bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Population genetics of cis‐regulatory sequences that operate during embryonic development in the sea urchin Strongylocentrotus purpuratus
Authors: Garfield David , Haygood Ralph , Nielsen William J. , Wray Gregory A.
Published: April 2012

Despite the fact that noncoding sequences comprise a substantial fraction of functional sites within all genomes, the evolutionary mechanisms that operate on genetic variation within regulatory elements remain poorly understood. In this study, we examine the population genetics of the core, upstream cis‐regulatory regions of eight genes (AN, CyIIa, CyIIIa, Endo16, FoxB, HE, SM30 a, and SM50) that function during the early development of the purple sea urchin, Strongylocentrotus purpuratus. Quantitative and qualitative measures of segregating variation are not conspicuously different between cis‐regulatory and closely linked “proxy neutral” noncoding regions containing no known functional sites. Length and compound mutations are common in noncoding sequences; conventional descriptive statistics ignore such mutations, under‐representing true genetic variation by approximately 28% for these loci in this population. Patterns of variation in the cis‐regulatory regions of six of the genes examined (CyIIa, CyIIIa, Endo16, FoxB, AN, and HE) are consistent with directional selection. Genetic variation within annotated transcription factor binding sites is comparable to, and frequently greater than, that of surrounding sequences. Comparisons of two paralog pairs (CyIIa/CyIIIa and AN/HE) suggest that distinct evolutionary processes have operated on their cis‐regulatory regions following gene duplication. Together, these analyses provide a detailed view of the evolutionary mechanisms operating on noncoding sequences within a natural population, and underscore how little is known about how these processes operate on cis‐regulatory sequences.
Evolution of albinism in cave planthoppers by a convergent defect in the first step of melanin biosynthesis
Authors: Bilandžija Helena , Ćetković Helena , Jeffery William R.
Published: April 2012

Albinism, the reduction or loss of melanin pigment, is found in many diverse cave‐dwelling animals. The mechanisms responsible for loss of melanin pigment are poorly understood. In this study we use a melanogenic substrate assay to determine the position where melanin synthesis is blocked in independently evolved cave planthoppers from Hawaii and Croatia. In this assay, substrates of enzymes responsible for melanin biosynthesis are added to fixed specimens in vitro and their ability to rescue black melanin pigmentation is determined. L‐tyrosine, the first substrate in the pathway, did not produce melanin pigment, whereas L‐DOPA, the second substrate, restored black pigment. Substrates in combination with enzyme inhibitors were used to test the possibility of additional downstream defects in the pathway. The results showed that downstream reactions leading from L‐DOPA and dopamine to DOPA‐melanin and dopamine‐melanin, the two types of insect melanin, are functional. It is concluded that albinism is caused by a defect in the first step of the melanin synthesis pathway in cave‐adapted planthoppers from widely separated parts of the world. However, Western blots indicated that tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), the only enzyme shown to operate at the first step in insects, is present in Hawaiian cave planthoppers. Thus, an unknown factor(s) operating at this step may be important in the evolution of planthopper albinism. In the cavefish Astyanax mexicanus, a genetic defect has also been described at the first step of melanin synthesis suggesting convergent evolution of albinism in both cave‐adapted insects and teleosts.
The Paleozoic evolution of the gastropod larval shell: larval armor and tight coiling as a result of predation‐driven heterochronic character displacement
Authors: Seuss Barbara , Nützel Alexander , Scholz Henning , Frýda Jiří
Published: April 2012

Early and middle Paleozoic gastropod protoconchs generally differ strongly from their corresponding adult morphologies, that is, most known protoconchs are smooth and openly coiled, whereas the majority of adult shells are ornamented and tightly coiled. In contrast, larval and adult shells of late Paleozoic gastropods with planktotrophic larval development (Caenogastropoda, Neritimorpha) commonly resemble each other in shape and principle ornamentation. This is surprising because habitat and mode of life of planktonic larvae and benthic adults differ strongly from each other.

Generally, late Paleozoic to Recent protoconchs are tightly coiled. This modern type of larval shell resembles the adult shell morphology and was obviously predisplaced onto the larval stage during the middle Paleozoic. The oldest known planktonic‐armored (strongly ornamented) larval shells are known from the late Paleozoic. However, smooth larval shells are also common among the studied late Paleozoic gastropods. The appearance of larval armor at the beginning of the late Paleozoic could reflect an increase of predation pressure in the plankton. Although there are counter examples in which larval and adult shell morphology differ strongly from each other, there is statistical evidence for a heterochronic predisplacement of adult characters onto the larval stage. Larval and adult shells are built in the same way, by accretionary secretion at the mantle edge. It is likely that the same underlying gene expression is responsible for that. If so, similarities of larval and adult shell may be explained by gene sharing, whereas differences may be due to different (planktic vs. benthic life) epigenetic patterns.
The Development of a Survey to Measure Completeness of Response to Migraine Therapy
Authors: Coon Cheryl D. , Fehnel Sheri E. , Davis Kimberly H. , Runken M. Chris , Beach M. E. , Cady Roger K.
Published: April 2012

Objective.— To assess the psychometric properties of a new patient‐reported migraine instrument, the Completeness of Response Survey (CORS), which measures a comprehensive set of factors important to patients' decisions regarding the initiation and continuation of treatment.

