bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pain on injection from propofol may be avoided by changing its formulation
Authors: ALDRETE J. A. , OTERO P. , ALCOVER J. , PARIETTI A. , JOHNSON S. C. , MONTPETIT F. H. , TORRIERI A. , QUIROGA D.
Published: December 2009

Background: After using propofol for a decade, pain on injection had been considered routine by patients and medical personnel. When given propofol from a different manufacturer, patients did not complain. Two preparations of propofol were compared.

Methods: A comparative, double‐blind, randomized study was conducted in 22 adult patients undergoing pain relief procedures; they received sedation by an intravenous injection of 1.7 mg/kg of propofol and then were treated with paravertebral injections. Pain on injection was assessed by verbal complaint, movement of the extremity, of the whole body and recollection of pain at induction, when discharged. Propofol from Baxter Laboratories, mixed with either 5 ml of 2% lidocaine or 5 ml of NaCl 0.9%, was compared with propofol Laboratorios Gray, which was similarly mixed. Injections were randomly administered four times, blindly, to each of 22 patients. Statistical analysis was conducted using the analysis of variance method.

Results: A total of 352 propofol injections were given. Each of the four propofol solutions was administered 88 times; of patients receiving Baxter propofol+saline, 74 (84%) had pain; when mixed with 2% lidocaine 45 (50.2%) complained. After propofol Gray with NaCl 0.9% was given, two patients (2.2%) experienced pain. Propofol Gray with 2% lidocaine produced no pain. None of the latter group remembered having pain, whereas, those given propofol Baxter 54 (61.3%) and 26 (29.5%) remembered experiencing pain at injection. Pain on injection was prevented and statistically reduced (<0.01) with the propofol from Laboratorios Gray.

Conclusions: By changing the formulation (size of molecules and their dispersion) of propofol, pain on injection was avoided.
Autofluorescence videoendoscopy system using the SAFE‐3000 for assessing superficial gastric neoplasia
Authors: Imaeda Hiroyuki , Hosoe Naoki , Kashiwagi Kazuhiro , Ida Yosuke , Saito Yoshimasa , Suzuki Hidekazu , Aiura Koichi , Ogata Haruhiko , Kumai Koichiro , Hibi Toshifumi
Published: December 2009

Background:  Autofluorescence (AF) videoendoscopy has an advantage over ordinary videoendoscopy in the diagnosis of gastric neoplasias, and the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of using the SAFE‐3000 videoendoscopy system to diagnose superficial gastric neoplasias.

Methods:  Ordinary videoendoscopy, AF videoendoscopy, and chromoendoscopy (CE) were used to diagnose the tumor existence and extent in 14 patients with gastric adenoma, 40 patients with intestinal‐type early gastric cancer (EGC) (10 protruded, and 30 depressed), and nine patients with diffuse‐type EGC. The diagnostic accuracies of the three kinds of images were evaluated by comparison with the results of histopathological assessment of resected specimens.

Results:  For gastric adenomas the diagnostic accuracy between the AF images and white light (WL) images did not differ significantly, and for protruded intestinal‐type EGCs and diffuse‐type EGCs the diagnostic accuracy did not differ significantly between any of the types of images. For depressed intestinal‐type EGCs, the diagnostic accuracy of AF images tended to be higher than that of the WL images (P < 0.05) and it was not significantly different from that of the CE images. The detection rate of pink or orange color in AF images was significantly higher for protruded intestinal‐type EGCs than gastric adenomas (P = 0.005), depressed intestinal‐type EGCs (P < 0.001), and diffuse‐type EGCs (P = 0.027).

Conclusions:  Autofluorescence videoendoscopy using the SAFE‐3000 system for gastric neoplasias might be useful for diagnosing depressed intestinal‐type early gastric cancers. The detection of orange or pink color in AF images may be efficacious in discriminating protruded intestinal‐type early gastric cancers from gastric adenomas.
Daily dynamics of photosynthesis of the freshwater red alga Sirodotia delicatula (Batrachospermales, Rhodophyta)
Authors: Kusakariba Thiago , Júnior Orlando Necchi
Published: December 2009

The daily course of photosynthetic parameters of a population of the freshwater red alga Sirodotia delicatula from São Paulo State, Brazil (20°43′24″S, 49°18′21″W) was investigated under natural and laboratory conditions using dissolved oxygen and in vivo chlorophyll fluorescence techniques. Field specimens in laboratory conditions showed a defined daily pattern for net photosynthesis (NP) with two peaks observed in marine macroalgae and some freshwater red algae: the first (the highest) during the morning, and the second (the lowest and less evident) during the afternoon. Values of electron transport rate did not show a clear pattern of daily variation. NP results suggest the existence of an endogenous rhythm controlling photosynthesis. The study under natural conditions in two contrasting periods (autumn (June) and spring (October)) showed that the daily course of effective and potential quantum yield values was negatively correlated with irradiance and values were similar in the beginning and end of the day. These data evidenced, respectively, high excitement pressure on photosystem II and good recovery capacity (with lower values in spring) and a lack of irreversible photodamage to photosynthetic apparatus due to the prolonged exposure to high irradiances. Non‐photochemical quenching values were also negatively correlated with the irradiance, suggesting a low dissipation capacity of excess energy absorbed by reaction centers. The results evidenced a typical pattern of daily variation with evident response to irradiance.
Research Note: Simple molecular discrimination of cultivated Porphyra species (Porphyra yezoensis and Porphyra tenera) and related wild species (Bangiales, Rhodophyta)
Authors: Niwa Kyosuke , Kobiyama Atsushi
Published: December 2009

