bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiological study of acute encephalitis in Tottori Prefecture, Japan
Authors: Wada‐Isoe K. , Kusumi M. , Kai T. , Awaki E. , Shimoda M. , Yano H. , Suzuki K. , Nakayasu H. , Oota K. , Kowa H. , Nakashima K.
Published: August 2008

Background and purpose:  To conduct an epidemiological survey of acute encephalitis focusing on non‐herpetic acute limbic encephalitis (NHALE) in Tottori Prefecture, western area of Japan.

Methods:  A questionnaire survey on the annual number of patients aged 16 years or more with acute encephalitis from 2001 to 2005 was undertaken in 2006.

Results:  During the study period, 49 patients were diagnosed with acute encephalitis. The subtype of acute encephalitis was as follows: 10 patients with herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE), 12 patients with NHALE, 4 patients with paraneoplastic encephalitis, 2 patients with encephalitis associated with collagen disease, one patient with viral encephalitis other than HSE, 20 patients with encephalitis with unknown causes. The service‐based incidence rate of acute encephalitis was 19.0 per million person‐years. The incidence rate of NHALE subtype was 4.7 per million person‐years.

Conclusions:  Our epidemiological survey indicated an estimated 550 patients would develop NHALE per year in Japan, suggesting that NHALE may not be a rare disorder.
Blood pressure is not associated with haematoma enlargement in acute intracerebral haemorrhage
Authors: Martí‐Fàbregas J. , Martínez‐Ramírez S. , Martínez‐Corral M. , Díaz‐Manera J. , Querol L. , Suárez‐Calvet M. , De Juan M. , Santaló M. , Marín R. , Martí‐Vilalta J.‐L.
Published: August 2008

Background and purpose:  We performed an observational study that compared baseline and subsequent blood pressure (BP) measurements and its association with haematoma enlargement (HE) in patients with intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH).

Methods:  We prospectively studied consecutive patients with supratentorial spontaneous ICH within the first 6 h after the onset of symptoms. HE was defined as an increase ≥33% in the volume of haematoma on the CT obtained 24–48 h after the onset of symptoms as compared with the CT at admission. We recorded systolic BP (SBP), diastolic BP (DBP) and mean BP (MBP) at admission and at 6, 12, 18 and 24 h after onset; the maximum SBP, DBP and MBP during the study period; the maximum SBP and DBP within intervals; the mean of all BP readings; administration of antihypertensive agents.

Results:  We studied 60 patients whose mean age was 72.1 ± 11.3 years. HE was observed in 27 (45%) patients. No statistically significant differences were observed in any of the analyses that compared BP parameters between the HE and non‐HE groups (two‐way anova).

Conclusions:  In an exploratory analysis, we did not find an association between BP and HE within the first 24 h after an acute ICH.
The role of IL‐12 and TNF‐α in AIDP and AMAN
Authors: Deng H. , Yang X. , Jin T. , Wu J. , Hu L.‐S. , Chang M. , Sun X.‐J. , Adem A. , Winblad B. , Zhu J.
Published: August 2008

Background:  Acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (AIDP) and acute motor axonal neuropathy (AMAN) have been described as two major subtypes of Guillain‐Barré syndrome (GBS); however, the possible difference of their immune‐inflammatory pathogenesis remains unclear.

Methods:  In this study, by using FACS and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays analyses, the role of Th1 cytokines tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin‐12 (IL‐12) and their receptors on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and in serum concentrations were investigated in AIDP and AMAN.

Results:  The results showed enhanced IL‐12, IL‐12R1 in AIDP and TNF‐α in AMAN during the acute phase, as well as increased TNF‐α and TNFR1 during the plateau phase of AIDP. Intravenous high dose immunoglobulin decreased IL‐12R1 expression on cells in AIDP, but increased TNF‐α and TNFR2 in AMAN.

Discussion:  Our data suggest that IL‐12 promotes disease development in AIDP and in contrast to previously inflammatory assumptions, TNF‐α may play double roles in GBS. The anti‐inflammatory role of TNF‐α realized through TNFR2 in AMAN is possibly a therapeutic mechanism in the IVIg treatment of AMAN.
Mechanism of tuberothalamic infarction
Authors: Kim J. , Choi H.‐Y. , Nam H. S. , Lee J. Y. , Heo J. H.
Published: August 2008

Background and purpose:  The tuberothalamic artery (TTA), one of the arteries supplying the paramedian thalamic area, is peculiar because it originates from the posterior communicating artery (p‐comA), which connects the vertebrobasilar and carotid systems.

Methods:  From Stroke Registry, 23 consecutive patients with an acute infarction involving the TTA were selected. We investigated the mechanism of TTA infarction.

Results:  Fourteen of 23 patients (61%) had coexisting infarctions outside the TTA territory (carotid in three, vertebrobasilar in seven, and both carotid and vertebrobasilar arteries in four patients). Coexisting lesions were most common in the posterior thalamoperforating arterial territory (seven patients). Eleven out of 14 patients (79%) with coexisting lesions had embolic sources from the heart or proximal atherosclerotic arteries, and cardioembolism was the most common mechanism. However, eight of the nine patients with isolated tuberothalamic lesions were classified as small vessel occlusions. More patients with embolic sources had visible p‐comA or fetal‐type posterior cerebral arteries. The vertebrobasilar arterial system played a more dominant role in developing tuberothalamic infarction than the carotid arterial system.