Background.— Traditionally, migraine treatments and the instruments used to demonstrate their efficacy have focused on the relief of headache pain. As new treatments emerge with the potential for more complete and consistent migraine relief, more comprehensive tools are needed to demonstrate these benefits. The CORS includes 2 modules, the static CORS, which comprehensively evaluates one treatment at one time point, and the comparative CORS, which provides a more global comparison between 2 treatments at one time point. Together, the 2 modules can measure unmet treatment needs and improvements over the course of a clinical study.

Methods.— Data from an 8‐site study comparing 147 patients' recent experiences with their current triptan therapy and 2 months of study treatment with a single‐tablet formulation of sumatriptan/naproxen sodium were used to conduct a preliminary psychometric evaluation of the CORS. The study included both modules of the CORS, the Headache Impact Test, the revised Patient Perception of Migraine Questionnaire, and a migraine diary.

Results.— The CORS response categories in both the static and comparative modules demonstrated limited floor or ceiling effects and few missing values (<3%). Inter‐item correlations, principal components analysis (component loading range: 0.62 to 0.95), and high estimates of internal consistency (alpha range: 0.88 to 0.94) for each composite score supported the structure and proposed scoring algorithm for the static module. The pattern of correlations between the CORS static and comparative items and composites with the revised Patient Perception of Migraine Questionnaire items and subscales, as well as the relationships between responses to selected static CORS items and the migraine diary, supported the construct validity of the CORS.

Conclusions.— The CORS is capable of demonstrating advantages of more comprehensive migraine therapies over traditional therapies, which are primarily focused on the resolution of headache pain, by addressing the frequency and speed with which the most common migraine symptoms are resolved and patients' return to normal functioning. This research shows evidence for the value and utility for the CORS static and comparative items and components, and further evaluation is underway.
Economic impact on US Medicare of a new diagnosis of myelodysplastic syndromes and the incremental costs associated with blood transfusion need
Authors: Goldberg Stuart L. , Chen Er , Sasane Medha , Paley Carole , Guo Amy , Laouri Marianne
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: Recent retrospective studies suggest myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs) are more common than previously recognized and patients who develop transfusional dependence may be at risk for increased comorbid complications.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A retrospective review was undertaken of Medicare claims focusing on costs associated with patients with a new claim listing ICD‐9‐CM Diagnosis Code 238.7 in first quarter of 2003. Patients were followed until 2005 to assess resource use and costs.

RESULTS: A total of 512 patients aged 65 years or more with newly diagnosed MDS were identified. Forty percent had received red blood cell transfusions between 2003 and 2005. During the 3‐year follow‐up, transfused patients experienced increased prevalence of cardiac diseases, dyspnea, and infections. Cumulative 3‐year mean Medicare costs for MDS patients were $49,156. Transfused patients had greater use of hospital inpatient and outpatient services and incurred significantly higher mean costs than nontransfused patients ($88,824 vs. $29,519, p < 0.001). After adjustment for baseline characteristics and clinical complications, transfusion was independently associated with a 48% increase in monthly costs in addition to the cost of transfusion administration.

CONCLUSION: MDS places a significant economic burden on the US Medicare system. MDS patients requiring transfusions experience higher prevalence of new comorbid conditions and incur significantly higher Medicare costs than nontransfused patients during the initial 3 years after diagnosis.
A new tool to assess bleeding severity in patients with chemotherapy‐induced thrombocytopenia (CME)
Authors: Webert Kathryn E. , Arnold Donald M. , Lui Yang , Carruthers Julie , Arnold Emmy , Heddle Nancy M.
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: Current scales to measure bleeding in clinical trials are inadequate. The aim of this study was to develop a simple, valid, and reliable measurement tool to categorize the severity of bleeding in patients with chemotherapy‐induced thrombocytopenia (CIT).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Measurement theory was used to develop the Bleeding Severity Measurement Scale (BSMS) in four steps: 1) identification of the patient population, 2) item generation and reduction, 3) reviewing the items and formatting the scale, and 4) evaluation of psychometric properties. Feasibility was tested in a pilot study. Content and face validity were assessed by expert review. Psychometric evaluation included determination of intra‐ and interrater reliability and construct and criterion validity.

RESULTS: The final BSMS defined two grades of bleeding: not clinically significant (Grade 1) and clinically significant (Grade 2). Grade 2 bleeds were defined as bleeds resulting in morbidity, requiring interventions, or directly causing death. The BSMS had excellent interrater (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC], 0.80) and intrarater (ICC, 1.0) reliability and good construct and criterion validity. The BSMS distinguished between patients with different bleeding severities.

