bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Travel Writing and Encounters with National ‘Others’ in the Napoleonic Wars
Authors: James Leighton
Published: June 2009

Studies of the Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars have generally focused upon the military dimension or the political consequences of the conflict. Although recent scholarship has broadened to consider the cultural aspects of the wars, the travel experiences of those that fought have been neglected. Histories concerned with state‐building or languages of patriotism and nationality generally focus on elite groups, while the concentration of military history upon the battlefield has occluded other aspects of the soldierly experience. On the other hand, historians of travel writing have ignored the extent to which many war narratives were also travelogues. But Napoleonic soldiers’ letters, diaries and memoirs are full of ethnographic observations on the foreign peoples and cultures they encountered while campaigning. The role of eighteenth‐ and nineteenth‐century travel literature in shaping images of the foreign ‘other’ and hierarchies of civilisations has been recognised. However, much of this existing work concentrates on famous travel writers. It is only relatively recently that soldiers’ accounts from the Revolutionary and Napoleonic wars have been approached as a form of travel writing and one that did much to shape understanding of Europe. Indeed, soldiers appropriated the travelogue style to construct their own accounts.
Alcohol Pretreatment of Small‐diameter Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene Grafts: Quantitative Analysis of Graft Healing Characteristics in the Rat Abdominal Aorta Interposition Model
Authors: Pektok Erman , Cikirikcioglu Mustafa , Tille Jean‐Christophe , Kalangos Afksendiyos , Walpoth Beat H.
Published: June 2009

Long‐term patency rates of small‐diameter expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) vascular prostheses are unsatisfactory. Treatment of ePTFE grafts by alcohol before implantation was reported to increase hydrophilic properties, yielding better endothelialization and cellular in‐growth, thus improving graft healing. The effect of alcohol pretreatment on ePTFE grafts and postoperative healing characteristics of wet ePTFE grafts were evaluated in this study. Ten sterile ePTFE grafts (2 mm ID, 30 µ thru‐pore, 12 mm long) were implanted in the infrarenal aorta of male Sprague‐Dawley rats (324–380 g). Five grafts were treated with ethanol 70% and soaked with saline solution before implantation (wet); five nontreated grafts served as control. All rats were sacrificed after digital subtraction angiography and sampling of the graft for histological investigation after 3 weeks. Histomorphometric analysis was performed for endothelial coverage, cellular in‐growth, and intimal hyperplasia. All grafts were patent at the end of 3 weeks in both groups. Histological evaluation revealed significantly better endothelial coverage and prominent infiltration by fibroblasts and lymphocytes in the wet group. Endothelial coverage (31.03 ± 10.61% vs. 13.03 ± 9.46%, P = 0.03) and cellular infiltration of grafts (50.91 ± 8.55% vs. 39.29 ± 10.70%, P = 0.11) were higher in the wet group. Area of intimal hyperplasia per graft length was also higher in the wet group (5.32 ±  4.75 µm2/µm vs. 2.69 ± 3.41 µm2/µm, P = 0.36). Wetting of ePTFE grafts with ethanol 70% pretreatment before implantation might have a beneficial effect on long‐term patency of small‐diameter vascular grafts due to facilitated graft healing.
Analysis of Baroreflex Sensitivity During Undulation Pump Ventricular Assist Device Support
Authors: Liu Hongjian , Shiraishi Yasuyuki , Zhang Xiumin , Song Hojin , Saijo Yoshifumi , Baba Atsushi , Yambe Tomoyuki , Abe Yusuke , Imachi Kou
Published: June 2009

The aim of this study was to examine the baroreflex sensitivity (BRS), which involves the autonomic nervous system, in a goat with a chronically implanted undulation pump ventricular assist device (UPVAD). The UPVAD involved transforming the rotation of a brushless DC motor into an undulating motion by a disc attached via a special linking mechanism, and a jellyfish valve in the outflow cannula to prevent diastolic backflow. The pump was implanted into the thoracic cavity of a goat by a left thoracotomy, and the inflow and outflow cannulae were sutured to the apex of the left ventricle and to the descending aorta, respectively. The driving cable was wired percutaneously to an external controller. Electrocardiogram and hemodynamic waveforms were recorded at a sampling frequency of 1 kHz. BRS was determined when awake by the slope of the linear regression of R‐R interval against mean arterial pressure changes, which were induced by the administration of methoxamine hydrochloride, both with continuous driving of the UPVAD as well as without assistance. BRS values during the UPVAD support and without assistance were 1.60 ± 0.30 msec/mm Hg and 0.98 ± 0.22 msec/mm Hg (n = 5, P < 0.05), respectively. BRS was significantly improved during left ventricular assistance. Therefore, UPVAD support might decrease sympathetic nerve activity and increase parasympathetic nerve activity to improve both microcirculation and organ function.
The Fallacy of Generalizing from Egg Salad in False‐Belief Research
Authors: Pezdek Kathy , Freyd Jennifer J.
Published: June 2009

reported that misleading individuals with false beliefs about having gotten sick on egg salad in childhood can reduce the probability of subsequently consuming egg salad. They concluded that their results “… have important implications for people's food and dieting choices…” (p. 752). We argue that their conclusion represents a fundamental generalization problem. We report new findings that, together with other recent studies, data on disgust and the fact that hard boiled eggs produce a chemical associated with rotten food, suggest that Geraerts et al.'s success in reducing individuals’ interest in eating egg salad is likely restricted to less appealing foods that are less frequently consumed. Because of potential applicability of their results to public health and well‐being, and the more general applicability of the false‐feedback paradigm to legal cases, it is important to accurately limit these conclusions and generalizations.
Pain Responder Analysis: Use of Area Under the Curve to Enhance Interpretation of Clinical Trial Results
Authors: Cappelleri Joseph C. , Bushmakin Andrew G. , Zlateva Gergana , Sadosky Alesia
Published: June 2009

