bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasmatic higher levels of homocysteine in Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
Authors: de Carvalho Sylene Coutinho Rampche , Muniz Maria Tereza Cartaxo , Siqueira Maria Deozete Vieira , Siqueira Erika Rabelo Forte , Gomes Adriana Vieira , Silva Karina Alves , Bezerra Laís Carvalho Luma , D’Almeida Vânia , de Oliveira Claudia Pinto Marques Souza , Pereira Leila Maria M Beltrão
Published: April 2013

Background

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver disease, which includes a spectrum of hepatic pathology such as simple steatosis, steatohepatitis, fibrosis and cirrhosis. The increased serum levels of homocysteine (Hcy) may be associated with hepatic fat accumulation. Genetic mutations in the folate route may only mildly impair Hcy metabolism. The aim of this study was to investigate the relation between liver steatosis with plasma homocysteine level and MTHFR C677T and A1298C polymorphisms in Brazilian patients with NAFLD.

Methods

Thirty-five patients diagnosed with NAFLD by liver biopsy and forty-five healthy controls neither age nor sex matched were genotyped for C677T and A1298C MTHFR polymorphisms using PCR-RFLP and PCR-ASA, respectively, and Hcy was determined by HPLC. All patients were negative for markers of Wilson’s, hemochromatosis and autoimmune diseases. Their daily alcohol intake was less than 100 g/week. A set of metabolic and serum lipid markers were also measured at the time of liver biopsies.

Results

The plasma Hcy level was higher in NAFLD patients compared to the control group (p = 0.0341). No statistical difference for genotypes 677C/T (p = 0.110) and 1298A/C (p = 0.343) in patients with NAFLD and control subjects was observed. The genotypes distribution was in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (677C/T p = 0.694 and 1298 A/C p = 0.188). The group of patients and controls showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001) for BMI and HOMA_IR, similarly to HDL cholesterol levels (p < 0,006), AST, ALT, γGT, AP and triglycerides levels (p < 0.001). A negative correlation was observed between levels of vitamin B12 and Hcy concentration (p = 0.005).

Conclusion

Our results indicate that plasma Hcy was higher in NAFLD than controls. The MTHFR C677T and A1298C polymorphisms did not differ significantly between groups, despite the 677TT homozygous frequency was higher in patients (17.14%) than in controls (677TT = 4.44%) (p > 0.05). The suggested genetic susceptibility to the MTHFR C677T and A1298C should be confirmed in large population based studies.
Implementation of the CDC translational informatics platform - from genetic variants to the national Swedish Rheumatology Quality Register
Authors: Abugessaisa Imad , Gomez-Cabrero David , Snir Omri , Lindblad Staffan , Klareskog Lars , Malmström Vivianne , Tegnér Jesper
Published: April 2013

Background

Sequencing of the human genome and the subsequent analyses have produced immense volumes of data. The technological advances have opened new windows into genomics beyond the DNA sequence. In parallel, clinical practice generate large amounts of data. This represents an underused data source that has much greater potential in translational research than is currently realized. This research aims at implementing a translational medicine informatics platform to integrate clinical data (disease diagnosis, diseases activity and treatment) of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) patients from Karolinska University Hospital and their research database (biobanks, genotype variants and serology) at the Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet.

Methods

Requirements engineering methods were utilized to identify user requirements. Unified Modeling Language and data modeling methods were used to model the universe of discourse and data sources. Oracle11g were used as the database management system, and the clinical development center (CDC) was used as the application interface. Patient data were anonymized, and we employed authorization and security methods to protect the system.

Results

We developed a user requirement matrix, which provided a framework for evaluating three translation informatics systems. The implementation of the CDC successfully integrated biological research database (15172 DNA, serum and synovial samples, 1436 cell samples and 65 SNPs per patient) and clinical database (5652 clinical visit) for the cohort of 379 patients presents three profiles. Basic functionalities provided by the translational medicine platform are research data management, development of bioinformatics workflow and analysis, sub-cohort selection, and re-use of clinical data in research settings. Finally, the system allowed researchers to extract subsets of attributes from cohorts according to specific biological, clinical, or statistical features.

Conclusions

Research and clinical database integration is a real challenge and a road-block in translational research. Through this research we addressed the challenges and demonstrated the usefulness of CDC. We adhered to ethical regulations pertaining to patient data, and we determined that the existing software solutions cannot meet the translational research needs at hand. We used RA as a test case since we have ample data on active and longitudinal cohort.
Presence of alternative lengthening of telomeres associated circular extrachromosome telomere repeats in primary leukemia cells of chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Samassekou Oumar , Malina Abba , Hébert Josée , Yan Ju
Published: April 2013

Background

The predominant mechanism by which human tumors maintain telomere length is via telomerase. In ~10% of tumor samples, however, telomere length is conserved, despite no detectable telomerase activity, in part through activation of the alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) pathway.

Methods

We studied the circular extra-chromosomal telomeric repeat (ECTR), an ALT hallmark, and telomerase activity in 24 chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) patients in chronic phase (CP).

Results

We identified the presence of ECTR in primary leukemia cells from some of these samples, which indicates the possible involvement of an ALT mechanism. Moreover, we found that some samples exhibited both circular ECTR and telomerase activities, suggesting that both mechanisms can contribute to the onset of CML.