CONCLUSION: Using rigorous methods, we designed a simple bleeding assessment tool with excellent psychometric properties for patients with CIT. Use of this scale in clinical trials should provide valid and reliable assessments of bleeding.
The role of comparative effectiveness research in transfusion medicine clinical trials: proceedings of a National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute workshop
Authors: Blajchman Morris A. , Carson Jeffrey L. , Eikelboom John W. , Heddle Nancy M. , Lacroix Jacques , Lauer Michael S. , Platt Richard , Tilley Barbara , Triulzi Darrell , Vickers Andrew J. , Yusuf Salim , Glynn Simone , Mondoro Traci Heath , Wagner Elizabeth
Published: April 2012

Comparative effectiveness research (CER) is the study of existing treatments or ways to deliver health care to determine what intervention works best under specific circumstances. CER evaluates evidence from existing studies or generates new evidence, in different populations and under specific conditions in which the treatments are actually used. CER does not embrace one research design over another but compares treatments and variations in practice using methods that are most likely to yield widely generalizable results that are directly relevant to clinical practice. Treatments used in transfusion medicine (TM) are among the most widely used in clinical practice, but are among the least well studied. High‐quality evidence is lacking for most transfusion practices, with research efforts hampered by regulatory restrictions and ethical barriers. To begin addressing these issues, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute convened a workshop in June 2011 to address the potential role of CER in the generation of high‐quality evidence for TM decision making. Workshop goals were to: 1) evaluate the current landscape of clinical research, 2) review the potential application of CER methods to clinical research, 3) assess potential barriers to the use of CER methodology, 4) determine whether pilot or vanguard studies can be used to facilitate planning of future CER research, and 5) consider the need for and delivery of training in CER methods for researchers.
Moral Hazard and Health Insurance When Treatment Is Preventive
Authors: Seog S. Hun
Published: April 2012

Abstract

We consider a two‐period model under moral hazard when treatment is preventive. In the second period, the treatment level under moral hazard is higher than that under no moral hazard. However, it may be lower than that under moral hazard when overinsurance is not allowed. In the first period, the treatment level is higher when treatment is preventive than when it is not. Treatment level is also higher as the discount factor increases. We demonstrate that a treatment increase following a coverage increase does not necessarily imply moral hazard. These findings imply that moral hazard is possibly overemphasized in the literature.
Information in the U.S. Treasury Term Structure of Interest Rates
Authors: Brooks Robert , Cline Brandon N. , Enders Walter
Published: April 2012

We provide evidence of a significant change in the information content of the U.S. Treasury term structure of interest rates over the last 20 years. We apply a regression approach to measure the information in forward interest rates and introduce both a curve fitting method and an alternative data source. We find more information in the recent U.S. Treasury term structure about future interest rates than about expected holding period returns. These results document a significant departure from prior empirical findings.
Does Regulation Fair Disclosure Reduce the Information Quality of Managerial Guidance?
Authors: Agapova Anna , Madura Jeff , Mailibayeva Zhanel
Published: April 2012

We examine an effect of Regulation Fair Disclosure (Reg FD) on voluntary public managerial guidance information quality. Results suggest that the information quality of public guidance has not deteriorated after Reg FD. We also examine separately the effect of Reg FD on information efficiency before earnings releases for firms that provide public managerial guidance and those that do not. We find that when we control for the impact of Reg FD on firm characteristics, information efficiency deteriorates for firms that do not provide public guidance and for new guiders, while it does not change for firms that continue issuing public guidance after Reg FD.
Labor Unions as Shareholder Activists: Champions or Detractors?
Authors: Prevost Andrew K. , Rao Ramesh P. , Williams Melissa A.
Published: April 2012

We examine the impact of labor union shareholder activism through the submission of shareholder proposals during the period 1988–2002. We examine the effect of labor union‐sponsored shareholder proposals on announcement period returns; on the corporate governance environment of the firm including shareholder rights, board composition, and CEO compensation; on changes in unionization rates and labor expense; and on long‐run shareholder wealth. We do not find any observable patterns for the overall sample of proposals. However, subsets of proposals associated with union presence at the target firm and shareholder voting support for the proposal are associated with significant effects surrounding and subsequent to targeting.
Laughter‐Induced Left Bundle Branch Block
Authors: CHOW GRANT V. , DESAI DIPAN , SPRAGG DAVID D. , ZAKARIA SAMMY
Published: April 2012

Laughter‐Induced LBBB.  We present the case of a patient with ischemic heart disease and intermittent left bundle branch block, reproducibly induced by laughter. Following treatment of ischemia with successful deployment of a drug‐eluting stent, no further episodes of inducible LBBB were seen. Transient ischemia, exacerbated by elevated intrathoracic pressure during laughter, may have contributed to onset of this phenomenon. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23 pp. 1136‐1138, October 2012)
Long‐Term Prognostic Value of the Right Ventricular Myocardial Performance Index Compared to Other Indexes of Right Ventricular Function in Patients with Moderate Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Vizzardi Enrico , D’Aloia Antonio , Bordonali Tania , Bugatti Silvia , Piovanelli Barbara , Bonadei Ivano , Quinzani Filippo , Rovetta Riccardo , Vaccari Alberto , Curnis Antonio , Dei Cas Livio
Published: April 2012

