bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uncertainty, Inflation, and Welfare
Authors: CHIU JONATHAN , MOLICO MIGUEL
Published: September 2011

This paper studies the welfare costs and the redistributive effects of inflation in the presence of idiosyncratic liquidity risk, in a microfounded search‐theoretical monetary model. We calibrate the model to match the empirical aggregate money demand and the distribution of money holdings across households and study the effects of inflation under the implied degree of market incompleteness. We show that in the presence of imperfect insurance the estimated long‐run welfare costs of inflation are on average 40% to 55% smaller compared to a complete markets, representative agent economy, and that inflation induces important redistributive effects across households.
Precautionary Demand and Liquidity in Payment Systems
Authors: AFONSO GARA , SHIN HYUN SONG
Published: September 2011

In large‐value real‐time gross settlement payment systems, banks rely heavily on incoming funds to finance outgoing payments. Such reliance necessitates a high degree of coordination and synchronization. We construct a model of a payment system calibrated for the U.S. Fedwire system and examine the impact of realistic disruptions motivated by the recent financial crisis. In such settings, individually cautious behavior can have a significant and detrimental impact on the overall functioning of the payment system through a multiplier effect. Our results quantify the mutually reinforcing nature of greater caution, and allow comparative statics analysis of shifts in key parameters.
Introducing Simulation via the Theory of Records
Authors: Johnson Arvid C.
Published: September 2011

While spreadsheet simulation can be a useful method by which to help students to understand some of the more advanced concepts in an introductory statistics course, introducing the simulation methodology at the same time as these concepts can result in student cognitive overload. This article describes a spreadsheet model that has been successfully utilized to introduce simulation as early as the third week of class—within the context of assigning probabilities—using a topic that students find immediately interesting: the theory of records. Use of this simulation in early class sessions not only facilitates student learning of later material but also builds a simulation knowledge base that can be leveraged in other classes.
A Meta‐Analysis of the Comparative Efficacy of Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation with and without Ablation of the Ganglionated Plexi
Authors: ZHOU QINA , HOU YUEMEI , YANG SHANGLEI
Published: September 2011

Background:
 Ganglionated plexi (GP) is claimed to be potentially responsible for atrial fibrillation (AF). The efficacy and safety of GP ablation remains controversial. This meta‐analysis aimed to assess the efficacy of procedure with or without ablation of GP.

Methods and Results:
 We included controlled clinical trials or randomized controlled trials comparing procedures of GP ablation plus pulmonary vein isolation (PVI), GP ablation plus Maze, or GP ablation alone (experimental arm), with PVI or Maze without GP ablation (control arm). The early episodes of atrial arrhythmia recurrence (early recurrence) and freedom from AF (primary efficacy endpoint) were estimated. Six trials with a total of 342 patients (172 per experimental arm, 170 per control arm) were included in the meta‐analysis. Subgroup analysis demonstrated that there was no significant difference in early recurrence between additional GP ablation to PVI or Maze, and PVI or Maze without ablation of GP (P = 0.06). However, early recurrence was significantly higher after GP ablation alone, compared with PVI alone (P = 0.02). Freedom from AF recurrence was significantly improved by additional GP ablation to PVI and Maze, compared with PVI and Maze without ablation of GP (P < 0.01). However, it was significantly aggravated by GP ablation alone, compared with PVI alone (P = 0.006).

Conclusion:
 The short and relatively long‐term success rate of additional GP ablation to PVI or Maze is superior to PVI or Maze without ablation of GP. GP ablation alone is less effective than PVI alone for the treatment of AF. Future studies are necessary to establish and standardize the targeting sites, endpoints, and methods of GP ablation. (PACE 2011; 34:1687–1694)
Sentinel Symptoms in Patients with Unexplained Cardiac Arrest: From the Cardiac Arrest Survivors with Preserved Ejection Fraction Registry (CASPER)
Authors: KRAHN ANDREW D. , HEALEY JEFFREY S. , SIMPSON CHRISTOPHER S. , CHAUHAN VIJAY S. , BIRNIE DAVID H. , CHAMPAGNE JEAN , GARDNER MARTIN , SANATANI SHUBHAYAN , CHAKRABARTI SANTABHANU , YEE RAYMOND , SKANES ALLAN C. , LEONG‐SIT PETER , AHMAD KAMRAN , GOLLOB MICHAEL H. , KLEIN GEORGE J. , GULA LORNE J. , SHELDON ROBERT S.
Published: September 2011

Sentinel Symptoms in Unexplained Cardiac Arrest. Background: Warning symptoms may provide an opportunity to diagnose genetic disorders leading to preventative therapy. We explored the symptom history of patients with apparently unexplained cardiac arrest to determine the frequency of sentinel symptoms.

Methods: Patients with apparently unexplained cardiac arrest and no evident cardiac disease underwent systematic clinical evaluation. Patients and first‐degree relatives were interviewed to determine the presence of cardiac symptoms, and those with syncope underwent 2 structured Calgary Syncope Score questionnaires to determine the probable mechanism of syncope.