Interpretation of results on patient‐reported pain outcomes from clinical trials should be meaningful to patients and healthcare providers. This study applied an area‐under‐the‐curve (AUC) analysis to responder profiles in a clinical trial of pregabalin for the treatment of fibromyalgia (FM). Data were from a 14‐week, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial of pregabalin (300, 450, or 600 mg/day) for the treatment of FM in patients meeting American College of Rheumatology criteria for FM and with a baseline pain score of at least 40 mm on the 100‐mm pain visual analogue scale. Pain was evaluated in a daily diary by patients using an 11‐point numeric rating scale (0 = no pain, 10 = worst possible pain). Response profiles on pain improvement scores and their differences between pregabalin and placebo were assessed using the AUC (derived using the trapezoidal rule) from the responder curve (vertical axis, proportion of subjects; horizontal axis, minimum percent improvement in pain). The AUC can be interpreted as if all responders were improved by the same percentage equal to the AUC divided by 100. The AUCs (2,100 for placebo, and 2,944, 3,170, and 3,349 for pregabalin 300, 450, and 600 mg, respectively) can be considered as if every responder improved by 21, 29, 31, and 33.5% in the responder's respective treatment group. Pain improvement was significantly better with pregabalin (P < 0.05), with pregabalin responders improving by 8.4% (300 mg/day), 10.7% (450 mg/day), and 12.5% (600 mg/day) more than placebo responders. This novel approach demonstrates that responder profiles can provide an enhanced interpretation of pain outcomes for patient care and symptom management.
The Danish Barriers Questionnaire‐II: Preliminary Validation in Cancer Pain Patients
Authors: Jacobsen Ramune , Møldrup Claus , Christrup Lona , Sjøgren Per , Hansen Ole Bo
Published: June 2009

Objective:  The objective of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of the Danish version of the Barriers Questionnaire‐II (DBQ‐II).

Methods:  The validated Norwegian version of the DBQ‐II was translated into Danish. Cancer patients for the study were recruited from specialized pain management facilities. Thirty‐three patients responded to the DBQ‐II, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and Brief Pain Inventory pain severity scale.

Results:  A factor analysis of the DBQ‐II resulted in six scales. Scale one, Fatalism, consisted of three items addressing fatalistic beliefs regarding cancer pain management. Scale two, Immune System, consisted of three items addressing the belief that pain medications harm the immune system. Scale three, Monitor, consisted of three items addressing the fear that pain medicine masks changes in one's body. Scale four, Communication, consisted of five items addressing the concern that reports of pain distract the physician from treating the cancer, and the belief that “good” patients do not complain. Scale five, Addiction, consisted of two items addressing the fear of becoming addicted to pain medication. Finally, scale six, Tolerance, consisted of three items addressing the fear of getting tolerant to analgesic effect of pain medicine. Items related to medication side effects were analyzed as separate units. The DBQ‐II total had an internal consistency of 0.87. The DBQ‐II total score was related to measures of pain relief and anxiety.

Conclusions:  The DBQ‐II seems to be a reliable and valid measure of the barriers to pain management among Danish cancer patients.
Arterial Mechanics in Ischemic versus Nonischemic Cardiomyopathy: Clinical and Diagnostic Impact
Authors: Badran Hala Mahfouz , Mostafa AbdAllh , Serage Amany , Fareed Walla , Abdelfatah Ehab , Fathe Adnan
Published: June 2009

Background: Differential diagnosis between ischemic (IDCM) and the nonischemic type (NIDCM) of cardiomyopathy constitutes a challenge in the daily medical practice. Carotid and aortic elastic properties deteriorate in patients with coronary artery disease. However, their predictive role in differentiating IDCM from NIDCM has not been addressed so far. Aim of the work: To examine carotid and aortic mechanical functions using conventional and Doppler tissue echocardiography in the distinction between IDCM and NIDCM in patients with clinically undetermined etiology. Methods: 70 patients with dilatation and diffuse impairment of the left ventricular (LV) contraction were studied. All patients underwent carotid duplex for measuring intima‐media (IMT) thickness, peak systolic velocity (PSV), and luminal diameters (LD). Aortic distensibility, strain, and aortic wall velocities (systolic (Sa), early diastolic (Ea), late diastolic (Aa) velocities, Sat, and Eat) were measured. According to coronary angiographic results, patients were categorized into IDCM (n = 36) (age 57.9 ± 9.2 years) and NIDCM groups (n = 34) (age 56.0 ± 8.3 years); they were compared to 30 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy individuals as a control group. Results: The aortic pulsatile change, aortic strain, and distensibility were significantly reduced in both patient groups in comparison to control (P < 0.001). These parameters were much impaired in patients with IDCM compared with NIDCM (P < 0.001). IDCM have more deterioration of Sa, Ea, and Aa compared with NIDCM group (7.6 ± 2.4 vs. 8.9 ± 1.58, 7.5 ± 2.8 vs. 10.6 ± 1.5, 9.0 ± 1.4 vs. 6.9 ± 2.4 cm/sec; P < 0.001), respectively. In IDCM, the variables of aortic elastic properties were correlated only to age, while in NIDCM they were correlated to hemodynamics, LV volumes, wall thickness, and mass. Both carotid diameter and IMT were significantly increased in IDCM in comparison to NIDCM and control (P < 0.001). Carotid distensibility was significantly reduced in IDCM compared with NIDCM and control (P < 0.001). However, the carotid properties strongly correlated to risk factors in IDCM and to hemodynamics and LV function in NIDCM. Using ROC curve, a cutoff value ≤4.7 (cm2/dyne/103) for aortic distensibility, value <8 cm/sec for Sa and IMT >0.8 mm predicted IDCM with 94.4%, 72.7%, and 97.2% sensitivity and 88.2%, 85.3%, and 97.1% specificity, respectively. Conclusion: Both carotid and aortic mechanical functions are more deteriorated in ischemic compared with nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy. Different functional and structural mechanisms might be responsible for the deterioration of arterial elastic properties in each category.
Trans‐System Social Ruptures: Exploring Issues of Vulnerability and Resiliency1
Authors: Wachtendorf Tricia
Published: June 2009

