tadalafil (N = 505) significantly improved total IPSS vs. placebo (N = 521); mean changes from baseline were −6.0 and −3.6, respectively (P < 0.001). Improvements in IIEF-EF Domain score (tadalafil, 6.4; placebo, 1.4) were also significant vs. placebo, as were the IPSS storage and voiding subscores, IPSS-QoL, and BII (all P < 0.001).

No significant impact of baseline ED severity or PSA category on IPSS response was observed (interaction P values, 0.463 and 0.149, respectively). Similarly, improvement in IIEF-EF Domain score was not significantly impacted by baseline LUTS/BPH severity or PSA category (interaction P values, 0.926 and 0.230, respectively). Improvements in IPSS and IIEF-EF Domain score during treatment were weakly correlated (r = −0.229). Treatment-emergent adverse events were consistent with previous reports.

Conclusions

Tadalafil was efficacious and well tolerated in treating ED and LUTS/BPH in sexually active men with both conditions. Improvements in both conditions were significant regardless of baseline severity. Improvements in the total IPSS and the IIEF-EF Domain score were weakly correlated.
American Cocker Spaniel Chronic Hepatitis in Japan
Authors: Kanemoto H. , Sakai M. , Sakamoto Y. , Spee B. , van den Ingh T.S.G.A.M. , Schotanus B.A. , Ohno K. , Rothuizen J.
Published: June 2013

Background

American Cocker Spaniels are predisposed to chronic hepatitis.

Objective

To describe the clinical and histological features of chronic hepatitis in Japanese American Cocker Spaniels.

Animals

Thirteen cases examined from 2003 to 2009.

Methods

Retrospective study. Medical records were searched for American Cocker Spaniels with chronic liver diseases. History, physical examination, clinicopathologic features, hepatic ultrasonographic findings, hepatic histopathology, and immunohistochemistry were evaluated.

Results

The median age was 4.6 (1.9–10.7) years. Clinical signs included inappetence (11/13), ascites (11/13), lethargy (9/13), diarrhea (7/13), and melena (2/13). Only 1/13 dogs was jaundiced. Clinicopathological abnormalities were increased liver enzymes (gamma‐glutamyl transpeptidase: 9/12, aspartate aminotransferase: 7/10, alanine aminotransferase: 6/13, alkaline phosphatase: 6/13), increased total serum bile acid concentrations (10/12), and hypoalbuminemia (10/13). The liver had an irregular surface in all dogs and acquired portosystemic collaterals were verified in 11/13 dogs by abdominal ultrasound (2), laparoscopy (4), or both (5). Liver histology revealed severe fibrosis and cirrhosis in all cases, subdivided in lobular dissecting hepatitis (7), periportal fibrosis (1), micronodular cirrhosis (3), and macronocular cirrhosis (2). Inflammatory activity was low to mild. Immunohistochemical stains showed ductular proliferation. The median survival time was 913 (range: 63–1981) days.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Hepatitis in Japanese American Cocker Spaniels is clinically silent until an advanced stage and is associated with severe hepatic fibrosis leading to cirrhosis, extensive ductular/putative hepatic progenitor cell proliferation, portal hypertension, and acquired portosystemic collateral shunting, but relatively long survival times. Lobular dissecting hepatitis seems more prevalent than in previously reported cases from other countries.
Systematic Review of Nonsteroidal Anti‐Inflammatory Drug‐Induced Adverse Effects in Dogs
Authors: Monteiro‐Steagall B.P. , Steagall P.V.M. , Lascelles B.D.X.
Published: June 2013

The aim of this systematic review was to identify, assess, and critically evaluate the quality of evidence of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID)‐induced adverse effects in dogs. Original prospective studies published in peer‐reviewed journals in English (1990–2012) that reported data on the safety ofNSAIDs administration in dogs were searched. For each study, design type (I, II, III, or IV) and assessment of quality (+, Ø, −) were rated. For each drug, quantity and consistency rating (***, **, *) and strength of evidence (high, moderate, low, or extremely low) were identified and evaluated. The strength of evidence was defined in terms of how applicable and relevant the conclusions were to the target population. Sixty‐four studies met the inclusion criteria. Thirty‐five (55%) research studies and 29 (45%) clinical trials were identified. A high strength of evidence existed for carprofen, firocoxib, and meloxicam; moderate for deracoxib, ketoprofen, and robenacoxib; and low for etodolac. Quality and consistency rating were as follows: carprofen (***/***), deracoxib (**/***), etodolac (*/unable to rate), firocoxib (***/**), ketoprofen (**/***), meloxicam (***/***), and robenacoxib (**/**), respectively. Adverse effects were detected in 35 studies (55%) and commonly included vomiting, diarrhea, and anorexia. Three studies (5%) reported a power analysis related to adverse effects of ≥80%. In randomized, placebo‐controlled, blinded studies (n = 25, 39%), the incidence of adverse effects was not statistically different between treated and control dogs. Finally, most studies were not appropriately designed to determine the safety ofNSAIDs, and involved a healthy nongeriatric population of research dogs.
Neonatal Morbidity and Mortality of 31 Calves Derived from Somatic Cloning
Authors: Brisville A.‐C. , Fecteau G. , Boysen S. , Desrochers A. , Dorval P. , Buczinski S. , Lefebvre R. , Hélie P. , Blondin P. , Smith L.C.
Published: June 2013

