bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross‐cultural temperamental differences in infants, children, and adults in the United States of America and Finland
Authors: GAIAS LARISSA M. , RÄIKKÖNEN KATRI , KOMSI NIINA , GARTSTEIN MARIA A. , FISHER PHILIP A. , PUTNAM SAMUEL P.
Published: March 2012

Gaias, L. M., Räikkönen, K., Komsi, N., Gartstein, M. A., Fisher, P. A. & Putnam, S. P. (2012). Cross‐cultural temperamental differences in infants, children, and adults in the United States of America and Finland.Scandinavian Journal of Psychology53, 119–128.

Cross‐cultural differences in temperament were investigated between infants (n = 131, 84 Finns), children (n = 653, 427 Finns), and adults (n = 759, 538 Finns) from the United States of America and Finland. Participants from both cultures completed the Infant Behavior Questionnaire, Childhood Behavior Questionnaire and the Adult Temperament Questionnaire. Across all ages, Americans received higher ratings on temperamental fearfulness than Finnish individuals, and also demonstrated higher levels of other negative affects at several time points. During infancy and adulthood, Finns tended to score higher on positive affect and elements of temperamental effortful control. Gender differences consistent with prior studies emerged cross‐culturally, and were found to be more pronounced in the US during childhood and in Finland during adulthood.
Exhausted women, tough men: a qualitative study on gender differences in health, vulnerability and coping with illness in Spain
Authors: del Mar García‐Calvente María , Hidalgo‐Ruzzante Natalia , del Río‐Lozano María , Marcos‐Marcos Jorge , Martínez‐Morante Emilia , Maroto‐Navarro Gracia , Mateo‐Rodríguez Inmaculada , Gil‐García Eugenia
Published: March 2012

This study analyses different perceptions by women and men, from different social backgrounds and ages, regarding their health, vulnerability and coping with illness, and describes the main models provided by both sexes to explain determinants for gender inequalities in health. The qualitative study involved in‐depth interviews with women and men resident in Granada (Spain). The women rated their health worse than men, associating it with feelings of exhaustion. However, men tended to overrate their health, hiding their problems behind the ‘tough guy’ stereotype associated with masculinity. Both women and men shared the belief that women are more vulnerable, while men are weaker at coping with illness. The explanatory models offered for this paradox of ‘weak but strong women’ and ‘tough but weak men’ were different for each sex. Men used biological arguments more than women, centred on the female reproductive cycle. Women used more cultural models and identified determinants relating to social stratification, gender roles and power imbalances. In conclusion, gender constructions affect the health perceptions of both women and men at any social level or age. ‘Exhausted’ women and ‘tough’ men should form preferential target groups for intervention to reduce gender inequalities in health.
THE ROLE OF THE NEIGHBOURHOOD FOR FIRM RELOCATION
Authors: SLEUTJES BART , VÖLKER BEATE
Published: March 2012

The residential neighbourhood has become more important as a business environment as a result of economic and societal developments. However, some neighbourhoods are characterised by relatively high out‐migration of firms; disadvantaged neighbourhoods in particular. This suggests that there may be factors at the neighbourhood level that steer relocation behaviour of local entrepreneurs. In this paper, we investigate how entrepreneurs valuate location aspects, including social and physical characteristics of the neighbourhood, and how this valuation relates to planned or actual firm relocation. The results show that the neighbourhood plays only a modest role for ‘being a (potentially) mobile firm’. Rather, relocation (propensity) results from growth ambition, and the most important reasons for both relocation and staying put are therefore the size and quality of the business premises itself or personal housing preferences. Policy aiming at retaining entrepreneurs in neighbourhoods is most successful if targeted at the supply of appropriate business space.
Acceptability of misoprostol‐only medical termination of pregnancy compared with vacuum aspiration: an international, multicentre trial
Authors: Rodriguez MI , Seuc A , Kapp N , von Hertzen H , Huong NTM , Wojdyla D , Mittal S , Arustamyan K , Shah R ,   the World Health Organization Research Group on Post‐Ovulatory Methods of Fertility Regulation
Published: March 2012

Please cite this paper as: Rodriguez M, Seuc A, Kapp N, von Hertzen H, Huong N, Wojdyla D, Mittal S, Arustamyan K, Shah R, the World Health Organization Research Group on Post‐Ovulatory Methods of Fertility Regulation. Acceptability of misoprostol‐only medical termination of pregnancy compared with vacuum aspiration: an international, multicentre trial. BJOG 2012;119:817–823.

Objective  To compare women’s acceptance of misoprostol‐only medical termination of pregnancy (TOP) with surgical TOP.

Design  Prospective cohort study.

Setting  Termination of pregnancy clinics in New Delhi, Mumbai, Hanoi, Tbilisi, Trivandrum and Yerevan.

Population  Women requesting TOP, at 63 days of gestation or less, at study sites where both medical and surgical methods were available.

Methods  Serial surveys eliciting measures of women’s satisfaction and acceptance of TOP method were administered. Data were analysed using cross‐tabulation and logistic regression to determine if TOP method was predictive of acceptability.

Main outcome measures  Patient acceptance.

Results  High acceptability of both surgical and misoprostol‐only TOP.