Conclusion

We propose that ALT or the combined activities of ALT and telomerase might be required for the early stages of leukemogenesis. These findings shed new light into the oncogenic pathways responsible for the maintenance of telomere length in leukemia, which will ultimately determine the effectiveness of anti-telomerase-based treatment protocols.
Stimulation of ovarian stem cells by follicle stimulating hormone and basic fibroblast growth factor during cortical tissue culture
Authors: Parte Seema , Bhartiya Deepa , Manjramkar Dhananjay D , Chauhan Anahita , Joshi Amita
Published: April 2013

Background

Cryopreserved ovarian cortical tissue acts as a source of primordial follicles (PF) which can either be auto-transplanted or cultured in vitro to obtain mature oocytes. This offers a good opportunity to attain biological parenthood to individuals with gonadal insufficiency including cancer survivors. However, role of various intra- and extra-ovarian factors during PF growth initiation still remain poorly understood. Ovarian biology has assumed a different dimension due to emerging data on presence of pluripotent very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) and ovarian germ stem cells (OGSCs) in ovary surface epithelium (OSE) and the concept of postnatal oogenesis. The present study was undertaken to decipher effect of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on the growth initiation of PF during organ culture with a focus on ovarian stem cells.

Methods

Serum-free cultures of marmoset (n=3) and human (young and peri-menopausal) ovarian cortical tissue pieces were established. Cortical tissue pieces stimulated with FSH (0.5 IU/ml) or bFGF (100 ng/ml) were collected on Day 3 for histological and molecular studies. Gene transcripts specific for pluripotency (Oct-4A, Nanog), early germ cells (Oct-4, c-Kit, Vasa) and to reflect PF growth initiation (oocyte-specific Gdf-9 and Lhx8, and granulosa cells specific Amh) were studied by q-RTPCR.

Results

A prominent proliferation of OSE (which harbors stem cells) and transition of PF to primary follicles was observed after FSH and bFGF treatment. Ovarian stem cells were found to be released on the culture inserts and retained the potential to spontaneously differentiate into oocyte-like structures in extended cultures. q-RTPCR analysis revealed an increased expression of gene transcripts specific for VSELs, OGSCs and early germ cells suggestive of follicular transition.

Conclusion

The present study shows that both FSH and bFGF stimulate stem cells present in OSE and also lead to PF growth initiation. Thus besides being a source of PF, cryopreserved ovarian cortical tissue could also be a source of stem cells which retain the ability to spontaneously differentiate into oocyte-like structures in vitro. Results provide a paradigm shift in the basic understanding of FSH action and also offer a new perspective to the field of oncofertility research.
Lifespan extension and delay of age-related functional decline caused by Rhodiola roseadepends on dietary macronutrient balance
Authors: Gospodaryov Dmytro V , Yurkevych Ihor S , Jafari Mahtab , Lushchak Volodymyr I , Lushchak Oleh V
Published: April 2013

Background

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of rhizome powder from the herb Rhodiola rosea, a traditional Western Ukraine medicinal adaptogen, on lifespan and age-related physiological functions of the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster.

Results

Flies fed food supplemented with 5.0 mg/ml and 10.0 mg/ml of R. rosea rhizome powder had a 14% to 17% higher median lifespan, whereas at 30.0 mg/ml lifespan was decreased by 9% to 12%. The preparation did not decrease fly fecundity.

The effect of R. rosea supplement on lifespan was dependent on diet composition. Lifespan extension by 15% to 21% was observed only for diets with protein-to-carbohydrate ratios less than 1. Lifespan extension was also dependent on total concentration of macronutrients. Thus, for the diet with 15% yeast and 15% sucrose there was no lifespan extension, while for the diet with protein-to-carbohydrate ratio 20:1 R. rosea decreased lifespan by about 10%.

Flies fed Rhodiola preparation were physically more active, less sensitive to the redox-cycling compound menadione and had a longer time of heat coma onset compared with controls. Positive effects of Rhodiola rhizome on stress resistance and locomotor activity were highest at the ‘middle age’.

Conclusions

The present data show that long-term food supplementation with R. rosea rhizome not only increases D. melanogaster lifespan, but also delays age-related decline of physical activity and increases stress resistance, what depends on protein-to-carbohydrate ratio of the diet.
Clinical staging in psychiatry: a cross-cutting model of diagnosis with heuristic and practical value
Authors: Scott Jan , Leboyer Marion , Hickie Ian , Berk Michael , Kapczinski Flavio , Frank Ellen , Kupfer David , McGorry Patrick
Published: April 2013

Staging models are used routinely in general medicine for potentially serious or chronic physical disorders such as diabetes, arthritis and cancers, describing the links between biomarkers, clinical phenotypes and disease extension, and promoting a personalised or stratified medicine approach to treatment planning. Clinical staging involves a detailed description of where an individual exists on a continuum of disorder progression from stage 0 (an at-risk or latency stage) through to stage IV (late or end-stage disease). The approach is popular owing to its clinical utility and is increasingly being applied in psychiatry. The concept offers an informed approach to research and the active promotion of indicated prevention and early intervention strategies. We suggest that for young persons with emerging bipolar disorder, such transdiagnostic staging models could provide a framework that better reflects the developmental psychopathology and matches the complex longitudinal inter-relationships between subsyndromal and syndromal mood, psychotic and other disorders.
Effect of psychosocial interventions on social functioning in depression and schizophrenia: meta-analysis
Authors: De Silva Mary J. , Cooper Sara , Li Henry Lishi , Lund Crick , Patel Vikram
Published: April 2013

Background

Psychosocial interventions may contribute to reducing the burden of mental disorders in low- and middle-income (LAMI) countries by improving social functioning, but the evidence has not been systematically reviewed.