Conclusions:  Isolated TTA infarctions are rare and mostly because of small vessel occlusion. Patients with coexisting infarctions outside TTA territory usually have an embolic source, predominantly vertebral artery atherosclerosis.
Validity and Adverse Impact Potential of Predictor Composite Formation
Authors: De Corte Wilfried , Lievens Filip , Sackett Paul R.
Published: August 2008

Previous research on the validity and adverse impact (AI) of predictor composite formation focused on the merits of regression‐based or ad hoc composites. We argue for a broader focus. Ad hoc chosen composites are usually not Pareto‐optimal, whereas the regression‐based composite represents only one element from the total set of Pareto‐optimal composites and can, therefore, provide only limited information on the potential for validity and AI reduction of forming predictor composites when both validity and AI are of concern. In that case, other Pareto‐optimal composites may provide a better benchmark to decide on the merits of the predictor composite formation. We summarize a method to determine the set of Pareto‐optimal composites and apply the method to a representative collection of selection predictors. The application shows that the assessment of the AI and validity of predictor composite formation can differ substantially from the one arrived at when considering only regression‐based composites.
Commentary on Pareto‐Optimality as a Rationale for Adverse Impact Reduction: What would organizations do?
Authors: Kehoe Jerard F.
Published: August 2008

This paper offers an organizational perspective about the Pareto‐optimality of trade‐offs between selection quality and adverse impact reduction described by De Corte, Lievens and Sackett. Based on considerations of culture and human resource strategy, the need to understand the impact of any trade‐off, and a desire to compare this approach to alternatives, it is concluded that organizations may be strategically disinclined to implement such trade‐offs and, if interested, organizations would desire more information than is available from the accumulated research in this domain. In particular, validity differences between Pareto‐optimal composites are not likely to be good indicators of selection quality differences and the comparative effectiveness of alternative approaches is not clear.
Some Comments on Pareto Thinking, Test Validity, and Adverse Impact: When ‘and’ is optimal and ‘or’ is a trade‐off
Authors: Potosky Denise , Bobko Philip , Roth Philip L.
Published: August 2008

De Corte, Lievens, and Sackett add to the literature on selection test validity and adverse impact (AI). Their Pareto‐based weighting scheme essentially asks organizations if they are willing to give up some validity to hopefully achieve some reduction in AI. We considered their approach and conclusions in relation to the regression weighting method we used, and we offer five points that reflect our observations as well as our shared goals. We hope our comments, like their work in this field, will invigorate the pursuit of new ways of examining, and one day resolving, the persistent concern regarding the AI associated with valid selection tests.
The Antecedent and Consequence of Person–Organization Fit: Ingratiation, similarity, hiring recommendations and job offer
Authors: Vivian Chen Chun‐Hsi , Lee Hsu‐Mei , Yvonne Yeh Ying‐Jung
Published: August 2008

This study investigates how the ingratiation and perceived similarity of a job applicant can affect the judgment of an interviewer in determining person–organization fit (P–O fit), hiring recommendations and the job offer during a job interview. Data were collected from 144 interviewers and 184 applicants from 28 companies in Taiwan. The results suggest that applicant ingratiation has a positive effect on an interviewer's perceived similarity with the applicant, and that this perceived similarity mediates the relationship between applicant ingratiation and the interviewer's judgment of the applicant's P–O fit. The results further suggest that the relationship between the interviewer's judgment of the applicant's P–O fit and the job offer is mediated by hiring recommendations. Implications and directions for future research are discussed.
Assessor Constructs in Use as the Missing Component in Validation of Assessment Center Dimensions: A critique and directions for research
Authors: Jones Robert G. , Born Marise Ph.
Published: August 2008

The basis for assessment center dimension ratings has been examined through the lens of various multitrait–multimethod approaches, with some researchers concluding that dimension ratings are not representative of meaningful constructs. This presents a serious challenge for those who would generalize predictor constructs, particularly those that are broadly articulated in management assessment center dimensions. This paper addresses the problems with applying such analyses to assessment center dimension ratings without first articulating expected construct relationships. Ackerman and Humphreys' analysis of constructs will be used to better frame assessment center dimensions and to articulate possible assessor constructs in use. Theories of performance held by the managers, who serve both as subject matter experts when dimensional constructs are initially defined, and as the assessors who impose these dimensions on assessees' behavior in assessment center ratings, are suggested as important bases for further construct validation. Approaches for generalization of assessor constructs in use to the managerial work domain will be discussed.
Effects of Changed Item Order: A cautionary note to practitioners on jumping to computerized adaptive testing for personality assessment
Authors: Ortner Tuulia M.
Published: August 2008

This study aims to investigate the effects of item order used with computerized adaptive testing (CAT) in the domain of personality assessment. Based on items from the German version of the Eysenck Personality Profiler, four test versions were designed from seven scales and presented to four experimental groups (n=362). One conventional and three adaptive versions were created, each beginning with items representing either medium or extreme trait levels. Results showed significant differences in average gained person parameters for three out of seven scales between the adaptive versions, as well as differences in average reaction times for answering the items. Results indicated context effects as a problem for using CAT to measure personality.
The Joint Role of Locus of Control and Perceived Financial Need in Job Search
Authors: Van Hooft Edwin A. J. , Crossley Craig D.
Published: August 2008