Results: One hundred consecutive cardiac arrest patients (age 43.0 ± 13.4 years, 60% male) and 63 first‐degree relatives (age 37.6 ± 16.3 years, 54% female) were enrolled. Previous cardiac symptoms were present in 69% of cardiac arrest patients compared to 43% of family members (P = 0.001). Prior syncope was present in 26% of cardiac arrest patients, compared to 22% of family members (P = 0.59). Twenty‐four of 25 cardiac arrest patients who completed the syncope questionnaires had a syncope versus seizure score <1 favoring syncope. The area under the receiver operator curve (ROC) for the syncope mechanism score was 0.79 for identifying patients with subsequent cardiac arrest (95% CI, 0.6328–0.9395, P = 0.004). A score of ≤–2 had a sensitivity of 68% and specificity of 85%. Thirty percent of patients with a proven genetic cause had preceding syncope versus 19% in patients with noninherited or idiopathic causes (P = 0.032).

Conclusions: Syncope that may represent a sentinel event is present in a modest proportion of patients and family members, and is often suggestive of an arrhythmia. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23, pp. 60‐66, January 2012)
Stability and Microstructure of Indium Tin Oxynitride Thin Films
Authors: Gregory Otto J. , Amani Matin , Tougas Ian M. , Drehman Alvin J.
Published: September 2011

Indium oxide (In2O3) and indium tin oxide (ITO) thin films have been investigated for high temperature thermocouple and strain guage applications. Reactive sputtering in nitrogen‐rich plasmas was used to improve the high temperature stability of indium oxide‐based films in air and scanning electron microscopy was used to follow the microstructural changes in the nitrogen‐processed films. When thermally cycled at temperatures above 800°C, a partially sintered microstructure comprised of nanometer‐sized crystallites was revealed. A densified layer was also formed on the surface, which acted as an oxygen‐diffusion barrier in the bulk film. This combined with a network of partially sintered oxynitride crystallites lead to considerable open porosity and a stabilizing effect on the ensuing electrical properties. In this article, the thermoelectric properties of nitrogen‐processed films were evaluated at temperatures up to 1400°C. To study the effect of nitrogen plasma processing on the sintering kinetics and associated densification, the constrained sintering of the resulting films was followed as a function of time and temperature. Based on the measured thermoelectric properties of the nitrogen processed films, drift rates on the same order of magnitude as commercial type K wire thermocouples were realized for these all‐ceramic thermocouples.
Piezoelectric Ceramics in the PbSnO3–Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–PbTiO3 Ternary System
Authors: Wang Dawei , Cao Maosheng , Zhang Shujun
Published: September 2011

Piezoelectric ceramics in the ternary system (0.8−x)PbSnO3–0.2Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–xPbTiO3 (PSn–PMN–PT, x = 0.42–0.47) were synthesized. Morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) compositions, located at ~PT = 0.43–0.45 were confirmed by X‐ray diffraction, dielectric, piezoelectric, and ferroelectric properties. The coercive field EC, internal bias field Ei, and mechanical quality factor Qm were found to increase with increasing PT content, indicative of piezoelectric “hardening” characteristics, while the optimum dielectric and piezoelectric properties were achieved for the MPB composition 0.36PSn–0.2PMN–0.44PT, with dielectric permittivity εr, piezoelectric coefficient d33, and planar electromechanical coupling kp being on the order of 2930, 510 pC/N and 55%, respectively. In addition, the aging behavior of the piezoelectric ceramics was studied, with aging rate of d33 ~−6%, kp ~−2%, εr ~−7% per decade, respectively, similar to commercial PZT4 ceramics.
Anterior Versus Lateral Needle Decompression of Tension Pneumothorax: Comparison by Computed Tomography Chest Wall Measurement
Authors: Sanchez Leon D. , Straszewski Shannon , Saghir Amina , Khan Atif , Horn Erin , Fischer Christopher , Khosa Faisal , Camacho Marc A.
Published: September 2011

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2011; 18:1022–1026 © 2011 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine

Objectives:  Recent research describes failed needle decompression in the anterior position. It has been hypothesized that a lateral approach may be more successful. The aim of this study was to identify the optimal site for needle decompression.

Methods:  A retrospective study was conducted of emergency department (ED) patients who underwent computed tomography (CT) of the chest as part of their evaluation for blunt trauma. A convenience sample of 159 patients was formed by reviewing consecutive scans of eligible patients. Six measurements from the skin surface to the pleural surface were made for each patient: anterior second intercostal space, lateral fourth intercostal space, and lateral fifth intercostal space on the left and right sides.

Results:  The distance from skin to pleura at the anterior second intercostal space averaged 46.3 mm on the right and 45.2 mm on the left. The distance at the midaxillary line in the fourth intercostal space was 63.7 mm on the right and 62.1 mm on the left. In the fifth intercostal space the distance was 53.8 mm on the right and 52.9 mm on the left. The distance of the anterior approach was statistically less when compared to both intercostal spaces (p < 0.01).

Conclusions:  With commonly available angiocatheters, the lateral approach is less likely to be successful than the anterior approach. The anterior approach may fail in many patients as well. Longer angiocatheters may increase the chances of decompression, but would also carry a higher risk of damage to surrounding vital structures.
Clinical and radiographic evaluation of early loaded narrow diameter implants – 1‐year follow‐up
Authors: Galindo‐Moreno Pablo , Nilsson Peter , King Paul , Becktor Jonas , Speroni Stefano , Schramm Alexander , Maiorana Carlo
Published: September 2011

Objective

To evaluate the clinical performance of Astra Tech OsseoSpeed™ TX 3.0S implants using one‐stage surgical procedure and early loading in the anterior region.