Aims

Systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect of psychosocial interventions on social functioning in people with depression and schizophrenia in LAMI countries.

Method

Studies were identified through database searching up to March 2011. Randomised controlled trials were included if they compared the intervention group with a control group receiving placebo or treatment as usual. Random effects meta-analyses were performed separately for depressive disorders and schizophrenia and for each intervention type.

Results

Of the studies that met the inclusion criteria (n=24), 21 had sufficient data to include in the meta-analysis. Eleven depression trials showed good evidence for a moderate positive effect of psychosocial interventions on social functioning (standardised mean difference (SMD)=0.46, 95% CI 0.24-0.69, n=4009) and ten schizophrenia trials showed a large positive effect on social functioning (SMD = 0.84, 95% CI 0.49-1.19, n=1671), although seven of these trials were of low quality. Excluding these did not substantially affect the size or direction of effect, although the precision of the estimate was substantially reduced (SMD = 0.89, 95% CI 0.05-1.72, n=863).

Conclusions

Psychosocial interventions delivered in out-patient and primary care settings are effective at improving social functioning in people with depression and should be incorporated into efforts to scale up services. For schizophrenia there is an absence of evidence from high-quality trials and the generalisabilty of the findings is limited by the over-representation of trials conducted in populations of hospital patients in China. More high-quality trials of psychosocial interventions for schizophrenia delivered in out-patient settings are needed.
Invited commentary on … Ethnic variations in pathways into early intervention services for psychosis
Authors: Warner Richard
Published: April 2013

Advocates of early intervention in psychosis choose to treat the association between long duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) and poor outcome as evidence that reducing DUP will improve outcomes. I question this view and argue that DUP does not predict outcome but rather that mode of onset of psychosis predicts DUP and outcome.
Acceptability and necessity of HIV and other blood-borne virus testing in a psychiatric setting
Authors: Sanger Camilla , Hayward Janine , Patel Gira , Phekoo Karen , Poots Alan J. , Howe Cathy , Bowden-Jones Owen , Green John
Published: April 2013

Studies in North America and Europe indicate that the prevalence of blood-borne viruses (BBVs) is elevated in individuals with severe mental illness; there are no comparable data for the UK. We offered routine testing for HIV, and hepatitis B and C in an inner-London in-patient psychiatric unit as a service improvement. Of the patients approached 83% had mental capacity to provide informed consent for testing and 66% of patients offered testing accepted. Although it was not our objective to establish the prevalence of BBVs, 18% of patients had serological evidence of a current or previous BBV infection, we found that offering routine testing in an in-patient psychiatric setting is both practical and acceptable to patients.
Polygraph testing of sex offenders in a high secure hospital
Authors: Ho David K. , Collins Nikki , Vinestock Morris , Das Mrigendra
Published: April 2013

Aims and method

To illustrate the clinical benefit of polygraph testing for mentally disordered sex offenders at a high secure psychiatric hospital. It is a retrospective review of two patients' case notes and of interviews with clinicians. Post Conviction Sex Offender Testing (PSCOT) was used to assist these patients in making disclosures regarding their sexual history and to aid their treatment.

Results

Post Conviction Sex Offender Testing was responsible for bringing about new disclosures relating to the patients' sexual histories and aiding their treatment progression to lower secure settings. New information was incorporated into the patients' treatment programmes and risk management plans. Post Conviction Sex Offender Testing also encouraged a more honest and effective participation in sex offender treatment programmes and allowed the evaluation of antilibidinal medication.

Clinical implications

Post Conviction Sex Offender Testing should be more widely considered among mentally disordered sex offenders who have been challenging to treat, as it has the potential to aid their management and progression to lower-security settings.
Voice recognition software: psychiatrist as transcriber
Authors: Sandilyan Malarvizhi Babu , Darley Jonathan
Published: April 2013

Aims and method

Voice recognition software is promoted to improve clinician efficiency and decrease overall costs. Our aim was to compare its efficiency against the traditional method of dictation and typing in an older people's community mental health team. We compared the time taken to dictate, edit and type letters, and the total number of days required to send them out after seeing the patient, using the two methods. We also correlated the time taken by one doctor to dictate and edit clinic letters with the actual days on which they were dictated.

Results

The voice recognition system reduced the time taken to turn around clinic letters but at the cost of increased doctor's time being spent on dictating and editing the letters. We found no increase in efficiency with experience.

Clinical implications

The benefits of faster letter production may be outweighed by the effect of the extra time spent by clinicians to the detriment of their other commitments. The narrative form of psychiatry letters may make them less suited to computer transcription than those in other specialties.
Readmission after discharge from a medium secure unit
Authors: Clarke Martin , Duggan Conor , Hollin Clive R. , Huband Nick , McCarthy Lucy , Davies Steffan
Published: April 2013

Aims and method

We examined readmission to psychiatric hospital of 550 patients discharged from one medium secure unit over 20 years. Multiple sources were used to obtain readmission data.