Background

The neonatal period is associated with high morbidity and mortality in cloned calves.

Objective

To describe morbidity and mortality in cloned calves from birth to 2 years of age.

Animals

Thirty‐one somatic cell‐derivedHolstein calves delivered at a veterinary teaching hospital.

Methods

Medical files were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

Four calves were stillborn. Five calves born alive had physical congenital defects. Twenty‐three calves had an enlarged umbilical cord. Laboratory abnormalities included acidemia, respiratory acidosis, hyperlactatemia, anemia, stress leukogram, decreased total protein, albumin and globulins, and increased creatinine. Twenty‐five calves survived the 1st hour of life. Among them, 11 stood without assistance within 6 hours of birth, 10 calves took longer than 6 hours to stand, and 4 never stood. Twenty‐two calves suffered from anorexia. Twelve calves had complications arising from umbilical cord infections. Three calves developed idiopathic hyperthermia (>40°C). Eight calves suffered from gastrointestinal problems, including ruminal distension, abomasal ulcers, neonatal enteritis, intussusception, and abomasal displacement. Mortality between birth and 3 weeks of age was 32% (10/31). Causes of death and reasons for euthanasia included stillbirths, respiratory failure, and limb deformities. Mortality between 3 weeks and 2 years of age was 19% (4/21), with deaths in this group attributed to generalized peritonitis and complications arising from umbilical infections. Overall, mortality rate within 2 years of age was 14/31 (45%).

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Respiratory problems, limb deformities, and umbilical infections were the most common causes of morbidity and mortality in these cloned calves.
Hepatic stellate cells that coexpress LRAT and CRBP‐1 partially contribute to portal fibrogenesis in patients with human viral hepatitis
Authors: Nagatsuma Keisuke , Hano Hiroshi , Murakami Kazuhiro , Shindo Daisuke , Matsumoto Yoshihiro , Mitobe Jimi , Tanaka Ken , Saito Masaya , Maehashi Haruka , Owada Mamiko , Ikegami Masahiro , Tsubota Akihito , Ohkusa Toshifumi , Aizawa Yoshio , Takagi Ichiro , Tajiri Hisao , Matsuura Tomokazu
Published: June 2013

Background & Aims

Precisely what type of cells mainly contributes to portal fibrosis, especially in chronic viral hepatitis, such as hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) in the parenchyma or myofibroblasts in the portal area, still remains unclear. It is necessary to clarify the characteristics of cells that contribute to portal fibrosis in order to determine the mechanism of portal fibrogenesis and to develop a therapeutic target for portal fibrosis. This study was undertaken to examine whether LRAT+/CRBP‐1+ HSCs contribute to portal fibrosis on viral hepatitis.

Methods

Antibodies to lecithin:retinol acyltransferase (LRAT), cellular retinol‐binding protein‐1 (CRBP‐1) and widely ascertained antibodies to HSCs (alpha‐smooth muscle actin, neurotrophin‐3) and endothelial cells (CD31) were used for immunohistochemical studies to assess the distribution of cells that contribute to the development of portal fibrosis with the aid of fluorescence microscopy. A quantitative analysis of LRAT+/CRBP‐1+ HSCs was performed.

Results

The number of LRAT+/CRBP‐1+ HSCs was increased in fibrotic liver in comparison with normal liver in the portal area and fibrous septa. The number of double positive cells was less than 20% of all cells/field in maximum.

