bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacokinetics of pioglitazone in lean and obese cats1
Authors: CLARK M. H. , HOENIG M. , FERGUSON D. C. , DIRIKOLU L.
Published: May 2012

Clark, M. H., Hoenig, M., Ferguson, D. C., Dirikolu, L. Pharmacokinetics of pioglitazone in lean and obese cats. J. vet. Pharmacol. Therap. 35, 428–436.

Pioglitazone is a thiazolidinedione insulin sensitizer that has shown efficacy in Type 2 diabetes and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in humans. It may be useful for treatment of similar conditions in cats. The purpose of this study was to investigate the pharmacokinetics of pioglitazone in lean and obese cats, to provide a foundation for assessment of its effects on insulin sensitivity and lipid metabolism. Pioglitazone was administered intravenously (median 0.2 mg/kg) or orally (3 mg/kg) to 6 healthy lean (3.96 ± 0.56 kg) and 6 obese (6.43 ± 0.48 kg) cats, in a two by two Latin Square design with a 4‐week washout period. Blood samples were collected over 24 h, and pioglitazone concentrations were measured via a validated high‐performance liquid chromatography assay. Pharmacokinetic parameters were determined using two‐compartmental analysis for IV data and noncompartmental analysis for oral data. After oral administration, mean bioavailability was 55%, t1/2 was 3.5 h, Tmax was 3.6 h, Cmax was 2131 ng/mL, and AUC0–∞ was 15 556 ng/mL·h. There were no statistically significant differences in pharmacokinetic parameters between lean and obese cats following either oral or intravenous administration. Systemic exposure to pioglitazone in cats after a 3 mg/kg oral dose approximates that observed in humans with therapeutic doses.
Reconstruction of caribou evolutionary history in Western North America and its implications for conservation
Authors: WECKWORTH BYRON V. , MUSIANI MARCO , McDEVITT ALLAN D. , HEBBLEWHITE MARK , MARIANI STEFANO
Published: May 2012

The role of Beringia as a refugium and route for trans‐continental exchange of fauna during glacial cycles of the past 2 million years are well documented; less apparent is its contribution as a significant reservoir of genetic diversity. Using mitochondrial DNA sequences and 14 microsatellite loci, we investigate the phylogeographic history of caribou (Rangifer tarandus) in western North America. Patterns of genetic diversity reveal two distinct groups of caribou. Caribou classified as a Northern group, of Beringian origin, exhibited greater number and variability in mtDNA haplotypes compared to a Southern group originating from refugia south of glacial ice. Results indicate that subspecies R. t. granti of Alaska and R. t. groenlandicus of northern Canada do not constitute distinguishable units at mtDNA or microsatellites, belying their current status as separate subspecies. Additionally, the Northern Mountain ecotype of woodland caribou (presently R. t. caribou) has closer kinship to caribou classified as granti or groenlandicus. Comparisons of mtDNA and microsatellite data suggest that behavioural and ecological specialization is a more recently derived life history characteristic. Notably, microsatellite differentiation among Southern herds is significantly greater, most likely as a result of human‐induced landscape fragmentation and genetic drift due to smaller population sizes. These results not only provide important insight into the evolutionary history of northern species such as caribou, but also are important indicators for managers evaluating conservation measures for this threatened species.
Unvaccinated children in years of increasing coverage: how many and who are they? Evidence from 96 low‐ and middle‐income countries
Authors: Bosch‐Capblanch Xavier , Banerjee K. , Burton A.
Published: May 2012

Objective  While childhood immunisation coverage levels have increased since the 70s, inequities in coverage between and within countries have been widely reported. Unvaccinated children remain undetected by routine monitoring systems and strikingly unreported. The objective of this study was to provide evidence on the magnitude of the problem and to describe predictors associated with non‐vaccination.

Methods  Two hundred and forty‐one nationally representative household surveys in 96 countries were analysed. Proportions and changes in time of ‘unvaccinated’ (children having not received a single dose of vaccine), ‘partially vaccinated’ and ‘fully vaccinated’ children were estimated. Predictors of non‐vaccination were explored.

Results  The percentage of unvaccinated children was 9.9% across all surveys. 66 countries had more than one survey: 38 showed statistically significant reductions in the proportion of unvaccinated children between the first and last survey, 10 countries showed increases and the rest showed no significant changes. However, while 18 of the 38 countries also improved in terms of partially and fully vaccinated, in the other 20 the proportion of fully vaccinated decreased. The predictors more strongly associated with being unvaccinated were education of the caregiver, education of caregiver’s partner, caregiver’s tetanus toxoid (TT) status, wealth index and type of family member participation in decision‐making when the child is ill. Multivariable logistic regression identified the TT status of the caregiver as the strongest predictors of unvaccinated children. Country‐specific summaries were produced and sent to countries.

Conclusion  The number of unvaccinated children is not negligible and their proportion and the predictors of non‐vaccination have to be drawn from specific surveys. Specific vaccine indicators cannot properly describe the performance of immunisation programmes in certain situations. National immunisation programmes and national and international immunisation stakeholders should also consider monitoring the proportion of unvaccinated children (i.e. those who have received no vaccines at all) and draw specific plans on the determinants of non‐vaccination.
The dermatology hospitalist: creating value by rapid clinical pathologic correlation in a patient‐centered care model
Authors: el‐Azhary Rokea , Weenig Roger H. , Gibson Lawrence E.
Published: May 2012

Background  The active and continuous presence of dermatologists in hospitals has undergone continued involution over the past two decades. Our patient‐centered, value‐based dermatology hospitalist model describes an efficient system for the integration of the dermatologist in the hospital treatment team.

