bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Future perspectives in robotic surgery
Authors: Wedmid Alexei , Llukani Elton , Lee David I.
Published: September 2011

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

Robotic surgery in its current form has established itself as a viable treatment option for several indications and the gold standard for a few indications. This has occurred because of the improved technology built into the robotics system. This paper looks at the brief history of robotics in surgery. Then we review in more detail some of the future possible additions to the technological armamentarium that might significantly improve the ways that surgeons perform robotic surgery.

Robotics of the current day have advanced significantly from early computer‐aided design/manufacturing systems to modern master‐slave robotic systems that replicate the surgeon's exact movements onto robotic instruments in the patient.

Globally >300 000 robotic procedures were completed in 2010, including ≈98 000 robot‐assisted radical prostatectomies.

Broadening applications of robotics for urological procedures are being investigated in both adult and paediatric urology.

The use of the current robotic system continues to be further refined. Increasing experience has optimized port placement reducing arm collisions to allow for more expedient surgery. Improved three‐dimensional camera magnification provides improved intraoperative identification of structures.

Robotics has probably improved the learning curve of laparoscopic surgery while still maintaining its patient recovery advantages and outcomes.

The future of robotic surgery will take this current platform forward by improving haptic (touch) feedback, improving vision beyond even the magnified eye, improving robot accessibility with a reduction of entry ports and miniaturizing the slave robot.

Here, we focus on the possible advancements that may change the future landscape of robotic surgery.
Critical review of ‘pentafecta’ outcomes after robot‐assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy in high‐volume centres
Authors: Patel Vipul R. , Abdul‐Muhsin Haidar M. , Schatloff Oscar , Coelho Rafael F. , Valero Rair , Ko Young H. , Sivaraman Ananthakrishnan , Palmer Kenneth J. , Chauhan Sanket
Published: September 2011

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

We have earlier proposed ‘pentafecta’ as an ideal outcome assessment tool after robotic prostatectomy instead of the classically used ‘tritecta’. This was done to meet the demands and expectations of the prostate cancer patients from minimally‐invasive surgical techniques.

This article reviews each of the five arms of ‘pentafecta’ outcomes after robotic prostatectomy performed in high volume centres.

Historically, the ideal outcome of radical prostatectomy (RP) has been measured by achievement of the so‐called ‘trifecta’, or the concurrent attainment of continence and potency with no evidence of biochemical recurrence. However, in the PSA era, younger and healthier men are more frequently diagnosed with prostate cancer. Such patients have higher expectations from the advanced minimally invasive surgical technologies. Mere trifecta is no longer an ideal outcome measure to meet the demands of such patients.

Keeping the limitations of trifecta in mind, we have earlier proposed a new method of outcomes analysis, called the ‘pentafecta’, which adds early complications and positive surgical margins (PSMs) to trifecta.

We performed a Medline search for articles reporting the complications, PSM rates, continence, potency and biochemical recurrence after robot‐assisted RP. Related articles were selected and individual outcomes were reviewed.
Long‐lasting immunogenicity and safety of a 2009 pandemic influenza A(H1N1) MF59‐adjuvanted vaccine when co‐administered with a 2009–2010 seasonal influenza vaccine in young patients with Type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Zuccotti G. V. , Pariani E. , Scaramuzza A. , Santoro L. , Giani E. , Macedoni M. , Gazzarri A. , Anselmi G. , Amendola A. , Zanetti A.
Published: September 2011

Diabet. Med. 28, 1530–1536 (2011)

Aims  To evaluate the long‐lasting immunogenicity and safety of a pandemic vaccine co‐administered with a seasonal influenza vaccine in young subjects with Type 1 diabetes.

Methods  Eighty patients (mean age: 16.7 ± 5.5 years, disease duration: 10.2 ± 4.7 years) were randomly assigned to receive a single or a double dose (1 month apart) of MF59‐adjuvanted influenza A(H1N1) vaccine, simultaneously with a single dose of a virosome‐adjuvanted trivalent influenza vaccine for the 2009–2010 season.

Results  One month after immunization, the rate of seroconversion to 2009 pandemic A(H1N1) was 92.5% with an overall 100% proportion of vaccinees with protective antibody titres (≥ 1:40). No significant differences were observed between vaccinees who received the one‐dose or the two‐dose schedule. Seasonal vaccine induced a significant increase of both seroprotection rates and antibody levels. Local adverse events at the injection site of pandemic and seasonal vaccines were reported by 66.3% and 50% of subjects, respectively. Solicited systemic adverse events, mainly mild in intensity, were reported by 26.7% of vaccinees. No subjects had an influenza‐like illness during the 6‐month follow‐up.

Conclusions  One injection of 2009 pandemic influenza A(H1N1) MF59‐adjuvanted vaccine is immunogenic and safe in young patients with Type 1 diabetes who are at increased risk of influenza morbidities. Pandemic vaccine can be safely co‐administered with seasonal influenza vaccine.
Differences in the quality of diabetes care caused by social inequalities disappear after treatment and education in a tertiary care centre
Authors: Bäz L. , Müller N. , Beluchin E. , Kloos C. , Lehmann T. , Wolf G. , Müller U. A.
Published: September 2011

Diabet. Med. 29, 640–645 (2012)

Aim  To assess the relationship between social status and quality of diabetes care in a tertiary care centre in Germany.