Results

Readmission was common, particularly to non-secure psychiatric hospitals. At least 339 patients (61.6%) were readmitted to any psychiatric hospital (mean follow-up 9.5 years), with over a third (37.6%) subsequently being readmitted to medium- or high-security or both. Of those discharged directly to the community, having previous in-patient treatment and a Mental Health Act classification of mental illness were associated with shorter time to first readmission.

Clinical implications

The long-standing nature of disorders is evident in the high rates of readmission overall and the need for readmission to medium and high secure services, suggesting that these patients require long-term follow-up and support from mental health services.
Randomized Phase III Study of Gemcitabine Plus S-1, S-1 Alone, or Gemcitabine Alone in Patients With Locally Advanced and Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer in Japan and Taiwan: GEST Study
Authors: Ueno Hideki , Ioka Tatsuya , Ikeda Masafumi , Ohkawa Shinichi , Yanagimoto Hiroaki , Boku Narikazu , Fukutomi Akira , Sugimori Kazuya , Baba Hideo , Yamao Kenji , Shimamura Tomotaka , Sho Masayuki , Kitano Masayuki , Cheng Ann-Lii , Mizumoto Kazuhiro , Chen Jen-Shi , Furuse Junji , Funakoshi Akihiro , Hatori Takashi , Yamaguchi Taketo , Egawa Shinichi , Sato Atsushi , Ohashi Yasuo , Okusaka Takuji , Tanaka Masao
Published: April 2013

Purpose

The present phase III study was designed to investigate the noninferiority of S-1 alone and superiority of gemcitabine plus S-1 compared with gemcitabine alone with respect to overall survival.

Patients and Methods

The participants were chemotherapy-naive patients with locally advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer. Patients were randomly assigned to receive only gemcitabine (1,000 mg/m2 on days 1, 8, and 15 of a 28-day cycle), only S-1 (80, 100, or 120 mg/d according to body-surface area on days 1 through 28 of a 42-day cycle), or gemcitabine plus S-1 (gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 on days 1 and 8 plus S-1 60, 80, or 100 mg/d according to body-surface area on days 1 through 14 of a 21-day cycle).

Results

In the total of 834 enrolled patients, median overall survival was 8.8 months in the gemcitabine group, 9.7 months in the S-1 group, and 10.1 months in the gemcitabine plus S-1 group. The noninferiority of S-1 to gemcitabine was demonstrated (hazard ratio, 0.96; 97.5% CI, 0.78 to 1.18; P < .001 for noninferiority), whereas the superiority of gemcitabine plus S-1 was not (hazard ratio, 0.88; 97.5% CI, 0.71 to 1.08; P = .15). All treatments were generally well tolerated, although hematologic and GI toxicities were more severe in the gemcitabine plus S-1 group than in the gemcitabine group.

Conclusion

Monotherapy with S-1 demonstrated noninferiority to gemcitabine in overall survival with good tolerability and presents a convenient oral alternative for locally advanced and metastatic pancreatic cancer.
Rituximab Purging and/or Maintenance in Patients Undergoing Autologous Transplantation for Relapsed Follicular Lymphoma: A Prospective Randomized Trial From the Lymphoma Working Party of the European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation
Authors: Pettengell Ruth , Schmitz Norbert , Gisselbrecht Christian , Smith Graeme , Patton William N. , Metzner Bernd , Caballero Dolores , Tilly Herve , Walewski Jan A. , Bence-Bruckler Isabelle , To Bik , Geisler Christian H. , Schots Rik , Kimby Eva , Taverna Christian J. , Kozák Tomáš , Dreger Peter , Uddin Ruzena , Ruiz de Elvira Carmen , Goldstone Anthony H.
Published: April 2013

Purpose

The objective of this randomized trial was to assess the efficacy and safety of rituximab as in vivo purging before transplantation and as maintenance treatment immediately after high-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem-cell transplantation (HDC-ASCT) in patients with relapsed follicular lymphoma (FL).

Patients and Methods

Patients with relapsed FL who achieved either complete or very good partial remission with salvage chemotherapy were randomly assigned using a factorial design to rituximab purging (P+; 375 mg/m2 once per week for 4 weeks) or observation (NP) before HDC-ASCT and to maintenance rituximab (M+; 375 mg/m2 once every 2 months for four infusions) or observation (NM).

Results

From October 1999 to April 2006, 280 patients were enrolled. The median age was 51 years (range, 26 to 70 years), and baseline characteristics were well balanced between groups. On average, patients were 44 months (range, 3 to 464 months) from diagnosis, with 79% having received two lines and 15% three lines of prior therapy. Median follow-up was 8.3 years. In contrast to purging, 10-year progression-free survival (PFS) was 48% for P+ and 42% for NP groups (hazard ratio [HR], 0.80; 95% CI, 0.58 to 1.11; P = .18); maintenance had a significant effect on PFS (10-year PFS, 54% for M+ and 37% for NM; HR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.47 to 0.91; P = .012). Overall survival (OS) was not improved by either rituximab purging or maintenance.