Methods  We describe five difficult inpatient cases to illustrate the value of dermatology intervention and clinical pathologic correlation in facilitating timely diagnosis and treatment.

Results  Prompt specialty evaluation and clinicopathologic correlation by hospital dermatologists led to decreased morbidity and the avoidance of delay in initiating definitive treatment.

Conclusions  Efficient evaluation and clinicopathologic correlation by dermatology hospitalists are essential to hospitals that provide comprehensive care. This value‐based model has the potential to produce better patient outcomes and greater satisfaction in both patients and other health care providers.
Comparison of Monsoonal change of water quality parameters between 1983 and 2008 in a tropical estuary in Northeastern India: role of phytoplankton and community metabolism
Authors: Dey Mitali , Chowdhury Chumki , Pattnaik Asim A. , Ganguly Dipnarayan , Mukhopadhyay Sandip K. , De Tarun K. , Jana Tapan K.
Published: May 2012

Ongoing climate change and anthropogenic activities are introducing stressors that affect the structure and function of coastal ecosystems. This paper focuses on the fluvial fluxes and estuarine transport of nutrients from a tropical river (Mahanadi River) in Northeastern India and compares select nutrient and water quality parameters between 1983 and 2008. This estuary acts as a perennial source of CO2 with a net annual flux to the atmosphere of about 135 tons. The non‐conservative fluxes showed a net annual removal of 650 and 140 tons of phosphorus and nitrogen from the water column, respectively. Negative biogeochemical feedbacks that decreased the availability of N and P in 2008 relative to 1983 levels indicate major changes in biogeochemical responses towards fluvial fluxes of nutrient.
Participation of mental health consumers in research: Training addressed and reliability assessed
Authors: Hancock Nicola , Bundy Anita , Tamsett Sally , McMahon Mark
Published: May 2012

Introduction

A call for active inclusion of consumers in research; recognising and valuing the knowledge that arises through lived experience, is made in the literature. However, genuine inclusion of consumers as members of the research team remains rare. Opponents present two barriers: lack of required knowledge and skills and lack of capacity to conduct rigorous research.

Methods

This study involved a collaborative process to develop training materials for consumer researchers. Reliability of self‐report outcome data collected by five trained consumers was then examined.

Results

Quantitative results suggest that trained consumers can facilitate self‐report interviews to the high standard expected by the general research community.

Conclusions

This study provides both methods and resources to extend occupational therapy consumer‐centred practice into the realm of research.
Sucrose‐rich feeding during rat pregnancy‐lactation and/or after weaning alters glucose and lipid metabolism in adult offspring
Authors: D'Alessandro Maria E , Oliva Maria E , Ferreira Maria R , Selenscig Dante , Lombardo Yolanda B , Chicco Adriana
Published: May 2012

Adverse fetal and early life environments predispose to the development of metabolic disorders in adulthood. The present study examined whether offspring of normal Wistar dams fed a high‐sucrose diet (SRD) developed impaired lipid and glucose homeostasis when fed a control diet (CD) after weaning. In addition, we investigated whether there were more pronounced derangements in lipid and glucose homeostasis when offspring of SRD‐fed Wistar were fed an SRD after weaning compared with those in offspring of CD‐fed dams weaned on an SRD.

During pregnancy and lactation, female rats were fed either an SRD or CD. After weaning, half the male offspring from both groups were fed a CD or SRD, up to 100 days of age (CD‐CD, CD‐SRD, SRD‐SRD and SRD‐CD groups).

Final bodyweight was similar between all groups, although offspring of SRD‐fed dams had lighter bodyweight at birth. Plasma lipid and glucose levels were significantly higher (P < 0.05) without changes in insulin levels in the CD‐SRD, SRD‐SRD and SRD‐CD groups compared with the CD‐CD group. Dyslipidaemia in the CD‐SRD and SRD‐SRD groups resulted from increased secretion of very low‐density lipoprotein triacylglycerol, as well as decreased triacylglycerol (TAG) clearance that was associated with increased liver TAG content (P < 0.05) compared with the CD‐CD group. The hypertriglyceridaemia observed in the SRD‐CD group was mostly associated with decreased TAG clearance. Altered glucose and insulin tolerance were observed when the SRD was fed during any period of life.

These data support the hypothesis that early life exposure to SRD is associated with changes in lipid and glucose metabolism, leading to an unfavourable profile in adulthood, regardless of whether offspring consumed an SRD after weaning.
Adeno‐associated virus‐mediated gene delivery of the human ND4 complex I subunit in rabbit eyes
Authors: Shi Hui , Gao Jing , Pei Han , Liu Rong , Hu Wei‐kun , Wan Xin , Li Tao , Li Bin
Published: May 2012

Abstract

Background:  To assess intravitreal injection dose and safety of recombinant adeno‐associated virus‐mediated gene delivery of human NADH dehydrogenase subunit 4 (ND4) in rabbit eyes.