To discriminate between cultivated Porphyra species (Porphyra yezoensis and Porphyra tenera) and closely related wild Porphyra species, we developed a polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) analysis of the rbcL gene using five restriction enzymes. Although our previous PCR‐RFLP analyses of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) rDNA and plastid RuBisCO spacer regions could not always discriminate wild P. yezoensis, wild P. tenera, and closely related wild species, the PCR‐RFLP profiles of the rbcL gene were useful in discriminating samples collected from natural habitats. Therefore, PCR‐RFLP analysis of the rbcL gene will help in the simple identification of a large number of samples, not only for the establishment of reliable cultures as breeding material, but also for the taxonomic investigations of species that are closely related to cultivated Porphyra.
Epiphytic relationships ofPseudendoclonium submarinumWille (Ulvophyceae) andRhodymenia pseudopalmata(Rhodophyta) from the Patagonian coast of Argentina
Authors: Gauna M. Cecilia , Parodi Elisa R. , Cáceres Eduardo J.
Published: December 2009

The occurrence of the epiphyte algaPseudendoclonium submarinumWille (Ulvophyceae) onRhodymenia pseudopalmata(Lamouroux) Silva (Rhodophyta) is reported. The present study describes a first line of evidence of an epidemiological study conducted with the purpose of comparing both the prevalence and effects of algal epiphytic organisms inR. pseudopalmatain the Patagonian coasts of Argentina.P. submarinuminfected approximately 80% ofR. pseudopalmatathalli and the frequency of infection was variable in connection with different areas of the host's thalli: 42% ofR. pseudopalmatafronds presentedP. submarinumthalli in the basal region, which presented a severity degree of infection from low to high. The median region presented an average frequency of infection of 30% and minor susceptibility to colonization. The covering varied from 1% to 70% representing a low to moderate degree of colonization. The apical region presented a cover frequency of 28% and the level of infection varied between low to moderate. The developmental morphology and the growth dynamics of the epiphyte were also investigated under unialgal as well as bialgal culture conditions. In nature, thalli ofP. submarinumonR. pseudopalmatanever invaded internal tissues of the host. Vegetative thalli ofP. submarinumwere inoculated on frondsR. pseudopalmata. Experimental infections confirmed thatP. submarinumthalli did not penetrate the host's fronds.P. submarinumswarmers showed the capacity of settlement on a host's fronds and developed an epiphytic monostromatic thallus. The results allowed us to suggest thatP. submarinumuses theR. pseudopalmatathalli as a proper substrate, sincePseudendocloniumthalli complete the entire life cycle. Culture experiments revealed thatP. submarinumcould develop without the presence of the host and evidenced the nutritional independence, being the relationship in nature, probably triggered by an ecological advantage since fronds ofR. pseudopalmataoffer a suitable substratum.
NEUROVISUAL ADAPTATIONS TO SUBNORMAL VISION IN CHILDREN
Authors: CRElG S. HOYT md
Published: December 2009

Neurovisual adaptations to subnormal vision in children are of practical importance and need to be remembered in the management of children with low vision The physiological adaptations discussed include shortening the focal distance, abnormal head positions, compensatory head movements, and ocular motor search strategies In addition the concept of neural plasticity, particularly in respect to the ability of the extrageniculate striaete system to assume primary visual function in cortically damaged children is discussed.
MITRAL VALVE PROLAPSE AND RETINAL INFARCTION
Authors: ANDREW HOPKINS mb, bs, fracp  , JOHN YlANNlKAS mb, bs, fracp  , IAN C. FRANCIS fracs, fraco
Published: December 2009

Several neurological syndromes, including syncope, convulsions, amnesia, transient ischaemic attacks and cerebral infarction, have been associate with mitral valve prolapse. It has been presumed that emboli may account for some of these. We report a case of retinal infarction in association with mitral valve prolapse.
PERSISTENT SYMPTOMS AFTER PERIPHERAL IRIDECTOMY FOR ANGLE‐CLOSURE GLAUCOMA
Authors: RONALD F. LOWE md
Published: December 2009

Symptoms that persist after oerations for angle‐closure glaucoma arise from different causes. In the presence of open peripheral iridectomies miotics may be beneficial or may close angles; wide pupil dilatation by phenylephrine used to diminish posterior synechiae may close angles; cycloplegic mydriatics will close some angles and open others. Unexpected bizarre reactions to eye drops may occur. bersistent chronic glaucoma will be more common after laser iridotomy than after correctly assessed filtering operations. The importance of gonioscopy in diagnosis and management is emphasised.
Optic disc haemorrhages in posterior vitreous detachment
Authors: Roberts T. V. , Gregory‐Roberts J. C.
Published: December 2009

Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) is a common clinical entity but is not often associated with a significant ocular disorder. Optic disc haemorrhages are rarely associated with a PVD and are more commonly associated with other local or systemic disease.