Material and methods

This is a prospective, single arm, multi‐centre study. Patients missing teeth at positions 12, 22 and 32–42 were eligible to enter the study. The implants (OsseoSpeed™ TX 3.0S) used in the study were of 3 mm diameter and of different lengths. One‐stage surgery was performed, and healing abutments were used during the 6–10 weeks healing period. Clinical and radiographic examinations were assessed at implant installation, loading and at the 6‐ and 12‐month follow‐up visits.

Results

Ninety‐seven implants were placed in 69 patients at six different study centres in Denmark, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom. The survival rate was 95.9%. No implants have been lost after loading (100% survival rate after loading). Mean marginal bone loss 1 year after installation was 0.065 mm (SD = 1.018). The frequency of bone loss ≥1 mm was 6.6% and 51.3% of the implants demonstrated no bone loss or even bone gain from the surgical visit to the first year follow‐up visit. Mean probing pocket depth and gingival zenith score were stable from crown placement to the 6‐ and 1‐year follow‐up visits.

Conclusion

Treatment with OsseoSpeed™ TX 3.0S implants is a safe and predictable option in the anterior region where physical space is limited. Minimal marginal bone loss was observed during the first year follow‐up.
Pre‐operative measurement of the volume of bone graft in sinus lifts using CompuDent
Authors: Arias‐Irimia Oscar , Dorado Cristina Barona , Moreno Gerardo Gómez , Brinkmann Jorge Cortés‐Bretón , Martínez‐González José Mª
Published: September 2011

Objective

The aim of this study was to calculate the volume of graft necessary for rehabilitation using varying lengths of implants, and to evaluate the usefulness of the planning dental software in determining the pre‐operative volume of bone graft in maxillary sinus floor lifts.

Material and methods

Using the CompuDent program, we calculated the volume of graft necessary for 62 sinus lifts. This volume was measured to raise the floor of each sinus to 13.4 and 15 mm in height.

Results

The average volume of graft to achieve a lift of 13.4 mm was 2.61 ± 0.69 cm³ for the right maxillary sinus, with the range of 1.38–4.1 cm³, and 2.68 ± 0.81 cm³ for the left maxillary sinus, with the range of 1.1–4.25 cm³. The average volume of graft to achieve a lift of 15 mm was 3.13 ± 0.75 cm³ for the right maxillary sinus, with the range of 1.59–4.81 cm³, and 3.29 ± 1.02 cm³ for the left maxillary sinus, with the range of 1.48–5.11 cm³. The statistical results showed a significant inversely proportional correlation between the average of the heights and the volume of graft in the right sinus.

Conclusions

The planning dental software is an effective tool in determining the volume of bone graft given the tool's simplicity, rapidness and possibility of standardization in all pre‐surgical procedures.
Does performance in selection processes predict performance as a dental student?
Authors: Rich A. M. , Ayers K. M. S. , Thomson W. M. , Sinclair R. J. , Rohan M. J. , Seymour G. J.
Published: September 2011

Objective:  This study investigated associations between the performance of dental students in each of the three components of the selection procedure [academic average, Undergraduate Medicine and Health Sciences Admission Test (UMAT) and structured interview], socio‐demographic characteristics and their academic success in an undergraduate dental surgery programme.

Materials and methods:  Longitudinal review of admissions data relating to students entering dental education at the University of Otago, New Zealand, between 2004 and 2009 was compared with academic performance throughout the dental programme.

Results and discussion:  After controlling for variables, pre‐admission academic average, UMAT scores and interview performance did not predict performance as a dental student. Class place in second year, however, was a strong predictor of class place in final year. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that the best predictors of higher class placement in the final year were New Zealand European ethnicity and domestic (rather than international) student status. Other socio‐demographic characteristics were not associated with performance. These interim findings provide a sound base for the ongoing study.

Conclusion:  The study found important socio‐demographic differences in pre‐admission test scores, but those scores did not predict performance in the dental programme, whether measured in second year or in final year.
Lipocalin‐2 is associated with modulation of disease phenotype in a patient with concurrent JAK2‐V617F and BCR‐ABL mutation
Authors: Nadarajan Veera S. , Ang Chow‐Hiang , Bee Ping‐Chong
Published: September 2011

We investigated the role of lipocalin‐2 (LCN‐2) and its receptor (SLC22A17) in mediating clonal dominance in a patient with both BCR‐ABL and JAK2‐V617F mutations. LCN‐2 mRNA showed a near 50‐fold increase in expression, accompanied by down‐regulation of SLC22A17, coinciding with increase in BCR‐ABL transcripts, loss of JAK2‐V617F and change of clinical phenotype from polycythaemia vera to chronic myeloid leukaemia. These changes were reversed after commencing imatinib mesylate. Consistent with experimental studies, BCR‐ABL+ cells express LCN‐2 leading to suppression of BCR‐ABL‐ cells and explain their eventual dominance when occurring together with JAK2‐V617F.
Field effect in oral precancer as assessed by DNA flow cytometry and array‐CGH
Authors: Pentenero Monica , Donadini Alessandra , Di Nallo Emanuela , Maffei Massimo , Marino Roberto , Familiari Ubaldo , Castagnola Patrizio , Gandolfo Sergio , Giaretti Walter
Published: September 2011

J Oral Pathol Med (2012) 41: 119–123

Objective:  ‘Field cancerization’ is an accepted model for oral carcinogenesis. So far, genetically altered fields have been just reported in the presence of carcinomas. This study assessed the distant mirror fields (MFs) of oral precancer by DNA high‐resolution flow cytometry (hr DNA‐FCM) and array‐Comparative Genomic Hybridization (a‐CGH).