This essay takes up a recently introduced term, trans‐system social ruptures (TSSRs), and demonstrates its applicability to understanding ruptures to transnational systems. Using the relationship between Canada and the United States as a focus point, the article differentiates national from transnational system social ruptures. The article goes on to explore national and transnational system vulnerability to and resiliency from TSSRs. The distinction between the two types of TSSRs poses empirical, operational, and policy implications. The objective and subjective emergence of TSSRs as a social problem has much to offer to our understanding of disaster events and future crises. The article closes with several recommendations for theoretical development.
Disasters, Catastrophes, and Policy Failure in the Homeland Security Era1
Authors: Birkland Thomas A.
Published: June 2009

The September 11 attacks triggered federal policy changes designed to influence emergency management in the United States, even though these attacks did not suggest a need for a wholesale restructuring of federal policy in emergency management. Instead, for several reasons, federal policy's emphasis on terrorism and emergency management significantly degraded the nation's ability to address natural disasters. The federal government sought to create a top‐down, command and control model of emergency management that never fully accounted for, positively or normatively, the way local emergency management works in practice. The Obama administration will have to address the questions raised by the reorganization of federal emergency management responsibilities. While the context in which these changes have occurred is unique to the U.S. federal system, there are interesting implications for emergency management in nonfederal systems.
A New Cosmology of Risks and Crises: Time for a Radical Shift in Paradigm and Practice
Authors: Lagadec Patrick
Published: June 2009

Our current system for homeland security does not provide the necessary framework to manage the challenges posed by 21st‐Century catastrophic threats.

The Federal Response to Hurricane Katrina–Lessons Learned

The White House (2006, 52)

Crises in the twenty‐first century differ—structurally—from those we had to deal with in the last century. Crises of the twentieth century were traditionally defined and handled as a combination of “threat, urgency, and uncertainty.” Today, crises are better described in terms of a destruction of vital references and a dynamic of systemic implosions. If crises were once a type of severe, dynamic accident, they are now the essential mode of life in our hypercomplex systems. These transboundary crises mark a watershed between mind‐sets and tools of the past, and the new strategic landscape that we are now in. The intellectual and governance challenges are extreme. But looking back is not an option. It is vital to forge new routes into Terrae Incognitae. The goal of this article is to help build (1) a renewed understanding of the emerging challenges we face; and (2) a better strategic response to these systemic dislocations.
Primary hyperoxaluria causing ESRD and gangrene of extremities leading to amputation
Authors: MUNSHI Nidhi M. , CONCEPCION Luis , NARAYANAN Mohanram
Published: June 2009

Primary hyperoxaluria is an uncommon, inherited metabolic disorder due to hepatic enzyme deficiencies with consequent hepatic oxalate overproduction and attendant systemic complications. The diagnosis is established on a combination of clinical parameters, elevated urinary excretion of oxalate and glycolate and determination of alanine glyoxylate aminotransferase in the liver tissue. We describe a 45‐year‐old female with end‐stage renal disease secondary to nephrolithiasis, who presented with a fulminating vascular syndrome before confirming the diagnosis of primary hyperoxaluria. This case illustrates that in this infrequent clinical entity, the diagnosis is often delayed with incorrect initial management.
The Association Between Emergency Department Crowding and Adverse Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients with Chest Pain
Authors: Pines Jesse M. , Pollack Charles V. , Diercks Deborah B. , Chang Anna Marie , Shofer Frances S. , Hollander Judd E.
Published: June 2009

Objectives:  While emergency department (ED) crowding is a worldwide problem, few studies have demonstrated associations between crowding and outcomes. The authors examined whether ED crowding was associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes in patients with chest pain syndromes (chest pain or related complaints of possible cardiac origin).

Methods:  A retrospective analysis was performed for patients ≥30 years of age with chest pain syndrome admitted to a tertiary care academic hospital from 1999 through 2006. The authors compared rates of inpatient adverse outcomes from ED triage to hospital discharge, defined as delayed acute myocardial infarction (AMI), heart failure, hypotension, dysrhythmias, and cardiac arrest, which occurred after ED arrival using five separate crowding measures.