Methods:  An open reading frame for human ND4 or adeno‐associated virus‐green fluorescent protein were fused to the mitochondrial targeting sequence and packed into separate adeno‐associated virus capsids. Rabbits of three treatment groups were administered 0.1 mL adeno‐associated virus‐ND4, 0.1 mL adeno‐associated virus‐green fluorescent protein or 0.1 mL vehicle via intravitreal injection, respectively. The safety of recombinant adenoassociated virus‐mediated gene delivery of human ND4 in rabbit eyes was assessed with a slit‐lamp microscope and direct ophthalmoscope, measurements of intraocular pressure and flash visual evoked potential, and optical coherence tomography. The mRNA and protein expressions of human ND4 in the retina of rabbits were determined with real‐time polymer chain reaction (PCR), immunofluorescence and Western blot.

Results:  No complications occurred in any of the three treatment groups after the intravitreal injection. At 1‐month post‐injection, no significant difference in the mean thickness of retinal nerve fibre layer was found among the three groups. Results of the visual evoked potential test showed that there was no difference in the latency of the visual P100 wave among the three groups. Real‐time PCR, immunofluorescence and Western blot analyses verified the expressions of ND4 and green fluorescent protein in the retinal nerve fibre layer.

Conclusions:  Intravitreal injection of adeno‐associated virus‐ND4 expression vectors was effectively and safely performed in our study. The data on the dose and method of intravitreal injection from our study will provide a valuable reference for clinical intravitreal injection of adeno‐associated virus‐ND4 for the treatment of Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy.
Management of a Klippel–Trenaunay syndrome in pregnant women with mega‐cisterna magna and splenic and vulvar varices at birth: A case report
Authors: Atis Alev , Ozdemir Gunseli , Tuncer Gulden , Cetincelik Umran , Goker Nimet , Ozsoy Sibel
Published: May 2012

Klippel–Trenaunay syndrome (KTS) is a rare, sporadic and complex malformation characterized by the clinical triad of: (i) capillary malformation (port‐wine stain); (ii) soft tissue and bone hypertrophy or occasionally, hypertrophy of one lower limb; and (iii) atypical lateral varicosity. The maternal and fetal risks associated with pregnancy in women with KTS are proportional to disease severity, which can be exacerbated by pregnancy. Complications include bleeding, disseminated intravascular coagulation, thromboembolic events and pain. Here, we report the case of a pregnant woman with KTS who had an uneventful pregnancy, labor and postpartum course, but had splenic and large vulvar vein varices. The obstetrical course of women with KTS varies. Management is largely conservative and multidisciplinary approaches form the mainstay for managing these patients based on their symptoms.
Adjunctive rectal misoprostol versus oxytocin infusion for prevention of postpartum hemorrhage in women at risk: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Badejoko Olusegun O. , Ijarotimi Adebimpe O. , Awowole Ibraheem O. , Loto Olabisi M. , Badejoko Bolaji O. , Olaiya Dare S. , Fatusi Adesegun O. , Kuti Oluwafemi , Orji Ernest O. , Ogunniyi Solomon O.
Published: May 2012

Aim:  The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of adjunctive rectal misoprostol compared to oxytocin infusion in the prevention of primary postpartum hemorrhage after routine active management of the third stage of labor in women with identifiable risk factors for uterine atony.

Material and Methods:  A double‐blind randomized controlled trial was carried out at Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex, Ile‐Ife, Nigeria. A total of 264 parturients with known risk factors for postpartum hemorrhage were randomized to receive either rectal misoprostol (600 µg; n = 132) or oxytocin infusion (20 IU in 500 mL; n = 132) after routine active management of the third stage of labor. Intrapartum blood loss was measured using a combination of the BRASSS‐V calibrated drapes and differential pad weighing. Hematocrit was measured intrapartum and 24 h postpartum.

Results:  There was no significant difference (P = 0.07) in the mean intrapartum blood loss between the misoprostol (387.28 ± 203.09 mL) and oxytocin (386.73 ± 298.51 mL) groups. There was also no difference in the requirement for additional intervention for uterine atony (P = 0.74). Postpartum hematocrit drop and blood transfusion were, however, significantly less in the misoprostol group.

Conclusion:  Rectal misoprostol is as effective as oxytocin infusion as an adjunct for prevention of postpartum hemorrhage in women with risk factors for uterine atony and is associated with a lower hematocrit drop and blood transfusion postpartum. However, shivering, pyrexia and vomiting are more frequent with misoprostol, though usually self‐limited.
Sex‐hormone‐binding globulin early in pregnancy for the prediction of severe gestational diabetes mellitus and related complications
Authors: Caglar Gamze S. , Ozdemir Elif D. U. , Cengiz Sevim D. , Demirtaş Selda
Published: May 2012

Aims:  The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive value of sex‐hormone‐binding globulin (SHBG) for the diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), and to clarify the association between SHBG levels and GDM complications/medication requirements.

Material and Methods:  Among the participants (n = 93) who provided blood samples between 13 and 16 weeks' gestation, 30 cases subsequently developed GDM. Complications and medical interventions were noted. The best cut‐off point of SHBG and diagnostic performance were calculated.