Guided by economic rational choice theory and the behavioral‐coping literature, the present study examined contrasting perspectives of the role of job‐search locus of control (JSLOC) and perceived financial need in predicting job‐search intensity. Data were collected in two independent studies in the Netherlands and in the United States, both using a two‐wave longitudinal design. Results from both studies suggested that job seekers with external JSLOC and high perceived financial need engaged in more intense search behavior to compensate for anticipated difficulties in finding employment. Findings suggested that stress may mediate this relation, and may play a positive role in the job‐search process.
Effects of Personality Characteristics on Knowledge, Skill, and Performance in Servicing Retail Customers
Authors: Motowidlo Stephan J. , Brownlee Amy L. , Schmit Mark J.
Published: August 2008

This study tested the idea that some personality variables are related to interpersonal aspects of job performance primarily through interpersonal knowledge and skill, just as cognitive ability has been shown to be related to technical aspects of job performance primarily through technical knowledge and skill. We measured personality factors, cognitive ability, customer service knowledge (through a structured interview), customer service skill (through role‐play simulations), and customer service performance (through supervisory ratings) in a sample of 140 retail store associates. As expected, results showed that interpersonally oriented personality characteristics are related to customer service knowledge even when effects of ability, conscientiousness, and experience are taken into account, and that customer service knowledge and skill together carry the indirect effects of personality characteristics, ability, and experience to customer service performance. We also found that conscientiousness moderates the relation between knowledge and performance such that knowledge predicts performance best for people who are highly conscientious.
Lack of anti‐inflammatory effect of botulinum toxin type A in experimental models of inflammation
Authors: Bach‐Rojecky Lidija , Dominis Mara , Lacković Zdravko
Published: August 2008

Botulinum toxin type A (BTX‐A) has a long‐lasting antinociceptive activity and less clear effect on inflammation. It was proposed that these two effects share the same mechanism – the inhibition of neurotransmitter exocytosis from peripheral nerve endings. However, till now possible anti‐inflammatory action of BTX‐A did not evoke much attention. In the present paper, we investigate possible anti‐inflammatory action of the toxin in carrageenan and capsaicin models of inflammation in rats. BTX‐A (5 and 10 U/kg) was injected into the plantar surface of the rat right hind‐paw pad 5 days before the injection of the carrageenan (1%) or capsaicin (0.1%) at the same site. Carrageenan‐induced paw oedema and capsaicin‐induced protein extravasation were measured. Control, inflamed and BTX‐A pretreated inflamed paws were photographed and histopathological analysis (haematoxylin & eosin) was performed. Pretreatment with BTX‐A had no effect on the size of carrageenan‐induced paw oedema, measured as paw volume and weight or capsaicin‐induced plasma extravasations, measured by Evans blue as a marker of protein leakage. Neither macroscopic nor microscopic analysis showed a significant difference between BTX‐A pretreated and control inflamed tissue. Results show dissociation between the effect of BTX‐A on pain and inflammation thus questioning the validity of the suggested assumption about the common peripheral mechanism of action.
Shortest paths on dynamic graphs
Authors: Nannicini Giacomo , Liberti Leo
Published: August 2008

Among the variants of the well‐known shortest path problem, those that refer to dynamically changing graphs are theoretically interesting, as well as computationally challenging. Application‐wise, there is an industrial need for computing point‐to‐point shortest paths on large‐scale road networks whose arcs are weighted with a travelling time that depends on traffic conditions. We survey recent techniques for dynamic graph weights as well as dynamic graph topology.
The efficacy and safety of external biphasic defibrillation in toy breed dogs
Authors: Lee Seung‐Gon , Moon Hyeong‐Sun , Hyun Changbaig
Published: August 2008

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of biphasic (BP) defibrillation in toy breed dogs (<5 kg of body weight).

Design: Prospective, clinical experimental study.

Setting: Veterinary teaching hospital.

Animals: Five dogs (pilot study) and 10 dogs (comparison study of biphasic versus monophasic defibrillation).

Measurements and main results: The efficacy of defibrillation was compared by estimating E80 (80% probability of successful defibrillation) after biphasic (BP) and monophasic (MP) defibrillations. The E80 for BP defibrillation was 7.24±1.33 J (2.24±0.41 J/kg) and 10.24±1.34 J (3.18±0.12 J/kg) for MP defibrillation. BP waveform required 30% less shock energy for a successful defibrillation. In order to compare the safety of defibrillation, we evaluated changes in cardiac biomarkers, electrocardiogram, echocardiographical left ventricular index, and aortic pressure during and after BP and MP defibrillation. All dogs treated by either BP or MP defibrillation survived. Pulseless electrical activity occurred in 2 of 5 dogs during MP defibrillation. The levels of cardiac biomarkers were elevated and sustained for longer periods in the MP defibrillation group. Electrocardiographic changes (e.g., QT prolongation, the time to return to an isoelectric ST segment after shocks) were more severe and longer in the MP defibrillation group. In addition, overall left ventricular cardiac performance was severely depressed in the MP group compared with the BP group.