Conclusions  Where medical TOP with mifepristone is not available, misoprostol‐only medical TOP is acceptable to women who have the choice between medical or surgical techniques.
Genetic depletion of brain 5HT reveals a common molecular pathway mediating compulsivity and impulsivity
Authors: Angoa‐Pérez Mariana , Kane Michael J. , Briggs Denise I. , Sykes Catherine E. , Shah Mrudang M. , Francescutti Dina M. , Rosenberg David R. , Thomas David M. , Kuhn Donald M.
Published: March 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 121, 974–984.

Neuropsychiatric disorders characterized by behavioral disinhibition, including disorders of compulsivity (e.g. obsessive–compulsive disorder; OCD) and impulse‐control (e.g. impulsive aggression), are severe, highly prevalent and chronically disabling. Treatment options for these diseases are extremely limited. The pathophysiological bases of disorders of behavioral disinhibition are poorly understood but it has been suggested that serotonin dysfunction may play a role. Mice lacking the gene encoding brain tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (Tph2−/−), the initial and rate‐limiting enzyme in the synthesis of serotonin, were tested in numerous behavioral assays that are well known for their utility in modeling human neuropsychiatric diseases. Mice lacking Tph2 (and brain 5HT) show intense compulsive and impulsive behaviors to include extreme aggression. The impulsivity is motor in form and not cognitive because Tph2−/− mice show normal acquisition and reversal learning on a spatial learning task. Restoration of 5HT levels by treatment of Tph2−/− mice with its immediate precursor 5‐hydroxytryptophan attenuated compulsive and impulsive–aggressive behaviors. Surprisingly, in Tph2−/− mice, the lack of 5HT was not associated with anxiety‐like behaviors. The results indicate that 5HT mediates behavioral disinhibition in the mammalian brain independent of anxiogenesis.
Collapsin response mediator protein‐2 phosphorylation promotes the reversible retraction of oligodendrocyte processes in response to non‐lethal oxidative stress
Authors: Fernández‐Gamba Agata , Leal María Celeste , Maarouf Chera L. , Richter‐Landsberg Christiane , Wu Terence , Morelli Laura , Roher Alex E. , Castaño Eduardo M.
Published: March 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 121, 985–995.

The extension of processes of oligodendrocyte (OLG) and their precursor cells are crucial for migration, axonal contact and myelination. Here we show that a non‐lethal oxidative stress induced by 3‐nitropropionic acid (3‐NP) elicited a rapid shortening of processes (∼24%) in primary OLGs and in oligodendroglial cell line (OLN‐93) cells (∼36%) as compared with vehicle‐exposed cells. This was reversible and prevented by antioxidants. Proteomics of OLG lysates with and without 3‐NP treatment yielded collapsin response mediator protein 2 (CRMP‐2) as a candidate effector molecule. Inhibition of rho kinase was sufficient to prevent process retraction in both OLGs and OLN‐93 cells. Oxidative stress increased phosphorylation of CRMP‐2 at T555 that was completely prevented by Y27632. Moreover, transfection of OLN‐93 cells with the mutant CRMP‐2 T555A which cannot be phosphorylated by rho kinase, prevented process shortening induced by 3‐NP as compared with wild‐type CRMP‐2. Our results suggest a role for endogenous reactive oxygen species in a pathway that regulates OLG process extension. The vulnerability of late myelinated neurons in the adult brain and the presence of white matter pathology in human dementias warrant the study of this oligodendroglial pathway in the early stages of neurodegenerative conditions characterized by oxidative stress.
Peripheral neural targets in obesity
Authors: Page Amanda J , Symonds Erin , Peiris Madusha , Blackshaw L Ashley , Young Richard L
Published: March 2012

Interest in pharmacological treatments for obesity that act in the brain to reduce appetite has increased exponentially over recent years, but failures of clinical trials and withdrawals due to adverse effects have so far precluded any success. Treatments that do not act within the brain are, in contrast, a neglected area of research and development. This is despite the fact that a vast wealth of molecular mechanisms exists within the gut epithelium and vagal afferent system that could be manipulated to increase satiety. Here we discuss mechano‐ and chemosensory pathways from the gut involved in appetite suppression, and distinguish between gastric and intestinal vagal afferent pathways in terms of their basic physiology and activation by enteroendocrine factors. Gastric bypass surgery makes use of this system by exposing areas of the intestine to greater nutrient loads resulting in greater satiety hormone release and reduced food intake. A non‐surgical approach to this system is preferable for many reasons. This review details where the opportunities may lie for such approaches by describing nutrient‐sensing mechanisms throughout the gastrointestinal tract.
Multimodal therapeutic approach and interdisciplinary challenge for the treatment of unresectable head and neck squamous cell carcinoma in six cats: a pilot study
Authors: Marconato L. , Buchholz J. , Keller M. , Bettini G. , Valenti P. , Kaser‐Hotz B.
Published: March 2012

Feline head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a loco‐regional disease harbouring a poor prognosis. The complex anatomic location precludes aggressive surgical resection and tumours recur within weeks to few months. Response to chemotherapy and local control after radiation therapy has been disappointing. In this study, a multimodal approach including medical treatment (thalidomide, piroxicam and bleomycin), radiation therapy (accelerated, hypofractionated protocol) and surgery was attempted in six cats. Treatment was well tolerated. Three cats with sublingual SCC were alive and in complete remission at data analysis closure after 759, 458 and 362 days. One cat with laryngeal SCC died of renal lymphoma after 51 days and the other with maxillary SCC died of a primary lung tumour 82 days after diagnosis. In both cats, the SCC was in complete remission. Only one cat developed metastases after 144 days. These encouraging preliminary results merit further evaluation in future trials.
Hepatocellular adenoma subtypes: the impact of overweight and obesity
Authors: Bioulac‐Sage Paulette , Taouji Said , Possenti Laurent , Balabaud Charles
Published: March 2012