Conclusion

This study provides evidence that functional HSCs coexpressing both LRAT and CRBP‐1 that continue to maintain the ability to store vitamin A contribute in part to the development of portal fibrogenesis in addition to parenchymal fibrogenesis in patients with viral hepatitis.
The Consequences of Culture: Legal History, Labor Law, and the Contributions of Christopher Tomlins
Authors: Hogler Raymond
Published: June 2013

This article reviews three books on labor law written by Christopher Tomlins. They are, in order of publication, The State and the Unions: Labor Relations, Law, and the Organized Labor Movement in America, 1880–1960 (1985); Law, Labor, and Ideology in the Early American Republic (1993); and Freedom Bound: Law, Labor, and Civic Identity in Colonizing English America, 1580–1865 (2010). Tomlins has been an influential figure in the movement known as “critical legal studies” and has helped shape a new approach to the field of labor history, labor law, and the study of US workers. Over the span of twenty-five years, Tomlins's research has been central to evolving theories of law and social interaction and has continuing relevance to more recent scholarly developments such as the field of “cultural cognition” studies.
Role of Urodynamic Study in Nocturnal Enuresis: Urodynamic Findings and Treatment Outcome Correlation in Children with Pharmacotherapy‐resistant Monosymptomatic Nocturnal Enuresis or Severe Non‐monosymptomatic Nocturnal Enuresis
Authors: RYU Dong Soo , LEE Hye Won , KWAK Kyung Won , PARK Kwan Hyun , BAEK Minki
Published: June 2013

Objectives

This study aimed to determine whether or not a urodynamic study (UDS) is beneficial for management of pediatric nocturnal enuresis (NE), especially in pharmacoresistant monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (PRMNE) or severe non‐monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (NMNE) patients.

Methods

Children with PRMNE or severe NMNE who underwent a UDS for the process of NE treatment were retrospectively reviewed. The UDS findings of patients and treatment outcomes of subsequent tailored therapies according to the UDS findings were analyzed.

Results

A total of 80 children (50 boys and 30 girls, mean age 8.4 ± 2.2 years), 19 of which were diagnosed with PRMNE and 61 of which were diagnosed with NMNE, were included in the final analysis. Of the 19 PRMNE children, 12 (63.2%) demonstrated abnormal UDS findings. Ten demonstrated detrusor overactivity (DO) with or without decreased cystometric bladder capacity (CBC); the treatment outcomes markedly improved in all of the children after anticholinergics were added to the initial desmopressin therapy. Biofeedback was found to be helpful for two children with detrusor‐sphincter dyssynergia. All of the total 61 children with NMNE demonstrated abnormal urodynamic findings of DO with or without decreased CBC, and 42 (68.9%) achieved more than partial response (> 50% decrease in the number of wet nights) when given a combination therapy of anticholinergics and desmopressin.

Conclusions

The urodynamic findings were helpful for guiding children with PRMNE in the proper choice of further treatment strategies. A routine UDS should not be recommended prior to a first‐line combination treatment in children with NMNE.
Health Beliefs and Behavior
Authors: Senior Kate , Chenhall Richard
Published: June 2013

Recently, social determinants of health frameworks are receiving some criticism in that they do not engage with questions related to individual subjectivity and agency as they relate to health decision‐making behavior. This article examines the different ways in which people living in a remote Arnhem Land community in the Northern Territory of Australia, take responsibility for their own health and the extent to which they are able to prevent illness. A number of related sub‐questions are explored relating to how people perceive their health and their role in health care in their community, including their engagement with the health clinic, traditional medicines, and the influence of sorcery on ill health and sickness.
The Efficacy and Self‐Efficacy of Treatment
Authors: Poltorak Mike
Published: June 2013

This article argues for a shift from an evaluation of the efficacy of “traditional medicine” to an analysis of the influence of notions of efficacy on health seeking and health outcomes. Studies on the therapeutic value of traditional medicine tend to focus on countering or engaging with biomedical models to explain the process and efficacy of healing. Less examined is how efficacy is evaluated by traditional healers and patients themselves. Ethnographic research focused on health seeking and language use in Tonga reveals a diversity of claims of efficacy that relate to the social and epistemological positions of healers, health workers, and patients. Using the celebrated case of a man who was cured by a healer after the hospital could do no more for him facilitates greater epistemological dialogue and poses a challenge to the current efficacy consensuses in medical anthropology and Tonga.
Comparison of the effectiveness of a milk‐free soy‐maize‐sorghum‐based ready‐to‐use therapeutic food to standard ready‐to‐use therapeutic food with 25% milk in nutrition management of severely acutely malnourished Zambian children: an equivalence non‐blinded cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Irena Abel H. , Bahwere Paluku , Owino Victor O. , Diop ElHadji I. , Bachmann Max O. , Mbwili‐Muleya Clara , Dibari Filippo , Sadler Kate , Collins Steve
Published: June 2013