Conclusion: Our findings suggest that BP defibrillation is more effective and safer than MP defibrillation. We determined the acceptable shock energy to be 2–4 J/kg for toy breed dogs.
The influence of crystalloid type on acid–base and electrolyte status of cats with urethral obstruction
Authors: Drobatz Kenneth J. , Cole Steven G.
Published: August 2008

Objective:To compare the effect of a balanced isotonic crystalloid solution with that of 0.9% sodium chloride on the acid–base and electrolyte status of cats with urethral obstruction.

Design:Randomized prospective clinical trial.

Setting:Academic veterinary emergency room.

Animals:Sixty‐eight cats with naturally occurring urethral obstruction.

Interventions:Cats were randomized to receive either a balanced isotonic crystalloid solution (Normosol‐R,n=39) or 0.9% sodium chloride (n=29) for fluid therapy. Baseline venous blood gas and blood electrolyte values were obtained at the time of admission and at intervals during the course of therapy.

Measurements and main results:Baseline values were similar between groups. Cats receiving Normosol‐R had a significantly higher blood pH at 12 hours, a significantly greater increase in blood pH from baseline at 6 and 12 hours, as well as a significantly higher blood bicarbonate concentration at 12 hours and a significantly greater increase in blood bicarbonate from baseline at 6 and 12 hours. Conversely, the increase in blood chloride from baseline was significantly higher at 2, 6, and 12 hours in cats receiving 0.9% sodium chloride. There were no significant differences in the rate of decline of blood potassium from baseline between groups. Subgroup analysis of hyperkalemic cats (K+>6.0 mmol/L) and acidemic cats (pH<7.3) yielded similar findings.

Conclusions:While both crystalloid solutions appear safe and effective for fluid therapy in cats with urethral obstruction, the use of a balanced electrolyte solution may allow more rapid correction of blood acid–base status within the first 12 hours of fluid therapy. The use of a potassium‐containing balanced electrolyte solution does not appear to affect the rate of normalization of blood potassium in treated cats with urethral obstruction.
Postpartum Physical Symptoms in New Mothers: Their Relationship to Functional Limitations and Emotional Well‐being
Authors: Webb David A. , Bloch Joan R. , Coyne James C. , Chung Esther K. , Bennett Ian M. , Culhane Jennifer Flatow
Published: August 2008

ABSTRACT:  Background:
Postpartum physical health problems are common and have been understudied. The purpose of this investigation was to explore the associations among reported physical symptoms, functional limitations, and emotional well‐being of postpartum women.
Methods:
The study included data from interviews conducted at 9 to 12 months postpartum from 1,323 women who had received prenatal care at nine community health centers located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States, between February 2000 and November 2002. Emotional well‐being was assessed with the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale and perceived emotional health. Functional limitations measures were related to child care, daily activities (housework and shopping), and employment. A summary measure of postpartum morbidity burden was constructed from a checklist of potential health problems typically associated with the postpartum period, such as backaches, abdominal pain, and dyspareunia.
Results:
More than two‐thirds (69%) of the women reported experiencing at least one physical health problem since childbirth. Forty‐five percent reported at least one problem of moderate or major (as opposed to minor) severity and 20 percent reported at least one problem of major severity. The presence, severity, and cumulative morbidity burden associated with postpartum health problems were consistently correlated with reports of one or more functional limitations and measures of emotional well‐being including depressive symptomatology.
Conclusions:
Although physical problems typically associated with the postpartum period are often regarded as transient or comparatively minor, they are strongly related both to women’s functional impairment and to poor emotional health. Careful assessment of the physical, functional, and emotional health status of women in the year after childbirth may improve the quality of postpartum care. (BIRTH 35:3 September 2008)
How Do Physicians and Midwives Manage the Third Stage of Labor?
Authors: Tan Weiping M. , Klein Michael C. , Saxell Lee , Shirkoohy Sahba Eftekhary , Asrat Getnet
Published: August 2008

ABSTRACT:  Background:
Current practice guidelines recommend active management of the third stage of labor. We compared practices of three maternity care provider disciplines in management of third‐stage labor and the justifications for their approach.
Methods:
This study is a cross‐sectional survey of maternity practitioners in usual practice settings in British Columbia. All 199 obstetricians, all 82 midwives, and a random sample of family physicians practicing intrapartum maternity care (one‐third, or 346) were surveyed The three main outcome measures by discipline were the method preferred in managing third‐stage labor, the reasons given for the chosen method, and views on the appropriateness of the current third‐stage labor guideline.
Results:
The overall response rate was 57.8 percent. Response rates indicating
that the participants were “aware of guideline” were the following: obstetricians, 85.3 percent; family physicians, 53.7 percent; and midwives, 97.8 percent. Response rates indicating that the participants “agreed with guideline” were the following: obstetricians, 95.2 percent; family physicians, 97.6 percent; and midwives, 51.2 percent. Response rates indicating that “oxytocin should be given with anterior shoulder” were the following: obstetricians, 71.1 percent; family physicians, 68.3 percent; and midwives, 26.7 percent. Response rates indicating that “routine active management of third stage of labor should be the norm” were the following: obstetricians, 79.2 percent; family physicians, 60.2 percent; and midwives, 17 percent. All results were statistically significant (p < 0.01). Conclusions: A major difference was found between physicians and midwives in the management of third‐stage labor. Physicians routinely implemented active management of the third stage of labor; midwives preferred expectant approaches, principally based on women’s preference. Provincial data did not show differences in postpartum hemorrhage or transfusion rates by practitioner type. (BIRTH 35:3 September 2008)
Periictal diffusion abnormalities of the thalamus in partial status epilepticus
Authors: Katramados Angelos M. , Burdette David , Patel Suresh C. , Schultz Lonni R. , Gaddam Shailaja , Mitsias Panayiotis D.
Published: August 2008

Purpose:  To identify and describe thalamic dysfunction in patients with temporal as well as extratemporal status epilepticus (SE) and to also analyze the specific clinical, radiological, and electroencephalography (EEG) characteristics of patients with acute thalamic involvement.