Conclusion

Rituximab maintenance after HDC-ASCT is safe and significantly prolongs PFS but not OS in patients undergoing transplantation for relapsed FL. Pretransplantation rituximab in vivo purging, even in rituximab-naive patients, failed to improve PFS or OS.
Assessment and Rationing of Risks Connected with Operation of Complex Technical Systems
Authors: Махутов  , Makhutov Nikolay , Резников  , Reznikov D.
Published: April 2013

Comparative assessment of approaches to estimation and rationing of risks connected with operation of complex engineering

systems that are accepted in various countries is presented in this article. Various risk indexes that can be used while choosing the most preferable safety option of the system are presented.
Risk Management at Operation of Hydro-geological Wells
Authors: Го  , Guo Haylin , Забабурин  , Zababurin V. , Третьяк  , Tretyak A. , Фролов  , Frolov A.
Published: April 2013

The system of risk management principles is formed. The most acceptable mode for technical condition research of operational

hydro-geological wells is offered. The risk management algorithm is developed. Mathematical model for operation reliability

assessment of wells is created.
Radioecological Aspects of Radon Exhalation on Uranium Extraction Industry Objects
Authors: Самонов  , Samonov A.
Published: April 2013

The main ecological and geochemical feature of uranium extraction industry is a receipt of natural radionuclides (ERN) of

radioactive families 238U, 235U, 232Th in environment. Radiating pollution is generally caused by natural 238U and products of its disintegration, such as long-living alpha-nuclides 230Th and 226Ra, as well as short-living alpha-nuclides 222Rn (radon) and products of its disintegration. The most dangerous of these products are 210Po, 210Bi and 210Pb. Radon is potentially radioactive carcinogen. Some especially human dangerous radionuclides are formed in the course of its disintegration. The most dangerous of these radionuclides is 210Ро. Polonium poisoning of human body can be predicted in 15—20 years of continuous inhalation of air with radon aerosols. In this regard in areas of uranium ores production and processing it is extremely important to carry out annual calculation of radiating risks under irradiation by radon and affiliated products of its disintegration.
Country-Specific Associations Made by Consumers: A Dual-Coding Theory Perspective
Authors: Herz Marc Florian , Diamantopoulos Adamantios
Published: April 2013

Extant country-of-origin research has focused on the deliberate use of country-specific associations (CSAs) as a cognitive cue, captured by consumer responses to direct questioning. However, such responses only capture rational and verbally held aspects of CSAs and do not reveal emotional and nonverbally held aspects. Drawing from dual-coding theory, the authors (1) develop propositions about the existence of two distinct types of CSAs (rational and emotional) and the differences in consumers’ communication of these associations, (2) apply a three-stage qualitative design in two complementary studies to test these propositions, (3) link the identified CSAs to brand origin recognition and brand ownership, and (4) generate a consumer typology on how CSAs are communicated. Their results indicate that people tend to communicate rational CSAs verbally and emotional CSAs nonverbally. Whereas both rational and emotional associations positively affect consumers’ brand origin recognition accuracy, only emotional associations affect brand ownership. The authors consider theoretical and managerial implications in light of recent criticism on country-of-origin research and offer suggestions for further research.
Aggressive Marketing Strategy following Equity Offerings and Firm Value: The Role of Relative Strategic Flexibility
Authors: Kurt Didem , Hulland John
Published: April 2013

Firms raise a significant amount of funds and gain competitive advantage over their rivals through equity financing, namely through initial public offerings and seasoned equity offerings. The authors find that both initial public offering firms and seasoned equity offering firms adopt a more aggressive marketing strategy during the two years following their offering. However, not all equity issuers benefit equally from increased marketing spending, which can help signal companies' growth prospects to investors. A key moderator of the link between marketing investment and firm value is the strategic flexibility of rivals with respect to issuers. In particular, the stock market reacts favorably to an aggressive marketing strategy initiated by issuers competing against rivals with relatively less flexibility, whereas increased marketing expenditures do not translate into higher firm value when rivals have greater flexibility. Furthermore, the authors show that marketing expenditures create value within context: the role of marketing in enhancing shareholder value and the moderating effect of rivals' strategic flexibility are more pronounced in the two-year window immediately following an equity offering than at any other time. The authors conclude with a discussion of implications for theory and practice.
Using Linear Viscoelastic Modeling to Evaluate the Low Temperature Properties of Asphalt Mixtures Prepared With Aggregates of Different Sizes
Authors: Ho Chun-Hsing , Romero Pedro
Published: April 2013

This paper evaluates the low temperature properties of asphalt mixtures prepared with aggregates of different sizes using a linear viscoelastic analysis method. Three nominal maximum aggregate size (NMAS) asphalt mixtures (i.e., 12.5 mm, 9.5 mm, and 4.7 5 mm) were produced and trimmed into small asphalt mixture beams to be tested using a bending beam rheometer (BBR). Creep compliance data were obtained from the BBR at three different temperatures (−18°C, −24°C, and −30°C). Linear viscoelastic modeling associated with Laplace transform methods was performed to determine the relaxation modulus curves and thermal stresses of three NMAS mixture specimens. The results indicate that even though the maximum aggregate sizes were different, the behavior was essentially the same, suggesting that the effect of aggregate size on the low temperature behavior of asphalt mixtures is minimal. The low temperature properties of asphalt mixtures are not affected by spatial distributions within an asphalt mixture beam.
Interventions for Preschool Children at High Risk for ADHD: A Comparative Effectiveness Review
Authors: Charach Alice , Carson Patricia , Fox Steven , Ali Muhammad Usman , Beckett Julianna , Lim Choon Guan
Published: April 2013

OBJECTIVES:

The US Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality sponsored a comparative effectiveness review of interventions for preschoolers at risk for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

METHODS:

Medline, Cochrane CENTRAL, Embase, PsycInfo, and Education Resources Information Center were searched from 1980 to November 24, 2011. Selected studies were comparative, and enrolled children <6 years with clinically significant disruptive behavior, including ADHD. The interventions evaluated were parent behavior training (PBT), combined home and school/day care interventions, and methylphenidate use. Data were extracted by using customized software. Two independent raters evaluated studies as good, fair, or poor by using the Effective Public Health Practice Project Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies Risk of Bias. Overall strength of evidence (SOE) was rated for each intervention’s effectiveness, accounting for study design, systematic error, consistency of results, directness of evidence, and certainty regarding outcome.