The symptoms of a PVD, combined with a careful examination of the vitreoretinal interface allows a confident diagnosis of secondary disc haemorrhage to be made. Two cases of acute symptomatic PVD complicated by disc haemorrhage are presented.
Arterial macroaneurysm of the optic disc
Authors: Kowal Lionel , Steiner Helen
Published: December 2009

A 64‐year‐old man presented with an arterial macroaneurysm on the optic disc, an unusual location for retinal arterial macroaneurysm. The macroaneurysm resolved spontaneously without sequelae.
The invasive alien leaf miner Cameraria ohridella and the native tree Acer pseudoplatanus: a fatal attraction?
Authors: Péré Christelle , Augustin Sylvie , Turlings Ted C. J. , Kenis Marc
Published: December 2009

The horse‐chestnut leaf miner Cameraria ohridella is an invasive moth in Europe and a serious pest of horse‐chestnut Aesculus hippocastanum. The moth also occasionally attacks sycamore maple Acer pseudoplatanus, when situated beside infested horse‐chestnuts.

The main objective of the present study was to provide an overview of the relationship between C. ohridella and A. pseudoplatanus and to determine whether C. ohridella has the potential to shift to this native tree.

In the field, females oviposit on different deciduous tree species. Although less frequently attacked than A. hippocastanum, A. pseudoplatanus was clearly preferred for oviposition over 12 other woody species investigated.

Surveys in Europe demonstrated that the majority of A. pseudoplatanus trees found beside infested A. hippocastanum had mines of C. ohridella, even though more than 70% of the larvae died within the first two instars. Attack rates and development success greatly varied from site to site. Attack levels on A. pseudoplatanus were not always correlated with those on A. hippocastanum, and mines on A. pseudoplatanus were sometimes observed beside weakly‐infested A. hippocastanum.

Field observations, experimental exposure of A. pseudoplatanus saplings and rearing trials in a common garden study showed that individual trees may vary in their susceptibility to C. ohridella, whereas there was no evidence that C. ohridella populations vary in their performance on A. pseudoplatanus.

To date, there is little evidence that C. ohridella represents a major risk for A. pseudoplatanus.
The role teachers' expectations and value assessments of video games play in their adopting and integrating them into their classrooms
Authors: Kenny Robert F. , McDaniel Rudy
Published: December 2009

Video games have become an essential part of the way people play and learn. While an increasing number of people are using games to learn in informal environments, their acceptance in the classroom as an instructional activity has been mixed. Successes in informal learning have caused supporters to falsely believe that implementing them into the classroom would be a relatively easy transition and have the potential to revolutionise the entire educational system. In spite of all the hype, many are puzzled as to why more teachers have not yet incorporated them into their teaching. The literature is littered with reports that point to a variety of reasons. One of the reasons, we believe, is that very little has been done to convince teachers that the effort to change their curriculum to integrate video games and other forms of technology is worthy of the effort. Not until policy makers realise the importance of professional development and training as an important use of funds will positive changes in thinking and perceptions come about, which will allow these various forms of technology to reach their potential.

The authors have hypothesised that the major impediments to useful technology integration include the general lack of institutional infrastructure, poor teacher training, and overly‐complicated technologies. Overcoming these obstacles requires both a top‐down and a bottom‐up approach. This paper presents the results of a pilot study with a group of preservice teachers to determine whether our hypotheses regarding potential negativity surrounding video games was valid and whether a wider scale study is warranted. The results of this study are discussed along with suggestions for further research and potential changes in teacher training programmes.
Increasing Speed of Processing With Action Video Games
Authors: Dye Matthew W.G. , Green C. Shawn , Bavelier Daphne
Published: December 2009

In many everyday situations, speed is of the essence. However, fast decisions typically mean more mistakes. To this day, it remains unknown whether reaction times can be reduced with appropriate training, within one individual, across a range of tasks, and without compromising accuracy. Here we review evidence that the very act of playing action video games significantly reduces reaction times without sacrificing accuracy. Critically, this increase in speed is observed across various tasks beyond game situations. Video gaming may therefore provide an efficient training regimen to induce a general speeding of perceptual reaction times without decreases in accuracy of performance.
Is Benefit Finding Good for Your Health?
Authors: Bower Julienne E. , Moskowitz Judith Tedlie , Epel Elissa
Published: December 2009

After experiencing a stressful or traumatic event, many individuals report positive changes in their lives, or benefit finding. Preliminary evidence suggests that benefit finding may lead to improvements in physical health. However, the mechanisms linking benefit finding to physical health outcomes have not been determined. This article describes an integrative model that identifies specific psychological and physiological pathways through which benefit finding may affect physical health. The underlying premise of the model is that benefit finding leads to more adaptive, efficient responses to future stressors, limiting exposure to stress hormones that may have damaging effects on long-term health.
Long‐term high‐physiological‐dose growth hormone reduces intra‐abdominal fat in HIV‐infected patients with a neutral effect on glucose metabolism
Authors: Hansen BR , Haugaard SB , Jensen FK , Jensen JEB , Andresen L , Iversen J , Andersen O
Published: December 2009

Objectives

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of long‐term high‐physiological‐dose recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) therapy on fat distribution and glucose metabolism in HIV‐infected patients.