Methods  Social status was assessed in 940 consecutive patients in a university outpatient department by a questionnaire. The assessment comprised three components: education, highest professional position and household net income (total score 3–21). Quality of diabetes care was measured by HbA1c, blood pressure and BMI. The influence of social status on quality measures was analysed at entry and last visit by fitting linear mixed models.

Results  At the entry visit, patients with lower social status had a higher HbA1c compared with patients with higher status (0.06% per each point of social score difference). After a mean follow‐ up of 6.0 years (Type 2 diabetes) and 9.4 years (Type 1 diabetes) no significant differences in HbA1c could be found. However, difference in BMI (−0.41 kg/m² per each point of social score) persisted at last observation. Blood pressure was only negligibly affected by the care programme.

Conclusions  Low social status is associated with worse quality of diabetes care at entry in a tertiary care centre. The differences in HbA1c disappeared after treatment and structured education, whereas the difference in BMI persisted. There was no significant influence of social status or treatment on blood pressure.
Systemic psychotherapy as an intervention for post‐traumatic stress responses: an introduction, theoretical rationale and overview of developments in an emerging field of interest
Authors: Coulter Stephen
Published: September 2011

The purpose of this article is to critically examine the literature to provide a rationale for including systemic family therapy (SFT) in the psycho‐social treatment of people suffering the impact of post‐traumatic stress (PTS). Attention is drawn to the relatively underdeveloped academic literature on PTS and the family. The impact of PTS is conceptualized within a psycho‐social framework and the current evidence base for psycho‐social interventions for PTS responses is described, highlighting the opportunity and need to undergird this area of daily practice. The impact of PTS on the family at multiple levels is identified, emphasizing its recursive nature. The case for SFT is articulated and a range of models of family intervention for PTS briefly reviewed, concluding with an emphasis on Walsh's key processes in family resilience as a framework for practice.
The Anatomy of Network Failure
Authors: Schrank Andrew , Whitford Josh
Published: September 2011

This article develops and defends a theory of “network failure” analogous to more familiar theories of organizational and market failure already prevalent in the literature on economic governance. It theorizes those failures not as the simple absence of network governance, but rather as a situation in which transactional conditions for network desirability obtain but network governance is impeded either by ignorance or opportunism, or by a combination of the two. It depicts network failures as continuous rather than discrete outcomes, shows that they have more than one cause, and pays particular attention to two undertheorized—if not undiscovered—types of network failure (i.e., involution and contested collaboration). It thereby contributes to the development of sociology's toolkit for theorizing networks that are “neither market nor hierarchy.”
A Ruled Reading Reformed: The Role of the Church's Confession in Biblical Interpretation
Authors: SWAIN SCOTT
Published: September 2011

Recent attempts to retrieve theological interpretation of Scripture rightly note the importance of the rule of faith for such an endeavor. Drawing upon Reformed theological and ecclesiological principles, the present article seeks to articulate an appropriate role for the rule of faith within biblical exegesis. As a faithful representation of scriptural teaching afforded by the church, Holy Scripture's authorized reading community, the rule of faith serves to enable faithful exegesis and to direct exegesis towards its goal, which is the exposition of individual biblical texts in light of Scripture's full scope and purpose.
HANNIBAL GONE ASTRAY? A CRITICAL COMMENT ON W. C. MAHANEY ET AL.: ‘THE TRAVERSETTE (ITALIA) ROCKFALL: GEOMORPHOLOGICAL INDICATOR OF THE HANNIBALIC INVASION ROUTE’ (ARCHAEOMETRY, 52, 1 [2010] 156–72)
Authors: KUHLE M. , KUHLE S.
Published: September 2011

For a long time now, historians have considered the way across the Col de Clapier as the most likely invasion route of Hannibal's army across the Alps. Mahaney et al. challenge this view by introducing a two‐tier rockfall into the discussion, which they believe is mentioned in the ancient texts and has gone unnoticed by modern scholars. Since a deposit of this kind can only be found at the Col de la Traversette—and there alone—Hannibal's crossing of the Alps, so they reason, must have followed this alternative route. However, a critical reassessment of the ancient texts and a closer look at the geomorphological situation clearly show that this interpretation is unwarranted.
An associated partial skeleton of Jainosaurus cf. septentrionalis (Dinosauria: Sauropoda) from the Late Cretaceous of Chhota Simla, Central India
Authors: WILSON JEFFREY A. , BARRETT PAUL M. , CARRANO MATTHEW T.
Published: September 2011

Abstract:  The Cretaceous dinosaur fauna of Indo‐Pakistan has remained poorly understood because of a lack of associated and articulated remains, proliferation of named species, and an incomplete understanding of the dinosaur clades present (e.g. abelisaurid theropods; titanosaur sauropods). Continued work on existing collections, and new discoveries of dinosaur material from India, Pakistan and elsewhere in Gondwana, has begun to resolve the composition and affinities of Indo‐Pakistani dinosaurs. Here, we provide archival evidence that documents associations between postcranial remains of a sauropod collected from Chhota Simla, India by C. A. Matley in the 1930s and later described as ‘Titanosaurus sp.’ This partial skeleton, which represents only the fifth such documented association from Indo‐Pakistan, is referable to Jainosaurus cf. septentrionalis and provides a fuller understanding of its anatomy and phylogenetic affinities.
A new longirostrine dyrosaurid (Crocodylomorpha, Mesoeucrocodylia) from the Paleocene of north‐eastern Colombia: biogeographic and behavioural implications for New‐World Dyrosauridae
Authors: HASTINGS ALEXANDER K. , BLOCH JONATHAN I. , JARAMILLO CARLOS A.
Published: September 2011