RESULTS:

Fifty-five studies were examined. Only studies examining PBT interventions could be pooled statistically using meta-analysis. Eight “good” studies examined PBT, total n = 424; SOE was high for improved child behavior, standardized mean difference = –0.68 (95% confidence interval: –0.88 to –0.47), with minimal heterogeneity among studies. Only 1 good study evaluated methylphenidate, total n = 114; therefore, SOE for methylphenidate was low. Combined home and school/day care interventions showed inconsistent results. The literature reported adverse effects for methylphenidate but not for PBT.

CONCLUSIONS:

With more studies consistently documenting effectiveness, PBT interventions have greater evidence of effectiveness than methylphenidate for treatment of preschoolers at risk for ADHD.
Evaluation of an Office Protocol to Increase Exclusivity of Breastfeeding
Authors: Corriveau Sharon K. , Drake Emily E. , Kellams Ann L. , Rovnyak Virginia G.
Published: April 2013

OBJECTIVE:

The purpose of this study was to determine whether implementing a program based on a clinical protocol affects breastfeeding rates within a pediatric primary care setting. Increasing breastfeeding rates is an important public health initiative identified by multiple agencies.

METHODS:

The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM) clinical protocol (“The Breastfeeding-Friendly Physician’s Office, Part 1: Optimizing Care for Infants and Children”) was used as a template for the provision of breastfeeding services within a pediatric primary care clinic. There were 757 mother–infant pairs included in the study. A retrospective before-and-after study design was used. Data collection points included the hospital stay, the newborn visit, and the 2-, 4-, and 6-month health maintenance visits. The 2 groups were compared to estimate the protocol’s effectiveness as a method of increasing breastfeeding rates.

RESULTS:

The results of this evaluation were positive for exclusive breastfeeding, with group comparisons showing a statistically significant increase in exclusive breastfeeding rates at all 5 time points.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our diverse patient population within a pediatric practice had increased initiation rates and exclusive breastfeeding rates after implementation of the ABM’s breastfeeding-friendly protocol. Families who receive care in a pediatric primary care setting that has implemented the ABM clinical protocol may have increased rates of exclusive breastfeeding.
Guided Self-Help for the Treatment of Pediatric Obesity
Authors: Boutelle Kerri N. , Norman Gregory J. , Rock Cheryl L. , Rhee Kyung E. , Crow Scott J.
Published: April 2013

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Clinic-based programs for childhood obesity are not available to a large proportion of the population. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a guided self-help treatment of pediatric obesity (GSH-PO) compared with a delayed treatment control and to evaluate the impact of GSH-PO 6-months posttreatment.

METHODS:

Fifty overweight or obese 8- to 12-year-old children and their parents were randomly assigned to immediate treatment or to delayed treatment. The GSH-PO includes 12 visits over 5 months and addresses key components included in more intensive clinic-based programs. Children and parents in the immediate treatment arm were assessed at time 1 (T1), participated in GSH-PO between T1 and T2, and completed their 6-month posttreatment assessment at T3. Children and parents in the delayed treatment arm were assessed at T1, participated in GSH-PO between T2 and T3, and completed their 6-month posttreatment assessment at T4. The main outcome measures were BMI, BMI z score, and percentage overweight (%OW).

RESULTS:

Children in the immediate treatment GSH-PO arm decreased their BMI significantly more than did the delayed treatment arm (BMI group × time = −1.39; P < .001). Similar results were found for BMI z score and %OW. At the 6-month posttreatment assessment, changes resulting from GSH-PO were maintained for BMI z score and %OW but not BMI (BMI time effect = −0.06, not significant; BMI z score time effect = −0.10, P < .001; %OW time effect = −4.86, P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS:

The GSH-PO showed initial efficacy in decreasing BMI for children in this study. Additional efficacy and translational studies are needed to additionally evaluate GSH-PO.
Epidemiology and Predictors of Failure of the Infant Car Seat Challenge
Authors: Davis Natalie Louise , Condon Freeman , Rhein Lawrence M.
Published: April 2013

OBJECTIVES:

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends all neonates born at <37 weeks’ gestation receive a predischarge Infant Car Seat Challenge (ICSC), a resource-intensive test with little information on failure rates and risk factors. We sought to determine incidence and predictors of failure to allow more selective testing.

METHODS:

We conducted a retrospective medical record review of 1173 premature neonates qualifying for the ICSC between 2009 and 2010. We looked at ICSC result and potential risk factors and then performed bivariate and multivariable logistic analyses to evaluate for predictors of failure.