Background

Hepatocellular adenomas (HCA) are rare benign tumours occurring mainly in women using oral contraceptives. With the appearance of a generation of new oral contraceptives, the number of HCA cases was anticipated to decrease, but in fact this was not observed in our practice. The influence of obesity was therefore suspected as a new co‐factor.

Aims

The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of overweight/obesity in our cohort of HCA patients classified according to their subtypes.

Results

The number of HCA noticeably increased faster in the 2001–2011 period compared to the 1990–2000 period. This phenomenon concurred with an increasing number of patients overweight or obese. Females still represented the great majority of overweight/obese patients presenting HCA, however, overweight/obese male patients constituted a new entity in the inflammatory HCA and β‐catenin activated‐ inflammatory HCA subgroups.

Conclusion

We propose that overweight/obesity may soon represent a major risk of malignant transformation of HCA, possibly via the IL‐6 pathway.
Ecological Metrics of Biomass Removed by Three Methods of Purse‐Seine Fishing for Tunas in the Eastern Tropical Pacific Ocean
Authors: GERRODETTE TIM , OLSON ROBERT , REILLY STEPHEN , WATTERS GEORGE , PERRIN WILLIAM
Published: March 2012

Abstract:  An ecosystem approach to fisheries management is a widely recognized goal, but describing and measuring the effects of a fishery on an ecosystem is difficult. Ecological information on the entire catch (all animals removed, whether retained or discarded) of both species targeted by the fishery and nontarget species (i.e., bycatch) is required. We used data from the well‐documented purse‐seine fishery for tunas (Thunnus albacares, T. obesus, and Katsuwonus pelamis) in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean to examine the fishery's ecological effects. Purse‐seine fishing in the eastern tropical Pacific is conducted in 3 ways that differ in the amount and composition of target species and bycatch. The choice of method depends on whether the tunas are swimming alone (unassociated sets), associated with dolphins (dolphin sets), or associated with floating objects (floating‐object sets). Among the fishing methods, we compared catch on the basis of weight, number of individuals, trophic level, replacement time, and diversity. Floating‐object sets removed 2–3 times as much biomass as the other 2 methods, depending on how removal was measured. Results of previous studies suggest the ecological effects of floating‐object sets are thousands of times greater than the effects of other methods, but these results were derived from only numbers of discarded animals. Management of the fishery has been driven to a substantial extent by a focus on reducing bycatch, although discards are currently 4.8% of total catch by weight, compared with global averages of 7.5% for tuna longline fishing and 30.0% for midwater trawling. An ecosystem approach to fisheries management requires that ecological effects of fishing on all animals removed by a fishery, not just bycatch or discarded catch, be measured with a variety of metrics.
Effects of Matrix Characteristics and Interpatch Distance on Functional Connectivity in Fragmented Temperate Rainforests
Authors: MAGRACH AINHOA , LARRINAGA ASIER R. , SANTAMARÍA LUIS
Published: March 2012

Abstract:  The connectivity of remnant patches of habitat may affect the persistence of species in fragmented landscapes. We evaluated the effects of the structural connectivity of forest patches (i.e., distance between patches) and matrix class (land‐cover type) on the functional connectivity of 3 bird species (the White‐crested Elaenia [Elaenia albiceps], the Green‐backed Firecrown Hummingbird [Sephanoides sephaniodes], and the Austral Thrush [Turdus falklandii]). We measured functional connectivity as the rate at which each species crossed from one patch to another. We also evaluated whether greater functional connectivity translated into greater ecological connectivity (dispersal of fruit and pollen) by comparing among forest patches fruit set of a plant pollinated by hummingbirds and abundance of seedlings and adults of 2 plants with bird‐ and wind‐dispersed seeds. Interpatch distance was strongly associated with functional connectivity, but its effect was not independent of matrix class. For one of the bird‐dispersed plants, greater functional connectivity for White‐crested Elaenias and Austral Thrushes (both frugivores) was associated with higher densities of this plant. The lack of a similar association for the wind‐dispersed species suggests this effect is linked to the dispersal vector. The abundance of the hummingbird‐pollinated species was not related to the presence of hummingbirds. Interpatch distance and matrix class affect animal movement in fragmented landscapes and may have a cascading effect on the distribution of some animal‐dispersed species. On the basis of our results, we believe effort should be invested in optimizing patch configuration and modifying the matrix so as to mitigate the effects of patch isolation in fragmented landscapes.
Stakeholder Participation in Management of Invasive Vertebrates
Authors: FORD‐THOMPSON ADRIANA E. S. , SNELL CAROLYN , SAUNDERS GLEN , WHITE PIRAN C. L.
Published: March 2012