Methods:  We retrospectively identified patients who presented with clinical and electrographic evidence of partial SE and had thalamic abnormalities on diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) within 5  days of documentation of lateralized epileptiform discharges (group 1). The spatial and temporal characteristics of the periodic lateralized epileptiform discharges (PLEDs) and the recorded electrographic seizures were analyzed and correlated with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐DWI hyperintense lesions. The findings of group 1 patients were compared with those of patients with partial SE without thalamic abnormalities on DWI (group 2).

Results:  The two groups were similar with regard to clinical presentation and morphology of epileptiform discharges. Group 1 patients had thalamic hyperintense lesions on DWI that appeared in the region of the pulvinar nucleus, ipsilateral to the epileptiform activity. Statistically significant relationship was noted between the presence of thalamic lesions and ipsilateral cortical laminar involvement (p = 0.039) as well as seizure origin in the posterior quadrants (p = 0.038). A trend towards PLEDs originating in the posterior quadrants was also noted (p = 0.077).

Discussion:  Thalamic DWI hyperintense lesions may be observed after prolonged partial SE and are likely the result of excessive activity in thalamic nuclei having reciprocal connections with the involved cortex. The thalamus likely participates in the evolution and propagation of partial seizures in SE.
Outcome after corticoamygdalohippocampectomy in patients with refractory temporal lobe epilepsy and mesial temporal sclerosis without preoperative ictal recording
Authors: Cukiert Arthur , Cukiert Cristine Mella , Argentoni Meire , Baise‐Zung Carla , Forster Cássio Roberto , Mello Valeria Antakli , Burattini José Augusto , Mariani Pedro Paulo
Published: August 2008

Purpose: We report on the surgical outcome obtained in patients with refractory temporal lobe epilepsy with mesial temporal sclerosis (MTS) who were evaluated preoperatively without ictal recording and were submitted to corticoamygdalohippocampectomy.

Methods: Two hundred twelve patients with refractory temporal lobe epilepsy were evaluated by means of clinical history, neurological examination, interictal electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and neuropsychological testing. MRI disclosed unilateral MTS in all patients. All patients were submitted to corticoamygdalohippocampectomy at the side determined by MRI.

Results: Interictal EEG showed unilateral temporal lobe spiking in 176 patients; in 36 patients, bilateral discharges were found. Mean follow‐up time was 2.7  years. One hundred ninety‐four patients (92%) were classified as Engel's class I. Eighteen patients (8%) were rated as Engel's class II. Thirty‐two out of 36  patients, in whom bilateral discharges were found, were in Engel's class I. Sixty percent of the patients had an improvement in memory function related to the nonoperated temporal lobe. Fifty‐nine percent of the patients had a 10‐point increase in general IQ postoperatively. Verbal memory decline was noted in three patients. Pathological examination showed MTS in all patients.

Conclusions: It is possible to adequately select good surgical candidates for temporal lobe resection using MRI and interictal EEG alone. In patients with MRI‐defined MTS, we should expect a 90% postoperative remission rate. Cognitive decline was very rarely seen in this patient population. The finding of MTS on MRI is the single most important prognostic factor for good outcome after temporal lobe surgery.
Revisiting the role of the insula in refractory partial epilepsy
Authors: Nguyen Dang Khoa , Nguyen Dong Bach , Malak Ramez , Leroux Jean‐Maxime , Carmant Lionel , Saint‐Hilaire Jean‐Marc , Giard Normand , Cossette Patrick , Bouthillier Alain
Published: August 2008

Purpose:  Recent evidence suggesting that some epilepsy surgery failures could be related to unrecognized insular epilepsy have led us to lower our threshold to sample the insula with intracerebral electrodes. In this study, we report our experience resulting from this change in strategy.

Methods:  During the period extending from October 2004 to June 2007, 18 patients had an intracranial study including 10 with insular coverage. The decision to sample the insula with intracerebral electrodes was made in the context of (1) nonlesional parietal lobe‐like epilepsy; (2) nonlesional frontal lobe‐like epilepsy; (3) nonlesional temporal lobe‐like epilepsy; and (4) atypical temporal lobe‐like epilepsy.

Results:  Intracerebral recordings confirmed the presence of insular lobe seizures in four patients. Cortical stimulation performed in 9 of 10 patients with insular electrodes elicited, in decreasing order of frequency, somatosensory, viscerosensory, motor, auditory, vestibular, and speech symptoms.