RESULTS:

Overall incidence of failure was 4.3%. Infants who failed were less premature and had higher birth weights. Late-preterm infants made up 60% of our study population but accounted for 78% of failures (P = .019). Infants who passed had older chronologic ages at time of testing, were more likely to have been exposed to caffeine, and were more likely to have required some type of respiratory support than those that failed. Final multivariable model demonstrated that increasing birth gestational age (GA) increased the odds of failure when corrected for gender, race, and small for GA status. For every 1-day increase in birth GA the odds ratio of failure was 1.03 (95% confidence interval 1.01–1.05).

CONCLUSIONS:

We found that increasing birth GA was a significant predictor of failure, and that late-preterm infants comprised a significant percentage of infants who failed. This suggests that limiting testing to extremely premature infants would miss most cases of ICSC failure.
Long-term Effectiveness of Varicella Vaccine: A 14-Year, Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Baxter Roger , Ray Paula , Tran Trung N. , Black Steve , Shinefield Henry R. , Coplan Paul M. , Lewis Edwin , Fireman Bruce , Saddier Patricia
Published: April 2013

BACKGROUND:

Varicella vaccine was licensed in the United States in 1995 for individuals ≥12 months of age. A second dose was recommended in the United States in June 2006. Varicella incidence and vaccine effectiveness were assessed in a 14-year prospective study conducted at Kaiser Permanente Northern California.

METHODS:

A total of 7585 children vaccinated with varicella vaccine in their second year of life in 1995 were followed up prospectively for breakthrough varicella and herpes zoster (HZ) through 2009. A total of 2826 of these children received a second dose in 2006–2009. Incidences of varicella and HZ were estimated and compared with prevaccine era rates.

RESULTS:

In this cohort of vaccinated children, the average incidence of varicella was 15.9 per 1000 person-years, nine- to tenfold lower than in the prevaccine era. Vaccine effectiveness at the end of the study period was 90%, with no indication of waning over time. Most cases of varicella were mild and occurred early after vaccination. No child developed varicella after a second dose. HZ cases were mild, and rates were lower in the cohort of vaccinated children than in unvaccinated children during the prevaccine era (relative risk: 0.61 [95% confidence interval: 0.43–0.89]).

CONCLUSIONS:

This study confirmed that varicella vaccine is effective at preventing chicken pox, with no waning noted over a 14-year period. One dose provided excellent protection against moderate to severe disease, and most cases occurred shortly after the cohort was vaccinated. The study data also suggest that varicella vaccination may reduce the risks of HZ in vaccinated children.
Quality of life in diabetes mellitus assessed on the basis of Hungarostudy Health Panel survey
Authors: Sal István , Susánszky Éva , Papp Ildikó
Published: April 2013

Introduction: Examining the quality of life has a great importance in the treatment of chronic patients. Aim: The aim of the authors was to assess the national status on the basis of the database of the Hungarostudy Health Panel using statistical evaluation. Methods: Three validated questionnaries in the test-battery served as instruments: the shortened version of the WHO Well-being Questionnaire, the Shortened Beck’s Depression Scale Rating and the Illness Intrusiveness Rating Scale. Results: It was found that in accordance with international data, the quality of life index of Hungarian diabetic patients was significantly worse than that of the non-diabetic population. Conclusions: International data also show that the decline in quality of life is correlated with a decline of cooperation and life expectancy of diabetic patients. This explains why methods of behavioral medicine focusing on improving life quality are of great importance, that have not yet been considered currently in psychoeducation. Referring to international examples the authors make a proposal on an extensive survey among Hungarian diabetic patients with the help of validated disease-specific questionnaires and using Transtheoretical Model in order to make education more efficient. Orv. Hetil., 2013, 154, 531–537.
Methods and conditions of fertility preservation in early-stage ovarian tumors
Authors: Szatmári Erzsébet , Máté Szabolcs , Sipos Norbert , Szánthó András , Silhavy Mihály , Rigó jr. János
Published: April 2013

The aim of this study is to review the literature of fertility-sparing techniques and their safety in early-stage malignant ovarian tumors, especially in epithelial ovarian cancer. Fertility preservation is widely accepted in early-stage borderline, germ cell and sex cord-stromal tumors. Based on data from retrospective studies, fertility-sparing surgery in epithelial ovarian cancer can be recommended in stage IA, grade 1–2 and favorable hystologic type ovarian cancer. Above stage IA, or in grade 3, or in clear-cell tumors decision making process about fertility-sparing surgery should be individual. Correct surgical staging is mandatory and oncologic safety should be primary. In the group of carefully selected patients oncological outcomes are identical to those of radical surgery. Spontaneous pregnancy rates vary, but they are generally high. Adequate counseling with patients, detailed documentation and careful follow-up is of outstanding importance. In order to improve the quality of fertility preservation techniques, establishment of treatment centers is recommended. Orv. Hetil., 2013, 154, 523–530.
Hierarchical 3D Nanocomposites towards Advanced Electrochemical Energy Storage
Authors: Zhu Jiahua , Wei Suying , Guo Zhanhu
Published: April 2013