Results:  The mean age was 28.45 ± 5.0 years. SHBG levels were lower in the GDM group (n = 30) when compared with non‐GDM (n = 63) cases (<0.01). Among the GDM women, SHBG was lower in the insulin therapy group (n = 15) compared with medical nutritional therapy alone (n = 15) (P < 0.01). A good predictive accuracy of SHBG was found for GDM requiring insulin therapy (area under the curve: 0.866, 95% confidence interval: 0.773–0.959). An SHBG threshold for 97.47 nmol/L had a sensitivity of 80.0%, specificity 84.6%, positive predictive value 50.0% and negative predictive value 95.7%. The calculated odds ratio for SHBG < 97.47 nmol/L was 12.346 (95% confidence interval: 1.786–83.33).

Conclusions:  SHBG is valuable for screening women early in pregnancy for GDM risk; however, a standard assay for analyses and a threshold level of serum SHBG for a constant gestational week has to be determined.
Ultrasonographic and hysteroscopic outcomes of uterine scar healing after cesarean section: Comparison of two types of single‐layer suture
Authors: Ceci Oronzo , Cantatore Clementina , Scioscia Marco , Nardelli Claudia , Ravi Mini , Vimercati Antonella , Bettocchi Stefano
Published: May 2012

Aim:  A common anatomical consequence of low‐segment cesarean section is the presence of a pouch on the anterior uterine wall that can be detected by sonography or hysteroscopy. Different suturing techniques have been compared (single vs double layer) and showed no substantial differences. This prospective longitudinal study was aimed at evaluating the outcome of the cesarean scar, comparing two different types of single‐layer sutures by transvaginal ultrasound and hysteroscopy.

Material and Methods:  The study sample consisted of two groups of 30 singleton primiparae at term who delivered by elective low segment cesarean section. In the first group, uterine closure was done with locked continuous single‐layer sutures and in the second group, with single‐layer interrupted sutures. Patients were assessed by transvaginal ultrasound and hysteroscopy, between the 6th and the 12th month after delivery, and again at the 24th month. Ultrasound measurements were made of the pouch area, if present.

Results:  A bell‐shaped uterine wall defect was seen at ultrasound in 36 (85.71%) of 42 patients who completed the follow up at the 24th month. It was larger in the group of patients with closure by continuous sutures (6.2 [2.1–14.7] mm2) as compared to interrupted sutures (4.6 [1.9–8.2] mm2, P = 0.03). Hysteroscopy confirmed the presence of the wall defect in all 36 cases, but different hysteroscopic outcomes were observed.

Conclusion:  Locked continuous sutures seem to cause a larger defect as compared to interrupted sutures, probably due to a greater ischemic effect exerted on the uterine tissue.
Efficacy of systematic pelvic lymphadenectomy in patients with non‐endometrioid endometrial cancers: A retrospective, multicenter study in Korea
Authors: Tong Seo‐Yun , Lee Jong‐Min , Choi Young‐Joon , Lee Jae‐Kwan , Kim Mi‐Kyung , Cho Chi‐Heum , Kim Seok‐Mo , Park Sang‐Yoon , Park Chan‐Yong , Kim Ki‐Tae
Published: May 2012

Aim:  Non‐endometrioid endometrial cancer is a clinically and pathologically distinct subtype of endometrial cancer. The aim of this study was to determine whether systematic pelvic lymphadenectomy improves overall survival compared to no lymphadenectomy in non‐endometrioid endometrial cancer.

Material and Methods:  The authors retrospectively reviewed the medical records and pathological findings of 112 patients who underwent surgical staging for non‐endometrioid endometrial cancer from 2000 to 2006 in Korea.

Results:  Systematic pelvic lymphadenectomy was performed in 71 patients. Pelvic lymph node metastases were identified in 31% and 14.6% patients who underwent systematic pelvic lymphadenectomy and no lymphadenectomy, respectively. After adjusting for risk factors, there was no significant difference in overall survival (odds ratio = 0.69; 95% confidence interval, 0.29–1.67) between patients who did or did not undergo systematic pelvic lymphadenectomy. On multivariate analysis, patients with lymph node metastasis had higher risk of death (odds ratio = 3.11; 95% confidence interval, 0.97–10.00) than the patients with no lymph node metastasis.

Conclusion:  Although systematic pelvic lymphadenectomy did not affect overall survival in patients with the non‐endometrioid subtype, it has the potential benefit of providing prognostic information and acting as a guide for further adjuvant treatment.
Granulosa cell tumor of the ovary after long‐term use of tamoxifen and toremifene
Authors: Tanaka Tomohito , Kato Takashi , Ohmichi Masahide
Published: May 2012

The relation between the use of tamoxifen and gynecologic tumors has been documented. In this case, a 58‐year‐old postmenopausal woman had been treated with tamoxifen for 5 years followed by toremifene for 1.5 years due to the presence of stage II estrogen receptor‐positive breast cancer. The patient was found to have a stage Ic granulosa cell tumor of the ovary despite undergoing annual gynecologic examinations. This report presents a case of granulosa cell tumor of the ovary after the long‐term use of tamoxifen and toremifene.
The effect of temperature on the development and life cycle regulation of the pine weevil Hylobius abietis and the potential impacts of climate change
Authors: Inward Daegan J. G. , Wainhouse David , Peace Andrew
Published: May 2012

The pine weevil Hylobius abietis is widely distributed in the Palaearctic region where it is a major pest. Although predominantly semi‐voltine, with a 2‐year life cycle, the generation time across its range can vary from 1 to 4 years. The duration of the life cycle and the seasonal timing of weevil activity affect the economic impact and management of this pest, all of which are likely to change in a warming climate.