Background: The ventricular myocardial performance index (MPI) is a feasible echocardiographic parameter for the evaluation of patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). The long‐term prognostic role of right ventricular MPI (RV MPI) has been already assessed in patients with more advanced CHF but data are lacking in moderate CHF. The aim of the study is to evaluate the possible prognostic role of RV MPI in moderate CHF patients compared to others traditional RV parameters. Methods: From 2003 to 2004 we enrolled 95 consecutive NYHA class II CHF patients (65 males and 30 females), with the mean age of 66 ± 11 years with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <40%, on optimal medical treatment. All patients were evaluated clinically and by echocardiography with a follow‐up of 5 years (combined end point: cardiovascular mortality and hospitalization for HF). Results: RV MPI was 0.45 ± 0.36, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion was 21 ± 8 mm, RV fractional area change was 42 ± 12%, systolic pulmonary artery pressure was 33 ± 9 mmHg, and acceleration time of pulmonic flow was 115.5 + 22.62 msec. After the 5 year follow‐up the total mortality was 24.2% and HF hospitalization rate was 33%. At Cox multivariate analysis only an RV MPI superior to median value (>0.38) and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion inferior to median value (<18 mm) had shown a significant prognostic role. Conclusion: The RV MPI in a population of moderate CHF showed to have a more long‐term powerful prognostic value than other conventional and traditional echocardiographic right ventricular functional parameters.
Improved Procedural Results After CoreValve Implantation with the New AccuTrak Delivery System
Authors: CHORIANOPOULOS EMMANUEL , KRUMSDORF ULRIKE , PLEGER SVEN T. , KATUS HUGO A. , BEKEREDJIAN RAFFI
Published: April 2012

Aims of the study:

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has become an established treatment for severe aortic stenosis in patients with unacceptable high‐surgical risk. Recently, the new AccuTrak delivery system for improved deliverability of the CoreValve aortic bioprosthesis was launched. It has not yet been shown if the new delivery catheter leads to optimized positioning and improved procedural outcomes.

Methods and results:

We conducted a retrospective single‐center analysis and evaluated 70 consecutive patients (35 with the original delivery catheter and 35 with the new AccuTrak catheter) for anatomic positioning and related outcome parameters like postinterventional aortic regurgitation (AR) and the need for permanent pacemaker insertion, after CoreValve implantation. The use of the AccuTrak delivery catheter resulted in significantly higher positioning of the CoreValve prosthesis in the left ventricular outflow tract (distance from annulus to lower edge of prosthesis 7.0 mm [5.5 to 9.4 mm] for the AccuTrak group vs. 8.8 mm [7.1 to 11.2 mm] for the original system; median [interquartile range]; P = 0.0068). Moreover, the optimized positioning resulted in reduced rates of significant (≥grade 2) AR assessed by postinterventional aortography and echocardiography (P = 0.044 and P = 0.0275, respectively). Despite improved positioning, no differences in the need for permanent pacemaker implantation were observed.

Conclusions:

Our retrospective analysis indicates improved positioning with reduced postinterventional AR with the new CoreValve AccuTrak delivery system. Whether this may also affect the need for permanent pacemaker insertion or long‐term outcome after TAVI needs to be evaluated in larger studies. (J Interven Cardiol 2012;25:174–179)
The Protein Import Pore Tom40 in the Microsporidian Nosema bombycis
Authors: Lin Lipeng , Pan Guoqing , Li Tian , Dang Xiaoqun , Deng Yuanhong , Ma Cheng , Chen Jie , Luo Jie , Zhou Zeyang
Published: April 2012

Microsporidia, an unusual group of unicellular parasites related to fungi, possess a highly reduced mitochondrion known as the mitosome. Since mitosomes lack an organellar genome, their proteins must be translated in the cytosol before being imported into the mitosome via translocases. We have identified a Tom40 gene (NbTom40), the main component of the translocase of the outer mitochondrial membrane, in the genome of the microsporidian Nosema bombycis. NbTom40 is reduced in size, but it is predicted to form a β‐barrel structure composed of 19 β‐strands. Phylogenetic analysis confirms that NbTom40 forms a clade with Tom40 sequences from other species, distinct from a related clade of voltage‐dependent anion channels (VDACs). The NbTom40 contains a β‐signal motif that the polar residue is substituted by glycine. Furthermore, we show that expression of NbTom40, as a GFP fusion protein within yeast cells, directs GFP to mitochondria of yeast. These findings suggest that NbTom40 may serve as an import channel of the microsporidian mitosome and facilitate protein translocation into this organelle.
The Curious Case of the Refrigerator–TV: Similarity and Hybridization
Authors: Gibbert Michael , Hampton James A. , Estes Zachary , Mazursky David
Published: April 2012

This article examines the role of similarity in the hybridization of concepts, focusing on hybrid products as an applied test case. Hybrid concepts found in natural language, such as singer songwriter, typically combine similar concepts, whereas dissimilar concepts rarely form hybrids. The hybridization of dissimilar concepts in products such as jogging shoe mp3 player and refrigerator TV thus poses a challenge for understanding the process of conceptual combination. It is proposed that models of conceptual combination can throw light on the judged future success and desirability of hybrid products in general. The composite prototype model proposes two stages of conceptual combination. In the first stage, the concepts are aggregated into an additive hybrid, simply by forming the union of the two sets of attributes. In the second stage, any conflicting attributes are identified and resolved, often with the introduction of emergent attributes, resulting in an integrative hybrid. Across four studies that varied the similarity and type of hybrid products, similar and integrative hybrids were valued more than dissimilar and additive hybrids. Critically, though, dissimilar hybrids were also highly valued if they were integrative. Results supported the two stages proposed by the composite prototype model, and implications for other models of hybrid formation are discussed.
Matched False‐Belief Performance During Verbal and Nonverbal Interference
Authors: Dungan James , Saxe Rebecca
Published: April 2012