Discussion:  Our results suggest that insular cortex epilepsy may mimic temporal, frontal, and parietal lobe epilepsies and that a nonnegligeable proportion of surgical candidates with drug‐resistant epilepsy have an epileptogenic zone that involves the insula.
The Cost of Alcohol in California
Authors: Rosen Simon M. , Miller Ted R. , Simon Michele
Published: August 2008

Background: California is the largest alcohol market in the United States. In 2005 alone, Californians consumed almost 14 billion alcoholic drinks, which contributed to many severe and potentially fatal alcohol‐related illnesses and conditions. Alcohol use also causes violent and nonviolent crimes, as well as injuries and traffic collisions. While several studies have estimated the magnitude and cost of these problems nationally and others have analyzed underage drinking costs, no overall cost estimate at the state level currently exists for California. We present the first comprehensive estimate of the cost of alcohol consumption in California.

Methods: For each category of alcohol‐related problems, we estimated fatal and nonfatal cases attributable to alcohol use. We multiplied alcohol‐attributable cases by estimated costs per case to obtain total costs for each problem. Our estimates are presented in 2 sections, the economic costs, estimated using a human capital approach, and quality‐of‐life costs estimated using a quality adjusted life year framework.

Results: Alcohol consumption in California led to an estimated 9,439 deaths and 921,929 alcohol‐related problems, such as crime and injury in 2005. The economic cost of these problems is estimated at between $35.4 billion and $42.2 billion. Our main estimate is $38.5 billion, of which $5.4 billion was for medical and mental health spending, $25.3 billion in work losses, and $7.8 billion in criminal justice spending, property damage and public program costs. In addition, alcohol is responsible for severe reductions in individuals’ quality of life in California. We estimate that the disability caused by injury, the personal anguish of violent crime victims, and the life years lost to fatality are the largest costs imposed by alcohol. The total value for this reduced quality of life in California is between $30.3 billion and $60.0 billion. Our main estimate for quality‐of‐life costs is $48.8 billion.

Conclusions: In light of the associated substantial illness, injuries, death, and high cost to society, alcohol consumption in California needs serious attention. In addition, the methods developed in this paper can be expanded to estimate the cost of alcohol in other states.
Acute Monoplegia After Lysis of Epidural Adhesions: A Case Report
Authors: Ho Kok‐Yuen , Manghnani Preeti
Published: August 2008

Lysis of epidural adhesions is an interventional procedure performed to treat refractory low back pain or radicular pain due to epidural scarring. A 39‐year‐old female with a diagnosis of failed back surgery syndrome underwent lysis of epidural adhesions using a Racz catheter. She developed acute monoplegia of her right lower extremity immediately after the procedure. Radiographic imaging did not reveal an epidural hematoma. Motor and sensory function in the right lower limb returned after 5 days. Large volumes of fluid injected during neuroplasty could have caused transient nerve injury from compression within loculated epidural compartments.
Donor deferral and resulting donor loss at the American Red Cross Blood Services, 2001 through 2006
Authors: Zou Shimian , Musavi Fatemeh , Notari Edward P. , Rios Jorge A. , Trouern‐Trend Jonathan , Fang Chyang T.
Published: August 2008

BACKGROUND: A large number of blood donors are deferred each year and many of the temporarily deferred donors do not return to donate blood. This study analyzed actual deferral and return donation data from the American Red Cross to further assess the impact of donor deferral on donor availability.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Voluntary blood donors who presented between 2001 and 2006 were included in this study. Deferred donors were classified into three groups according to their history of presentation during the prior 2 years: Group 1 with no prior donation or deferral, Group 2 with prior donation but no deferral, and Group 3 with prior deferral. Temporarily deferred donors in Groups 1 and 2 who did not return during the next 3 years were considered lost donors. All indefinitely deferred donors were lost donors.

RESULTS: A mean of 12.8 percent of a total of 47,814,370 donor presentations between 2001 and 2006 resulted in a deferral. While majority of the deferrals were related to donor safety reasons, deferrals for recipient safety reasons accounted for 22.6 percent of deferrals or 2.9 percent of total presentations. Temporary and indefinite deferrals for recipient safety‐related reasons collectively caused an estimated loss of 647,828 donors during the 6 years. An additional 1,042,743 donors were lost due to deferrals for donor safety‐related reasons during the same period.

CONCLUSIONS: The results on donor loss after deferral call attention to the impact of donor deferrals on donor availability and the need to monitor and assess the necessity and effectiveness of such deferrals.
Predicting intentions to donate blood among nondonors in Australia: an extended theory of planned behavior
Authors: Robinson Natalie G. , Masser Barbara M. , White Katherine M. , Hyde Melissa K. , Terry Deborah J.
Published: August 2008

BACKGROUND: With an increasing demand for blood and blood products in Australia, there is a continual need to recruit blood donors. As such, it is important to investigate the factors that impact on nondonors' decision‐making processes with regard to donating blood for the first time. Previous research has established the efficacy of the theory of planned behavior (TPB) in predicting blood donor intentions. The current research aimed to test a TPB model augmented with constructs implicated in previous blood donor research; specifically descriptive norm, moral norm, anticipated regret, and donation anxiety.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Participants completed measures assessing the standard TPB variables of attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control (PBC) as well as descriptive norm, moral norm, donation anxiety, and anticipated regret. Path analysis examined the utility of the augmented TPB model to predict 195 non–blood donors' intentions to donate blood.