Methods:  Five leukoplakias without dysplasia (OLs), seven dysplastic leukoplakias (DOLs), and 12 corresponding visually normal and non‐dysplastic MFs were analyzed. DNA aneuploidy (DNA Index, DI ≠ 1) was detected by hr DNA‐FCM on DAPI stained nuclei suspensions. The epithelial DNA aneuploid subclones were FCM‐sorted to obtain genomic DNA for a‐CGH.

Results:  Mirror fields, OLs, and DOLs showed increasing prevalence of DNA aneuploidy of, respectively, 8%, 20%, and 57%. The average number of chromosome aberrations (Ch‐Abs) was 2.8 in MFs, 3 in OLs, and 10.6 in DOLs. MFs relative to OLs and DOLs had average numbers of Ch‐Abs, respectively, of 1.8 and 3.6. Ch‐Abs were also observed in DNA diploid sublines, and often the same aberrations were observed in both MFs and corresponding OLs/DOLs.

Conclusion:  DNA aneuploidy and Ch‐Abs in MFs, the last ones being mainly gains, indicate an early onset of field effect in oral carcinogenesis.
Pharmacokinetics study about topical clobetasol on oral mucosa
Authors: Varoni Elena M. , Molteni Alessia , Sardella Andrea , Carrassi Antonio , Di Candia Domenico , Gigli Fausto , Lodi Franco , Lodi Giovanni
Published: September 2011

J Oral Pathol Med (2012) 41: 255–260

Background:  Clobetasol is the most potent topical corticosteroid used in oral medicine for muco‐cutaneous diseases. Several papers reported about patients with cushingoid appearance, suggesting an adrenal suppression related to clobetasol systemic absorption after local application. Owing to the lack of studies, our goal is to assess whether transmucosal assimilation, after its application on oral mucosa, really occurs and to define clobetasol pharmacokinetics profile.

Methods:  Data were recorded by collecting blood samples both on 10 patients in clobetasol therapy and on 14 healthy volunteers instructed about standardized clobetasol applications. A new technique of analytical chemistry was employed to detect its serum concentrations.

Results:  Clobetasol absorption was ascertained, showing a certain accumulation rate. Different levels have been found in relation to oral disease and individual features (as smoking habits and presence of oral mucosa erosion).

Conclusions:  Our study validates clobetasol systemic transmucosal absorption, also recommending a careful monitoring of patients in corticosteroid therapy to avoid local and systemic adverse effects.
Melatonin, the circadian multioscillator system and health: the need for detailed analyses of peripheral melatonin signaling
Authors: Hardeland Rüdiger , Madrid Juan Antonio , Tan Dun‐Xian , Reiter Russel J.
Published: September 2011

Abstract:  Evidence is accumulating regarding the importance of circadian core oscillators, several associated factors, and melatonin signaling in the maintenance of health. Dysfunction of endogenous clocks, melatonin receptor polymorphisms, age‐ and disease‐associated declines of melatonin likely contribute to numerous diseases including cancer, metabolic syndrome, diabetes type 2, hypertension, and several mood and cognitive disorders. Consequences of gene silencing, overexpression, gene polymorphisms, and deviant expression levels in diseases are summarized. The circadian system is a complex network of central and peripheral oscillators, some of them being relatively independent of the pacemaker, the suprachiasmatic nucleus. Actions of melatonin on peripheral oscillators are poorly understood. Various lines of evidence indicate that these clocks are also influenced or phase‐reset by melatonin. This includes phase differences of core oscillator gene expression under impaired melatonin signaling, effects of melatonin and melatonin receptor knockouts on oscillator mRNAs or proteins. Cross‐connections between melatonin signaling pathways and oscillator proteins, including associated factors, are discussed in this review. The high complexity of the multioscillator system comprises alternate or parallel oscillators based on orthologs and paralogs of the core components and a high number of associated factors with varying tissue‐specific importance, which offers numerous possibilities for interactions with melatonin. It is an aim of this review to stimulate research on melatonin signaling in peripheral tissues. This should not be restricted to primary signal molecules but rather include various secondarily connected pathways and discriminate between direct effects of the pineal indoleamine at the target organ and others mediated by modulation of oscillators.
Regulation of the MVB Pathway by SCAMP3
Authors: Falguières Thomas , Castle David , Gruenberg Jean
Published: September 2011

The biogenesis of multivesicular endosomes and the sorting of activated signaling receptors into multivesicular endosomes depend on soluble protein complexes (ESCRT complexes), which transiently interact with the receptor cargo and the endosomal membrane. Previously, it was shown that the transmembrane protein secretory carrier membrane protein (SCAMP) 3, which is present on endosomes, interacts with ESCRT components. Here, we report that SCAMP3 plays a role in the biogenesis of multivesicular endosomes. We find that SCAMP3 plays a role in EGF receptor sorting into multivesicular endosomes and in the formation of intralumenal vesicles within these endosomes in vitro and thus also controls EGF receptor targeting to lysosomes. We also find that SCAMP3 regulates the EGF‐dependent biogenesis of multivesicular endosomes. We conclude that the transmembrane protein SCAMP3 has a positive role in sorting into and budding of intralumenal vesicles and thereby controls the process of multivesicular endosome biogenesis.
Reduction in postnatal cumulative nutritional deficit and improvement of growth in extremely preterm infants
Authors: Senterre Thibault , Rigo Jacques
Published: September 2011

Aim:  To evaluate the influence of gestational age (GA) on cumulative nutritional deficit and postnatal growth in extremely preterm (EPT) infants after optimizing nutritional protocol as recently recommended.