Language has been shown to play a key role in the development of a child’s theory of mind, but its role in adult belief reasoning remains unclear. One recent study used verbal and nonverbal interference during a false‐belief task to show that accurate belief reasoning in adults necessarily requires language (Newton & de Villiers, 2007). The strength of this inference depends on the cognitive processes that are matched between the verbal and nonverbal inference tasks. Here, we matched the two interference tasks in terms of their effects on spatial working memory. We found equal success on false‐belief reasoning during both verbal and nonverbal interference, suggesting that language is not specifically necessary for adult theory of mind.
Defining the Early Bronze Age landscape: a remote sensing‐based analysis of Hafit tomb distribution in Wadi Andam, Sultanate of Oman
Authors: Deadman W.M.
Published: April 2012

High‐resolution, freely available Google Earth software was successfully utilised in a remote‐sensing survey to locate and map thousands of Hafit tombs in a study area centring on Wadi Andam in the Sultanate of Oman. This dataset was refined for reliability with ground‐based fieldwork, and was analysed in the landscape using GIS software. The tombs are not randomly distributed across the study area; rather, the hydrology of the area appears to have been a dominant determining factor in the location of the graves. The structures were constructed in elevated, highly visible locations, possibly in an attempt to mark ownership of the landscape. The distribution of Hafit tombs is likely to provide some insight into the utilisation of the landscape in this period, with the evidence from Wadi Andam tentatively suggesting the presence of a nomadic pastoralist population. The development of this rapid, accurate and cost‐effective methodology has the potential to greatly facilitate the survey and analysis of Hafit tombs across the Oman peninsula.
Lithic technology and spatial distribution of artefacts at the Early Bronze Age site HD‐6 (Sharqiyya Region, Sultanate of Oman)
Authors: Hilbert Y.H. , Azzarà V.M.
Published: April 2012

The Early Bronze Age site HD‐6, located close to the coastal village of Ra’s al‐Hadd on the eastern Omani coast, has been the focus of archaeological investigations for over fifteen years. This paper presents a description and definition of its lithic assemblage by means of technological analyses of both blank production sequences and retouched tools. A sample of lithic artefacts recovered from the excavated buildings is analysed for this study. Fourteen rooms within seven of the houses uncovered on site were chosen for this purpose. Mainly multi‐platform and bipolar (anvil) cores made of poor‐quality, local raw materials were used to manufacture stout flakes. Perforating implements constitute a large part of the tool inventory, and functional comparison with the assemblages of Holocene sites excavated along the Omani coast has been attempted. Furthermore, HD‐6 provides the possibility of segregating activity areas delimited by the excavated rooms. In sum, the analysis of the lithic assemblage presented here adds to the data needed to understand social organisation and economic activity at the site.
Almulihiah: a rock art site in the Hail region, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al‐Talhi Dhaifallah
Published: April 2012

This paper discusses the rock art site of Almulihiah in north Saudi Arabia. The site consists of many carved rock panels of human and animal figures. The drawings depict camels (22%), ibex (10%) and ostrich (8%), although other animals such as goats, lizards and oryx are also present. An attempt is made to date the site by comparing it with other petroglyph sites in the country. The paper concludes with a discussion of the drawing styles present.
A Greek funerary inscription from Jordan
Authors: Bader Nabil , Habash Martha
Published: April 2012

A Greek funerary inscription of thirteen lines is currently in a private collection in northern Jordan and is said to be from the an‐Naqaʿ cemetery in Ghor es‐Safi. The type of stone and its contents confirm its presumed origin. It is a Christian stele dated to the fifth century AD.
Motor skills and school performance in children with daily physical education in school – a 9‐year intervention study
Authors: Ericsson I. , Karlsson M. K.
Published: April 2012