Abstract:  Fossils of dyrosaurid crocodyliforms are limited in South America, with only three previously diagnosed taxa including the short‐snouted Cerrejonisuchus improcerus from the Paleocene Cerrejón Formation of north‐eastern Colombia. Here we describe a second dyrosaurid from the Cerrejón Formation, Acherontisuchus guajiraensis gen. et sp. nov., based on three partial mandibles, maxillary fragments, teeth, and referred postcrania. The mandible has a reduced seventh alveolus and laterally depressed retroarticular process, both diagnostic characteristics of Dyrosauridae. Acherontisuchus guajiraensis is distinct among known dyrosaurids in having a unique combination of craniomandibular characteristics, and postcranial morphology that suggests it may have occupied a more placid, fluvial habitat than most known Old‐World dyrosaurids. Results from a cladistic analysis of Dyrosauridae, using 82 primarily cranial and mandibular characters, support an unresolved relationship between A. guajiraensis and a combination of New‐ and Old‐World dyrosaurids including Hyposaurus rogersii, Congosaurus bequaerti, Atlantosuchus coupatezi, Guarinisuchus munizi, Rhabdognathus keiniensis and Rhabdognathus aslerensis. Our results are consistent with an African origin for Dyrosauridae with multiple dispersals into the New World during the Late Cretaceous and a transition from marine habitats in ancestral taxa to more fluvial habitats in more derived taxa.
The Mirrlees Review: Conclusions and Recommendations for Reform*
Authors: Mirrlees James , Adam Stuart , Besley Timothy , Blundell Richard , Bond Stephen , Chote Robert , Gammie Malcolm , Johnson Paul , Myles Gareth , Poterba James
Published: September 2011

This paper provides a summary of the conclusions and recommendations of the Mirrlees Review of the UK tax system. The characteristics that a good tax system should possess are described and used to assess the current UK system. A package of reforms for the UK system which will move it closer to the ideal is proposed. Issues related to transition and to practical implementation of the reform package are discussed.
Reflections on Tax by Design*
Authors: Creedy John
Published: September 2011

This paper reviews Tax by Design. Comparisons are made with the earlier Meade Report and with recent tax reviews in Australia and New Zealand. Emphasis is given to the role of value judgements in tax design and the gulf between theory and practice.
The Design of Capital Income Taxation: Reflections on the Mirrlees Review*
Authors: Keuschnigg Christian
Published: September 2011

This commentary reflects on the recommendations of the Mirrlees Review on tax reform, with a special focus on capital income taxation. Regarding the alternatives of moving to a consumption‐based tax system, the commentary discusses the relative merits of choosing an ACE system (allowance for corporate equity) rather than a cash‐flow tax at the company level. It reviews the arguments in favour of full elimination of tax on the normal return to savings at the personal level, which contrasts with alternative tax reform proposals recommending a positive but low and flat tax rate on personal capital income. The paper also discusses how existing computational models should be extended for a meaningful quantification of the gains and costs of implementing a tax reform along the lines of the Mirrlees Review proposals.
Nonsurgical pneumoperitoneum in a dog secondary to blunt force trauma to the chest
Authors: Simmonds Stacy L. , Whelan Megan F. , Basseches Jessica
Published: September 2011

Objective

To describe the medical management of pneumoperitoneum without surgical intervention in a dog that sustained blunt force trauma to the thorax. To review the mechanisms of how a thoracic injury (ie, extra‐abdominal source) can lead to pneumoperitoneum.

Case Summary

A 4‐month‐old Shih Tzu puppy was attacked by a larger dog and sustained various injuries including a pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, and a pneumoperitoneum. The dog presented minimally responsive and in respiratory distress secondary to pulmonary contusions and noncardiogenic pulmonary edema. No penetrating wounds to the abdomen or thorax were identified. As no immediate surgical lesion was identified the dog was treated conservatively without the need for surgical intervention. The dog was successfully managed and discharged after a few days of supportive care with oxygen therapy. Before discharge, repeat radiographs revealed complete resolution of the pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, and pneumoperitoneum.

New or unique information provided

Cases of nonsurgical pneumoperitoneum have rarely been reported in the veterinary literature. A thoracic source of pneumoperitoneum should be considered when the suspicion of a ruptured viscus is low based on diagnostic procedures (eg, ultrasound, computed tomography, and diagnostic peritoneal lavage), in addition to physical examination (eg, lack of fever and absence of abdominal pain) and laboratory findings (eg, absence of inflammatory leukogram).
Risk factors for hepatitis C virus acquisition and predictors of persistence among Egyptian children
Authors: Esmat Gamal , Hashem Mohamed , El‐Raziky Mona , El‐Akel Wafaa , El‐Naghy Suzan , El‐Koofy Nehal , El‐Sayed Rokaya , Ahmed Rasha , Atta‐Allah Mohamed , Hamid Mohamed Abdel , El‐Kamary Samer S , El‐Karaksy Hanaa
Published: September 2011

Background

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) has a lower prevalence in children and knowledge is limited regarding the natural outcome of HCV infection in children.

Aim

To study the risk factors of HCV acquisition and predictors of persistence in Egyptian children.