Methods

Forty‐six HIV‐infected Caucasian men on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), with an age range of 21–60 years and no significant comorbidity, were included in this randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, single‐centre trial. Twenty‐eight subjects were randomized to 0.7 mg/day rhGH, and 18 subjects to placebo, administered as daily subcutaneous injections between 1 and 3 pm for 40 weeks. Endpoints included changes in visceral adipose tissue (VAT), subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), limb fat mass, percentage of limb fat, plasma lipids, insulin resistance and glucose tolerance.

Results

VAT and trunk fat mass decreased significantly in the GH group compared with the placebo group [−19 cm2 (−11%) vs. 12 cm2 (6%), P=0.03, and −548 g (−9%) vs. 353 g (6%), P<0.01, respectively]. The beneficial fat redistribution in the GH group occurred without concomitant changes in subcutaneous fat at the abdomen or extremities. rhGH therapy was well tolerated. Insulin resistance, glucose tolerance, and total plasma cholesterol and triglycerides did not significantly change during intervention.

Conclusions

Daily 0.7 mg rhGH treatment for 40 weeks reduced abdominal visceral fat and trunk fat mass in HIV‐infected patients. This treatment appeared to be safe with respect to glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity.
Clinical efficacy and tolerability of Xeomin® in the treatment of blepharospasm
Authors: Jankovic J.
Published: December 2009

Background and purpose:  Blepharospasm is classified as a focal dystonia, and botulinum toxin type A (BoNT/A) has been shown to be a highly effective and well‐tolerated symptomatic treatment. Xeomin®, the latest addition to BoNT/A preparations, is a purified, freeze‐dried BoNT/A that is free from complexing proteins.

Methods and results:  In a double‐blind, parallel‐group, multicentre study, 300 patients with blepharospasm received either Xeomin® or Botox® 15–80 U (J Neural Transm 2006; 113: 303). Both treatments produced statistically significant improvements from baseline in the Jankovic Rating Scale at week 3 (primary efficacy variable; Xeomin®: −2.90; Botox®: −2.67; P < 0.0001 from baseline for both), with the difference between treatments (−0.23) indicating that Xeomin® was clinically non‐inferior to Botox®. No significant differences were found between Xeomin® and Botox® for all secondary variables. There were no clinically relevant differences between Xeomin® and Botox® in safety parameters, with 40 of 148 patients (27.0%) treated with Xeomin® reporting adverse events versus 45 of 155 patients (29.0%) treated with Botox®. The most common adverse event was ptosis (6.1% Xeomin® and 4.5% Botox®).

Conclusion:  Clinical evidence to date suggests that Xeomin® is an effective treatment for blepharospasm that does not differ from Botox® in terms of its potency, duration of effect or adverse reaction profile.
The GH–IGF system in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: correlations between pituitary GH secretion capacity, insulin‐like growth factors and clinical features
Authors: Pellecchia M. T. , Pivonello R. , Monsurrò M. R. , Trojsi F. , Longo K. , Piccirillo G. , Pivonello C. , Rocco M. , Di Somma C. , Colao A. , Tedeschi G. , Barone P.
Published: December 2009

Background and purpose:  The growth hormone (GH) and insulin‐like growth factor (IGF) system may be involved in neurodegenerative processes, and some abnormalities have been reported in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Our aim was to investigate the GH–IGF axis in patients with ALS and evaluate correlations between this endocrine system and clinical features.

Methods:  Serum levels of GH, IGF‐I, IGF‐II, insulin, IGF‐binding protein 1 (IGF‐BP1), and IGF‐binding protein 3 (IGF‐BP3) were measured in 25 patients with ALS and 25 age‐, gender‐, and BMI‐matched healthy controls. A GHRH plus arginine test was performed in patients and controls. Clinical status of patients was evaluated with the ALS Functional Rating Scale – Revised (ALSFRS‐R) and upper motor neuron (UMN) score.

Results:  GHRH plus arginine test showed GH deficiency (GHD) in 13 (52%) patients with ALS; severe GHD was found in 6 (24%) and partial GHD in 7 (28%) patients. IGF‐I levels were significantly higher in patients with ALS than in healthy controls (182.9 ± 90.8 vs. 139.4 ± 58.1 ng/ml; P = 0.015). IGF‐I levels were higher in patients with ALS with UMN score >10 than those with UMN score <10 (217.8 ± 100.8 vs. 155.5 ± 74.6 ng/ml, P = 0.05). IGF‐II levels were significantly lower in patients with ALS than in healthy controls (720.9 ± 215 vs. 1001.9 ± 475.4 ng/ml; P = 0.03).