Methods:  A prospective, nonrandomized, observational study in extremely preterm (EPT, <28 weeks) and very preterm (VPT, 28–30 weeks) infants.

Results:  Eighty‐four infants were included (BW: 978 ± 156 g, GA: 27.8 ± 1.3 weeks). Cumulative nutritional deficit increased during first week of life to −290 ± 84 and −285 ± 117 kcal/kg and −4.2 ± 3.1 and −4.8 ± 3.9 g/kg of protein in EPT and VPT groups, respectively. After 6 weeks, only cumulative energy deficit in EPT group remained significant (p < 0.05) even when 96% of theoretical energy intakes were provided. Weight z score decreased during first 3 days in average with initial weight loss, and then, the z score increased during the first 6 weeks of life in the majority (75%) of infants. Cumulative protein deficit during the first week of life was the major determinant of the postnatal growth during the first 6 weeks of life.

Conclusion:  Cumulative nutritional deficit may be drastically reduced in both EPT and VPT infants after optimizing nutritional policy during the first weeks of life, and the postnatal growth restriction could even be prevented.
The role and influence of grandmothers on child nutrition: culturally designated advisors and caregivers
Authors: Aubel Judi
Published: September 2011

Improving the nutritional status of infants and young children in developing countries depends to a significant extent on adoption of optimal nutrition‐related practices within the context of the household. Most policies, research and programmes on child nutrition in non‐Western societies focus narrowly on the mother–child dyad and fail to consider the wider household and community environments in which other actors, hierarchical patterns of authority and informal communication networks operate and influence such practices. In particular, the role and influence of senior women, orgrandmothers, has received limited attention. Research dealing with child nutrition from numerous socio‐cultural settings in Africa, Asia and Latin America reveals three common patterns related to the social dynamics and decision‐making within households and communities. First, grandmothers play a central role asadvisersto younger women and ascaregiversof both women and children on nutrition and health issues. Second, grandmother social networks exercise collective influence on maternal and child nutrition‐related practices, specifically regarding pregnancy, feeding and care of infants, young children and sick children. Third, men play a relatively limited role in day‐to‐day child nutrition within family systems. The research reviewed supports the need to re‐conceptualize the parameters considered in nutritional policies and programmes by expanding the focus beyond the mother–child dyad to include grandmothers given their role as culturally designated advisers and caregivers.
Pregravid body mass index, psychological factors during pregnancy and breastfeeding duration: is there a link?
Authors: Mehta Ushma J. , Siega‐Riz Anna Maria , Herring Amy H. , Adair Linda S. , Bentley Margaret E.
Published: September 2011

Breastfeeding rates in the United States are low, and one possible reason may be the high prevalence of overweight/obesity among women of childbearing age. This analysis examined the association between pregravid body mass index and breastfeeding duration, and explored whether depressive symptoms, perceived stress and anxiety during pregnancy mediated this relationship. Participants (n = 550) in the Pregnancy, Infection and Nutrition Postpartum Study were recruited through prenatal clinics prior to 20 weeks gestation and followed to 12 months post‐partum. Duration of any breastfeeding was categorized as none, less than 4 months, 4–6 months, 7–12 months and more than 12 months (referent). Exclusive breastfeeding was categorized as less than 1 month, 1 to less than 4 months and 4 months or more (referent). Being overweight/obese before pregnancy (35.7% of 550) was inversely associated with the durations of any and exclusive breastfeeding. Women who entered pregnancy overweight or obese were more likely to not initiate breastfeeding [relative risk ratio (RRR) = 5.39 (95% confidence interval: 2.41, 12.04)] and to breastfeed less than 4 months [RRR = 2.38 (1.33, 4.27)] compared with women of normal weight status. Among women who initiated breastfeeding, being overweight or obese vs. normal weight was related to exclusively breastfeeding less than 1 month [RRR = 2.09 (1.24, 3.51)]. We did not find evidence to support mediation by depressive symptoms, perceived stress or anxiety during pregnancy. Future research needs to explore the reasons behind the association between overweight/obesity and breastfeeding duration.
The needs of denture‐brushing in geriatrics: clinical aspects and perspectives
Authors: Berteretche Marie‐Violaine , Mastari Fatima , Nicolas Emmanuel , Hüe Olivier
Published: September 2011

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00557.x
 
The needs of denture‐brushing in geriatrics: clinical aspects and perspectives

Introduction:  Oral and denture hygiene are often defective in particular with dependent persons such as geriatric subjects. The reasons are the lack of hygiene education of the subjects or those caring for them. Consequently, oral hygiene is often neglected, resulting in poor oral health and an increase in the presence of local or general infections.