Methods

Children, 1–9 years of age, were evaluated for acquisition of HCV (anti‐HCV positive regardless of viraemia) and persistence of HCV (anti‐HCV and HCV‐RNA positive) at two paediatric hepatology clinics in Cairo at enrolment and at 3 monthly intervals. Spontaneous clearance of HCV was defined as ≥ two positive anti‐HCV antibody tests with negative HCV‐RNA at least 6 months apart.

Results

Over a 33‐month‐period a total of 226 children <9 years of age were screened for HCV antibodies. Of those, 146 (65%) were anti‐HCV positive of which 87 (60%) were HCV‐RNA positive. The HCV acquisition was more likely to occur in older children (P = 0.003) with comorbid conditions (P < 0.01) compared to anti‐HCV negative children. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, the highest risk factors for HCV acquisition were surgical interventions [odds ratio (OR): 4.7] and blood transfusions (OR: 2.3). The highest risk factor for HCV persistence was dental treatment (OR: 16.9) and male gender (OR: 7.5). HCV persistence was also strongly associated with elevated baseline alanine aminotransaminase (ALT) levels (OR: 4.9) and fluctuating aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels (OR: 8.1).

Conclusion

Although surgical interventions and blood transfusion are significant risk factors for HCV acquisition in Egyptian children, dental treatment remains the highest risk factor for HCV chronic persistence in children.
The Estimation, Measurement, and Relevance of the Glomerular Filtration Rate in Stage 5 Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: White Christine A. , Akbari Ayub
Published: September 2011

The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is considered the best index of overall kidney function. The level of GFR is used in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) to classify them into CKD stages. Stage 5 CKD encompasses patients with a GFR below 15 ml/minute/1.73 m2 and those requiring chronic dialysis. Preservation of GFR, even at its very low level, is of great importance in both dialysis and non‐dialysis stage 5 CKD patients. Residual GFR is considered in the prescription of both hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis and interventions to preserve residual GFR are an active area of clinical research. The application of traditional methods of estimating and measuring GFR can be problematic in this patient population. This review will focus on the methods available to quantify GFR in stage 5 CKD and their use in both clinical and research settings.
Genetic Causation of Neointimal Hyperplasia in Hemodialysis Vascular Access Dysfunction
Authors: Lee Timmy , Wadehra Davinder
Published: September 2011

The major cause of hemodialysis vascular access failure is venous stenosis resulting from neointimal hyperplasia. Genetic factors have been shown to be associated with cardiovascular disease and peripheral vascular disease (PVD) in the general population. Genetic factors may also play an important role in vascular access stenosis and development of neointimal hyperplasia by affecting pathways that lead to inflammation, endothelial function, oxidative stress, and vascular smooth muscle proliferation. This review will discuss the role of genetics in understanding neointimal hyperplasia development in hemodialysis vascular access dysfunction and other disease processes with similar neointimal hyperplasia development such as coronary artery disease and PVD.
TheS‐Measurement in the Diagnosis of Canine Hip Dysplasia
Authors: Ogden Daniel M. , Scrivani Peter V. , Dykes Nathan , Lust George , Friedenberg Steven G. , Todhunter Rory J.
Published: September 2011

Objective

To propose a direct measure of subluxation of the femoral head (S) in the assessment of hip joint laxity and evaluate it for clinical use.

Study Design

Method comparison study.

Animals

Dogs (n = 51).

Methods

Dogs were sedated or anesthetized for a dorsolateral subluxation (DLS) examination. Two sets of radiographs were acquired, 1 each by a different technologist. A calibrated measuring bar was included on the image at the height of the hip to assess magnification. TheDLSwas calculated for each hip and different persons unaware of these details measured the “S”‐value. One person measured theS‐value 3 times over 3 days. Box plots were used to determine a cut‐off for the empiric (8 mm) and corrected (4 mm)S‐value.

Results

Of 51 dogs, 33 were dysplastic based on aDLSscore <55%. Magnification and body weight were strongly correlated (r = 0.4922,P= .0006). Both empiric and correctedSmeasurements showed good agreement with theDLSscore (κ = 0.688 and κ = 0.681, respectively). The correctedSmeasurement produced more false negatives.Bland–Altman analysis showed interobserver and technician variance acceptable for clinical use (limits of agreement < ±3 mm). Intraobserver repeatability was acceptable for the right hip (95% of differences were ≤1.3 mm and 100% ≤ 1.9) but not for the left hip.

Conclusion

Using a cut‐off value of 5 mm, the empiricalSmeasurement can be used to exclude hip dysplasia in young dogs of various body proportions.
Who Takes the Blame? The Strategic Effects of Collateral Damage
Authors: Condra Luke N. , Shapiro Jacob N.
Published: September 2011

Can civilians caught in civil wars reward and punish armed actors for their behavior? If so, do armed actors reap strategic benefits from treating civilians well and pay for treating them poorly? Using precise geo‐coded data on violence in Iraq from 2004 through 2009, we show that both sides are punished for the collateral damage they inflict. Coalition killings of civilians predict higher levels of insurgent violence and insurgent killings predict less violence in subsequent periods. This symmetric reaction is tempered by preexisting political preferences; the anti‐insurgent reaction is not present in Sunni areas, where the insurgency was most popular, and the anti‐Coalition reaction is not present in mixed areas. Our findings have strong policy implications, provide support for the argument that information civilians share with government forces and their allies is a key constraint on insurgent violence, and suggest theories of intrastate violence must account for civilian agency.
International Technology Cooperation: The Problem of Commercial Rivalry
Authors: Urpelainen Johannes
Published: September 2011