The aim was to study long‐term effects on motor skills and school performance of increased physical education (PE). All pupils born 1990–1992 from one school were included in a longitudinal study over nine years. An intervention group (n = 129) achieved daily PE (5 × 45 min/week) and if needed one extra lesson of adapted motor training. The control group (n = 91) had PE two lessons/week. Motor skills were evaluated by the Motor Skills Development as Ground for Learning observation checklist and school achievements by marks in Swedish, English, Mathematics, and PE and proportion of pupils who qualified for upper secondary school. In school year 9 there were motor skills deficits in 7% of pupils in the intervention group compared to 47% in the control group (P < 0.001), 96% of the pupils in the intervention group compared to 89% in the control group (P < 0.05) qualified for upper secondary school. The sum of evaluated marks was higher among boys in the intervention group than in the control group (P < 0.05). The sum of marks was also higher in pupils with no motor skills deficit than among pupils with motor skills deficits (P < 0.01), as was the proportion of pupils who qualified for upper secondary school (97% vs 81%, P < 0.001). Daily PE and adapted motor skills training during the compulsory school years is a feasible way to improve not only motor skills but also school performance and the proportion of pupils who qualify for upper secondary school.
Periodontal status and post‐transplantation complications following intensive periodontal treatment in patients underwent allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation conditioned with myeloablative regimen
Authors: Gürgan CA , Özcan M , Karakuş Ö , Zincircioğlu G , Arat M , Soydan E , Topcuoglu P , Gürman G , Bostancı HS
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  Objectives:  Evaluation of the periodontal status is necessary prior to management with high‐dose chemotherapy before hematopoietic stem cell therapy (HSCT). During medical therapy, pre‐existing periodontal conditions may exacerbate and cause local and systemic complications. When possible, maximal oral health should be achieved prior to engraftment. In this study, we aimed to determine the alterations occurred in the periodontal status of the patients after periodontal treatment and allogenic HSCT and evaluate the effect of intensive periodontal approach on the short‐term complications of HSCT.

Methods:  The alterations occurred in the periodontal tissues 3–4 weeks after periodontal treatment and after HSCT periods of 3 months for 29 patients treated with full‐mouth periodontal treatment completed in 24 h in addition to eradication of dental foci, and oral hygiene status were evaluated using pocket depth measurements, presence of bleeding on probing and plaque and gingival indices. The incidence and severity of acute graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) and oral mucositis (OM) were recorded. Duration of engraftment period and the episode of febrile neutropenia were also evaluated.

Results:  There were significant improvements in periodontal status after periodontal treatment (P < 0.001). There were 14 (48.3%) patients without acute GVHD and 17 (58.6%) patients with no sign of OM. The majority of OM was at grade II level. There was a negative relation that exists between the percentage of BOP (+) sites and presence of OM (r = −0.518, P < 0.05).

Conclusions:  Together with a significant reduction in gingival inflammation and maintenance of the improvement in periodontal health, remarkable decrease in the incidence and severity of OM were observed.
Autologous bone marrow‐derived cells with placental extract for healing excisional cutaneous wounds in animal model
Authors: Akela Ashok , Nandi Samit Kumar , Das Partha , Banerjee Dibyajyoti , Roy Subhasis , Datta Uttam
Published: April 2012

Topical wound‐healing potential of autologous bone marrow‐derived nucleated cells along with placental extract was evaluated in comparison with buffy coat of autologous blood on full‐thickness cutaneous wounds in the thoracolumbar region of 15 clinically healthy New Zealand rabbits. Three wounds of 2 × 2 cm, one on the right side of the body and two on the left side of the midline were created on the dorsal lumbar region of each rabbit under xylazine–ketamine anaesthesia. The wounds of each animal were randomly assigned to one of the three treatments: topical application of autologous bone marrow‐derived cells with placental extract (group I), application of buffy coat in the autologous plasma with placental extract (group II) and autologous plasma with placental extract as control (group III). Wounds were observed for 30 days macroscopically and for granulation tissue formation, histomorphological and histochemical evaluation. Time of appearance of granulation tissues and filling of wound beds were faster in group I followed by group II and group III animals, respectively. Histomorphological findings exhibited an earlier disappearance of inflammatory reaction, better epithelialisation, significantly maximum neovascularisation, fibroplasias and collagenation in group I followed by group II and group III animals, respectively. Histochemical findings also depicted maximum number of robust, thick, interwoven type of collagen fibres, stout, highly tortuous and interwoven network of elastin fibres and numerous mesh war form of reticulin fibres within the dermal component were present in group I when compared with group II and III animals. Experiment conclude that single application of autologous bone marrow‐nucleated cells with placental extract topically could be a novel option for faster healing in complicated non healing wounds both in human beings and animals.
Is tissue augmentation a reality in biosurgery? An experimental study of endothelial cell invasion into tissue filler
Authors: Velnar Tomaz , Smrkolj Vladimir , Rupnik Marjan Slak , Gradisnik Lidija
Published: April 2012

New therapeutic approaches for wound treatment are evolving. Non healing wounds in oncology and after trauma may be cured by a novel technique of tissue augmentation with soft tissue fillers. The principle resides in filling the wound with collagen filler in order to seal the defect and promote healing. Successful angiogenesis forms the basis of tissue filler survival and determines the outcome of the healing process. During this study, basic data about endothelial cell invasion into collagen‐made substratum was collected that could be used for neoangiogenesis studies in tissue augmentation techniques for large wound defect treatment. In the in vitro assay, the human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) grow into a three‐dimensional framework of collagenous tissue fillers, forming the basic step for angiogenesis. After heparins were used as chemotactic agents, a typical bell‐shaped relationship between chemotaxis and agent concentrations was found. Significant cell infiltration was present in the assays with chemotactic agents. These observations support the potential for tissue augmentation with soft tissue fillers that could be used in acute and chronic non healing traumatic and oncology wounds after extensive surgical resections and radiotherapy.
Oil Absorption Mechanism of Fried Food During Cooling Process
Authors: He Ding‐Bing , Xu Fei , Hua Tse‐Chao , Song Xiao‐Yan
Published: April 2012