Conclusions:  The results demonstrate an impairment of the GH–IGFs system in ALS. The degenerative process in ALS might lead to a compensatory increase in IGF‐I in an attempt to provide additional support to motor neurons or degenerating muscle fibers. The decrease in IGF‐II levels may also be of pathological significance.
METAPHYSICS AND THE REDEMPTION OF SACRIFICE: ON RENÉ GIRARD AND CHARLES WILLIAMS
Authors: SHERMAN JACOB
Published: December 2009

René Girard is something of a Janus for philosophers and theologians interested in the question of sacrifice. On the one hand, few thinkers in any century have made such a compelling case for the importance and centrality of sacrifice within all human culture. On the other hand, Girard has steadfastly insisted that sacrifice be understood in exclusively anthropological terms thus foreclosing the metaphysical and theological questions that prima facie seem to attend any robust consideration of sacrifice. In this essay, I seek to move beyond this Girardian impasse by supplementing Girard's late‐thought with a more robust metaphysics of sacrifice as found in the work of the novelist, literary critic, and theologian, Charles Williams (one of the Oxford ‘Inklings’ and a close companion of C.S. Lewis). To begin with, I first explain Girard's understanding of the mimetic mechanism and the sacrificial origins of human culture. I then consider a number of the criticisms with which he has been charged, especially the accusation of methodological reductionism. I explore the way that Girard's late work has responded to a number of these criticisms but argue that Girard's responses fail to diffuse the charges. By way of conclusion, I suggest that Girard's insights can be saved when supplemented with the kind of relational metaphysics found in Williams' most perfectly realized novel, Descent into Hell. Rather than dispensing with ontology in favour of praxis, Williams transforms the profoundly Girardian themes of mediated desire, the doppelganger, mimetic rivalry, ritual, and the function of sacrifice by placing them in the context of what he calls the metaphysics of ‘co‐inherence.’ This allows Williams to provide a far more positive account of both mimesis and sacrifice (even in its substitutionary mode) than Girard, not just non‐retaliation but the actual bearing of one another's deepest burdens in communion, prayer, and love.
Men's and women's reactions to fair and unfair treatment in relationship conflict
Authors: KLUWER ESTHER S. , TUMEWU MAUREEN , VAN DEN BOS KEES
Published: December 2009

Abstract

Evidence of gender differences in reactions to experienced fair and unfair treatment in relationship conflict was examined in 4 studies among dating, cohabiting, and married participants in The Netherlands. Using a critical incidents method and a scenario, this research provided convergent results suggesting that the relationship between fairness of treatment and affective feelings or relationship satisfaction is stronger for women than for men. This gender difference disappeared under conditions of high relationship commitment. Furthermore, men who identified strongly with their relationship showed stronger reactions to fair treatment than men who identified weakly with their relationships. Finally, the manipulation of relationship salience led to heightened sensitivity to fairness of treatment among men, but not among women.
Affiliation with new peer acquaintances during two initial social support interactions
Authors: FEENEY BROOKE C. , CASSIDY JUDE , LEMAY EDWARD P. , RAMOS‐MARCUSE FATIMA
Published: December 2009

Abstract

This investigation examined the influence of a prior social support interaction on a subsequent interaction between new peer acquaintances. Pairs of adolescent peers (recruited in a large metropolitan area in the United States) were videotaped as they met and discussed current life concerns in 2 separate interactions. Results indicated that (a) the behaviors of new interaction partners are coordinated within an interaction (social coordination hypothesis), (b) behaviors exhibited during an initial interaction predict behaviors exhibited during a subsequent interaction (influential interaction hypothesis), (c) individuals affiliate in similar ways across interactions (cross‐situational consistency hypothesis), and (d) behaviors reflecting greater comfort with interaction increase across interactions (uncertainty reduction hypothesis). The discussion focuses on implications of results and contributions to existing literatures.
Direct and indirect costs associated with epileptic partial onset seizures among the privately insured in the United States
Authors: Ivanova Jasmina I. , Birnbaum Howard G. , Kidolezi Yohanne , Qiu Ying , Mallett David , Caleo Sue
Published: December 2009

Purpose:  Compare annual direct and indirect costs between privately insured U.S. patients with epileptic partial onset seizures (POS) and matched controls.

Methods:  One thousand eight hundred fifty‐nine patients (including a subset of 758 employees) with ≥1 (POS) diagnosis (ICD‐9‐CM: 345.4.x–345.7.x), 1999–2004, ages 16–64 years, were identified from a privately insured claims database. Control group was an age‐ and gender‐matched cohort of randomly chosen beneficiaries without epilepsy (ICD‐9‐CM: 345.x). All were required to have continuous health coverage during 2004 (baseline) and 2005 (study period). Chi‐square tests were used to compare baseline comorbidities. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used for comparisons of annual direct (medical and pharmaceutical) and indirect costs during the study period.

Results:  Patients with POS were on average 42 years of age, and 57% were women. Patients with POS had significantly higher rates of mental health disorders, migraine, and other neurologic disorders, and higher Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) compared with controls. On average, direct annual costs were significantly higher for POS patients ($11,276) compared with controls ($4,087), p < 0.001; difference of $7,190. Epilepsy‐related costs (i.e., costs for antiepileptic drugs, claims with epilepsy or convulsions diagnoses) accounted for $3,290 (29% of direct costs). Employees with POS had substantial and significantly higher indirect (disability‐ and medically related absenteeism) costs compared with controls ($3,431 vs. $1,511, p < 0.001). Multivariate analyses supported the matched‐control univariate findings.