Results:  Among 4,574 patients, 251 (4%) patients developed adverse outcomes after ED arrival; 803 (18%) had documented acute coronary syndrome (ACS), and of those, 273 (34%) had AMI. Compared to less crowded times, ACS patients experienced more adverse outcomes at the highest waiting room census (odds ratio [OR] = 3.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.3 to 11.0) and patient‐hours (OR = 5.2, 95% CI = 2.0 to 13.6) and trended toward more adverse outcomes during time of high ED occupancy (OR = 3.1, 95% CI = 1.0 to 9.3). Adverse outcomes were not significantly more frequent during times with the highest number of admitted patients (OR = 1.6, 95% CI = 0.6 to 4.1) or the highest trailing mean length of stay (LOS) for admitted patients transferred to inpatient beds within 6 hours (OR = 1.5, 95% CI = 0.5 to 4.0). Patients with non‐ACS chest pain experienced more adverse outcomes during the highest waiting room census (OR = 3.5, 95% CI = 1.4 to 8.4) and patient‐hours (OR = 4.3, 95% CI = 2.6 to 7.3), but not occupancy (OR = 1.8, 95% CI = 0.9 to 3.3), number of admitted patients (OR = 0.6, 95% CI 0.4 to 1.1), or trailing LOS for admitted patients (OR = 1.2, 95% CI = 0.6 to 2.0).

Conclusions:  There was an association between some measures of ED crowding and a higher risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes in patients with both ACS‐related and non–ACS‐related chest pain syndrome.
Balancing productivity and trade objectives in a competing environment: should India commercialize GM rice with or without China?
Authors: Gruère Guillaume P. , Mevel Simon , Bouët Antoine
Published: June 2009

India is considering approving genetically modified (GM) rice, but it fears losing rice exports to sensitive countries with import regulations on GM food, and may wait for China to lead the way. Using a multiregion, computable general equilibrium (CGE) model, we simulate the economic effects of introducing GM rice in India with or without China in the presence of labeling and import approval regulations of GM food in GM sensitive importing countries. We find that the welfare gains with GM rice in India would largely exceed any potential export loss, and that the segregation of non‐GM rice could help reduce these minor losses. We also find no significant first mover advantage for India or China on GM rice. The opportunity cost of segregation of non‐GM rice is much larger for sensitive importers than for India, which suggests that these importers would have the incentive to pay for the cost of segregation.
Fibroblast growth factor receptor‐1 phosphorylation requirement for cardiomyocyte differentiation in murine embryonic stem cells
Authors: Ronca Roberto , Gualandi Laura , Crescini Elisabetta , Calza Stefano , Presta Marco , Dell’Era Patrizia
Published: June 2009

Fibroblast growth factor receptor‐1 (Fgfr1) gene knockout impairs cardiac and haematopoietic development in murine embryonic stem cells (mESC). In FGFR1, tyrosine residues Y653 and Y654 are responsible for its tyrosine kinase (TK) activity whereas phosphorylated Y463 and Y766 represent docking sites for intracellular substrates. Aim of this study was the characterization of FGFR1 signalling requirements necessary for cardiomyocyte differentiation in mESC. To this purpose,fgfr1−/−mESC were infected with lentiviral vectors harbouring human wild‐type hFGFR1 or the Y653/654F, Y463F and Y766F hFGFR1 mutants. The resulting embryonic stem (ES) cell lines were differentiated as embryoid bodies (EBs) and beating foci formation was evaluated. In order to appraise the presence of cells belonging to cardiovascular and haematopoietic lineages, specific markers were analysed by quantitative PCR, whole mount in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence. Transduction with TK+hFGFR1 or the TK+Y766F‐hFGFR1 mutant rescued cardiomyocyte beating foci formation infgfr1−/−EBs whereas the TK−Y653/654F‐hFGFR1 mutant and the TK+Y463F‐hFGFR1 mutant were both ineffective. Analysis of the expression of early and late cardiac markers in differentiating EBs confirmed these observations. At variance with cardiomyocyte differentiation, all the transduced TK+FGFR1 forms were able to rescue haematopoietic differentiation in EBs originated by infectedfgfr1−/−mESC, only the TK−Y653/654F‐hFGFR1 mutant being ineffective. In keeping with these observations, treatment with different signalling pathway inhibitors indicates that protein kinase C and ERK activation are essential for cardiomyocyte but not for haematopoietic differentiation in EBs generated by fgfr1+/−∼ mESC. In conclusion, our results suggest that, although FGFR1 kinase activity is necessary for both cardiac and haematopoietic lineage maturation in mESC, phosphorylation of Y463 in the intracellular domain of the receptor is a specific requirement for cardiomyocyte differentiation.
Platelet counts and haemorrhagic diathesis in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes
Authors: Neukirchen Judith , Blum Sabine , Kuendgen Andrea , Strupp Corinna , Aivado Manuel , Haas Rainer , Aul Carlo , Gattermann Norbert , Germing Ulrich
Published: June 2009

Objectives:  Most patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) present with single or multiple lineage cytopenias in peripheral blood despite a hypercellular bone marrow. Thrombocytopenia, attributable to ineffective platelet production by dysfunctional megakaryocytes, has been estimated to occur in 40–65% of patients. However, there are hardly any studies on the clinical relevance of low platelet counts in MDS.