To determine the effect of temperature and tree species on weevil growth and development, laboratory experiments were performed with eggs, larvae, prepupae, pupae and adults, using, as appropriate, the host species Scots pine Pinus sylvestris L. and Sitka spruce Picea sitchensis (Bong.) Carr. under constant or alternating temperatures.

The development rate was linearly related to temperature, with developmental thresholds for eggs, larvae and pupae of 8, 4.5 and 7.3 °C, respectively. Day‐degrees were estimated for each life stage. Larval development was affected by tree species, being slower on Sitka spruce than on Scots pine, and was faster under alternating than constant temperatures.

The development time for prepupae was highly variable, with an apparent facultative prepupal diapause initiated by temperature. The temperature range 20–17.5 °C marked the transition between median prepupal development times of approximately 25 and 90 days. The prepupal stage may serve to minimize the risk of overwintering mortality in the pupal stage and help to synchronize the life cycle.

Larval and adult mass was positively related to developmental temperature, demonstrating an inverse temperature size rule, and weevils were heavier when developing on Scots pine than Sitka spruce. Development in alternating temperatures reduced weevil mass on Scots pine. The influence of temperature on weevil mass is likely to have a positive effect on fecundity and overwintering survival. The effects of climate change on development, voltinism and weevil mass are discussed.
Use of a combined slit‐lamp SD‐OCT to obtain anterior and posterior segment images in selected animal species
Authors: Rosolen Serge G. , Rivière Mei‐Lyn K. , Lavillegrand Sylvie , Gautier Barbara , Picaud Serge , LeGargasson Jean‐François
Published: May 2012

Objective  To obtain images of anterior and posterior segments of the eye using a slit‐lamp (SL)/spectral domain (SD) optical coherence tomography (OCT) integrated system designed for the human eye, in the cat, dog, minipig and monkey.

Animals studied  One healthy adult monkey, one healthy adult minipig, one healthy adult dog, one healthy adult cat, and three cats and four dogs affected by corneal or retinal diseases.

Procedure  A SL SCAN‐1 SD‐OCT, which is a slit‐lamp SL‐D7 that contains an integrated OCT module and a fundus viewer, was used to generate OCT images (512–2048), while simultaneously taking ‘en‐face’ slit‐lamp images (efSL). OCT images were obtained under sedation or anesthesia. These images were compared to histological retinal sections obtained from a monkey, a minipig, a dog, and a cat.

Results  ‘en‐face’ slit‐lamp images and OCT images of the ocular tissues were obtained allowing for the identification of different corneal and retinal layers in all animal species. Measurements of the total retinal thickness (TRT) from the inner limiting membrane to the retinal pigment epithelium were performed in various regions throughout the retina. Reduction in TRT was consistent with clinical features of retinal degeneration identified in dogs and cats.

Conclusion  This noninvasive procedure is useful for both experimental and clinical assessments of ocular tissue damage. Images of anterior and posterior segments are readily obtained under routine clinical conditions. Future studies are warranted to establish normal OCT data in our patients with this new instrument.
Solitary solid renal mass: can we predict malignancy?
Authors: Violette Philippe , Abourbih Samuel , Szymanski Konrad M. , Tanguay Simon , Aprikian Armen , Matthews Keith , Brimo Fadi , Kassouf Wassim
Published: May 2012

Study Type – Therapy (retrospective cohort)

Level of Evidence 3a

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

It is known that the majority (80%) of solid renal masses are malignant. Most of the literature suggests that smaller tumour size is associated with a higher incidence of benign disease.

We have confirmed that decreased tumour size is associated with benign disease, particularly for lesions <2 cm. Once radiologically apparent angiomyolipomas are excluded, the incidence of benign disease with small renal masses is lower than reported in the literature (11%). Furthermore, we have shown that small renal masses in females have a higher association with benign disease. Patient age and tumour location were not predictive of benign histology. We have also stratified our risks not only for benign disease but also for clinically indolent renal cancers to help physicians counsel patients with regard to managing these solid renal masses.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the clinical predictors of benign disease in patients with solitary solid renal masses.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Pathology reports of patients who underwent radical or partial nephrectomy at two hospitals from 1998 to 2008 were reviewed.

Only patients with solitary solid unilateral renal masses were included.

Predictors of malignancy risk were assessed with univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 592 patients with a mean (sd) age of 60 (13) years were included, 38% of whom were women. Radical and partial nephrectomy was performed in 66% and 34% of patients, respectively.

Renal masses were equally distributed on the right and left sides (49% vs 51%, P= 0.84). Masses were more commonly located in the upper and lower poles than in the mid pole (40.8% vs 38.7% vs 20.5%, respectively).

The mean tumour size was larger in patients who underwent radical compared with partial nephrectomy (6.8 cm vs 2.9 cm, P < 0.001). The rate of benign disease in our overall population was 9.5%.

On univariate and multivariate analysis, only a renal mass size <2 cm and female gender were predictive of benign disease. On further analysis the magnitude of this effect was found to be additive.

CONCLUSIONS

Renal masses <2 cm and female gender were associated with a higher probability of benign disease.