International technology cooperation promises to help countries exploit the potential of new innovations, but commercial rivalry between companies and governments raises obstacles to it. In this article, I present and solve a model of international technology cooperation. The formal analysis shows that a technology agreement must address two issues. First, governments must be able to induce companies to innovate. Second, governments must credibly commit to penalizing companies for failing to share new information produced through research. Based on these observations, I show that the potential for technology cooperation is maximized in symmetric settings between equally capable governments and companies. In practice, this observation warrants a policy focus on countries and industries that are already on a level playing ground. I also consider extensions to multinational companies and adverse selection problems. The formal analysis provides a solid foundation for practical policy implementation.
Does hemodiafiltration improve the removal of homocysteine?
Authors: BADIOU Stéphanie , MORENA Marion , BARGNOUX Anne‐Sophie , JAUSSENT Isabelle , RODRIGUEZ Annie , LERAY‐MORAGUES Helene , CHALABI Lofti , BOSC Jean‐Yves , CANAUD Bernard , CRISTOL Jean‐Paul
Published: September 2011

High prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia is common in hemodialysis (HD) patients and could contribute to worsen the cardiovascular risk. Beyond vitamin B status, dialysis modality itself could influence homocysteine (Hcy) levels. The objective was compare the reduction rate (RR) of Hcy and cysteine in stable dialyzed patients treated by standard HD or hemodiafiltration (HDF). Seventy‐five patients undergoing stable dialysis through standard high‐flux HD (n = 35) or HDF (n = 40) were included. Biological parameters were determined before and after a midweek dialysis session. Urea percent reduction per session and Kt/V index (K, body urea clearance, T, time of dialysis, and V, urea distribution volume), defined as a marker of dialysis efficacy, were similar between HD and HDF groups. By contrast, higher RR of beta2 microglobulin (β2m) was observed in HDF compared with HD (78.6 vs. 72.0%, respectively; P < 0.001). Likewise, higher RR of Hcy was obtained with HDF compared to HD (46.0 vs. 41.5%, respectively; P < 0.05), whereas the RR of cysteine was similar in both groups. Interestingly, a positive correlation between Hcy RR and urea Kt/V index was observed (r = 0.29, P < 0.05) and between Hcy RR and β2m RR (r = 0.45, P < 0.001). Time‐averaged concentration (TAC) of Hcy was lower with HDF compared with HD (17.8 vs. 19.1 μmol/L, respectively), although not significant. There was no difference in median Hcy according to dialysis modality for neither pre‐ nor postdialysis levels. Significant higher removal of Hcy was observed with HDF compared with standard HD, although urea Kt/V index was similar. Enhanced removal of middle molecules, such as β2m, could be involved in Hcy RR improvement with HDF.
City of Man, City of God: The Re‐Urbanization of American Evangelicals
Authors: BIELO JAMES S.
Published: September 2011

In post‐World War II America, U.S. Evangelicalism became a religion deeply entrenched with suburbanization and commercial sprawl. This article examines the growing phenomenon of middle‐class white Evangelicals who are returning to the city. Since September 2008 I have conducted ethnographic fieldwork with nearly 100 Evangelicals in the post‐industrial, Rust Belt cities of Cincinnati, Hamilton, and Middletown. I argue first that Evangelical re‐urbanization is structured by two cultural logics: a biting cultural critique of suburban megachurches, and a desire for the “reconciliation” of urban life to “the kingdom of God.” Second, re‐urbanized Evangelicals necessarily encounter the dilemmas of late modern urbanism, including structural processes like neighborhood gentrification. I stress the importance of this phenomenon for both the impact of religion on America's cities and the impact of urban restructuring on American religion.
Bangkok's Two Centers: Status, Space, and Consumption in a Millennial Southeast Asian City
Authors: VORNG SOPHORNTAVY
Published: September 2011

Despite Bangkok's current incarnation as a globalized city of shopping malls and skyscrapers, indigenous concepts of power and space emphasizing center and hierarchy continue to pervade status differentiation in everyday social life. This is evident in tensions in the spatial‐symbolic relations between Bangkok's politico‐religious “old city” in Rattanakosin and the newer downtown consumption hub which emerged around the locales of Siam and Ratchaprasong, and highlights how urban and social transformations engendered by neoliberal market forces and embodied in downtown Bangkok's modern, consumerist milieu have mapped onto and exacerbated cultural logics of hierarchy drawn from much older notions of urban power and privilege in Southeast Asia. This produced modes of inscribing socio‐economic inequality into space and a striking culture of status display uniquely shaped by the intersection of modern capitalism and Bangkok's distinctive culture and history of indigenous urbanism and suggests that understandings of space, power, and consumption in today's cities may benefit from a less Western‐centric and more regionally sensitive conceptual framework.
Atomic‐Scale Microstructure of Hf–Al–C Ceramics
Authors: Nian Hongqiang , Li Fangzhi , Li Jingjing , Wang Jingyang , Zhou Yanchun
Published: September 2011

A Hf–Al–C composite composed of HfAl4C4 and Hf2Al4C5 was successfully synthesized by the hot‐pressing method. The atomic‐scale microstructure was investigated through high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Z‐contrast scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) imaging. The TEM observations revealed that the Hf–Al–C grains had elongated morphologies. There was no amorphous phase in the grain boundary. The microstructure of the composite was characterized by the stacking faults resulted from the insertion of (Al4C3) units, which led to the formation of a new phase Hf4Al12C13 and intergrowth structure between HfAl4C4 and Hf2Al4C5. In addition, the antiphase grain boundary in the ternary‐layered ceramics was first observed and the formation mechanism was discussed.
Handedness Shapes Children’s Abstract Concepts
Authors: Casasanto Daniel , Henetz Tania
Published: September 2011