Community‐based Management of Acute Malnutrition using ready‐to‐use therapeutic food (RUTF) has revolutionised the treatment of severe acute malnutrition (SAM). However, 25% milk content in standard peanut‐based RUTF (P‐RUTF) makes it too expensive. The effectiveness of milk‐free RUTF has not been reported hitherto. This non‐blinded, parallel group, cluster randomised, controlled, equivalence trial that compares the effectiveness of a milk‐free soy–maize–sorghum‐based RUTF (SMS‐RUTF) with P‐RUTF in treatment of children with SAM, closes the gap. A statistician randomly assigned health centres (HC) either to the SMS‐RUTF (n = 12; 824 enrolled) or P‐RUTF (n = 12; 1103 enrolled) arms. All SAM children admitted at the participating HCs were enrolled. All the outcomes were measured at individual level. Recovery rate was the primary outcome. The recovery rates for SMS‐RUTF and P‐RUTF were 53.3% and 60.8% for the intention‐to‐treat (ITT) analysis and 77.9% and 81.8% for per protocol (PP) analyses, respectively. The corresponding adjusted risk difference (ARD) and 95% confidence interval, were −7.6% (−14.9, 0.6%) and −3.5% (−9,6., 2.7%) for ITT (P = 0.034) and PP analyses (P = 0.257), respectively. An unanticipated interaction (interaction P < 0.001 for ITT analyses and 0.0683 for PP analyses) between the study arm and age group was observed. The ARDs were −10.0 (−17.7 to −2.3)% for ITT (P = 0.013) and −4.7 (−10.0 to 0.7) for PP (P = 0.083) analyses for the <24 months age group and 2.1 (−10.3,14.6)% for ITT (P = 0.726) and −0.6 (−16.1, 14.5) for PP (P = 0.939) for the ≥24 months age group. In conclusion, the study did not confirm our hypothesis of equivalence between SMS‐RUTF and P‐RUTF in SAM management.
A mutation in the expansin‐like A2 gene enhances resistance to necrotrophic fungi and hypersensitivity to abiotic stress in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Abuqamar Synan , Ajeb Suad , Sham Arjun , Enan Mohamed Rizq , Iratni Rabah
Published: June 2013

Expansins are cell wall loosening agents, known for their endogenous function in cell wall extensibility. The Arabidopsis expansin‐like A2 (EXLA2) gene was identified by its down‐regulation in response to infection by the necrotrophic pathogen Botrytis cinerea, and by the reduced susceptibility of an exla2 mutant to the same pathogen. The exla2 mutant was equally susceptible to Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato, but was more resistant to the necrotrophic fungus Alternaria brassicicola, when compared with the wild‐type or with transgenic, ectopic EXLA2‐overexpressing lines. The exla2 mutants also enhanced tolerance to the phytoprostane‐A1. This suggests that the absence or down‐regulation of EXLA2 leads to increased resistance to B. cinerea in a CORONATINE INSENSITIVE 1 (COI1)‐dependent manner, and this down‐regulation can be achieved by phytoprostane‐A1 treatment. EXLA2 is induced significantly by salinity and cold, and by the exogenous application of abscisic acid. The exla2 mutant also showed hypersensitivity towards increased salt and cold, and this hypersensitivity required a functional abscisic acid pathway. The differential temporal expression of EXLA2 and the phenotypes in transgenic plants with altered expression of EXLA2 indicate that plant cell wall structure is an important player during Arabidopsis developmental stages. Our results indicate that EXLA2 appears to be important in response to various biotic and abiotic stresses, particularly in the pathogenesis of necrotrophic pathogens and in the tolerance to abiotic stress.
Self‐interaction of the cucumber mosaic virus 2b protein plays a vital role in the suppression of RNA silencing and the induction of viral symptoms
Authors: Xu Aixia , Zhao Zhijing , Chen Wenhu , Zhang Hengmu , Liao Qiansheng , Chen Jishuang , Carr John P. , Du Zhiyou
Published: June 2013

The cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) 2b protein is an RNA silencing suppressor protein that can also play direct and indirect roles in symptom induction. Previous work has shown that a hybrid virus, FRad352b‐CMV (renamed here as CMV‐FRad2b‐Pro), generated by replacement of the 2b gene of strain Fny‐CMV with that from Rad35‐CMV, displays markedly lower pathogenicity than Fny‐CMV on Nicotiana species. However, the replacement of proline with leucine at position 55 of the 2b protein of CMV‐FRad2b‐Pro (protein Rad2b‐Pro) created a virus (CMV‐FRad2b‐Leu) that induced severe symptoms. Infection of Arabidopsis thaliana mutants defective in the expression of DICER‐like (DCL) endoribonucleases 2 and 4, which mediate antiviral RNA silencing, as well as of dcl3 and dcl2/3/4 triple‐mutant plants, indicated that Rad2b‐Pro was a weaker RNA silencing suppressor than the protein Rad2b‐Leu. This was confirmed in Nicotiana benthamiana using agroinfiltration assays, showing that, compared with either Rad2b‐Leu or the Fny2b protein, Rad2b‐Pro was ineffective at inhibiting local or systemic silencing of expression of a green fluorescent protein reporter gene. Transgenic expression of Rad2b‐Leu, but not of Rad2b‐Pro, in Arabidopsis induced symptom‐like phenotypes and rescued the accumulation of the 2b‐deletion mutant Fny‐CMVΔ2b. Bimolecular fluorescent complementation indicated that, in planta, Rad2b‐Leu, but not Rad2b‐Pro, self‐interacts. Thus, self‐interaction is crucial to the ability of the 2b protein to suppress silencing and induce a symptom‐like phenotype, and is dependent on the properties of the residue at position 55.
Fitness penalty in susceptible host is associated with virulence of Soybean mosaic virus on Rsv1‐genotype soybean: a consequence of perturbation of HC‐Pro and not P3
Authors: Khatabi B. , Wen R.‐H. , Hajimorad M. R.
Published: June 2013

The multigenic Rsv1 locus in the soybean plant introduction (PI) ‘PI96983’ confers extreme resistance against the majority of Soybean mosaic virus (SMV) strains, including SMV‐N, but not SMV‐G7 and SMV‐G7d. In contrast, in susceptible soybean cultivars lacking a functional Rsv1 locus, such as ‘Williams82’ (rsv1), SMV‐N induces severe disease symptoms and accumulates to a high level, whereas both SMV‐G7 and SMV‐G7d induce mild symptoms and accumulate to a significantly lower level. Gain of virulence by SMV‐N on Rsv1‐genotype soybean requires concurrent mutations in both the helper‐component proteinase (HC‐Pro) and P3 cistrons. This is because of the presence of at least two resistance (R) genes, probably belonging to the nucleotide‐binding leucine‐rich repeat (NB‐LRR) class, within the Rsv1 locus, independently mediating the recognition of HC‐Pro or P3. In this study, we show that the majority of experimentally evolved mutational pathways that disrupt the avirulence functions of SMV‐N on Rsv1‐genotype soybean also result in mild symptoms and reduced accumulation, relative to parental SMV‐N, in Williams82 (rsv1). Furthermore, the evaluation of SMV‐N‐derived HC‐Pro and P3 chimeras, containing homologous sequences from virulent SMV‐G7 or SMV‐G7d strains, as well as SMV‐N‐derived variants containing HC‐Pro or P3 point mutation(s) associated with gain of virulence, reveals a direct correlation between the perturbation of HC‐Pro and a fitness penalty in Williams82 (rsv1). Collectively, these data demonstrate that gain of virulence by SMV on Rsv1‐genotype soybean results in fitness loss in a previously susceptible soybean genotype, this being a consequence of mutations in HC‐Pro, but not in P3.
Cerebral white matter hyperintensity predicts cardiovascular events in haemodialysis patients
Authors: Naganuma Toshihide , Takemoto Yoshiaki , Shoji Tetsuo , Shima Hideaki , Ishimura Eiji , Okamura Mikio , Nakatani Tatsuya
Published: June 2013

Aim

Cerebral white matter hyperintensities (WMHs), comprised of periventricular hyperintensity (PVH) and deep and subcortical white matter hyperintensity (DSWMH), have been presumed to be predictors for future stroke, cognitive impairment and dementia in the general population. However, no longitudinal studies have been performed to determine the clinical significance of WMHs in haemodialysis (HD) patients. In the present study, we investigated the influence of WMHs as a predictor of future cardiovascular disease in HD patients.

Methods

Cranial magnetic resonance imaging was performed on 179 HD patients with no past history of stroke from April 2006 to October 2009, and the prevalence of WMHs was investigated. The patients were followed prospectively until March 2012 or death or renal transplantation. The influence of WMHs on cardiovascular events was investigated using the Kaplan–Meier method and Cox proportional hazards analysis.