Abstract: Stakeholders are increasingly involved in species conservation. We sought to understand what features of a participatory conservation program are associated with its ecological and social outcomes. We conducted a case study of the management of invasive vertebrates in Australia. Invasive vertebrates are a substantial threat to Australia's native species, and stakeholder participation in their management is often necessary for their control. First, we identified potential influences on the ecological and social outcomes of species conservation programs from the literature. We used this information to devise an interview questionnaire, which we administered to managers of 34 participatory invasive‐vertebrate programs. Effects of invasive species were related to program initiator (agency or citizen), reasons for use of a participatory approach, and stakeholder composition. Program initiator was also related to the participation methods used, level of governance (i.e., governed by an agency or citizens), changes in stakeholder interactions, and changes in abundance of invasive species. Ecological and social outcomes were related to changes in abundance of invasive species and stakeholder satisfaction. We identified relations between changes in the number of participants, stakeholder satisfaction, and occurrence of conflict. Potential ways to achieve ecological and social goals include provision of governmental support (e.g., funding) to stakeholders and minimization of gaps in representation of stakeholder groups or individuals to, for example, increase conflict mitigation. Our findings provide guidance for increasing the probability of achieving ecological and social objectives in management of invasive vertebrates and may be applicable to other participatory conservation programs.
Feedbacks between Conservation and Social‐Ecological Systems
Authors: MILLER BRIAN W. , CAPLOW SUSAN C. , LESLIE PAUL W.
Published: March 2012

Abstract:  Robust ways to meet objectives of environmental conservation and social and economic development remain elusive. This struggle may in part be related to insufficient understanding of the feedbacks between conservation initiatives and social–ecological systems, specifically, the ways in which conservation initiatives result in social changes that have secondary effects on the environments targeted by conservation. To explore this idea, we sampled peer‐reviewed articles addressing the social and environmental dimensions of conservation and coded each paper according to its research focus and characterization of these feedbacks. The majority of articles in our sample focused either on the effect of conservation initiatives on people (e.g., relocation, employment) or the effect of people on the environment (e.g., fragmentation, conservation efficacy of traditional management systems). Few studies in our sample empirically addressed both the social dynamics resulting from conservation initiatives and subsequent environmental effects. In many cases, one was measured and the other was discussed anecdotally. Among the studies that describe feedbacks between social and environmental variables, there was more evidence of positive (amplifying) feedbacks between social and environmental outcomes (i.e., undesirable social outcomes yielded undesirable environmental effects and desirable social outcomes yielded desirable environmental effects). The major themes within the sampled literature include conflict between humans and wild animals, social movements, adaptive comanagement, loss of traditional management systems, traditional ecological knowledge, human displacement and risks to livelihoods, and conservation and development. The narratives associated with each theme can serve as hypotheses for facilitating further discussion about conservation issues and for catalyzing future studies of the feedbacks between conservation and social–ecological systems.
The Impact of Helicobacter pylori on Atopic Disorders in Childhood
Authors: Holster I. Lisanne , Vila Anne Marie J. , Caudri Daan , den Hoed Caroline M. , Perez‐Perez Guillermo I. , Blaser Martin J. , de Jongste Johan C. , Kuipers Ernst J.
Published: March 2012

Background:  The prevalence of Helicobacter pylori in Western populations has steadily decreased. This has been suggested as one of the factors involved in the recent increase of asthma and allergy. Some studies have reported a negative association between H. pylori and asthma and allergy, but data are inconsistent and there are a few studies in children.

Aim:  We investigated whether the prevalence of H. pylori was associated with asthma symptoms, allergic rhinitis, and atopic dermatitis in childhood.

Methods:  We determined IgG anti‐H. pylori and CagA antibodies in serum of Dutch children, who took part in the PIAMA birth cohort study. Serum was collected from 545 children, aged 7–9 years (Dutch ethnicity 91.5%). Symptoms of asthma and atopy were assessed by yearly questionnaires. Chi‐square tests and logistic regression were used.

Results:  We found 9%H. pylori and 0.9% CagA seropositivity. Twelve (5.9%) children with reported wheezing ever were H. pylori positive, compared to 37 (10.9%) of the non‐wheezers (p = .05). No significant differences in H. pylori prevalence were found between children with or without allergic rhinitis (8.5% vs 9.5%), atopic dermatitis (8.7% vs 9.2%), and physician‐diagnosed asthma (7.1% vs 9.4%). Multivariate analysis showed no significant associations between H. pylori seropositivity and wheezing (OR 0.52; 95% CI 0.25–1.06), allergic rhinitis (OR 0.96; 95% CI 0.51–1.81), atopic dermatitis (OR 1.05; 95% CI 0.56–1.98) or physician‐diagnosed asthma (OR 0.87; 95% CI 0.37–2.08).