Patient age and tumour location were not predictive of benign disease.
Incomplete thermal ablation stimulates proliferation of residual renal carcinoma cells in a translational murine model
Authors: Kroeze Stephanie G.C. , van Melick Harm H.E. , Nijkamp Maarten W. , Kruse Fabian K. , Kruijssen Laura W.J. , van Diest Paul J. , Bosch J.L.H. Ruud , Jans Judith J.M.
Published: May 2012

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

Thermal ablation influences the local tissue microenvironment. Several studies have reported that residual tumour cells may exhibit a more aggressive phenotype.

This study shows that incomplete CA and RFA cause an increased proliferation and decreased apptosis of residual renal tumour cells. This may be caused by stimulatory factors such as hypoxia, HSPs and inflammatory cells.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effect of incomplete thermal ablation vs partial nephrectomy (PN) on growth stimulation and cellular survival in renal tumours.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Renca renal tumours were transplanted under the renal capsule of mice (four to six mice/group) after which incomplete radiofrequency ablation (RFA), cryoablation (CA) or PN was performed.

At several time points after treatment, presence of cell proliferation, apoptosis, hypoxic areas, inflammatory factors and the heat‐shock proteins (HSPs) 70 and 90 were evaluated using immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

At 2 h after thermal ablation residual tumour cells showed increased proliferation. This hyperproliferation was significantly stronger after RFA than CA (P < 0.05) and not present after PN.

Residual cells showed increased apoptosis after 2 h and decreased apoptosis from 2 days after thermal ablation. Apoptotic cells were significantly less evident at 3 days after RFA (P < 0.001).

Hypoxic areas and HSPs were increasingly present from 2 h up to 7 days after thermal ablation (P < 0.001).

Inflammatory cells infiltrated mainly the necrotic areas after thermal ablation, and their abundance peaked at 1 week after ablation (P < 0.05).

The increased cell growth was preceded by hypoxia and presence of HSPs.

CONCLUSIONS

CA and RFA result in an increased proliferation and decreased apoptosis of residual renal tumour cells.

This hyperproliferation may be caused by stimulatory factors, e.g. hypoxia, HSPs and inflammatory cells, and could facilitate recurrences of renal tumours after thermal ablation.

This study highlights the importance of achieving complete tumour destruction.
Ways In and Out of Vulnerability to Climate Change: Abandoning the Mubarak Project in the Northern Nile Delta, Egypt
Authors: Malm Andreas , Esmailian Shora
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  Climate change is already exerting significant pressure on humanity, but some people have the resources to cope, while others do not. What, then, determines vulnerability to climate change? This article presents a case study of one site of vulnerability in Egypt, known as the Mubarak Project villages on the shores of the Mediterranean. The soil of these villages is now undergoing rapid salinization, forcing farmers to apply sand to “elevate” their fields above the rising salty water table—but not all farmers can afford to buy the requisite sand. Accumulation by dispossession under the Mubarak regime has pushed some people towards the frontline of climate change, while at the same time denying them the resources to stay there. Using our case, we explore the connection between accumulation by dispossession and vulnerability to climate change and ask if an end to the former could reduce the latter in Egypt.
Re‐pegging the renminbi to a basket: issues and implications
Authors: Oksanen Heikki
Published: May 2012

On 19 June 2010, the Chinese authorities announced that the renminbi (RMB) was henceforth to be managed with reference to a currency basket. Yet, it has subsequently quite closely followed the USD, although having appreciated gradually by 7.7 per cent up to the time of writing. The details of the composition of the basket have not been announced. Despite having appreciated against the USD, the RMB became first significantly weaker against a broad trade‐weighted basket, and the EUR and the JPY, and this situation held until September 2011. China has announced at international forums that the RMB exchange rate regime will be reformed further. We discuss here what a transparent basket peg could mean for China. To reduce the overall volatility of the RMB exchange rate, the weight for the EUR should be significantly increased, with the special drawing right basket being one option for practical implementation. This would also have a positive impact on the EU. China's currency reform has possible implications for its USD‐dominated asset holdings. Reducing them could trigger a further depreciation of the USD. The potentially costly consequences call for new rules for the global financial architecture. However, China's economic expansion will inevitably lead to a diminishing international role for the USD.
Monetary policy transmission and macroeconomic policy coordination in Pacific island countries
Authors: Yang Yongzheng , Davies Matt , Wang Shengzu , Dunn Jonathan , Wu Yiqun
Published: May 2012

During the global financial crisis, central banks in Pacific island countries eased monetary policy to stimulate economic activity. Judging by the ensuing movements in commercial bank interest rates and private sector credit, monetary policy transmission appears to be weak. This is confirmed by an empirical examination of interest rate pass‐through and credit growth. Weak credit demand and under‐developed financial markets seem to have limited the effectiveness of monetary policy, but the inflexibility of exchange rates and rising real interest rates have also served to frustrate the central banks' efforts despite a supporting fiscal policy. While highlighting the importance of developing domestic financial markets in the long run, this experience also points to the need to coordinate macroeconomic policies and to use all macroeconomic tools available in conducting countercyclical policies, including exchange rate flexibility.
Distributing Learning Over Time: The Spacing Effect in Children’s Acquisition and Generalization of Science Concepts
Authors: Vlach Haley A. , Sandhofer Catherine M.
Published: May 2012