Can children’s handedness influence how they represent abstract concepts likekindnessandintelligence? Here we show that from an early age, right‐handers associate rightward space more strongly with positive ideas and leftward space with negative ideas, but the opposite is true for left‐handers. In one experiment, children indicated where on a diagram a preferred toy and a dispreferred toy should go. Right‐handers tended to assign the preferred toy to a box on the right and the dispreferred toy to a box on the left. Left‐handers showed the opposite pattern. In a second experiment, children judged which of two cartoon animals looked smarter (or dumber) or nicer (or meaner). Right‐handers attributed more positive qualities to animals on the right, but left‐handers to animals on the left. These contrasting associations between space and valence cannot be explained by exposure to language or cultural conventions, which consistently linkrightwithgood. Rather, right‐ and left‐handers implicitly associated positive valence more strongly with the side of space on which they can act more fluently with their dominant hands. Results support thebody‐specificity hypothesis(Casasanto, 2009), showing that children with different kinds of bodies think differently in corresponding ways.
The influence of parental history of diabetes and offspring birthweight on offspring glucose metabolism in adulthood
Authors: LAUENBORG JEANNET , JØRGENSEN MIE KW , DAMM PETER , MAJOR‐PEDERSEN ATHELINE , EIBERG HANS , URHAMMER SØREN , PEDERSEN OLUF , HANSEN TORBEN
Published: September 2011

Background. Links are well established between both family history of diabetes and reduced birthweight and increased risk of diabetes in adulthood. Objectives. 1) To investigate the influence of parental history of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) on offspring birthweight and adult offspring glucose tolerance status in non‐diabetic offspring of patients with T2DM and 2) to study the associations of birthweight with measures of pancreatic beta‐cell function and insulin sensitivity. Design. Family cohort study. Population. Offspring of patients with verified T2DM diagnosed after age 40 years with a spouse without known diabetes. Methods. Oral glucose tolerance tests and frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance tests (FSIGT) in non‐diabetic offspring. Birthweight and length obtained from birth records. Results. Among 122 offspring with maternal history of T2DM, 14.8% had diabetes compared to 8.0% in 137 offspring with paternal history of diabetes, p=0.09. Offspring with maternal history of T2DM had a mean birthweight 196g higher than offspring with paternal T2DM (3 651±640g (mean±SD) vs. 3 456±472g (p=0.01)). Non‐diabetic offspring with birthweights in the lowest tertile had significantly higher plasma glucose levels after an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) [Area under the curveglucOGTT, mean (95%CI), 1 795 (1 725–1 866) vs. 1 683 (1 613–1 753) mmol/L/min, p=0.02], and lower insulin sensitivity index calculated from a frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance test – Si 9.60 [10–5(min*pmol/L)–1] (8.23–10.97) vs. 11.79 (10.41–13.18), p=0.02 – in adulthood compared to offspring with birthweights in the upper tertile. Conclusions. Offspring with a family history of maternal T2DM have higher birthweights than those with paternal T2DM. Low birthweight associates with elevated plasma glucose levels after an oral glucose load and decreased insulin sensitivity in adulthood.
Clinical skills training in obstetrics – a descriptive survey of current practice in Denmark
Authors: MAAGAARD MATHILDE , JOHANSEN MARIANNE , LOTTRUP PERNILLE , SØRENSEN JETTE LED
Published: September 2011

The Danish National Board of Health has recommended that labor wards establish regular obstetric emergency skills training programs. The aim of this study was to describe current practice in Denmark. A questionnaire was sent to all obstetric departments in Denmark in 2008. All responded. Simulation‐based training was conducted in 26/28 obstetrical departments. Settings for the training programs were mainly local. Training was provided for shoulder dystocia, postpartum bleeding and basic neonatal resuscitation in almost all the departments, but was not organized in a uniform way. Neither the program itself nor the participants’ performance was evaluated in a structured or validated way. Obstetric emergency skills training is being actively conducted in the majority of the Danish labor wards. However, it still remains a challenge to ensure the uniform organization and evaluation of the current training programs. Development of validated national or international standards for an obstetric training program should be a future aim.
Multiple applications of flurbiprofen and chlorhexidine chips in patients with chronic periodontitis: a randomized, double blind, parallel, 2‐arms clinical trial
Authors: Machtei Eli E. , Hirsh Ilan , Falah Maher , Shoshani Eyal , Avramoff Avi , Penhasi Adel
Published: September 2011

Aim

The aim of the present randomized, double blind, parallel, 2‐arm clinical study was to examine the safety and efficacy of frequent applications of chlorhexidine chip (CHX) and flurbiprofen chip (FBP) in patients with chronic periodontitis.

Methods

Sixty patients were randomized into CHX and FBP groups. Following OHI and scaling and root planing (SRP), baseline pocket depth (PD) measurements, gingival recession and bleeding on probing (BOP) were performed and repeated at week 4 and 8. The assigned chip was placed at weeks 0, 1, 2, 3, 5, 7.