Methods:  We retrospectively analysed data from 2900 patients in the Duesseldorf MDS Registry who were diagnosed at our laboratory between 1982 and 2007. Results: At the time of diagnosis, 43% of the patients had a platelet count lower than 100 000/μL. Platelets were lower than 20 000/μL in 7% of the patients, especially in those with advanced stages of MDS, who showed a higher frequency of thrombocytopenia and platelet transfusion dependency. On multivariate analysis, platelet anisometry, hypocellularity of megakaryopoiesis, maturational defects of megakaryocytes and platelets <20 000/μL were independent variables showing a statistically significant correlation (P < 0.05) with clinical signs of bleeding. Platelets lower than 100 000/μL were associated with significantly shortened survival (P < 0.00005), because of an increased risk of progression to acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) (30% vs. 21%) (P < 0.02) and bleeding (16% vs. 8%) (P = 0.0005).

Conclusions:  Thrombocytopenia is a strong predictor of short survival, with or without haemorrhagic complications.
Detection efficiency of multiplexed Passive Integrated Transponder antennas is influenced by environmental conditions and fish swimming behaviour
Authors: Aymes J. C. , Rives J.
Published: June 2009

Abstract –  The efficiency of a Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT)‐tag detection system was tested during a 23‐day experiment using a permanent digital video to record the passage of fish through multiplexed antennas. Coupling video to the PIT system allowed the detection of error sources and the correction of erroneous data. The efficiency of the detection system and its variation were investigated according to fish swimming speed, direction of movement and individual fish behaviour. Influence of time and environmental conditions on detection results were also checked. The PIT tag system was 96.7% efficient in detecting fish. Upstream movements were better detected (99.8%) than downstream movements (93.7%). Moreover, results showed that efficiency rate was not stable over the experiment; it was reduced on stormy days. Several sources of errors were identified such as sub‐optimal orientation of the PIT tag relative to the antenna plane, the influence of fish swimming speed, individual fish behaviour and influence of environmental conditions.
Right coronary fistula and aneurysm draining to the right atrium
Authors: Pesonen Erkki , Hochbergs Peter
Published: June 2009

In a 3‐year‐old boy, a continuous heart murmur was heard. The echocardiogram showed a dilated right coronary artery suggesting the existence of a coronary fistula. A more detailed echocardiogram when the patient was sedated revealed a fistula leading to a large aneurysm and further to the right atrium. The accidental dissection and thrombosis during the interventional heart catheterization resulted in a closure of the fistula. A continuous heart murmur and a dilated coronary artery are the hallmarks of coronary fistula.

Conclusion:  Anatomic details of coronary fistula might be possible to see in an echocardiogram. Interventional heart catheterization is usually an adequate treatment option.
Denture stomatitis and its risk indicators in south Brazilian older adults
Authors: Dos Santos Camila Mello , Hilgert Juliana Balbinot , Padilha Dalva Maria Pereira , Hugo Fernando Neves
Published: June 2009

doi:10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2009.00295.x
 
Denture stomatitis and its risk indicators in south Brazilian older adults

Objective:  The purpose of this study was to evaluate if socio‐demographic, behaviour and health variables are risk indicators for denture‐related stomatitis in community‐dwelling older adults from Carlos Barbosa, Brazil.

Materials and methods:  In this cross‐sectional study, 872 subjects aged 60 years or more were evaluated. Data collection included dental examinations and questionnaires to assess socio‐demographic, behaviour, general and oral health data. All questionnaires and examinations were carried out during 2004. Associations between the independent variables and the outcomes ‘prevalence of denture stomatitis’ or ‘prevalence of granular stomatitis’ were adjusted by means of multivariate logistic regressions.

Results:  Participants with denture stomatitis were significantly more likely to be females, to display increased amounts of plaque, and significantly less likely to visit the dentist for treatment. Participants with granular stomatitis were significantly more likely to be females and participants with granular stomatitis were significantly more likely to be females, aged 70 years or more and current smokers. In addition, participants with granular stomatitis displayed increased amounts of plaque.

Conclusion:  The data presented here confirms the central role of denture biofilm accumulation in denture stomatitis. It also indicates that smoking may increase susceptibility to infection in its most severe form.
Domestic use of a disclosing solution for denture hygiene: a randomised trial
Authors: Souza Raphael F. , Regis Rômulo R. , Nascimento Cássio , Paranhos Helena F. O. , Silva Claudia H. Lovato
Published: June 2009

doi:10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2009.00309.x
 
Domestic use of a disclosing solution for denture hygiene: a randomised trial

Objectives:  The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of the domestic use of a disclosing agent for denture hygiene.

Materials and methods:  Completely edentulous participants wearing maxillary dentures were randomly assigned to one of the three intervention groups: (1) Follow‐up only (control; n = 12); (2) Oral and denture hygiene instructions (n = 10); (3) Instructions associated with the home use of a disclosing agent (1% neutral red; n = 10). Biofilm coverage area (%) over internal and external surfaces of the maxillary denture was assessed at baseline and after 14 and 90 days. Data were evaluated by generalised estimating equations based on score tests (α = 0.05).

Results:  The participants presented low changes for areas of biofilm coverage (14 days (%): internal: GI = 1.4 ± 0.9; GII = 1.5 ± 1.3; GIII = −0.4 ± 0.9; external: GI = 1.4 ± 1.5; GII = 1.5 ± 1.4; GIII = −0.4 ± 0.9; 90 days (%): internal: GI = 2.0 ± 0.9; GII = 2.2 ± 1.4; GIII = 0.3 ± 1.0; external: GI = 2.1 ± 1.4; GII = 2.2 ± 1.5; GIII = 0.3 ± 0.9). Changes were similar for the three groups (p = 0.293) and were not influenced by the test time (p = 0.218).