The spacing effect describes the robust finding that long‐term learning is promoted when learning events are spaced out in time rather than presented in immediate succession. Studies of the spacing effect have focused on memory processes rather than for other types of learning, such as the acquisition and generalization of new concepts. In this study, early elementary school children (5‐ to 7‐year‐olds; N = 36) were presented with science lessons on 1 of 3 schedules: massed, clumped, and spaced. The results revealed that spacing lessons out in time resulted in higher generalization performance for both simple and complex concepts. Spaced learning schedules promote several types of learning, strengthening the implications of the spacing effect for educational practices and curriculum.
The Development of Children’s Ability to Fill the Gaps in Their Knowledge by Consulting Experts
Authors: Aguiar Naomi R. , Stoess Caryn J. , Taylor Marjorie
Published: May 2012

This research investigated children’s ability to recognize gaps in their knowledge and seek missing information from appropriate informants. In Experiment 1, forty‐five 4‐ and 5‐year‐olds were adept in assigning questions from 3 domains (medicine, firefighting, and farming) to corresponding experts (doctor, firefighter, or farmer). However, when given the options of answering the same questions themselves or assigning them to an expert (Experiment 2), only 6‐year‐olds were consistently able to recognize when they did not know answers and then assign test questions correctly. Four‐ and 5‐year‐olds tended to overestimate their own knowledge or assign questions to the wrong expert. This result was replicated in Experiment 3, in which 5‐year‐olds were given incentives for correct answers.
The Master of the Royal Mint: How Much Money did Isaac Newton Save Britain?
Authors: Belenkiy Ari
Published: May 2012

From the extant statistical data, the paper reconstructs several episodes in the history of the Royal Mint during Isaac Newton’s tenure. We discuss four types of uncertainty that are embedded in the production of coins, extending Stephen Stigler’s work in several directions. The jury verdicts in trials of the pyx for 1696–1727 allow judgement on the impartiality of the jury at the trials. The verdicts, together with several remarks by Newton in his correspondence with the Treasury, allow us to estimate the standard deviation σ in weights of individual guineas coined before and during Newton’s Mastership. This parameter, in turn, permits us to estimate the amount of money that Newton saved Britain after he put a stop to the illegal practice by goldsmiths and bankers of culling heavy guineas from circulation and recoining them to their advantage; a conservative estimate of savings to the Crown is £41510, and possibly three times as much. The procedure by which Newton probably improved coinage gives historical insight on how important statistical notions—standard deviation and sampling—came to the forefront in practical matters: the former as a measure of variation of weights of coins, and the latter as a test of several coins to evaluate the quality of the entire population. Newton can be credited with the formal introduction of testing a small sample of coins, a pound in weight, in the trials of the pyx from 1707 onwards, effectively reducing the size of admissible error. Even Newton’s ‘cooling law’ could have been contrived for the purpose of reducing variation in the weight of coins during initial stages of the minting process. Three open questions are posed in the conclusion.
Least squares estimation of ARCH models with missing observations
Authors: Bondon Pascal , Bahamonde Natalia
Published: May 2012

A least squares estimator for ARCH models in the presence of missing data is proposed. Strong consistency and asymptotic normality are derived. Monte Carlo simulation results are analysed and an application to real data of a Chilean stock index is reported.
Dosing issues in Parkinson's disease – patient preferences and their influence on compliance
Authors: Lim E. C. H.
Published: May 2012

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OPTIMAL MIGRATION: A WORLD PERSPECTIVE*
Authors: Benhabib Jess , Jovanovic Boyan
Published: May 2012

We ask what level of migration would maximize world welfare. Welfare is assumed to be a weighted average of the utilities of the world’s various citizens, but the weights are also country specific. Using a calibrated one‐sector model, we find that unless the weights are heavily biased toward the natives of rich countries, the extent of migration that would be optimal far exceeds the levels observed today. The claim remains true in a two‐sector extension of the model. All versions of the model assume that migration is the only redistributive tool.
LEARNING AND THE GREAT MODERATION*
Authors: Bullard James , Singh Aarti
Published: May 2012

We study a stylized theory of the volatility reduction in the U.S. after 1984—the Great Moderation—which attributes part of the stabilization to less volatile shocks and another part to more difficult inference on the part of Bayesian households attempting to learn the latent state of the economy. We use a standard equilibrium business cycle model with technology following an unobserved regime‐switching process. After 1984, according to Kim and Nelson (1999a), the variance of U.S. macroeconomic aggregates declined because boom and recession regimes moved closer together, keeping conditional variance unchanged. In our model this makes the signal extraction problem more difficult for Bayesian households, and in response they moderate their behavior, reinforcing the effect of the less volatile stochastic technology and contributing an extra measure of moderation to the economy. We construct example economies in which this learning effect accounts for about 30% of a volatility reduction of the magnitude observed in the postwar U.S. data.
OPTIMAL CONTROL OF EXTERNALITIES IN THE PRESENCE OF INCOME TAXATION*
Authors: Kaplow By Louis
Published: May 2012

A substantial literature examines how the Pigouvian directive that marginal taxes should equal marginal external harms needs to be modified in light of the preexisting distortion due to labor income taxation. Additional literature considers distributive concerns. It is demonstrated, however, that simple first‐best rules—unmodified for labor supply distortion or distribution—are correct in the model examined. Specifically, setting all commodity taxes equal to marginal harms (and subsidies equal to marginal benefits) can generate a Pareto improvement, as can a marginal reform toward the first‐best. Qualifications and explanations for differences from previous work are also presented.
FISCAL POLICY RULES AND THE SUSTAINABILITY OF PUBLIC DEBT IN EUROPE*
Authors: Collignon Stefan
Published: May 2012