Conclusion:  Patients with POS had significantly higher costs compared with matched controls. Epilepsy‐related costs underestimate the excess costs of patients with partial onset seizures.
Nonprogressive Kidney Dysfunction and Outcomes in Older Adults with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: El‐Ghoul Balsam , Elie Caroline , Sqalli Tarek , Jungers Paul , Daudon Michel , Grünfeld Jean‐Pierre , Lesavre Philippe , Joly Dominique
Published: December 2009

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether a subgroup of patients with severe but nonprogressive renal dysfunction exist and to characterize this subgroup.

DESIGN: Retrospective longitudinal monocentric cohort study.

SETTING: Nephrology clinic for chronic kidney disease (CKD).

PARTICIPANTS: Between January 1998 and December 2004, 177 consecutive patients aged 80 and older were referred for the first time to nephrology for CKD.

MEASUREMENTS: The characteristics of patients with nonprogressive or progressive CKD (estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decline of < and ≥1 mL/min per 1.73 m2 per year, respectively) were observed and analyzed, and their risk of dying or requiring dialysis was determined. After exclusion of subjects requiring immediate dialysis or followed up for less than 6 months, 138 patients remained eligible for analysis.

RESULTS: In the study cohort (initial mean eGFR 31.8 mL/min per 1.73 m2, median follow‐up 47 months), patients were more likely to require dialysis than to die; 36% of patients had nonprogressive CKD. This characteristic, predicted by low proteinuria, lack of hypertension, and low cardiovascular comorbidity, was the strongest predictor of global survival. In progressors, two independent covariates (eGFR <30 mL/min per 1.73 m2 and hemoglobin ≤11 g/dL at inclusion) predicted the risk of requiring dialysis.

CONCLUSION: More than one‐third of subjects aged 80 and older referred to a nephrology center had severe but nonprogressive kidney dysfunction. This subgroup had a lower mortality rate than those with progressive kidney dysfunction. Simple covariates (low proteinuria, lack of hypertension, low cardiovascular comorbidity) predicted nonprogression of CKD. Distant nephrology follow‐up of such patients may be sufficient.
Family Care as Collaboration: Effectiveness of a Multicomponent Support Program for Elderly Couples with Dementia. Randomized Controlled Intervention Study
Authors: Eloniemi‐Sulkava Ulla , Saarenheimo Marja , Laakkonen Marja‐Liisa , Pietilä Minna , Savikko Niina , Kautiainen Hannu , Tilvis Reijo S. , Pitkälä Kaisu H.
Published: December 2009

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether community care of people with dementia can be prolonged with a 2‐year multicomponent intervention program and to analyze effects of the intervention on total usage and expenses of social and healthcare services.

DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial.

SETTING: Community‐dwelling couples with one spouse caring for the other spouse with dementia.

PARTICIPANTS: Couples with dementia (N=125) were allocated at random to the intervention (n=63) or control group (n=62).

INTERVENTION: Intervention couples were provided with a multicomponent intervention program with a family care coordinator, a geriatrician, support groups for caregivers, and individualized services.

MEASUREMENTS: Time from enrollment to institutionalization of spouses with dementia and use of services and service expenditure of couples.

RESULTS: At 1.6 years, a larger proportion in the control group than in the intervention group was in long‐term institutional care (25.8% vs 11.1%, P=.03). At 2 years, the difference was no longer statistically significant. The 2‐year adjusted hazard ratio for the intervention group was 0.53 (95% confidence interval (CI)=0.23–1.19, P=.12). Intervention led to reduction in use of community services and expenditures. The difference for the benefit of intervention group was −7,985 Euro (95% CI=−16,081 to −1,499, P=.03). When the intervention costs were included, the differences between the groups were not significant.

CONCLUSION: Although the intervention did not result in a significant difference in the need for institutional care after 2 years, individualizing services in collaboration with families may lead to reduction in use of and expenditures on municipal services.
The Theology of Atonement in Eastern Orthodoxy and Lutheranism Viewed Through Hymnody
Authors: Schiefelbein Kyle K.
Published: December 2009

Abstract:  The last twenty years have seen a resurgence in dialogue between Lutheranism and Eastern Orthodoxy, especially as the dialogue pertains to deification, known as theosis. For Eastern Orthodox Christians, theosis is one way to describe atonement. This paper approaches the theology of atonement through the lens of each tradition's hymnody. Although the images in the hymns are not identical, their themes are similar enough to reinforce the present‐day dialogue between these two traditions.
The Doctrine of Justification in the Book of Concord—Harmony or Contradiction?
Authors: Vainio Olli‐Pekka
Published: December 2009