Conclusion:  We found a borderline significantly lower H. pylori seropositivity in children with wheezing compared to non‐wheezers, but no association between H. pylori serum‐antibody status and allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, or asthma.
The Role of Love in Animal Ethics
Authors: Gheaus Anca
Published: March 2012

Philosophers working on animal ethics have focused, with good reason, on the wrongness of cruelty toward animals and of devaluing their lives. I argue that the theoretical resources of animal ethics are far from exhausted. Moreover, reflection on what makes animals ethically significant is relevant for thinking about the roots of morality and therefore about ethical relationships between human beings. I rely on a normative approach to animal ethics grounded in the importance of meeting needs in general and, in particular, needs for affection and companionship. I draw on testimonies of shared love between people and animals, and on Raimond Gaita's work on the importance of emotional connections between creatures who are similarly needy. The ethics of care, which attaches special importance to meeting needs, provides an integrative theoretical framework.
Phasic GABAA‐receptor activation is required to suppress epileptiform activity in the CA3 region of the immature rat hippocampus
Authors: Kolbaev Sergey N. , Sharopov Salim , Dierkes Paul W. , Luhmann Heiko J. , Kilb Werner
Published: March 2012

Purpose:  Despite the consistent observation that γ‐aminobutyric acid A (GABAA) receptors mediate excitatory responses at perinatal stages, the role of the GABAergic system in the generation of neonatal epileptiform activity remains controversial. Therefore, we analyzed whether tonic and phasic GABAergic transmission had differential effects on neuronal excitability during early development.

Methods:  We performed whole cell patch‐clamp and field potential recordings in the CA3 region of hippocampal slices from immature (postnatal day 4–7) rats to analyze the effect of specific antagonists and modulators of tonic and phasic GABAergic components on neuronal excitability.

Key Findings:  The GABAergic antagonists gabazine (3 μm) and picrotoxin (100 μm) induced epileptiform discharges, whereas activation of GABAA receptors attenuated epileptiform discharges. Under low‐Mg2+ conditions, 100 nm gabazine and 1 μm picrotoxin were sufficient to provoke epileptiform activity in 63.2% (n = 19) and 53.8% (n = 26) of the slices, respectively. Whole‐cell patch‐clamp experiments revealed that these concentrations significantly reduced the amplitude of phasic GABAergic postsynaptic currents but had no effect on tonic currents. In contrast, 1‐μm 4,5,6,7‐tetrahydroisoxaz‐olo[5,4‐c]‐pyridin‐3‐ol (THIP) induced a tonic current of −12 ± 2.5 pA (n = 6) and provoked epileptiform discharges in 57% (n = 21) of the slices.

Significance:  We conclude from these results that in the early postnatal rat hippocampus a constant phasic synaptic activity is required to control excitability and prevent epileptiform activity, whereas tonic GABAergic currents can mediate excitatory responses. Pharmacologic intervention at comparable human developmental stages should consider these ambivalent GABAergic actions.
Postictal generalized EEG suppression is linked to seizure‐associated respiratory dysfunction but not postictal apnea
Authors: Seyal Masud , Hardin Kimberly A. , Bateman Lisa M.
Published: March 2012

Purpose:  The relationship of postictal generalized electroencephalography (EEG) suppression (PGES) with sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is controversial. It has been suggested that PGES is associated with respiratory inhibition leading to SUDEP, but the relationship between PGES and respiratory depression is unknown. Respiratory rate and amplitude of airflow increase following seizures but there is persistent hypercapnia and hypoxemia.

To determine whether seizures with PGES result in respiratory dysfunction, we analyzed respiratory parameters recorded during video‐EEG telemetry in patients with localization‐related epilepsy.

Methods:  Secondarily generalized convulsive seizures (GC) with PGES on scalp EEG or bilateral postictal attenuation (BA) on intracranial recordings were compared to GC without PGES/BA. Oxygen desaturation nadir and duration, end‐tidal CO2 (ETCO2), apnea duration, and duration of the seizure and of the convulsive component were compared in GC with or without PGES/BA.

Key Findings:  There was no significant difference between GC with (n = 30) or without PGES/BA (n = 72) for total seizure duration or duration of the convulsion. GC with PGES/BA had a mean oxygen desaturation nadir of 68.8 ± 11.8% (71.5, 43–88) (mean ± standard deviation [median, range]) that was lower (p = 0.002) than seizures without PGES/BA (76.31 ± 10.17% [79, 42–93]). The duration of desaturation was significantly longer and peak ETCO2 higher in GC with PGES/BA. There was no difference in apnea duration. Apnea did not start during PGES/BA and did not typically extend into the postictal period in GC with or without PGES/BA.

Significance:  PGES is not associated with postictal central apnea but is more likely related to the severity of seizure‐associated intrinsic pulmonary dysfunction.
Mapping the availability, price, and affordability of antiepileptic drugs in 46 countries
Authors: Cameron Alexandra , Bansal Amit , Dua Tarun , Hill Suzanne R. , Moshe Solomon L. , Mantel‐Teeuwisse Aukje K. , Saxena Shekhar
Published: March 2012

Purpose:  In low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs), a large proportion of people with epilepsy do not receive treatment. An analysis of the availability, price, and affordability of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) was conducted to evaluate whether these factors contribute to the treatment gap.

Methods:  Data for five AEDs (phenytoin, carbamazepine, valproic acid, phenobarbital, and diazepam) were obtained from facility‐based surveys conducted in 46 countries using the World Health Organization/Health Action International (WHO/HAI) methodology. Outcome measures were percentage availability, ratios of local prices to international reference prices, and number of days’ wages needed by the lowest‐paid unskilled government worker to purchase treatment. Prices were adjusted for inflation/deflation and purchasing power parity.