RESULTS: A final revised model provided a very good fit to the data and included attitude, PBC, moral norm, descriptive norm, anticipated regret, and donation anxiety as direct predictors of intention, with these factors accounting for 70 percent of the variance in intentions to donate blood.

CONCLUSION: A revised TPB model provided a more efficacious predictor of nondonors' intentions to donate than the standard TPB model and highlights the role that norm‐based factors and affective‐laden constructs play in predicting non–blood donors' intentions to donate.
Evolution of Discontinuity in Particle Orientation in Ceramic Tape Casting
Authors: Chantaramee Napat , Tanaka Satoshi , Takahashi Tsutomu , Uematsu Keizo
Published: August 2008

Flow‐induced particle orientation has been studied using aqueous slurry containing slightly anisometric particles (α‐Al2O3). A detailed description of particle alignment in green tape was quantified with a cross‐polarized light microscope. Correlations among the exerted pressure in terms ofHslurry/L, dimensionless flow profile, and particle packing structure were presented. Pressure‐driven flow with a largeHslurry/Lvalue was found to promote a nonuniform particle packing structure (Type‐I) observed through the tape thickness, while shear‐driven flow was found to induce a relatively uniform packing structure, as the long axes of particles were mainly aligned in the casting direction (Type‐II).
Electrokinetic and Rheological Properties of Nano Zirconia in the Presence of Rhamnolipid Biosurfactant
Authors: Biswas Modhura , Raichur Ashok M.
Published: August 2008

In this paper, the effect of rhamnolipid biosurfactant on the electrokinetic and rheological behavior of nanozirconia particles is reported. The effect of pH, concentration of biosurfactant, and solids loading on ζ‐potential and rheological behavior was investigated. ζ‐potential measurements showed that adsorption of biosurfactant shifted the iso‐electric point of zirconia with increasing biosurfactant concentration. The surface of zirconia became more electronegative in the presence of biosurfactant indicating a strong interaction. Maximum charge was obtained in the presence of about 230 ppm of biosurfactant. Rheological tests at pH 7 revealed that the zirconia suspension is viscous at high solids loading and addition of biosurfactant decreased the viscosity substantially especially at high solids loading (>50 wt%). Sedimentation tests confirmed that the biosurfactant is a good dispersant for zirconia particles at pH values of 7 and above.
Analysis of Suspected Trace Human Remains from an Indoor Concrete Surface
Authors: Zimmermann Carolyn M. , Laskay Ünige A. , Jackson Glen P.
Published: August 2008

Abstract:  This paper describes the sequence of analyses used to determine the nature of a stain located on the floor of room in the former Athens Mental Health and Retardation Hospital in Athens, OH. The location of the stain was reported to be the position in which a decomposing body was discovered on January 11, 1979. The current stain is found to contain strong evidence for both natural decomposition products and deliberate adulteration. Microscopic analyses, solubility tests, FTIR, ICP‐OES, pyrolysis‐MS, and derivatization GC‐MS were consistent in determining the removable parts of the stain to be composed mostly of calcium and sodium salts of free fatty acids, such as palmitic acid, consistent with previous descriptions of adipocere. The free fatty acids could have been formed via known bacterial degradation pathways or via saponification through the basic environment caused through contact with the concrete. To our knowledge, adipocere formation on an exposed indoor environment has not been described before. The stain and concrete also show signs of being chemically modified with an acidic reagent, such as Blu‐Lite—a phosphoric acid‐based cleaner that was a commonly used cleaner in the building from the time of discovery to the present day. The chemical etching appears to have been restricted to an area resembling the shape of a human body, which is consistent with deliberate adulteration of the appearance of the stain.
Unchanged heart rate–respiratory frequency ratio in preterm infants during spontaneous arousals
Authors: Zotter Heinz , Kerbl Reinhold , Reiterer Friedrich , Pichler Gerhard , Hanzer Marie , Mueller Wilhelm
Published: August 2008

Aim: To find out whether a correlation of heart rate (HR) and respiratory frequency (RF) defined as HR‐RF‐ratio (HRR) may be helpful to identify arousals in term and preterm infants.

Methods: Polygraphic recordings were performed in 25 term infants (gestational age 40.1 ± 1.1 weeks) and 25 preterm infants (gestational age 31.1 ± 1.3 weeks) during undisturbed daytime sleep. Arousals were scored as suggested by the ‘International Paediatric Work Group on Arousals’ and divided into cortical arousals and subcortical arousals. HRR was defined as HR over RF. Arousals were compared to a 30‐sec period preceding an arousals.

Results: Two hundred arousals were scored (100 cortical arousals and 100 subcortical arousals). HRR increased during arousals in term infants (p < 0.001). This was true for cortical arousals (p < 0.001) and subcortical arousals (p < 0.05) of term infants. In contrast, in preterm infants HRR remained unchanged during cortical arousals and subcortical arousals.