Results

Mean PD reduction in the CHX group was 2.08 mm (7.17 to 5.09, p < 0.0001). Mean PD reduction in the FBP group was 2.27 mm (6.72 to 4.45, p < 0.0001). Ninety‐seven percentage and 95% of these sites exhibited PD reduction ≥1 mm, while 38% and 34% of the sites exhibited PD ≥3 mm (FBP and CHX, respectively). Clinical attachment level gain (1.66 and 1.95 mm, respectively) was statistically significant (p < 0.0001). Baseline BOP dropped from 98% and 100% to 24% and 30% for the CHX and FBP groups, respectively (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Frequent applications of CHX and FBP chips resulted in a significant improvement in the periodontal condition in these sites. Furthermore studies will be required to compare this new treatment regimen to SRP or SRP with single chip application.
Daily variation in melatonin synthesis and arylalkylamine N‐acetyltransferase activity in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Migliori María L. , Romanowski Andrés , Simonetta Sergio H. , Valdez Diego , Guido Mario , Golombek Diego A.
Published: September 2011

Abstract:  Melatonin influences circadian rhythms and seasonal behavioral changes in vertebrates; it is synthesized from serotonin by N‐acetylation by arylalkylamine N‐acetyltransferase (AA‐NAT) and O‐methylation by N‐acetylserotonin methyltransferase. However, its physiology and function in invertebrate models are less understood. In this work, we studied daily variations in melatonin synthesis and AA‐NAT activity in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Under light–dark conditions (LD), a rhythmic pattern of melatonin levels was observed, with higher levels toward the middle of the night, peaking at zeitgeber time (ZT) 18, and with a minimum value around ZT0‐6. AA‐NAT activity showed a diurnal and circadian fluctuation with higher levels of activity during the early night, both under LD and constant darkness conditions. A peak was found around ZT12 and circadian time (CT) 12. In addition, we investigated whether this nocturnal AA‐NAT activity is inhibited by light. Our results show that both white and blue light pulses significantly inhibited AA‐NAT activity at ZT18. This work demonstrates the daily fluctuation of melatonin synthesis and AA‐NAT activity in the adult nematode C. elegans. In summary, this study takes additional advantage of an extremely useful invertebrate model system, which has only recently been exploited for circadian studies.
Identification of a Novel Mono‐Leucine Basolateral Sorting Motif Within the Cytoplasmic Domain of Amphiregulin
Authors: Gephart Jonathan D. , Singh Bhuminder , Higginbotham James N. , Franklin Jeffrey L. , Gonzalez Alfonso , Fölsch Heike , Coffey Robert J.
Published: September 2011

Epithelial cells establish apical and basolateral (BL) membranes with distinct protein and lipid compositions. To achieve this spatial asymmetry, the cell utilizes a variety of mechanisms for differential sorting, delivery and retention of cell surface proteins. The EGF receptor (EGFR) and its ligand, amphiregulin (AREG), are transmembrane proteins delivered to the BL membrane in polarized epithelial cells. Herein, we show that the cytoplasmic domain of AREG (ACD) contains dominant BL sorting information; replacement of the cytoplasmic domain of apically targeted nerve growth factor receptor with the ACD redirects the chimera to the BL surface. Using sequential truncations and site‐directed mutagenesis of the ACD, we identify a novel BL sorting motif consisting of a single leucine C‐terminal to an acidic cluster (EEXXXL). In adaptor protein (AP)‐1B‐deficient cells, newly synthesized AREG is initially delivered to the BL surface as in AP‐1B‐expressing cells. However, in these AP‐1B‐deficient cells, recycling of AREG back to the BL surface is compromised, leading to its appearance at the apical surface. These results show that recycling, but not delivery, of AREG to the BL surface is AP‐1B dependent.
Study of temporomandibular joint disorder in older patients by magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Badel Tomislav , Šimunković Sonja Kraljević , Marotti Miljenko , Lovko Sandra Kocijan , Kern Josipa , Krolo Ivan
Published: September 2011

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00552.x

Study of temporomandibular joint disorder in older patients by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Objectives:  To compare characteristics in older patients in a sample of the general population of those with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD).

Materials and methods:  A prospective study was carried out between 2001 and 2008 in patients with TMJD. The whole sample consisted of 141 patients divided in two groups: 31 patients aged over 60 (median age 67.9, ranging from 60 to 82) and the remaining 110 patients (median age 36.3, ranging from 12 to 59) who were seeking treatment. Clinical diagnostics was confirmed by MRI. Pain intensity was rated on a visual analogue scale (VAS 0‐10).

Results:  There was no statistical difference between average pain in older patients (6.2) and patients aged up to 59 (5.7) evaluated by VAS. There was a statistically significant difference (p = 0.002) in pain duration: older patients reported shorter duration of experienced pain (7.8 months) than patients aged up to 59 (12.2 months).

Conclusion:  In this study, it was found that 22% were older patients with TMJD. A higher level of anxiety was shown in both patients’ groups, regardless of shorter pain experience in the older patients.
Oral health practices and beliefs among caregivers of the dependent elderly
Authors: Garrido Urrutia Constanza , Romo Ormazábal Fernando , Espinoza Santander Iris , Medics Salvo Darinka
Published: September 2011

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00553.x

Oral health practices and beliefs among caregivers of the dependent elderly

Background:  Caregivers deal with oral health care of the dependent elderly; however, this has a low priority among them, and their education in daily oral care is deficient. Therefore, studying the oral care practices as well as their oral health beliefs is important as these affect the quality of the oral care they perform.

Objective:  To compare formal and informal caregivers’ oral care practices and oral health beliefs when taking care of severely dependent elderly.