The objective of this study was to investigate critical parameters affecting oil absorption and provide promising clues for reducing oil absorption in the deep‐fat fried potato products. Driving forces of oil absorption in deep‐fried potato cylinders were analyzed during a post‐frying cooling. Results revealed that a pressure difference (Patm − Pv), which was formed by vapor condensation, played a key role in the oil uptake into microstructure of the fried potato products. Based on the experiments conducted in the different vacuum environments, it was found that less oil was absorbed by the potato cylinders when they were cooled under 80 kPa after frying, in which a delayed initiation of oil uptake and a reduced driving force for oil absorption were noticed. Therefore, lowering the pressure difference (Patm − Pv) with pressure–vacuum method can change the equilibrium existing between oil uptakes and adhesion, which promoted the oil drainage at the early stage of cooling period and led to a low amount of oil uptake into the fried food.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

These results can provide a reference for reducing oil uptake of deep‐fat frying process in the food industry.
Association and Diffusion of Nutrition and Physical Activity Policies on the State and District Level*
Authors: Taber Daniel R. , Chriqui Jamie F. , Chaloupka Frank J.
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: School district wellness policies designed to reduce obesity and promote student health and well‐being often lack specific requirements or any mandate that schools comply with the policy. Researchers, educators, and policymakers have called for states to take an active role in shaping district policies. The objective of this study was to determine if states with strong school‐based nutrition and physical activity (PA)‐related policies have stronger district wellness policies, and explore the direction of policy diffusion between states and districts.

METHODS: State policies and nationally representative samples of district policies for the 2006–2007 and 2008–2009 school years were obtained across 5 domains—competitive foods, school meals, nutrition education, physical education (PE), and PA—and were classified as “strong” or “weak,” based on policy language, in each grade level (elementary, middle, high). Linear models estimated the cross‐sectional and longitudinal associations between state and district policies.

RESULTS: In 2006–2007 and 2008–2009, district elementary school competitive food policies were stronger in states with strong policies. For policies governing competitive foods in high schools and school meals at all grade levels, mean district policy strength increased from 2006–2007 to 2008–2009 in states with strong 2006–2007 policies. States that strengthened their PE policies from 2006–2007 to 2008–2009 saw an increase in mean district PE policy strength. Across all domains, states that had weak 2006–2007 policies and made no changes saw little increase in district policy strength.

CONCLUSION: District competitive food, school meal, and PE policies are stronger in states that have developed strong policies in these domains.
Comparative Effectiveness of Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibitors and Angiotensin Receptor Blockers for Hypertension on Clinical End Points: A Cohort Study
Authors: Roy Jason , Shah Nirav R. , Wood G. Craig , Townsend Raymond , Hennessy Sean
Published: April 2012

J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2012; 14:407–414. ©2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Important questions concerning the comparative effectiveness of angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) remain unanswered, including whether they are equally effective in reducing clinical end points and in which populations. An incident cohort of adult patients 18 years and older prescribed an ACE inhibitor or ARB between 2001 and 2008 was identified from Geisinger Clinic, a large community‐based set of medical practices that uses a common electronic health record. Propensity score matching was used to balance the groups on baseline factors. The authors examined differences in mortality and new‐onset coronary disease, chronic kidney disease, stroke, and diabetes for different patient subgroups based on sex and age. A total of 25,035 hypertensive patients newly prescribed an ACE inhibitor or ARB were identified. No differences were found in risk of death, coronary disease, chronic kidney disease, or stroke between those prescribed ACE inhibitors and those prescribed ARBs. Patients prescribed ARBs had a greater rate of new‐onset diabetes (hazard ratio [HR], 1.28; confidence interval [CI], 1.08–1.52), and this was especially true for women (HR, 1.93; CI, 1.22–3.07). Within a large medical‐practice based population, there was no evidence of differential effectiveness between ACE inhibitors and ARBs for most outcomes, with diabetes being the notable exception.
Effect of the rs168924 Single‐Nucleotide Polymorphism in the SLC6A2 Catecholamine Transporter Gene on Blood Pressure in Caucasians
Authors: Zolk Oliver , Ott Christian , Fromm Martin F. , Schmieder Roland E.
Published: April 2012

J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2012; 14:293–298. ©2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The NG_016969.1:g.5003A>G promoter polymorphism (rs168924) in the SLC6A2 norepinephrine transporter gene was found to be predictive of the hypertensive status in a Japanese population, but no data are available for Caucasians. Genotyping for rs168924 was performed in 282 young men with normal blood pressure (BP), grade 1 or 2 hypertension. In addition to casual BP, 24‐hour ABPM and echocardiography were performed. Multiple regression analysis revealed a significant association of rs168924 genotype with diagnosis of hypertension (P=.044), casual systolic BP (SBP) levels (P=.028), and daytime ambulatory SBP (P=.02). The finding that rs168924 was also significantly associated with diastolic posterior wall thickness (P=.041), an echocardiographic index of hypertensive cardiac target organ damage, further supports the notion that the rs168924 SNP in SLC6A2 in fact might influence BP. Unlike previous findings in a Japanese population, in our Caucasian study cohort the presence of the minor rs168924 G allele was associated with lower prevalence of hypertension. J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2012;00:00–00. ©2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Development and Validation of the Hypertension Evaluation of Lifestyle and Management Knowledge Scale
Authors: Schapira Marilyn M. , Fletcher Kathlyn E. , Hayes Avery , Eastwood Dan , Patterson Leslie , Ertl Kristyn , Whittle Jeff
Published: April 2012