Abstract:  The unity of the description of the doctrine of justification in the Book of Concord (BC) has been one of the challenges of ecumenical dialogue. Traditionally, scholars have underlined the unity in order to strengthen the Lutheran identity against external pressures. However, some have tried to attain the same goal by emphasizing some part of the BC over another. Interestingly, some have juxtaposed Luther and the BC because they believe the BC betrays Luther's original ideas. This article argues that there is no need to set different documents of the BC against each other, but to accomplish this one needs a little help from Luther and his particular understanding of justification as effective reality in the believer. Thus, one can argue both for the unity of the BC and for the organic unity between the reformer and later Lutheranism.
Coaxial Multiferroic Nanorod Arrays
Authors: Yang Yaodong , Gao Junqi , Li Jie‐Fang , Viehland Dwight
Published: December 2009

We have developed a facile yet versatile method for fabricating coaxial nanowires of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with multiferroic layers, such as BaTiO3 and CoFe2O4. Oxide coatings were deposited by pulsed laser deposition, and a variety of deposition parameters were studied. Arrays of such multiferroic‐coated CNTs offer a mean to design novel nanostructures with high surface areas.
Gaps in Procedural Experience and Competency in Medical School Graduates
Authors: Promes Susan B. , Chudgar Saumil M. , Grochowski Colleen O’Connor , Shayne Philip , Isenhour Jennifer , Glickman Seth W. , Cairns Charles B.
Published: December 2009

Objectives:  The goal of undergraduate medical education is to prepare medical students for residency training. Active learning approaches remain important elements of the curriculum. Active learning of technical procedures in medical schools is particularly important, because residency training time is increasingly at a premium because of changes in the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education duty hour rules. Better preparation in medical school could result in higher levels of confidence in conducting procedures earlier in graduate medical education training. The hypothesis of this study was that more procedural training opportunities in medical school are associated with higher first‐year resident self‐reported competency with common medical procedures at the beginning of residency training.

Methods:  A survey was developed to assess self‐reported experience and competency with common medical procedures. The survey was administered to incoming first‐year residents at three U.S. training sites. Data regarding experience, competency, and methods of medical school procedure training were collected. Overall satisfaction and confidence with procedural education were also assessed.

Results:  There were 256 respondents to the procedures survey. Forty‐four percent self‐reported that they were marginally or not adequately prepared to perform common procedures. Incoming first‐year residents reported the most procedural experience with suturing, Foley catheter placement, venipuncture, and vaginal delivery. The least experience was reported with thoracentesis, central venous access, and splinting. Most first‐year residents had not provided basic life support, and more than one‐third had not performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Participation in a targeted procedures course during medical school and increasing the number of procedures performed as a medical student were significantly associated with self‐assessed competency at the beginning of residency training.

Conclusions:  Recent medical school graduates report lack of self‐confidence in their ability to perform common procedures upon entering residency training. Implementation of a medical school procedure course to increase exposure to procedures may address this challenge.
A systematic review of implant‐supported maxillary overdentures after a mean observation period of at least 1 year
Authors: Slot Wim , Raghoebar Gerry M. , Vissink Arjan , Huddleston Slater James J. , Meijer Henny J.A.
Published: December 2009

Aim: The aim of the present systematic review of implant‐supported maxillary overdentures was to assess the survival of implants, survival of maxillary overdentures and the condition of surrounding hard and soft tissues after a mean observation period of at least 1 year.

Material and methods: MEDLINE (1950–August 2009), EMBASE (1966–August 2009) and CENTRAL (1800–August 2009) were searched to identify eligible studies. Two reviewers independently assessed the articles.

Results: Out of 147 primarily selected articles, 31 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. A meta‐analysis showed an implant survival rate (SR) of 98.2% per year in case of six implants and a bar anchorage. In case of four implants and a bar anchorage, the implant SR was 96.3% per person. In case of four implants and a ball anchorage, the implant SR was 95.2% per year.

Conclusion: In all three treatment options, the SR of the implants is more than 95%. The studies included reveal that a maxillary overdenture supported by six dental implants, which are connected with a bar, is the most successful treatment regarding survival of both the implants and overdenture. Second in line is the treatment option with four implants and a bar. The treatment option with four or less implants and a ball attachment system is the least successful.
Local and systemic biomarkers in gingival crevicular fluid increase odds of periodontitis
Authors: Fitzsimmons Tracy R. , Sanders Anne E. , Bartold P. Mark , Slade Gary D.
Published: December 2009

Aim: To determine the independent and combined associations of interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) and C‐reactive protein (CRP) in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) on periodontitis case status in the Australian population.

Materials and Methods: GCF was collected from 939 subjects selected from the 2004–2006 Australian National Survey of Adult Oral Health: 430 cases had examiner‐diagnosed periodontitis, and 509 controls did not. IL‐1β and CRP in GCF were detected by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated in bivariate and stratified analysis and fully adjusted ORs were estimated using multivariate logistic regression.

Results: Greater odds of having periodontitis was associated with higher amounts of IL‐1β (OR=2.4, 95% CI=1.7–3.4 for highest tertile of IL‐1β relative to lowest tertile) and CRP (OR=1.9, 95% CI=1.5–2.5 for detectable CRP relative to undetectable CRP). In stratified analysis, there was no significant interaction between biomarkers (p=0.68). In the multivariate analyses that controlled for conventional periodontal risk factors, these relationships remained (IL‐1β OR=1.8, 95% CI=1.1–2.6; CRP OR=1.7, 95% CI=1.3–2.3).