Results

The patients with advanced PVH and DSWMH had a significantly higher incidence of cardiovascular morbidity than those without advanced PVH and DSWMH by Kaplan–Meier analysis. By multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis, the presence of advanced PVH and DSWMH increased the risk of cardiovascular events, independent of other cardiovascular risk factors. In addition, the present study revealed that of the subtypes of WMHs, PVH was a stronger predictor of cardiovascular events compared to DSWMH.

Conclusions

The present study indicates that the presence of WMHs is a novel predictor of cardiovascular events in HD patients, and that PVH is more closely associated with incident cardiovascular disease.
Aborted sudden cardiac death in a child with left ventricular non‐compaction
Authors: Ergul Yakup , Nisli Kemal , Bilge Ahmet Kaya , Dindar Aygun
Published: June 2013

Left ventricular non‐compaction is a rare form of cardiomyopathy believed to be the result of intrauterine arrest of compaction of the endomyocardial morphogenesis, leading to persistence of the embryonic myocardium. Clinical manifestations are highly variable, ranging from no symptoms to a progressive deterioration in cardiac function that results in congestive heart failure, systemic thromboemboli, arrhythmias, and sudden cardiac death. Presented here is the case of a 4‐year‐old child with a history of aborted sudden cardiac death. Following resuscitation, he was admitted to the intensive care unit with neurologic sequelae that regressed later on. Transthoracic echocardiography and magnetic resonance imaging showed numerous prominent trabeculations and deep intertrabecular recesses at the apical and anterolateral region of the left ventricle. Electrophysiologic study showed polymorphic ventricular tachycardia. An implantable cardioverter–defibrillator (ICD) was implanted following clinical recovery. Five months after implantation, appropriate ICD shock due to ventricular fibrillation was documented.
Severely high serum unbound bilirubin level after abdominal surgery in a newborn
Authors: Morioka Ichiro , Miwa Akihiro , Yokota Tomoyuki , Huu Chuong Thieu Do , Nagasaka Miwako , Koda Tsubasa , Matsuo Kiyomi , Morikawa Satoru , Shibata Akio , Hisamatsu Chieko , Nishio Hisahide , Yamada Hideto , Nishijima Eiji , Iijima Kazumoto
Published: June 2013

We report a newborn with intestinal malrotation who developed a severely high serum unbound bilirubin level and a low serum albumin level without a marked increase in serum total bilirubin level after abdominal surgery, which required exchange transfusion and albumin supplementation. The serum unbound bilirubin level may be highly relative to the serum total bilirubin level in newborns who have undergone abdominal surgery soon after birth and are hypoalbuminemic after surgery.
Pneumatic pyloric dilatation for the treatment of gastric outlet obstruction in a child
Authors: Gobbi Dalia , Billi Paola , Fascetti Leon Francesco , Alvisi Patrizia , Lambertini Andrea , Lima Mario
Published: June 2013

Acquired causes of gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) are rarely encountered in infancy, having an approximate incidence of 1 per 100 000 live births. Reports of short‐term exposure to non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs having adverse events are few. We present the case of a previously healthy 3‐year‐old boy who developed severe chronic gastric outlet obstruction and antral stenosis after a short‐term ingestion of liquid ibuprofen at a dosage not thought to be associated with unfavorable effects. Even though the optimal management of these cases remains to be determined, we report on a prompt and successful endoscopic treatment for this condition.
Treatment with oseltamivir and prone positioning for a 9‐year‐old boy with ARDS caused by pandemic H1N1 2009 influenza
Authors: Suyama Kazuhide , Kawasaki Yukihiko , Suzuki Yuichi , Ishii Kiyoko , Sakai Nobuko , Sato Masatoki , Hashimoto Kohichi , Hosoya Mitsuaki
Published: June 2013

Here we report the case of a 9‐year‐old boy with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) caused by novel H1N1 swine‐origin influenza virus A. A diagnosis of ARDS caused by a novel influenza A (H1N1) virus was made on the basis of chest X‐ray and computed tomography together with low oxygenation index (OI) and the detection of novel influenza A (H1N1) virus from tracheal secretion samples. Oseltamivir phosphate and prone positioning were effective in the treatment of ARDS in this case. These findings suggest that anti‐viral drugs and prone positioning can play an important role in the improvement of ARDS caused by novel H1N1 swine‐origin influenza virus A.