Material and methods:  A cross‐sectional study was conducted on a convenience sample of 21 formal caregivers from a long‐term residence and 18 informal caregivers from a local primary health care domiciliary programme. Caregivers were surveyed using a questionnaire designed to elicit oral care practices and oral health beliefs. The nursing Dental Coping Beliefs Scale questionnaire was translated and validated in Chile.

Results:  Significant differences were observed between formal and informal caregivers’ performance of some oral health care practices. There were no significant differences between formal and informal caregivers’ oral health beliefs.

Conclusions:  Although there are some differences in formal and informal caregivers’ oral health care practices, we cannot state that one caregiver’s performance is better than the other, in fact, negative oral health beliefs were found in both groups.
Nonylphenol Induces Bronchial Epithelial Apoptosis via Fas‐mediated Pathway and Stimulates Bronchial Epithelium to Secrete IL‐6 and IL‐8, causing Bronchial Smooth Muscle Proliferation and Migration
Authors: Kuo Po‐Lin , Hsu Ya‐Ling , Tsai Ming‐Ju , Lien Chi‐Tun , Huang Ming‐Shyan , Ko Ying‐Chin
Published: September 2011

Abstract:  Features of airway remodelling have been described using tissue obtained from fatal cases of asthma and bronchial biopsies from mildly, moderately and severely asthmatic patients. Epithelial detachment and smooth muscle mass enhancement are common features of asthmatic bronchial tissue. This study is the first to investigate the inhibitory effect of nonylphenol (NP) on human bronchial epithelial cell lines BEAS‐2B and HBE135‐E6E7 (HBE). The results show that NP inhibits bronchial epithelial proliferation via the Fas/Fas ligand apoptotic system. We also treated BEAS‐2B and HBE with NP and harvested the condition medium (CM), which was then added to bronchial smooth muscle cells (BSMC). Cultures of BSMC with NP‐BEAS‐2B‐CM and NP‐HBE‐CM increased BSMC proliferation and migration. Exposure of BEAS‐2B and HBE to NP caused epithelial cells to produce inflammatory cytokines IL‐6 and IL‐8, which subsequently induced BSMC proliferation and migration. Depleting both IL‐6 and IL‐8 completely reversed the effect of NP‐BEAS‐2B‐CM‐ and NP‐HBE‐CM‐mediated BSMC proliferation and migration, suggesting that this effect is a synergistic influence of IL‐6 and IL‐8. This study is the first to demonstrate that NP not only induces bronchial epithelial apoptosis via the Fas‐mediated pathway but also stimulates the bronchial epithelium to secrete IL‐6 and IL‐8, which cause bronchial smooth muscle proliferation and migration – major features in asthma remodelling.
Aging Gracefully: Emerging Issues for Public Policy and Consumer Welfare
Authors: PERRY VANESSA G. , WOLBURG JOYCE M.
Published: September 2011

To be an aging consumer in a youth culture means facing several challenges, including maintaining self‐esteem in the face of negative media portrayals, redefining the meaning of being sexually active, coping with vulnerability, planning for retirement and investing for the final years. Despite tremendous differences and contradictions among aging consumers, many policymakers take a narrow, single‐minded approach to issues of consumer welfare and public policy, which fails to address the wide variation among members of this group.
Safe Sex After 50 and Mature Women's Beliefs of Sexual Health
Authors: MORTON CYNTHIA R. , KIM HYOJIN , TREISE DEBBIE
Published: September 2011

This study explores sexual health risk attitudes among women aged 50 and older. Focus group research found that women 50+ are aware of the risk for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), but are uncomfortable about seeking health information from their regular physician who may erroneously believe that they already possess the knowledge. Although they know the importance of condom use in avoiding STDs, they may avoid negotiating condom use with their partners in an effort to avoid conflict or rejection. The results highlight a need for greater focus on women 50+ who continue to pursue active sex lives.
Novel Linear Diamine Disubstituted Polycyclic ‘Cage’ Derivatives as Potential Antimycobacterial Candidates
Authors: Onajole Oluseye K. , Sosibo Sphelele , Govender Patrick , Govender Thavendran , van Helden Paul D. , Maguire Glenn E. M. , Mlinarić‐Majerski Kata , Wiid Ian , Kruger Hendrik G.
Published: September 2011

As a part of an ongoing project to develop highly potent antituberculosis therapeutics, a series novel polycyclic ‘cage’ tetra‐amines were synthesized and screened for in‐vitro antituberculosis activities against the H37Rv strain of tuberculosis. Three disubstituted polycyclic moieties, namely pentacyclodecane, pentacycloundecane, and tricyclodecane, were used in this study. Compounds 5 and 7 showed similar activity to SQ109 at a MIC of 1 μm while compounds 4, 6 and 8 displayed MIC activity at 1 < MIC<10 μm against H37Rv strain of tuberculosis. Compounds 5, 7 and SQ109 were selected for further screening against, multi‐drug resistant, (R1097) and extensively drug resistant, (X149) strains of tuberculosis. Compound 5 showed anti‐TB activity of a MIC = 1 μm against multi‐drug resistant strain (R1097) and <1 μM against extensively drug resistant strain (X149) while compound 7 and SQ109 showed excellent anti‐TB activity against both drug‐resistant strains at a MIC <1 μm. This study demonstrates the first reported analysis of pentacyclo[5.3.0.02,5.03,9.04,8]decane as a potential therapeutic agent.