Conclusion:  It can be concluded that the home use of a disclosing agent for denture hygiene does not improve the removal of the biofilm, particularly for patients with adequate oral hygiene habits.
Professionalization of Family Life Education: Defining the Field
Authors: Darling Carol A. , Fleming Wm. Michael , Cassidy Dawn
Published: June 2009

An online professional practice analysis of family life educators was conducted resulting in responses from 522 Certified Family Life Educators (CFLEs) and a comparison group of 369 noncertified family practitioners. This survey included questions about the characteristics of CFLEs, their work environments, and practice‐related tasks within 10 CFLE content areas. Compared to noncertified family professionals, CFLEs more frequently perceived that entry‐level family life educators needed greater expertise in Internal Dynamics of Families, Human Growth and Development, Human Sexuality, Interpersonal Relationships, Family Resource Management, and Family Life Education Methodology than the other family life content areas.
Tumour necrosis factor‐α attenuates insulin action on phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase gene expression and gluconeogenesis by altering the cellular localization of Foxa2 in HepG2 cells
Authors: Pandey Amit K. , Bhardwaj Vikash , Datta Malabika
Published: June 2009

Circulating tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNFα) levels, which are elevated in obesity‐associated insulin resistance and diabetes, inhibit insulin signalling at several points in the signalling cascade. The liver is critical in maintaining circulating glucose levels and, in a preliminary investigation using the human hepatoma (HepG2) cell line in this study, we demonstrated the role of TNFα in the regulation of this phenomenon and determined the underlying molecular mechanisms. As the transcription factor Foxa2 has been implicated, in part, in the regulation of gluconeogenic genes, we studied the effects of TNFα and/or insulin on its cellular status in hepatocytes, followed by an assessment of its occupancy on the phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) promoter. Preincubation of cells with TNFα, followed by insulin, significantly prevented insulin‐mediated nuclear exclusion of Foxa2 and substantially increased its nuclear concentration. Foxa2 was subsequently found to occupy its binding element on the PEPCK promoter. TNFα alone, however, did not alter the status of cellular Foxa2 or its occupancy on the PEPCK promoter. TNFα preincubation also significantly attenuated insulin‐induced inhibition of the expression of gluconeogenic enzymes and hepatic glucose production. Insulin inhibition of PEPCK expression and the preventive effect of TNFα could be partially but significantly restored in the presence of Foxa2 siRNA. Several other well‐known mediators of insulin action in the liver in general and of gluconeogenic genes in particular include Foxo1, PGC‐1 and SREBP‐1c. Our results indicate that another transcription factor, Foxa2, is at least partly responsible for the attenuating effect of TNFα on insulin action on PEPCK expression and glucose production in HepG2 cells.

Structured digital abstract

MINT‐7040448: TBP (uniprotkb:P20226), FOXA2 (uniprotkb:Q9Y261) and FOXA1 (uniprotkb:P55317) colocalize (MI:0403) by cosedimentation (MI:0027)
Impact of Nandrolone Decanoate on Gene Expression in Endocrine Systems Related to the Adverse Effects of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids
Authors: Alsiö Johan , Birgner Carolina , Björkblom Lars , Isaksson Pernilla , Bergström Lena , Schiöth Helgi B. , Lindblom Jonas
Published: June 2009

Abstract:  Elite athletes, body builders and adolescents misuse anabolic‐androgenic steroids (AAS) in order to increase muscle mass or to enhance physical endurance and braveness. The high doses misused are associated with numerous adverse effects. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of chronic supratherapeutic AAS treatment on circulating hormones and gene expression in peripheral tissues related to such adverse effects. Quantitative real‐time PCR was used to measure expression levels of in total 37 genes (including peptide hormones, cell membrane receptors, nuclear receptors, steroid synthesising enzymes and other enzymes) in the pituitary, testes, adrenals, adipose tissue, kidneys and liver of male Sprague–Dawley rats after 14‐day administration of the AAS nandrolone decanoate, 3 or 15 mg/kg. Plasma glucose and levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), adiponectin, corticosterone, ghrelin, insulin and leptin were also measured. We found several expected effects on the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐gonadal axis, while the treatment also caused a number of other not previously identified changes in circulating factors and gene transcription levels such as the dose‐dependent reduction of the β3‐adrenergic receptor in adipose tissue, reduction of both circulating and mRNA levels of adiponectin, up‐regulation of both hydroxymethylglutaryl‐CoA‐reductase, the rate‐limiting enzyme in de novo synthesis of cholesterol, and the receptor for ACTH in the adrenals. The results provide evidence for wide ranging effects of AAS on the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis, adipose tissue and substrates of the renal control of blood pressure.
Radial velocity study of the post-period minimum cataclysmic variable SDSS J143317.78+101123.3 with an electron-multiplying CCD
Authors: Tulloch S. M. , Rodríguez-Gil P. , Dhillon V. S.
Published: June 2009