Objective:  This paper is a report of brushing effectiveness on microbial biofilm deposits on dentures of subjects participating in a specific oral hygiene programme.

Materials and methods:  Thirty‐nine dentures of 30 subjects were assessed for 2 weeks following an educational brushing programme. Microbial biofilm was recovered using fluoresceine and then scanned and quantified by ‘Mesurim’ software three times: before study, after 1 and 2 weeks.

Results:  The repeated measurement procedures showed a decrease in the percentage of biofilm present (F = 15, p < 0.001) whatever the type of denture (partial or complete) and for all biomaterials.

Conclusion:  Regular denture‐brushing can improve local hygiene. Consequently, decreasing the biofilm surface can reduce the prevalence of oral pathogens, thereby contributing to the general prevention of the risks of infections such as pneumotisis.
Eisenhower's Paradoxical Relationship with the “Military‐Industrial Complex”
Authors: JANIEWSKI DOLORES E.
Published: September 2011

This analysis of Eisenhower's farewell address and its core concept, “the military‐industrial complex,” explores the contribution of its major authors and editors, including Milton Eisenhower, and the changes in the text due to its transformation from a State of the Union speech into a television address. It situates this final act of Eisenhower's rhetorical presidency in paradoxical conjunction with a hawkish strand of contemporary conservatism. Media coverage of this conservative insurgency influenced the interpretation of the military‐industrial complex producing a definition closer to the permanent war economy, discussed by C. Wright Mills, instead of the nuanced concept intended by the speech's creators.
The Heir Apparent Presidency of James Madison
Authors: ZINMAN DONALD A.
Published: September 2011

The heir apparent presidency helps us to better understand how political time moves. Skowronek stresses the place of regime builders, midlife regime presidents and late regime affiliates. Heir apparent presidents immediately succeeded presidents of their respective parties who had built the foundations for a new political regime. As a successor to Thomas Jefferson, James Madison served as the heir apparent to the Jeffersonian political order. Madison's presidency exemplifies the leadership dilemma of the heir apparent president.
In Defense of Not Having a Data Set: A Call for Argument
Authors: BEASLEY VANESSA B.
Published: September 2011

Instead of supporting the use of one standardized data set as proposed by Coe and Neumann, this response argues that scholars should continue to be required to construct arguments and offer justifications for what they are examining when they say they are analyzing presidential discourse, regardless of methodology. Two reasons are offered for this position. First, presidential communication is inherently difficult to define and/or delimit. Second, scholars of presidential discourse should be wary of the possible creation of a new “canon” within their object of study. The response concludes by suggesting that even if Coe and Neumann's argument is persuasive to readers, we should be careful about promoting one data set over other possibilities. Our individual research questions should set the parameters for the data sets we use, and scholarship on presidential discourse only benefits from continued argumentation about what it is, why it matters, and how it might be best understood.
Jefferson Again and Again and Again
Authors: Kern Susan
Published: September 2011

Review of: Seeing Jefferson Anew: In His Time and Ours; Jefferson, Lincoln, and Wilson: The American Dilemma of Race and Democracy; The Great Virginia Triumvirate: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison in the Eyes of Their Contemporaries
Anion channels in plant cells
Authors: Kollist Hannes , Jossier Mathieu , Laanemets Kristiina , Thomine Sébastien
Published: September 2011

Plant anion channels allow the efflux of anions from cells. They are involved in turgor pressure control, changes in membrane potential, organic acid excretion, tolerance to salinity and inorganic anion nutrition. The recent molecular identification of anion channel genes in guard cells and in roots allows a better understanding of their function and of the mechanisms that control their activation.
Impact of ABCB1 Variants on Neutrophil Depression: A Pharmacogenomic Study of Paclitaxel in 92 Women with Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Bergmann Troels K. , Brasch‐Andersen Charlotte , Gréen Henrik , Mirza Mansoor R. , Skougaard Kristin , Wihl Jessica , Keldsen Nina , Damkier Per , Peterson Curt , Vach Werner , Brøsen Kim
Published: September 2011

Abstract:  The standard treatment for ovarian cancer in advanced stages is post‐surgery treatment with taxane–platin chemotherapy. Despite an initial high response rate, most patients eventually relapse. The dose‐limiting toxicities of paclitaxel are neutropenia and neuropathy, but the inter‐individual variability is large. The aim of this prospective study was to investigate the impact of genetic variants in key drug metabolizing/transporter genes on toxicity and compliance. CYP2C8*3 and three ABCB1 polymorphisms were chosen for primary analysis, and a host of other candidate genes was explored in 92 prospectively recruited Scandinavian Caucasian women with primary ovarian cancer who were treated with paclitaxel and carboplatin. A single investigator assessed the clinical toxicity in 97% of the patients. Patients carrying variant alleles of ABCB1 C3435T experienced more pronounced neutrophil decrease (63%, 72% and 80% for 3435CC, CT and TT, respectively; p‐value 0.03). A similar association was found for G2677T/A, p‐value 0.02. For C1236T, there was a trend with p‐value 0.06. No statistically significant correlations were found for paclitaxel compliance and sensory neuropathy in the primary analysis. Variants in the drug transporter ABCB1 gene are possibly associated with the neutrophil suppressing effect of paclitaxel in patients with ovarian cancer. This finding has implications for the understanding of bone marrow suppression and future tailored chemotherapy.
Moderate Human Disturbance of Rain Forest Alters Composition of Fruiting Plant and Bird Communities
Authors: Lefevre Kara L. , Sharma Sapna , Rodd F. Helen
Published: September 2011