Polyaniline nanofibers (PANI-NFs)/graphite oxide (GO) nanocomposites with excellent interfacial interaction and elongated fiber structures were synthesized via a facile interfacial polymerization method. This method efficiently exfoliated the expanded layer structure of GO into individual sheet and thus significantly enhanced the specific surface area. The reduced diameter of PANI-NFs in PANI-NF/GO than that of pure PANI-NFs could shorten the diffusion distance and enhance the electro-active sites. The PANI-NFs/GO hybrid materials showed orders of magnitude enhancement in capacitance and better cycling stability than that of individual GO and PANI-NF components.
Si/TiOx Core/Shell Nanowires with Branched Cathode Support Structures for Pt Catalysts in PEM Fuel Cells
Authors: He Xiaoli , Phillips Richard , Kawde Anurag , Hansen Robin , Lee Jae Ho , Lund Isaac , Eisenbraun Eric , Geer Robert E.
Published: April 2013

There are several significant challenges that must be overcome for PEM fuel cell commercialization such as electrode flooding, carbon corrosion, and significant cost due to the high loading of the platinum catalyst. Thus, a new structure is proposed for the cathode catalyst support consisting of Si/TiOx core/shell nanowires with branched structures, which has the potential to reduce electrode flooding, increase stability, and dramatically reduce the required Pt loading. In this study, Pt-coated Si/TiOx core/shell nanowires with and without branches are compared. The Pt surface area on supports with branch structures was calculated to be more than 4 times larger than on supports without branch structures, while keeping the Pt loading at only about 0.1 mg/cm2 (for the samples with branched structures). SEM, XRD, AES, and TEM were used to characterize the morphologies and structures of the as-prepared samples. Branched Si/TiOx core/shell nanowire structures may be a promising catalyst support to enable commercialization of highly cost-efficient PEM fuel cells and to promote an era of clean energy usage.
Electrochemical catalytic behavior for platinum functionalized TiO2 nanotube arrays in PEM fuel cells
Authors: Kawde Anurag Y , O'Toole Alexander W , He Xiaoli , Phillips Richard , Lemke Adam , Murray Thomas , Geer Robert , Eisenbraun Eric
Published: April 2013

Conventional carbon electrode supports for platinum used in proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell assemblies have issues related to carbon corrosion at typical cell operating and transient conditions. This corrosion gives rise to the evolution of greenhouse gases such as CO2, eventually degrading the carbon support and causing a loss of the catalyst specific area necessary to achieve the desired electrochemical performance. In this study, preliminary results are presented for Pt-functionalized TiO2 nanotube arrays as cathode catalyst supports for PEM fuel cells. The electrochemically synthesized TiO2 nanotube arrays were functionalized by different weight % of Pt via a solution-based approach using a dilute aqueous salt solution of hexachloroplatanic acid. Electron-beam based characterization techniques were used to study the structural and morphological features of the as-synthesized TiO2 nanotube arrays and functionalized Pt/TiO2 nanotube arrays. The electrochemical performance of the functionalized TiO2 nanotube arrays was studied by using cyclic voltammetry.
Synthesis, Electron Microscopy and Photocatalytic Activity Studies of Hierarchical TiO2 Based Nanofiber Catalysts for Photocatalysis and Hydrogen-Generation Applications
Authors: Mishra Srujan , Ahrenkiel Scott. P.
Published: April 2013

A newly developed, focused-jet, vertical style electrospinning process was employed to synthesize nanofibers of TiO2 doped with 2% and 2.5% w/v Ag nanoparticles. The as-spun nanofibers were calcined at 510 °C for 24 h in a tube furnace, with a ramp-rate of 5 °C/min, to yield polycrystalline nanofibers. Structural characterization of the prepared nanofibers was done using HR-TEM operated at 200 kV. High-resolution lattice-fringe measurements showed the presence of a mixed-phase anatase and rutile TiO2 nanostructure along with elemental Ag nanoparticles. BET analysis showed an average specific surface-area of 18.31 m2/g for the catalyst nanofibers. To measure the photocatalytic activity, a model compound, rhodamine-B dye, was used. Experimental results showed decay rates of 10.64 x 10-3 min-1 and 12.32 x 10-3 min-1 for the decay of rhodamine-B dye by TiO2/2% Ag and TiO2/2.5% Ag nanoparticles respectively.
Hardcore Scholarship and High School Cliques
Authors: McCloud Sean
Published: April 2013

This is an invited response to a series of papers.
Counting on the Words
Authors: Bivins Jason
Published: April 2013

This paper assesses the status of "evidence" in studies of religion by attending to its epistemological lineages, its tone and genre, and its sometimes unconscious methodological presumptions. Exploring the implications of authorial constructions of evidence and the inevitability of our complicity in deciding what counts as "religion," this piece suggests productive engagements with the limits of "evidence" - rather than the often futile attempts to surpass them - can yield fresh ways of thinking and writing about the field's tricky subject.
(Muslim) Women’s Bodies, Islamophobia, and American Politics
Authors: Hammer Juliane
Published: April 2013

Taking Islamophobia as shorthand for a set of more complex phenomena in recent American politics this article offers an analysis of some of the ways in which Muslim women’s bodies have occupied center stage in discourses on Islam and Muslims in the United States. It focuses on representations of Muslim women as victims of their religion and the men in their communities on the one hand, and the discrimination and marginalization of the same Muslim women in public discourse and security policies on the other. Islamophobic discourses are also gendered through the particular contribution of women pundits and their claims to feminist authenticity. Recognizing the racist, xenophobic, and misogynist dimensions of Islamophobic discourses within a liberal framework makes it possible to go beyond decrying its premises and repercussions.