We present high time-resolution spectroscopy of the eclipsing cataclysmic variable SDSS J143317.78+101123.3 obtained with QUCAM2, a high-speed/low-noise electron-multiplying CCD camera. Littlefair et al. measured the mass of the secondary star in SDSS J143317.78+101123.3 using a light-curve fitting technique and obtained a value of M2 = 0.060 ± 0.003 M⊙, making it one of the three first bona fide detections of a brown dwarf mass donor in a cataclysmic variable. In this Letter, we present a dynamical measurement supporting this important result. We measured the radial velocity semi-amplitude of the white dwarf from the motion of the wings of the Hα emission line and obtained a figure of K1= 34 ± 4 km s−1, in excellent agreement with the value of K1 = 35 ± 2 km s−1 predicted by Littlefair et al.'s model.
SIMULTANEOUS DETECTION OF LISTERIA MONOCYTOGENES, STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS, SALMONELLA ENTERICA AND ESCHERICHIA COLI O157:H7 IN FOOD SAMPLES USING MULTIPLEX PCR METHOD
Authors: ZHANG D. , ZHANG H. , YANG L. , GUO J. , LI X. , FENG Y.
Published: June 2009

In this study, one multiplex polymerase chain reaction (MPCR) assay was developed for simultaneous detection of four foodborne pathogens, i.e., Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella enterica and Escherichia coli O157:H7. Five specific primer pairs were designed based on the nucleotide sequences of hemolysin gene (hly) of Listeria monocytogenes, thermostable nuclease gene (nuc) of Staphylococcus aureus, invasion gene (invA) of Salmonella enterica, shiga‐like toxin gene (stx) and intimin gene (eae) of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in this assay. The specificity and sensitivity of the MPCR method were validated, and the limit of detection (LOD) of this method was about 10 copies. One cfu/mL each of these foodborne pathogens spiked in practical food samples, i.e., ground meat, beef, pork, fish, shrimp, cheese, canola leaf and cabbage, could be detected simultaneously after 24 h enrichment at a rate of 87.5%, indicating that the established MPCR detection method was effective and suitable for practical use.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This study presents a quick and effective identification method to simultaneous monitor four foodborne pathogens in food samples. The specificity and sensitivity of this method can be used to unambiguously identify these four foodborne pathogens in practical food samples based on the species‐specific genes. Therefore, this detection method is applicable for surveillance measures of these four foodborne pathogens in the food production chain.
FOOD SAFETY KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE OF CONSUMERS OF VARIOUS FOOD SERVICE ESTABLISHMENTS
Authors: GURUDASANI R. , SHETH M.
Published: June 2009

In the present study, food safety knowledge and attitude of 300 consumers from nine different categories of food service establishments (FSEs) were assessed. Results revealed that most consumers (60%) eating at various FSEs were young, in the age group of 18–35 years. Some of the consumers could identify the carriers for foodborne diseases such as cholera, food poisoning and jaundice, but most of them did not know about the carriers of typhoid, gastroenteritis and amebiosis. Most of the consumers received information on food safety from family and friends. A positive association was seen between education of consumers and frequency of receiving information from various sources such as magazines, TV/radio, posters/hoardings, newspapers, school/colleges, health workers and family/friends. Most consumers had a positive attitude toward food hygiene, and they believed in punishing street food vendors who violated the food safety norms. Most consumers believed that government intervention would help in improving the quality of street foods. A lot of better‐educated food handlers believed that adherence to norms on the personal hygiene of the food handler should be made compulsory, and that training of persons in street food service is essential to ensure quality of food and food safety. In conclusion, various sources of information should be used to increase consumer awareness on food safety.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

In the present study, situational analysis was conducted to obtain data on food safety knowledge and attitude of consumers. Results indicated that although some of the consumers could identify the carriers for foodborne diseases, such as cholera, food poisoning and jaundice, most of them did not know about the carriers of typhoid, gastroenteritis and amebiosis. Thus, efforts should be made to educate consumers about the relation between food and diseases and the importance of making proper food choices for consumption. Most consumers had a positive attitude toward food safety and believed government intervention would help in improving the quality of street foods. Such data can form the basis for seeking the attention of government to undertake measures to improve the quality of foods served at various food outlets. Also, it was found that very few consumers received information on food safety from various sources like magazines, TV/radio, posters, newspapers, health workers, nongovernment organizations, etc. This calls for attention of food safety educators to use a variety of audio‐visual aids to spread the messages on food safety. Such area‐specific data on consumers' knowledge on food safety can assist in developing food safety education programs.
ISOLATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF NONTYPHOID SALMONELLA FROM HOSPITAL FOOD HANDLERS IN BEIJING, CHINA
Authors: LUO YANPING , LI JINGYUN , MA YUE , HU CHANGQIN , JIN SHAOHONG , CUI SHENGHUI
Published: June 2009

Salmonella enterica isolates recovered from stool samples of healthy food handlers in two hospital dining halls in Beijing, China were characterized by serotyping, susceptibility to 15 antimicrobials and pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Our data showed that 9.5% (29/305) of food handlers in these two dining halls were Salmonella carriers. Twenty‐nine isolates were grouped into five serotypes including Agona, Derby, Enteritidis, Infantis and Senftenberg. All six Enteritidis isolates were resistant to chloramphenicol, nalidixic acid and tetracycline. Identical PFGE patterns were identified from food handlers in the same dining hall that indicated the possible transmission of Salmonella among food handlers and to customers. Our findings underscore the importance of food hygiene education and regular health examination among food handlers in dining halls in China.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Food handlers in dining halls should be considered as a high‐risk group for Salmonella carrier state in China. Food hygiene education and regular health examination among food handlers in dining halls should be carried out.
Quantitative Structure–Activity Relationship Study on the Anti‐HIV‐1 Activity of Novel 6‐Naphthylthio HEPT Analogs
Authors: Riahi Siavash , Pourbasheer Eslam , Dinarvand Rassoul , Ganjali Mohammad Reza , Norouzi Parviz
Published: June 2009