Conclusion: An increase of HRR during arousals is a simple parameter to identify arousals in term infants, but not in preterm infants suggesting that an unchanged HRR might be an indicator of an immature arousal response.
MIND IS PRIMARILY A VERB: AN EXAMINATION OF MISTAKEN SIMILARITIES BETWEEN JOHN DEWEY AND HERBERT SPENCER
Authors: Zebrowski Robin L.
Published: August 2008

Abstract In educational scholarship, a number of comparisons have been made between the work of John Dewey and Herbert Spencer, many claiming that Spencer’s influence is unmistakable in Dewey’s theories or even that Dewey is derivative of Spencer. However, one must look beyond the surface similarities of Dewey and Spencer and recognize the drastically divergent views that each held on those very foundational notions upon which each built his educational program. In this essay, Robin Zebrowksi examines the theories of evolution, the directionality of organism and environment interaction, the agency of the individual, and the conceptualizations of progress in the respective works of Dewey and Spencer. Their underlying beliefs about the world and how it operates show that their philosophies cannot be reconciled. The educational theories that follow from these discrepancies, Zebrowski concludes, have incompatible and distinct implications for the classroom.
DO FOREIGN CURRENCY DEPOSITS PROMOTE OR DETER FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY DEVELOPMENT IN LOW‐INCOME COUNTRIES? AN EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS OF CROSS‐COUNTRY DATA
Authors: KUBO Koji
Published: August 2008

Foreign currency deposits (FCD) are prevalent in many low‐income developing countries, but their impact on bank lending has rarely been examined. An examination of cross‐country data indicates that a higher proportion of FCD in total deposits is associated with more private credit only in inflationary circumstances. FCD can lead to a decline in private credit below a certain threshold level of inflation. Given that FCD exhibit persistence, deregulating them in low‐income countries could cause more harm than good to financial intermediary development in the long term.
DELAYS IN STABILIZATION OR IN REFORMS? THE DEBT CRISIS
Authors: ALBERTO CINQUETTI Carlos , GONÇALVES SILVA Ricardo
Published: August 2008

Empirical analyses attributing the 1980s’ debt crisis to inconsistent stabilization policies rest on an inappropriate long‐run approach. Revising this long‐run approach yields opposite results: terms of trade shocks and foreign indebtedness explain this crisis, regardless of domestic stabilization policies. This prompts us to consider a new hypothesis, of delays in trade‐policy reforms, with a model in which terms‐of‐trade variation (under shocks) is endogenous to export structure and efficiency of resource allocation. Evidence from the structural equations model shows that allocation distortions negatively affect changes in terms of trade, which then explain this crisis. A political economy extension demonstrates that income inequality and regional trade policy determine the distortions, which in turn leads to this crisis.
Effect of Addition of Versagel® on Microbial, Chemical, and Physical Properties of Low‐Fat Yogurt
Authors: Ramchandran L. , Shah N.P.
Published: August 2008

ABSTRACT:  The objective of this study was to examine the effect of Versagel® on the growth and proteolytic activity of Streptococcus thermophilus 1275 and Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus 1368 and angiotensin‐I converting enzyme inhibitory activity of the peptides generated thereby as well as on the physical properties of low‐fat yogurt during a storage period of 28 d at 4 °C. Three different types of low‐fat yogurts, YV0, YV1, and YV2, were prepared using Versagel as a fat replacer. The fermentation time of the low‐fat yogurts containing Versagel was less than that of the control yogurt (YV0). The starter cultures maintained their viability (8.68 to 8.81 log CFU/g of S. thermophilus and 8.51 to 8.81 log CFU/g of L. delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus) in all the yogurts throughout the storage period. There was some decrease in the pH of the yogurts during storage and an increase in the concentration of lactic acid. However, the proteolytic and ACE‐inhibitory potential of the starter cultures was suppressed in the presence of Versagel. On the other hand, the addition of Versagel had a positive impact on the physical properties of the low‐fat yogurt, namely, spontaneous whey separation, firmness, and pseudoplastic properties.
Overcoming Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Blood Pressure Control: A Patient‐Centered Approach to Cross‐Cultural Communication
Authors: Bloch Michael J. , Betancourt Joseph , Green Alex
Published: August 2008

“It is much more important to know what sort of a patient has a disease than what sort of a disease a patient has.”—William Osler1
Arab Television in Academic Scholarship
Authors: Tawil‐Souri Helga
Published: August 2008

Over the past 10 years, there has been an exponential increase in satellite television in the Arab world, with programming ranging from music videos to news, from reality TV programs to Islamic talk shows. Concurrent with this development has been the growth of academic scholarship on understanding the relationship between Arab television and social and political transformations in the Middle East. This article provides an overview of Arab television growth, especially that of pan‐Arab satellite channels such as Al‐Jazeera, and of scholarship about it. Academic work that focuses on theories of media globalization and the public sphere, and that is in conversation with Western journalism and global media studies, is highlighted.
Multi-sample micro-slit rheometry
Authors: Moon Doyoung , Bur Anthony J. , Migler Kalman B.
Published: August 2008

We have developed a multi-sample micro-slit rheometer (MMR) which is capable of measurements over a broad range of temperatures, viscosities and shear rates. The instrument is mechanically simple as the flow is generated by external gas pressure and the shear rate is measured through optical tracking of the flow front. In the current implementation, the required volume of each sample is approximately 20μL and we measure four samples simultaneously. We demonstrate the performance of the MMR by measurement of the flow curves (viscosity versus shear rate) of three representative polymers: A polydimethylsiloxane melt, a polyisobutylene solution, and a polystyrene melt. We adapt standard data correction methods to account for shear-thinning and entry/flow-front effects. We report a high level of accuracy and precision. This instrument will be particularly useful in cases of multiple samples, limited material quantity, and when optical access is useful.