Forests worldwide are experiencing rapid environmental change due to human activity. We aimed to increase understanding of anthropogenic impacts on community composition and species interactions. In a natural experiment, we asked whether subsistence human land use has altered the community composition of a Neotropical rain forest on the island of Tobago, in the West Indies. We surveyed fruiting plants and birds in three adjacent habitat types that varied in level of disturbance, and used multivariate analyses to determine whether changes in the plant community were associated with differences in avifauna composition. The three forest habitats had similar plant and bird diversities, yet markedly different species compositions and abundances. Primary forest had the most diverse plant community, while disturbed habitats had a more homogeneous plant composition. Primary and disturbed forest had distinct community compositions, with canopy cover and the relative abundance of plant types explaining 83 percent of the variation in bird species assemblages. Seemingly moderate human disturbance has led to substantial changes in the plant and bird assemblages of Tobago's rain forest, outside of a protected reserve. Our study highlights the direct links between human disturbance and the structure of rain forests, underscoring the impact of even moderate activity on community composition.
Avian Habitat Preference in Tropical Forest Restoration in Southern Costa Rica
Authors: Reid J. Leighton , Harris J. Berton C. , Zahawi Rakan A.
Published: September 2011

An important question for tropical forest restoration is whether degraded lands can be actively managed to attract birds. We censused birds and measured vegetation structure at 27 stations in young (6–9‐yr old) actively and passively restored pasture and old growth forest at Las Cruces Biological Station in southern Costa Rica. During 481 10‐min point counts, we detected a high diversity—186 species—of birds using the restoration area. Surprisingly, species richness and detection frequency did not differ among habitats, and proportional similarity of bird assemblages to old growth forest did not differ between restoration treatments. Bird detection frequency was instead explained by exotic grass cover and understory stem density—vegetation structures that were not strongly impacted by active restoration. The similarity of bird assemblages in actively and passively restored forest may be attributed to differential habitat preferences within and among feeding guilds, low structural contrast between treatments, or the effect of nucleation from actively restored plots into passively restored areas. Rapid recovery of vegetation in this recently restored site is likely due to its proximity to old growth forest and the lack of barriers to effective seed dispersal. Previous restoration studies in highly binary environments (i.e., open pasture vs. tree plantation) have found strong differences in bird abundance and richness. Our data contradict this trend, and suggest that tropical restoration ecologists should carefully consider: (1) when the benefits of active restoration outweigh the cost of implementation; and (2) which avian guilds should be used to measure restoration success given differential responses to habitat structure.
Preventing Recurrence of Thromboembolic Events through Coordinated Treatment in the District of Columbia
Authors: Dromerick Alexander W. , Gibbons Michael C. , Edwards Dorothy F. , Farr Deeonna E. , Giannetti Margot L. , Sánchez Brisa , Shara Nawar M. , Fokar Ali , Jayam-Trouth Annapurni , Ovbiagele Bruce , Kidwell Chelsea S.
Published: September 2011

Rationale

PROTECT DC examines whether stroke navigators can improve cardiovascular risk factors in urban underserved individuals newly hospitalized for stroke or ischemic attack. Within one-year of hospital discharge, up to one-third of patients no longer adhere to secondary prevention behaviors. Adherence rates are lower in minority-underserved groups, contributing to health disparities. In-hospital programs increase use of stroke prevention therapies but may not be as successful in underserved individuals. In these groups, low literacy, limited healthcare access, and sparse community resources may reduce adherence. Lay community health workers (navigators) improve adherence in other illnesses through education and assisting in overcoming barriers to achieving desired health behaviors and obtaining needed healthcare services.

Aims and design

PROTECT DC is a Phase II, single-blind, randomized, controlled trial comparing in-hospital education plus stroke navigators to usual care. Atherogenic ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack survivors are recruited from Washington, DC hospitals. Navigators meet with participants during the index hospitalization, perform home visits, and meet by phone. They focus on stroke education, medication compliance, and overcoming practical barriers to adherence. The interventions are driven by the theories of reasoned action and planned behavior.

Study outcomes

The primary dependent measure is a summary score of four objective measures of stroke risk factor control: systolic blood pressure, low-density lipoprotein, hemoglobin Hb A1C, and antiplatelet agent pill counts. Secondary outcomes include stroke knowledge, exercise, dietary modification, and smoking cessation.

Conclusion

PROTECT DC will determine whether a Phase III trial of stroke navigation for urban underserved individuals to improve adherence to secondary stroke prevention behaviors is warranted.
The practice of discipline: evaluating the roles and relationship between managers and HR professionals
Authors: Jones Carol , Saundry Richard
Published: September 2011

The roles played by managers in exercising workplace discipline have been of long‐standing academic interest. However, relatively little attention has been paid to the way that the distinctive functions of operational managers and HR practitioners may interact and shape the nature and outcomes of disciplinary procedures and processes. This article examines this through a series of organisational case studies. It suggests that dimensions of control between operational managers and HR practitioners are fundamental to understanding the nature of workplace discipline. Furthermore, it argues that this relationship is crucial in determining the prospects for a shift towards greater flexibility in the management of discipline, as called for by Gibbons and reinforced by the Employment Act 2008. Therefore, findings suggest that questions of managerial preparedness to embrace this new agenda must also consider the role played by HR practitioners in embedding a culture of formality.
Corporate entrepreneurship and information technology towards employee retention: a study of New Zealand firms
Authors: Haar Jarrod M. , White Brook J.
Published: September 2011