Conclusions:  Elevated odds of clinical periodontitis was associated independently with each biomarker. This suggests that people with elevated biomarkers indicative of either local (IL‐1β) or systemic (CRP) inflammation are more likely to suffer from periodontal disease.
Phylogenetic community structure in Minnesota oak savanna is influenced by spatial extent and environmental variation
Authors: Willis Charles G. , Halina Marta , Lehman Clarence , Reich Peter B. , Keen Adrienne , McCarthy Shawn , Cavender‐Bares Jeannine
Published: December 2009

The relative importance of environmental filtering, biotic interactions and neutral processes in community assembly remains an openly debated question and one that is increasingly addressed using phylogenetic approaches. Closely related species may occur together more frequently than expected (phylogenetic clustering) if environmental filtering operates on traits with significant phylogenetic signal. Recent studies show that phylogenetic clustering tends to increase with spatial scale, presumably because greater environmental variation is encompassed at larger spatial scales, providing opportunities for species to sort across environmental gradients. However, if environmental filtering is the cause of species sorting along environmental gradients, then environmental variation rather than spatial scale per se should drive the processes governing community assembly. Using species abundance and light availability data from a long‐term experiment in Minnesota oak savanna understory communities, we explicitly test the hypothesis that greater environmental variation results in greater phylogenetic clustering when spatial scale is held constant.

Concordant with previous studies, we found that phylogenetic community structure varied with spatial extent. At the landscape scale (~1000 ha), communities were phylogenetically clustered. At the local scale (0.375ha), phylogenetic community structure varied among plots. As hypothesized, plots encompassing the greatest environmental variation in light availability exhibited the strongest phylogenetic clustering. We also found strong correlations between species functional traits, particularly specific leaf area (SLA) and perimeter per area (PA), and species light availability niche. There was also a phylogenetic signal in both functional traits and species light availability niche, providing a mechanistic explanation for phylogenetic clustering in relation to light availability. We conclude that the pattern of increased phylogenetic clustering with increased environmental variation is a consequence of environmental filtering acting on phylogenetically conserved functional traits. These results indicate that the importance of environmental filtering in community assembly depends not on spatial scale per se, but on the steepness of the environmental gradient.
Habitat use of age 0 Alabama shad in the Pascagoula River drainage, USA
Authors: Mickle P. F. , Schaefer J. F. , Adams S. B. , Kreiser B. R.
Published: December 2009

Mickle PF, Schaefer JF, Adams SB, Kreiser BR. Habitat use of age 0 Alabama shad in the Pascagoula River drainage, USA. Ecology of Freshwater Fish 2010: 19: 107–115. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Abstract – Alabama shad (Alosa alabamae) is an anadromous species that spawns in Gulf of Mexico drainages and is a NOAA Fisheries Species of Concern. Habitat degradation and barriers to migration are considered contributing factors to range contraction that has left just the Pascagoula River drainage population in Mississippi. We studied juvenile life history and autecology in three rivers within the drainage. We collected fish, habitat and physicochemical data in three habitat types (sandbar, open channel and bank) from June to October 2004–2006. Sandbar habitat was favoured by smaller individuals early in the year. Catch per unit effort (CPUE) decreased through the summer as larger fish began occupying bank and open channel habitat. The most parsimonious model of abundance included year and river variables, while patterns of presence and absence were best explained by river, habitat type and physiochemical variables. While all three rivers in the drainage contained Alabama shad, fish were less abundant and had lower condition values in the Chickasawhay River. Earlier work suggested the Alabama shad may gradually move downstream towards the Gulf of Mexico in their first year. However, we found no evidence of this and captured large fish high in the drainage late in the year.
Remnant habitats for grassland species in an abandoned Swedish agricultural landscape
Authors: Dahlström Anna , Rydin Håkan , Borgegård Sven‐Olov
Published: December 2009

Questions:Which factors influence the persistence of vascular grassland plants in long‐abandoned (at least 50 yr) arable fields and meadows? What might be the implications of current levels of species richness on abandoned arable fields and meadows for future restoration?

Location:Forested highlands of Kilsbergen, south central Sweden.

Methods:The abundance of all vascular plant species was investigated in three habitat types: former arable fields, hay meadows and outlands (pastures) at 27 farms, abandoned for either approximately 50 yr or 90 yr. Time since abandonment, tree cover, soil depth, degree of soil podsol development, size of the infield area and two measures of connectivity were used as predictors for species richness and species composition.

Results:Former outland had denser tree cover, fewer species and fewer grassland species than former arable fields and hay meadows, irrespective of time since abandonment. Former hay meadows and arable fields with a longer time since abandonment were less rich in species, more wooded and had greater podsolization than meadows and fields abandoned at a later stage. Species richness was higher in hay meadows and arable fields at farms with larger infield area and deeper soils compared with farms with smaller infield area and shallower soils. The greatest richness of species and most open habitat were former arable fields at larger farms abandoned 50 yr before the study. Former arable fields had the highest number of grassland species.

Conclusion:After 50 yr of abandonment, former arable fields were the most important remnant habitats for grassland species and may be a more promising target for restoration than formerly managed grasslands.