Key Findings:  The average availability of generic AEDs in the public sector was <50% for all medicines except diazepam injection. Private sector availability of generic oral AEDs ranged from 42.2% for phenytoin to 69.6% for phenobarbital. Public sector patient prices for generic carbamazepine and phenytoin were 4.95 and 17.50 times higher than international reference prices, respectively, whereas private sector patient prices were 11.27 and 24.77 times higher, respectively. For both medicines, originator brand prices were about 30 times higher. The highest prices were observed in the lowest income countries. The lowest‐paid government worker would need wages from 1–2.6 days’ to purchase a month’s supply of phenytoin, whereas carbamazepine would cost 2.7–16.2 days’ wages. Despite its widespread use in LMICs, WHO/HAI survey data for phenobarbital was only available from a small number of countries.

Significance:  In LMICs, availability and affordability of AEDs are poor and may be acting as a barrier to accessing treatment for epilepsy. Ensuring a consistent supply of AEDs at an affordable price should be a priority.
CHIMERAS WITH MOSAIC PATTERN IN ARCHEOSPORE GERMLINGS OFPYROPIA YEZOENSISUEDA (BANGIALES, RHODOPHYTA)1
Authors: Niwa Kyosuke , Abe Tomoko
Published: March 2012

In the marine cropPyropia yezoensis(Ueda) M. S. Hwang et H. G. Choi, it is known that conchospores from heterozygous conchocelis develop into sectored gametophytic blades (chimeras), but archeospores asexually released from haploid blades do not usually grow into chimeric blades. In this study, chimeras with mosaic pattern consisting of the green and wildtype colors were developed from archeospores that were released from a blade piece containing a cell cluster of green color induced by heavy‐ion beam irradiation. To make clear whether these archeospores were produced from the green‐colored cells or the wildtype‐colored cells, cell clusters of the green mutant, wildtype, and mosaic pattern were cut out from the grown chimera, and archeospores were released from each of the three blade pieces. Archeospores from the green‐mutant blade piece and from the wildtype blade piece developed into only green‐mutant blades and wildtype blades, respectively. In contrast, archeospores from the blade piece with mosaic pattern developed into green‐mutant blades, wildtype blades, and chimeric blades with mosaic pattern of the two colors, although the frequency of the chimeras was low. Because each gametophytic cell possesses a single plastid, it is difficult to explain the occurrence of the new chimeras as a mutation of the plastid DNA. Thus, the new chimeras are considered to be due to transposable elements inPyropia.
A Micro‐level Diffusion Model for New Drug Adoption
Authors: Liu Qiang , Gupta Sachin
Published: March 2012

This paper proposes a micro‐level diffusion model to analyze individual physicians' adoption of a newly launched prescription drug. The adoption probability is a function of the following factors: physician‐oriented marketing activities, patient requests for the new drug, social contagion among physicians, and physician characteristics. There are several major findings: (1) Consistent with previous literature, targeted detailing and journal advertising have a positive influence on individual physicians' adoption of the new drug. Furthermore, the positive effect of meetings and events sponsored by drug manufacturers is captured by this study, an effect that was omitted by previous studies. (2) Patient requests for the new drug are very influential on physicians' adoption of the new drug. This positive effect of patient requests is new to the extant literature on drug adoption. (3) With a sample representative of the U.S. market, this study demonstrates the existence of contagion effects on physicians' adoption of the new drug. This complements previous studies based on local markets that found contagion effects. (4) Some key physician characteristics, such as prescription volume in the category, are positively related to physicians' intrinsic propensity to adopt the new drug. In a validation exercise, the authors demonstrate that the proposed model performs well in identifying physicians who have a high likelihood of adopting a different new drug early, thereby facilitating targeting of marketing resources.
A Model for the Transportation of Hazardous Waste*
Authors: Klein Cerry M.
Published: March 2012

Many decision problems, such as the transportation of hazardous waste, can be modeled by networks. However, due to the imprecise nature of much of the information decision makers have available, it is sometimes difficult to determine a best approach to the problem. To alleviate this problem, a network model that combines both precise and imprecise information is presented for the transportation of hazardous waste. The properties of the network model are investigated and solution procedures are presented.
Faculty Performance Evaluation: Modeling to Improve Personnel Decisions*
Authors: Mesak Hani I. , Jauch Lawrence R.
Published: March 2012

Based on likely future changes in faculty evaluation practices, this paper examines how institutions of higher education might operationalize performance evaluation as related to research, teaching, and service. A model is developed that allows coupling performance evaluation and relevant market considerations with merit pay, tenure, and promotion decisions. The approach is specifically applicable to tenure‐track faculty members in colleges and universities.
Ti5Al2C3: A New Ternary Carbide Belonging to MAX Phases in the Ti–Al–C System
Authors: Wang Xiaohui , Zhang Hui , Zheng Liya , Ma Yonghui , Lu Xinpo , Sun Yinjie , Zhou Yanchun
Published: March 2012

A new compound, Ti5Al2C3, is identified in the bulk sample prepared by reactive hot pressing a mixture of Ti, Al and graphite powders with a nominal molar ratio of Ti:Al:C = 5:2.15:2.78 at 1580°C for 1 h. This compound follows the crystal structure of other MAX phases. The lattice parameters are a = 0.3038 nm, c = 3.2261 nm, and the atomic positions are Ti1 at 4f (1/3, 2/3, 0.0208), Ti2 at 4f (1/3, 2/3, 0.1778), Ti3 at 2d (2/3, 1/3, 0.25), Al at 4e (0, 0, 0.1035), C1 at 2a (0, 0, 0), and C2 at 4e (0, 0, 0.2102).
Solution Combustion Synthesis and Characterization of Magnetite, Fe3O4, Nanopowders
Authors: Ianoş Robert , Tăculescu Alina , Păcurariu Cornelia , Lazău Ioan
Published: March 2012