The quantitative structure–activity relationship of the novel 6‐naphthylthio 1‐[(2‐hydroxyethoxy)methyl]‐6‐(phenylthio) thymine derivatives for prediction of anti‐human immunodeficiency virus type 1 activity was studied. The suitable set of the molecular descriptors was calculated and the important descriptors using the variable selections of the stepwise multiple linear regression and the genetic algorithm were selected. A comparison between the attained results indicated the superiority of the genetic algorithm over the stepwise multiple regression method in the feature‐selection. The predictive quality of the quantitative structure–activity relationship models was tested for an external set of eight compounds, randomly chosen out of 39 compounds. The genetic algorithm‐multiple linear regression model with six selected descriptors was obtained. This model, demonstrating high statistical qualities (R2train = 0.925, Q2 = 0.872, SE (%) = 1.23, F =  49.338, R2pred = 0.944), could predict the anti‐human immunodeficiency virus type 1 activity of the molecules with a prediction error percentage lower than 10%. The results suggest that electronegativity, the masses, and the atomic van der Waals volumes are the main independent factors contributing to the anti‐human immunodeficiency virus type 1 activity of the studied compounds.
Chiropractic Use by Urban and Rural Residents With Insurance Coverage
Authors: Lind Bonnie K. , Diehr Paula K. , Grembowski David E. , Lafferty William E.
Published: June 2009

ABSTRACT: 
Purpose: To describe the use of chiropractic care by urban and rural residents in Washington state with musculoskeletal diagnoses, all of whom have insurance coverage for this care. The analyses investigate whether restricting the analyses to insured individuals attenuates previously reported differences in the prevalence of chiropractic use between urban and rural residents as well as whether differences in provider availability or patient cost‐sharing explain the difference in utilization. Methods: Claims data from 237,500 claimants in 2 large insurance companies in Washington state for calendar year 2002 were analyzed, using adjusted clinical group risk adjustment for differences in disease burden and rural urban commuting area codes for rurality definition. Findings: The proportion of claimants using chiropractors was higher in rural than urban residents (44% vs 32%, P < .001). Lack of conventional providers in rural areas did not completely explain this difference, nor did differences in patient cost‐sharing or demographics. Among those who used chiropractors, those in urban areas had more chiropractic visits than users of chiropractic in rural areas. Conclusions: Among insured adults, use of chiropractic care was higher in rural than in urban areas. Reasons suggested for this difference in previous reports were not borne out in this data set.
Preparing Daughters: The Context of Rurality on Mothers' Role in Contraception
Authors: Noone Joanne , Young Heather M.
Published: June 2009

ABSTRACT: 
Context: The United States continues to have the highest rate of adolescent childbearing among developed countries. Lack of access and disadvantage contribute to this problem, which disproportionately impacts rural women. Given the increased difficulty rural young women face regarding contraceptive access, parental communication and support play an even more vital role in assisting them to navigate decisions about and access to contraception. Purpose: To examine rural women's perspectives on how living in a rural area impacts issues surrounding pregnancy prevention for their daughters and parent‐child communication regarding pregnancy prevention. Methods: Open‐ended interviews were conducted with 30 mothers of adolescent women in 3 rural counties in southern Oregon. Thematic analysis within and across interviews using constant comparative analysis was used to explore barriers, facilitators and strategies mothers identified in talking with their daughters about contraception. Findings: Specific themes found that related to the rural environment included (1) conservatism, (2) isolation, (3) lack of privacy, (4) stigma, (5) the paradox of the rural environment, and (6) the uniqueness of rural life. Conclusions: The context of living in a rural environment may present unique barriers to facilitate parent‐child communication when discussing intimate topics. The design of interventions needs to take into consideration these issues, particularly when attempting to serve hard‐to‐reach populations.
Nurses' Comfort Level With Emergency Interventions in the Rural Hospital Setting
Authors: Ross Erin L. , Bell Sue E.
Published: June 2009

ABSTRACT: 
Context: One quarter of the persons living in the United States receive their emergency care in a rural hospital. Nurses employed in these hospitals see few emergencies but must be prepared to provide expert and efficient care when they do occur. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of registered nurses' certifications and years of experience on comfort level in emergencies. Methods: Data were collected using a survey design. The questionnaire gathered demographic data, number and type(s) of certifications held, and comfort level with 7 emergency interventions. The sample was recruited from registered nurses (RNs) working in 10 Critical Access Hospitals that represented different geographic locations and different distances to larger, more comprehensive hospitals in an upper Midwestern state. Findings: Mean comfort level of all respondents with the 7 selected emergency interventions ranged from 2.3 for assisting with thoracentesis to 3.6 for assisting with precipitous vaginal delivery, indicating only a moderate comfort level with the selected emergency interventions. While 70% of the 86 respondents answered “yes” when asked if they felt comfortable in emergency situations, the percentage of respondents who reported being comfortable ranged from 33% to 83%. Conclusions: Number and type(s) of certifications and years of experience as an RN were associated with higher comfort levels. Responses to open‐ended questions provided insight into the realities of rural emergency nursing and strategies for improving comfort levels of rural nurses in emergency situations.