The sustainability of public debt is interpreted as the result of the interaction of fiscal policy with the economic environment, and not as a statistical concept as in most of the recent literature. If debt is not to explode over time, policymakers have to respond to the changing conditions in the macroeconomic environment. This article defines the conditions that will ensure compliance of fiscal policy with the intertemporal budget constraint in the context of Europe's fiscal policy rules. The empirical part of the article reveals that European public debt is sustainable in this respect, but questions regarding long‐run liquidity requirements remain unresolved.
INTERNATIONAL ANTITRUST ENFORCEMENT AND MULTIMARKET CONTACT*
Authors: Choi Jay Pil , Gerlach Heiko
Published: May 2012

This article analyzes cartel formation and international antitrust enforcement when multinational firms operate in several jurisdictions with local antitrust authorities. We are concerned with how the sustainability of collusion in one local market is affected by the existence of collusion in other markets when they are linked by a negative demand relationship. The interdependence of cartel stability across markets leads to potential externalities in antitrust enforcement across jurisdictions. Local antitrust enforcement equilibrium enforcement may exhibit a nonmonotonicity in the degree of market integration. We compare it with globally optimal antitrust enforcement policy and discuss the role of international antitrust coordination.
The impact of the various chemical and physical factors on the degradation rate of bronopol
Authors: Matczuk M. , Obarski N. , Mojski M.
Published: May 2012

Synopsis

Bronopol (2‐bromo‐2‐nitropropane‐1,3‐diol) is used as preservative in cosmetic industry. Its main role in commercial products consists in protection of the cosmetic composition stability by inhibiting the development of micro‐organisms. Unfortunately, preservatives can also undergo the degradation processes. The aim of examinations was to prove that bronopol decomposes in aqueous solutions and storage conditions have a significance influence on its degradation rate. High‐performance liquid chromatography method (methanol/water with hydrochloric acid 5:95 v/v) with spectrophotometric detection (210 nm) was used for examining the decomposition rate of bronopol. The impact of chemical (addition of cosmetics components: citric acid and/or sodium dodecylsulfate) and physical (elevated and ambient temperature, sunlight or ultraviolet radiation and air access) factors has been elaborated. Bronopol decomposes most rapidly (independently on the sample surrounding conditions) when it is in solution with sodium dodecylsulfate, the inverse dependence is observed in the presence of two compounds – citric acid and sodium dodecylsulfate. Additionally, the elevated temperature causes the acceleration of decomposition. Bronopol degradation by‐products were also identified as methanol, formic acid, tris(hydroxymethyl)methane and 2‐bromo‐2‐nitroethanol.
Human love – the inner essence of nursing ethics according to Estrid Rodhe. A study using the approach of history of ideas
Authors: Kangasniemi Mari , Haho Annu
Published: May 2012

The aim of this study is to describe the idea pattern of nursing ethics in the textbook written by the Swedish nurse Estrid Rodhe (1911). The purpose is to increase understanding of the ideas in early written history of nursing ethics by using the method of history of ideas. A theoretical premise, but also a fascinating factor in this study, is that the ethics of one profession is always contextual in relation to current period. The historical context of Rodhe’s time was a time of difficult societal circumstances in Europe. Nurses’ work was demanding, but a distinctive feature was enthusiasm to develop nursing. Discussion of the moral issues of nursing was intense, and the characteristics of a good nurse consisted of being as altruistic and unselfish woman. Based on our analysis, the inner essence of Rodhe’s idea pattern consists of human love. It is reflected in her ideas of calling‐based altruism, virtuous woman as a personal reason for being a nurse and nurses’ ethical duty to implementation and subservience. Rodhe’s thinking reflects the conventions of her time. The role of personal moral characteristics of nurses was highlighted and not viewed as separable from the professional. Her textbook represented nursing knowledge of ethics written by a nurse and making her a pioneer of the early written history of nursing in general. Understanding the past helps us comprehend current issues in nursing and makes visible cultural values that form the basis for today and tomorrow. It also provides a possibility to observe the same fundamental features in spite of temporal distance. Here, the history of ideas is a beneficial and fruitful method to increase our understanding of nursing ethics.
Runoff attenuation features: a sustainable flood mitigation strategy in the Belford catchment, UK
Authors: Nicholson A R , Wilkinson M E , O'Donnell G M , Quinn P F
Published: May 2012

There is evidence to suggest that modern rural land‐use management practices have led to increased runoff production at the farm scale. There are concerns that this may have contributed to downstream flooding of towns/villages, especially during intense local storm events. This paper presents an investigation into the potential attenuation of rural runoff through the application of soft‐engineered structures upstream of flood‐prone settlements, through a demonstration of ongoing initiatives in the Belford catchment, Northumberland (5.7 km2). The soft‐engineered features that have been considered in the study include storage ponds, barriers, bunds, and the planting of vegetation and the positioning of woody debris in the riparian zone. The Belford study has been active since November 2007 and is yielding an abundance of good‐quality data, including several significant flood events, on how runoff propagates through the small rural catchment and causes flooding of the village, and how flood propagation can be attenuated using Runoff Attenuation Features (RAFs).