Combustion synthesis of Fe3O4 and properties of the resulted powders have been discussed in relation to reaction atmosphere (in air/in the absence of air) and used fuel (sucrose, citric acid and glucose). Conducting the combustion reactions in air caused the rapid oxidation of Fe2+ to Fe3+ under the influence of the atmospheric oxygen; therefore the final reaction product was a mixture of α‐Fe2O3 and γ‐Fe2O3. In order to avoid the oxidation of Fe2+ to Fe3+ a simple but efficient solution has been suggested: combustion reactions were carried out in a round bottom flask and the evolving gases were bubbled in a beaker filled with water. This solution allowed the preparation of Fe3O4 nanopowders, with crystallite size varying from 10 nm (glucose) to 18 nm (citric acid). Depending on the used fuel, the specific surface area of the magnetite powders varied between 56 m2/g (citric acid) and 106 m2/g (glucose). The saturation magnetization of Fe3O4 powders prepared in the absence of air ranged between 55.3 emu/g (glucose) and 59.4 emu/g (sucrose).
Effects of TiO2 Starting Materials on the Solid‐State Formation of Li4Ti5O12
Authors: Shin Jin‐Wook , Hong Chang‐Hoon , Yoon Dang‐Hyok
Published: March 2012

This study examined the formation mechanism of Li4Ti5O12 by a solid‐state reaction between Li2CO3 and TiO2 for applications in lithium ion batteries. To explain the intermittent existence of rutile TiO2 in the final Li4Ti5O12, five types of TiO2 which had different anatase/rutile ratios were used as starting materials. Anatase to rutile‐phase transformation occurred from 600°C, which is significantly lower than the typical TiO2 transition temperature, when a pure anatase TiO2 and Li2CO3 mixture were heat‐treated. Moreover, this rutile TiO2 transformed from pure anatase TiO2 was found to be more rigid in the solid‐state reaction than an intact rutile or anatase‐rutile mixture, existing in the final Li4Ti5O12, even after heat treatment at 900°C for 15 h. This difference is explained by the anatase/rutile‐phase boundaries where an amorphous Li‐precursor was located, enhancing the solid‐state reaction due to the decreased diffusion path. Based on the observations, different formation mechanisms of Li4Ti5O12 depending on the types of TiO2 starting materials were proposed.
Death of a 6‐Year‐Old Boy with Mental Retardation: Accident Versus Child Abuse*
Authors: Dudley Mary , Chapman BreAnna M.
Published: March 2012

Abstract:  This case study involved death of a 6‐year‐old child with a history of mental retardation secondary to meningitis at 11 months, spastic quadriplegia, seizure disorder, and hydrocephaly with a remote ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement and gastric tube feedings. Reportedly, the child was co‐sleeping with his mother when she awoke and discovered him lying prone and not breathing on the carpeted floor next to the bed. He was transported to the hospital and died in the emergency room of unknown causes. The medical examiner assumed jurisdiction of the body. The external examination revealed petechial hemorrhages on the neck and face, with patterned linear pressure abrasions on the chest, arms, and face. X‐rays revealed leg fractures of different ages. This case emphasizes the importance of coordination of death scene investigation, medical history review, and autopsy results through a forensic team approach to determine the accurate cause and manner of death.
Implementation of TMA and digitalization in routine diagnostics of breast pathology
Authors: Rossing Henrik Holm , Talman Maj‐Lis Møller , Lænkholm Anne‐Vibeke , Wielenga Vera Timmermans
Published: March 2012

To ensure optimal treatment of breast cancer patients, breast tumours are classified based on clinico‐pathological features. As part of this process, routine diagnostics of breast tumours includes histological typing and grading, as well as profiling by use of an immunohistochemistry panel of antibodies, probes and in situ hybridization. This will, as a minimum, include assessment of oestrogen receptor (OR) and HER2. The individual preparation and staining of many breast tumours in a large laboratory with this standard panel is thus time consuming and costly. Herein, we show that in breast cancer routine diagnostics the use of the tissue microarray technique in combination with digitalization of the stained multi‐slides is not only economical, with a considerable cost reduction, but it also enhances standardization of tumour profiling. We demonstrate that 2 mm breast tumour cores correlate with the corresponding tumour on whole mount slides, regarding staining/hybridizing results with the biomarkers in our panel consisting of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, OR and Topiomerase IIa. Furthermore, we show that simultaneous staining/hybridizing of multiple breast tumour specimens reduces variation of staining/hybridizing quality, hereby increasing reliability of interpretation. By scanning and digitalization of the stained and hybridized multi‐slides, we could optimize documentation and filing of the results. Our work is an example of translational research by implementing a tool in daily diagnostics originally developed for high throughput analyses in the search for prognostic and predictive markers in targeted medicine.
Function of adrenomedullin in inflammatory response of liver against LPS‐induced endotoxemia
Authors: Saito Ryoichi , Shimosawa Tatsuo , Ogihara Takehide , Maruyama Naoki , Fujita Toshiro , Okamura Noboru , Nakahara Kazuhiko
Published: March 2012