While the benefits of entrepreneurship towards firm performance are established, the role of information technology (IT) is mixed. The present study of 158 New Zealand firms responds to calls to extend performance measures to include non‐financial outcomes and focuses on employee retention. Direct and substantial relationships between corporate entrepreneurship and employee retention were found. Furthermore, moderating effects were tested from IT dimensions, and high IT objects (hardware software and personnel) had the greatest interaction with an entrepreneurial culture, reporting a 10 per cent higher retention rate than similar entrepreneurial firms with low IT objects. However, IT was not universally positive, with high IT knowledge interacting with entrepreneurial culture, leading to lower employee retention. The study highlights the way some IT dimensions can enhance entrepreneurial capabilities, although cautions the effects of others, highlighting the potential complexities of IT that may repel rather than retain employees.
Gay men in the police: identity disclosure and management issues
Authors: Rumens Nick , Broomfield John
Published: September 2011

Updating the paucity of UK research on lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) sexualities in the police, this study examines the identity disclosure and management practices of 20 gay police officers. Drawing on in‐depth interview data, our key finding is that gay police officers generally do not expect to be stigmatised but anticipate and experience positive disclosure experiences. Overall, the research reveals that gay officers actively seek to construct disclosure opportunities and adopt strategies of identity integration. Significantly, gay police identities can be managed openly and valued as organisational assets. Gendered organisational norms are influential here, shaping how and to whom participants disclose and manage their gay identities. Of concern then is that some police work environments continue to reinforce traditional notions of masculinity, potentially discrediting and limiting the integration of gay officers. This represents important knowledge for those HRM practitioners who advise and support LGB police personnel.
The trouble with HRM
Authors: Thompson Paul
Published: September 2011

The legitimacy of HRM is threatened by challenges to the impact of its core research programme and the centrality of its practices and function. If HRM is in crisis, what are the sources and perceived solutions? This article addresses the question of what a critical approach to HRM can contribute to the discussion of its troubles. That territory has often been occupied by adherents of critical management studies. However, such perspectives have shared with normative models the mistaken assertion that HRM is primarily a cultural construct that focuses on the creation of employee commitment. This article makes a case for a political economy approach that situates HR troubles within the constraints of the accumulation regimes of financialised capitalism. Among the outcomes is a strengthening of market discipline rather than commitment as a driver of high performance. While challenging the assumption that HRM is a distinctive mode of managing the employment relationship, it seeks to identify some common grounds for dialogue between mainstream and critical approaches.
Barrett's esophagus: proton pump inhibitors and chemoprevention I
Authors: Triadafilopoulos George , Taddei Antonio , Bechi Paolo , Freschi Giancarlo , Ringressi Maria Novella , Degli'Innocenti Duccio Rossi , Castiglione Francesca , Masini Emmanuella , Majewski Marek , Wallner Grzegorz , Sarosiek Jerzy , Dillon John F. , McCallum Richard C. , Dvorak Katerina , Goldman Aaron , Woodland Philip , Sifrim Daniel , Richter Joel E. , Vieth Michael , Neumann Helmut , Langner Cord , Ishimura Norihisa , Amano Yuji , Felix Valter Nilton
Published: September 2011

The following on proton pump inhibitors and chemoprevention in Barrett's esophagus includes commentaries on normalization of esophageal refluxate; the effects of 5‐HT4 agonists on EGF secretion and of lubripristone on chloride channels agents; the role of Campylobacter toxin production; the deleterious effects of unconjugated bile acids; the role of baclofen in nonacid reflux; the threshold for adequate esophageal acid exposure; the effects of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy on normalization of esophageal pH and on cell proliferation; the role of the phenotype of cellular proliferation on the effects of PPI therapy; and the value of Symptom Index and Symptom Association Probability in the evaluation of potential response to treatment.
Barrett's esophagus: proton pump inhibitors and chemoprevention II
Authors: Richter Joel E. , Penagini Roberto , Pohl Daniel , Dvorak Katerina , Goldman Aaron , Savarino Edoardo , Zentilin Patrizia , Savarino Vincenzo , Watson Joshua T. , Wong Roy K.H. , Pace Fabio , Casini Valentina , Peura David A. , Herzig Shoshana Joy , Kamiya Takeshi , Pelosini Iva , Scarpignato Carmelo , Armstrong David , DeVault Kenneth R. , Bechi Paolo , Taddei Antonio , Freschi Giancarlo , Ringressi Maria Novella , Degli'Innocenti Duccio Rossi , Castiglione Francesca , Masini Emmanuella , Hunt Richard H.
Published: September 2011

The following on proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and chemoprevention in relation to Barrett's esophagus includes commentaries on 48‐h pH monitoring, pH‐impedence, bile acid testing, dyspepsia, long/short segment Barrett's esophagus, nonerosive reflux disease (NERD), functional heartburn, dual‐release delivery PPIs, immediate‐release PPIs, long‐term PPI use, prokinetic agents, obesity, baclofen, nocturnal acid breakthrough, nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and new PPIs.