J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2012; 14:461–466.. ©2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Hypertension knowledge is an integral component of the chronic care model. A valid scale to assess hypertension knowledge and self‐management skills is needed. The hypertension evaluation of lifestyle and management (HELM) scale was developed as part of a community‐based study designed to improve self‐management of hypertension. Participants included 404 veterans with hypertension. Literature review and an expert panel were used to identify required skills. Items were generated and pilot tested in the target population. Validity was assessed through comparisons of performance with education, health numeracy, print numeracy, patient activation and self‐efficacy, and hypertension control. The HELM knowledge scale had 14 items across 3 domains: general hypertension knowledge, lifestyle and medication management, and measurement and treatment goals. Scores were positively associated with education (0.28, P<.0001), print health literacy (0.21, P<.001), health numeracy (0.17, P<.001), and patient activation (0.12, P=.015) but no association was found with diastolic or systolic blood pressure. The HELM knowledge scores increased following the educational intervention from baseline (mean, 8.7; standard deviation, 2.2) to 12‐month follow‐up (mean, 9.2, standard deviation, 2.2; P<.001). We conclude that the HELM provides a valid measure of the knowledge required for patients to take an active role in the chronic disease management of hypertension.
Detection and diversity of pathogenic Vibrio from Fiji
Authors: Singh Reema , Narayan Vinay , McLenachan Patricia , Winkworth Richard C. , Mitra Suparna , Lockhart Peter J. , Berry Lorraine , Hatha Abdulla M. , Aalbersberg William , Rao Dhana
Published: April 2012

Here we investigate the diversity of pathogenic Vibrio species in marine environments close to Suva, Fiji. We use four distinct yet complementary analyses – biochemical testing, phylogenetic analyses, metagenomic analyses and molecular typing – to provide some preliminary insights into the diversity of vibrios in this region. Taken together our analyses confirmed the presence of nine Vibrio species, including three of the most important disease‐causing vibrios (i.e. V. cholerae, V. parahaemolyticus and V. vulnificus), in Fijian marine environments. Furthermore, since toxigenic V. parahaemolyticus are present on fish for consumption we suggest these bacteria represent a potential public health risk. Our results from Illumina short read sequencing are encouraging in the context of microbial profiling and biomonitoring. They suggest this approach may offer an efficient and cost‐effective method for studying the dynamics of microbial diversity in marine environments over time.
Treatment dropout of patients in National Continuing Management and Intervention Program for Psychoses in Guangdong Province from 2006 to 2009: Implication for mental health service reform in China
Authors: Ma Ning , Liu Jin , Wang Xun , Gan Yu‐Wen , Ma Hong , Ng Chee H. , Jia Fu‐Jun , Yu Xin
Published: April 2012

Introduction

In 2005, China commenced its mental health reform by establishing a national program to move from a hospital‐based service model to an integrated hospital and community treatment model for psychoses, adopting the key principles of and provisions for continuity of care, treatment accessibility and equitable mental health care. This paper reports the rate and associated factors of treatment dropout for patients with psychoses in the national program in Guangdong Province from 2006 to 2009.

Methods

Adult patients with psychoses followed‐up in two demonstration sites in Guangdong Province were grouped as treatment dropout if they were lost to follow‐up for three consecutive months. Dropout rate was estimated, and associated factors were explored with multifactor binary logistic regression analysis.

Results

Of 1,386 patients followed up from 2006 to 2009, 73 patients (5.29%) dropped out (five deceased patients were excluded). Poor adherence to medication, having no medication, and having worse global clinical outcome contributed to increased risk of dropout by 12.765 (P = 0.0017), 7.400 (P = 0.0063) and 6.385 times (P = 0.0207), respectively. When course of illness increased by five years, the risk of dropout increased by 1.322 times (P = 0.0031).

Discussion

Treatment dropout rate for patients with psychoses in Guangdong Province appears to be low. Implications for mental health service reform in China include assertive follow‐up for patients with history of poor adherence with treatment, free medications to poor patients to increase access to appropriate and affordable treatment, and active psychoeducation for patients with poor insight and their families.
Accessory roots in maxillary molar teeth: a review and endodontic considerations
Authors: Ahmed HMA , Abbott PV
Published: April 2012

Maxillary molar teeth may have accessory roots. The aim of this paper is to review and discuss the endodontic implications of this anatomical variation. A review of the literature was undertaken to identify studies and reported cases where accessory roots have been recorded in maxillary molar teeth. The results show that although the prevalence of accessory roots in maxillary molar teeth is low, they can exist in all three types of maxillary molar teeth, and they may be located palatally, buccally, mesially or distally. Hence, it is essential that dentists undertaking root canal treatment thoroughly assess all teeth to determine how many roots are present in order to provide the best possible outcome of treatment for the patient.