Adrenomedullin (AM) is a hypotension‐causing peptide that was originally isolated from human pheochromocytoma cells, and it has been found to be expressed in various organs, including the liver. As the individual physiological and pathophysiological properties of AM peptide in the liver during endotoxemia in vivo has not yet been examined, we investigated this in experimental endotoxemia using heterozygote AM‐deficient (AM+/−) mice. The AM concentration of AM+/− mice was significantly lesser than that of wild‐type (WT) mice in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced endotoxemia. After administering LPS, the survival rate for AM+/− mice was significantly lower than that for WT mice. Also, expressions of IL‐1β mRNA, and TNF‐α mRNA, and NF‐κB p65 in the liver were markedly increased and serum ALT greatly elevated in comparison with WT mice. However, supplementation of exogenous AM reversed the deteriorations in mortality and inflammatory responses. Therefore, we conclude that AM plays an important role in regulating systemic inflammation and may be an important intrinsic factor for protecting against liver damage in LPS‐induced endotoxemia.
Comparing the efficacy of team based learning strategies in a problem based learning curriculum
Authors: Anwar Khurshid , Shaikh Abdul Ahad , Dash Nihar Ranjan , Khurshid Saqib
Published: March 2012

We introduced two variants of team based learning (TBL) strategies in pathology course to seek their efficacy in a problem based learning (PBL) curriculum. The TBL strategy was adopted in two different sessions. One during regular resource session (RS‐TBL) and other during a weekly review session (RVS‐TBL) of the PBL curriculum. The study involved 104 second year students during their 8 weeks of cardiovascular‐respiratory units and 3 weeks of hematology units. RS‐TBL was adopted for cardiovascular‐respiratory unit and RVS‐TBL for hematology unit. The first 8 weeks of the course were implemented as RS‐TBL and the last 3 weeks as RVS‐TBL. The results showed that the group performance was markedly improved than individual performance in both RS‐TBL and RVS‐TBL (p < 0.001). Comparison between the RS‐TBL and RVS‐TBL revealed that individual student and group performance was better in the RVS‐BL (p < 0.001). The result of the student attitudinal survey indicated an 88% agreement that TBL enhanced their understanding of pathology concepts and critical analysis. Most of the participants (85%) found RVS‐TBL to be more useful. Post‐TBL, end of semester examination results proved beneficial for the students in risk. The study demonstrated that RVS‐TBL may be preferably adopted to enhance the philosophy of TBL in a PBL curriculum.
A single‐centre randomized controlled clinical trial on the adjunct treatment of intra‐bony defects with autogenous bone or a xenograft: results after 12 months
Authors: Aghazadeh Ahmad , Rutger Persson G. , Renvert Stefan
Published: March 2012

Background

Limited evidence exists on the efficacy of regenerative treatment of peri‐implantitis.

Material and Methods

Subjects receiving antibiotics and surgical debridement were randomly assigned to placement of autogenous bone (AB) or bovine‐derived xenograft (BDX) and with placement of a collagen membrane. The primary outcome was evidence of radiographic bone fill and the secondary outcomes included reductions of probing depth (PD) bleeding on probing (BOP) and suppuration.

Results

Twenty‐two subjects were included in the AB and 23 subjects in the BDX group. Statistical analysis failed to demonstrate differences for 38/39 variables assessed at baseline. At 12 months, significant better results were obtained in the BDX group for bone levels (p < 0.001), BOP (p = 0.004), PI (p = 0.003) and suppuration (p < 0.01). When adjusting for number of implants treated per subject, a successful treatment outcome PD ≤ 5.0 mm, no pus, no bone loss and BOP at 1/4 or less sites the likelihood of defect fill was higher in the BDX group (LR: 3.2, 95% CI: 1.0–10.6, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Bovine xenograft provided more radiographic bone fill than AB. The success for both surgical regenerative procedures was limited. Decreases in PD, BOP, and suppuration were observed.
Boundary work of dentists in everyday work
Authors: Franzén Cecilia
Published: March 2012

Objective

The Swedish policy objectives in dental care provision – to meet public demands for dental care and to increase the cost‐effectiveness of the service – require dentists to work in teams with dental hygienists and dental nurses. This study focused on the role of dentists in the distribution of work tasks within teams in one Swedish Public Dental Service organisation. Dental clinics were viewed as micro‐political arenas in which dentists attempt to demarcate professional boundaries in response to teamwork.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews, observations and documents were used. The interviewed individuals were seven dentists employed at two clinics, the managers of each clinic and the general manager. The dentists were interviewed to investigate how they defend or blur professional boundaries. They were also observed at work. The clinic managers and the general manager were interviewed to identify their expectations of dentists concerning work division. The documents comprised organisational plans and annual reports.

Results

Dentists demarcated professional boundaries by utilising various power resources: treatment responsibility, specialist knowledge, discretion, and avoidance of work considered to be low status work. The dentists also contributed to blurred boundaries between themselves and the other dental professionals by discussing patient treatment, giving and receiving advice, and assisting the others in skill development.

Conclusion

Although dentists' boundary work could obstruct implementation of policy objectives, dentists' behaviour contributed to effective collaboration within the teams.